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Northern Star (1837-1852), 21st July 1849, Edition 2 of 3, Page 1, ' ( J' have commiseration withdrawn from...

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    • TO THE CHARTISTS
    • Rational liaim arompan^
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      To The Chartists

      TO THE CHARTISTS

      Mr Deab Fbebxds, I Do Not Lmow That For ...

      Mr Deab Fbebxds , I do not lmow that for along time I ei'ived greater pleasure than from my -visit to fort shire and Lancashire on Sunday and [ onday last On Sunday , under the hurning lid-day sun , I had to climb up a steep rugged lountain over ainile iu length , accompanied v 3 Jr . Roberts and some of your order . But , rduous as the task was , I was more than epaid when I saw the living summit , and till " more when I saw your fnend Livesey , f Rochdale- —one of the most ahle and

      consistent advocates of your cause—ia the chair . ' | ; . ' jUt . Coopeb , Mr . llusniON , Mr . Eobeets , Mr- ' 3 fixos , ifr . SnACKtEioXj Mr . Ktdd , all addressed die meeting in most determined and eloquent speeches , while mine appeared to give general satisfaction . " Inever was more cordially received in my life , and I waswcll pleased to see such a number of women present ; and , indeed , upon the - whole , such a gathering upon the top of such a hill inspired me with strong hope , that no power on earth can suppress the mind that I have contributed to create in those

      two great hives of industry . The struggling to reach , the top reminded me of the struggles that you and I have made to accomplish our principles , and I was gladdened with the hope that we had then reached the summit . On Monday evening I addressed the people of Manchester in the Institute , where several excellent speeches were delivered , and where I think I established the fact , that it was to our power to procure meeting places in the several large towns of England , that the success of our principles was to he attributed . When I concluded my speech , I expressed a desire that any manor woman who had any questions to ask me , with regard to the Land Plan or any thing else , should . do so . There appeared to

      he a general disinclination to "Wind np the affeirsof ihetGompany , and npon " heing asked to give my opinion , I stated that I "was hut an instrument in the hands of the majority , and that hut for the discontent of the grumblers I should be decidedly opposed to such a step . Having replied , andlbeKeve satisfactorily , to the several questions put to me , I stated that I had two questions to put to the meeting , and I hoped that they would answer me as openl y ; the first was : — If they were prepared to pay the expenses incurred for the defence of the Chartist prisoners , for the verdict obtained against me in the Court of Queen ' s Bench ? And the second was : —

      Whether they were prepared to repay me the several thousands I had advanced to the Land Company ? These two questions were answered with very cheerful laughter ; however , if I never receive a farthing towards either account , I will derive some consolation from the conviction that I have conferred some little Benefit upon "both Chartist and Land Members , or . if not upon the Land Members , at all events upon the nation .

      Ufow , my friends , I helieve you are aware of the reviling , the slander , the persecution , and the odium I have stoutly withstood fbr advocating the cause of Lahour ; you are aware that to me such abuse was meat , drink , and clothes ; that I lived upon it , and luxuriated in it , as thecensure of slaves is adulation : but as ingratitude is the hlackest of all sins , that coming from my own children , and from those to whose service I have devoted the hest days

      of my life , and to henefit whose order I have abandoned the sports , the frivolities and the gaieties of my own order—ingratitude , I say , coming from such a quarter , has overwhelmed me with grief . i » nd I believe that I may assert with truth , that no man who has ever lived could have withstood the foul and base ingratitude that I have met with from a few—and , thank God , they arc hut a few—of those to -whose cause I have devoted my life .

      Perhaps when you come to read the history of that life , some will taunt themselves with that ingratitude of which I justly complain , and then , as in the case of Hexey Huxt , they may do justice to my memory . I assure you that the most fervid imagination cannot p icture to itself the mental suffering that I have endured , in consequence of the complaints of the grumhlers in the Land Company ; and now let me draw your attention to a subject which is of more importance to your order than even

      the Land Question . It is of more importance , because it is the means , and the Land is the end : —I mean a thorough association of all those who work mentally and manually : a co-operation hetween the shopkeeping class and the working class—a co-operation which I have recommended for many years—not a cooperation to insure the mere reduction of taxation , from which neither you nor the shopkeepinw class would derive one particle of henefit , hut a co-operation the result of which would he a full , free , and fair representation of hoth orders .

      At no period of our history was there ever such an opportunity afforded to the working classes . At the two meetings of the middle classes that I have attended I have been most enthusiastically received , and my principal object in attending those meetings has heen to strip Chartism of that odium which faction has stamped upon it % and I do not think I hav « failed , although I have declared my adhesion to the six points , and my determination never to surrender one particle of them . Let me show you the great advantageof those gatherings . Firstly . —We are furnished with free admission to the most commodious buildings , which we could not otherwise secure ; and

      Secondly , —and which is of much more importance , it g ives us an opportunity of developing our principles to parties who would otherwise hold aloof from us , and whose antagonism was based upon ignorance of our views . There is now ahout to he a coalition hetween the Peel staff and tile Ktjsseix party . " This is what I always predicted , when singly they should not be able to contend against the pressure from without . Sir Eobebt , knowing that he has estranged the affections of the feudal lords , says "ISOL Q EPISCOPARI , " hut yon may rely upon it that the ambition of a public man is very similar to the feelings of a woman . When a celebrated French

      authoress was asked , when a woman ceased to love ? she replied , " When she ceased to live ; ' and if Sir Eobebt was asked when he would cease to be ambitious of office , if he answered with the same sincerity , he would re ply , "WHEN I CEASE TO LIVE . " You are aware that while I have always explained the impossibility of a reciprocal union taking place between the capitalist and the employer of labour , that I have at the same time explained the mutual benefit that would result from the union of the veritable middle classes and the working classes .

      I tell yon again , that every nation in the world is now revolutionised in consequence of I jfche inability or disinchnation of their respective rulers to come to a fair adjustment of the jiabour Question , and its solution may he more Difficult in England than in any other country , and for thisreason—thatnearl y ahundred pillions a year is squandered in taxation , Ihurch establishments and poor rates , and that is the golden lfak by which the upholders B patronage are bound to the

      existingGovernjpent , however ihey may politically differ , p & ereis no measure , whether suppression of § ie Habeas Corpus . Act , suppression of public | p inidM , incarceration Of political offenders , tte transport , the gallows , or the gibbet , which me GUIS will not assist the ins to carry as ghg as the upholding of patronage is the con-Mleration—the sine quartan . Well , then , when you alone strugg le to resist or break down this Dnjust and anomalous monopoly , theAttorney-CJeneralis the prosecutor , detectives are the

      Mr Deab Fbebxds, I Do Not Lmow That For ...

      witnesses , and the middle classes constitute the jury . Any evidence , or no evidence , is sufficient to establish your criminality — the verdict is based upon unjust conclusions and ungenerous opinions of your motives , and now for the first time you have the opportunity of meeting this jury class face to face , and of destroying prejudice b y the fair developement of your princi ples . And in conclusionmy friends—my : dear

      , and loved friends—let me implore of you in the name of God—by the duty you owe to your wives , your little children , your country , and posterity—not to allow any slimy snake to come amongst you with exciting , soothing , and enthusiastic language , to destroy your present prospects , anddashthecup of hope from your lip . No doubt such emissaries will be sent abroad , as politics , like other commodities , constitute the medium of traffic . Let "Union "

      be your watchword ; let " The Charter and no Surrender" be your motto ; and rely upon it that I will remain upon the watch-tower , and I have been a good and faithful sentinel for twenty-seven years , and if I should see any , the slightest , chance of backsliding , I will warn you of the thief s approach . For devotionto , your cause ,-my father was p ^ maturel ^ ton signed to his cold grave—my uncle is in the fifty-first year of his hanishment—and two of

      my brothers , driven by the stigma of odium from the land of their birth , are now in far distant regions ; while I am the last remaining member of a family thus sacrificed to tyranny , and am now suffering what is more oppressive than the tyrant ' s punishment—BASE INGRATITUDE ; but still I remain , The faithful and uncompromising Friend of your Order , and Advocate of your Principles , Eeakgtjs O'Connor .

      To Feargus O'Connor, Esq., M.P. Dear Sib...

      TO FEARGUS O'CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . Dear Sib , —I write by request of a dying man , to inform you of his great gratitude and thanfoulness towards yon , for the way in which you have ever exerted yourself to benefit him and his fellow men —Thomas Smith , who died July 1 st . 1849 , aged seventy-three years ; one who from the beginning , has ' stoodfast as a rock to thc principles of Chartism . He lias had to bear great sacrifices , and at anytime would have suffered death rather than turn round and deny that good and holy cause which he believed to be the redemption of the world—professed by Christ , and borne out by the Gospel . He believed , np to the time of his death , that the National Land Plan , would , if carried on , be thc means of destroying all pauperism and povertv , and would bring that happiness which is desired in this world . His acts and deeds were in obedience with righteousness

      and godliness , and no man living can say he ever did an act of unkindness or i njustice . He was a teacher and member amongst the Baptists of Normanton-on-Soar for hilf a century , a greater part of that time being superintendant , and most of the rising generation of that place are indebted to him for their education , and express their gratitude and love to him for his great and unwearied services for their benefit , with which he confessed that he was well paid for all that he had done . — But as he was a bold Chartist , declaring the rights of the people , and his every day pleasure being to read the Star newspaper to those around him , telling them that Chartism would do away with all poverty , he was turned out of the church . It was then his desire to be drawn on the Land if he lived on it but a day . —It was his last wish , sir , that God might bless and prosper you , and keep you as he ever has done , "Not weary in well doing . "

      Your child , in the cause of Chartism , H . Simpxin . July Uth , 1849 , Mecha ' nics ' -square , Nottingham

      TO FEARGUS O ' CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . The much abused , hunted , and persecuted friend of the ignorant , ungrateful , social and political spell-bound slaves of the landed and monied aristocracy . . I have seen , sir , your positive declaration m the Nortiiem Star , that you intend to retire into private life . This is wise , it is well—above all , it is not too late . Assuredly , it is my firm conviction , that unless you adopt the above resolution immediately , you will have neither private , public , nor any other life , except life everlasting , to retire into ; you may , and no doubt you will , exclaim aloud , for yourself , and for everyother patriot , philanthropist , and philosopher " O Lord , save me from my friends , " for most assuredly , if you were now to

      die you would certainly die of a broken neart , u any man ever did—not a heart broken by its enemies , for that I believe were impossible , even should hell and earth combine for that diabolical purpose . When bosom friends turn traitors—when knave and fool conspire—when perishing , famished , insulted , and oppressed man , woman , and child , turn round with fierce and savage glare to insult-and wound the heart that bleeds for ihem to live—io eurse , devour , and destroy their every only friend—to receive and obey the demon instructions of that friend ' s sworn , avowed and determined enemy—it would break a heart harder than adamant . If placed in your position it would have caused me , long since , much , as I love my fellow man " to have cursed him and let him go I "—Blinded in your zeal for the unworthy working classes , I fear you cannot and do not see your one , your only fault—

      To Feargus O'Connor, Esq., M.P. Dear Sib...

      pardon me if I tell it y 0 u-it is brief , it is SJSSSh ' -W ¦} t . not' for nofc ] iavin o done enough , but it is for having done too much ! tha - ^ J , , * Positively intend to wind up the Company ' s ofiairau allow me to advance my Crotchet , I am a shareholder to the amount of tnice acres paid up , consequently , have an . interest in what you do as a finish here is mv simple plan , Zt Z S y dc"food . « Let th ' o lana be for wh ? T , ? 2 , « ^ Compan y ; let there be no move £ ™ 'ZiT h lefc ¦ «««> allotments ' be let by auction . to none hut members , on a lease for „ Iw ffif ' S / With P ° wer in «* "llottoa to renew that lease at some sneeifioil + imn f ™ t „ . w „ .

      one yean longer at the first twentv-one Years' rent so that his- wife and family raal Sioy tbTfruits of his own industry as well /* hinUf ? andI if to Jl SShi ° t ° sublet i { > whylet him doso himself still remaining responsible , or relinquishhis Claim . Above all things , let the quantity vary , from iu ° - ? f «! - \ ^ T ' bu * Principally the latter . Should other lands be purchased , either , by yourself or the Company , let them be purchased in every parish , as far as possible / in proportion to the number of members in that locality . Let the price of the landbonohinderance , nor the quantity ; and mortgage : purchase , arid build be the order of the day . Yours , fraternally , Northampton , July 16 . ; -,. ¦ W . E .

      ^ Jj O ^ FEAIlGIJS O'COMOR , ESQ ., M . P . '; ' ;/ WNOUBBD " . AM ) RESPECTED SlB , — YOU have threatened to give up the cause of the people , but I do not believe it—it is not in your nature . You have pledged yourself to redeem a fallen people , and you knew the nature of the task you allotted to yourself—that it was not a smooth one , and that it was not without danger , persecution , and prosecution , and that without great caution you would lose your life . You knew that honesty did not always accompany talent , and that talent ( like every other commodity ) is for sale in the best market , and knocked down to the highest bidder ; therefore you knew that you had all who are interested in the present system to oppose you—all that live in

      idleness on the vices of the people , as well as those who live in affluence and surrounded with luxury from the industry of the people—from the lawyers to the priests of every denomination , the cunning of the one and the craft of the other have naturalised the people to tho present unnatural system . Therefore you knew that you had to change the ideas of the people from an artificial to a natural state of society ; and that you would have to wean their thoughts from that which has been imbibed in them from their infancy , and direct them to things entirely new , thus placing yourself as a target for all the enemies of progression to direct their fire against .

      You have taKcn a ngnt position to defeat all our enemies , and the victory is certain if you continue in command of the oppressed army , which I know you cannot give up . You swore once , in Scotland , " That you would break oppresssion ' s head , or oppression should break your heart ! " Brave and honest patriot ! accept my grateful thanks , and continue your onward course . Once open the free-Labour field , and there will be no slave to take up the bludgeon , sword , inuskefc , or cannon , to keep down his fellow-slaves , for hire . I have the honour to be , yours fraternally , Joseph Moroas . 39 , Butcher-row , Deptford , Jiily 18 .

      TO FEARGUS O'CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . Unpurchaseable Sincere O'Connor , —Sir , —A fortnight since my hopes were elated to the highest pitch , but I regret to say , that the perusal of last week's ^ torhad that effect on my hopes which neither slanderisg wiiters of the Press , nor the " Whistler ' s " publications , nor any of the slavemongers , could ever have had . But , in the name of 'God , do not think for a moment of leaving us in our present predicament ; kenneled up in the commercial and manufacturing towns , at the will and caprice of the slave drivers , who , with few exceptions , use their every means to prevent us changing our position in

      life from an artificial to that designed by God for man—not that of being domiciled in our courts and allies , surrounded by beer shops , gin palaces , and brothels , to an alarming number , to which our offsprings too many instances prove victims . Would to God that the working classes would look to themselves ! I appeal to you , in God's name , to retract your words , and the prayers of millions will be your reward . Go on , brave O'Connor ! the true propounder of the free labour field , the majority have a confidence in you . As a Conference is fixed upon may God inspire your collective wisdom , and lay down some compulsory rules , and we will then carry the Land Plan out within a short period , in spite of the factions opposed to it .

      I remain , yours sincerely , Thomas Brown , Liverpool , July 12 th . A paid-up Shareholder

      TO FEARGUS O'CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . Respected Sib , —Your letters in the Star for this week and last have astonished me nofc a little . I am sure that not one of us that complained about the crops at Bromsgrove , expected that it would be taken so very ill . I admit , at once , I am one that complained . I met Mr . Clark in the morning on the estate , and told him I was very much disappointed with the crops : he admitted that all I said was true . I said nothing about the pumps not being in , because I knew if they were not in they would not be to pay for , but I am quite happy to think they are to be put in . Now , Sir , I can assure you that not a man said a word against you , I heard it said ,

      andlsaiditmyseit , that J , had every commence m Mr . O'Connor , Wc only wished Mr . Clark to let you know that we expected to find things in a better condition than they were ; I , for one , did not think it was to incur your displeasure , and if I said anything wrong I am very sorry for it , as it was not intended to give any offence by me . If the terms you conclude you letter in , are intended for us as having said so , you must surely be much mistaken I hope , Sir , you will look upon this affair in another light , and after you have almost won the day , and all classes are coming to your plan , which ,

      I think , you have proved to be good , you will go on till success crown your efforts . As to the four acres I have got , there is a part of it left for wheat , and a part of it that has never been dug at all . Now , Sir , I think it might be the best way to pare that and burn it . I think mine is the most unlevel of all the estate ; there is a place on one side that has not been levelled , and if you think well to allow Mr . Doyle to govern the place , I should feel much obliged to you . I was thinking of letting it , but if I can go through the winter at all , I shall go to it myself in time for the crops . Dear Sir ,

      I remain your friend and well * wisher , Revcsby Abbey , July 14 th . Alexander Shaw

      TO FEARGUS O'CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . Esteemed Benefactor , —I regret to learn by your letters in the Star , that there should continue to be so much ingratitude towards you from some of the allottees . I beg to assure you , Sir , that I have ever felt grateful to you , for the great exertions you have made to break the chains of slavery , and to make men free b y placing them on the land . I have suffered much for the cause of liberty , but I amproudofbeingontho land of Freedom . lam proud of being visited by the farm labourers , and told that they never saw such fine crops of wheat on this land before : they exclaim , " We wish we had such a chance . " The farmers ride by and admit it is wonderful , considering the dry weather . Is it not cheering for such novices as us ? I owe you , Sir , an everlasting debt of gratitude for my quiet home , I

      which I trust will be my last in this life ; it is also due to the Directors for so eloquently expounding the principles of the Land Plan . Go on , noble Sire , heed not the ingratitude of the few , time will convince them that they are wrong , the Labour market requires your aid . Thousands of the unseated members are anxiously looking to you for their redemption . I trust that the located members will consider that they have a duty to perform , by showing the practicability of the Land Plan , and rendering you every assistance in their power to place the unlocated on the land . Could they , our friends , but visit this beautiful place , it would restore confidence , and give you fresh energy to open a wider field for industry . That you may live long to continue our pioneer , is the prayer of Your faithful allottee , Charterville , July 17 th , C . Wilms .

      TO FEARGUS O'CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . . ' Honoured Sin , —Having heard much odium cast upon yom ; Land Plan , and the complaints that flVG S 6 frequently made by individuals who seemingly appear to have some knowledge of the Company , who , by their continual vapourings tend in a . great measure to throw discredit on your endeavours , I joined an excursion party to O'Connorville a fortnight since , for the express purpose of satisfying my mind as to the truth of the statements that I had heard from some of the narrowminded politicians , who have not the means of doing any amount of service themselves , and who

      To Feargus O'Connor, Esq., M.P. Dear Sib...

      have not the honesty to admit a service done by those who have the mcans ' unless thev themselves receive a direct benefit from it ; hence their spleen . I have now , Sir , done that which I would suggest all thinking men to do , that is , to visit the estate , and use their own opinions on tho matter . For my own part , I must confess that I was most agreeably disappointed , for I had laboured under the impression that I should have heard nothing less than great dissatisfaction : but no , quite the reverse ; the allottees expressed themselves well satisfied as hitherto , and greater hopes for the future , with their unbounded confidence in Mr . O'Connor . The crops look extremely well , the wheat and potatoes particularly so ; and tho allottees , with the whole of

      their families , the very picture of health and cheerfulness . I found the occupants extremely courteous , and anxious to give all the information that was required of them to all the visitors . In conclusion , 1 would intimate to those persons who have any inclination for an excursion at any time , to visit O'Connorville , feeling assured it will amply repav them , by the pleasant ride , and the amount of usS ful information they will receive . O'Connorville represents , to my mind , the waste lands of England m immature , unlocked , and open to the sons of industry toexpend their labour upon . , ^ -. Withrepecf ,: your most obedient servant , : £ >"• Thomas Brown . 26 , St . John-street , Smithfield .

      ' ( J' Have Commiseration Withdrawn From...

      ^ Stfj fe ' ^^ (^ Zfa ^ J' jijiPi ^ v

      ^ And National Trades' Journal.

      ^ AND NATIONAL TRADES' JOURNAL .

      W. M In, A Mm, Mum, Mtalw ~ "^Ikshks-Zt

      w . m in , a mm , mum , mTalw ~ " ^ IkShkS-ZT

      Rational Liaim Arompan^

      Rational liaim arompan ^

      Mountain. —At A Meeting Of The Members I...

      Mountain . —At a meeting of the members it was resolved : — " That , in order to have a free and full representation at the forthcoming Conference , we recommend each district secretary throughout the Company , to call a public meeting , in the most central place in each district , at which all members that are wishful may attend , in order that each candidate maybe questioned as to the policy he intends to pursue at the forthcoming Conference , and that this be done before his election . " Loughborough . —The Land members met on Monday last , at the "Wheat Sheaf . After some discussion the meeting was adjourned to sis o ' clock next Sunday night , at the same place . Birmingham . —At the usual weekly meeting held at the Ship Inn , on Sunday evening last , the instructions from the Directors for the election of Delegates to . the forthcoming Conference were read , and the following resolution unanimously passed : —

      " That every member of this branch of the Land Company pay threepence , to defray the expenses of the Delegate *© Conference , according to the instructions of the Directors ; and no vote will be taken without the same be paid . " It was then resolved , " That the meeting for nominating a Delegate be held next Sunday evening , at eight o ' clock . " Davextby . —A meeting of this branch of the National Land Company took place on Monday evening last , when the propositions of our Merthyr Tydvil friends were discussed and unanimously agreed to , and a vote of confidence was passed in our esteemed friend Feargus O'Connor , Esq . ; and we hope that the Company will go back to the old plan and have the ballot , so that the poorer

      members may have a chance ; and let all those who have not confidence in our true friend go ahout their business , and find another if they can . Bristol . —A quarterly meeting of the Land members was held at the house of Mi ' . Richards , Castle Mill-street , Bristol , on Monday evening last , and after the business of the evening was gone through , a discussion arose respecting a delegate for the forthcoming Conference . The meeting adjourned to Monday evening next , at seven o ' clock , when every member is requested to attend . City , axd Fissbdrt . —The members of the above body met at their rooms , 34 , Clerkenwell-green , on Tuesday evening , July 17 tb . Mr . Henry Livesay was called to the chair , when the following

      resolutions were proposed and carried : —Moved by Mr . Blake , seconded by Mr . Pool , " That we elect Mr . Allnutt as the secretary of this branch . " Moved by Mr . Jones , seconded by Mr . Bains , " That Mr . Nobbs be the treasurer ot this branch . " Two auditors were then appointed to audit the accounts of the late secretary and treasurer , and Messrs . Blake and Dicey were appointed . Moved by Mr . Nobbs , seconded by Mr . Broomfield , " That in the opinion of the members of the City and Pinsbury branch of the National Land Company , the affairs of the Company should not be wound up , but that a levy shall be laid upon each member , to form a fund , to pay those that wish to withdraw . " Moved by Mr . Broomfield , seconded by Mr . Bains , " That

      all those members wishing to withdraw shall be allowed two-thirds of the capital they have paid into the Company back again , as we are of opinion that those who wish the company to proceed should not have all the expenses that have been incurred in the enrolment of the Company to pay themselves . " Moved by Mr . Blake , seconded by ^ Mr . Jones , " That this branch do put Mr . Allnutt in nomination as one of the delegates to represent London in the conference at Brig's End . " Moved by Mr . Blake , seconded Tyy Mr . G . Fox , " That we recommend Mr . O'Connor to mortgane the different estates that are now occupied , ana by that means purchase other estates , for we are of opinion that if that was carried out he would be able to locate the whole of

      the members in a much shorter period than by any other means . " The meeting then adjourned until Monday evening , July 30 th , at eight o ' clock precisely . Aberdeen . —The usual quarterly general meeting of this branch of the National Land Company was held upon the evening of Friday , the oth inst . ; the usual business of the branch being transacted , and the last quarter's proceedings reported and approved of , it was moved by James Jack , and seconded by Thos . Thaw , " That it is not honourable in Feargus O'Connor , and especially his co-directors , to enter into any arrangements with a new Land Company , owing to their engagements as the servants of the nresent Land Company , without making some

      honourable settlementwith the members . " —Carried almost unanimously . It was then moved by James M'lntyre and seconded by Archibald Wilson , " That the whole affairs of the Company be immediately wound up as we consider it has become impracticable . "—This resolution , on being put to the vete was carried . It was then moved by James Jack and seconded by Thomas Thaw , "That this branch be shut up until the affairs of the Company be either wound up or completely registered . " Moved as an amendment by William Porter and seconded by James M'lntyre , " That this branch be kept open for another quarter , and that we meet as usual upon the first Friday night of each month . " The amendment was carried . Moved by Thomas Thaw and

      seconded by James Jack , " That from this date there beno more local expenses charged from any member of this branch but what was due previous to September 22 nd , 1848 , and that the room rent be paid by equal subscriptions . " Carried . Hull . —At a special general meeting of the Land members , at the Malt Shovel , North Church Side , to take into consideration the subject of Mr . O'Connor's letter respecting the Land Company , as adjourned from July Oth , Mr . Henry Hamlyn was unanimously called to the chair , when the following resolutions were unanimously passed , after considerable discussion pro and eon . on each . Moved by T . Oliver , seconded by Richard Anderson : —" That the officers and members of the Hull branch of the National Land Company , having maturely

      considered the present state of Company ' s financial position as well as its future prospects , do strongly recommend to the Conference , the necessity of laying down some plan for the speedy winding-up of the affairs of the Company , and that F . O'Connor Esq . be requested to apply to parliament for leave to wind it up . " Moved by J . Whincup , seconded by TheopWlus Leach , " That -when a balance has been struck , that the necessary deduction , if any , shall be set on each member , and those who are dissatisfied to have their money , minus the deductions , paid to them as early as possible . " - Moved by J . Dibb , seconded by Henry Lavarack : — " That those members who are anxious that the Land Company shall be re-established , shall have an opportunity of leaving their capital in the hands of the Company for that purpose . " Moved by T . Leach , seconded by J . Walton : — " That each member be requested to

      Mountain. —At A Meeting Of The Members I...

      pay to the district secretary on or : before Monday , July 23 rd , the district levy to defrayjthe expenses of delegate to the forthcoming Conference , and that each branch in the district ? be requested to forward its amount as ^ early as possible , " "That this branch do nominate a candidate as delegate , to represent this district at the Conference . " When Messrs . Oliver , Lundy , Dibbs , Hamlyn , and Barnett , were duly proposed and seconded , and on the votes being taken by the chairman , Mi ' . Timothy Oliver was duly nominated , having fourteen votes over the next number . Moved by I . Oliver , seconded by R . Smith : —" That a copy of these resolutions be "forwarded to each - secretary . in . the . district . " Moved by T . Oliver , seconded by G . Barnett : —

      " That the thanks of this meeting be presented to Mr . Henry Hamlyn , for his able and impartial conduct in the chair . " After which the meeting adjourned to July 30 th , for ^ he purpose of electing the delegate from the ] ist supplied from the . district . MEBiirnt-TYDVJi ^ ixjiie members : of this branch of the Land Company . arc right glad'to see so many persons declaring-themselves contented and happy on the Bromsgrove estate . We should be glad if some plan could be adopted at the next Conference , to get rid of all the discontented members in the Company . In our report of last week , all must be

      perfectly aware that the proposed contribution of Cd . per week from every member , would not locate all the members for several hundred years , but we propose to mortgage the estates as soon as they . are occupied by tenant * .- ^ Every one must , be . aware tb at no estate wift ^ brfng ^ fraU value w ^ and to make up the loss we propose the weekly contribution of 6 d . per member . We earnestly trust that every district will do its part this time to establish the Company on a firm foundation , and send to the Conference only old and determined men , whose hearts and souls are in the cause , for there is no other hope for the working man but the land ,

      and no scheme will work so harmonious as the old plan , where every poor man should have a few pounds to commence on his allotment . We earnestly hope that no more of those grumblers will have the luck to go on the land . The slave market is the best place for all of them . Leicester . —At a meeting of No . 1 branch of the National Land Company , at 87 . Church-gate , to consider the present position of the Company , and as under existing circumstances the poor man ' s chance is hopeless , therefore we full y agree that a Conference should be held , but unanimously disapprove of the Directory making the alteration from

      Nottingham to Snig s End , as Nottingham would be the most convenient , and the best means of conveyance from all parts of the kingdom , so we wish you to abide by the first proposition that appeared in the Star of the 7 th of July ; and as for the sight at Snig ' s End and Lowbands , we are perfectly satisfied with the accounts we receive concerning those places , as our confidence in the honourable Member for Nottingham remains unshaken . Hoping you will reconsider the subject , and let Nottingham be the place of assembling , I am , on behalf of the meeting , yours , & c ., Thomas Newton .

      Waklfield . —At the usual weekly meeting of this branch of the Land Company , a resolution to the following effect was carried unanimously : — " That this meeting desire to return their sincere and heartfelt thanks to F . O'Connor , Esq ., M . P ., for his zealous and self-denying labours in behalf of the . great cause of human progress , but more especiallyfor instituting the National Land Company , believing , as we do , that the full developement of the power of labour , when applied to the land , is the only remedy which can successfully be adopted to improve our present anomalous and wretched social condition . Wewould still further express our unshaken confidence in that gentleman , knowing that he has staked his time , talents , character , and fortune in tlie cause of

      suffering humanity ; we would , therefore , urge upon him ( without dictation ) to continue his labours in behalf of , and fbr the people . " Bulweli .. —The following resolutions have been adopted by the Land members of this district : — " That as we have full confidence in Mr . O'Connor we think it would be advisable to have nothing to do with the law , but let all the property belong to him . " " That there be bonus and ballot , so that there may be one chance for the poor members and two for those that have money . " " That the Land Company being for the mutual benefit of its mem- ; bers , we think that when a member is balloted and does not think well to stop he ought not to sell , but that it ought to go to the next on the ballot . "

      " That there be a levy of 6 d . per week upon all the members , paid up or not , and those not paying not to stand the ballot , but to receive theirs at the winding up of the company , and interest for it . " " That the Directors remain at their present number , and we think that houses might be built for £ 30 each , till the allottees could turn themselves round , when they might alter them to suit their own purposes ; and we think many of those that have made complaints have lived in houses that have cost little more than £ 50 before they went on their allotments . " There were nearly a score of members

      present when the above resolutions were adopted , and they have requested me to sign them on their behalf . —Wm . Eveley . WniiTiNaioN ANn Cat . —At the weekly meeting of this branch of the National Land Company the resolution of the Merthyr Tydvil branch was read , but it was thought it would not reach the unprincipled men who would summon Mr . O'Connor . It was then resolved that we hold a general meeting on Sunday evening , July 22 nd , to appoint a candidate to Conference . All members are invited to attend . A subscription was entered into on account of the trial of O'Connor v . Macnamara , and fourteen members gave 6 s .

      ; P. S.—On The Estate Are One Or Two All...

      ; P . S . —On the estate are one or two allotments | which certainly did no credit to tho owners ; let it answer for itself ; . Nature wilinokproduee unless we sow . I would suggest , before individuals grumble they should try what , virtui the hoe and spade possess , and take pattern from their neighbour-allottees , some of them sixty years old ,

      T ^ THE EDITOR OP THE NORTHERN STAR . Sir , —I have taken the liberty of requesting you , through the Northern Star , to call the attention of the members of the Land Company , resident in London , as well as the attention of the Directors and Mr . O'Connor , to the absolute necessity of calling a meeting of the members resident in London , to take into consideration the present condition and prospects of the Company , with a view of recommending to the Conference some plan not to wind up the Company ' s affairs , but , if possible , to make greater progress in carrying out the objects of the Company . It is my opinion , Mr . Editor , " that there is but one way of accomplishing tho work , and that is by the members giving up thc intention of spending any more money in getting the Company registered , and let Mr . O'Connor have thc entire management of the present property of the Company , and the deed , with all the stamps , be made a present to the Attorney-General , . to be placed in some prominent situation in the House of Commons , so that the government may always

      be reminded that they havo received a large sum of money from the working classes for stamps ; at the same time knowing that they intended to prevent the Company being registered at all , as a Joint Company ; and that the meeting in London , as well as tho members in tho country , generally , take into consideration , with a view to recommend the Conference to establish Building and Land Societies composed of the paid-up shareholders ; the members to subscribe regular weekly or monthly payments , according to thc means and circumstances , with reference to the abillity of members ' , to pay ; for instance , some may pay ten shillings per month , and others more or less , according as the different Societies may agree ; the money so subscribed to be sent to Mr . O'Connor , and when the monov for an

      allotment ispaid , Mr . O'Connor to convey to the separate societies the deeds of conveyance , I believe , Mr . Editor , if this plan be adopted the money will be subscribed in regular order , because each separate society will have a strong inducement to subscribe as much money as possible , and regularly , because they would receive the rents or redemption money from the located members . —The societies may locate every member within a given number of years , according to their monthly subscriptions , at the end of winch term each member would have his allotment without any further payment , entirely free and independent . I hope Mr . O'Connor will receive this recommendation favourably , as it is my opinion there is no man in this country the working classes have greater confidence in for honesty and integrity of purpose .

      I bog , Mr . Editor , to subscribe myself Yours very respectfully , Isaac Wilsox , A paid-up four-acre shareholdei No . 7 , Sheffield-street , Lincolns-inn-fields .

      Kirkdale Chartist Prisoners Again, And T...

      KIRKDALE CHARTIST PRISONERS AGAIN , AND THE MANCHESTER COUNCIL . TO THE EDITOR OP TUB NORTHERN STAB . Sib , —It is our painful duty to trench upon the Star , in order to perform what we promised to the Manchester Victim Committee , in reference to a letter of White , Norman , and Donovan ; inserted in the Star , bearing date 11 th ' of June . White—this White is always first in the field—in company with Leach , West , and Donovan ; these men affect to laugh and sneer at what they presume our weakness . We beg them to bear in mind one thing , which is , that we possess common sense ; and though , perhaps , we cannot read and write as well as the too-much-assuming ones , still we can distinguish the difference between moral right and common wrong . We know how far decency demands discretion—are , therefore , a little careful , and wish

      to avoid wounding the public mind in matters foreign to our general object , viz ., the establishment of the principles of liberty , or wc could a different tale unfold ; yet we are men who are obliged to follow our daily toil ; and , in addition to this , wc meet nightly in order to promote the progress of democracy , consequently wo have not the leisure time to mingle in matters of strife , like our four Kirkdale assailants ; and what is more , wc will not be a party to selfish motives , or factious designs . Truth will ultimately be out , and we will , therefore , patiently abide our time , until we meet these four men face to face . We have nothing to do with the differences—if such differences do exist—between our friend Smith and his accusers now in Kirkdale . Let him answer for himself . We

      now address the public as a body of men acting in a public capacity . First , then , we commence with White and his inconsistency , along with his assuming friend Norman . We , in the outset , read White as follows : "Even in a gaol the distinctions of caste are clearly perceptible . In Warwick Gaol , and the Queen ' s Bench Prison , my purse was better lined than it is now , and I was treated accordingly . If it were so here , no doubt the treatment would be similar to what I then experienced . " Now it is evident that George wants more money for himself , more than for his family , for in that case he would then be better treated . He tells us , while suffering a temporary privation , he was deprived of the use of water , even that luxury was denied him . We hold it was cruel of the turnkey insultingly to offer ,

      under those peculiar circumstances , anything like hot water . Still we cannot , on that account , close our eyes to well known facts , one of which is , that George is more attached to what ho considers a greater luxury than water—perhaps he will just allow us to say the bottle . We advise him to put this thing away , and his purse will be better lined than it is now , and then , even in a gaol , the distinctions of caste , which he thus complains of , if such distinctions do exist , as in his case , will be less remarkable . Now , let us see what his friend , Norman , would be at . For ourselves , we see no difference in design ; both write in one strain , and , we fancy , in one and the same style . But then , when we speak plainly , we are put down nobody . We have not common sense . Smith is the only one

      deemed worthy of these men s abuse . It is como to something when working men are reduced to that low pitch of having no minds of their own ; neither Smith nor any other man can deprive us of experimental proof or intellectual capacity . To say that Smith does all in his own way , and blindly leads us as a Will-o ' -the-Wisp — to say that I the document , emanating as it did , officially , did not contain the sentiments of the council , is at once assuming that , either Smith is a tyrant and we verily his slaves , or that we have not capacity to see through the man , and are therefore in the dark , and made his tools . We hurl this insinuating reproach from us with all the contemntuous scorn it

      deserves : or , if they mean the latter , wo tell them it is , an insulting reflection upon our members who made choice of us as a Council . Norman says , " Let me observe that our friends were subjected to the annoyance of being classed and placed upon their trials with mob enthusiasts , whom the government , for reasons best known to the Attorney-General , chose to denominate Chartists , but who in reality know nothing of Chartism nor any other ism , Inasmuch as they can neither read nor write . They have been likewise placed upon the same relief lists with their wives and families , bv the Manchester and London Committees , with men who have not an i ( lea bey ond their daily porridge . Not that I would

      • Rfijig ^Vtfwf T-Tf L I-**' *Visr V--'^

      • rfijig ^ vTfWf t-tf L i- ** ' * ViSr V-- ' ^

      have commiseration withdrawn from these , but to ? vr ? w ln thc samo " category with Messrs . VV lilte , West , Loach , and Donovan , is a mode ol procedure that I cannot understand ' . Men who have deyotcd their whole lives , and sacrificed their prospects and the comforts of their wives and families and who have been before the public for voars , ought not to he classed with mere spouters " " Now we ask , who are these spouters who can neither read nor write , with their wives and families upon the same relief list , and put in the same category as White , West , Leach , and Donovan , by the London and Manchester Committees ? In God's name , we as ! :, who are these

      men who cannot read and write ? It is false . Is any person so mentally deficient as not to be able to discernavarice , ambition , envy , and pride in this- nonsensical jargon . Wo have a moderate knowledge of the abilities and literary attainments of all prisoners in Kirkdale , placed upon the relief list ; and to make the distinction of caste clearly . preccptible , merely on the score of abilities , or the powers of reading and writing , is something too lofty for us to understand . It is too aristo * cratical tOdeal in thc spirit of pride and partiality towards suffering democrats . We profess to advocate equality for all men before the law . What a laughing-stock wc should become in the eyes of the world if wo at all sanctioned inequality of condition , on

      the ground of thc art of reading and writing ; but , even if we were so disposed ( which God forbid ) , to make a distinction under this plea , Norman's clients would then fare no better than they do now ; for Norman to talk this way is , at once , to abandon his reason , or to presume we have none at all . Oh , but he says , "Not that I would have commiseration withheld from such men . " What would he have then ? But , Mr . Norman , don ' t you want a distinction of caste , for you seem not to ' understand why they ( your friends ) should be placed in tho same category as your high-blown aristocrats ? You add , V White has received five shillings per week from Manchester , out of which he has to pay a messenger . " Ah , who docs he pay as a messenger ?

      Mrs . Cassidy attends upon him every day , except Sunday , and also her daughter is his messenger , as ho terms her . Now we are authorised to say that ho does not pay either of these persons , for they attend upon both houses of parliament —thc Rankin . Commons and White Lords—without fee or reward . ^ Mr . Norman , you want to know " what can you [ the men ] do with five shillings a week only ? Why , it is not enough to purchase the coarsest-kind of food . " Now , Mr . Norman , we will tell you what they had bettor do , at least , if they choose—put away the bottle . Wo have every desire to see deserving democrats , when unfortunately in a gaol , enjoying themselves as much as possible , ana wc must say , that everything has been

      done to administer to the physical wants and comforts of those Chartists now in Kirkdale . Our time is precious , and we must conclude by observing , that we can behold with contempt the doings of these men . We see through the whole dodge with all its mean subterfuge and selfishness . If White , West , Leach , and Donovan , must have more than five shillings per week , then , of course , Rankin , Groeott , and Cropper are to have less . This is the aim . The former are endeavouring to display their assumed superiority and extra claims for weekly assistance . We said they were ungrateful—we say so still . If the tree must be known by its fruits , we affirm we have plenty of proof of their ingratitude ; insolent letters of theirs in abundance ,

      sometimes abusing and dictating to those of their benefactors . When we alluded to falsehoods , our allusions had reference to figures , set forth by two of the " would-be ' s" —of course we rely upon statements and books of the Victim Committee . Five shillings per week is not too much , but we could like to scecommon gratitude at least . Not a word of grumbling , nor a murmur , comes from Rankin , Groeott , or Cropper . We must say we are sick of these contentions , our country demand our common exertions and united efforts for its redemption . It would be well if White and company would lmnnoforth discourage all their talc-bearers , tattlers , mischief-makers and promoters of strife . We well recollect some of these busybodies setting the members o £

      our society by the cars more than once , especially in the year 1840 , At that time they were as bitter in persecuting Leach as they now are trying to build up a faction . They may succeed in some measure , by injuring thc Chartist Association , and , ultimately , their professed friends in the bargain , We should meet the arguments of four blackguards , if it was worthy of our attention to answer their abuse in tho Star of the 7 th inst . Lot them bury their animosities , and show to their countrymen , as leaders , a better example , rind then we will respect them as they merit our esteem ; and not be persecuting undeserving men , as they are doing George Henry Smith . Again , in conclusion , we declare wc will

      stand by the right , if we fall m the struggle . We trust , Mr . Editor , as you have afforded publicity to their letters of attack , you will do the justice to insert this our reply in tho next Star , and you will oblige us in thc cause , the Chartist Council of Manchester , George Wiiakrams , John Owen , George Tyer , Samuel Madden , Edward Jones , Thomas Mathew , Peter Loyd , William Roach , William Siielmehdine , Treasurer . John Jacksojt , Secretary . George Henry Smith , Chairman , People's Institute , July 10 , 1 S 49 .

      ' "^ M^Ct- Li *" !¦¦.-¦ The Kirkdale Pri...

      ' "^ M ^ CT- li * " !¦¦ .- ¦ THE KIRKDALE PRISONERS . TO THE EDITOR OP THE NORTHERN STAR . Sir—As you were good enough to insert the letter in your journal of Saturday last signed James Leach , Daniel Donovan , John West , and George White , a letter entirely aiming at poisoning the minds of our Chartist brethren against my character , probably you will be equally good enough to allow one of an opposite nature to be inserted in your next Star . G . II . Smith . Upper Medlock-street , Hulme , July 9 . " Kirkdale Gaol , July Oth , 1849 . "My Dear Smith—I have to acknowledge the * irtrtr \ irvf ftf tTAim l /\ fJ- /«» on / 1 ortt imlnnd / vln / 1 + <¦» nnnn IV

      JjAUV J \ JK \ l ^ . ) . . IIIUW ^ U gldU * - your health is improving . I feel indignant at the conduct of certain parties from whom I expected better things , in reference to yourself . But I must again express my sincere wish that you will reconsider your determination of withdrawing from the Association . I know it is hard to boar tho injustice of professed friends , and tho misrepresentations of men professedly embarked in tho same cause . But the purity of your motives , and the disinterestedness of your actions will be your support . You have long laboured to elevate our Association , and I am aware you have been subjected to a great deal of contumely and wrong .

      "But it has been from men who dreaded your influ once ; they wore perfectly cognisant of your objects , eonseqently they entered tho list against you , knowing if they did not crush you , you would undoubtedly crush them . Hence their malevolence . Depend upon it , you have made an impression upon the minds of many of our friends , and will you now abandon yoxr post ? I trust not . Do not a ' Uov ? tho humbugs to ' uvc it all their own way . You are possessed of manly and unsophisticated eloquence , which will enable you to meet your opponents on tho platform . You do not lack courage when confronted with your enemies . Then why should you retire ? Lot not the malignity of designing men deter yeu from performing the work you have so often expressed . your determination to accomplish ? The wise and the good arc with you . Thc interests of Chartism require your exertions . The salvation of our cause imperatively calls upon you still to remain connected with it . Tho Ellises and Hcnrattes will

      chuckle if they succeed in their design , and drive George Henry Smith from tho movement , as then they will imagine they will have it all their own way . Stay and thwart them , you arc capable of doing so . Infamy will shrink before justice—calumny will not bear investigation—and the day will shortly arrive when your policy will be acknowledged , and your motives appreciated , and yourself beloved and respected . I beg leave again to return my sincere thanks for all the kindness you have shown to me , and most cordially do I reiterate your wish that the friendship now existing between us may be based upon purity of principle and integrity of conduct , so as to be bonehcial in its tendency and permanent in its duration . Well / there is a good time coming , and in hope it may speedily arrive , I remain " Your sincere friend and brother democrat , ¦« ' WlLllAM GrOCOTT . " Mr . G . H . Smith . "

      Determined Swcims.—On Wednesday Evening,...

      Determined Swcims . —On Wednesday evening , about half-past six , a young man precipitated himself from the centre arch of Blackfriars-bridge . Owing to his leap having taken place from the Waterloo side of the bridge , and tho attention of all on the pier being occupied by a steamer which was discharging passengers , two or three minutes elapsed before a boat was put out , and the attem ] t to save his life was futile ; and although he rose at not more than a scull ' s length from the boat , the crowd congregated on the bridge had the distress of seeing him perish before their eyes . It ia but just to add , that the boatman , named John-Bull made every exertion to save him . '

      Fatal Accident on the Bolton asdB , iackbvrn Railway . —M . Garside , aged 50 , a washerwoman , residing at Edgworth , was at Bolton on Monday . V < Jf the purpose of marketingand tettMturn home by the six o clock train arrived near the Cross was heard from the engine mg the accustomed sound , home , opened , the carriage the tram , however , w a * at her viofently to the fractured m a dreadful mnj » the dispensary at

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  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), July 21, 1849, page 1, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_21071849/page/1/