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Northern Star (1837-1852), 22nd May 1852, Edition 2 of 2, Page 5, CHARTISM , CONFERENCE OF DELEGATES AT MA...

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      The Star Iof Freedom. * Ata! * 22 1852. ...

      THE STAR iOF FREEDOM . * ATA ! * 22 1852 . ' . —«— II .. IH .. I .. ¦ g ^ g fg g ^^ g ^ -L ^ = TT »— . ^ grrt ; . ; - —— - ... ,

      Semwrattt ^ O^Mrnts.

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      Nnr Friends Will Oblige By Forwarding Re...

      nnr Friends will oblige by forwarding reports ^ Ch artStmeetings , and other Democratic proceedings . ^ CONDITION OE THE REFUGEES . ADDRESS TOTHE COT 3 STKY . The committee , sursuant to adjournment , met m * j , e c . ofoe-room of tbe John-street In .-titution , on 31-mday e ^ eninjf- May I 7 fk . Mr . J « . hn Arnottwas Called ti » tie chair . Tbe . minutes of the previous fr

      meeting were confirmed . A letter was read om W . Cunningham , Er'i-, of Brighton ; expressive of his willingness to co-aperate with the committee on behalf of the refugees Stanislaus Worcell drew a most melancholy picture of the sufferings of the unfortunate refugees out of employment , and showed the necessity of instant aneous action on their behalf . The Chairman suggested that all tbe large towns in the country should be at once called on to form loc al committees , acting in concert with the metropolitan committee ; which , suggestion was unanimously adouted .

      A gentleman attended from Clap-ham , haviag saen the report of the previous meeting in the papers . He proffered work for one o ? the Exiles . Mr . E . F . Nicholls proffered employment for two . Several friends volunteered to give lessons in the English laniruage . Stanislaus Worcell wished it to be understood , that when he was at the last meeting , and spoke relative to the Italians , he was not deputed by that body to do so . That which he had sa : d was in reply to a question put to him for information in the absence of a deputation from tbe Italians . He spoke according to his knowledge , necessarily imperfect , of the position of the Italian refugees , but not as their representative .

      The following address was agreed to . After which the Committee adjourned until Tuesday Evening , Way 25 , at eight o clock . THE VICTIMS OF CONTINENTAL DESPOTISM . TO TUB PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN AXD IRELANDFellow Coc . vrETMK . v , —Lone have we boasted that our country i * an " Island of the Free , " and a refuge and and home for the patriots fleeing from the vengeance of the oppressor . It U well tbat we arc able to make such a boast . It is well that the land of Milton and Cromwell has

      not yet been so far debased by the selfishness of trade , as to he compelled to crfrge before the despots of Europe , and to drive from our scores , at , the bidding of any bloodstained ruffian Kiusr these noble men , driven Into exile because they loved Frced-jai and Justice , and hated oppression . Be such ever ocr boast . Allow none to think that we will ever submit to the dotation of a foreign tyrant ; but let us convince the world that we still retain a remnant of the spirit of tbe men of the Commonwealth , prompting ns to receive amongst us tbe unfortunate patriots of every country and clime ; antl to grant onr protection , and lend material assistance to the temporarily defeated champions of European Freedom .

      And let it not be said , that we , who thus boast of our willingness to brave all the tyrants of the world , in order to defend the exiled martyrs for Freedom , shall allow those martyrs , unnoticed and uncared for , to suffer and perish in our midst . To do so vronW be to make Britain not a refuge and a home for the victims of oppression , but a grave for the unfortunate soldiers of Liberty . To do so would be to add hypocrisy and shame to selfishness , to gain for us the scorn and execration of humanity as the nation that had so much talked of Justice and Right , and the brotherhood of man , and that had yet neglected to perform ics duty , when that duty might so easily be accomplished .

      There are cow resident amongss os a large number of refugees from France , Poland , Germany , Hungary , and ltoly . whosemiseryitis our imperative duty to do all in onrpowerto alleviate . "With this view a committee has been formed ; and it hereby earnestly appeals to every friend of humanity , to every lover of his hind , to come forward and lend his aid to the noble and fraternal work that has been began . What tine-hearted Englishman will not blush at the thought of these brave soldiers of the cause of human freedom being compelled to beg their bread from door to

      door , while a triflinj £ assistance , timely rendered , may enable them by their own labour , to attain an honourable independence ? Tho main obstacle in the way of the exiles obtaining employment is their complete ignorance of the English language . The committee wil ' , therefore , endeavour to have them instructed in our language , as far as will enable them to communicate with employers or fellow-workmen , when , doubtless , work for all of them will readily be obtained . But in the meantime they must lire , and to enable them to do so , the assistance of the British public is imperatively demanded .

      Those who are desirous of saving our exiled brethren from starvation should immediately bestir themselves and labour to second our endeavours . Local committees , for the purpose of collecting subscriptions , and obtaining work for the refugees , when they shall have acquired English enough to enable them to accept it , should , at once , he formed in all the towns of tbe provinces . With , labou ? s » 4 petscmanee our duty -will be accomplished—our efforts be speedily crowned with success . Signed , iu the name of the Committee , G . Julias Uarxet , Secretary , pro tern . Lists of the unemployed refugees , specifying the trade or profession of each , are in preparation , and will be published in the Democratic journal-.

      Robert Owen's Eighty-Second Birthday. Th...

      ROBERT OWEN'S EIGHTY-SECOND BIRTHDAY . This event was celebrated by a soiree on Sunday , May ICth , at tbe Literary and Scientific Institution , Johnstreet , Fitzroy-square ; about 400 of both sexes sat down to te . i . Mr . W- D . Sauil took the chair amidst every demonstration of applause . The proceedings commenced with the naming of a child by Robert Owen , in accordance with the forms observed by " the Rational Society . " The child was named Joseph M , - . zz ; ni Fletcher . The Chaibhan said , it gave him great pleasure to meet such a number of his fellow citizens on this happy occasion , and he trusted that their venerable friend would be spared to meet on similar occasions for many years to come .

      Mr . 0 . A . Fleming gave the first sentiment as follows : —• 'Sflcial Progress , may it triumph in every clime , and unite every party . " Robert Owen ' s birthdays were as nuleston . es , by which they reckoned Social Progress . Philosophers of old might " have given the social idea a passing glance in their closets , but Robert Owen had caused it to become a living idea , a practical reality . He had been called " a monomaniac ; " but , in order to effect anything to impress it on the world ' s mind , it was necessary so to necome , or " . they would never get the " one idea" realised . Owen ' s great labours had produced social progress . National education was at one time ridiculed , and working men were pictured forth as " the great unwashed . " But now , in many instances , the tailor and shoemaker , were iTOK

      eawpto , as well as the lord . ( Loud cheers . ) Expe-Wence had taught him that the change must be gradual ; it conld not be sudden ; it would not appear all at once like a manufactured article ; no , it would grow . ( Rear , hear . ) -The purely commercial idea bad reached its climax . The political idea had also ripened , so far as regarded , the enfranchisement of tbe masses . Free discussion , through the press and on the platform , was now common . Reverend bishops and right honourable earls , re-echoed Mr . Owen ' s words . Xew Victoria street , had swept away the huts of thieves and beggars , and in their place arose palaces for working-men . ( Loud cheers . ) From these periods they

      might conclude that the social idea was progressing , especially when they remembered tbat it had for its advocates the great and good in every land . Ideas could not be cut off or shot down ; and there was every reason to believe that Socialism would ere long " cover the earth as the waters cover the sea . " ( Loud cheers . ) Mr . S . M . Kydd said , he took it for granted that the assemblage before him was a proof of the truthfulness of the sentiment he had to support ; he did not suppose that they all agreed in every particular , whilst tbe understanding would he general that they neither made them"selves nor formed their own characters . Mr . Fleming had pictured the sunnv side of Socialism . That it had

      fiiade progress was beyond question . "What bo understood j > 5 Socialism was the general elevation of the masses . Mr . «* en in working out his theory , had the merit of not maiding up one class at the expense of another , but took «* broad basis cf " all for each and each for all . " Mr . wen had told them that he was called " the man of one the ' * , Ht that 0 ne i < 3 ea contained everything , from aw" ?* " d ( ran t 0 niodern transcendentalism . ( Laud wow ! ^ kinf of progress , he would just say a few Whomi . P . he knew a considerable deal of , with wriT 1 aeted ' and whose present course he thought all tGi- meanfc the Chartists . To them he would say in QiartAi s 3 > so lon S M T 0 U « B » tan » e to fall out and ta ' -L- am on nSt yourselves " , yon can do no good for yonr-To'Amm ?* 1 Bl , " es sna families , your country or your cause . Wa * in / WodW tender for consideration Ihe following ft . „ :. "on 'roar the immortal John Milton — « Give me the

      consfL ? 0 . « to utter » and to argue freely , according to jj ^ nce , aoove all liberties . " ( Cheers . ) ,, Ho ' -ert ^ ° P 0 Sea ^ second sentiment as follows ;—* hichir \ t "* Philanthropist , may that happiness Others * & en * labonr of his life to bestow npon e * aiudW r ?? to be ricn , y enjoyed by him during the ^ BjX lon £ r and T :,, aable life . " In proposing it , Nsinvf ^ a snccnl t history of Mr . Owen ' s proceed-•^ Perisncp h ster Lanavkshire , & c ., and said , the great ton st be ,. ere ° F acquired had convinced him that man tofflilMT , " edncateQ ' well-fed , well-clothed , before he JNbel m ' fand cheers . ) He ( Mr . Bigby ) wished * UqukT that ilr « ° wen wa 8 tbe fim to establish the Kehoois it j Bil 1 ' snd was abo the f 0 uI 1 der of Infant ^ ir eaifk - ^ Pplause . ) Mr . Owen was surrounded ^ m shn ! J 8 ervj «> ts , & c . ; but rather than the present i tI < Undi ; f onth » w , he preferred to go forth to the ^ Wg . J "cate his enobliog principles at all risks and iweat applause . ) Worldliness could not bind

      Robert Owen's Eighty-Second Birthday. Th...

      hh : i—governments could not restrain him—but onward he w .-nt , conquering and to conquer . ( Reiterated cheering . ) Ch « rtists , Tories , Whigs , Conservative , & c , had all nibblefl at . Socialism , here a bit and there a bit ; thus they had Infant Schools , Ragged Schools , B . thsand Wasbhouses , M , d . l Cottages , and Farms , & c . When he looked on tbo ; e things ha s * w the buds , tho blossoms would follow , the flowers would ye ' , clow in the genial sun of tae bocwi System . ( Loud * cheers . ) ' . Mr . W . Coorsasaid , all must agree with the sentiments so olaquentlv put forth by their warm hearted menu wished to

      R «>» v , a . M liohopedno one would think they make a i-od of their able friend , as Robert Owen rebuked pndie . liis feeling being that no man conW •*«« " ¦" ; Socialism had been preached iu all ehmes ; in . Fran . coiunder Louis Blane , Cabcl , and others ; in America under the Rippites , 4 c ; and in England under Owen and his dis cinlk ( Hear , hear . ) Last year , for the first time he had seen the school * t New Lanark , and it did his heart good to hear the loving words spoken in those parts of Robe 0 * en . It might be asked , why did not . » »™ J * " - " there ? lie had left to carry his glorious mission elsewhere . " The Socialists . " ( say Chambers , ) " have loosed 0 r a in

      heaven cn earth , hut they had not found it : bu- so looking thev have discovered other things that wcult . enable them " to leave the world better than they found it . ( L RoB 2 ro > L rose , amidst the warmest plaudits , again and aeaiu repeated , and said , so much had been said that hSc ' lnimhing ' might add would be deemed superfluous . He Lad intended to have read an address ; but time was too far advanced , and he must content himself with detailing a portion of it . What he wished was that the world should cease producing inferior things , and produce none but superior things . In that consisted the whole of the National System . When he commenced his work , he knew what he had to perform ; he knew he should be onpo ? ed by men of all classes—of all parties—in all countries . The time would come when men would have but one interest , and one language , and the highest pleasure enioyed would be that of endeavouring to please others . This one idea universally understood , would lead to that great pleasure . But in the midst of tho prevailing

      disunion—why did he say that union would prevail ?—the present disunion was only the breaking up of the old system , which roust precede the . new . and that new would include all tbat was desirable . The new system was not mere Baths and "Wasbhouses , Moddie Lodging Houses , & c , but an entire new system , everything in its place . De wished to see society entirely new moddled . The science of society had yet to be taught thoroughly to the human race . Man , from being a contending , fighting , egotistical animal , had to be changed to a noble " bein ? , fit to enjoy real liberty , fraternity , and equality . Mr . Owen re-umed his seat amidst loud applause . Between the sentiments the Appolonic Society , in excellent style , sung , accompanied by the organ of tbe Institute , tho following choruses : — " See our Oars with Feathered Spray , " " Hearts and Hoses , " " Long may Life and Health be Spared Him , " and "Swift as the Flash . " A hearty vote of thanks to tho Chairman closed the evenino ' g nr / M »/> p / linors .

      Chartism , Conference Of Delegates At Ma...

      CHARTISM , CONFERENCE OF DELEGATES AT MANCHESTER . PEOPLE ' S INSTITUTE , H 8 VK 0 D STREET . Moxdat , May 17 . — Delegates present : —Manchester , W . Grocott , E . C . Cropper ; Halifax , "Vf . Cockrolt ; Oldham , Robert Bell ; Stockport , C . Citte . Mr . Bell was called to the chair , * Mr . Grocott was elected secretary . The Chairman said they were only few , but he hoped thev would be mora to-morrow . A letter from Glossop was read . The letter stated , that the Chartists of that place were not in an organised state . It recommended that the Charter should bo abided by whole and entire , and that the Chartists should not oppose any other body of reformers .

      The Chaihmas then called upon the delegates to report ihe state of their respective localities . Mr . Cropper stated , on behalf of Manchester , that they were in a low condition , both as regarded funds and members . This state of things bad been brought about by the split that had taken place between thoso who were formerly their leaders , and themselves . Mr . Leach , Mr . Donavan , Mr . T . Clark , and others , formed an association of themselves . But Mr . Leach and Co . found it impossible to carry iton . in consequence of which the Institution hadfallen into the hands of those whom he ( Mr . Cropper ) represented . It was burdened with a heavy debt , which they were obliged to bear . But they were now improving both in members and funds .

      Mr . Gbocott corroborated the statement nr-n de Mr , Cropper . He bad no further observations to make except to explain why their Council had called the present Convention , which was that they had been called on by a largo number of localities , by letters and through the Press , to do so . Mr . Citie stated that their funds were low , but it was owning to their Bot being able to get people to collect , which arose for want of some systematic plan of action . Mr . CocKaoFr stated that the Chartists of Halifax had been , more or less , in a state of apathy since 1 S 4 S . A year ago they had had a large number of Hungarian refugees thrown upon them , whom they had felt themselves bound to support . They were now relieved of that burden , and were again working in the good old cause . Halifax had always in all times paid its full share of both local and national expenses .

      Mr . Bell stated that they had an association in Oldham , but very few members . But those members would do their utmost endeavours to carry out the plans of the Conference , provided they stuck to the Six Points of the Charter . The programme was then read . Mr . CocknoFt could not see that they would be justified in transacting any business , unless more delegates were present . He was averse to so small a i umber taking upon themselves to do the work of the nation ; were they to do so , he thought they would appear very much like tho three tailors of Tooley-strect . Mr . Chopper could not come to such a conclusion . Many great events had been brought about by small beginnings ,

      After some remarks from Mr . Cittie , and Mr . Cropper , Mr . Cockbopi said , there was a body of men who considered themselves the legitimate Executive of the Chartist Association . They considered that these men had violated the trust reposed in them , nnd that Convention was called to upset them , but they mast have more delegates than were present , or they would have no moral weight in their decision . Regulations were then adopted concerning the time of meetine , speaking , & c „ and the delegates adjourned . Tcesdat , May 18 . —In addition to the five delegates prosent yesterday , three more , making eight in all , representing six localities , were present . The newly arrived delegale ? were—Messrs . Jones and Finlen , from London ; and Mr . Hosier , from Coventry . Mr . Beu ,, of Oldham , was again called to the chair , and Mr . Geocoti appointed secretary . The minutes of yesterday were read and confirmed . Mr . Crrrre moved : —

      That the london and Coventry delegates show cause why they were not at their post yesterday . Mr . Finlen stated their non-attendance was caused by some business of the Metropolitan Delegate Council , wbioh had delayed their departure until they were too late for the train . Mr . Joses corroborated this statement . Mr . Hosier said his absence had been caused by the Coventry Council not having been able to decide whether they could send a delegate or not . They were not in a condition to send one by themselves , but had to depend upon some neighbouring localities , and were obliged to wait until th <> y knew the decision of those localities . Oa the motion of Mr . Cuts , these apologies were accepted . Mr . Citte moved : — That they now enter fnto the Conference fund , aud see how the moans were to be raised . Seconded by Mr . Josks .

      The travelling expenses and the cost of the Hall having been ascertained , it was agreed that a levy of 7 s . Cd . be laid upon each locality that had sent in their approval and promised support . Letters were then read from the following places : — Uaddersfield approved of tbe Conference , and promised to send a delegate , but did not . Rochdale was favourable , but could not Fend a delegate ; would render assistance . Ashton disapproved of the Conference , and would not support it . Pudsey had no association .

      Padiham was favourable , but could notsend without help . Todmorden would have sent a delegate had tho Conference been called for Good Friday . Torquay conld not raise tbe means . Bridgenorth did not approve of the Conference . Deptford iu favour , hut could not send . Llandiloes could not send . Hanley conld not send a delegate , but would help with funds . Merthyr Tydvil approved , but could not send a delegate ; will assist . Bacup , no organisation , but will assist .

      Colne wanted to know how long they would sit—what they would cost—and what good they would do . Leicester favourable , but possessed no influence over the people ; would assist , Bebden Bridge—no association , no room—could do nothing . Bineiey regretted the calling of the Conference ; could not agrea ~ to get into debt ; thought the debt of the present Executive ought to bs paid off . They have paid 10 s . towards it , and are about to send os . more . What had Mancheskr done ? Dundee saw no propriety in calling the Conference , and would not pay anything . Barnsley said , a Conference when called ought to bo held in London , but the Chartists generally did not want one . These letters having been read , Mr . Finlbs moved , and Mr . Citte seconded , That a committee of three be appointed to make out the accounts , Messrs . C ropper , Finlen , and Hosier were appointed .

      The first proposition on the programme was then read as * Xiiattne ov . je-. tsofthe National Charter Association continus to hp as heretofore , to obtain , by stiiclly legal and peaceable means , the enactment of tfce People ' s Charter , in all its fulness and em Tnis resolution was carried without discussion . The second clause was then read . To consider the best means of establishing a mare efficient organisation of the Chartists throughout the country , and effectually desUtvvingtheunhaipy dissentions existing among the different lo-^ floaiBR thoug ht the resolution contained the pith of

      Chartism , Conference Of Delegates At Ma...

      the business which had called them together . Ho thought the old plan of organisation contained much that was good and useful , but wanted a few amendments ; and if they could only find out a plan to put a stop to dissention , they would have accomplished a great object . Mr ; Jones said , all attempts to put a stop to those differences' would prove futile , unless they could tear away the bad passions from men ' s hearts . So long as petty spite , ambition , and envy possesseed men s minds they would have these dissentions , unless they could change human nature . Thev must raise the cause above these low passions . They must elect an Executive who would and could work ; and who by their uprightness and perseverance in the cause would raise it to such a pitch of greatness and power , as should for ever put down those low grovelling jealousies and ambitions that had so long ruined and destroyed tbe cause . They ought to inquire whether they had an Executive : what should be tho condition of membership—what the policy they should pursue . After a few words from Messrs . Hosier and Cittie ,

      Mr . Joses moved that the " house " resolve itself into committee on the matter . Mr . Gbocott said , all their plans hitherto had failed ; he therefore hoped some more efficient plan would be hit upon . Mr . Hosier said , they had been very low in Coventry ; people would not come near them ; but they adopted tbe voluntary plan , and threw open their books to any one who would join , and left it to their own will , whether thoy paid or not ; and they soon increased both in men and money .-Mr . Joses said , they were told tbat they must pay one penny per week ; but if they did that it was still voluntary ,

      for people , when they had got behindhand with their contributions , stopped away altogether . They could , therefore , exercise no compulsion over them . But if members were left to themselves , they would not be frightened away . When the people saw some distinct and palpable object placed before them , they were never found wanting . ' Let but a Land Company or a " People ' s Paper" be started , or anything that was definite , and see how they would act . Mr . Chopper said , they were compelled to have a qualification of membership . The voluntary system would not do in Manchester . Mr . Jones mored : — That all payments be free aud voluntary .

      Mr . Hosier wished to know whether the motion included a card of membership . Mr . Joses said not . If they paid for a card of membership they ought only to pay the value of , such card , whereas , if they paid one-penny , they would pay six times as much as the card was worth . If they required anything to prove their membership , he should prefer a tract , which should explain the principles . Mr . Hosieb thought a card was necessary . Mr . Grocott agreed with Mr . Hosier . Mr . C'ockeoft said they always raised most money in Halifax by voluntary contribution -. Mr . Finlex said cheapness was the order of the day , and if they passed the motion they would be acting according to the spirit of the _ age . It was necessary to renounce the Property Qualification , and then they would get men of talent to join them . Mr . Citte differed entirely from what had been said . He could not agree with the voluntary principle .

      Mr . Joses said , his motion did not interfere with the local government , it only referred to the National Fund . Mr . HosiKit supported the motion , Mr . CocKKori said , if the plan would work for the Executive , it would work for the localities ; Mr . Gaocoix s & id it vjould not do in Manchester . The resolution was agreed to , on the understanding that it did not interfere with the localities . Mr . Jokes thought thoy ought no v t ) agree to some general laws , by which they should be governed . Mr . Finlen moved -. — That the association be governed by a paid Executive of three , whose term of office should be three months . Let them pass such a law , and they would strike terror into the hearts of the tyrants , and those traitors and scoundrels who talked of Chartism being dead . Mr . CocKsorr seconded the motion , Mr . Cboppbk wished to know whether the Conference or tho country were to elect the Executive f

      Mr . Hosieb said his instructions were , that the Conference elect it for the first year . Mr . Citte ooved—That the newExecutive be only provisionally elected . Mr . Gnocoti wished the appointment to be for three months . Mr . Hosier was in favour of three months . If at the end of that time they were tired of them , they could get rid of them , and choose better men . Mr . Joses said ho was in favour of tho Executive being elected for three months . It would keep up a ferment in the country ; and that was just what they wanted . Ho thought tie Convention was bound to elect them . Delay was death—they musthavo them out at once , or it was over with the movement . They must have men who would go out and raise an agitation , and get up the funds . Tho localities which they visited must maintain them until tho funds were got up . Mr . Cropper said they were sick of tho middle class , and had lost all confidence in them .

      Mr . Fklen agreed to make his resolution provisional , and to reoommend to tho country the propriety of throe months Executives . The motion was put and carried . It was then considered necessary to enter into some arrangement as to the salaries to be paid to the Executive , Mr . Citte could not say what the remuneration was to be unless he could tell where it was to come from . Mr . Hosier moved : — That the remuneration be £ 110 s . par week . Mr . Josks thought £ 2 per week was little enough . Let them , if thoy wanted funds , get out 300 collecting sheets , and send them to that number of the most active man in the country—not to the secretaries , but to men whom they knew would act—and they would soon have a fund . Mr . Gnocoi wanted to know whether tho Secretary was to be connected with the Executive , Mr . Jones said the Secretary should not be a member of the Executive .

      Mr . Hosier said , if tho wages of the Executive commenced as soon as they were elected , and the money did not come in for four weeks , they would have a debt of £ 18 hanging over them . Moved by llr . Cockroft , seconded by Mr . Grocott : — That all organised localities which the Executive may visit , pay their travelling expenses from the locality from which they have come , and that as regards the places that are not organised , the travelling expenses of the Executive be paid out of the General Fund . Carried nem . con . The Conference then adjourned . Wednesday , May 19 th . —Mr . Hosier thought previous to passing the minutes of yesterday they ought to reconsider some portion of the business concerning the payment of the Executive . He moved that these additional words be added at the end of the resolution : — Such salerlcs to commence as soon as funds are provided to pay them .

      Mr , Jokes said if they bad tho wages of the Executive going on , and no money to pay them , they would have a new debt—the eternal disgrace of tne Chartist movement . He could say , of his own knowledge , that the debt of the present Executive was owing to Mr . Arnott for his wages . He seconded the motion . Mr . Fislev was opposed to a paid Executive . He thought if they bad a paid Executive £ 110 s . would be too little . They ' could not get men of talent for so small a sum . Mr . Jones warned them against setting up three gentlemen , which they would be considered to be in comparison

      to working men . If they could not get men who would work for three months for the sum of £ 110 s . per week , they could not got them to work for nothing , except the fine gentlemen , who would do them no good . Mr . Finlen did not know of more than one man who was competent to serve on the Executive , and that was Thomas Martin Wheeler , He would not hide from them the fact that he had a desire to b e on the Executive , but he conld not conscientiously sit on a paid Executive . Who else could they got ? Kydd , Harney , and Cooper would not work for them .

      Mr . Citte said they did not want men who would traffics in the cause . After some further discussion the motion was carried , and the minutes confirmed . Mr . Gnocox said as Mr . Wheeler ' s name had been mentioned , he would ask . the London delegates whether that individual had abandoned thoso acts of intemperance to which he was formerly addicted . They had received considerable injury from men coming on to their platforms in a state of beastly intoxication . -Mr . Cockroft said if they were about to inquire into the private characters of men , titer eporlerfor the "Star" ought 10 be ordered to lav down Ms pencil—which he was ordered to no ! ' . ' . Mr . Jones moved—That Mr , Gam ige be requested to act on the Executive . Mr . Cropper seconded the motion . Carried nem . con .

      Mr . Citte moved—That Sir , Finlen be elected to the Executive , Seconded by Mr . Cockroft . Mr . Jones wanted to know if Mr . Finlen was appointed on the Executive would he , funds or no funds , go into the country ? Mr . Finlen said , where he had most influence . But if they could not find another man he was ready to serve them in the true apostolical style . Mr . Jo >* ss would like Mr . Finlen on the Executive above all men ; he was such an enthusiastic , intelligent , and upright young man . Mr . Fisien agreed . Mr . Finlen moved : — That Mr . Crow be elected on the Executive . He was a friend of his , and one whom ha would like for a colleague . Seconded by Mr . Hosier .

      Mr . Cute suggested that Mr . A . Robinson , of Wilson , be appointed . The reporter of the " Star of Freedom " was asked respecting Mr . Robinson , who stated that he was a sober , intelligent , and upright man , .,. „ .. Mr . FisiEN- wanted to know if he was the Robmsoa who represented Bradford in the last Convention ? Having been answered in the affirmative , Mr . Fislen said , he was satisfied that Mr . Robinson was a very clever man ; in fact he was too clever—by far too clever—for he was an Atheist , and he was too clinching a reasoner on that question . They had already received too much harm from having men holding those opinions on the Executive .

      Mr . Jones said , if they were to expect any ono who was manager or editor of a p » p £ r , he could not spare time to do their work efficiently . If , however , they could not find another man , he had no objection to serve them for three months ; but iu doing so he should refuse to receive any salary .

      Chartism , Conference Of Delegates At Ma...

      Moved by Mr . Cockroft , seconded by Mr Finien - That in the event of Both the men refusing to act , Mr . Jone , M < a their place . us la " Mr . Copper moved : — That Mr . Grocott be Secretary to the Executive . Mr . Jones suggested that tbe Executiv e elect their own Secretary . He ought to be entirely under theircontrol . Seconded by Mr . Cockroft . Mr . Hosier was of opinion that the Executive should not have the power to discharge tho Secretary . Mr . Grocott said , tho plan oi Mr . Jones was unprecedented . Mr . Jones said , the former Executives had elected thoir Secretary . He contended that the Secretary ought to be a mere corresponding machine , and ought to take no part whatever in tho control or direction of the movement . After some further discussion , Mr . Jones moved , and Mr . Cockroft seconded : —

      That the Executive be appointed for time months provisionally , the Executive to hav « the poiver of dismissing him—the country to elect him for the future ; the grounds for aismissing him to be dishonesty , intriguing , secret letter writing , neglect of duty , er general misconduct . Mr . Jonbs moved : — That the head quarters of the Executive be in London . Seconded by Mr . Cockroft . After some opposition from Messrs , Hosier , Citte , and Cropper , the motion was agreed to , Mr . Jones moved—That Mr . Swell , of London , be treasurer . Seconded by Mr . Cjttb . Carried . Moved by Mr . Grocott , seconded by Mr . Citte—That the Executive piovide their own office . Mr . Jones moved , Mr . Ca » rrER seconded , That Mr . l'inlcn go to Yorkshire and * Lancrshire , Mr , Gammage to the West of England , and Mr . Crow to the Midland counties . Mr . Jones said they must have tbo secretary ia London . They could not go with him in Manchester .

      Mr . Grocott said as soon as they were prepared to mako provision for him he was prepared to go . The puestion was then brought forward as to tho position they ought to occupy towards other sections of reformers . Mr . Grocott said they were determined on all occasions to opposo the Financials . If that class of politicfans were to dare to call a public meeting on any occasion , they were determined to Co and opposo them . Mr , Citte said they were in favour of an ansagonistic policy towards that class of men . Mr . Cockboft said they were determined in Halifax not to act 'Vith tho middle classes on any account . They were determined to oppose them , even if they went for the Charier . ( "Hear , hear "from Mr . Jones . ) They were determined not to unite with thorn under any circumstances .

      Mr . Jones said , he highly approved of what hadfallen from the last speaker . There must be no peace between the middle classes and the people . They must go to their meetings and oppose them at all hazards . They must break in upon their country meetings , their parochial meetinRB , and their meetings of every land . If they attempted to call ticket meetings , they they go and smash h upon them ; five or six hundred or a thousand men would be able to break in upon their door keeper and storm the meeting . Wherever and whenever ihcy met they must be met and put down . W e must fight them under whatever face they appear . Mr . Hosier moved the following resolution : — " That it is the opinion of this Convention , that if any public meeting he called by the Parliamentary Reformers iu any of the

      localities under the organisation of the Chartist Association , thu Conference recommends the officers and friends of the Association to go and move amendments for the Charter—whole aud entire . " Mr , Jones seconded the resolution . —Carried . Moved by Mr . Citte , seconded by Mr . Hosier : — "That , at the expiration of three months , the Executive be elected by the people for the term of twelve months . " Mr . Fin-lex moved as an amendment : — ' * That the term be six months , instead of twelve . " Seconded by Mr . Jones , —Carried . Messrs . Cittie , Cockroft , and Cropper were appointed to prepare the rules and regulation by which the Executive were to be guided , and to define their powers .

      Mr . Jones stated , that a Working Man ' s Conference was about to assemble iu America , for tho purpose of electing a working man as President for the United States , lie bad received a letter from Professor Oliver Byrne , of Philadelphia , who was an Englishmen , and a Chartist , requesting them to elect him to represent the working classes of this country . He would , therefore , move : — " That he be elected by this Conference for that purpose . " Carried . The meeting then adjourned .

      Metropolitan Delegate Council. Srjkdi*, ...

      METROPOLITAN DELEGATE COUNCIL . SrjKDi * , May 10 th , 1852 . —Mr , Bligh was called to the chair . —Mr . Moring took his scat for the City Locality , in tho absence of Mr , Washington . Tho Chairman then made an appeal for the funds on behalf of the Manchester Convention , but met with no response . —Mr . T . M . Wheeler reported tbat tho Observation Committee had resolved that the candidate standing highest on the poll should go to Manchester , in the event of Che funds not permitting both to proceed thither ; the amount in hand and promised was £ 2 13 s . Cd . In reply to a question , Mr . Clark ( Secretary to Council ) said he had made applhation to tho Ship Locality , hut had not as yet received any reply to his communication , Mr . Stratton , as representative of that locality , was instructed to say , that no funds would be furnished unless the metropolis was in a condition to

      send two or more delegates . —Mr . Finlon brought up the address on behalf of tho " People ' s Paper . "—Mr . Farrah moved that tho address be not received . He could not conceive why ono paper was to be put forward to the exclusion of another quite as good , and as muoh , at any rate , the organ of the Democratic body . "—Mr . Moring seconded tho motion . —Mr . T . M . Wheeler thought such a motion should not he discussed . —Mr . Stratton thought every proposer of a motion was entitled to a fair hearing , and the Chairman here rose to order , and said he thought such proceedings mere boy ' s play . —Mr . A . Grant also rose to order , and said such conduct should not be permitted ; it was well calculated to break them up . —Mr . Stratton persisted , and declared Mr . Farrah to be right in thus faithfully representing the feelings of those who sent him there , and doing what he was delegated to do . For his own part

      ho would not belong to any clique ; he protested against any one man being made a god of . That portion of tho address relative to Mr . Jones was the most fulsome siokining adulation he had ever hoard ; it was only another species of Kingcraft . He could respect any man for the good ho had done , but ho would not deify any one . lie would therefore move— " That that portion of the address , relative to tho Editor of tbo ' People ' s Paper , ' bo struck out . "—Mr . Farrah ' s proposition was negatived . —On the adoption of the address being moved , Mr , Stratton moved his amendment . —Mr . Farrah seconded it . —Mr . Finlen defended the address whole and entire . —Tho original proposition was carried by a majority of four . —Mr , Jones , under present circumstances , thanked them for that address . — Mr . Snelling said , great complaints had been made as to the mode of the late delegate election , some declaring it

      unfair ..=. Mr . Wheeler thought on the whole it was fairly conducted , —Mr . Stratton thought the election a juggle ; for his part ho bad not voted at all , being entirely opposed to the Manchester Conference . —Mr , Jones objected totheso proceedings . If there had been juggling , it was not with the Chairman or Council , but oh the part of Mr . Murray and bis friends of the Reform League . —Mr . Stratton said , he was not to be scared because strangersor reporters were present , nor would he be bound in consequonce to say that , and only that , which would please Mr , Jones . He was an independent man , and would speak what he believed to bo right . —Mr . E . Jones rose in anger , and demanded that Mr . Stratton should prove where the juggle lay , — Mr . Stratton rose apparently for the purpose , but the Chairman rose and demanded to defend himself from , what he denominated , " slander . " Ho had been tho Chairman on the occasion alluded to , and bad done his best to have a fair poll taken—it was not at all likely that he would bo a a party to a juggle when Mr . Murray was his friend , and he

      wished it to be understood that tbo meeting itself decided that it should have the privilege of voting asoitenaait pleased , —Mr . C . Murray ( the defeated candidate ) rose , and asked permission to speak , but Mr , Ernest Jones demanded that Mr . Stratton should first explain . —Mr . Stratton said , from the show of hands that first took place , he believed the majority to he in favour of Messrs . Jones and Murray , and had it not been for what he must persist in calling a iuggle . He believed Messrs . Jones and Murray would now be their delegates . —Messrs . Clark , Snelling , Murray , and tbe Chairman now rose together amidst much excitement . — Mr . C . Murray demanded a hearing , *! and said , for himself he felt no annoyance at the decision , but his friends were dissatisfied . But he could not allow Mr . Ernest Jones to say if there was a juggle , "It was Mr . Murray and his friends oftho Reform League , " that created it : It might suit Mr . Jones ' s purpose to run down the Reform League , but he ( Mr . Murray ) would not allow it in his presence . — The matter dropped . —The Treasurer said he bad only £ 2 03 . Od . in hand towards tho Convention Fund . —Mr .

      Stratton moved— " That , in consequence of tho absence of funds , no delegate be sent . "—Mr . Farrah seconded the motion . —Mr . Ernest Jones said if the bare third class faro wove paid to himself and Mr . Finlen , they would both proceed to Manchester , and take the remainder of the money as they could get it . —After a discussion , Mr . Stratton's motion « as lost . The funds in hand wore ordered to bo handed to the delegates-elect , and tho Council adjourned . Bermondsbv . —We understand that the Bcrmond & cy Chartist Locality meet at Mr . Heather ' s , Upper Kingstreet , Old Kent-road , every Monday evening , at half-past nine , to transact business .

      Coventry . —There is an omission in the report of the Ceventry Chartist Locality of last week . It is the resolution passed— " Not to send or allow to bo sent any report to the ' Star of Freedom' till the ' People ' s Paper' is established . " It was passed at tho Foleshill Localitynot at Coventry . Tho Chartists of Coventry repudiated the idea .

      ©Osopnttto (Styronwlf.

      © osopnttto ( Styronwlf .

      Us" Wo Shall Be Glad To Receive Reports ...

      US" Wo shall be glad to receive Reports of Progress from Managers or Secretaries of Co-op erative Associations and Stores , iu En « land , Ireland , Scotland and Wales . ° THE WORKING TAILORS' ASSOCIATION ,

      LONDON . ( By its late Secretary . ) A CHAPTER TOWAKD THE ASSOCIATIVE HISTORr . . THE CAUSE OF ttUARBEL . How pleasant it is for men to agree and dwell together in unity , how fraternity and kindness draw out the belter nature and bring the angel-side of human nature uppermost While we are thus one in feeling and one in interest , it is so easy to be good , so natural to be kind to each other ; but , lei tha alightert cause of quarrel arise , and how quickly

      Us" Wo Shall Be Glad To Receive Reports ...

      we are swung round as on a pivot , and we turn the devilside of ns full-faced on each other , a mist of blindness rises in the eyes , wc retreat farther and farther , heart from heart , the rift " of difference widens and widens . What before appeared all bright , aud pure , and clear , seems now likathe water to which we apply the microscope , full of horrible and hideous thing ; : , so magnifying is Evil ! Andhow slight a circumstance will serve to place us in this position , and work this fatal change ! It is often wrought " on the dissension of a doit , " as Shakespeare has it , and he knew num » n nature well . We have seen the dearest and nearest relations 0 { IifB violate ( , t () ra for U ) e verifct trMe > A „ antagonistic interest to the value ot five pounds thrown into f ay 7 wllich hafhithertobeen all and

      amity—J * u » , peace L-, 1 ? a Scramble for and contend about , will serve to set wX nr T " ' imvn e » raitv , and buy up all the priceless «„«« , ? Ti a ,, d "ffection-ricbes worth a world . The are p ^ S ^ nJSs ™ uvt ^ " ^ F ? "\ evil begetting ev " \ Y kL ? " feel " '§ ^ ™ l ^' to ihh mnw % . w u ? - mn" arewpec a y susceptible nrst place , self-educated men ore most infernally sel ' -willed » the second , they are very prejudiced and Le so tie fe ^! 3 !!? 1 7 " - * ° ^) ^ thirdly , they ' have been often deceived b

      so y men of the r o * n 0 Vd r ' and tvrau . nuedowbribe men who ham arisen out of tbei wn ranks , and whose wealth and power have been built by thenlabour and poverty . This shows more and more theVeceSsity of a better state cf things and circuasianeei to surround and develop Humanity . I believe there can be no general progression for humanity until we have an identity of interests , which would develop men by attraction , which is the law of love ; whereas this terrible competiiion or antagonism of interests develops man by repulsion . And it also shows how easy it was for Walter Cooper and the men to differ and suspect each others' motives on their first cause oi

      quarrel . I have mentioned that the laws which had beea translated for the men at Castle-street were Ihe laws of au association which bad found its own capita ) , and , therefore , had a right to make its own laws . These the men claimed . Walter Cooper objected . These laws would have given tha men the power of introducing new members and of discharging others , without the veto cf the manager . Now this would have been perfectly just in case the men had provided their own capita ) , but here the capital was lent to the manager , who was held solely responsible ( or the safety of it , and , therefore , could not consrnt to laws which

      would give the men a power over that capital , in opposition to his , and superior to it . Every man of common sense must perceive the iinjustness of such demands ; these men assumed to be Democrat ? , and yet they would have legislated as they pleased with oilier people ' s money , and because t . iey were not permitted to do so , they branded , as a tyrant , the man who tbirsrted them , and who was held responsible lor the money . Why , is not one of our greatest fundamental democratic grievances agiinstour present government to be fomsdin the very fact that they are legislating with other peoples money ? Therefore the Democracy cannot surely justify the perpetration of the same iniquity even in the most trivial shape . It appears to me that all the men had to do , or could reasonably expect , was to make the best terms compatible with their relative positions , and make all haste in paying off the borrowed capital and escaping from he tyranny" which it imposed . But the great reason of this struggle and this maligning of the manager as a rani

      > was tn . s-certain of the probationers had got an inkling that the manager had found them out , and could not work wih them , and that they , therefore , stood but little chance of becoming associates , so they protested against the manager having the right of selection or discharge of mem . bers , seeing how nearly it concerned them . They talked to tbe men of « Democracy , " "Tyranny , "and "Slavery , " like any stump . orators , irritated them , aroused their pride , and bound them down to stand by them in their dictatorship , and back them in their demands . Walter Cooper had sufficient reasons for not choosing such men to work with in the Association , more , of course , than need be laid before the public . Here is one , but it involves many others : — So determined was the principal man in this affair not to

      leave the Association , but to have a hand in it , and to oust the manager , that he proposed to buy the concern , or rather sell it out of the hands of tbe Promoter ? , end offered to borrow £ 200 , as his part towards it . This was dangerous talk for a young Association ( indeed , it was not yet an As . socialion , ) struggling with difficulties , and surrounded with battling enmities . This was opening up a chance for any Slop-seller or Usurer to buy it up , and crush the affair at once . Was it not an imperative necessity to be rid o ( such men ; and where was the tyranny in excluding them ? Walter Cooper would have been a traitor to his order , and a traitor to the principle of Co-operation , not to have done so . Honour-to him , say we , for daring to act in the manncr be did ! for he knew that it was the sacrifice of his

      reputation with hundreds of the working men , who are so eager to catch at , and believe any calumny or lie spoken against ono of themselves , especially if he is represented as a tyrant . A true and righteous instinct ! but one which has been fatally trafficked in . Walter Cooper knew all this , and acted as he thought for the best , despite of consequences ; and , I do not think ( here is one man in the Association now who challenges the wisdom of the policy which he then adopted . The Association was formed , when seventeen out of twenty were selected to become associates ; quite as many as could be expected , when it is considered that they were called together promiscuously , with little or no previous knowlege of them . The excluded boasted that they had left a faction behind , which would jet break up

      the Association , in revenge for their dismissal . It was quite true that they left behind a faction which had to be dis . missed also , but they did not succeed in breaking up and destroying the Association , though it had a narrow escape of the threatened danger . The men excluded continued to agitate and irritate the Association , until it became a matter of stern necessity to send others away . After this , things went on calmly for some months , though it was felt that the calm was an ominous one , and was nursing up a storm of fury . There were continual indications of smouldering disquiet and discontent ; all the while the Association was wonderously successful in a pecuniary sense . We succeeded in spite of ourselves . Success was thrust upon us . Never was an effort of working men for their mutual

      betterance more eminently prosperous as the world goes , and never was a cause more be-deviled by those engaged in it . Why , we had our balance sheet made out by an accountant lor the first quarter , and divided some £ 40 in profits , when it was afterwards discovered that more than tbat amount had been spent , without the invoices having been entered , which , if entered , would have left no profit at all to divide . Yet , we always balanced our cash ! Of course such a state of things was a fair ground of complaint on the part of tbe men , only they made the fatal mistake ( that is , the ' faction left behind ) of making U the medium of their revenge , and over-reached themselves . The books of the Association were always open to the men and to the customers , and , at the expiration of nine months , they were given up to those

      appointed to examine them . There was blunders and mistakes enough in all conscience to have satisfied the most hungry mistake-mongers , but they lay on both sides , and somewhere about outset each other , thus demonstrating that there had been no " cooking" of accounts , with all our ignorance of regular business routine . But the appointed examiners only looked for mistakes on one side , and thatof course against tbe management , and thus defeated their own aims . Fifty-four of their alleged mistakes were reduced to four , when explained . It is so natural for blind men to run against obstructions ' Still , the blundering and misrepresentation of these men caused great irritation among the rest of the associates , and we went on from bad to worse . Bickerings between the men and manager increased , and at length things came to a crisis . It was found that thev

      could no longer go on together , therefore , each party having made their representation to the promoters of the experiment , those gentlemen were called in to separate the combatants , judge their case , and give their award . Both parties signed a document , binding them to abide by the decision of the promoters , whatever it might be . After long and anxious consideration of the subject , the award was given —( it has been printed in the " Christian Socialist , " and in " Notes to the People" )—its purport was , that the Association should be dissolved , and a new one formed , the basis of which should consist of the Manager , the Cutter , and two men out of the shop , whom the promoters specified ; it was stipulated that these four should select a fifth , the fire should choose a sixth , and so on , until the new ass ociation should number ell that were necessary . It has

      been averted that the promoters can do this at any time , of their own accord , which is false , as they have no power to do so unless called in by the men . The promoters had no voice in the noa-re-election of certain members , and the manager had but one vote . It must not he thought thai the mon who were excluded were only those who had rendered themselves obnoxious by their suspicions , quarrelings , & c . ; for a long time previous the work of the Association had been complained of , and the men , knowing tbat work done in association ought to equal , and as fox as possible , excel the work done in the competitive world , resolved to sift the Association , at this opportunity , ol all bad and

      indifferent workers . This was a painful duty , because a man might be an indifferent worker , and yet a " jolly good fellow , " This was the case with certain associates of the Castle-street Association , but it was resolved to sacrifice friendship at the shrine of principle , and it was done . Altogether , nine ot the old associates were not re-elected ; but these were not robbed oi the fruit of their accumulated labour , as has been falsely asserted ; each man bad his fair share of the net profits , earned while he was an associate , as estimated by a competent accountant and a disinterested ' person . Of this , and of the part which Mr . E . Jones has played toward the Association , and of its present position , I shall speak in my next and last letter . Gerald Massby ,

  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), May 22, 1852, page 5, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_22051852/page/5/