Current:

Northern Star (1837-1852), 18th December 1841, Edition 1 of 5, Page unpag

Page unpag
Page 1
1 of 8

On this page

  • Departments (1)
    • <£t?ai*tfct 3£nrntfft*titt
  • Text (6)
  • Transcript

    • Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software. The text has not been manually corrected and should not be relied on to be an accurate representation of the item.

      Additionally, when viewing full transcripts, extracted text may not be in the same order as the original document.

      Untitled Article

      TO THE WORKING CLASSES , AXD NONE " OTHER . Hr deasss * PaiESBS , —Mayhap ice-matter which I intead that this letter should contain woald hare teen better if embodied in what is called a " Leading Article f . but * s I am Tain enough to believe that Bj name being appended ttHI not detract from any &erit which would otherwise be attached to it , I iaa * n it to bear mj own Rgnatore . >* otr , let me council you , commune with yon , and nation yon . I mean to treat of the newly assumed

      policy of what is termed the u Anti-Corn Law League . " You must erer be mindful of their progressive approach to our principles , and of & 6 circumstances and occasions which hare led to their mitigated wrath ; for even yet their jutred of us is as great and deadly , though prsdenUy smothered , as erer it was . Yes , they jjate u 3 most cordially ! yet , nevertheless , they Jjjt « assessed the mask of friendship , first to ¦ eases , and &en betray as J

      Now , when their political party wm in power irho were socially , politically , generally , and locally the Bost mean , persecuting , and intolerant foes ike working men had to contend against ! The TjFiig Corn Law repealers , beyond all comparison . "VHio most perseTeringly , uafairly , cruelly , and jjujyctly rejected » U our appeals for a modicum of justice , while they had the power of at least evincing i disposition to conciliate \ The Corn Law Eepealers . _ . - ... .

      _ Who eombitted every inch of the Chartist principles , picking the ballot alone out—( which , seperated from the Tote , would be an evil , and a crying 6 Bej __ &s worthy of their support , while they were in power , and had the means of advancing those principles ! The Ck . ru Law Rapealers . Who , so ? in our strength , and in theib weaknesS j profess to proffer all that we ask , while they hare no power bus to ir . jore us by contamination 1 The Corn L » w Repealers .

      Now , my friends , this is my position . The party tailing themselves the Democratic party , and making flie Repeal of the Corn Laws their test of liberality , is the most illiberal , the most faiihle 3 s , the most rulgar , the moei unprincipled , the most inconsistent « nd the most ignorant party that eTer yet cursed any eonntry in any age ; and I will proTe it to you . I first take them substantially as a party , and con-Bder what they hare done . I can furnish you with bo illustration more apt than that which the Irish Total Abolitionists of Tithes presents . The Irish Abolitionists declared , and justly , that the payment of Tithe by » Catholic to a Prorest&nt parson

      was unjust , and unfair ; and upon this principles we ( for I belonged to the Total Abolitionists ) treated an agitation which , if not strangled in its craile by the cold hand of the assassin , would have , ere now , desiroyed the monster tiihe system : howeTer , the merchants of abuse stepped in with their instalment principles , and by a change of creditors or recipients , persuaded the dsbtor that he was much reiieied by paying a hundred shillings in the Bhape of rent to his landlord , in lieu of fire pounds to the parson . This deception , as you have observe ^ rained the Irish party , while it had the nererfaOing tendency of dispiriting the great mass of the

      peopie . ~ Sovr , always bear in mind that at oar great titbegatherings in Ireland , and for attending and presiding oTer seven of which I was prosecuted by the charming Whigs , ve contended that the amomtf was BOthing—that the principle was everything ; and that the case of Tim , who paid £ 5 lithe under attoderate composition for 100 acres , was as unjust and grieTOBs as the case of Darby , who paid £ 15 for the same Eumber of acres , and eo better laud ; because the conscience of Tim was opposed to the impost and not to the amount .

      Well , the Corn Law Repealers slso place the injustice of taxing human food , andno : the amouni , upon their banners ; and they qnote scripture , —but " the devil quotes scripture when it suits his purpose . " However , thej did qnote scripture ; bat « n ! y to sostyn them in an attack upon the principle ; and they virtually abandoned all that strength and support which they could have hoped to derive from holy writ , the moment they substituted the Whig Chancellors' ledger for the Bible . This , however , they

      did do ! for when Baring , the biggest as 3 that ever ailed the offioa of Chancellor of the Exchequer , proposed a perpetual ias t which he estimated at six hundred thousand pounds per annum , upon that which the Leagu 9 had declared in their religious ferronr was unscriptural—[ pray mind that , cxscaiptubai ]— th : 3 same League , every mother ' ^ son of them , went open , mouthed to his suppar . ; and this with the fact , and the knowledge of the

      fret admitted , that for a series of previous years the proposed tax , if in existence , -woald have ioposed the payment of six hundred thousand pounds annually , without conferriBg a shilling per annum benefit upon the community ! Now can any man cf sound mind attach any value to a political party , who , for the mere purpose of keeping their leaders iu ofiie , are prepared , without

      a msmest ' s notice or hesitation , to abanoon the truths of the gospel , upon which they professed to rely , for the anticipations of a scatter-brained Whig financier ! Mark ; I never mix religion and politics ; but I am showing you what those who do bo , have done ; and I am showing also that the moment the Irish leaders abandoned the Gospel , the people abandoned them , and that the case of the Irish abolitionists and of the Corn Law abolitionists

      are strietly analogous . Great damage occurs to the democratic party bj allowing & distinction to be made between the acts of the constituent body and those of the representatives of that constituent body ; thus , the people were long gulled with the belief that the Tories , as a body , deserved credit for a pretended opposition to the Poor Law Amendment Act , while their representatives in Parliament were amongst the most strenuous suppsrters of the measure . In my opinion the acts of electors and their representatives must be taken as the joint acts of both , so long as the

      farmer continue to place confidence in the latter . Aad now observe—while the representatives of the Corn Law League , who now speak of coming out for Universal Suffrage , were in power , did they not oppose , and doggedly oppose , not only any extension of the enfErax ? , but did they not indignantly refuse to nnfetter the voter of a single restriction with which the Reform Bill had hampered him ! Did they not refuse to repeal the late-paying clauses ! Did they not refuse to concede to county voters that franchise which their oTii Bill had conferred upon Boroug h voters ?

      And were they not , nevertheless , backed , supported , and upheld by the League , as the very perfection of governments 1 Nay , more ; lest the taking them conjointly may be considered too stringent , did they , themselves , not pertinaciously refrse to allow any one of the principles in our Charter , save the ballot , to bo mooted at their meetings ? And did not the cowardiy , vulgar , brutal fellows roll our speakers in the mad , to the great flight of the Morning Chronicle ? Did they not keep a police force , in readiness to assault and Si-use our leaders ! Did they not pack meetings ,

      foist tools of their own as chairmen to preside , and beat , insult , and attempt to mnrder soms of Our piny ! Yes , the " gospel" Lea / ne did all these things , and more , while their party were in power . But j , ow observe the jump which necessity has eempelled them to take over the bead of prejudice and principle 1 The men who refused to repeal the rwe-pajing clauses , are now advocates (? \! IT ) for Ujcivessal Suffrage , as they are pleased to *« na i ; : and the object of this letter is to l * y bare and naked the motives of a faction who bnt seek a onion with as for the purpose of creating diEUaJon , and of breaking ns np for ever .

      My friends , Universal Suffrage has ever been considered—as it merits—the principal feature of « nr Charter j and therefore is the adoption of that feature likely to captivate many who have not taken the trouble to examine the Charter as a whole . Let us see of whit you most bitterly complain . Is it n ^ t of class-legislation \ and if you admit that it is se , let us then ask two questions . Firstly , whetier or cot * Uiuversal Suffrage , " of itself , would destroy the xaonsier " class-legislation i" and , secondly , whether or not the Leaguers are sincere ? Upon my own behalf , I contend that Universal

      Untitled Article

      Suffrage , without the abolition of property qualification , and without the payment of members , would not , in the slightest degree , remove the injustice of class-legislation . And why ! because you would still have to select from a class of county candidates , having , not less than £ 600 per aunnm , and from borough candidates not having less than £ 300 per annum . This sum is only the minimum ; and therefore you must continue to select members from that class of the community whose interests are wholly and entirely opposed to the interests of the working classes .

      Now , more than at any former period , does idle pauperism press hardly upon the means of honest industry ; and now , consequently , does labour require the unshackling of both hands to fight her owh battle without giving one inch more ground than superior force can tyrannically withhold . If A . lease a plot of ground to B . for the purpose of building a home ; and although the plot &hould stand in the centre of A . 's domain !; and although the lease to B . should not contain any clause conferring a right of approach ; yot the spirit of the law , wisely presuming that a right fails to be

      valuable when it cannot be fully and uninterruptedly enjoyed , steps in , and supposing the right of possession , or rather possession itself , to imply all other privileges to make it complete , will compel B . to grant A . a free and uninterrupted right of passage to and from his dwelling . Now then , I contend for A ., that Universal Suffrage , without abolition cf Property Qualification , Payment of Members , and Annual Parliaments , would but confer npon the voter the letter without the spirit of the suffrage . He would be in the situation of a man , a Chartist man , on trial before a special jury , who , as Home Tooke well observed , was asked to choose twelve sound oranges out of a basket of

      rotten ones . Therefore , without the removal of all pecuniary and other obstacles , " Unit ersal Suffrage " would not be the most full , ample , and beneficial manner in which the right could be enjoyed . Again , without the Payment of Members , even admitting the non-abolition cf Property Qualification , the voter could not selec a man who had not where , withal to support himself , without selliDg bis vote to the conscience-jobber of theadministration . Again ; I would not , to-morrow , give you a five pound note for a seven years' Parliament , elected by Universal Suffrage ; aad observe , the League Bay not one word of thos 8 three principles contained in the Charter ! namely , Annual Parliaments , No Property Qualification , and Pavment of Members .

      I have shewn you that when the lust of Whiggery ran through the land with a tlack rein , that then the middle-class Whigs , who are the " Leaguers , " were , as a body , always in advance of the tyrant corps ; but now they wouiu seduce us as individuals , using for that purpose the names of the best , such as Sharman Crawford . Mr . Sturge , and Colonel Thompson . We must , however , view their acts as the acts of a party , and not as the acts of individuals . And now I come to consider my second question— " Are the Leaguers sincere , and do they really mean ora Umveesal Suffrage V I answer this at

      once . If they are , let them take the Charter , which , and which alone , bears the impress of a nation ' s wilL I need say no more upon that question ; and the more particularly as I find a noble fixedness of principle in my Chartist garrison waich truly defies assault or corruption . They shall have the Charter or nothing ! for , believe me , my trusty friends , that the battle of industry against idleness , of right against might , and of labour agaiast capital , shall be finally arranged in this campaign . I may here be , allowed to &ay one word of myself I have take a up a position : the men of Dewsbury asked me to swear that I would not abandon it . I did swear , and I now repeat it . With the working people of England , Ireland , and Scotland , I began this

      battle , and with them I will finish it . We defy all open and covert opposition . The principles of the Charter are now deeply rooUd in the hearts of the people ! and even the aristocratio trades themselves , heretofore my most bitter opponents , will be enlisted by the recruiting sergeant—" poverty . " The League , to convenience their administration , abandoned principle for expediency ; and every honest and sincere man despised them . The Irish tithe abolitionists did likewise ; and they stink in the nose of every man of sense : whereas we have adhered firmly to our principles , and all other parties are now courting our aid ! Had we been shaken by intimidation or persecution , we should long since have ceased to exist as a political party .

      Chartists I The men who now Bpeak of giving you Universal Suffrage wouU—( was power vested in them , which they would dare to use according to their inclination)—disfranchise every man in the land who lived by his labour , lest labour should find any defence in the House of Commons . Just see the manner in which the League ' s Press has backed that contemptible fellow , Allen , in his unfair and beastly t £ Eault—for it is nothing

      leeaagainst the stonemasons ! Aye , and see , too , how many of the masons hare turned traitors to their own order ; and see kowsomc of the aristocratic trad « sstill hang back in this strike , which , in point of fact , is matter equally interesting to every trado throughout the country . And bee again how nobly the noble army of Chartists are backiDg the masons , giviDg up their meeting nights to convenience them , and crowding all the masons' meetings to give them countenance and support .

      ' Sow one thing should nerer bs lost sight of . It is this . Many months before the strike , or before it was thought of , these very mosona were—eighteen of them—bearera of our Petition to the House of Commons ; and the masons' secretary , Mr . Wilson , w& 3 one of them ;; and from that moment no man can doabt that every tyrant master put their heads together to discover how—without making the Petition the " casus belli "—they could take satisfaction tipon tradesmen , who , comparatively comfortable themselves , jet dared to assist their fellow men in the acquirement of their rights . I

      mention this faet , merely to explain that of all bodies in the kingdom the stonemasons , and of all the stonemasons those who worked at the Houses of Parliament and carried our Petition , are most entitled to our co-operation and support . But upon the other hand , I speak of strikes generally , to assure the trades of this country , that the Charter is the only successful strike—and the only one which will place them upon a perfectly equal fo © ting with their employers . The moment the trades of England come out as the trades of Scotland have done , that moment the Charter is carried 1 And out they must come at last , or starve !

      My friends , in conclusion , the man who abandons one particle of our principles as laid down in the document entitled " The People's Charter , " is an enemy to hU country , his family , and iis God , and must therefore be locked upon as an enemy by every honest Chartist . I am , Your faithful friend , Feaegcs O'Coxkob . P . S . —I shall be in Bath on Monday next , and at Bristol on Tuesday , the day following .

      UNIVERSAL SUTFKAGB AXD J « O SUBSENDEK . F . O'C .

      Untitled Article

      Exthaohdikabt Potatoe . —A short timesince ^ a single root of potatoes was growing in Mrs . Skitter s garden , at Shrubb End Farm , Lexden , th « top of which , when green , extended over a space measuring thirty-three feet in circumferance . A few days gince it w& 3 dug up , when the amount of produce was founi to be 231 potatoes , Eome of which were very fine , and the greater pars fit for the table . — Ipsmch Express *

      Untitled Article

      Distbess in Paisley . —Wo find that the number of the unemployed has , during last week , increased only twenty-four , though much is to be feared from the eff-cts of some heavy failures which occurred a few days ago . The numbers now are : males 1 , 900 , dependents . 4 , 750 ; females 1 , 609 , dependents , 3 , 218 ; totaL , 11 , 477 . Including Kilbarchan , Johnstone , Barrhead , &c . the number of unemployed amounts to nearly 13 , 070 . Distress in Ireland . —Talk of Paisley , and the poverty of its unemployed population ! Most sincerely do we sympathise with these people , and happy are we to observe the successful exertions made to mitigate their sufferings . Bat we will venture to assert that there are few districts is Ireland—we see that even the weavers and spinners of

      Ulster are experiencing the general distreea—in which the pressure of want is not much more severely felt than in Paisley , or in any other part of Great Britain . As a sample of the real state of things , we are anxious to call attention to the following extract from the Kerry Examiner , received this morning : — "It ib , we are sorry to say , a faot but too well known that extreme and general distress prevails at this moment among the humble classes , both in town and country ; owing principally to the late very unfavourable season , and the consequent deficiency and deteriorated quality of every description of crops . This is particularly the oase withregard to potatoes and turf—toe poor man ' s chief means oi sustaining existence . " ~

      Meetikg of Pamument . —At a P ^ TJ Council , held at Windsor Castle , on Friday last , Parliament was ordered to be fnrther prorogued from Tuesday , the 21 ss inst ., to Thursday , the 3 rd of February next , u then to meet for the despatch of divers urgent and important affairs . " A Proclamation to this effect appears in the London Gazette-

      Untitled Article

      IiEEDS—O'Bbi « n ' s Pbees Fund . —The Committee net on Tuesday night , when it was resolved , that each member shsuld solicit halfpenny subscriptions from any persons favourable to the object , aud that they should attend the meetings in the outtownships and lay it before them . It is expected that meetings will be held at Morley and Rothwell shortly , when the Secretary , along with others , will at ; end . Our friends at Woodhonse , Hunslet , and Hoibeck , no doubt , will do their part . It was also resolved , that a tea party bo held on Christmas Day , in the Association Koom , when the band from Hunskt will attend and play some of their favourite

      airs . Several friends have kindly promised to attend and siiig some of the popular airs of the day and others will give the performance of the last act of John Frost . Several gentlemen will address the meeting at intervals . Altogether the performances will be such as the Chartists of Leeds have never experienced in their Koom before . Eariy application should be made to secure tickets , as it is expected that a large number will be there . The proceeds to be given to the press fund . Tickets , \ i . each , may ba had of Mr . John Cook , news-agent , Meadow-lane ; Mr . Win . Roberts , Front-row , near "Victoria Bridge ; and of Mr . Brook , corner of Vicar Lane .

      Debating Society . —A debating society has been formed of the Chartists meeting in the Association Room , with every probability of success . The first meeting was on Tuesday iiisnt , when requisite officers were appointed to conduct its affairs . Upwards of twenty members were enrolled . It is also intended to have a News Koom , and if funds will allow , a library of books , to be open on Sunday afternoons . Tne most popular papers and pamphlets will be taken . Leeds has long been in want of speakers ; it is anticipated this society will / uraish them . The question for -next Tuesday night is , " What are the benefits to be derived from debating societies I" To commence at eight o ' clock .

      Oldham .-Frost , Williams , and Jones . —A public meeting took place in the Chartist Koom , Greave 3-street , Oldham , on Thursday , Dec . 9 ih , for the purpose of memorialising the Queen to grant a free and immediate pardon to John Frost , Zaphaniah Williams , and William Jones , when a memorial was unanimoasly adopted . Mr . Clark , of Manchester , Rate a most soul-stirring address in the Ckartist Room , on Sunday evening last . WINCHCOXaSE . —A Charier Association exists here , with twenty-two members . Mr . Milsotn , of Bath , has lectured several times , and his visits have done much good . Mr . Milsom has also lectured at Toddington , a village three miles from Winchcombe . The National Petition has been adopted here .

      AEERGAVJ 5 NNY . —The Chartists and inhabitants of Abergavenny are informed that the weekly meeting of the Association will take place in future , on Wednesday evening , at seven o ' clock , instead of Monday evening . Their place of meeting is at a recently obtained room in Frogmore-street . —George Whitby , sub-Secretary . NORTHAMPTON . —County Delkgatb Meeting . —On Sunday last , a delegate meeting for thi 3 County , vr& 8 held &i the house of Mr . Jones , bookseller , Horsemarkct , Northampton ; the following dekgates being present , and representing their several localities : —Mr . George Askwell , of Daventry ; Mr . John Roddes , of Kettering ; Mr . E . Lever , of Long Buckley ; Messrs . John M'Farlane , and William Millar , of Northampton ; Mr . J . Bailey , of Wellingborough ; and Mr . Samuel Arthur , of Pittsford . Mr . Miller was called to the chair . Mr . J . M'Farlane stated that the cause of Chartism

      was 6 teadily progressing in Northampton , and wore a more cheering aspect than bo had known it to do at any former period . Mr . Bailey said that the cause * had been ' dead in Wellingborough for 3 ome time back , for which there were various reasons to be assigned ; but a few friends had met last week , and resolved to reorganise themselves , and join the National Charter Association . A lecturer was much wauted . Mr . Lever said that Chartism in LoDg Buckley was in much the same state as at WeUingborough . The other delegates said they were progressing , but wanted a lecturer . Letters were read by tne Secretary from Mr . Cooper , of Meldon , Mr . Harroer , of Onndle , and Mr . Cooper ,

      of Leioester . After some discussion , the following resolutions were unanimously agreed to : — " Thai Mr . T . M'Farlane be County Secretary . " — " That Mr . Joae 3 , bookseller , Northampton , be County Treasurer . " —' That the Secretary do write to Dr . M . 'Doual ) , and solicit him to make 6 uch arrangements as will enable him to come and lecture for a fortnight in this county ; and , if the Doctor cannot remain with us so long , that he ( the Secretary ) correspoudwith Mr . Baimow , forthe purposeof engaging him to complete the above period . "— "That this meecting do now adjourn until the Secretary has received an answer to his correspondence with Dr , M'DonalL "

      SILSDEN . —On Sunday last , two sermons were preached in the Chaniat Association-room , Silsden , by Mr . Thomas Constantine , of Keighloy ; and , although a collection was announced for the evening service , the room was crowded to suffocation , and a great number were obliged to go away unable to gain admittance . The rapid progress of Chartism in this populous village is a proof of the mighty change taking place in public opinion . Lately , there was scarcely a Chartist in it , and the very name was

      held in dension . Now its Association numbers upwards of forty regular members , and the whole population appear to be rapidly undergoing the pro ; cess of conversion to its principles . The isolated and long Whig-riddeu town of Addingham appears to be ic a similar situation . A few Chartists there are busily engaged in getting signatures to the National Petition , and a very considerable number of shopkeepers and manufacturers have already signed it , declaring it as their opinion that nothing short of that or a similar measure can save the country

      from rum . KEIGHLEY . —On Tuesday evening last , a publio meeting w& 3 held in the WorkiDg Man ' s Hall , to momonalise the Qaeenin behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones , and tne rest of the political prisoners . Mr . J . Firth occupied the chair , and Messrs . John snd Thomas Constantine addressed the meeting . Mr . T . Constantine , in the course of his address , gave a humorous and interesting account of his reception with the various personB professing to be ministers of the gospel , while calling upon them for signatures to the National Petition . One reverend gentleman excused himself on account of its oppositi n to the New Poor Law , which he

      considered one of the greatest blessings ever gives io the labonrinr class . Another objected on account of the Chartists refusing to join with the Corn Law repealers , cheap corn being , in his opinion , the only thing wanting to make all comfortable and happy . Another refused on account of the Petition praying for a separation of Church and State , "which , in all probability , would prove the ruin of his business These objections were , however , answered ; and , suffice it to say , that one solitory minister signed the petition in behalf of justice and humanity . The memorial was unanimously adopted , and a vote ot thanks given at the ch ) se of the business to the minister who bad signed , having proved himself the only minister of the gospel in Keighley .

      Untitled Article

      EDINBURGH . —County delegate Meeting . —A county delegate meeting took place on Monday , Dee . 13 th , at three o ' clock in the afternoon , in Whitfield Chapel , Edinburgh . Delegates were present from the following places : — Edinburgh—Mr . Watson . Xeith—Mr . Morrison . Dalkelth , Musselburgb , and Gore Bridge—Mr . Taylor . Lauwode and Pennycuick—Mr . Daniells . Portebello—Mr . Chambers . Mr . Taylor wai called to the chair , and Mr . Danielb was appoi nt *! Secretary . A letter was read from Pathead , stating that their Association was going on well , bat that they could not sand a delegate , as many of their members were in short work . The delegates

      then took into their consideration the County Treasurer ' s accounts , when the income was found to be £ 21 0 a . 8 £ < l , and the expenditure £ 20 17 s . 10 d .. with a balance in the Treasurers hands of 3 s . 10 £ d . Messrs . Chambers and Morrison were appointed to examine the Treasurer ' s books , which were found correct The fctate of the cause in the county was the next business when Mr . Watson stated that the cause was in a very prosperous condition in Edinburgh ; after one of Mr . Lowery ' s lectures sixty joined the association . Mr . Xowery U doing much good , and the men are in the best of spirits—their association had engaged Mr . Lowery aa lecturer . Mr . Morrison , of Lsith , said the jausje was doing well there , about twenty new members &silitfsing-tbe association every week . Mr . A . Duncan

      is doing great good in lecturing . Mr . Taylor stated that the cause progressed rapidly in Dalkelth ; they are constantly getting new members ; he also stated that the cause looks well in Muasolburgn and Gore Bridge , and in the agricultural parts of the court / . Mr . Diniells said he was sorry to say that some dissatisfaction existed at Lass wade , concerning the " National Petition , " still the men were in good heart , and were looking forward with confidence in the Charter . Mr . Chambers remarked that they were in want of agitation . The following resolutions were then passed unanimously , Moved by Mr . Daniella , seconded by Mr . Chambers , " That as several places have not accommodation fo ; in-door meetings , the County Lecturer be discontinued during the winter . " Movod by Mr . Morrison , seconded , by Mr . Watson : — " That we recommend those places

      that have not passed the national Petition , to take tc same into their serious consideration without delay , * we consider any disunion taking place at this time t be extremely disastrous to the cause of freedom . Moved by Mr . D . iniells , seconded by Mr . Chambers :-" That we deprecate the dividing the Chartists int moral and physical force , parties , ( so called , ) an ! recommend all our brother Chaitista to avoid as muc as possible discussing such subjects , and urge upo them still to conduct themselves , as they have hithert done , in a legal and constitutional manner , for tb | attainment of their just rights . " A vote of than ! was given to Messrs . Watson , Innes , and Ranken , ft | their efficient services to the lecture fund ; after a vol : of thanks to the chairman and secretary the uieetln i broke up .

      DEWSBURY . —On Monday evening , a public meeting of the inhttbitanta of Dewebury was held in the large pavilion erected for the O'Connor Demonstration , for the purpose of adopting the National Petition , and also a memorial to the Queen in favour of Frost , Williams , and Jones . Mr . Hart was called to the chair , and opened the business of the meeting with a fuw apprrpriate remarks . Resolutions similar to those passed at Hull were adopted ; and the Petition having been moved and seconded by inhabitants , was supported in a long and argumentative speech , by Mr . T . B Smith , of Leeds . The memorial to the Quean was supported , in a short but able address , by T . S . Brook , Esq . The Petition and memorial having been passed unanimously , and thanks voted to the chairman , the meeting separated . On the previous Sunday , Mr . Smith delivered two eloquent sermons in the pavilion to numerous and attentive audiences .

      NEW-WOUTIiIlY . —This infant portion of the National Chatter Association is . we are happy to eay , getting on prosperously . On Tuesday evening , an excellent pamphlet , by the late Mr . Rowland Detrojser , was read to the meeting , after which , Mr . T . B . Smith delivered a short address on general subjects , connected with the welfare of the masses . Mr . S . was solicited to repeat his visit , which he will do at an early day . The number of members is on the increase . TOSS . —Mr . Jones , of Liverpool , the East and North Riding lecturer , paid his first visit to York , on Tuesday hut , and delivered one of the most eloquent an A Boul-stirring lectures ever heard here . He showed up the present corrupUen in Church and-State in glowing t arms , and grappled with the charges brought forward by our enemies , and tUe fallacies of the Cora Law Repealers , with great force aud ability , shewing the superiority of the Charter over all other measures brought forward .

      BIBKCNHEAD—Mr . Bernard M'Cartney , of LiTerpool , delivered a highly impressive lecture , on Monday evening last , to the Chartists of this place . The Lecturer spoke for almost two hours , aad the meeting was highly gratified with the discourse . LIVERPOOL—On Monday last , the National Petition was adopted at a numerously attended public meeting , in the large room , Renshaw-street . Excellent and impressive speeches were delivered by Messrs M'Cartney , Lloyd , ond Ambler , in the course of which the recent conduct of Colonel Thompson was alluded to in severe , though just terms . At a meeting of the Council held on Tuesday , it was moved and carried nem . con ,: — " That the quarterly meeting of the Chartists of Liverpool be held on Tuesday evening , the 21 st December , in the Dsmocratlc Cuffee House , 24 , Oerard-Btreet , for the purpose of examining the accounts of the past quarter , and transacting other business of importance .

      DUK . INFIEI . T > . —At our meeting , held on Thursday , the Sth instant , we enrolled twenty-three good men and true under the glorious banner of Chartism ; and , on Tuesday last , we enrolled fourteen others . Wcat we watt now iu an able lecturer , to bring our friends up to the mark . The Friends of the Charter resident here are requested to mtot at the house of Mr . William Smith , Clay Houses , behind the Board of Health , at six o ' clock to-morrow evening . IYIELK 5 HAIYI . —The association in this town was formed by Mr . John Cluer , an unflinching advocate for tbo people ' s rights . The higher order have endeavoured to throw tivery obstacle in our way , but have failed . We have established a readiBg room , formed a discussion clafs , aud meet three times a week ; one night for business and two fur mutual improvement . We have bad two excellent lectures delivered by Mr . Clark , of Bath .

      WIGTON . —The Chartists hsre have forwarded a memorial to her Majesty , through the Home Secretary , praying for the liberation of Messrs . Frost , Williams , and Jones . NEWCASTliE . —A public meeting , called by placard , was held in the Chartist Hall , Goat Inn , on Monday night last . The object stated in the placard was , " To tika into consideration the propriety of addressing her Majesty and Prince Albert , on the auspicious event of an hair being born to these realms ; and in order to give the meeting . in interest and importance of a truly National Character , a sincere prayer for the immediate return of Frost , Williams , and Jones , will be embodied in the Address to her Majesty . " Mr . Dees was called to the chair , who briefly opened the proceedings by

      reading the placard and making a few remarks on the purport for which the meeting was called . Mr . Cockburn , in a very able and appropriate address , moved the first resolution , which was , at some length , seconded by Mr . Kirker , and carried unanimously : —" Thatno public meeting of the inhabitants of Newcastle , prior to the present , having been held , for the purpose of congratulating her Majesty and Prince Albert on the birth of an heir to the throne , it is now resolved that congratulatory addresses bs adopted in reference to that event ; and that in order that the baptism of bis Royal Highness the Prince of Wales may have a more lasting impression on the minds of good men of nil nations , the address to the Queen shall conclude with a prayer that she msy be graciously pleased to command the immediate restoration of Frost . Williams , and Jones , to

      their disconsolate families . " Mr . Sinclair moved the address to her Majesty , which was ably seconded by Mr . Cross , and likewise carried unanimously . Mr .-Crothers moved aa address to hit Royal Highness Prince Albert , in a very able speech , which was briefly seconded by Mi . Pickering , and carried unanimously . Mr . Harrison moved the second resolution in a very appropiate manner , which was briefly seconded by Mr . Stephen Binns , and carried unanimously , and was as follows : —•• That the Chairman be requested to sign the addresses on behalf of the meeting ; and to forward the address to the Queen to Thomas Duncombe , Esq ., M . P ., for presentation to her Majesty ; and the address to Prince Albert to William Sharman Crawford , Esq ., M . P ., for prestEtrtion to his Royal Highness . " The meeting then broke up . We have received none of the speeches delivered at thla meeting .

      TODHXO&DEN .-On Tuesday night , Mr . Campbell , General Secretary , delivered an interesting and soul-stirring address to a numerous and attentive audience , at the close of which a memorial to the Queen on behalf , of Frost , Williams , and Jones , the same as the one adopted at Hull , and which appeared in our last , was agreed to , A vote of confidence in the Executive Tf » also catried unanimously *

      Untitled Article

      BABNSLZTB ' . —The Chartists held their weekly meeting on Monday ; after the usual business was gone through , it was resolved to hold a public meeting to adopt the National Petition , and to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones . The sum of 10 a . was voted to the Executive , and the meeting nominated persons to be elected at their ensuing meeting .

      HOLME UPON-Si ? AU 3 IMG MOOR . — On Thursday last , Mr . Joneagivean interesting lecture on the principles of the Charter ; every one present affixed their names to the National Petition . Three cheers were given fox the Chartwaad for Mr . O'Connor , and the meeting broke ap . WORCESTER . —At the usual weekly meeting of the Chartists of this city , held on Wednesday evening , it was resolved , " That every fourth week , one halfpenny extra coutribnt ions be levied on the members for the purpose of supporting the Executive . " Our nnmbers are increasing . nilDDLESBRO . '— A meeting was held here , at which the National Petition was adopted , and also a memorial to the Que « n in favour of Frost , Williams , and Jones .

      BRADFORD . —On Friday week , a Keating was convened by the constables of Bradford , at the request of a number of inhabitants , for the purpose of addressing her Majesty , and condoling with her on her happy deliverance of the birth of an heir to the throne . On Friday morning , the Chartists seat the bellman round , to warn the body to attend . They nobly answered the call . The consequence was , we had the best Chartist meeting that has been held in Bradford for a considerable time . Mr . TituB Salt , worsted spinner , was called to the chair , who opened the business by reading the placard calling the meoting . He then called upon the Rev . Mr . Sooresby to propose the first resolution , to the effect "That an address of condolence be presented to

      ler Majesty , congratulating her on her safe and happy deliverance of a Prince and heir to the throne ; " he made a most loyal speech on the occasion . Mr . Forbes seconded the motion , with another address of loyalty and attachment to her Majesty . The resolution was carried . John Rand , Esq ., a Tory magistrate , then moved the address , which was seconded by the Rev . J . Glyde , Calvinist minister . Mr . Dewhirst then rose , and moved the following addition to the address : — " That we , your Majesty ' s most loyal subjects , beg most respectfully to oongratulate your Majesty on the auspicious event of the birth of a Royal Prince as your successor to the British Throne , and at the s&me time we cannot refrain from ex * pressing , with mingled feeliDgs of pain aud regret ,

      that a great mass of poverty , misery , and human degradation exists to an alarming extent amongst the most loyal portion of your Majesty ' s subjects , and which if not speedily removed , will , iu all probability , lead to results the most fearful to contemplate ; and being desirous of securing peace and tranquillity amongst your Majesty ' s subjects , and protection to vour Majesty's crown and person , we humbly begot your Majesty to dismiss your present advisers , aad call to yoar councils men who will use their influence to make the principles contained in the document , called the People ' s Charter , viz . — Universal Suffrage , Annual Parliaments , Vote by Ballot , the abolition of the Property Qualification , and Payment of Members of Parliament , and Equal Electoral Districts , a legislative enactment , and , in conclusion , we fondly hope and sincerely trust , that your Majesty may long be spared to reign over a

      tree , happy , and contented people ; and , we farther hope that your Majesty will be pleased to extend your royal mercy to Johu Frost , Zopbaniah Williams , Willani Jones , and all political prisoners ; aud we your Majesty ' s loyal subjects , as in duty bound , will ever pray . " Mr . Heury Hodgson seconded the motion in an excellent and energetic spsech . Mr . R . Ross supported tho motion . Mr . Forbes begged of the Chartists to withdraw the amendment and call a meeting of their own , and he would attend it . He did all in his power to induce them to do so but without effect . The Chairman then submitted tho amendment to the meeting , when a forest of hands was held up for it , the motion was next put , and the Chairman declared the amendment carried by a large majority . The thanks of tho meeting were moved to the Chairman for his impartial conduct in the chair , which was unanimously carried , and the meeting broke up .

      Council Room . —Mr . Hodgson delivered an able and interesting lecture in the Council Koom , North Tavern , to a crowded audience , on Sunday night , on the benefits that would result from the adoption of the Charter . Manchester Road . —The Chartists of this place met on Sunday evening last , at five o ' clock , at Mr . White ' s , their usual place of meeting , when Messrs . Ddwhlrst and Ross attended and delivered each an interesting lecture . North Taveun . —Mr . Dewhirst delivered a lecture to the females of Wapping ou Sunday night Middlkion Fields . —Mr . Brook delivered a lecture to the Chartists of this locality , at the sigu of the Three Pigeons , on Monday night last . Thompson ' s Houses . —The Chaitiata of this locality held their meeting on Sunday morning last , at ten o'clock in the forenoon . Mr . Brook delivered a short but impressive lecture , on the People's Charter .

      Makningham . —The Chartists of this place met on Sunday morning last in their Association room . After a chairman was appointed , Messrs . Jennings , Brook , and Smith , delivered each an able address on the misery and destitution of the working classes . Great Horton . —On Wednesday night , Dec 8 th , a public meeting was held in this village fur the purpose of memorialising her Majesty on behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones , aud thirteen others , who have been transported beyond the seas for political offences . The memorial was agreed to . During the last fortnight thirty new members have been enrolled and taken out their eards of membership .

      Daisy Hill . —A public meeting of the inhabitants of this village , was held in the Primitive Mstbodist Chapel , Daisy Hill , on Tuesday evening last , at halfpast soveu o ' clock , to take into consideration , the propriety of addressing her Majtsty on behalf of Frost , Williams and Jones , aud all political convicts . The meeting was well attended and the memorial was agreed to . Wilsden—The Chartists held a meeting in this place , on Monday last , for tho purpose of adopting the National Petition , and to consider the best mode of getting it numerously signed . Jonas Brousbank was called to the chair . The petition was adopted , and twenty-three members were enrolled . Great Hokton . —The females of this place held their weekly meeting on Monday last , at the house of Mrs . Hartley , Packfold . Mr . William North delivered an excellent address , which occupied about an hour and a quarter , and which gave general satisfaction .

      GLOUCESTER . —On Tuesday , Dec . 9 th , a public meeting was held at the Democratic Assembly Rooms , Worcester-street , when the National Petition was unanimously adopted . About 100 names were attached to the Petition that night Masons' Strike . —On Wednesday night , at eight o ' clock , a meeting was called for the purpose of taking into consideration the late strike at the new Houses of Parliament , &c The working men mustered well ; Mr . J . Sidaway was called to the chair .

      Mr . George Godard , of Bristol , read tba whole of the correspondence which bad passed between Messrs . Peto and Grissell connected with the tyrannical conduct of George Allen , amidst cries of shame from all parts of the room . Strong resolutions were passed condemning the conduct of the serfs who had gone to work against the union . A resolution was proposed by Mr . Godard , and seconded by Mr . Drinkwater , denouncing that portion of the press which bad misrepresented them , and a vote of thanks to the Northern Star was carried with acclamation ; the meeting then separated .

      On SundAy last , a lecture was given on the inconsistency of a 8 tandinf army and its consequences , by Mr . J . Sidaway . After the lecture , a discussion was entered into , whether war was justifiable er not Messrs . Sidaway , Buck , Latiner , Abell , and Herbert took a part . OR Monday last , a lecture was delivered in the above room , by Jlr . Wm . Knowles , of Keighley , Yorkshire , on the distressed state of the country , its cause , and remedy . On Tuesday last , Mr . Knowles lectured again on the necessity of women agitating for their political right * . FAILSWORTH . —John Hargreaves , a youth only 17 years of age , delivered a powerful and impressive lecture in the Chattist Room , Failaworth , near Manchester , on Sunday evening last

      ECCLE&—We had an overflowing meeting on Monday night Mr . Thomas Clark , of Stockport , gave an excellent address . Mr . Chandler , secretary of the Stockport Youth's Association , likewise addressed the assembly . Several new members enrolled their name * . MOKEATON . —Mr . Mason lectured beta , on Tuesday evening . He gave great satisfaction to all his hearers , and enrolled forty names . A memorial to the Queen in favour cf Frost , Williams , and Jones , was passed , which was Beat to toe Birmingham Committee

      Untitled Article

      A

      MAIfTON—Mr . Jones lectured at Malton , on Morf day evening ; the National Petition was read and ? adopted , a great number signed it , and many were enrolled as members of the National Charter Association , HALIFAX . —A puMic meeting was held in the Chartist Lesture Room , on Saturday last to memoraliza her Majesty ; to extend her royal clemency to the exiled patriots . Frost , Williams , and Jones , and all other political offenders . HYDE . —A memorial in favour of Frost , Williams and Jones , has keen agreed : to here . DONCASTER . —Mr . Charles Buckley lectured here on Sunday evening , on opening a new room at Mr . Henry ' s , in Frenchgate . A lecture will be delivared every Sunday evening .

      BELFAST . —Ob 3 Ionday ereafog a lecture was delivered by Mr . P : Brahuan , artist , of the Isle of Wight ; and on Tuesday , ha delivered a second lecture in the Society ' s Rooo > 66 , Mill-street BURTON-UPON ^ PRENT . —On Taeaday the 12 th , the Chartists of Burton paid their third Tiait to the only poor man ' s churci in Need wood Forest , accompanied by eighteen of the good and trtw Chartists of Swadltegcote , to hear a- sermon from the Rev . Hampbrey Price , the advocate of the poor . He declares himself a Chartist , and has been fora number years . A choir was formed on this-occasion by the Chartista , and three psaima were sung in the churefc- wbere singing is scarcely known . All . the villager ' s ey « s were fixed upon us as if we had come for the church ; itoelf .

      IWACCIE ^ FIELO . On Sunday evening Mr We » t lectured in the large room of the Association , Watercotes , to a most crowded audience , vast numbers being unable to obtain admittance . He gave a most interesting account of his mission in tha West Riding ef Yorkshire , and of the healthy and flouriahin * state of Chartism in that important district &TOCKHOU . —A meeting of tha Wingate Chartists was held oathe 11 th inst , to memorialise her Majesty to pardon Frost , Williams , and Jones , with all political cffenOeta Mr . E . Brown ; ead the memorial , which was unanimously agreed to , and which is to be sent to T . Duncombe , Esq . M . P . for presentation . —On Sunday , Mr . Binns gave a first-rate lecture on the duty of man to man .

      X . ANCASTER . —The Chartists- of Lancaster being determined not to be bahind their brethren in other parts of the country , in their efforts for the eraancpation of the enslaved miilions , drew up a requisition to the Mayor , requesting the use of the Town-ball , in which to hold a meeting for the adoption of tke National Petition , and tha election of a delegate to tfee Convention ; but , this being in opposition to the politics cf the Mayor , his worship could not consistently witli bis public duty , allow it ; the rcquisitionists , therefore , called the lueetiug in the association room , which was crowded to excess long before the time appointed . The chair was taken by Mr . John Mitchell , who ably maintained strict order and regularity throughout the whole of the proceedings . Tho Petition was proposed and read over at ieugth by Mr . J . Harrison , and it was seconded by Mr . Lund , and carried unanimously amidst great cheering . Mr . Win . Bdesley waa then unanimously named as a fit and proper person to sit in the ensuing Convention , after which the meeting broke up .

      DUBLIN . —The Irish Universal Suffrage Associa tion met ou Sunday , the 12 th inst , Mr . Rafter in the chair ; Mr . J . Wood , Secretary , pro . tem . The minutes of the last day ' s meeting having been road . Mr . OHiggins read a letter from Mr . Pitketbly , of Huddersfield , requesting to be admitted a membtr . Tne admirable aiid patriotic sentiments ef this letter called forth the repeated plaudits of the meeting . Mr . Pitkefchly , Mr . John Tracy , ami some olher individuals , were admi . tad members . A committee was appointed for the purpose cf entering into an agreement with the owner of

      Fisk-Bamble-stieet Theatre , for tbe purpose of holding the future meetings of the Association , aa their numbersjwew now too great to be accommodated in the room which tcey at present occupied . A very animated discussion took plaoe , upon the propriety of addressing W . 8 . Crawfard , Esq , upon the Irish Landlord and Tenant Bill , aud requesting him to persevere with It , as tbo readiest and most equitable mode of causing a more just and kindly feeling between landlord and tenant , than exist at present Mr . Wood was called to the chair , and the thanks of the meeting were given to Mr . Kafter , after which the meeting separated .

      THE PBINC 1 PLK OF THK PEOPLE ' S CHARTER is daily on the advance , and many , very many who were a while since opposed to Chartism , and who looked upon its advocates as men labouring under a delusion , now say , " I would most willingly join the ranks of the Chartists , but if I did so , and were attacked , where is the press in Dublin or in Ireland that will give ne space to vindicate myself and the principles I hxn expounded ? I surely cannot expect that liberty from . supporters of the base , bloody , and brntal Whigs , rmrcii less can I expect it from the supporters of Peel and the ' Iron Duke , ' who are now in the ascendant ; notwithstanding I feel convinced that nothing shert of Universal Suffrage can benefit the people of Ireland and Britain . " This is the language of men of rank and

      of talent , and never was any thing more true ; and if it were not for the circulation of the Star , thousands who now know their condition , might have gone down to their graves without any knowledge o ! the cause of their misery and wretchedness , or of themeans of redressing it , and there is hardly a town from Cape Clear to the Giant's Causeway , or from Dablin to fie Wilds of Couamari , ict ) which the Star has not found its way ; and although it is forbidden to be read by interested parties , it is like every other forbidden commodity , sought after the more ; and when got , read with the greatest avidity . Notwithstanding all the twaddla which wa hear about Irish minu ^ acture , about the Repeal Board of Trade , and the patronage ef the Lord Major to boot , tradtf is in a wretehaA

      state , and ttie condition of the tradesmen more wretched than it lias been for several years , and how can this be otherwise , when it is known that English manufactured goods can be purchased now from 25 to 30 per cent cheapur than before the exclaaiva Irish manufacture question had been agtited . It is currrently reported that Air . OConneil has had several meotingsof hia committee during the past week , far the purpose , of devising some means , by which he could shuffle himself into the adoption of the principles of the Irish Universal Suffrage Association , and , at the aame time , maio it appear to the world that he always adhered to them , it is impossible to coBceive how he will contrive to manage so difficult ft point . It is true

      that since the formation of the Irish Universal Suffrage Association , the objects of the Repeal Association have been repeatedly changed . The last change professed to be ia favour ot the Six Paiuts of the People ' s Charter . But this wa 3 an empty profession intended to delude the unreflecting and unwary . But it is fresh in the recollection of the Radical Reformers of Dublin , that while the Whigs had any hope of remaining in power Mr . O'Conneii forfeited his seat for the city sooner than give a written pledge to oppose them . The pledge which was required of him , and by signine which he would have been returned , was to the following effect , and let every -true Chartist in Great Britain and Ireland keep a copy of it ;—

      « t , ^ ^ « „ . , " Clty of DnbIin Election . " Patrick O'Hjggins , of No . 14 , North Anne-street , will vote at the present election for Messrs . OConneU and Hutton , provided that they giT « him a pledge ta writing that they will support no Administration bat one that will give its official advocacy to the great and permanent measures of Universal Suffrage , Vote by Ballot , Annual Parliaments , Equal Representation , and No Property Qualification , and Payment of Members of Parliaiaej ; t for their time and services . " Dated July 5 th , 1841 . " : Let it never be forgotten that Mr . O'Connell refused to sign a similar pledge at the election of 1837 ; and that he lost Dublin by rtfusiag to sign it in July , 1841 . B = ar in nnnd that a proposal was made to sign this pledge provided the most essential part of it was left out , namely , the words , "No administration but one that witt giveits official advocacy to , " dkc Had th « word been omitted the pledge would not be worth a Etraw .

      IttS-RfHYH TYBVIIr , ( South Walks )—A . public meeting of tue working classes was held at tha Association Room ; to take into consideration the propriety of addressing her Majesty that she will be pleased , in the due exercise ef her royal prerogative , when granting the release of some of the persona now in prison , to include John Frost , Zephaniah WiU lioms , and William Jones . Resolutions to this effect were moved , seconded , and adopted unanimously , by Messrs . Miles , Taylor , John , jun ., Thomas , Gould , and others , and an address , founded thereon , was unan't * moualy adopted .

      8 TROUD . —Ob Tuesday , Dec . 5 th , a public metilnj was convened in the Subscription . Rooms , to propose s ^ congratulatory Address to her Majesty and "Prinea Albeit , on the biitU of a Prince { W . Stinton , Esq . M p . for the Borough In the chair . The Address was pro . posed and seconded . The Chartista , ever mindful of their duty to their country , proposed an amendment to be attached to tho Address , stating the great poverty and distress prevailing , and attributing it solely to aria from that great moaopoly , the parent of all minor menopotfes , class legislation , and prajing her Majesto to direct her Ministers to introduce tao People a Cftartar as the only remedy . The CbsrAM « Uae . BdKeut irw earned by « ijreat najority ,

      &Lt;£T?Ai*Tfct 3£Nrntfft*Titt

      < £ t ? ai * tfct 3 £ nrntfft * titt

      Untitled Article

      VOL , Y . ffO . 214 . SATURDAY , DECEMBER , 18 , 1841 . fWC ^ gpSSr

      Untitled Article

      ¦ AND LEEDS GENERAL ADVERTISEE *

  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), Dec. 18, 1841, page unpag, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct1140/page/1/