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Northern Star (1837-1852), 11th December 1841, Edition 2 of 5, Page unpag, Untitled Article

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    • Cfoartftf 3£jv1enfaoice.
    • TO THE IMPERIAL CHABTISTS.
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      Untitled Article

      2 Jt Dkxrlt Bslotkd Feik 5 D 3 , —I now come to tie n arrative of my Yorkshire tonr , aad in truth a glorious oae it was . I left Manchester it seven ©' clock on Monday morning , and met with thfl secre-^ iy of ( be Bradford Chartists who was te accompan y Be to Little Horwn , where we were to join the projession . Smith is an Irishman . I merely mention that fact as part of the answer to Mr . O'Connell ' a asser tion , that u in England there teas no Irish Cha rtists" Smith does not make an exception , bat on the contrary , wbereYer I go I find Iruamea taking n ac tive lead in the present movement , and I hare

      the great satisfaction to know that they are greatly res pected by their English fellow-working men . We jjjet tiie procession at Little Horton , and proceeded giecce to Bradford , in the order reported in last creek ' s Slar of the * Hurn out" in honour of Chartism aj Bradford . I may truly say that it not only astonished me , but literally paralizsd eTery foe to liberty who witnessed it . Of the many great and riorioos demonstrations I ever saw , I am bound in justice to say that according to population , Bradford beat all . It ¦ would be utterly impossible to make i gnes 3 at the ten 3 of thousands ^ who congregated

      Hpon the occasion , while the order , good conduct , and decorum at once refuted the charge of licenjjoasness , so often made against our friends . One thing , as regards this demonstration , is Tery curious . It is this ; one little feliow who guesses for the Bradford Observer , trrote us down as 6 , 000 , Tf-fcile be Trio performs a similar ofiee for the York Covrcnt , makes us but 3 , 000 ; now was the chap of the Observer drunk , or was M t ' oiher beggar " blind 1 which was it ! These fellows are" becoming of peat service to us just now , as they enable the middle classes to judge of the value

      and veracity of their organs . You 8 » w the resolutions that were passed ; but yon could not judge of the esthoKafim of the meeting and of the abilitj si fl » speakers . I hers met West , the West Riding lecturer , for the first time ; and although I had jgard much of him , yet had report , which vras loud ia his praise , fallen fax short of bis merits , I cannot spare much space to a discription of him , while silence would be neglect of dnty . Ha is rery vonng and very small , but uncommonly well pat together . He is one of the most modes * men I ever met ; 5 j fact he requires shoring to force him into his proper position , and I feel convinced that

      our friends in all other parts will be happy to recogsiae an addition to their strength in the fact that West , another Irishman , is acknowledged by all to be second to none in the art of debiting , and in power and willingness to expound and support the great principles of democracy . I think he makes Junes Leach M 3 monitor , and worthily he follows in the track of his great preceptor . In fact he is a host in himself . In the evening we had a grand Soiree . Mr . Clarkson filled , & 3 he ought to do , the post of honour both vriihin and without , and discharged the dunes of office well . This gentleman is of the jpeatest use to Chartism throughout the district , ind is generally respected and beloved .

      I muss now mention the work cnt ont for me in the ere ^ ing . I had to address those who took tickets for the Soiree , in the Social Institution , and then to proeeed to the Mechanics' Institute , the second largest building in the town ; and boih of them much too small to give satisfaction or accommodation to our numerous friends . In fact we could have filled a building at one shilling a head , capable of holding 6 , 000 persons . I enrolled fifty-seven new members & ; the Mechanics' Inst itute , and Aben I returned and enrolled forty odd at the Social Institution . This is work which I will never undertake

      again ; going from one oven to another . Ifwas raining the whole time . This is too much to expect , but is nevertheless frequently arranged for . But , once for ail , I never again will attempt it Upon the whole , I should say that nothing could exceed the Bradford demonstration from beginning to end . The day w& 3 beautiful ; that is the Chartist part of it It was a Whig morning , full of promise , but it deceived us ; it was a Chartist day , fresh and smiling , and a Tory evening—no mistake about it—just what H promised upon our breaking up the OUt-door meeting , dark , dirty , and pelting .

      I cannot conclude without returning thanks to { he Committee for their excellent arrangements , always And nevertheless excepting those relating to myself , which though good-Eaturedly intended were too serere . However , I got through , ¦ and upon the whole , I learn that the M tuelets display" and its results hare been most beneficial to our cause in Bradford and HaHfaf . On Wednesday , the Halifax Demonstration came off , and , in truth , it also was a bumper . I was met by several thousands , with bands and banners , at the Sowerby Bridge Station . I was wholly incapable

      ef addressing them , but West was kind enough to Bake the wxn % on / eh . After » short delay at Saweriy , the Halifax procession anfred ; aad , after nm attempts to form them into four , six , or even twelve deep , we proceeded , en route and en masse , to Halifax . It is great folly to attempt anything like jffocesaional ordei with such numbers ; as I / eel wared that either the Bradford or Halifax masses , if arranged four deep , would reach from Bradford to Leeds , a distance of ten miles . When tha procession reached the town it was literally astounding . I thought it more numerous than that of Brad

      fcrd , while West and others , who were at both , considered Bradford much the more numerous . Howler , I never saw , for the population , ( always bear Out in mind , ) so many moving as at Halifax- It ne like one great tide of human beings , carrying with it every opposing obstacle : * B seemed to be in motion . Our part « f the day , as on Monday , was splendid , and nothing seemed to mar the delight , save and except one very low-bred and ignorant act of a gen-^ tman on horseback . I believe one of the London * See , " who could not wait for two minutes at a

      mossing . ; ho , no , it would be beneath his dignity ; » he literally rode through , or rather across the J * ° cession , to the great amusement of the body , who , Esve&d of hooting or insulting , set np a derisive ** agh , and exclaimed— " Tour day is gonet eld chap ; bat ' icoi rpnur Yes , in his ignorant presumptions &&J witnessed the fall of pride , and loss of station j bat I hope these experiments will not be too often attempted , as I know not what I might be tempted to <* o , if a gentleman ' s horse trod on my toes at the kidding of its master . I don ' t like practical jokes tad therefore I never play them ; and I would rew&aend the same forbearance to all . When the

      Fooesaon arrived in front of the Odd Fellows ' 2 * 11 , the erewd was immense . I addressed them fceflj , as did the Rev . Mr . Jackson , and then the Ering tide receded , and in less than half an hour no few * of the busy bustle remained . Id the * Yening , mver , and Tery early , too , the door of the * P * aou 3 building was beset by thousands . It is *? &ble of holding between three and fonr thousand ! « K , as observed by tke Committee , it was incapable « holding a tenth of those who would hare willingly P * id for admission . Old Ben Rnshton , that prince ° f Patriots , was in the chair ; and , believe me , he

      few no sinecure . When I arrived , every inch was locked , and I had to be literally wedged through &e dense crowd to the hustings . I beg pardon ol ** Vfeekl y Chronicle , but it was really smoking , " ^ sg over head and shoulders , enthusiastic , and CTery taing that the knowledge-monger could wish , > od somethin g more . I wish " Cotton Twist" had j ** fi present . It was impossible to proceed for a « ngth of time , in consequence of the rush at both wUrs , and the eternal knocking ootside when thej Wer closed . However , at length we got to work .

      * M never had Chartism a greater treat . I will i" * t mention the speakers , and then the reader " ^ appreciate the diligence of the Committee . « U of Manchester , West , Hey . Mr . Jackson , Mr-1 "ederick Lees , of Leeds , Knowles , of Keighley , | ( who , I think , made the speech of the evening . ) an d j yonr humble Bemat were all present ; and I Bhonld * 4 e to meet an equal number of our learned foes . Oj what a thrashing we would give them ! After the proceedings , we enrolled more than one hundred new ^ emb ers ; and thus ended the Halifax Demonstration . There is one circumstance I cannot avoid ttSuUaning just here , and ene which , in my mind , most important . When the Whigs were in power , the announcement of a public meeting was ttvari&il y followed by a proclamation from the

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      great unpaid , or by a Government order , to have the troops under arms , and in readiness ; but new where-• ver I go , I find the soldiers , without arms , mixing with the people , and no warlike preparations whatever . Whether this proves Whig folly and cowardice , or Tory wisdom , and foresight I cannot say ; but so it is . At Aberdeen alone was there a declaration of war , and that was made by an upstart Whig mayor , whom nature cut out for a journeyman , but system made a master of him . Indeed to rach a frightful extent was the plan of regimental preparation carried

      under the peace and retrenchment" Whigs , that I fearlessly assert , had not the over-zeal of administration been tempered by the prudent caution of Colonel WemyB 3 , we should have had more than one revolution in Lancashire during the peaceful reign of Whiggery . The fact I believe is , that England owes to Colonel Wemy 3 S , more than to the rascally Whigs , the preservation of the peace of the North . I have most closely watched the conduct of Colonel Wemyss , the Commandant of the district , for many years , and I unhesitatingly declare , that his mild use of the power committed to his hand ? , has , more than royal proclamations ,

      magistrates proclamations , and ministerial proclamations , tended to the preservation of the peace of the country . I know some gallant gentlemen , who would have made a mess of things long since . I mention these facts , because while I write , I literally tremble at the very idea of the use which a Whig Government might and would have made of their physical power , if in office , during the present distress , which they have been maiuly instrumental in wealing ; because , during ten years , they denied its existence , and feared 10 look the monster evil , steam pvwer ^ in the face .

      DETSBtrRT . —On Thursday , at five o ' clock , I jointd the Miilbridge and Heckmoudwike procesaon . 1 drank tea with that good and consistent Chartist , Mr . Penny , of Miilbridge . We proceeded , at six o ' clock , to Heckmondwike , with bands and transparencies , to meet the men of Dawsbury When we arrived at Heckmondwike the numbers were immense , and I was induced to address them from the window of & Torj ttot was , a Chartist that is . Yes , he has seen the folly of his ways , and has become a convert to the holy and orthodox creed of Chartism . The spectacle was beautiful in

      the extreme ; a mass of human beings , with their faces all directed to one po . nt , the nigh : serene and beautiful , while a strong beHef in oar increased strength seemed to animate the bosoms of all present . As soon & 3 I had concluded , we proceeded towards Dewsbury , under the command of that indefatigable and z * alcus chieftain Moseley Stott . When the Dewsbury procession joiued , our numbers were tremendous , while none appeared to dread an improper use of our power . The old women who manifested mush fear of us in 1839 , are now much more afraid of opening their tills

      or of closing their bankers' accounts . They have transferred their apprehension from the hobgobblin of Chartism to the substantial reality of pauperism . Those who used to curse us , now cry , " God BLESS roc , xsd mat tou YRCSTE& . " I fear they are the prayers of the wicked ; however , we take them as they are meant , and help ourselves without relying upon the prayers of our friends . At Dewsbury the good feUowa built a very fine and commodious pavilion , at a great expense ; it is capable of accommodating about 4 , 000 is the

      body and about 300 in a gallery . Another Irishman , Daniel Read , was called to the chair , and discharged his duties like an Irishman ; I need Bay no more . He was loudly cheered . West spoke at great length , as did that good and never-failing friend , Titus Brooke , who read the National Petition as well as it coald be read , and subsequently , in a very able and kind manner explained the evils which the proposed document sought to remedy . He was loudly cheered by his townsmen , and made a good impression upon bis audience . I need not tell you that I spoke , as you will doubtless hare guessed

      that . Now , just a word or two . I would recommend those national educational gentlemen , who are not total abstainers , to beat least moderate , if they are magistrates , leBt their zeal may get the better of their prudence and lead them aBtray . When they dine out , they should drink , if at a ll , moderately ; and if they have not sufficient education to teach them the value of self-possession , why then they should take the pledge at once , as a necessary mode of self-defence against self-destruction .

      The men of Dewsbury , I am glad to say , intend to convert their pavilion , which ia to remain up till Christmas , to the best possible account . I understand that the Rev . Mr . Hill is to preach a sermon or two there on Sunday the 15 th inst ., ( to-morrow wet k ) , and it is the intention of the committee to invite a series of popular speakers , to effect the double object of promulgating Chartism and of paying the expense of

      the building . I beg to observe that such spirited conduct deserves praise , and that those whothas ventnre an experiment in aid of Chartism shonld not be allowed to suffer . We experience greater inconvenience from want of public buildings than from any other source ; and rarely so good a subatitute was very desirable ; therefore let not those who supplied it become suffered , but rather let it be an example to those of other towns , to go and do

      likewise . Selby . —On Friday , I started for Selby , a town which I had not previously visited ; and in truth I was amply rewarded for my trip . The Chartist 9 upon learning my intention to visit them , made application for the use of what is called the * public room ; " but like the toast of the " people the only source of legitimate power , " when the people alone are excluded from power , at Selby the public room signifies the room from which the public alone are excluded . I christen it FAcnos hall ; and henceforth let it be known

      and called by its new and proper name . Well , m this dilemma , application was not made to Mr . Linton , engineer and millwright , for the use of his extensive- premises ! no , Mr . Linton did not wait to be asked ; but like a good and generous man , he set his every hand to the work , and in three days , ( will it be believed ) this wealthy master actually removed his boilers , fixtures , tons of iron , and all other moveables , and erected a very excellent and commodious hustings in a b » ilding capable of accommoda ting nearly 3 , 000 persons . It contains 285 square yards , and was comfortably filled , while

      the numbers who ocenpied windows and open spaces between the place of meeting and itB twin workshop , would have crammed it . Mr . Linton himself was in the chair ; and when I arrived in company with West , that indefatigable and honest man , Stallwood , was in the act of addressing the meeting ; and if I am to jadge from the enthusiasm , with no small effect . West next spoke , and made , as did Stallwood , » famous impression upon the almost maiden coil ot Chartism . They tell me that my speech did them much service , and that is my ample reward . In order to inspire the drooping with hope , I must mention that whereas Selby sent

      no petition during last year , there are already one ihcutand eight hundred signatures attached to the GREAT NATIONAL . We enrolled some new member * , and I retired for a short time to the house of Mr . Linton , where I was delighted to be put in possession of his agrieultaral statistics , whereby it appears that after paying a labourer 3 s . per day for ten hours' work , he is able to mak e profit over rent at £ 5 . 6 s . 8 d . per acre and all other expences , at the rate of ^ 16 per acre . He has in the whole not more than three-fourths of an acre ; and not more than twenty-four perches , or one fifth of that threefourchs , in cultivation . He last year had one cow ;

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      but the PitODCCE BEGAN TO PRESS SO HEAVILT UPON teb means of consumption , that this year he has two cows , a flock of geese , some pigs , and so forth . Last year , with only twenty-four perches cultivated , the profit over all expences , afcer paying £ 4 rent for three quarters of an acre , which is at the rate of £ 5 . 6 b . 8 d . per acre , and after paying for labour , for seed , and all other expences , the profit was about £ 121 and maik , only twenty-four perches , a fifth of the -three-quarters , or one-seventh of an acre in producing order ! If the whole was highly cultivated , ( as the grass land yields lutle or nothing , ) it would leave profit , after outlay and rent , EiaHTir-FiVB pounds per acre per annum . This is no crotchet . There is the land , and there are the accounts .

      This for our cause is one of the most valuable experiments ever made : many persons come from a distance to witness the capability of the soil ; and after one glance , the mist of political economy , as preached by the dogmatists of the cotton-lord monopolists , become dispelled as if by magic . I would reoommend Colonel Thompson , Cobden , aud friends to make a party of pleasure , and to visit this New English Poland ; but » perhapa , it would be a sin against the holy Steam Powers to advocate the Gothic doctrine of eating Bullish bread and beef . Solby has a population ef only 5 , 000 ; and therefore many must have come from a

      considerable distance , impelled with more noble motives than those of mere idle curiosity . Upon the whole , I was highly delighted with my first trip to Salby , and , life permitting , it shall net be my iasi . Chartism here owes much , very much , to Mr . Linton ; aad no little to the admirable Association of York , the members of which never fail to cater for Selby ' s instruction , by inviting every star to visit this rising spot of democracy . I prophesy that Selby , ere long , will be first among the foremost , and rejoice to know that Stallwood gives an equally cheering account of the whole of his diooese 4 which he assures me is Chartist to the back-bone , and merely requires the necessary cultivation .

      Hcddersfield . —On Saturday morning I Btarted for Cooper-bridge , the Huddersfield station , where I was met by Clayton and George Haguo with a carriage and four , and in which we instantly started for HoLmfirth , & distance of saven miles . This was the last day of my tour , and was the only wet one . Long before we reached Holmfirth ; the rain fell in torrents , nevertheless , we had a large procession entering the recent hot-bed , but the present cold grave , of Whiggery . The Chartists had engaged a room capable of containing about 700 , which in less than five minutes was literally choked , while the crowd appeared but little diminished . Here

      another gallant Irishman was called to the chair , * and I addressed them but vtry briefly , in consequence of the over-powering heat , and also in consequence of one of the beams giving way . The place was very low , and I suffered more than I had ever suffered before , always excepting the Oven at Alloa . We then retired to another room , when a very good , but a very foolish fellow , rend ered completely useless and profitless the few hours I had to spend at Holmfirth ; he was drunk and intolerably quarrelsome . I trust that he will become a teetotaller , as he cannot trust himself with moderation . It is really too bad when captious and quarrelsome fellows interrupt the harmony of a large party .

      From Holmftrth we were t © have gone in procession to New Mills , a distanoe of more than two miles , but in consequence of the dreadful state of the -weather , I succeeded ia making them abandon the project . At four , we started for Honley , where we were met by an immense concourse of the working classes , with bands and banners . I was here presented with an address by the Youth's Association of Honley . It wad prefaced by an admirable speech from one of the Youthful Association , and was received with loud cheers . I spoke out of a window ; the crowd wa 3 great . We then started for Huddersfield , four miles , in procession , with illuminated balloons , transparencies , lamps , bands , and banners : and notwithstanding the rain . which was

      awful , the right eve of YoikJure appeared to be open and wide awake , for when the procession reached the town , it was a grand sight . As we turned to go to the Philosophical Hall , where the meeting was to take place , some ; cowardly ruffian threw a large stone at me , which hit me a severe blow on the right shoulder , and had I got it on the head , it most probably would have had the desired effect ; but caution the brave engineer against a repetition of his skill , for I assure him , that had he been caught , I doubt much that a Jury would have been emp&nnelled to try whether guilty or not . This is a most logical way of supporting a false principle ; but let the would-be assassin take care lest he should yet be found out .

      In a few minutes the spacious building was crowded in every part , and as I had to start that evening for Manchester on my way to London , 1 was oblige to derange the proceedings by commencing rather prematurely . I spoke , however , for nearly an hour , acd I found that all attempts to gain a footing for the League at Huddersfield had failed . I left Huddersfield at eight ; and from that

      time to tbe present moment I have been afflicted with the most severe cold 1 ever had in my life . When I arrived at Manchester I was still very warm , and I very foolishly dipped my head and neck in cold water . I now protest against any more out-door meetings , as far as I am concerned , during the winter . I protest against being taken from one place of meeting to any other place daring the sams day .

      In my fortnight ' 9 tour I have disposed of more than 1 , 400 cards for the Exeoutive . I think I have inspired a f resh life and vigour into our ranks . I have found all united and determined , and have discovered that the several lecturers and missionaries have fully done their duty , and successfully expounded our doctrines . I shall be in Bath on Monday evening , the 20 ih of this month , where I hope my friends will

      make arxaugemeuUi for a public meeting upon that evening . We must have 5 , 000 , 000 , instead of the paltry number of 4 , 000 , 000 of signatures . Let no man sign more than onco on any account . Let all be careful in the selection of delegates to the third Petition Convention ; and should a doubtful man be proposed hastily , let some good fellow require time to consider . Much will depend upon the character of those who are now chosen as delegates to the coming Convention .

      In conclusion , I have now to inform yon that in my next I shall lay before you , firstly , the machinations resorted to by some of the Lancashire delegates , a fortnight before the first Convention met , on the means of destroying the body of whioh they had been chosen aa & put . I shall also put you in possession of the tricks of the " Plague . " But we are wide awake . If they join us it must be for svebt b&istle i » the Chabtzb . No more humbug , whether "Universal Suffrage" or " the Ballotr" we are wide awake now ! The factions gave as a sleeping potion in 1832 , but if ever they catch as sapping again , I am a Dutchman ! !!

      I am , fellow labourers , Yonr devoted friend and servant , Fbabgus O'Cownok . P . S . Universal Suffrage and No Surrender til London . Deo . 8 , 1841 .

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      CM&fai ' ENH ft Iff . —A numerously-attended meeting was held on Monday evening last , at the Mechanics' Institute , for the purpose of further considering the necessary steps to be taken in furtherance of the important struggle now pending at the new Houses of Parliament , against the relentless tyranny of the foreman , Allen , aa also of his employers , Grissell and Peto . A series of resolutions in favour of the masons were passed , and an address to the country was adopted ,

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      Manchester . —Mr . Jame ^ Cartledge lectured on Sunday evening IsBt , at tlt « Chartist room , Strand-street , when five new membO ™ were enrolled , and a considerable number of sigh , atures were attached to the petition . DEWSBpnr .-At th « West Rift » ng Delegate Meeting , heW on the 28 th alt ., Jt was a 'solved , that a delegate fund be established , to be su pported by tha levy of one halfpenny por member t ^ iroughout

      the riding . Also that each district iQ the . Tiding be recommended to ttke immediate steps to raii 8 funds for the forthcoming Convention , and be prept ' ' give in a new list of members at the next del egate meeting , in order that the « xpenoes may be pri P ° ** tionably laid . That in future no lecturer ehai' be employed in the West Riding until funds » re h " - Iiibhed to pay him , and that any place , not payin g in advance , shall have no claim on the services b . the lectures ; and all places are further requested to pay all arrears . i

      lougbborougb . —It was agreed to have a publio meeting on Monday evening , for the purpose of getting np a memorial for Frost , Williams , and Jones , and the adoption of the National Petition . At the meeting , on Monday , both thesa were agreed to . , iiEIttg . —The stats of trade in this place is really distressing ; not one half of the silkweavers hare been employed for some months past ; hundreds of hungry perishing wretches , many with large families , may be seen erery day walking through oar streets , destitute alike of work , food , and clothing ; scores ,

      who though they may live many years , are clearly in a Btate of destitution and want , and who will receive that physical injury which , in all probability , will tend to shorten their days . The case of Betty Thompson , who , last week drowned her own child , and then hung herself , and whioh was the result of extreme want , has been one cause of inducing the gentry of this town to call a publio meeting in the Town-hall , for the purpose of opening subscriptions , in order to afford some temporary relief to the starving operatives .

      NEWCASTLE . Total Defeat of THE Plaque . —On Wednesday morning last , the walls of this town were placarded with large bills announcing that Mr . Aciand of the Plague was to deliver two leotures on the Repeal of the Corn Laws , with a N . B . saying , that Mr . A . would be happy to answer any questions that might be asked . About eight o ' clock , on Wednesday evening , Mr . A ., with a great retinue of broadcloth gents , made their appearance on the platform . Mr . A . commenced his lecture by asserting that this was naturally a commercial nation , and that consequently every possible facility ought to be given to commerce . That the Corn Law waa an anti-commercial measure , and that as a matter of consequence every good man

      ought to advocate its repeal . He then went over the old clap-trap cry of cheap bread , but the trap was not sufficiently baited . Mr . Owen , a Chartist , asked a question , but in consequence of the uproar around tbe platform , by the panic-struck plague , we could not learn its purport . Mr . Fainlough then rose , and asked the gentleman to prove that this was naturally a commercial nation . Ho then alluded to the immense amount of pasture in large farms , and instanced one in Staffordshire of two hundred acres , having one hundred and twenty of these under pasture . Mr . A . replied that the existence of the Corn Law as a barrier to commerce was a proof that this was naturally a commercial nation , and that we

      must have beef and mutton as well as grain . Mr . Coekburn then rose , and complained of being confined merely to ask questions instead ot being allowed fairly to examine his lecture . He hoped the answers to the questions he ( Mr . C . ) was about to put would be as oonoise as possible , in order to afford the publio as much information as their limited time would admit . 1 st . Was Mr . A . friendly to free trade in every department ? If so , what would become of the various branches protected by import duties ? Was it true that there wa 3 a duty of thirty shillings per dozen pairs on women ' s shoes—24 s . on men ' s , and 54 ? . on boots 1 He then enumerated the import duties rpon various articles , and asked how the makers of those articles were to ba

      remunerated , if they had to compete with the foreigner ? In reply to those questions , Mr . A . stated that , upon the duty being taken off copper , tin , and wool , they had risen in value from forty to fifty per cent . Mr . C . then asked , whether Mr . A . meant to contend that the corn would rise in proportion , and this was his reason for advocating its repeal . Mr . A . said that the cases were materially different ; the one was paid to Government , the other was for the protection of the landlords . Mr . C . again rose to reply , but Mr . A . refused to give him a hearing unless agreed to by the meeting . On being put , that Mr . C . should be heard , it was carried by a majority of two to one ; when Mr . A . made some objection to the-decision , and in the midst of the confusion which ensued , Mr . A . walked away :

      whereupon Mr . Coekburn wrote the following note to be presented to Mr . A . upon his appearance OH the hustings on Friday evenipg , viz .: —'' Mr . A . Sir , in consequence of the unfair manner in whioh you treated my questions on the 1 st instant . I have resolved to challenge you or any of your friends to fair discussion on equal terms . If you and your coadjutors are sincere in your enquiring after truth you cannot consistently decline this offer . Please read this note publicly to-night , and allow me to subscribe yours respectfully , John Cookbarn . P . S . I hope you will conclude your lecture as near nine o ' clock as possible , to allow more time for discussion . J . C , 3 d December , 1841 . " Mr . A . refused to read the note until he had concluded his lecture , which he did about ten o clock . Whereupon he said it wa 3 contrary to

      his arrangements with his employers to disouss with any but approvers of the present Corn Law . Mr . C , in reply , 6 aid that he was opposed to its repeal without accompanying measures . The meeting called for a Chairman , whereupon the Plague proposed a Mr . Walker , from Wolverhampton , which was negatived , aud Mr . Sinclair was appointed chairman . Mr . C . wished distinctly to state his terms , which were , that equal time should be occupied by both parties ; whereupon Mr . Aciand said he wished to know if any other person had any questions to ask him prior to the commencement of the discussion , when a strange gentleman rose with that view and completely overturned all Mr . A . ' s arguments ; after which , Mr . Curry moved and Mr . Pickering seconded the adoption of the following resolution , viz . " That the thanks of this meeting be given to Mr . Aciand , and the other speakers this evening ,

      for tne evidence they had given in attributing all the existing erils to class legislation , and that the only remedy for those evils was to be found in the People ' s Charter . " Mr . Rayne moved and Mr . Rucastle seconded , as an amendment , that the werd " Charter" be omitted . But upon being put from the chair the original motion was carried by above four-fifths of the meeting . Mr . Aclaad moved a vote of thanks to the Chairman , for his impartial straighforward conduct in the chair , whioh was seconded and carried unanimously . Three cheers were then given for the Charter , three cheers for Mr . O'Connor , three cheers for Mr . O'Brien , three cheers for Frost , Williams , and Jones , and the meeting broke up at a few minutes to one o ' clock , Mr . A . commenced his lecture in his usual strain , but finding that his sophistry did not suit , he r arne 4 bis Bubject , and gave , what may be considered , a first-rate ChartiBt lecture .

      The Chartists held their weekly meeting for business on Tuesday evening , Mr . Pickering in the chair , when the following resolutions were agreed to : Moved by Mr . Cross , seconded by Mr . Scorfield , " That a publio meeting be got up as soon as possible to consider the propriety of memorialising her Majesty on behalf of MessiB . Frost , Williams and Jones ; which was carried unanimously . Moved by Mr . Crothus , seconded by Mr . Sinclair , * That the meeting be held in the Chartist ' s Hall , Goat lun , Cloth-market , on Monday evening , the 18 th instant , at half-past seven o ' clock , and that the Secretary be instructed to get 200 bills ( announcing the meeting ) printed immediately . " Carried . Mr . Crothus moved and Mr . Purvis seconded , That the thanks of this Association be given to Mr . Chadwick , of Rochdale , for his straight-forward eonduct as a magistrate , in asserting the right of Englishmen ' s homes to be their Castles , and reprobation the conduct of any one who would enter it forcibly , withont a sufficient cause . " Carried .

      TBOWBIUDGE —On Saturday last , a publio meeting was held ia the Democratic Chapel , to hear Mr . Clark , of Bath , also to bear what progress Chartism was making in the different localities that he had rigited ia his tour through the southern part of Wilts and Somerset . He was listened to with marked attention . After which , Mr . Moore read a paragraph from the Slat respecting the Queen ' s intention of pardoning all the conviots of good behaviour , on the baptism of the young Prince . It was resolved that a public meeting be called on Monday , to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones . On Monday evening , a public meeting was held in the above chapel when a goodly number of both males and females vrere present . Mr . John Moore was unanimously called to the chair , who stated the objects of the meeting in a neat speech , and read the memorial ' which was unanimously agreed to .

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      SlELBY " . — At the close of the demonstration held in Mr . Linton ' s factory , on Friday evening , in honour of the liberation of Mr . O'Connor , the following re solution was unanimously carried at the Association Room . ' That a vote of thanks is due and hereby tendered to Mr . Edmund Stallwood , of London , wr his bold and manly exertions in the caase of CAartism in this district . " XJEFTH . —Since Mr . O'Connor ho ij-ed us with his presenoe here the good cause has been rapidly

      progressing , i \ nd it may ba some satisfaction to our distinguished ohampion to hear that his visit , and our subsequent leotures , have increased our numbers fourfold . At our last lecture , delivered on Tuesday , the 30 th ult , the National Petition was unanimously adopted . Daring successive leotures delivered by our tai en ted friend , Mr . Abram Duncan , the Anti-Corn Law League , have been invited to come forward and discuss tbo question of tha big loaf and low wages . None e representatives of the League have yet appeared .

      DERBYSHIRE — BoNSALt . —On Tuesday last , Mr . Bairstow delivered a long , argumentative , and t s pirit-stirring lecture in the large room of the Bri-& innia Inn , to the hardy mountaineers of this " cleft in the Peak" hills , which was rapturously applauded , am ^ produced a deep impression . Mr . Vickers , of Be \ oer , was in the chair . The National Petition was- carried unanimously . An Association was foxiok * d i consisting je ^ f twelve good men . andrtraa ^ A libera » ^ oolIectfonTfaa made at the close of MrTBairstow ' s , lecture , and many Chartist publications were sold . 4 ^ <> te of thanks to Mr . Bairatow was carried by accla mation , and the meeting dispersed highly gratified .

      Matloci t- —On Wednesday evening , a very attentive meetin '¦? was convened in the large room of the Crown * nn , to which Mr . Bairstow gave an impressive t ' ecture . The National Petition was adopted . Th 9 members here number eighteen , with the most enoov waging prospects of success . Belpeb . —Oi i Friday evening , Mr . Bairstow delivered an intere sting lecture in the Market Place here . The proa Jedings went off with the greatest eclat . On Sunday aft « imoon and evening , Mr . Bairstow preached to large audiences in the Belper Market Place , and in the National Charter Association Room , Holbrooke I ioor . Liberal collections were made . Chabtisu through Derbyshire wears a most healthy aspect , and th . reatena , ere long , to rise and rule lord in the ascendt nt .

      HEWCASTtB . —The Chartists of Newcastle held their weekly meeting for business on Monday week . Mr . Kirker presided . ? fhe following resolutions were agreed to : — "That , in the opinion ot tha Chartists of this locality , the rule filed in the Court of Queen ' s Bench against Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., for the act of his servants is unjust , and contrary to tbe constitution of these realms ; and tkej believe the rule to have been filed for no other rauson than his unflinching advocacy of the cause of the industrious classes . '' " That this meeting place most implicit confidence in Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., Peter Murray M'Douall , Esq ., and Mr . George White , and do hereby pledge themselves to stand bj them , so long as they advocate the cause of Universal Suffrage . ' " That the thanka of this Association are due to Mr . Neisby , for his manly opposition to the despotic disposition of the Government in their attempts at erecting barracks at Bolton , for the

      purpose of compelling the industrious olasses of that locality to submit to be starved to death quietly pand wo do recommend every town in England to imitate the conduct of the rate payers of Bolton , in nobly opposing the attempts to locate a body of hired assassins , to deprive them of their rights . " LABSWADE . —A few choice spirits have long talked of endeavouring to get a co-operative store opened here , being convinced that it is the only way to being the shopkeepers to their senses , and cause them plainly to see the justice and expediency of the People ' s Charter . They have now , however , set to work in right earnest . A meeting was held here on last Thursday night , and the subject debated in all its bearings . After which a large Committee was appointed to canvass for shareholders , and four individuals were chosen to draw up a codoof laws for the guidance of the society . From appearances there is every reason to believe that a very efficient store will be opened here before long .

      BATHBRN . —Mr . Skevington , of Loughborough , addressed the friends at this place , on Sunda / afternoon , after whioh arrangements were made to hold a publio meeting the following evening , to adopt a memorial to the Queen on behalf of Frost , Williams , aad Jones . , BRADFORD . —The National Petition is now in course of signature here , and is expected to be numerously signed . Council Meeting , North ^ avkbn . —The Council met as usual on Sunday evening at six o ' clock , and elected Mr . Arran to preside ; after the different localities had brought in their monies for the Executive , and for the expences of the district of Bradford ; Mr . Brook moved , and Mr . Stead seconded , " Than a hundred cards , with a printed heading , be

      prepared for the purpose of canceling funds towards the expences of tbe National Petition , and of the forthcoming Convention ; " which was unanimously carried . Petition sheets were delivered out to the various localities for signature . Mr . Burrows moved , which wa 9 seconded , and carried , " That meetings should be held in Bradford and the adjacent towns and villages , for the purpose of memorialising her Majesty to pardon Messrs . Frost , Williams , and Jones , and all those who have been transported beyond the seas for political offences . " A resolution was then carried , that the different localities should immediately elect their councillors , and return their names to the next meeting , after whioh , the meeting adjourned to next Sunday night . v

      Demonstration Committee . —This committee met at the Association room . New Leeds , at two o ' clock , on Sunday afternoon , for the purpose of settling their books ; only seven of the committee were present , it not being known that they would meet ; agreed to adjourn the meeting till next Sunday afternoon , to be held at Mr . Brien Stead's , Canary-street , Manningham , when all persons who stand indebted to the committee will attend and pay the same ; every member of the committee is requested to be present if possible .

      Female Chartists . —The female Chartists of Wapping held their weekly meeting , at the North Tavern , at seven o ' clock on Sunday night last , when Messrs . Jennings and Edwards delivered each a lecture on the rights and duties of women , to interfere in the political affairs of this country , ana showed the necessity of their persevering till the People's Charter become the law of the land . Mrs . Jackson was elected president , Mrs . Blayza was chosen secretary , and Mrs . Corrodus the

      treasurer . Middleton Fields . On Monday night , the 6 th of December , at eight o clock , Mr . Jennings delivered a leoture to the Chartists of this place on the science of Government , and of the necessity of the working classes uniting together to redress their grievances , and to cause the Charter to become the law of the land . Tho meeting agreed to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of Frost , Williams , Jones , and all political conviots . White Ahbet . —The Chartists of this locality mustered strongly on Monday night last , in their Association-room , Gracechureh-street , when the two

      following resolutions were carried unanimously p" That it is the opinion of thiB meeting that we ought to memorialise her Majesty to pardon Frost , Williams , and Jones , and ail political convicts . " " That this meeting pledges itself to use every exertion to obtain signatures to the memorial on their behalf . " The resolutions were ably supported by Messrs . Smith and Hodgson , in speeches of considerable length . Every meeting night , the society gains strength by an accession of new members . The thanks of the meeting were voted to the ladies for their attendance .

      Dkavokp Street . —A number of Chartists in Deamond-street , met at the Paul Fry Inn , on Monday evening last , and agreed to join tbe National Charter Association . Twenty-nine members gave in their names , and paid their contributions , and elected Mr . Wm . Neil , and Mr . G . Fletcher to the General Council . Mr . J . Brook attended , and delivered a short lecture on the necessity of union , and warned them against having anything to do with crotchet-mongers , as nothing short of the People ' s Charter would ever emancipate the working classes from the misery and degradation in which they are at present placed . Georob-street . —Mr . Arran delivered a lecture to the Chartists of this street , on Monday night last , at eight o ' clock , in their meeting room , when they agreed to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of all political eonvicts .

      DAVYHTJLME . —On Saturday evening last , Mr . James Cartledge , of Manchester , lectured on the principles of the Charter , and the advantages to be derived from locating the people on the land , showing from practice , the benefits to be derived from spade cultivation .

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      w — .- / A— / # / < >// . -The querflonaoi Chartiam andCorn to ? JS ? £ S had a thorough ^ investigation faerfcf during ^ lS three week * ^ The ChartUt * threw down thegaonUrt in defence of their agitation for the Charter in preference to the agitation for the Rapeal of the Com Laws , and the result has been , that we have had our Association crowded each weekly meeting night , and aome spirited discussions , which have been adjourned front week to week . Mr . Curtis , Mr . Lireser .

      Mr . Brown , and others have been the advocates of Repeal , and their opponents have been Messrs . Odleam , Murphy , and Swindtehnnt on the part of tha Ciuurtista On Monday evening , the following resotion was triumphantly carried ; " That in tbe opinion of this , meeting , the Com Laws are iniquitous and unjust , and ought to be repealed , but we see no hope of carrying their repeal until the People ' s Charter becomes the lav of tbe land . " Tbese meetings hare done auch gsod to onr cstrse ; thirty new membacs having joined our Association dating the last fortnight .

      LONDON—Tailors . —The Tailors , of the Three Cranes , Richmond-street , held their usual meeting oa Sunday last Mr . Martin lectured on ? 'Prejudice . " At the conclusion , four members were enrolled , and theie is a good spirit in the society-Eastern Division op Boot and Shokmakehs . — On Sunday evening List , this body of Chartists mttat their Association Room , Star Coffee House , Goldenlane , to hear a lecture from Mr . Farrer , who ably exposed the fallacy of the repeal of tbe Corn laws , and the gross absurdities put forth by the League in support of the big loaf delusion . At the conclusion of fcba lecture tttree new members were enrolled . Mr . W « 4-kerdine was nominated as member ot the General Council .

      Cambbrweli . and Walworth . —The Chartists of this locality held their weekly meeting , on Monday night , at the Montpelier Tavern , Mr . ' Carter in tha chair . It was resolved that a public maating be boldest in the large room , Montpelier Tavern , to adopt the National Petition , on Monday , December 20 th , seven for . eight o'clock , p . m . Chartism is progressing in this locality , Meeting . —An association was formed at a poblis meeting , at tbe Albion Coffee Honae . Sbor « riitnh oa

      rnday evening . The meeting xt& » addressed in aa able manner by Mr . M'Grath . A large number of members wete enrolled . COETGLETOW . —Mr . O'Brien viaitsd this plaea on Saturday last , when there was a good number of the working classes met to hear him . He delivered a most heart-stirring lecture . NOTTINGHAM —Mr . W . D . Taylor , attended at the Noah " s Ark , Coalpit-lane , on Saturday evening , after which seventeen new members were enrolled . Tbe association at this house is now getting very strong .

      C 3 ALSNATJGRTON . —A meeting of delegates from the various associations in this district -was held ia SHr . M'Donald ' s rooms , on Saturday , tbe 4 th instant , Mr . George RaVcary , of Alva , in the chair , when it ww resolved- that Mr . A . Duncan be sent t ) represent this district in the National Meeting of Delegates to be held in Glasgow . It was also resolved , that Mr . Duncan b » engaged for one month as lecturer for this district . T . Roberts was appointed secretary , and T . Hall , treasurer , to the Central Committee daring the ensuing tare * months . - It was then resolved that the next meeting o € delegates be held in the ^ New Hall , Coalsnanghton , oa Saturday , the 18 th current , at six o ' clock , after whicti the meeting broke up .

      DAXSr Bttt-The Cfaaitists of this village held their weekly meeting on Sunday . The cause is progressing stsadiJy but firmly . It was agreed to call s > meeting on Tuesday , the 14 th of December , at eight o ' clock in the eveniDg , in the Primitive Methodist Chapel house , to memorializa her Miyeity , praying she will be aiott graciously pleased to extend th » Royal clemency to Frost , Williams , and Jones . S 0 DBURT . —Mr . Ruffy Ridley has delivered three lectarea on the principles of CiiarUsin ia this plaee , which have beea toe-means of mtsch good . An association ia about being formed here . WESTMINSTER . —Mr . WhaJey leetarei at tha Charter Coffee-house , Stretton * grcuod , on Sunday evening . Two new members were added .

      XVHDBIiSTON . —At tbe weekly meeting , on Sonday night , several new members were enrolled ; and , after some discussion , a v » te of thanks was passed to Messrs . Bropby and O'Higgins , for tixeir praiseworthy exertions ui the cause of the suffering , millions . HOLUNGWOOD . —The Chartist * of this plaea opened a new room on Sunday last . Mr . Taylor , of Koyton , lectured in the afternoon , and Mr . Leach , of Manchester , in the evening . Several new members were enrolled . STAXiYBRinOE . —M * . Thoma * Storer delivered a lecture en Sunday evening last , to a respectabto audience , in the National Gb&rter Association Kaon . At tne close of the lecture the following resolution was adopted i— " That this meeting views with abhorence all . attempts to create disunion in the Chartist ranks , and that the attempts , to injure , tbe character of Dr . M'Douall and B . O'Bae&are weak aad unfounded * aad calculated to injure tbe peopled cause ; and further , this meeting places unbounded confidence ia Dr . M'Douall and Mr . B . O' 3 « en as unflinching advocates of tbe people ' s rights and liberties . "

      NORTH LANCASHIRE . —The delegate meeting of North . Lancashire took place at Accringtoa , on Sunday last , Mr . Fothergill , t ren * Lancaster ,, in the chair . Delegates were present from Accrington , Blackburn , Burnley ., Ciitheroe , Colce , S&bden , Lancaster , Harwood ; Bacup , Preaton . and Chorley being absent It was resolved , that J . T . Lund , from Lancaster , be the lecturer for North Lancashire , for tbe next six weeks , Mr . Marsden wishing to retire ; that the lecturer ' s salary be thirty-two shillings per week , and thateacft association send in moneys to the district secretary , bo that a fortnight ' s wages can be paid to the lecturer before setting out ; that the lecturer visit tbe following places , in addition to the usual route , viz . Kendal , Kiifcby Lonsdale , Higher Bentbam , Little and Long Preston ; and that Mr . Beeslsy , of Accrington , be tha district secrttiry , as usual .

      WORCESTER . —At the usual weekly meeting of the Chartuti of this locality , held at their room ia Foundry-street , Mr . George Davie in the chair ; a long discussion ensued regarding the propriety of joining the Birmingham district for the support of a lecturer , in which Messrs . Clark , Davie , Hockins , Powell , and Williams took part . At tbe close it was resolved that , the secretary be instructed to write to Mr . Ma « 0 D , inviting him to pay a -visit . A -voluntary contrioutioa was entered into towards defraying his expenses . GATEHOUSE . —On Wednesday , the 1 st instant , a public meeting , took place , in the Mason ' s Hall , to . hear Mr . Wardrop , from Dumfries , deliver a lecture on

      the rights of labour . Mr . Donaldson , grocer , was called to . the chair . The lecturer , upon rising , wa >< received with enthusiastic cheexing from all parts oC the bouse . He commenced by taking a survey of tha . political affairs of this country during tbe last fiitjy years , showing , in glaring colours , the wanner ia whictk the rulers of this country had trampled on the tight * and privileges of the working classes . Having apokaa . for sometime on the distressed state tbe country wia now reduced to , be thea explained the People ' s Charter in all its bearings , and urged upon his audience U » necessity of uniting , as one man , lor the attainment . their rights , and never to « eaao their exertions uatU . tbS Charter became the law of the land .

      DUBLIN . —The Irish Universal Suffrage Association held their usual weekly meeting on Sunday last , Mr . T . Dillon ia the chair . In tbe absence of Mr . Btophy , the secretary , who was on a mission ia the countryt Mr . E . Dempsey reud the minutes of the last iseetzag * Mr . O'Higgina handed in twelve shillings , being the subscription of twenty-four new members , being- tba amount of their cards and one month ' s subsexigtoa ia advance . Mr . T . Toole hoped , though not a . member , that the Association would extend to him tbe saioa couit » sy which it did upon a former occasion , br permitting him te make a few observations . ( Hear . ) He said that he highly approved of the princlnles of tne Irish Universal Suffrage Association , and that no conest man could find fault with them .

      yet he had not joined the Association because Mr . Dxniel O Connell was so decidedly , opposed to it . That he , like many others who . , were wholly ignorant of its principles , and who were great admirers of Mr . O'Connell , were by his speeches led to-belief © that the association was as bad as he represented it to be ; and tbe personal abuse of Mr . Q ^ ConneU which ba bad seen in the Star , and in other . Chartist publications , confirmed him in tnat belief , and in whicn belief be would have bad the misfortune to remain bad he not attended the meetings held in that room . He bod followed in the wake of Mr . O'Connell . and cheered him on and assisted in promoting several members of Mr . O'ConnelTs family to public situations , while he was under tt « impression that he waa cheering them on as Kepealew of the Union . He waa

      still an admirer of Mr . O'Connell , and he did not like to Bee him abused tf any paxtq , and he knew that there were a great sany others , £ 41 as he did upon that subject , and aa a friend to tha association b » strongly recommended tbam to avoid all allusion to Jdr . O Connell , by doing so they wojJd make friend * of those who only reqpire fco read tkteir proceeding * to be converted to their principles , bu& who will not do so , while Mr . O'ConneU is attacked , whether that attack be just or udJust He also said , that the ossoiaaUoa might have very interesting di ^ usaioni , on the principles of the People ' s Charter , ' apon which the people of Ireland required information . { Hear , hear . ) Mr . Toole concluded a very sensible and temperate speech , of which we glv » but a mexe equine , by thanking the meeting for tbe very kind and attentive hearing they had given him , though not & member of the aasouiation .

      ^^ N «* M . 1 ^ l ^ h ^_ tf * tffe ^^^^~ 4 * b ' _ b M + ~ * A * . The Pbess . —ThU interesting question was brought forward in aa &dmir . &ble 8 peech by M * . TJyott . A warm and animated discussion ensued , in which Mesarsu . Wood , Woodward , Clarke , P . Brophy , Dunne , Mc'Mahon , and O'Higgins . took part The question was referred « x > the Press Committee . After which Mr . Wood was called to the chair , and thanks given to tha chairman , when the meeting , which waa a very large oae , separated .

      Cfoartftf 3£Jv1enfaoice.

      Cfoartftf 3 £ jv 1 enfaoice .

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      ¦ r *""^ l ^^*^?^ HHPV ^ BBS * / j ^ m / i ^ isilW J-SsV * bH * I ^ BBbW ^ \^^ >^ H _ jp \^ yCy _ JJ f AND LEEDS GENEBAL ADVERTISER .

      To The Imperial Chabtists.

      TO THE IMPERIAL CHABTISTS .

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      TOL . Y . NO . 813 . SATURDAY , DECEMBER ^ 11 , 1841 . T * £ ZS £££%££ ? "

  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), Dec. 11, 1841, page unpag, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct408/page/1/