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Northern Star (1837-1852), 11th December 1841, Edition 3 of 5, Page unpag, TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS.

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    • CMM.IiTT'iWMAy—A numerously-attended meeting was held on Monday evening last, at the Mechanics' Institute, for the purpose of further con-
    • i» -m *• *» Ctarttet $nt*ttts*nf*.
    • TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS.
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      My DziRLY Beloved Fbiisds , —I now come to the narratire of my Yorkshire tour , and in truth a j flrions o » e it -was . I left Manchester at seven ^ eloek on Monday mornin g , aad met with the secretarFof tbe Bradford C&artists who was to accompany _ e to little Horton , where we were to join the prot on . Smith is an Irishman . I merely mention ^ t fust as part of the answer to Mr . CFConnell ' s j ^ rtion , th » t ** in England there vat no Irish Qiartisu . " Smith does sot make an exception , bat m the contrary , wherever I go I find Irishmen taking

      aB retire lead in the present movement ) aad I have ^ great satisfaction to know that they are greatly ^ —ected by th- ir English fellow-working men . We Stet the process on it Little Horton , and proceeded ggQee to Bradford , is the order reported in last ^ s efs ¦ S& ° ftfi e "turn out" in hosoar of Chartism it Bradford . I may truly say that it not only jrioaisbed me , but literally paralized every foe to j ^ berty who witnessed it . Of the many great and jjorious d « monsttauons I ever saw , I « n bound in jnstice to say & ** according to population , Bradford vgjt jIL It would be utterly impossible to make

      % guess at the teus of thousands who congregated upoa the occasion , while the order , good conduct , jud decorum at once refuted the charge of licenfcoasne ss , so often made against out friends . One tj ^ jiff , as regards this demonstration , is very curious , jl is ibis ; one V . itle fellow who guesses for the Bradford Observer , wrote us down as 6 , 000 , while he who perforas a similar office for the York Cwrant , makes us but 3 , 000 ; now was the chap ef &e Observer drunk , or was " t ' other beggar " blind \ which was it ! These fellows are begHBJBg of great service to as just now , as they

      gpvbla the middle classes to judge of the value aad veracity of their organs . You Baw the resolutions that were passed ; but yon oould not jadge of fte enthusiasm of the meeting and of the ability of the speakers . 1 here met West , tin West Biding lecturer , for the first time ; and although I had beard much of him , yet had report , which was load in his praise , fallen far short of his merits , I canoot spare much space U > a discripfcion of him , while jOaiee would be neglect of duty . He is tery young and very small , but uncommonly well pal tcgeifcer . He is one of the most modest men I ever met ; in fact he requires shoving to force him into Mb proper position , and I feel convinced that

      on friends in all osher parts will be happy to recognise an addition to their strength in the fact that West , another Irishman , is acknowledged by all to fee second to none in the art of debating , and in power and willingness to expound and support the grea t principles of democracy . I think he nukes James Leach Ms monitor , and worthily he follows in Ha track of his great preceptor . In fact he is a host is himself . Is the evening we had a grand Soiree . Mr . Qarkson filled , as he ought to do , the post ot honour both wiihin and without , and discharged the duties of office welL This gentleman is of the greatest nse to Chartism throughout the district , md is generally respected and beloved .

      I must now mention the work cut out for me in the evening . I had to address those who took tickets for the Soiree , in the Social Institution , and then to prooeed to the Mechanics IcFtuute , tne second largest holding in the town ; and both of them much too snail to gire satisfaction or accommodation to our MBierous friends . In fact we could hare filled * building at one shilling a head , capable of holding 6 , 000 persons . I enrolled fifty-seTen new members at the Mechanics' Institute , and then I returned and enrolled forty odd at the Social Institution . Thi 3 is work which I will neTer undertake

      again ; going from one oven to another . It was raining the whole time . This is too much to expect , but jg nerertheles 3 frequently arranged for . But , once ferall , I never again will attempt it . Upon the whole , I should say thai nothing could exceed the Bradford demonstration from beginning to end . E » day was beautiful ; that is the Chartist part of it . It was a Whig morning , full of promise , bat it deceived us ; it was a Chartist day , fresh and smiling , aad a Tory evening—no mistake clout it—just what H promised upon our breaking up the out-door seeintg , dark , dirty , and pelting .

      I cannot conclude without returning thanks to the Committee for their excellent arrangements , always and nevertheless excepting those relating to Bjself , which though good-nat&redly intended were too severe . However , I got through ; and upon the whole , I learn that the " useless diiplay" and its results h * Te been moss beneficial to oar cause in Bradford and Halifax , On Wednesday , the Halifax Demon rtration came tS , and , in truth , it also was a bumper . I was mei bj several thousands , with bands and banners , at She Sowerbv Bridge Station . I was wholly incapable

      of addressing them , but West was kind enough to Bake the want unfelt . After a Bfcon delay at Sowerby , the Halifax procession arrived ; and , af ler Vlin attempts to form them into four , six , or eren twelve deep , we proceeded , en route and en masse , to Halifax . It is great folly to attempt anything like jroeessiona ! ordei with such numbers ; as I feci assured that either the Bradford or Halifax masses , if arranged four deep , would reach from Bradford to Leeds , a distance of ten miles . When the procession reached the town it was literally astounding I thought i ; more numerous than that of Brad

      fcrd , while West and others , who were at both , considered Bradford much the more numerous . Bowera , I never saw , for the population , ( always bear tint in mind , ) so many moving as at Halifax- It * m like one great tide of human beings , ttrrymg with it every opposing obstacle : all seemed to be in motion . Our part « f the day , as on Monday , was splendid , tod nothing seemed to m % r the delight , save and exeppt one very low-bred and ignorant act of a gentleman on horseback . I believe one of the London * KceJ" who could not wait for two minutes at a

      crossing . No , no , it would be beneath his dignity ; *> he li ; erally rode through , or rather across the P *« saon , to the great amusement of the body , who , i ° fce * d of hooting or insulting , set up a derisive k ° gh , and exclaimed— " Your day is gone , old chap ; ftofr all tpite . " Yes , in his ignorant presumption QttV witnessed the fall ot pride , aad Joss of station ; fcrt I hope these experiments will not be too often tttempted , as I know not what I might be templed to do , if a gentleman ' s horse trod on my toes at the feeding of its master . I don't like practical jokes . » od therefore I never play them ; and 1 would

      recommend the same forbearance to all . When the Frocesgou armed in front of the Odd Fellows ' H * I 1 , the cr « wd was immense . I addressed them kritfiy , m did the Rev . Mr . Jackson , and then the fring tide receded , and in less than half an hour no fc » ee of the busy bustle remained . In the evening , k * ever , and very early , too , the door of the Sfceioua building was fceses by thousands . It is * pable of holding between three and four thousand i «*» as observed bj the Committee , it was incapable « f holdiag a tenth of those who would have willingly t * & for admission . Old Ben Rnshton , that prince

      « patriots , was in the chair ; and , believe me , he «* d HO Einecme . When I arriTed , eTery inch was locked , fcad 1 Bid to be literally w&dged through $ e dense erowd to the hustings . I beg pardon of &e ^ Weekl y Chronicle , but it was really smoking , ^ w ' giEg over he » d and shoulders , enthusiastic , and eTerything that the knowledge-monger could wish , * ad something more . I wish " Cotton Twist" had ^ en present . It was impossible to proceed for a kagth of time , in consequence of the rush at both d oers , and the eternal knocking outside when they ^^ e closed . However , at length we got to work * fad never had Chartism a greater treat . I will i «« t mention the speakers , and then the reader

      * 21 appreciate the diligeDee of the Committee Be fl , of Manchester , West , Rer . Mr . Jackson , Mr-Frederick Lees , of Leeds , Knowles , of Keighley , who , I think , made the speech of the evening , ) and y « tr hnakle servant were all present ; and I should Ske to meet an equal number of our learned foes . 0 j What a thrashing we would giro them ! After the * n > oee < iiags , we enrolled more than one hundrftd new * Mmbers ; and thus ended the Halifax Demonstra . °° &- There is one circumstance I cannot avoid xaeDli cning just here , and ene which , in my mind , dost important . When the Whig 3 were in j ** er , ihe announcement of a public meeting was avariabl y followed by a proclamation from the

      Untitled Article

      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 Mm . Indeed to such 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 Wemyss , we should haye had more than one reTolution . in Lancashire during th « peaceful reign of Whiggery . The fact I believe is , that England owes to Colonel Wemyss , 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 nse of the power committed to hia hands , has , more than royal proclamations ,

      magistrates' proclamations , and ministerial proclamations , tended to the presarratkm af the peace of the country . I know some gallant gentlemen , who would have made a mess of things long Bince , 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 , daring the present distress , which they have been mainly instrumental in creating ; because , during ten years , they denied its existence , and feared to look the monster evil , steam ptveer , in the face .

      Dkwsbuut . —On Thursday , at five o ' clock , I joined the Millbridge and Heckmondwike procession . I drank tea with that good and consistent Chartist , Mr . Penny , of Millbridge . We proceeded , at six o ' clock , to Heckmondwike , with bands and transparencies , to meet the men of Dswsbniy When we arrived at Heckmondwike the numbers were immense , and I was induced to address them from the window of a Tory that 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 point , the night serene and beautiful , while a strong belief in our increased strength seemed to > nimat- ° the bosoms of all present . As soon as I had concluded , we proceeded towards Dewsbury , under the command of that indefatigable and z » alous chieftain Moseley Stott . When the Dewsbury procession joined , our numbers were tremendous , while none appeared to dread an improper use of our power . The old women who manifested much 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 » lkss you , axd mat tod PiosrEE . " I fear they are the prayers of the wicked ; however , we take them as they are meant , and help ourselves without relying iipon the prayers of our friends . At Dewsbury the good fellowB built a very fine and commodious pavilion , at a great expense ; it is capable of accommodating about 4 , 000 in the body and about 300 in a gallery . Another Irishman ,

      Daniel Bead , was called to the chair , and discharged his dnties like an Irishman ; I need say 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 could be read , and subsequently , in a very able and kind manner explained the evils which the proposed document Bought to remedy . He was loudly cheered by his townsmen , and made a good impression upon his 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 b « at least moderate , they are magistrates , lest their seal may get the better of iheir prudence and lead them astray . When they dine oat , they Bhonld drink , if at all , 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 Belf-destruction .

      The men of Dewsbury , I am glad to say , intend to convert their ptvilion , which is to remain up till Christmas , to the best possible account . I understand tha ; the Rev . Mr . Hill is to preach a sermon or two there on Sunday the 19 th inst ., ( to-morrow week ) , 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 Bach spirited conduct deserves praise , and that those who thus venture an experiment in aid of Chartism should not be allowed to suffer . We experience greater inconvenience from want of public buildings than from any other source ; and surely so good a substitute was very desirable ; therefore let not those who eupplied it become sufferers , but rather let it be an example to those of other towns , to go and do

      likewise . Selbt . —On Friday , I started / or Sslby , a town which I had not previously visited ; and in truth I was amply rewarded for my trip . The Chartists open learning my intention to visit them , made application for the use of what is called the * public room f but like the toast of the " i eople the only source of legitimate power , " when the people alone are exclnded from power , at Sdby the public room signifies the room from which ihe public alone are excluded . I christen it FAcno ?< hall ; and henceforth let it be known

      and , called by its new and proper name . Well , in 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 generou * man , he set his every hand to the work , and in three days , ( will it be believed ) thiB wealthy master actually removed his-boilers , fixtures , tons of iron , and all other moveables , and erected a very excellent and commodious hustings in a building capable of accommodating nearly 3 , 000 perrons . It contains 285 square yards , and was comfortably filled , while

      the numbers who occupied windows and open spaces between the place of meeting and its twin workshop , would have crammed it . Mr . Linton himself ¦ w as 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 judge from the enthusiasm , with no small effect . West next spoke , and made , as did Stallwood , a famoaE impression upon the almost maiden soil 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 whereaa Selby Bent

      no ^ J tion during last year , there are already one thousand eight hundred signatures attached to the GREAT NATIONAL . We enrolled lone new members , and I retired for a short time to the house of Mr . Linton , where I was delighted to be p « t in possession of his agricultural statistics , whereby it appears that after p&yicg a labourer 33 . per day for ten hours ' work , he is able to make profit over rent at £ 5 6 s . 8 d . per acre and all other expences , at the rate of j £ 16 per acre . He has in the whole not more than three-fourths of an acre ; and not more than twenty-four perches , ot ove fifth of that threefourths , in cultivation . He last year had one cow ;

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      but the produce began to press so heavily upon thk xkaks 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 expeaces , after paying £ 4 rent for three quarters of an acre , which is at the rate of £ i . 6 s . 8 d . per acre , and after paying for labour , for seed , and all other expenses , the profit was about £ 12 . ' and mark , only twenty-four perches , a fifth of the three-quarters , or one-seventh of an acre in producing orderJ If the whole was highly cultivated , ( as the grass land yields littlo or nothing , ) it would leave profit , after outlay and rent , eighty-five pounds peT acre per annum . This is no orotohet . 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 recommend Colonel Thompson , Cobden , and friends to make a party of pleasure , and to visit this New English Poland ; but , perhaps , it would be a sin against the holy Steam Powers to advocate the Gothic doctrine of eating English bread and be * f : Selby has a population « f 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 Selby , and , life permitting , it shall net be my last . Chartism here owes muob , very much , to Mr . LiBton ' f &nd no little to the admirable Association of York , the members of which never fail to cater for Selby ' s instruction , by inviting © very Btat . to visit this rising spot of democracy . I prophesy that Selby , ere long , will be first among the foremost , and xejoioe to know that Stallwood grres au equally cheering account of the whole of his diocese , which he assures me is Chartist to the back-bone , and merely requires the necessary cultivation .

      Huddersfield . —On Saturday morning I started for Cooper-bridge , the Huddersfield station , where I was met by Clayton and George Haguo with a carriage and four , and in whioh we instantly started for Holmfirth , a distance of seven 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 , whioh in less than fire 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 very briefly , in consequence of the over-powering heat , and also in consequence of one of the beams giving way . The place was vary 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 bid when captious and quarrelsome fellows interrupt the harmony of a large party .

      From Holmfirth we were to have gone in procession to New Mills , a distance of more than two miles , but in consequence of the dreadful state of the weather , I succeeded in 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 was prefaced by an admirable speech from one of the Youthful Association , and was received with load cheers . I spoke out of a window ; the crowd was 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 bjTsht bye of Yorkshire appeared to be open and wide awake , tor 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 Urge 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 I 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 empannelled 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 , and I found that all attempts to gain a footing for the League at Hudderafield had failed . I left Huddersfield at eight ; and from that

      time to the present moment I Lave been afflicted with the most severe cold I ever had in my life . When I arrived at Manchester I was still Tery 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 lam concerned , during the winter . I protest againsc being taken from one place of meeting to any other place during the same day .

      In my fortnight ' s tour I have disposed of more than 1 , 400 cards for tho Executive . I think 1 have inspired a resh life aud vigour into oar ranks . I have fouud 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 th of this month , where I hope my friendB will

      make arrangements for a publio meeting upon that evening . We muse have 5 , 000 , 000 , instead of the paltry number of 4 , 000 , 000 of signatures . Let no man sign more than once 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 [ eilovr 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 you 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 which they had been chosen as a part . I shall also put you iu poBsession of the tricks of the " Plague . " But we are wide awake . // they join us , it must bb foe kvebt BB . ISTLE IN the Chabtbb , No more humbug , whether " Universal Suffrage" or M the Ballot ; " we are wide awake now ! The factions gave us a Bleeping potion in 1832 , but if ever tkey catch us napping again , I am a Dutchman I . ' I

      I am , fellow labourers , Your devoted friend and servant , F * ABGU 8 O'CONNOB . P . S . Universal Suffrage and No Surrender III London , Dec 8 , 1841 .

      Cmm.Iitt'iwmay—A Numerously-Attended Meeting Was Held On Monday Evening Last, At The Mechanics' Institute, For The Purpose Of Further Con-

      CMM . IiTT'iWMAy—A numerously-attended meeting was held on Monday evening last , at the Mechanics' Institute , for the purpose of further con-

      eidering toe necessary steps to oe taken in fartherance ot ihe important struggle bow pending at the new Houses of Parliament , against tho relentless tyranny of the foreman , Allen , as also of his employers , Grissell and Peto . A series of resolutions in favour of the masons were passed , and aa address to the country was adopted .

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      ^^ p »^^^^^ T ^ ^ m v r ^ ^^ ^ w h « - ^ ~ w ~ »* ^ ^ r *^ *^ ^ - » - ^ » ^ ^ - ^ - < r — - ^ "w ^ - ™~ ^» ¦» ^ ^ ^ ^^ r ^ r ^ v »^ T ~ XOAMCHESTBR . —Mr . James Cartledge lectured on Sunday « vening last , at the ChartUt room , Strand-street , when five new members were enrolled , and a considerable number of signatures were attached to the petition . DEWBBURY .-At the West Riding Delegate Meeting , held on the 28 th ult ., it was resolved , that a delegate fund be established , to be supported by the levy of one halfpenny p » member throughout

      the riding . Also that each district in the riding be recommended to take immediate steps to raise funds for the forthcoming Convention , and be prepared to give in a new list of members at the next delegate meetiug , in order that the expensed may be propoxtionably laid . That in future ho lecturer shall be employed in the West Riding until funds are furnished to pay him , and that any place , not paying in advance , shall have no claim on the services of the lectures ; and all places are further requested to pay all arrears .

      XiOUGHBOROtTGH . —It was agreed to have a public meeting on Monday evening , for the purpose of getting up a memorial for Frost , Williams , and Jones , and the adoption of the National Petition . At the meeting , on Monday , both these were agreed to . LEIGH . —The state of trade in this place is really Assessing ; not one half of the . BifeWdWCCT JWT « be « n employed for' some months ptisfjrHMMK ^ m hungry perishing wretches , Biany with large families , may be seen every day walking through our streets , destitute alike of work , food , and clothing ; boomb ,

      who though they may live many years , are clearly in a state 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 aud 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 .

      KEWGASTIiE . —Total Defeat of the Plaque . —On Wednesday morning last , the walla of this town were placarded with large bills announcing that Mr . Aoland of the Plague was to deliver two lectures 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 broadoloth 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 was 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 aroHnd toe 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 . He then alluded to ihe 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 of being allowed fairly to examine his lecture . He hoped the answers to the questions he ( Mr . C . ) was about to pat would be as concise as possible , in order to afford the pnblie 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 trae that there was a duty of thirty shillings per dozen pairs on women ' s shoes—24 a . on men ' s , and 543 . on boots 1 He then enumerated the import duties vpon various articles , and asked how the makers of those articles were to bo remunerated , if they had to compete with the foreigner 3 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 tho corn would rise in proportion , and this was his reason for advocating its repeal . Mr . A . said that tha 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 bo 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 contusion whioh ensued , Mr . A . walked away : whereupon Mr . Coekburn wrote the following note to be presented to Mr . A . upon his appearanoe on the

      hustings on Friday evening , 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 disous 8 ion on equal terms . If you and your coadjutors are sincere in your enquiring after truth you cannot consistently decline this offer . Please read thiB note publicly to-night , and albwme to subscribe yours respectfully , John Cockbarn . 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 becember , 1841 . " Mr . A . refused to read the note until he had concluded hiB lecture , which he did about ten o ' clock . Whereupon he said itwaa contrary to his arrangements with his employers to discuss with

      any but approvers of the present Corn Law . Mr . C , in reply , said 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 , whioh was negatived , and Mr . Sinclair was appointed chairman . Mr . C . wished distinctly to state his terms , which were , tkat equal time should be occupied by both parties ; whereupon Mr . Aoland 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 roBe 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 . Aoland , and the other speakers this evening , for tbe evidence they had given in attributing all the

      existing evils 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 word " Charter" be omitted . But upon being put from the chair the original motion was carried by above four-fifths of tho meeting . Mr . Aoland moved a vote of thanks to the Chairman , for bis impartial straighforward conduct in the chair , which was seconded and carried unanimously . Three cheerB were then given for the Charter , three chesrs lor 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 turned his subject , and gave , what may be considered , a first-rate Chartist lecture .

      The Chabtistb 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 public meeting be got up as soon as possible to consider the propriety of memorialising her Majesty on behalf of Messrs . 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 Inn , Cloth-market , on Monday evening , the 18 th instant , at half-past seven o ' clock , and that the Secretary bo instructed to get 200 bills ( announcing the meeting ) printed immediately . " Carried . Mr . Crothus moved and Mr . PurviB seconded . " That the

      thanks of this Association be Riven to Mr . Chadwick , of Rochdale , for his straight-forward conduct as a magistrate , in asserting the right of Englishmen ' s homes to be their Castles , and reprobating the conduct of any one who would enter it forcibly , without a sufficient cause . " Carried . TBOWBRIDGE .-On Saturday last , a public meetiog was held in the Democratic Chapel , to hear Mr . Clark , of Bath , also to hear what progress Chartiem was making in the different localities that he had visited ia his tour through the southern put of Wilts and Somerset . He was listened to with

      marked attention . After which , Mr . Moore read » paragraph from the Stat respecting the Queen ' s intention of pardoning all the convicts 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 were present . Mr . John Moore was unanimously called to tho chair , who stated the objects of the meeting in a neat speech , and read the memorial which was unanimously agreed to .

      Untitled Article

      SELBT . — At the cloo-o of the demonstration held in Mr . Lintou ' s factory , on Friday evening , in honour of the liberation of Mr . O'Connor , the following resolution was unanimously carried at the Association Room . ( " That a vote of thanks is due and hereby tendered to Mr . Edmund Stal ] wood , of London , for his bold and manly exertions in the cause of Chartism in this district . " tEITH . —Since Mr . O'Connor ho ( £ 'ed us with his presence here the good cause has been rapidly

      progressing , and it may be some satisfaction to our distinguished champion to hear that his visit , and our subsequent lectures , have increased our numbers fourfold . At our last lecture , delivered on Tuesday , the 30 th ult , the National Petition was unanimously adopted . Daring successive leoturcs delivered by our talented friend , Mr . Abram Duncan , tho Anti-Corn Law League , have been invited to come forward and discuss the question of the big loaf and low wages . None e representatives of the League have yet appeared .

      DERBYSHIRE — Bonsaix . —On Tuesday last , Mr . Bairstow delivered a long , argumentative , and spirit-stirring lecture in the large room of tho Britannia inn , to the hardy mountaineers of this " cleft in the Peak'' hills , which was rapturously applauded , and produced a deep impression . Mr . Viekers , of Belper , was in the chair . The National Petition was carried unanimously . An Association was formed , consisting of twelve good men and trae . _ A ^^ BBBBMfl H i T ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ r ^^*^^^^^^ '

      ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ tow 8 lecture , and many Chartist publications were sold . A vote of thanks to Mr . Bairstow was carried by acclamation , and the meeting dispersed highly gratified . Matlock . —On Wednesday evening , a very attentive meeting was convened ia the large room of the Crown Inn , to whioh Mr . Bairstow gave an impressive lecture . The National Petition was adopted . The members here number eighteen , with the most encouraging prospects of success . BEtPiB . —On Friday evening , Mr . Bairstow delivered an interesting lecture in the Market Place here . The proceedings went off with the greatest eclat .

      UN Sunday afternoon and evening , Mr . Bairstow preached to large audiences in the Belper Market Place , and in the National Charter Association Room , Holbrooke Moor . Liberal collections were made . Chartism through Derbyshire wears a most healthy aspect , and threatens , ere long , to rise and rule lord in the ascendant . WKWCASTLB . —The Chartists of Newcastle held their weekly meeting for business on Monday week . Mr . Kirker presided . The following resolutions were agreed to : — " That , in the opinion of the Chartists of this locality , the rule filed in the Court of Queen ' s Uench against Feargus O'Connor , Esq .,

      for tho act of his servants is unjust , and contrary to the constitution of these realms ; and they believe the rule to have been filed for no other reason than his unflinching advocacy ot the cause of tha industrious classes- " " That this meeting place mo ^ t implicit confidence in Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., Peter Murray M'Douall , Esq ., and Mr . George White , and do hereby pledge themselves to stand by them , so long as they advocate the cause of Universal Suffrage . " " That the thanks 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 classes of that locality to Bubmit to be starved to death quietly ; and

      we 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 . " IiASSWAde . —A few ohoiee spirits have long talked of endeavouring to get a co-operative store opened here , being convinced that it is the only way to bring the shopkeepers to their senses , and cause them plainl y to see the justice aud 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 Us bearings . After which a large Committee was appointed to canvass for shareholders , and four individuals were chosen to draw up a codo of Jaws 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 . BATHBRJr .- Mr . Skevington , of Longhboroogh , addressed tbe friends at this place , on Snnda / afternoon , after which arrangements were made to hold a public meeting the following evening , to adopt a memorial to the Queen on behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones .

      BRADFORD . —The National Petition is bow in course of signature here , and is expected to be numerously signed . Council Meeting , Nobth Tatton . —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 , aud Mr . Stead seconded , " That a hundred cards , with a printed heading , be prepared for the purpose of collecting funds towards the expences of the 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 was 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 havo 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 .

      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 adjonrn the meeting till next Sunday afternoon , to be held at Mr . Brien Stead's , Canary-street , Manningbam , 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 Chabtiits . —The female Chartists of Wapping held their weekly meeting , at the North Tavern , at seven o ' clock on Sunday night last , when MessrB . Jennings and Edwards delivered each a lecture on the rights and duties of women , to interfere in the political affairs of this country , and 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 .

      Middle-ton Fields . On Monday night , the 6 th of December , at eight o ' clock , Mr . JenniugB delivered a lecture 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 tho land . The meeting agreed to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of Frost , Williams , Jones , and all political convicts . Whitb Abbet . —The Chartists of this locality mustered strongly on Monday night last , in their Association-room , Gracechurch-street , when the two

      following resolutions were carried unanimously : — "That it is the opinion of this meeting that we ought to memorialise her Majesty to pardon Frost , Williams , and Jones , and all 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 .

      Deamond Street . —A number of Chutists in Deamond-Btreet , met at the Paul Pry Inn , on Monday evening last , and agreed to joiu the 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 abort lecture on tbe necessity of union , and warned them against having anything to do with crotchet-mongers , a 9 nothing short of the People ' s Charter would ever emancipate the working classes from the misery and degradation ia which they are at present placed . Geobgb-st&bxt . —Mr . Arran delivered a lecture to tbe Chartista of this street , ou Monday night last , at eight o ' clock , in their meeting room , when they agreed to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of afi political coEviots .

      DAVYHUUttE . —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 .

      Untitled Article

      ^ 4 ^ : ^^ PBESTON . -Chartish & Corn Law Repeal —The questions of Chartiam and Corn Law Repeal nave had a thorough investigation herb , during the last three weeks . The Charttata threw down the gauntlet in defence of their agitation for the Charter in profcrea- ; , i to the agitation for the Repeal ot the Cora Laws , and the result has been , that We have had our Association crowded each weekly meeting night , and some spirited disconions . which hare been

      adjourned from week to week . Mr . Curtis , Mr . Ureter , Mr . Brown , and others hare been the adrotfftea of Repeal , and their opponents hare been Messrs . Odleum , Murphy , and Swindlehurst on tbe part of toe Chartist * . On Monday evening , the following resotion was triumphantly carried : " That in tbe opinion of tola meeting , tho Corn Laws are iniquitous and unjust , and ought to be repealed , bat we see no hope of carrying their repeal until the People's Charter become * the law of the land . " These meetings bare done much geod to our cause ; thirty . new members having joined our Association during the last fortnight ¦

      LONDON . —Tailors . —The Tailow , of the Three Crane * , Richmond-street , held their usual meeting on Sunday last Mr . Martin lectured on "Prejudice . " At the conclusion , four inemben were enrolled , and thert ia a good spirit in the society . EASTERN Division op Boot and Shoemakers . — Oa Sunday evening Last , this body of Chartists met at their Association Room , Star Ccf&e House , Goldenlane , to hear a lecture from Mr . Farrer , who ably exposed the fallacy of the repeal of the Corn Laws , and the gross absurdities put forth by the League in support of the big loaf delusion . At the conclusion of tbe lecture three new members were enrolled . Mr . Walkerdine was nominated as member of the General Council .

      Camberwell and walworth . —The Chartists of this locality held their weekly meeting , oa Monday night , at tbe Montpelier Tarern . Mr . Carter ia tha chair , it was ieaolred that a public meeting be holden iu the large room ., &tau . tp&U « t T&v . « n , to adopt tho National Petition , on Monday , Dscembet 20 th , seven fop eight o ' clock , p . m . Chartiam is progressing is this locality . Meeting . —An association was formed at a public meeting , at the Albion Coffee House , Shoredltch , oa £ 4 cbtt evening . Zbe meeting was addieued in an able manner by Mr . M'Qntb . A large number of members were enrolled . CONGIiETON . —Mr . O'Brien visited this plaea on Saturday la ^ t , when there was a good number of tha working classes met to hear him . He delivered a most heart-stirring lecture .

      NOTTINGHAM . —Mr . W . T > . Taylor , attended at the Noah ' s Ark , Coalpit-lane , on Saturday evening , after which seventeen new members were enrolled The association at this house is now getting very strong . COALSNATJGHTON . —A meeting of delegates from the various associations in this district ) was held in Mr . M'Donald ' a rooms , on Saturday , the 4 th instant , Mr . George Battary , of Alva , in toe chair , when it was resolved that Mr . A . Duncan be sent ta represent this district in the National Meeting of Delegates to be held in Glasgow . It was also resolved , that Mr . Duncan be engaged for one month as lecturer for this district . T Roberta was appointed secretary , aud T . Hall , treasurer , to the Central Cutnmittee during the easuing three months . It was then resolved that the next meeting of delegates be held in tbeJNew Hail , Coalsnaughton , on Saturday , the 18 th current , at aix o ' clock , after which the meeting broke up .

      DAISY HXUb—The Charttsts ot this village held their weekly meeting ou Sunday . The cause is progressing ttsadily but firmly . It was agreed to call a meeting on Tuesday , the 14 th of December , at . eigb . 6 o ' clock in the evening , in the Primitive Methodist Chapel bouse , to memorialize her Majesty , praying she will be :: iost graciously pleased to extend the Royal clemency to Frost , Williams , and Jones . 80 DBDRT . —Mr . Ruffy Ridley has delir « red three lectures oa the . principles of Chartism ia this plaee , which hare been the means of much good . An association is about being formed here . W £ ST « ciNST £ R . —Mr . Wnaley lectured at tha Charter Coffee-house , Stretton-grcund , on Sunday erening . Tiro new members were added .

      MIDDLBTON . —At the weekly meeting , on Sunday night , several new members were enrolled ; and , after some discussion , a vote of thanks was passed to Messrs . Bropby and O'Higgins , for their praiseworthy exertions in the cause of tbe suffering millions . . HOLUNGWOOD .-llie CbartiStS Of thi > plflCO opened a new room oa Sunday last . Mr . Taylor , of Royton , lectured in the afternoon , and Mr . Leach , of Manchester , in the evening . Several new members were enrolled .

      STAI . TBRIDOB . —Mr . Thomas Storer delivered a lecture en Sunday evening last , to a respectable audience , ia the National Charter Association Room At tbe close of the lecture the following resolution was adopted : — " That this meeting views with abhorence all attempts to create disunion in the Chartist tanks , and that the attempts to injure the character of Dr . fil'DouaU and B . O'Brien are weak sod unfounded , and calcuiated to injure the people ' s cause ; and farther , this meeting places unbounded confidence ia Dr . M'Dou&ll and Mr . B . O'Brien as ""^ i nrtiing adV 0 « cates of the people ' s tights and liberties . "

      NORTH LANCASHIRE . —The delegate meeting of North Lancashire took place at Accrington , on Sonday last , Idr . Fothergill , i ram Lancaster , in the caalr . Delegate ^ were present from Accrington , Blackburn , Bunuey , ciitheroe , Colue , Sabden , Lancaster , Har wood ; Bacup , Preston , and Chorley being absent It was resolved , that J . T . Lund , from Lancaster , be the lecturer for North Luncashire , for the next six weeks Mr . Marsden wishing to retire ; that the lecturer ' s salary be thirty-two shillings per week , and that each association Bend in moneys to the district secretary , m > that a fortnight ' s wages can be paid to the lectoxer before setting out ; that the lecturer visit the following places , in addition to the usual route , vfi . Kendal , Kirkby Lonsdale , Higher Bentham , Little and Long Preston ; and tbat Mr . Beesley , of Accrington , be the district secretary , as usual .

      WORCESTER . —At the usual weekly meeting of the Chartiits of this locality , held at their room ia Foundry-street , Mr . George Davie in the chair ; a long discussion ensued regarding tbe propriety of joining the Birmingham district fox tbe support of a lecturer , in which Messrs . Clark , Davie , Hockin a , Powell , and Williams took part At the close it was resolved that the secretary be instructed to write to Mr . Mason , inviting him to pay a visit A voluntary contribution was entered into towards defraying his expanses .

      GATEHOUSE . —Od Wednesday , the 1 st instant , a publio meeting , took place , in the Mason ' s Hall , to hear Mr , Wardrop , from Dumfries , deliver a lecture on the right } cf labour . Mr . Donaldson , grocer , was called to the chair . The lecturer , upon rising , was received with enthusiastic cheering from all parts of the bouse . He commenced by taking a survey of tha political affairs of this country during the but fifty years , showing , in glaring colours , the manner in whioh the rulers of this country had trampled on the rigkta and privileges of the working classes . Having spoken for sometime on the distressed state the country was now redeceu to , he then explained the People ' s Charter in all its bearings , and urged upon his audience tha necessity of uniting , as one man , for the attainment of their rights , and never to cease their exertions until tbe Chatter become the law of the land .

      DUBLIN . —The Irish Universal Sufirage Association held their usual weekly meeting on Sunday last , Mr . T . Dillon in the chair . In the absence of Mr . Brophy , the secretary , who was on a mission in the country , Mr . E . Dempsey read the minutes of the last meeting . Mr . O'Higgins handed in twelve shillings , being the sob scription of twenty-font new members , being the amount of their cards aad one month ' s subscripton in advance . Mr . T . Toole hoped , though not a member , that the Association would extend to him the same coujtssy which it did upon a former occasion , by permitting him te make a few observations . ( Hear . ) He said that he highly approved of the principles of the Irish Universal Suffrage Association , and * h * fc no hontjat man could find fault with them .

      yet he had not joined the Association because Mr . Daniel O ConneU was so decidedly opposed to It That he , like many others who were wholly ignorant of iU principles , and who were great admirers of Mr . O'Connell , were by his speeches led to believe that the association was as bad as be represented it to be ; aad tha personal abuse of Mr . O'Connell which be had seen In the &or , and in other Chartist publication * , confirmed him in that belief , and in wblcfl belief he would have had the mlafortune to remain had he not attended the meetings held in that room . He had followed in the wake of Mr . O'Connell , and cheered him on and assisted in promoting several members of Mr . O'ConnelTs family to pablio situations , while be was under tile impression that he was cheering them on as Repealers of the Vnion . He was

      still an admirer of Mr . O'Connell , and he did sot like to see aim abused by any party , and he knew that there were a great many others felt as be did upon tbat subject , and as a friend to the association be strongly recommended them to avoid all allusion to Mr . O'Connell , by doing to they would make friends of those who only require to read their proceedings t « be converted to their principles , bat who will not do so * while Mr . O'ConaeU Ia attacked , whether that attaeK be juttor unjtut . He also aatd that the associatiOB might have very interesting discussions , oa the principles of the People ' s Charter , upon which the people of Ireland required information . ( Hear , bear . ) Mr . Toole concluded a very sensible and temperate speech , <* which we give bat a mere outline , by tbaaldBgtbenwet iug for the very kind and attentive hearing they bad given him , though not a member of the association .

      The PBEss .-fhis interesting question wu brought forward in an admirable speech by Mr . Dyoti A warm and animated discussion ensued , in 'which Messrs Wood , Wowlward , Clarke , P . Brophy , Donne , Mc'Mahon , and O'Higgins . took park The question was referred to the Press Committee . After which Mr . Wood was called to the choir , and thanks given to the chairman ,- when the meeting , which was a very large one , separated .

      I» -M *• *» Ctarttet $Nt*Ttts*Nf*.

      i » -m *• *» Ctarttet $ nt * ttts * nf * .

      To The Imperial Chartists.

      TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS .

      Untitled Article

      YOL . V . NO . 213 . SATURDAY , DECEMBER 11 , 1841 . fB ""^ HSgf P H » T ^ ' "

      Untitled Article

      1 y ^^ T ^ B ^ Bfc ^^ " ^''^ S ^ B . ^^^^ H l ^ B ^ B ^ H . ^ BSB ^ B ^^^ SBi ^ b ^ J ^ S ^ Ba l ^ B ^ BsS ^ k ^ - ' ^^ ^ ^ ' ^^^^^^^^ m ^ m CEyltlat 9 ^ 0 ^ EO J ^ 1 |^ tt JSpJ * Xi > t AND LEEDS GENERAL ADVERTISER .

  • 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-ncseproduct577/page/1/