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Northern Star (1837-1852), 4th November 1843, Edition 8 of 7, Page 7, Untitled Article

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      MEETING OF BROAD SILK WEAVERS OF SPITALFIELDS . A very numerously attended and highly important meeting of the Broad Silk Weavere of Spitaffields was held at the Girls * School Boded , Abbey-street , Bethnal-green , ^> n the 25-h alt . ; Mr . Delafore being ealled to the chair introduced the proceedings by by a few excellent remarks .

      TbeSrcBXTABT then delivered his report , and read the memorial -which was signed by 8 J 94 S wearers requesting that the cause of their distress might be enquired into . He said that at the interview which took place en the iellrerj of the memorial by the deputation , they saw Mr . M'Greggor , and informed him that they found the distress among the weavers to be most extensive , as there were many who were in work had not a bed to lie npon l ? ormeily , when their trade was protected , there was about j £ 20 , D 00 weekly expended in wages ,

      whereas since the repeal of that act there is not shore £ 50 , 000 received -weekly by the operatives . Mr . _ M * Gregor said that he knew smuggling was carried on to a great extent to the injury of the silk trade , and that one plan of improving the trade would be to reduce the duty on sijk to ten per cent , while it was hi 3 opinion if some allowance wa 3 granted by Parliament to the journeymen weavers , that would assist ih removing the evil complained of . The report having been received and adopted ,

      Mr . Shkriusd moved the first resolution , which WS 3 to the following effect : — "That this meeting is decidedly of opinion , which opinion is ihe result of twenty years' experience , that the doctrines and practice of free Trade , so far as-they hsve been allowed to be carried but , have been productive of more physical injury to the great mass of the people of this country than an invading * rmyj and more subversive of every principle of morality and of our holy religion than could have been effected by the introduction of the abominations of Juggernaut . The principles of Christianity are tratfc , justice , charity , and good-will to all mankind ; while free Trade teaeies every ppecies of lying and

      fraud .: Instead of justice it fcanetions robbery , especially the robbery of the poor ; instead of charity it inflicts cruelty of the worst species ; and instead of good-will to all mankind , inflicts evil npon the miss of the communiiy , benefiting only bloated capitalists whose . gold is their god 1 " He observed that the doctrines of Free Trade had had a fair trial , Mid tiey found themselves in a most deplorable condition —( cries of ** hear , hear ) . The prieiples of protection * £ re rally carried out in the reigns of Edward ^ L j Richard IL , and succeeding reigns . It appeared even in those days of feudal barbarism , the fet of their acts wjp alw » V 3 to protect -labour , while th-rs were also sets regulating the price of pro-Tiaoaaj so that there appeared a desire 02 the , par ; 0 *

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      the Legislature of those days to protect the poor . They wonld see if they looked at the rate of wages of those days , that it wonld take but twenty-four weeks to purchase as much food as could only be obtained now by the operative labouring for seventy * five weeks—{ hear , hear ); and yet they were told that the principles of FreerTrade were to be carried out BtiU further j and , as a proof of it , Mr . M'Greggor said that the duty on eilk ought to beredaeed ten per cent—( hear ) . At the last city election the Anti-Corn Law League issued a printed placard upon Free-Trade , in which they said that in Spitalfields , since the duties had been lowered , tbey were better oS—iciies of *• its falsa . ") They all knew to the contrary . The silk trade perhaps would better

      exemplify the evil effects of Tree Trade than any other branch of manufactures , as . while it had gradually increased fourfold , wages had proportionally fallen . The principles of Free Trade meant no benefit to the working man , it was only intended for the benefit of large capitalists and manufacturers , who by the repeal of the Corn Laws , knew that they would have the great agriculturists in their power , and then get possession of their estates—( cheers ) . They ought to urge Parliament to give them protection . It should be the duty of all those who live by their labour to assist in this one great object , for if they did not , they would be overpowered by the Free Trade advocates "—( applause ) . Mr . Snow seconded the motion , which was carried unanimously . .

      Mr . PtrBFOT moved the second resolution , which is as follows i" That it is the opinion of this meeting that the suggestions of Mr . M'Gresgor relative to the reducing the duties on foreign wrought silks to ten per cent , and the allowing of a sum per week to the present band-loom weavers , equal in amount to half their earnings , would , if carried into effect in the present state of cold-blooded Free Trade depravity , not only soon reduce the weavers to a state of misery equal to that tbey at present suffer , but annihilate their trade altogether ; and thereby totally deprive their helpless offsprings of the means of subsistence , and subject them to the merciless Malthusian cruelties that _ are inflicted upon the inmates of those dens of infamy—the New Poor Law Union Bastiles . " He remarked that

      Government must be aware that they ought to do something for ihe starving population . 3 j the present system of Free Trade , millions of money-were taken from the -working classes —( hear , hear ) . He hoped that the Government would see that the working classes had justice . Mr . Mal ? a 3 , in seconding the motion , said that they ought to recollect that Mr . M'Greggor was in office when , the Whigs were in power , and there was no doubt he would impress his opinion on the present Government . "WithreBpect to the allowance proposed to be granted by Parliament , and which was to be given only to those who were now

      employed as weavers , that would tend Etill further to deBtroy their trade , as it would cause an increased importation of foreign silkB , and thus their wage 3 wonld again be } reduced—( hear , hear ) . Another effect would follow , namely , their children , who were now at work at the looms , would be without emploympnt —( hear , hear ) . Mr . Beret obsarved that Mr . M * Greggor , on a former occasion , when examined before one of the Commissions of the Whig Government , asserted that his object in proposing to give a sum in lieu of wases , was in order that foreign goods might be imported .

      Mr . Hatch said that the aim of the Free Traders waa their own aggrandisement —( hear , hear . ) Mr . Cobden had not denied , at a meeting held at Doncaster that he had reduofid the wages of his " workmen five pence out of every eighteen pence —( hear ) . It was very plain to him that the object of his agitation in favonr of Free Trade was , tbat the promoters of it might obtain the power of Government ; and , when once they possessed that , the working classes wonld find themselves in a far worse condition than they even sow were —( hear ) . It was the Whig Governmet assisted by the Free Traders , who passed the Poor Law Amendment Act , which measure had assisted to bring about the present state of things . Mr . Shksrasd proposed the third resolution which was to the following effect : —

      ** That this meeting is of opinion that prohibition is the most effectual remedy against smuggling , and this meeting is further of opinion that machinery which throws out of employment human skill and human industry , should be regulated by law , in something like the following manner : — * 1 st—All goods made by such machinery to be taxed , aBd the money derivable therefrom to be devoted to the purchase of Land upon which to establish , as email farmers , the able and willing of those whose labour the said machinery had superseded . ' 2 nd—No person to be allowed to work at the said machinery more than \ sa hours a-day . * 3 rd—No married woman to be allowed to work at machine labour at all . ; * 4 th—No children to be allowed to work under thirteen years of age . "

      Mr . Shkhka-rd here entered into a long argument on the doctrines and practices of the Free Traders , showing the evils that would result from them , if fully carried into effect , not only in this country but any other . As a powerful illustration of this be quoted part of a speech delivered by Dr . Bowring in the House of Commons , where according to the language of the Governor General , 12 , 000 of the people of Dacre in India , bad literally died of starvation through the introduction of cotton goods manufactured by the power looms of Manchester , and yet the

      liberal-minded Christian gentleman , made no other use of this than to say that private interest must give way to the general good —( cries of shame , shame ) . He concluded by administering a severe castigation to the free-booters , and sat down amidst great applause . The resolution was ably seconded by Mr . Moffat , and corned with applause . Mr . Wethebjngtoh moved the adjournment of the meeting to a future day , to take into consideration the answer to be returned to the board of trade , founded upon the suggestions of Mr . M'Gregor , seconded by Mr . Lane , and carried unanimously .

      A vote of thanks was given to the chairman and the meeting separated .

      THE BOLTON HAND-LOOM WEAVERS . We have received the following letter and accom panying report . We can Bee no reason -why both -were not sent on Tmesday , the 24 th , instead of Saturday , the 28 th , in -which case the report would have appeared in onr last : —

      TO THE BDITOB OP THB KOBTHEBN STAB . Sib , —Ton wonld oblige the Committee of the Hand-Loom Weavers , by inserting the enclosed report . Copies have been sent to several papers , requesting insertion ; fenfc knowing that yon go to prew early in the -week , we deemed it useless to send yon the report for toe present Saturday . Hoping tbat yon will give publicity to it in your next , you will oblige , Yonra , &c Isaac Holt , Sscretary . Bolton , October 28 tb , 1843 .

      Meeiisg of Hamd-loom Weavebs—On Monday last , a pnblic meeting of the above trade , called by placard , was held at the Lord Nelson public-honse , to take into consideration the best means to adopt whereby tbey might obtain a share of the benefit arising from the present revival of trade . Ellis Grejraon , band-loom weaver , was called to the chair , and after reading the placard convening the meeting , called npen Isaac Holt , secretary , to read a number of rules and regulations for their future government and protection , which had been drawn up by a committee appointed for that purpose , and which irere submitted to the meeting tor tbeir adoption . The rales were accordingly adopted , and it ¦ was unanimously agreed that the society then formed should be called " The Hand-loom Weavers' United

      Association for the protection of labour , and for the adoption of any other . plan that may be deemed most conducive to their future Welfare . " After the reading and adoption of tnernles , the Secretary said , their object was to tsrm themselves into a friendly union ; for it was only by unity and friendship , co-operation and determination , that benefit was received , The clergy have their unions -, the aristocrcy , and in fact all parties wishing to carry ont an ? specific object , "whether it maytend to the happiness or misery of others , are banded and united together ; and in "what more holy cause ceuld then be united than in endeavouring to gain for tbeir starving -wives and children bread to eat and raiment to wear ? He was glad that the rales bad received their unanimous approval . Thomas Smith was then called upon , and said ,

      a paragraph had gone the round of the newspapers , which -was calculated to place their present position in s -wrong and nujnst light before the British public ; and he thought that if tfee association just formed only attended to such misstatements , and on their appearance exposed them , it -would merit the approval and support of the body at large . The statement which appeared in the Liverpool Times , and since that has been inserted in varicuB other papers , both local and provincial , is the following : — " Oar reeders will learn with pleasure , that that long-suffering and unfortunate class of workmen ( the hand-loom -weavers ) have come in for a full share of the beniflta of the present revival of the

      cotten trade . Frem the great demand for those beantifnl fabrics the ( monseHne-de-lanres ) the cloth of -which is better manufactured by band than by the po-wer-loom , tbey are mostly fully employed and are r tearing better vages than they hare received at any-tone previously forIhe last lot years . " This , the speaker , denied ; it was a falsehood , and the person who first-concocted It , must ' have known at the time that he was not stating tho traits . The following statement would show -what they had received , and after the meeting bad beard it , tbey wonld fee able to judge : —Bolten counts of reeds : and prices paid for different fabrics of -work during the last ten years : Tear . Price . Year . Price . & - < L ad . 50 Teed spiig check ......... 1836 14 6 1843 8 6 50 „ plain sprig „ 13 6 „ 8 0 50 „ tEpe check , » 7 6 sf 4 6 SO „ Itno check „ 9 0 ,, 5 6 68 „ moBselin ^ -de-lnine U indent ; . — »• „ 6 6 ,, 4 0

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      and in other fabrics -we are receiving less by 4 s . * 6 d , than we-were in 1840 . What has been stated clearly proves / said the speaker , that -what has been put forth by an enemy is incorrect , and the -weavers could not de better than form themselves into 7 a union to look after such publications of their enemies , and on their appearance contradict them . He trusted that the principles and rules of the nnlen would be zaalously and persevertngly carried out The meeting was afterwards addressed by R , Kennerdale , I Holt and S . Bromiley ; the former of whom recommended the

      meeting to act upon the advice given by Sir R . Pee ] on presenting a petition from the silk-weavers ; he said , " I wiah the people could see their own interest ) and take . the management of their affairs into tbeii own hands . " If , said the apeaker ; ttita advice be followed , our condition would be materially altered : and had it been followed years ago , we should not have been ai we are now—pining in poverty , whilst pur employers are wallowing in luxury . After a number of persons had enrolled themselves aa members of the society , the meeting separated ..

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      THE « REBECCA" MOVEMENT THE WELSH SPECIAL COMMISSION . The Special Commission for the trial of the Rebecca rioters opened at Cardiff , on Thursday , the 26 th , at eleven o ' clock In the forenoon . The presiding Judges were Mr . Baron Gurney and Mr . Justice Cresawell . The usual preliminaries baring been gone through , the Commission -waB opened pro forma , after which their Lordships attended Divine Service , at the parish church of Saint John . The court again re-opened at two o'clock . The Strand Jury having been sworn in , Mr . Baron Gurney proceeded to deliver bis " charge" bs follows : —

      " Gentlemen of the Grand Inquest , —We are assembled at this unusual season of the year under Her Majesty ' s Commission of over and terminer , to inquire into the cases of persons charged with felonies and misdemeanours arising out of , or connected with , the disturbances and outrages lately committed in this county ; and to deliver the gaol of persons who are detained therein under such charges . It is but too notorious that in other parts of South Wales there have been for several months past tumultuary proceedings , large assemblages of persons , generally by sight , for the destruction of turnpike-gates . These proceedings , unfortunately ! did not receive a check at their commencement , and therefore they gradually increased until tbey attained a considerable height Ib might

      have been expected that the exposition of the law , the salutary cautions , the solemn warnings of the learned Judge who presided in South Wales on the summer circuit in the two neighbouring counties of Carmarthen and Pembroke , would have been effectual in bringing the people to a sense of their moral duty ; or , if that failed , of their personal danger , from a perseverance in these practices ; but , I Umeut to say , instead of decreasing , these offences have increased in number , in extent , and in enormity , and have at length reached the county in which -we are assembled . Bxcesses of this kind are never committed without some grievance , real or pretended . The alleged grievance on account of which they commenced , and have continued , was heavy tolls at tnrDpike-cates . When turnpikes were

      first established in England , about a century ago , it ia matter of history tbat a large proportion of the fanners were hostile to them . Tbey , with sort-sighted policy , preferred bad roads prepared by the parishes to good roads -which -were repaired by the exaction of tolls . Wiser counsels , however , prevailed , and to those wiser counsels we are indebted for those roads which cave been gradually improved , and have , at last , in many parts , almost attained perfection . By the turnpikeroads many districts had been made accessible which were net so before : they have stamped an increased value on thousands and thousands of acres of valuable land . But good roads ceuld sot be constructed except by means of a large outlay ; for that outlay m&ney was necessarily borrowed , for the payment of the principal

      and interest of which tolls were necessary , and gates for their collection . The Principality , has , I believe , largely benefUtedby this system . The improvement in the roads , has been beneficial to all classes . It has opened important communications for trade , for agrienlture , and for pleasure . The facility afforded to travelling has brought into your country , so rich in scenery , numbers of persons who would otherwise never have visitedit .. If , in the execution of plans for the improvement of the roads , any error has been committed—if the toils imposed by act of Parliament have been too heavy—or if , where trustees bad discretion vested in them , they have erred in the exeroise of it , it was equally the duty and the interest ef those who felt any burden which they thought they ought nsttobear ,

      peaceably to prefer their applications to the Legislature or to the trustees ( as the case might be ) for relief ; and if they believe that any . illegal exaction took place , they had in their own hands a prompt remedy by application to the magistrates in petty sessions i or , if they preferred it , either by indictment or by action , when a trial wonld have token place at the assiaas ; and I will venture to fay , that the appeal fot justice by even the poorest member of the community would never have been made in vain . I nave always found that the claim of an oppressed man was listened to with favour in a court of justice , aDd amp ' . e redress afforded . If , therefore , any grievance existed in the skape of oppression or illegal tolls , there was a legal remedy . If , indeed , there are persons who ,

      after the money has been lent for the making the roads , and tolls imposed for repayment , have wished to break faith with , tae creditors by destroying their security , they must be dishonest characters . Many a widow , and many an orphan , are dependent upon these securities for their subsistence . Instead of that peaceable application fox redtess which I bave pointed out , there have been large and tumultuous assemblages of persons , generally in the night , disguised so as to escape identification , arined in a manner to defy resistance , provided with implements for the destruction of gates and even houses , and who have carried their unlawful and wicked purposes into execution by terror and by violence , exttnding even to an attack upoD the lives of

      peace-officers in the actual execution of their duty . In a country which is governed by law : such excesses as these must be put down with a strong band ; they are sure sooner or later to bring ruin on those who engage in them . The Learned Judge then referred to the nature of the precise cases as laid down in the calendar , and dwelt upon the peculiar features of each us they ate set forth , observing that be felt assured gentlemen like , those whom he had the honeur to address on the present occasion , would enter upon their inquiries and investigation under a full conviction of doing their duty bstb to tbeir country and themselves . With these remarks the Learned Judge closed bis address , aud the Grand Jury retired .

      The names of the petty Jurymen were called over , and , the panel having been formed , they wera ordered to attend toe Court at a quarter before nine to-morrow morning .

      FRIDAY . The Learned JudgeB took their seats on the bench at nine o ' clock this morning , and immediately afterwards the prisoner Jobn Hughes was arraigned at the bar for having unlawfully , riotously , and tumultnoosly assembled with other persons to the disturbance of the public peace , and feloniously , unlawfully , and with force begun to demolish the dwelling-house of one We . Lewis , at the parish of Llsndilotalybout . The prisoner ( who appeared at the bar with his arm in a sling ) pleaded " Not Guilty . " The Attorney-General , the Solicitor . General , Mr , Chilton , Queen's Connst-1 ; Mr . J . Evans , Quoen ' s Counsel ; and Mr . E . V . Williams , appeared for the prosecution ; and Mr . M . D . Hill , Queen ' s Counsel , aud Mr . M . Chambers for the prisoner .

      The Grand Jury brought in true bills against John Hughes , charged with beginning to demolish a tollhouse at Pont&Tdulaia , for a misdemeanour ; against John Hugh , for being concerned in firing on the police at Pontardnlais , for felony ; against the same Jobu Hugh , for being concerned in demolishing the tollbouse at Poutardulais , for a misdemeanour ; on the same charges . For the defence an objection was setup in respect of the pannel , which was contended to be invalid ; Being charged with not having been made indifferently and impartially by the Sheriff , according to the statute . A considerable discussion then arose as to the time and legal features of the objection , in which their Lordships participated . The Learned Baron Gurney referred to the statute , and between bis Lordship and the Attorney-General some considerable argument arose , and points cf law propounded .

      The Learned Attorney-General contended tbat the law required some positive proof that the pannel bad not been properly made , and mere allegation was not a sufficient objection . Sir W . Follet followed the Attorney-General , and contended also that there were no proper objection proved as to the illegality of the Sheriff's pannel , and observed that , if similar objections were to become a precedent , the time ef toe court would be expended in discussion alone , and prisoners in all cases would avail themselves of the system of challenging the arraign , whether there be ground or not Sir William explained at considerable length , and considered the prisoner making a challenge to the arraign , was not well grounded ; and the objection was n » t Lufficient . -

      M > . D . Hill , for tbe defence , contended ^ he prisoner had a legal right to challenge in as much tbat the pannel had not been indifferenily and impartially made , and upon these grounds he contended at considerable length , that the priBoaw was entitled to the benefit of tho objection ; he did not intend to impeach the conduct or intention * of the Sheriff ; but when an informality existed whether emanating directly from the Sher . ff , notwithstanding the functions of bis high office , or from his subordinate c nicer , it must be weighed for tbe benefit of the subject . The Solicitor-General bad talked about the tronble that courts of justice would be subject to in admitting a challenge to the arraign ; but he trusted ; their Lordships were , as he felt asw « V they were , the last men on earth to think of trouble when tbe interests of a fellow creature were at etnlse ; he considered the grounds of bis objeobion \ Q tbe pautfcl

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      ^™ ^ ^ ? fflol ent , vand thatthe Sheriff had not ' ofSSi nffr ™ « ° ^ P ^ ial asthe primitive features ol Hie case of the criminal law required . ¦ n * £ ; TmB *** W he was surprised that it should ff ^ , ^^'* ^ M « o ^ . « tojrfWfcofraeii « al t ^ w - ^ Sf cannot be made to the ar raign the KES . » jf t ° avail biaiselfof any privilege ' . ^ T ^ . " ^* 1111 ' and his objection to that pannel Kiv ^ be ^ mad e and « & 0 *«* indifferently aod SZr r" *** ¦ *¦ fiufllaient and valid objection . This 2 ^ fP ^ neariy : tw » liou « Their Lordships w ftf ? K ^ l j ? ctlon WM B 0 t wade oat , as no sped ! ZZiiAu * be a shewn that the pannel had not-been mada tod . ffarentiy or impartially , and the challenge musUherefore fall to nothing . The case then proiJiSL ^ 0116 ^ Vfho in * hale - Powaful . and good-£ ^ Sl * ? -. J ^ w' - PP eated to take much interest in the choice of the Jury who were to try him

      . At length tke following persona were aworn on the petty j ury ;— - . TiS w ? , f ' of Ca * dfff « seatleman ( foreman ); Jones of Merthyr Tydvir , draper ; David Lawk , of -r 3 .- TfS ?* ' toggle * Samuel Savis , of Merthyr Tjdvil clothier ; Jhomas ; Heame , of Cardiff ,, draper j Jacob Jacob . of Cardiff , maltster ; William Williams , , * zi H ° ' cordwainer ; WUlfimi Richards , of Cocbntrbtown , timber merchant ; Philip Taylor , of Harwain

      , shopkeeper ; George Price ot-St , Nioholaa , gentleman ; and John Roe , Cockherbtown , gentleman . The indictment haying been read , whichewtfged the prisoner ; John Hughes with having , oh the 6 th of September last , feloniously begun to demolish and destroy a certain kouse , described in various counts as a house in the pariah of Ltaudilotalybont , as a dwelling-bonse , and designated in the different counts as the property of Thomas Bullen ( the toll contractor ) , of thb trustees of tae turnpike-road , and © f William Lewis ( tollcontractor ) .

      The ATTOJWBY , ( jENEBAi- then proceeded to address the Court and Jury . It was his painful duty , he said , to appear for the prosecution . It was most necessary that the law should take Its course , and he would endeavour to point out to them tho nature of the charge alleged against the prisoner . The charge here was founded upon an Act of Parliament which had passed in the reign of George IV . By that law it was enacted that persohB tumultuouBly assembled proceeding to pull down a house , dwelling-house , or office of any description , should be guilty of a felony The crime was at the passing of the Act punishable by death ; but Bince then the person found guilty of violating its provisions was subjected to a minor punishment . What bad ; occurred ia this case ? Had there been a riotous

      and tumultuous assembly ? He should proceed to show them -what had happened . On the night of the 6 oh of September , or rather on the morning of the 7 th , between the hours of twelve and one o ' clock , a number « f persons , at least from 100 to 200 , were assembled , many of them were on horseback , and they proceeded to tbe Pontardulais-gate—which he understood was one of very ancient date ; be believed that it was one that had existed within the memory of most persons acquainted with that part of the eountry , He bad next to call the attention of the jury to the appearance of the mob , and to the manner in which they had provided themselves with arms and implements of destruction . It appeared that some of the mob were disguised , so as to give them tbe appearance of women

      —they were arrayed in female attire ; they had their faces blackened , and many of them had arms . Shots were fired , and in one instance , where a guu had eeea taken , it would be shown that it was loaded , and then the marks of shots would be proved to them to have been visible on the toll-house . It would be also shown that the mob had implements of destruction of various kinds . Sledge-hammers , and pickaxes wore found upon them . With these weapons the work of destruction was commenced . Ail the windows were broken , and the endeavour was made to pull down the house-That work wouh' have been completed but for the interruption given to it by Captain Napier . There could be no doubt of the riotous character of this assembly .

      Then comes the most important question , what has the prisoner to do with this ? It would be shown be whs not merely present , but was taking an active part in all this . His dress was disguised , his face was blackened , when arrested by the police , who had taken measures to prevent that riot , which wus anticipated , from being completed . The Attorney-General went at Borne tangth further into the case , expressing his assurance that tbe Jury would weigh dispassionately in tbeir minds tbe evidence that would come before them , and return their verdict agreeable to their conscience ; if there could exist , or there should exist a doubt in the proceedings , to give the prisoner the benefit . The Learned Attorney-General was moire than half an hour in his address . :

      Capt Napier being called and sworn , was examined by Sir W . Follett—Is the Cutof Constable for the County ; went on the 6 th of September to Pontardu-Iais , accompanied by Mr . Llewelyn , Mr . Dillwyn , and Mr . Moggridge , and six police constables ; we went across the country ; started at ten o ' clock at night ; when proceeding on our route , we heard guns firing , and , horns sounding in different places several times . We halted in a field about 600 yards from the gate ; while there we heard noises , and shots fired , and a number of horses trampling on the opposite aide of the river which divides tbe county of Glamorgan from Carmarthen ; the parties appeared to be going towards the Rod Lion Inn ; I distinctly beard a voice saying , " Come , come , come , " and they appeared to proceed

      towards the Poutardulais Gite ; and I heard some say , " Gate . " It wus about ten minutes to one o ' clock , when we arrived at the place . After the parties had arrived at the Gate , I heard a noise the same as breaking of gloss ; I desired my men to follow me ; we went into tbe main road ; I saw three men on horseback with their faces blackened ; they were on this side of the gate that is in Glamorganshire ; there were many more on the other side ; I should say from 100 to 150 ; I saw and heard them pulling the Toll House down ; tbe disguise by the three men was particular , and I took notice of them ; they appeared to me to be directing the other parties . I ordered my men to fall in , and : we proceeded towards them ; I called out " stop , " when one of them on horseback turned round aud find at me ; I was not bit . I desired my men to mark that man , and I went up to his horse and fired at it In endeavouring to make off , one of the parties fell

      from his horse , and I afterwards saw the same man , whom I believed to be the man tbat fired at me ; while scDffling with him he Was shot in the arm , but by whom I do not know . There was more firing after this . I did not succeed in capturing the man at that time , because I was struck down . The dress the man wore was a particular sort—a Druid ' s dress ; the most of them Were disguised in various ways ; I had time to distinguish the drees of the man who shot at me , and recognised him again when shewn to me by one of . my men . The mob afterwards retreated over the bridge ; I saw some In custody that night at thb toll-gate ; the prisoner at the bar was one ; he was the man whom I have described as being in the scuffle with me . There were two other wen also taken ; they weru also in women's dress , with bonnets on , and pieces of fern stuck in them . After the mob bad dispersed , I observed tbe toll-house doer was broken in , and the windows wholly demolished ; the floors were torn up , and the gate

      broken down . Cross-examined by Mr . Hill—It was about ten o ' clock when we set out from the toll-gate . Had to go ten or eleven miles . Did not go the nearest way , and were all on foot- They had not arrived at the field spoken of five minuteB before the people came . Received the information on which they acted about four o'clock in the afternoon . The field was about 400 or 500 yards from tho toll-bouse . Heard the noises as of moving towards the gate when in the field . It was there also witness saw and heard the signals . It was about an hour in point of time , and five miles in point of space , before this that they first heard them . When they arrived in the field and became stationary there , the mob appeared to be upon a road on the other side

      of the river . They there heard them attacking tbe tollgate . The three men on horseback were on the Swansea side of the toll-gate . The mob appeared to halt at the Red Lion , and there fired a volley aod cheered . Was a yard or two in advance of his men when the pistol was fired at him . Did not recollect that he then gave the men any other directions than to " mark * the map . Had previously given them general directions how to act . Still Relieved the man fired at him with a pistol . The affair between them was the work only of a moment The man fell from hia horse from the effects of shots from behind . His men were behind . Had not given them instructions to flre , nor any instructions , save general orders for the occasion . There bad been all the time a continuous dropping ore .

      Lewis Llewellyn Dillwyn , examined by Mr . J . Evans . —Accompanied Captain Napier on the 6 th of September . He heard Captain Napier call upou tbe men who were destroying the gate to desist . Did not know whether the shots which were then fired proceeded from the men who advanced against Captain Napier ' s party . He fired at one man ' s horse in the hope of being able to capture the man . ( The witness here detailed the particulars of a struggle he had with another of tbe men , who was captured ) . His name he found to be David Jones . ; He saw the prisoner at the bar also in custody of the police . His face was blackened . The gate and toll-bouse , which he afterwards examined , were iu the state described by tbe two former witnesses .

      CiUs-exainined by Mr . M . Chamber—He had loaded pistols in bis band When he advanced upon the field . Did not know whether the policemen , when in the field , had their pistols in their bands or not Believed they had them about them . It was when they were close to tbe crowd that Captain Napier called upon the rioters to desist . He ( the witness ) had four pistols . He kas close to tbe horsa at which be fired—in fact , touched it—aiming at the side of tbe horse . He was much pressed upon by the crowd , but he waa sure that tne-ball of the pistol could not have hurt any one about him , unless it passed through tae body of the horse . Had so doubt that the bullet entered tbe ribs of tbe horse . The horse got away . His itbe witness ' s ) evidence bad not been taken before the magistrates , and the tresent was the first time he had been examined .

      Henry James Ptiake , examined by Mr . E . Vabghan Williams—Was the superintendent of the constabulary lorcB ot the county , and on the 6 th of September at nifiht accompanied Captain Napier , &c . ( Here tbe 'witness cor firmed tbe evidence of tbe preceding witntfiges needing tbe noises and firing of the mob

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      already diecribad . j the advance of Captaia Napier and party ; the destruction of the toll-house , and of the gate , &cv ) He thought the mob was composed of about 250 persons . When tbe Rebeccaites at the gate were called upon to desist , they fired upon , and rode towards , Captain Napier ' s party . There was a general scuffle , and he saw David Jones , one of the rioters , taken into custody . ( The witness here produced seme powder-horns , a shot-bag containing some shet , taken from the riotors , also a variety of articles composing the dress and disguise of the Rebeecaites , all of which were taken from them by the police . He also produced some tin-borna , and two or throe cow-horna which had been likewise taken from them . ] Two large sledge-hammers , a pickax © , a crow-bar , a clef t , —a sort of minor battle-axe , — used for cutting iron , two old gons , and other weapons , were also produced * Tbe hammers and deft were weapons of a most formidable description . )

      John Price , examined by Mr . Evans . —Is one of the Swansea police , arid was at the Pontardulaia-gate . Ab he approached the gate he heard the sound of horns and the firing of guns by a number of people . . He heard them demolishing the gate , and saw a great camber of pesons on { horseback on the Swansea side of tbe gate . He heard Captain Napier say " Stop firing . " He then saw a man discharge a gun at Captain Napier , dressed in white , and something red round bia neck . His face was blackened . After the man fired , somebody

      in the mob cried out " Fight to the death . " A great many guns were then fired . After thepolice tired , the horse of the man who fired at Captain Napier staggered and turned round ; and the man fell off . I followed him and took him . ) That man was John Hughes , the prisoner , who got wounded . He said "Let me go , let me go , my good fellow ; you have broken my arm already . " He said to him , " Where did you get it broke ? " " Over yonder , at the gate . " He was quite sure the prisoner was tbe person he saw fire at Captain Napier . j

      Cross-examined by Mr . Hill . —Did not recollect the first time that he told tbe expression "fight to the death . " Tdis was'not in the first edition of his story . He did not state it then , because he was in a hurry ; he Was not ia a hurry when he gave , hia second story . Mr . Hill . —O !! William Robertson Williams , examined by Mr . E . B . WILLIAMS . —Is one of the police force , and accompanied Captaia Napier to the Pontardulais-gate , ( The witness then described the same evidence before de . tailed ) . The prisoner at the bar was the man that fired at Captain Napier . He received orders to fire ,

      and fired . He saw Captain Napier fire a pistol at the horse under the prisoner John Hughes . The horse " turned round three' times , and the prisoner fell off . He did not see Captain Napier struggling with him ; be first saw the prisoner in custody . He saw David Jones in the toll-house | pulling op the boards of the tollhouse . Jones struck him on the shoulder with an iron bar . He immediatly put his pistol in his left hand and drew his cutlass , iwtth which he struck Joaes on the head . He picked ( up tbe bar afterwards , a tinhorn , and a broken powder flask ( produced ) . Jones was afterwards taken into custody .

      Mr . Hill objected , tbat this was evidence against Jones , and not against the prisoner . Mr . Baron Gueney . —He is responsible for the act of the erowd of which ha was one . Examination resumed . — He saw the gate broken . He afterwards found the pickaxe produced . Cross-examined . —This was a pick-axe , such a « were used for mending ( the roada , and such as w&e laid about First mentioned that Hughes vtoa the man on horseback when be saw him apprehended on the bridge . There was a considerable bustle at that time . He did not see any other persons . He had orders from Captain Napier to notice this man above the rest . He did not notice either of the magistrates doing anything , or firing . ] There were many reports of guns firing . Would state that there were not twenty men on foot on bis side of the gate . There was no scuffle between the magistrates and tbe men on foot . There were two men on horseback , tho prisoner and another . He did not know what became of the other . The

      reason was that he' was wounded—not by the crowd , ner by his own patty . His sword fell out of the scabbard as he advanced . It fell on the ground with the point upwards , and he wounded himself with bis own sword iu the thigh in advancing . This was before the attack . Will not swear the greatest number of men at the gate had not stiaw-hats on ; had not time to reckon them . Stated to Captain Napier tbat the prisoner was the man who fired at him . Did not state he could recognise any feature . Has been out of court during tbe examination . Was only examined once before the magistrates . The signature to tbe papet produced was his . [ The witness ' s deposition before the magistrates was read , bat there was nothing about tbe prisoner in it . ] He only answered before the magistrates the questions that were put to him . Several . other witnesses were examined , and

      The Attorney-General here put in several papers which were found upon the prisoner , one containing a 5 s .-piece , the paper in which it was wrapped containing a statement to the Jeffact that it was a payment for services . It was addressed to *' Mrs . Rebecca . " The Court was then adjourned until nine o ' clock tomorrow , j j SATURDAY . The Court opened at nine o'clock this morning , and tbe evidence fot the prosecution was resumed . William Lswis , collector ef tolls at Pontardulois Gate ; John Morgan , a land-surveyor ; and William Cox , governor ofi the Swansea House of Correction , were examined on the part of tbe Crown .

      Mr . Hill then commenced his address in behalf of tbe prisoner . After some introductory observations he said : ~ -It is to me a circumstance of unparalleled astonishment , to which I can make no comparison since my long practice in the profession , that this Commission should have been called , yes , I repeat it fearlessly , wAy it should have been instituted at all for the purposes for which it has * been designed . It was notorious now all the world over that certain tumults had been created in the hitherto peaceable districts in tbe Principality , i in consequence of the existence of popular grievances arising from a heavy impost on tbe community in the way of tolls ; and it were better had the proper , authorities endeavoured to have appeased tbe disaffection by redressing their wrongs , if any

      existed , -rather than fly to tbe assistance and interposition of Government , in sending its Solicitor General and Attorney General and so many of her Majesty's Counsel , to settle , by law those matters which a more congenial method might probably have obviated ; I must confess , said tbe learned counsel , tbat I have bees drawn into considerable j surprise during this investigation ; and from the opening of the case by my Learned Friend the Attorney General , I had expected some most henieous offence had been committed ; for what else had I to dread after the powerful description given by him in the indictment of firing , shooting , and riotously demolishing a ( 'welling house and a turnpike-gate , and that the prisoner at the bar did aid and abet in these most serious depredations . A

      great deal had been set up ey tbe prosecution for the Crown to enlarge ^ upon and magnify this moat dreadful and bloody occurrence —this most unprovoked outrage —this spoliation of property ; but he would ask , wbat after all did it amount to ? Where was it ? Why , at Pontardulais toll-house and gate , which op to this moment no one knew to whom they , belonged ; why had not & witnenB been called to enlighten the Jury upon this important point ? Again , what tittle of evidence was there to show the participation of his client , the prisoner at the bar , as having been implicated in this tumult ? Witnesses had been produced woo , he contended , had failed to establish any proof ef that nature . It had been said that on the night in question a certain mob had { congregated together , and with guns

      and other offensive weapons had committed -certain depredations ; thai many were on horseback , and others on foot in great nnmbeia , disguised for the better purpose of carrying tbeir depredations ; into effect ; that this mob , or some portion of it , attacked tba tollhouse and gate and demolished them ; but I will fearlessly assert , continued the Learned Counsel , that the evidence produced has failed to establish . that fact , as will be seen by the many discrepancies to which I sball have occasion to advert Again , wish respect to' the prisoner at the bar , be would also contend tbat no case bad been actually made out , so as to bring ] him within the sense of the indictment It waa true ! certain witnesses Bpoke to tbe eircumstance of three men on horseback being seen on the

      Glamorganshire side of the Toll-Gita at the onset of this affray , or rather on the first appearance , of the police force at the Toll House , and that firing had takea place , but it is not exactly satisfactory by whom or which party fiist Now in this evidence there is some contradiction , for the number of three so mounted was shortly reduced to two » and subsequently to one , and who waa j tkat on * ? the prisoner at tke b » r ? No ! ? or ajpoliceman who was very particular aud certain in hia testimony has sworn it was a man by the name of Hugh , and not Hughes , the prisoner tit the bar ; there were two names , and two distinct persona , —Hugh and Hughes iu the- proceedings . The learned Advocate then went on to show that in his opinion , and be thought it would be that of the Jury

      also , that the Police had been the aggiessora ; for it wbi their duty to have ; prevented the outbreak , instead of waiting as they did ( although armed by the Law } , oa < til the alleged demolition was completed . Was tola consistent ? No ? Again , some Of these very aimed authorities , possessed of pistols , aud . balls , and cutlasses besides , declare that upou the first volley being fired by them , that these poor deluded people , who , be it recollected , had given every , publicity of their approach —ran off aa man j as cGuld , except those unfortunate ones who were captured . Had their system of matcouvreing indicated anything like a murderous mob , bent on tha-most horrible eriineB , as the learned Counsel for the } prosecution would bWia it to be

      thought ? Certainly not They had been excited by an opinion of existing wrongs , and they Bought to remedy them , though , I admit , not by the best of means . That public opinions have created public outrages is not a new feature in this country ; but to reconcile them , by tbe strong arm ofjthe law , harnot always beenreeommended , as he would shew , by authority ef one ot the wisest and niOBt humane men that ever lived : I mean , said the Learned Counsel , Lord Coke . Here ha entered into a most elaborate display of eloquence , which was listened to withmarked , attention , in which he touched upon every topic of feeling and humanity , and developed in a , moat nias ' erly manner the general detail of tbe outbreaks , tbfir . e&w « and effete i aJtes wbieb be

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      Wr-it through the chain of evidence adduced , making his remarks upon every point and turn of sentiment likely in aiy way to benefit the defence . It bad been said in evidence , continued Mr . Hill , that tho tollhouse bad ; been dem .. liahed—that the gable end was torn down—the window and window frames battered ti pieces—and sbots and slugs found in the cashes and other wood work ; but when t-hedeaf surveyor war called , who , be it recollected , bad not seen the honso ; from tb 6 5 th tb the 7 tb , thaV is the day before ; aiid ' after the tumult , he swore that the upritjuts : of thewindows were not down , bat that they were then standing ; that the great pnllingdown of tbobonss , consisted of a few stones being loosened from one of the quoins ( or corners ); and that instead of the cable-end beini ? in

      danger of momentary demolition , there wm not a ' dole big enough for % monse to creep through , muchless a mar . Now , let mo ask yon , gentlemen , said Mr . Hill , how do we know tut this quoin , or corner of the toll-house * more properly spenking , might brave been a nuisance , aa projecting further into the road than ft ought to have done . The Surveyor baa said that the bow-window is parallel with the road , but I am not satisfied which road he means ; and I consider his map a very fallacious one , for in it there are two roads laid down by the toll-house , the high-road to Swansea and Carmarthen , and also a bye parish road to a milL Now * if this projection , ( and thit ia what appears to me ) ia into the side road , I mean to contend that no one bM > a right to build upon public ways , and a toleration may

      bo held out to some extent for the taking oftnat nuisance down . There is an especial . Act of Parliament ( he was understood to mean the Turnpike Act , under which such riuisances were made unlawful , and therefore moveable . He would again repeat that , if there were exactions which became too heavy to bear , it was but right that they should be immediately removed for public benefit , and for the security of public peace ; for if things continued on as they had done , we should shortly arrive at a state of things equal to the insurrection in France . I say again , said he , most emphatically , that the magistracy in this case , with their Captain aud Police , were more the aggressors than these

      misguided people ; for had they exercised discretion with theit military tactics , the affray might have been prevented before the mob , as it is called , could have come near the scene of action ; he did not know what the Magistrates of Wales might think of theii country , but he was bappy to say England was not lika it In the latter part of his address , which was embellished by various quotations from high law and other authorities , the learned and indefatigable pleader referred to tho decisions in criminal cases of Judge Foster and Russell , and in a most touching and pathetic appeal to the minds and feelings of the Jury trusted on a verdict of acquittal .

      The Learned Counsel occupied tWO bouts and five minutes in his address , of which tbe above is but a short outline . Mr . Chambers then proceeded to call witnesses to character , when Mr . David Jones , of L 3 non ; Jehn Rees , parish of Lanelly ; John Jones , Mansel Arms ; Joshua Jenkins ; Robert Jonea ; Win . Thomas , Tj ' r Clawdd ; David Richards ; Daniel Jenkins ; John Jenkins , and John Rees , appeared and united in giving tbe prisoner tbe best of characters . The Solicitor-General then addressed the Jury ia reply ; he spoke an hour and ten minutes . Mr . Baron Gubnet then summed up .

      The Jury retired at a quarter past four 0 clock , and , after little more than half an hour's absence , returned with a verdict of Guilty , recommending the prisoner to mercy on account ef his previous good character . The Court then adjourned until Monday . MONDAY . The Court wa 3 opened at nine o'clock this morning , and immediately afterwards David Jones and John . Hugh were placed in the dock . An indictment was then read charging them with having unlawfully , riotously , and tumuitnously assembled , with divers others to tho number of 50 , and feloniously be ? un to dempHabi ; and pull down a certain house in the parish of Llandifatolybont , the property « f William Lewis and others . The prisonera firat pleaded " Not Guilty ; but , site * a short conversation between their ; counsel and Mr . H . Williams , their attorney , they withdrew their plea , and pleaded "Guilty . "

      The AaTOBNET-GENEitAL then said , the prisoner * having pleaded " Guilty , " he did not mean to press in aggravation of punishment . Mr . Bill then addressed the Court at considerable length in mitigation of punishment . John Hughes , Who was convicted on Saturday , having been placed -with the other prisoners at the bar , ' Mr . Baron Gurnet then addressed the prisoner * arid said they stood severally convicted of a felony ; and a felony of a very aggravated description . The Jury * after a long and patient hearing , had found John Hughes Quttty ; and the prisoners , Darid Jones and John Hugh , had pleaded Guilty to an indictment of * similar description , and their Learned Counsel , in his address t « the Court , had very properly impressed

      upon it the contrition of Jones and Hugh , which they had manifested , and which was intended to jrwertnmend them in some measure to the mercy of the Court . This circumstance was net forgotten , but still art example waa necessary . They , from the respectability which they had formerly maintained , and the rank of life which they occupied , were persons pi wbpm it was particularly necessary that au example should be made , to deter other * from a repetition of their crime . They were all liable to be transported beyond the seas for the term of their lives ; but , considering all that had been stated with respect to-Djvid Jones and John Hugh , tbe Court was of opinion that it was Impossible to pass a less sentence than that which he was about to pronounce ; which was , that each

      of them should be transported for the term of seven years . With respect to John Hughes , the Court could not entertain the same view of hi ? case . He appeared to be one in a station of society fa ; above tbe rest : one not likely to be misled by otbeM ; and yet upon the , evidence proved to be a leader , if not the leader of thl « lawless multitude . His conduct at the time , as well a »; the papers found in his pocket , demonstrated , at least , that be was a leader—that ho was active ia collecting ' adherents and associates , and tbat something like threats had issued from him against those who were not forward in joining bis illegal course . He bad been recommended by the jury to the mercy of the .

      Court . The Court felt extreme difficulty in any : degree lessening the pnniabment which the jaw awarded to his offence . The law said he was liable to transportation for life ; but giving ail consideration to the recommendation of the jary and to all the circumstances which had been so ably stated by the learned counsel for the prisoner , the Court was of opinion that he be transported feeyond the seas for the terar of twenty years . As to any further extension of mercy , the prisoners must recommend themselves to tho grace and mercy of the Crown ; but that mercy could not beexpected if offences ef this kind were repeated and the peace of the country wexe not fully restored .

      In the case of David Lewis , a labourer , against Whom there was a charge of feloniously and maliciously catting and Wouridlng . The Attornet-Qeneb . a . l said that , on looking over the circumstances , he felt disposed to enter a nolle prosequi . The prisoner was then discharged . Lewis Davis was then indicted , upon the oaths ot William Chambers , the younger , of Llauelly , in tbe county of Carmarthen , gentleman , and another , with unlawfully aud maliciously throwing down and destroying a certain turnpike-gate in the parish of Llaudilotolybout : The prisoner having pleaded Guilty . : had

      The attorney-General said that be given , bis best attention to this case , and did not feetit necessary to press for the judgment of the Court npon it ,, as be should consider it sufficient that the prisoner ^ should enter into his own recognizances to appear and receive the judgment of the Court , if called upon . Tne prisoner then entered into bis own recognizances for £ 50 , and was discharged . Morgan Morgan and Esther Morgan also pleaded " Guilty" to an indictment for being feloniously present and aiding and assisting Margaret Morgan to maliciously cut and wound Charles Frederick Napier , of Swansea , gentleman , with Intent in so doing to pre-Tent tho apprehension ' of one Hebty Morgan . "' ...- ; . "' . ( The ATTiHiNET-GENEBAL said , that he would enter & nolle prosequi to the charge of felony against these ' prisoners . Considering their advanced age , and other ' circumetaaeee connected with the case , he should be satisfied if they were discharged after entering . into

      their own recogaizinces . : The prisoners , having entered into their own recogniziaees for £ 50 each , were accordingly discharged . Margaret Morgan , Bees Morgan , and John Morgan likewise pleaded " Guilty , " the first to an indictment charging ber with maliciously cutting and wounding the befose-mentioned C ; F . Napier , and tbe other prisonera , with having been feloniously present , and aiding and assisting her to commit the said felony . "

      The Attobnes-GenerjlU entered a nolle prosequi 30 far as regarded the felonious chargeagainst the prisoners , aud observed that , having ascgrtaiued . the clr-. camstancea under Mhlca this aggravated ' assault bad taken place , he did believe that they were Under a mistake with respect to the right to resist Under these circumstances he was not disposed toiptsaa for a severe punishment , in this case ; but , as the law had been resisted , the offence must , afc the same time , be marked : by some aentence which would manifest the servere displeasure of the Court .

      The Learned JODoa then addressed the prisoners and sentenced Margaret Morgan to Imprisonment for « ix montba , and Rees and John Morgan for twelve months .. The Seamed Baron fortner observed , that - the' Cottrt " had . received inforrnation respecting the ' gootoesa ' of . tb ^ ¦ cbwactera ^ tbat that was the only reason why he 1 had . fnotlNeon- ; tidered it necessary - to sentence them to hani labour also , ; ' ' ¦ ' ' ¦ - ; ¦ : ' : -.. ¦ ¦ ' - ¦ ¦ : ' ¦ - ' . - " ¦ : ;¦ .: ¦ " ¦¦ ' " ' - - ' < Mr . Baron Gdbney ^ then , addreSBing th « &aBo Jw 7 > thanked them in the name of the countys ' to ? therser-:. vices they bad performed , and discharged taeffl . : W , Lordship also , in discharging ^ the petty 3 ^»^ ^ u * ? i bis regret that they shoald have been taken from jfiete hbmeiat an utiusualpeiiod ottbe / ysar . ^ Bking tbe B , , atthe same time for the manner in whicb , ^ th ^ tad JP «? - formed their duty . % , t ^ : >«« i-The jnries then retired , and the proceedings or tae . commission terminated . ( Continu $ i in our Eighth page . } t ' ¦

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      STOCKPOET . GLORIOUS TRIUMPH OVER IJEAGUE DESPOTISiL—TREACHERY OF A CHARTIST . JOSGRACEFUL COl ^ DTJCT OF A tJHAIRMAN . One of those scenes which disgrace humanity , took place in the Court Room , on Monday night .. On Wednffiday ; ihe town suddenly appeared placarded stating that a public meeting -would beheld that CTening , in the Court Robnij at eight o ' clock , to congratulate ^ flie electors oriondon for having returned & ** free trader . " : But when the people arrived ' there they vfere-rrsvaxded for their tronble by a placard posted on the wall of jfcHe Court , informing them that the meeting -was postponed until Monday night , at tbe same hear .. ' Meantimette basy canvassing aod

      XeaguerB were xaust « ring their forces , which « msisted chiefly of bailiffs , police , shop-boys , and overlookers ; but all to no purpose , for the people -were not to be tricked by the "freebooting" slave-drivers . At about five minutes to eight o ' clock , tbe people might be seen standing about the Court Room door in the wet and cold , vrhile the " gents" who were not prepared "with their arrangements were comfortably seated in an ante-room . At a quarter to nine Xwhieb shew 3 tbe punctual and business-like babits of those gentry ) , a whole host of Leaguers ascended the platform . A Mr . Bxeeb , an ex-Mayor , -was called upon to preside . He opened the meeting by reading the placard calling it , and telling us that he was no pub-Bo speaker ; bnt of course , he agreed -with the oMsetxif themeetiag , and would call npon Mr . H 0 LLIH 8 , a factory owner , to move the first resolution , which he did in the same style as the Chairman . -

      But jttow followed the dirty-work-doer of the League , a man -well known for bid . bullying propensinea ^ be en tere d on the glorious effects free trade would produce , and concluded by assuring ibe people it was the only measure which could procure'tor industry its fall re-Rard . The Chairman was about to put the resolution , when . Mr . Thos . "Wxbb came forward amid clapping and cheering . "When order was partially restored , he proceeded with some remarks as to the objects of the meeting , and proposed an amendment , pledging the people to bave nothing to do with congratulating anybody of electors who wonld not pledge their candidate to support the People's Charter . Tbe Chairman npon hearing tbe amendment read , rose evidently oonfoundedj when the following dialogae took place .

      Chajbxah— " Will yon favour me with your name ?* M li is Thomas Webb . " u AreTon aa inhabitant V B Yes . * : •* 'WeU ^ I won ' t put your amendment . ' ** If you don't , there 1 b no alteraati ve bnt to choose another Chairman . " To which the whole meeting Joined chorus . « Yon . Charfets are always coming here interrupting our buainessJ *' " Are men wr 0 coma here to be insulted by being tola that they have no right to reply to the false doctrine you would cram down their throats 1 " « Your amendment shall not be put . "

      n Are you , whose office of Chairman should enable you to protect the rights of the public after , being elected by the people , going to rob them of their only privilege—ihe right to speak at public meetings ¥ ' Mete several of the freedom-of-speech-loving League interfered , and proposed to take a vote whether Mr . Webb ' s amendment should be put or not , when it was decided by a large majority that it should I Mr . Webb to the chairman , Are jou satisfied bow !" Cbxomis . —I am satisfied that vou shall not

      Mr . Webb however , did speak . After a brief but severe eastigation of ihe ** free-trade" electors of London ; for their unblushing jobberies of the maniua makers , and the grasping propensities of the free traders generally , he concluded amid the applause of the people . Mr . Joseph Cx&teb next came forward to Becond ihe amendment , and shewed up the Whigs and Corn Law Repealers In tbeir true colours ; but Uns state of peace was sot to last long , the Whig 3 firtdh'g themselves defeated resorted to tbe meanest tricks they are famed for ; one of them was to employ a drunken blackguard , who affected to move another amendment , and always took the opportunity of interrupting the Chartist speakers , but who met with bis desert by being hooted off the platform . All was uproar snd confusion when a

      Mr . Hudsox , a lawjer , in true lawyer-like stile , tried to convince the people that the question was not one which the Chartists should interfere with . Jdr , Sxzrszn Class next followed , and cautioned the people not to be led away by the specious pleading of the gentleman vrho last spoke . Mr . Clark Sroeaeded te address the meeting at some length , uring which time he "was frequently interrupted by the servile tools of faction . At this stage of the proceedings Mr . John Allisson made his appearance on the platform , To those who had watched for some time his veering round , it appeared doubtful what course he would steer , especially as be was observed to leave the meeting sometime before the

      business commenced , with bis " cut looker" ( whowa the person who seconded ihe first resolution ) also as ie had T > een waited on by deputation , from ihe Chartists , requesting him to take part in the proceedings , which he declined doing ; but even the most doabifsl were not prepared for the shock which his treacherous speech produced . He charged ihe Chartists with ingratitude ; that they- and tbe Tories bad coalesced 10 upset the meeting ; that was not the first time they had done bo , which he said be was prepared to prove , but in which he most signally failedj that they never allowed a meeting to pass by without violently opposing it . This treacherous betrayal of Ms old friends deservedy met with such a volley of hisses , hooting , and

      groaning , that it was several minutes before there could be any sort of order restored . Never did we Bee such a smile of satisfaction light np the countenances of Ihe middle classes , who were present as npen the accession to tneir ranks of this new ally . The night being now considerably advanced , The Chaiemas proceeded to put the resolution , when cries of ** the amendment" assailed him from all parts of the room . He , however , was deaf to all justice , and proceeded to read the resolution . He then put it to the meeting , whan the whole of fiie respectable tribe before mentioned , voted for it ; the amendment not'being put , the sense of the meeting was takes to the contrary of the original motion , when a forest of hands was held up againEt it .

      A vote of censure was then moved l > y Mr . Cabtkb 03 the Chairman , —carried nnaniznonsly—daring which he made his retreat ; meantime the police were busy putting out the lights and clearing the room with all their usual manliness . Thus ended one of the most disgraceful scenes that ever disgraced a public meetine , and one that has certainly given a death blow ts die freebooters of Siockport .

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      .. : THE NOBTflERN S ^ TAR , ; j f ^ '

  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), Nov. 4, 1843, page 7, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct983/page/7/