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¦' .. ' .. ¦ .¦:• ¦ ' - ' .. '' ¦ & ' Ma...
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••AndlvOTw-an atleastin^ords , (And-shon...
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Melancholy Death.—A lamentable accident ...
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NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF TRADES , In accor...
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Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software. The text has not been manually corrected and should not be relied on to be an accurate representation of the item.
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¦' .. ' .. ¦ . ¦ : ¦ ' - ' .. '' ¦ & ' Mabch ,, 29 , 1845 . THE NORTHERN STAR , - - ' " " . . ¦ .- ¦• ^
Timimx Iwrtwmmw
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••Andlvotw-An Atleastin^Ords , (And-Shon...
•• AndlvOTw-an atleastin ^ ords , ( And-shonld mychance sohawen-deeus ) , Vith all who war mth Thought ! « T tWnfc I hear a little bird , who sings SWITZEBLAND-THE JESUITS-THE , r "
° «« HOLY ALLIANCE . " Our remsrks last week on Swiss affairs tmninated with the opening of the Extraordinary Diet , at Zurich on the 24 th ult . The first subject which enmged the attention of the assembly was the admission of thepopular deputies from the Canton demand . Their admission was strongly opposed by the Conservative party , and as warmly supported by the Liberals . They were finally admitted by a majority of twelve and a half to nine . On the first day of the session the Vorort communi cated to the deputies the Earl of Aberdeen ' s note , on which we shall have something to say hereafter . The discussion on the question of the Jesuits commenced on the 27 ih ult . Petitions were presented , siaied by 120 , 000 persons , for tie expulsion of the
Jesuits . The discussion was opened by M . jneuhaus , one of the deputies from Berne , who began by observingthatit was the business and duty of the Diet to provide for the internal and external safety of Switzerland . He described the Jesuits as dangerous to the State—first , because with their system of morals , they teach a people to commit tranquilly the most culpable acts ; secondly , because they profit by their ecclesiastical character to introduce trouble and division into families ; thirdly , because the order of Jesuits inculcates blind and passive submission , and thus lays prostrate the human mind ; fourthly , because , having neither family nor social relations , the Jesuits cannot be good citizens ; fifthly , because they are constantly aiming at power , without compunction
as to the means ; and sixthly , because , as regaras Switzerland , the principal object of the order is the extirpation of Protestantism . M . Kbcdabs concluded by reading his instructions from ins canton , which were fo demand the expulsion of the Jesuits from every part of Switzerland . M . Sjegwakt , deputy from lucerne , followed , defending the Jesuits , and declared that his canton would not revoke the decree whieh had been issued in their favour . The deputies from several Catholic cantons then spoke , defending the Jesuits , with one exception , the deputy from Soleure , who said that he was instructed to vote for the expulsion of the Jesuits . Other deputies spoke , and the Diet adjourned to the next day . On the 28 th the discussion was resumed ; the
principal speaker was Colonel Lrvra , deputy for the Italian canton of Tesino . The speechis an important one , coming from the deputy of a Catholic canton , we therefore reprint the fullest version we have seen jn the TSigKsTi papers . Colonel Luvki said—The Canton Whieh he represented was entirely Catholic , and tbe Catholic religion was there the religion of the Slate , but the canton had not hesitated to demand the expulsion of tbe Jesuits . The people of liis canton "did not regard the question of the Jesuits as a religious one . On the contrary , they felt that the Jesuits had more than once compromised the Catholic religion by their absurd doctrines , and had excited dangerous dissensions . This was so true , that a chief of the Catholic Church had , by a remarkable ball , suppressed the order , and proclaimed to
the world that he did so entirely for the interest of religion . He might be told , perhaps , that if one Pope had suppressed the order , another had restored it , but it should not be forgotten that when Pius VII . did this , he was more than eighty years old , and in a debilitated state of mind , from physical suffering as well as age . The question was strictly a political One . The Society of Jesus , already powerful by the means that it possessed , and its extensive relations , making war upon liberal institutions , whether monarchical or republican , and already baring a . footing in several parts of the territory of Switzerland , was desirous © f covering the whole of the cantons with its occult influence . The Jesuits were the declared enemies of civil liberty , of the liberty of the press , and of the education of
the people at large , under the surveillance of the civil authorities . They sought , by extending more and more their dangerous power , to stifle the liberty which had been acquired by the regenerated cantons . They were , in fact , the most powerful auxiliaries of despotism , and , therefore , the people of Switzerland had reason to fear than , and to demand their expulsion from a country which was the centre of a wise progressive liberty . The Jesuits had been invited to lucerne , and if the way were deluged with blood and covered with dead—if the cries of desolation pursued them in their course , still would they persevere , unless checked by the strong hand of power . It had been said , indeed , that the numbers of these boas peres summoned to lucerne was only seven . But the Diet should not forget that when Loyola founded the
order , he had at first only twelve disciples . Fifty-eight years afterwards tbe number of Jesuits exceeded 10 , 000 , and at tbe end of a century 19 , 000 . They had 300 residences and 600 colleges ; they had invested Europe , and had obtained a footing in the new world . This was history , and it should serve as a warning . If the Jesuits were allowed to get into Lucerne , they would sot stop at that point . " This speech was loudly cheered . Three other deputies spoke on the same side . They were replied to in a threatening speech by the deputy of the "Palais . The sitting was then adjourned . After several dap' debate , the discussion on the Jesuits was closed by referring the question to a committee . It is , however , pretty accurately known that
ten cantons and two half-cantonshave pronounced for the expulsion of the order , not only from Lucerne , but from the whole of Switzerland , on the ground that the Diet has , bythe articles of the Confederation , the right to take all the measures necessary to secure the internal and external tranquillity of Switzerland , and that the presence of the Jesuits is incompatible with that tranquillity . Eight cantons and two halfcantons declare , on the contrary , that the Diet has no control over the Jesuits , and that the question most be determined by each canton for itself . The two remaining cantons , Geneva and St . Gall , vote that the Catholic cantons be recommended to abstain from harbouring Jesuits , but do not support the right of expehW the order bv uhvsical force . It is
therefore very probable that the Radical party , who seem determined to carry the measure of forcible expulsion , win have the majority in the-Diet , whenever the question is finally decided . It is not our intention to here enter upon the history of the Jesuits . The world ' s records tell of their ambitious designs , their unscrupulous conspiracies , and the tyranny of their domination . They were long ago expelled from all Protestant countries , and even from some Catholic states . In England they are not allowed to exist as a body j it is therefore most infamous on the part of the Government and press of this country that they should in any way strive to counteract the efforts of the Swiss liberals to rid their country of what England deems pests . "W hat are the views entertained of the
Jesuits in Switzerland , by the enlightened of Catholics as well as Protestants , the reader will see by the speeches given above . But the question is a comphcatcd one . Our hatred of priestcraft—a hatred as untiring as time , and relentless as the gravewould prompt us at once to side with the extreme Radical party in their demand for the expulsionforcible , if need be—of the Jesuits : but for considerations that render this a very questionable piece of policy . As before stated , each of the cantons is a sovereign state ; if , therefore , amajorityof the citizens will the admissiori of the Jesuits into any one canton , we do not well see how they can be coerced by the other cantons to undo what they may deem advisable to do , without endangering the general compact . It
may be argued , as it is , that the General Diet having to provide for the maintenance of the safety and tranquillity oftherepnblic , and the Jesuits endangering thatsafety and tranquility , it is competent forthe Diet to decree their proscription . In the special case 6 f Lucerne we should be inclined to side with this view , seeing that Lucerne is one of the three directing cantons ; the question consequently resolving itself into whether ike Jesuits are to govern the ' general { jt > vamr . imt ?—a most important consideration . It is the evil of federal governments , that whenever the interests , or the supposed interests of the federal government on the one hand clash with those of the state sovereignties on the other , the former is usually found too weak to enforce its views ; and when the
f lash of interests results in a crisis , the general power is defeated , or worse—the federation is dissolved The fanner has been the case already in Switzerland In Argovia the monasteries were suppressed , and the Diet passed condemnatory votes , but was not able to enforce them . Andthere is too much reason to fear , that should the majority of the Diet proceed to extremities in the matter " of the Jesuits , that Lucerne might refuse to obey . In which case civil war , the dissolution of the federal compact , and foreign intervention , would be but the too probable consequences . It is , therefore , not that we hate the Jesuits less , but because we lovethe independence and . freedom of Switzerland more , that we would incline to the conciliatory policy of Geneva and St . Gall .
Circumstances may arise in which we think the Diet should unquestionably interfere , where , for instance , one sect , not content with exercising its own tarn cf fsith , denies all freedom to an opposite sect . In the canton of Valais , for instance , the Catholics , * £ a T £ ? . j k ^ 6 obtained the supremacy , and * h « re all that is Protestant is proscribed and persecuted . Protestant worship , both public and private , BHr terdicted ; and , stimulated by the priests , a brutal ttnatuasm reigns supreme . In this instance , we think the DlCL as illA nmWW ofihe Khfirtips nf nil
should interfere io save the weak from the oppression - ?™? g- tt Ae Diet is impotent for this , it is evidently altogether useless , and the soonerthe entire s * * fissas * " ** *** for the But as i ^ ards the Jesuits , it appears to us that ^^ L r - ^ . amwe effective power than the decrees of majorities , and the press ^ te a safer , and , in the long run , a surer engine of warfare than sword or cannon to employ against them . Even in spts ; let them do their best to break down the barriers of ignorance , and undermine the citadel of superstition . The process may be a slow and a pain-
••Andlvotw-An Atleastin^Ords , (And-Shon...
ful one ; but at any rate it will be far preferable and more profitable than the miseries and crimes of civil war , no matter who , in such a contest , may be the victors . SET The above article was in type when the intelligence reached London of the decision of the Diet on the question of the Jesuits , and on that of the "free corps ; " a summary of which on the first of these questions we here present to our readers . On the 18 th inst . the Biet reassembled , to receive the report of the commission , to whom had been referred the questionsof " the expulsion of the Jesuits , " tho " amnesty , " and the " free corps . " The commissioners had disagreed respecting the competency of the Diet to decree the expulsion of the Jesuits . The majority , consisting of Messrs . Neuhatjb , MunzisgebKeraand Dbuevmaintained ; that
com-, , , petency , and cited in support of their opinion the first and eighth articles of the federalcompaet . Messrs . Fret and Mouisox construed those articles in a different manner ; and M . Nceff , who admitted the right vested in the Diet by the constitution , thought that under existing circumstances there appeared no sufficient grounds to justify the expulsion of that reli gious order from all the cantons in which it was settled ; and that as regarded Lucerne , it was incumbent on the Assembly ^ to endeavour to prevent the admission of the Jesuits by amicable means . The solution of the two other questions gave rise to no difference of opinion . M . DnuEy , however , could not be prevailed upon by his colleagues to regard the "free corps" as being incompatible with ike spirit and letter of the federal constitution . The majorityof the committee submitted the following propositions to the Diet : —
" Whereas tlie Federal Diet possesses , in virtue of the 1 st and 8 th articles of the Constitution , the right of adopting , in the question of the Jesuits , such measures as it may deem necessary for the internal security of Switzerland , decrees—Article 1 . The State of lucerne is forbidden , in the name of the Confederation , to admit the order of Jesuits . Consequently , the Grand CouncU of that state is enjoined to revoke its decree of the 24 th of October , 1844 , inviting the Jesuits to Lucerne .
The Diet , moreover , recommends in a pressing manner to the High State of lucerne to grant a general amnesty or pardon for all political offences connected with the events of December , 1844 . The present decree of the Diet shall be communicated to the Grand Council of Lucerne by three representatives of the Supreme Diet , who shall act in person . The decisions of the Grand Council of the High State of Lucerne on the subject shall be communicated to theYorort , and be transmitted to the present Extraordinary Diet "within the delay of one month from the date of the enactment of the present decree .
Art . 2 . Should the High State of Lucerne not comply with the injunctions contained in this decree { Art . 1 ) , the Diet reserves to itself to adopt ulterior measures . Art . 3 . The States of Sehwyz , Jriburg , aniTalais , are invited by their confederates , in a pressing manuer , to expel the Jesuits from their respective territories , and to communicate their determination on the subject to the Vorort , which will forward them in time to the Confederated States , to enable them , in case of need , to give ulterior instructions to their representatives in the next ordinary Diet . The Federal Directory shall communicate to those states the resolutions of theDiet in this matter . Art . 4 . The admission of the Order of Jesuits into the Swiss cantons is hereafter prohibited , in the name of the Confederation .
Art 5 . Should none of the propositions respecting the Jesuits be approved by a majority of the Diet , the Assembly will adjourn to Monday , the 24 th instant ; and the Confederated states are invited in the meantime to furnish their representatives with fresh instructions relative to the affair . " The debates which followed , and occupied nine consecutive hours , served to evince still more the deep schism existing between the two parties into which the Diet is divided , The deputies of the cantons friendly to the Jesuits openly declared that they would resist any summons or invitation of the Diet to remove them from their territories . The deputies of the Liberal , on the other hand , directed the attention of the assembly to the imminence of the popular
crisis , which menaced the Confederation , should the Diet separate without doing anything . The cantons which declared against entertaining the Jesuit question were : —Uri , Schweitz , Unterwald , Zug , Lucerne , Friburg , Interior Appenzell , Valais , and Neufchatel ( eight and a half states ) . Those of a contrary opinion were : —Berne , Soleure , Schaffhausen , St . Gall , Argau , Ticino , Vaud , Thurgovia , Grisons , Exterior Appenzell , Basle country , Glaris , and Zurich ( eleven and two half-states ) . Gevena abstained from voting . The same eleven and two half-states decided that the question of the Jesuits should be declared federal ; and the same eight and a half cantons voted against it .
The original proposition of the majority of the committee , declaring the total expulsion of the Jesuits , was adopted by ten and two half-states , namely , Berne , Soleure , Ticino , Schaffhausen , Argau , Vaud , Thurgovia , Orisons , Glaris , Zurich , Exterior Appenzell , and Basle country . The propositions of the minority of the committee to the effect of inviting Lucerne to revoke its decree concerning the Jesuits , were only approved by St . Gall , Geneva , and Basle city . The other project prepared by the . ( Mnimittee , in the event of the rejection of the measures recommended bythe majority and the minority , experienced the same fate . It merely proposed , it is true , to address a friendly invitation to Lucerne not to receive the Jesuits , and to grant an amnesty' to all the persons implicated in the events of December last . Six
and a half states only voted for their adoption : — Soleure , Schaffhausen , Ticino , Thurgovia , Grisons , Glari , and External Appenzell , Thus , it had been impossible to obtain twelve votes required to make valid a decision . St . Gall evinced a disposition to join the ten arid two half-states favourable to the expulsion , but the deputy for Geneva obstinately refused to concur in the measure . Thus it will be seen that the committee has been Unable to obtain the requisite absolute majority for any of its propositions—the great cause of the agitation , therefore , remains insoluble , and will be found , we fear , productive of yet worse results than any which have yet been seen . The Diet adjourned en the 20 th , having previously voted the suppression of the " free corps , " and in favour ofa " general amnesty . "
In our next we shall offer some comment on those measures , and en the infamous interference of the " Holy Alliance . " Erratum . —Owing to the accidental omission of a word in the closing sentence of the fifth paragraph of our last weeh ? s article , the sense of the sentence was completely mystified : the last three lines should have been as Mows : — "And demanded the interference of the general Diet to expel the Jesuits ; failing in which , they vowed to expel the hated order themselves by force . The word " order * was omitted .
Melancholy Death.—A Lamentable Accident ...
Melancholy Death . —A lamentable accident occurred yesterday at Beliingham , in this county , which has resulted in the untimely death of Mr . Thomas Richard Batson , one of her majesty's justices of the peace , and an alderman of this borough . It appears that Mr . Batson had attended divine service yesterday morning at Beliingham Church , and was returning to his residence at Rcedsmoufch with Mrs . Batson , in a single horse phaeton . In ascending the steep hill towards Reedsmouth , the horse backed , and the carriage was thrown over . The declivity being so great , the vehicle continued to roll over and over till it reached the bottom . Mr . Batson was found underneath thecarriage , having sustained such serious injury that he died almost immediately ; Mrs . Batson was also partially under the carriage , but miraculously escaped almost unhurt . At the period oi his death he was managing partner of tbe extensive iron works at Beliingham . He has left a widow and five ^ m ^ irm .. - ^ Neweaiile Jo urnal .
Deaths by Fire . —An inquest was held on Tuesday , before Mr . Mills , the deputy coroner for Middlesex , at the Yorkshire Stingo , New-road , on the body ofa 2 ittJe hoy , named Thomas Cafi ^ -ey . It appeared thaton Monday week last the child was left at home by his mother , who had gone out charing , under the care of his brother , a boy about eleven years of age . Findingthat the fire was getting low , and there being no coals in the house with which to replenish it ,, the little fellow , who ' gave his evidence in a very intelligent manner , lefthis brother io go to his mother , in in order to obtain money for some fuel . Previously , however , he placed two or three sticks in the grate , and one of them falling out , ignited the clothes of the poor child , who was sitting on a log of wood with his
back to the fire-place . A woman , who occupies apartments in the upper part ofthe same house , hearing his screams , ran down and found him at the foot of the Stairs with his hair and clothes Hazing . The flames were extinguished by the assistance of another lodger , and the little sufferer was taken to the Dispensary . Medical aid , however , was of no avail , and death put an end to his sufferings on the following Fr iday . The verdict was , of course . Accidental death . —Another inquest was held before theDeputy-Coroner , at the Portland Anns , High-street , Fortland-town , on the body of a man named Thomas Davies , aged 15 , who died on Thursday , last . The widow of the poor man , who was in deep aflliction , stated , that she left her husband in the room which
they occupied , at No . 24 , Lower William-street , on the Saturday preceding his death .. Knowing that he was subject to fits , she did not close the door , in order that the people in the house might hear him if taken ilL On her return , about four hours afterwards , she found him standing in the middle of the room enveloped in smoke , and attempting to fear from off him his clothes , which were burning . He was completely stupified ; and on her endeavouring to assist him , said , ""What are you about ? there is nothing the matter with me ! " The jury returned a verdict to the effect , that the deceased died from exhaustion , produced by burning while in a fit . —Mr . Pearson stated , that a subscription had been set on foot on behalf of the poor widow , to which the deputy-coroner and several of the jury contributed .
National Conference Of Trades , In Accor...
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF TRADES , In accordance with previous announcement , the above delegation assembled in the Great Ball of the Parthenium Club-house , St . Martin ' s-lane , on Easter Monday , at two o ' clock in the afternoon . Notwithstanding the holiday attractions , the space allotted to visitors was crowded with anxious spectators , who manifested deep interest in the opening and of the proceedings of " Labour ' s Parliament . " Precisely at two o'clock , Thomas Slingsby Duncombe , Esq ., M . P .. entered the Hall , and was greeted with loud
cheering . On the motion of Mr . T . Barrett , the Honourable Member for Finsbury was unanimously , and amid the acclamations of the whole assembly , called to the chair . On taking his seat , the Son . Gentleman said it had been suggested to him , that it would be better if he committed what he had to say on that occasion to writing , as such course would prevent prejudice either to himself or the Delegates , from unfounded statements . Therefore , with their permission , he would read what he had prepared to them . The Chairman then read the following address , the reading of which was frequently interrupted by marked applause :
Gentlemen , —In assuming the office which your confidence rather than my own will or fitness has imposed on me , I feel some difficulty—a difficulty not arising out of any misgiving as to your ability to devise , and power to execute any plan that the majority of this highly important assembly shall deliberately agree upon , —but the difficulty of deciding upon the most proper and apt machinery for the purpose of giving effect to your judgment . Gentlemen , —I learn that you have wisely decided upon excluding all political topicsfrom your consideration : but I feel convinced that should the day arrive When the English mind shall see that " a fair day ' s wagefor afair day ' s work" can only be achieved through the fair
representation in Parliament of those seeking their just rights , that then my countrymen will , with their characteristic boldness , demand such a change jin the system as shall ensure to them not only the possession , but the protection of the fruits of their industry . It is wise , however , that you should first test the willingness of those who have the power not only to remedy your grievances , but to render any great political change valueless in your eyes , It is better to persuade men than to coerce them : and should your first move be in a political direction , I fear that the varied elements of which this national assembly must naturally consist , would have presented an appearance of internal contention and strife , rather than of organization and union : two ingredients indispensable to the success of your project .
Gentlemen , —Although I am here rather to learn than to instruct , yet , I hope I may , without presumption , be permitted to suggest such a course as I conceive best calculated to insure success . You may , and most probably will , evince great wisdom and astuteness in the several discussions bearing relatively or positively upon . your several positions , while the manifold interests which are represented on this occasion may lead some to suppose that there is difficulty in combining those interests in any one common plan . Such , however , is not my opinion ; for while there may appear no connexion between a Cotton Spinner and a Shoemaker , nevertheless we must come to the conclusion that that machinery cannot be perfect which does not equally represent , and equaUy protect , the interests of both . This , then , is the important ' point to
which I would respectfully direct your attention—the establishing ofsuchanadvisingandcontrollingbodyas shall give effect to , and fully cany out , whatever plan the majority of this assembly shall decide upon . You wiU have done but little If you meet , and separate after having merely proclaimed your wrongs and suggested your remedies . You must do more . Having the power , you must boldly proclaim your determination to redress yourselves- , and humble as I am , I shall have sufficient confir deuce in your importance and integrity , when backed by your concurrence , to declare in my place in Parliament , that the hour has at length arrived when Englishmen " know their rights , and are determined to possess them . " In the debate upon the "Ten Hours'Bill" during the last session of Parliament , when the House of Commons
stultified itself by preferring ( he ascendancy of a Minister to the interests , and even the well-being of the working classes , my mind was for the first time directed to the practical operation of the principle of " restriction : " and to that question I would now draw ¦ your most' serious attention . You will naturally consider whether or no , any , Or all , ofthe measures submitted by Parliament to the country are calculated to cause an equitable distbibution ofthe profits of trade between capitalists and labourers , and if they are not calculated to do so , you will then , I hope , enter on the consideration of some welldigested plan to effect an object of the most vital importance—one upon which I do not hesitate to say the existence of the middle classes and of the landed aristocracy depends : and for this reason . If our mechanical powers
of production go on increasing according to well-founded anticipations , one of two results must necessarily followeither new markets must be discovered for consumers ; or the " surplus" of « KersmustprogressingIy increase . As , then , the discovery of new customers is at best but problematical , we must look on an increasing " surplus " . as the more rational result from improved machinery ; and how to deal with that" surplus" is tlie question , of paramount importance to those who areas yet only allowed to labour and barely to live . Whether this "surplus" should be maintained by those employed to avert competition , or by the G of ernment—that is , by the counts—according to the rules of justice , is the grand question . I hold that those at work cannot , and ought , not to be called on to apply any portion of their earnings to the . support of a
" surplus" created by the operation of a new ' system , " Over which they have no controul ; and I further hold , that the Government has no right to tax one portion of the community for the maintenance of another portion , rendered UErENDEST , tcftflfi willing to labour . Those who have read the accounts stated by me iu the House of Commons , relative to the effect produced by practising the principle of " restriction" at Sheffield , must come to the conclusion , that SHORT HOURS or saboub do not' lead io a reduc lio » of wages , although it may tend to reduce the inordinate profits of capitalist ? , accumulated rather from their power over the labour market , than from the just sources of trade or speculation . In fact , calculations' Of profit oild loss are now based on the ability of toe powerftd to reduce ( he wages of the powerless , rather than upon the ordinary rules
by which we are told commerce should be regulated * The reasons , however , why your , employers have been enabled to hold your labour in complete subjection are so well known to all who have taken part in strikes , whether just or unjust , or speculative , that I should abstain from any comment upon that part of the subject , was it not necessary for the direction of your minds to the adoption of such measure as would enable you in future to judge justly of the justice of a strike—and , secondly , of your efficiency to carry it out . In all cases where strikes have taken place , they have been for the most pari entered on rashly , though perhaps justly ; and the justice of your case has been lost in tlie rashness of jour measures . However righteous your claims may appear at first , it has too often happened that your own rashness has enabled
your masters to enlist the power of the law to ensure their own triumph : andheneeyou have been compelled to fight against the two-edged sword of capital and legal persecution . Whenever a striketakes place , the local authorities , who are forthe most part empiotebs themselves , have been able to warp some enthusiastic and justly indignant minds from their original purpose , to the adoption of what is easily tortured into " constructive conspiracy" or " sedition ; " and thus your imperfect machinery has been unable to compete against the more perfect machinery of your opponents . Through the legal acumen , perseverance , and steady watchfulness ofthe Miners' law adviser , Jlr . Boberts , that large body of men were enabled to continue what I will call the most justifiable and extensive
sxaiKEupon record , for a period of many months , notwithstanding that the vengeance and the power of their employers were directed against them ; and the power of the law was at their command , if the conduct of the men had warranted its interference . This strike failed , not because it was capriciously entered on . because there WAS WASTING A PBOPEB MAN OF NATIONAL ORGANISATION to enscbe its' success . This I understand ¦ to be a national body ; and I must therefore presume that one of yourmaiu objects will be the establishment of some permanent machinery for the regulation of Trades' matters and Trades' strikes . It wiU be your care that that machinery be legaUyconstiMcd , with power vested in its members to hear all matters connected with Trades' business : and
on the understanding , that m all cases where the rights of any one trade are threatened or invaded , that that trade , —if a strike should be sanctioned by the governing body , —shall be sustained , upheld , and supported during the struggle , however long it shall continue : the terms to be submitted to and agreed upon by a majority of the governing body . I think that such a plan would divest a strike of that local and personal feeling which is in general attributed to the prime movers , and would give protection to those who , if struggling alone , must necessarily be subject to all the disadvantages which unprotected poverty experiences in its struggles with protected wealth . Of course , in the formation of such a body " you must take local machinery into your consideration : that is ; suppose a strike should take place in Sheffield ,
or m Manchester , sanctioned by the ruling body ; in such case you could put yourselves in communication with the local delegates of that trade appointed b y their body , who might become honorary members , for the time , of the general body ; and , if necessary , you could appoint one or more , as commissioners , from your permanent Executive , to repair to the spot where the strike takes place , there to instruct themselves upon , and to inform you of , all matters connected with the Movement ; and , in such cases , it is my opinion that any excitement necessary to sustain the strike should be transferred from the place where it occurs to the metropolis , where , of course , the governing body will hold its
permanent sittings . By these means stbikis . when just , Would be of short duration , because the united power of the National Trades of Great Britain , when properly and justly directed , as 1 feel assured they would be , would prove an over-match for the power of the local masters , or even of all the masters of the king dom , should a counter orginisatien be attempted . By systematic organisation of this kind the political minority in each country has been enabled to hold the ascendancy over the disunited and disorganised majorit y . You will perceive that ! have thought it necessary to dwell more at length upon the description of maclOnery by which your plans are to be carried out , than upon the means you shall adopt for the adjustment of the several difficultica that
National Conference Of Trades , In Accor...
exist between you and your emplovers , or that mav hereafter occur . ¦" Gentlemen , —You win also observe that I have not only abstained from comment upon all matters on which you must necessarily be better instructed than myself , but that I have also abstained from noticing any political question with which , from my position , I might be supposed to be more conversant than you can be . I have thought this the wisest and best course for the achievement of our common object , which I understand to be " a fair day ' s wage for a fair day ' s work . "
Gcntlemcn —Whatever view the curious , the idle , or tbe timid , may take of this great Movement , I assure you it gives rise to very serious considerations in my mind . If this be in truth , as I believe and hope it is , a fan- representation of that growing spirit of Englishmen of which we hear so much , and to curb which requires so much artifice and cunning , its mature deliberations must go to tlie world with an irrestible effect . You have looked with anxious hope to each political party , and to every political party , for that amelioration iu your condition which you have at length wisely decided can only be effected by your own united energies .
Gentlemen , —Those who shall scan and criticise what may be decided upon by this representation of the industrious English people , should recognise in your intentions the practical carrying out of their own theories . They , one and all , admit the vast increase that has taken place in the national wealth ; while they are compelled also to admit your legitimate title to a share of it : but by some inexplicable deficiency , in what may be called the division of legislation , all have failed to put you in possession of your admitted ri ghts . If then , as no man can deny that the genius and industry of our people have given rise to
a vast accumulation of national wealth , and if the principle of professing philanthropists be true , that you are pre-eminently entitled to your share of this wealth , I can characterise this assembly no otherwise than as the newbobn genius of England , righteously , peaceably , 6 oM # , and honestly l < w % for its shake of tlie property that ilself creates , —while your willingness to submit your social claims to be arbitrated upon by others , must convince even your traducers that your demands are so just that you are indifferent as to the character of the tribunal to whose judgment they shall be submitted .
Gentlemen , ~ lf you see prudence , safety , and success in the course that I have pointed out , as I never recommend what I am not prepared to attempt , and believing your cause to be just , your motives to be honourable , and your objects desirable , I shall hold myself in increased estimation if I can be instrumental , either within or without the walls of Parliament , in advancing your interests . Gentlemen , —However tlie self-satisfied , or the expectant , may ridicule this , your peaceful endeavour to achieve your rights , Ifeelfullyhnpressed with theimportance ofthe
working man ' spoweri and as fully resolved upon persevering with you , until we test the value of English union , English organisation , English justice , and Englishmen ' s bravery . GentleuieUj—Our eOUnGilS must be so pure that we may defy the espionage of the Home Secretary , as well as the legal cash of tlie Attorney-General . What my judgment prompts me ' to advise , my heart wiU encourage me to support ; while the justice of our cause , and the strength by which it is backed , will preclude tho necessity of other than perfectly peaceful , mild , and constitutional means for its achievement .
Gentlemen , ~ If out of this first important experiment , in the right direction , should arise an annual representation of the industrious people of England , and you ' deem it necessary to manifest the outward and visible signs of your greatness and power , as your several opponents have done by the erection of Club-houses as places of resort , and as a means of multiplying and concentrating your resources , I shall be most happy to assist in any way that can tend to the furtheranceof that or any other object , promotive of the national cause . Gentlemen , — Feeling pride as an Englishman , and honour as a man , in the situation to which your confidence has this day called mc , and rejoicing exceedingly that my humble exertions in your behalf Bhould entitleme to your esteem , I shall now conclude the remarks which I have doemed it my duty to offer , and shaU open what I proudly caU " Labour ' s Parliament , " by invitiug those delegates who have anything to urge to proceed to business , trusting that your deliberations may prove beneficial to yourselves and satisfactory to the country .
Mr . Buncombe resumed his seat amidst the loud applause of the " whole house . " Mr . T . Barrattj secretary to the Preliminary Committee for convening the Conference , then delivered in the report of that Committee . It was as follows : — Report of the London Committee of Trades'Delegates to the ., ¦ General Conference : — The Committee having read over and maturely reflected on the suggestions contained in the letters of T . S . Duncombe , Esq ., and Mr . Drury , relative to a better organization of the various trades in the United Kingdom ; and being deeply , impressed with the conviction that such an organisation is essentially and immediately necessary , in order . that . the working classes generally
maybe placed in a position to resist effectually any oppression sought to he inflicted on them either by the legislature or the capitalists , deemed it advisable to take steps to give the trades of England an opportunity to carry such suggestions into effect . While the Committee are desirous that this organisation should , be formed , to Vindicate the , rights of Labour , and which organisation should ba adopted also to oppose and defeat any legislative enactment to coerce Trade Societies , of a similar character to that of the monstrous "Masters and Servants Bill" Of h \ St S 88 Bion , they are deeply impressed with the importance of , and benefit arising from , a good understanding between the employer and the employed , seeing that their interests are to some extent mutual ; and that neither can injure the Other , without the wrong
perpetrated recoiling upon the party who inflicts it :, they , therefore , would ¦ suggest that , it should be one of the principal objects of the Conference to cultivate a good . understanding with the employers , and thereby remove those prejudices which exist against Trade , combinations , hy showing , ' , os all occasions , that the employed only seek by combination to place themselves on . equal terms , as disposers of their labour , with those who purchase it : to secure themselves from injury , but by . no means inflict it upon others . Although the Committee are anxious that this desirable and important organisation should be carried out to the fullest possible extent , they feel that great caution must be observed in the formation of its laws and regulations , in order that the evils which existed and eventually destroyed the consolidated union of 1833 ^ shall he carefttuy avoided .
The Committee conceive it necessary to call the attention of those trades who are comparatively disunited , and whose members are consequently working for different rates of wages , to the great necessity that exists , that those who are receiving the highest wages should use every effort in their power to secure to their fellow-workmen a fair remuneration for their labour ; and that every inducement should be held out by the several Trade Societies jto their , separated brethren to join them , in order that they , may be the better enabled to make common cause in cases of aggression ,. which would be the certain result if each trade were to form itself into one well-regulated society for their mutual protection .
J The Committee vvould invite the press to give publicity to their proceedings , knowing tliat the more public those proceedings are made the more prejudice will be removed ; and they beg to impress on the Trades the necessity and advantage of giving their support to such portions of the public press as give the truest and the most impartial representations of their views and proceedings : for it is certain that whenever the working classes support those portions of the press , and only those , which do them jus . tice , they will never want an organ to advocate their interests and remove the prejudice of the misinformed .
Finally , the Committee would earnestly recommend to the Conference- —in order that these important points may be duly considered and dispassionatel y arguea—that « 0 proposition of a political nature , beyond what has been already alluded to , Should be introduced or occupy its attention ; convinced as they are , that the only way to carry out these desirable objects satisfactorily , and with a due consideration to the best interest of all those who are concerned , is to consider and dispose of one question at a time ; and , moreover , to keep Trade matters and pontics as separate and distinct as circumstances will justify .
Mr , James , Boot and Shoe-maker , moved the adoption , of the report . Mr . Firth , Plasterer , seconded the motion , which was earned unanimously , > Mr . Wilson , a member of the Preliminary Committee , said that the Committee had now only to suggest that the Conference proceed to the election of its officers ^ the appointment of a committee to receive the addresses , reports , and any plans that delegates might wish to have' brought before the Conference :
arid anxious that every measure should emanate direct from the Conference , and happy , in having been the humble instruments in calling such a numerous assemblage of delegates together , and trusting that the labours of . Conference would be crowned with that success the justice of their cause so well merited , the Committee begged to resign its functions into the hands of Conference . ( Loud cheers . ) Mr , 'James , Shoemaker , proposed"That : Mr . Thomas Barratt , Cork-cutter , Secretary to the London Trades , be the Secretary to this Conference . "
This motion was seconded by Mr . Berry , Miner , and earned unanimously ; , . Mr . Rattray , Block Printer , moved— " That 1000 copies ofthe Chairman's Address he printed for circulation amongst our constituents : " which was seconded , and carried unanimously . Considerable discussion then ensued as to the best mode of proceeding ; in which Messrs . RohSOu , MMeld , G . A . Menvmg , . R attray , and other delegates ' took part . ° . ; At length Mr . Robertson / Bookbinder ,
moved—« That aCommitteebe appointed to consider the several suggesting , contained in the . Chairman ' s address , as to how . far they can be carried out ; and that such Committee also receive and report on a : ny plans or suggestions that may . be offered to them ; such Committee to meet at ten o ' clock on a uesday , morning , " The motion : was seconded , by Mi-. Dunning , Bookbinder , and earned unanimously . " , Messrs . L } oyd Jones and G . A . Fleming suggested thepropnety of haying the names of tho delegates , with the number of their constituents , the trade or trades they represented , and the locality from which each delegate came , detailed , previous to the election of the Committee , that they might be
National Conference Of Trades , In Accor...
made somewhat acquainted with each other . The Suggestion was ably supported by Mr . Rattray , and being adopted by general consent , the chairman took the list and commenced with
LONDON BOOT ASP SHOEMAKERS . Mr . James represented the City Men ' s Men , to the number of 600 . His instructions were to take measures to resist aggression , to abstain from politics , and to cordially oo-operate in establishing a better system of organisation , Mr . Wm . Smith represented the West-End Men ' s Men , to the amount of 700 . Had no particular instructions . Jlr . Itobson represented the City ladies' Shoemakers . They were 200 in number . His body did not give him any partioulav instructions . However , they were aware that he had a " crotchet" of his own , which he intended to submit , but he would like to hear others first . Mi . Smith represented the Shoemakers ofthe Borough , and Clapham . United they numbered fifty-nine . Thev did not give him any particular instructions . Mr . 1 . King represented the Tower Hamlets Shoemakers .
Messrs . Charles aud Dockeray represented the Stepney Shoemakers . Mr . Perry represented the Shoemakers of Hyde-street , to the number of fifty . Had no particular instructions . Mr . John Skelton , in conjunction with his friend Mr . Christopher , represented the West-end ladies' Shoemakers to tho number of 100 . His body was opposed to strikes—in favour of restricting the hours of labour —also of withdrawing the " surplus of labour" from the market , and employing the same beneficially for their own advantage . ( Cheers . )
THE LONDON BOOKBINDERS , Numbering 000 , were represented by Messrs . Robertson and Dunning . They had instructions to steer clear of politics , and to support a better and a general organisation . THE BRICKLAYERS . Messrs . Lockett aud Fox especially represented the Bricklayers of London , but generally of tlie whole kingdom . Their number in London was 450 . They had no particular project to submit .
CARPENTEBS AND JOINEBS . Mr . Jonas Wartnaby represented the King's Arms Society of Carpenters . They numbered 120—had received no particular instructions . Mr , Evans represented the second section of the same society , also numbering 120 members . Like his friend Wartnaby , he had no particular instructions . Mr , Lambert represented the Dun Horse Society in the Borough . They numbered 72 . " Keep clear of polities " was the only instruction he received . Mr . J . Bush represented the General Union of Carpentors of Great Britain aud Ireland , to which he had the honour to be secretary . Their Union was- divided into sections . The particular section to which he belonged numbered 150 , His instructions were to do ail in his POW'er tO Support a general organisation , and resist aggression , whether it sprung from the Government or the Capatalists .
Mr . White represented the Society at the Sun , London Wall , to the extent of fifty members . Mr . Barry represented the Artillery Arms Society of Carpenters . They numbered 150 . They gave their delegate no particular instructions , Messrs . Caughlin and Bicknell represented the Tectotal Society of Carpenters ( Great Suffolk-street , Borough ) . Their body was small atpresent—only numbering forty-four . The only instruction they received was to CO-operate strenuously in any measure for the good ofall . Mr , Cave represented the Barley Mow Society , numbering 150 members . He had no special instructions . Messrs , Gimlett and Bovell represented the King ' s Arms , Ebury-Street , Pimlico Society , which numbered 120 . Their instructions were of a general nature . Mr . Toop represented the second Society of Carpenters at the Lord Nelson , numbering SS 0 . Instructions general .
CABVEKS AND GILDEKS , Mr . Williams represented the Green Man Society , Berwick-street . They were favourable to a General Union , They numbered fifty . Mr . Paragon represented the Three Tuns Society . Their number was thirty-one : and they were likewise favourable to a General Union ,
THE ING 1 NEERS were represented by Mr . Head . A second Society of Engineers was represented by Mr . Booth . Each of the above numbered 120 members . The Greenwich Branch of Engineers was represented by Mr . Edward Wilder , and the Steam-engine-makers by Mr . Fairbrother . The aggregate number of the above bodies is 1 , 000 . TUB MASONS , PAVlOUas' ARMS , were represented by Mr . Wood and Mr . It . Christopher . Their number in London is 200 . Altogether , throughout tho country , they were some 3 , 000 or 4 , 000 . They were favourable to a General Union .
THE SILK HATTERS were represented by Mr . Cox . Their numbers were 180 . Messrs , Arch and Jones sat for the Protective Society of SUk Hatters , numbering 176 . They had general instructions . SAWXEBS . Mr . Hill appeared as the representative of the Sawyers of Surrey . MOROCCO MATHEE HNISHEBS . Mr . Gardener appeared as the representative of 15 G members of the above trade . The instructions were to co-operate in upholding the rights of Labour . WOOLSTAPEEB 8 OF ENGLAND , Messrs . John Cornish and Stephen Langridge represented the Woolstaplers south of the Trent . The Parent Society in London consisted of 500 members . They were there to resist aggression , and to assist in obtaining the greatest amount of good to the greatest number .
THE TIN-PLATE WOBKEBS ' were represented by Mr . AUen . They numbered 300 . He was instructed to resist aggression . . " . '""
TAILORS OF LOKHOK . Messrs , Moody and Prior attended as their representatives . Their enrolled members were 1 , 600 . Their instructions were to resist the " onward march" of the " Slop-shop " . capitalists , That business , as at present carried on , was very injurious to health . Their Society had paid £ 998 in sick money alone in one year . THE NATIONAL TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY was represented hy Messrs . Thompson and Edwards , They represented tbe whole of that fraternity 5 n England ; and had within the last few days gained a glorious victors over the combined capitalists . ( Loud cheers . ) They were favourable to a General Union .
PLASTERERS . Mr . Firth appeared as the representative of this body ; and had no particular instructions , The body in London alone numbered 200 . THE COItK-CDTTEBS " were represented by Mr . T . Barratt . Their society extended throughout the United Kingdom , and was well organised , HANCMSTEB TBADBS' P 1 DMBEBS , Mr . James Taylor appeared as their delegate , especially ; and generally for the Building Trades of that town . Their numbers were 1 , 133 in that district . They thought" short time" beneficial .
PJ & ASTEBEBS . Mr . Riley was their representative . Bis instructions were general . BLOCK PBINTEBS . Mr . Wayne had come as the representative of the Calico Printers of Lancashire and Yorkshire . They numbered 7 , 000 . - THE HXDBAnLIC PBESSEBS , numbering 280 , were represented by Mr . Hackney , whose instructions were general , THE JOI . VEBS were represented by Mr . James Wilson , Their number was 400 . THE FUSTIAN CDTTEK 8 , numbering 2 , 000 , were represented by Mr . Lloyd Jones . They wished an abridgment of the hours of labour , more especiaUy as regarded women audchildren , and . a con . fiolidatiftn of Trades to resist aggregSiOB , COfflC fl'OUl whence it might ,
BAEEBS . Mr . Hulme represented 150 of them . They wished for the abolition of night work , by whieh they were kept away from then' families and wives , whilst other men were at home enjoying them . ( Roars of laughter . ) BOILER MAKERS ( the . numbers in union 1 , 000 , and in the trade 3 , 000 ) were represented by Mr , Macnamara , He had no particular instructions . THE HAKEU . S-UP numbered 300 , aud were represented by Mr , Wilson , whose instructions were general .
'THE SHEFFIELD TEADES were represented by Messrs . John Drury , Wm . Hawksford , James Stone , Robert Booth , — Blackhurst ,- — Sykes , and John Taylor . They represented altogether some C or 7 , 000 "hands . " They were in favour " of a restriction of the hours of labour , which had been found most beneficial in Sheffield . : ' ¦ ( Hear , hear . ) They were also for a General Union for resistance to aggression , BURT BUILDERS , Mr . Eastwood nppeared as the representative of the Building and Iron Trades of the Bury district , numbering 800 , His instructions were general . ¦¦
TBE BLOCS VRWTERS . Mr . E . Kattray was the representative , not only of the Block Printers of Crayford , in Kent , but of the southern district of England ; their iiumhets were 7 , 000 . . His in . structions were to do everything he could to forward a General Union . Their opinion was , that benefits must idtimately come from the legislature , and they wished statistical evidence to be sent forth ; for . notwithstnndmg the " song of triumph" about national prosperity , great delusion existed relative to the condition of the workers . He regretted to say great distress still prevaileu . ^ Messrs . John Dale and Peacock f PP ^ ' ^ n Sur ? v " sentatives ofthe Calico Block Printers of MerKin , Smjey Their instructions were general . Their body numbered
1 ° 5 PAPER MAKERS OF ENGLAW , Messrs ! Baker and Puttingham appeared as therepre . sentatives of this body ., The central place of the society was at Maidstone , in Kent . They numbered l ooo and wished for a system by which those in employ could support those out of employ , mUhvspvmnHue baneful effects of competition ,
National Conference Of Trades , In Accor...
THE SHOEMAK 1 & 6 OF NORTUAMl ' . ., to the amount of 200 , were represented ^ by Kr . Jtaa » Horton . He had no particular instructions . : THE BOOT AXD SUOSUAXEBS AS » 01 BB & t » A 3 >«» O *
U 0 SDES 8 FIELD ... , were represented by Mr . William Spur . They were in favour of a general organisation . ; i > . d would Uke to hwr » a permanent Watch Committee , or Executive , and at W same time each trade to manage i : s own local affairs . THE BRADFORD UNITED IRON TRADES i . ' were represented by Mr . R . S edgcwick . They numbere 4 i 1 , 000 . .- ;• : ' ;' . iiv THE MASONS OF BRADFORD ' . ' were in favour of shortening the hours of l » bour , and of taking land on which to employ the " surp lus labour , " ( Cheers . ) The Masons numbered 135 . ' . THE WOOLCOMBERS OF BRADFORD , numbering about 3 , 000 , were represented by Mr . XfttllilijB ., His instructions were the same as the Masons .
THE IRON MOULbebs OF TOT / HORDES were represented by Mr . , They numbered fifty .. eight , and gave no particular instructions . MR UNITED TRADES OF NORWICH were represented by Mr . Walker . Their number was 550 . His instructions were general . HANLET POTTERIES , Mr . Wm , Evans represented 2 , 000 men . He was sent there especially to advocate the land as a means W beneficially employ the surplus labourers . Their Societ y had £ 1 , 000 iu hand already for the purchase of land . They thought the Government might make a beneficial use of the land in their possession , by employing the now surplus labour in the " market on it , ( Cheers . ) Hi » constituents were opposed to strikes ,
THE Jtl . SKr . S OF LANCASHIRE were vepresiinted by Messrs . Berry , Pasquil , and — , They were the representatives of 10 , 000 men , and were in favour of restricting the hours of labour , and of a General Union for the mutual protection of aU . THE LINEN TBADE OP BARKSLET , to the amount of 3 , 000 , was represented by Mr , Prank Mirfield . They were in favour of a general organisation , lie had received no instructions as regards politics , " No polities" had found the Linen Trade out , and if other trades did not find out politics , depend on it , they would , find them out too . ( Hear , hear . ) UNITED TRADES OF HULL .
Mr . William Webster had been elected at a meeting of 3 , 000 persons in the town of Hull . They were in favour of restricting the hours of labour , and of establishing a fund for the employment ofthe unemployed labour in the market , COTTON SPINNERS OP BOLTOtf . Mr , Brindle appeared as the representative of 5 , 000 Cotton Spinners in Bolton , and the counties of Chester and Lancashire . They were ill favour of restricting the hours of labour ; of General Union ; and of resisting all aggressions on their just rights . THE DATTERi ,
Mr . G . A . Fleming represented the United Joint Stock Company of Journeymen Hatters , of Denton , Cheshire . Their number was 150 , they had a working capital of £ 700 , by which they supported some sixty or seventy pmoTffi , and paid a good dividend on the capital . They wished to see the same principle generaUy adopted , by the Trades , and the surplus hands * hus obtain employment , TBE SFIXALHELDS WEAVERS were represented by J . S . Shervard . They numbered 1 , 000 , and were in favour of a Local Board of Trade . THE BAND-LOOK WEAVERS of Leigh , Middleton , and Wigan , to the number of 500 , were represented by Mr . Lowe . They were in favour of Local Boards of Trade , constituted equally of masters and men .
THE QUEEN'S BEAD SOCIETV OP CARPENTERS were represented by Mr . Hore . They numbered 80 , Ho had no particular instructions .
THE MANSFIELD FRAMEWORK-KNITTERS were represented by Mr . Helkin . They numbered 2 , 000 , and were in favour of General Union and a restriction of the hours of labour .
THE NOTTINGHAM FRAMEWORK-KNITTERS were represented by Mr . B . Humphries . Their number was 2 , 000 . They were in favour of a restriction of the hours of labour and a better system of organisation . THE WOOLCOMBERS OF BRADFORP , TORK 8 HIR . E , were represented by Mr , G , White . They numbered 10 , 000 ; 3 , 000 of them were in Union , They were in favour of a General Union , also of the restriction of the hours of labour , and wished to see established an efficient Land Flan .
A . Committee of fifteen , consisting of the follovnag persons , was then appointed : —Messrs . Wayne , Rattray , Wartnaby , Thompson , Fleming , Drury , Dunning , James ,. Sedgwick , Webster , Evans , Skelton , Hackney , T . Booth , and Pasquil . After which , the Conference adjourned until ten o ' clock on Wednesday morning , to give time to the Committee to consider on the address of the President , and on such other suggestions as to the business of Conference as might he submitted to it , to repoxt thereon to Conference at its next sitting .
SECOND DAY'S SITTING , Wednesday , March 20 . T . S . Duncombe , Esq .., M . P ., resumed the chair about eleven o ' clock . The Secretary read letters from Bradford , Ply mouth , Leicester , Newcastle , Bath , Cheltenham , Rothwell , Bury , Daventry , Rochester , Monmouth , Rochdale , Liverpool , and Limerick ; all approving of the Conference , and promising to take the necessary steps to create a better organisation amongst themselves . The list of delegates was then called over , the Secretary noting the absentees . Mr . Firth , Plasterer , moved—That a list of the delegates be printed , in order that the attendance of the delegates might bo duly noted ; which was seconded by Mr . Webster , of the United Trades of Hull .
An amendment was moved by Jlr . Riley , seconded by Mr . Taylor—That such list be published at the conclusion of the sitting of Conference . After adiscussion , in which Messrs , Rattray , BeiTyV and others took part , the amendment was carried . The following standing orders were then submitted and adopted—1 st , —That the Conference assemble every morning , at half-past nine o ' clock , and adjourn at one o clock for dinner , re-assemble at two , and adjourn for the day at five o ' clock . 2 nd . —That the list of delegates be called over at each sitting , and a record of the attendance be kept . 3 rd . —That all motions be submitted in writing , and that no delegate speak more than fifteen minutes on any one motion , except the mover , who shall be allowed half an hour , and also the privilege of reply .
Mr . Dunning , Bookbinder , moved—That it be a special instruction to the Secretary , that in calculating the numbers represented he enumerate none but paying members . lie thought this was absolutely necessary to prevent delusion . ( Ilear , hear . ) Mr . James , Shoemaker , seconded the motion . Mr . Lloyd Jones , Fustian-Cutter , must oppose the motion , inasmuch as the men he represented were not paying members , but were anxious to become paying members of any consolidated Union that might be formed on a comprehensive basis . Mr . W . Smith , Shoemaker , said , should the motion be carried he should be placed also in an awkward predicament , as one portion of his body at the present time were not paying members ; but ho hoped the result of their deliberations would , be to unite the whole . ¦¦; . ¦¦ . . ,... '
Mr . Skelton , Ladies' Shoemaker , thought . if . ; the resolution was carried it ¦^ Yoiild defeat . the object for which the Conference was convened ; and he firmly believed if the Conference shewed tliat there wasa chance of doing good , tho vast majority of their trade r would again unite . The non-payment had been : caused by circumstances over which they bad nocontroul . ¦ Mr . Berry , Miner , said he was tho r / presentative " r of 10 , 000 paying men , whilst the whole body of Miners in Lancashire mustered 21 , 000 ; but as the I 10 , 000 did not expect to pay for the . 21 , 000 , it was '; nothing but right that the paying members only ; should be counted . .. . •••; . > Mr . George White , "Woolcomber , i thought the dig- ; cussion was a waste ofi time . They had assembled ') for business , and to endeavour to obtain the co-operation of all . He would therefore now move— .-.-,
That in any list that may be printed . the numbers of members iu the several Trades be printed ; and that the ' . ' number of pay ing members in the sahie Trades be also' ! specified . : ' - ' ' '" # ¦ ' : ' The Chairman suggested that at the conclusion of the proceedings a list should be printed ; ^ stating the numbers in each trade , and the numbers of paying ' , members in each Trades' Union . He did not think ^ the adoption of the resolution . would'be accordant ' with the purport ofthe Conference /; Its object was ' - 'J toprevent , not to cause , schism . ; , " " "• .. ' ''• . " V could
Mr . Pony , Boot and Shocmaicei ^ hot ' aupport the resolution of Mr . Dunrdngil . ashe . ' hpjea shortly to see a General Union . of theuvwlwle trade . \' . . , ' Mr Lloyd Jones , Fustiaa ^ Cuttehoittiexplanation , i read portions of the ¦; document ibyvwhich the Conterw ence was convened / and aMojiotedihe lettcroi Mr- ; Drury , which had led to their assemblings He had . ; come at the call of these documents , and it the spirit , breathedin them was not permitted to prevail , his . constituents and himself would be alike deceived and "; ulsfranchisedi >• ' - ^> -- \
' Mr . Hawkhurst said , that although he was there- , as the representative of 750 paying members of his . ' trade , yet lie conceivedHhc other portion of th « 1 , 600 engaged'in the same line of business were aa ? good Unionists as tK 6 ; 7 oOY' ( Hear , hear . ) h Mr . Webster , Hull , was sent bv a great bod y ' of ; working men , wKo were desirous of becoming Union- * ists , and to co-operate m establishing a better system , " ! of organisation throughout the country . He was ' there not as a Unionist only , hut forthe' purposed creating and cementing Union . ( Cheers . ) > - ' '; I ( Continued in our eighth page . J
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), March 29, 1845, page 7, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_29031845/page/7/
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