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TO TEE TRADES' DELEGATES ABOUT TO ASSEMBLE IN LONDON.
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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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Gr aTtEMKT J -It will not require many wrds to < Sonvince jouof the delig ht ihatTf « the course you have resolved on adopting for ^ ad justment , STon thc contou , my exertions in yonr behalf S ^ rcther thwarted than aided by you : and vet neither lukewannness on your part , nor disappointment on mine , has induced me to desist from the zLneaer of 7 caase ' BdieTe me » gentlemen ,
rtat however you might have hoped to sustain a position of comparative comfort , that the day has arrived when you will be called on to doforyour gelrcs those filings which you Tainly relied upon Others to do for you . The conductors of the Northern Star new spaper have , at all times , abstained from jnixlns up the " extreme principles" of that paper tnth the movements of the Trades body : but they tare a 3 constantly placed before you the impossibility of achieving your rights by any sectional movement .
At all times the power that you possess , if systematicall v organised and properly directed , was capable of achieving for you every comfort and advantage that 5 were entitled to . Foolish and petulant quarrels Am ongst yourselves have , however , from time to time , frustrated every sectional attempt made by the se veral sections of your order . The moment that you overcome those internal differencesand injurious dissensions , that moment ¦ will yon , as if by magic , ac hieve for yourselves a correct representation of
your reformed condition . It is an undeniable fact that the very existence of a Government is prima fade proof of popular approval : and the fact of so powerful a body never before laving taken cognisance of our representative Efyatem , proves that you , at all events , were satisfied with ita workings . I am aware ihat my opening will lead you to the conclusion that I am going to force jny own political views upon your consideration ; but Iam notgoingto doaaysuchtbing . Whatldesireto do is simply to point out the means at your disposal for ensuring justice for yourselves . The recent
attacks that have been made upon jour order by the Coambers's of Edinburgh , the writers in the Edin-JmrghltaAcvj , andthasly-pokesthathave beenmadeat you by persons professing to be your "friends , " must lave convinced you that , apart from the power which ihe law gives them to oppress , the masters have resolved on acting upon the new philosophy propounded by those parties—to support every proposition tending fo " freettade , " in the hope , nay , with the certainty , of upholding profits by BEDCCiHMf OF wages . This is the great bone of contention between " the emp lover and the employed . " Mystify the question of " free trade" as they may , I tell you that every step taken in the direction of the reduction of produce must be followed by a large reduction in the price of
that labour which produces the manufactured article . And further , that the cotemporaneou 3 reduc tion in the prices of all consumable articles will not be anything like an equivalent ftr the reductions that the "free trade" masters will make in your wages . Ton cannot be so stolid or ignorant as not to kuow and understand that all the capital in the world is made by labour ; and that , as a matter of course , those who have the command of the labour market ¦ wDlmakeit as " profitable" aspossible to themselves . The paramount consideration with the labouring classes therefore should be liowtorid themselves , as speedily as possible , of that anomalous eontroul which subjects them , without colour of law . to the caprice of those who choose to employ them .
"No political change that the mind of man could devise-act even the Peopus ' s Charter itself , could relieve you from your present condition , and the worse that threatens you , so long as the labour-coin pcthivc system exists . No master acts upon feelings of lumanity or justice : all act upon ike principle of selfinterest . I don't mean that there are not some humane and just ; but what I do mean is , that where tliose exceptions do occur , they are so few as not to weighmuchin the balance against the general evil . Your want of combination and proper understanding has considerably augmented the power in the masters ' hands , aud to relieve yourselves of it should be your primarv object And in order to diretf- your minds to the means by which it is to be effected , let me
once again place the admission of Chambers before von . He admits that if £% of a thousand in any trade are unemployed , the rate at which those fifty are mlling to work mist hevitablt establish the standard wages of the remaining 950 . I told you the same thing seven years before Chambers published it ; and , being strengthened by this later authority , I nsoflie assertion as a tnusm . Itisnottheprieethat can beBrocured for the produce of the 950 that regulates die amount of their wages : it is the competition of the unemployed fifty which establishes the standard of wages for all ; and when tfic 950 con agree amona themselves , either so to restrict tie hours of labour , os to admit tfie remaining fifty to a participation oj u < orl , or support these- in idleness , ob set ihem to wobs on the LAXD , rather ikon admit their competition ,
IBEX , BUT SOT 3 HX THEJT , Witt THE WHOLE BODTBE CAPABLE OY EXEKCISRG C 0 NXR 0 CL OVER THE CAPRICE OF 1 HEIR StASTEES . Now , these are purely Trades questions—social questions—knife-and-fork questions — bread-andcbeese questions , and not political questions : questions which , if you had the People ' s Gharter to-morrow , and relied upon your heretofore principles of action , you could not adjust : and you never can adjust them until you either transport ike vmvilling idlers from the land , or do that which is easier ,
cheaper , more just , and much more beneficiallocate them ox thb laxd . If fifty of one trade are driven from their usual avocation , they naturallyscek employment at some other work ; and by competition , they consequently lead to the reduction of wages in the new field of employment . A man who is not wanted as a Block-printer , or a Cotton spinner , will , if those markets are overstocked , offer himself for a light porter , or -warehouseman , or any other vork : and he can only ensure employment by underbiddingthose who are employedin the market where he competes .
To provide , then , for the system-made idlers , and to confine all the trade necessary to be performed to the exactnumber of hands requited for its due execution , is the one , the great question , to which you must turn your attention . Ton cannot preserve your posison as a national body , nor protect any individual trade from the incursion of strangers , by any Other means than by opening such a field as will take them from the competitive reserve altogether . If a Carpenter is idle , and Tailors are at good work , the Carpenter cannot turn Tailor : neither will the society of Tailors feel the obligation of supporting him " So with all other trades : the surplus of each
trade must either be supported by those of his own irade that are emp loyed—must compete with those whose work he can undertake—or he must go to the Joor-house , or starve . Thus I show you that the question of " surplus" is one difficult to be dealt with ij individual trades ; while it is the only one in fee settlement of which the whole body have an indivisible , inseparable , and complete interest—and for the adjustment of which they can all agree ; and by the settlement of which they would all be equally beaefitted . TheCarpentercannotturnTailor—theTailor cannot turn Blacksmith—the Blacksmith cannot turn Bl ock-printer—the Block-printer cannot turn Silkleaver : but one and all can return from an artificial
to « natural state , and as become cultivators of she sou ,-, and that , too , without in any respect anposing the continuous hardship of supporting them out of the earnings of those at work . The land is store ' s field and man ' s inheritance . It is the market that cannot be overstocked . It is the raw Jaattrial that cannot be overworked . Its surplus is a thing that never can be rendered valueless . It is the Kfii SCj __ -flie Wiolcsome , the sure , the healthy , the independent refuge , —for every man who is detd
^ - existence by the caprice of those under whose ! Tti fJS pl 5 u * tL Have no hesitation in asserting that rf a conunitteeis appointed by Conference Z ?* ** " ^ w into consideration , it may be SS ^ tofheafte perfect facility with which rj lrades of England may emancipate themselves ™» « wy grievance of which they complain . J » to ,. than one year from this date , strikes ™? be spoken of as foolish things tfcat 21 * tBBB l **« the Trades had brains ; rhm ^ petition for labour was tolerated ,
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^^—— wmmm ————¦ before men learned that they were neither bom Blacksmiths , Carpenters , or . Masons ; when the astounding anomaly existed that those who produced all the wealth of the country lived in comparative beggary , while those who employed them were straining every thought to seek " markets " ' for the investment of then- profits . Should you deem this subject , —now becoming interesting to all classes of society , —worthy your consideration , I invite you to the task , believing that the more the subject is discussed the more certain it is to force itself into general notice , and the practice into universal adoption . "With the assistance of the poor man ' s friend , Mr . Roberts , you may be prepared to submit a Lasd Plas for the salvation of the Working Classes generally , that would receive sueh au amount of support , even Sim the prejudiced , as would change the whole face of society , and substi tute a system under which all could live and prosper , for that under which the Home Secretary informs us " one-tenth of the population ha * been pauperised . " I am , Gentlemen , your'faithful servant , Feaegus O'Coxxoe .
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TJMTED STATES . Liverpool , Monday Morning , March 17 th . —At an early hour this morning the steam-ship Hibernia arrived in the Mersey , after encountering a series of unremitting easterly gales from the day of her departure from the ether side . Co . vgbess . —The proceedings of Congress do not appear to have been of much importance , no action having been made by the Senate en the Texan Annexation Bill . Congress was to close its sittings on the evening of the 3 rd instant , and it is certain that if the Senate comes to any vote it will be one adverse to the annexation . On the 26 th ult ., the House of Representatives passed a aew Post-office Bill , and which is orettv sure to so through the Senate before
the close of the session , so as to come into operation in July . It establishes a rate of postage of five cents , for -300 miles and under , and ten cents , for greater distances . Mr . Archer , from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations , to which was referred the joint resolutions to annex Texas as they passed the house , has made a strong report against their passage in the Senate . The President has transmitted to Congress a message on the Slave Trade . The President has also transmitted a message on the Oregon question , which shows that the negotiations between the Governments of England aud the States on this subject are still proceeding . Mr . Polk , the new President elect , has anived at Washington . He was to deliver his inaugural address on the 4 th , so that our next arrival may be expected to furnish this all-important document .
Sevex Lives Lost . —A Steam-boat Burnt . —The steam-boat Pathfinder , Captain Moses , from Tazoo , Mississippi , with a cargo of 1481 bales of cotton , was destroyed by fire on the Mississippi river , near Natchez , on the 8 th ult ., about two o ' clock in the morning . The scene among the passengers is described as having been painfully terrific . Several of the crew commenced throwing cotton bale 3 overboard , and many saved themselves on bales , and others on planks , chairs , &c . There are seven lives lost , that are known of , and doubtless others that the
officers or crew do not miss . Mrs . Fleming , wife of one of the pilots , the only female on board , except the chambermaid and a negro woman , was saved in one of the yawls , with many others . The fire originated between the engines , from what cause is not known . The whole cargo of 1481 bales of cotton is a loss , the whole catastrophe having taken place near the middle of the river . The crew and the surviving passengers were brought to Natchez by the steamer Wave . The still burning hull was met ten miles below Rodney .
MEXICO . Santa Anna . —We have later Mexican news , the dates from Vera Cruz being as late as the 4 tn of Fe-I bruarr . Santa Anna was still a prisoner in the castle ofPerote , whence he had written to the Congress , begging abjectly for life and pardon . It has been decided to try him for malpractices in his late capacity of Commander-in-CMef , or President , and not as a traitor , which indicates that some milder course will be pursued towards him than what had been predicted from the fury of the people generally . This clemency appears to have emanated from the two Chambers of Congress . The Government has
decided to try by court-martial all the officers who obeyed the orders of Santa Anna after the election of General Harrera as President of the republic . They have already been displaced from their command . The effects belonging to Santa Anna , at his residence of Magua de Glavo , have been seized by the authorities of the department of Vera Cruz , and removed to that city tor sale . The city of Mexico was quiet , and everything proceeding in its usual manner . On the morning of the 13 th ult . the cannons announced to the inhabitants the raising of the state of siege to which they had been subjected during the late troubles .
CENTRAL AMERICA . Moke Revolutions . —The brig Ursula , from St . Juan de Nicaragua , brings the following interesting letter on the afihirs of that country : — " San Juan de Nicaragua , Jan . i . —I write to you a few lines respecting the state of affairs in Central America The States of Guatemala , San Salvado , and Honduras , have all come out and declared in favour of a central federation again ; and have marched all their troops into the State of Nicaragua to compel her to join in this movement . All the great towns in this State , such as Granada , Niearagua , Masaga , Segovia , and others , with the exception of the seat oi GoverMflftwi ( Leoa ) , havfe also declared in fovowr oi a central republic . In consequence , they have joined forces with the invading troops , and together have surrounded and invested the city of Leon , which is expected to fall into their possession in a snort time ,
according to the latest accounts from the interior Inside Leon everythingis in confusion . The Leonese have taken possession of the churches and other strong places , and garrisoned them . The 'Commandant General' has shot the chief of the State ( 'Manuel Morez' ) there , because he wished to withdraw from the contest and come out in favour of the popular movement . The 'Leonese' say they will die first , before they will give up their' city . It is expected there will be a bloody contest . One half of the city was destroyed in a revolution a few years since , and now it is supposed the other hah will be laid in ruins also . The principal families in the neighbourhoed of the seat of war are flying to different places for protection . If Leon falls , the war will be carried into Costa Rica if that State does not come out in favour of a central Government . "
SWEDEN . Progress . —The dispute between the order of the Nobles and the other orders of the State in Sweden seems to be increasing . We learn by a letter from Stockholm that the Committee of the Constitution has come to a resolution to propose to the Diet that in future no noblemen shall bo allowed to preside over the electoral assemblies of the agriculturists , and that the privilege possessed bv the nobility of accompanying the King when he visits the Hall of States shall be abolished .
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Fortdne-Tellixg . —At the Borough Court , Manchester , on Saturday , Anne Chrimes , a professional fortune-teller , was charged with defrauding several poor simpletons of their money by pretending to " rule the stars , " tell their fortunes , &c . One of them , a widow of the ripe age of 60 , being anxious to revisit the shrine of Bynien , consulted the wise woman as to the probability of her obtaining a second husband , and being promised one by the first of May , paid 6 d . for the information , receiving , however , 26 . oui , and a quarter of an ounce of tobacco , she beine very poor . Nancy Bradley , a middle-aged married woman , residing at Heaton Nonas , consulted the sage about her husband , of whom she was jealous . She was told that four young women had bewitched him , and that if he were not unbewitched he would very soon go off in a galloping consumption . Mrs . Giirimes undertook to cure him and make him a good
husband for ten shillings , and was so accommodating as to offer to take the money by instalments , stipulating , however , for a silk handkerchief , or sometliing else belonging to him , as necessary for the process of conjuration . She received a shilling by way of earnest . A young woman , named Ellen Simpson , was offered a charm for her sweetheart , at various prices , from 3 s . to 15 s . each , and told that the higher the price the more effectual they were , and that the beau of one of her acquaintance , who had bought a charm , had come " ranting" after her , he having previously been but a lukewarm wooer . It so happened , however , that Ellen Simpson was already married , and wished to consult the stars , not about love matters , but as to the'time of her becoming rich , a process which was not'going on so rapidly as she . wished . There were many other cases against the prisoner , and she was committed for three months with hard labour . -
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Trades' Conference . — The Preliminary Committee held their weekly meeting , at the Bell Inn , Old Bailey , on Wednesday evening , March 19 th : Mr . Robertson ( bookbinder ) in the chair . The room was densely crowded with delegates . Messrs . John Cornish and Stephen Lingride , "for the first time , attended as representatives of the Amicable Society of Woolstaplers . This society represents the Woolstaplers of England . Messrs . Caughlan andBicknell appeared as the representatives of the Society of Teetotal Carpenters . The Secretary read tliirty letters from various trades in England and Ireland . The following is the arraxgemeni decided on for Monday next : — " Th 6 Sub-Committee to meet at the Bell Inn , Old Bailey , at ten in the moraine , to
receive delegates and . examine credentials ; andat two o ' clock precisely , in the afternoon of the same day , the Conference will be opened in the Assembly Room of the Parthenium Club , 72 , St . Martin ' slane . T . S . Buncombe , Esq ., will preside throughout the whole sitting of Conference . It is generally understood , that each delegate , like the members of St . Stephen'Si will have . the privilege of admitting one stranger to hear the . deliberations of Laboub's Parliament . After the preliminary committee shall have delivered in their report to Conference , and a Secretary and other officers shall have been appointed , it is suggested that the Conference appoint a committee , to receive any and all plans that a delegate may have for the consideration of Conference ; and that they report thereon as soon as may be .
Imfortani . Meeting op tee Handloom Wbavebs Delegates in London . —On Monday last , delegates from this numerous , useful , but ill-used class of workmen , assembled at the Grown and Anchor , Waterloo Town , for the purpose of preparing statements of their grievances , and submitting a plan to the Government and different members of Parliament , on which to found an Act of Parliament for the protection of the Weavers against the unheard-of robberies aud impositions practised on them . There were delegates present from Spitalfields , from Macclesfield , from Leigh , from Mvddleton , from Carlisle , and Howiek ; and several other places were represented by letter . The first business of the delegates was to prepare their case . The London Weavers
had prepared a lengthy and very able document , comprising a rapid view of the rise and fall of the wealth of nations , clearly showing that where the principle of ' protection had been adhered to , and the interests of the labouring classes provided for , such nations became wealthy and refined , and their people prosperous and happy ; and showing also that where the interests of the labouring classes were neglected , the downfall of such nations was certain and rapid . These positions were illustrated by capious extracts from authors of ancient and modern history . The delegates decided that the document , though valuable , was not exactly applicable to their present mission , as they were met to propose a statement of their present sufferings , and a plan for their amelioration . Mr . Lowe detailed the various impositions
practised on the Weavers of Leigh , in Lancashire , which he had prepared , in a clear , lucid , and intelligible manner , embracing several tables , setting forth the amount of money stopped from the Weavers by the several manufacturers in three given days , amounting to , in many cases , from 20 to 30 per cent , of the wholeoftkeireamuigs . Italsoshowedthevarious pretences on which these robberies were committed , the principal one being that of time , arising from the masters giving with their warps printed tickets , specifying that the work should be returned within a given time , or be abated ; the time being generally such that an average good workman could not accomplish it in . Mr . Lowe also showed the hardships the Weavers laboured under in having to wait for '' smite "
Oven ) , and m having to travel long and frequent journeys , amounting to several hundreds of miles in the slack seasons . He also explained that by the combination of the manufacturers , the arbitration law was rendered of no effect , and gave the testimony of several respectable magistrates and clergymen in support of his statements .. The Middleton delegate ( Mr . Ogden ) detailed similar grievances , and in the mam confirmed Mr . Lowe ' s statements . The delegates from Macclesfield ( Messrs . West and Bentole ) said they had not so much to complain of as regardec abatements . Their chief grievaiw-o arose from tlio great disparity of prices paid for the same description of work by different manufacturers . This exposed the trade to a ruinous home competition , and was highly injurious to the honest employer as well as to the workman . The remedy thev nronosed was
hie establishment of local boards of trade . Mr . J . B . Hanson , from Carlisle , detailed at great length the sufferings of the Weavers in his district , and exhibited in a table of great length , which must have cost immense labour in its compilation , the various reductions that had taken place since 1804-5-6 , which could not be less than 200 per cent , to what they-now have . He also showed the additional amount of labour imposed , notwithstanding these reductions . He was for the great principle of protection being applied to the labour of the working classes , but was willing to take as an instalment local boards . It was then agreed on that a case should be prepared , and that the delegates should visit different members of Parliament , as well as the Board of Trade , and lay their statements before them . During the week the delegates have visited various members , and have received from a great number promises of support .
The Chainmakers of Staffordshire and Worcestershire have been in union about twelve months , and have done as muck or more good than any other trade in the country in rooting out evils that affected their interests , and in raising their wages . In March last some of the manufacturers resolved to reduce the men 10 per cent . ; those , too , who at the time were paying a less price than the most respectable houses in the trade . This was followed by a threatened reduction by all . The men sent del e gates among those who were the worst paid , to s « fe ii' they -would co-operate in resisting the attempted reduction . Nearly the whole trade responded . A union was formed , and money raised ; and those who were worst paid were put on strike , and so on , till every house paid one and the same price . They next attacked the monster Truckand
, completely destroyed Mm , as far as this trade was affected by it . In this they had the support of the ready-money employers . They have since obtained two advances , amounting to 15 per cent ., and in some instances rather more : some of the employers have to pay 30 per cent , more than they did twelve month * ago . The men have come to the determination to have another advance , and have given notice to that effect to all the manufacturers , which advance they propose should take place on the 22 nd of the present month . Some of the emplovers are willing to give it , while some are against giving it : but the men seem conf dent of success from the organisation and determination of the trade . The price paid now is but little more than half what it was twenty yeara ago , while the trade has increased at least four-fold , and is likely still to extend . :
To the Members op the United Tailors' Protection Society . —Fellow Workmen , —The Executive Council having deemed it advisable that some one should go ; forth to explain the . objects of the above society , and prepare the wav for the forthcoming delegation , to be held at Manchester on the 14 th oi April next ; in accordance therewith , I have attended three meetings in Birmingham , at one of which upwards of one thousand persons were present , and two sections formed . Meetings have also been held at Wolveruamptou , Stafford , Warrington ; two in Manchester ; two in Liverpool ; and one at Ashton-under-Lyne ; at all of . which , resolutions were passed expressive of their approbation of the principles of the Union . Meetings will also be held at Chester , on Wednesdav , the 19 th of March ; at Wigan , on the 20 th ; at Preston , on Good Friday ;
at Blackburn , on the 22 nd ; at Bolton , on the 24 th ; Bury , the 25 th ; Rochdale , 26 'th ; Todniorden , the 27 th ; Bradford , the 28 th ; Huddersfield , the 31 st ; at Wakefield , on the 1 st of April ; at Sheffield , on the 2 ad ; Leeds , the 3 rd ; and at Hull , the 4 th . At ail of those places it is requested that public meetings of the Trade be called , in order to consider on resolutions and petitions to Parliament , praying for an inquiry into the sanatory condition of the Trade , with a view to the abolition of oat-door labour . I shall be punctual in attendance at the above towns on the days specified : and all localities in' the kingdom desirous of laying their views before the delegates when assembled , can foiward their communications , addressed to me , at the Golden Eagle , llardnian-street , Manchester . —Yonn , in the cause of Labour , J . W . Parker , General Secretary .
Boiler-Makers' Co . vfere . vce . —An important Conlerence oithe master and journeymen Boiler-makers of Manchester and the surrounding districts , was held on luesday last , March 18 th , at the house of Mr . Dixon , Golden Eagle , Birmingham-street , Manclies-^• j . ) , Journeymen Boiler . makers have long felt the direful effects of home competition ; and having determined , if possible , to curb the monster , they called a Conference of delegates , n « t only from the shops in Manchester , but from the surrounding towns ; to which Conference they invited the whole cf the masters b y circular , in which was stated the objects for which the , Conference was called . We are happy to state that many of the masters sent answers to the committee , iu which they promised
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to be present , and likewise approved of the objects sought to be accomplished by the . journeymen , and that they would do all in tlieiv -povfet : towayds the furtherance of the good ^ vol'k . On Tuesday morning delegates from tho following places assembled at nine o'clock : —Manchester , : Liverpool , . Bolton , Bury , Wigan , St . Helen's , Hyde , Stockport , Staleybridge , Dukinfield , Ashton-under-Lyne , Oldham , Rochdale , Preston , Chorlty , Warrington , Newton , Rain-hill , &c . The delegates spent a h \ r hours in preliminary arrangements , and drawing up a programme of the business to be brought before the Conference ; and we believe also , that . the , masters , had a preliminary meeting previous to their coming to the Conference . The Conference of masters and men assembled at two o ' clock in the afternoon , when , ontlie motion of Mr .
Rock , Mr . Melling , of Manchester , was unanimously elected to the chair . He opened the business of the Conference by giving a brief outline of the circumstances which had caused them to be brought together , and likewise a summary of the business . which would be brought before them . He heped that each person who addressed the Conference would adhere to the . question under debate , and be as brief as possible . He called upon the masters present , to aid and assist the men in bringing about a better understanding betwixt the employed and their employers , and concluded by calling on the Secretary to read the correspondence waich ' the committee had received from the masters ' who could not make it convenient to attend . The . Secretary then read a number of letters , from which we select the following : — Star-street Works , March 17 , 1845 .
To the Operative Bomr Makers of Manchester . —Gentlemen , —We are in the receipt of youts of this morning ; and assure you that , whatever wages you demand , our lioiwe will not oppose you , but will at all times give the best of wages to all classes of workmen employed in our establish , ment . Y . ou must bear in mind that there an masters who have taken orders at such low prices that they cannot afford to give remunerating wages to their workmen ; and these are the parties who strive to destroy your trade and reduce your wages ; 'tis only by such unfair means
they can clear themselves . In conclusion , yjebeg to say , that it has ever been our study and interest to give the very best of wages to all grades of workmen . Good men deserve good hire . Hoping you will be unanimous and determined in the resolutions you mqy pass at the meeting called to be held on Tuesday , the 18 th of March , we remain , Gentlemen , most respectfully , James Limst AND Sons . P . S . —We shall be happy to receive a copy of resolutions passed at the meeting , and whatever they may be , if to better your condition , you may rely upon our eonfonnity . —J . L . and Sons . ' ;
Mr . Fairburn said , that when he received the circular it ; gave him great pleasure ; for its contents must give satisfaction to every honourable employer . The only tiling he objected to was the attempt to destroy competition . He wished that they could accomplish it > but he was doubtful whether it was possible to effectually interfere with that question . But there was no harm in making the attempt . He could , himself , subscribe to every suggestion made by the men . { Much cheering . ) He was sorry that he had to leave them , for it would have given him much pleasure to spend a few hours with the men who had taken so noble a step in endeavouring to bring about a better understanding between the employers and employed . Peter Rathwell , Esq ., moved ,
and Mr . Hick seconded , "That from this time forward it be required , that any master-wishing to dispense with the sen-ices of any Boiler-maker ( except iu cases of delinquency , or destroying the master's property ) , shall give notice from pay-day to pay-day ; and likewise that any Boiler-maker wishing to leave his employer , shall give a like notice . " Mr . Latham moved as follows— "That any Boiler-maker losing his time by drinking shall be fined one shilling each day , to go into the funds of the Boiler-makers ' Society : the same to be applied to some benevolent purposes , such as giving relief to any member who may not be entitled to benefit in cases of sickness , or when unable to work from accidents received at their employment . " . Mr . Wood seconded the resolution ,
which was agreed to unanimously . The next question was the one of the hours of work . It appeared that some of the shops commenced wsrk at six o ' clock on the Monday morning , whilst others commenced at seven . Lengthy discussions ensued , which ended in the following resolution : — " That every shop" in Manchester and neighbourhood shall commence * ' . for the future at seven oVlook on Monday morning , and have half an hour for breakfast , one hour for dinner , and half an hourfor tea ; or instead of the tea half hour , to leave work at half-past five in the evening . The week ' s work to consist of fifty-seven hours and a half . " The above resolution , was moved and seconded by two masters , named Edward and John Hartley . The
next question brought before the Conference was that when men were sent out to work at " old work , " oi out of town ,, ' they should Itave one shilling per day extra , not to be given in drink , but money . Mr . Hick , of Bolton , said there could not be two opinions on the subject . He was quite willing to give his men the shilling . Mr . Rathwell also agreed to the proposal , as did the whole of the masters . My . Latham moved , and Mr . Cartwright seconded , "That the men working out shall have one shilling per day extra , to be paid in money . " Mr . Edward Hartley moved , and-Mr . Cartwright seconded— " That the sending out of men to old jobs be vested in the masters ; but they shall let all that ave competent have their turn where it is practicable . And when any
manufacturer sends for a particular set , that the master send them whether it be their turn or not . " Mr . Roche said , the time had come when masters and men must act for the benefit of each other . The men were determined to protect the masters , if the masters were willing to assist them . The men wished to introduce the system of apprenticing boys to _ be taught the whole art of boiler making . By this means they would be enabled not only to produce good workmen , but at the same time protect the best iuterests of the trade . . A lengthy discussion took place , in which both masters and men took part , which ended in Mr . Hartley moving , and Mr . Stewart seconding— " That for the future all persona coming into the Boiler-making trade shall serve a legal
apprenticeship , and not be more than sixteen years of ago at the time of being bound . " The resolution was- carried unanimoHsly . Mr . Roche moved , "That the best thanks of the journeymen Boiler-makers , in conference assembled , are due to Peter Rothwell , Esq ., — Hick , Esq ., t- Fairburn , Esq ., and the other employers who have honoured us with their presence and assistance . " The motion being seconded , and put from the chafr , was agreed to new . con . Several important questions in the " programm" were not entered into , owing to the masters having to leave . It was , however , agreed that a circular , containing the resolutions which had been passed , and also the men ' s suggestions which they had not been able to take into consideration ,
should be sent to the employers ; and the latter would , if they considered them at all calculated to benefit the trade , give them every support . One of the questions alluded to is of great importance . It is as follows : — " What steps would be the most effectual to destroy that unhealthy and unprincipled system of homecompetition which has crept into the Boiler-making trade , by which the" honourable employer , tho operative , and the public are alike injured ? " The operatives think that steps can be taken to compass this object . Some of the masters are of a contrary opinion . ^ The workmen have not Lad an opportunity of detailing their views before them , which we believe are as follows : — " Let a Board of Trade be formed of an equal number of masters and inen ; the masters to elect the men in whom they have confidence , and the workmen to elect the masters . Sueh board to fix the rate ofivages , and likewise the price of the article in the market : and also determine a uniformity of
hours tor commencing and leaving off work . " It ' the honourable masters would co-operate with the nieri-onthis understanding , the men would work only for those tiiat agree to such salutary regulations . In ^ he ci rcular about being sent to the masters , this question will be fully laid before them ; and we shall not fail to acquaint our readers with the result as soon as it is known . The following employers were present at the meeting , and agreed with the resolutions come to : —Mr . Fairburn , Mr . Cartwright , Mr . J . Wild , Mr . M . Barrett , Mr . Duckworth , Mr . J . Hartley , and Mr . Edward Hartley , of Manchester ; Peter llothwell , Esq ., Mr . Hick , Mr . Hill , Mr . Araer , Mr . Latham , and Mr . S . Wood , ' of Bolton ; Mr . Hill , of Heywood ; Mr . Rain and Mr . Ferneaugh , of Dukenfield ; Mr . Townley , Mr . Howarth , and Mr . Massey , of Rochdale ; Mr . Jackson , Mr . Stewart , and ¦ Mr . Scholes , of Preston ; Mr . Mannes , of Stockport ; Mr . "William Attevton , of Wildin ; and the Messrs . Wood , of Openshaw .
Important Trades Meeting at Bradford . —On Tuesday evening-a public meeting was held in the Temperance-rooms , Cheapside , to elect delegates to the forthcoming Trades Conference ; Mr . Smyth was called to the chair , who briefly opened the business by stating the objects and reading the placard convening the meeting , and called on any person flavino a candidate , to propose to do so . Mr . Stamp , Stonemason , proposed Job Hirst , Mason , a fit and proper person .: Mr . , Hirsf enjoyed the confidence of the Masons isociety , and \ was unanimously nominated by that body to represent thein in the forthcoming Conference ; Mr . Hurley , seconded flie nomination , and eulogised Mr , Hirst as well qualified " to fill the important station of represeriting . the Trades of Bradford in Conference ; on being put to the meeting he
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was earned unanimously . Mr . Hirst returned thanks for the confidence reposed in Jmn , and pledged himself to use everv means in ( his power to better the condition of his Mow-workmen ., He thought it right to state , that the / unanimous opinion . ; of the Society of Stonemasons in Bradford was in favour of the Land Question being brought before the Cout ference . It was . his opinion , that nothing practical could be earned into effect unless founded on the principlei-of withdrawing the . " surplus labourers " from the labour market , andpldcing them on theland , and thus creating a . demand for : labour . Mr . Raistrick , Woolcomber , proposed , and Mr . Topham seconded Robert Mullen , Woolcomber ; Mr . ' Dillon proposed , and Mr . Wilson seconded Mr . G . White .
A noisy discussion here commenced by the supporters of both candidates , the debate being earned on by the Woblcorfluers exclusively ,, ;; Mr , ; Fynn arose and addressed themeeting with a view of reconciling the ( disputants ; : afterwards Messrs . White , Dillon , Mullens , anpVotliers spoke . Mr . G . White withdrew , after entering a protest against the proceedings of the bfiicers of . the Woolcombers' Protective Society , for the manner in which . the ballot was taken for the bandidates ^ Mr . Mullen explained , declaring that the whole of the divMona of that society were noticed as ^ nearly as possible , at one time . On the motion being put , Mr . Mullen was carried by a large' majority . ; Thelchairman , read ft ' letter from the , Shoemakers Society , declaring their hearty co-operation in the proposed union of Trades , and regretting their inability to send a delegate in consequence of their
late struggle ,. and having to send one to the Shoemakers' Conference to be held in London on the 1 st of April . Mr . Flynn proposed the following resolution , which was seconded by a persen in themeeting . — "That the delegates appointed to represent the Trades of Bvadfora in the forthcoming Conference be instructed to move , or support such measures as , they may deem best calculated to bring about the formation of a National Trades' Union for the general protection of all ; and that they be requested to reeomniend the consideration of the Land question . " jThe chairman announced a meeting of the women power-loom Weavers in the same room , on Good ¦ Friday , to co-operate with the rest of their brothers and sisters in toil for mutual protection . A yote of thanks was tendered to the chairman , and the meeting separated .
! Bradford Shoemakers . —On Monday evening a special meeting of the Shoemakers' Society was held at the Boy and Barrel Inn , Westgate , to elect a delegate to the Shoemakers' Conference , about to be held m London on the 1 st of April . Mr . Green was called to the chair , who stated the object of the meeting . Mr . Smyth proposed , and Mr . Constable seconded , " James Quinn , as a fit and proper person to represent them in the Conference . " On being put , the motion was carried unanimously , and the meeting separated . ; Nottingham FiuMEwoRK-KxiiiEKa . — A public meeting of Framework-knitters was held at tho King George on Horseback , Nottingham , on Monday evening , the 17 th inst ., to take into consideration the Trades Conference to assemble in London on
Easter Monday , and to elect a delegate to attend such meeting . The following resolution was passedproposed by John Peeters , and seconded by William Norman : — " That a levy of twopence per frame be paid on Saturday next , the 22 nd , for the purpose of defraying the expense of sending a delegate to the Conference ; and that a committee will sit from four until nine in the evening to receive subscriptions . " B . Humphries was proposed by William rearson , and seconded by James Bates , as a fit and proper person to attend the Conference . Henry Donnan was also proposed by William Norman , and seconded by John Brooks . On the propositions being put to the vote the former was elected , and the meeting genavated .
Barnslky . —A large meeting of Weavers took place in Pickering's Room , on Monday night , the 17 th inst ., to elect a delegate to the Trades' Conference , Mr . Owen Wright in the chair . A plan having been agreed upon whereby the necessary funds should be collected , Mr . Frank Mirfield and Mr . John Grimsliaw were put in nomination , and on a division there appeared an equal number for both , when the chairman decided in favour of the former . The meeting separated highly satisfied with the proceedings . The Horsenajl-makers op Beiper have had twenty men on strike at the establishment of Mr . Melbora . The strike has now closed , as Mr . Melbom has complied with the request of the men . They have also obtained an advance of seven and a half per cent , to their wages , and are expecting another advance . The Belper Nailmakcrs are united to a man .
! Framework-knitters' Movement . —Friends , —The commissioners' report on our Trade will soon be laid before Parliament ; a report which will show to the world infringements most glaring on a vast body of operatives . The frame charges and other deductions taken from the net earnings of the Framework-knitter are greater than any other body of operatives we know ot SHtFer . Such being a fact , we have a right to expect relief from the Government , whose power , if exercised , is equal to such task ; not only to relieve us from our present sufferings , but to protect us for the future from such a liability . It then becomes the duty of all who suffer from the present system , to use his , her , or their influence to remove it . Friends , a National Conference of Trades' delegates will assemble in London , on Easter Monday , March 24 th , 1845 , at which the Framework-knitters , above all trades , should have delegates . Let the hands in Nottinghamshire , Derbyshire , Leicestershire , < fec ., consider this , and provide , without loss of time , for such purpose . At the least , four should be sent , who , when in London , would serve a double purpose : —First , on the National Trades , business ; and , secondly , on their local affaire : for it is probable that a discussion may come on in Parliament soon after Easter , respecting the commissioners' report . Delegates being in town , could , if necessary , ' wait on the Government , and on members of Parliament , to solicit their Support to any measure brought forward for the removal of the grievances complained of in our petition . Assemble your committees immediately , and take this all-important question into your deliberate consideration . When such has been done , communicate with the general Secretary as to your decision . The expense incurred would be but a mere trifle . I am aware of your poverty ; but without an effort on your part , you eannotlie made better in your circumstances . Up , then , one and all and work as though you had something to gain . Let no one think of a little trouble , but let each work as though it all depended on himself to raise his fellow workmen from their present degraded position . T . Humphries .
North Staffordshire Miners . —The next delegate meeting of Miners will be held at the Queen ' s Head Inn , Burslem , on Monday , March , 31 st , at three o ' clock in the afternoon . . " ' ¦ ¦ The London . Shoemakers . — On Monday last a meeting of the West-End Ladies' Shoemakers was held in the Ship-yai'd , Wardour-street , Westminster , for the purpose of electing delegates to the forthcoming Trades' Conference . The result ; was the unanimous election of , Mr . John Skelton and Mr . James Christopher . All seemed fully impressed with tile importance of the subject , and the best of feeling pervaded throughout . Mixers' Intelligence . —The next general delegate meeting of Lancashire Miners will Be held on Monday next , at the house of Mr . N . Gaskell , sign of the Queen ' s Arms , Clayton , near Manchester : chair to be taken at eleven o ' clock in the forenoon . There will also be a public meeting on the same day , which will be addressed by W . P . Roberts , . Esq ., and several ' of the accredited agents of the Miners' Association chair to be taken at four o ' clock in the afternoon . The levy for the fortnight is 2 s . per member .
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HOME CIRCUIT . Lewes , Wednesday , March 19 . —CiuminalAssault . —John Upton , 46 , described as a builder , and who , it was stateo , acted as preacher to a Methodist congregation at Brighton , was charged with an offence of this description upon Elizabeth Mills , a child ten years of age . The charge , which was accompanied with circumstances of peculiar atrocity , was so cleavly made out , that Mr . Clarkson , who was instructed for the prisoner , said it was hopeless for lam to attempt to struggle with the evidence , and he should , therefore , not waste the time of the Court and jury by attempting to do so , but he must leave the prisoner to be disposed of as they should think fit . The prisoner was found Guilty , and the Lord Chief Justice sentenced him , to ,. be transported tor life . ... : , ;
Atrocious Conduct . —Anne Lewis , 30 , and Elizabeth Brown , 15 , were indicted for feloniously and maliciously aiding and , assisting a man , unknown , to commit a felonious assault upon a child ten yeara old , named Charlotte Neville . The offence imputed to the prisoners was clearly brought home to tnem , and it was committed under the most aggravated circumstances . It appeared that the elder prisoner was the keeper of a house of ill-fame at Brighton , and the k her , it woul £ seem ,, was a lodger , or , at all events , a
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j ^ - ^— 'r t ^«^ "' / i ^ y fy j - » resident in the house . On the day in question ,, the little girl , Charlotte Neville , was sitting on a step opposite the house of the prisoner Lewis , when she beckoned her in , and on her getting inside , the other prisoner took her in her aims , ami , carried her up staii * s ? o ~ a room where there was a man , - and there ; in spite of ; her * cries and .-, entreaties jfoiv ; assistance , the offence was committed , the prisoner Brown being present all the time . The jury found the prisoners Guilty , and the Lord Chief Justice having commented in indignant . and appropriate terms upon the atrocious nature of their offences , sentenced them ! to be transported for life . ¦¦
.: . " .. ¦ „ WESTERN CIRCUIT . Dorchester , Saturda y Maboh 15 .--Betey Christopher was indicted for the wilful murder of her infant child at Poole , by stabbing and cutting it on the throat on . the 113 th of February . Mr . C . Saundera conducted the , case i ' or tite prosecution . He begged $ e most serious attention of the jury to this ease , for the word ' ¦ ' . murder" of itself denoted the importance and solemnity of the inquiry . He would conteni himselt with simply detailing the facts , and they would , look at : them with every tenderness on behalf of the prisoner , but at thesame time with that firmness which their duty required . —Louisa Holland ; 1 was in . the service of Mr . Collins at "Parkstone , and the prisoner ; was my fellow-servant . She was in the service about a fortnight . She slept with . me . On Thursday . *
the 13 th of February , I awoke about five o ' clock in , the morning . The prisoner was then standing by the bed-side . Tasked what was the matter . She said , ' ^ Nothing . " I went to sleep again .. I awoke again abc-ut Bix and she was then in bed . I got up . ¦ The prisoner also got up and dressed herself , and we went about our work . She came up to the nursery about eight o'clock . She said she was in very great pain . I did not observe anything particular about her at that time , r advised , her to go , to bed , and she yrenfc Upstairs as if for thatpurpose ; I saw her again in about half an hour . When I went into her room she was lying oii the bed . She said she was very poorly . I left her and returned again to ^ her a . good bit afterwards but within an hour . She was then out of bed .
I asked her what was the matter with her . She said nothing more thaiyisual . I saw blood on the boards ; it was a great deal of blood . I . went down stairs again , and remained for half an hour . I went up- ' stairs again to her room ; she was still there . In about a quarter of an hour she came into the kitchen and passed through . She had changed her dress . She went out towards the privy . Her apron appeared to be thrown over her arms . She came back again in ten minutes . I then observed blood on her hands . Slic asked me to get h&v scaaa waterto wash her hands . I got her some water , and she washed her hands in my presence . She remained inthe kitchen about a quarter of an hour . She said she was better . Shortly afterwards she said she felt rather faint , and she would go up to bed , and I went upstairs with her , and she got into bed , and I left her and told my mistress , who desired me to take her up some tea and gruel . I took some up , and she was still in bed . I lad seen a knife in her possession about a week be-, fore ; she carried it about with her . —By the Judge ; I was not at all aware that she was pregnant . I had been twelve months in the senice . The prisoner told me she was 18 years of age . ( She looked nearly 40 . ) She used to carry the knife in her bosom . Our bed-room adjoined that of ray mistress , and she could heav any talking in that room . My mistress was itt " her room , until I took the tea up to the prisoner . — Mrs . Collins : My husband had gone out early that morning . My little boy told me that the prisoner '
was not well . In consequence of what the last witness told me I went into the prisoner's room . I asked her what made her shake . She said she was very cold , and she directed my attention to the snow , which was falling . I said I hoped there was nothing the matter with her : that she had done nothing wrong . She said " No , that would be dreadful , wouldn't it I " I asked her if she had been so before , and she said , "Yes , twelve months before , when her mother told her she had received an injury . " I think I used the word " miscarriage" to her . —By the Judge : tfthe doors of the roonis had been open I could have heard a newly-born child cry , and 1 cannot say but I could have heard it had the doors been shut . There was a considerable quantity of blood in two utensils in the prisoner ' s room . I had no idea or suspicion of a birth laving taken place . —John Collins : On my return home that morning , about halt-past nine , in consequence of what I Seard I went to the privy . I saw marks of blood there . Upon making a search I found the body of a child with its throat cut . I gave information to the coroner . Mr . West , the surgeon , was present when the body was taken up . I afterwards asked the prisoner what she had done it with , and she gave up a knife with blood on it . She was asked if it was alive . She said she did not see ifmove . I asked if it cried . She said she did not
hear it . —John Wickens West : I am a surgeon . It was a full-grown child . There was no other mark oL violence except an extensive wound on the throat . I then went to the prisoner ' s room . I asked her if she had been confined , to which she replied , she had not .: I then examined her , and ascertained that she had been recently confined . She took the knife whichhas been alluded to from her pocket . I asked her if she had inflicted tlie wound before or after the death of the child . She said after the death . From the appearance , in my judgment , the child was born alive . The lungs were increased in volume , and were of a colour to show there had been respiration . I consider that the labour had been rapid . The wound in the throat was two inches in length , and an inch and a
half in depth ; the head was nearly cut off . I could not tell whether the wound had been inflicted during life or after death . Had it been inflicted during life , there is no doubt it would have caused death . —By the Judge : Respiration may take place before complete birth . The knife was produced—it was a common penknife . —This was the case'for the prosecution . Mr . Justice Erie then summed up the case to the jury . It was most important , if murder had been committed , that public justice should be done , and it was most important , it the guilt was not clear , that they should acquit the prisoner and save an innocent person from suffering the extreme penalty of the law . The charge was , the ' murder of a child close at ita birth . To constitute the offence , they must be satisfied that the child was completely born , and had a complete independent existence of its own , and while it was so in life it was deprived thereof by the wound inflicted by the prisoner at the bar . If they were not satisfied that the wound was so inflicted , " unquestionably it would be their duty to acquit the prisoner of the crime of murder , and then their attention would be directed to the question , whether they were satisfied the prisoner was guilty of the misdemeanour of having concealed tne birth of the child . The great question was whether they were satisfied beyond that reasonable doubt wliich humane , sensible , and firm inen might entertain that the " prisoner was guilty of the murder with which she was charged . The jury Acquitted the prisoner of murder , but found her Guilty of concealing the birkh . She wa ' a sentenced to be imprisoned aud ; kept to hard labour for two years .
: OXFORD CIRCUIT . -Stafford , Tuesday , March 18 . —Tue Gauk Laws and-the " Premier . "—James Walton , aged 25 , and George Promt , aged 33 , two resolute-looking men , were indicted for having on the night of the 28 th of December last , entered certain lands at Tamboura , the propertyof the Right Hon . Sir Robert Peel , witli several othev persons unknown , armed with guns ,. for the purpose of destroying game . Tlie preserves ; , of the Right Hon . Baronet had been visited very frequently about Christmas last , by poachers from Lickfield , who , assembling in large gangs , rendered their capture by the gamekeepers a matter uf great danger , if not of entire impossibility . On the night of Friday the 27 th of December , a party of poachers , armed with guns and bludgeons , to the number of fourteen or sixteen , were discovered by four watchers on land of Sir . Robert Peel , called Turnabout-field , and subsequently in the Rougli-cover , a favourite retreat , for pheasants , in which the Right Hon . Baronet had ' intended to afford his guests the gratification of a battue on the following morning . In compliance with the orders of their master , the watchers made no attempt to capture the trespassers , and avoided a conflict under such disadvantageous circumstances ; but one of them recognised among the party the prisoner Walton , whom be bad known as " a Lichheld chap" for five years ; and two other keepers were equally positive as to the identity of Proffit . A muzzled mastiff , which ran from the keepers into the
Rough on the report of guns in that cover , was found dead in tlie morning , the entire contents of a gun- ' barrel having entered the body © f the spirited but luckless animal . —Mr . Yardley addressed the jury for the prisoners , and on their behalf set . up . a very plau-. sibleaftta , but notwithstanding all the skill and care with which it had been concerted , the attempt to establish it was frustrated by the searching cross- ' examinations of the counsel for the prosecution . —The jury , having consulted for about twenty minutes , pronounced both prisoners Guilty . Apreviousconvictiou . fora similar offence was produced by the governor , 01 the gaol against Proflit , who was sentenced to seven , years transportation , and Walton to an imprisonment of two years with hard labour . . . NORFOLK-CIRCUIT . Bedford , Tuesday , Makgu 18 . —Rape ok aj « - Infast . —John Gibbs was indicted for feloniously assaultin" and abusing Sarah Gale , an infant , under ten years of age . The prisoner is a labourer , advanced in life , being now of the age of sixty-four , and lives at Patenkall , where also the prosecutrix" resides . On the 9 th of October the latter was sent on a message by her mother to ' the shop to buy some plums . ' On her way she met tlio prisoner in a path , and there left ' him ; but on her return she again encountered him , ' when ' . lie took her basket from her , and accomplished tlieoffence with which he was' now charged . j ' rom tlie evidence of , the - girl's motlier , it appeared that she inade no complaint of the man till she was discovered , on the 1 st of November , to be suffering from great pain , and " ttien 7 under the threat of a flogging , she disclosed tlie transaction of the 9 th of October , and added also that the prisonerliad repeated his offence on the 24 th . - The prisoner was found Guilty , and sentenced to be transported for the erm of Ma natural life . .
To Tee Trades' Delegates About To Assemble In London.
TO TEE TRADES' DELEGATES ABOUT TO ASSEMBLE IN LONDON .
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VOL . YIII . NO . 384 .. LONDON , SATURDAY , ¦ MRCH 22 , 1845 . ¦; : j ,, T . J ^/^ r ^ 4 ; . rtCT
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AM ) MTIOiiL TRADES' JOURNitt .
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Northern Star (1837-1852), March 22, 1845, page unpag, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct1307/page/1/
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