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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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GEAND DEMONSTRATION . TSnJSS ? HAKT ENTRANCE XKTO Wf A Wfjt ** kjft'i }»; fi . OP THE LIBERATED PATRIOTS , MESSRS . R . J . WCHARDSOX , BCTTERWORTH , DOYLE , SMITH , AXD SCOTT , ON CHBISTMAS DAY . tto the stove day , so-anxiously expected , and eagerly bailed by the men of Manchester , the greatest enthusiasm prevailed , aad thousands delayed themselves in procession to welooaie home the Whig victims of oppression , injustice , and tyranny . A splendid placard -was isssed by the National Charter Assoeatxa , a "week prsvje-ns , calling , in tbe toUawin * terns , up « n . the people « nd the trades : —
«* Welcome the -noble pitriots . The trades and me public are Tesyectfuily inibnBed , that on Christmas Day there will be a public procession to Trelc » B » to Manchester those brave and noble patmts , Ricbardaon , Doyle , Btcterworth , Smith , bcutt , Johnson ., Wild , and Aitkin , wi » bisr-e sufi-red imprisonment for thaititawiing ths rights of labour , and the ^ rirciples of the P « op : e ' s Charter- Me * of Manchester ! ye sons o t toil , show your nwjral strength , te chea ? on those brave patriots , irh » , wiDeiH their dungeons , swcre by the <} od of Justice , that they -woold leave their prisons neither silRnoed nor -dismayed I "
The erestjustiSed the most sanguine expectations , and gate tbe lie to the enemy ' s prognostics . Every preparation had been previously ma-ie to make it effertrre and unparalleled . All were on the tiptoe of expectation . Early in the morning's daws , a few of the good sad true fricDCS departed from Manchester , to meet the liberated patriots , at Eccles , * distance of four soles , where they breakfasted . A % o » t half-pasl twelve ck , the -rives of Messrs . Hkhardson and Btibtenrarth followed , accompanied by Ut . Littler , and a few -others , in two-splendid carriages , «* ch drawn fey fo « i -horses , with two postilions . The scene was ot the Bost- » fiecting description , and did honour to the Chartists uf Manchester .
After a hearty greeting , they enjoyed the company ef their ¦ srives for some time id interesting conversation . Mr ^ Richardson and Mr . Butterworth looked remarkably well , and did not appear to have sufEsred materially in their'health , Mr . 3 > oyle seemed extremely -wors * nd esacisted in his appearance , and has suffered greaUy inhatealth . South and Scott , wha were liberated a sbosttime since , are also -welL Messrs . Aitkin , Jotmaoa , and "Wild , ~<* Asbton , had previously proceeded to that town to sfcund a dinner thttre , which prevented u faora enjoying the pleasure of their company and attendance at the procession , though we are happy to learn that theyare in good health .
The proeessioft , according to aaao&ncement , formed themselves in-Stephens-sq-iare , at twelve o'eiock .-Frcm the snborban Tillages , the principal streets , lanes , alleys , garrets , and cellars , issued persons of both sez . es , all wending their way to that point—all seeming aaxioos to testify their hatred of tyranny . When ail assembled , it was allowed on all hands thai it was the greatest display ever witnessed in Manchester . About a . quarter before one , the procession commenced moving , Mr . -Joseph Linney and Mr . Holdea being marshals to meet the liberated prisoners . The following is the order in which the procession
moved ^—From the Square they proceeded up GIdbam-street , along Swan-street , Shude-hill , Old Millgate , Deausg » te , Bridge-street , and through Salford , to the appointed place . In front of the procession was a white nag , with a beautiful rose , followed by a painted representation of file Pete ? loo Massacre . Kext -followed three email fla § s , on which were inacribed—The Hose , the Thistle , and the Harp . Banter . Inscription—United Carpenters . BAXl .
Procession—Mtn of the trade . A White Banner , edged with gold fringe , bearing the Arms of the Fustian Shearers , inscribed en the front—Friendly Society of Fasrian Shearers . Rereree Universal Suffrage , Annual Parliaments , Tote -by Ballot , No Property Qualification , and Payment to " Members of Parliament
B 1 XO Members of the Trade . & > lendid Silk Banner , with a figure of Britannia in another , and that was—had they gained one jut Iheeentre . Lns-ription— For a nation to be free , it ia m ° re of liberty since that time ? i" Ne , " and aaffieisRt that she wills it . i " Yes . ") Unless they had gained Universal Suffrage , Serene— England expects every man to do his duty . \ "Vote by Ballot , anil Annual Parliaments , he was the Bavd . ¦ same man still . ( Load demonstrations of applause ; ! If they had not obtained these , one class of society
Tw ^ fni -r » tit , « - insrr-bed—Jomws' Union Societv . BeaatLM Banner , inscr . bed—Joiners' Union Society . Serene— "We joiners j-jin for the rights of labour , fallowed by members of tee trade Buss , inscribed—Repeal of vhe >* ew Poor Law
BAXD . Large Splendid Tlag , with white fringe . Inscription —Salford Charter Association-Beverae— "S or a nation vo be free , it 1 b Eumcient that jfcewiliaii . BASD . Large splendid Green Silk Flag , inscribed—Calico PrinteW Friendly Sociatv . Beverse—United we stand , divided we fall : Members of the tiade . Beautiful banner—Inscribed—Society of Ladies' Shoemakers . . Serene—We unite to maintain oot rights inviolate : prosperity a ; tend oar cause . BASD . . Procession— ^ Members of the trade . -Portrait on canvass of Dr . M'Dtfuall—Inacribed—Dr . P . M- M'Doaall is oar friead . Procession .
Beautiful banner , inscribed—• Manchester Female Political Union—Followed by a brass band and 1 , 000 females , many ¦ 4 t whom wore garland and wreaths of evergreens . Five open carriage ? . 1 st . CoEtaining the Executive Council and Mr . Sairatow , the West R " : < T : ng Lectsirer , accompanied 'with Mr , . Thompson , of Xewcast ) e , in splendid plaids aad silk scarfs , with rosettes , aad ensmdied cards of the Kational Cnarter Associauon 4 ? 'n their breast a small beaotifal card , inscribed—The Executive . Carriage , containing the Victim fund Committee . Tii 2 three othtr ( sirriagts contained gentlemen and ladies , whose nam * . * we aid not know , wearing g = trl » da , ' Ac A l&Tga banaer . Inscription—Liberty a * d Equality . BAND .
Procession . A mort splendid banner , containing a btautifKl Poctzait-of the-Koble O'Connor . iMcripUoa—O'Connor , Hani ' s successor . BASD . Procession . A most magnificent bascer . Inscribed— Manchester Political Union . Reverse—Uaiversil Suffrage , Tote by Ballot , and . Annual Parhameais . A large banner . lascrjpUon—^ For a nation to be free , ' tis sufficient ihat * he wil ; s it Splendid banner—inscribed—Universal -Suffrage , Equitabie Aigtiitmtnt . Procession and Band .
In proceeding pxst the Xew Bailsy , Sir Coirl « i Shaw observed to Mr . Linnsy , Che MacshaL , that he was toigh \ y gratified with the order , sobriety , ana respectability of the procession , and expressed his ast'jn-< hment al tbejunasliig extent of tbe nuxebers who swept tile breatith of the streets for upward * of a iiuie iu iength , PneeiseiyAt frro o ' cletk , tee proecasioii arrived at Cross-laoe , "when the air resounded ¦ with the mosr deafening acdaTnation * , wtach leicmb . sd njore a triumphal celebration fif some disanguisb . fcri victory . tJinTi the « £ caggl » oi dead Chartism . A uiore imposing and EiagniiSeeat scene aow opened on oer visiun , namely , the exchange of t £ i jusands of kina wishes and gratnlations &a seeing the prisoners once lucre , at liberty ; tbe prooession thta rt « uined its orderly the in
and stately maneh ^ carriages which the . p airiou were , falling in fcsiore that of the Executive . ; it then moved up the Crescent tkrough Salforo ; the b = lla Struck up a merry p ** l , as tfeough in syazpathy . gf the people , whieh , with the splendid music , had a most enlivening effect . On passing Richardson * * residence , the cheers were aost ^ athusiastic . it then , proceeded over Tictoris Bridge , &oathy d » sr , and proceeded aiong Market-streit , gaT « Lke beastly biped Taylor -with Jfeddy and the preeiflos jGuardita seveml roand * of the most dismal groans -ever heard , ai . d saluted ihe Advertiser with proaaeted cheers . Ic then mared
through ilosley-fctreet , I * o * er Jiiosley-street , Bridse water-street , and Tvnman-Btaeei to the Hall of Sdenoe , the open space near which n-aecompleitly nUed up by the Tast procession , thousands of wham eroicued into the spacious Hall , while the basis were playing several popuhu BSiionil airs , and aftar tho libeiaitd prisoners bad partook of a slight reflection , the dsase multitudes who could cot obtain adtai&Eien , moved off in excellent order through the various streets accompanied by the bands , and separated highly delighted with the day's proceedings . Iha liberated prisoners , on entering the vast edifice , were sain tod with cheering the Biost enthusiastic we ever heard ; after which ,
Mr . Bdwa . b . d CcrbaX presented himself , and , after the cheering , and waving of hats and handkerchiefs had subsided , proposed that ilr . Joseph Linney , late Boroogbieere ot . Manchester and Saiford , take the ebair . Mr . Wseelee rose to second it Mz . IjiirxEy , having taken the chair , said , he hoped ¦ Dd truited that the name by which he 1-xwi been iatrodoced to them would be forgotten , ami never be brought ? p agaia <'; Xjhey were met that evening to hear from // me gCT ^ iemen behind him , who had been imprisoned . in ^ KaAMp&ting tip ) cause of the people and of humanity , * : ^ 0 ii £ Ja $ mDf&fm of their sufferings while incarcerate 4 , ^^ pSTilikz opinion as to the best way of obtaining thtir MSlH ^ ta . He wj « desired to state , by these ge&tle-^^ 3 |^ ttprt ' the company must rot aspect from tiiem lozg laJMgbMyttiat ' rSgEt , as they had not yet had the op-W ^^ mij . <* going to their homes , and as they were BBP . ' ¦
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desirous of meeting their wives and families at their own firesides . ( Hear , hear . ) He hoped those present would attend the dinner , which would be given to these gentlemen next week , on which occasion they would enter into detail . Those who were to attend that dinotr would be the labouring classes of England ; for they had none of the higher classes , and very few of the middle classes , to assist them . He hoped the proceedings at the dinner would be conducted with the same peace and harmony as their procession tb&t day . He would now introduce Mr . Richardson to them . ( Applause . ) Mr . R . J . Ricbardsox rose , and was satated with shouts of applause , waving of handkerchiefe , and clapping of hands , which lasted a considerable time . 8 irfflice being restored , he said he felt at that moment
somewhat overpowered , in again facing a public sudience , in consequence of having beeashut out from ¦ the world f « nine long months . He knew they would bear with kim if he could not address them in the sane spirit as he had hitherto done ; but this he did assore them of , tihat he had tbe same spirit now that he ever had . ( At this , a loud clap of thundering hurras burst from every part of the Hall . ) He had been prosecuted by the Government ; yes , and by the Re- form Government of 1830 , for his advocacy of Reform principles . He had been prosecuted by this Reform Government for advocating those very doctrines which placed the Rtform Administration at the helm of pul&c affairs . ( Hear , bear . ) He had been prosecuted for advocating the doctrines which Sir John Cam Hobhouse did when out of place ,
namely , that the House of Commons did not represent the people , and that the people would only do justice te themselves and justice to the nation at large , if they would reform that House by brute force ; if they would pull the members-of the House of Commons out by the ears , lock the doors , and put the key in their pockets . ¦; He ar , and cheering . ) Tkis was the doctrine of Sir -Joan Cam Hobhousa whea he ¦ was a Radical Reformer , but now , after he had been raisei to ofRce , he had become a Finality Reformer , and was ready to prosecute those who were disposed to tread in his former steps . But he would tell them that , notwithstanding all their perstcutions , he was yet the same man that he was before he went to prison . ( Loud and tremendous cheering . ) He was still a Radical Reformer , and he hoped tne people would be found to leave him before he left them . ( Hear , and applause . ) What was the object of the present Government in prosecuting him and the rest of his coadjutors in the work of reform , but to carrv out tbe great finality principle declared by
Lord John Kussell , to put a stop to all further reform in the representation of the peopla But , he asked them , had they succeeded ? S ' o . He a * ked them to appeal to these men vrho had been expatriated from their native land ; he asked them to appeal to those men who are now suffering in their dungtons , he asked them to appeal to the body politic at large , whether they had changed one jot of their principles . Notwithstanding aU the prosecutions that had taken place , he did not know u single person who had changed his principles . ( Cheers . ) The prosecution of the Government had not had one jot of influence cr effect upon him . ^ App lause . ! He was a Radical Reformer of the old school of Majur Cartwright and Henry Hunt . They prosecuted the old MajorJ ; they prosecuted Cobbctt ; they prosecuted Henry Hunt , but not one of them did they divert from their principles ; and should he stand there a pupil of such noble men , and not follow their example . No . ( Cheers . ) They might prosecute him tiil Doomsday ; But he would not alter . iTremendoas cheers . ) The Chairman had mentioned
-that there was to te ? dinner given m the course of ! next W'etk , and that he conceived would be the best | time to enter into detail , as to the effects of prosecution j and the steps which it would be best to take , in order i to obtain Universal Suffrage , Annual Parliaments , and ! Tote by Ballot . ( Cheers . ) These were subjects upon which he would go more into detail on that occasion . I In conclusion , he thanked all those who hart fowaken j thtir family parties for th « purpose of meeting them , and expressed a hope that they would never slacken in ! their efforts to obtain Radical Reform , and to mate ' . England what it ought to be—the envy of
surroundyiC IIVUJJJ UW VXAO »¦ ±± lt y O ^ f **^ v * fc »^ U 1 U 4 »*• iinn vwu . vt Castle , he would answer that question by asking them ! ing nations , and the glory of the world . The speaker fsat down , and was gretted -with loud and long-con-; tinned cheering . j The Chairman next introduced Mr . BCTTERWORTH , ! who received the same demonstration of app ' . ause as I the former speaker . He said , if there was one man or woman in that assembly who chose to ask him if he ! held the same political opinions ttut night as he did previously to the Whigs p ' . acing him in Lancaster Castle , he would answer that question by asking them
: would always be the slaves of the other ; and it became j them as Chartists to proceed in their labours until | they got th-. m . He hoT > ed the same indulgence would I be extended to him as had been extended to his esteemed ) friend Mr . Ric ' iaruson—to be excused from addressing ! tkem any longer lhat evening . He hoped again to see I them at the dinner on Xew Year ' s Eve , -when he would j go more into detail . The speaker sat down amid a j general burst of cheering from all parts of the capacious i building . ! Mr . George Hex by Smith then came forward . i and rcccivtd a volley of cheers . He commenced by
1 £ . v \ Arin t fVo tti ^«« £ » » n tttVi ?/* H Vi a liorl Tao&jTI cptMnrvsi / i I exposing the manntr in -which he had been entrapped , I namely , by policemen being sent to take notes of a I speech he made in June , 1 S 39 . He was warned of j Uiis , but he was sure that no man could have made a j more constitutional speech than be did on that occai sion ; buv because he was a Chartist he was a marked man , and the authorities were determined to entrap him . But he defiei the Whigs to change him . God t had impViiiied in his breast a love of justice , which he hoped would never be eradicated from h : u mind . He t would ttll the Whigs—that base , bloooy , and brutal fiction—that he vras still the same man that he was
j previous to l > eiLg prosecuted . j Mr . ScoiT nuxt rose , and said that he felt himself ' incapable of isakiEg a speech , but he would inform j thrni that if he were not s Chartist btfore , he was now ! a firm one , < Hear , hear , and cheers . ) And , notwith-: standing all his sufferings in the cause , he was -willing ¦ to suffer more n .: fcer than change his principles ; and , j though the i-aiiuw . 3 mii : h : be ertcted , as it was for his ! friend , that noble pair . ot , John Frost , it would strike ¦ eo u-Tror -u- r -ori him . He ^ ras willing to lay his head I on the block ; he was -willing to be hung upon the gallows , before he would c ^ ase being an advocate of the People ' s C-iart-r . 'Loud cheering ) He was still ! with the peopie ; he would remain on their side
j wherever he might be placed . He heartily thanked the I Turku ;;; men of Manchester ' for their expressions of I kindness and ojnndejics towards him as a sufferer in j tLe cause of-CLartis'ii , aiu ! with these observations he would bid them goud night . iLoud cheers . ) This | speech produ . et a feeling of the greatest respect for the ' jouBg man , S&jll . 1 The CiiAi $ ii 5 . \ N then called on Mr . Bairstow , the West Ridiaj lecturer , -who vras received in the most enthusiast'c mucntr . , ; Mr . BaIIISSu ^ - commenced by saying , Mr . Chair-; man , Manubejler denizens of the world ' s democracy , j this day ha . s l- ^ ea a day of high exultation , ef proud j 'iir&uy ; ic his Uemonstrattd the majesty of the people , ) the enthusiasm of patriotism , triumph over savage '; Whig perseeutkm , the utter inefficiency to put down I our cause , and ihe gTandeur of mural beroitm in the i display of incomparable strength , coupled with the
i forbearance of regal mercy i . Load cbeers . ) Sir , 1 omnipotent as the pe-ple lave shown themselves to ! be , tne whoie of that day ' s proceedings has proved i' Iht-m posstWrd of a spirit of decown , while glowing j jiEtier exciienu-nt toroer . ng on frenzy . He felt proud J of the honour of bein ? siade their representative and j cjoyth-pieee in returning the sincere .-t congratulations ' and thanks of the jCon ; : nittee to the trades , who had j so . inoUy come forvrard to do honour to consistent , persevering , an . l ut'tauuted patriotism , not in the ranks ' , of tb % reaped ib ' es , but from the working classts , of l men bo&fet' . ng no higher origin thau the cradle of in-! dustry . who claim neiigher immunities than industry ' s , r .-ghts , and ¦ wished fur no more exalted honour than . the . possession of their just and inalienable rights . Mjr . Bmrstow addressed the meeting at great i length , and passed a hi ^ h eulo ^ iuui oa the liberated I patriots , und the vari'oas trades who had assembled to i do tUtiE iionour . He was repeatei . 'iy cheered , and coni clodud i > y moving the fallowing
resolution;' Ihat this meeting return their sincere thanks to tho * e tr . ideo who have joined in procession U > WtJcome home the lien who haTe suffered in the caute of the miliiuos ; snd this meeting cill upon the trades general ; j io form themselTe * into C . 'iarvr Ai » ecia ; ions , to gain a fair representation ic the Honse of Common , in ordee that the tame pioteetion may be obtaised for the property at the labourers , as the property of the wealthy clssavi . " Mr . HtiiE cose to second the rtsolutioD , which was carried by acciaaia ' . ion . The CHJ . I& 8 U * then introduoed
Mr . D 07 LE , -aho bsd retireu for a short tune . He was reccivea wiih enthusiastie cheering . He said , Ladies and Brother Radicals of Winchester , he knew they would excuse him fi-oni addressing them to any great length- Indeed , ic vrould be very imprudent in him to do so , having suffered Terj severely with a complaint called the JBnx , and he was then in a very had . state of heaJth . Me wtuld make but few « bserrations on the present occasion . He begged them to accept hir grateful thank * for ' . he kind reception which he and his fellow-sufferer * had niet with that day . He could assure them that ha return ^ d them his thanks in the true sincerity of & Republican" iicart The people of Manchester had Kiown their att Kfanieot to the cause
for which he had sufiered . He t . ^ pressed his joy at witnessing such vast numbers of p-.-cj \ e wh j had joined in the demcastratio ; i to ¦ welcome him from the housa of bondsge . He felt proud thai he had been able , ander all the iufferiags which ha had endun . ^ . to maiataiu sufficient f wrtituUe of rticd . And he L VI proud that thevilti , dsstarniy , and perfidious . Whiga" had deemed him worthy of prosecutior ., for advucaiing ^^ rights of the frr s-jes ir . dAugbter ^ , > f iiii-ujtry . i V . e speaker then entered into a description uf the treaU ^ nt which he ' l ad received at the hands of the Governor . On the 3 7 th -A April , fce and his friend Smith arri * ^ d at the prison . The first person they met was Captain Anthmy , -vroo said he knew them to be Ch * rti * t *
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He , together with Smith , was ordered to take off his shoes and stockings , and stand barefoot on the cold floor . This he resisted on the ground of a bad state of health The Governor came % nd asked him why he did not obey the orders and take off his shoes and stockings . He again told him he was in a bad state of health , and that it might be dangerous to si and on the cold floor bo long . The Chovemor in reply told him he would have to do many things while he remained there that he had not been in the habit of . doing . Doyle pointed to the Act of Parliament to shew him that it was not consistent for him to press him to take off his shoes and stockings . The Governor persisted and Doyle ultimately told him he would not do it . He « sked him again and again , but received the same
answer . The Governor then ordered him to be locked up for three days and three nights , to be fed on a kind of food called skilly , mixed with meal and water , rosin , &c , and only just what would keep body and soul together . He continued to reason with the turnkey to bring him paper , pen , and ink , to wr ite to a magistrate ; he at length procured them and did so ; the magistrate came and he communicated to him how he had been served . The magistrate replied by telling him ( Doyle ) that he thought of getting master outside , but he would be deceived if he thought of being master there . The speaker continued to sh « w many indignities to which he had been subjected , and gave many anecdotes which at times convulsed tho whole assembly with laughter , while others called forth execration upon his tormentors , and shouts of " shame , shame . "
Mr . TillmaN came forward to move the second resolution , which was seconded by Mr . Curran , and carried with applauae . " That this meeting tender their most grateful thanks to Messrs . Richardson , Djyle , Butterworth , Smith , and Scott , for their noble and persevering defence of the rights of the people , and congratulates them on their restoration to their wives , families , and friends , and hopes they will still persevere in the cause of right against micht , until the People ' s Charter becomes the law of the land . "
Mr . Wiieeler then proposed a vote of thanks and confidence to others who are yet in prison , and wished them a merry Christmas and a happy New Year , not forgetting Feargus O'Connor , Vincent , and J . B . O ' Brien . Carried with three times three , and a little ' un in . Mr . Linney was then requested to leave the chair , and Mr . Bairstow was voted to take his place . A vote of thauks was given to Mr . Joseph Linney , for his able services , both as marshal to the procession and as chairman to the meeting . Carried with three cheers . Mr . Li . \' . \ £ Y , in a neat and pleasing speech , responded to the expressions of the assembly , und pledged himself always to be at his post
Three cheers were given for Frost , Williams , and Jones ; three for the Northern Star , and the independant pi ess ; three for the Charter ; and thus finished one of the most orderly , peaceful , and sober democratic displays ever witnessed in Manchester . Among tbe assembled thousands , not a drunken man was seen , nor anything approximating thereto , during the whole of the day .
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COUNTY MEETING TO ADDRESS THE QUEEN AND PRINCE ALBERT . THE ARISTOCRACY AND THE CHARTISTS . ( Abridged from Hie Galeshead Observer . ) It was officially announced in the Guteshcad Observer of Saturday last , that a county meeting would be htld on Tuesday , Dec . 22 , to address the Queen and her Consort on the birth of a Princess ; and at noon on that day , Sir Hedworth Williamson , Bart , the High Sheriff , took the chair in the County Court , Durham , in the presence of a public meeting of the inhabitants . The Bight Hon . Lord Ravens worth , the Hon . H . T . Liddell , M . P ., J . W . Williamson , E .-q ., Col . Shipptrdgon , Jchn Bramwell , Esquire , ( Umler Sheriff , ( Dr , Fenwick , the Kev . W . S . Uiily , F . D . Johnson , Esq ..
John Pemberton , Esq ., Ii . E . D . Siiatto , Esq ., Kev , Mr . Shipperdsou , Messrs . Green , Salvin , Hays , Shields , Robson , Shaw , Tbwaites , and Stafford , ana other gentlemen occupied the bench . At the Barrister ' s table , among other persons , eat Mr . B . Owen , of Stockton-upon-Tees , a Chartist leader , whose presence led to an inference that an amendment was to be moved on the address to Lor Majesty . In the body of the Court , too , there were several members of the working classes . So shy was the muster of the " nobility , gentry , and clergy , " that all speculation on the issue of the meeting waa doubtful and hesitating . TUnt the division , if one should take place , would be a near one , wa » alJ that could be determined with certainty . The total number of persons present ilid not amount to one hundred .
The business commenced with the reading of the requisition and thd Sheriff ' s summons . After which Lord Ravenswokth moved an address , couched in the usual congratulatory language . Mr . J . W . Williamson , Chairman of the Quarter Session , seconded the address . The High Sheriff having inquired If any gentleman had any remarks to offer , Bomo person stuod forward in the gallery , amidst the loud applause of the working-class portion of the meeting ; whilst a whisper went round , on und near the Bench , of" Who is tliis ?" —a question to which none could obtain an answer for some time ; but we aft « rwarus found that the speaker was
Mr . DeegaN , of Sunderlar . d , who presented himself to the notici of the meeting , amidst considerable applause from a number of Chartists assembled in the body of the Court , and in the galkry where tho speaker hinuelf stood .. He B&id , a-s this waa a meeting of in-J . abitanisof the county of Durham , called for the purpose of congratulating her Majesty on an auspicious event which barf recently taken place , he presumed be should be perfeetly in order if he made a few remarks . He had come there for the purpose of moving an amendment , which should contain the sentiments of the great mass of the people , of tbe county of Durham ; and in doing so , ha begged to assure them that he was actuated by as strong feeliugs of loyalty and attachment to their most gracious sovereign as any nobleman or gentleman present ( Applause . ) He begged also to state , that , in bis opinion , lueutings of tins sort were the ones which were necessary at the present time . Himself and his friends were always happy to have an
opportunity of speaking when they beheld gentlemen assembled who had large property in the country , and who must be supposed to enjoy great influence . It waa not his intention to say anything which could ba construed into personal reflection upon the gentlemen present , or tLose who now enjoyed property in this county . His object was to show that the working people- of the county of Durham were anxious to testify their regard , their attachment , and their loyalty to the Queen ; while they , at the s . iiria time , reasonably expected to be allowed an opportunity of stating to her Majesty those particular grievances under -which they Were labouring at the present time . ( App ' ause . l Before he made any further observations , it would be as well to reid the address which he hail written , so that every gentleman present would have an opportunity of judging whether his sentiments coincided with his iMr . Deegan ' s ) own . Mr . Deegan then read the following paper : —
' That this meeting , believing it to be the duty of the people , at all times , t » cherish sentiments ot' affection and loyalty towards her Majesty the Queeu , aschit ; f magistrate of this great empire , and also , when conveying such sentiments , to bring under her Majesty ' s notice such subjects as may seem calculated to promote the honour and iiappiness of her reign , does therefore p'Coinniend that the following loyal and dutifui address be preseuted to her Majesty on behalf of ttia inhabitants of the county < jf Durham : — " TO THE QUEE . V'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY . ¦ " Madam , —We , your Majesty ' s loyal and dutiful subjects , beg to congratulate your Majesty on the event of your Majesty having given birth to a daughter , and your recovery from the same .
" We desire , at the same time , to assure your Majesty , that we da this—not in compliance with established form and custom—not as an homage due to your tank and station—but in obedience to those great and E&cred principles whieh teach us to regard , with feeliags ef affectionate sympathy , every member of the human family ; tor , waatever may be the distinctions of rank and power , which necessity may permanently , or custoai and expediency temporarily require , we are all essentially of one nature—have one common interestone Master to serve , and one God to adore . ( Applause . ) " UaUcr the solemn feeling inspired by this conviction , w « now address y * ur Majesty . Our loyalty to you is , therefore , co-existent and identical with faithfulness to truth , attachnwetto our country , and devotion to hamanity . VVe feei that in the belief that your Majesty can and will reciprocate such sentiments , we are rendering you a higher honour , than by indulging in slavish a > ad lulsome adulation .
" We rejoice that your Alsjesty is now placed in the endearing and responsible situation of a mother , because such an event , by developing maternal feeling , and widening jour sympathies , is fitted to give your Majesty a . better understanding of , and a deeper feeling for , the condition « f your faithftil subjects . ( Applause . ) Believing that it is our duty te endeavour to render tout Majesty ' s reign honourableand happy , we , in all humility and sincerity , venture to point out to your M .-jesty & few means by which tkat power , Tested in you for the good of the people , may be used for that
righteous end . We beg , tliertfore , to represent to your Majesty the urgent necessity of appointing wise and jus * men to inquire into the serious and lamentable condition of the mass of the people of this country ; who , though living in a country iiaturally fertile , and though more enlightened , skilful , and industrious than any other people , are yet in a state of dreadful poverty and misery . We believe that your Majesty will find that this state of things has been producer * by a system of foice and fraud , instituted by buii men , through the monopoly of that power which belongs to the people . ( Applause . )
' We beg also to remind your Majesty , that many good men , possessed of acute fteiings and upright intentions , having honestly and fearlessly exposed those evils , and desired a remedy called the People's Charter , have , for so doing , been crueliy maltreated , and are now deprived of ihtir liberty , aad are suffering imprisonment in various dunge&us arid prisons , or have even been exiled from tceir native land for a similar cause .
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" We i therefore , humbly pray that your Majesty will at once order your servants to put an end to this cruelty and wrong , and so teston peace and harmony to this now distracted country . ( Applause . ) " We are , your Majesty ' s faithful and affectionate , though wronged subjects , the inhabitants ef the county of' Durham . " , . In moving this amendment , it is my desire to make no observation that is calculated to wound the feelings of any gentleman present . I am glad to find , that no obstruction is placed in the way of an expression of popular feeling , and of the views which the people maintain and &dvacate . 1 am also glad to find that working men , and those of what are called the higher classes , can meet pleasantly , and speak their respective
sentiments , and come amicably to an agreement I Applause . ) There are now two addresses before the meeting , and , gentlemen , it remains to be decided which of them shall be adopted—youru or ours , no one can deny that the people are suffering grievous wrongs and privations . I am not going to attribute this state of things to any particular partyto the Conservatives or to the Whigs . Our spirit is , to unite , as working men , to promote such changes aa would add to our mutual benefit , and to the general peace and ! welfare of the nation ; and Iain sure that it must be a matter of deep concern to the aristocracy ,
that instead of the good feeling which once existed between themselves and the people , they are now looked upon with disapprobation and distrust , as the cause of popular wrongs and sufferings , and the great o ' ustacle in the path to popular freedom . ( Applause . ) The people believe themselves to be cruelly injured—to be deprived of their fair share of influence in the Legislature . We are virtually told that we have no right or title to any share in the making of the laws by which "ve are to be governed . We should not express ourselves ho strongly on this subject , if those who possess political power exercised it for the general good .
The High Sheriff—I must really call your attention to theiwords oi the requisition . This meeting is convened " for the purpose of addressing her Majesty and his Royal Highness upon the auspicious event of the . birth of a Princess . " Such being the sole object of tho meeting , we cannot go into any other . VVe cannot enter upon the discussion of subjects -which nro irrelevant both to the words and spirit of the requisition . Mr . Deegan—I do not consider my amendment to be at all irrelevant For instance , I think it quite appropriate , in addressing her Majesty on a recent event , to urt ; e upon her to call to her assistance wise and just men , to investigate the condition of the people-( Applause . ) i
The High Sheriff—If you wish to have a county meeting for tbe discussion of the state of the country , send mo a proper requisition ; and if I have reasonable grounds for believing that such a meeting will be unattended with any interruption of tho public peace , I will convene it most readily . ( Applause . ) But as for grafting an amendment like tbe present upon a requisition for a meeting-simply to address her Majesty and Prince Albert on the birth of a Princess , I really cannot permit it I should feel that I was not doing my duty , if I did not cull ' you , or any of the gentlemen on my right or my left to order , for proposing the adoption of such a course .
Mr . Deeoan—We are callud together , it is true , for the express purpose of congratulating th « Queen and her Consort on the birth ot a Princess j but while tendering our loyal congratulations ,, I think that we may also , without any breach of order , lay before her Majesty the wrongs and sufferings of the people , and request her to investigate them . The High Sheriff .- I must differ from you . We are here for an especial purpose , and to that we must adhere . 1 repeat , if I am properly requested to call a meeting to consider the general condition of the people , I will call such a meeting , if I see that it is likely to
to go off peaceably ; but I cannot allow you , or any other person , Whig or Tory , to engraft an irrelevant amendment upon tho present meeting . You may move an amendment , and I will put it to the meeting , if it only be relevant But the amendment which you have made , I cannot put . You are decidedly going from the purpose of the meeting . I do not wish to stifle the discussion upon which you wish to enter , but it must be entered upon at a meeting convened for the especial purpose ; and such im ; eting , I again say , I shall readily call , if there be n reasonable prospect that it will proceed and terminatu peacuably . ( Applause . )
Mr . Deegan : I have no desire , 1 assure you , Sir , to disturb the harmony of this meeting ; and . I will only say , in conclusion , that I wish the people were always treated with the same csurtesy which they have experienced thi « "day . ( Applause . ) Accepting your pledge to convene a county meeting , whenever you may receive a proper requisition , I refrain from further observation , and , Ieave my amendment in the hands of tbe meeting . ( Applause . ) The High Sheriff : I wish not to be misunderstood . I have given no pledge whatever . What I said was , that , on receiving a proper requisition , I ' would convene a meeting , if I thought that it would go off in an orderly manner .
Mr , Owen , another Chartist , then rose and said , with all due respect tu the gentlemen who proposed the former address , I beg leave to state that I differ from their address , and give my preference to the amendment . And for this reason , 1 conaider that I myself—• chough 1 have no objection to own that I have stood at that bar—tbut 1 have been tried ft » r telling truth—tried by her Majesty ' s Ministers—that I am equally as loyal a subject aa any othtr gentleman here present And , further , that no gentleman present will with greater pleasure witness the happiness and well-being of her Majesty than myself . But considering that the amendmeut enib-idles the filings of Vhe community of this county much mote effectually than the original motion , 1 , with all due respect , beg to second the amendment . ( Applause . )
Mr . Embleion , of Gateshead , said , I have heard both the addressee read , both the original address and the amendment . And if the original address bad gone the full length , 1 , for one , would have given it my hearty support . But as the original address only goes so far , ami no further , and does riot embody in it the beuetitof tht > wbolo country at large , I , for one , will not give it my consent . And , gentlemen , as the amendment embodies in it the : good of the whole people of Knglinid , and carries with it such high merits to her Majesty and tiie welfare of the people , I , for one , will give it my hearty ( Airport ( Applause . ) The High Sheriff—1 beg your pardon , Sir , for one moment . But I wish to ask if I am to understand that Mr . Deegan witfiurew his amendment ? Mr- DEiiGAX—Certainly not . Tho High Sheriff—( iu on , Sir , if you please .
Mr . Emuj . eton— I , for one , I aay , will give the amendment my support And my reason for supporting the amendment is this . I linil in the Word of God that blessed ace they that are merciful . I believe her Majesty to be merciful ; and 1 believe she will lend all the assistance in hor power to what is embodied in the amended petition . JMy friends and gentlemen , we Lave been all taught by the Word of God , many of us to say the Lord' Prayer—Tho High Sheriff —Now I must call you to order . What on earth bos the Lord ' s Prayer to do with her Majesty having given birth to a Princess ? ( Laughter . ) Confine -whatever you have to say to that event , and I shall be happy to hear you ; but I cannot allow you to proceed with any religious ov political disquisition that you please . Mr . Emuleton—I shall sit down , for the present , by stating that I shall give my hearty support to the amendment
Mr . Nicholas Bragg , of Darlington , next rose , and said—1 bi'g leave also to support the amendment of XIr Ds * gtui ; because , if the amendment were carried , it may bo the means of her Majesty enquiring into the grievances of the people at large . Whereas , if you adopt the other address—tliat moved by Lord ltavensworthit will i ; o to her Mujesty without informing her , any more than she has been iBformed for many years , of what lier people are suffering at the present time ; I also hope . Sir , that if the amendment is passed by this respectable meeting , those gentlemen on your right and your left will nuke it their duty to enquire whether the peopie havu real grievance to complain of , or not ; and if they have , I hope , -as men and as Ciiristiins , they will do what they can to alleviate our miseries .
The High Sheriff—I find I must remind you , also , that you must abide by the business of the meeting , and not enter upon political disquisitions on this occasion . Mr . Bragg—I have one question to ask you , Sir . What would you call a proper requisition ? Tbe High Sheriff—1 ? cannot sit , here to be crossquestioned iu this manner . Send me a requisition , and 1 wil ! judge of the propriety of acceding to it . Mr . . Bragg—I am not to be put off- ( Applause and disapprobation . ) You said " a proper requisition , " and I wish to know what sort of requisition you will consider a proper one ? You have pledged yourself to call a meeting . The . High Sheriff : Dont misapprehend me . I gave no unconditional pledge . When properly requested , and with a prospect that the meeting will be peaceable , I will call one : not otherwise .
Mr . Liddell—Mr . High Sheriff and Gentlemen , I may perhaps ibe permitted to say a few words in support of the original address , several persons having beea heard in support of the amendment which has so unexpectedly been brought under the consideration of this meeting . I concur niotft warmly with the mover of that amendment , in the saiufiction which he expressed , in the course of his spiiech , that a conciliatory and friendly spirit pervades this meeting ; and that every man , whatever his rank or station , is heard , on the present occasion , with perfect patience and temper by all parties . ( Applause . ) That X shall receive such a hearing , while I endeavour to lead you to prefer the
original address to the amendment , I hare the fullest confidence . It is certainly most diisirable , then , on occasions like the present , to adhere to the object of the meeting . The requisition calling thte meeting was made public—its purpose was clearly expressed , aad couid not be misunderstood . An address has been moved in strict-conformity with the Yeras of the requisition ; audit is' of the first . import :. 'uce , for the preservation of order in . ptiblic assemblies , . uk ! to keep down ill blood , that the objects . for which they were convened should not be departed from , indeed , if every subject uuder Heaven bo admitted for di wossft'n ,-under a limited requisition , then public Meetin t S 3 could not go on . We are , gentlemen , essentially a
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people attached to a constitutional monarchy . You all concur in loyalty to the Throne ; and we are now met here simply to express our attachment to her Majesty , as our Queen , as an individual , and as a woman , and to congratulate her on the birth of her child . ( Applause . ) The elderly gentleman who took part in tbe dUcussiun ( Mr . Embletoh ) , remarked , that if the address had embraced the welfare of the country at large , he would have given it his hearty support I hope to convince him , . before I sit down , that it does include the welfare of the nation . The form of government under which we live The High SHEarPF—I mast call your attention to the requisition , and confine you to the object of the meeting . ( Applause . )
Mr . Liddell—If the High Sheriff had waited a moment , he would have seen , I think , that I was not out of order . I was about to show how the address which , was moved by my noble father , and the event which we are met to celebrate , affect the people at large . Living , gentlemen , as we do , under a limited monarchy—r—The High Sheriff—This is irrelevant . Mr . Liddell—It ia on this account Mr . Deegan—If this strain of remark be persisted in , I shall claimthe right to reply . ( Loud applause . ) The High Sheriff—I think it is irrelevant to tbe subject under co'isideration . Mr . Liddell—It is on this account I rejoice in the birth of a Princess , who will preserve unbroken the hereditary succession to the throne . Mr . Deegan—So far as that goes .
Mr . Liddell—So far as that goes ! Surely the certainty of an unbroken hereditary succession to the throne is an object of just congratulation to all who are attached to the principles which placed the reigning family on the throne . And in that respect the birth of a Princess is a just subject of congratulation , and a fulfihnont of our best anticipations for a long continuance of the dynasty which now rules over us . I have thus spoken , to show that the people are not uninterested in this business ; and that a meeting culled to congratulate her Majesty on her safety , and the people
on tho birth of a Princess who may be the means of preserving the hereditary succession to the Crown unbroken . With all respect to the Chairman and every one here present , I have justified my&elf in alluding to the event as a proper subject of national congratulation . Beyond this , I will not say one word . The address moved by my noble father offers io the throne the congratulations of tbe people of this country . It does not go into extraneous mattor . The amendment dees , and embodies a vast deal of matter which is quite irrelevant and extraneous , and which we are not now met to discuss . ( Hissing . )
The High Sheriff—I shall not put the question whether the address shall be adopted or not You have heard the- address proposed and seconded Mr . Deegan—Am I to understand that you refuse to put the amendment t The High Sheriff—Yes ; I refuse to put the amendment , because it is not in accordance with the terms of the requisition . It contains a great deal uf irrelevant matter , of which no notice was given in the requisition ; and therefore I cannot put it You may vote upon the original question as you please . If you had brought forward an amendment which was relevant to the terms of the requisition , I should have put it . But without you expunge all irrelevant matter from the proposed amendment , I shall not put it to the meeting . ( Disapprobation . ) Mr .. Deegan—I consider the amendment would not be worth putting if I were to expunge the matter to which you allude .
Mr . Bragg—I understand , Mr . High Sheriff , that you are not the master but the servant of this meeting . ( Great applause . ) Under these circumstances , it is your duty , as High Sheriff of the county , to put the amendment to the meeting , and leave it to the people to say whether they will accept or reject it I hope you will do so , because I do not see that there is any thing irrelevant in the amendment ( Applause . ) It in so seldom that the people have an opportunity of getting an address seut to her Majesty , that they seize upon an occasion like this to lay , as far as practicable , a statement of their grievances before her .
The High Sheriff—I grant that the High Sheriff is the servant of tbe public . But he is also the guardian of order ; and it is his duty , on such occasions , to see that all is done right and properly . If any person , or set of persons , under the plea of one object , choose to engraft upon it matter which was never contemplated by the original terms of the requisition , the High Sheriff would depart from his duty if he did not prevent their following such a course of proceeding . If the amendment contained nothing irrelevant , I should have put it ; but as , in my opinion , it contains much matUr of that nature , I am bound to refuse to do so . Mr . Deegan—If we propose to congratulate her Majesty , I suppose the meeting has aright to do so . The High Sheriff—Certainly . Mr . Deegan—If so , then they have certainly a right to agree to any address which they may think proper for that purpose .
The High Sheriff—No , no ; you are quit © wrong A requisition came to the High Sheriff , for a certain specified purpose : and you are here to adopt or reject a resolution founded thereon , not to propose a resolution having reference to many other matters . Therefore , I shall put the question on the original address , and you may vote on it as you please . Mr . Bragg again rose ; but ,, after he had uttered a word or two , The high Sheriff said—You have already spoken three times . In most public meetings , the mover of a motion may speak in reply j or a person may speak if iu explanation . But really if every gentleman here to
^ res were speak three times , we should never get done . Mr . Bragg—I am not speaking—I am merely arguing a question with you . ( Laughter . ) The High Shbiuff—You are not speaking I Then I really do not understand what you are doing . Mr . Owen—I wish to know what right the High Sheriff has to suggest that certain matter is irrelevant to the object of the meeting ? ( Order , order . ) I contend that the meeting alone is qualified to decide that question . ( Applause . ) But it his decision is to be allowed , I beg to ask him what" be would consider relevant and what irrelevant matter ?
The High Sheriff—I am not here to frame resolutions for you or any one else . I am here to put such resolutions as are brought forward , and such amendments as are in compliance with the terms of the requisition under which the meeting was convened . Mr . Owen—I think you are here to denounce an amendment , without having the power to decide what it contains that is objectionable . The High Sheriff—I shall again read the original resolution , and then put it to the meeting ( much disapprobation ) . Clamour will do no good ; for I am determined to do my duty . The High Sheriff then began to read the address . He met with some interruption , from noise , at first ; but several of the leading Chartists called out "Silence , " which had the desired effect
A show of hands was now taken , and the High Sheriff , assisted by the Under Sheriff , counted . He declared the numbers to be—for the resolution , 46 ; against it 38 . ( Loud criesof ' Hear , hear , " and much disapprobation . ) Mr . Bragg—There are 43 for the resolution , Sir , and 50 for ( meaning against ) it ( Loud cheers , and cries of" Divide the house . " ) The High Sheriff—Not a bit of it The resolution has been carried . ( Murmurs . ) Mr . Liddell—The original motion having been happily carried ( loud laughter , and a shout of " It was not , ") it now becomes my duty to move a similar address to his Royal Highness Prince Albert , which , as I have already trespassed for some time on the indulgence of tha meeting , I shall not preface with many remarks , but whieh I hope you -will agree to nem . con
[ Mr . Liddell then read the address ; and continued ] —Gentlemen , having read the address which it is my duty to propose , I will now only say that I do from my heart lwlieve Prince Albert , as the Prince Consert of her Majesty , is most worthy of the position in which he is placed . In general , royal marriages , as you well know , are made much more accordant with public policy than with natural affection . But I believe that in this instance as much domestic happiness exists , as between the most attached couple in the realm ; and it is naturally a matter of satisfaction and happiness for the people te know that there is every prospect of a bright example leing shewn to the young Princess in the highest quarter by those who must certainly value her domestic happiness and prosperity . I trust the address will meet the unanimous approval of the meeting .
Dr . Fenwick seconded the address , amidst much Chartist laughter . Mr . Deegan—There is one portion of that address which I think is quite as irrelevant as anything contained in the amendment I proposed . I allude to the expression that the inhabitants of the county see great advantages in the limited form » f monarchy which exists in this country ( laughter and applause ) . The hou . mover of the address has stated to us that royal marriages are , upon many occasions , made matters of state policy rather than affection ; and I presume that is one of the advatages which the Hon . Gentleman sees in our limited constitution . ( Cries of "Bravo . " ) I think , therefore , that this portion of the address ought to be expunged ; and if it be not expunged , I consider that we > have a perfect right to discuss the question whether monarchy brings those advantages to us which have been so eloquently pointed out by the honourable mover
( laughter and applause ) . Ab , however , the preceding address has been carried by this meeting , according to the statement of the High Sheriff , I shall not move any amendment to the present address ; though perhaps some other gentleman may see the propriety of doing 83 . But I must make this observation , that I think the hon . gentleman was quite bat ot order in expressing the sentiments he spoke respecting Prince Albert ( applause ) , Pr ince Albert may be tbe man the hon . gentleman has depicted him to be . He may enjoy tbe affection and love of our sovereign ; but I do not see bow this at all proves tho people ought to congratulate Prince Albert , or to be thankful that he has obtained his present position . The fact is , without wishing to speak derogatorily concerning him— -without wishing to throw any stigma or aspersion on his character , the peeple cannot but sea that the union of Prince Albert with our Queen , has been attended with an increase of c-xpence to them ( applause ) . It may be very veil , indeed , for " gentle-
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men " , to congratulate Prince Albert , and to point out to us * the domestic felicity he is enjoying . I hope h » will enjoy it ; for I am sure it has been much wanted between the kings and queens of England 'loud laughter ) . Ihave on many occasions been exceedingly sorry to flo ^ that the highest parties in the realm have not set the pattern -of lore , affection , and forbearance , which they might naturally be expected to shew—lapplause and laughter ) . It may be very'well for gentlemen , who know pot -what it is to be hungry and cold , and can easily afford what is taken out of their pockets , to congratulate Prince Albert , and tell the people that he
has acted like a Briton ever since he came to England ; but it- . ia not so well for hard-working people , when they find that £ 30 , 000 of the public money is granted to enable him to act the part of a Briton . ( Laughter and applause . ) I am confident that if the money thus taken-from the labouring classes were deToted to the amelioration of the cendition of the people , there would be much less disaffection and discontent in their minds , and a great deal more harmony existing in all parts of the country . Permit me to add , in conclusion , that I am glad to find the good feeling and good temper ¦ which have been exhibited on this occasion : and which I should be very sorry to do anything to disturb .
The question was tten put , and the High Sheriff announced tkat the address had been , carried by a imijority of fourteen . Mr . Bragg—I beg leave to say there were forty-six for the address , and forty-eight against it . ( Laughter and applause ; Mr . Owen then said , "Do you decide for yourself , or on the . advice of the gentlemen who whisper to you , on the right and on the left ?" The High Sheriff—1 do not answer impertinent questions . A young man , whose name we could not learn , spoke up in the body of the Court , and expressed a hope that the working classes present would not be suspected of factious or disloyal feelings : they felt the warmest attachment to the Queen , but they desired the address to bs accompanied with a declaration of their grievances .
Lord Ravensworth moved , that the High Sheriff be requested to sign the addresses on behalf of the county , and transmit them to the Marquis of Nermanby , Home Secretary , for presentation to her Majesty and Prince Albert Mr . Johnson seconded the motion , and it was carried -without a division . Mr . Br agg observed , that the High Sheriff ought not to sign the address on behalf of alt the inhabitants of the county , but , at the most , for the eightytwo persons present at the meeting .
Threectie ' ers were now loudly given for " Williams and Binns" { confined in the adjoining pris « n ); and similar honours having been paid to other parties , the meeting dispersed .
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NEWCASTLE-trNDER-i . YNE ( STAFFORDSHIRE ) —The National Charter Association , recently established in this borough , held their usual weekly meeting , in the Democratic reading-room , on Tuesday evening , December 22 d . Mr . George Shufflebotbam having been called 10 the chair , opened the business of the meeting by introducing iMr . George Mart , of Stoke , who delivered an eloquent and impressive lecture on the right of every individual to subsistence on the land of his birch , the manner in which that right has been lost , and the means by which it may be regained . The lecturer incomrovertibly proved , by numerous quotations from the sacred volume , and by various extracts from the writings of the most celebrated authors , both of ancient and
modern times , the natural and inalienable right of every human being to subsistence on his native 6 oil , and gave a lucid exposition of the manner in which the working classes of this country had been deprived of that right , by the rapacity of the clergy and thetyranny and wickedness of the Government , aided by the pusillanimity and cringing servility of the people themselves , and concluded a most excellent address by urging on his hearers the necessity of joining in-a peaceful , legal , and coustitutional struggle ior the obtainment of the People ' s Charter , as the means whereby they might not only regain their lost rights , but secure them on a more
permanent basis . ' The lecturer was listened to throughout with the greatest attention , and at the conclusion , a vote of thanks was proposed for his services , which he declined , on the ground that he had done no more than his duty , adding that the best way they could shew their esteem for him , was by shewing their devotion to the principles he advocated , by at once joining the National Association . After aa announcement that the room would be open for public reading every Saturday evening , at eight o'clock , and that a public meeting would be held every Tuesday evening at tbe same hour , the meeting broke up , every person apparently highly gratified by the evening ' s proceedings .
MOTTRAM . — -The members of the Mottram National Charter Association beg leave to tender their best thanks to the authorities for their kind attendance to our wishes , aud for giving us such an early opportunity of heariug the celebrated lecturer , Mr . Bairstow , from the West Riding of Yorkshire . Mr . Bairstow paid us a visit on Wednesday , tht > 23 rd inst ., asd delivered to us one of his talented aud argumentative discourses . Mr . B . commenced by asking the working classes if they enjoyed the freedom and blessings they ought to enjoy ; he , Mr . Bairstow , contended they did not , and beautifully explained to them the principles conUined in the People's Charter , and contrasted them with the present system of legislation . The lecturer said the working classes had been called too ignorant to have a voice ia
" raping the laws ; he then referred to the . present legislators of this nation , aud to the educated gents . at large and proved to the entire satisfaction of the audience , that they , the working classes , were not so ignorant but that they were possessed of more reason , more common sense , and more charity than , the higher and middle class put together . Mr . Bairstow was listened to with profound silence , except at intervals when slight murmurs of hear , hear , ran through the meeting , and concluded with aa earnest appeal to the working classes to come forward aud assist in the great struggle , and enrol their names like men who wished to be free . After a vote of thanks to the lecturer for his able advocacy ol the people ' s rights , and agood round of applause , upward * of thirty members came forward and enrolled their
names . - STOCKPORT . —The usual meeting of the Chartists was held in t-hd Association 'Room , Bomber's Brow . Mr . Joseph Hibbcrt was unanimously called to the chair . After opening the meeting in an appropriate address , he called upon Mr . Charles Connor , from Manchester , who delivered an excellent lecture to a large and attentive audieuce , in which he dwelt on the curses of the enclosure laws and the blessings to be derived from Universal Suffrage . At the conclusion of tbe lecture , a vote of thanks was given to Mr . Connor , and the meeting broke up highly delighted with the night's proceedings .
UNSWORTH . —On Sunday evening last , Mr . John Dickenson delivered an address to the members of the National Charter Association of the above named place , on the best means of obtaining the Charter . The speaker had a very attentive audience , whom he addressed in a very eloquent manner for upwards of an hour , showing them that union , temperance , and perseverance , would obtain for them their just rights . Messrs . S . Grundy , J . Eckersly , and H . Green , severally addressed the meeting ; the latter of whom , in his provincial dialect , caused a deep sensation amongst his hearers , whilst ' relating to them the distressed condition of the factory slaves of Haslingden , and tho tyrannical conduct of their employers . It was announced to the . meeting that Mr . Bairstow would deliver a lecture on the evening of the 11 th of January next , in the Primitive Methodist Chapel , Un 8 worth .
CRIEPP .-rCHARTisT Festival . —On Saturday , the 26 ch Dec . a number of tanners and skinners , with a few gentlemen from the country , agreed to hold a festival in M'Owan ' s Inn . At five o clock the company assembled . ' Mr . Archibald M'Lean was called to the chair ; after returning thanks for the honour conferred upon him , he congratulated the company on the object of the present meeting , and proposed the first toast of the evening , " The People , the source of all legitimate Power "; drank with all honours . Mr , Gowie rose and , after a few pointed remarks , gave ** The People's Charter : may it soon become the law of the land "; received with great cheering . Mr , Malcolm , son of the Strathearn Poet , treated the company with a song ; after which Mr . John
Robertson rose and gave the health of V Frost , Williams , and Jones , with their speedy return ; " to which the meeting aquiesced with the greatest enthusiasm . Mr . Scrnuegevin then moved the following resolution : "That the thanks of the meeting be given to pur brother Chartists of Glasgow , for their noble conduct in attending the packed meetings of the Whigs and Tories , and carrying their address ia defiance of a partial Provost ; aad likewise to our brethren in Ayr , for standing by the Charter and their exiled patriots ; and beatdingtheso-called nobles of Ayrshire , in what they termed their own meeting . " Seconded by Mr , Gowie , and carried unanimously ; after which Messrs . Wilson and Malcolm treated the meeting with a song . Mr . Gowie then gave " The downfall of tyranny , and the annihilation of
hireling priests . " Mr . Strihgerfr was then called upon for am address , which he delivered , and was treated with great applause . The country lads were so enraptured at ' the > prospects of the Chartists , they would almost have shaken his hand off . Mr . Gowie then gave "The health of all nations governed by a Republic . " Received with great applause . Mr . Marshall then gave ? The Health of the Chairman , for his able conduct in the chair . " Mr . M'Lean returned thanks , and strongly urged the working clas 3 to union'and brotherly love . The meeting were amused with a-few songs and recitations . Three cheers were / given for Feargua O'Connor and all political martyrs ; and three for the democratic press . The meeting broke up at eight o'clock , greatly satisfied with the intellectual treat . Hurrah for the Charter . . .
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Untitled Article
-2 _ . _ THE NORTHERN STAR ' - ; . - v ! . y ; . ' : ; j V / v ¦' ; . " , ¦' ,.: ¦ ¦ " - . J
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), Jan. 2, 1841, page 2, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct360/page/2/
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