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C&artfetf Snttfl^ttice.
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TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS.
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Ht deae Fmesds , —I now proceed to lay before you the proceedings of the concluding week of a » onib . ' s tonr , which , without vanity , I assert has dose some good to the e&ase of Chartism , and given general satisfaction to the whole of the Chartist body of Scotland . On Monday morning I left Arbroaih for Cnpar , a distance of thirty miles . At Dundee I picked op oar
invaluable friend , John Duncan , the people ' s repregeaUtire ot the county of Fife , and with whose company I was honoured to Ferfar , the county t ^ wa . Forfar , yon ar « aware , is the birth-pkee of plain John Campbell , " of terrible prosecuting notoriety , and who boasted of having buried Chartism , fcat who , to bis sorrow , has discoTered that instead of oar remains , the pntrid carcase of Whiggery has v , en consigned to the grave .
We were met within two miles of Cupar by a gpiendid process ion , with an immense number of beaatifnl flags , bearing appropriate mottos , while the scene was enlivened by patriotic airs from the teetotal and several other bands . An open carriage tad four was in wauling , into which Mr . Duncan andmys elf , accompanied by two of the committee , ste pped , as Boon as the procession was ready to more . Ihe morning was wet , but cleared up about the time of starting . When all was marshalled , we pro- " eeeded through the town , and repaired to where an excellent hustings had been erected . Mr . Dancan ,
th e people's representative , was unanimously called to the chair , and opened the proceedings in a bold , » a eloquent , and a manly address . Resolutions , declaratory of a determination to adhere to the People ' s Charter , and approving of the National Petition , were unanimously adopted ; after which I addressed the assembly at considerable length . The Electing is acknowledged by all to hare been the Biost numerous assemblage ever witnessed in the great county of Fife , The two Whig journals give m eight thousand ; so that it is not too much to esiimpifi our numbers at twelve thousand ; and when it
g understood , that the population of Cupar does not exceed ox thousand , some estimate may be forced of the distance from which thousands came ; aad i $ is worthy of notice , that a splendid Chartist band , dressed is Highland jackets and bine bonnets , ease from Newburgh , a distance of thirteen miles , % i their own expenee . In the evening , we had a spl endid Soiree * , in the largest hall that could be procured , which was crowded to suffocation , and at which many of the middle classes attended . No * thing eoold surpass the zeal and enthusiasm of all present ; and no social festival could have been conducted wiih greater propriety and decorum . Mr .
Melville , from Markineh , filled the chair in % most efficient and gentlemanly manner . Mr . Jcbn Duncan made another excellent speech , which was loudly applauded . Mine was also rece ived vrith hearty cheering ; bat th&t which ore me the greatest delight was the maiden speech « f Mi . Charles Stuart , the only printer in SU Andrews . Stuart is quite a lad ; and although he never attempted to speak in pablic before , yet I have bo hesitation in saying , that his speech was one of the most effective and eloquent I have heard for a long time . Thus closed what the inhabkacts tell me was the most splendid day ever witnessed in
Capar . On Tuesday morning I left Cnpar , in company with John Duncan , to hold a public meeting at Eirkaldy ; and baring beard that a Mr . Da-rid Hatton , who resides at Orr Bridge , was a person whose acquaintanceship was in every way desirable , 1 had appointed to remain an hour there , and I was amply rewarded ; for I met a philosopher in every sense of the word . He is a complete genius . He has invented a vast quantity of B&ehinery for his own amusement , and also constructed some curious musical instruments : among 3 t
others , a very beautiful organ , which , from its tones , he calls his " flatornm f he sung two Mags , sod accompanied himself upon this lustra-Beet . In conversation about the Charter , I asked lam for his opinion , and he gave it in a not very encouraging manner . I asked him if he would sign the National Petition ! He plumply refused . I then asked him what our position would be if we foifbor millions of signatures ! He replied , then I will say the Charter is carried , and that he would &eo sign it ; so I told him that it should be the petition of four millions and David Hatton .
At elevpn o ' elock we started for Kirkaldy , and were met within two miles of the town by such a procession as I had not anticipated . I have never seen so many assembled together in fustian in all my life ; I should say tha t from 25 , 000 to 30 , 000 were congregated , and of that number two-thirds were fostians . When I tell yon that the population of fta parish is only 6 , 000 , you may form some estimate of the zeal of the district , and of the distance wHeil thoasastis walked .
xhe committee had arranged to hold a meeting in a large store-houB ? , capable of accommodating about 1 , 500 ; bat when ii was filled , at the admisaon price of one penny per head , the meeting ontside appeared to be little diminished , so an adjournment was called for ; and to the honour of those who bid ?* i u for entrance , they were the first to more an adjournment to the sands on the Eea shore . We left th » building , again fell into line , and marched through the Btreets to the beach . The day was lika aeaamer ' s day ; the sun ' s blaza upon the numerous burners , and the martial music from the several bands , gave to this spectacle ths appearance of a graad military display . We selected a rock , firm as onr principles , upon which we placed a table and
aide oar oratioDS , with the rushing tide of ocean in oar front . I was delighted to meet my old and falaed friend Mr . Crockett , delegated to tfco Scottish Convention in 1839 , a har . d-loom weaver by " *** & , and in conduct , appearance , and demeanour , ^ fotl t in conventional language , may be termed a partisan ; and no gentleman more respected than ** Croebtt by all who know him . A 3 usual , John Dsaan roused his audience . I spoke , so did Crockett ; * fid after taking a show of hands for the Charter ted Petition , which were like a forest of masts , I then asked all who would pledge themselves to join the association to hold up their h : u ; ds , when at least 1 , 500 were raised , for each of which I pledged ttyself . The hat then went rcand to aid the
comfuttee wiih a collection , when from many a fustian . ?« & * poeket was drawn a foorpeuce , a * sispen . - ^ , ada sMIlmg , given cheerfully as a contribution to «« good cause . At half-past two , I started with Duncan for Edinta * & , where we arrived at half-past four ; I went to i ^ th at six to a splendid Soiree in a large Church , * a « e every thing was tastefully arranged . I spoke were ffll ei } lt ) &ad theQ Btarted for Edinburh ]
g g , 1 . C 3 -J — — *• IMUM BMti fc- ( sU . 1 U 1 J ^ UUiVUigU « vmg Lowery and Abraham Duncan to keep np the « nt eriaioiaent at Leith . When I arrived in Edin-J °£ Ji i was surprised , for there I found one of the sandest spectacles that can be imagined-the large Waterloo room , magnificently decorated and bril-^ y lighted , and filled with a well-dressed and ^ je Ueat looking audience , principally working-men « a their wbes . Every seat was filled , while * lde passage was left in the centre between the
™» s for the stewards to pass . About 1 , 200 or 1 , 500 i saon ldsaj , were present ; many barristers , attoreys , joung physicians , and a good number of the * Male eksses were present . As I entered , Mr . r *** . > that great and good man , was on his * P , ui the act of justifying my prudence by the 7 ~* J * the Attorney General being compelled to JJ' " BBto fa libel , as he could not catch me ontside rf * 5 4 his gate me an opportunity of pitching it «* the defunct " plain John . " Sankey tells me «« i made a powerful speech , and all appeared ** Pleased . Duncans ( John and Abraham ) and I ~* ery *** . others made admirable speeches , and * " « h * d Chartism a mow glorious night in Modern ?**** - Lowery ia now lecturer here , and has " * power of good .
fti- ! f i ? jastiee * ° * S 0 ^ man « mention a fact ¦«* A Mr . Charles Dimean pnt * qu « wiicB or two » ae rdatiTe to cp&e « ia tbe star for ibepublica" ¦ oifcu tiewa . I was not at the time acquainted vTf i > aoe «>; but I hare since learned that , having «*» « P his hand at the Calton Hill meeting for Jf ** " ^ hoUday , he stnek work on tbe 12 th of ~ £ nst ; aod , being a gardener , he never put his ¦*«• m the ground again untfl his time had arrived « * -e close of the nonth . Now this man deserves "faour ; I believe he is the only man in tbe empire
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who could bare got work and refused it ; and therefore , with every feeling of respect and reverence , I beg thus publicly to thank him , and further to add that his views , at the rate of a column now and then , shall find & place ia the Northern Star . Every man in the land must lore and honour this gallant Scotchman ; and if I was at all discourteous ( but I think I was not ) , I here tender my best apology , and ask his forgiveness . I had not learned his true character until the folio wing morning .
On Wednesday morning I started for Dalkeith in an open carriage and four , accompanied by Abram Dancan and Lowery , and the Dalkeith Committee . We were met within a mile of the town by an immense procession , with a prodigious number of flags and capital music ; and when the trades were marshalled , we formed a splendid proaession , walked through the town down to the entrance of the Duke of Bucoleuch ' s castle , where the forces cheered , then returned to the Market Place , where a very strong and commodious hustings was erected . An excellent
fellow , whose name I regret to say I do not remember , opened the proceedings in a first-rate speech . The Charter and Petition resolutions were unanimously carried , although onr meeting was thick with the middle classes . Abraham Duncan and I spoke , and Lowery wm reserved for the Soiree . While I was speaking , the meeting was flanked by members of the Caledonian Hunt , who are now congregated at Dalkeith ; and they wera kind enough to remain on horseback as a very attentive portion of our audience .
About six o clock , a delegate from Dumfries arrived , after a journey of ninety-two aules , to drag me to Dumfries oa Friday ; and , such was his reasoning and eloquenoe , that I was compelled to accede , and right glad I am that he prevailed . Our soiree in the evening was everything that could gratify . I Epoke at great length , enforcing my principles , and pleading on behalf of the masons now on strike , when the meeting pledged itself to enter into an immediate subscription for their support . Lowery mado full amends for bis silence out of doors . He and A . Duncan mado truly eloquent and soul-stirring appeals . They are really powerful missionaries . At half-past ten , after receiving the congratulations of the Committee , and the thanks ot all . we started for Edinburgh .
Thursday morning : —and now I come to the fieldday—the day of days—the day which will ever be remembered by the citizens of Glasgow . I Btarted at one o ' clock for Glasgow , forty-two miles , dined , and mst my committee for arranging the Brewster discus 3 ion . My committee consisted of Messrs . Moir , Ancoat , Proudfoot , Mathew , Cullen , Gillespie , Colquhoun , and a working man whose name I do noj kaow . We started at seven for the Great Hall , and on our way thither the rush from every avenue was like a fair ; when we arrived , every entraace was blocked , and we were obliged to be crushed through an iron gate , guarded by a strong police force . The room , and every standing place , was crammed to u agony , " as the Herald states .
Five minutes to eight was the hour for the chair being taken . I mounted i ^ e bastings at Beven minutes to eight , accompanied by my committee , * nd -was received with several roands of cheers and waring of hats . As I have seen the report sent by the Star reporter , and acknowledge the correctness of the outline—I need not go into detail . Brewster spoke for an hour and eight minute ? , amid a storm oi groans and hooting ? , and fully sustained his previous character , as a barefaced , impudent , insolent slanderer . He had neither manner nor matter , and
sat down as he rose , in the midst of howling . When I got up I was loudly cheered ; a few hisses from the Brewsteritcs followed , which however I fpoKe down in less than a minute ; when all was calm I spoke for my half hour . Brewster then took half an hour instead of a quarter ; my reporter is ia error when he states that 1 then had half an hour ; I refused to take more than fifteen minutes , and , in truti , I did not require so much . When all was concluded Mr . Moir rose to more the following resolution , which was seconded by Mr . Gillespie : —
BesoJred— " That this public meeting of the citizens of Glasgow , after having beard Mr . Brewster , deem * it its doty to state , that it has heard nothing to indoce it to withdraw that confidence which it has hitherto placed in Mr . O'Conner a * an able advocate of the Peopled Charter . " I have this resolution in Mr . Moir ' s handwriting ; and it will be seen that not a single paper has given it correctly . Brewster ro 3 e to move an amendment , eonsi&ticg of two resolutions ; the first of which was as follows : — " Resolved , that this meeting pledges itself never to cease agitating for
tho Charter until it becomes the law of ths land . " The second was one of the Brummagems ; but after a consultation with the members of the Charter Synod , the wily knaves thought it best to suppress the latter ; and , as their Chairman said , to put the principles against the man ; and therefore only the first was moved as an amendment . Upon its being proposed by Brewster , he was met by a hurricane of booting , fchontice , and jells that b-fflcs all description ; and when M'Farlane , his Chairman , rose to make a speech to enfobck THE PEINC 1 PLES AGAINST THE MA . ?! , the Irish , who
were canvassed to oppose me , headed by John Campbell , an Iri&hman , about six feet four inches in height , rushed to the platform and threatened to rout the Brewsterites in tho most monl manner imaginable . It was long ere anything like ord-j : could be resiored ; bHt when a moment ' s silence waj procured , M'Farlane put Brewster ' s amendment , for which , out of a meeting of 8 , 000 , or perhaps more , no : 200 individuals held up their hands . Tab was followed by a tremendous groan . When Mr . Proudfoot put the resolution , the show of hands appeared to bo unanimous ; and here a scene
followed which beggars all description . The immensity of tha crowd rendered it almost impossible to raise their hats , which resembled the rising of a flight of crows from a rookery . I never beheld such a thing . The exultation lasted nearly a quarter of an hour . Subsequently , another resolution was moved on behalf of the citizens , declaratory of the manner in which the agitation for the Charter should be conducted ; which was met by an amendment from Mr . Malcolm . wLo was most unceremoniously treated by
the meeting . The resolution was carried unanimously . After this a resolution of censure upom and no confidence in , Brewster , was mOTed by John M'Crea , and seconded by Mr . Proudfoot . Thus ended the business part , and the tortnre commenced . The hustings was charged by the Irishmen , who seized ms by neck and limb , claimed me for their own , and literally dragged me through the meeting , jumping and cheering till I thought the building would came down .
Now , I come to the important part—namely , the attempt made by a portion of the press to prop Brewster , and to make his defeat appear as mild as possible . The Whig and Tory papers give us 6 , 000 ; so it is not too much to say that 8 , 000 were congregated ; indeed , there were nearer 9 , 000 ; for every niche was wedged , and the two spacious galleries are capable of holding nearly 1 * 500 persons . One paper makes the number 6 , 000 , and gives Brevrster a third . I stamp this at once with the brand of wilful
and palpable falsehood ; and , thask God , there were too many eyes present to be blinded by the du » t of a Whi r ling reporter , who , after declaring in my presence , and in the presence of twenty-five others , at Paisley , that we had there " x sweeping icajokitt , akd ho mistake / ' had the insolence in his report to say that the numbers were so equally divided as te render it impossible to decide From previous attempts npon the part of this gentleman , I had my suspicions ; and I told John
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M'Crea , who sat next me at Paisley , that I would get Mb ( the reporter ' s ) opinion , which he gave as stated above . - Let us now see what the leading Tory paper of Glasgow , the Herald , gays of the majority .- It says s" Last night the largest meeting which ever took place under a roof in Glasgow , was held In the new hall of the Bsriar , te hear the disputation between Feargus O'Connor and the Rev . Mr . Brewster of Paisley on the best means of obtaining the Charter . The hall , galleries , stair-head , and Btalr-c&ses , were literallypacked to tbe extent of personal agony , and it is computed that about 6000 members of tbe lower orders were at one time present to listen to this oratorical combat About the commencement of tbe proceedings , the railings of
the great ataire&se gave way with a fearful crash , from tbe pressure of the crowd within ; the woeded baUtutrade was snapped at the head , and the iron supporting atanchaons were torn away , carrying portions of the solid stone along with them from every step on the stair . Fortunately a few seconds of alarm were given by tbe creaking , and while none of those who fell were seriously hurt , some escaped almost miraculously by sliding down the descending ballustrade . The police after this took the wise precaution of letting every one out -who liked , but none in . The disputation went on till near midnight , amidst alternate cheering , bowling , and groans of a most terrific kind . Bra water charged O'Connor with being a spy and a traitor ta the cause ; but the wild work ended by tbe pastor of Paisley being himself beaten by a tremendous majority , amidst aowli of defiance from the majority . "
Now , the Herald would have given firewater the majority if he had ly 500 , much leas 2 , 000 , or one * third . That is quite clear ; and he calls our majority a " tremendous majority" ; while th « leading Whig paper , the Glasgow Chronicle , calls it a " vast -majority . " I most solemnly declare , before God , that I do not believe that three hundred persons held up their hands for Brewster ; and I particularly bog to observe that the Chairman ' s attention was directed to the galleries ; in the right band one , the largest , not one SINGLE HAND was held up , while about thirty or forty were held up ia the left hand gallery , making fifteen or twenty votes , as all held up both hands . For the truth of my assertion , I refer to Mr . Ross , the Chairman of the meeting , and than whose word no man ' s will go further in Scotland .
I have already had several letters from different parts of Scotland , complaining of this Bjstem of backing the fallen enemy of Chartism , especially in Dunfermline and Paisley . The poor fellows complain loudly of the glaring falsehoods . I find that Brewster has declared that the meeting was packed . What nonsense ! Eight thousand persons to be packed !! But if any had the advantage by the premature opening of the door , it was the Brewsterites , who belong to the idle classes , and who had been canvassed and exhorted for ten days , and whipped in on Thursday night .
I took no hand , aot , or part in the arrangements either at Paisley , Dunfermline , Aberdeen , or Glasgow . I lef : all to the respective committees ; and I defy mortal man to produce more good , worthy , sound , aud moral men , than those who composed my several committees . Brewster declared that the Aberdeen meeting was packed also ; but here , too , the eyes were too numerona to be deceived . Sufiice it to say , that every Anti-O'Ccnnorite was mustered in the several places , consistiug of Brewsterites , Whi , Tories , and Chartist Church preachers ; and here I beg to say , that I only include the bigots , and not those who attend the Chartish Churches . I do not include the Chartist preachers generally , but merely refer to the Synod of Glasgow , composed cf the outcast Methodistical fanatics . The brave Irish were also mustered ; but
to a man they opposed those who dared to canvas them to oppose me . I shall , please God , address them in a letter of thanks in next week ' s Star , when I shall also touch upon the question of Chartist preaching , pointing out the truo from the false teachers . To conclude the sketch . Never was mortal so unmercifully drubbed and justly chastised as the spy Brewcter , who has been begging the means of following and opposing me from the Total Abstainers ; but who , to their honour , bare sent bis false and begging appeals to me . So much for the finish of the spy and the roasting of his poor remnant of the Glasgow rump .
I went to bed at one o ' clock—rose up at four , and was off for Dumfries , a distance of eighty-two miles , where we met a splendid procession , what the Dumfries Tory paper calls " numberless numbers . " Yes , in truth , it was a procession ! but as they , good fellows , have sent a report , I need say no more than that both processsion and Soiree paralyzed the eye of faction . I met that amiable man , Andrew Wardrop , who is the beloved of all classes and the idol of his own ; he is a glorious
fellow . One of the most chaste speeches I ever heard was delivered by Mr . M'Dowall , q : ite a young man , bat promises to be a bright ornament to our cause . I was presented with addresses at all the meetings from the Chartist and teetotal abstainers ; but there is no use in aBking for their insertion , for I see Mr . Hill can find room for addresses to other ? , but not for addresses to me , or for songs about the black slugs . However , he has no sinecure in pleasing all ; and I must take my chance .
From Dumfries I started on Saturday morning at five for Newcastle , 100 miles , where at four hours ' notice we had , at twopence admission , the large Music Hall crammed . It was a fine sight . I spoke for more than two hours , and then remained , in compliance with a request from one of the blistered hands , which appeared h \ the Star of ths week bsforo last , to enrol members for the Charter Association . I enrolled and received money from sixtytwo new members , about fifteen of those beiDg Irishmen and one a convert from the " New Move "
party ; and I rejoice toobstTve that here , as well as every place where I have attended , I left my friends in funds , after defraying expenses , to enable them to carry oa the Chartist campaign . Ia every place those who were in debt paid ofi their arrears , aad have uow , by voluntary contribution , resources in the Exchequer . The working men of Newcastle have bravely stood against all opposition , and I have promised to spend a week in the locality , when in return 1 am promised
150 , 000— AYE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND SIGNATURES TO THE NATIONAL PETITION , and au augmentation of over 2 , 000 paying members to tbe National Association . That shall be my way of meeting the undergrowl of faction and the sneer of my enemies . I shall prove my worth by my actions . I made an appeal on behalf of tho gallant stone masons on strike , and have been promised support for them . On Tuesday night I addressed a splendid meeting in the Music Hall , at Leeds . I enrolled fifty new members ; and the meeting did me the hononr to elect me a member to the forthcoming Convention . Here , as elsewhere , I was charmed by a new feature in our cause . Mr . F . R . Lees , an able , an eloquent , and a
graceful speaker , who did me the honour to second my Domination , made one of the most lucid and convincing appeals I ever heard , on behalf of the Charter , versus all other agitation ; and I do trust that however I may be passed over in silence by the Star , that Mr . LeeB will meet with attention . He is graceful in appearance , and as graceful in action ; his voice i * fall and melodious ; his language beautifully selected his points well pot , and arranged in a logical and masterly style ; he will be a host in himself . He is the able Editor of the Temperance Advocate , published in the Isle of Man , a work which should be found upon every table in the Empire . He is a glorious fellow , and was the first to enroll his name with me as a member of the Leeds Charier Association . I go to York to-day to address the people of the Minster-town , in the aristccratio Concert
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Boom , free admission , arid I expect an overflowing audience . This , at the end of my week ' s journal , is not the Siting place to tender my thanks to my Scotch friends . No , no ; I shall do that in a more respectfol manner ; but here let me say that within tha month I have travelled , upon an average , more than sixty miles a-day , and have addressed between fifty and sixty meetings ; labouring , upon an average , fifteen hours a day . To tho whisperers and groaners I say , " go do likewise , " and don't bother me with your granting and your mumpings . You shan't fight with me till the last of the 4 , 000 , 000 names is affixed to our petition ; and then , —have at you all in the lump !
Fustian jackets , blistered hands , and unshorn chins , my only friends , we will stand or fall together . Onward and we conquer , bbekward and we fall . Universal Suffrage and no surrender shall ever be my motto . Our strength is in our union , our power in our voice , and our success in our perseverance . May heaven bless you , And believe me , Your faithful friend , And hard working labourer , Feargus O'Connob . Leeds , Wednesday , 10 th October , 1841 .
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NSWCASTUB . —A meeting of the Demonstration Committee was announced for Sunday , at one o ' clock , but the arrival of Mr . O'Com : or spread through the district like wildfire ; and long btf ore that hour , delegates fxom the country arrived in dczens to see their chief , many coming upwards of twelve miles , and were greatly disappointed when they learned that Mr . O'C . had lift town a few minutes before their arrival ; and nothing could equal their expressions of joy when tho Secntary told them that Mr . O'Connor pledged himself to return in about three weeks , and give them a whole week of it Mr . Frankland having been called to the chair , the following resolutions were carried unanimously : —Moved by Mr . Cockburn , and seconded by Mr . Sinclair , •* That tbe delegates now present be requested to communicate with the Chartists in their respective localities , and correspond with tbe County
Secretary , stating tbe hour most convenient for a majority of them to hear a lecture from Mr . O'Connor when he visits this neighbourhood . " Moved by Mr . Sinclair , and seconded by Mr . Sloane , ' < That a committee of seven be now appointed , ( vrith power te add to their number ) to act , in case of emergency , in getting up the above meetings , and that Messrs . Cockbarn , Sinclair , Dees , Maugham , Crothers , Morgan , and M'Whin * nie form that committee . " Mr . Cockburn delivered a very able address , and the meeting separated , hoping to get satisfaction for their disappointment in about tbre « weeks . The Chartists of Seghill paid in , per Mr . Wm . Ling !» nds , 6 s . 6 d . to the Missionary Fund ; and Messrs . Cockburn and Sinclair were appointed to go to Seghill on Saturday evening , 13 th instant , to deliver addresses and open an association there—half-past six o ' clock the hour of meeting .
The Chartists held their weekly business meeting on Monday evening , Mr . Wm . Daea In tbe chair . Tbe Secretary read tbe minutes of last meeting , which were confirmed , likewise a letter from Mr . O'Brien ' s Press Committee , in Leeds . Several bills were submitted to the Committee , and ordered to be discharged . After a lengthy discussion the following resolutions were agreed to : —" That tbe town be divided into districts , and that persona who may have time to spare be respectfully requested to canvass each their district for signatures to the National Petition . " « That the Treasurer be instructed to enter , weekly , into a book kept for
that purpose , alt tbe contributions received , separately , and tkat tbe book He on the table for the inspection of any member every weekly business night" " That a public meeting ef members bo held on this night fortnight to nominate a new Council . All who are friendly to the Charter in fall are respectfully requested to come and join this National Charter Association on or before Friday week , and thereby render themselves eligible to election , and to vote on that occasion , and if a sufficient sum is collected by voluntary contribution , on or before Monday week , to announce the meeting by placard , it be so announced ; If not , that the sums bo contributed be returned to the respective donors .
TIVERTON . —Tbe Chartists of this town held a meeting on Friday , Nov . tha 5 th , at the Association Rooms , Golden Lion , Weatexe , when it waa proposed that copies of the National Petition be ssnt for ; also petition sheets for signatures , which was agreed to , and one hundred and fifty copies ordered to be distributed among tbe populace ; and nine petition Sheets for fllgnatures were ordered forthwith . STONE , STAFFORDsamE . —On Sundaylast , Messrs Peplow , Ward , and other friends from Stafford , together with Mr . Leader and another friend from the Potteries , attended at this plaw for the purpose of establishing the National Charter Association . Cards of membership were taken , and there is no donbt bat that with a little attention being paid to it , Stone will become a flourishing Chartist town .
DEPTFORD . —The Charter Association met at the Pilot , High-street , on Tuesday , Mr . Heywood in the chair . Mr . Firth brought forward his promised motion , and moved the following resolution , which was carried , " That this meeting view with regret and alarm the attempt of Mr . Todd , of No . 18 , Davis-street , Dalestreet , Liverpool , to attempt to print and publish a work to be called The National Chartist Directory and Almanack , considering such publication to be of the most destructive nature and tendency , by placing the National Charter Association Within the immediate grasp of Government ; and further , that this meeting view with tbe greatest concern all such attempts to blow to pieces the great bulwark of British liberty , and are resolved to use their utmost influence to put down every publication that is in any way calculated to injure the Charter . "
NEWPORT ( Isle of Wight . )—The Chartists of this place have at last , after mature consideration , come to the resolution of joining themselves to the National Charter Association . On Tuesday evening , November the 2 nd , tbe subject was brought before tbe association , when after st-me observations from several of tbe members , It was resolved to dissolve tha Working Men's Association , which was dono unanimously , and tbe members present as unanimously resolved to join the National Chartist Association . Those who were present named Messrs . Quins , Oliver , Tailor , James Cantelo , and Smith , to the General Council , Mr . Oaver being appointed safe-treasurer , and Mr . Cantelo , sub-secretary .
ARNOLD . —At a meeting here , on Thursday week , in the Chartist chapel , it was unanimously resolved" That this meeting is of opinion that the principles contained in the People ' s Charter are founded in immutable truth and justice ; that the Cora Laws are Iniquitous and unjust ; and that it is the duty of every lover of bi > i country to join heart and band for the enactment of the one , and the abrogation of the other . OAVENTRY . —A meeting was called on Saturday evening last , in the market-place , to bear a lecture from Dr . P . M . McDouail , on " the Evils of Class Legislation , " which was attended by above one thouawd people—more than was ever expected , considering that there was no association in the town , and it being a bigoted Tory place . It was the first time that ever a meeting was got up by the working men ; and they have shewn the enemies of freedom that they can act for themselves . The meeting commenced at half-past six o'cluck . Mr . M'Fariin . of Northampton , 'was called
to tUd chair . A resolution was proposed by Thomas Webb , cordwainer , seconded by Dan . Marks , labourer , and carried amidst the cheers of all present , adopting the National Petition , pledging tbe meeting to support the Executive Conneil , and to join the National Cnarter Association . The chairman then called upon Doctor M-Douall U address the meeting , wh'eh he did in bis usual expressive ! and animating style , for nearly two hours ; shewing the evils of class legislation , and the benefit to be derived by making the Charter become the law of the land . The Djcter was cheered repeatedly throughout the lecture ; after which , twenty-six persons enrolled their names as members of the National Charter Association . The Chartist * of Daventry will meet every Wednesday evening , at eight o ' clock , at the house of Thomas Webb , Union-place , when the sab-secretary of the National Charter Association will be in attendance to enrol the name of any person who may wish to become a member .
NOTTINGHAM . —At a meeting here , at the Democratio Chapel , Rice-plaee , oa Monday , Mr . Russell in the chair , toe National FetlUoaw »» adopted , and Mr . QoOTfoHaRiaoa , of CaWtftOB , w » a elected delegaW X » tfia ConventiOB for Nottingham , Leke « t « r , Derby , Lincoln , and Rtttland . Mr . Conwllns Pawkes delivered » a excellent lecture , to » largo audience , on the Funding system , showing , in a very dear and masterly manner , how the increase of paper money had tended to enhance the value of every species of provisions , and , at the same time , had depreciated the value of labour ia an equal ratio , and had also afforded additional facilities ia tbe improvement and creation of machinery . New mnmbe / 8 again joined the Association . A . vote of thanks was given to the lecturer , who responded , and the meeting qaietly dispersed .
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BXRHmffGBAM . —Chartist Meetings . —Fssb-Hanstbeet . —The usual weekly meeting of the members belonging to the National Charter Association was held at the room InFreetnan-street , on Monday evening last Mr . Alfred Fussell was called to the chair . Mr . George White addressed the meeting ; at great length , exposing the enonnons cruelties perpetrated on tbe working clases by the present unjust and murderous system . —The balance sheet was then read by the Treasurer , after Which the following persons were nominated as members of the Council , to fill the place cf Mr . Bough , who had resigned , Mr . Thorpe , Mr . Spinks , and Mr . Poantney . The election will take place on Monday evening next A large number of petition sheets were handed to vstions persons to procure signatures ; after which the meeting separated .
Fox Itin , Swallow-Stkeei . —A meeting called by placard was held at the above place , on Monday evening last , Mr . J . Williamson in the chair . The meeting was addressed by Mr . J . Mason , of Newcastleon-Tyne . Various plans were afterwards laid down for spreading tha principles in that populous neighbourhood , after which the meeting was adjourned to next Monday evening . Domestic Coffee House , Henbietta-Steeet . The Hampton Ward National Charter Association held their usual weekly meeting at the above place , on Thursday evening , Mr . John Pare in the chair . Mr . George White addressed the meeting at some length on Various topics , and encouraged those present to perseveranos . Sheet * connected with the National Petition lie for signature at tbe house of Mr . Pare , Henriettastreet , . ¦ . ¦ . ' . ¦ : . . ¦ . ¦¦¦ . , -. . ¦ .- ¦ : : ¦ -
Chartists of Birmingham Look Oct . —The snM-Corn Law Whig faction are about holding another mooting very soon , to which they have invited Cobden , of Stephenson * s-square notoriety , and Curtis , from America , in order to thrust their nostrums down your throats . Watch the miserable plotters well , and shew by your attendance at the Town Hall , on the day of meeting , ( which accordthg to Mr . J . Sturge ' s statement , will be on Monday next , ) and give them the finishing stroke . No humbug ; the Charter , the whole Charter , and nothing less . Notice to Birmingham District . —All places connected with this district who are ia arrear to the lecturer's fund are requested to send in their quota immediately , if they intend to aecuta the future services of a lecturer .
Frost , Williams , and Jones—At the usual weekly meeting of the General Restoration Committee , held at the Charter Association Room , Freeman-street , on Tuesday evening la it , Mr . Bjugh ia the chair , it was resolved— " That the form of agitation and petitioning which was laid down in the tales and objects of this Committee , be now carried into effect , and that wa , as a Committee , recommend the country to follow out the said plans , being of opinion that the men will be brought back if the country will follow out the same , and also that the said plans be published . " Correspondence was read from the country , and also from tbe Members of Parliament for Birmingham , in reference to presenting the petition , and from the Home-office , in reference to this Committee ' s Memorial , which was ordered to be published . The said correspondence will , therefore , appear as early as possible . In consequence of the soiree for the benefit of Mrs . Roberts taking place on Tuesday evening next , this Committee , at its rising , adjourned for a fortnight
Public Meeting , Steeuiouse-Lane . —A meeting was held at the Ship Inn , Steelhouse-lane , and addressed by Messrs . Ernes , Horsley , Porter , Davis , and others . Shannon Crawford ' s letters were read and warmly applauded . Several petition sheets were distributed , and a handsome collection made for the lecturers fnnd . LONOOH . —Chartist Hall , 55 , Old Bailey . — On Thursday , Nov . 4 th , a meeting took place , Mr . Stall wood in the chair . Mr . M'Grath delivered an excellent address on the principles of the People'sChorter , proving the ineontestible right of the people to the Suf frage , and disproving tbe calumny that they were too ignorant to exercise it Messrs . Cator , Maynard , Stallwood , and others , also ably addressed the meeting , which continues to increase in numbers .
St . Pa NCR as . —On Sunday last , at the Feathers Warren-Btreet , Mr . Martin delivered an excellent lecture , subject—True Patriotism . The Lecturer gave the highest satisfaction to a numerous and intelligent audience , and was much applauded . The Chair was filled in an able manner by Mr . Palling . Nine members were enrolled , and votes of thanks were given to the Chairman and Lecturer . Tower Hamlets . —Mr . Raffy Ridley lectured here on Sunday evening , to an excellent audience , and much good was effected . The sum of 7 a . 8 d . was collected for a distressed mechanic ; and Mr . Ridley , accompanied by other members , conveyed it to his abode , where they found the man , his wife , and seven children inaBtate of destitution which is a shame and a disgrace to a Christian conntiy . Tailors . —On Thursday last , Mr . J . Foasell lectured at the Bricklayer's Arms , King-street , Golden-square , to the great satisfaction of his audience .
MIDDLESEX—LONDON DELEGATE MEETING . —On Sunday last , a meeting of delegates waa held , Mr . Martin in the chair . After the transaction of considerable business , receiving reports , and appointing deputations , the following resolution was carried , with one dissentient , " That it is the opinion of this Council that the Editor of the Northern Star acted wisely in noticing tbe observations of Mr . Black . At the same time , this Council donbt not the integrity and zsal of Mr . Black In the cause of freedom . " The following resolution was also passed , " That this Ceuncil recommend the necessity of the various localities inquiring into the character aad capabiliw of the various candidates for the delegates of the ensuing Convention . " London East . —Boot and shoemakers . —Mr . Benbow lectured at the Star Coffee House , Golden-lane , on Sanday evening .
Surrey and Deptford . —At a meeting of members of tbe Council residing in Surrey and Deptford , in Kent , held at 1 . China Walk , Lambeth , on Sunday last , the reports from each locality were read and received , giving a nattering account of each district . Resolved , " That each locality be requested ta enter into a voluntary subscription towards the support of the forthcoming Convention , and would recommend that the easiest method would be for each member in employ to pay l ^ d . per week until February next , which would raise ample funds , for their proportionate shore . "" That 1 , 000 petition heads , as printed by Mr . Hobson , be purchased immediately for tho use of the localities , to be left from house to house to be called for by the
Committee for signatures . " Bermondsey paid 2 s . 2 d . to the Council and 5 s . for the petitions . After considerable discussion upon the best means to agitate Surrey and Kent , a Committee was appointed to bring to an amicable arrangement some dispute that baa arisen among themselves at Deptford .. The meeting adjourned to meet at the new room tab en by our friends at Wandsworth , the King ' s Head , when it is requested that each member of the Council , with other members , will attend to strengthen the hands of such a noble patriotic band as these who reside at Wandsworth , who have proved themselves always ready to stand in the front of the battle against all opposition ; therefore , let no excuse be made for non-attendance on Sanday next . Chair taken at half-past four o ' clock .
LrMEHOusE—> Ir . Ayling lectured to a numerous and attentive audience en Tuesday evening . The cause is rapidly progressing in this locality , and it proraises ere long to be one of the strongholds of Chartism . London , —A ball , concert , and tea party were held at the Sooiat Institution , John-street , Tottenham-court ' road , on Monday evening last , tot the benefit of Mr . Carrier , late a prisoner in Weatbury goal Nearly threehundred persons were present Tbos . Dnncombe , Esq . M . P ., took the chair , and after tea , addressed the meeting at great length , as also did Mr . Moore , Mr . Roberts , Mr . W . Carrier , Dr . M'Djnall , Mr . Raffy Ridley , Mr . J . Cleave , and Mr . Parker . The following resolutions were carried amidst tremendous cheers : —
"That we heartily congratulate our guest , William Carrier , on his re \ eas » , and on his continued adhesion to thegreat principles contained in the People ' s Charter . " "That thU meeting viewing the frightful distress and degradation of the working classes , the ruin inevitable to a great portion of the middle class , and most of the evils which afflict society , as being the legitimate of&pring of class legislation , pledges itself to united and unceasing exertions to obtain the People ' s Charter as the means for a removal of existing , and preventing future abases in all onr institutions , of raising the productive dais to their proper position In society , and thus removing all cause for discontent by restoring to all their ja » t rights and enabling all to live in
comfort . " "That this meeting returns its sincere thanks to Thorns * Buncombe , and the other Members of Parliament , who have supported the iatenetc of the working class ; ibis meeting also returns its thanks in particular to Mr . Duncombe for his great exertionson behalf of the political victims , and his kindness on taking the chair thia evening . " Mr . Dancombe returned thanks for the latter , and presented £ 5 to the committee , on behalf of Carrier . The Chartist females of the Tower-Hamlets presented a satin stock to Mr . Carrier , who returned thanks . Dancing was kept up till a late hour . A very long report of tbe interesting proceedings at this meeting was furnished to us by our correspondent , which we have been reluctantly compelled thua io > ourtail .
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~"' S" '"¦ (^ u ^^ C ^^^^ l ^ TRURO , ( CWau . J-. 0 b Sanday , acetate meeting took place at the hous 9 of Mr . John Mdean , ( coffee-house , ) Castle-street , when tb » following places were represented : —Truro , Mr . i H Longmaid ; Bedrutbi Mr . Hancock ; Helstone , Atr . Gill&rd ; St . Columb , G . Endean ; St . Day , Mr . Thos . Orun , -with several friends from each society . Mr . Gsllard waa called to the chair , and J . H . Longmaid waa appointed secretary . The several delegates having reported progress , they went into discussion on the best possible means for further s . fn \ Al \ ng , tha county , when it was resolved , thafe Mr . N . Powell , from the North of England , be
engaged for one month , to lecture in the county , and » plan be drawn up for his future coarse , which was agreejd upon , and the salary fixed ; each locality nobly coming forward to the support of the lecturer . At the mouth end great hopes are entertained that other towns will come forward to their assistance . A lively discussion took place on the great , the allpowerful petition , which was to be adopted at the different places , when an order was given to the secretary to write for sixty sheets and two hundred headings , and at a futare period to obtain as many more as may be found necessary , and that the present meeting do uow invite the attention ofthe Executive to this most important county , that for
tbe ^ sectiring of not only signatures , but support to their body , and the Convention to carry out those grand objects , and causing the People ' s Charter to become the law of the land , assuring them by their sending suchaa Dr . M'Douall , or such other influential gentlemen of their body , that Cornwall , though low dowiu will not be least , though last , ia the struggle . The lecturer having during the lasi week lectured at Redruth , Helstone , St . Colamb , Wadebridge , Truro , &c , when at each of those places excellent meetings and great accessions of numbers to the ranks , and two associations formed , being the result of his labours . At Truro , oa Tuesday , we-had an open air meeting , on Castle Hill , which was addressed by Mr . Powell .
RXPI » O 2 f » EW . ^ 0 n Friday , Nov . Sib , & concert was held in the National Charter Association room , the band and glee singers volunteered their services on the occasion , and a graat many songs And recitations were sung and delivered by other members of the Association . The greatest satisfaction was given to all present , most of whom were females . About thirteen shillings were eleared , which is to be devoted " towards- defraying the expences of the National Petition . On Monday , Mr . Leach lectured to a numerous audience out of doors , when be explained the principles of the People ' s Charter to upwards of seven hundred persons . .
HARTLBPOCX .. —A pnblio meeting was held here last Monday . Mr . HoUenstead ^ of Middle ? bro » , spoke ' , for upwards of aa hour and a half , and was warmly applauded throughout tho v * hble of his address , A considerable number of the middle classes were thore and seemed to pay great attention to the 8 peaker . . MIDDLESBRO ' . — -The Chartists here have adopted the following resolution r— That the thanks of this meeting are due and are hereby given to the patriotic Irishmen who so nobly defended the character of their brave countryman F . O'Connor , 2 sq .. from the base and malignant assertions of Parson Brewster and bis tools . "
Rtrz . li . —On Wednesday night , Mr . Vincent addressed a nuaieroua audience in the Free Mason ' s Lodge . He was listened to with the greatest attention , and rapturously applauded . It must be acknowledged that he has made grrat improvement in Normanby ' s colleges . His style and tone are admirable ; and it is difficult to decide whether his sound and powerful reasoning in favour of the Charter , or his keen satire gave the greatest satisfaction . —[ By soma aocideat this was omitted in our last . ] WARiEY . —The cause of . Chartism is steadily progressing here . At our meeting night , on the 1 st of November , it waa agreed that a voluntary subscription be entered into for four weeks in succession , to enable the Executive to carry out their objects in view .
WIGAN . —On Sunday evening , at the Association Room , Millgate , there was a good muster , when one feeling only seemed to pervade the meeting—that of a determination to bury all minor differences , and to work with one accord for the accomplishment of Universal Suffrage . Speakers from various parts of the town were present , when that zealous and en ,-hMaching Chartist , Mr . James Hyslop , draper , delivered a powerful and energetic address , calling oa
the working men to stand or fall by the Charter . Mr . R . Ward wound up the proceedings with a speech of considerable length , urging the necessity of supporting the Executive Council , for whom a sum was voted , and also an order for 100 copies of the National Petition for 1842 , to be circulated among the middle classes chiefly , to preclude the possibility of any excuse , on the ecore of ignorance , of our principles , the reasonableness of onr claims , and the justice of oar cause .
QARKBT-BY . —Some new members were enrolled on Monday last . All are determined to use their utmost powers of exertion in procuring signatures to the petition . ARSSXiBY . —We are adding to our numbers every week . Thanks were voted at onr last meeting to the , Aberdeen trades , for their noble reception of O'Connor . NEWTON HEATH . —Mr . James Leach delivered a lecture in the Chartist Room , Newton Heath , on Sanday last , which gave great satiafaotion . Mr . Bell , of Salford , delivered a lecture in the same room on Monday . .
KKAREBBBO ' . —The Chartists of Knaresbro * met on Monday evening last , in the Association Room , Raw Gap , when Mr . William Johnson w » s called to the chair . After the business of the Society was over , the following resolutions were unanimously adopted :- < - " That the Chartists of Knaresbro' return their sincere thanks to the Chartists of Aberdeen and its vicinity , for their magnan mbuit display ia honour of that noble of nature , Feargus O Connor , Esq ., and to the Chartists of Scotland generally . " w That the Chartists of Knaresbro' place implicit
confidence ! in Fc-argus O Connor , Esq . so long as that patriotic gentleman stands firm to the Charter . " 14 That a vote of censure be passed by the Chartists of Kuaresbro' npon Daniel O'Conneu , Esq , for the abuse of the Chartists generally , in his string of resolution ? , which appeared in the Star of last Saturday , and for advising his poor , deluded , but honest countrymen to hate the Charter , but hopes the patriotic . Irish will adhere to the Charter , as it 13 the only means bj which they ean gain their independence . "
BiLSTON . —A general meeting of the Chartists of this town was held on Tuesday evening week , for the purpose of hearing the reports of Messrs . Stiran and Cadley relative to their respective delegations to Stafford and Birmingham . Mr . Mosely was called to the chair . Mr . Stiran aud Mr . Cadley , in lengthened and eloquent speeches , made known the purport of the delegate meeting at Stafford on ths previous Sunday . Mr . John Mason was nominated as a fit and proper person to represent the counties of Stafford aud Salop iu the forthcoming Convention .
ALPRETOM . —At the weekly meeting , on Saturday last , it waa resolved to get a number of the National Petition to distribute amongst the people of Alfretou and the surrounding districts prior to the Petition sheets being taken round for signatures . There was a suggestion made as to the propriety of establishing a joint-stock provision company , and the feeling it created almost amounted to universal satisfaction . Several persons put down thsir names as members . The causa is going on well . Four newmembers were enrolled , and took cards of membership .
SUNDERX . AND . —On Tuesday evening last there was a full attendance at the Arcade Room . Messrs . Binns , Williams , and Bragg addressed the meeting . Several new members were enrolled . A new and beautiful soDg , entitled " The Banner of the Charter , " composed by a Snnderland Chartist , was sung by the meeting , and received with great applause . .. ' . '' . Lips Boat House . —The meeting here , on Sanday afternoon , was well attended . Mr . Binns addressed it in his usual effective style .
BEDMNGTON .-0 n Satnrday evening , Mr . Willi&nis , in compliance with an invitation , paid a Visit to this spirited and intelligent village . He held a good meeting immediately after his arrival , and another the following ( Sunday ) forenoon , at tha Cross . They determined to enrol themselves in the National Cnarter Association , and there is no doubt a flourishing and powerful Society will speedily be seen bore . SOUTH SHIELDS . —Latterly there has been new political life manifested in this place . A fine , intelligent , and upright body of men , lamenting the apathy of their town , and desirous of Beeine it occupy that position in the movement
for freedom which it once held , recently invited Messrs . Williams and Binns , of Sunderland , to aid them in holding » publio meeting for the purpose of bringing the claims of Chartism under the notice of the men of Shields . Mr . Williams and Mr . Alexander Wilson , ( the nason ' s delegate , ) attended the first meeting , which was held in a large room at th * Banks of the Tyne . Mr . John Douglas was sailed to the Chair . The room wm crowded to suffocation . After spirited and excellent addresses from Mesas . Wilson and Williams , rcsomtioas in favour of th *
National Char ter Association , and also in fevoor of tho National Petition , wot © unanimously adopted At the close of the meeting , several enrolled themselves in the Association . On Wednesday last , the second meeting was held , which Mr . Williams and Mr . Bragg attended and addressed at great length * , and succesfuiiy , for forty-two cards of the National Charter Association were disposed of and since then , orders have been given for thirty more . Tbe room has been permanently engaged for regular meetings . Well done men of Shields I that is the way to earn your freedom .
To The Imperial Chartists.
TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS .
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YOL . Y . NO . 209 . SATURDAY , NOVEMBER 13 , 1841 . *^ fftS ^ ffffffT' "
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AND LEEDS GENERAL ADYERTISEE .
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), Nov. 13, 1841, page 1, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct574/page/1/
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