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    KATIONAL CONVENTION-.

    Tuesday ; May 3 . Mr . Duncan in the chair , Mr . Leach in the vice chair . Hinntes read and confirmed . Mr . M'Pherson , brought forward the following mo * Son : — " That the Convention take into consideration the tart means of securing to the working classes the foil benefit resulting from their own labour , " gad supported it in an able address in which he recomjoended co-operative policy . Hr . Feargns O'Connor seconded the motion . Wi . Woodward mored an amendment to the effect tint the Convention should give no recommendation on the snbject , bat leaTe to the judgment of the working x&en to take such steps as they may deem most proper to relieve their social condition . Mr . Bartlett seconded the amendment Messrs . Moir , and Tbomason , ably supported the motion .

    Mr . Leach was opposed to the motion . He thought it was calculated to divide and distract their attention . He thought the people were somewhat in the condition of the lion ' s proTider ; they would only be allowed to procure a subsistence on condition that the greater portion of it went to the lion . To some of his constituents the mention of paying sixpence a-week to a co-operatiTe society , wa » almost an insult , they could Bcarcely procure food . Other members then addressed the Convention . " 34 r . M'Pberson Teplied , and the m&tion was then carried . Mr . Thomason moved a resolution ,

    • ' That in order to avoid the denunciations that had taken place , that a committee be appointed from Bngland and from Scotland , independent of the Executive , to which all disputes should be referred , " He did not bring forward this motion to screen or to attack any party , but simply to do away with what had been the canse of great division . These denunciations had been the cause of driving many good men from the ranks . They had made them the sport and ridicule of their enemies . If they did not take Borne such steps they might continue to agitate the country for twtnty five yean witbont any effect—their strength would be wasted and lost . His object was to create union and good feeling .

    Feargus O'Connor seconded it with pleasure ; he thought it necessary , for his own protection , as well as for that of other men . He hoped they would conduct this discussion in a mild , temperate manner . He believed the motion might have originated in the ¦ wounded feelings of Mr . Thomason ; he was the only tt ^ ti -who conld say , with any shadow of truth , that he had ever been denounced , by himself . In connection with the Scottish Convention , he certainly disapproved of Jlr . Thomason ' s conduct , and wrote a letter to his constituents to that effect ; and he had since been told , by Mr . Thomason , that he was right in his views on that FQ >> jecfc , and that the parties with whom he had beea acting were endeavouring to thwart the object the Chartists had in view . He had not been seven times in

    Leeds , since he had been liberated from York Castle . He had expended every farthing of profit , which be derived from his paper , in promoting the good of the cause . The denunciations complained of were not connected with the Editor or Proprietor of the Star ; but were resolutions carried at public meetings , and when at times they had been withheld by the Editor , he had received letter after letter complaining of it , and demanding their insertion . Baring the whole time he bad been connected with the agitation , he had never denounced any single individual , while the last five "years of his life had been taken up in defending himself . All the vices of the Northern Siar had been selected for observation ; but not one word was stated of the good it hod produced . ( Hear , hear , and loud

    cheers . ) He was anxious that a tribunal should be formed to which all should be amenable ; he asked this as mueh for himself as for others . For years before be was connected with the Siar , he had advocated a censorship cf the press , but he could not allew himself to be trodden under foot It appeared that some parties wished Feargua O'Connor to stand with his bands bound behind , a cock-t&y for every one who tbongbtproper to attack him . If anything whatever appeared in any paper or from any person , reflecting upon his character , it was immediately said , what a slap Feargus has got ; but if he attempted to say a word in reply they immediately cried out " what a shame , how wrong itwas to denounce ' . " The Editor of the Northern Siar , had perhaps more to endure than

    any other editor of a newspaper . The obloquy to which be was exposed , was almost unknown . His great strength arose from a knowledge of his own weakness —from knowing bis friends from his enemies . Every Eian was liable to error of jndgment ; but when he knew that he was following the straightforward path of principle be cared not for all the obloquy which might be thrown upon him -, he would allow it all to pass as the idle wind which he . regarded not The leaders ef the people now present had quick ears and quick e 5 e 3 , and he would defy any one of them to point out a time when be had attempted to denounce the

    chaz&cter of any leader of the people , though he himself bad been denounced to his heart's content If ever he heard a leader of the people denounced , he had always supported him , in fact he had been blamed for giving men too good a character . He was willing , if such a tribunal as the motion proposed was created , to bow entirely to its decision ; if he bad wouaded the feelings of any man , it was unintentionally ; though he had never attempted to fritter away any man's character ; but he found that the same conduct had not been pnrsued towards himself , but he was willing to waive every subject of contention to promote union among the advocates of the cause .

    Mr . Roberts said it was with much diffidence that he gave his opinion upon this subject He agreed with Mr . Tfeomason that these denunciations were one of the Boat fruitful sources cf disunion which it was possible to conceive of . All seemed to be well aware of the evil , but the main question was how to get rid of the ¦ evfl . He conld not agrf e with the motion to snbmlt his character to the decision of any Committee ; he preferred to have the public at large for a Jury . That was a far better tribunal than any Committee that could be appointed , as that Committee mutt be of necessity formed from a section of the Chartist body . If a public meeting decided wrong , there was sure to be a reaction ; but if a Committee once decided wrong , they were almost sure to abide by that decision . He had , as

    an individual , experienced the benefit of appealing to the public . In Bath and Bristol himself and Vincent bad been calumniated and denounced , but they had found that a public meeting was always ready to do justice to them ; and here he conld not avoid paying a high tribute to tha talent , integrity , and manly conduct of Henry Vincent , and he could not avoid noticing that being in conversation with a Chartist of Bath , who expressed strong opinions against Vincent , O'Brien , and others attending the Birmingham CuEftfresce , he stated thry were deserving a vote cf censure ; he asked him if Vincent and O'Brien Trere to brisg- ovtr the whole of the Confcrense to the C :. arttr , what he would then say ? He immediately replied , they would then be worthy of a vole of confidence . Sj it appeared that votas of censure or conrdecee were to be passed not according to

    the principle eeat&iued in them , bat according to the success which attended them : "for his own part he cared nothing for denunciation ; he had received far aore leifera cf friendship and marks of confidence since he had oeen denounced than at any previous period . "When a iiion was nrfiiriy attacked , a fe-action aivrays solicited truth ; and if a man was proved-to have acte ;\ wrong , it was well ; if not , he had a fair opportunity of explaining hirnselL It was not the harm fio ~ e to himself aa an individual which he found fault wi ' -h . but the injury it had done the cause with the puV- ' ii ; . He was unxicus to place Chartism on as broad a bisis as possible . It was for this reason he opposed ilr . PhOp ' s motion on teetotalism ; and for the same l e ^ S ' -n he opposed the appointment of this committee . Sir . RoKiU then induced in some pleasant raillery on an fcxr-TesMon of . Mr . Bairstow " £ in the CvmwoTisictaHh

    rt-5-peiting eteruity ' s last bell having tolled ere Mr . O'Cuseot ' s fame -weald be forgotten , which elicited tr > .-aer ; dous laughter . He was cf-opinion that no man hz'l done more for the movement than Mr . O'Connor ; ba : such whok-sals adulation tras calculated to turn the head of any man ; knd Mr . O'Connor must have been almost more than man , if he was not affected by it He wished them to take a more extended view of public affairs ; to oveilook the petty jealousies which disunited and divided them . He was opposed to aeonimittee , because he thought the public a far more y erftct tribunal .

    Mr . O'Brien concurred with Mr . Roberts , that a committee wa 3 net a competent tribunal for the decision of a subject lite the present . He thought that in the present divided stete of onr organisation it would be impossible to shut the influence of faction out" of a committee . He had drawn up a resolution which he thonrht would m = et the case ; it was a resolution wh ' . ch no honest man could disapprove of ; and he trnsted that the Convention vrould unanimously agree to it ; it was as fellows : — ; " Tiat this Convention deem it abselutely essential to tha success cf the Chartist movement , and to the B&fety of all who take a prominent part in it , that no public n ^ n connected "with our cause should be

    denounced in any assembly of the people , or in any news paper supposed to be in the interests of the people , until after the party against whom the denunciations may be levelled " has been fully heard in his own defence in the presence of the assembly , or through the columns of the newspaper which would denounce bim , and furthermore this Convention records its solemn determination , collectively and individually , to treat all dertLnciations as calumnies and misrepresentations against the parties who may be the objects of them , unless the denunciators shall have previouly invited or brought the denounced parties in presence of the public , so that a fair bearing cf both sides may take place , —the public as jurymen , —before any public censure is nw ^ rded . "

    He would net leave bis character in the hands of any committee : he held it that no man ' s character should be . taken away on the txparis statement of a newspaper . He was not opposed to the comments of any editor of a newspaper on his speeches , or even his imputed speeches , provided he was allowed a fair opportunity of replying , but such coismenta should always

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    be conditional—they should commence with an if . If Mr . O'Brien , if Mr . Vincent said so , —and in the case f a well-known public man , it would be but courteous to state , that from the well-known character of the man , they should hesitate to believe until they had further evidence . If some step of this description was not adopted , no man ' s private or public character would , be safe . He also held the opinion that no matters gleaned in private society should be made matter of public denunciation . They had an instance of the ill effect of this in the present Convention . If the present system of denunciation was carried on it would be impossible to maintain their existence as a party . In every town in the kingdom , they would be broken into parties and sections if one man denounced

    another . He also ww marked out for vengeance ; and nothing conld be more easy than to invent private conversations , and publish them to the world as matters of public importance . If he committed himself as a public man he was willing to be judged by the public ; but it usually happened tha * the denunciations were got- up by private coteries of individuals , posted off to the newspapers , and were spread on the winga of the press to the whole of the kingdom . ( Cries of bear , hear , hear . ) He could not avoid alluding to the reports given in a certain newspaper respecting his conduct at the Birmingham Conference . From that report they would believe he was a regular Sturgite ; that he was one of the devils of the Conference ; that the Sturgite party were a regular set of knaves ; and

    "that the five Bradford men were the enly honest men in . the Conference . To this there was no exception—all were humbugs and devils of the Conference save these five honest Bradford men . Hints were even thrown out respecting their independence ; insinuations were given respecting soup tickets . The five Bradford men , who scarce opened their mouths during the whole sitting of the Conference , were held up as the only pure and immaculate men . Now he hoped they would allow him to explain his conduct , and he could assure them that he was never in Joseph Sturge ' s house in his life ; that he never spoke to him save in the Conferencd on public business ; and that he never tasted his soup while he was in Birmingham , while the five independent Bradford men lived on Sturge ' s soup during the whole

    of the time they were in Birmingham . The part that himself and the other Chartist delegates toek in the Conference had been unfairly represented in the Star . Pxom the reports in that paper they would suppose that he had regularly flummuxed them ; that he had regularly humbugged the Chartist body ; that be was willing to change the name and to abandon the interest of the body he had so long acted with . He could solemnly assure them that no proposition had ever been made for them to change their name . No man had ever dared to bring forward such a proposition ; they did not in his presence , and ha believed , he was sure , they did not in his absence . Not a Charist deputy but would have felt himself insulted by such a proposition . Even the middle class delegates , who were opposed to the name

    of the Charter had not dared to mention the Bubject of changing their name . The material which had furnished certain parties with the means of propagating this delusion was , that certain middle class delegates expressed themselves pretty strongly against giving themselves thenames of Chartists ; but the difference wai only about the name . Many of the Conference deserved well of the Chartist body . The Rev . Sir . Bptnce , though opposed himself to being called a Chartist , stated that nething would grieve him more than to see the Chartists abandon their name ; it would be weak snd pusillanimous . He not only said this , but he went still further : he advised them not only to retain their name , but even their own organisation . But these

    middleclass men had many reasons for not publicly supporting the Charter ; if they did , their names might perhaps have shortly appeared in the Gazelle ; and thus , though they hesitated about it themselves , they were not opposed to others bearing the name of Chartists . And when Mr . Lovett ' s resolution was brought forward , knowing that the matter was one of but little consequence , and seeing that , by styling themselves Chartists , they might injure themselves among their middleclass constituencies , he thought their conduct was not so liable to blame ; but the Northern Star denounced the conduct of the whole of the delegates , with the exception of the five Bradford men , who lived upon Sturge ' s soup .

    The Chairman called Mr . O'Brien to order . To make such direct insinuations against persons not present to defend themselves , was low , mean , and contemptible . Mr . O'Brien—If there was anything mean or contemptible , it lay with those who originated the charge , and not with himself . With regard to the motion of Mr . Lovett , he believed that , though he did not move the amendment , yet he swayed the Committee , by his advice , to reject it . He cared nothing about their adopting the name . They only represented a small portion of the middle class ; whatever decision they came to was not to be taken as the decision of the middle class , but of them , as an individual body . They had agreed to the whole of the principles , and

    therefore -he advised them , as they had no authority to give a name to their Association , that they should call another Conference , for the express purpose of deciding that" question ; and he had pledged himself , if living , to be there , and defend even the name of the Cnarter . Now , this was net the impression that had been left upon their minds by the report they had received from a certain paper . He had nothing more to do with Sturge or his Conference than the man of the moon : he was sent fey his constituents to perform two express duties——firs . t , to endeavour to get them , by the diut tf argument ,- to agree to the six points of the Charier , and , failing to do this , to protest agair . st their acts beiiTg considered as the acts tf the working elasses . give it as our deliborate opinion that the working

    While he said this , be was not opposed to Mr Sturge's plan , Eolong as they do not oppose us ; he was for perfect toleration to all persons—he held that they had no right to interfere with them as a body , so long as they do'not interfere with us , they have an equal right to form an association as we have . They may gain a portion of the middle class to the standard of Chartism with whom we might have no influence . This was what he told them at the meeting at the Town Hall , Birmingham , the Whigs had made him such a devil , that thousands would come to hear Sturge , who would never come to hear him ( O'Brien ) and others of their party ; he there stated that owing to this circumstance , no man was ever so fitted to head their movement as Mr . Sturge ; this has been misrepresented , as thcueh he

    had saiA that no man was so fit to head cur movement , and for this he had been styled a middle-class adulator ; O'Brien an adulator of tbe middle class ! why , it came upon him like a thunder clap—like a shower bath . For ten years bad he denounced them as a da&s ; and now because he had expressed his admiration of the conduct of a few men , he was called an adulator of the middle class ; as well might Thomas Duncu > mbe be called t-j account for the misconduct of every one tf his electors as fur him to be answerable for the conduct of the whole of . the delegates to the Coi . f-rence . He was decidedly opposed to all denunciations unless tbe niun came boldly forward to a pub . ic meetiDg fur the expressed purpose , or if denounced in & paper that he should be allowed a fair right of reply in the same columns , not

    th . t be shoulabecondemned unheard ; debarred i-f the -right of cit Z- -nship , of that righi which was extended to the ' lowest criminals ; he did not blame any man for ciff = rir . g in opinion from him ; hebcliuved that in many instances nine-tenths of the population differed frtm him- in opinion ; bat if the man denouncing him possessed an organ of his ov ? n—if the statements in that organ were believed without the parties being heard in their own dcfeDce , then no man who ¦ was opposed by that organ , or by the parties conducting it were safe from kavingthcir characters flittered away . If private conversation was to be matls the subject of public denunciation—if the statements made in that conversation were to be perverted to auy man ' s purpose—if itatemei . t * in contradiction wtre dtmed insertion , then this

    became an unbearable despotism , wLich it was every man ' sdu : y to put down . It mattered not to him that these denunciations were said to be founded on a report in the Staiestnan , that they were couched in honeyed language , that it was given as a surmise , that suspicion was set afloat , that character was traunoeil , "while the real author was allowed to tscapp . For five months had this fleeting spirit of division been fostered in ev ^ ry tows . It bid raised up two antagonistic parties . ! No sooner had he arrived at a place than one party waitmi upon him to say that Mr . So-and-so was not to be trusted , he had this move or the other move . Scarcely were thc-y gone ere the other party came , bidding him beware of other pirties ; his answer had invariably been that he would have n&thing to do with either par * y ,

    and that if he could do the cause any service while in that town , let them bury their difference in oblivion , acd assist him in doing it . He never allowed auy leader-to be denounced in his presence . In one p ^ ace he defended Tincent , in another O'Connor , and it was a curious fact that the meeting he attended at BirniiDi ; - ham , at O'Neil ' s chapel , he was actually put down for defending O'Connor . He had attended there to see Mr . Vincent and Mr . Ho ' . lia , of Cheltenham , on privatv business connected with his paper , and being recognised by the people they compelled him to speak , and he was actually put down because he would not allow O Connor to be called bese . It "was not from love to O'Cjunoi that he defended him , for he had no love only for the other sex , but from a feeling that such denunciations were injurious . He defended Yincent , as nob : e a little soul u . s ever breathed , against similar attacks . Vincent had done more good among the middle classes tf Bristol than it was possible for him or any other

    man to do there ; let every man do the utmost good m could , and let him do it bis own way . In the Town Hail of Birmingham also , he had defended O'Connor ; he had defended him from that-erratic friend of O'Ctmnell's , . Tom Steele ; no sooner did he get up to denounce O'Connor , than he stopped him . If a crisis was to come acd the same spirit to exist as at present , he trembled for the consequence . The worst scene 3 of post times would be re-enacted—the niaa who had woifced hard in the cause , whose heart had bled in its seivice , might be denounced , his reputation , his very existence , destroyed by these vile means . If they looked buck to past ages they won ' : d find that the men who loukt-d most " to the interest of the people , were generally sacrificed for their zeal in theii behalf . Syenites was compelled to drink hemlock ; and , to go to the highest authority , Christ himself was sacrificed by those whose interests be was endeavouring to promote . The nly way to put a check to this feeling was by adopting bis motioa , l £ t no newspaper dare to denounce a msn

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    until a publio meeting bad been called , and he had met face to face with his accuser . Every man in that Convention was equally liable to have his character blasted and destroyed , unless such a step was adopted . He mentioned no newspaper in particular , but applied to all in common . . Mr . O ' Connor stated that as bis object was unanimity , if Mr . Thomason would withdraw bis motion , he would second Mr . O'Brien ' s . This being acceded to , Mr . O'Connor stated that , in seconding this resolution , he should make a few general remarks on what bad fallen from Mr . O'Brien . Much had been said about the five Bradford delegates . He would appeal to Mr . Leach , and all who were present at Birmingham , that

    they were not aware , until the Fridsy , that Mr . O'Brien was a delegate to the Conference , They believed that , like Steele , he was only a visitor . The Conference met on a Tuesday , tbe letter Mr . O'Brion complained of was written on the Wednesday , aed not knowing , until Friday , that O'Brien was a delegate , the praise swarded to the Bradford delegates in noway detracted from the merits of Mr . O'Brien , The delegates to their meeting , in calculating upen the number likely to vote upon certain questions , did not include Mr . O'Brien or Steete , believing them both to be visitors . Mr . O'Brien bad attempted to saddle the onus of misrepresentation on the Star , although he acknowledged that the report on which the remarks were made was taken from the

    Statesman . . Mr . O'Brien stated , that tbe question of the abandonment of their name was not mooted . Mr . O'Brien—not of the Chartists abandoning their name . Mr . 0 Connor—Mr . O'Brien had attempted to show that tbe Siar bad misrepresented his actions at the Conference . Snrely the copying of articles from Newspapers specially reporting those meetings , could not be misrepresentation . He agreed , with Mr . O'Brien , that much mischief was done by cabal and private slander ; more than ever was done by public denunciation ; these

    went forth to the world ; they were capable of being contradicted . No man had been denounced , in secret , more than himself , and he could not avoid stating that , in almost every town be had visited , where -O'Brien had preceded him , he was asked what he thought of O'Brien ? On his expressing , as he invariably did , a favourable opinion , they informed him that O'Brien , in all his private conversations , was in the habit of assailing and denouncing him . Mr . Moir , and Mr . Bartlett , could bear witness , that both at Glasgow , and at Southampton , he had defended and praised Mr . O'Brien , and averred that no man in the movement had done more for the cause .

    Mr . O'Brien hoped Mr . O'Connor wonid cease from praising him ; he only wanted him not to abuse him ; and to allow him tbe opportunity of stating a few facts in his paper t& the public . He cared nothing for deuunciation so long as tbe same medium was open to him to reply ; but he did complain that facts bad been manufactured against him , and he had bean deaied a reply . Mr . O'Connor sincerely regretted if he bad in any way misconstrued the conduct of Mr . O'Brien , or misrepresented bis views—he had no intention of doing so ; but still the fault lay with O'Brien . He had a week ' s notice that his conduct would be the subject of criticism . If he was so sensitive—and a public man had a right to be so—he had ought to have immediately stated

    that tbe report of his conduct at the Conference was incorrect He ( Mr . O'C . ) had frequently taken pen in hand , in the dead of night , to correct similar misrepresentations . No man—however high he might stand in tbe movement—should think himself above the necessity of contradicting misrepresentation . If he neglected to do so the onus fell on bis own shoulders . He should deeply regret that any man was ever driven from their lanks . Mr . O'Brien was the last man in existence whom he would attempt to injure . He had on immense respect for him as a public man : and , notwithstanding Mr . O'Brien did not I'' - ^ e had a great affection for him as an individual mi he pledged himself , that

    whenever Mr . O'Brien wished 01 thought proper to write anything for the Siar , so far as it was connected with the cause , or on matters of policy , it Bhould always have insertion . If Mr . O'Brien intended writing a letter to the Star , he would maka no reply to it , unless it contained falsehood ! He trusted that all acrimonious feeling would cease . If any time had been misspent in this little difference , let them make up for it by a complete union . He would shake banda with Mr . O'Brien , bury the past in oblivion , and tnen they could get on , fighting side by side , the better for the future . He w&a willing to give to Mr . O'Brien tbe right hand of fellowship .

    Mr . O'Connor then gave his hand to Mr . O'Brien , which was accepted amid much cheering . Mr . O'Brien was willing to accept of this friendship on public grounds . If Mr . O'Connor would insert his communication in the Star , he was satisfied . Bat be most inform him that he bad not had tbe liberty he could have wished in tbe past columns of the Stay . AH he wished him to do was to send him back the blackguard letter , which the Editor would not insert , that be might show it to his friends , that they might be convinced it was not a blackguard one . It certaiuly contained some angry expressions , but what better cculd they expect from him . He did net care much for the rough style of Hill ; it was these smooth men that he dreaded . Mr . O'Connor's last letter was

    very clever , was written with great tact , and was calculated to do 1 im great injury . It would make persons ' : elieve while ho was on terms cf private friendship with Vincent and others , he was abusing them bahind their back . It was a dreadfully smooth letter . ( Laughter . ) Like the claws of the tiger , smooth as velvet , but the danger was still the same . All he hoped was that the Star would spare him that kindness in future . He was bound to admit that whether , from accident , er from whatever cause , no man had done so much as Mr . O'Connor for the movement ; but though he looked upon him with admiration , be could not with love . Far from it . But he would not put his private feelings in comparison with the public good ; but be must still impress upon them the necessity for his resolution . Within these few years , 40 , 600 persons from their ranks had been driven to

    America ; three-fourths of the members of the last Convention had also chitfly , fey denunciations , been cempelled to leave their country , and that , too , chiefly caused by their own favourite journal ; and , unless this allowed them a reply , they were buriced altogether , for no other journal inserted their proceedings ; or if it did . the same parties were not its readers . He should endeavour to forget the past , and in tiuie perhaps his admiration of O'Connor as a public man might merge into that affection for him aa an individual , which Mr . O Connor had so bountifully bestowed . He trnsted that Mr . O'Connor would see that a full report was inserted in the Northern Star , which he should take to be justification sufficient . We have omitted to state that ai the time Mr . O'Brien was expected to attend the meetiDg at Birmingham , for which bis n . inie was announced , business compelled him to be at Bristol .

    Dr . JI'Djuall thought that they had met to perform a duty to the public aud not to investigate private squabbles ; he thought it advisable to lay down a principle by which they should be guided , and that those who would not abide by it could have no claim to its protection . He should lay before them two resolutions embodying his opinions upon this subject . He had seen the evils produced by denudation in the eUl Convention , and ever since the same feeling had existed . He did not think so little of himself a 3 to be niermly jealous of other individuals ; they ought to throw overboard at this crisis every private feeling in favour of a gratul struggle for the Cuarter ; if O'Connor or O'Brien were eternally to b « the suV'ject of dissention tbe movement would t > e better without them ; of their sincerity to the cause there could be no question , tut by this disunion they had injured the cause they had both at heart . He should move the following resolutions .-

    —" Firstly , that according to the true principles of democracy , it is jieither just , necessary , nor safe , to cienou ce or condemn men ; but that it is perfectly consistent with our ideas of liberty and justice , to criticise or condemn men ' s actions , recommendations , or measures . Secondly , that tha only tribunal , judge , and jury , recognised or submitted by this Convention , are to be found hi public assemblies called without charge , Toting by Universal Suffrage , and before whom tho accuser an-1 the accused shall star . d face to face , and to ho : h of whom the utmost liberty of speech must ba granted . " If they agreed to this resolution he should never fear to trust his character to a fairly called assembly of his fellow countrymen .

    Mr . Stallwood seconded the amendment of Dr . M'Donall . He was sorry to differ from Mr . O'Brien , whom lie respected :: s his political schoolmaster ; but he bad too much respert for the liberty of the press to agree to a resolution which in his opinion was a gag utoii it . He thought public men were public property , and that they must expect to have their conduct commented upon . All he claimed was that they should be allowed the right of repiv . He objected to that part of the resolution which said notice must be given in some instances . If treachery was intended , a delay like this might prove fntal . Mr . O'Brien had stated that ne one

    had attempted at the Conference to change the name of the association , but he was sure that Mr . Spencer bad moved nnd Sir . Vines seconded a motion to that effect , and that Mr . Vines had on his return to Beading advised the Chartists of that place to change their name , and join the Sturge Association . ( Mr . O'Brien stated that it did not occur at the Conference . ) With regard to the resolution btfore them , he was opposed to fettering the press in any way or description . If they passed -. hat resolution of Mr . O'Brien ' s they woul-3 be acting in a most despotic manner . He trusted Mr . O'Brien would withdraw his motion .

    Mr . O'Brien said he would sooner have his hand i cut off . Mr . Philp was glad to see that the same unanimity characterised this debate , as on the previous question ; he had come to the Convention that morning with the intention of saying much more on the subject , but considering the turn the debate had taken he agreed with the rtsolutions of both Mr . O'Brien and Mr . M'Douall , but thought that neither of them were sufficiently defioits ; he should move as a rider the following resolution : —

    " It is the conviction of this Convention thatm all matters upon which the opinions of the principals of the Chartist movement may differ , the people are the i be > tjudgeaof right afcd wrong , and whilst every Indii vidual should be ut liberty calmly to express bis opinion I upoa questions , of principle or policyi no tme has a

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    right to assume tbe office of dictatlor , arid violently denounce those with whom he may disagree . " . Mr . MPherson seconded Mr . > iiilp's amendnient . In Ws opinion , the other resolutions had too great a ten- ' tency to trammel publio opinioni he vras opposed to violent denudations , but if a person continued performing _ a Bucceasion of actions likely to injure the own * -. He thought that snch conduct ought to be denounced by the public ; tie did not see what result could ensue from these resdlntions . the denunciations generally arose from private misunderstandings .

    Mr . Lowrey thought that neither resolution or amendment was sufficiently explicit , but that of Mr . omen was , in his opinion , preferable . These denunciations generally arose from little knots of Individuals fTi ^ S * roni Public assemblies ; he had known five individuals to pass rotes of fc&is description ; he was oppesed to all denunciations , but he feared them not ; he bad been denounced himself , but by firm conduct he bad lived it down , and he believed that if a man acted openly and consistently , he never need fear the influenco orany press ; he was opposed to a committee He thought the public was the best jury for the trial of caseB of tbiB discri ptlon ;

    _ Mr . Beesley--it appeared from the diacusslon that tbe majority of tbe country was quite opposed to these denunciations ; for himself as au individual , he cared not for thejr .. it hid been stated that some of their best men had been driven from the ranks owing to denunciation . He thought this mubt have been an error . He had not sought to ascend the pinnacle of fame . He was not anxious to be known out of his own distr ict ; but be knew thia . no man dared to denounce him in that district He thought that tbe recommendation to the country would be sufficient to put a stop to tbe syatem . They bad enough open foes , without commencing warfare with their friends .

    Mr . White said he had . heard a greatdeal respecting denunciation , but there were many who wished to be thought Chartists who virere not so in reality . If he thought a man was a ^ shuffling fellow ; if he thought he was going to make a bolt from their ranks , he would tell him so , if they called 4 t denunciation . No man was more anxieus than himself that the leaders of the people should stand firmly banded together . He should agree to Mr . O'Brien ' s resolution , believing that it would protect them in the discbarge of their duty . Mr . Bairstow stated that no person was more ready than himself to acknowledge when be was in error . He confessed that in the extract Mr . Roberb bad read from a latter of his in the Comptomcealthsman , a statement that he had opposed the resolution , pledging them to the name . and principles of the Charter , was liable to misconstructfon . The letter alluded to was

    written during tbe continuance of the debate previously to" Mr . Roberts withdrawing his opposition but if Mr . Roberts had read another letter in the same paper , he would have seen that he had made the aiivende honourable , by stating that the greatest unanimity prevailed , and the resolution for the name and principles was carried unanimously . Mr . Bairstow then retaliated on Mr . Roberts for the criticism he bad indulged in his language regarding the tolling of the eternity belL He was opposed to the denunciations which had ; taken place . Much of it had arisen from private scandal .

    If they denounced the conduct of individuals without giving them a fair hearing , it waa treating them worse than criminals . If a man was denounced , he bad a right to reply in the same channel . He thought that the Editor of the Star was far from being infallible ; but the Northern Star bad been a good guide to public opinion , and had effected great good . With regard to denunciation , he had experienced bis share of it \ but he held it in most sovereign centempt . He never feared any Editor or any paper , so long as he acted in a straightforward manner . He Bhould Bupport Dr . M'Douall's motion .

    The debate was then adjourned to the ensuiDg morning . J Mr . Morgan Williams read a letter referring to the Welsh victims , and likewise read a circular , which was to be addressed to the M . P . ' a respecting the return of Frost , Williams , and Jones ; the circular was adopted . Mr . White read a circular for the release of all political prisoners , which was likewise adopted ; and after notices of motion had been given , the Convention adjourned until eight o ' clock on Wednesday morning .

    Wednesday , May A . The Convention met at eight o'clock , Mr . Duncan in the chair ; Mr . Leach , Vice-Cbairman . Present—Messrs . Campbell , Lowery , Duncan , Beesley , M'Pbersoh , Stallwood , Harrison , Bairstow , Leach , O'Connor , Doyle , Pitkethly , Woodward , and Ruffy Ridley . The minutes were read and confirmed . A letter was read from the Council of'the Democratic Chapel , at Nottingham , stating that they would , to the utmost of their power , support the Convention . Letteis were read from Aberdare , ia Wales , containing ' £ i for the use . of taeConvention , and £ li 10 s . from various other places . ! - * <

    Mr . Morgan * Williams then commenced the resumed debate . He thought that it waa necessary that the press should closely watch the leaders of the people ; it was the best means fchejr had of keeping them firm to the principle . Mr . Williams then alluded to the press in America . Previously to Mr . Jefferson being elected President of America , no man bad been more foully maligned by the press of that country -but he outlived it all . He thought that it was impossible for the press to put down a man in tha present movement unless he first destroyed himself . Mr . Williams then passed some eulogiuma ] on the Northern Star . He believed that eternal vigilance was necessary towards those who occupied a leading station in the movement . He thought that if they destroyed the efficacy of the only organ they possessed they would be destroying their own efficacy . , . The Chairman begged that he would retract the word " only . "

    Mr . Williams thought that some of them were too sensitive . They seemed to think that a breath could blow their characters away . He thought bia character would stand upon > its own merits ; and if he was disapproved of by hia constituents , he would immediately resign . Mr . Harrison thought they were too sensitive upon this subject . They denounced the conduct of the Whigs and Tories , ! because they did not steer a straightforward course ; was it not proper , then , to denounce their own party when they were acting in a shuffling manner ? Mr . O'Brien bad said that these denunciations had kept the middle class from joining them , yet at the same

    time he tsaW they were so prejudiced they . would . ' .-not even listen to him . He thought if that was the case this would have no influence upon theni . He could not allow tbat a man was as good a Chartist as he was unless he belonged to an organisation . Mr . Lsach thought that considerable more damage had been dono to the cause by private slander than by public denunciation . Men would privately slander those whprii they were too dastardly openly to meet . These public denunciations were only the index to the private slander float ' ing below . He should support Mr . OBrieu ' s motion , but he trusted that he would add the words , " private slander "

    Mr . Kidley believed this motion was one of great importance . It was necessary that steps should be taken to prevent private slanderers from stabbing them in the dark . Much as the word love had been bandied about he w ; is still anxious to see them animated by a spirit of brotherly love . Be knew not the motives by which some men were actuated , but lie knew this , that justice demanded '¦ that they should throw the shield of protection around their leaders . That they should prove to the country that they would not tolerate such dastardly conduct . They had . open enemies sufficient without being engaged in a warfare with their friends . He approved of the motion of Dr . M'Douall . He thought that the press was an officer of justice , that the pnblic was the jury , and to act between them and the press , and that the motion of Dr . M'Deuall would

    establish a court of appeal . He had seen men whom he respected , whom , for the persecution" they had sufferesl . 'ho almost : ulored ; men who had been firm and true to tho people , and when he saw denunciations in the paper on tlu-. se men , he demanded tbat a tribunal should be erected befere these votes of censure should be again p ;\ ssed . He saw another man who had performed the work of an Hercules in tfie cause , attempted to-bo Stabbed in the dark—men who had given iip pvoperty , ease , and caste in society , to advocate tho cause of the pNor . Would they tolerate this conducts—would I they not rather join heart and hand in this great cause , throwing aside all party bickerings , a , nd determine ; ¦ while they have breath ; never to cease in iheir united , exertions for the redemption of the poor and the needy . J The lesson the tyrants had given them last night . was suffieifmt to dfetermine them to unite in this

    cause . r Mr . Campbell thought the resolution of Mr . O'Brien was calcu l ated to put a gag upbn the press . The pres 3 was a reflex of public opinion , and it -would not be wise to interfere with , it . He was willing that the public should , be the judge of his conduct . The public voice was seldom in the wrong . If a man was honest he need not fear the power of any editor . He would speedily , by his conduct , be enabled to overcome any denunciations which might be . passed ogaiaafc him . Mr . Moir cared little for the censures of the press It could not injure any public character for any length of time . He was an example of it ; he had been called all sorts of bad names , but they bad no effect ; the shafts flew off his back , the same . as they would off the back of . a rhinoceros . He would support Dr . M'Douali's amendment . ' . :

    Mr . Doyle said he perfectly agreed with the motion . He thought every body should first have the opportunity of defending themselves . If the ; conduct , of a man was such as to be opposed to the public good , then an editor had a right te coiament ; it was difficult to define how far an editor should go . Lord Althdrp had said that publio men's actions -were or » en to criticim , and he agreed with him . He was -equally opposed to private slander as to public atus 3 . Mr . Woodward said there had been a . great deal said about the liberty of th « press . Be would like to know ¦ if the . liberty of the press existed in Eagland , no Chartist cared what the Times , Chronicle , or other papers said of him what \ ve had to look at was v ^ hat our own Chartist press said . He thought it was right persons should ha ^ e the . opportunity of defending themselves , and tbat the people should hear both sides previous to deftvering their judgment He thought every man before"be was denounced should have notice that be \ faa going to be denounced ; -we bad no power , ¦ I -: - * " . ¦

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    no real power , to put this in execution . They could only recommend it Much harm had been done by persons taking up opinions too hastily ; he therefore thought it was necessary they should come to some resolution on the matter . ";~ V Mr . Mason thought the reao ' ution was necessary to prevent great diasentions among our leaders . He had not been the victim of denunciation ; but he felt for others . Being in the presence of Mr . O'Csnnor , he must eay he thought Mr . O'Connor had not acted right , but rather harshly , to wards Mr . O'Brien ; but Mr . O'Connor had come In for his share of the denunciation . But he ( Mr . O'Connor ) waa differently situated from the

    rest of them , having the means of going to the place from which the denunciation sprung . He could feel the weight of the denhneiatio-da from the press of the other classes / and thought it . wag . tho duty of our own press to defend us upon all occasions . He thought denunciations against individuals deteriorated much from the cause . He -was inclined to think the resolution of Mr . O'Brien , uniess very : carefully carried but , would be worse than the evils it attempted te > cure . He hoped the time had now arrived when the meaner feelings of our nature would be set aside , and a complete feeling ef union and cordiality be substituted in itastoad ..- -:. .- ' ; * "V . ;* - * - : " *\ . ' -- . ' .- ; ' . : - - ..

    Mr . Thomason believed denunciation did a deal of mischief to our cause . He thought from the good humour that prevailed during this debate , it would be productive of great good ; Mr . O'Brien felt so strongly the effect of the denunciation of the press on persons , that if there were not two persons in this Convention to anpport him , he would endeavour to carry it out , out of doors . He thought everybody should have an intimation by letter or otherwise , before they were attacked . This his reaolntion demanded . He did not want to shackle the press . Dr . M'DouaU ' ai resolution was vague . He thought a man ' s public acts were open to comments from writers in newBpapeKt , but be thought the man who would publish private conversations was a literary assasin .

    Tbat was plain Eoglish . He bad always given an opportunity , when conducting a paper , for all parties to have a reply . He had admitted / at least , six letters from R . Carlisle , attacking himself . He believed that if the Star made statements relative to him . five-sixths of the Chartists would believe it to be true , because they would say that Mr . O'Connor and Mr . Hill were his friends , and would not say anything against him , which was not true . He thought the press was morally bound to admit a reply to a charge . Mr . O'Brien then read a letter ; from Wbtton-under-Edge , expressing confidence in himself , Vincent , and others . He had not brought this forward from any bad feelings . He thought ii absolutely necessary when one set of persons got favoured Dy a paper , and others could not get the truth inserted , they were driven to apeak to individuals , and this was called slander . But however he was opposed to private slander , he was delighted at the

    expressions attributed in the Star to Messrs . Beesley and Mason relative * to the middle classes . Mr . 0 Connor promised him yesterday that ha should have the opportunity of setting himself right in his paper . With this he had agreed that all enmity should cease . He would never join in any cabal agaimt any public man ; private slander meant telling lies against any one . He thought gentlemen would perceive that he had been actuated by the best motives in bringing forward this matter . He thought the press should watch the people , and that tbe people should also watch the presB . . : . ' .. " . * ¦ ¦ ¦ ' ' ¦ ' . - .. - ' ; * ' . ' ¦ -.. * Mr . Duncan said Tories and Whigs did not condemn their own party , but the Chartist press seemed to take a delight in ¦ censuring those who advocated the same principles as themselves . Mr . O'Brien bad himself attacked him while conducting the Operative ., Mr . O'Brien—But I did not refuse you a reply .

    Mr . Duncan said , because he never sent one ; he was opposed to all denunciation , they would never succeed nntir they were more united . Mr . Philp acceded to the wish of Mr . O'Brien , that bis rider should be attached to Mr . O'Brien ' s resolution . The resolution of Mr . O'Brien was then put and voted for by Messrs . ^ Beesley , M'Pherson , Leach , Doyle , Roberts , Pflilp , White , Wdodward , O'Connor , Powell , Mason , Lowery , Thomason and O'Brien . Messrs . Stallwood , M'Douall , Harrison , Bairatow , Ridley , Moir and Campbell voted for M'Douairs amendment ; Messrs . Williams and Bartlett did not vote , thinking it unnecessary . Mr . Pitkeithly was absent with leave . Mr Duncan in the chair . :

    Mr . 0 Connor moved , and Mr . O'Brien seconded the following resolution : ^ " That yie respectfully invite our brother Chartists throughout the empire to close their ears against all private slander levelled against the character of the people ' s friends and advocates , and at once to silence all such attempts to recognise in such a pernicious system the destruction of union so necessary , and the frittering away of character so essentially necessary to the success of our conmmon cause . . We a ' so recommend that the system , of private letter writing for the purpose of creating an ill-feeling , which is generally followed by the formation of sectional parties , who invariably direct their attention to the support of individuals instead of the furtherance of the cause , be discountenanced . " The resolution was unanimously carried . A . deputation was then received fcom the National Association respecting a statement made by Mr . Harrison and reported in the ' Star of April the 23 rd .

    Mr . Peat a 3 the organ of the deputation -read the report from tbe Star and stated tbat no deputation had ever waited on Mr . Duncembe , but on Mr . Duncan ; that the speech attributed in the Star to Mr . Parry was spoken with a trifling alteration by himself , aud also some other trifling errors . ' .. ; . ¦ - Mr . Harrison stated the general truth of the report cf his speech in the Star , with the exception of the error referring to Messrs . Dancan and Peat , and read from his minutes the exact report of what took place at the meeting alluded to . The Convention then resumed its usual business . Mr . O ' Brien moved and Mr . O'Connor seconded the following resolution : ¦— -.. * ¦' .. * -,: * :..

    " That we , the delegates of the working classes in Convention assembled , after having witnessed the proceedings in the Commons House of Parliament , on the motion of Mr . Dancombe , on the 3 rd of May , do hereby give it as our deliberate opinion that the working people of this empire can have no hope of justice from the House of Commons , as at present constituted , and that we forthwith proceed to the appointment of a committee of Beven persons whose duty it shall be to draw up a memorial to her Majesty ; and to consider such other measures aa maybe necesaary for the guidance of the Chartist body in the present crisis -of . the country , and that the said committee be prepared to submit such memorial and such measures to the Convention by nine o'clock on Thursday morning . "

    Mr . O' Brian thought that it -was absolutely necessary that they should calmly and deliberately review their position j and that they should propose not only a measure , but a series of measures , each growing out , of tho other . He thought that if they allowed government three months , and during the time employed themselves in procuring signatures to a memorial to her Majesty ; they would be effecting a step in advance . He had also , his eye to the future measures , as electing a . Parliament < by show of bands , & * c . No man who had a drop of ; English , Irish , Scotch , or Welch blood in him , but would feel indignant when he heard the manner in ! which their petition had been treated . When they ;

    carried down the petition to the House of Commons was it not monstrous that they should be driven back ' by the staves ef policemen;—that they should be-1 denied even an entrance into th 8 lobby of that House .. 1 He was well aware tbat it was not expedient fer a large j body of men to attempt au entrance into that House , ; but he thought it an insult to their constituents that i ths delegates should have been treated in tho manner j in which they were , when their only oVject was to see their . petition fairly presented . He wished these mea- j sures to be adopted , that the people might be guarded , against any sudden excitement -which might lead to j violence .

    Mr . O'Connor stated that many years since he bad anticipated a crisis like the present He thought that great prudence and courage was necessary to guard the movement , and that while they guarded themse : va 3 against over-zsal on the one hand , they were equally bound , on the other hand , to guard against ovev-caution , and to see that the events which might arise from circuinstances were not saddled upon . the Charter . The j riots around Dudley arose from circumstances and not j from the Charter . Let theni take care that th 9 y did j not lose the vantage ground on -which they at present [ stood . He was surprised at the manner in which even j some of their advocates in that home had defended j their principles . j

    Dr . M'Dpuall thought that they would now be fully aware that justice would never ba done to ; the people by a House of Commons elected by the present constituency . His blood boile ; l within him when he thought of the manner in which their patition bad beea treated by the House ef Commons . Mr . Beesley was opposed . ' to ever petitioning again . Bethought it much better to bring the agitation to a speedy close , ere those whfr now supported them should have died of starvation . Ho thought they Bhould now return to their constituenaea and calmly snquire of them what course they should now pui-sue .

    Mr . Philp very ably supported the -resolution for a committee . He could , scarce trust himself to speak calmly on the subject of the treatment they had met with on the previoia evening . He trusted it would cause them to unite the more closely for the object they bad in view . He slaould redouble bis exertions in the cause . He would pledge himself , from that luoment , never to lose an opportunity of spreading their 'vie'i&s and . of abiding by the whole of their principles , and ever to oppose all attempts ta thwart their organi-Eation . - .: " - ** . ' ¦ // ..: , - . . ¦ .- ¦ - . ¦ " *' . ' :- . " . * . , ¦ . "•¦?" ... •¦ ¦¦ ¦' Mr . Lbwrey fully agreed in the " appoinmeBt of a Com-¦ mittee . He trusted they would act calmly , and net allow their real to outstep their prudence . He thought it would be a degradation to them again to appeal to that House of Cjinmons , but still he would not say that he-would never again petition that House .

    Mr . Stallwood approved of the appointment of a committee , but be did not feel the least disappointment in knowing that their petition had baon reject : d , nor believe that his constituents would be disappoiuted - ^ they only regarded petitionhig as a sort cf constitutional shield . They had effected great good by their procession—they had caused the greater portion of the pi-ess of the metropolis to insert tUo petition , and com . m « nt upoa their viewB .

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    Mrl M'Phereon supported the motion . Hfa constituents were in favour of a national remonstrance The present had been supported by the whole of the working men" 6 t London . The next remonstrance ¦ would , be signed by four millions of persons . Mr . Thomason thought that the present agitated state of the publio mind rendered union and determination absolutely necessary . He was opposed to any idea of physical force . The - ( . resent Government only wanted a shadow of an excuse to make an attack upon them .: - . ' ¦ . > ' ¦ ' ¦' : ' ¦ ' ** .. - * **; . . ¦ ¦¦" . "¦ .. ¦ ¦ . ' - •• ' . "¦ ¦¦¦"¦ - ¦ * . . ¦ , ¦ ' - ''

    Mr . Masooi stated that their present pe « aition was far superior to that of any other Convention which bad preceded it . The House of Commons had last night refused their prayers and their petitions , and had held out no hope to their starving children . If this was to remain bo , they bad better return again to a state of nature . He was of opinion tliat it would be degrading to petition the House of Commons again ; thai their next step should be to peiition the Queen ; and if that was of no avail they should ijeave the people to decide on the , nextBtep to be adopted ; Mr . Leach briefly supported the appointment of a committee : ¦

    Mr . Ridley was of opinion that each delegate should express hia opinion on the subject before them . He for one repudiated the doctrines of Mr . Mjicaulay , and would state' fearlessly that it was him and hia party that were driving the people to that state which he asserted the Chairter would produce . It was their duty to those who sent them there to take such steps . as would enable them to save themselves and their country . He feared the memorial to her Majesty weald meet with the same fate as the petition . H , e hoped the committee in drawing up the memorial would have an eye to the conduct of the House on Mr . Duncombe's motion .. ; . , ! - : - . - ¦ ¦' .- .. * .: * ¦ ' .. ' - - * ' "¦ *¦ V ¦'¦ '¦ ¦; .-- ** Mr . Bartlett thought the only thing the committee could do was to draw up the memorial . Mr . Macaulay ' 8 speech was calculated to do them more good than , harm ; it was a wild rhapsody , and a verj'foul calumny . ¦ " ... •'¦ : ' ¦¦ ¦ ¦ ,-: ''¦ ¦¦ ¦ ; ¦¦ ' . '¦ ; ¦ .- ¦ ' .. - ' . ' - ¦ ' " ¦ -. - :

    Mr . Campbell had heard it stated by some that they would never petition again ; he would not assert this ; he was prepared to act according to the exigency of the times .-. - ; -- ¦ v :. '•• - ' , . " - .- . ¦ ¦ -: ; . . : :. ' - ¦ \ :. ¦ ' . - _ '" . Mr . Powell Btated that his feelings were similar to thoseof Mr . Campbell . - Mr . Bairstow joined cordially with those delegates who bad expressed their , disgust at the treatment they had experienced ; he could not state that ho fait disappointed at it ; but at the period he was in the House of Commons his blood boiled within bis veins , and he felt bitterly indignant ; he feared the memorial would meet with the same treatment , but it was their duty to exhaust every legal means in their attempts to gain the Cbaitar ; he trusted that the conduct of those M . P . ' a who bad opposed them would not be forgotten on tha hustidgs . ¦"" .. ' ¦ ' . ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ : ¦ ' ' ¦ .- ¦' ¦ ¦ - ¦¦" ' .. - ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ - ¦¦ ¦ ¦' ¦ . "' ¦ ¦¦ ¦¦ ¦¦ ¦

    Mr . White had received letters stating that thousands were starving in his district The men were driven to disperation , ; and they must be prepared to adept decisive measures ; be thought that the memorial should contain a call to dissolve the Parliament ; he cordially supported the appointment of a committee . ' ; ' Mr . Woodward thought that they must increase their organization . Though it was the largest in the world , it wasnot yet strong enough to obtain their object , they werein a better poaitipn than they had ever yet been . -He . thought they would have , to present more petitions . and memorials before they obtained the Charter . ' ;; :. . ' - ' J : . ^ . " : : ' :,. \ ' . ¦ . ¦' ¦ ¦ . ' •¦; - ' / - / ¦ ¦ ; . . ' Mr . 'Harrison supported the resolution for the formation of a committee , but he trusted tbat the committee would bear in mind that other measures also must be adopted .

    Thursday , May 5 . Mr . Duncan in the chair ; Mr . Leach in the vice chaift ; . : . - ¦¦ - . . . ¦ : ¦ : ¦ ' ¦" ' ¦ ¦ . ' . ' . '• ¦ " . ¦ ¦ ¦ ; ¦ ¦ . : •¦ ¦• ¦ ¦ . ¦ . The minutes were read and confirmed . Mr . Beesley moved that a monthly journal be establishedI bythe Executive . Mr , Bairstow seconded the motion . Mr . Pitketbly njoved the previous question . Mr . ' Stallwood seconded the amendnient , which was carried ; ¦¦¦¦ ; ¦ ¦ ¦ :: ¦ : ¦' . ¦ ¦ ¦ :- ' . ¦ ' ; ' . Mr . Roberts , brought forward his motion , condemnatory of Mr . Roebuck ' s language in the House of

    Commons , while supporting Mr . Dancombe ' a motion . He allowed that Mr . Roebuck had done much for the cause of liberty in his peculiar way , but be had an infirmity of temper that ought ta be checked . Mr . Roebuck used the words that the National Petition was " trashy and contemptible , and that it was drawn up by a malignant cowardly demagogue , and that he could name the reptile that had drawn it up were he net toe contemptible for notice . " It waB their duty to inquire who was the individual he alluded to . It was his opinion that Mr . Roebuck should be called upon to retract the language . : - ' V- ' - ¦ /' ¦ ¦ , ';" - - ' - \ : ' - 'W ' --¦ , . " v . - '' - ' - /

    , Mr . Moir cordially seconded the motion . Notwithstanding Mr . Roebuck ' B former Rood conduct , and tha good speech he made in the House , his conduct in denouncing the petition , and the false language he used , had doUe more harm to the cause than his speech or vote had done good . Sir Robert Peel and other Members seemed to gloat over the charga , and no doubt it had Us effect upon the decision of tue Members . -The charge of Mr . . Roebuck waa entirely false . It was the Executive of the National Charter Association who drew up the petition . ' ' After -various other members had expressed their sentiments , the motion was unanimously agreed to , and a deputation , consisting of Messrs . Moir , Leach , and Pitktthiy , were appointed to wait on Mr . Roebuck , and call upon him to retract the expressions , with the further , instruction that he was either to name the individual he alluded toi or give a written retraction of the calumny : ;^ : ¦ - / - ; ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦' ¦ ¦ " ¦¦;¦; - - ¦ . ¦" _ ¦ ¦ ' r -- - : ' - . '

    Mr . O ' . Gohnor bad ,.- . we . ; . bel : eye , from expressions he used the previous day , demanded explanations both from Mr . Roebuck and Sir Robert Peel . The committees for the return of Frost ; and hia companion , and the release of the political prisoners , had leave of absence granted to wait with the Riemoriala on the respective Secretaries of State ,. ¦ : ' . ¦' - ' . Some discussion took place on the subject of a vote of thanks being given to all who voted for a hearing at thebar of the House ; and on the motion of Mr . Beesley , seconded by Mr . Bartlett , it was ultimately resolved that a vote of thanks should be given to Messrs . Dancombe and Leader , the mover and seconder of the petition .::- . ¦ ' : . ' . ¦ . ' . ¦ ¦ ¦¦ ¦ > ¦ ¦ . ¦¦ - ;¦ ¦ • , '" ' . " ¦ : ;¦ : ¦¦ - - : '• ' A copy of . a printed bill issued in Belfast , calling a Chartist meeting , was then read , and a letter congratulating the Convention on their unanimity , and on the favourable position of the cause in Ireland . . ' , ;

    Mr . O'Brien reported from the committee appointed to draw up an address to the country , and having read the address , ¦' . '¦ ¦ : ¦ ¦ : ; Mr , . M'Pherson moved , and Mr . White seconded , " Tfiat it be discussed in separate paragraphs . " Which was carried . : ' ; Considerable discussion took place on the second parasfiaph , respecting the propriety of acrain petitioning the Heusfe , -and it was decided that they : would not abandon the right of petitioning ; ytt they would not petition ths present House of Commons . Most of the members expressed their opinion of tbe total folly of expecting ' a redress of grievances from the House of Commons as at present const tated . Mr Beesley was entirely opposed to again petitioning . ' ; ¦ V ";¦ . ¦ .: Mr . Harrison was not so much opposed to petitioning ; but he . thought each person : should take his petition to the House in bis own hand .

    Some . diBCUssioni took place on tba fifth parEgraph , regarding the appointment of lecturers to the ^ . agricultural districts ^"'' - where no localities existed , and whether the appointment should be vested in the hands of the Executive , which appeared to be the prevailing opinion . The clause was then agreed to , as was also the Sixth . , ¦¦ : - ¦ ' ¦ , ' ' ¦ ¦¦ ¦ ¦ ' ' ' ' '¦ ¦' : ' ' Mr . . Williams moved that the seventh clause , expressing their gratification at the conduct of the Birjniugha } ni-Confei-ence in adopting the Six Points ef the Charter , and . recommending the country : to send delegates to the Conference , to beheld to decide on the name , be . omitted . . This ca , ve ria 8 to a lengthened debate .

    Mr . O'Brien supported the clause . One of the resolutions passed afc the Chartist delegate meeting ia Birnirn ^ ham was similar in substance . ' ¦ ¦ ¦¦ Mr . Whifa opposed it When they requested : that party to " pftatpone their motion , they would not ; but threw every obstacle in thc-ir way . Were they to receive all theii kicks , and then , spaniel-like , applaud their conduct ? -.- ¦ ' : ; ^ : : / Mr . M'S ^ ierson opposed it on the ground that by praising and TecomvnendiDg ; Assodations like that of Mr . StBsge , they would be givia ? enconragemeiit to every little knot of men calling themfielvea Chartists to forra , an orsanizition foe themselves , and thus destroy that unity of action , so essential to success .

    Mr . jpitkethly was opposed to it , as also were his cqnstiSraents . He was surprised at Mr . OBrien—a man who' bad been loader ia his denuticiatioas of the middle class than any . man in the movement—now turaiag round , and eulogizinsf them . It was hia belief thai they only wanted to stifla the present xaovement , that they might being on the only question they really bad at beat t—the Repeal of the Corn Lawa Mr . O'Brien explained that he did not eulogjza the middle class ; he believed them as a body to be tha

    bitterest enemies of the working classes ; those who attended the Conference were not now connected with the Corii Law paBty ; they were an offshoot from them , and were convinced that nothing ahoitof a full , fair , and free represehtatiori would benefit the people ; so far was he from eulogising the midrtle classes , that he could not even obtain sureties lor hia newspaperowing to the prejudice they entertained against him . '¦ ¦ ¦ " * ' ; - ' ' - ¦ •"¦ . , - ¦ "¦; ; . .- - ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ -. ' ¦ " . " • ¦ ¦ . . - ' ., '¦ ¦ ' - ¦ ¦ Mr . Itoyle bad made up his raind npon the subject ; the country would see hia opinion : by the manner in

    which he voted . A motionwas then carried , that owing to the presa of business and the necessity of the Convention break ing up that evening , thai the speakers " be limited to three minutes eachr : : r - - Mr . Lowery was surprised at any debate ^ on thisi subject ; tb ! ey -had decided in their address of last week , that they hailed with pleasure all movements based on theChartor ; if they refused this clauseV they would be acting in opposition iotheii previously expressed sentiments , V / 'V : ¦ \ ¦ .. ¦ . :.- ¦ ' '• . / ' v ' . ' - - .. ; .. ( Continued in qu * eighth poige . J :

    Untitled Article

    THE NORTHERl ^ AR , : . ' ' ^^ -C ^^ -C : M ^^ WfE

• Citation
  • Northern Star (1837-1852), May 14, 1842, page 7, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct598/page/7/