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Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software. The text has not been manually corrected and should not be relied on to be an accurate representation of the item.
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- Jj l '~ " - - - . - — MR . O'CONNOR'S ADDRESS TO THE ! PUBLIC , j IS BZF £ B 2 :. CE TO TBE INCREASED PBICE OF THE j EVEKISG STAB . " 1 Li ; er nearly fire years' experience , as sole proprietor of the leading P / uvinciai Paper of the Empire , I nuy . ! ¦ without presompUun , lay claim to some knowledge of ; tae influence of tha press , and the consequent necessity i of subjecting that important estate to the-most virtuous j and rigid criticism . The press of a country should be j the dial of opinion—the regulator" of action , and the i maissoricg of V&onght . It should Eerve as a double i mirror upen society , heralding and magnifying acts of j Tirtue as bright examples of imitation , in the concave— and skfctching "vice wiii- : . ebar . ta . ble hind in the con-TfcX j thus leaving ¦ " . he intellectual qualit > s of man , the pleasing datj : triumpliin £ , by * xar .: .: .-, over his
grssser passions , la cases of hesitation or cOLflict , toe pre&s . from its character , should be an arbiter to whose decision none bat the consHous offender ¦ would object to submit . A press established for such purposes woold not only compel its conductors to select persons remark , able for their Tirtue and uprightness for its management end control , tlius not limiua § its m 3 . ti . ti to the ci ude and singu ' . ar notions of mere mechanical Editors , bnt would present a tittering ir . TitaUon to all "whose contributions would ba received for their general rather than for their particular merits—more for their good tff = cts npon the ¦ whole community , than for their value to any particular class . With such a general and -with ruch a Etaff as would flrck to the standard , the discipline of the mind ¦ vrould be speedily completed , and the exercise of genius in the causa of vinui , morality , aaA rii ; ht ,
• would be a pleisisg service , ia which no moral soldirr ; ¦ would blush to carry his knapsack . Reader , contrast j in your mind , discharged of prejndice and party bias , j the tff ^ ct that men a prcS 3 -would hare upon all thos e ! relations in which -min should stand to his fellow-mari , • with the effects produced upon society in ita several ramifications by the press as at present conducted in ; this country . Ita heaviest censure is accepted as praise by the political antagonist ; ths triumph of a vicious partisan over the most virtuous opponent , is hailed as ' the victory of party , without reference to its general tendency ; and ail cinsuierution of the public good ia j merged ia anticipation of tha profit and loss of faction . With inch a General , thej , is it wonderful that the Standard should be surrounded by such a staff ; that the discipline should be varied , irksome , and unequal ; the
exercise humiliating and degrading ; the soldiers dissatisfied aod unessy ; and the whole army threatening disorganisation and mutiny ? Is it wonderful , thut for such base purposes , base tools should be sought for their accomplishment , while the virtuous , scartd by the hopelessness of success , are cimptl . ed j to abandon the prospect of - aiding Virtue in j her struggles by tieir councils and their con- j tributions ? Is it wonderful that men , like 1 prostitutes , should be hire ;! in suoh a service for their pliancy and lack of character , rathf . r thin for their i integrity , inflexibility , and virtue ? No ; it is rather to ; be wendertd at that Each a combination of ail the evil ' , pastions , with such ready meins for their disscmina- tion , have not long since laid Tirtue prostrate , and com- j pitted the triumph of the grosser qualities cf our nature
It is because I have witnrB :-sd the continuous , the bold , and the manly struggles of the aiind against the ruin i'& I oppressors ; ^ na : t is bccsiise I have beheld the unequal ua : ia vrhich virtue has been long engaged against vica , \ and ths stand that lie moral army has made , —that I ; have rc-sjlved t" gather im scattered elements for one grand assault against the citadel of corrcpticn . 'With ] that view , aid ig ot&er—for my services are grcsiiit- j onsly rendered—have I undertaken the management acd i control « f the ErerJng Star newspaper , which , in my I hands , shall bs the advocate of the oppressed of all j classes , the rt fleeter of all opinions , the impartial critic j of all acticas , and the hoLest arbiter in all controversies , ! to whose judgiiieat the just will cheerfully defer , as it shall be impartial . Those principles which I have evtr j auvecated , it shall continue to support whole sjk ! entire ,
taking advantage of ail incidents that fortune , fate , or circumstances may present , for their furtherance . Seven years ago this day 1 established the Radical Association cf Marylfcbone , the . parent frem which has tprung our preseni chile—Chartism . In two years after its formation , and my circulation cf its principles and objects . I found it necessary to establish a paper for their representation , and hence the appearance of the Northern Star . At that tins I found public opinion " wild as the mountain breeze , " scattering but not gathering . I laid down the maxim , that ia every political movement there Wire three rt-qaisir-es—firstly , the creation of public opinion ; secondly , the organization of public opinion ; and thirdly , the direction of public opinion-How far my labours , backed by the Northern Star , have sctwmolUhed the trro former , let thosa testify who
recoliect the ease with ¦ which fiction , made ready merchandise cf popular will and aetion before I took the field ; and contrast it with the proud authority which tint will and action now command , despite the perscufeons , danger * , threats , and prosecutions to which thty have been subjected . The iatter stage , the direction of the public mind , requires a more active agent than a ¦ weekly press , and therefore have I cheerfully , and at great trouble , and some exp&nce , taken the helm of th 3 vessel . Having thus laid down the principles npon ¦ which the Evening SUw shall be conducted , and my motive in cndtrtaiiBg its managemtnt , it becomes a pwt of my duty to teil you the reasons why I have not only Baetioaed but counselled an increase in the price of the paper . Ita price hitherto has been Si , out of which tie proprietor has torray a penny for the stamp ,
a penny to the newsvendor , and a penny for paper and machinery , thus swallowing np the entire price , leaving not a fraction to pay any of the exp-PDces of composing , reporting , sub-editing , publishing , keeping accounts , rent , gas , taxes , pens , paper , ink , casualties , spoiled stamps , and the thousand-anc-one other contingencies , all tending to make an increased circulation an increased eviL Prior to my connexion with the paper , its weeiiy Josses amounted to aboat £ 100 ; bear in mind that it is a daily paper ; since my connexion the losses have increased in proportion to the increase in its circulation , for which 1 am bold to assert no ua . ly paptr has ever fnmiahed . a parallel . Now , it is because , as a losing cancern , it may orje day , without notice , leave me and my party without its support , tb » t I have thought it prudent towards you ,
jus * towards the proprietor , and right to myself , to piace it npon a foundation , from which the gale of faction cannot shake it ; still keeping its price fourpence , twenty per cent , under all ether daily papers . The magnanimity with which the proprietor has borne his losses , and the spirited manner in which he has carried out isy every suggestion , many of which have been expensive , demand for him . ' at my hands , all that protection which my counsel can afford . T , he whols question is row btfere you ; it is for you , and you only , the working men , for whom I write , to judge , whether or rot tfee circumstances justify and warrant- the step I have ta&en , I am , your faithful Friend , Feabgus O'Couxob . O 2 ce , £ 52 , Strand .
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COLLIERSSTRIKE IN AYRSHIRE . ( From tilt Kilmanock Journal J Oa Wednesday last , a large body of colliers , amountin ? to upwards of 600 , principally * from Stevenston , Eolwinnicg , and that neighbourhood ,, assembled as early as two o ' clock in the morning at the works of Gateshead and Kiimiraock Colliery , and sneceeded in preventing the men belonging to those works frem going to their libour . They afterwards assembled at Oid Rome Gardens , and addresses were made to the miners tf this district , urging them to insist upon the incre ^ ssd wages , and reduction in weight of out-put cf coal , fnjtn the masters .
Intimatk-n of thesa proceedings having been communicated to the authorities as Ayr , Sheriff Eiton came to Kilmiraock in the course of the morning , and , accompanied by Air . Andrews , Procurator-fiscal ; Mt . Blsce , Superim . endenc of Police ; and Mr . Mann , County Constable , proceeded to Grargsestos and Gatehead , to niak « the requisite investigations . The Sheriff considered it his duty to order out part of tbe Ayrshire Yeomanry , and accordingly three troops r-ssemb' . ed at Kiimarncek in the evening , under the command of Major Jatuts Fairlie . Officers , Sir James Boswell , Mr . T . S . Cunninghams , jun ., of Capringten , an £ Mr . Win . Hamilton , of Braehead . At an early hour part of this force was despatched to
irriD © , accompanied by the Sheriff , and two troops remain at KUmarcock , in erder to act in the event of any emergency . We trust that although these precautions have been taken , still they wiil not be required to be called into serious operation by aggressive acts on the part cf the stand-out ^ and that the miners wiil act upon the resolution adopted by them at the meeting of delegates on Monday . Those who are urging thsai to the contrary course are their worst enemies ; for they may res * assured , that no interference will be allowed with the freedom of action of those who desire te continue at their employments , and that any attempted infringement on this right will be Tisited cy prompt and severe punishment .
Thin morning the workers at Gateshead asd Gargieston , who had been prevented going down the pits yesterday , resumed their operations undisturbed Another meeting of the sand-outs is to taka place to-day at Hanxhclta . A rumour having reached Sheriff Eaton yesterday that an attempt was te be made to damage the ccal ¦ works at C&rriagton , Mr . Biane , superintendent here , was despatched , at seven o ' clock last' night , with aersral of Ms own force , and two 0 ! the xcral polios , to organise measures for the protection of the property
there . The workers turned out with the greatest alacrity , and were formed into a formidable force to protect the extensive machinery connected with the ¦ works . It happened that , after -watching until the doming , so molestation was offered , and ire cannot believe that wy operatives connected with . the coanty - willresort to each lawless proceedings ; bat should any desperadoes from the East mete acy such attempt , no other force -will be requisite at Caprington than iiie colliers themselves to repel any uttw * that may be made .
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Loss MoswtH , we understand , iB not expected to lefcnra frea bi > Una ia the United Sstees aod Cicada
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MINATION AND COMMITTAL OP THE PARTIES WHO WERE SHOT IN ATTACKING MB . SHEPLEY-S MILL . GLOS 5 OP . ¦ WEDNESDAY ETENIKG . This morning , three prisoners , named Thomas Winteibottom , Olivet Fry , and Thomas Smith , were removed from the New Bailey House Of Correction , in custody of Mr . R . Beswick , chief superintendent of the Manchester police , per railway to Goodley , and were escorted thence to Howard-town , by a party of the llth Hussars , for the purpose of being examined before the magistrates .
j 1 The prisoners were all wounded by Mr . 8 hepley when j his mill was attacked by a large body of people on the i 30 th ef August They appeared to ba suffering still ! from the effects of the wounds , particularly Winterbottom , who had been shot in the right hand , right thigh , j and groin . Sraith was the person who received the ; contents of the pistol , and had the ball extracted from his shoulder at the Salford Dispensary . ! Previous to the inquiry , a Mr . Part , an attorney from j Wigaa , who is employed by Mr . Gregory , the Government Commissioner , to write , on espying a reporter present , suggested to the magistrates the propriety of ' coiiipeiling bim not to mention the names of any par' ties in the course of the inquiry who were not in cus-: tody . He also appeared anxious that no report should I be aten at all .
The magistrates informed Mr . Part that they should leave the matter to the dscretion of the reporter . The charge against the prisoners was for riot , conspiracy , and with beginning to demolish the factory aad premises of Mr . Shepley , on Tuesday , the 30 th of August Mr . Pomfret , surgeon , stated , that on the 30 th of August , as he was passing the ahop of Mr . Sellers , druggiet , at Woolley-bridge , he was called in to examine Witerfeoltom . He had received several gunshot wounds , and some of the pelletB had perforated the abdemen . Y / itne&s recommended that he should be sentrto the Manche&fcr Infirmary , and offered to write him a nete to the Louse-Eurgeon . Winterbottom
said be had received the wounds at Mr . Shepley ' s mill , that he was there doing nothing , and that he had been shot by Mr . Shepley , to be revenged on him . Witness afterwards found another man on the Cheshire side of Woolley-bridge . He was wounded In tfie thigh , end his trousers appeared to be perforated with shots . Witness could not say whether it was Fry , the other priso-. er , who bad been removed to the Manchester Infirmary , but he ordered him to that place . He thought the person must have stood near Mr . Shspley when the gun was fired , as the shots were closer together than in the man whom witness saw at Woollej-b .-idge . He said he came from Hyde . WitnetB recommended him also to be tiken to the
infirmary . The next witness examined was Mr . W . Sellers , who keepB a druggist'B shop at Woolley-bridge . He said he recollected the day of the attack on Mr . Shep ' ey ' a mill . Witness had been from home that morning , and returned about one o ' clock . He found the prisoner Winterbottom then in his shop . He told witness he had been shot « t Mr . Shepley'e , at Brook-fieJd , He said he had gone there vrith the people . There were then many persons in witness ' s Bhop . Witness had previous y seen a mob go towards Brookfield . The shop was crowded with people , many cf whom asked the prisoner questions . The prisoner said he was shot before there
was any disturbance . He was shot in the right hayd , the groin , and tte bottom of the belly . Some of the persons in the shop called in Mr . Pomfret , the surgeon , who was passing at the time , and he examined the wounds of Winterbottcm . The hand did not appear to be much hurt , bat biood was dropping from it , showing that it had been recently done . It was said in the prisoner ' s presence , that he caics from Staleybridge or DackinSeld , but witness could not tell who said it . He appeared to be in great agony , and complained much , but more of the wounds at the bottsm of the belly . Mr . Pomfret recommended h '" i to get home as fast as he could . He was carried out and placed in a ceuch . Witness did not see any other of the wounded men .
Winterboitom , being asked by the magistrates if he hed any question to put to the witness , said , —I did not say I was going with the people , did -I ? You must thifii : of that , because I did not say so , I am certain . Witness . —I have told as near as I can what I heard yen say . A Magistrate . —Do you helieve he said that he went with tke people ? Witness . —I'll not be certain he mentioned the people , but I understood him to mean that he went with toe crowd of people to Mr . Shepley's milL In answer to other questions , tke witness stated that he did not know whether the prisoner was conveyed to his shep by the crowd who had been at Mr . Shepley ' s mill . The people about th 3 shop and in the shop appeared to be on intimate terms with the prisoner , and there was one woman who seamed to own him . Some of the crowd had sticks with them .
James Warhnrst was then called in . He said he was a joiner , and lived at Hadfield , near Glossop . On the day Mr . Sbepley ' s mill was attacked , witness removed two of the prisoners in his spring-cart from the Gan Inn to the Manchester Infirmary . On their way to Manchester they passed three persona , one of whom reeognizsd the prisoners , the latter of whom afterwards told witness one of the three had been shot at Shepley ' s mill , bat witness could not say whether either of the three persons wss the prisoner Smith . Mr . Rhodes , a gentleman residing at Tiutwistle , about two miles from Mr . Sheplty's mill , deposed to hearing the bell of Mr . E . PJatfs factory ring , about ten o ' clock on the mornicg of the 30 th of August , and as it was seldom lung he went to inquire the cause , ¦ when he ascertained that a mob hid turned nnfc the
hands , and when he was on the Mottram road he saw a large crowd proceeding in the direction of Mr . Shepley ' s mill . Witness crossed over some fields , and when he got within a quarter cf a mile ot the spot be heard the neise of the attack on Mr . Shepley ' s mill . There was a tremendous noise of the smashing of windows , and knocking against the doers . Witness ccuid then see the crowd going across the fields in different directions , and one part of them was in the road . About two minutes after hearing the noise of breaking the windows witness heard the guns fir ^ d . There were reports of three guns , and between the second a :: d third firing abont two minutes elapsed , and between the first and second about one minute . About a minute after bearing the reports witness got in sight cf the crowd , who were then moving from the
warehouse door . As the hinomost part of the rioters were going away they broke the lower windows ef Mr . Shepley s house with their sticks , and the upper part with stones . The mob then retreated about one hundred or one hundred and fifty yards from the place , and held a conBul ^ tioa . They formed again , and witcess heard some called back who were going away . O ; ie of the mob went to witi ^ s on the side of a hill nrar the factory , and said they had agreed to make another attack and pull the mill dowa to the foundation . Witness remarked to him that they hai set themselves toa big a job to accomplish that day . The man seemed surprised , said he tb-jught so too , and went away . Witness then went to inform Mr . Sidebottoru , a Caeshire magistrate , but he Wits not at home . Witness then went to tte Gun Inn , and there saw a person
¦ who had been shot in the thigh . He did not think it was any of the prisoners . He asked his name , but the persons about refused t 9 give it . They , however , said he cume frc : u Flowery-field . Witness then wei : t towards Brickfield , and uu his way passed through a crowd who were carrying a woncded person , whom hn beiittved to be the prisoner Winterbottom . He appeared faint and much exhausted , and blood was running through the bandages on his hand . When he arrived at Mr . Shepltj ' s , witness found the military there , and the family of Mr . Shepley in a state of great a'arm . Witness should think the mob was composed of between 4 , 000 and 5 , 000 people . Their cenduct and language were Tcry outrageous , so as to occasion ranch alarm . It was said Mr . Shepley onght to be hanged , ar . d they would have kia life . The women were particularly violent .
Fry—He said the windows were broken after they had done firing—were they ? Witness—The house windows were . Fry—I don't know where the house is . When I cama up ^ . A magistrate here interposed , and cautioned the prisoner not to criminate hiastlf . Fry—After the windows were broken he fired again , didn't he ? Witness—I heard the windows broken , but I did not see the first attack . ^ Mr . R . BcBWick , chief superintendent of the Manchester poiice , deposed to taking the prisoners into custody under warrants . He removed Winterbottom and Fry from the infirmary on the 5 ' . h inst On their way to the New Bailey , Winterbt > fct « m sai 4 , in the
presence of Fry , that he had joined the people at Sa ! ybrldge , and had gone to Shepley ' s mill at G : ossop . He also said , ' We tsld Mr . Soepley to turn out his hands —we did not wish to harm him . He came to the dvor and pulled the trigger cf a pistol twice . IS was old Mr . Sheplty . We did not think he was goiog to shoot us . He then brought a double barrelled gun and shot me and Fry . We were standing together . We wanted to tike tha gun fram him . I had nothing to do With the mills . He should have done as the masters at SUlybridge , not allowed the hands to go to work whea all were oat . " On the 7 th , witness apprehended Smith in Salford . He at first said his name was Jdxnea Wright , bnt afterwards admitted it was Smish , and that he had been shot at Shepley ' s mill , and had had the ball extracted frem bis shoulder at the Salford dispensary , which witness found was the case . He stated
that be had come into the street that morning for the purpose of being taken . j Mr . Shepley was next examined—He deposed as follows , •—I recollect the attack on xny mill en toe j 30 th of August . Aboat five o ' clock that morning , as some men patted the mill , they said they should have I plenty of company that day from Hyde and Scalybridg ? , and that they would level the milL I sent one i of ray own bands to scout at the top of the neighbour- j ing hills , and aboat ten o'clock he retained , and said , there was a large mob coming from towards A&hton and Stalybridge . I then aent off my son to Glooop < tea the milit&rr . During the whole of tt * forenoon ! crowds ef persons had been passing aad re-paumg the j mill , and used very abusive language . Betweea ten j and eleven o ' clock , a crowd stopped opposite the io # r .
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I told them they would not ba allowed to stop there . Tiey said they were on the King ' s highway , and I had no right to interfere with them . One of them said I would be attacked , on which I showed- them that I ¦ was armed with , pistols , and told them I was prepared to defend myself . They then went away a short distance , and on turning round I saw & large mob aboat half ft mile off on the road , coming towards the factory . I stopped the engine of the factory collected aboat fifteen of my bands , who were sworn in as special constables , and I stood in . the road in front of the milL The mob bad then crossed over Woolley-bridge , and they commenced running and shouting , and making the most terrifying noise . I fetched a double-barrelled gun ont of the bouse , and met them in the road . I told them several times if they
came I should m * st assuredly fire on them . Some stones were then thrown from the back part of the mob . I then retreated until I got into the warehouse , previous to which I was struck by stones three or four times on the head and body , and some of the special constables were also struck . Immediately the windows on the top of the warehouse door were broken . The door was then open about sixteen or eighteen inches , and was held to that position by a crowbar , by some of my work-people , who were behind . 1 pointed a gun at the crowd several times . Stones were then thrown into the warehouse through the door and through the fanlight over it , and the door was beaten against by some heavy instrument , Btfore the attack , I had repeatediy heard the persons passing the mill Bay it would be pulled down . I am satisfied that the mill would have been destroyed if we had not resisted , and I believe our lives were at that time in great danger . I
then struck two locks of a donble-barrelled gun , bnt both missed fire . I had repeatedly warned the rioters that I would fire on them . Another . gun was then given to me , and I pointed that twice before I pulled the trigger . After I had fired the first barrel two or three bands seizsd the gun , and tried to pull it out of my hands . 1 then took a pistol from my pocket and fired it , and fired also the other barrel of the gun . In a short time afterwards I opened the door , and found the mob was retreating towards Mottram . Several of the rioters bad attempted to gain admittance into the warehouse , but were beaten back by the hands . All the windows in the warehouse , in my house , and in that belonging to my son-in-law were broken . There were at least two wheelbarrows full of stones thrown into the warehouse , and one of the constables had two 01 his teeth knocked out .
James Jackson , constable of Simondale ,. corroborated the principal part of the evidance of Mr . Shepley . This was the person whose teeth was knocked out whilst attempting to prevent the mob from entering the mill . The prisoners were then fully committed for trial at the next Chester assizss for rioting and beginning to demolish the prosecutor's mill . —Evening Star .
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CAPE OF GOOD HOPE . GOYEBNNMENT GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY . PORT NATAL . His Excellency the Governor has been pleased to direct the following despatches , from the officer commanding her Majesty ' s troops at Port Natal , to be published for general information . Colonial-office , Cape of GoodBoDe , July 16 , 1812 . By command of his Excellency the Governor , J . Moore Craig , Acting Secretary to the Governor . Sir , —I have the honour to lay before you the following particulars respecting the position of the force under my command , from the date of my Iaat despatch until the period of their being relieved ou the 2 tth of this month by the troops sent for that purpose from the colony .
Various reports having been brought to me on the 25 th of May , respecting the intention of the farmers to mate a combined attaek on the camp that night , I kept the troops under arms , but nothing transpired until a short time previous to day-break on the following morning , when vollies of musketry , accompanied by the fire of large guns , was heard at the Point , which post , I regret to say , the Boers carried , after a desperate resistance en the part of the detachment stationed there . By this untoward event an eighteen-pounder , which there had not been time to remove , fell into their hands , as well as the greater portion of the Government prevUkras landed fT&m the Pi \ ot . l ? erVunately all tbe powder , with the exception of a small portion for tbe eighteen-pounder , had been brought to the camp , in which I had caused a field magez ' . ne to be constructed . The engineer stares wete also Eavtd , but there being no place at this post wbertin -the provisions could be protected from the weather , t usd been obliged to leave the the greater portion at the Point , merely bringing up a few waggon loads from time to time as required .
Finding myself thus cut off from my supplies , I resolved to concentrate the remainder of my farce in tbe camp , and there await the reinforcement which I made no doubt would be sent from the colony on the Teceipt of the despatch forwarded by me overland on the evening of th « 25 th of May , and intrusted to Mr . King . The farmers having desired the captains of the Pilot and Mazeppa to write and express to ms their willing-Dess to enter into arracsjements for the removal of the troops , which letter reachsd the day after the Point fell into their possession , I accepted their proposal for
a truce , being desirous of gaining time to strengthen tfcs post as much as possible . Daring its continuance , they sent in terms so ridiculously extravagant , that , although toe quantity of provisions in the camp wa 3 extremely limited , I immediately broke eff all communication with them , being fully determined , sooner tban submit , to endure the extremity of privation . I . therefore , placed the m&n on half allowance , destroyed a . small post which I ha >; caused to be erected between the camp and some buildiags occupied by the English re .-ident ^ . and made my position as secure as I possibly cuu'd ; with a view to holding out to the last .
Tteir arrangerae-. ts being completed , the farmers abcut six a . m ., on tbe 31 &t in&t ., made a desperate attack * -n the camp , throwing into it during the course of the d ^ y one hundred and twenty-two round shot , btsities keeping up an incessant fire of musketry . Oa the following day ( Juno 1 > they slackenp . d the fire of lEUiketry , but threw in one hundred and twenty-four round shot , and on the 2 nd opened a fire from the 18-pounder , which they hsd contrived to bring from tke Point , white they still continnetl their discharges of musketry Driring the course of this d * y they sent the Ksv . Mr .
Archbell with a flag of truce , proposing to allow the women to quit the camp , snd to send back two wounded men , bnt this was rione merely to gain time to repair somo wcrka thrown down by the fire from our batteries . Here I think it right to observe that they were incessantly emplcjtd every night in making approaches towards the post , which were constructed with consii'txdMe skill ; this the nature of the ground enabled them to do with much facility , and from thence a mast galling fire was constantly kept up . particularly on the two batteries , wherein I had placed the 18-pounder and howitasr .-
Finding that the few cattle remaining at the kra ! i were dying either from wounds or want of sustenance , I directed that they should be killed and made into biitong , reducing the issue to haif a pound daily . I also hsd a well dug in the camp , which gave good water , there being a rbk'in going to the valley at night , from whence we had hitherto procured it In resuming 1717 detail of proceedings , I may state generally that the attacks on the camp were continued from dajr to day with more or less spirit by the farmers , who , having soon exhausted their iron ball , fired leaden ba : ls from their large guns , in some instances Bending them with much precision . Oar practice from the eainp was excellent , a shot from the 18-pounder having dismounted one of their six-pounders on the 3 d instant , besides wounding several of those attached to it
On tbe night of the 8 th , I sent out a party to destroy some works in our front , which was accomplished withent loss . In a subsequent tortie made on the night of the 18 th instant , we were less fortunate , although the duty was performed with , great gallantry , the Boeis being surprised in the bush , and many bayoneted after a stout resistance . In this attack , which was beaded by Lieutenant Molesworth , 37 th Regiment , I bad to regret the loss of Ensign Prior and two privates of the same corns , who were killed , besides four others being Severely wounded . Upon inquiring into tbe Etite of the provialoES lhis day , I fcaud that eniy three days' issue of meat ie »
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by his spirit in ou * active operations , but equally so by his attention to all details and an&ngementa bo essential on such occasions . I have the honont to be , Sir , Tour most obedient humble servant , A . J . Cloetb , Lieut-Colonel , Deputy Qoarter-Maater-General Commanding * His Excellency Sir George Napier , K CB . Governor and Commander-in-Chief , &e .
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THE NEW PARISH CONSTABLES' ACT . Among the acts of the British Legislature to which Her Majesty Queen Victoria gave her Royal assent in person before the prorogation of Parliament on the 12 th of August was " An Act for the Appointment and Payment of Parish Constables" ( 5 and 6 of Victoria , c 109 ) , whieh will effect an important change in the mode of appointing and remunerating parish constables . . As the statute is about to come into immediate operation , and as it affaets every parish and township in England , it may not be amiss to call public attention to its leading provisions .
Tho preamble recites , that whereas it will increase the security of parsons and property , if further provision be made for the appointment of fit'persons to act ; ascon-Btables in the several parishes of England , and if power be given to pay them for the performance of their duties ; and it proceeds to enact that after the expiration of eighty days , and before the expiration of one hundred days next after the passing of the act ( which , as we Lave stated , was on the 12 th of August ) , and on some day after the 24 th or March , and before the 9 th of April Jn each following year , the justices of the peace of every county in England shall hold a special petty session of the peace in their several divisions , for the appointment of parochial constables , of which session due notice shall be given to every justice usually acting in that division .
The second section requires the justices within thirty days next after passing of the act , and within the first seven days of February in each following year , to issue a precept under the hands of any two of them to the overseers of each parish within the division , requiring them to make and return , within eighty days next after the passing of the act , and before the 24 th of March in eaoh following year , a list in writing of a competent number of men witbin their respective parishes qualified and liable to serve . By the third section it ' s enacted that the overspers of every parish , npon the receipt of such precept , shall summon a meeting of the inhabitants in vestry , to be
held within fourteen days after the receipt of said precept ; and the vestry at such meeting are to make cut a list in writing of such number as shall be stated in the precept of men residing within their parish who shall be qualified and liable to serve as constables , with the Christian name and surname , and with the true plaee of abode , the title , quality , calling , or business , of each written at full length ; and the vestry ore empowered to annex to the said return the names of any number of men willing is serve the office of constable , and whom the vestry will recommend to be appointed , although not having the qualification hereinafter mentioned .
Section four empowers the justices to make orders for nniting parishes , or annexing extra-parochial places to any parish for the purposes of this act . Section five enacts , that every ablebodied man resident within the pariah , between the ages of twenty-five and fifty-five years , ratesi to the relief of the poor or to the county rate on any tenement of the net yearly value of four pounds , or upwards , except snch persons as shall be exempt or disqualified , as hereinafter mentioned , shall be qualified and liable to serve as constable of that parish . Section six enumerates a great many classes ef persons who are to be exempt from serving the office of constable under this act . . Section seventh enacts , that all licensed victuallers , and persons licensed to deal in exciseable liquors , or pi sell bear by retail , all gamekeepers , and all persons who have been attainted of any treason or felony or convicted of any infamous crime , shall be disqualified from serving the office of constable under this act
Section eight enacts , that the overseers shall make ont true copies of the list so agreed to in vestry ; and where any of the persons named in the said list shall have been choaen to serve , or shall have served , tho office of constable in the said parish , in person or by substitute , the overseers shall set against his name in the list the date of the year of snch service , and shall on the three Sundays next before the day limited for making their return in this ye : v , and on the first three Sundays in the month of March in each following year , fix a true
copy of such list upon the principal door of every church , chapel , and other public placas of religious ¦ worship within their parish , having first subjoined to every such copy a notice stating that all otjectiona to the list will be heard by the justices at a time and place to be mentioned ia such notice , and shall keep a copy of the Hat , to be inspected by any inhabitant , at any reasonable time , during the three weeks next before the day limited for making their return in this year , and during the first three weeks of tbo month of March in each following year , without any fee or reward .
Section ninth empowers two justices to fine the overaeera not more than £ 5 for any neglect or omission of any of tho dutias herein required . Section tea requires the overseers to attend before the justices with their lists ; and it empowers the justices to amend the lists in their discretion , and to allow the same . Section eleven enacts , that the justices shall choose from the lists allowed the names of such number as they shall think necessary to act as constables within the parish during the year then next following , and until other constables shall be chosen and sworn to act in their stead ; but any person who shall have been chosen and served , in person or by substitute , shall not be liable lo be again choaen until every other person in the parish liable or qualified to serve shall have served the office either in person or by substitute .
Section twelve prescribes the form of oata to be taken by constables so chosen , and enacts that if persons so chosen shall be u : iwilling to servo , they shall find a substitute to be approved by the justices . By section 13 the penalty on any person who shall refuse to act as constable , or to find a substitute , shall not exceed £ 10 ; and every person who after being sworn shall refuse or wilfully neglect to act in the execution of his office shall be liable lo pay not exceeding £ 5 . for every offence . Section 14 provides for the publication of the names of the constables appointed ; and section 15 defines the powers of the constables so appoin ted . They are within their county , and within ail aJijoir . ing counties , to h . ive all the powers , privileges , and immunities . cn to be liable to all the duties and responsibilities of a constable within his constablowick , but shall not bo bound to act as a constable beyond the parish for which they are severally appointed and sworn without tbe spbcial warrant of a justice of the peace .
Section 16 provides for supplying vacancies that may occur during the year . Section seventeen empowers tho justices in general or quarter session , with the approbation of the Secretary of State , to B 6 ttl 9 tables of fees and allowances to justices ' s clerks and constables , and names tbo fuc £ s from which they are to be paid . Section eighteen empowers tho vestry assembled for the purpose cf making tha returns aforementioned to resolve that one or more paid constables shall be appointed for their parish , and to fix the amount of his salary .
Section 19 enacts , that if the justices shall be satisfied with the amount of salary agreed to be paid , they shall appoint so many paid conatibles to act for that parish as shall be agreed to by the resolution ; or if tho same resolution shall have been agreed to by more parishes than one afljoiuiug each othar , may , if they shall think fit , appoint tbe same paid constables to act conjointly for all such last-mentioned parishes ; and iu every parish in which a paid constable sfcall be appointed under this act , the justices , if they shall think fit , need not appoint auy unpaid constable , or may appoint a smaller number ef unpaid constables than they had otherwise resolved on appointing for that parish ; ana every paid constable shall hold his appointment nntil he resign or ba dismissed for misconduct by the justices of the division in patty session lissembled , or until the vestry shall rescind the resolution for his appointm&ut at any meeting ot vestry ho ' . tien for waking such return as aforesaid .
Section 20 directs that the salaries of paid constables shall be paid by the overseers out of the poor-rates in their hands . Section twenty-one enacta , that after the passing of this act no petty constable , headborough , borsholder , tithingman , or peace ofiicer of the like description , under any name of office , shall be appointed for any parish , township , or vilie within the limits of this act , except for the performance of duties unconnected with the preservation of the peace or with the execution of this act , at any court leet , but nothing herein is to prevent the appointment of special constables , or to apply to the city of London , or the metropolitan police district , or to any mtmieipal borough or to any parish , tewn , in which rates are or shall be levied for the payment of constables , under 3 and 4 William IV ., c . 90 , or any local act ; and nothing herein is to be taken to apply to the county palatine of Chester .
Section twouty-two empowers the justices in general or quarter cessions , uuder certain restrictions , to order lock-up houses to be provided , according to plans approved by the Secretary of State . Section twenty-three . When a lock-up house shall have been provided , the justices ate to appoint a soporintending constable to have the charge thereof , who shall also nave the superintendence of all the parish constables appointed in such parishes as shall be ordered by the justices and under such regulations a * they shall make ; every such superintending constable to hold office until dismissed by tbe justices in general or quarter sessions assembled , and to receive his salary out of the county-rate . Sections twenty-four , twenty-five , twenty-six , twentyseven , provide for the recovery and application of penalties , and for the interpretation of the act
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A- SCENE . . THE CORK POOB LAW GUASDUNS . ( Frem the Southern Repoiter . J A meeting « f the Cert Poor Law . Guardians was held on Monday last The Cleric stated that it had been reported by tho master thlt the supply of milk by tbe contractor had been irregular during the week , in regard to quality , quantity , and time of delivery . Mr . John Roberts , of Passage , the contractor , wig then called In , and stated that a combination had been entered into against him ; that he was charged 2 jd . pet gallon for any be bought in the North market more than he himself charged , and that those who had it would sooner npset a chum and spill it about the road than sell it to him . Mr . T . G . Wise—I deny that ( Confusion . ) I say I deny it plumply , Sir . ( Confusion . ) Mr . Voules ( to Mr . Roberts)—What quantity will yon be able to supply ?
Mr . Roberts—I could give the full supply , but for the combination in- tbe North market Mr . Wise—I say it is false . ( Clamour . ) Mr , Roberts—I have enough to say against Mr . Wise if I am only heard . ( Confusion . ) Let Wm enter the list with me , and I'll show him up . ( Great confusion . ) I say he is unfit to be a Guardian , and has no right to be one . . Mr . Wise—I say again it is false . ( Confusion . ) Mr . Haynes—This is very improper language . Mr . Wise- ^ -It is all a falsehood . How daw he say I am unfit to be a Guardian ? ( Great clamour . ) Mr . Mannix—I move , Sir , that Mr . Roberts ' s explanation is satisfactory . ( Hear . ) Mr . Wise—I say he Is a liar , sir . ( Awful uproar . ) Mr . Roberts ( turning upon Mr . Wise in a menacing attitude)—Get out , you scoundrel ! only you are an old man I'd pull the windpipe out of you , you old rascal ( Uproar . )
Mr . Wise—I am not an old man , I am as good a guardian as yon , and you ' re a liar . ( Uproar . ) Mr ; Roberts—I am what ? Mr . Wise—You ' re a liar . Mr . Roberts—Take aare what you say , or I'll let ont on you , you old ruffian . ( Clamour . ) Chairman and several voices—Oh , for shame ! foi shame I Mr . Roberts—I am no guardian . ( Confusion . ) Mr . Wisa—You ' re a lying blaokguard , and yon know where to And me . ( Uproar . ) Mr . Roberts—By — -, yen old rascal , I'd pull your windpipe up your gullet only yon ' re such an old Bconn drel . ( Deafening uproar here followed , both gentlemen placing themselves in attitudes as if about to enter into porsonal conflict After considerable difficulty , delay , and confaston the belligerents were separated by several of the guardians , who rushed in between them at the moment it was expected that blows were about to be dealt , and Mr . Roberts was taken into the adjoining room . )
The Chairman said he yiss not npon terms of intimacy with Mr . Wise , and did not expect much forbearance from him ; but he did think that as a member of this board he should have bad some forbearance and respect for the board . ( Hear , hear ) He should never have used such language as that be had just given utterance to , to an officer of this board , which Mr . Roberts waB , as a contractor . Mr . Wise—Didn't he coll me —— ? ( Clamour . ) Chairman—If a personal collision waa intended it should have been settled outside , this board . Mr . Wise—I would be very Barry to gi 7 e offence to any one , and t don't think I did in this case . ( Loud cries of " Order , erder , " and great confusion ) Captain Irvine—I can answer for it that Mr . Wise is the aggressor , and all I regret is , that I cannot move his expulsion from this board . ( " Oh , oh . " If I could I would do so . ( Order . ) Mr . Voules conceived that Mr . Wise bad grossly violated the respect due to the board .
Captain Irvine—As a magistrate I must compel Mr . Wise to remain here until he finds security to keep the peace . Mr . Haynes—Oh , they fight , indeed ! Blather . There is too much bntter-milk between them for that . ( Cries of " Onier , order . " ) Mr . Voules never before heard such language made use of in-anasnerably of gentlemen as that to which he had just listened ; and be did conceive that tbe gentleman who nsed it should make a mast ample apology for it ' Mr . Wise—Oh , I do apologise to this board for any improper language I may have used ; bnt mind , gentlemen , let it be distinctly understood that it is to this board only that I do apologise . Captain Irvine—Oh , very well ; well ta ]< e care of the rest Mr . W ^ e—I never insulted any gsntleman in all my life ; and I never was called an old rascal or scoundrel until this day .
It was finally agreed upon that Mr . Roberts should keep up the supply he bad contracted for for this weekj and that he should supply the house during the remaining period of his contract with two hundred gallons of milk daily , and that another contractor should be advertised for to supply the deficiency . After some farther discussion , Mr . Wise b-g ^ ed fa tender his resignation as guardian of St Mary ' s Ward . He said he had been bound over to keep the peaco for the first time these sixty-five years , for his conduct during that period had been such as never to deserve It
Mr . . Mannix moved that his resignation be not accepted . . Carried . The boardadjourned at five o ' clock .
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From the London Gazette 0 / Friday , Sept . 16 . BANKRUPTS . Gwrge Cole , of tha T 07 Hotel , Hampton , Middlesex Innkeeper , to surrender Sept . 26 , at one , and Ocfc 28 , at twelve , at the Court of Bankruptcy , Basinghallstreet . Solicitor , Mr . Gsorfje Pike , Lincoln ' s Inn Fields ; Mr . George Gibson , official assignee , 72 , Basingha' 1-street John Ball Boucher , of Birmingham , shawl-dealer , Sept . 21 , at one , and Oct . 28 , at eleven , at the Court of Bankruptcy ,. BaslnghaH-street Solicitors , Messrs . Reed and Shaw , Friday-street ; Mr . George Green , official assignee , 18 , Aldermanbury . Robert Craig , of Manchester , Innkeeper and brewer , Sept . 30 and Oct . 28 , at two , at tha Commissioners ' Rooms , Manchester . Solicitors , Messrs . Gregory and Co ., Bedford Row , London ; and Mr . Edward Lees , Manchester .
Stephen Thomas , late of the City of York , victualler and tavern-keeper , but now of Lancelot Cottage . Heworth i Yorkshire , Sept . 27 , at two , and Oct . 28 , at three , at the Guildhall , York . Solicitors , Messrs . K . E . and O . Sraithson , York ; and Messrs . Wi ^ leBWorth and Ca ., 5 , Gray's Inn Square , London . Richard Womersley , late of Northampton , but cow of Stoney Stratford , Buckinghamshire , hat manufacturer , Sept 24 . at eleven , and Oct 28 . at two , at the Peacock Ion , Northampton . Solicitors , Mr . George Weilcr , 8 , King ' s Road , Bedford Row , London ; aud Mr . George Pdli , ju . i ., Northampton . Georfiu Heathcote and William L ^ vesloy , of Sheffield , spring knife manufacturers , Sept . 24 and Oct 28 , at twelve , at the . Town Hall , Sheffield . Solicitors , Mr . Andrew Duncan , 70 , Chancery Lane , London ; and Mr . William Unwin , Shefiield .
William Mearus , of Liverpool , shawl-dealer , Sept . 28 and Oct . 28 , at eleven , at the Clarendon Rooms , Liverpool . Solicitors , Messrs . Kay and Co ., Manchester . George Oidham , of Manchester , wine-merchant , Oct . 8 and 28 , at two , at Hie Commissioners' Rooms , Manchester , Solicitors , Messrs . Gregory and Co ., Bedford Row , London ; and Mr . William Christopher Chew , Manchester . James Vardy , late of Wolverhampton , Staffordshire , brass-founder , Oct . 12 aad 28 , at eleven , at tbe Swan Hutel , Wolverhanipton . Solicitors , Messrs . Cox and Stone , 24 , Poultry , London ; and Mr . Joseph Green James , WaLsall , Staffordshire .
PARTNERSHIPS DISSOLVED . William , Beaver and Joseph Foster , of Bralford , Yorkshire , woolstapiers . Samuel Parsons and John Stones , of Manchester , paper hanging manufacturers . William Maury , Matthew Maury , and Rutson Maury , of Liverpool and Now York . Edmund Butler Rowley and Jesse Blew , of Manchester , manufacturers . Samuel Hutchiuson and John Holdsworth , of Wafcefield , Yorkshire , drapers . John Sykes , late of Mill Bridge , but now of Littletown , ana Joseph Sykes , of Mill Bridge , Yorkshire , corn millers .
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From the Gazette of Tuesday , Sept . 20 . - BANKRUPTS . Edmund Henry Labatt , commission-agent , Mincing Lane , London , to surrender Oct . 6 and Nov . 1 , at eleven , at the Court of Bankruptcy , Baainghall-streetr Solicitors , Messrs . Coe and Paterson , Queen-street Place ; Mr . George Green , Aldermanbury , official assignee . Heary Adams , dealer and chapman , Totness , Devonshire , Oct 6 and Nov . 1 , at twelve , nt the Royal Hotel , Plymouth . Solicitors , Mr . Charles Michelmoie , Tot * neu ; and Messrs . Froude and Edwards , Lincoln ' s Inn Fields , London . ¦ George Olden , grocer , Salisbury , Wiltshire , Sept 2 S and Nov . I , at ten , at the Block Horse Hotel , Salisbury . Solicitors , Mr . Alford , Salisbury ; and Miv Walker , Southampton-street , Bloomsbury Square , London .
John Jenkins , draper , Cardiff , Sept 30 and Nov . 1 , at one , at tbe Commercial Rooms , Bristol . Solicitors , Mr . Clarke , Bristol ; and Messrs . Abbott , Jenkins , and Abbott , New Inn , London . James Bromley , coach proprietor , Knottingley , Yorkshire , Sept 27 and Nov . 1 , at eleven , at tho Town Hall , Doncaster , Yorkshire . Solicitors , Mr . England , Howden , Yorkshire ; and Messrs . Williamson and Hill , * i Verulam Buildings , Gray's Inn , London . John Spence , gas manufacturer , Alford , Lincolnshire , Ocfc 7 and Not . 1 , at eleven , at the Public Building , MereeMtreet , Louth . Solicitors , Messrs . Bourne and Son , Alford ; and Mr . Scott , Iiincoln ' d Inn Field » , London .
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APPREHENSION OF MR . BAIRSTOW . . Bristol , Sept . 16 . The Chartists of this city , aided by Mr . Bairstow , having agitated the working classes of Bristol and of the county of Gloucester , by holding Sunday meetings , and pcintine out to them the proceedings goiug on in the north , tbe county magistrates issued a warrant for the apprehension of Bairstow , " for having , on Sunday , the 14 th of August , at Mangots-field , in the county of Gloucester , at an unlawful and illegal meeting , or assembly , of one hundred and upwards of evil-disposed persons , nsed violent , inflammatory , and seditious language , to the great disturbance of our Lady the Qaeen , and the terror of her liege subjects . "
The warrant was placed in the hands of Superintendent Hilleott , who was unable to execute it , in consequence of Bairstow ' s being absent from the neighbourhood . He , however , returned to Bristol yesterday , and it was announced by printed placards that he would lecture last evening npon the Charter , at Bear-lane ChapeL The lecturer had not , however , long ascended the pulpit , before Superintendent Hilfcott , assisted by some of the city police , walked into the chapel , and , having ascended the pulpit stairs , apprehended him in the middle of his discourse , and conveyed him to the station-house , from which ho woa brought up for examination at half-past one o ' clock this day , at the Justice Room , in the County House of Correction . The following magistrates were on the bench : —The Rev . W . Mirehonse , Messrs . J . George , Edward Sampson , and W . Munroe . He was bound over in £ 100 to keep the peace for twelvemonths .
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Swapping Wives . —" John , ! wiBhifc wasasmtich the-fashion to trade wives as it is to trade horses . " "Whyso , Peter ! " « I » d cheat somebody most Bhockjn . ' bad afore Bight . —New Orleans Bulletin .
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6 THE NORTHERN STAR _
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malned . I therefore directed that such horses as were living might be billed and made Into biltong . We had hitherto been issuing biscuit dust , alternating with biscuit and rice , at half allowance . The horse-flesh , of which there was but little , we commenced using on the 22 d , and by a rigid exactness in the issues , I calculated we might certainly hold out , although without meat , for nearly a month longer , for we had eleven bags of forage com ia store , which I had commenced grinding into meal ; and by every one contributing what remained of private into the public stock , a tolerable
quantity of various articles of sustenance was procured . On tha night of the 24 th , several rockets , apparently from a vessel in the bay , assured us that relief was nigh at band ; these we answered . On the night of the 25 th the many rockets from seaward assured us that not only was a vessel in the bay , but that she was communicating with another in the offing , a surmise corroborated on the following day by the landing of the party under Colonel Cioete , and their final relief of the post in gallant style , between three and four o'clock in the afternoon .
To tbe dry detail of the proceedings I have given I beg to add a few remarks ; and first , with respect to our loss . Within the period embraced : between the 31 st May and 25 th fune , 661 round shot of various sizas had been fired at the camp , in addition to a continned and watchful fire « f musketry , and yet our loss during this period was but one sergeant and two privates of the 27 th killed , and three wounded , one Cipe rifleman and one civilian killed , and one wounded , exclusive of the loss 1 have previously noted as occurring during the sortie on the morning of the 18 th inBt . The damage to the waggons and tents , and private as well as public property , was , howeuer , great , for these it was impossible to secure in such a manner as to preserve them from injury .
Among the serious disadvantages I had to contend with , I may mantion that tha numerous people attached as leaders and drivers to the different waggons , many having large families who required to be fed , hampered me sadly in the trenches , while the vast number ef cattle originally with the waggons were a very great ineumbrance . These , however , were soon driven off , for nearly all the Boers ( contrary to the opinion entertained by the colony ) were mounted , _ and thence enabled to move from point to point with a celerity which bamad nearly every movement that the infantry could make against them .
I have thus given a detail of the chief circumstances connected with the commands entrusted to me . That it should have been so far unsuccessful I regret ; bnt the resistance on the part of the farmers since my arrival bos been universal , those few who professed themselves friendly having carefully abstained from giving assistance , in most cases using that profession as a convenient screen for the purpose of hiding their disaffection from observation . All tbe property of the English residents the Boers plundered and sent to Pietermaritsburg . They also took out the gteater part of the freight of the Ma ? eppa ( including the whole of my own property ) , which they sent to the same place . The prisoners taken at the Point ( English residents as well as soldiers ; have also been marched thither ; and the former have , I understand , been treated with great harshness . After being plundered , the Mazeppa escaped from the harbour on tbe night of the 10 th instant .
In conclusion , I beg to state that nothing could exceed the patience and cheerfulness evinced by the troops under the privations they snffored , and I feel satisfied , that bad it been necessary to have held out for a longer period , they would have endured their further continance without a a murmur . I havo the honour to be , sir , yonr most obedient humble servant , ; J . C . Smith , Captain , 27 th Regiment His Honour Colonel Hate , C . B . and K . H ., Leiutennnt Governor . P . S . —I \ omitted to mention in its place that a round shot on tba 18 th inst . broke the carriage of the eighteen pounder $ two places , but we repaired it so as to be perfectly serviceable . J . C . Smith .
Port Natal , June , 28 , 1842 . Sitt—On the 27 th inst . I availed myself of a Caffer messenger to report to your Excellency , in a few words , that Captain Smith was extricated , and Port Natal in oar possession . . It is now my duty to give the details of my proceedings . Her Mejeaty ' a ship Southampton arrived and anchored qff Port Natal on the night of the 25 th instant . > , Here was found at anchor the schooner Conch , with Captain Durnfbrd , 27 th Regiment , and a detachment of 100 men two small howitzers , and some stores despatched by Colonel Hare from Algoa Bay , on the 10 th instant
Captain Durnford reported that the insurgent Boers had refused all communication with Captain Smith who was still holding bis post '; -that the headlands at the entranee of the . harbour were armed with guns , and that the Boers had collected in force to oppose our landing . Signal guns and rockets were fired from the frigate to intimate our arrival to Captain Smith , and every arrangement made for carrying tbe place as soon as tho tide served , and the frigate could be placed so as to cover onr landing . At two o'clock p . m . on the 26 th inst ., the Southampton was in a position ,, and tbe troops were embarked in tho boats , which , however , could only take eighty-five men ; thirty-five had been previously added to Captain Durnford ' s detachment on board the Couch , the sea , . beash being impracticable in the previous orders , the attack was changed , and I directed Captain Wells , with a detachment of thirty-five men , to land on the first point of the High Bluff within the bar ,
and drive the Boers out of the thick bush , whilst the Conch , the launch armed with a carronade , and tbe eargo , were to proceed direct into the harbour , land , and take possession cf the port . A fresh sea brecz-s fortunately set into the harbour at the very time of oar advance : the Conch taking thus the boats in tow crossed the bar at three o'clock , Captain Wells landed where directed , when a brisk fire was opened on the Conch and boats from both shores , that from the kigh wooded bluff within twenty yards of the boats ; yet in spite of tho short range and cross fire , uudet which the boats had to pass , bo quick was onr advance , aided by both wind and tide , that bnt little effect was produced by their fire . When opposite the landing-p ' . aca , from whense the fire still continued , I ordered Major DUrban to land , who immediately jamped on shore , and we rushed to the flag staff to pull down the colours and give her Majesty ' s frigate notice that we were in possession , and to cease firing .
Tne Boers abandoned their strong gronnd the instant we landed , yet so thick was the bush and so broken the ground , that though from the smart fire kept up they must have been in force , yet not half a drzen of them were ever seen ; and on tbe southern bluff so thick was the wooded covering that nothing but the smoke from their firelocks was ever seen . I have since learned that the number of Boers who defended the Port amounted to 350 men . Their loss it has been impossible to ascertain . Having thus seized the Port and landed the men from the Conch , the troops were immediately formed . Captain Durnford was ordered to enter the bush on the right and drive the Boers before him , whilst I placed myself on a roan way in the centre , Major D Urban taking the left along tbe harbour beach . ¦ In this order we advanced through a bush , the cha « racter of which it is difficult to describe , and which might have been held by a handful ef resolute men atainEt any assailauts .
On reaching the open ground we found the direction of Captai . i Soiith ' s entrenched camp by the firing of his heavy gun . We marched upon the point ; Captain Smith now Ihrow cut a party , and we joined him at four o ' clock . Having tfcus executed your Excellency's commands with all military promptitude , by extricating the buve detachment under Captain Smith ' s command , I strengthened his post by Captain Durnford ' s detachment , and directed Major DrUrban to hold Stellar ' s farm , returning myself to the port to arrange a post of defence wiih auch of the troops as I expected would have been landed . Tha gallantry with which Captain Smith defended his post ff > r a whole month , under do ordinary circumstances of privation , having been reduced to horse-fleah for food , clofculy hemmed in by a desperate and vigilant fje , with no less than twenty-six wounded within his clotdy confined camp , is highly creditable to him and his pavty .
Tiius was accomplished , within the incredibly short fpaca of one month , from the data of Captain Smith ' s report of bis poaitioD , the relief of his party , at a distance of one thousand five hundred miles from Cape Town , whence the relief was despatched , his communication having had to pats through hos'ile hands and a savage country . I have now reported to your Excellency the proceedings which have placed wo in possession of Port Natal ; and I have kept them distinct from any mention ef the naval co-operation and assistance I received from her Majsaty ' s ship , Southampton , feeling it to be due to Captain Ogle , commanding , to Commander Hill , and the officers and seamen of that frigate , that their services to ns should be separately noticed , whether as to their cheerful good will displayed towards us whilst on board , or subsequently in the more important service performed , in covering our landing by the admirable practice from the ship ' s heavy battery , and spirited assistance given ns by Captain Hill ia command of the boats . .
In my order of the day I have inadequately endeavoured to express my thanks to those officers , and I should not be doing them justice without repeating it here in the strongest terms .: If onr success bo not absolutely indebted to the opportune presence of the Conch , to her protection must be mainly ascribed the very small loss we suffered in forcing the entrance . Tee troops conducted themselves with the greatest steadiness , and I am much indebted to Major d'Urban for bis prompt landing , and the assistance he has afforded me tbroogbcut these operations .
I also received the beet support from every ofiicer under my orders in conducting these operations , and particnl ^ riy so from Lieut . William Napfcr , who acted as my aid , and has been of the most service to ma , cot only
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), Sept. 24, 1842, page 6, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct906/page/6/
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