Newspaper Transcripts
Some Selected Reports from The Windsor and Eton Express
Saturday, April 9, 1836.
POOR LAWS FOR IRELAND.
The third report of the Commission for inquiring into the condition of the poorer classes in Ireland, has just appeared, and in it are the most abandant and convincing reasons for affording to the wretched poor of that country, such relief as shall,. At all events, prevent the repetition of such horrible scenes of misery as were disclosed in the labours of the Commissioners. It appears that in Ireland, for about thirty weeks in the year, the number of Irish out of employ are not less than 585,000, who have 1,800,000 dependent on them, making 1,355,000 persons, and forming one fourth of the whole population. It cannot be imagined what an extent of misery is produced by so enormous an amount of destitute poor, and the details of the evidence and report are of that truly frightful character, that no one could believe, that in the British dominions such an amount of pauperism would be suffered to exist.
We have the greatest confidence in His Majesty's Ministers, believing that they are anxious to do justice to the starving peasantry of Ireland, but "delays are dangerous," and the disease is of too unmitigated a character not to demand an immediate remedy. We are not certain that a complete remedy is in the hands of Ministers, so long as the Irish Landlords and the Protestant Clergy grind the peasantry to the very earth by oppressive exactions, but any mitigation of suffering that Government can offer should be immediate, in order that the distressed poor may be prevented from absolute starvation.
WINDSOR AND ETON.
In Residence at Windsor, the Rev.Mr. CANNING.
In Residence at Eton, the Rev.Mr. BETHEL.
THEIR MAJESTIES.
On Sunday their Majesties and visitors attended Divine Service in the private chapel of the Castle. In the afternoon the king rode out in his carriage, accompanied by Lord Wharncliffe.
The Queen has not left the Castle since her arrival at Windsor, but, we are happy to say, that her Majesty's health is improving. His Majesty, when the weather permitted, has taken his usual rides.
WINDSOR REFORM ASSOCIATION.- On Thursday the members of the Windsor Reform Association, dined together at the Star and Garter Inn, to celebrate their first anniversary. From 70 to 80 persons sat down to an excellent dinner, provided in Mr. Dash's best style. The company were very respectable, and the proceedings of the evening were most gratifying. Mr. Burge presided, and Mr. Ford officiated as Vice-chairman. The usual loyal toasts were given, and received with great applause; also , "The Duke of Sussex, the friend of Reform," - "John Ramsbottom, Esq., the Reform Member for the Borough," - "The Reform Press of the United Kingdom," - "The Liberal Members of the Borough Council."- "The health of Mr. O'Connell," &c.- Several good speeches were delivered, and the company were entertained by several excellent songs. The evening was spent in the greatest harmony and conviviality, and the party did not separate until a late hour, or rather an early hour, in the morning.
WINDSOR GLEE CLUB.- On Thursday the members of the Windsor Glee Club gave a dinner in the Council Chamber at the Town-hall, to Mr. Baverstock, on his retiring from the situation of Honorary Secretary, and as a compliment to him for his assiduous and polite attention to the duties of his office. Upwards of forty gentlemen sat down to dinner. John Ramsbottom, Esq. M.P. in the chair, supported by Captain Harcourt as Vice-Chairman. The evening was spent with great hilarity, and several excellent songs, glees, &c. were sung by some of the members of the club.
WINDSOR LITERARY INSTITUTION.- We are happy to learn that the subscription for the establishment of this Institution, has already amounted to nearly �300. Mr. Ramsbottom has subscribed �50 and Sir John Elley �25.
WINDSOR UNION.- The first auditing of the Board of Guardians for the Windsor Union, since the new elections, was held on Tuesday, when T.R. Ward, Esq. was unanimously re-elected Chairman for the year ensuing, and Mr. Alderman Bedborough Deputy Chairman, in the room of W.F. Riley, Esq. who had signified his wish to retire.
OVERSEERS- The Magistrates of New Windsor, on Monday last selected from the ten names returned to them by the Vestry, the following four gentlemen to serve the office of Overseers for the ensuing year:- Mr. Wm. Hanson; Mr. Henry Andrews, Mr. Geo. Hughes, and Mr. John Harrison.
The Grossmiths (of Reading) to whom we alluded last week, are to appear at our Town Hall on Monday evening, and Egham on Tuesday. The bill of fare promises a rich treat, and we hope they will (as usual) meet their desert, "crowded houses."
SUDDEN DEATH.- On Monday morning, while a man named Robt. Stone, was driving a cow to Mr. Hughe's farm at Clewer, he dropped down in a fit of apoplexy, near Clewer village. He was taken up, carried to the Swan public-house, and medical assistance sent for but it was of no avail, life being quite extinct. A Coroner's Inquest has since been held on the body, and a verdict returned of "Died by the visitation of God."
SHOCKING ACCIDENT.- On Saturday last a man, named Charles Stewart, in the service of Lord Montagu, was removing a large fields roller from one of his Lordship's meadows at Datchet Common, and when he had got the roller into the road he attempted to get on the shafts, but fell down, when the roller passed over his body, crushing him in the most shocking manner. The poor fellow was taken up, and surgical assistance immediately procured, but it was useless, and after two hours of the most excruciating agony he died. An inquest was holden on the body on Monday, when a verdict of "Accidental death" was returned.
On Friday night the farm-house of Mr. Weston, of Clewer, was broken into, and robbed of a copper and several other articles.
ADVERTISEMENT.- Mr. BLOOM begs to return his grateful thanks for the patronage he has received since the opening of his Bazaar at the Public Rooms, Windsor; and he at the same time solicits an early inspection of his Splendid Stock, as Thursday next is positively the last day of his stay in Windsor.
THE ROYAL HUNT.
The muster on Ascot Heath on Monday last of sportsmen, other horsemen, spectators in all descriptions of vehicles, and pedestrians, was unusually great, particularly of real sportsmen. On the ground we noticed the Noble Master of the Hounds (the Earl of Errol), Prince Ernest of Phillipsthal, Lords Fred. Fitzclarence, Mayo, Gardiner, Louth, Uxbridge, C. Paget; Sirs Andrew Barnard and W. Houston; the Countess of Errol, and many other distinguished Ladies, were there also in their carriages.- The deer (Heythrope) was uncarted in a vale on the Heath, in the direction of Swinley; he did not seem to like the way pointed out for him, and suddenly turned round and faced the spectators, which caused a general retreat, and the noble animal steadily trotted down the course, and leisurely pursued his way, many persons exclaiming there was no run in him; but in this they were deceived, for although he did not show for running when uncarted, he soon told his followers that he had not lost his good name, and afforded them a most excellent run; from Ascot Heath he went to Hatchet Lane, Fern Hill, New Lodge, nearly to Holyport, then through Shottesbrook Wood, and across Billingbear Park, leaving Wokingham on the right, and went away to Easthampstead and South Hill Park, when the change of country was great, the deer entering on the Heath and ran towards Sandhurst, then turning to the left, and at the end of two hours and a half this old favourite deer was safely taken, to the greatest satisfaction of a very large field. The usual casualties, or rather more than usual, took place, but we have not heard of any thing serious that happened. It is admitted by every one that they never knew an Easter Monday hunt go off so well. As usual on the close of the season (or rather the Easter Monday), a handsome cold collation of almost every species of refreshment, the best of wines, &c. was provided by Mr. Davis, Huntsman to His Majesty's Hounds, at his residence on this occasion, for those of his numerous sporting and other friends who are pleased to honour him with a call. In fact, on this day, it is "open house" at Mr. Davis's, as may be imagined when we say, according to the general opinion, upwards of one hundred Gentlemen partook of the "good things" so liberally provided for them on Monday last.
CORPORATION OF WINDSOR.
The first quarterly meeting of the Town Council was held on Thursday, at which the Overseers of Windsor and Clewer, and also Mr. West, of St.George's Chapel, attended with their respective assessments preparatory to making a Borough rate. Some discussion took place respecting the assessment for the Lower Ward, many members expressing their opinion that the larger houses were much lower rated than the smaller ones; it was ultimately agreed that the assessment be taken for the present, but that it should not be taken as a precedent.
|
|
| �. | s. | d. |
| Windsor | 17727 | 15 | 0 |
| Clewer | 4397 | 4 | 0 |
| Lower Ward | 1263 | 0 | 0 |
| ------- | ---- | ---- |
| �23,387 | 19 | 0 |
On the motion of Mr. Blunt, Mr. Lovegrove was appointed High Constable.
Mr. Alderman Bovingdon moved and Mr. Sharman seconded a resolution, which was carried unanimously, that application be made to the Commissioners of Woods and Forests for power to sell out the money in the funds, derived from the Castle-street estate, and to pay off the bonds with the same.
Mr. Alderman Bovingdon after reading part of the first report of the Finance Committee, said that in addition to the sum required in that report, there would be the expences attending elections - compensation to the Town Clerk - which he calculated would be about �80 a year - exclusive of his present salary - and some other expenses, which would increase the excess to about �800. A proposition was then made that a 9d rate should be called for.
Mr. Sharman thought they ought to keep a balance in the hands of the Treasurer, and therefore moved that a shilling rate be made.
Mr. Astle said a more detailed account ought to be laid before the Council prior to making any rate; this Mr. Blunt thought unnecessary, as the Finance committee had already given sufficient information to satisfy everybody, and he therefore seconded Mr. Sharman's motion for a shilling rate. Mr. Ald. Bedborough said, he for one, was not satisfied with the statement, nor with the proposition for a shilling rate, which would be most unjust towards the rate-payers, and impossible to pay; the Council must recollect that this rate would not be collected gradually, but must be done in the nature of a County Rate; the Overseers, would, therefore, be called upon to pay by a given day, whatever sum the Council issued a precept for, and he contended that it would be out of the Overseers power to pay any thing like the amount contemplated. The act authorised the Council to make from time to time a Borough Rate, to make good any deficiency, and they had no right to make a rate for more than for present wants; he therefore moved that a 6d rate only be made, which after being seconded by Mr. Astle, was after considerable discussion, agreed to, and ordered accordingly in the following proportions, and to be paid by the 12th of May, for -
|
|
| Windsor to pay | �. | s. | d. |
| Clewer | 443 | 3 | 10.5 |
| The Lower Ward | 100 | 11 | 7.5 |
| 31 | 10 | 0 |
| ------- | ---- | ---- |
| Total | �575 | 6 | 0 |
| ------- | ---- | ---- |
Some discussion took place respecting the fire engine, which has hitherto been in the custody of the Churchwardens, but which was transferred to the Watch Committee, and �12 voted on the motion of Mr. Clarke, for repairs, and for a fire escape.
Application was made by three of the old watchmen not employed by the Watch Committee for compensation, but is was decided that the act did not warrant any allowance to them.
On the motion of Mr. Sharman, the Mayor, Messrs. Alderman Snowden, Adams, and Blunt were appointed a Committee for general purposes, and the Committee were instructed to report on some better method of summoning juries, as well as upon the probably expense of constructing an additional cell in the gaol.
On the motion of Mr. Sharman, the following customary annual payments were directed to be made by the Treasurer; to the Rev. Isaac Gosset (Chaplain), five guineas; annual subscriptions to the Free Schools, 10 guineas, Dispensary, five guineas, and National School, five guineas; gratuities to the Parish Clerk and Sexton half a guinea each. The proposition to make these payments was objected to. because the Corporation had no surplus revenue, but it was ultimately carried.
The Court then proceeded to appoint tradesmen to the Corporation.
Mr. Blunt said that as no member of the Council could be employed; he accordingly moved that the following be appointed for one year :- Mr. Southwood, carpenter, Mr. Hollis, bricklayer, Mr. Ellisson, painter, &c. Mr. Thompson, cooper, Mr. Devereux, hatter, Mr. Cobden, taylor, Mr. Brown, printer, &c. Mr. Liddle, lamplighter, Mr. Cooper, coal-merchant.
Mr. Alderman Bedborough enquired whether the Town Clerk had sent in any claim for compensation; he said his reason for asking was that any claim not disputed within six months after being made would be considered as allowed.
Mr. Secker said that a claim for compensation had been sent in to the Finance Committee, but he should not be particular about the time.
Several minor matters were afterwards disposed of and the Court broke up.
WINDSOR BOROUGH SESSIONS.
At our Borough Sessions held at the Guildhall yesterday, before the Mayor, Justice, and Recorder, the following prisoners were tried, the evidence against whom being much the same as taken before the Committing Magistrates, and detailed in our columns at the time of their various commitments.
John Weston, for stealing thirty pounds weight of lead, the property of Richard Chas. Coxe, Esq. The prisoner in his defence said he had purchased the lead of a woman at Winkfield, but calling no witness he was found Guilty, and sentenced to twelve months hard labour in the house of correction.
Francis Blincoe, for stealing 12lb of copper, the property of Mr. Thomas Jenner. The prisoner said he had had the copper in his possession six years, and although he had been in gaol several times before "drunk and sober," that was the first time he had been charged with theft; he produced no witness and was found Guilty. The prosecutor recommended him to mercy, and the Court in consideration of his large family and having been already in confinement seven weeks, sentenced him to 14 days imprisonment in the Borough gaol.
Ann Ellis, for stealing various articles from her furnished lodgings, belonging to Mr. Chell, which she had, from time to time, sent to be pawned at Radnor's, the pawnbroker in Thames-street. She made no defence, and was sentenced to six months imprisonment and labour, at the county house of correction.
Charles Burrett, a lad about 14 or 15 years of age, for stealing 3s. the property of his master, Mr. George McArthur, was found Guilty, when the prosecutor said he hoped a light sentence would be passed on the prisoner on account of his youth, and the Court sentenced him to be imprisoned in the borough gaol for three months, and to be whipped on going out; the Court trusting that that would be sufficient punishment to work a reformation in the young delinquent, whose friends appear to be honest, industrious people.
Richard Neale, who stood charged with stealing a copper kettle lid, the property of Thomas Pursey, was discharged in consequence of the Grand Jury having ignored the indictment.
On Monday His Majesty's Gate Alms were distributed at the Almonry Office, to 168 poor and aged men and women.
On Saturday Princes Ferdinand and Augustus of Saxe Coburg embarked at the Tower for Ostend, whence they will proceed to Brussels, Gotha, and Vienna.
PLYMOUTH, April 2.- The Manchester steamer arrived here at nine o'clock last night, during a tremendous gale, having on board his Royal Highness the Prince Ferdinand of Portugal, and a numerous suite. The Prince preserves a strict Incognito, and landed this afternoon with the Portuguese and Belgian Ambassadors, the Baron Dreskau, principal aid-de-camp, and Lieutenant Baldock, R.N., who is embarked in this vessel, in attendance on his Royal Highness. These five persons are sojourning at the Royal Hotel, under the appellation of the Count Lavadig and suite. The Prince looks remarkably well, and we understand he has suffered less from sea-sickness than any of his suite. We learn that he remained on deck during most of the bad weather, and while all the suite were incapable of exertion, he was active and attentive to every thing.-[Subsequent accounts state that His Royal Highness left Plymouth on Monday for Lisbon].
CHIPSTEAD BURGLARY - An order for the execution of James Hill and William Harley, tried and convicted at the late assizes for Surrey, of the burglary at Chipstead, has been received, directing it should be carried into effect next Monday morning at seven o'clock, at Horsemonger-lane Gaol. Since their condemnation they have been assiduously attended by the Rev.Mr. Mann, the chaplain of the gaol, and their conduct during their incarceration has been described as extremely decorous and becoming their awful situation.
VESTRY MEETING.
On Monday last a Vestry Meeting was held in the Vestry Room of New Windsor Church, for the election of Churchwardens for the ensuing year, the Rev. Isaac Gosset, the Vicar, in the Chair.
The Rev. the VICAR again nominated as his Churchwarden, Mr. Thomas Adams.
MR. ADAMS accepted the appointment.
MR. WHITE the proposed that Messrs. Bedborough and Legh be requested to continue in office.
Mr. Alderman BEDBOROUGH said, as he had been re-elected one of the Guardians, he begged to tender his resignation as Churchwarden, believing the two offices not only incompatible with each other, but conceiving also that it was never contemplated by the legislature that they should be held by the one person. Questions might arise at the Board of Guardians in which the Churchwardens might be concerned, and one question regarding some land in Old Windsor had actually arisen, he therefore conceived that a Guardian was not competent to fill the office also of Churchwarden.
Mr. SHARMAN said, he must candidly state that if Mr. Bedborough had not introduced this subject he should have done so. He had sat with Mr. Bedborough as Guardian, and he had seen the same difficulty as that which had been pointed out. He thought that, according to the Act of Parliament, the office of Guardian was inconsistent with the holding also of that of parish officer.
Mr. Alderman BEDBOROUGH said, at the first formation of the Union he and Mr. Cook called a meeting of the parish, but they did not wish to be elected as Guardians, however as they were elected, they felt it their duty to accept the office for the short period that was to arrive before another election - believing the office of Guardian the most important of the two, and wishing to do all they could to carry out the intentions of the Poor Law Bill as much as they could.
Mr. SHARMAN observed, that he found no one member of the Board of Guardians more efficient than Mr. Bedborough.
The REV. CHAIRMAN said he believed Mr. Legh had not acted as Churchwarden during the past year.
Mr. Alderman Bedborough said he had not been sworn in , and consequently he had not acted, although there was no law to prevent him so doing.
Mr. SHARMAN said that Mr. Legh had declined to serve any longer, in consequence of his being Mayor.
Mr. WHITE said he should wish the Churchwardens to give in their accounts.
Mr. Alderman BEDBOROUGH said that was not the time to give in their accounts, but they would all be ready at the proper time. He added his testimony to that of Mr. Sharman as to Mr. Legh having declined to serve the office of Churchwarden for the ensuing year.
Mr. BATCHELDOR proposed Mr. Sharman as one of the Churchwardens for the ensuing year. It was carried unanimously.
Mr. Thos. ADAMS of Peascod-street proposed Mr. Frederick Twinch as the other Churchwarden, which was also carried.
The REV. CHAIRMAN proposed a vote of thanks to Messrs. Bedborough and Legh for their services during the many years they had filled the office of Churchwarden.
Mr. CLODE (Castle Inn) seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Mr. Alderman BEDBOROUGH, for himself and his colleague, said he felt extremely obliged for the compliment which had just been paid to them, and trusted that when they rendered their accounts, the vestry would see no cause to rescind it - [hear, hear].
Mr. SHARMAN said as the vestry had done him the honour to appoint him Churchwarden he could only say that he hoped his conduct would prove that he was warmly attached to the interests of the parish.
Thanks were then voted to the Rev. Chairman, and vestry broke up.
WINDSOR LITERARY AND SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTION.
On Tuesday a public meeting was held at the Town-hall, Windsor, to take into consideration the best means of forming a Literary and Scientific Institution for the towns of Windsor , Eton, and their neighbourhood. At One o'clock the Right Hon. Sir William Fremantle took the Chair.
Among the gentlemen present we observed John Ramsbottom, Esq and Sir John Elley, (the Members for the borough), the Rev. Messrs. Coleridge, Cookesley, Gosset, Moore, Stoughton, Roberts, Okes, and Gore; the Mayor, (W. Legh, Esq.), Drs. Fergusson and Standford, W.F. Riley, F. Foster, - Fowler, Major Brine, and a great number of the leading professional gentlemen and tradesmen in the town, amounting to nearly 150 in number.
Sir W. FREMANTLE on taking the chair, expressed his extremely grateful thanks for the compliment which had been paid to him in requesting him to fill that station, for nothing could have personally gratified him more than such a compliment, coming from such an assembly, having so important an object in view - [cheers]. The gentlemen he was addressing were aware that many meetings for other objects were frequently held, there were meetings for local purposes - meetings for political purposes - meetings for religious purposes - and meetings for charitable purposes, but he conceived no meeting could be held that was more important nor more essential to the best interests of the country than one whose object was to afford support to the arts, the sciences, and the literature of the country - [cheers]. Before he made any observations as to the advantages which would result from such a society as they had met to institute, he hoped they would allow him to state what he had gathered were the purposes and objects of the meeting ; the details would be more accurately stated by other gentlemen in the course of the proceedings. He understood there were premises in the neighbourhood which would answer their object, by means of lecture and reading-rooms, and library, and that means were required by subscriptions and donations to improve those premises and render them fitted for the purposes of the institution. But with regard to the other inducements to establish the institution, they were much more important, as leading to much higher objects and results than anything in a pecuniary point of view. He could not look at the institution without looking at the welfare and instruction of the people at large. If he looked at the subject in that light he found as appeared from the latest returns, that not less than 1,500.000 children were being instructed in the National Institutions - [hear, hear !] . In addition to the National Institutions there were the private seminaries, the public charitable institutions, and the religious institutions, and there were afforded by other means instructions to many more - indeed he might confidently venture to say there was instruction afforded to all the rising generation - [cheers]. Under such circumstances could any man view the effect of that extent of education without, at the same time, seeing the necessity of directing it to the best use, and of rendering it the means of profit - not only to the individuals themselves, but also to the country at large ? - [cheers]. It was therefore, that he contemplated the formation of such institutions as the one they had met to form, as the best means of that diversion, and it was because he had witnessed the effects in other parts of the country that he had been induced to come forward on the present occasion, knowing that in this town it would be attended with the best possible results. That was the reason that he had lent himself most heartily in the success of the institution - [loud cheers]. Many of the persons for whose benefit such institutions were formed were mechanics, artificers, and labourers, but possibly possessing, many of them great genius; but that having departed from their earlier instruction they could neither afford time nor expense in pursuing their studies in order to give them new and profitable ideas, new instruction, and of enabling them to refer to books, and so direct their minds to the advancement of moral instruction, which should not only lead to their future worldly benefit, but also to their great moral improvement - [cheers]. He (Sir W. Fremantle) could only say, that it would be his most eager desire to forward an institution which should have such objects in view - [cheers]. But those were only a few of the objects of such institutions, which had already become very general in the manufacturing towns, where the improvements in arts and sciences had been rapidly progressing - where also those improvements had been effected by persons, who had belonged to the working classes such as the Watts, the Arkwrights, and the Daveys - [cheers]. Such men as those had given this country such a knowledge of the arts and sciences as had raised it, he verily believed, a century before any other country in Europe - [cheers]. He therefore asked were they not to expect genius where talent and industry were, and were they not entitled to ask of those capable of doing so, to promote such great objects ?- [cheers]. He had already said that such institutions as the one now proposed, were spreading themselves throughout the kingdom, and they were wisely doing so; they diverted the mind from other objects which might be prejudicial to the individuals, and to the country at large - [hear, hear]. They recommended those things which would be advantageous to individuals and in the country; and when he said that they were pursued with great advantage in the manufacturing districts, he could also say that they were also spreading with equal advantage in the agricultural parts of the country, but he knew of no part of the country better deserving of the establishment of such an institution as this town - [cheers] - Here there was a great population and great intelligence, and the instruction now given was daily benefiting society - [cheers]. He asked, therefore, was it not peculiarly necessary for Windsor to pursue the course which had already been adopted in so many other parts of the country, and to give it those great advantages which had already been so well attained in other places ? - [cheers]. This town was not only well calculated on that ground to have such an institution, but also on another, for it afforded the most practical proofs of the advancement of literature, and there was no doubt they would find the mechanic and the artisan attending and studying, at their institution. The Right Hon. Chairman then mentioned the beneficial effects of persons who had a taste for the arts, such, for instance, as architecture and painting, attending and studying works, and hearing lectures upon those subjects - and drew a forcible picture of the probable results to the students in Windsor, where that noble building, the Castle, was before them. If they looked also at literature, particularly poetry, they would see what in Windsor had created the beautiful imagery of some of our first poets - he need only mention Denham and Pope, and even Shakspeare - [cheers]. It was because he was a Gentleman living in the neighbourhood, that he wished for the success of the institution; it would do honour to the neighbourhood, and would not only confer the greatest benefits, but it would be a great example to the country at large - [cheers]. He was witness to a similar example at Staines, where an institution was got up by a few Gentlemen, and it was now going forward with the greatest benefit to a town which had not the same advantages as Windsor - the same situation as Windsor, where they might look forward with confidence to the ultimate success of the institution - [cheers]. The Right. Hon. Chairman again stated the pleasure which he experienced in being present that day, to assist in so desirable an object, and then sat down, amidst loud cheers.
The Rev. ISAAC GOSSET rose to propose the first resolution. [For the resolutions see Advertisement]. He trusted that after the very eloquent address the meeting had heard form the Right.Hon. Gentleman who filled the chair, that no one would entertain any doubt of the benefits to be derived from the institution - [cheers]. The Chairman had stated with great force the various benefits which would result from it. They knew that such institutions had flourished in all large towns and had been productive of great good. They had seen one in Staines established under the patronage of Sir Wm. Fremantle, and it was in a very flourishing state. This town (Windsor) had peculiar advantages which fell to the lot of but very few towns - [cheers]. They had their excellent Monarch amongst them always ready to support any thing that was for the benefit of his subjects, and who, there was no doubt, would extend his support to their institution - [cheers]. They had also a very venerable body, the Dean and Canons of Windsor, from whom they had a right to expect some support - who had contributed towards the support of all the charities in the town, and who he knew would not be backward upon this occasion - [cheers]. They had then only to cross the water and there was the learned and venerable body the College of Eton, by whom he was sure they would be supported, they must of necessity be the patrons of literature, and he was confident they would support the institution - [cheers]. There were two or three of that learned body present, on of whom would second the resolution he was then proposing, and that gentleman, he knew would plead the cause of the institution better than he (Mr. Gosset) could, and he would therefore leave him to describe in glowing colours the benefits to be derived from it - [cheers].
The Rev. Mr. COOKESLEY said he had great pleasure in seconding the resolution, although, from the very handsome terms in which the proposer had spoken of him, he felt overwhelmed with embarrassment. He felt that the Committee had done him honour in requesting him to second the resolution that had just been proposed; but although it would have been easy for them to have found one who would do more justice to the subject, they could not have found one who was more sincerely anxious for the success of the objects of the proposed institution than himself - [cheers]. The Chairman had most ably stated some of the advantages to be derived from the institution; but if he (Mr. Cookesley) might define the object they all had in view, he should say it was one of unbounded benevolence - [cheers]. There might be persons who would raise objections to such institutions, and it might be discovered that some persons in coming forward to establish them had some design as political partizans, but he for one, could not see in them any such evil, and therefore he was either too dull or too ignorant not to perceive it -[cheers]. All persons in such a purpose must consent to throw away the torch of political discord - they must determine to put away all political and party feelings, otherwise they would be but deluding the public, and they could not take a more decisive fatal step to the welfare of the institution - [cheers]. He trusted that it would not be any longer permitted to be said of this town that a law of social intercourse that succeeds every where else, failed only here - [cheers]. Any thing that tended to effect so desirable an object, must of necessity be of incalculable benefit; but when that object also tended to promote knowledge, and to the free intercourse of the heart and mind, the benefits derived from it must be great - [cheers]. It would be easy to be poetical on such a topic, but he knew that that would not be necessary; but he would offer a few observations on the probable specific advantages which might be expected from the institution. All the benefits that mankind could derive from knowledge, were produced by a combination. It was a trite observation that "knowledge is power," and it was a self evident truth, that if ten men, each having a tolerable quantity of knowledge, were to unite all their information, it followed that if the whole of the information combined could be reached, it would become of the very greatest importance, and would produce the greatest benefits - [cheers]. The strong bond of knowledge had always been found, from the earliest period; to be of the highest value, for under whatever circumstances, neither time nor distance had prevented man of great knowledge from communicating their thoughts to each other. The intellect of thought had never been destroyed, and it was not in man to check or put it down. Every thing that exalted and animated the feelings of mankind, should ever have his heartiest and most cordial support. But it might be said, that they were assuming a name of too great importance in calling the institution a Literary and Scientific one, still they were friends of both literature and science, and to every thing save political and theological controversy - [cheers]. It might be also said that there were not many persons in Windsor and its neighbourhood to whom they could look for intellectual support, but when he told them that it was proposed to call to their chair such a man as Sir John Herschel - whom he said it was in contemplation to request that great man, of whom England might be justly proud - when such a man as that was requested to preside over their councils and direct their proceedings - it could not in common fairness be said that even in pure science they would go unrepresented - [cheers]. Allusions had been made by one or two gentlemen to that learned body (Eton College) to which he (Mr. C) had the happiness to belong, and to the assistance expected from them, and he could only say that he felt confident whatever assistance that body could render to the institution would most cheerfully be afforded - [cheers]. With regard also to the number of the arts that embellished social existence, he felt that there must be some persons in Windsor of every degree, as chemists, builders, or other trades or professions who would be enabled to communicate something which would give to the members of the Institution generally some information which they had not possessed before, and which would be highly gratifying to them. With regard to another art - painting - he conceived Windsor to be very favourably situated in having several persons well skilled in that branch of the arts, and therefore the institution would be perfectly safe in expecting from them material assistance. But it was not to any individual branch of the arts that they must solely look forward, for there was no man, however humble his occupation might be, who did not know a great deal which his neighbours did not know, and which, if it were communicated, would afford some gratification to others. Many, however, might not be tempted to offer a lecture or a paper, but if he might put so humble an individual as himself in the case, he would be happy to offer his services - [cheers]. He had once delivered a lecture in that Hall on Phrenology, but notwithstanding he had heard and read much upon the subject of Phrenology, he confessed he had never yet been able to discover whether it was an art or a science - [a laugh]. The Rev. Gentleman here made some allusions to the wax figure of the head of Fieschi now exhibiting in London, in reference to the Phrenological developments and observed, that the head, instead of denoting a disposition to destructiveness, exhibited every species of benevolence, and was in fact a perfect fungus of that quality - [laughter]. But to return to the subject more immediately before the meeting, he said there was one portion of the proposed institution which he could not refrain from alluding to. In the resolution it was proposed to set apart a room for the use of the lower classes, from whom not more would be required as a subscription than half-a-crown a quarter - [cheers]. That was one of the most important features of the whole plan, and he heartily approved of it, and he hoped the boon which was thus offered in a kind and sincere spirit would be so received by those whom it was intended to benefit - [cheers]. He knew that a great portion of the destitution and misery of the poorer classes were to be attributed to intemperance and vice, produced by the manner in which their vacant time was spent, and there were a number of apprentices, who for the want of the means of amusement and instruction got into the same course. He could not therefore but feel that those who came forward to establish an institution which would give such persons more rational means of amusement, and which instead of their spending their time in a way that would bring them misery, and probably to ruin, would enable them to cultivate their minds at a small expenditure and would entitle themselves to the gratitude of every virtuous and thinking man. - [cheers]. He should be sorry if he were to be considered too sanguine, but if only that provision for the poorer classes be carried into effect a vast good would be effected, not only to them but to all other classes - [cheers]. He begged, in conclusion, to thank the meeting for the kind manner in which they had received his observations. In recommending the institution to them he was sure he was recommending that which would be productive of a great deal of good; such an institution could not be productive of evil, unless it was by all good men keeping aloof from it and allowing it to take its own course, but whether it should prove so or not he could assure the meeting that he should never regret the part which he had taken in respect to it - [cheers].
The resolution was then put and carried unanimously.
The MAYOR (W. Legh, Esq.) rose to propose the next resolution. After the able, eloquent, and comprehensive manner in which the Chairman had communicated the objects of the institution to the meeting, and the further remarks by the mover and seconder of the first resolution, he should content himself from entering into any details of the objects of the meeting other than to hope that those measures would be adopted which were best calculated to ensure the success of the institution - an institution which he trusted would open its doors to the industrious and poor classes, and that since they were so desirous of improvement the institution would afford them every opportunity for it - [cheers]. It was an undoubted fact that in proportion as instruction increased in a greater ratio so did trade increase, and he hoped that that circumstance of itself would stimulate those who were present to do all they possibly could to support the institution - He concluded by reading the second resolution.
The Rev. Mr. COLERIDGE (in consequence of Dr. Fergusson finding himself too unwell to speak) seconded the resolution. He said the present was an experiment to produce good, and it only required the influence of the public to establish its success. He advocated the institution, because he believed it to be productive of good to the neighbourhood - because it would increase the knowledge and improve the tone of feeling in all classes in the vicinity - [cheers] - It would induce the rich, the well-informed, and the highly educated to direct their attention chiefly to those subjects which were best calculated to spread the greatest good among those who were less rich, less well-informed, and less highly educated; and would enable the latter classes to improve themselves by their own study, or to imbibe instruction from others - [cheers]. It would also tend to bring all classes together, so as to direct their energies to one object only - that of usefulness - and to take their minds from those evils which resulted in political resentments and animosities - [cheers]. For himself, he would never consent to the diffusion of knowledge in the abstract, without it was of an useful character. It was truly said that knowledge was power, and might be turned to good or evil purposes; it was capable of immense good, but it required direction - [cheers]. Knowledge was founded on the soundest principles, and when directed to a good end, it was the power of God, but if not so, it was the power of the devil, for the ruin of mankind - [cheers]. So long as the institution had that object in view it would be productive of immense good to all classes - and so long as it was based on such grounds it would prove an ornament to the country - reflecting great credit upon its promoters and especially to the distinguished individual who had done the honour that day (the Chairman) to act as midwife to the conception of it - [cheers and laughter]. So long as the institution stood on such grounds it would deserve the approval and support of all those who knowing the light themselves were desirous of extending that light to others - [cheers].
The resolution was then put and carried.
The Rev. Mr. STOUGHTON in proposing the next resolution said he trusted it would not be considered presumptuous of him, or that he was stepping out of his place in coming forward to take part in the proceedings. Though a humble individual he was emboldened by the thought that the zealous exertions of the humblest of all in the establishment of such a society, as was proposed were not without their effects, and though a minister of Christianity he felt he was guilty of no inconsistency in advocating the cause of literature and science - [cheers]. Ever since he had the pleasure of being an inhabitant of Windsor he felt the want of such an institution, and regretted that it did not exist - [hear, hear]. The meeting then held under such auspicious circumstances he, for one, could not but hail with feelings of the most sincere pleasure. He hoped that they were met to lay the first stone of a society that would be alike useful and pleasing, the instrument of extended good, and a monument of honour to the town - [cheers]. Such an institution needed little to be said in its recommendation since its benefits were so obvious. Intellectual improvement was its leading object. Possessed of minds which the benevolent of thought and feeling, they would act unworthy of their superior nature, and would be guilty of ingratitude to their Divine Creator if they were not anxious to cultivate and improve their mental powers - [cheers]. He looked at the cultivation of the mind as a sacred duty next to the moral discipline that prepared man for eternity. He said to suffer the mind to lie waste, or indolently to fill its fertile soil was a disgrace alike to our nature as men and to our profession as Christians - [cheers]. Every man had a mind - whether he was a peer, a tradesman, or a mechanic, and in that mind he possessed a talent of inestimable worth compared with which external distinctions were as nothing. Whatever then his station in society he was under an obligation to the extent of his ability to employ and improve his mental faculties - [cheers]. If they felt properly on that point, surely they would highly esteem that which offered some share of mental improvement, however small, and would hail with pleasure the contemplated society, which could not afford the means of such improvement. To many who were athirst for knowledge, and whose present advantages were limited, it would offer benefits of peculiar value - bringing them acquainted with subjects of which they had scarcely any connection, and pouring a flood of light upon questions which they but imperfectly understood; and even those who were the best instructed, and the best informed might have the extent of their knowledge considerably enlarged by such means - [cheers]. In noticing the advantages of the proposed institution would it be deemed enthusiastic he asked to hint at the possibility of distinguished talent being elicited, which now lies buried in obscurity ? Many such societies had been the means of calling forth into notice and usefulness intellectual powers, which but for the encouragement and fostering influence thus afforded, would still remain unknown and comparatively useless. Why might not Windsor and its vicinity among 10,000 inhabitants include some of those superior minds which only await the genial influence of such a society to call forth and ripen their powers - [cheers]. The generous and warm-hearted friend of knowledge would not accuse the speaker of extravagance in uttering such a thought at the establishment of the institution, but deem it among the possible - if not the most probable of its results. A benefit which he could not but anticipate, and which came nearer home to them all, he begged to mention among the hoped for advantages of the projected society. In this town where, as in many other towns, strong feelings prevailed on subjects upon which all could not think alike. He said it must surely be hailed as a high privilege to have one common ground at least where all might meet and mingle in a common pursuit - a pursuit too, so noble and elevated that it was calculated of itself to soothe the rougher excitements of the passions that other engagements might produce. Science and literature knew nothing of sect and party - [cheers]. There was no affinity between the subjects of political discussion and those of scientific and literary enquiry. In such a society they might assemble and read, and lecture, and converse upon subjects instructive and delightful, without any fear of crossing each other's opinions and prejudices upon certain points - [cheers]. There persons would have the opportunity of becoming acquainted without viewing each other's characters through that medium of party feeling which too often distorted what was beautiful and good, and magnify what was imperfect - [cheers]. Convinced he was that nothing was more calculated to promote a friendly feeling between persons of different sect and parties than intercourse upon such ground as this. There, he said, they saw each other as they were - there prejudice was disarmed, there virtues were discovered, their failings were forgotten - there they might learn that there was something to admire and love in characters that before they disliked and shunned - [cheers]. The friends of peace and harmony would always value such points of union. The society he trusted would long present a spot where such intercourse might take place, and be valued and supported on that account. If, he said, the elements of strife must still continue, there at least might there appear rising above them in its calm dignity, the high elevation where the storms beat not, and where the atmosphere was still - realizing the beautiful picture of the poet -
"While round the base the rolling clouds are spread,
Eternal sunshine settles on its head."
- [loud cheers]. It was certainly a descent from higher and more worthy considerations; but still it might well be to touch upon another point, which weighed considerably with some - the honour of the town was involved in the project. It had been thought a mark of disgrace that in Windsor, over which the Royal banner floated - that in Windsor, so contiguous to the venerable spires of Eton College - that in Windsor, so rich in historical and pleasing associations, the seat of the Monarch, and the haunt of the muse, no such institution as that proposed had yet been established - [cheers]. Other towns round the country had formed their Literary Societies - Windsor had none. Should they, he asked, outstrip Windsor in the race of mental improvement, while she ought to appear in the advance, as a Queen decked in the ornaments of Royalty ? - [cheers]. Should Staines be crowned with literary honors, while her elder sister on the other side of the Thames be without her laurel ? Far be it from that meeting to arouse the feeling of rivalry as the master spirit that was to form the Society. He trusted that a conviction of its solid benefits would be the leading motive; but a desire to wipe away what was justly felt as a reproach on the town, might be allowed to combine its force - [cheers]. But after all that could be said, there would still be objections brought against the institution - most of them might be reduced to the class directed against all plans for the diffusion of knowledge among different classes of society. Such objections, he said, proceeding upon the principle that there should be a monopoly of knowledge by a select few, while the mass were to be content with a scanty portion or none at all - objections, by the bye, that run counter to the arrangements of Providence, for our maker had invested no class with a monopoly of talent for the acquisition of knowledge, but scattered his intellectual gifts among us all - [cheers]. Such objections, he said, were now so generally exploded, that they needed then no further notice; but it might be asked, and that in the shape of an objection - "Where will you find Lecturers;" Of course they would endeavour to secure, as often as possible, the assistance of professed Lecturers from London; but the funds, however, could scarcely be expected to afford lectures continually from gentlemen of professional eminence. Where then were they to look ? To the town and neighbourhood. Where there were so many clergy and gentlemen of the learned professions there surely could be no lack of efficient supporters in the lecturing department - [cheers]. Gentlemen who have had a superior education and whose minds had been turned to particular branches of study, had certainly the ability, and he hoped the disposition to benefit the institution by lectures. When even the humblest lecturer had devoted a proper share of time and thought and study to his subject he might hope to be able to instruct and amuse even a polished auditory. Men of very superior minds and enlarged information he said he thought might sit and listen with intellectual profit, to the productions of those far inferior to them on the whole, but who had been directing their thoughts intently to some particular branch of knowledge -[cheers]. But what was to be done for funds ? To fit up premises, to form a library, and to carry it on with lectures, would require an outlay of at least �500, and would afterwards need an expenditure of probably �200 per annum. He would refer them to Staines for encouragement, where �1,600 had been raised by shares to erect their new and elegant building. If so much had been raised there they need not be alarmed - [hear, hear]. They would not want so much; premises might be obtained on lease that would suit their purpose, and would not require more than �300 or �400 to fit them for use. That different classes might assist it was proposed that there should be shareholders of different values, viz. �20, �10, and �5, and different rates of annual subscription were also proposed, and thus they hoped to secure the support of the mechanic as well as others. The annual subscription was proposed to be a guinea for the first class, and ten shillings the second. When the institution was set on foot and its advantages were seen, he said he felt convinced that they would numbers come forward, eager to forward its objects and share its benefits - [cheers]. The Rev. Gentlemen said he hoped the meeting would then allow him to repeat that in advocating this institution he was sensible of no inconsistency as a minister of the Gospel. The improvement of the mind, as he said before, he regarded as a sacred duty, and science and literature, when rightly directed, were the handmaids of Christianity - [cheers]. They confirmed its evidences and illustrated its truths. Ignorance is not and never was the mother of devotion. Christianity in its purest days had ever encouraged the diffusion of knowledge and found in it an ally and not an enemy - [cheers]. Never let the walks of science be abandoned to the infidel and sceptic, but let them rather become the resort of the pious and the good, that there they might find aliment to their devotion in the wondrous displays presented of their Maker's glory - [cheers]. In conclusion he begged to offer his humble services to promote the advancement of the object, and to express his belief that the meeting of that day, would be the commencement of a society that would grow and flourish - rich in beauty and in fruit, realizing their most sanguine expectations and their brightest hopes - [cheers].
Mr. WILLIAMS seconded the resolution. He said he should have felt the utmost reluctance to take any part in the proceedings of that day had he not expected a certain gentleman would have so expatiated on the subject, as to leave him but little to say, and that his expectation had not been disappointed he thought would be believed by the meeting. He begged to express the pride and pleasure which he felt at taking even a trifling part in the proceedings of that day, and he could only bear his testimony to the beneficial influence which he expected the institution would possess; nothing but unmixed and unalloyed good could result from it - [cheers]. The resolution was then put and carried unanimously.
Mr. RAMSBOTTOM, M.P. proposed the next resolution. He said he was extremely happy to find that the doors of the institution were to be so widely thrown open to all classes of the community; he tendered his hearty co-operation in bringing to maturity the bantling, to which a Rev. Gentleman had said the Right. Hon. Chairman was the midwife, - [laughter] - and he trusted that it would receive the fostering care, not only of the inhabitants of Windsor and Eton, but also of Royalty itself - [cheers]. It had been truly said that many persons from a very humble condition had raised themselves to opulence and even to titles by the means of study afforded by such institutions, and he could only advise all classes to take advantage of the benefits now about to be offered to them - [cheers]. A Rev. Gentleman had among the various sciences alluded to that of Phrenology, and had dwelt a little on the bumps of the head, but he believed the most desirable bumps were at the back of the head, and not at the front. The meeting had been most eloquently and properly urged to co-operate in supporting the institution, and in order to effect that object, to leave entirely out of consideration, every feeling excepting that of a desire of promoting it - a sentiment in which he most heartily concurred - [cheers].
Mr. WARD said he felt so satisfied of the advantages that would accrue to Windsor and its neighbourhood, from the formation of the institution that he had great pleasure in seconding the resolution, and if it should have the effect, as he hoped it would, of destroying those animosities which had so long existed in the town, it would be to him an additional source of satisfaction - [cheers]. He had that day attended a meeting of the Board of Guardians in that Hall, which was composed of men of all parties, but he was happy to be able to state that not a word about politics passed the lips of any one, nor was there any feeling of that kind manifested - [cheers]. He hoped, and indeed he felt, that the proposed institution would have a similar effect - [cheers].
The resolution was carried unanimously.
Sir JOHN ELLEY proposed the fifth resolution. He said he came to that meeting in his character as a private gentleman, having left all his political affairs at the place whence he came - [cheers]; he came with a desire to promote an establishment in Windsor that should unite information with good fellowship, and if he had supposed that even a single scintilla of politics were to be made a feature in the institution he would not have shown his face there, for their political disquietudes had been prevailing too long - [cheers]. He wished as much as any man that these disquietudes were put an end to, and he hoped that their institution would wipe away those collisions of sentiment, to enable them to be good neighbours - [cheers]. He should feel a peculiar delight if the institution should be carried to its utmost extent, because it would open the book of knowledge to all classes who had it in their minds, but who wanted the means and power to open it. He was pleased to learn that the lectures were also to be open to subscribers of all classes. He should cordially support the institution, because he wished Windsor not only to be able to compete with neighbouring towns, but to take the lead in history, sciences, and arts - [cheers] - and his support of such objects should go as far as he was able to give it; not only now, but on all future occasions he would support any measure which would have the effect of bettering the condition of the working classes and cementing their union with those placed above them - [cheers]. After the able speeches the meeting had already heard he would not take up their time farther than to say that he came there to hear others speak, and as a contributor, leaving to other gentlemen the mode of establishing the institution which had met their concurrence - [cheers].
Major BRINE said he should content himself in seconding the resolution, not that he had any doubt of its importance, or to the great benefits that could have been said, had been said in its favour by those gentlemen who had preceded him. He was sure that a good cause could never be weakened by any argument, but particularly such a cause as theirs - [cheers].
The resolution was carried, and the names of the Committee were announced by the Chairman.
Mr. Alderman BEDBOROUGH, in moving the 6th resolution, said it was unnecessary, after what had been already said, to trespass on the time of the meeting, in endeavouring to expatiate on the benefits to be derived from the institution - [cheers].
Mr. SAUNDERS cordially seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously.
Dr. STANFORD moved a vote of thanks to the Right Hon. Sir William Fremantle, for his kindness in taking the chair, and for the able manner in which he had presided over the meeting; which was carried amidst loud applause.
The CHAIRMAN said if he had taken the chair under feelings of embarrassment, those feelings had not been much dissipated by the very kind and handsome manner in which the meeting had just received the motion which had been made. He owed them his most grateful thanks, and begged to assure them of the high gratification he had experienced in all that had passed there - [cheers]. He had witnessed with extreme pleasure a combination of all classes - of persons of all opinions and persuasions - coming forward and uniting in support of an institution which had for its object the benefit of society at large, and the peculiar benefit of this town and neighbourhood - [cheers]. It was impossible for any public proceeding to be concluded with more satisfaction than this had been, where gentlemen of different parties, persuasions, and opinions, all united in one opinion as to the benefits to be derived from the establishment of the institution - [cheers]. It was therefore, as he had said in the outset, from his own personal observation in other parts of the country, certain of producing great good. One Honourable Gentleman had been pleased to allude to his as the midwife upon this occasion; he gloried in the appellation - [laughter and cheers], - because he might say that he had produced one of a most advantageous progeny, and if any other artificer were to be equally successful he should heartily congratulate him - [laughter and cheers], - only he hoped that this progeny, so well produced, would "grow with its growth, and strengthen with its strength." - [loud applause].
The Rev. Mr. STOUGHTON proposed a vote of thanks to the Mayor, for the use of the Town Hall.
The CHAIRMAN submitted that it would best become him, as Chairman, to propose a vote of thanks to the Mayor, not only for his liberality in allowing the meeting the use of the Town Hall, but for his personal support on the occasion - [cheers].
The motion having been carried, the MAYOR returned thanks, and assured the meeting that so long as had the control of the Hall, it was his earnest wish to lend it for all useful purposes - [cheers].
BERKSHIRE EASTER SESSIONS.
These Sessions commenced at Newbury on Tuesday morning last, before T.M. Goodlake, Esq., and a full Bench of Magistrates.
The following is a list of the prisoners, with the result of each trial :-
Thomas Ballard, aged 48, labourer, was indicted for having at Ardington, about Michaelmas last, feloniously received two cheese and half a side of bacon, the property of Mary Clarke, well knowing the same to have been feloniously stolen.- Not Guilty.
Daniel Burgess, 28, labourer, for having, on the 11th of March, at the parish of Hurst, in the county of Wilts, but within 500 yards of the boundary of the county of Berks, feloniously stolen a quantity of lead, the property of John Leveson Gower, Esq. - Six calendar months hard labour.
George Coleman, 21, labourer, for having on the 19th of January, at the parish of Shottesbrook, feloniously stolen, taken, and carried away, several bavins of wood, the property of Richard Chase - Fourteen days' hard labour.
Jethro Coleman, 16, was committed with the above prisoner, but as against him the Grand Jury ignored the bill.
Charles Cue, 36, labourer, and Matthias Cue, 43, shoemaker, for having wilfully and feloniously killed one ewe sheep, with intent to steal the carcase, the property of John Satchell.- Each to be transported for life.
Thomas Dennis, 17, labourer, and Charles Hosier, 17, labourer, for having, at Newbury, stolen, taken and carried away, 25lbs of lead, the property of Thomas Smith.- Dennis, six months hard labour - Hosier, acquitted.
Thomas Dormer, 40, chair-bottomer, on suspicion of having, on the night of the 1st of March, or early on the following morning, at Swallowfield, feloniously stolen and taken away some harness, a bridle, and about half a bushel of oats, the property of George Tanner, sen. - Seven years transportation.
Joseph Druce, 22, labourer, for having at Milton, on the 26th or 27th day of February last, feloniously stolen two sheep skins, the property of J.R. Barrett, Esq. - Six months hard labour.
Elizabeth Dry, 20, spinster, for having, on the 15th of March, at Hungerford, stolen one pair of shoes, one pair of boots, one gold ring, and one wooden box, the property of Wm. Bartlett Gray - One calendar month, solitary.
Henry Faris, 21, labourer, for having at Wantage, on the 2d of February , feloniously stolen two cheese, the property of Thomas Stratton.- Seven years transportation.
Thomas Griffiths, 30, labourer, for having at Newbury, stolen, taken, and carried away, three pieces of oak wood, the property of Joseph Laidley - Two calendar months hard labour.
Henry Hearn, 28, labourer, for having, on the 12th of Feb. last, at the parish of Waltham St, Lawrence, feloniously stolen half a bushel of barley-meal, the property of Thomas Dean.- Not Guilty.
James Hopkins, 16, labourer, and Thomas Viner, 23, labourer, for having, at Wootten, on the 13th day of March, feloniously stolen a fowl, the property of John Bennett King- Each two calendar months hard labour.
William Paul, 41, labourer, on suspicion of having, at Maidenhead, stolen a cheese, the property of Robt. Nicholson - Acquitted.
Thomas Plowman, 30, labourer, for having, at Sutton Wick, on the 28th day of October, feloniously stolen four ducks, the property of Thomas Arkell. - Acquitted.
John Sellard, 25, labourer, for having at Buscot, on the 12th day of March, entered the dwelling house of Joseph Hart, and stolen therefrom several articles of jewellery the property of the said Joseph Hart- To be transported for seven years.
George Taylor, 19, labourer, for having, on the 4th of March, at the parish of Shinfield, feloniously broken and entered the dwelling-house of Thomas Ballard.- Twelve calendar months hard labour.
James Tidbury, 19, labourer, for breaking and entering a certain shed at Old Windsor, and stealing thereout a tame rabbit, the property of Robert Mangles, Esq. - Acquitted.
George Wooderson, 23, labourer, for having, on the 31st of October last, at the parish of Tilehurst, feloniously stolen a quantity of hemp and two pieces of hempen cloth, the property of Matilda Allen - Twelve calendar months hard labour.
John Lapworth, 19, and Henry Whiting, 20, labourers, with having at Pusey, in the night time, in company with other persons unknown, to the number of 3 and more, entered a close or piece of woodland in the occupation of Philip Pusey, Esq. being armed with bludgeons for the destruction of game, and did violently assault, beat, and ill-treat Charles Lawrence, assistant-gamekeeper to the said Philip Pusey, - acquitted.
The Grand Jury ignored the Bills preferred against the following prisoners :- William Geary and Daniel Walter [?], for stealing some fowls, the property of John Humphrey at Upton - John Gibbs, for stealing two sheep skins, the property of J.R. Barrett, Esq. at Milton - Richard Ward, for stealing a pickaxe, the property of Bartholomew Wroughton, Esq at Chaddlesworth - Mary Barrett, for assaulting John Penfold at Lambourn Workhouse.
COUNTY BUSINESS.
READING GAOL.- The report of the Visiting Justices of Reading gaol was read and received. It stated that the general conduct of the prisoners was good, and that they were in a healthy state, and that Mr. Hackett, the governor, had pursued the greatest economy in the goal.
ABINGDON GAOL.- The report of the Visiting Justices of this gaol stated that the conditions of the prison were good, that the classification was strictly adhered to, but that the increase of prisoners in the last quarter, compared with the prisoners in the corresponding quarter of last year, was 24 to 4. Last Saturday there were 51 prisoners confined in it.
DATCHET BRIDGE.
Capt. FORBES presented the report of the committee respecting Datchet Bridge. They reported that a new bridge would be most for the advantage of the public, but although they had been appointed to meet the committee of Magistrates of Bucks upon the subject they had only been able to meet one of those gentlemen (the others having seceded) and he recommended the repair of the present bridge instead of building a new one. The report therefore recommended this Court to arm the committee with powers to order the repair of the bridge if they should hereafter see any reason to alter their opinion. Captain Forbes said, he did not know why his colleagues were not then present, but the report had been communicated to them, and he had every reason to believe they concurred in it.
The CHAIRMAN said it appeared to him to be the best plan to leave the matter in the hands of the present committee, who appeared to have taken great pains about it, and to authorise them to act as they thought best when they had some better means of judging of the state of the present bridge.
A Magistrate observed that the piers seemed to be firm.
Capt. FORBES said the whole of the structure was defective. Of the centre arch part of it was in one county and part in another, and if the Magistrates of Bucks gave notice that they would repair their portion, those of Bucks would have to repair also, so expend a large sum of money uselessly which would be a blister on the county, though certainly not such an effective one as that of Marlow bridge.
Lord Radnor said he understood that the Magistrates of Buckinghamshire had agreed with the Magistrates of Berkshire to appoint a surveyor to report on the state of the bridge, and he understood the surveyor had reported that it could not be repaired; therefore any money expended in repairing it would be altogether thrown away - [hear, hear]. That was the report of the surveyor employed jointly with both counties, and in consequence of that report, proceedings were taken in this county. It now appeared that the Magistrates of Bucks had thrown off their readiness to go on jointly with those of this county, and they did not even chose to act on the opinion of their own surveyor, and therefore the Magistrates of Berks were thrown under a great disadvantage, because if Bucks repaired the bridge in such a way that it might hereafter fall down it would entail a great expense to this county - [hear]. He thought there must be some legal mode of proceeding, perhaps by applying to the Court of King's Bench, to compel the Magistrates of Bucks to do what appeared to be right - [hear] - otherwise the public between the two might be greatly damnified. He did not know what process could be resorted to, but he really thought there might be something done to compel the Magistrates of Bucks to go hand in hand jointly with those of Berkshire, in doing what was necessary.
Capt. FORBES read the notice of this Court to the committee to communicate with the committee in Bucks, stating that if the latter refused to do what was necessary, the committee for Berks be requested to proceed in repairing such parts of the bridge as they might deem expedient. In pursuance of that notice the committee had met the committee for Bucks on the bridge - that was, they had met Sir John Dashwood King, who took an opinion contrary to his own committee. [In reply to a Magistrate as to who that surveyor was, it was stated to be Mr. Parker, of London], and he (Captain Forbes) drew Sir J.D. King's attention to this subject, in answer to which the latter wrote (March 22d) that the report of the surveyor had been presented to the Quarter Sessions at Aylesbury, when the remaining members of the committee seceded; that it appeared to him that, as he had never seen or consulted the surveyor, the appeal had better be made at the Quarter Sessions, but that he would not attend any enquiry, holding himself bound not to answer to any proceedings previous to August last; that the main question was whether the bridge could be repaired or not, and he confidently stated that it was so little injured by the wet that at a little expense, it could be made to last a great number of years; he added, that if desired, he would attend the committee of Berks at Datchet bridge on a certain day. However the committee received an intimation for the surveyor to attend the Quarter Sessions at Buckingham, when it was said that Sir D. King was too unwell to attend at the second meeting on the bridge.
The CHAIRMAN observed that the proposition of this county was to vary the line of road as well as to make a new bridge, but they could not get the Magistrates of Bucks to agree to it, therefore the only notice was as to the repairing of Datchet Bridge, which he conceived would not be prudent, unless they were satisfied that it would last for some generations. He recommended the Court to appoint a committee to attend the Quarter Sessions of Bucks on another occasion (if Capt. Forbes and one or two other gentlemen would undertake the office) - in order to point out the advantages of the new line to the public and particularly to that part of the country which was so near the seat of Royalty, and even if the county were put to a trifling expense to accomplish it, they would be justified in doing so - [hear]. It would be desirable if instead of taking the correspondence of one Magistrate who could not be considered as responsible for the whole, that such a course as he had suggested should be adopted, so that they should endeavour to accomplish their object by conciliatory means - [hear].
Captain Forbes said if that be the direction of the Court he could state, and he spoke the opinion also of the committee, that they would be willing to take on themselves any trouble, in order to give their attention to this subject. At Aylesbury there was a six week's sessions, held by adjournment, and previous to the next six week's sessions nothing in regard to the bridge might take place, although he did not mean to guarantee the bridge for six weeks because he did not believe it was safe.
Ultimately the suggestions of the Chairman, that the committee be requested to confer with the Magistrates of Bucks upon the subject were adopted.
CLERK OF THE PEACE'S FEES.
Mr. WALTER, M.P. said, that before presenting the report of the Finance Committee, he wished to call the attention of the Court to two items in the Treasurer's accounts, although they were very trifling ones; they were fees to the Clerk of the Peace for entering the qualification of Sir F. Sykes, as a Deputy-Lieutenant 7s. and another trifling fee for a fair copy of the same. He wished to know under what authority they were taken ?
The CHAIRMAN said if the Clerk of the Peace could not produce an Act of Parliament authorizing the demand the Court could not allow it.
The subject then dropped.
TREASURER'S ACCOUNTS.
Mr. WALTER was about to present the report of the Finance Committee, respecting the Treasurer's accounts, when
The Rev. H.C. CHERRY rose and said, before the report was presented he wished to make a few observations. Mr. Walter was about to present what purported to be the report of the Finance Committee, and if that were so, he (Mr. Cherry) as a member of the committee declined having any participation in its contents. Out of six members of that committee another gentleman besides himself had, for the most valid reasons, which he was sure the Court would confirm, come to that determination.
Major COURT said when the report has been read was the time for any Magistrate to comment upon it.
The CHAIRMAN said he understood that Mr. Cherry wished to protest against the reading of the report, and the Court were bound to hear his reasons for it. - [Cries of "Read.]
Mr. WALTER then read the report, which stated that the finance committee had examined the Treasurer's accounts for the past quarter, and having compared them with the vouchers, had found them to be unsatisfactory. The Treasurer had submitted to them, that the balance remaining in his hands was �854. 5s. 2 1/2d., but the committee were unable to give any opinion if the accuracy of that balance, as the Treasurer had afforded them no opportunity of examining the accounts from which it was drawn. The Committee among other things stated that they found a charge of �108. 7s. 2d. paid for passing prisoners discharged from gaols in other counties, and as there was no mode of checking such an expenditure at present, they recommended an application to Government on the subject, because there was a great probability that a great many of those persons got money by means of forged passes. The Committee then stated that they had required that the accounts relating to the special commission in 1830, and those which related to Marlow Bridge, deposited with the Clerk of the Peace last Epiphany Sessions should be compared with the vouchers, when the Treasurer replied that the accounts had already been passed, and he declined to give any information respecting them, or to produce his books and accounts. The Treasurer was also asked as to a variety of other accounts but he refused to give any information upon them. The committee therefore stated that they could not fulfil their duty without a reference to accounts of past years, and they felt bound to call on the Treasurer for information, especially as it appeared that a sum of �2,508. 8s. 1d ought to be charged to him over and above the balance, which he admitted to be due. The committee found they had no opportunity of investigating the accounts, and they wished to know from the Court what extent their power went, and also whether the Treasurer had the right to refuse an inspection of his accounts for previous quarters.
The CHAIRMAN said, as to the extent of the power of the Finance Committee, he thought it was pointed out by the order of Sessions when they were selected, but he did not know when that was.
Mr. PAYN, the Treasurer, said it was in 1822 when he was appointed.
The Rev. Mr. CHERRY said he was appointed a member of the Finance Committee some Sessions ago, and he thought their duties were laid down in the motion of Sir Henry Russell, which was unanimously adopted last Sessions. But in consequence of the terms of that motion not being so clearly explicit as could have been wished, it had given rise to a difference of opinion in the committee on Tuesday last; at that meeting all the members of the committee went on extremely well together, and a number of beneficial suggestions were offered, which would tend to save the county some expence, but there was considerable difference of opinion in regard to the power of the committee as to the interpretation to be put on the words of the order upon which they were acting, and which instructed them to inquire into "the financial condition and the prospects of the county." He (Mr. Cherry) contended that those words did not authorise them to go into the accounts of the treasurer beyond the review of that quarter's accounts or perhaps of the preceding quarter; other members disagreed with him, and the result was the committee was adjourned , and they had failed in drawing up such a report as all the members could agree to. He now objected to the report which had been presented on two grounds; first that it had totally wandered from the duty laid down for the committee to perform. They had been appointed strictly to investigate the receipts and disbursements of the last quarter, and to recommend what was necessary to be done for the ensuing quarter; secondly, to investigate all the vouchers and receipts for the past quarter. All that had been done, but when it was proposed to go into the accounts respecting the Special Commission and Marlow Bridge, he conceived it to be almost an insult to those Magistrates who had been on the Finance Committee, and who had already examined and passed those accounts - [hear, hear and cries of "question"].
The CHAIRMAN begged the gentlemen not to interrupt Mr. Cherry.
The Rev. Gentleman proceeded. The accounts of the Special Commission were entered into Mr. Payn's books in 1830, and they were passed by seven gentlemen whose names were affixed to them; some of them went into the year 1831, and those also had been passed. It was asserted boldly in the committee on Tuesday that they were determined to have the Special Commission accounts examined and investigated, but he hoped he had proved to the satisfaction of the Court that the committee were not authorised in going into them - if not, there were Mr. Payn's books in Court to refer to - [Major Court - "Let them be produced."] He objected to the examination of any accounts for any period previous to the last quarter. The Rev. Gentleman was proceeding to observe upon what another magistrate had said last Sessions regarding certain vouchers for the Marlow Bridge accounts, when
Mr. WALTER rose to order, and said such a proceeding was irregular.
Major COURT moved that the report of the Finance Committee be received.
Mr. CHERRY said he was in possession of the Chair, but if the Court declined hearing him he would give way - [cries of "go on"].
Mr. PALMER, M.P. said it was not the proper time to make a motion while a gentleman was speaking - [hear].
Mr. CHERRY again proceeded. He said as to the balance of �854 which the Treasurer admitted to being in his hands, it was previously determined by a preceding Finance Committee to fix a certain balance, and it was that and no other which came under the cognizance of the committee. The Rev. gentleman concluded by moving that those parts of the report containing observations on the balance in the Treasurer's hands, observations on the accounts of the Special Commission, those upon the Marlow bridge account, and those regarding vouchers deposited with the Clerk of the Peace, be expunged.
The Rev. Mr. DODSON, in seconding the motion, declared his entire dissent from every part of those observations, and he did so solely out of respect to those Magistrates who had signed the accounts and passed them - [hear, hear]. It had been resolved two or three times over by the Court that a specify balance should be taken - [hear, hear] - and as to any thing else it was an insult to those Magistrates who had passed the accounts, and who had voted for the taking of that balance unanimously - [cries of "non, no"]; at all events it had passed by a large majority - [hear, hear]. For himself as a member of the Finance Committee, he could not assent to open the accounts again, conceiving as he did that they had only met to go into the accounts of the past quarter - [hear, hear].
Mr. WALKER said the committee has gone on very harmoniously until the latter part of Sir Henry Russell's motion was taken into consideration, and that certainly appeared to allow considerable latitude. He had asked the Treasurer if he had any objection to shew him when any of the accounts of the Special Commission were audited, and the latter not only refused to allow him to see them, but he would not tell him when they were audited. That led to the disagreement.
Sir H. RUSSELL observed that the question before the Court was whether the report should be received or not, and he submitted that it was not competent to them to separate the report, rejecting some parts and receiving others - [hear, hear].
The Rev. Mr. CHERRY then consented to amend his motion, and to move at once that the report be rejected. He begged to ask Sir H. Russell whether a paper he now handed to him was in his writing ? [Sir Henry said it was.] Then in regard to the latter clause [Sir Henry's motion last session] as to the inquiry by the committee into the "financial condition and prospects of the county," he had asked the Hon. Bart. privately, whether when he made that motion, he intended that the inquiry should be extended to the accounts of former years, to which he believed the Hon. Bart. had said he did not intend it to have a retrospective view - [Hear, hear]. He begged the Hon. Bart. if that was not correct.
Major COURT. I beg that question may not be answered. - [Loud laughter and cries of "Hear"].
SIR HENRY RUSSELL said the motion having been carried, it was not in his power to put any interpretation upon it. - [Hear]. He proposed it without the slightest reference to any discussion on the Treasurer's Accounts. He had previously been in Hampshire. where he had an opportunity of seeing the mode of conducting the County business, and finding it was so preferable to the mode in which the business for this county was conducted, he had used the exact words in his motion that had been used in Hampshire - [Hear]. He certainly had expected that the enquiry was to go to the last and present quarter, and he did not anticipate enlarging the powers of the committee, and making them more general.- [Hear, hear]. He admitted he had stated that his motion was not to act retrospectively.- [Hear, hear].
The Rev. Mr. CHERRY said he had stated in the committee, that the meaning of the motion was to institute an inquiry back to Christmas, and he was asked how should he know what was the meaning of it ?
Sir H. RUSSELL said he entirely disclaimed any intention of putting an interpretation on the motion. The Court had adopted it, and it was for them, and not for him to put what interpretation on it they pleased.
The CHAIRMAN read the motion, which required the committee to make a report of the probable amount of disbursements during the ensuing quarter, the amount of the rate necessary to be made, and generally - this he said was the point in dispute - to offer such observations and suggestions as might occur to them on the financial condition and prospects of the county - [Hear].
Sir MORRIS XIMENES said he had understood it exactly in the plain sense of the words, and that it gave the committee latitude to enter into the investigation.- [Hear, hear].
Mr. PALMER said, after all the observations that had been so often made respecting the Treasurer's accounts, he was certainly led to believe, that literally and in point of fact, the accounts had never been audited, and that the vouchers had never been lodged in the hands of the Clerk of the Peace; not that he believed there was any defalcation in the accounts, but that it arose from an error committed in the multiplicity of business; but to day, a general book had been handed to him, which contained no less than four pages of expenses of the Special Commission - [hear, hear] to which his own name was appended, as having signed them, and as he had never signed anything without seeing the vouchers, he felt convinced that these accounts were correct.- [Hear, hear].
Mr. WHEBLE said, he also believed the vouchers were produced, for he was confident he did not put his signature to any accounts without seeing the vouchers - [Hear, hear]. He however, knew that none of the Magistrates who signed them had casted the columns - [hear, hear]: he recollected one Magistrate attempted to cast up a column, but he did not succeed, and they were left for the Treasurer himself casted them up - [Hear, hear].- He (Mr. Wheble) did not say there was anything wrong, but he confessed they did not go into them so fully as they ought to have done - [hear, hear], and he took shame to himself for not having done more. He only mentioned this to show by possibility, gentlemen of the most honourable principles and intentions might put their names to that which they could not be certain was correct - [Hear, hear].
Mr. PALMER confessed that he never knew of that before. To say that seven gentlemen had signed the accounts without casting them up was what he was not aware of. He really could not say whether he did so or did not upon that occasion, but he believed he always satisfied himself that they were correct before he signed them, and his impression was that he took the same pains with those accounts that he had done with the others.- [hear].
Major COURT said he should much like to see the book, for he had great doubts whether the accounts for the Special Commission were in it. He requested the Treasurer to produce it. [Here considerable confusion arose, several gentlemen speaking at one time, and rendering it impossible for us to give a single word of what was going on. At length silence was in some degree restored.]
The CHAIRMAN said he thought it could be explained. In the first accounts of the Special Commission many items, such as attornies bills, were omitted, he (the Chairman) having objected to their payment, on the ground that the Act of Parliament did not authorise their payment until they had been taxed by the proper officer of the Court in which the trials took place. Those bills were sent to London to be taxed, which occasioned great delay, and they were not returned for payment for about a year - [some Gentleman said it was only six months.] - He believed it was more than a year, but there had been in consequence a saving to the county of about �270; that was the reason they were not audited at the same time as the preceding accounts.
[We are sorry to be compelled at this stage of the proceedings to break off and postpone the remainder of the discussion upon the motion until next week. The great importance of the proceedings - not only upon the motion, a portion of the discussion upon which we have given above, but also upon another motion subsequently brought forward by Major Court, also upon the Treasurer's accounts - requires that we should give an ample report of it, which from its extreme length it is impossible to do this week, and we prefer to postpone the remainder until another week rather than give a meagre outline of it. We are sure that all parties concerned - the Magistrates, Mr. Payn, and the Public - will deem our reasons sufficient for thus departing from our usual practice - In another column our readers will find a letter upon the subject from Captain Forbes, which deserves particular attention; but that the letter will be rendered more explanatory to the public, when the whole of the report shall have been printed.]
WEST SURREY.
WEST SURREY REFORM DINNER.
THE friends of Reform had a strong muster yesterday at the Bear Inn, Esher, where about 150 Electors met to celebrate the cause of Reform, in the Western Division of Surrey, by a public dinner. Among the company present, were SIR HENRY FLETCHER, Bart. (who took the Chair upon the occasion), Mr. DENISON, M.P., Mr. CRAWFORD, M.P., Mr. LEACH, the venerable father of Reform in the County, Sir HENRY AUSTEN, Lord ALBERT CONYNGHAM, Captain MANGLES, and many other leading Reformers of the Western Division. The proceedings were of the most gratifying description, and the many excellent speeches that were made were of a truly Conservative (not in the sense the Tories apply to it) character. We regret, that from the late period in the week at which this celebration took place, and from the pressure of other matter, we are prevented from giving a report of it this week, but in our next will give the proceedings at length. The friends of Reform will be gratified to learn, that from the progress it has been lately making in the Western Division, there can be scarcely a doubt of the triumph of Liberal principles whenever an opportunity presents itself.
CHERTSEY, April 8. - On Tuesday a Board of Guardians of the Chertsey Union was held, at which the tender of Mr. B. Butler, of this town, was accepted for the erection of a workhouse for the union. There were six competitors for the work, of whom Mr. Butler's was the lowest, viz. for �4,277. The others were London builders, viz. Messrs Piper and Sons, Bishopsgate-street, London, �5,213; Mr. Winsland, Duke-street, London, �5,194.; Mr. Young, Eagle-street, London, �4,894; Messrs Woodcock and Son, �4,860.; and Mr. Geo. Brooks, Golden-square, London, �4,750.
ELECTION OF CORONER.- Of the four candidates for the vacant office of Coroner two only are now in the field, Messrs. Bartrop and Harcourt having resigned, the former, we believe, from an opinion expressed by many of the friends of the late Mr. Carter, that the son's appointment would be of great service to the widow and family of the deceased. Mr. Everest (of Epsom) is still actively canvassing the county; but the general opinion appears to be that Mr. Carter will be elected.
GUILDFORD, April 8.- On Monday, according to custom, our three parishes proceeded to the election of Churchwardens, when they were appointed, for Holy Trinity, Mr. J. Leggatt, jun., and Mr. C. Cooper; for St.Mary, Mr. D. Wilcke, and Mr. W. E. Elkins; for St.Nicolas, Mr. J. Ryde, and Mr. Drewitt.
The Guildford Union under the Poor Law Amendment Act will comprise 21 parishes, viz.- St.Nicholas, St.Mary's, Holy Trinity (town of Guildford); Albury Shere, East Clandon, West Clandon, East Horsley, West Horsley, Merrow, Ockham, Purbright, Send and Ripley, Stoke, Wisley, Woking, Worplesdon, Wanborough, Godalming and Compton.
An inquest was held on Wednesday at the Workhouse, Dorking, before Mr. Woods, on the body of an infant found in the mill-pond belonging to Mr. Able. It was wrapped in a towel, and a flat iron tied to it to cause it to sink. Verdict - Found drowned.
LOSS OF TWO LIVES - A dreadful accident happened at Woking on Saturday last, of which we have not as yet heard all the particulars, but it appears that a young man and woman, whose names we understand to be Wells and Boncey, were digging sand in a pit when the earth fell in and buried them. Every exertion was made to extract them, but when they were got out they were quite dead. The unfortunate persons had been asked in church, and the bans were to have been continued on Sunday !
EXTRAORDINARY FOX HUNT.- The Chiddingfold Independent Hounds unkennelled a fox on Thursday, the 24th ult at Frilling hurst Wood, near Haslemere. His first tour was by Chiddingfold windmill, crossing the turnpike road, and leaving Chiddingfold village to the left, through the estates, Gosterwood, Corner, Burningfold [?], and Durfold; bearing to the left of Dunsfold common, towards Burgate hills, crossed Hambledon Hurst to Brook, the hounds well at him and scouring him at a rattling pace; back by Prestwick covers, taking several rings between Chiddingfold and Durfold. Although a capital, and no doubt an old sporter, he was obliged to yield to this celebrated little pack, after a run of more than six hours. There was a good field of sportsmen out, who were much gratified at the masterly style in which the hounds performed their work, considering it as beautiful a specimen of hunting as was ever witnessed. We need scarcely add that the horses and riders were very much fatigued from the heaviness of the country, and the immense distance the fox ran, the first ring was considered at least from 15 to 20 miles. The party returned with the master of the hounds, (J. Sadler, Esq), who treated them with the accustomed hospitality which characterises him on such occasions.
SURREY STAG HOUNDS.- On Thursday the Surrey Stag Hounds threw off on Epsom Downs, and after a fine run the stag was finally taken at Abinger Hall, on the Guildford road; but the pleasure of the day was entirely destroyed in consequence of the melancholy and sudden death of Wm. Gore, Esq., out with the hounds, and on leaving the downs, fell from his horse, it is supposed in a fit of apoplexy, and instantly expired. He was taken in a coach to his house at Hampton-court.
We understand that the inhabitants of Reigate and some personal friends of Captain Rankin, have subscribed, and presented the gallant Captain with a very handsome silver tankard in token of their approbation of the resolute defence he made when Mrs. Long's house was attacked by the burglars, two of whom were convicted last week in Kingston.
STAINES, April 8. - A meeting of the Newfoundland School Society was held this evening, when it appeared by the statement of Mr. Hazelgrave, one of the Secretaries, that the Island contained 110,000 inhabitants, all of whom were more or less placed in such circumstances of misery and destitution as to be quite unable to support any teachers adequate in number for the education of those unfortunate people. The Society is progressing in its labours, although at this time there is only about one tenth part of the inhabitants, who have as yet been able to participate in the benevolent exertions of this excellent Society. It appears also that since there is no indifference on the part of the people or indisposition in the Society to spread their exertions, but that the limits so circumscribed arise entirely from the want of funds. The meeting was opened by the Rev. R. Govett, and afterwards addressed by the Rev. Messrs. Hearn, Craig, and Porter, and the Secretary, Mr. Hazelgrave.
A splendid dinner was given on Thursday last by W. Reed, Esq of Bedfont, to the Committee and Officers of the Staines Literary Institution.
UXBRIDGE, April 8.- On Thursday week, - Mott, Esq., one of the Poor Law Commissioners, attended at the White Horse Inn, Uxbridge, when several of the Magistrates, and almost all the Overseers of the parishes to be comprised in the intended union, had a conference of about two hours; the learned gentlemen gave them to understand that at the next annual meeting for the purpose of electing officers for the succeeding year, they were to proceed according to their usual custom, until the union which would shortly take place was finally determined, and he thought it most probable that all the parishes in the district except those of Harlington and Cranford would be comprized in it.
The first meeting held in the new Public Rooms, at Uxbridge took place on Wednesday, when the London Missionary Society had their anniversary meeting which was very numerously attended, and the cause ably supported by the Rev. Mr. Arundel, one of secretaries to the Society, the Rev. Mr. Knill, one of its missionaries, the Rev. Mr. Hill, of Oxford, and several of the ministers of Uxbridge and the neighbourhood. There was service both morning and evening at the Independent Chapel, and the meeting that took place at two o'clock, was honored by the presence of Sir W.S. Wiseman, Bart., one of the magistrates for the county of Middlesex, who took the chair. The collection in aid of the funds of the Society amounted to forty-seven pounds and upwards.
On Thursday afternoon a young man in the employ of Mr. Roadnight, of Uxbridge, hung himself. The inquest has not yet been held.- A child four years old whose parents are named Croft, died from the effects of drinking boiling water out of a tea kettle.
BIRTHS.
On the 5th instant, at Uxbridge, the wife of Mr. T. Murray, auctioneer, &c. of a daughter.
On the 7th instant, at Uxbridge, the wife of Mr. C.J. Murray, of a daughter.
MARRIED.
On the 3rd instant, at Northumberland House, by the Bishop of Carlisle, the Rev. Edward Thompson, cousin of the Earl of Lonsdale, to Miss Ellen Percy, fifth daughter of the Bishop of Carlisle.
DIED.
On the 3rd instant, at Morton, Bucks, Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Browne, aged 81.