The Express. — London, England, 1853-07-08 00:00:00

IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT. HOUSE OF LORDS.—Tat - RsDAT, JILT 7. The Lunt, CataseraLon took his seat at S o'clock. PEI IT lON PRESENTED. B rr Law.—lly Lord BROUGHAM, from Dun dee. nn the subject of the Scotch bankrupt law. A Ittlf.,l it ENT Of WAGE 4 to It Dalt r.—By Lard BROUGHAM, from workmen in various parts of Scotland, against the &treatment of wages for debt. RUSSIA AND TURKEY. Lead BROUG 11A NI wished to put • question to the Se deter, of State for Foreign Affairs; and he begged to pre mise by stating that he had not had any communication whatever, direct or indirect, with his noble friend the Se cretary fur Foreign Affairs, or any other member of the go. TefillUt nt, on the subject of the question he was about to put. lle should put the question thtircly apart from them, but under • deep conviction of its importance in the pre sent crisis of foreign affairs. A notice stood oar the votes which bad been given by • noble marquis fur to-morrow night, and which, if made, must needs bring on • discussion of all which related to the present posture of alf.ein in the east of Europe. It was in must safes hands, whether he regarded the motives of Lis noble friend in bringing it forward, or the sound discretion under the centrel of which he was sure to act; but be wished to ask his noble friends opposite whether in the prescnt posture of affairs no inconvenience, he might even say mischief, might visibly arise, he would almost say, probably arise from such a discussion at this time. The E.rl of CLARENDON sail it was perfectly correct that his noble and learned friend had not communicated with him or any other member of the government on the wbj.ct of question before ho came into the house. In answer to his noble and learned friend's question, as to the very grave subject which now agitated the public mind, and with respect to which his noble friend, the noble mar quis, had given notice fee to-morrow, he could not say that there would be neither mischief nor inconvenience in the full discussion of that subject. (Hear, hear.) H. did not make any applicatieu to his noble friend to .o.tpone his motioe, and he should be ready to meet him to-morrow ; but, as he was on his legs, he would take that opportunity of asking his noble friend whether he would cbject to postpone his motion until Monday next. It would be convciiient to have the discussion in both houses at the same time, and Lord J. Russell was so extremely unwell, that it would be impossible for him to be in the Bonito( Commons to-morrow. lie hoped, however, to be able to be there on Monday. Further than that, he must rely on the judgment and discretion of his noble friend ; and he was sure that he would not press on any modem which might be prejudicial to the public interests. (Hear.) The Earl of ELLENBOROUGII earnestly suggested to the noble marquis that he abefuldconaider whether in reality it would be fur the public advantage that either to-morrow, or on Monday, a discussion should be forced on the house upon • transaction of so critical a character, in which it was impossible that her Majesty's ministers could consistently, with their sense of duty, make • full disclosure. (Hear.) The Earl of DERBY said the noble marquis had given his notice without consulting with any political party, or without reference to say political support he might have on the one side or the other, and after what had been stated by the nob:e earl the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, it was hardly necessary that he should say that he, as well as the noble earl, was taken altogether by surprise at find ing his noble and learned friend bringing the question under the notice of their lordships. lie was aware of the Intention of his noble friend who had just sat down to make some suggestion; and he merely rose to express, with the noble earl, his hope that the nab!e marquis would be con tent, notwithstanding the natural anxiety which he felt in common with the country, to await the solution of this question, and God grant that it might bo a pacific one. Earl GREY ,thought, after such a declaration, the pre priety of postponing the dismission must be obvious. The Marquis of CLANRICARDE would be obliged if his noble friend the Secretary for Foreign Affairs would repeat what he had stated, for it caught his ear very imperfectly. The Earl of CLARENDON said he intended to repeat the expressioce used by the noble and learned lord. Be said he could not deny that there might be inconve nience and mischief in bringing on a full discussion of this subject at the present moment ; but he did not think it right to ask his noble friend to put off his motion ; because he should reserve to himself the right of saying nothing that he thought would lead to inconvenience. (Hear.) The Marquis of CLANRICARDE felt that great respon sibility rested upon him in this matter. He had not per. penally consulted with any member of the house, much less with nay political party. After what had been said by the noble earl, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, he could not hesitate as to the course which it was his duty to adopt, as he certainly did not wish to increase the difficulty which existed at this critical moment. Ile would not incur the risk, no matter how slight, of causing any inconvenience or mischief. At the same time, he must be permitted to say that there seemed to have been a misapprehension of the question, which be had thought it his duty to put. (hear.) Earl FITZ WILLIAM was desirous of asking his noble friend the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, whether a docu ment, a copy of which he held in his hand, was believed by his noble friend to be authentic, and whether it was in the possession of the government ? It was dated from St Peteneurg, the 11th (2eth) el one. It said that ever sines his Imperial Majesty had occupied the throne of his fathers, the maintenance of the holy obligations had been the °eject of his cake ; and it concluded with these remark hie words If, through stubborness and bliadneas it de sired the contrary, thee, calling God to our aid, we shall leave him to decide between us, and, with a full assurance in the arm of the Almighty, we slug go forth to fight for the orthodox faith." This was a most extraordinary document, and he was desirous of knowing whether her Majesty's ministers had reason to believe it to be authentic or not ? The Earl of CLARENDON had only to say that her Majesty's government had received the document from her Msjesty's minister at St. Petersburg. It was forwarded without comment, se having been published on the day on which it was sent; and they had no further information on the subject. He believed there were one or two points in which the translation had not been very accurate, in the copy to which the noble earl had referred. The concluding words, which he had read, " we will go forth to fight for the orthodox faith," he believed should be rendered, " we will go forth in defence of the orthodox faith." He be lieved, generally speaking, however, that the copy to which the noble earl had referred was correct. (Hear, hear.) The Earl of MALMESBURY would like to be assured that the government would do all they could to prevent the proposed discussion in the other house on Monday next. If the government would give an assurance he should be satisfied. The Earl of ABERDEEN said it was impossible to give an assurance. All that they could do was to exercise any influence which they possessed, and they would do their utmost. (Hear, hear.) The Marquis of CLANRICARDE—And if that influence should fail, I am to be at liberty to bring on my motion here at the same time. WILSON'S (HAMPSTEAD) ESTATE BILL. Lord COLCHEST Zit moved the second reading. This was a strictly private hilt, although it had been looked upon as • public one, and as likely to lead to the inclosars et Hampetead-heath. Ile begged, however, to assure their lordships that it was not intended to inclose any lead, or too atop up any roads whatever. Indeed, the bill eumbdneellnie such powers; its sole object being merely to give the puma owner the power of granting leases for a greater length ilf time than ho was at present able to do. The portion Of the heath to which the bill referred was not that which wee frequented by the public. He (Lord Colchester) should protest as strongly as any man against any attempt to be Segere with the enjoyment of the people. The Earl of SHAF'TESBURY said the bill had already been thrown out four times, and he trusted there was 'im pending over it that evening • fifth and final rejection. Its object was to alter the will of the late lord of the manor, Sir T. 31. Wilson ; and though bills fur a similar purpose might in some instances be allowable, it was the duty of their lordships not to consent to them unless the plea of public expediency had been fully made out. In thu pre sent instance, however, he thought that the bill would be extremely prejudicial to the public interests, and therefore he should say "not content" to the second reading. To:6r lordships divided— For the second reading l9 Against it 2l-2 SOAP DUTIES BILL. On the order of the day for the third reading of this bill, The E irl of ELLENDOROI.7OII said when this hill was first hrought into the House of Commons it formed part of • great system of finance, prospective for the next seven yam, founded altogether on the supposition that the happy state of peace which bad lasted for the last forty years, would continue. Since th a t time great changes had taken place, and at this moment the English fleet had been joined to the French Meet at the mouth of the Dardanelles, and it was not improbable that war might occur. He thought the bill ought not to be read a third time till the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs could enter into a full state ment of our affairs with Russia, and he moved that the bill be postponed for a fortnight. The Earl of A B ERDKEN said it was his earnest hope that no such resource wou:d be required. flat if unfortu nately he should be mistaken in that view, and the ver y greatest calamity that could betel this country should be imminent he did not think it 0733 the duty u. tLe House of Lords to interfere sad to provost the relief which would be afforded to the people by the repeal of these duties. And if it should so happ!,n that ads country should be placed in a state of war the House of Commons would undoubtedly' provide the necessary r.leans for carrying it on. The Earl of DERLY altogether differed from the noble earl as to the relative pasitiens of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. He apprehended the best course would be to postpone the third reading a the bill for ten days, or a fortnight, or three weeks. Earl GRANVILLE thought the wisest course of that house was to leave the responsibility to government. The Marquis of CLANRICARDE dii not suppose the noble earl would press his motion to a division. Ile thought no inconvenience would arise to the commerce of the country from postponing this bill, for though a degree of alarm might be caused by it, that determination would place commerce on a sounder basis ; but of course if the government felt they had ample resources at their com mand, and took uponAemtelves the responsibility of re fusing the aid the at:Mimi offered them, it was for them to judge. Lord BEAt MONT said if government took the respon•. sibility upon themselves their lordships could scarcely in terfere. The Earl of ELLENBOROUGII said he had not the same degree of confidence in the responsibility of the go vernment that the noble lord had. If it would fit out a fleet he should be more satisfied. Ile should throw on them the onus of doing what he thought wu prejudicial to the public service. The bill was then read a third time and passed. their lordships then ajourned at ten minutes past IMO o'clock. HOUSE OF COMMONS.- TIIURSDAY, JULY 7. The Sraaana took the chair at 12 o'clock. At that time there were only some half-dozen member.' prcaent. lion. gcutlemen are evidently thoroughly jaded II the excessively late sod early hours which they have been compelled to keep of late; nearly half an hour elnpse.l before a sufficient number could be got together to make a house; and an air of lassitude seemed to opprees the whole proceedings. PRIVATE DESINESS. The following bills were read a third time, and passed Ambergatc, Nottingham, and Boston and Eastern Junc tion Railway (Nottingham, &c.); Baroness de 'Walla.' Estate; East Anglian Railways (No. 2) ; Liverpool, Crosby, and Southport Railway; Rochdale Improvement (No. 2) ; Severn Valley Railway; South Wales Railway (Power to purchase, &c.); Wellington and Severn Junc tion Railway; PUBLIC BUSINESS. PROBATE AND ADMINISTRATION BILL. Mr. COLLIER brought in this bill, which was real a ant time. BARODA AND CENTRAL INDIA RAILWAY c(3Sii;ARV - BIU: This Hll was read a second time. LANDLORD AND TENANT (IRELAND) BILL. The house went into committee on this bill, resuming its msideration at clause 7. &vont SHEE took some exception to the clause, which gave rue to an inanimate discussion. The Imbed gentle man moved an amendment, declaring the occupiers of cot tages, as agricultural labourers or hired servants, entitled to a month's notice ; but afterwards withdrew it. Mr. M'?IAIION moved the omission of the clause. The committee divided: For the clause 5l Against it l3-39 Clauses 7 and 8 were then agreed to. Mr. BI'MAIION moved that clause 9, relating to the concern system, should be expunged. After a conversation, The amendment was withdrawn and the clause agreed to. On clause 10, Colonel GREVILLE suggested that there should be a power of appeal from the decisions of the magistrate in cues of dispute between the landlord and the tenant. Mr. NAPIER said he should have no objcctiou to intro duce a clause to that effect. Captain SCOBELL objected to that part of the clause which gave to a single magistrate the power of deciding disputes under this bill. Such a power was unknown in England where two magistrates were required, and why should a different rule be applied to Ireland i Mr. F. SCULLY concurred very much with tho hon. member for Bath, but ho thought the objection might be removed by omitting the words "one of the," and thus leave the decision to the magistrates assembled in petty &micros. Sir J. YOUNG avid the presence of a second magistrate could not always he obtained in many parts of Ireland, and, consequently, if the suggestion just made were adopted, parties would often be lett without redress. Captain SCOIIELL said in that ease other magistrates ought to be placed in commission. Mr. V. SCULLY moved that the power of adjudication should be vested in " two or more justices of the peace," which would obviate the necsasity of an appeal afterwards. Mr. H. HERBERT said, in a distrietii Kerry, extend ing over more than 25 miles, there was only one magistrate to be found ; and ae believed, from the difficulty of finding qualified persons to fill the office, that state of things pre vailed in many other parts of the country. Mr. LUCAS would rather that the decision was left to the resident magistrate, or failing him to two or more jus tices of the peace. After some further discussion, the committee divided, when there appeared— Fur the amendment Against it Mr. R. M. FOX moved the insertion of words in the clause, to prevent the appeal in cues of dispute being to the landlord or agent of the estate, or to any other party interested in it. Sir J. YOUNG resisted the amendment, and after a brief conversation the committee again divided, when there appeared— For the amendment Against it 6l-3 1 The clause was then agreed to, as were clauses up to 24. On clause 21, the Litter part of which empowers the land lord, in the case of a lessee dying intestate, to select one of the children of the deceased, or amongst the next of kin, as the succeeding tenant, Mr. M'MAIION objected to this part of the clause, as giving an unwarrantable and unprecedented power to the landlord, and one heretofore unknown to the law of this country. Mr. Keogh, Mr. Lucas, Mr. Serjcant Shee, Mr. Conelly, and other members also objected to the clause. Sir J. YOUNG hoped that the right hon. gentleman (Mr. Napier) would consider the objection, with a view if pos sible to a modification of the clause. Mr. NAPIER said he would do so. Mr. LUCAS said that it would be impossible to devise any words which would make the clause palatable, whilst it conferred on the landlord the power of selecting amongst the family of the intestate the future tenant to the preju dice, it might be, of the other children. lie hoped, there fore, that if the right hon. gentleman took time to consider the clause, it would be with a view to negativing it alto gether, Mr. MMAHON would divide on the amendment. The committee then divided— For the amendment 4B Against it Mr. MAGUIRE said if the clause were pressed in its present form he should divide against it. Sir J. YOUNG hoped the hon. and learned gentleman (Mr. Napier) would consent to re-consider it. Mr. S. HERBERT concurred in this suggestion. The claw was then agreed to, with the understanding that it should be re-considered before the third reading. Clauses 26 to 31 were severally agreed to. On clause 32, which gave the landlord power, in the case of leases for lives renewable for ever, to recover for waste " under any lease or gnat made after the let of January, 18.54," excepting all perpetuities held under leases before that time, Sir D. NORREYS objected to the provision on the ground that it had not been made retrospective. He knew an instance in which a property was leased for 9,999 years. (Laughter.) In such cases improvements ought not to be impeded by an ideas reversion. (Hear, hear) Mr. WHITESIDE saia what the hon. baronet (Sir D. Norreys) appeared to desire would have the effect of con fiscation. (Hear.) Mr. V. SCULLY said, anxious as be was to secure the interest of the tenant, he could not consent to hand over to him the landlord's property in mines and royalties. He was cognisant of eases in which land leased for lives renewable fur aver had been sold fur thirty or forty years' purchase more than it would have done in consequence of the exist , ewe of mines. Mr. E. BALL suggested that the clause should be made retrospective, except in cases in which len.llords had already exercised their rights over mines and royalties. Mr. CONOLLY thought the clause would create great contusion. The clause was then agreed to. The CHAIRMAN reported progress, and obtained leave to sit again at twelve o'clock to-morrow (this day). Four o'clock having arrived, The house adjourned till 6. The house resumed at six o'clock. RUSSIA AND TURKEY.—BM. LAYARD'S MOTION. Mr. LAYARD said—l wish to state the termaof the motion of which I have given notice for to-morrow. They are as follows —" That an humble address be presented to her Majesty, humbly to submit to her Majesty that this house has heard with deep concern that the Emperor of Russia has announced a policy, and adopted measures which threaten the integrity of the Ottoman Empire, and praying her Majesty that she will be pleased to direct that the fullest information on the subject be laid before this house as soon as is consistent with the public service." I wish to say a few words on a matter personal to myself. The motion of which I have given notice was fixed for to-morrow. I received • note yester day afternoon from the noble lord the member for London, asking me to put it off until Monday. I was not able to return an answer until this morning. To my surprise, I was in the house yesterday without my knowledge, for I find it stated in the votes " that Mr. Layard's motion was deferred tilt Monday, the 11th." L'alesssome good reason is shown for deferring my motion, 1 shall go on with it on the day which has been assigned far it by her Majesty's go vernment. I must say it seems to me scarcely fair that an independent member should be treated in this way. Tfit, CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUEn—With re forma to what has talks from the Los. gentleman, I hays THE EXPRESS, FRIDAY EVENING, JULY 8, 1853. to say that I am net able to give him any specific informa tion. Ido not know by whose directiou or authority the notice of postponement of the motion of the hon. gentle man was placed in the paper. I can, however, assure him that whatever has been done has been done with perfect "bona fides," and under the impression that he had consented to tl.c arrangement. My right hon. friend the First Lord of the Admiralty and myself are both is a position to state that we understood from our colleagues yesterday afternoon that the arrangement had been made with the consent of the hon. gentleman, and whatever has Leen done has been done in perfect good faith, and with no intention to inter fere with the liberty of the hon. gentleman as an indepen dent member of the house. Mr. LAYARD—I should like to know by whom the notice of postponement was placed on the paper. If the government will show good mums for my doing so, I will postpone my motion until Monday. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCIIEQtER—I under stood the ground stated for the postponement was one which the hon. gentlemen had recognised as a legitimate one, viz., the indisposition of my noble friend the member for Lon don. I believe it would be inconvenic nt to him to come down to the house to-morrow, and that being so I thought the hon. gentleman had agreed to the postponement. Mr. LAYARD-1 shall not hesitate to put elf my motion until Monday. It is only this that I complain of—that before my answer was received the notice of postponement had been given which has placed me iu a false position. Mr. DISRAELI—I saw with gr.at surprise th;s change in the order of the business of the house, not having been informed that the hon. member for Aylesbury had given any notice of postponement in the house yesterday, and it appears to me to be an arrangement of the business of the house by the government which requires sumo explanation on the part of her Majesty's ministers. What secu rity have we for the orderly conduct of the business of the house if notices of motion which have been given are withdrawn on the part of members who are not themselves present and who have not given their unction to that course ? These is also an alteration in the business consequent on the assumption that the hon. member for Aylesbury had consented to this arrangement ; I mean tliat the committee on the India Bill should be first on the paper. I understood, not three minutes ago, that a motion similar to that of the hon. member for Aylesbury had been post. I poned at the request of' the government in another place. The reason for postponement in that place could not have been the indisposition of the noble lord the member for London. (A laugh.) I think that as this is u question of an importance which cannot be surpassed, there should be a clear explanation of the matter, and •ome reason given to both houses by her Majesty's ministers as to whether the postponement would be for the public interest and conve nience. Sir C. WOOD—I may perhaps be able to give a solution of this matter, and I owe some apology to the hon. member for Aylesbury. Yesterday in the middle of the day my coble friend the member for London sent to me and stated that he was so seriously ill that he was obliged to leave town, and that he had written to the bun. member for Aylesbury, stating that it was impossible for him to be in the house to-morrow, and asking him to postpone his mo tion till Monday. It would obviously be very inconvenient for that motion to be brought on in the 'hence of my noble friend. My noble friend then asked me if it would not be better to bring on the committee on the India Bill. I come down to the house in search of the hon. member for Aylesbury, but was unable to find him ; but I felt certain that he would not decline to post pone his motion. It was, t herefore, very desirable that the earliest notice should be given as to what business would come on to-morrow, end I asked my right hon. friend, the Secretary at War, to give notice that the committee on the India Bill would come on on Friday, and that the other motion was postponed. My great anxiety was to give the earliest information to the house, as to what business was to come on. The house sat yesterday till within a minute of 6 o'clock, and it was practically impossib:e to give that no tice in any other shape than by putting it on the paper. The right hon. gentleman (Mr. Disraeli) is mistaken in saying that the debate in another place has been postponed at the request of the government. A member of the government was called on to say whether he amid deny that mischief and inconvenience would ensue• if that motion was brought on, and on his saying that he could not deny but that there would be some mischief and inconvenience, an. other member of that house asked the noble marquis to postpone his motion, to which he consented. Mr. DISRAELI—I w'sh to ask the hon. member for Aylesbury whether, if the noble lord the member for London should be recovered on Monday, it is clearly to be understood that he will bring on his motion. Mr. LAYARD—Most certainly. I am not supposed to be cognisant of what has taken place in the other house, and unless good reason is given in this house to justify me in the eyes of tbo country in withdrawn); my motion, I shall bring it on. The subject then dropped. THE OBSTRUCTION OF THE DANUBE. Mr. LIDDELL begged to ask of her Majesty's govern ment whether any instructions have been sent out by her Majesty's government to inquire into the cue of British vessels at present detained in the Danube owing to the im perfect state of the navigation of that river: and whether, in the event of hostilities with Russia before such ships can be liberated, a sufficient force will be sent out to that part to prevent their falling into the hands of hostile powers. Lord PALMERSTON—The recent obstruction of the navigation of the Salina month of the Danube has been greatly increased by accidental circumstances connected with the weather. The river has over flowed its banks, has increased its width, and the force of the current being thereby diminished, there has been an increased deposit of mud on the bar. This is a temporary incoavenience which will cease with the cause from which it has originated. I am, however, bound to say that for some years past her Majesty's go vernment has complained to the goveramcnt of Rush" of her neglect in the performance of her duty as the pos sessor of the delta of the Danube in not clearing the Salina branch of the Danube. It was my duty when I was Secretary for Foreign Affairs frequently to make re presentations on the subject to Russia. The Russian government always admitted that it was their duty to clear that part of the river, and admitted, as we asserted, that as Russia by the treaty of Adrianople bad possessed herself of the mouths of the Danube, it was her duty to see that that great watercourse and highway of nations into Germany was, under the terms of the treaty of Vienna, kept free to.the commerce of all nations. The Russian government did not deny, what we asserte I, that it was their duty to remedy this inconvenience. When the mouths of the river were in the territories of Turkey, there were sixteen feet of water over the bar, but that has been diminished, owing to the neglect of Russia, to eleven feet ; and even that is in so narrow a channel, and, in con sequence of the quantity of vessels which have been wrecked, and allowed to remain there, on that eleven feet, it is very difficult for any vessels to pass except in calm weather, and with a skilful pilot. There were certainly local interests which have thwarted the wishes of the Russian government. There was, in the first place, n rivaiship on the part of Odessa, which led locally to a desire to obstruct the export commerce by the Danube and divert it to Odessa. (Hear, hear.) There was also that little local interest which arose from the private barfemen and lightermen being employed to unload vessels which came down the Danube, so as to enable them to pass the bar, and reloading them after wards when they had got outside. The Russian govern ment had promised to take the most efficient means, to send a steam-dredger to clear away all the obstructions. That steam-dredger came, and worked only two hours before it was always put out of ear, and obliged to go back for repairs. (" Hear, hear , " and laughter.) We recommended the Russian government to panne a method which the Turkish government had always acteil on with success ; namely, to require every vessel that went out to drag astern a good iron rake, by which means the passage was kept clear. In addition t• the representations which it was my duty to make when at the Foreign-office, I understand that constant complaints and representations have been since made to the Russian government; and I hope that that government will at last break through those trammels which have hitherto impeded its proper action, and see that it is a duty it owes to Europe to maintain free that passage which by force of arms it has thought itself justified in appropriating to itself by the treaty of Adrianople. (Hear.) On our re-admission, we found Sir W. JOLLIFFE moving as an amendment, that the words "documents of the nature of leases, plans, court and rent rolls" stand part of the clause. He took that oppor tunitT again to urge the govcrement to reconsider this question of the production of deeds. After some discussion, Sir W. JOLLIFFE withdrew his former amendment, and proposed to substitute for it a motion fur inserting in the clause the words "only as are of." The committee divided, when there appeared— For the amendment B6 Against it Me. WALI'OLE said they bad given the commissioner power to call for the production of deeds, but in the next lines of the clause it was proposed to give them authority to take extracts from the documents. Nom, such a power as that ought not to be conferred upon any man or body of men, except under the severest and most stringent penalties, and unless those precautions were taken he should object to this part of the clause in tote. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER did not think this provision was absolutely necessary, and there fore, with the permission of the committee, be would strike the words out. The words were consequently negatived. Mr. HENLEY objected to the words which required the production of public books and documents. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER was quite ready to strike out that provision too. Sir J. TROLLOPE—And of course the penalties for en forcing it? The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER—CertainIy. The words granting the objectionable power and providing for the penalties, were accordingly ordered to be struck out. . . Sir J. PAKINOTON said, although the objectionable parts of the clause bad been modified, it was still a very serious question whether pariiament ought to pass a clause containing such provisions. (Hear, hear.) The clau'c ap peared to him tyrannical and inquisitorial beyond any that he remembered to have heird submitted to the house. The powers given by it were inconsistent with our national in stitutions, habits, and character, and a bill which could not be carried out except by such moans ought not to be passed at all. (Hear, hear.) Ho felt it his duty to divide against the whole clause. The committee then divided, when there appeared— For the clause Against it 9l-7 The clause was accordingly passed. In clause 49, "giving power to accountable party to appeal," The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER proposed an amendment, for the purpose of enlarging the power of the judge. Mr. LOCKIIART, who spoke in a low tone of voice, was understood to propose that the appeal should be given to the fudge of the County , Court. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER thought that the bill already gave sufficient facilities for appeal, but if gentlemen opposite wished it, be had no objection to give an appeal to the County Court. Ile believed that the ap peals would lie of very rare occurrence. Sir F. KELLY was obliged to the right hon. gentleman fur his concession, as he considered that the County Court would be the most proper court of appeal. An amendment providing the appeal suggested was in• sorted, and the clause as amended was agreed to. Clime 50 was agreed to, with one or two verbal emend ments. _ Clause 51 was egreed to. Clause 62 was struck out. Clause 53 was agreed to with some verbal amendments. Clause 54 was struck out. On clause 65, which provides that the bill shall: come into operation on the 19th of May, 1853, Mr. ISIULLINGS moved to omit the two last lines, in order to insert the words " that the bill come into operation on tho day of the passing thereof." The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER could not consent to the amendment. The question was one of finance, and it was the usual principle in laying on new taxes to make the tax came into operation from the day of the passing of the resolution in committee. In some cases, as in that of the income tax, they had gone further, and made the tax apply retrospectively, beyond tke period of the passing of the resolution. The amendment would deprive him of two months of the proceeds of the tax, which he could not consent to. Mr. DISRAELI thought they ought to follow tho pre cedent of former taxes, and urged hie boo. friend not to press the amendment. The committee divided : For the amendment l°s Against it The clause was agreed to, as was clause 66 and the schedules. Clauses 16 and 22 were struck out. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER brought up the following clause:—Provided that no person entitled, at the time appointed for the commencement of this act, to the immediate reversion in any real property, expectant upon the determination of any lease for life, shall be chargeable with duty in respect of such determination, in the event of the same occurring in his life time Some discussion took place, in which Mr. Henley, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Mr. Cayley took part. The clause was then agreed to. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER next brought up the following clause:—" Section 16. No policy of insurance on the life of any person shall alone create the relation of predecessor and successor, between tho insurer and aqiured. or between the assurer and any assignee of the assured, and no bond or contract made by any person bona fide for valuable consideration in money or moneys worth for the payment of money after the death of any other per son, shall alone create the relation of predecessor and suc cessor between the person making such bond or contract, and the person to or with whom the same shall be made ; but any disposition or devolution of the monies payable un der such policy, bond, or contract, if otherwise within the provisions of this act, shall be deemed to confer a M anion." lii7FRESIIFIELD moved that the word " other " be struck out before " person," so as to make the clause apply to the obligor himself. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER resisted the proposal, en the ground that it would lead to number less evasions. It would cause wills to take the form of post obits. The amendment was negatived without a division, and the clause was then agreed to. the Chancellor of the Ex chequer, in answer to Sir F. Kelly, agreeing that the bill ' as altered should be printed before it reached its final stags The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER then brought up the following clause : "Section 22. Where tim. bee trees or wood shall be comprised in any succession, the successor shall be chargeable with duty upon his interest in the net monies which shall from time to time be received from any sales of such timber trees or wood, and shall ac count for and pay the same yearly ; provided, that if the successor shall be desirous of commuting the duty, and shall deliver to the commissioners an estimate of the net monies obtainable by him from the sale of such timber trees and wood, as may, in a prudent course of manage. meat of the property be felled by such successor during his life, the commissioners, if satisfied with such estimate, shall accept the same and assess the duty accordingly." Sir J. TROLLOPE hoped the right bon. gentleman would expunge the clause altogether ; for it would add but an infinitesimal sum to the revenue, and it would lead to an immense amount of vexation and annoyance. (Cheers.) Col. SIBTHORP suspected any modification proceeding from the Chancellor of the Exchequer ; and ho looked on the bill as altogether a groin robbery. (Cheers.) The revenue returns recently published were all humbug and nonsense, the object of the Chancellor of the Exchequer being to deceive the public and to increase his reputation as a financier. Hew did the right hon. gentleman intend to deal with the copyholder, who could not cut down a tree without paying one-third of its value to the lord of the manor, besides a heavy fine ? Would he (the copyholder) be on the gross sum ? If he were it would be • pass robbery . (Laughter.) Inaba muse of a further discussion, Mr. BOOKER complained that the Chancellor of the Exchequer did not appear to have taken into consideration the care and attention which was required to bring timber te a state of perfection. Timber, too, was of an exceptional nature. Its growth ought to be suported fur the sake of the " wooden walls of Old England . " (Oh, oh.) The hon. gentleman then proceeded to reed a letter from a friend de precating the proposed measure as disadvantageous to the British oak. (Cries of " Oh, oh," and laughter.) During the reading of the letter there were repeated cries of " Name, name," and when the hon. member read the sig nature of " W. S. Wood," great amusement was created. The hon. gentleman assured the house that it was no as sumed name, and gave the writer's address as " White House, near Hereford." After a few words from Sir E. DIMING, Sit W. JOLLIFFE contended that timber stood on •i different footing from every other species of property. He proceeded to illustrate his position in a long speech, which wee almost entirely drowned in vociferous cries of " Divide." The committee then divided— For the clause Against _ 179-16 In repljto an objection frost Mr. HEIM= respecting the valuation of underwood, The SOLICITOR•GENERAL odsi that he would alter the clause so that it would read timber, trees, or wood net being coppice or underwood. Colonel SIBTILORP asked the hon. and learned gentle man to go a step further, and impose a tax on sawdust. (Laughter.) Mr. MILES said the wording of the clause would lead to constant dispates between the successor and the tax gatherer as to the valuation. (Hear.) Mr. I'. MILES was apprehensice that parties would be called upon to pay the tax upon the not proceeds of the wood, when it might happen the expense of cutting had swallowed up all the proceeds. Tke CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER said in that ease the party would neither pay the tax net would he called upon to render an account of the sale. Ile would be required to reader an Recount of his profits when there were any, and upon these profits the tax would have to be paid. After some further discussion, Mr. MILES thought that nothing under 30 years' pow& should be estimated in the valuation, and proposed to add a proviso to that effect. Thc CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER said it was impos.sible for him to accede to those words. In Scotland he had seen valuable timber not thirty years old. Mr. C. BRUCE said, in his experience, wood which he had cut under thirty years of age bad not more than paid the expenses. (Rear, hear.) Kr. DUNLOP mentioned a case in which 150/. a year was derived from timber under 25 years old. The amendment was negatived without a division, and the clause agreed to. The remaining clauses were then agreed to, the house resumed, and the chairman reported progress. NEWSPAPER STAMP BILL. The second reading of this bill was fixed for this day. PUBLIC-HOUSES (SCOTLAND) BILL. This bill was read a third time, and passed. COPIES OF SPECIFICATIONS REPEAL BILL. This bill was read a second time, with the understanding that it was to be committed pro terse, and reprinted. MINISTERS MONEY (IRELAND) BILL. On the motion that the house go into committee on this bill, Sir J. YOUNG in answer to a question from Mr. MA GUIRE explained that the bill would abolish ministers money as it at present stood, but that be did not expect that the whole amount of tax would be remitted. Ile denied' that any pledge had been given for the total abolition of the tax. The bill would mainly exempt houses to he bunt, would establish a commission to revise the rating, and would give housekeepers, who were liable to rating, power stsedemption on very favourable terms. Messrs. Maguire, Sullivan, and Greg= severally ex pressed their disapprobation of the principle of the b"1 as 'stated by the right hon. gentleman. Resolution passed, leave given to bring in the bill. PUBLIC LIBRARIES (IRELAND) BILL. This bill passed through committee. SALE, &c., OF LANDS (IRELAND) BILL. Mr. WHITESIDE moved the second reading of this bill. Sir J. YOUNG approved of the principle of the bill, but hoped it would not be pressea this session beyond its present stage. Mr. WHITESIDE could hardly understand any °Nee tion to this bill, and intimated that he should press it forward. - _ _ . After a fcw words front Mr. KEOG it and Colonel Dt sx E, the bill was read a second time. _ _ The Brecon Collegiate Church Bill passed through com mittee. PARISH CONSTABLES' BILL. • • bill The order for the CJIIIIMIttIe On t his was read and disch.aged. CUSTOMS ACTS. The report of the committee was brought up, and agreed to. CUSTOMS ACTS (ISLE OF MAN). The house baying resolved itself into committee on the resolutions for imposing customs duties on the Isle of Man, Sir J. WALMSLEY objected that this bill was an in fringement of the privileges of the Isle of Man, and with the rights of property, and he hoped that unless the govern ment could show that they Ltd the consent of the House of Keys and the people of the island, that the house would not sanction the imposition of increased duties. Ile read documents showing that the propcsition had not been submitted as promised to the authorities of the island, and he com plained that provision was not made by the government to giro to the House of Keys control over the tazcs it was proposed to raise. This was an attempt to bring the island, with the customs of the Isle of Man, within the general customs laws of the kingdom for the first time, and as this was opposed to the privileges and rights of the people of the Isle of Man, he should, if the resolutions were pressed at that late hour, divide against them. Mr. J. WILSON said that the proposed bill was neces sary to remove impediments to the trade of the island, and to prevent smuggling. Ile hed communicated with the Lieutenant-Governor, and informed him of tho proposed changes, and he had 'called the House of Keys together, who had made certain suggestions in the bill which would be founded on (heel resolution .e, end would be considered. Sir J. WALMSLCY moved that the house do adjourn. Mr. BOUVERIE • tid he could not do that while the house was in committee. Sir J. WALMSLEY would throw every obstacle in the way of the resolutions, and moved that the chairman report progress. The gallery was cleared for a division, but none took place, and the chairman having reported progress, the house resumed. The Stamp Duties Bill, as amended, was considered. Thr Land Revenues Bill passed through committee. The Spitallields and Shoreditch Improvement BM was read a third time and passed. BETTING• 110 USES. In answer to Mr. A. PELLATT, Lord PALMLRSTON said that a bill had been prepared by the Attorney-Gleneral, which appeared well calculated to attain the object of suppression betting-houses in the me tropolis. Notice would be given of it immediately ; and he hoped there would be no difficulty in passing it iota a law this session. SUCCESSION DC:IY BILL. The house then went into committee on thiv bill, com mencing with the 46:h clatpe. After a conversation, in which Mr. Henley, the Chan cellor of the Exchequer, the Solicitor-General, and Mr. G. Butt took part, the clause was tweed to with aomc verbal amendments._ . . On clause 48, which empowers tho comrnissiondu to compel the production of books b 7 accountable rirties, Mr. WALPOLE took some objection to the extensive na ture of the powers there given. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER consented to a modification. Mr. MULLINGS moved an amendment excepting title deeds, muniments, an evidences of title. lie referred to cases where injury to the proprietor had arisen from title deeds being produced and defects discovered. The house divided upon Mr. Mullings's amendment. My numbers were! For the amendment Against THE NAVY. Sir J. GRAHAM obtained ]cave to bring in a bill to prolong the period of the service of seamen Irons five years to ten years, and otherwise to amend the laws relating to the navy. The right hon. baronet also brought in a bill to raise a force of 10,000 naval coast volunteers, to be employed in eau of need. Sir J. YOUNG obtained leave to bring in a cab bill for Dublin. Mr. IV WILSON brought in a bill for the punishment of offences in the colonies rcla•lng to coin. The house rose at 10 minntt , oast 3. PAIRS.—Mr. Sheridan, for government, with Colonel North, against. Hon. A. Ponsonby, for government, with Hon. G. Noel, against, till 11 o'clock. Viscount Scaham, against Succession Bill, till 11 p.m., with the Marquis of Stafford, in favour. Mr. Pugh, from 11 o'clock, against the'clauses in the Succession Tax, with Mr. Oliveira. 'ARY CO: Yesterday a committee of the Homo of Lords, known as " the Redesdale committee," met to consider the passing of several important railway and other bills, but the public and the press were excluded. The bills passed yesterday were, we understand, as fol lows :—Limerick, Ennis, and Killable Railway; Yerk and North Midland Railway (Hull aad Selby purchase shares) ; Leeds, Bradford and Halifax Junction Railway; Bedale l and Leyburn Railway ; Roscrca and Parsoastown Junction Railway; Whitehaven and Furness Railway; Electric Te legraph Company. The bills that paned through standing orders were t Crieff Junction Railway; Lynvi Valley Railway; Halifax Water Works ; Paddington and Holborn-bridge ltailway ; British Electric Telegraph Company; and Newcastle-on- Tyne Improvement. GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY' (HENLEY LlNE).—Yet terday a committee, consisting of the Earl of Wicklow. Lord Elphinstone, Lord Sondes, Lord Wynford, and Lord Leigh, passed the preamble of this bill. The committee sat with open doors. WI.STMINsTER IMF ROVEMENTS.—Yesterday the com mittee of the House of Lords, of which the Earl of Wick low was chairman, passed the bill proposed for the purpon of extending the Westminster improvements, the object being to carry out the formation of Secondary-street, in connexion with Victoria-street, already opened, and to enable the Westminster Improvement Commissioners to ob tain possession of the workhouse and lands required for that purpose. The commissioners, up to November, 1849, had expended in these improvements 125,0001., but had not yet expended the 20,0001. required for the construction of Se condary-street. The commissioners propose to improve the sanitary condition of the parishes of St. Margaret and St. John, by removing a mass of houses in various streets, lanes, and passages, adjoining Victoria-street, and to erect • better class of houses in their stead on building leases, the houses to be occupied in distinct sets of apartmeute, the apartments to be rated as separate tenements. The com missioners set forth that it will afford great accommodation to the public if the approach to Victoria-street is widened through the Broad Sanctuary, and a communication opened from Victoria-street to Palace-yard. They also propose that a part of Castle-lane shall bo widened and improved, and a communication formed between Horseferry road and Westminster Bridewell; also for Francis-street to be widened and improved, and continued into the Vauxhall Bridge-road and Victoria-street, with a road contiguous to part of the walls of Westminster Bridewell. The power for the compulsory purchase of land is limited to two years from the passing of the act. l'ortions of Parliament square Gardens and of the churchy ard _ of St. Margaret are to be laid open in continuation of Victoria-street to opposite the new Houses of Parliament, and Secondary-street is to be completed by July, 1855, at a cost of 50,0001. ROCIIESTER CaIIEDRAL.—Tho Bishop has issued a formal summons, convening the Dean and all the other members of the church to attend a visitation of the cathe dral on Tuesday next, in conformity with the requirements of the'statutes. Such a visitation has not been holden for the last 20 years, nor more than once during the last 40. JUNIOR UNITED SERVICE CLI:B.—A special general meeting of this club was held on Wednesday, when it was resolved that the clubhouse should be enlarged, for which purpose it was voted that 40,0001. be raised by subscription at 4 per cent., and that 200 additional members bo ad mitted. REPRESENTATION OF NORTII DERBY.—Mr. Wm. Evans, of Allestree, having accepted the Chiltern Hundreds through increasing years and ill-health, his son, Mr. Thos. Wm. Evans, has issued an address on free trade principles to the electors. The high sheriff has fixed Saturday, the 16th July, for the election, at Sakewell. THE TEA TRADE.—The Customs authorities have issued a minute, with reference to the arrangements made to meet the great pressure of business consequent on the alterations of the Customs duties on tea, expressing their approbation of the zeal and alacrity manifested by the offi cers of the tea department, and all others who were em ployed during the extraordinary pressure of business upon the recent occasion, as through the exertions of those parties, both early and late, far beyond the usual hours of attend ance, the merchants and the trade have been enabled to avail themselves of the benefits conferred by the resole. tions of the House of Commons at the earliest possible period, and to an almost unprecedented extent. FittEs.—Yesterday morning, between twelve and one o'clock, a fire broke out on the premises in the occupa tion of Messrs. Hubbard and Rogers, pianoforte manufac turer:, 36, South Conduit-street, Bethnal Green-road. Notwithstanding the exertions of the firemen and police, the dames were not extinguished until the building was completely gutted, and the roof burnt off. The fire com municated to Mr. W. Houghton's oil warehouse, to which considerable damage has accrued by tire and water. About the same time another tire was discovered raging at No. 8, ' Great Queen-street, Lincoln's inn-fields, in the occupation of Messrs. Amen and Hawke, medical brokers; the inmates being very much alarmed by the quantity of smoke, quickly made their escape ; and the Crown-street brigade eng.ne having arrived and got into play, the II imes wet': in about an hour subdued ; but not before a large quantity of tho stock was consumed, and the back premises of the George Tavern much injured. The origin ot the tires has nut been ascertained. ghe 3v es, TO COBILMAPONDki;NTP. A 'eeond Edition et " The Express," sstnx !re Fuse tiener e tAzette," is published every Tuesstay tad Ptell sigh; for post. VvetmessentA Attended for "Ila Ezpress,''..x.dst Dust lay cfpbe at thubliaetioa. Orree, C:userle.stret, to No s'e!cck ca eke HIGH WATLII AT LONDON BRIDGIL TAW DAT—Morning. 3E. 'Samson. 341.331 1 . T.wiotaucw—Slorsuar. 3h. 52113. ..... kfteruhul. 44. lho. LONDON, FRIDAY, JULY 8. THE plot thickens apace, and :he clue is wanted. The Earl of CLARENDON last night "hoped there might bo a peaceful solution" of the Eastern gees. tion. Of course everybody sincerely hopes s o , e t te ha but his lordship did not say that he expected there would be anything of the kind. L ord DERBY, Lord BROUGHAM, and Lord Guns, all join e d in a request that the threatened discussion u p on t h e Russian invasion might be postponed. To acqua i nt Pat ie known, rliament n and all thichaptublcoieu:d be all liciwitb d is a debate on the subject of Russian op grcssion and Turkish prospects would, in th e opinion of the House of Peers, be injudicious, and the politic Lout CLANRIC.tRDE postponed his threatened motion accordingly. This postponement is till Monday, unless Mr. "ATARI) can be induced to put off his motion once more, in which case the whole discussion in both Houses of Parliament may be adjourned &Lie die. As the sohject previously stood Mr. LAYARD'S second appointment was for this day (Friday), but our parliamentary report will show how this arrangement' has been upset. Is the ex. humer of Nineveh cajoled? or is he himself a cajoler ? Is he prepared to take the consequences of repeated postponements, for the sake of pleasing the authorities;—does he simply raise the flag of inquiry to prevent others front bringing the sub. ject before the House and the country ? Th e public ought to be satisfied on this point. When Sir C. WOOD told the SECRETARY at WAR to postpone Mr. Lavana's motion without Mr. LAYARD's leave, how far was he justified in the step by former suppleness on the part of the lion. member for Ayl( sLury ? We have all along contended that the wisest plan is to instruct public opinion to the fullest extent, and under the impression that Mr. Lav )11!), as a tra veller, explorer, and author, might he able to afford information to Parliament and the country about Turkey, we congratulated hint and the public on the prospect of good to he done and reputation to be acquired by the statement of his view of the present state of the SULTAN'S dominions, and by the expression of his opinions on the tendency of events in the East. If, however, he is simply playing fast and loose, as may Lest seem to meet the needs of partisan tactics, we shall have to turn to some other quarter for the needful inauguration of a debate on Turkey in the House of Connnans. At best, if we get his opinions they can only be taken for what they are really worth. It cannot be too often repeated, that those most deeply interested in questions of foreign policy, when peace or war are in suspense, are the people. Whenever hostilities take place, from their ranks must be drawn the men, and from the fruits of their industry, the money, to support war. We deny, then, that the public should be kept in profound ignorance of the views of a Ministry on a question of this kind, when those views may plunge us into hostilities, may stain us with disgrace, or bring us scatheless out of the difficulty we are in. The people arc eminently desirous of supporting the national honour, and have an English pride in the ratifies. tion of national engagements, but they are by these very feelings rendered all the more anxious to know the views of the Government as to their engage• ments, and as to how far their honour is likely to be involved in any existing complications. They know that the CZAR, to gratify a diseased ambition, has invaded the territory of his neighbour; they know that this is an infraction of treaties that ought to be binding on all the great Powers. They have reason to believe that our near neighbours and natural friends and allies, the French, are ready to declare that national engagements are to be maintained, and they know that the English fleet has been sent to Besika Bay. But here the popular view of the subject is stopped for the simple reason that the Government now in power in England have not thought fit to mire any indication of what their councils incline them to regard as their duty in this matter. Either we are to keep the treaties, or we are not. Either the existing boundaries of the countries of Europe arc to be maintained or to be broken. Either the rising civilisation, the practical freedom, the growing trade of Turkey in Europe, arc to be saved from the grasp of the spoiler ; or the Cz tit is to bo allowed to conduct his aggressions unchecked. Ruled as we are, the Executive have power to adopt the policy they prefer ; but, as we have already said, the day has come when the public expect to be allowed an opportunity of forming a judg ment on the course chalked out for England by their Ministers. Since the people have to pay the piper, they may at least be asked to approve the tune; and that they may do so it is necessary that some Member of the House of Commons should obtain from the Ministry explana tions calculated to give a clue to our Future in this matter. In times of doubt there are always rumours enough afloat; and amongst those of the last few days has been one to the effect that the dis cordant views of different members of the Cabinet have led to more than ordinary diversities of counsel on the subject of Russian aggression. Gossip even declares the PREMIER to be unwilling much longer to retain offices with his present colleagues. Such statements may rest on the best or the flimsiest foundation, but their very existence displays a state of things in which the public mind asks for eerlainlim We want to know what is to be the policy of England in a subject of the deepest importance. Our trade, our money market, our finance—our present needs and oar future prospects—all ask that the period of nn• certainty be lessened to the shortest possible space. Hence our lament that Mr. L.MIID should a second time have fallen back from his position—hence oar exhortation to the Ministry to instruct the public opinion, that public opinion may be with them in ail that is right and honourable. And hence also our expression of a fervent hope that we may at once have an authoritative indication of what we arc to expect and what we are to be asked to do for the settlement of this Eastern difficulty, begotten of the unholy greed of a single despot. We do not want to wake up some morning and find ourselves in the full tide of war without first knowing from those who rule us, the official Why and Wherefore. We do not want tho disclosure of anything likely to be inju• rions, but we do require some light to be thrown on the principle that is directing their policy. AN important inquiry has lately taken place at Birmingham, relative to the severities alleged to have been exercised by the officers of the gaol, apon the prisoners committed to their charge. The question which the necessity for such an investigation imme diately suggests, is no less than this, arc all the suc cessive improvements, on the side of hunrmity, in the treatment of our criminals to be rendered nought bY th e a ppoint liowA char ad feature but al made tender nulaoi condu: yreeizi [llllo lll ' more. made pixhw anti u keel one, s that 'ion t ins, social feren ma Jac oft He