The Express. — London, England, 1851-10-30 00:00:00

ST. ALBANS BRIBERY COMMISSION. should be late for the train. Coppock told him he must then go on himself for the money to Brace and Co., Surrey. street, Strand. Saw Colt. Colt was " quite angry" at • witness coming. Witness gave Colt to understand what he wanted. Colt said, " Go back to Coppock." Money was not mentioned. Colt knew very well what witness wanted. The whole thing was perfectly understood. Witness refused to go back to Coppock, because Coppock had gone home to dinner. Colt said, " Call again in an hour." Did. There was still a difficulty. A " party" had not come. Colt and witness then got into a cab, and drove to a street off Totten harn-court.ros d . Some person came to Colt. There was still • difficulty. Witness said he was too late for the train, and would go and wait at the Victoria, Euston-square. Told Colt " Mr. Jenkins " would be waiting there fur the packet. A person came to the Victoria, and asked for' Mr. Edwards." Saw witness, and gave him a packet. Said nothing, and went away. Witness just caught the mail train and went to St. Albans. Locked the money op. Employed the printers to print the address. A St. Albans man, who came down in the train with witness, saw the address, and agreed to vote for his (witness s) " friend." Had an office in Chtequers.street ; it was now called " Sore reign.alley," in St. Albans. Out a proof of the address at MS as he could. When it was printed it was sent round the WM. Before going home witness left the packet at ,the Omega lon. Had not opened the packet; only Anew what it was by its weight. Next more -1 Ing on the 28th, witness commenced preparations for a contested election. Arrangements went on to the 30th November. On Ist December received a letter from Mr. Mandell. Prepared for a contested election, because the town was in a ferment, and because another candidate was threatened. Simpson's party had boasted that they would have a candidate. Witness expected a contest from the moment when Simpson quarrelled with him. The letter of Handel! was dated the 30th November, Birchin.lane, London. (The letter was read.) It intimated that Mr. ' Bell would leave town on the next Monday, and that Mr. Bell wished that the liberal printer should print the ad. dress ; that Mr. Bell insisted that there should be no " treating" or " bribery;" and that all accounts would have to go through Mr. Itandell ; ordered that dinner for a large party should be ready at a certain hour. Witness attended to the letter ordered the dinner. There came with Mr. Bell Mr. Wyld, M.P., and several others. When Mr. Bell came into the town he was taken to the Queen's Head. Went there because that hotel had a bal cony. The " influentials" met Mr. Bell at the Queen's Head ; and Mr. Bell addressed the crowd from the balcony. Voters were invited to cemc up to the room where Mr. Bell was. Many did—fiftv, perhaps. After that the canvass was commenced before dinner. The party went up two or three The commissioners, F. W. Slade, W. Forsyth, and T. plums, nuatinued their sittings yesterday at St. Am.,. The court was again crowded. 'lle utmost in- serest was taken in the day's proceedings in consequence of 6 t op etation that Mr. Edwards, Mr. Bell's agent at the late election, was to be exained. Mr. Edward', it w un derstood, would make a "m clear breast of as Business was commenced by Mr. Brace, solicitor, of Surrey-street, Strand, request ing gc riaission to explain some statements which he had made in the comae of his evidence on the previous day. Ile had been wrong in stating that he had lent Mr. hills, Mr. B e ll'spertner,2,oosq. : he had only lent Mr. Hills 1,5001. Th e re was another 5001. advanced by him ; but that bad not p ri edsl through Mr. Millis hands. The first 1,0001. lent to I I ills was handed over in a cheque. (The cheque was pro duced by Mr. Brace.) Mr. Colt (Mr. Brace's partner) would explain with regard to tho 5001. which did not go through Mr. Hills. Mr. Colt also desired to explain portions of his former evidence. Ile had called on Mr. Coppock at the request of 1 4 1 r. Bell, to see if Mr. Coppock's influence on behalf of the iron rnment would be sufficient to neutralise any contest. He should also have added, in reference to Edwards, that Lauuds himself had called at the office of Brace and Co., after the affairs of Mr. Bell hail passed out of the hands of that firm. On seeing Mr. Cuppock, he told Mr. Coppock that Edwards would call on him. Ile had been riven to understand that Edwards was at the Vic toria Hotel, Eusten-square, waiting for a " packet," and that Edwards was assuming the name of Jenkins. (Mr. Edwards here cross-eaamincil the witness.) But he could not state poaitivelv that Edwards was the party who was to assume the false name. There was a Jenkins certainly in the case. Mr. Hill" was re-examined. lie produced different ac• counts and documents. lle had borrowed altogether only 1 ; 1001. He had yesterday stated that the sum was 2,000!. ; but that was a mistake. No one cheque fur 1,0001. was ever given to him by Mr. Brace. In the first instance he got two 5001. notes from Mr. Brace. A cheque for .1001. had passed through his hands, given by Mr. Brace. There au no other cheque. He had stated yesterday that he had re paid Mr. Brace the sons of 2,0001. But he now believed he had only repaid 1,5001. lie could account fir no more on his books. Ile had given Mr. Brace promissory notes fur the first two rata notes. Ile did not think he had given any note for the third 5001. Q. Did he know if Mr. Brace had advanced a fourth 5001. on behalf of Mr. &AI or himself? ...suer. es., r __ alt up two e. _. A. lie was not aware. But indirectly he had heard some streets. The dinner was at the George Hotel. A large money had been sidemen, ed. party dined together. The canvass went on from the next U. What was the amount? day up to the nomination. Witness had received four A. WI 11, he believed it was 6001 . " packets " up to the nomination day, and a filth packet on (4. Had he repaid that. the day of the nomination. Witness found the first packet A. Ile was nut sure. In fact, he had complicated the contained 500 sovereigns. The next packet contained the affair as much as possible. lie had mize.l up other accounts same. Got the second packet in consequence of having with this secount ; and he could not say how it stood. The written to Brace and Co. to say that witness's son would call money repaid to Brace was taken out of his business. The on Coppock. Only counted the first packet. Took fur granted business made-up accounts were monthly. The deficiency there were 500 sovereigns in each. There were intervals of eeool. (if lie had repaid Mr. Brace a fourth 5000 would of five or seven days between the receipt of the packets. Wit. have spin med. lie did find that 1,7004. had been abstracted ness senthis eons for all of them. All the packets contained from the bovines. sovereigns and nothing but sovereigns. The witness (whose te. Induseive of 5001. which he had drawn himself from statement had fallen into a narrative after about a dozen the banker, there was 2,260(. withdrawn from the business? questions had been asked) here paused, and then said that A. Ile would like to see more of his books before he he thought he had now 'doted all he knew except as to the arswereel that. lie had borrowed 5001. from his hankers. expenditure of the money. lie hoped that iu reference to lie drew 5001. due to him from the bu..ncels. Then he this point he would not be asked to volunteer particulars. borrowed from Mr. Brace 1,5001. (Here the witness, lie requested that the commissioners would put questions became confused; end, at the suggestion of the COMMIS- to hi m. amen, he acknowledged that he could not speak offhand Mr. Slade then put a series of questions. as to accounts, and that he had not the requisite books Witness had once represented a conservative party. Ex- with him. Filially it was agreed that he would bring all cept on that one occasion he had always represented the his books to-morrow, sod then go into the figures more liberal party. At the late election witness was one of the carefully.] " Spencer ' (Lord Spencer's) party—that is, the liberal , Mr. Beare (recalled) said that he had certainly drawn a party. That party was strong enough alone to return a ! cheque in Mr. Hills's favour for 1,0001. It might be, how- member, with a proper expenditure. About 324 out of the ever, that he had got the cheque cashed while Mr. hills whole 4113 electors had been in favour of Mr. Bell at was waiting, and handed Mr. Hills notes to that amount. the late election. Had conic to a general understanding The cheque was on the Bank of England. Could not state with Mr. Blagg, the representative of the come:re:dive party. that he had ever asked Mr. Celt as to the 211.1. and 3001. Their strength was fifty or sixty. Mr. Gape and the Late .if Mr. Cult had Mien to Freeman. 2,0001. had been repaid Verularn were of that party, and it appeared, in the result. by Mr. Hills. 'the commissioners here consulted, and iuti• that Mr. Blame's compact was for the " intluentials " only. mated to Mr. Hills that they bad got all the evidence as to There was a " third party." They were 151. They were his accounts which was at Present needed. The facts as to polled to a vote. The conservative party was merged in Mr. the money Mr. Hills had borrowed and repaid had been Garden's party and Mr. Bell's party at the last election. communicated by Mr. Brace straightforwardly. The cem- There was no "third party" at that election. Mr. Carden missiouvr., therefore, would not need Mn, Hills further. was brought into the field by a portion of the third party, Mr. Hills said lie would, then, leave matters as he had and then supported by the conservatives. Witness told stated them, and he would not appear to-rnosrow (this Coppoek that whoever came he (witness) could poll two to one against him, and had done so. Was manager of the Mr do s ) ' . Edwards was then called. The commissioners, liberal party on that occasion, and was sure of his strength. in consideration of his being lame, requested that lie would Blagg came into the compact directly alter the death of b. seated during his examination. Ile gave his evidence in it en b a d. lnagg said he hail seen the heads of his the most frank and manly manner, and obviously without paiiy . Witness didn't ask who they were ; trusted to the slightest reeleoe. At various times, however, when his gi e gg's word. Blame said a respectable candidate brought testimony affected the honour and character of other per- forward by witness would not be opposed. 11Iagg m eans, hr was painfully affected. feigned as his reason for not opposing that witness had iv- Mr. Slade asked him if he had any statement to make. turned Mr. !Upton. The compact had been so carried out Afterwards questions could be put to him. that not ten conoervativesin the town refused to vute fur Mr. Edwards said he had nut volunteered any testimony. the radical Itaplisel when that gentleman came forward. Ile had been eu 11111 l tined and would answer truthfully all. Witness considered he had been justified in relying on the ie... stem.. Ile would give a narrative if re mit were conservative party. Had the compact been carried out there eie But the position iu a hkh he was placed made it pre- would have been no opposition, because there would have I. relies that his evidence Ishmael be drawn from him. been no chance.. During these election proceedings witness. In answer to questions, was in daily communication with the leaders of the liberal Mr. Edward. then stated he had been long a resident in nerty. An opponent was brought on the ground very soon. and about the borough. He had been manager of the St. Sir. Carden's name was mentioned within three or four Albans Bank ; and had had a vote for the borough. Ile days atter the dinner. Heard of Mr. Carden first in a letter was now a firmer. Ile bad taken • part iu elections for ieiteedwee, Mr. o n seem. This Mr. Gresham said lie had Mia borough fur 15 }cure lie had received a letter from ee „andeleeees Gresham asked witness if witness would Mr. Coppock, dated the 16th November. (The letter was ever operate with his ((;reshain's) candidate. Gresham read. It referred to the death of Mr. Raphael, and sum- said his emendate had " tote of money." The name was aimed Edwards to town.) lie saw Compel, on the follow- mentioned—Sir Fitzroy Kelly , . Gresham said he had come ne day, on the 18th. It was in l'orliarneut-street. Mr. to reside near St. Alberni, and wanted a " slice." Ile soil Coppock asked witness to act with him. At the two last he wasn't going to be " quiet." Witness add, " What do elections he had not acted for Coppock. Ile now eon- you want ?" Gresham said, "10 guineas a day." Witness 'crated. Coppoek welted about expenses. Coppoek men- offered five. Ultimately decided that he would ask the boned that the Hon. Mr. Craven was desirous of becoming friend who introduced Gresham. When Bell cause down, • cemlidote. Won,* said 2,5001 would be the expense. tireeliam was one of the first persons witness sent to, asking Coppock said lie would comenuiticate with Mr. Crowe, his aid in the CanyllSS. But at a meeting to call on Cardec and desired swathess to call nest day. W• •ss said that in to come forward, Gresham got up and offered to draw up ClSSW4lllelier of ucontract with the conservatives there would the form of the requisition to Alderman Cardeu. Witness lie no contest. The expense was ins whined in eonnexien was surprised and hurt. Wrote to Gresham to remonstrate. with the absence of a contest, as irrespective of it. The (Here Mr. Gresham violently interrupted the witness, hut sum was in refi•renee to the general expenses of an eke- was compelled to keep silence.) Received a letter in reply Lion, contingent MI eircums'anees. Nothing was said of from Mr. Gresham. (Letter was read. It stated that the the sum required in the event of no contest. Witness writer knew nothing of the Canlen party.) It was soon wild not embark, under any circumstance., in a con- after the date of this letter, the :10th of November, that Mr. test unless lie had Out amount. Witness had al- Carden appeared. At the meeting referred to, Mr. Carden vier, found that preliminary necessary —a clear on. was spoken of as a liberal; and witness was not demanding. Witness saw Coppock next day. C o l' very much afraid about it. Witness saw Mr. Carden peek said no answer hest been received; but that before he commenced his canvass. Witness said Mr. Carden an answer would he ready by six o'clock in the even- could not know the position of the town, or he would nut in, if witness would call at the Reform Club. Saw Coppock disturb it—that Mr. Bell was certain. Mr. Carden bowed, there at sis. Coppuee said Mr. Craven's answer was that it and his friends talked is fudge." Witness would not have would nut be " convenient." Then there was a talk of been afraid of two opponents. lie did not believe there stir candidate.. Coppock said be would soon have one would be a serious opeosition. Began, however, to take r. sly. Witness represented that there must be no delay. active measures. Secured promises for Mr. Bell. Can- Sew Simpson with Ceepuek. Simpson had some con- vaned personally, and in company with Mr. Bell and other v. isedun with ('oppeek's committee. Coppock advesed persons. Went from house to house. After the meeting Foe nun and witness •to go and look fur a candidate. Sinap- where a requisition to Carden was agreed to Carden came wee Isad said yeste relay to the cemmiuioners that he had re- down. The house in Chequers-street, now called " Sine tueee to have anything to do with Blass( or witness, in reign-alley," was witness's office. Parties were there about roeequence of witness's conduct at former elections. But the election. The George was the witness's headquarters. Simpson and wettest went together to Serjeant Shoe. They saw Mr. Bell frequently there. Took all the " packets" to saw Serjeunt :eke. SIT,C4Ist Shee was told the expenses ; Chequers -street. Never saw Mr. Bell at the place in Che but he maid that it that time his being a Roman quers-street. Kept the sovereigns in the daytime in his catholic was ag dust lion, and be must decline. Au- own roots in Chequemstreet, but always took the money "' he r tin ) * he eeed'l he happy. That wa , on the 19 th. home at night. In canvassing did nut find the electors Simeon and 'time., then went together back to St. Albans holding back more than usual. Did not find his own and 'slip - el together. Neat thy Simpson went to London. party, the liberal party, unusually unwilling to tpiledge Winne* waited to bear from Cuppock. Simpson renamed themselves. There was a specific understanding. from a anti said Cupp uek was not prepare d ; but he (Simpson) wus, tort of custom, that this party would vote fur witness's out land had got a "good man." No name wax mentioned. didate. Witness held out no promises. When there was Simpson said hi-candidate WAS ready with 3,000/. Simpson anything to give, the witness always gave it. It was a dis else that the objection of his (Sempeon'e) " party" was to act fillet understanding in St. Albans that voters should have with leilwenbe l tore was some negotiation, but Simpson head-moony. This was notorious. Out of the 321 liberals, is 4teratell that his party 'would nut act with witness. The about 250 always looked for head-money. The other parties lee ulty was as to the management of the money, Wit-, were like his (( witness's ) own party ; they all look d fur new would not give up his position in the borough head-money. He should have considered it strange if any Simpson said—. If you appropriate 1,600/. I will appro- one voted for Carden without getting money. Witness had priate I,ioo/." Witness refused. Simpson then said, paid money at previous elections to fifty of those who, at I will dive You 3001 . if you will retire." the last election, voted for Mr. Carden. Calculations were Witness still refused. This was on the 20th. always made to meet the expectations of head-money. At That day, in the SITIIINE, Mr. Bracecallei on Nitness at the the hot election the voters got 51. each; that was the lowest. Blue Boer. Mr. Brace was introduced by Mr. Durant. seine got 8/. ; that wars the highest. The five-pounders Went together into a private room. Was asked if be was were not called light - weights; there were heavy-weights. engaged. Wanes. said he was. 'Vitiator told Mr. Beim Those who got 75e were the heavy weights. 'I he course that 2 e a511, or 2 . 7041 . would be required. WW itaces did net was to come to witness to get the money. This was not tell Mr. Brace sayteing about the conservative compact. in the general canvass. The mode was this. 'The town Kea w too littk of Mr. Brace at that time. Witume was war canvassed all day. In the evening witness took up my Ci4tiOlts in witigt be said. The '2,7001. was in reference his position at his office. The custom was for the voters to a r'n , tr.t°d election. Mr. Beat* said he bad issued a to come to him, and they got their money. That bad placard. Wits's said that that was very wrong. Rearrange- been the custom for 20 years. Those who came stopped ment was then come to. Mr. Brace was cautious too below stairs. Witness's brother-in-law stood at the top Witness, and Mr. Brace were afraid of each other. Agteed of the stairs, end introduced the voters, one by one. to meet Brace at Wottord. Met him there with Mr. Bell. Generally the whole scum to each wan paid at the time. Bell took nu part in the conversation. Saw Mr. The sum given to each person varied at different elee- Bowman there also. Thought Mr. Bowman might times. Must of the voters were engaged at elections as lc Simpson's candidate. Bowman gave a letter to messengers, spies, and so on; and each was remunerated Brace. While Brace was talking to Bowman witness as be deserved. A elan got more or less. Each man was went into the Cionnadon Aims. 11r. Colt, whom he saw put upon the footing of a servant. Some were actually there, toll witness that he hoped Bell would nut come for- and some only nominally employed. Those who got ward. Mr. Bell was not mentioned by name, but as the money under the colour of work got least. Those who " candidate." Brace said, when he came hack, that he did work got most. The coming to the house in Chequers could say no more about the matter. Brace advised wit- street, or "Sovereign-alley," commenced on the 30th nes. simply Ss ES to Cuppock, declining to c ome to any November. The paying commenced on the 30th November. seresinint. Mr. MiiiB6 was there. Mr. Ileac* asked Mr. Some men were certainly paid that day. Ileum if there would be a contest. The answer seemed Mr. Made—Did you keep a list of the persons who came, satisfactory to Mr. Brace. Witness was not acting with and an account of the money you paid? Mr. Moe& who was the town clerk of St. Albans No Mr. Edwards—Yes. But - 1 have destroyed the list. I *armies la existed between witness end MIMS as to Mr. , don't want to mention names. I will tell everything else. Dell. Biagi; ',Sargent el the conservative party. Witness Mr. Phinu—But the act of parliament renders it necessary west to London soil saw Mr. Coppock. Told Mr. Coppock he us to know the names. what be had seen and heard. ('uppock said he knew no- Mr. Edwarels—you see how painful is my position. Does thing about the. " candidate." Was told to call again. Did the &clef parliament coronet me ? tall soon after. Found Mr. Colt'''. with Coppock then. Saw Mr. Slade—The act gives us power to compel yea. Cuppoek, when Colt left. Cuppuck would not say what We feel for your poaition. But these names must be gives. Colt had said. Told witness to come next day. Went to Mr. Edwards—Let me know in the presence of these Ueda. Wain Mat day. lewdoPPoc again, end then had around me, my townsmen, what will be the consequence, if au interview with Cede. oul not get at the name of the I I refuse to tell the names. "candidate," and Cult would not speak poetise:ly. No- Mr. Phinie—You will be imprisoned until you do. Wag was said about money with Colt. Neat day saw Colt Mr. Edwards.-1 have already been in gaol eighteen I and tomoek together. it was then agr ee d th a t the candi- weeks,and would go for another 18 weeks sooner than tell date was ready. Delta tame was then mentioned . Wit - it - this names. mess aeon told Cuppock that 2,5001. was indispensable. Mr. Slade.—But you may be imprisoned for life. That •ce, the bolds of every negotiation. When witness got I Mr. Edwards.—'l hen lam compelled. I will give the back to St. Albans, lie let his friends know that a eatedi• names. I will give every one of them. I will take an al dote was ready. No names were to be mentioned till the I phabetkal list of the electors, and will tell all I know of 2eth. Saw Cupoock on the:Nth. Went to get Ilell's address. ' each ore of them. I won't select names. I won't make Wrute previously to Coppeck. lied destroyed all papers, after - fish of one and fowl of another. It shall all come out. the election. Had done this in apprehension of a petition.' Mr. Slade.—You a re t ra d uc i ng nobody here. You are Sew Bell on the 28th. Bell gave witness a copy of his ad- 'to satisfy the supreme power an the state, and simply to dress to get printed. Thought the address pretty good. Alter tell the truth. seeing Bell saw Coppock. Told e'eppock that expenses ' Mr. Edwards.—l wish to do so ; and I hope it will do were heginning, and asked for mouey on account. Told good, Coppoek the best way would be to advance 5001. at once. „ Great excitement prevailed in court during this conver. 'I eat was agreed on. Called a third time for the money. ' cation. A acme was now about to bo enacted such as had It was not ready when be called. Witness was afraid he never before been witnessed, THE EXPRESS, THURSDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 80, 1851. Copies of the register were procured. The commissioners took a copy and began with the first name, Mr. Edwards being given to understand when a name was called that the question was "Did that man receive money from you?" Many of the parties referred to were in court at the time, and the answers offered by Mr. Edwards were followed, in each case, by murmuring continents from the audience. At four o'clock, about two hundred names had be en called, these being electors resident in a single parish. Tor obvious reasons we do nut give the fist of those reported by Mr. Edwards to have received bribes, but we may state the re sults. Two out of three had received bribes ; and of those nine out of ten had received the money direct from Edwards himself. Sonic had received the money from Mr. Blanc, as the conservative scent, acting with Edwards, but not allowing Edwards to interfere with his own people, and others had got their bribes through inferior agents employed by Edwards. A few had declined taking their bribes except through their wives; and in those cases it was found that the parties had voted agaiest Edwards's candidate or had not voted at all. Nearly all had received their money before the day of the election. Those who had received their money afterwards were par ities who had forfeited their words in previous contests. " Hut," said Mr. Edwards, "there is seldom a forfeit of word in these cases." The usual sum given by Edwards was 51.—" .if. for his vote, by myself," being the must fre quent answer as the names were called. There were other sums of 61., 81., and 101. paid, but in those eases vote and actual service were paid for together. In reference to one name the witness said, "That was not fur his vote. I bud taken his room for a committee boom; and there was a bedroom. The price was high, but not too high for election times." Nothing whatever was said about the vote to him. That was quite understood. It was a matter of course that he would vote for my candidate." In reference to another name the statement was—" The Si. was for his work as messenger; and he worked very bard. It was understood he would vote for me. I never even asked that. It was a matter of course." Another statement, respecting another party, was—" Ile got between 101. and 201. but that was for goods supplied. The vote was a matter of course." Of another the witness said—" He got the dl. to keep the peace. lie is a prize-tighter. I used to have a band of 10 prize-fighters at the elections, but at the last election I only employed one. I gave him 5/. ; and he would have had that if he hadn't had a vote. Ile used to get it before he got a vote." At four o'clock, when the register of St. Albans parish had bei a gone through, the court was ordered to be ad journed until the nest day. Belem the adjournment, Mr. Slade, in the most courteous terms, begged that the reporters for the press uresent would bear in mind, in the accounts they furnished to the newspapers, the caution given by the commissioners, on the first day of the inquiry, with regard to defeating the purposes of the investigation. He thought that in common fairuces the names of those whom the last witness had sworn had received bribes ought not to he published. The court was then adjourned. LIVERPOOL TOWN COUNCIL THE APPROACHING INQUIRY INTO THE coNuccr OF "THE JUDGE OF THE LIVER POOL COUNTY COURT. LiveKroor., WEDNESDAY. The last meeting of the town council for the muni cipal year was held to - day. Sir JOHN BENT, the mayor, presided. Before the ordinary business of the council was proceeded with, a memorial from the inhabitants, very numerously signed, was read, calling upon the council to become the prosecutors in the inquiry about to be held before the Earl of Carlisle, into the conduct of Mr. ltantshay, the judge of our cuunty court. Mr. Cuuoeillur SAMUEL lIOLME, in moving that the council adopt the prayer of the memorial, and become the prosecutors in the inquiry, said, under the present ex traordinary and unparalleled circumstances in which the town was placed, the burgesses had exercised their un doubted right of memorialising the council to take a part in the inquiry which was shout to be held. It was on pub lic grounds that he (Mr. Uolme) supported the prayer of the memorial which had been read. This oust:Aim was one vi tally alLeting the public of this community ; and it was be cause he believed it to be his duty to urge upon the council to act upon this memorial, that he thus ventur. d to bring the question prominently before them. After refer ring at considerable length to the circumstances in connection with Mr. Rauishay's proceedings, which are already so familiar to the public, the speaker went on to contend that the council was the proper party to conduct the inquiry on the part of the town. The council was the representative of the burgesses, who were the eggrieved parties. (l tear, hear.) If houses became a nuisance to the community it was the business of tho council to remove them. It was the business of the council to provide courts of law, and in many instances to pay the salaries, all being fur the benefit of the community ; and by a parity of reasoning, he maintained that that council was the legitimate channel through which these proceedings ought to be conducted. It might be said that the council had nothing to do with it. Then he would ask, who had to do with it ? Were a few individuals to have the entire onus of conducting it thrown upon them? (near, hear.) lle thought not. It might be said that to vote any portion of the corporate funds towards conducting the inquiry would beu maladministration of those funds; but he thought that was an idle argument, because, if they were so disposed, they might even double the allow ance of their chief magistrate. 'f hey could vote money to welcome a strange:, and thousands to do honour to their Queen, and, therefore, he thought it was a fallacy to say that they had not the power devote any portion of their funds in order to remedy what he believed to be a public nuisance, for 11r could call it by no other same. (near, • ar.) Ile believed that so long as they were acting for the public benefit they had the power to exp. zid their funds, and he emphatically stated that this was a case involving the public benefit. This matter in volved a great constitutional question. " Sir," said Mr. Moline, addressing the mayor, " I look upon it as your question, as my question, as the question of every man in this town ; and I think that every inhabitant, as far ex in him lies, is bound to take steps to protect himself—he was almost going to say—from positive insult at the hands of our county mart judge." After some further remarks in support of the council taking up the question, the speaker said that in the event of the Earl of Carlisle reins ittiug Mr. Ramshay he (Mr Iliilme) knew of no other course than that of calling a public meeting; and he had no doubt whatever that if the earl did re-instate Mr. Ramshay a re quisition to the Mayor to call a public meeting would be preseuted. (Bear.) Ile unhesitatingly said that if an indiser. et gentleman like Mr. Itamshay was to be kept here, it would be the duty of the town to go to parliament in order to have him removed—(hear, hear) — for if he was to be permitted to carry out what he called the letter of the law in the manner lie recently had done, and if the town was driven to the last extremity, he re peated that it would be the duty of the coumunity to en deavour to oh Ain en act of parliament for the purpose of removing a man from amongst them whose temper was such as to prevent the inhabitants of this town from en joying those advantages and privileges which were conferred by the passing of the County Courts Act. Ile therefore begged to move that the council odupt the prayer of the memorial, and that the town clerk be directed to conduct the approaching inquiry on the part of the corporation. (Loud cheers.) Mr. AVISON, solicitor, briefly seconded the motion, re serving to himself the right to make some observations upon it in the course of the discussion. Mr. Alderman BILA.MLEY-bIOORE opposed the mo tion, on the ground that, to appropriate the corporate funds in conducting the inquiry would be decidedly illegal. After considerable discussion as to the legality of the corporate funds being applied in conducting the inquiry, The TOWN CLERK was called upon fortis opinion. Ile said his own opinion was, that it would be illegal to appro priate the money of the corporation in the manner pro posed, but feeling some doubt about it he had submitted it to counsel. Ile wrote to Mr. Crompton, barrister, and that gentleman had forwarded an opinion to the effect that to apply the funds of the corpora tion as proposed would he against the spirit of the act of parliament. The town clerk thee pros cemled to say that, being satisfied of the illegality of so applying the corporate funds, he should refuse to countersign the order for payment of the money, should the council decide so to expend it. A very long discussion took place, in the course of which several councillors expressed themselves strongly in favour of the council becoming the prosecutors, but the general impression seemed to be that the opinion of counsel and the town clerk was fatal to this course. Mr. Itainshay's conduct was denounced in the strongest toms by every speaker, and several members of the council being satisfied that the corporate funds could not be legally touched, expressed their readiness to contribute liberally towards the necessary ex t 7 l l :ima . tely Mr. Ilolme withdrew his motion ' and substi tuted the following motion, which was carried by a majority of 51 to 3. Mr. Hahne 'marked, that seeing the impossi bility of carrying his original motion in the face of conn eel's opinion, he had so modified it as to express the opinion of the couucil OR Mr. Ramshay's extraordinary proceedings. The motion as carried wan as follows: " That in the opinion of the council, the circumstances . . which have taken place in relation to the course punued by the judge of the county court fur this di.trict arc such u to call for an inquiry, before the proper authorities; but this council having been advised that it cannot legally expend the corporate funds in prosecuting such inquiry*, regrets that it cannot comply with the prayer of the. memmial." Several members of the council suggested the propriety of calling a public meeting, and it is hilly expected that requisition to the Mayor, to call such meeting for the pur pose of raising funds to conduct the inquiry, will be pre sented to morrow. THE KILDINAN FLAX MILLS.—Some time since a statement having appeared in the Northern Woig to the eff. ct that Mr. Dugan was about to give up his concerns at Kildinan, that gentleman, in contradicting it, said that he was working them with all the energy he possessed. In cor roboration of t',is, we may state that he buordered from the eminent firm of Lackey and Co., of this city, au engine of forty-horse power, end thirty scathing stundu, and that the works will be spiritedly and vigorously carried on. We understand that a very large quantity of flax straw is at present stacked about Kildinan, and whether Mr. Pargan's mill will be able to prepare for market this scum' au ybe • yond his own we are unable to say ; b u t f rotn a ll we 'have ' heard, we have no hesitation in stating that there is still room enough for some more scotching mills in the county of Cork.— Cork Reporter. THE EXHIBITION AND ITS RESULTS. From the 11441, News. Now that the scene of excitement during the past summer season is ended and the gathered products of the wor'd's industry are being dispersed, the cui Bono i s demanded with increased urgency. Something more tangible than prospective advantages to arise from the intermingling of the people of different na tions is friendly rivalry is required. Tell us, ask the sceptics, what the bxhibition has actually done towards opening new markets for our goods, im proving or cheapening our manufactures, in bringing to light new discoveries in science, or in any way to contribute permanently to increase the wealth of, the nation and to giro profitable employment to the people ? That it has done good ser vice, more or less, in all these ways, it might not be difficult to show, but we shall for the present confine ourselves to the practical applications of science which have been brought into more pro minent notice, if not stimulated, by the opportunity of making them known. Commencing with manufacturing processes, the Exhibition has been the means of developing a plan of producing cotton goods of a fineness of tex ture hitherto unattainable, and which imparts at the same time the additional properties of increased strength and improved capacity for dyeing. The fact that caustic alkalis possess the property of contracting the fibres of cotton had been known for some time, but the idea of applying it for the conversion of a coarse fabric into a tine one, is quite recent, and in the different modes of applying this chemical agent to the production of raised or puckered patterns, an entirely new branch of manufacture has been opened. The new process for preparing and dressing flax to convert it into "flax cotton, was for the first time publicly illustrated by specimens in different stages of manufacture in the Crystal Palace. The value of the invention yet remains to be proved on a working scale, but the ingenuity of the process can not be disputed; and, though the improvements thus contemplated remain to be realised, they are, to say the least, full of promise, and if they accomplish but a portion of the anticipated results, will produce most important changes in agricultural as well as in ma• nutacturing industry. The applications of centrifugal force have been made known in a greater variety of practical forms than were before generally conceived, the same law of nature that keeps planets in their course having been shown to be available for creating a vacuum or for producing a blast of air, for raising immense volumes of water, or for drying substances saturated with moisture. The jurors have awarded a Council Medal to one of the centrifugal pumps; and for special purposes such a means of raising water will be found of great advantage, though us a profitable means of employing power it may be questioned. There are processes of manufacture, however, in which the advantages of the application of centrifugal force are unsuestionable. In draining sugar, for example, and in drying various articles which arc liable to be injured by heat or by pressure, the centrifugal engines present means of accomplish ing those objects that had never been otherwise attained. The wet materials, whether sugar, or starch, or cloth, are placed in a rapidly revolving cylinder, perforated with holes, and thus the tendency of the whole mass to fly off at a tangent presses it closely to the sides. The solid matters that cannot pass through the small holes arc retained within the cylinder, but the fluid particles arc forced through with great velocity, and in a short time the articles become dry. This plan, it is true, was known and had been partially applied to draining sugar and drying linen before the portals of the Crystal Palace were opened; but the attention it has excited by being there exhibited has berg the means not only of making it more generally known, but has induced its more extended application to substances not previously thought of. It promises to be especially serviceable in bleaching, for expel ling the chloride of lime, and for rinsing and drying the cloth, without injuring the texture by squeezing. _ . . _ In chemical processes and products there were Fia wrens impro , ements made known that will be turned to profitable account, and magnificent speci mens of substances of great manufacturing utility, made especially for the Exhibition, would nut have been otherwise produced. The highest degree of perfection attainable by manufacturing ch e mi s ts has thus Wen stimulated, and will be found to have resulted in improved modes of manufac ture. The artificial u.tramarine exhibited by a French chemist promises to effect an important saving of expense in dyeing and printing that hitherto costly colour. In the various preparations of food, also, the applications of chemical science were exemplified in manners before scarcely known, par ticularly in the preparation of beetroot sugar, by a process which gives increaied value to the cultiva tion of that vegetable fur its saccharine properties. The extensive display of philosophical instruments contained numerous illustrations of the application of scientific principles in modes but little known. The many electric telegraphs, for transmitting lightning messages in different forms, exhibited, though im perfectly, the stages of progress in that important invention; and brought into notice recently contrived plans for corresponding on paper, by means of electricity, as well as dif ferent methods of making evanescent signals. The activity of invention in this department of science has rendered instantaneous communication between distant places not only practicable, but affords great choice of means by which it may be effected. In all , the recent improvements in electric telegraphs the object of diminishing the number of requisite hires is especially attended to, so as to attain a sufficiently available speed of transmission with a single circuit ; and contrasted with these was the original plan of employing a separate wire for every letter of the alphabet. The next advance will be to adopt other and less costly means of completing an electric circuit between distant towns. Such means, we believe, are in prospect, though not yet developed. The most recent application for rendering the electric light available was to be seen in the Crystal Palace, and it may have given new ideas and directed inventive genius in the channel for the perfection of that means of illumination which is yet, however, among the things to be. In the same position may be placed the employment of electro-magnetic agency as a moving power. Considering the announcements of the performances of clectro-magnetic engines in the United States, it was a remarkable omis sion in the transatlantic contributions that there was no specimen of such contrivances. In the liritish division was exhibited a new and promising mode of applying the attraction of electro-magnetism, by which some of the difficulties that exist in the application of the force have been overcome, but whether sufficiently so to render it profitably applicable there were no means of ascertaining. By the arrangement of causing the permanent magnets to be attracted into, and repelled from, the wire coils, the sphere of attraction is greatly extended: and it may be considered at least as an ad vance towards the attainment of a moving power as a substitute for steam. Other ingenious applications of electricity were brought into notice for the first time, among which were simple and effective plans for alarming a household in the night, in case of attack by thieves, or of danger from fire; the alarum being brought into action in one case by the opening of a door or window, and in the other by the expan sion of mercury by heat. One of the novelties of the Great Exhibition was the process of electrotyping glass, which promises to become of considerable practical importance. By the deposition of a coating of copper on glass vessels, they are rendered capable of being applied to all purposes, and may be placed over a fire, without danger of being cracked, because the heat is instantly diffused over the whole surface by the metal covering. This application of the electrotype process is new in this country, and it indicates a 1 mode of manufacturing copper vessels lined with glass that may be extremely useful and valuable as wea for chemical as for culinary purposes. The objects we have pointed out are sufficient to show that immediate beneficial results arc likely to be attained by the exposition of the world's industry. But it would be taking a very narrow view of the advantages to be derived from the opportunity it afforded of seeing all that is new and valuable in the applications of science to manufacturing arts, to limit our consideration to immediate effects. The most important °Weds of the Great Exhibition were the diffusion of knowledge and the incitement to improveffient, by pla c i ng before the public the most ingenious, and valuable, and beautiful creations of human skill and ingeuuity. The results of such an unprecedented opportunity of gaining knowledge, the fructification of the ideas conceived by the in spection of the numerous appliances, must await the course of time; and such changes as the progress of invention will produce during the next half-century in the social and political condition of mankind will be greatly influenced by the Great Exhibition of 1831. GREAT LNDIAN PENINSULA RAILWAY COM PA N Y. Yesterday the fourth half-yearly meeting of share holders was held at the offices of the company, No. 3, New Broad-street. City, the noble chairman, Lord WILAUN• CLIFFE, presiding. Mr. NICHOLSON, the managing director, read the re port, an abstract of which has appeared in the Express. The abstract of accounts appended to the report, eon- Larked the following summary To amount rewired on eltartel7l.ug7 t. d. C a. 4. kind to Dec. Si, 1850 To nuount mewed for reelitration fees :0 2 6 199,739 5 6 To amount received on shares in Eng. land to June .10, 1831 To amount receiveSlarregisentbos ken A 14 6 -- 70,716 4 6 To amount received cm whams in Boa- 470,155 10 u bit. to Dee. 41, 1834 To amount reoe.stat on shams In Bom bay to June an, 18)1 ... To .unowat noeived fur registration nos 1 0 3 81,643 IR 7 2312,099 8 ; PAYMENTS. In England. In Bombay. Total. By amount expended to Dm. 31, drat, no F s. d. Z P. d. C ad. PerlaWaccount.... 35,993 l 9 11,010 9 0 47,1133 10 1 From lan her -mat to JUJU' 30, IN 01: By entahliklunent charges, inclu 111111 pricting.otationery, advert Flog, rent, taxes, allowance to office rep n•eet 18,. 1,393 6 I 1,491 14 11 9,983 0 0 By frrlght, duty, and Imeffegeharges 4,3:6 7 0 34: 411 4,08 II II By ensuuering 69 8 8 9,831 8 1 2,9 , .9 18 9 117 pernulseut way 32,778 7 1 31,;711 7 I Ity work., 3,603 3 4 3,.413 3 4 74,510 9 7 20,113 0 3 9 7666 910 By balance in hand .. 195,913 0 9 41,511 18 4 237,410 16 9 £170,435 10 0 81,.1316 7 333,099 6 7 The CHAIRMAN said that since the last meeting, and up to the date of the last intelligence received from Bom bay, no great progress could be made in the prosecution of the works; but during that period other matters had been attended to. Their engineer had reported that a.great por tion of the works on the line in the islands had been brought up to the formation level, and other portions of the first contract were progressing and would soon be completed. The most important event since the last meeting was the letting of the second contract on the line from Tannah to Perseek-point, a distance of four miles, which he believed was let on satisfactory terms. When these contracts were finished they would be within eight miles of completing the first section of the undertaking. The great difficulty would be in the passage of the Gliauts, and the mode of effecting it. They hoped to have some useful in furtnation on the subject Nitre the next half-yearly meeting as to the most effectual mode of over coming that great difficulty. With respect to the accounts, he thought they were very satisfactory. The receipts from the proprietors in England amounted to 270,145/., of which 7.5,040!. was expended, leaving a balance of 194,91.51. in store for future works. lu Bombay the receipts from pro prietors in India amounted to G 1,613/., of which 20,1281. was expended, leaving a balance of 41,51.;/. iu the hands 01 the government there for the purposes of the company when required. There was, therefore, an available balance in hand of 237,430/. for carrying on the works. The expendi ture in England during the past half-year amounted to 38,5171., ut which 32,7781. hail been expended in providing the necessary materials for carrying on the works. It was very satisfactory that more than three-tourths of tne ex penditure in England was for materials necessary for tin works, and that the expenditure for other matters during the half-year was comparatively small. They hail hitherto preserved prefect harmony with the East India Company, and there was no doubt that the good understanding be wet% them would continue. The government de cided as to the ground for the terminus at Bom bay. It was understood to be granted on a temporary Mut ing, but there was nut much doubt about its being perma nent. It was stated to be a very favourable pusition fill' the terminus of the railway. Ile concluded by moving the adoption of the report and statement of accounts. (Ap -111"!!`0. . ....... . . . Captain BARBER seconded the motion. Colonel DICKENSON drew the attention of the directors to the necessity of their impressing upon the East India Company the cogency of assisting the comp my with their engineering staff to survey the district through' which the extention line passed. As far Wyk as 181.1 and 1816 that essential point—the passage of the tihauts—was to have been settled. Hopes were held out is the report of the directors, u year ago, that the main route would shortly be decided. The same hopes were held out in the last half= yearly report, and also in the present report. It was is matter of great consequence to the inhabitants of the Deccan and others in the district through which the line would puss. The CHAIRMAN thought that the question should be left to the directors, and said it would be as well to remind the hon. proprietor that the original project was to carry the line across the peninsula and was projected by Mr. Chapman, and of course it was first considered. as one under ; taking; but the East India Company, having considered the matter, determined on confining their views to the construction of the first section of the line, as an exiled- ' mental line, to extend from Bombay to Coition. The further extension depended on the success of the first sec tie'', and, although the works were progressing favourably, they could not be completed for some time ; therefore they had not lost any time yet with regard to the extension. In all probability the surveys were now being proceeded with at the (Shouts, and lie could state that the East India Com pany had agreed to allow the expenses of the survey to be paid out of the surplus funds of the company. There was a detailed survey of the district made by Mr. Chapman, and Mr. Berkley, their engineer, had been user the district, but had not made a detailed survey. At present the capital of the company was limited to 500,0001. for the completion of the first section of the line, 35 miles in length. The report was unanimously adopted. Mr. J. G. FRITH, one of the directors, read a letter from Mr. Willoughby, who had recently returned from Bombay, to the effect that he had officiated at the cutting of the first sod of the railway on the 31st of October, 114;50, and that he expected the line would be opened for traffic in November, Bag. He considered that satisfactory progress had been made in the works, and they had withstood one of the heaviest monsoons that had been remembered for many years. Ile expressed a strong opinion in favour of the pro. bable effects that the introduction of railways would pro duce in stimulating industry and in promoting commerce to a considerable extent. The operation of the iailways would have the good efflfet of causing the common roads of the district through which they paned to be improved. Ile attributed the introduction of railways into Western India entirely to the indefatigable exertions of their noble chair man. Ile concluded by stating that he hoped, instead of spending millions of money, as hitherto, on wars of a ques. tiunable character, that the money would be spent in useful works to benefit India, which he was certain would return a full and ample remuneration for the outlay, as all such works had hitherto done in that country. Colonel DICKENSON said that there was no person so competent as Mr. Willoughby to give an opinion on India matters, having held a high official situation for many years in that country. The CHAIRMAN said he agreed with the observations contained in Mr. Willoughby's letter, and that no exertions whatever should be spared in promoting useful improve. ments in India. After some further observations a resolution was paged confirming the foal iture of 273 shares. In reply to questions it was stated by the CHAIRMAN that the question respecting the extension of the first sec tion had been entertained by the directors of the Etat India Company so lute as lust April, at which time they expressed their readiness to go on with it, and to extend the guarantee to an additional capital of 500,000/. (or that purpose. Of course every one was aware of the difficulties of the country and the nature of the seasons, but there was no diubt that the line would he completed to Callian at the time specified. With regard to the extension there was a perfect understanding with the East India Company on the subject. On the motion of Colonel I)ICKENSON, a vote of that'll. was passed to the chairman and directors fur their valuab:e ervicest Ile CHAIRMAN made a brief acknowledgment of tls compliment which had been paid him and the board, in.d the meeting broke up. DENIERARA RAILWAY. Yesterday the half-yearly meeting of this company took piece at the London Tavern, Bishopsigate-street. ltesav DAVIDAON, E-q., took the chair in the absence of Mr. M'Chler7, who was unwell. The SECRETARY read the following report and ac counts:— "The directors beg to inform the shareholders of this company that since the la.t half-yearly general meeting they have considered it advisable to sanction the construc tion of a further portion of the line of this railway. At that meeting the shareholders were informed of the strong conviction entertained by the committee of management in Demerara that the interests of the company would be ma terially advanced by the line being pushed on without delay towards the terminus at ?Chaim', and their sulisequent ad vices informed the directors that they had applied for and received the last in.talment of the colonial loan (5,000 t.) for that especial purpose. Thus circumstanced, and the faith of the company having been pledged to an immediate advance, the directors decided at once upon sanctioning the continuance of the new works which bad been begun by the engineer. The embankment has been accordingly thrown up for the entire distance between Vieturis and Greenfield ; the rails, when the last advices left the colony, were ou the point of being laid down, and this additional secti m of the line will he completed without delay. It has been found impossible, under the foregoing circumstances, to close, u had been intended, the capital account of the company. The shareholders will remember that, at the last general meeting, they , were informed of various arrangements which were in progress for re-modelling the company's co lonial establishment; and the directors have the plce.ore to state, that these arrangements have been since fully and satisfactorily carried out under the management of Mr. Manifold. The colonial committee still continue to render valuable services to the company, by auditing the accounts, which are periodically remitted under the certificate of the chairman of that board. Great care has been taken to re duce the expenditure to as low a point as possible in all branches of the undertaking; and a further saving will hereafter be effected in the item of wages of the European workmen, whose contracts of service having expired, have not been renewed, the native labourers being found per fectly efficient for these duties. It having been found im possible to obtain payment from a considerable num ner of defaulters whose names wire in the arrear list at the last general meeting, their shares have been declared to be forieittal; and there are now 2,205 of such shares at the company's disposal. The directors have much pleasure in pointing the atten tion of the shareholders to the report from the general manager, dated on the 11th ult.), which shows the excellent condition of the rolling plant, stations, bridges, and per manent way, and the satisfactory state of the truffle. It is gratifying also to observe, that the proprietors of large estates who have hitherto transported their produce and atort s by water, are now gradually availing themselves, as had been anticipated, of the superior advantages of the railway; and the directors see nu Teasel' to doubt the cor rectness of Mr. Manifold's opinion, that ere long the com pany will have the entire carrying trade of the district through which the line passes. Equal confidence they also think may he placed upon Mr. Manifold's judgment as to the future extent of the passenger trattie,based upon the present returns, and the gradual increase of the population on the east coast. The directors beg to submit to the share holders a statement of the financial position of the com pany to the 30th ult., and to state that, although difficulties which they have been unable to prevent still rema to be overcome, their confidence in the ultimate ❑nd complete success of this undertaking remains unshaken." From the accounts it appeared that the total receipts of the company were 2'23, it I/. Ws. Id., and the total expendi ture 220,9771. 7s. 2d., leaving a balance in hand of 2,5371. 2s. Ild. The CHAIRMAN, in moving the adoption of the report, stated that the directors thought it would be advisable for the proprietors to agree to a committee being appointed to met in conjunction with the directors with a view to see what arringemi nts could be made to complete the railway as quickly as possible. Mr. RIDGWAY seconded the adoption of the report, and alluded to the important position which the colony of British Guiana occupied at the Great Exhibition. The CHAIRMAN said the warehouses in George Town were crammed with goods waiting to be carried on their railway, and that on the completion of it there would be no doubt of a speedy dividend. (hear, hear.) Mr. SANDBACII then moved that a committee be r.p.. pointed for the purpose of conferring with the director , on the present state of the company, and on the bast means to adopt to complete the railway ut once. Mr. RIDGWAY seconded this, nut because he had any doubt of the ability M the directors, but because he thought it would lead to greater confidence on the part of the shareholders. (Hear, bear.) The report was then adopted, and also the resolution fur the committee, who were to make their report to a future meeting. Mr. 13 OUCH moved a vote of thanks to the chairman and director.. A. to their position, it was quite satisfactory; they were going on making a regular income. and, if they could only pay their dcbts, the shareholders would ..u.)11 participate in a dividend. (Hear, hear.) The motion was seconded and passed unanimously, when the meeting adjammod. SHREWSBURY AND CHESTER RAILWAY Yesterday afternoon a special general 'fleeting of proprietors if the above cotnistny, was held at the Royal flute!, Chester. Wu. Weatuett, chairman t.f the board, presided. Mr: hAILICIN, the secretary, rend the notice convening the meeting, which was for the purpose of authorising the calling in of 27,000 shares, upon winch U. per share had been paid, and to issue in lieu thereof 1,300 new enures of .01. each, one of the new shares representing 20 of the can celled stock ; and also to empower the directors to raise dm sum of 07,260/. by the creation of new shuns of the utost convenient amount for apportionment among the msent holders of the company's stock, and to guarantees dividend on the proposed new stock, not to exceed . 6; per cent. per annum, either for a limited time or in perpetuity. The CHAIRMAN said that the notice whirls had been read sufficiently mph • sl the objects for which the present meeting had been called It would be seen that in piant of fact the whole of the ordinary 10/. shares were to be can celled, in terms of the act passed last session of parliament. In fuluition to those 27,600 shares, upon which 1/. each had been paid, the capital of the company consisted of 6,000 shares of 261. 13s. 44. 20,500 shares of 201., 15,000 shares of 13/. 6s. fid., and 17,540 preference shares of 101. each, thus making the total share capital of the company 072,0004 The only effect or the cancelling of the 101. ordinary shares upon which 11. each had been paid, and substituting new stock, would be to increase the number of 201. shares from 20,400 to 21,1380. Hut it was a different matter with regard to the other item mentioned in the notice convening this meeting ; and although m o st of the shareholders would probably have been already put in possession of the liabilities and requirements of the com pany, it would not be out of place to refer particularly on the present occasion to the plan proposed by the directors to meet the circumstances. The liabilities of the company had been divided into tour classes, which would be oistin guished as A, 13, C, and L ; unitedly amounting to the sum total of 173,4001. But, as the elas.es C and D were nut immediately pressing, and formed 76,110/. of the imwro. gate amount, it was proposed by the directors to seek the sanction of the shareholders fur raising the reinaimier only, amounting to 97,2601, by creating prekrence stock, fur which a guaranteed dividend was proffered of 5 per cent. per annum. The directors also recommend that this new preference stock shall be issued in shares of 101. each, ono of such shares being tillotted to every 1001. of share ea: ital, and be made redeemable at any time after the expira tion of tire years on payment of a beaus of ten per cent. (Hear, hear.) It must be Immo in mind that more than half the amount which would he required fur dividend upon the protioset4 new le/. skates Kiel already been paid half-yearly out of the revenue, in the shape of interest, commission, and other charges parable from renewals of obligations to bankers and others; the raising of the additional sum upon the propos* d new preference stuck could not, therefore, seriously &Hist the position of the company's clear revenue, while at must un doubtedly tend to strengthen and improve its financial posi tion. (Cheers.) The directors would thus be enabled to liquidate many outstanding simple contract debts, which, besides that the creditors had a right to expect a settle ment of their claims, would become chargeable with into rest, and greatly prejudice the company's future operations and contracts. There were also some claims udder refer ence, which had been estimated, and for the works in pro grew, additional plant, and contingencies, the sum now proposed to seek the sanction of this meeting was consi dered by the directors as at once ample and consistent with tree economy and the best interests of the company. (Loud cheering.) After some conversatior, The SECRETARY mid the resolutions seriatim, in conformity with the arringentents above , tateil, width were r.specurely put from the chair, seconded by the Mayor of Chester, and other sharvholdets, and unanimously adopted. The CHAIRMAN said, the businew for which the meet ing was specially convened was concluded; and atated, in reply to a question front Mr. LiAell, that by the agree ment entered into with the Great WeAcru and the t wo Shrewsbury companies, the Birkenhead Company were guaranteed 3 per cent. on the capital of 2,000,9001, sa't ling for the first two years, 31 percent. for the third, and 4 per cent. for the fourth ; but at the same time they way to have the option of amalgamating before that time at their fixed capital. Mr. ROY said that it simply meant that there was to be no abatement on any portion of the capital of the company. That would be taken at the amount of 2,000,0001. sterling. The meeting then separated. THE Citot's ON THE CONTINENT. - Our Vienna correspondent writes, on the 24th lust. England has good reason to be thankful for the Imuntiful harvest in the present year. From the partial information published in the provincial journals, there is eve-ry reason to Mimi that the grain crops throughout the empire have turned oat very small in quantity and very light in quality. Much wheat and rye his been extensively damaged by the continued 'wet weather during the months of August and September. The potato disease has ravaged the chief article of food of the poorer classes to en enormous extent. The vine has somewhat recovered under an unusually warm and genial October sun, but the wine will be poor and small in quan tity, the fruit having suffered from a disease similar to that of the potatoes. Prices of grain are rising slowly but steadily, notwithstanding the increased railway facilities of transporting grain from Hungary. A good deal of Hun garian wheat is already consumed in lluhem 1, and the trade is increasing. It cannot he questioned that the rise in price is partly occasioned also by the continued depreciation of Austrian paper ; but the ignorant among the consumers am raising a loud cry agai mot the corn dealers. It is roundly asserted that the spoculatori in grain are purchasing in order to hoard until the price shall have reached a point sufficiently high ta gratify their avarice. As in France at the cominmccmcnt of the revolu tion. a loud clamour is raised, aud government is called upon to interfere. Magistracy and common conneils, whine office it is to control the privileged bakers, butchers, &c., of the city, sit in solemn conclave, debating the monthly prices which shall be paid by the consumers. They are accused In the press of undue leaning towards the dealer. The oared of the city increase* the confusion. The grower in the vicinity, unwiliang to pay the duty at the barrier, finds a purchaser where lie can beyond it. A fair open market is impeded, competition is impossible, privileged monopoly and unpri vileged unscrupulous capitalists doubtless make the most thin: y can of the confusion. Government is spec 'led to on all sides, but always to do more than it does at present. Protection is to be carried out still further. The machinery at the disposal of the Austrian bureaucracy must speedily break down under the endless burdms which iguoraat peo. plo endeavour to their own disadvantage to impose upon it."