The Sun. — London, England, 1847-06-04 00:00:00

let, they the sa d belief lent. if in tbc !r chantS. o irpors ,- e nar y tad ri?r• jet , took ers suf" ited, an d ral Our/ for seine the I ° Is an d vote 10 ft de rag - i t gale $ Oren tb h : ,port ?ritti°;,,„ fission ,1 of the lar otsr did not 1 it th e _ on gor' woula se 0 e Papsll Wcid ,ittee of refer rc ' chst. ER t bs. d : 5111 that if t he, we for .diy ro Sni ad tbel do n re re and he 03 011° ° :; coxes , Eft ih i re of, 'f .0g nip )ffeo- 3 ' ll rierl 50 le cls' 0 311 tee 019 of tOs agar r looe oe " roe !h pill) r' ,f P` ' T he n t. n t acme „p. re o ,o din 1 0 ho erg. e leo o f t he ° 4n'' f was an d of .retar) TILE SUN, _LONDON', FRIDAY expiration of his sentence. The effect of the new system, though an improvement, was far from satisfactory, a few months after the introduction of this system into Van Diernee's Land, the Governor gave a most distressing account of the situation of that colony arising from the generally impoverished state of the country. The Right Hen. Bin - met then proceede I to read at considerable length the report of the governor upon that subject). Other papers were also laid upon the table of the House which would fully bear out the statements of that gentleman. Upon the earnest solici tations of the colonists a large amount of money was advanced from the Treasury to meet the demands thus Made upon the colonists by the large influx of the trans ports from this country. With respect to the moral ren dition of the colony he could not do better than r. ad a letter on that subject, addressed to Lord Stanley when in office, setting forth the miserable condition of the people in that respect. The subject was maturely con sidered by Mr. Gladstone, who succeeded Lord Stanley in his office at the head of the colonial department, and a letter addressed by that Gentleman to the then Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir J. Graham) also setting forth in strong terms the moral condition of the convict p pulatien of Van Dienien's Land. What then was the condition in which the Present Government were placed when they entered office? It had been recommended by his predecessors that the system of transportation to Van D:ernen's Land sho u ld be suspended fora period of two years, leaving Norfolk Island as the only place to which convicts from this country were to be sent. This, of course, entaile ,3 Upon the Government the. necessity of adopting some measure to provide employment for the mass of convicts thus thrown upon the hands of the Govern ment. The Government gave the most anxious, co nsideration to the subject, and the Government felt fully convinced of the necessity of breaking up as speedily as possible the criminal establishment at Norfolk Island, and the utter impossibility of renewing the sys tem at the expiration of the ten years, as proposed by the late Government. The papers laid before the House fully bore out the opinion of the Government in this re sPect. He would advert to the report of the Legislative Court of Van Diemen's Land, presented to the House on the 15th of March, upon the subject of the resutnption of transportation to that country. (The Right Hon. Baro net then proceeded to read various extracts from the report referred to, all of which tended to show the_ improp r i ety of the resumpt i on of t h e sys tem; protesting against it, and denouncing it as a most demoralising system, and also expressing re gret that the Government at home were still disposed to Rightthe d o t e: t a bl e an d p es til en ti a l system). The 'night Hon. Baronet also read a letter from Mr. Pitcairn to Lord Stanley upon the same subject to the same s,Tect• He th oug h t, t h ere f ore, t h at t h ese f u lly merited o‘ a adoption of th e course proposed on the present oeca- R an e r' the Government for the remedy of these evils. Galso read a letter from the Bishop of Van Diemen's ran to LordiGrey, setting forth that the most fearful l prevailed i n th e co l on y f rom the want of proper esieifortnatory discipline. He now came to the plan whir'. e the Government p ro p ose d—th a t the just portion of penal punishment should be passed in this e--- ` 0„„,1 7, or, at least, at no great distance from it ; and that it should be of a strictly reformatory cha t• l 'l le ter, and that when they were sent to the penal set ;tistithat probation papers should be given to them. ." 0 system they proposed to adopt was that which pre- Pentonville prison—the majority would be sent to the Australian colonies, and he trusted that the reformatory discipline to which they would be subjected before being sent abroad would prevent much of the e vil which was strongly complained of. They might then have their wives and families, and might, no doubt, become goad mem b ers o f society. The time of punish• went livos sentenced;veoulddepend upon the term to which a person but the strictly penal part of the punish em p would be pas s ed in this country. The transporta- Z_ n of perso ns to N ew S out h W a l es wou ld depend upon understandi ng t o b e come t o w i t h th e authorities of f o e e th °l "Y• Arrangements were at present being made the e erection of a prison in Ireland, similar to Pentonville prison ; in fact, the plan there adopted had proved so favourable that it had been adopted, as far as was practicable,. in many of the - 'us built before it. The Right Hon. Baronet then oreferred to the last report of the Commissioners of Pen es nville Prison, which stated that the system of separate intneeahent, combined with education and industry, had improvement of the moral condition of the an r n ers; and had led them to form habits of industry, 0 .. that they were generally cheerful and and industri e_s in their confinement. They said that separate con finement prevented contamination and recognition, and t o h u e be o st i r . esults had accrued to the unfortunate per sys tem ld n) tons e eo nfided to th e i r care; b ut t h ey a dd e d th a t the be carried out properly with the utmost eliretion and vigil ance . H e a l so rea d a n extract from re I t oo rt to Earl G re y, s t at i ng t h at pl en ty of employ atee n could be fou n d f or ex il es sen t to Port Philip. 1,'_1,:•1 that t h ose who had been sent, had behaved w ellfact, that they were the best person s in the colony, and he sincerely hoped the modifications about to be made, would show ;au t at the unfortunate persons, to whom it was about to applied, would not abuse this indulgence. A report ;7.7..ht1y presented to the French Chambers, after re- A Zitlg the s y stem of separate confinement i n F rance , America, and in this country at Pentonville, concluded _.e.orecommending that a similar system should be evert'pted for the future in France. There were, no exception a l cases to thi s re f orma t o ry principle— tualy they ay eases o ccure d i n w hi c h it was utterly ineffec- Th e ; were the exceptions, and not the rule. in t hP r °Posed that the first term of punishment atarnoinreath'ss country should not be less than six, and of eighteen months' duration ; eighteen b an the greatest term for which per were imprisoned in the Pentonville Prison. Th e object of the Custody of Offenders Bill would be to render available any spare accommodation which Could be given from the ordinary prison establishments. Arrangements would be made with the magistrates of those counties of which the prisons were not entirely Occupied, so as to enable the Government to occupy a certain portion of these prisons for the purposes already stated. A certain rent should be paid, and the engagement was to terminate by six months' notice on either side, so that if crime should unhappily in crease in the country, or the Government become dissa tisfied, the arrangement would at once cease. He was Well aware of the difficulties which would attend r the carrying out such a scheme of punishment. The sud denness with which the demand had come upon them, had disenabled them from trying any preliminary e xperiment, so that, at first starting, they would labour under somewhat disadvantageous circumstances. He thought that this matter required the most careful and serious attention of the Legislature, and he thought that Much credit was date to all those gentlemen who had devoted their attention to this very important sub• j e ei--(Hear, hear.) He had been for some time Net taking Retire steps to provide the increased accom modation which this new system would require, and with Plans had a l rea d y b sen f rame d f o r the erection of such establishments as would be required. With regard to t he syste m o f transportat i on for life, Lord Stanley had stated, that it was quite impossible that he could be eonaidvred as a conv i c t for the whole of this time, although he might not be admitted as a fit person to re turn to this country. A limited period would be as signed for the compulsory labour of persons under such an infliction, and the remainder of their lives would be %A their own disposal, although they would not be allowed to return to their native land. He was very h appy to see, that in the Chamber of Peers, when this measure was adverted to, the French Government had coot express e d t h e s li g h test a l arm, that any great or in .. t i.venient i n fl ux o f conv i c t s wou ld ta k e p l ace upon their shores in consequence of the discharge of these P e ers cins, after they had undergone th e i r t erms o f i l l 4, "lernent and penal labour in thi s coun t ry . i e great object will be, to restore th em to t h e i r condi tionin society, and enable them to enter into a new way of life. He was quite ready to admit that a large and eXtensive change ought to be brought under the attention of Parliam en t, but being unable to satisfy themselves Upon what particular plan they should adopt, they ab stained from a further interference. He had said nothing with regard to the new colony of North Australia, as the subject did not bear any reference to the question Of transportation. In fact, it appeared that it w as He a place not intended for the location of convicts. hoped that establishments would yet be formed in this country to which boys of tender years might be sent, where they would be instructed and rendered back to society as useful members. He considered that he had now stated the whole of the out line of the plan which her Majesty's Government desired to adopt, and he conjured the House not to judge harshly or condemn rashly. Let them consider the vast amount of documentary evidence which had been brought to bear upon the question. The Government desired t o ma k e an experiment upon the advice of Dr. Naylor, who recommended that criminal labour should be made publicly useful, thus inflicting a punishment Upon crime, while they conferred public advantage. In c onclusion, he would say tisat be would be happy to receive any advice or any assistance which Hon. Gentle- Men might be willing to afford the Government in carry ing out their proposition. Lord MAHON said that he would regret very much, should any party spirit interfere in the discussion of the question. He felt a very strong objection to the sudden ?_ e asing, of the p un i s h men t of transportation. Since he had the honour of a seat in that House, it was one of the greatest changes which he had seen attempted. There Was another o bj ect i on t o th e measur e which he also felt strongly, namely, the fact of recording a nominal sentence of transportation, when there was no intention of carrying it out. They all re membered the debates which had taken place upon the question of capital punishment, and the miserableness of P a ssing sentences which were not to be carried into e s o o l i ll e ta u r t y yi°sn. Nor did he consider that the success of the stem was sufficient to warrant the deductions thit t i k ` e Right Hon. Gentleman. He was disposed t o l which favourably of the separate system of imprisonment, varied the periods of imprisonment from six to eighteen months. However, he did not see that it co uld be stretched in the mariner t h at had L en done by th e Right Honourable Gentleman. ' , Low came to t h e second mo d e o f pun i s h men t, n ame ly, labour in the hulks. Now it was voted some years ago that the number imprisoned in the hulks was by much too great ; yet, in defiance of that vote, the Right Hon. Gentlema n came down to the blouse, and desired to in crease it. Some of the most eminent statesmen of France regretted the system of governing bands of cri- Etinals etnp:oyed upon public works, such as those at Toulon and at Brest. They praised the system of Eng land, which found means of providing for their criminals abroad, and who did net, at intervals, let out bands of Pciticasatipbellerte and , anrefurnaed criminals. Yet such was the proposed, lie did think it could not be prac - ahlauldnational system. He had received the °Pi nion of the Hi, works should come of Australia, who stated that public „ mu coma first, and separate confinement atter- YYtth respect to sending ,he prisoners abroad — - fter confinement, the scheme proposed originally by the Right Hon. Gentleman (Sir G. Grey), was essentially diff, rent from that now proposed to he adopted. It would have been better if the Right Hon. Gentleman had produced some other document than this letter of 20th of January. Mr. Clay produced an instance of a man who asserted that he would not be redeemed from his career of vice if he were sent back to his old as sociates, and that he conceived to be a strong proof in support of the view which he was now advocating. Lord Denman and other high judicial authorities who were supposed to be competent to judge on this ques tion, were opposed to the principle of this measure. The Committee of the House of Lords had not yet, he could understand, concluded their labours, hut be thought sufficient information had been already ob tained to enable the House to judge of this question. He did not deny that evils existed under the system of transportation, but he denied that it was shown that these evils were inseparable from the system, or that under a better administration it might be made useful to the community and beneficial to the convict himself'. Sir James Mackintosh was in favour of this system. But it might be said that he did not possess sufficient acquaintance with the subject to constitute him a sufficient judge; but Sir James Franklin, whose competency to judge on this question, could not he denied, had expressed himself favourable to the prin • ciples of transportation, though he did not bind himself to any specific plan ; and in one of his dispatches lie stated that ha considered transportation essen nal to the welfare of society. The Reverend Mr. Fry had put forward a similar opinion. As regarded the inferior appointments of the colony, a great mischief had been committed by under-paying those who held them. He complained, too, that there had been a discrimination of the differing circumstances of diffe rent colonies. But the circumstances of the penal colonies must be taken to explain the origin of those complaints, which had arisen concerning the governor of the colony. It ought to be remembered that it was determined all at once to discontinue banishment to New South Wales, and the whole tide was necessarily poured in upon Van Diemen's Land. And, again, the system thereof had not been administered- in accordance with the spirit. Why, it was found out that the officers, to save themselves more trouble, for the night used to lock up the prisoners from six o'clock in the evening till eight o'clock next morning. This was Against their instructions. How then could they expect the system so worked to work well ? That item being remedied, he thought they must further ensure an effi• cient service of the inferior officer by better payment. From long consideration and experience, he had come to the result, that such a system of penal settlement in the colonies might be established with the advantage which was contemplated in the first establishment of these settlements. He concurred that Lord Grey had acted bla,meably in abandoning the settlement in South Australia. He acted on a sudden ; on a sudden he recalled the Governor and ordered the settle ment to be abandoned. He was to blame also for stating that transportation would in no future time be resumed. Chat was a question which he ought to have left open, stating no more than that an intermission of a period of rears would occur. The Legislature of Van Diemen's Land had exacted a pledge that transportation would not be again resumed, and they had bound the home Government by conditions. That was not the relative position which the colonies and the mother country ought to occupy. The colony of New South Wales was established especially for a penal settlement—(Hear, hear)—and he thought, so long as proper care was taken that a sufficient admixture should be gained of the popu lation, it ought to have been continued as such. On those two points, Lord Grey was to blame, and he (Lord Nlahon) felt strongly that the change was improper, and he must protest against it. Sir WILLIAM MOLESWORTII could not agree to the conclusions which the Noble Lord had come to. ['his question had two aspects. One was, whether the system of transportation was necessary or desirable ; and if not, what would they substitute in its place ? ['hey had to consider if the present system should be con tinued; and if they decided in the negative, what they could offer in its stead. In answer to the Noble Lord he was prepared to prove that in every form trans portation was a bad system of punishment, and that no alteration of it—no improvement that could be made, would render the system effective. In doing so, he would have somewhat to trespass on their time, but he claimed their indulgence in doing so. On a former oc easion, some few years ago, he was a chairman of a Committee which investigated this subject, composed of several of the leading Members of the House ; and the report of that Committee, unanimously agreed to, recommended the abolition of the assignment system. The investigations they made into the whole question, led the Committee to the determination they had come to regarding the assignment of convicts. (The Hon. Baronet here read an extract from the report in Tie-tion, setting forth the grounds on which the Com mittee had come to their decision. Such were the views which had been taken by the Transportation Committee, which the Noble Lord ( Mahon) would fain revive. Last year Mr. Gladstone, the Colonial Secretary, took occasion to ask the opinion of the Governor of the colony of New South Wales whether they were desirous to have a renewal of transportation. The matter was re ferred to the Legislative Council for their consideration, and he referred the Noble Lord, and those who thought with him, to the report which the Select Committee, to which the matter was entrusted, made on the question. That report was, that on no grounds could they give their assent to a renewal of transportation. They declared that no conceivable modification of the system ought to be again introduced into New South Wales. (The Hon. Baronet read an extract from the report, to the effect stated, setting forth, in detail, the reasons the Commit tee had come to the conclusions why no renewal of the system of transportation was advisable.) The Committee over n a y id persons N t t, h ,he a er t e t ec h r e o s w e dedbut were that theynot to s be should assigned ld h e di sp t e o r spelcda al of hundreds xp thus it was on e ntry, not in gangs, but separately, and expected th t o h a a s t an t e ds y o f would a a b s e . able Nosy to th g e e y t sh .d ouldbe armed in order to defend their huts and flocks, and what would be the result ? Why, they would be an armed banditti p rowl i ng about the- C country, and no man or woman would be sate from the most violent out rages.—(Hear, hear.) They would o re u d ld thus secure a perpe tual did they not har one sho step :fur to colonize. He re gturaelttwedildtehrantesths the Noble rd IoL her than he had done, and s t a t e ment to the House the evils of th e s te wn ina y The Noble Lord, however , had taken steps in s the in. right direction, but unfortunately Lord Stanley succeeded to office, who completely undid the good already effected. Lord Stanley greatly increased the number of depots fur transportation. Now the probation system was intended to improve the drove and chain gangs. Now, he desired the attention of the house to this part of his statement, as he intended to prove the utter failure of all attempts to Improve the system. The probation system was this— in the first instance, the convict was transported to Nor folk Island, and after a year's good conduct, he was en titled to be sent to a private person and receive pay ment for his labour. For the second year's good conduct, he was entitled to a ticket of leave. How did the system work? that it should do so well, two things were requisite proper inspection, and power to enlbrce obedience. Lord Stanley frequently com plained of the utter want of information which existed upon the subject, and, after three years, lie declared that it was impossible to obtain any that was satisfactory. This was rather an evident proof that the in spection was by no means efficient, otherwise the desired information could easily have been obtained. When Mr. Gladstone succeeded to office he desired information from the governor of Van Diemen's Land, and in accordance with that wish several reports were submitted to the Government, all of which tu .‘ hh l co o rl wouldei t s i s e v s o r o t n h n ) toht e s t n pr d oa e ur a tb v l : e ) f u r tt e hh d ee p!ainly proved the position which he (Sir William usu t o o bujseec d t e w. m it o lli t i ls oa t n r p a yr t e e idu — iret ( the l ed i r ea at r hu . e ) . failure his of warningthe disregarded,t he time it and as the brought consequencesforuw nk rd, but had been most distressing. With regard to Island, the systems of punishment pursued there were of three descriptions, namely, cruel, indulgent, and relaxed. Only the two latter, however, had been attended with any success, and, of late, he understood the Governor of New South Wales had been instructed to adopt a system of extreme indulgence. From the best evidences he could collect, it was clear that the extreme indulgent system was the best ; it produced better order amongst the convicts, made them more moral and rational in their conduct, and induced them to feel more deeply the degrading nature of their situations.—(Hear, hear.) The extreme indulgent system had been successfully tested under Captain Maconochie, who reported that the punishment of transportation, where that system was adopted, always produced the best results upon the moral character of the convict, while where the cruel system was resorted to, the convict became hardened and brutal, instead of awakened to a sense of his degradation. Major Child gave similar testimony ; and in his reports upon the operation of the different systems under his supervision, he related a number of anecdotes, strongly contrasting the beneficial effects resulting from the extreme indulgent system with the cruelties and atrocities which were always attendent upon the cruel system. At the expiration of those two years the governor of Van Diemen's Land thought proper to inquire into the condition of the convict population, but no information had been given to him during that period with reference to the working of the measure ; and it was not until at the end of that period Lord Stanley awoke as from a trance and wondered how his new system worked. He charged him, therefore, with neglect, with the conse quences of that neglect, with the hideous, horrible, and disgusting state of things which now existed, be cause he had not appointed proper officers to su perintend the convicts, and require them to make regular reports to him. lie would refer to the opinion of Mr. Baron Alderson given in the appendix to the report of the Criminal Law Commis sioners. That opinion was deserving of the most serious attention of the House. (The Hon. Member then pro ceeded to read various extracts from the evidence of his Lordship, in which he attributed the faiure of the system of transportation to the want of proper discipline thought that the only prior to the convicts bein sent out of the country.) He youth th of the lower orders of the people, checking crime was by granting a general and wide-spread system of efficient education for the proper and efficient mode of Househemfrom their parents. But the question before the was the best that had been devised for modeof was, which was the best substitute for the present punishment. He thought the solitary system ob ject—that of preventing crime, preventing g the demorali zation of the persons by me,n worse character,a ati t a hr e .e P fo a rladt ing apdit associations with others of a also tended to improve the moral condition of the prisoner, by affording ample time for reflection and improvement. P h urns ment could not bo looked at in a n pc. ' because a good system of pecuniary point of view, , even though it might require a larger outl t ha n ay a bad system, still the benefits to be derived from the good system to the public at large, were such as infinitely to counterbalance the consideration of the expense. It had been said that the solitary system was one likely to affect the healths, and impair the intellects of the prisoners. He did not think that such were the effects of the system ; all punishment tended in some degree to impair the health of the prisoner, but even if the solitary or separate system did impair the health, still it should be borne in mind that there was none of the disastrous effects upon the morals of the prisoners, and none of those vicious habits contracted which invariably followed punishment upon those systems in which the prisoners were indis criminately mixed together. The Archbishop of Dublin proposed a plan by which convicts would be enabled to go to the colonies. The only colonies, however, which they could be sent to, were those which were too weak to refuse them, or who were willing to receive them. He did not think, however, that New South Wales or any other convict colony, was the proper place to send liberated offenders as by going there, there would bo a likelihood of their falling into the old habits—the consequence of which would be, that they would be only emptying their own jails to fill those of the colonies. The utmost the Legislature could do was to open up a way for the liberated offenders. The Right Hon. Baronet proposed to make another alteration, the Bishop of Dublin's plan, which would have a worse effect than making their transportation compulsory—he meant the separating the convicts into a distinct class after they arrived in the colony. He maintained if the convicts were sent abroad to these colonies the Govern • ment would have no control over them. lie considered, moreover, that the inhabitants of New South Wales would not withhold consent to this compulsory transpor tation, and the petition presented from them recently gave ample evidence of this feeling. He thanked the House for the attention with whi. h they had heard him, and thongh he concurred generally in the scheme he hoped the Government would reconsider those parts of it to which he had objected. Mr. BANKES could not assent to the further pro gress of these two Bills. He considered it inexpedient and unconstitutional that the Royal prerogative should be exercised as far as this modification of the law rela- tive to transportation, unless in the usual direct manner. He considered that the speech of the Right Hon. Gen tleman, though exceedingly luminous, had but little to do with the subject on which he professed to treat. The one Bill provided simply for the removal oflrish criminals into this country, and the other to give new powers to the commissioners of Pentonville, Parkhurst, and Millbank Prisons ; but it appeared to him, that it would mate rially alter the government of the prisons throughout the whole country, and the high prerogative vested in the Home Secretary, would be transferred to a com mission, when the magistracy, he humbly believed, had not abus©d the trust placed in them, and were quite capable of managing the prisons in their respective lo calities There were to be seven new commissioners ; some of the present offices would be abolished and remodelled ; but, in truth, the patronage of the Government would be increased by them, and this they were heartily prepared to meet with from those who, in opposition, were rather prone to cut down and abolish offices.—(Hear, hear.) It seemed to him, therefore, that the Hon. Gentleman the Member for Montrose had not been vigilant on this occasion, and allowed his friends on the opposite benches to induce: him to give them his support, much tte.ainst his avowed principles of economy. It was true tha Commissioners were liable to be removed by the Lords of the Treasury. The Go ernment was empowered to " turn them all off." —(Laughter.) And surely this was patronage.—(Laugh ter.) If the Chief Commissioner, as it seemed, was to usurp the power of the Secretary of State—for he was to have the power of appointing the different officers of the prisons, he considered the salary of 8001. too small for the discharge of such important duties. If the object sought. to be attained by the Bill was not a greater de gree of supervision over the convicts, he should like to know what other possible object could be attained ? The Right Hon. Baronet in his speech addressed him self partly to this point, that the present system had proved a failure.—(Hear. hear.) He thought that in endeavouring to amend that system, the Go vernment were trying a rash experiment. He could not but consider that if the Government had made up their minds to change the present system, they should do it by a Bill more specific in its nature, than the present, they should remember that it was adverse to the highest opinions in the land. The House of Com mons should not be called upon to pass doubtful Acts of Parliament. Under these impressions, though perfectly impressed with the defective state of the present system of transportation, and thinking that the present session should not close without an amendment of theta, yet he considered that it was their duty to oppose at an early stage the proposition of the Government.—(Hear.) Mr. EWART moved the adjournment of the debate. Mr. HOPE desired to know what would be the con dition of the convicts on their arrival to the colony ? Sir GEORGE GREY—They will be in the same position as if they had obtained tickets of leave. The motion for the adjournment was then agreed to. LOAN DISCOUNT BILL. In answer to a question, Sir G. GREY said that the Loan Discount Bill would be the first business to-morrow, but he understood that it would not occupy the attention of the House for a long period. BURGH POLICE (SCOTLAND) BILL. The !louse went into Committee upon this Bill. The Bill went through Committee. HIGHWAY RATES BILL. On the motion for the order of the day for the second reading of this Bill, Sir W. JOLIFFE said that with the Turnpike Acts, which were annually renewed, they found great evils perpetually recurring. The functionaries employed under the Turnpike Acts were unable, from want of funds, to prosecute defaulters. He did think that a mass of evil existed under the present system, which was a disgrace to the Legislature and the executive, and he thought that the subject ought to be taken into consideration by the Government, with a view to its amendment. After a few words from Sir G. GREY, The Bill was read a second time in order to be com mitted this day. The following Bills were then read a second time:— Stage Carriages, &e.„lluties Bill. Snap Allowances Bill. TRUST MONEY INVESTMENT (IRELAND) BILL. This Bill went through Committee. PRINCE EDWARD'S ISLAND. Mr. lIUME moved for copy of an Address from the House of Assembly of Prince Edward's Island to her Majesty, praying for a responsible Government in that colony. Copies of all applications and correspondence between the colonies and the British Government respecting the establishment of free ports in the colonies since 1840. Agreed to. LIGHTHOUSES (BARBADOES). Mr. HUME moved for copies of the official corres pondence relative to the erecting a lighthouse at Bar badoes, alluded to in the Governor's speech in 1845 ; of the dispatch of the Colonial Secretary to the Governor of Barbadoes, stating the readiness of her Majesty's Government to contribute half the expense of such erection. Of any documents in the Colonial office, which explain the refusal of the Council at Barbadoes to appropriate the money depo sited in the Colonial Bank for their express purpose. Agreed to. The House adjourned at a Quarter to One o'clock. PARLIAMENTARY DIVISIONS. (From the Votes and Proceedings of the House of Commons.) THURSDAY, JUNE 3. THAMES CONSERVANCY BILL. Report further considered; Motion made, and Question proposed, " That the Amendments made by the Committee to the Bill be new read a second time :"—Amendment pro posed, to leave out from the words " That the" to the end of the Question, in order to add the words " Bill be re-com mitted," instead thereof:—Question put, " That the words proposed to be lsft out stand part of the Question." The House divided : MINORITY—AYES, 65. Allix, J. P. Guest, Sir J. Parker, John Arkwright, George Hamner, Sir J. Pattison, James Baine, Walter Hatton, Captain V. Philipps, Sir It. Barclay, David Hill, Lord Marcus Pluntridge, Captain Barnard, Edward G. Hodgson, Riek Bich, Henry Berkeley, Captain Howard, C W.G. RoHeston. Colonel Boyd, John Howard. P. H. Rots, David R. Buller, Charles numphery, Aid. Sheppard, T. Busfeild, W. Labouchere, Henry Smith, A. Colebrooke, Sir T. Lemon, Sir Charles Somerville, Sir W. Copeland, Ald. Lyal4, George Stanstleld, W. R. C. Dawson, T. V. Lygon, General Stanton, W. H. Denison, J. E. Marjoribanks, S. Staunton, Sir G. Duke, Sir J. Masterman, John Stuart, Lord J. Dundas, Admiral Maule, Fox Strutt, Edward Dundas, Sir David Milnes, R. M. Trelawny, J. S. Ebt:ngton, Viscount Mitchell, T. A. Troubridge, Sir E. Escott, Bickhast Molesworth, Sir W. Tufnell, Ilea* , Ferguson, Sir R. Monahan, J. H. Turner, Edmund Frewen, C. H. Morpeth, Viscount Fuller, A. E. Ogle, S. C. TELLERS. Gibson, T. M. Palmer, G. Ward, H. G. Grey, Sir G. Palmerston, Vis. Cowper, W. F. MAJORITY-NOES, 71. Adare, Viscount Duncan, Viscount Mackenzie, : T. Aglionby, H. A. Duncan, George Mahon, Lord Austen, Colonel Duncombe, T. Manners, Lord J. Bailey, Joseph, jun. Estcourt, T. G. Maunsell, T. B. BMDie, 11. J. Evans, William Morris, David Bankes, George Evans, William Munta, G. F. Barrington, Viscount Forster, Matthew Pakington, Sir J. Bentinck, Lord G. Gladstone, Captain Peel, Sir Robert Bowles, Admiral Goulburn, Henry Philips, G. R. Bowring, Dr. Graham, Sir James Prime, Richard Bramston, T. W. Granger, T. C. Russell, J. D. ISroadwood, 11. Greene, Thomas Somerset, Lord G. Brotherton, J. Hall, Sir B. Spooner, Richard Bruce, C. L. C. Hamilton, W. J. Thornely, T. Cardwell, Edward Harris, Captain Vernon, G. li. Carew, W. 11. Pole Hughes, W. B. Walker, Richard Carnegie, Captain Inglis, Sir R. Wawn, J. T. Clerk Sir G. Irton, Samuel Wortley, J. S. Clive, R. 11. Johnstone, Sir J. Wrightson, W. B. Collett, John Knight, F. W. Yorke, Henry R. Deedei, W. Law, lion. E. C. Young, John Dickinson, F. 11. Lefroy, A. mivett, E. Liddell, 11. T. TELLEES. Douglas, Sir C. Lincoln, Earl of Hume, Joseph Drummond, 11. 11. Lowther, Hon. Col. Williams, W. LORD CASTLEREAGH'S ACCOUNT OF HIS JOURNEY TO DAMASCUS, is to appear, we understand, in a few days. The attention which has lately been directed towards the East, it is expected, will be increased by the publication of these travels, as the author's high position must have enabled him to command facilities for noting whatever was most worthy of observation in the various countries through which he passed, seldom, if ever, accorded to travellers. POSTPONEMENT OF THE IRISH ASSIZES.—The judges have it under consideration to postpone the assizes until the last week in September or the first week in Octo ber. The Government has left the question to be decided by their Lordship s, intimating no opinion on the subject, and the precepts will issue at the usual time.. The spread of r.).1 judges s d t g p e o s n e t d h . i — s d S a a ,s u , )4e c r i s d ' e s d N u e r ;s n . o t f h the gea consequent eol e otdangerioa in of ja l c y o , n contagion, e m n a , k and it a t l h m e o p; o c b e a r t L a e i thatttit'ei. It thies stated d es rest of Tuesday. th w a i t ll the be postponing the circuits until October. —Dublin Evening EVENING, JUNE 4, 1847. ASCOT HEATH RACES. THURSDAY. The peculiar features of the Cup day at Ascot have been so frequently described, that to travel over the ground again, would be as wearisome to our readers as it would be to ourselves. We shall, therefore, offer no apology for leaving them to the imagination, but proceed at once to a brief record of the occurrences of the day. The weather, as on the two previous days. was brilli antly fine, and at a period long in advance of the time of starting, the gathering of all ranks was immense, filling the stands, "grand" and temporary, to an overflow, and exhibiting a display of beauty and fashion that we have rarely seen excelled ; there was also a very good assembling of the higher classes, but in this re spect the show was inferior to what was constantly wit nessed in the golden aye of the turf, when such terms as "nobbling" and "making safe" had not found their way into the racing vocabulary, and when the course was the favourite resort of the aristocracy of both sexes. A few minutes after one o'clock the bell rang for clearing the course (a step that, we trust, will henceforth be deferred until after the arrival of her Majesty), and shortly after, the appearance of the royal live ries in the distance announced the approach of the Illustrious party from the Castle. The cortege consisted of eight carriages and the char a-bane presented to her Majesty by the King of the French. She was attended by the Earl of Granville and the same retinue as on Tuesday. The first carriage was occupied by the Queen, their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duchess of Saxe Weimar, the Prince of Lucca, and the Grand Duke Constantine of Russia. In the second were the Prince Consort, his Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge, and their Serene [high nesses Prince Edward of Saxe Weimar and the Prince of Leiningen. In the other carriages were the Prince Lowenstein, Prince Lichtenstein, the Duke of Welling ton, Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch, Duchess of Sutherland, the Duke of Norfolk, Lord and Lady John Russell, Marquis and Marchioness of Clanricarde and the Lady Hubert de Burgh, Earl Spencer, Earl Fortescue, Baron Brunnow, Vice-Admiral de Lutke, Rear-Admiral Count Heyden, the Coun sellor d'Etat Haurowitz, Le Baron de Freedericktz, Count Beust, Countess Assenburg, Lord Alfred Paget, Lord George Lennox, Hon. Colonel Grey, Hon. Captain Gordon, &c , &c. Her Majesty was most cordially welcomed, and every mark of respect was paid to the Prince Consort, and her Majesty's royal and illustrious visitors. The racing com menced immediately after her Majesty's arrival, and, with the usual interval for luncheon between, the New Vase and Cup races proceeded, with a tolerably close attention to the published time of start ing, up to the race for the Visitor's Plate, on the termi nation of which her Majesty and party left for the Castle. We understand that the royal visitors expressed themselves highly gratified with the sport, and with the regularity with which the business of the course was carried on. Having spoken generally of the attendance, which is allowed to have been on a par with the best Cup day on record, we ought, in justice to the occasion, to submit a long list of the titled and distinguished oc cupants of the grand, jockey club, and stewards' stands. So much of our time, however, was necessarily occupied by other duties, and so dense was the crowd. that we could only obtain an indifferent view of the noble personages pre sent. The sport came fully up to our expectation; each of the eight events crowded into Mr. Oxley's neatly printed card having produced a race. The first in the order of running was Her Majesty's Guineas, which were won so easily by Footstool that he made a second and equally successful appearance for the Visitors' Plate ; the New Stakes, out of forty-nine entries, gave us only seven starters, it was won by a "dark" horse of Mr. Green's, who has thus brought out this season no less than three great two-year-old winners—Assault, Flatcatcher, and Beverlac, all in the Derby, and sure to figure conspie cuously in the quotations from the corner. The Emperor's Vase followed, and excited great interest ; The Hero, who did not make any figure in the betting until after he won the Queen's Vase, becoming at the last an equal favourite with Mendicant The race was not long in doubt, the Hero making strong running from first to last, and winning cleverly by a length, :Mendicant, who appeared to us to go short, being only filth. The betting on this race, and, in fact, on all the races, was much more lively than could have been expected in the present state of the ring. A splen did race for the St. James's Palace Stakes was followed by four others, on which time will not permit us to dwell : and at six o'clock, a day's sport that had no alloy but the heat and its concomitant dust, was brought to a close. Her Majesty's Plate of' 100 guineas ; 3 yrs, ist 21b ; 4 yrs, 9st 21b ; 5 yrs, lOst ; 6 yrs and aged, lOst 51b. About 3 miles. Lord Orford's Footstool, 4 yrs (Nat) 1 Sir J. Hawley's Humdrum, 4 yrs 2 Mr. Winch's Oliver Cromwell, 6 yrs 3 Betting-6 to 4on Footstool, and 6to 4 agst Hum drum. Footstool made all the running, and won cle verly by a length. Run in 5 min. 53 secs. The New Stakes of 10 sovs. each, with 100 added for two yrs old, colts, 81t 71b ; fillies, Bst 31b. Winners of 100 s ovs ., i nc l u di ng h s own stake, 51b extra. T.Y.C. (40 Subs.) Mr. B. Green's Assault (E. Edwards) 1 Mr. Payne's Glendower, (51bs extra) Lord Exeter's Tisiphone 3 The following also started, but were not placed : Mr. Thornhill's The Iron Crown, Mr. Mostyn'a Mastiff, Mr. May's Senga, Mr. Death's Glitter. Betting-2 to lon Assault, and . s to 2 agst Glendower. Assault took the lead, made all the running at a great pace, and won cleverly by a length, Tisiphone a bad third, and the others beaten off. Assault was backed for the Derby, before starting, at 25 to 1, and after the race at 15 to 1. Run in 1 min. 15 sec. A Piece of Plate, value 500 sovs, the gift of his Majesty the Emperor of all the Russias, added to a Sweepstakes of 20 soya each; three yrs old, Est 1016; four, Bst 51b; five, 9st; six and aged, 9st 31b; mares and geldings allowed 31bs. About two miles and a half. (20 Subs.) Mr. J. Day's the Hero, 4 yrs Mr. W. H. Moore's Wolfdog, 5 yrs Lord Lonsdale's Jericho, 5 yrs 3 The following also started, but were not placed:-- Lord E. Russell's Sting, Mr. Meiklam's Poynton, Sir J. Hawley's Mendicant, Mr. Isaac Day's Sir Tattoo Sykes. Betting-6 to 4 agst The Hero, 6to 1 agst Mendicant, 7 to 1 agst Sting, 10 to 1 agst Sir Tattoo Sykes, 10 to 1 agst Poynton. The Hero made the running at a strong pace, fol lowed by Mendicant, Jericho lying about two lengths in her wake, and clear of the other horses, who ran in a cluster. There was no change in this order until they came to the last turn ; Poynton here took Je richo's place, and followed Mendicant to the dis tance, where they were both beaten. Wolf Dog then came, and got to The Hero's quarters, but never improved his position, and was in the end beaten cleverly by a length, Jericho a capital third, Sting fourth, and Mendicant fifth, both well up. Run in 4 min. 34 sec. The St. James's Palace Stakes of 100 sovs. each, h ft., for three yrs old colts, Bst 71b ; fillies, Bst 41b, Old mile. (16 Subs.) Sir R. W. Bulkeley's Montpensier (Templeman) 1 Mr. Greville's Mirmillo Lord Exeter's Voronetz 3 Even on Mirmillo ; 6 to 4 agst Montpensier ; and 6 to 1 agst Voronetz. They got off well together, and ran in company at a strong pace to the end , Mont p onsier winning by a head, and Mirmillo beating Voronetz by a neck. Run in 1 min. 51 sec. The Visitors' Plate of 100 sovs. (Handicap) by subscrip tion of 5 soya, each, the surplus, with the entrance money of non-subscribers, to go to the second horse. Once round and a dis. (20 subs.) Lord Orford's Footstool, 4yrs, Sst 41b (Nat) 1 Lord Lonsdale's Martingale, 3 yrs, 4st 121 b 2 Lord Exeter's Hydrangea, 4 yrs, ist 31b Mr. Worley's Wintlnia, 3 yrs, Est 4 Count Batthyany's Master Stepney, 5 yrs, ist 716 Mr. Death's Subduer, aged, Bst 4lb Sir J. Hawley's Bravissimo, 4 yrs, 7stslb Betting-2 to 1 agst Footstool, sto 2 agst Martingale, 7 to 2 agst Bravissimo, 5 to 1 agst Wintonia, and 6 to 1 agst Hydrangea. Bravissimo made the running, followed by Hydrangea and Martingale ; this lot maintained the front to the turn into the Old Mile, where Hydrangea took the lead, which she held to the distance,.Bravissimo was then beaten off, and Footstool went in front, had it all his own way, and won by a couple of lengths. Run in 3 minutes 55 staconds. Sweepstakes of 50 sovs. each, h. ft., for three year olds, colts Bst 71b, fillies Sst 3lb ; those got by stallions or out of mares that never bred a winner allowed 41b, of both 71b ; Swinley course. (23 Subs.) Mr. Mostyn's Crozier (Nat) 1 Mr. Bowes's Epirote • Mr. Coombe's c. by The Nob out of Premature .. Mr. Herbert's Buckskin Sir G. Heathcote's Nestor ..... Betting.-5 to 4 agst The Nob colt, 6to 4 agst Epi. rote, 5 to 1 agst Buckskin, and 7 to 1 agst Cro oothkers a lying slight off lead, at straight running zier. Crozier jumped off with t h e l ea d , fo ll owe d to the Bri c k Kil n seconda third bywtweihrdei wide intervals w t h h Prematuree inhhteeerrvheT aelfield d; hthey Nobe e y c th o o l e t r , the aeni t sto then resumed his lead, The N o b colt ;Crozier lying with him to the distance , where Epirote joined com pany up race the h sameome ended e in e n favour of n d C oizrider, : balfa ; a lengthfine Buckskin a bad fourth. Run in 2 min. 4 sec . The Stand Plate of 70 sovs. ; three yrs Id old, 7at 71b ; four, 9st ; five, 9st 81b ; six and aged, Ost 121 b ; mares and geldings allowed 31b ; horses to entered be sold for 4001. allowed 31b ; 3001., 71b ; 2001., 121 b. ; and 1001., 201 b. Swinley Course. Mr. Shelley's Tarella, 3 yrs (1000 (J . • Prince) 1 .. Lord Exeter's Voronetz , 3 yrs (100/ ....... 2 Lord W. Powlett's Mount Callan, 4 yra (2001.) The following also started, but were not placed :— . ll r. Theobald's Chemise, Count Batthya.ny's Master Stepney, Mr. Robertson's Noiseless, Mr. Drinkald's Mistress Jean, and Lord tlhesterfield's Pam. Betting-5 to 5 agst Tarella, 55t0 2 a gstVoronetz, 5 to 1 agst Pam, 6 to 1 each agst Mistress Jean and Mount Callan, and 7to 1 agst Master Stepney. Mistress Jean made the running, followed by Chemise and Turella, the others lying off. No alteration occurred until they reached the turn, where the first two were beaten ; Ta rella then took the running, followed, but never ap proached, by Voronetz and Pam, and won easily by two lengths. Hun in 2 min. 40 sec. Sweepstakes of 100 sovs. each, and only h ft if declared, &c. ; three yrs old, Bst 716 ; fillies, Bst 416. Swinley Course. (3 Subs.) Sir G. Heathcote's Timour ... . . ................ (Cha le) 1 Sir J. Gerard's Diphthong ..... PP ....... Even betting. Won by a head. Run in 2 min. 50 sec. There are twenty horses in the first class of the Wo kingham, and 17 in the second. The h • andicaps were not out when we left the heath. 'lyre will also be a very large field for the Great Western Handicap. The Solicitor-t eneral for Ireland had an interview with the Earl of Clarendon yesterday. MAGAZINES-(CONTINUED). FRASER. Fraser this month opens with an elaborate review of the recently published work of the Chevalier Bunsen on Egypt. The review, like the work and the subject, is somewhat heavy. We have then a " Chronicle of Kenilworth Castle, its Heroes and its Heroines." It is needless to add that this is a most interesting paper—that man must be ingeniously dull who could on such a subject write a stupid one. A sequel to the Boar-hunt in Brittany follows, under the title of " Love Passages in the life of Perron the Breton ;" and then we have a vigorous sketch of Perico, the Mexican Vagabond." Sam Slick gives us a capital 'Yankee paper, " Judge Beler's Ghost." The following is the history of the meeting of Stephen Richardson, the hero of the tale, with the ghost of Judge Beler : " This happened twenty-five years ago next March, and at that time it was still little more than a bridle path, and the trees lapped across it in places. Now in that hollow two large hemlocks had got canted well over on one side, windfalls like, and were catched by two large spruces on the other ; so there via; just room to stoop law down on the saddle, and squeeze under, and much as ever, too—almost a scrape. Having rid that way in the morning, I knew the track, kept to the left, bent forward on the neck of the horse, and went through. Just as I cleverly cleared it, old Beler sprung right on the crupper, seized me round the waist, and yelled just as he (lid when be got out of the lake, first in one ear and then in the other. Oh, how the woods rung ! His breath was so hot it most scalded me, and the scream cut me through the head like a knife •, and then he clasped me so tight round the body he near about squeezed the wind out of me. If I didn't sing out its a pity, and the more I hollered the louder he shrieked. I won't pretend for to go for to say that I warn't fright ened, because that wouldn't be true ; I was properly skeered, that's a fact. I expected every minute to be clawed off, and plunged into the lake. I didn't know what to do. Human strength I knew was of no avail against supernatural beings, so I took to prayer. " ' Our Father —' says I. " The moment I said that he let go yellin', and seized me by the nape . of the neck with his teeth, and bit right through the grizzle. Oh, it was a powerful nip that ! the pain was enough to drive one mad, and I fairly roared like a bull, it hurt me so. _ _ " In the meantime the horse began to rear and plunge most furiously ; for the poor dumb animal knew as well as could be it had a ghost-rider besides its lawful master to carry. At last it kicked so like old scratch it sent us both flying heels over head, the judge on one side and me on the other of it. I fortunately held on to the rein, and jumped up like winkin, and the horse stood head to him, snorting and blowing like a porpoise. I shall never forget that scene the longest day I ever live." Albeit Stephen is convinced of the existence of the ghost, there are divers sceptics, amongst others Parson Rogers. In the following colloquy Stephen by unanswerable arguments overcomes the parson, and sets for ever at rest the vezata quash° of the existence of ghosts : " Were you quite sober that night, Steve?' said he; ' you know folks sometimes see double on St. Patrick's day?' " See!' says I, parson; I not only see him but felt him, too. Look here where he left the marks of his teeth on me!' and I stripped and showed him the scars. ' Do you believe now?' says I. " • I never heard that ghosts had teeth before, Steve,' said he, most provokin' cool—' no, never.' " Did you ever see one?' says I; so come, now, answer me that.' " ' No,' says he, 'I never saw one, and never expect to.' '" How the plague can you tell, then,' says I, ' whe ther they have teeth or not? But I have seen one, do ye mind ; and I can swear they have teeth—plaguy sharp ones, too—breath as hot as a tea-kettle, and claws as long and as strong as a bear.' _ " Stephen,' said — he, my son, I didn't think you were so easily frightened.' " Frightened!' says I, and I began to get cross with his banter, as if I would go for to tell a lie, or be such a fool as not to know what I was talking about—' Fright ened, is it?' said I; it's more than ever you could do to skeer me, though you have been preachin' against the devil and all his imps ever since I was born. But do you go to Beler's Lake on St. Patrick's night, and if the judge is to home, and a talking and a stirring under water, do you ondervalue him as I did, and say you ain't afraid of him, dead or alive, and if he don't frighten you into believing what you hear, and believing what you see, and into knowing the difference between a bite and a kiss, then you are a braver man than I take you to be, that's all.' " ' I'll go with you the next 17th day of March,' said he. " ' Thank you,' says I, I'd rather be excused.' " Well, I'll go with or without you, just as you please, on the 17th of next March, if you will first go to Nick Wyland's, and see that Colonel Brown's crazy boy (the one that roasted his brother) is well chained up. It's my opinion that that mischievous maniac broke loose, or slipped out that night, and attacked you; and the only wonder is that, with his superhuman strength, he didn't kill you. You had a great escape. But as for a ghost, Steve ---2 " Parson,' says I, 'do you believe the Bible?' " Yes,' says he, I do.' " ' Well, then,' says I, ' believe in Judge Beler's ghost. I have seen him, and heard him, and felt him, and have the marks to prove it. You are Parson Rogers, ain't you?' 6, ' yes? " ' Well, so you are; but how do I know it? Be cause I've seen you, heard you, and felt you. Well, that's the way I know the ghost. I tell you I have heard, seen, and felt Judge Beler's ghost.' " The Earl of Ellesmere and Mr. Monckton Milnes are the literary legislators who sit for their portraits this month, and justice is done to each of them. Morgan Rattler furnishes a coarsely overdone puff of the Covent• garden Opera speculation ; and the number winds up with an elaborate paper on colo nisation, in which Lord Grey's plans are eulogised most highly, but not more highly than they deserve. THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE. We agree entirely with the Farmer's Magazine, that a deficient harvest or a recurrence of the potato murrain would be productive of consequences the very supposition of which is appalling : and we do believe that if it be ever advisable to ad dress orisons to the Deity for any temporal blessing, it is surely advisable to address such orisons for the continuance of the present favourable and magnificent weather. Upon the advantages that have already resulted from the beautiful month of May just terminated, the Farmer says : "After rather a heavy fall of rain the temperature rose gradually, and the moisture and warmth combined have wrought an amazing alteration in the appearance of the country. The spring-sown crops stand as well as could possibly be desired. The wheat plant, though still backward, wears a healthy and vigorous aspect, and promises far better than could have been hoped, consi dering the extreme length and severity of the winter. Grass has grown amazingly. and all the green crops are luxuriant. As far, therefore, as a judgment can be formed at this early period, the harvest promises to be abundant." Earnestly is it to be hoped that all our hopes in this respect may be realised. Although the writer does not appear very sanguine as to the diminution in the price of corn, before the time of harvest has actually arrived, he still thinks that " under certain combinations" wheat may easily decline 20s. or even 30s. per quarter. Unless it decrease more than this, we shall yet have to pass through a severe, if not a protracted, ordeal. THE BANKER'S. One of the principal features in this month's number of the Banker's Magazine, is, as a matter of course, the odious and miserable financial blunder of Sir Robert Peel. Every alternate page displays in conspicuous characters the words " Bank Restriction Act," and these words are plentifully accompanied by animadversions upon the reprehensible measure they indicate. In speaking of the almost uni versal obloquy now showered upon the enactment of 1844, one of the contributors to this commercial periodical observes, that it was eulogised on its ori ginal introduction as an admirable scheme, by nearly all the press, " with a very few exceptions." ft cannot be forgotten that among those very few ex ceptions, we ourselves were numbered from the very outset. Speciously as the innovation upon banking transactions was introduced by the then Prime Mi nister, we recognised in it, from the first, those dilemmas and miseries and dangers which have re cently come to pass. We perceived and proclaimed that the Bill was intended to direct the currency by mechanical agency, when the agency was required to he most flexible and elastic. What has been the result of experience in developing the influences of the measure is tolerably well expressed in the follow ing sentences : " The recent fluctuation in the rate of interest within a few months, from two per cent. to twenty, has dispelled the delusion they wore under on this subject. They see clearly enough that the Act, instead of equalising the rate of interest and the value of money, must, whenever its enactments come into effect, produce more violent and sudden changes than could reasonably occur under a system which would permit the exercise of wisdom and experience on the part of those who have the practical regulation of the rate of interest in their hands. A lengthened and accurate report of the debate upon this important subject in the House of Com mons is given in the June Number. The Magazine continues to be the bold and temperate organ of the banking world. VIE MONTHLY RAIL WA Y RECORD. With a characteristic likeness of the chairman of the London and North Western Railway Company, and a singular accumulation of information upon railway matters, the present part is embellished (we use the word advisedly) with a generous appeal to the railway public—and a vast public it is, too ! —in behalf of Thomas Gray. We quote the sensible and reason able proposition of the Railway Record:— ,‘ The formation of a penny railway subscription, has been suggested on the principle of a p:mny per pound on the paid up railway capital of the country. Suppos ing the paid-up capital of established railway companies to b© somewhere about 47,000,0001., a penny subscrip. don, as thus suggested, would yield 47,000,000 o f pence; which, by an easy process of arithmetic, will be found to be, in round numbers, 195,0001. It may be said that this is a large sum. Then, let the limit be a penny per five pounds ; this would yield again in round numbers, 39,0001. Again a tenth. or a penny per ten pounds, would be just one half-19,5001 Say only a penny per share, and, to facilitate calculation, take the shares at 251. each ; 47,000,0001 divided by 25, gives 1,880,0001; and this, at one penny each, amounts to 7,8331—the lowest possible amount we think the railway public could, with any regard to liberality, offer as their contri bution to the national testimonial to Thomas Gray. We hope to see some movement made at the ensuing half yearly meetings of the railway companies ; and, in the mean time, we throw out these hints for the consideration of railway men." Let it not be forgotten that Thomas Gray was the first (derided) propounder of railway communication. Thomas Gray is now old, and, we believe, very in digent! THE KNIGHT OF GIVYNNE. Part XVIII. By Charles Lever. Forester, as Earl of Wallincourt, figures very conspicuously in these chapters ; he is all solicitude to afford assistance to the Darcy s. In hastening towards Ireland for the purpose, he is, however, detained at Bangor by a dangerous attack of fever. His valet proceeds to Bicknell, at Dublin, for the purpose of delivering important dispatches from Lord Castlereagh, whereby the approaching trial with O'Rielly may be frustrated against Dr. Hick man and his detestable relations. We are intro duced again to Freeney and :Hiss Daly; but as yet no sign of Bagenal or the Knight. Next month there will be of course a double number com pleting the fiction. KNIGHT'S MONTHLY VOLUME XIL—XV. SETTLERS AND COIVVICTS. By An Emigrant Mechanic. PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE; FEMALE EXAMPLES. By G. L. Craik. . __ _ As has been visible heretofore in the periodical publication of this serial, there is much discrimina tion in the arrangement of the different subjects. The first work above-mentioned is composed of certain recollections of sixteen years' hard labour in the Australian backwoods. The second is a collection of biographical notices of Elizabeth Smith, Elizabeth Hamilton, Hannah More, and Mrs. Grant of Laggan. We perceive that among the con tinuations that have recently appeared of works com menced in the Weekly Volumes, are the abbreviated Lives from Plutarch. 7'HE LAND WE LIVE IN. Part I. Although we have watched this interesting peri odical from its first appearance in weekly numbers, just four weeks ago, we have refrained from comment ing upon its singular merits until the first monthly part was completed. The notion from which the pub lication has originated is new and admirable. The eminent publisher for the million—and we might truly designate him as the distinguished instructor of the million Mr. Charles Knight, here proposes to compile a work illustr a ti ve o f a ll th e mos t striking characteristics observable in England, so as to indicate in a vivid manner the pro gress of civilisation, the growth of science, the improvements of the manners and customs of the people, the natural peculiarities of the island, and the artificial constructions by which it is externally , decorated, or by which its commerce and social inter course are materially advanced. The purpose of the publication, however, may be better understood by quoting the titles of the four chapters which have already appeared, namely " The Road and the Railway," " The Sail and the Steamer," " The British Museum," and " Richmond." Even now, therefore, it has acquired a remarkable degree of diversity. Each disquisition is illustrated by en gravings from the pencils of distinguished artists ; the first number depicting a pack horse train of the seventeenth century, the travelling machine of 1750, the turnpike of 1663, and the road waggon of the last century ; the second number, containing views of the Clyde near Dumbarton, of Queensberry, of the Hoy Becalmed, and of a Steam-vessel on the Thames ; the third, sketches of the old entrance to the British Museum (a fragment of old London, which, however unsightly, we shall regret to see demolished), of the principal (new) fron t, of the (new) quadrangle, of the (new) stair case, and of the Egyptian Gallery ; the fourth is embellished, moreover, with pencillings of Richmond from the Isleworth Meadows, the Park, the Gateway of the old Palace, the view from Rich mond Hill, and Ham House. Eighteen beautiful engravings in all, and appropriate letterpress, ele gantly and intelligently written ! THE BELLE ASSEMBLER. Now that Camilla Toulmin has undertaken the editorship of the Belle Assemblee, we augur well for the prosperity and improvement of the magazine. We wish her God-speed, cordially! CHAMBERS'S EDINBURGH JOURNAL. As crowded with instruction and entertainment, as vigorous in style, and as diversified in contents as ever. We are not surprised to find the preference given to Burns in a comparison drawn between that glorious bard and Beranger, and however much we may differ in opinion, we cannot but admire the genial glow of the nationality by which the pre ference is inspired. SHARPE'S LUADON MAGAZINE. There are such a multitude of cheap and popular publications, similar to Sharpe's London Magazine, that we cannot do more than express our approval of the general discrimination and unstarched morality by which its pages are beautified. There is a dis agreeable mannerism about all the engravings, that might be easily remedied. They seem to have been produced by the scrutinising system of glypho graphy. THE PICTURESQUE AND POPULAR HIS TORY OF ENGLAA D. Part I. By Thomas Miller. Our old favourite Thomas Miller—the poet of the green lanes and of schoolboy recollections—is assuming a higher position in literature than he has hitherto reached—he is climbing the pinnacle of his tory. Safe be his footing upon that perilous ascent, and golden his reward on reaching the summit ! We have already had a multiplicity of histories of our native land. Lingard and Hutne have given us the eloquent utterances of the past ; Stowe and Holin shed have afforded us the quaint chronicles ; Sharon Turner and Henry have given us very equable but fragmentary narratives ; we have had a pictorial history from the printing press of Charles Knight, a ventriloquial or Catholic history from the portfolio of Mr. MacCabe, and a facetious history from the incorrigible and inexhaustible comicality of Gilbert A'Beckett. Thomas Miller offers us now a picturesque and popular history. To our thinking, he is admirably calculated for that very graceful and novel undertaking. We shall re serve a definite expression of our opinion upon his work until it is further advanced, if not completed. SHAI?PE'S MODERN MAPS. Part HI. Scotland and Ireland are delineated in the present part, which is as carefully and distinctly tracei as its predecessors. The colouring is neat, and the lettering elaborate. LE FOLLET. We continue to be as much charmed as ever with this unequalled brochure of the fashions. The coloured plates are quite miniature paintings in their way, and the anatomy of the figure is preserved under all the alternations of costume. One engraving in the June part is a garden scene, in which some little girls are netting butterflies ; it is daintily done. - Without any question Le Follet is without a rival. THE ART-UNION. We have before us the most splendid number of the Art-Union that has been issued for a long period. It literally abounds with pictorial beauty, the mere enumeration of which would extend beyond the limits afforded just now by our columns. The number is worth three times its average price. It is conducted with increasing industry and the most prolific enterprise. --- Some parties, usually well-informed, writing from Belfast on the all-important question of the coming crop, observe—" We have had a few days warm and fine weather, and we are told the country generally looks well. We calcu late, from observation and the farmers' statements, that in the best portion of the North of Ireland nearly one-third extra land is under grain, about one-fourth the average of potatoes are planted, and scarcely an average of flax, besides a much greater extent than ordinary of cabbages, turnips, parsnips, carrots, beans, and such like." The destruction of live stock during the winter, from poor food and insuffic i e nt tendin g , is believed to have been considerable. " BELL . E. LlFE."—There was sold of "Bell's Life in London," during the past month of May—five publica tions only—namely, May 2,9, 16, 23, 30-141,561 copies, making an average weekly sale of 28,312. On Sunday next " Life" will contain faithful details of Ascot Races, and their brilliant accompaniments, with engravings of the Emperor's Vase, Queen's Vase, and Hunt Cup, with the usual sporting varieties. Price of "Belfs Life," 6d. Office 170, ;cation to coin. ERTI SEM ENT. —Me rcan til e Life.—lt has been re intelligent foreigners, that cases of baladiatesp application to greatly in this unwearied this as it may, .St a r Er a kA n e d dp . y. e t rhei uial puunrtslsanda contributescus e l g h e a l t y t l t i o e nowhere is a protective and restorative preparation more needed ; )ser f N a - I l c l e e a n bl u e s . and probably there is no European people to whom artificial app. or partial baldness, are recovery ances ha have e f the beeu h o r after ein en Lavingti numerous eases of truly astonishing. The testimonials of of Columbia place its po wer and virtue sOldridge'e beyond a ll d ou b t or cav i l 3.. 6d., 65., and 11 s , per bottle Oldridge't Balm, 1, Wellington-street, . No other p r i ces are genu i ne . Strand. ugton-street, the second house from the [ADvERIsEmENT.]—A VERY BAD LEG CURED BY nottowaT'S PILLS AND OINTMENT.—The foreman at a large paper mill, near Armagh (the property of Mr. Gwynn), from excessive confinement, and being employed so much upon his feet, had one leg swollen to such an extent as ultimately to break into ulcers, tro , T , which ho suff ere d so severely as to incapacitate Wm from attefidit_ to his duties. It was a desperate case ; but this, like many e same nature, was quickly healed by using these powerful r ewisee m of All wounds, abscesses, contracted and stiff joints, as likewise a re readily swellings, tumours, or other unnatural enlargements, cured by the use of Holloway's Pills and Ointment .Sold by all drilg- K d giars &n it the Proprietor'. Zetablibhment: 244, Etraud, PORTUGAL. The following (laid before Parliament last night) is the text of the protocol of a conference relating to the affairs of Portugal, held at the Foreign-office on the 21st of May, 1847: Preens: Les Plenipotentiares d'Espagne, de France, de la Grand Bretagne, et du Portugal. Les Plenipotentiares d'Espagne, de France, de la Grande Bretagne, et du Portugal, s'etant teunis en conference sur l'invitation du Plenipotentiare du Por tugal : Le Pleaipotentiaire Portugais a declare qu'il avait appris par des avis recus ce jour meme de son gouverne ment, l'inutilite des efforts tense; a Oporto parle Colonel Wylde et le Marquis d'Espana, pour mettre un terme la guerre civile en Portugal, moyennant les conditions que la Reine de Portugal les avait autoriies a faire connaitre ala Junte. Il a ajotre que, comme la Reine de PorttNal avait offort ces conditions conformement au conseil de ses slue,, it 4tait charge par Sa Majest4 Tres Fie de renouve-ler la demarche de a faite rar elle au prei de ceux de ses allie s qui avaient pris part au Traire du 22 Avril, 1834, atin d'obtenir d'eux l'assist ance necessaire pour effeetuer la pacification de ses eats. Le Baron de Moncorvo a e 6 - dare ensuite Tie les con ditions ainsi communique .s el la Junte d'Oporto de la part de Sa Majeste Pretnie-ement ; une unnivie ploine et pe-4rale pour tousles Leas polit:ques commis depuis coLumeilec rnent du Blois d'Octobre dernier, et le rappel immeliat de routes les personnel qui, depuis cette a que, avaient ete contraintes de quitter le Portugal pour des motifs po ll tiques. lieuxiemement ; la revocation imtre Hate de tous lea eerets promulguei depuis la commencement du moil d'Octobre dernier, qui sont an conflit ou en opposition avec les lois etablies et la constitution du royaume. Troi4ie.nement ; la convocation des Corte..., aussitOt que les elections, qui doivent avoir lieu sur le-champ, seront termitles. Quatriernemvnt ; la nomination immediate d'une Ad ministration compo, 6 de personnage qui n'appartien nent point au parti des Cabrais, et ne soient point mem bres de la Junte d'Oporto. Le Plenipotentiare Anglais a confirme la dizlaration du Baron de Moncorvo, et a dit que le Gouvernement Britannique avait recu egalement ce matin mime du Colonel Wylde des depeches annoncant une la mission laquelle it s'etait employ 6 conjointement avec le Mar quis d'Espana, avait e.:houe, et que la Junte avait refuse de mettre fin a la guerre civile, moyennant les termes proposes par Sa Majeste Tres Fidele, on meme de con sentir a une simple suspension d'armes. Les Pl6nipotentiares d'Espagne, de France, et de la Grand Bretagne, prenant ces circonstances en serieuse consideration, et ayant present a l'esprit le profond in teret que leurs gouvernemens respectifs portent au bien etre du royaume de Portugal, et le vif desir de ces gou vernemens de voir la guerre civile qui desole actuelle ment ce pays terminee, a des conditions fondees, d'une part, sur le respect dit a la dignit6 et aux droits constitu- . - tionnels de la . Couronne, et p - ropres a assurer suffisam ment, d'autre part, les libertes du peuple ; convaincus, de plus, que les termes propotes par Sa Majeste Tars Fidele etaient bien faits pour atteindre ces deux buts, s'accordent a penser qu'une conjoncture s'est maintenant presentee, ou leurs gouvernemens respectifs peuvent, en se conformant pleinement aux principes qui les dirigent, settler a la demande de secours qui leur a et‘ address6a par la Reine de Portugal. Le Plenipotentiaire du Portugal apray avoir exprime la satisfaction avec laquelle it recevait cette declaration de la part des Plenipotentiaires des Trois Puissances, a etabli l'urgeute Lecessite de prendre des mesures con formes a ces declarations, et a repre ;ewe que dana l'etat actual des affaires du Portugal, tout (Wei doit ajouter au sang verse, et aggraver les calamitei qui affligent ce royaum e. _ _ Ayant egard ii ces circonstances, et persuade do I'ur gence de la conjoncture, les P.6aipotentiaires des Trois Puissances se sent resolus en commun a accfler a la demande du Plenipotentiaire Portugais; et it. a eti arrete en consequence par les Plenipotentiaires des Quatre Puissances, que ra.ssistance promise de Portugal lui serail pre:ee inualiatement; et d'apres cette determination, les Plenipotentiaires d'Espagne, de France, et de /a Grande Bretagne, s'engsgent A ce qua les forces navales de leurs gouvernemens respectifs ac tuellement stationn&-s sur la cote du Portugal prennent part, conjointement et sur le-champ, avec les forces na vales de Sa Mojes,e Tres Fidele, a toute orerationjugee necessaire ou opportune par les commandans de cea forces combinees, pour atten4dre le but de cet acte corn. mun; et le Reaipotentiaire d'Espagne s'engsge en outre ce qu'un corps de troupes. dont le nombre sera fixe entre les Gouvernemens d'Espagne et du Portugal, nenetre en Portugal, a l'afet de co-operer avec les troupes de Sa Majeste Tie. Frdele, et que ces troupes evacuent le territoire dans un (16 . aide d, lax moil al. leur entree, ou aussitot que l'objet de l'exielition aura ete rempli. Les 'Plenipotentiaries des Quatre Puissances pro mettent que des ordres conformes aux engagemens de ce protocole seront jinn eliatement envoy 63 aux officiers de Marine, des Gouvernemens respectifs sur la cote de Portugal, et aux officiers t e ,eraux commandant les troupes Espagnoles sur les f A ra v m r ti E e ß p resd E ITZ 'Es i p s a l gn u e ß .. (Sig, x JARNAC. . PALMERSTON. TORRE DE MONCORVO. (TRANSLATION.) Present—The Plenipotentiaries of Spain, of France, of Great Britain, and of Portugal. The Plenipotentiaries of Spain, of France, of Great Britain, and of Portugal, having met in conference on the invitation of the Plenipotentiary of Portugal, The Portuguese Plenipotentiary stated that he had learnt by ad vices which he had this day received from his Government, that the efforts made at Oporto by Colonel Wylde and the Marquis d'Espana, to put an end to the civil war in Portugal, upon the conditions which those officers were authorised by the Queen of Portugal to make known to the Junta had failed; and he added, that as the Queen of Portugal had offered those condi ... Lions in accordance with the advice of her allies, he was now commanded by her Most Faithful Majesty to renew the application which her Most Faithful Majesty bad previously made to those of her allies who had been parties to the treaty of the 22d of April, 1534, for assistance to enable her to effect the pacification of her dominions. The Baron Moneorvo further stated that the condi tions which had thus been c , rrimunicatcd to the Junta of Oporto by her Most Faithful Majesty's authority, were : Ist. A full and general amnesty for all political offences committed since the beginning of October last, and an immediate recal of all persons who, since that time, have been sent out of Portugal for political reasons. ql An immediate revocation of all the decrees which have been issued since the beginning of October last, and which infringe upon or conflict with the established laws and constitution of the kingdom. 3d. A Convocation of the Cortes so soon as the elec tions, which are to take place without delay, shall have been completed. 4th. The immediate appointment of an administration composed of men not belonging to the party of the Ca heals, n o r b e i ng m e m b ers o f t h Oporto Junta. The British Plenipotentiary confirmed the statement of Baron de Moneurvo, and said that the British Go vernment bad also received this morning from Colonel \Vylde, dispatches reporting the failure of the mission upon which he and the Marquis d'Espana had been en - ployed, and the refuel of the Junta either to put an end to the civl war upon the terms proposed to them by her Most Faithful Majesty, or to consent even to a tempo rary suspension of arms. The Plenipotentiaries of Spain, France, and Great Britain, having taken these matters into their serious consideration, and bearing in mind the deep interest which their respective Governments take in the welfare of the kingdom of Portugal, and the anxious desires which those Governments feel that the civil war which now desolates that country should be broughtto ,un ane d n ed up on a due regard constitutionald afford rights a end, upon conditions which should on the one han d be f, of the Crown, am s hould ty for the I:l3 , J.ties of the people; an , ' b, mug more over ri of opinion that the arrangements proposed by her Most Faithful Majcs!y were eel' calculated to attain these ends, agree that a case has now presented itself in which their respective Governments may, in full ac cordance with the principles by which they are guided, comply with the application for assistance addressed to them by the Queen of Portugal. The Plenipotentiary of Portugal, after expressing the satisfaction with which he received this declaration on the part of the Plenipotentiaries of the three Powers, impressed upon them the urgent necessity that imme diate measures should be taken to carry those declara tions into effect, and rerresented that in the present state of affairs in Portugal delay must lead to a a renewal of bloodshed, and an aggravation of the calamities by which Portugal is now afflicted. urgency q tof the Adverting geney of the t o Plenipotentiaries the Three Powers agreed to yield to Plenipotentiaries to the Queen of Por tugal the assistance to be forthwith ; and accordingly the and Great Britain, t P e o r r m t Portuguese s b e ytile Plenipotentiary Foure therefore, r ow Powers, the naval forces of their respective overn engnag,entohwatstationed on the coast of Portugal, shall im mediately- co-operate with the naval force of her Most Vigenailpsohtoeuntiart g o t f ve S n pain France, G Faithful Majesty in any operations which the com manders o thesef a andthe body of o combined tr o p f s forces ce the s maynumber judge necessary or expedient for carrying into e ff ect the objects of this Plenipotentiarymboefr o S f p w ai h n ic f h ur s t h h a e l r l eunggreaegmesenthta ; t ba agreed upon between the Spanish and Portuguese Governments, shall enter Portugal for the purpose of co-operating with the troops of her Most Faithful Majesty ; and that those troops shall withdraw from the Portuguese territory within two months after the time when they shall enter, or as soon as the ob jects for which they shall hare entered shall have been accomplished. The Plenipotentiaries of the Four Powers undertake that orders, in conformity with the engagements of this protocol, shall be sent forthwith to the n a valofficFrsof the respective Governments on the coast of troops Portugal, and ffi to the general officers commanding the Spanish on the frontiers of Spain. (Signed) . - AVIER DE ITN:RITZ. JARNAC. PALMERSTON. TORRE DE MONCORVO. BRISTOL COURT , OF 13 ANR.RUPTCY.—Re D., E., And A. Acraman. -- parte Allsopp' s p roo f.—O n F r id ay hi s Honour M. Commissioner Stevenson gave judgment in this case, which hay occupied the attention of the court during three or four sittings. The proof was admitted for 1,5841., and for a 1,0001. bill of exchange. His Honour gave the as signees six weeks to consider whether they would bring their action against the Messrs. Allsopp, and ordered, in the mean time, that the dividend on their proof should be ataye4.... Bristol Gazette. ~t c ~~ r a t ,~ , •