The Dorset County Express and Agricultural Gazette.
Dorchester, Dorset, England, 1878-06-18 00:00:00

BANQUET IN IiONOUR OV TIM MAYOR.,

-
The banquet given by the principal inhabitants of the
town in acknowledgment of the valued services of Mr.
Lundie (Mayor) came off at Use Royal Hotel on Tumidity
night. Being m long delayed on amount of His
Worehip's illness, it eras lookei forward to with even
greater anticipation and certainly the arnumemente were
of a thoroughly first clue diameter, having been evidently
well matured. The nanwideent Dalton bend, under
Signor Vangucci played most charmingly in front of the
Hotel at the ommencenient of the repast, and a party of
very able part-singen were engagsd to make • variety in
the af ter•dinner proceeditiga. The dinner showed by the
excellence of the dishes, the serving and the waiting, that
the old-established fame of the Royal Hotel has taken •
new lease under the affable and thoroughly cspsblo ro•
prietor, Mr. ibove., who. arrangements gave the highest
son/ ection to all. The wines were .4 the first class.
His Worship wore his eold chain of oilee, sitting beside
the chairman, our welbbelond member, and among those
present *. re :
Mr II ft mania ice.,Sr F Johnston., M.P., Mr. J.
Lomita (May or),COlonel Akeni,ma.,Mr Thornton, Mr RN
Howard Capt Boot, its., Mr James Robertson, Mr W
Talbot, Mr G B Welatord. Dr Moorhead, Mr R Mr
• bli F C Steggalb Mr M H Devon ish. Mr GE ion, Mr
J MiLer, Mr W B BoM rote, Mr E Derenish,
Mr R C Bennett, mpleman, Mr IC Dunn, Mr T..rgett,
Mr J B Ratans, Mr R Oakley, Mr B Hopkin., Mr H Pope,
Dr. Simpaon, Mr J Dcvenish, Mr R A Ayles, Mr S
Mr T Snook. Mr W T Hallett, Mr Boyton Smith, Mr A
Curtis, Mr T ft Charim Mr W B Mervin. Mr .1 Jesty,
Mr W J Harker, Mr J A Talliot, Mr T 1) Luce, Mr T
Cripple, Mr A E 'Wells, Mr T Abbott, Mr G R Crek may,
MrC Arden, Mr H R James, Dr Tigard, Mr P Hooper,
Mr T B Grove* Mr S 8 Killedge, Mr Yarrow, Mr W T
Cole, Mr J G Rowe, Mr J Vincent. Mr H Wheeler, Mr
Deng. Mr J Reunion, Mr C hasty, Mr John Ford, Mr H
T George, Mr W &Mermen, Mr E Delsenham, Mr W
Lannitut, Kr Hamilton Pelee, Mr W Turner. Mr A P pr
Mr T A Hamm Dr Wood, Mr G Andrews, jun, Mr .1
Luudie. jun. Mr Pritchard, Mr H Nangle, and Mr 0
Reynolds.
After grace bad been sung.
The CHAIRMAN said before proposing the first Mast he
would read a letter from Dr. Drew, expressing his regret
that through illness he ins unable to be present, and
wishing Mem a very pleasant evening.
Mr. EDWARDS then proposed the tout of the Queen,
remarking that in this loyal borough of Weymouth there
had always been a great attachment to the throne.
(The toast was loyally received, and the partsingers gave
the National Anthem).
Sir YRILDLRIP JOHNSTONE, Bart., 111 P., being called on
I promised "TI,. health .4 the Priem and Prince's of
I Wales and the rest of the Road Family." H. was sure
every one in Weymouth had • very pleating reminiscence
of the visit of the Prince of Wales AO the town, and must
entertain • sincere hope that H.R.H. will come here
again. (Hear sad applause.) All knew be was always
foremost in every work of charity. R.R.H. had very
much contributed to the seems. of the British department
In the Paris Exhibition. He (Sir Frederic) had heard it
said that if there were many Princes of Wales in France
there would not be any Republic. (Laughter.) AA
inflected the Prince', of Wales, no words of his could
Poisibly add to the great respect and admiration with
which the was looked up to by every clam in the country.
(Ariplaum)
Vocalism : Rattan's part song. "The Sailor's Song."
The loving cup was here introduced and passed round
the whole of the company.
Mr. K. if. KURT, up., remarked the next Wait had
been entrusted to him, but be had just ow crumb of
comfort in undertaking it. That was the redaction
that happily it was a toast requiring no words of his to
commend it to them. If ever • right feeling body of
Eaglishmen are assembled there we always find • willing
mud generous welcome given to the clarity and other
ministers of religion. This is • peculiarly English toast
, he doubted if there was any other country in Europe
where it would meet with any considersMe acceptance.
In some countries it would be received with execration, in
others with sullen aversion, and in others, if people dared
, to speak out their mind* with sneers of scorn, and even
, in other Protestant countries the toast accupied • lower
: position than there. He believed that for about 300 years
we have in this country enjoyed the pure faith of the
Protestant church. Need upon the truth of God's Word,
which has been opposed to the liberty of the subject.
We look with pride to our army we point with satiafac-
tion to our navy, the m at splendid navy in the world, we
look around with astonishment to the growth of our
commerce, and to the almost daily extension of our
I colonial empire; but it is not in this way, or by all this
that Is formed the real strength and glory of this country;
It is became we hold that pure Protestant faith limed on
the Word of God, and handed down from our forefather.:
this has constituted the great strength of this country. It
is the pride of EngiMmen to reflect that the sun never
WA
on our Queens world-wide empire': but it is cer.
tartly a more sore cameo( pride and honour to remember,
In the wads of our late Lord Chancellor, that during
otos, how of the day and night, the Lord's prayer is said
In the English tongue in every part of the world. It In
beeemw, we Believe religion to be the real strength and
glory in this land that we are always ready to accord a
willing and hearty welcome to the clergy and minister, of
every denomination, as representing that religion, and it
is not going too far to say that no country ever
• more devoted self-denying body of men than treari:sr".4
and ministers of the various church*s of this land. Mr.
Eliot then proposed "The Health of the Bishop and
Clergy of the Diocese, and Ministers of other Denomina-
tions," coupled with the name of the Rev. J. Miller.
Applause.)
VW-wen; Able Thuringian Volkalied—" Forget-me-
not."
The Rev. J. Morin begged to thank them for the very
hind and cordial way an which the toast had been received.
Modesty would prevent him from saying very much.; but
the clergy of this town might very well associate with
such meetings, in doing honour to our hardworking
Mayor for we have here • body of hard-working clergy.
Mx. Killer hare alluded to the preferment of the Rev. V.
F. Raniseae, remarking he ored Kr. Ransoms were
there to answer for himself; whilst they were very glad
to how he was preferred, they were very sorry to lose
him. Tear. and applause.)
giOassan said the toast which be had the honour
to proper appealed to their warmest feelings of patriotism
and wee one which be felt sure would be received by all
present with the cordiality and euthasiasm usual,
ootorgtg to it in every assembly_
.of Englishmen. Ilene that
of "Th. steal nary, and madly faeces." He remarked
our lot had fellen in trouble's and critical times. We
bad of late yew heard much of wan and rumours of wan,
of nation rising &sabot nada; and king& a against
kingdom while we had been permitted to enjoy the
unspeakable blessings of peace. But, however daimons
we might be to live on terms of amity with all other
names, the time might wim-4boakM he trusted it
was far distant-4Am it sidrat be nacre.ery for this
country, In vindication of her honour or in mathtalnaoce
of her intimate, to mart to the arbitranimit of war. For
his own part, being alone of peace, be strangly deem
eated ware. one of the Ferniest scourge' of hionsanity,
and thought it should never be intend maw unless is •
demise resin Flier the failure of every expedient known
to gipieggem. But in the event of our Ming milled open
to draw ibe sword in • BM and righteous mese, it must
be • source of satisfaction to know that at no former
period of our history were our land and see forces more
mogul.' of oserning the national will than at the present
woo Lapolanse.) There could. he though; be ree doubt .
that we were mainlY indebted the thorned' sdiciency of
our pow ottgtose for the= position whka we at
WIMPS MO among the met the worlds se it Wal

universally admitted that our natictealpresffellever Maud
higher than at that snontsist (APelasse.) With reaPect
to Ws army, be dated oer gallant soldiers stW
the indomitable syarit sod powers clusracteristio tsrommwri re-
eaten in the brave days of old, and although they had
not been recently tested, unless in the Abpsinian and
Amirante' expeditions, they were, he believed, .1 callable
art ever of redacting great lustre upon British arms.
(Applause.) As regards the navy, they were all justly
proud of it, ea it was never in • more powerful or efficient
state. When a short time since our Moliterranem
Squadron, in obedience to orders, entered and Dowsed
through the Dardrinelles, being ready in mac of resistance
to bombard tad silence the fort.. shat Englishman did
Cot feel flushed with patriotic pride as he reflected upon
the noble manner in which that squadron represented the
majesty sad dignity of this great empire I It WIN
gratifyWg to learn from the highest authority that our
nary at prossat equalled, if it did not exceed, the united
DaViel of the werld, and when we contemplated the grand
naval deacostration about to take Place in our waters we
must feel assured Britaania could not only bold her own,
but was still mistress of the seas. (Appleuse.) As to the
auxiliary forme, but especially the volunteers, be could
not adequately esteem hi. dsep moose of trie important
services they rendered to the country. It was, indeed, •
noble eight to ove our young men, instead of being com-
pelled by conscription aa abroad, coming voluntarily
forward and giving their unremunerated services in
defence of our hearths and homes; such unselfish devotion
justly entitled them to the respect and gratitude of their
tellow-countrymen. In conclusion, when we consider the
extent of this empire—that tire sun never sets upon our
dominions, and that our Lig goats UOOU every ~o—and at
the same time the unequalled privileges and blessings
which, as • nation. we enjoyed, w e could not but offer our
tribute of praise to our gallant army and navy, whose
historic valour and heroism had won for us the &WWI,
tion of the world, having mode this country
Great, glorious, and free,
First dower of the earth, arid drat gem of the sea.
(Applause.)
Vocalist.: Hatton' part soog.—" The Tar's &mai"
Captain Easr, An. after returning thanks, regretted
that some one of a higher position had not been selected
to nwPond for the Navy. It was not a mere after-tfioner
etat vm..nt when he said the Navy was never in • more
efficient state than now. Though this is a time of pro.
found peace. and he hinocif was not on active service,
be had been fir • considerable time at Portsmouth,
engaged in torpedo instruction, and had there witne.sed
the precautions now being taken, that in case this country
wee plunged into s am, we should be enabled to go to war
with • strong force, and make victory certain. Not only,
as his friend Dr. Moorhead hail observed, is the navy able
to compete with all the navies of the world ; but if we
should be plunged into war, we should be able in a few
days to fit out and arm with very heavy guns, from 50 to
100 of the most powerful oceangoing steamers, for the
pr,rtecti..n of our con:Marco, which is • very important
point. We had all read of the pnitended attempt. of
Ruesia,—for he belived they were nothing but attempts,
to fit Out a Get ot privateers to prey upon our commerce,
but our ship. would cieckmate their 'neer to do that,
!sang they bad it. Ne was. surelt would be bad .day

for the Hie,: and &eland. when the toast of the Nl,l
was not received in the MOO kind manner all they had
received it that night. (Applauee.)
Cat .nel Antis, commanding Royal Engtheen, responded
for the Army. Dr. Moorhad had not only pr mooed the
health of it, Axgny, but had also returned thanks for it,
for he said more in laudation of the Army than he (Col.
Akers) would venture to any. A short time ago it was
said we ernee net a military nation, and had no business
to contend with the military nations of the Continent. In
one sem we are not • military nation we are happily
plead by G td's providarce, surrounded by what was
felicitously called "the slyer streak," a good broad streak,
a good deep streak, one in which weete able to manceum
• very considerable and a very formidable fleet. But In
OnO sense WO may he called • militate nation, that is, in
our military spirit. (Limnos') This had been proved
and brought to light by the fact that, as soon as time was
• chance of war, we had offers of assistance,—the army is
not all we have to depend 'von, amongst the Volunteers
there was quite • cootenti a who should go forward
and our own colonist were noxious to afar aid, last, hat
not least, there was our great dependency of ladle;
directly it was called upon the call was received with
the greatest optimism ; and • little driblet of 7,000 men
from that country had gone to Malta; but they only
represented on. drop in the great ocean of eoldiers that we
can tap, if found necessary. It is perfectly clear other
countries see as they have seen before, that we are •
military nation, and it has raised this nation in their
opinion. With regard to oar own regular tercel, he was
quite sure that—Monks to their commander-inchief —and
• good military Government, our army was never in •
more efficient Ante than it ie at present, and if It is called
imam he was quite sure the country may depend upon its
doing it, duty. (Applausol
Lieut. Time:ores, t0.0.0ic., bad much phloem in
returning thank. in the caste of the Yeomanry. He was
particularly glad that he had the opportunity of
addressing them to-night, m he wished to thant them
not only for their kindness tonight, but also for t he cordial
reception the inhabitants of Weymouth give the Yeomanry
year after year. He cleared .o thank them all; but he was
sure it would not be an invidious exception if be thanked
the Mayor who for the past two years had been most kind
to them, and they appreciated it most thoroughly. After
the two speeches we had jus: listeued to. and also when
ee
remembered that in a few days we shall see if
Portland assembled one of the most powerful fleets that
was ever seen off the coast, he did not think there need be
much fear of an invenon. (Hear, hear, and applause.) He
hoped by God'e grace, the time might be far diaant when
the Volunteers will have to defend our own country; but
if that time ever does come, we shell one and all do our
best to do our ditty. (Applause.)
biaj,W Gun. EIJOT. 4th D.T A., said it One° more
became his duty to return thanks in an assemlily of this
kind, for the volunteers. It mat be • satisfaction to the
country generally to hear that the number of effirient
volunteers this year considerably exceeds that of last
year, and—be thought he .as richt in saying—that of
every previous ear since the volunteers had been em-
bodied. We must not forget, whie here to-day to do
honour to the M .f or, that though his hoary locks had
prevented him from shouldering a :orbit., or wielding a
sword, be had always been foremost and ready to give his
influence to the volunteers, whenever occasion arose.
(Aeplatise.) Colonel Akers had entitled to a development
which hail taken place among the volunteers since we last
had the pleasure of seeing them in that town.
was quite true the voluntecing of the volunteers
for foreign service may be taken as • sign of the
martial spirit of this nation, and he was glad
to see there was no chance of the martial spirit
dying out amongst us. But be was also very glad to see
that volunteering for foreign serving had receive.' a check,
and the Secretary of St oe for War bed had the te.al
sense and firmness to decline their offer, and had informed
time, gentlemen who had formed a corp. for foreign
service that if they wished to undertake that service,
there were the avenues of the reeuler army open to them.
H. (Maj sr Eliot) felt the first object of the volunteers—the
defence of their own country—is the one, and anything
beyond that will lte a certain failure, for frotu his
experience and knowledge of the volunteers (awl he had
been a volunteer ever since the commenceuaent of the
movement) and wee therefore able to speak with some
authority as to the capabilities of the force—he felt
persuaded they were not fitted to undertake foreign
service. It is a very different thing from defending our
shores; the volanteers would be useful in protecting them
where every road and ditch was known to them. He was
very idea indeed that the fi-cretary for War had bad the
goal common sow to point out to the volunteers that they
should not attempt to co beyond their coast. (Applause.)
Yaralista : Beale's madrigal—" Come let us join."
Mr. IC tweeds, rising WY again received with cheering.
The CHAI11101: Gentlemen, local and municipal self-
govern went lathe history of this country has always been
upheld as one of our most valued institutions, both as
, regards the preservation of order, and also the administra-
tion of justice. In earlier times It was the privilege alone
of the capital cities of the kingdom, to elect their Mayor
. and Corperation but that gradually became extended,
and Weymouth has long since had the privilege accorded
to her of flee:ins her Mayor and Corporation, the bead of
which is our honoured guest this evening. (Applause.)
In all Corporation charters nearly, and certainly in that
of the City of London, it is provided that the election of
the Mayor shall be annual, and that was done for the
, purpose of 'Manilla an opportunity to the citizens, when-
ever • Mayor proved himself worthy of their special
esteem,—theo had the opportunity of a mooed election.
And that bnngs me to the toast of the evening—to do
honour tr the man whom the town and borough of
Weyotoate has delighted to honour. (Applause.) For I
contend it is • very high honour to occupy the position
which our friend Mr. Lundie doe, upon this occasion to
enjoy the esteem of his friends, both politic and private,
for during the time he has filled the office of Mayor he
has done so to the entire seta' oration of the town. I do
not know that ever • Mayor weir elected with greater
nooenaiion than our excellent and worthy friend, Mi.
Lundie. (applause.) Now, gentlemen, the duties of
Mayor are no sinecure, and they are gradually growing
wee and more onerous the great queetior of loral
taxation is one which has seemed to bother me if I may
say ea Ever since the first time I had the honour of being
returned to Parliament, at every BOOSiOn the question of
local tozatioi has been promised to be brought forward;
bat it is found to be so grave and serious a matter—one
affecting so mazy interests—that really they seem to
hardly dare to touch it. When we consider the amount
of local taxation this Isat year ham reached to the enormous
sum M £41.000,900, it strides on very closely towards
Imperial taxation, for if WO take away the interest On the
National Debt, it nearly comes to the same amount. In
1873-73 the aggregate totals of local taxation and revenue
reached =ammo. exceeding the previous year by Si
million 'meads : in 1077-78 the aggregate amount yeahei
fur local taxation was £11.000.000, exceeding by ova
£5.000,000 the local taxation of 72-73, and the loans out.'
standing w•re at the close of the list finaecial year no
less than LIS) 000.0000. So you have an =meal expendi-
ture of £4L000.000, and loans of £130.000,000. I was told
this very day something which Rave me great satisfaction
—that the greater part of Weymouth is Corporation
Property, and in • few years' time the house in which we
are dining will also be Corporation property, the
. Corporation of Weymouth will therefore become very
rich, and we shall have the satisfaction, if we live long
enough, of being able to 00Ine down and dine with the
Mayor and Coroorativn of Weymouth in their own house
I do not wish to tremens further upon your valuable time,
In proposing this toast, as it is one which will be received
most heartily by you. When I was in India a
Parm gentleman was called upon to propose • toast,
which was called the toast of the evening. The Perm
(materna" said gentlemen. tans going to offer you a
toast-1 toast that needs no butter." (Laughter.) The
toast I iun &boot to propose needs nothing to be said
beyond smiting our worthy and bonoured Mayor loos
life, health. and Apple's*. The manner in which he has
occupied the char must be not only a aural of satisfac-
tion to himself hut also a bright pledge of pleasure and
seuelegoen to tth family, both now and hereafter. (The
toast was received with much cheering, "one more" being
• en for the Lady Mayorga, and "one more" for the
Son.)
The Macon, on rising, was received with renewed
apple.. and : Mr. Charropa, brother townsmen, and
gentlemen, who have. to-night favoured us with your
presence at this gallant... I mu not very often backward,
Dor smus4 generally of very much modesty. I am
afraid, as regards Public speaking; but to-night, after the
exceeding warm terms which our member has been using
towards me, tribally feel much MGM at a loss to speak to
you and return thanks than upon any occesion during the
totimysoul
„has,vejahady. thotepleimuirel 0.1 knowing you
lora:Lee
you
very muck for the very high eoddistinguiebee compliment
von have paid me to-night. And permit me to thank
lyre% those gentlemen of the committee who voluntarily
undertook and kindly carried out what I think has been
so sueosseful • result—this banquet. (Applause) To those
gentlemen for their untiring Patience, their great kindness
In seperistending all the details, for the continuance of
the interest from the time first apoipnted for the dinner,
which unhappily from my Ill-
asl postponed to the
premed, moment for all these continued marks of kindness
permit nes to express my very heartfelt and very Meer"
ro th. gentlemen and members of the Corpora.
Use, to the Aldermen and common Councilors who
have assisted in this matter, and who are present with us
etnitGearnhtht. :&11,64nin't thitalMitasa. will blares forexPrasme tolaLpaalhaakt%
oar two [ambers, present with us this raining. both of
whom Ile in the esteem and affection of the inhabiteats,
to atem mpeekilto do I owe a vote of thanks for having at
great personal tnemorenience and 'arida, come to
mace by their presence and sustain by their Influence
this, / trust, not to. be-spa:dile • forgotten meeting.
To Mr. Edwards I need not MT how much I owe
bi bow much we all know him. To Sit
Johnetone. who bee come from the Continent
(and whe returns in aday or two), who has come expreeely
to met his conetitnents, and to show by his presence Gat
whatever Mr. Edwards undertakes, he is not to be, at all
sweet& nomad in supporting. (Great applause) To show
the WWI] of Weymouth in its representation at the
present moment is not represented, as has been said,
by one, hat by two gentlemen, who have both secured the
sympathy, support, sad affection of this constituency. (Ap-
Opoop.)- Permit me to thank pot both most sincerely—
yen, Mit Edwards, for your reeilineee in coosiag„ and for
lite kind sad more than Ladehoff waffs_Too have used la
reds,.., to my poor aorriose—to you, Wa Palacio. who

In my Uhler kindly remembered me and wrote from Italy.
and are now come to mace and honour me with your
presence. Gentlemen. there is one thing in connection
with this meeting this evening which all opts me most
especial pleasure, and that it is what I consider to be a
rememntative gathering of the town. I ets.nd bare, as I
said at the commencement of my term of office, not as
Mayor of one party, but as the Mayor of the town of
Weymouth; it is my pride and Lounge moil distinction
that I have no claim Upon either party; hot I have come
to do the heat according to my feeble ahitities, and the
strength which Sad has given me, in carrying out what I
conceive to he most advantageoue to the m an which has
done so much for me, andiron which I have received for
so many years its kiwi, continuous, and coo stant support.
As long as I am permitted to occupy my Pramit Position
I•trust strength will be given me during Our present year
to attend to all thine detaib, both legal rind otherwiew
which devolve upon the chief magistrate of this ancient
borough. It was said Ly our worthy ...bor that in
torn, days, only cliief towns and cities had the diatin-
guished honour of electing mayors. Permit me to may
Weymouth dates its mayoralty from the row of Eliisbetist
that glorious Queen, dating somethiug like 100 years heck.
We must recollect that what was granted them must
have been • distinguished privilege in those days,
and I trust we have not lost any of our loyal spirit
since it was the mark and distinction of a borough
standing well and high in the county. I hope
we shall stand still higher than we do, at the present
moment, and that Weywouth will increase in material
pro-perity, in every kind of prosperity essential to itl
and that for • long period a succetaion of
Mayors, far more worthy than the one who occupies the
chair at the present moment., will preside over the doings
of the Aldermen and Councoken ni tin. ancient
(No, no.) I have too much respect for the time before us,
anti too much bore for tweet music, to stand here talking
but again thanking you for the great honour you have
shown rue, and the coruuliwent paid to your Chief mairim
Irate, I trust I have not mid one word more thso it is
my desire heartily to carry out. I therefore sit down, ex-
prestoing the great ;leisure I have felt in treeing this
BOarti surrouudod by the gentlemen present this evening.
(Atiplause.)
1 Yoe ilista: Hatton's part song—" When evening's
Twilight."
Mr. Alderman 110 WARD remarked the Mayor had very
truly said this was a representative assemblage. It was •
rePrgthutattve .(tasemlilage of the town, to do honour to
the man of their choice, one of his childhood's friends,
who has done whatever he has been called upon to do
and that with satisfaction to the two. (Applause.) It
was also a source of satisfaction that our two borough
members are carrying out the deep Interest they always
display in everything that affects Weymouth, one would
come here to preside over them to-night, and the other
would come to support him On what he might call our
joyous occasion. Therefore he (Mr. Howard) felt pride
nod honour in propusing, the toast of "The Borough
Members" We have been now for nearly 800 years •
borough, we are one of the earliest boroughs in England,
and have taken the mod important part in promoting our
country's welfare. So esteemed was the piece that even
the very land on which we stand at one time formed Part
of the dowry of a Queen, for Melcombe was part of
Queen Eleanor's dowry. Four members were returned to
Parliament, two by Melco rote Regis, and two by Wisp
mouth, and so it continued for centuries almost. Than it
became the duty of our spinster Queen E isabeth to unit*
the two boroughs; so well had they done their
duty that she gave them that favounte coat
of arm—(winch he believed he had upon lois brain at the
present moment) the Bridge. (Loughter.) That was 009
of the happiest things that ever had happened to them.
Although the lady did not believe in union for herself, or
was engaged in spreading happiness around among other
people that she had no time for it personally, this was one
of those glorious things for which her memory most ever
be held sacred by every one in Weymouth and Meloombe
Regis—that she united the two boroughs. put still they
continued to return four menvbers to Parliaent, therefore
Weymouthothd-Melcombe-Regis and London had MOM to
do w ith the legislation of this country than any other town
in England. (Laughter and applause.) Not only that,
all those who are acquainted with the history of the town
know that it was so exposed to f. es front its nearness to
France that they vented their spin n upon it, and it had
to bear the greatest firma of the battle in those days. It
had fortifications, and although it was • royal borough,
and owed the King and Queen annual rents, yet they
generally forgave it, on account or e hat it had done for
the welfare of the Kingdom at large, He felt proud of
the British soldier, and also of the British *mimeo ; but we
might have the machinery and still we should need the
beads to work it for the coentrv's good. It was the
institutions of Eiigland which ',Marti the One of freed-lin
to be unfutled and that raised England step he step until
it has become the grandest rif empires, on which the sun
never sets. (Applause.) Therefore, as an ancient and
loyal borough, the dowry of a Queen, he felt Proud to
stand on such • soil as this. Penni: the whole of the time
he had mentioned, members had been sent to Parlianvent
from the ancient and loyal borough, on whom we can look
back with pride, but there never wee • time when we
could look more proudly on our membere than on the
present occasion. (Applause.) We have two gentlemen
to represent us in the House of Comnions who have been
the hearts' choice of their constituents, and it required
nothing for him to add to the warmth of the reception
them present would give the toast. In everything they
ran do for the town, they do not even require saking, for
they almost anticipate our widiest (Applause.) Therefore,
without any further preface and without any comment,
seeing they ire Wire amongst us, he gave the Motet the
"Health of Mr. Henry Edwards. me, and of Sir Frederic
Johnsuine, Burt, tar." (Aripl.u.e and musical honours.)
Vocal nit : Tin h fit mg "Tire.' Chafers" (encored)
Mr. HENRY Ettwaans. 11 e , on rising was received with
universal enthusiasm, umindested in the heartiest manner,
and with long continued persistence. Mr. Edwards,
after • considerable interval hail ampere,' before the
applause could moderate, said :--Gentlemen, I beg to
thank you most eincerely for the honour you have done
me in accenting this toast from our excellent friend, Mr.
Howard. I had, before his aimed% ever had very great
pride and pleasure in being elected one of your
representatives. Hot certainly, he ha. over • wed
me with responsibility, when he tells what have
been tho tlne, of Weymouth, and what kind' of
honour han fallen to my lot. All I ran soy in,—
My humble endeavour has always Iron to rin my hest to
maintain and keep up the prestige of those who have gone
before me. There is nn greater pleasure to me than to
help do good, in anil hr Wevm itith. and the desire which
actuated me find will always actuate In- to the Wet.
gentlemen. I know very well go...titans of POliiiC4 nrc
exclude.); but if they were not I have notlong
to tell, for we have nothing to boast of in the way of
legislation. lii were to attempt to mike a lons speech.
I should he considered by all of vou an " Obatructive." end
we know that Ml'.'. hearing that mime are not looked
upon with the warmest regard. (Laughter.) 111 were to
Inflict upon you a long speech. you may pea-lily know
what it is to have a midnight sitting, and you might
possible not return honie till the early hours of the morn-
ing. (Laughter.) I am glut to say that at the present
time there is a prospect of peace; it is a very aerials
moment., for I hope we are (in the eve if the settlement
of the great questiiin which has agitated &eland and
Europe so long. I say the eve of settletipint, f ir in a day or
two Bits the Congress, and I hope those venerable states-
men, when they meet, will be able to bring to bear all
their Power and all their knowledge, so as to secure peace,
and that we shall for a long tinie enjoy that blessing.
(Hear. bear.) But how these gentlemen are to perform
this marvellous duty in the space of a week or ten days, I
am mire I don't know. The Congress which sat at Paris
in 1856. when matters at that time were not so very new
, or important as they are at this moment,—hecause then it
was • settlement between Russia and other Powers of
Europe, whereas now all the Powers have a voice in the
great question—sat for 61 days, and how this Congress is
to accomplish it. work in so short a time, I cannot tell
you. The last C inference, held at Paris, relative to the
treaty of peace, in 1656, began Its sitting no February 25th,
and did not conclude until the 27th of April, and out of
that time they actually sat in deliberation 33 dam
The powers who attended the Congress were England,
Russia, France, Friona, Turkey, Sardinia, and Austria,
and this was the wind-up of their deliberations for 61 days.
They concluded • treaty, which was headed tithe :
" General Treaty between Her Majesty the Queen of
(treat Britain and Ireland, the Korot tors of Awitria and
France. the King of Prated/L. the Emperor of Husain, the
King of Sardinia, and the Sultan.'
And the lint article says:—

"There shall be rage and jrienclakip from the day of the
treaty between all the shove sovereigns, and their heirs
and successors, end their respective dominions and
subjects, in penetuify " (Hear, and taught. r )
This is the produce ot days' deliberation, which is now
an much waste paper; but now we have all the repreeenta-
tint of these States assembled once again to go thromth all
this great and serious matter of a Treaty—l will not call it
a farce—but I earnestly hope the result of the prethat
Congress will not be like that of the past, though I believe
it will. One great point has been (gained, one of the most
important points we have gained in this matter ii that we
have not allowed tbe principle to be carried out—that
Might is Right. (Resr, hear, and applause) If we were
to allow • Great Power to domineer over a weak one. I
should like to know what position England would be In.
We should be forced, as a matter ef course, to become •
nation of soldiers to maintain our own, and therefore the
yreat benefit the Government have obtained in this case
is that of • Congress being summoned in which all the
Crowned Heeds of Europe will be represented, so that we
shell have a Treaty at all events for a time, and I hope it
will be a much longer rather than a shorter time. Diem,
and applause.) I will not detain you longer • but thank
you very much for the honour you have done ma in
drinking my health. (Loud enplanes.)
Sir Famigaic Jontigtowx, we., who WU received with
loud and enthusiastic cheers, thid.—Gentlemen. I heft to
return you my most sincere thanks for the very nattering
reception which you hive given to the toast of my health,
and I take this opportunity of congratulating the Mayor
upon his recovery from ill health, and to Amore him that
though the last time I travelled over a thoueand miles to
be present at the banquet, I would most willing by have
travelled three times the number if I could have restored
him to health. (Applause.) Touching our local affairs ;
we have heard • great deal about the Weymouth and
Cherbourg steamers scheme, and I confess myself at this
moment I certainly do think it might have become • fact
accomplished. I mutt say, from all I have heard—l any
he misinformed —I am told it is owing to the French
Government not allowing the boats to land too near the
Arsenal. I think the Town Council have been treated in
the matter somewhat unfairly, considering the enormous
amount of trouble and time they have given to this
matter, and I may say I believe the illness of our worthy
Mayor was owing, in some measure, to the enonwousamount
of trouble and vexations disappointment caused by the
scheme and its failure. I must confess I can see no reason
why it should not have been • NOCCeSii, particularly in a
year likethia when the Peris Exhibition in open, and when
you can go from Weymouth to Paris in twelve hours I
cannot see any reason why the scheme should not be
carded out. But under existing circumstances, if we
cannot go to the Paris Exhibition viii Weymouth, we I
must rest content with our Dorset Industrial Exhibition
which is shortly to he opened, and I hops it will be a
success, not only as regards Weymouth, but also as re-
recd. the grown community of the county at large. I
believe the exhibition is to be opened on the 25th of
July, and I wish it every possible sUCCOINI, not only now,
but in the future. I must say one word to express my
Pleasure that the Rev. Talbot Greavee Is still to roman
Rector of St. Mary's, be has been a long time in Wes,
mouth, and he is so well known to his parishioners, that
his leaving would be a great loss to the place. As report
goes, there may be something to be said on the
other side, but anyhow we hope that his cons
*eating to remain may open up a bright future. And
now, I may he allowed to mention the name of that very
hard-working lady. Mrs. Greaves—(ainlause)—who in the
homes of the poor has done a great deal, end we
know it would be very difficult, even if possible, to re-
place her. The Rey. Mr. Miller referred to the lon we
are about to sustain in the removal of Mr. Ransom.
There Is no one in Weymouth who will not feel that lees,
but at the same time we all rejoice he will have • better
living. I think you will agree with me no one deserves it
better than he does. I know we never do talk about
politics In Weymouth, we never allow our political
principles to interfere with our social amusements. But
one word in this important crisis as regards the Cog gram
I am sure there is not an individual present who will not
be delighted at knowing that at this moment. whilst I
am speaking. the Lards Beaconsfield and Salisbury will
have arrived at Berlin, and the first sitting will take
place on Thursday, and that there is one thing clearly
before my mind, we have • very fair proenect of peace, a
DWI/ as satisfactory to the interests of Ragland, sell is
to her honour. (Applause)
Vocalists Msrschner's "Come boys. drink."
Mr. G. R. OIUCIIIIAT gave the toast of "Continued
waglopu7prespand.wiotttiooyptektwir
hlmveashethardarethz.ntas
wt baker
Prosperity to Weymouth." The toast, he said, affects os
vemoubsithuhtmewhitbeen •
ganiteot.gulointe ebq.ekualastotbt.hewCierty.of
thLoad.
87:7.7tea1r to it, and equal in point of goemberm He
George 111, came here to each repose; bat within our '
own time, some 25 years since, we should gag, it had made
• groat movement onward. We thorn had ao railway ; bat
now we have both Groat_ Wicaura aad BastleWoadara, and
bops to balm thelndbuid deo. (Haar, bus, aud

) We have had SR John's Church. the CoMaisie
Caustuilt, and • largo number ol other public buildinfa
and institudons, and even stream, and the population has
shout doubled. Though Weymouth ha, thus increased
for some time poet, there is no reason why it should not
go on. and even be redoubled. It remained with the
gentlemen present to give it • push onward. Our worthy
Chairman and the honourable &meet bad done their
be:4t to help Weymouth forward, and now it ouly remains
for Weymouth people to set nude all party feelings, to go
forward heartily arid with goodwill, and, depend upon it.
Weymouth will go ahead, and be second to no watering
PI oxe in the Kingdom. First of all, he asked their hearty
co-operation in pushing the town forward, and then be
asked them to loin with him in drinking " Continued
Prosperity to Weymouth.**
Me. T. A. Baum eloquestli proposed "The Health
of
the [Adios."
Vocalists : Bishop's glee, "Sleep, gentle lady."
Mr. W. Rossano/4 and Kr. It T. GlOlOll responded.
The Vocslists next song 'By Celina Arbour," after
which the Chairman, with Sir Frederic and the Mayor,
left their seats.
" The Ilenith of the Host," Mr. Rowe, with acknow•
lodgments for the excellent repast he had provided, was
afterwards given, and the pleasures of the evening were
prolonged by other toasts and songs.