The British Press; or, Morning Literary Advertiser.
London, England, 1824-05-17 00:00:00

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▪ ere cnlculiied to promote the welfare and happiness of Mankind.
To stew how persecution still prevailed on the Continent, and the
consequent neccutty of the continuance of their exertions, he would
read a letter which had been put into his hands since he entered the
l.weting. It was written front the Protestant l'anton of Geneva, in
iteria,d, and he was sorry to add that the persecutions it de-
toiled wi re sanctioned. or at leat pemiitled with impunity, by the
magisterial authoritits of the place. The letter witi written in
Preach, and he would have there-lure to claim the indulgence of the
meting in the hasty translation he should give it. The letter
witted, that a minister there was expelled t a village into which
1, went, not for purpoies of public worship, but on the private
tronuction of his own Akita I -ivcn from thence, he came to
Lisle, where the sane ill,reatment awaited him, and was it not
the Reviless of his course he would have with difficulty escaped
alive. He took refuge in the house of a peasant, in the province
• Deveati, there, from the toil and persecution he had undergone,
he was obliged to change clothes with the peasant. There, however,
he was not permitted to remain unmolested long'; the house was
noon surrounded by armed persons; they entered the house and
dragged the minister from thence to prison. It was ten o'clock at
night now. Whilst in prison that night lie was only supplied with
chopped straw on which to repose his wearied limbs. His friends
in the town endeavoured to convey, through the unglazed windows
of his room in the prison, two blankets for his accommodation.
When the guards of the prison perceived this, they seized one ot'the
blankets, saying, that "one was enough for a hog of a Methodist."
The minister is now suffering from the severity of his illness ' • but
lie declared, in the midst of these indignities, although his body
'offered his heart was animated and warmed by the consolation of
It:hitting the commands of the Master whom he served. (Applause)
'lnc previsions which were sent into hini were trampled by the
guanli of the prison, and every species of annoyance, irritation, and
Insult resorted to. So indignant were the English in Switzerland
at the treatment he experienced, that they resolved not to visit or
reside in future in the province of Devesu. Such conduct was
uiious to all lovers ofiimple justice. It was to be regretted that a
Protestant government should have countenanced it; but whilst
sick conduct Is persevered in it becomes incumbent on us to unite
and combine in support of the rights of conscience-rights which it
is the duty of mankind to respect, and which it is impious to in-
Hoge. (Applause.)
The resolution was then put from the Chair, and carried una.
r imously.
Mr. I over. pronosed the second resolution. It was one that
he regretted had fallen to him to propose, for whilst he approved of,
the principles it contained, yet it was a source of deep pain to him
toi reflect that the persecution of opinion prevailed, and that any
necessity should exist for passing such a resolution as he should
submit, or indeed that there should be any occasion at all for such
a meeting as the present. (Applause.)
"That every new demonstration of the Importance and utility
of • The Protestant Society for the Protection of Heiigious
Liberty,' occasions regret and gratitude; and, that while this
meeting annually celebrates the success of the Committee, in ex-
posing or resisting wrongs, they deplore the intolerant spirit whence
those wrong, originate, by which such unabating efforts are required.
',Chat they now lament the continuance of attempts to sages' places
vf religious worship to the poor ; to extort turnpike tolls that have
been repealed ; to disturb, by offensive riots, religious worship pro-
tected by the law ; to withhold the rites of interment front the dead;
to enforce assessed taxes that are not payable, and to deprive the
conscientious poor of all relief:*
Mr. Fsaarea seconded this resolution. Connected as he was
with the Protestant Dissenters of Ireland, he regretted that he
could not congratulate the Protestant Dissentm of this conntr.t on
the enjoyment of the privileges the Irish Dissenters possessed. The
Irish Parliament, much to the credit of their wisdom and sense
of justice, dispensed with the Test and Corporation Acts as regard.
d Dissenters. In Ireland, clergymen of every religious persua-
sion were allowed to celebrate the marriages of their respective
Rocks. There was no necessity to go to the church of theestablish-
ed religion for that purpose. And what was the result of these
concessions to the Protestant Dissenters of Ireland ? Did any mis-
chiefs or dangers to the established religion arise from them ? None.
It was but fair then to infer, that the extension of similar pririleges
and rights to the Dissenters of this country, would be productive
of similar satisfaction in the minds of the Dissenters, and would
be equally unattended with injury or disadvantage to the religion
of the State. _ . . . • .

.....
The resolution was then put from the Chair, and carried unani-
mously.
The Rev. Wu. ECCLES then rose simply to propose the third
resolution, which was seconded by the Rev. W. HIND, of Chelms.
Turd, and carried. It was as follOws:--
" That this meeting regard the Test and Corporation Acts as
laws which no necessity could originally justify, and for which no
practical necessity now exists, and as measures producing disgust
girl' to pious churchmen, and degrading to millions of Britons,
equal to any. of their countrymen in cultivated talent, in public vir-
tue, in patriotic real, and philanthropic usefulness, and therefore
earnestly desire their speedy abrogatioa : and that whilst this meet-
ing approve the conduct of their committee, in declining to concur
in any application to Parliament during the remainder of the Ses-
sion, they would invite liberal Episcopalians and Dissenters of all
denominations• and the it'esleyan Methodists, to prepare, by tem-
perate, but thin and simultaneous efforts (as soon as a new Parlia-
ment shall be elected), toobtain their total and long needed repeal."
A Gentleman, whose name we could not learn, suggested the ex-
pediency of not waiting for a new Parliament to petition, but of a
firm and respectful perseverance in appealing to the Legislature,
both in the present and in every other Session, until they arrived at
the complete and perfect restoration and enjoyment of their rights.
He hoped this suggestion was not out of order, but he thought it
sauld be advantageous to the objects they. had in common at heart,
and therefore begged w offer this suggestion.
Lord II °LLANO assured the gentlemen that there was nothing
irregular in the suggestion he had offered. If he (Lord H.) knew
anything of the proceedings and principles of this Society, it did
cot entertain any apprehension from discussion. (Applause.) His
duty was merely ministerial, and he would either put the resolu.
rico or hear any gentleman who might wish to offer his sentiments
upon it. (Applause.)
Mr. EVANS wished to know if the resolution to postpone petitions
to the Legislature was agreed upon at a special meeting of the
Committee, or at one convened for ordinary purposes.
A rizenth-ir of the Committee replied. ` At a special Meeting."
The conversation here dropped, and the resolution was carried, on
a show of hands almost unanimously.
The Wee. Mr. TOWNSHEND proposed the fourth resolution
which wasseeonded by the Rev. Mr. Dunn—
" That this Meeting lament the rejection of the Unitarian Mar-
riage Bill, not only as a refusal of just relief, but as an indication
of the existence,amongst high authorities, of a potent spirit, hostile
to liberal principles—a spirit hopeless to propitiate, and difficult to
overcome. But that their regret is mitigated by their perception,
that this spirit does not indueoce persons in such elevated situations
es the Rift Rev. the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, and the
Bishop of London, and the Right Hon. the Earl of Liverpool •
and tbat to those distinguished personages, as well as to the nobl;
Whig supporters of the Bill, this Meeting offer, for their more en.
lightened and more liberal conduct, their public and most cordial
ihanks."—Carried unanimously.
MR. SIIITH THE MISSIONARY.

The Rev. Mr. JACKSON ruse to propose the next resolution
which contained an expression of the many benefits which this So-
ciety felt to he derived from the Missionary Society, and a further
expression of regret at the loss of the late unfortunate 111 r. Smith.
Ile (Mr. Jacksmi) was a member not only of this Society but a Di-
',mot also of the 3lissionary Society to which Mr. Smith belonged.
.Most of those present knew how that Society was pledged to the in-
vestigation of all die circumstances of his melancholy fate. It
would not, however, perhaps, be inappropriate here, to assure those
who may have come from the distant parts of the country, that the
Missionary Society would persevere in that investigation until they
had established (what they had the means of establishing) his in.
my :wee, and of rendering his character bright and clear as " as the
lamp that bumeth." The affecting circumstances of his owe would
not be lost sight of until they were thoroughly probed and sifted.
The inve,tivation might be slow andlong—it might not keep pace
skin the warm aid c:seited feelings of his friends; but he had every
confidence that, ph-ttpd as the Society were to the inquiry, that
pledge would be redeeeted by the full and entire vintlie,a of his
innocence. (Cheers.) To the Government, the Miasior ary So-
ciety were indebted for assistance before ; they would proceed
on this, as on every other occasion, with due respect and duty to
the constituted authorities ; but they would avail themselves of
even constitutional resource, and every legitimate means in their
power, in order to arrive at this object, in the prosecution of which
they were fix:d and determined (Applause.) The Reverted
tbeatleman concluded by proposing the foliating resolution :--
'That this Meeting are deeply affected by recent events in the
British Colonies, especially such as are connected with the loss of
Ire Missionary, 31r. Smith, all circumstances relating to whom
they are anxious to see earnestly and thoroughly Investigated ; that
they are assured of the vast individual, local, and national advan-
tages that have resulted from the disinterested and holy labours
of Mis.tonaries in those distant regions; and that, by experience,
elm .y are apprehensive that ecclesiastical establishments may dis-
courage those labours, may retard improvement, and may impede
ttr: progress of civilisation and Chnstian truth; and that they
tLtrcfore approve t ne purpose of the Committee to petition Parlia.
sawn ecaii.,t all needless restrictions on religious wor,hip in the
West Indian Isles; and direct their Committee to watch, with the
rreatest caution, every measure by which the interests of Protes.
testard Dissenters, and the cause of religious freedom, may be as-
fronted in any part of the British Empire, now wide-spreading over
so wary reArs wend s 9 many tuilhons of the human rare."
lard 110 L LA St n—Allow me one wont in explanation before I
put this resolution front the chair. The duty of a Chairman is
purely tricis,erial. In that capacity I have haven fortunate to pre-
side here LO'ore, and I have bent further fortunate to conliully
assent to every sentiment in the I.es:dun:no which it devolved (111
ann to submit to the consideration of the nieeting. In submitting
this resolution, however, I wish to abstain from mixing tip my
awn feeling, with it, cal .lisire that it may be understood, my
duty is pi euli,oly niiniAtv:ial... This I do to guard n ysell against
inferences which persons war candour might attribute to
we, did I rot accompany it tbis explanation. The first part
of the revolution refers to I tflfortunate transactions connected
with the case of Mr. Smith, acd eve' y person, I am sure, must
admire the candid and direct manner in which the Rev. Gentleman
who spoke Leo desires that his ca.c may be fully, fairly, ard man.
fully examined. (Much cheering.) '1 he second part of din_ test,.
lotion throws out an apprehension, that the scheme adopted by
Government for the improvement of the slave population in the
West Ictlies, will not be attended with all the advantages of which
:s calculated and intended they should he productive. It is on
W.. pot of the resolution that I desire, for reasons that must be
e-toiss, to reserve any opinions; at tl:c same time that I do not
dilly. bet that the removal of all needless restriction on religious
surshin is an object very desirable to be effected. (Applause.)
Mr. Ell prop's ii the sixth resolution—
•• Toot this • meeung desire that some measures be speedily
ailopiel, whereby the baptismal regisurs of Protestant Disseaters

and Methndists shall be rendered as sesirieg u the parochial re. '
gisters of the Established Church, and whereby the numerous
Baptist brethren should have some valid register of births, and be
no longer subject to those peculiar oppressions to which they have
been so long and cruelly exposed."
Mr. Tow XIIIIEN ii seconded this resolution. Ile was glad to see
the the spirit of toleration finding its way to the bench of Bishops.
A little leaven having got amongst them, would, he hoped soon
leaven the whole lump. (A laugh). The spirit of persecution was
yet strong, and required the continued exertions of the friend*
of civl and religious liberty. let us not despair of their
ultimate success, as Alexander said to Parnienio—" Let us
reserve hope." It might be as well attempted to pelt the sun with
snow-balls, or to stop her in her mho, as to prevent the ultimate
softest' of principles which were founded in truth and justice.
The resolution was then unanimously agreed.
The Rev. Mr. REYNOLDS (of Romney) proposed the seventh
revolution, which was seconded by Mr. EVANS, and carried ununi-
MIA?
" 1 hat although this Society have not hitherto opposed grants
of public money for the erection of new churches connected with
the Established Church ; yet, as they are convinced that the vast
wealth of that ('hutch supplies resources sufficient for all such
purposes, as such buildings are frequently erected without neces-
sity, and converted into means of individual gain ; as themselves,
at their own charges, erect and uphold all their thousands of reli-
gious edifices, and support their 31thisters, and yet contribute equ-
ally with their countrymen to tithes, church-rates. and all the
charges of the Established Church ; and as Episcopalians, would
freely erect such edifices if the privilege of presenting their own
Alinteters was not withheld. This Society now specially instruct
their Committee to oppose any further grants for those purposes,
and pledge themselves strenuously to co-operate for the prevention
of the increase of burdens which ought nut to be imposed. '
Mr. R. 11. Shane proposed the eighth resolution, which
was duly seconded and carried—
" That the judicious, energetic, and well-directed exertions
of the l'ommittee for this Society, during the past year, merit
continued confidence and unabating praise, and that they be re-
quested to form the Committee foe the ensuing year."
The Rev. Mr. GILBERT pronounced a handsome eulogy on the
merits and services of Mr. Stephen, the Treasurer, and proposed
the ninth resolution, which was carried with acclamation :
" That to Robert Steven, Esquire, their Treasurer, the Meet-
ing present their sincere as well as accustomed thanks, and that
he be requested to continue his efforts for religious freedom, by
those useful labours for the improvement of Ireland, which tend
to thegreatest usefulness and have been rewarded by great success."
Mr. ST EPHEN, in returning thanks, said, that he regretted to
announce there had been a considerable falli.ig off last year in the
funds of the Society. This did not arise from the want of dispo-
sition to support the Institution, but from an erroneous opinion
which prevailed that we were rolling in wealth. Sow, the whole
amount of the finds of the Society were 4.30 W. in the 3 per cents.
and this sum he was sure the Society would agree with him should
not be touched, but reserved for some great struggle that might
arise. (Applause.) Ile hoped, therefore, that Gentlemen would
not withhold their pecuniary support from nciples of which they
m principles
so much approved, and fro the success of which they must derive
manifold benefits. . . . . .

The Rev. Mr. RUSSELL proposed the tenth Resolution, in a
speech of high commendation of the services of the Secretaries.
' That this Meeting cannot adequately express their high esti-
mation of the indefatigable, intelligent, and disinterested labours of '
Thomas Pellatt, Esq. and John Wilks, Esq. the Honorary Secre-
taries to this Society, and that they be respectfully invited to con-
tinue their labours through another year."
Mi. PEI. LAT T, on the part of himself and his colleague, briefly
returved thanks, and assured the Meeting of the co-operation of
their best seal and services in promoting the principles and &dime-
ing_the interests of the Society. (Applause.)
The Rev. Mr. Cr n wen rose to propose the eleventh and last
resolution. Ile was not meowed to make a speech, but, as a sub-
stitute for one, would tell a Yorkshire anecdote. A gentleman in
Yorkshire wished to engage a servant for a particular branch of his
service Three persons applied far the situation. He asked the
first--" Richard, what can you do ?" " I can do every thing,
Sir," replied Richard. He then applied to the second—" John.
what can you do ?" " Any thing, Sir," was the answer. " And
what can you do, Thomas ?" " Nothing, Sir," was the reply.
" What do, you mean, friend?" said the gentleman. " Vfliy I
mean, Sir,' said Thomas, " that as Richard can do every
thing, and as John can do anything, that there is nothing
left for me to do; so I can do nothing." (Much laughter.)
This was pretty nearly the case with him at present, for so much
had been said in able exposition of the sound principles of the So-
ciety, that not a word was left for him to add in commendation of
them. (Applause.) Indeed the particular resolution which be
had to submit did not require any eloquence to enforce—it did not
require the aid of words to inspire them with respect and attach-
ment towards Lord Holland (cheers), the friend of civil and re.
ligiotis liberty ; the able advocate and promoter of every measure
calculated to promote the prosperity of England and the happines
of mankind. (Much chering.) If the speaker could not recom-
mend him (Mr. Curwen) to the notice of the meeting, he was sure
the subject of the speech would. It was not in the ordinary lan-
guage of compliment, or in a resolution pro forma, but in the fullest
sincerity of the most cordial feelings of respect and gratitude that
this Society thanked his Lordship. (Applause.) In looking for a
Chairman who would preside with dignity and effect over their
proceedings, their eyes naturally turned towards Lord Holland ; it
was natural, too, he would add, for his Lordship to look towards
us, and to extend his countenance and patronage to this Society.
The principles of this Society are his principles : they are princi-
plm which devolved to him, the representative of the House of Hol-
land, as an hereditary duty to maintain. (Applause.) Here there
is no struggle for the ascendancy of party, no political contention ;
we only claim to have the broad principles of religion conceded to
us, as ee readily concede them unto others. Our opinions have
been Comm! from conviction; in order that we might enjoy that
conviction undisturbed, we separated from the blandishnients of a
hierarchy, to which, if our interest and not our reason had been the
guide of our conduct, we would have adhered. (Applause.) We
went forth in all the simplicity of the shepherd's staff, to convey
the intelligence of the word of God to those who stood most in need
of it, and to inculcate those principles which contribute to the hap.
pines° of man, in his social character and his domestic relations.
I he Rev. Gentleman proceeded to advert to the origin of the puri-
tans, who, he contended, had mainly assisted in keeping alive the
spark of liberty in England, and but fur whom it would have been
at one period of our history extinct. After apologising for giving
way to the impulse of his feeling, after he had declined at the com-
mencement of his address to makes speech at all, he would no longer
give way to the expression of them, lest he might he accused of
making a moving speech. He repeated, that his speech was the
more inexcusable, as it did not need the enforcement of language
to inspire the minds of this Society with affectionate gratitude to-
wards Lord Holland. (Loud cheers.) The Reverend Gentleman
concluded by proposing the eleventh and last resolution
" That this Meeting can not separate without renewing their
warmest assurances of sincere attachment to the Right Honourable
Lord Holland, their Noble Chairmen, and that they rejoice in
another opportunity to declare, that his uniform attachment to civil
and religious liberty, and his wise, liberal, and consistent conduct
have obtained, as they have well deserved, their grateful confidence
and profound respect. '
This resolution was received with loud and long-continued ac-
clamations by the whole meeting. Every person present rose from
his seat in testimony of respect to the Noble Lord. As soon as the
enthusiastic applause with which it was received, subsided—
Lord HOLLAND rose, and spoke nearly to the following effect:—
Gentlemen the Reverend Gentleman who moved the last resolu-
tion, of which you have been pleased thus to signify your approval,
assured you that he did not propose it merely pro/brim. I do not
take, let me hope. too much vanity. to myself, in believing that,
from the manner in which you received it, you wished to convey
not a mere ordinary acknowledgment, but the expression of your
sincere satisfaction. Pernik me to assure you, in return, that the
satisfaction and gratification with which I preside here to-day are not
mere words of course. It is not in words of course I express de-
light as the sentiments I have this day heard, and in the associa-
tion of the men who now surround me. (Cheers.) I am not NO
insensible of taste, of the display of genius, and of the beauties of
composition, as not to have heard with pleasure and delight the
speech which he delivered, and to have felt the force and justice of
the principles which he inculcated on the minds of the meeting ;
but, Gentlemen, whilst I express my delight at what I have seen
and heard, it was not, let me assure you, either the prospect of
good spraches, or the gratifying expression of your good opinion
towards me, that induced my attendance here to-day. No ; it is
because I feel this Society to be of the greatest importance—it is
because, as the friend of civil and religious liberty I approve of
the principle of its foundation. It is more particularly from the
signs of the times, from what is passing abroad and at home, as
well as both in and out of Parliament, that it strikes me as pecu-
liarly incunibent on the friends of civil and religious liberty, to unite
in firm array, and form into compact and resolute combination.
I will not detain you long. (Loud chars, and cries of " Go on.")
I will then proceed, and advert to the objections which I have else.
white heard against meetings such as the present. It has been ob-
jected to such a meeting as the present, that although it induces pa-
thetic statements—although it developer interesting facts, yet for
what purpose are those facts and statements merle and adduced ?
They are treated as petty vexations, as little arrogances, as jealou-
sies arising from the suspicion and envy of one sect against another,
and not as real cases of persecution. It is :.aid that they are not
sufficient causes ter us to unite ; but to those who speak thus I say,
in the first instance, " let them come here and hear." (Cheers.)
Secondly, I say that they who are not persecuted themselves, nor in
a situation to %Air persecution, are not the most competent judges
to determine how far the persecution of opinion is or is not perseen.
tion. (Cheers.) True it is, that we du not now, as formerly, hem
of imprisonments, and burnings, and torture, in punishment of opi-
nions. And why is it not so? Because Englishmen meet and dis-
cus& (Immense cheering.) It in to our vigilance in little things
that we owe our exemption from persecution in great ; from our
resistance to oppression in every form, that we are not visited with
it in its worst and most formidable shapes. (Cheers.) This Society
had its origin in an attempt to interfere with the Toleration Art.
That Act is liable to litany objections; it was not founded on the
broad basis of the code laid down by Bishop Wilkes. However, it 11
attempted some good ; it conferred at least some practical benefit ;
and a successful opposition to the it it ertCrence with that Act is among
the good consequences that flowed from the institution of this So-
ciety. Thoughahat Act gave something, it did not give sufficient ;1
it was said to confer practical religious liberty, but that was a term
of which I do profess I do not understand the exact import. By
Ipractical liberty, I presume, is meant nut the full possession of,
freednui, but the enjoyment of liberty by sufferance, and that is •
liberty with which, I am sure, no man will be content and saris-
; fied. ( Loud applause.) Liberty is that which a man possesses
by his own right ; he does not claim it from, or owe it to the in-
; dulgence of another ; and of all species of liberty, the right of
private judgment is that to which a man is most entitled, and with
which it is most a crime to interfere (cheers); it is, of all points
of public and political coasideration, the peculiar one in which each

individual in society should enjoy that full and perfect freedom
which Mr. Locke oppropriately terms " Just, equal, and absolute
liberty." We should continue to persevere in the course in which
I'm are now engaged, until the triumpb of that principle be
achieved ; until the recognition of it be attained, all is not attained
with which you ought to rest satisfied. It is not that I would re.
commend you to be insensible to the advantages which you have
already arrived at. They are many, and the Toleration Act which
secure them is not an Act with which we should be too anxious
and ready in picking and taking exceptions to; on the contrary, it
is my opinion, that much gratitude is due for that .Ist, and to the
men who siteeeeded in carrying it, for it was carvied at a time when
the diflicultics were gnat and immersion, and at a time too not
very favourable to acts of liberal policy. But though the Tole.
ration Act did much, yet did not accomplish all, and the free-
dom of °Pinion Was not yet complete. It was necessary to pass an
Act of Indenknity for those who in opinion from the doc-
trines of the Established Church ; this made free opinion, not the
enjoyment of a right, but the exemption from punishment. The
cases of the churchman (I am a churchman myself) and the Dis-
senter were widely different. The churchman had his opinions pro-
tected and defended by law ; he had a positive right to entertain
them : not so the Dis.senter, lie did not hold and avow his prin.
chiles by the right of opinion, hut by a pardon in his locket; he
was told he was disentiticd to think ter himself, and that he owed
the privilege of entertaining his own conscientious conviction to the
clemency and the kindness of the churchman, and that to him he
was indebted for exemption from condign punishment. Wax it
nothing that a man should be thus taunted for his opinions? Was
it nothing that a man should be thus degraded for believing and en-
tertaining those doctrines and principles from which his mind could
not revolt ? Was it nothing that a man should be lowered in the
scale of nations! estimation, for a line of conduct which deserved
not the dis-esteem, but which claimed the admiration, the honour,
and the praise of mankind. (Cle.rs.) It was not a sufficient ex-
cuse to say. that nets of outrageous oppression were not now com-
mitted. It should be remember:if how nearly oppresston was allied
to insult. Shakspeare, the great master of 11111114 M passions,
next to

" The oppressor's wrong."
in the classification of words, ills, and human calamities, had placed
" The proud man's contumely."
—And sorry am I to perceive the Church of England seek, as a
means of defence, to place Dissenters in a degraded situation, or
adopt as a mode of security, against those who may differ from her
doctrines, a denial of natural rights. (Cheers). It is because I
am anxious for the security of the Church of England that I think
this degradation of others moat impolitic and unwise. It is with
these sentiments that I readily accepted the invitation which I re-
ceived at the end of last week, to attend this meeting, with a view
of testifying my approval of its principles ; principles which I
feel to be honourable to the best sympathies, and insuperable from
the dearest rights of Englishuien. With respect to what has fallen
from my Hon. Friend (Mr. Wilks), I agree with him, that their is
a power somewhere which overcomes the opinions of Right Re-
verend Prelates, and of Minister*, and even of leaving the Prime
Minister (Lord Liverpool), even where a Prime Minister is very
seldom to be found—in a minority. (Much laughter.) For the
Prime Minister of England I have a very sincere and high
respect; I stand with him on terms of private friendship ; and
although at variance with him on political questions, I must
admit that be brings great abilities, great information, and great
force of argument, to the description of the question. Perhaps, on
the occasion to which I allude, I may be of opinion that he was
more eminent in the contribution of these resources than he usually
is from the very rare and singular circunistaace of my agreeing
with him. (Hear, hear, and a laugh.) I valued his co-operation
much, not only on account of the talent he possesses, but also on
account of the majority which usually declares in favour of the
side on which they are exercised ; and without meaning anything
unhandsome to the Noble Lord, I must say, that on a question of
national benefit I would prefer to have the majority on my side
than even his talents. However, on the question of Unitarian Mar-
riages. it was my fortune to have my preference reversal, and to
have lost the former, although I had the advantage and support of
the latter. ( Laughter.) Let not, however, a partial discomfiture
duce this society to abate in their efforta for the accomplishment of the
wise and useful purposes they have in view; and I repeat, that
there arc in the aspect of salines, both abroad and at home, renewed
and augmented inducements for the steady maints•nance and sup.
port of the principles which disti;tguish and characterise this Insti-
tution. (Much applause.) Men will and ought only be contented
with the full enjoyment of freedom of opinion in religious matters.
I do not approve of the fine-drawn distinctions which seine persons
make between political power and persecution; the absolute and
unrestricted possession of political power is to be recognised ; the real
possession of power alone is to be valued—but circumscribed with
conditions, and encumbered with restriction, it degenerates into per-
secution. If the persecution he for religion, it is aggravated in a
tenfold degree, for it becomes a persecution of conscience. I will
advert to one topic more into which I am the moreinduced to enter,
as none of the Reverend Gentlemen who preceded me dwelt upon
it—the stability of the Established Church. This to be sure is a
topic to which I am not at all surprised they have nut adverted, for
it is not their business to look after it. (A laugh.) But u I ant
myself deeply interested and anxious for its stability, I may be
permitted to say, that in my opinion its stability is beet guaranteed
and provided for by the diminution of the restrictions which it places
on other communities—for in proportion as those restrictions are
found necessary, in the same proportion will people be persuaded
that an endowed Church is altogether unnecessary. (Hear, hear.)
For 'tis clear to a demonstration, that inasmuch as any institu-
Ilion relies not on its own merits and service., but fences itself
round with penalties and restrictions, and exclusive privileges, in
the same degree will the support of public opinion be withdrawn
from it, in the same degree will its claims to respect be questioned
and doubted ; and as the hardships it imposes for its security in-
cream, so wil a confidence in its benefits diminish. (Much ap-
plause.) In supporting this Institution, lam not, and cannot be
understood to be the espouser of any particular opinions, or the
approver of the tenets of one set of men or another, but simply to
be the advocate of the broad principle of the right of every person
to judge for himself in matters of religion. The extent to which I
may carry this principle may exceed that to which others would
go—at least we would all extend it to all classes of professing
Christians, and by Christrians I would understand all those who
made the Ucred writings the rule of their faith and the regulation
of their conduct. (Cheers.) How those should be dealt with who
denied the sacred writings altogether, is a question beside the put.
poses of the present meeting, and one into the consideration of
which I shall not therefore enter. But all those who believe and
acknowledge the sacred writings, should be embraced and regarded
within the pale of Christianity. It is not religion nor charity, but
blasphemy against the very nature of religion, for man to perse-
cute his fellow-man tor worshipping his God according to the sug-
gestions of his heart and the dictates of his understanding. It is
not piety, but prenumptious arrogance, that prompts those who in.
terfere between man and the dispensation of his Creator's mercy to-
wards him. (Loud cheers.) I see many here today who differ
with me, and who differ from each other on very important points
ofmoreflutus belief : and if such difference should be the cause of
enmity between us, what security can there be for human
happiness ? Ifs want of accordance in opinion constitute a ground of
persecution of nature, the best and dearest bond of society must be
dissolved and rent asunder (cheers.) What rigid has any State to
control the opinions of its subjects. The State unquestionably
a right to judge of men by their conduct, and of opinions
Ul =l7 fruits ; but it has no rational right to infer criminality or
impose penalties, for the mere entertainment of opinions which are
locked up in the breast of a man, and cannot be forced from thence,
because those opinions may or may not happen to be in exact ac-
oovdance with the majority who compare the State itself. This is a
state of freedom which we should have long since reached, but to
which we have not yet arrived. Until we shall have arrived at
this perfection of freedom, every means should be resorted to
and every constitutional conibination be encouraged that can con.
tribute to the accomplishment of an obect so just, politic, and
necessary." (Loud and long-continued cheer!. g.) The Noble
Lord then bowed to the meeting and retied.
_ .

The meeting again rose and-saluttd him on his departure with
the most enthusiastic acclamations.

The meeting then (which throughout the whole day filled the
large room of the City of London Tavern) separated at half-past
four o'clock.

At these meetings no collections are made. By the request of the
Committee we state, that donations are needed, and may be trans-
mitted by post to the Treasurer, Robert Steven, Esq., Upper
Thames-street; or to either of the Secretaries, Thomas Pcllatt,
Esq., Ironmonger Hall, or John Win', E►q., Finsbury-square ;
to the latter of whom applications should be addressed. From
each congregation in England the annual contribution expected is
two pound., and from each in Wales one pound. The subscrip-
tion became due at Lady-day last. Country Ministers or their
friends will always be received With pleasure by the Committee at
their meetings, at Batson's Coffee-house, Conthill. at half-past six
in the evening precisely, on the last 31untlay in every mouth.

LAW INTL' LLIGENCR.

COURT OF KING'S BENCH, SATURDAY, MAY 15.

The Court was occupied on the Crown Papers until one o'clock,
at which hour the Judges rose to meet the Judges of the other
Courts in the apartment at the back of the Guildhall, for the pur-
pose of discussing points of f 'rown Law, reserved on the late Cir.
cults. The doors being closed, none of the prose lings transpired.

A letter from Coral, dated April statcs'that Lord
Byron died poss.ssed of considerable property in Grtrev,
having for some time resolved to pass his life there, andre-
ceived considerable sums from England ler the purpose of I
investment. The Honourable Lac% ster Stanhope had sig.-
nitied his intention of quitting Gm ce for family affairs in
this country, but he had receietd a pressing invitation
from Prince Mavrecerdato to reutain ; ;nal Major Iltotings,
a gentleman who has been for some time there, has also had
inducements offered to him to roman' firm to the cause
which lie has so mainly assisted. We understand that Co-
locotroni, one of the bravest Greek I :rnerals, but who had
thrown great impediments in the way of Greek indepen-
dence, by his jealousy of Ipsilanti and Mavrocordato, had
endeavoured for some tint to prevent the employment of
foreign auxiliaries. This man, however, being abandoned
by his troops, and wandering, it is said, among the moun-
tains, has; no longer any influence, and our countrymen in
Greece are likely to feel the eflixt of his disgrace very be-
. neflcially for their interests.
An individual of the name of Pierre Viaticum is now living at
Brussels, in his II Mh year ; and what is most remarkable, he has
arrived at that surprising period of longevity without ever haring
known a day's ill health.

SOCIETY FOR IMPROrI2I77 THE rovnivoN OF
THE IRISH PEASANTRY.

A meeting of the Members of this Society took place on Satur-
day, in the florticutural Hoard Room, Regent-street, for the pur-
pose of receiving the report of the last year. At two o'clock a con-
siderable Imtly of thesubsc:ilwrs were in attendance, ant whom
we noticed Lord Carherry, Laird Bonalley, Sir John Doyhi, Sir C.
Doyle, Sir A. Illichester, Right Bon. M. Fitzgerald. Col. French,
Major Worburion, Mr. Tighe. Mr. R. Willi:sky, M.P., Mr. J.
Smith, M.P., lien. Hart, sir 31. Tierney, Mr. Owen of Latta:k,
&c. hr. It was announced by advertisement rhut his Royal 11;g11-
11e45114 the !bike of York was to take the ('hair hot at half-rod
two a letter as received train sa Herbert Tailor, apologising for
his abitence. and Sir John Doyle presided.
Alr. 31ircii MIA, the Secretary, read the Report, from which
the ponds of the Society appeared to be as follows :-
1 /Id Four per Cents. (now 3) . J:Mind
Thrca per Cents. Cobsola . (AttAl
Exchequer Bills - WOO
In the hands of the Treasurer -

a 11.040

Mr. R. WELLESLEY, as Chairman of the Cmninittee, rase at
the conclusion of the Report, and moved that it sl Id be adopted.
Lord ant:a nY seconded the motion, which was carried

Colonel Far: Nett expressed his sincere admiration of the noble
and liberal conduct of the London Committee, whose generosity lie
was satisfied would ever live in the recollection of Irishmen. Ile
moved " That the Society hell meetings on the first Tuesday in
every month in the City of London."--Carried.
Tne Bishop of la4s:Rl/2C was at a loss for words to express his
sincerity ; he participated in feelings of gratitude towards the City
of London Committee, for the manner in which they had stepped
forward to relieve the calamities of his unhappy country.
. .

Sir I L VS% ES Buxom inured the thanks of Meeting to the
sixty Charitable bowl Institutions in Ireland, and expressed a hope
that their numbers might be increased.
Sir Jolt N I )01' LE mewed the thanks to the Duke of York, which
was put and carried by acclamation.
Doctor SavrinEWS came forward and said, that he had entered
the room as a casual visitor, but was so struck with the benevolent
object of the Society towards his countrymen, that he requested
• permission to become a subscriber to its fonds. (Hear).
Sir CUARLES HOYLE and one or two other Gentlemen requested
a similar permission.
The Bishop of LtIIEIICIL—" And I, too, Sir John, put in my
claim for the same permission. (Applause.)
Sir J. lloyi.r.—" I do not know what sort of a Chairman I
make, but I do not think lam a bad recruiting officer. (A laugh.)
And my Lord Bishop. of all the recruits that I ever obtained in the
whole course of my recruiting service, I sun sure I never had one
who was better calculated to pass the most scrupulous muster than
yourself. (Laughter and applause).
Mr. It. IVELLtsticv then inured the thanks of the Society to
Sir John Doyle for his servic.s in the Chair.
Sir J. Doris, in returning thanks, reiterated the warm sense
he entained of the value of this compliment.

_ . .
LORD LONDONDERRY AND MR. BATTIER,

Sir Henry Ilardinge, the second of the Marquis of Lon-
donderry in the late duct, having published a long state-
ment of the transactions between the parties, which ap-
peared in a Morning Paper of Saturday, Mr. Battier has
addressed the following letter to the Editor of a Sunday
Paper, in which he notices the sudden death of his second,
Colonel Western:—
" Saturday Night, II o'Cloca, May lb, 1824.
"Sin,-1 have only this evening seen a letter, with annexed
documents, purporting to be a statement of the particulars of a re-
cent corrrsporatence between Sir H. Ilardinge and Lieutenant.
Colonel iVestern, relative to a subject on which I felt it necessary
to require an explanation front the Marquis of Londonderry. The
sudden de..th of my gallant friend yestil day has placed we in cir.
cumatances of the must unparalleled embarrassment, for which, I
trust to the sympathy of every brave and liberal mind. The
specious representation of Sir 11. liardinge contains matter which,
though totally at variance with the true character of the transac-
tion, and deficient in most important circumstances, I cannot, us
the spur ty* the moment, as bearing the authentication of Lieut.-
Colonel Western's sit nature, deny or relate. But I have no doubt
of being enabled to prove, that my friend's signature ars obtained
to a document which he had nut thoroughly examined, relying on
Sir H. Hanlinge being incapable of recording the }articular
partially or knit a/m. ll'hile I endeavour to rectify the impression
intended to be conveyed by the late statement, I entreat my
friends, particularly my miatary friends, to suspend their judg.
went. "
" Thompson's Hotel, Cavendish-square."