The Sun.
London, England, 1854-02-20 00:00:00

THE SUN, LONDON, MONDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 20, 1854.

SPORTING NOTES.

NOTIONS ANENT NOTTINGHAM.

The industrious and persevering C.C., Mr. Bradfield,
is working wonders at Nottingham. He has established
a Spring Meeting, which, for the variety of its " attrac-
tions" and the efficiency of its business arrangements, is
not likely to be distanced in the race for populrrity.
Last .year only one day's sport was furnished, now, how-
ever, the proceedings will extend over two days, but
whether their interest will be weakened by this arrange-
ment remains to be seen. The policy of the change has
been much questioned.
To-morrow is the opening day of the meeting ; the
list of sport comprises five items, including the Spring
Handicap and a two-year-old race, To the former there
were thirty-two subscribers, fifteen of whom, however,
have declared forfeit. Of the probable competitors no
information is obtainable ; my " notions," therefore, as
to the respective chances of the acceptors, must be formed
on the supposition that those horses will be " intended"
which appear on paper to be favourably weighted.
Alonzo, Bst 31b, Surveyor, Ist 91b, Vixen, Gst 131 b, and
Roebuck, sst 1 lib, have, perhaps, the " best of the handi-
cap," and this lot will, I expect, furnish the winner.
From the thirteen nominations to the Two-Year-Old
Race, I shall select Challows Boy and Prince Plausib:e
as being most entitled to consideration. The events
appointed for decision on Wednesday du not now require
discussion.
Feb. 20 A FRESH. MAN.

LAW INTELLIGENCE.—Feb. 18.

COURT OF QUEEN'S BENCH.

kSittings at Nisi Prius, at Guildhall, before Lord Camp-

bell and a Special Jury.)

SERAINCOURT V. HUDSON, H.P.-•BREADS OF CONTRACT.
Mr. Bramwell, with Mr. Rew, appeared for the plain-
tiff ; and Mr. Watson, with Mr. H. Hill, for the defen-
dant.

Mr. Bramwell, in opening the case, stated that the
plaintiff was a French gentleman, who was engaged in ex-
tensive transactions for the supply of iron to continental
railways, and brought this action against Mr. George
Hudson, M.P. for Sunderland, to recover damages for
the breach of a contract Mr. Hudson had entered into
to supply him with 20,000 tons of iron. The plaintiff
had come over to England for the purpose of obtaining
a supply of iron for a railway company of which he was
the agent. He was introduced by Mr. Masters to a
broker in the City of the name of Bramwell, and in-
quired of him it he knew of any persons who would
supply him with iron. Mr. Bramwell, among other
persons, mentioned the defendant, who, he said, could
let him have 20,000 tons of iron, and he offered to call
on Mr. Hudson for the plaintiff. At that time Mr.
Hudson was the largest iron holder in London, having
about 40,000 tons on hand. Mr. Bramwell brought to
the plaintiff a bought note for 20,000 tons of Scotch pig
iron, at 31. 7s. 6d. a ton. There was to be a deposit of
10s. a ton paid within 14 days—the iron to be delivered
within 3 months from the date of the contract, or the
plaintiff was to give 10 days' notice of his wish for
the iron to be delivered. In two days after this con-
tract iron rose ss. a ton, it was supposed in conse-
quence of such a large purchase. The plaintiff then
gave the 10 days' notice for a delivery, which would
'apire on the day on which the deposit was to be
paid. On the sth of November, accompanied by his
attorney, Mr. Kersey, the plaintiff went to Mr. Bram-
well's office, where he saw the defendant, and he then
made a tender of the whole amount, being 67,5001.,
asking for the storekeeper's warrants for the iron. The
defendant, however, refused to take the money, and
would not give the warrants. The plaintiff then made
a tender of 10,0001., the amount of the deposit. Mr.
Hudson, however, refused to accept that sum. Upon
this the plaintiff gave Mr. Hudson notice to deliver the
iron in ten days, and, at the expiration of that time, the
plaintiff made another tender, which was also refused,
and he then found it necessary to bring this action, and
it was apprehended that the plaintiff was entitled to re-
cover the difference between the price of the iron on the
day that the contract was entered into and the price on
the sth Nov., when it ought to have been delivered, that
difference amounting to 7,5001,, and that was the amount
now claimed by this action.
The first witness called was,
James Bramwell, who stated that he was the nephew
of Alderman Thompson, and carried on a large business
as a metal broker, at No. 1, Royal Exchange-buildings.
He had acted as Mr. Hudson's broker for some years.
Mr. Hudson had a room in his office, where he was ao-
oustomed to go and write his letters. On the 22d of
October the plaintiff was introduced to him there by
Mr. John Masters. The plaintiff stated that he wished
to purchase a large quantity of iron. He mentioned
the names of several persons to the plaintiff, and
amongst others that of Mr. Hudson, who, he knew,
had a large quantity of iron. He stated that Mr. Hud-
son was laid up with gout, and that it would be ne-
cessary to go and see him about it at Albert-gate. He
(witness) went to Mr. Hudson, and told him that a
French count was over here, and, through some influ-
ence unknown to the world, was likely to be the buyer
of a large quantity of iron, and mentioned that it would
be a good thing to sell him 20,000 tons in one line.
Mr. Hudson asked what the price was to be, and he re-
plied that the count would give 675. 6d. per ton for
Scotch pig iron, which he had said was for consumption
in France. Mr. Hudson said he was satisfied with the
price, if the count was able to pay a deposit. He (the
defendant) said, " Well, set your way clear, and get him
the 20,000 tons." He (witness) then went back to the
City, and on the same afternoon saw the plaintiff and
hi 3 attorney, Mr. Kersey. fie signed the contract and

gave it to the plaintiff. (The contract was produced.)
That was what was known as a "bought note." He
sent a "sold note" to Mr. Hudson. When Mr. Hud-
son had authorised him to sell the iron he had said that
he would send his servant on the Monday morning to
see what had been done. The servant came accordingly,
and he sent the "sold note," with other papers, to Mr.
Hudson.
Mr. Watson admitted tint the defendant had re-
ceived the " sold note."

Witness--There was no rise in the price of iron on
the Monday and Tuesday, although the purchase of
such a quantity, if it had been known, would have been
sufficient to produce a rise. On the Wednesday iron
looked up a little, in consequence of a telegraphic com-
munication with Paris.

Mr. Kersey said that on the sth November he had
made a tender of 67,5001. to Mr. Hudson, who refused
to accept it. He also made a tender of 10,0001. deposit.
and then served him with a written notice. He again
tendered the 67,5001. on the 16th November, and asked
for the storekeeper's warrants for the iron, which Mr.
Hudson refused to give.
Mr. James Lawrie, a merchant in the City, said it
was the custom in contracts for three months to give the
buyer the option of an open contract. On Monday,
October 24, the price of Scotch pig iron was 675. 6d.
per ton. On the afternoon of Wednesday it had risen to
71s. Gd. cash, but it would have been 2s. or 2s. Gd. more
upon the terms mentioned in the contract. On the sth
November the price was 755. to 755. 6d., and on the
16th November it was 795. per ton. If 20,000 tons bad
been purchased on that day it might have risen to 795.
per ton.

Mr. Watson, in addressing the jury for the defendant,
denied that Mr. Hudson had authorised Mr. Bramwell
to enter into this contract, and submitted that Mr.
Hudson was not to be bound by what had been said or
done by Mr. Bramwell.
Mr. George Hudson was then examined, and said he
was in the habit of dealing largely in iron. All his
dealings had been to actual purchasers. Had employed
Mr. Bramwell. Always gave him specific instructions
on each contract. Always had the contract laid before
him before it was entered into, so that he could exercise
his own judgment. Recollected Mr. Bramwell coming
to him on October 22d, when he was laid up with the
gout. Bramwell stated to him that Mr. Masters had
introduced him to the plantiff, who was anxious to buy
iron. After some conversation about the state of the
market, he produced a contract, showing the price of
iron at the time. Stated to him that he had an open
contract for 20,000 tons of iron, and would be disposed
to send that at the price he named, 31. 7s. 6d., and that
the contract was with Messrs. Coles. Said to Bram-
well, "You know the position in which I stand. I
cannot enter into any contract binding me to deliver in
less than three months." He said that would suit the
plaintiff better. Witness then said to Bramwell, that
he was aware he had paid as a deposit 7,2001. in cash,
and had given bills for 5,0001. more. Bramwell said
the plaintiff would not object to make a deposit of 10s.
per ton if for three months, and 20s. if for six months.
Said to him, "Now be careful ; don't enter into any
contract deliverable in less than three months. You
are aware that I never sell an article which I have nut
the power of delivering, and by that time Coles' matter
will be settled, and the 20,000 tons delivered." Recol-
lect all that conversation distinctly. On the Monday
afternoon, about five o'clock, he received the sold note.
Finding they were contracts he threw them aside.
Looked at them on the Tuesday morning, and then
ascertained that there was the optional clause. Im-
mediately sent his servant to Bramwell, and told
him to tell him that the contract was wrong, and con-
trary to his instructions, and he wished to see Bram-
well directly. Bramwell did not come until the Wed-
nesday morning at eight o'clock. Asked him how he
could have entered into such a contract, as he knew he
had not the power of delivering the iron until the end of
three months. Bramwell said ho would see the plaintiff
and get it put right, but that the plaintiff had gone to
Paris. Afterwards went into the city and saw the
plaintiff, and told him that the contract was wrong, and
that he could not agree to it. Witness then asked what
the price of iron was, and the plaintiff said it was about
the same as was mentioned in the contract. Expressed
distinctly to the plaintiff that the contract was contrary
to his instructions, and he could not think of carrying it
out. The plaintiff said witness must fulfil his contract.
Cross-examined—Had only about 12,000 tons of iron
at that time on hand, and the 20,000 tons from Messrs.
Coles was the only supply he had coming in. Was ex-
ceedingly ill at the time.
Re-examined—Told Bramwell he might sell 20,000
tons to be delivered in three months.

Mr. Bramwell having replied,
Lord Campbell summed up the case to the jury. The
single question was whether Bramwell had Leen autho-
rised by Mr. Hudson to enter into this contract. Every-
thing had been conducted on both sides with perfect
good faith, and if Bramwell had exceeded his instructions
he bad done so unknowingly ; but then Mr. Hudson
would not be bound. Mr. Hudson had also acted very
fairly, and it was clear that he had not refused to deliver
the iron on account of the rise in the price. They must
say whether upon Bramwell's evidence he had been au-
thorised by Mr. Hudson to made the contract, or whether
his evidence had been answered by that of Mr. Hudson.
The question was entirely for them.
The jury retired, and in about an hour returned a ver-
dict for the plaintiff—damages 4,0007.

MR. STURGE IN RUSSIA.

Our readers will feel interested to learn that Mr.
Joseph Sturge and the other gentlemen deputed by the
Society of Friends to wait upon the Emperor Nicholas,
have arrived at their destination, and have probably ere
now fulfilled their mission. Mr. Sturge has communi-
cated to his brother, Mr. Charles Sturge, of this town,
some particulars of his progress, and to that gentleman
we are indebted for the following details :—" We learn
that early in the present month the deputation left Riga,
a town situated in Russian-Poland, and several hundred
miles from St. Petersburgh. This distance was traversed
by means of sledges ; and some conception may be formed
of the sort of route they bad to take, when we mention
that no fewer than 300 horses were employed for the
various relays on the road. Mr. Sturge, writing from
St. Petersburgh, on the 4th of February, describes his
journey as having been very satisfactory ; and, consider-
ing the great amount of snow that had fallen, he and his
companions had arrived as soon as they could have ex-
pected. On their arrival at the Russian capital, the party
first obtained an introduction to a gentleman who had
resided in Russia for 40 years, and who it was thought
would be of service to them in their delicate mission. The
deputation found a report prevalent that all the mem-
bers of the Royal family, even including the Grand Duke
' Constantine, *ere anxious for peace ; and as Count
Nesselrode, the Chancellor of the Empire, was known
from the first to have opposed the war, the gentleman
already alluded to, recommended the deputation to send
the Count a note, requesting an interview. This they did,
stating that they had not deemed it advisable to apply to
their own Ministers, or to the ambassador in London ;
and for the same reasons they had preferred applying
to Count Nesselrode direct, for the purpose of securing
his assistance is the presentation of the adds ess to the
Emperor. On this letter being delivered, the Count
almost immediately sent a messenger, apparently one of
his private secretaries, who could speak good English,
and fixed an early hour for receiving the deputation.
The messenger further stated that he was instructed to
render them any service he could. Mr. Sturge states
that though the weather has been severe, yet his health
has been so far benefited by the journey, even if no other
good should result from it. On the sth of February,
Mr. Sturge and his friends were visited by the English
Consul, who, though he had but little hope of their
success, expressed his belief that the Emperor would
receive them. In reference to the war, the British
Consul stated to the deputation that the trade of
Russia, as far as England is concerned, must be greatly
paralysed by what had taken place. This circumstance
is already known to the Emperor, and it was hoped
would have its influence with him on the side of peace.
On the following day the party learnt that the Emperor
was riding out, and consequently that the day of their
reception would be thereby postponed. However, just
after receiving this intelligence, they had a note from
Count Nesselrode, stating that he had been sent for
by the Emperor relative to the interview, and inti-
mating his (the Count's) wish to receive their visit
about half-past one o'clock. Accordingly, they waited
upon him and met with a very cordial reception.
The Count said he had already spoken to the Emperor
upon the subject, who had expressed his willingness to
appoint a day for giving an audience. In answer to a
question by Mr. Pease, the Count said that it was very
likely the heir apparent would be present. The deputa-
tion then read the address they had been deputed to pre-
sent, and he (the Count) replied that both himself and the
Emperor sympathised with the sentiments it contained.
The deputation then retired, after leaving a French trans-
lation of the address for the perusal of the Emperor. The
above details we have been enabled to glean from some
correspondence that arrived in England on Tuesday last,
and we learn that another letter has arrived dated
Saturday, the 11th instant, but up to that period the
party had not been summoned before the Emperor.
However, they were in daily expectation of learning his
Majesty's pleasure. We may add that Mr. Sturge de-
scribes the frost as exceedingly intense, the temperature
being one morning at five degrees Fahrenheit. How-
ever, the houses are so seeured with double windows
and other means used to exclude the cold that he was
not sensible of the change of temperature until going
out of the domicile. Sanday is very little observed by
the great body of the people. The places of worship
were all opened, as also were a number of shops ; while,
on the same day, there was a sledge-race on the frozen
Neva, to which some thousands of persons resorted.
Mr. Sturge adds that there is an Episcopalian place of
worship, and also one belonging to the Independents,
Birmingham Mercury.

THE LATE GALES.

----s.

LIVERPOOL, F. 18.

During the whole of yesterday and to-day it has
blown a terrific gale from the north-west, accompanied
with heavy showers of hail, snow, and rain. The ship.
ing in the river and channel have suffered severely, and
there has likewise been a fearful loss of life. The swell
on the river was unusually high, and many of the ferry
steamers ceased to rue. The Woodside boats, which
are the finest ferry steamers on the river, only run occa-
sionally.
The first report that reached the underwriters' rooms
this morning was, that large quantities of barrel flour
and bales of rags were washing ashore near New
Brighton. It was at first not known to what vessel
they belonged, but it has since been ascertained that
they formed the cargo of a large coasting schooner,
which was seen floating bottom up near the spot. It is
believed that all hands belonging to the schooner have
perished.
The most fearful casualty which we have yet heard
of occurred about one o'clock this afternoon. At an
early hour it was made known that the barque Che-
rokee was ashore on the East Hoyle Bank, when prepa-
rations were immediately made for rendering all the
assistance possible. For this purpose the steam-tug
President, with the Liverpool life-boat in tow, and the
steam-tug Victoria, with the Tug Company's life-boat in
tow, sailed to the assistance of the unfortunate barque.
The sea was very high in the Rock Channel at the time,
and the boats were towed with difficulty. When near the
bank, the Tug Company's lifeboat, which was in tow of
the steamer Victoria, suddenly capsized, and, out of 11
persons that formed her crew, only one was saved. The
men who were drowned were experienced river boatmen,
all in poor circumstances, and several of them have left
large families totally unprovided for. While on the
Hoyle-bank, the Hoylake lifeboat went to the Cherokee,
and succeeded in taking off part of the crew. At noon
she drifted over the bank, and went ashore near Dove-
point; but, the sea being so rough and the wind so
strong, it was impossible for the lifeboat to approach,
and it was expected she would soon go to pieces. The
Cherokee belonged to Messrs. Horsfall, and only sailed
yesterday for Africa.
The steamship Alps, Captain Little, which should
have sailed about 11 o'clock with the usual mails for
Halifax and Boston, was prevented from putting to sea
by the violence of the gale.
The Windsor, for Para, and the Brevet, for Melbourne,
were in collision in the river. The former lost her main-
mast, &c., and the latter damaged her head, cut-
water, &c.
The ship Evelyn, for London, got ashore in Bootle-
bay, but came off again at high water, with the assist-
ance of three powerful steamtugs. She lost anchors,
chains, &c.
A brig was driven ashore at Dingle-hole, and at low
water was high and dry.
The steamer Commodore, from Havre, got ashore near
Egremont, but got off on the flood, and anchored in the
river.
Although the force of the gale has moderated, it still
blows very freshly, and at noon it was blowing a strong
gale from the north at Holyhead.

THE ELECTORS OF NORWICH. AND THE NEW
REFORM BILL.

On Friday evening last, a very numerous meeting of the
liberal electors of this city was held at the Royal Hotel, to
consider the provisions of the above measure, and to adopt
resolutions thereon, with a view to support her Majesty's
Ministers.

EDWARD WILLETT, Esq., occupied the chair, and, after a few
words in commendation of the general policy of the present
Government, expressed his satisfaction with the New Reform
Bill, which, he said, would greatly extend the franchise
amongst just that portion of the people who now particularly
deserved to be represented. The bill very likely did not go
far enough for some of his very liberal friends, but it could
not be expected to please everybody. For his own part, he
thought that a measure more sound in principle, more calcu-
lated to give a fair representation to the whole country, and
more likely to induce the labouring classes to strive after that
point which must be reached in order to secure the franchise,
could not well have been devised. On the whole, then, though
the measure might not go far enough for some, he thought it
was a measure which deserved the support of all who pro-
fessed to be Liberals, and he trusted therefore that Ministers
would meet with the encouragement which they deserved.
J. H. TILLETT, Esq., said ho was prepared to give the mea-
sure a general support, but it was not sufficiently liberal to
deserve his full and cordial approval. He acknowledged the
presence of several excellent features in the bill—such as the
total disfranchisement of 29 nomination boroughs, and the
partial disfranchisement of 33 others; the repeal of the rate-
paying clauses affecting the 10/. householders, which mate-
rially restricted he franchise, particularly in the metropolis ;
and the introduction of the popular element into the counties
by giving a representation to the minority. He expressed his
partial approval of the various means suggested for the exteu-
Con of the franchise, but—except by the 6/. qualification—
he did not consider that by any of these means would the
borough franchise be considerably extended ; and perhaps in
many boroughs, not even by the 6/. qualification, for there was
at present great obscurity as to its precise nature. He hoped
it would turn out, however, that a 6. r..ntal was intended, for
if the provision were accompanied by certain ambiguities and
perplexities as to the assessment, and the payment of rates,
it would be scarcely worth having. In Norwich houses below
8/. were compounded for and the assessable valuable of houses
in different places varied very considerably. The lengthened
residence which was required was also a great evil, and lie
thought that a term of 6 or 12 months would certainly have
been sufficiently long. He objected to the sweeping disfran-
chisement of all future freemen, urging that in many places
the freemen were not worse than the other electors, and that,
even if they were, the sons ought not to be punished for the
sins of the fathers. He expressed his regret at the absence
of any provision for abolishing the property qualification and
for taking votes by ballot, and he concluded by moving the
following resolutions :
" That this meeting is of opinion that the New Reform
Bill, though it falls short of the hopes and wishes of a large
section of reformers, yet contains many excellent provi-
sions which entitle it to the general approval of the country."
" That our esteemed representatives, Messrs. Peto and
Warner, be therefore requested to give their support to the
bill, but, at the same time, to endeavour to obtain such
amendments in committee as may make the measure as com-
prehensive and popular as possible."
" That, in particular, they be requested to-use their best
efforts to induce the Government to withdraw the clauses for
the disfranchisement of freemen, to urge the simplification of
the provisions relating to the 61. franchise, and to support
the amendment intended to be proposed for taking votes by
ballot."

The resolutions were seconded by Mr. S. PIGG, and sup.
ported by several other speakers, and, having been uuani.
mously adopted, the proceedings terminated.

IPSWICH DOCK COMMISSION.

(Prom the Suffolk Chronicle, of Feb. 11.)
The monthly meeting was held at the Town Hall, yesterday,
R. D. Alexander, Esq., in the chair.

THE MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT

It was reported that since the last report upon the subject
of the dispute with Mr. Byles, Mr. Beardme, the arbitrator,
had made his award against the commissioners in the sum of
3801. and costs. This, it was stated, left the legal question
between Mr. Byles and the commissioners precisely in its
former position, and the sub-committee bad been advised
by counsel not to take up the award, but to wait for Mr.
Byles's further proceedings, and to continue to act on the de-
fensive. The committee fully concurred in the course adopted
by the sub-committee, confirmed their proceedings, and re-
quested them to take such further steps as they might deem
it necessary and desirable for the defence and protection of
the interests of the commissioners.

It was also reported that a letter bad been received from
Mr. Jackaman, clerk, stating that the Paving and Lighting
Commissioners were prepared to sink the required dead-well
in William-street, Horn-office-road, and only awaited the
approval of the surveyor of the Dock Commissioners with re-
spect to the site, depth, and dimensions. The committee,
after considerable discussion, deferred the question for further
consideration until their next meeting.
Mr. SHEPPARD enquired who formed the sub-committee in
the case of Mr. Byles.
The CHAIRMAN replied, the chairman, vice-chairman, and
Mr. Jackson. The committee had not taken a step without
counsel's opinion ; they had submitted him all the difficulties
of the case, and had rather courted objections. He remained
firm in his opinion upon the points advised as to the defence.
With respect to the other minute, he might remark that a
vast amount of improper sewage matter went down the
Brook-street sewer into St. Peter's Dock, contrary to the
stipulation made by the Dock Commissioners when they con-
sented to the construction of that sewer. It would appear
that the Paving Commissioners were about to extend the
sewerage in Orwell-street, and consequently with an increase
of sewerage there would be an increase of the pollution of the
river. The Dock Commissioners were already put to con-
siderable expense with the dredging machine, in taking up
the soil carried down by the sewers, and suffered very great
inconvenience and annoyance in consequence of the damage
done to ballast for the shipping, It was the opinion of the
Managing Committee of the Dock Commissioners, and also,
he believed of most of the legal gentlemen of the town, that
the Paving Commissioners had no power whatever, under
their act even to put a spade into the ground. The sewerage
did not belong to them at all—paving, lighting, and cleansing
were all that they were empowered to, do. The Managing
Committee were desirous of meeting the Paving Commissioners
as far as they could with propriety, but they had another
duty to perform, that of not allowing the river t..> be con-
verted into a pest ditch.
Mr. JOSSELYN was sorry the Paving Commissioners still per-
sisted in making sewers, as the discharge of filthy matter into
the river must become a source of evil to the town, and he
sincerely hoped that they would pause, and consider it their
duty to guard against the detriment which must arise to the
health of the public. He quite agreed with the chairman as
to the powers possessed by the Paving Commission ; the
Paving Act did not invest them with power to sewer the
fawn. If they did continue to make these sewers, and
thereby add to the existing evils, it would have the effect of
bringing the Health of Towus' Act into operation within the
town, against which the inhabitants had manifested so much
hostility. With respect to the injury to the river, he pro-
tested against the expense and trouble to which the Commis-
sioners were put in consequence, in order to supply proper
ballast to the shipping.
Mr. SHEPPARD thought some plan might be developed by
which the sewerage could be carried along the quays and dis-
charged into the river below the dock.
Mr. BAYLEY was surprised to hear such a proposition ema-
nate from Mr. Sheppard. There was quite sufficient nuisance
existing at that spot already, and the stench at times was
scarcely bearable. (Laughter.)
Mr. R. BURROWS Said the dead-well would have been con-
structed before, but for the refusal of Mr. Hurwood to have
anything to do with it.
Mr. C. BURTON understood this point was now fully ar-
ranged.

Mr.
JOSSELYN said the contravention of agreement of which
the Dock Commissioners complained was that no means had
been taken to prevent the discharge of water-closet soil Into
the sewer.
The CHAIRMAN stated in confirmation of this statement that
the soil from the whole of the Sea Horse premises passed into
' the sewer. He apprehended that nothing further could be
done in the matter at present.
Mr. A. SIIEPPARD moved the confirmation of the minutes,
and expressed his regret that the dispute with Mr. Byles did
not admit of a satisfactory settlement.
Mr. F. RANSOME seconded the motion.
The motion was put and carried.
COMPLAINT AGAINST THE EASTERN COUNTIES RAILWAY COMPANY.
Mr. A. SHEPPARD wished to bring before the meeting a
matter of considerable importance, with reference to the
supply of trucks on the quays. It was unnecessary to intro-
duce the subject with any particular argument, because its
vital importance not only to the trade of the port but also to
the interests of the Dock Commissioners, was fully acknow-
ledged, and he was sure it would meet with the most mature
and reflective consideration. The trade of the port since the
Ist of February was in a totally different position from that in
which it stood previous to the amalgamation between the vari-
ous railway companies, in consequence of the supply of trucks
for the conveyance of coals from the dock into the interior
having been totally inadequate to the wants of the merchants
(Hear, hear.) He had not been able to prepare any tabular
statement, showing the number of trucks in use prior to the
Ist of February, under the management of the Eastern Union
Railway Company, as compared with the number supplied
since that date ; but the deficiency was so palpable that at
the present moment there were some five or six thousand
tons of coals in the port, the greater portion of which would
have been sent along the line if the former facilities for so
doing had existed, but which the merchants, to their great
loss, were unable to discharge from the vessels. They were
in the greatest difficulty in consequence, as they were subject
to claims for demurrage from owners and masters, and in
many instances large sums for demurrage had been demanded
and paid. So that, in addition to the loss which the mer-
chants were daily suffering from inability to supply customers,
there was also the additional burthen of demurrage for deten-
tion of vessels. As a merchant and a shipowner, he was him-
self suffering in both ways. Gentlemen would follow him
who had conferred with the Eastern Counties' Company, and
bad received statements which would tend to throw some
light upon the subject. It was sufficient for him to call at-
tention to the fact, that unless the supply of trucks was equal
to the demands of the port, as was the ease under the Eastern
Union Company, the commerce, especially the coal trade, of
Ipswich, would be half annihilated, and driven to other places ;
whilst, as regarded the revenue of the commissioners, and
their ability to carry on improvements and develop° a spirit
of enterprise, of their anxiety in respect to which ample proof
had been given, the matter was of such grave importance,
that no time should: be lost in bringing it before the Board
of Directors, and in such a shape as to satisfy them at
once, as to the position and requirements of the port, and the
claims which it had upon their immediate attention. He
proposed that a deputation from the Dock Commission
should wait upon the directors of the Eastern Counties' Com-
pany, and bring the matter before them, in order to effect
a permanent arrangement, by which similar difficulties might
be avoided in future. He apprehended that this course was
the best calculated to command the attention which the
grievances complained of required. The following resolution
was then submitted by Mr. Sheppard :—" That this meeting,
viewing with regret and alarm the total inadequate number of
trucks daily supplied by the Eastern Counties Company, to
carry away the coals and other merchandise of the port,
now appoint a deputation to wait upon and confer with the
Board of Directors at the earliest possible opportunity, and
bring this subject before them in its fullest extent and im-
portance, that the same may be permanently and satisfac-
torily remedied, whereby the trade and commerce of the port
may not be crippled and injured."
The CHAIRMAN stated that in the six months prior to the
amalgamation, the increase in the importation of coals, com-
pared with the corresponding six months of the previous
year, amounted to 8,854 tons, whereas last month there was
a decrease of 6,760 tons, compared with the corresponding
month of the previous year, thus bringing downithe increase
for the seven months to only 2,124 tons. The fact was very
alarming.

Mr. GEARD said, in consequence of the peculiar pressure
upon the merchants caused b 7 the withdrawal of trucks,
he bad corresponded with the Eastern Counties' direction.
He had previously received from Mr. Bruff, the manager of

the Eastern Union Company, an intimation that the arrange-
ments
made would meet all the requirements of the port after
the amalgamation, and in reply to his last enquiry, he had
received further assurances to the same effect from the East-
ern Counties' direction. Yet their position remained unal-
tered. The coal trade would be totally annihilated unless im-
mediate relief was had. The coals could nit be housed, be-
cause the warehouses were full, and what would be the con-
sequence, if means for removing them were not immediately
furnished, he could not divine. Almost every hour assurances
were received that an express train was coming down with 30
or 40 trucks, but the trucks had not yet made their appear-
ance. With regard to the firm with which he was connected,
they had an average of two trucks to a ship—a mere nothing
—and quite futile. He believed the company were very short
of trucks, and the result must be highly detrimental. The
trucks supplied by the Eastern Union Company for the sole
accommodation of the trade amounted to 800 or 1,000 ; these
had been taken away since the amalgamation, and put into
use elsewhere. He should be happy to second the resolution,
feeling it was a step which the Dock Commissioners were
best qualified to take, and hoping that it would be backed in
the strongest manner possible by the representations of the
parties aggrieved.
The CHAIRMAN said he had lost no time in making represen-
tations in the proper quarter. He sent a letter to J. C. Cob-
bold, Esq., and subsequently a memorial was got up by the
merchants of the port. This had also been submitted, and
Mr. Cobbold immediately waited upon the parties responsible,
and was assured that the difficulties would be remedied.
Mr. JOSSELYN could not but think, when the subject was
strongly represented to the Eastern Counties' Directors, that
they would at once see the necessity and propriety, for their
own interests, of providing immediately a sufficient supply of
trucks. The trade of the rat would he otherwise totally an-
nihilated. If their representations failed of effect, the onl)
course open would be for the merchants to find their own
trucks. (Hear, he ir.)
Mr. R. RANSOME could bear personal testimony to the in-
convenience which his business has suffered in consequence of
the withdrawal of the trucks, but he had submitted, pa-
tiently, as the assurance had been given that the difficulty
would be shortly remedied.
Mr. HEWITT believed the company were really unable to
furnish trucks sufficient for carrying on the business of the
line At Lowestoft the merchants were put to similar incon-
venience as themselves. Yet it was right that they should
ascertain the intentions of the Railway Company, that no
future apprehension might exist, and at the same time to re-
present that unless better accommodation Was afforded the
trade of the port would materially suffer. When he stated
that a payment of 401. or 501. had been incurred by one house
for demurrage, that the customers of the merchants were com-
plaining and endeavouring to seek other channels from which
to draw their supply of coals, that there is a large number of
vessels in the dock unable to discharge their cargoes, it
would be seen that they had a very strong case to represent,
and that these facts going on week after week must have a
serious tendency.
Mr. R. RANSOME said the difficulty was capable of two solu-
tions ; either the company had not a sufficient supply of
trucks, or they had intentions with respect to the trade of
the port, which required to be looked into at one. If the
difficulty arose from the cause stated, they would wait
patiently until it could be remedied. But the present awk-
ward state of affairs was leading to serious differences be-
tween neighbours. He was nearly getting into a quarrel with
a neighbour, who came and took his trucks by force. In
that case might overcame right, but might was produced
again in greater force, and so he got the trucks back again.
Mr. C. BURTON—That was not free trade. (A laugh.)
Mr. R. Ransoms—Nor yet fair trade.
Mr. JOSSELYN said he was informed by a gentleman from
Lowestoft a few days ago that the merchants were in :he same
position in that town ; they actually scrambled for the trucks
whenever one made its appearance, and whoever succeeded in
getting possession took care to lock it up, (Laughter.)
Mr. JACKSON said he had received a letter thatmorning from
Lowestoft, which fully confirmed this statement.
Mr. Jossztvw added that it was the same at Hadleigh ; the
merchants there complained that they could not get coals for
want of trucks.

The CHAIRMAN said it was clear that they were entitled to
demand an explicit explanation at the hands of the board,
whether the difficulty really arose from the want of trucks.

_
Mr. Jossnys remarked that free trade had been men.
tioned ; in this case the merchants needed a revival of pro
tection.

Mr. BAYLEY said he had several vessels lying in the dock
unable to discharge their cargoes. If these•did'iculties con-
tinued, he should be compelled to seek employment for his
vessels elsewhere.

Mr. GBARD repeated that Mr. Capper, of the Eastern Coun-
ties Company, had given the fullest assurances, by letter, that
the difficulty should be remedied as soon as possible, and
that he should keep his attention especially directed to the
requirements of Ipswich. His letter stated that a train of 40
trucks would be sent down, and that he hoped they would be
of service.

Mr. S/lEPPARD said 400 trueks were required. Not only
was the commerce of the port in jeopardy, but the trade of
the town was equally affected, while, what was of still more
consequence, it was a matter which might tell injuriously
upon the employment of the labouring population.
The resolution was then put and carried unanimously.
Mr. HEWITT said he had always feared that the amalgama-
tion of the railways would prove detrimental to Ipswich, for
he could not see what particular affection the Eastern Coun-
ties Company could have for this town in preference to Yar-
mouth and Lowestoft, both ports to which they were bound
by ties of equal interest. He advised a conciliatory course of
conduct at the interview with the Eastern Counties Board,
so that their claims might be met in a good spirit. In any
step they took it would be injurious not to regard the com-
p ny as friendly to the interests of the port.

The following gentlemen were then appointed to form the
deputation :—Mr. G. Josselyn, Mr. J. Head, Mr. Hewitt, Mr.
Geard, Mr. R. Ransome, Mr. W. Bayley, Mr. D. A. Sheppard,
with Mr. Long, the clerk.

Mr. HzwirrSaid allusion had been made to the decreased
importation of coals. It might be partly accounted for by
the fact that the premises used for the manufacture of coke
for the railway had been closed. The quantity of coals con-
sumed there was very considerable for some years past,
amounting in round numbers to about 8,000 tons per annum,
by which the Dock Commissioners realised about GOO/. yearly.
The contract with the Eastern Union Company had been put
an end to, and no agreement had at present been made be-
tween the proprietors and the Eastern Counties' Company.
The premises had been offered, but the Company hesitated,
not knowing what terms they should be able to make with
the. Dock Commissioners with reference to dues. He sub-
mitted whether some steps might not be taken by the Dock
Commissioners so as to avoid the loss of income arising from
this source. If they insisted npon the full payment of the
dock dues upon coals used in the manufacture of coke, Col-
chester, Mistley, and Lowestoft would be found successful
competitors in that trade, inasmuch as the only object the
railway had in view was to get their coke supplied at the
cheapest rate.
The CHAIRMAN stated that there 'was a remission of duty
granted upon coke sent by railway.
Mr. EIEWIIT was aware of this fact, but up to the present
time the remission had not been claimed.
Upon reference to the books of the Commissioners, it was
found that the remission amounted to 3d. per ton.
Mr. GODDARD submitted that the remission of 3d. per ton
on coke was not commensurate with the duties remitted on
coal. It took a ton of coal to manufacture 12 cwt. of coke.

An intimation was thrown out that the question would be
reconsidered by the Committee on Coal Dues, and the meet-
ing then adj awned.

THE ROYAL PANOPTICON.

A handsome Saracenic-looking structure, on the east side
of Leicester-square, has for some time attracted the notice
and excited the curiosity of the public. Little, however, has
hitherto been suffered to transpire as to the character and de-
sign of an institution which, in its external appearance, pre-
sents itself under so novel and striking an aspect. The time,
it seems, is not now far distant when its doors will be thrown
open, and the advantages which it is intended to confer upon
the inhabitants of the metropolis be made available. These,
we have reason to believe, will be highly important, both in
a literary and scientific, and in a social point of view.
A glance at the interior of the building suffices to show
that, while skill and taste of the highest order have been
brought to bear upon the undertaking, no expense has been
spared to carry into effect the objects for which it is de-
signed. Under a dome 72 feet in diameter—the centre of
which is filled by a circular light of nearly half that diameter,
surrounded by 16 star-shaped lights of smaller dimensions—
a hallloo feet in height presents a magnificent coup d'ceil. At
the further end of the hall, opposite the entrance door, is a
deep recess, containing an organ which exceeds in power any
instrument of the kind over built either here or on the con-
tinent, except, perhaps, the Birmingham organ, the only one
that can at all compete with it. Below and in front of the
organ stands a gigantic electrical apparatus ; and the centre
of the organ is so constructed as to leave a large space open
for the action of an optical apparatus of a power altogether
unrivalled, fitted up at the back of the instrument.
The organ recess is flanked on either side by two galleries,
one above the other, supported on pillars of exquisite design,
the upper gallery being surmounted by the arches of the
dome, within which a series of daguerreotype rooms is fitted
up. The side galleries meet over the entrance, in two plat-
forms, one on each floor, where, opposite the organ recess,
seats are placed for the convenience of the spectators during
the exhibition of dissolving views and other experiments ;
the lower tier being furnished, moreover, with a sumptuous
and tasteful box for royal visitors. Along the walls in both
galleries aro a number of stalls, in which a variety of articles,
as well as processes, of art and manufacture will be displayed.
The floor of the hall is occupied by statuary, by machinery
of different kinds, which will be seen iu operation, and by
additional scientific apparatus,—among others a huge diving
tank, reaching to the floor of the second gallery, the frame of
which is of iron, and the walls of plate-glass. In the centre
of the floor is a fountain, the basin of which, beautifully
wrought mosaic, is flush with they
wrought in enamelled slate and
floor, and which will throw up water from eight disc jets, and
from a centre jet to the very roof of the building. In the
basement, below the ground floor, is an immense engine-
room, fitted up with all sorts of engines, and of apparatus for
heating the building, and supplying it with gases and other
appliances for scientific experiments ; the whole surrounded
by a circular electric railway. Attached to the sides of the
hall are two spacious lecture-rooms, an apparatus-room, ant:
a laboratory.
From this very brief and cursory description of the different
portions of the edifice, it will be seen that it presents faci-
lities unequalled by any existing institution for scientific de-
monstrations. These are to be made subservient to the pur-
poses of popular instruction on a scale not hitherto attempted
either here or elsewhere. Arrangements are, we under-
stand, in progress for the delivery of courses of lectures, by
men of the first eminence, in every branch of literature, art, ,
and science, at such times as will render them available
for the different classes of society; tho design of the projec-
tors of the Institution being to create a s,ecies of popular
University, which shall render the information which other
literary and scientific institutions afford on a small scale to
the upper ranks of society, available on a large scale for the
instruction, and thereby the improvement of the masses.
The important bearings of such a design upon the moral
and intellectual condition of the population of the metropolis
are obvious. Church extension, and the multiplication of the
ministrations of religion, is no doubt the first and chief means
of promoting the improvement of all classes of society.
Model lodging-houses, baths, and washhouses, and other means
devised by philanthropy for increasing the physical comforts
of the poor, and inducing habits of cleanliness and decency,
have an indirect tendency to raise their moral charader. But
between the two there remains a wide gap to be filled. Not
the lower classes only, but the upper classes of operatives, as
well as the trading and middle classes, stand in need of op-
portunities of intellectual improvement, and esthetic cultiva-
tion, such as have not hitherto been provided. Most heartily,
therefore do we wish success to an institution, which, accord-
ing to the information we have obtained, appears to be emi-
nently calculated to supply so great a desideratum. Alike at-
tractive and instructive, it may render the most important
service to literature, science, and art, and at the same time
confer incalculable benefits upon society at large.—John
Bull.

Skuraimus OF SPECIE.— The shipments of specie by
the Peninsular and Oriental steamer Indus amount tc
169,057/., of which 73,4381. is gold for Malta, Alexandria,
Ceylon, and Hong Kong, and 95,6191. silver for Madras,
Penang, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Canton.