The Sun.
London, England, 1836-02-09 00:00:00

MEN T.

IMPERIAL PARLIA_

Government to bring in a Bill for the purpose of remedying
the evil; of the present system of trying minor offences and
crimes committed by children, said that the subject was under
consideration. It was one of very great difficulty, and the
proposals which had been made from various quarters were
very different. Amongst others, a proposal had been sub-
mitted to the Government by the Judges of the Central
Cr veinal Court, and that also was under consideration. Ile
would, on an early day, state the course that was intended to
be pursued ; and in the mean time he would consult the Com-
missioners appointed to inquire into the subject.
Colonel SIBTHORP gave notice of his intention to
move that there be laid before the House a return of the
names of persons, and the number employed, on all Commis-
sions; also the secretaries and clerks thereof—the
places
where such Commissions sat—the number of days and hours
on which they sat—the salaries and allowances for each person
so employed, and the expenses thereby incurred ; the Return
Return. .
to commence at 1830, and to continue down to the date of the

HOUSE OF LORDS, FEBRUARY 8. .
The Earl of SHAETESBURY sat as Deputy Speaker at '?unk:
o'clock, when the Duke of Beaufort, Lords Dunsany, Belha.
and Erskine took the oaths and their seats.
The 'LORD CHANCELLOR took his seat on the Woolsack at
five o'clock.
NEW HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT.
Viscount DUNCANNON had to inform their Lordships,
that the Commissioners appointed to receive and consider
the plans fur the new Houses of Parliament had made
their Report to his Majesty, who bad been pleased to
confirm it, and had ordered the Commissioners to confer
with the architects, in order to have the plans laid before
both Houses of Parliarnent.—( Hear, hear.) The Com-
missioners would have been happy to have been able to
make their Report before the 20th of January, as it
was wished for by the House ; but as they had
97 plans sent in, they had found it impossible to do so before
the Ist Feb. The Commissioners bad sent to him four Nos.,
and on referring to the corresponding Nos. on the sealed let-
ters in his office, he found out the architects who had been
selected—the first of whom was entitled to fifteen hundred
pounds, and the other three to five hundred pounds each. In
two or three weeks the Commissioners would be able to prepare
the plans which would be submitted to both Houses of Parlia-
ment ; and it was his intention then to move for a committee
f similar to the one which sat last year.

CHURCH COMMISSION.
An HON. MEMBER asked a question, the import of which
we could not catch, relative to the Church Commission.
Lord JOHN RU SSE LL said he would rather not then
answer the question proposed. lie would, however, say that
the subject of pluralities and non-residence had engaged the
attention of his Majesty's Government : and he had the satis-
faction to state, that, during a great part of the vacation,
every necessary inquiry had been made, so that he had no doubt a
measure would shortly be introduced on the subject, by a Mem-
ber of the Church Commission, or of the Government.

SPAIN.
The Marquis of LONDONDERRY, seeing the Noble
Viscount at the head of the Government in his place, gave
notice that to-morrow he would move for certain returns
relative to the stores which had been sent from this '
of)untry to those of Spain. He saw they were ordered: in
the otik:r House, and therefore he supposed there would be no
opposition to hi. !notion ; but he wanted it more in detail than
it had been ordered. He wanted to know the value of the
stores and ammunition so sent. There were some other ques.
tions relative to Spain which he would put. He would espe-
cially call their attention to that paragraph of the Speech
which hoped to have a speedy conclusion put to the
civil war in Spain. He felt very strongly upon that
question, and was sorry that at the end of the last Session he
had been induced to give up his intention of bringing the whole
matter before their Lordships. He would, however, do so to-
morrow, and the more so, as he did not understand from the
Report of the Foreign Secretary's speech, whether the interfe-
rence for the 27 prisoners, consequent upon the letter of the
Bishop of Leon, was satisfactory or not.
Viscount ME LBOUR NE would not then enter into the
question, further than to put the Noble Marquis right upon
the point respecting the Bishop's letter. The intercession of
his Noble Friend, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, in favour
of the 27 prisoners, was nearly one month before the date of
the Bishop of Leon's letter.
The Marquis of LONDONDERRY would not enter
further into the question, as he would have an opportunity
of alluding to the whole question to-morrow. All he would
then ask was, had the intercession of the Foreign Secretary
been successful, and were the prisoners now at liberty?
Lord MELBOURNE did not know, but he would be ready
to answer the question to-morrow.
FOREIGN CORN.
The Marquis of CL ANRICARDE presented a petition
from the corn merchants of Westport in Ireland, praying that
foreign corn now in bond might not be allowed to be made
into flour.
THE KING'S ANSWER TO THE ADDRESS.
The LORD CHANCELLOR said his Majesty had been
pleased to return the following most gracious answer to their
Lordship's Address :—" My Lords, I thank you for your loyal
and dutiful address, and. I receive with great satisfaction the
assurance that you will direct your attention to those great
measures of domestic policy which I have recommended to your
consideration, and I am perfectly satisfied they will be treated
in such a way as will be best calculated to increase the happi-
ness and properity of the country, by promoting the religion
and morality of my people."
The Earl of SHAFTESBURY moved that his Majesty's
Answer be printed and published.
COURT OF CHANCERY.
The LORD CHANCELLOR moved for a return of the
state of business in the Court of Chancery fora certain number of
years past. His object in moving this was that their Lordships
might begin possession of the state of business in that Court, pre-
vious to his calling their attention to measures he intended to
propose for the purpose of removing certain evils which at pre-
sent existed in that Court. The returns, he believed, have been
in preparation some time, and he had no doubt they would spee-
dily be laid on their Lordships' table.
ECCLESIASTICAL COURTS.
The LORD CHANCELLOR gave notice, that on Friday
next he should propose to lay upon the table a Bill for the
purpose of consolidating the Ecclesiastical Courts of the
country, and giving more effect to those Courts in certain cases.
Their Lordships then adjourned.

ORANGE LODGES.
Mr. HUME seeing the Noble Lord, the Secretary at War,
.in his place, would take leave to ask a question relative to
Orange Lodges in the army. That House had passed a reso-
lution on the subject on the 11th of August, and, on the 31st
an order was issued by Lord Hill, by which the attendance of
all officers and men was peremptorily prohibited. He (Mr. H. )
now wished to know whether the order was carried into effect
as regarded all officers and men known to attend Orange
Lodges subsequent to the date thereof, and he also de-
sired to know what measures were taken to carry it
into effect.—( Hear.) His reason for inquiry was, that he
held a document, showing that certain General Officers did
attend the meetings of the Orange Association subsequent to
the date of Lord Hill's order ; and he else had a letter from
his Royal Highness Ernest, Grand Master, stating in answer
to an Address presented to him, his determination to con-
tinue a Member thereof. In Ireland, certain individuals in
the police were, they knew, dismissed from their situations for
disobedience of the order to which he referred, and, he hoped,
justice would be equally administered to the high and the low.
Lord HO WICK, in answer to the question proposed by
the Member for Middlesex, would assure the House of the de-
termination of Government to deal out justice equally to the
high and the low in station, but the order issued by Lord Hill
applied only to officers on active service; those not serving
were not, the House was aware, subject to the provisions of
the Mutiny Act, and could not be brought to Courtmartial for
a disobedience of orders. All officers on full pay were within
the terms of the orders referred to ; and such of them as took
a part in the proceedings of the Orange Lodges subsequent
to its date, could be brought to a Courtmartial for an in-
fraction of the order of the Commander-in-Chief.—( Hear,
hear.) He (Lord Howick) had authority to state that the
Duke of Gordon, as soon as he was aware of the order issued
by Lord Hill, intimated to the Orange Lodge, with which he
was connected, his intention not to attend in future the meet-
ings of that body, and the soldiers who were members of it
were so in ignorance of the orders on the subject. Effective
measures, he assured the House, were taken to correct the
evil complained of, and neither officers nor men would be
allowed to offend with impunity.—( Hear, hear.)
Mr. HUME then gave notice of his intention to move on
Friday, that all officers, and members of Orange Lodges, not
on full pay, shall be struck out of the Commission.
AGRICULTURAL DISTRESS.
Lord JOHN RUSSELL rose to move that so much of his
Majesty's Speech be read as relates to Distress and Agricul-
ture; he also moved that the resolution of that House of the
4th of April, 1833, relating to the currency be likewise read.
The Clerk now read both documents.
Lord JOHN RUSSELL now rose to call the attention
of the House to that part of his Majesty's Speech which
related to agricultural distress, and to move that a Select
Committee be appointed to inquire into the state of
agriculture, and the cause of the distress which now prevails
in some important branches of it. It was always his
opinion, and it was also the opinion of others, whose
authority was entitled to their consideration, that
when great distress prevailed, Parliamentary Committees
should be appointed to ascertain the facts of the case, and to
consider whether any remedy could be adopted, and although
persons might not agree in opinion upon the subject, yet good
would result from the abatement of exaggeration. It was like-
wise desirable that those who are suffering should see whether
Parliament have it in their power to relieve their distress.
There was one remedy which found advocates, but which he
thought that House should not entertain, and that was the reason
why he moved that the resolution of 1 833 be read, in which it
was declared to be the opinion of that House that no alteration
should be made in the currency. He was prepared to state, as
far as he was concerned, that no recommendation to tamper
with the currency had been made, or would, under any circum-
stances, by tither himself or his colleagues..—( Hear, hear.)
Having said this, be would now move for a Select Com-
mittee to enquire into the cause of agricultural distress,
and he hoped the Noble Lord opposite (Chandos) would not
find it necessary to move an amendment. He would not now
enter into an examination of the causes of agricultural distress,
but he would just refer to one or two facts. Those
who complain,. always fix upon the low price of wheat
as the cause of distress, and yet there has not been an
equal fall in the price of other grain. In the years 1828 and
1835, the price of wheat had fallen from 60s. 4d. to 395. 4d.,
being a reduction of 36 per cent. ; Barley, from 325. 108. to
295. I Id., being a reduction of nine and a half per cent.,
while in oats the reduction was but two and a quarter per cent.
He thought it would be natural also for the Committee to con-
sider the various alterations in price with respect not only to
the different kinds of grain, but also as to other articles of agri-
cultural produce. There was another question, although it had
been very much investigated in the report of the Poor Law
Commissioners, to which it was very material the attention of
the Committee should be directed—namely, the change
going on in various parts of the country, in conse-
quence of the enactment of the Poor Law Amendment Bill,
and the unions which had also been formed in several parishes.
He knew of some instances in which the change effected had
been very great. A Noble Lord, a Member of the other
House, had that morning informed him that in two parishes
in Suffolk, wherein a union had been formed, the poor rates
had been reduced one third, and in the course of the year the
reduction had not been less than one half the rates previously
paid. In one union in the county of Bedford, with which he
(Lord J. Russell) was acquainted, the reduction in the quarter
ending last December was exactly one half, the amount formerly
paid being 2,5001., and the present amount 1,2001. There might
be facts also on the other side relative to the working of the
measure, and it would be the duty of the Committee to take
the subject irito their serious consideration, and he trusted it
would turn out that it had been in most instances a very great
amelioration. The subject of county rates had been very
fully investigated before the Committee appointed for that pur-
pose ; but there might be still suggestions as to more effectual
checks upon that branch of expenditure, although it was diffi-
cult to say where there was effectual control, and where it was
wanting. There was another subject to which many Hon. Mem-
bers taught the attention of the Committee might be usefully
directed—he meant the great question of the Corn Laws.—
( Hear, hear.) He (Lord J. Russell) believed that an opinion
existed some years ago, and it was very general among the owners
and occupiers of land, that Parliament should fix some price
below which agricultural produce should not fall. He believed
they bad now discovered that in that opinion they were mistaken.
He (Lord J. Russell) had never entertained an opinion
that such would be the case, although he was most
anxious that some law for the protection of the agri-
cultural interest should be introduced.—( Hear, bear.)
He It ished to hold out no hope that would not turn out to be
well founded. He wished the question to be fairly considered
by the Committee, and he was sure if there were any practical
means by which agriculture could be improved it would be the
duty of Parliament to adopt them. It was not the intention
of his Majesty's Government at all to interfere with or fetter
the Committee, but he hoped the Committee would not recom-
mend the adoption of any measure that would have a tendency
to alter the state of the currency of the country.—( Cheers. )
The Marquis of C H ANDO S said, that his Majesty's Mi-
nisters,
Government
si
eees
oevtt
tienvelhredo
ossr
u,
unafrgglinriroiraolei,
nvtucni
unmnt
Idagteeui
altdraasaa.udrkl
groat deal
iosicomant
aretileeoiacasludst
flhaooieotnfr iefwrdtv
ahtahhrtei
daoenn,dredi
country,
ideucesetunvoealetrytrirnyoytmlu,:per
endeavoured
1 taddrohgt arttiwniiooacht
duciagleathirbqu:erleyhtaceelnstltdi
what
ii
eioae
had
;i
tress of the. country, and he rejoiced to find that at last the
attention to a matter which involved the interest r
so many of his Majesty's subjects._( Cheers.) If he tinder_
stood tho Noble Lord rightly, it was not the intention of Ili;
Majesty's Government at all to fetter the course to be adopted
by the Select Committees if that had not been the case.
he should himself have moved for the appointment
of a Select Committee ; all that he would, however, now ess:,
was, that the time had arrived when there must be full and
fair inquiry into what were the causes of agricultural distress
and the Noble Lord having fairly told the House that it was
not the intention of his Majesty's Government to fetter the
Committee, or interfere with their deliberations, he should not
feel it his duty to move any amendment to
.the motion of
the Noble Lord. because he took it that it was the
intention of his Majesty's Government to give every facility
to the discussteri of the question before the Committee. j,
giving his opinion lie fait that ha was speaking the sentiments
of the farmers of England. The Noble Lord, he(Lord
Chandos) was sure, had seen that the farmers
he
this country had arrived at that pitch of difficulty
under which they could no longer go on. He must have no_
tired the numerous meetings in every part of the country,
calling up4on the Legislature to do justice to them by in.
stituting an inquiry into the cause of agricultural dis-
tress,—(Cries of " Hear, hear.") lie would not say a word
upon the subjeei of the Corn Laws, but he confeseA
hind no inPiiriaoon to !,9* 14 !.'"l4 Fil4Pstion as one which they
should inquire late. He was oly speaking iris QW4 4glnilnents,
but he would not then enter into that impartant topic.
to
ot
knsTvlctlhata ffaordomgmreitattede
twouldre. satisfactionbife it to
sho appointeduthi
de I
41 agriculturists
Unfortunatelyeoitfuuirriresl tyds
into the cause of their
turn out that Parliament should find itself Unable to benefit
them—and he certainly did not think so—( Hear, hear)._
theirconfi (Ic eate
thathad the
but if it 4110414 4p happen, thiteteef,awrinitheoruwt orengldar:: have
the
eofhoispneodtv!
Govern-
ment-would appoint such
or political feeling.,—( Hear.) As be thought that he woultt ;
and
a c thatowtna m

ROUSE OF COMMONS, FEBRUARY 8.

The SPEAKER took the chair at a few minutes to 4 o'clock.
Mr. CAMPBELL, from the East India House, brought up
returns relative to the compensation granted by the Company
to its officers.
A messenger from the Bank of England brought up returns,
which were laid on the table.
Mr. TRAVERS brought in a Bill for enclosing waste lands
in Alford, and another parish in Cambridge.—Read a first time.
Mr. CHARLES RUSSELL presented a petition in fa-
vour of the Reading Gas Company.
Mr. WILLIAM FOLK ES presented a petition, praying for
leave to bring in a Bill to enclose waste lands, in the parish of
Brompton, Yorkshire.
Some more petitions for private Bills having been presented
and ordered to be referred to Committees,
Mr. R. GORDON said as the lists had not yet been printed,
he trusted that though these Committees were appo►nted,
it would be upon an understanding that they would sit
till after Wednesday next. The list would then be made out,
and the business go on regularly. If they did sit before, it
would be in the power of any Hon. Member to get a Report
that the standing orders had been complied with, by getting
his own friends, or the friends of the measure in question, to
attend.
The SPEAKER said he apprehended that the usual course
was now pursued. It was the same as had been uniformly
acted upon. In fact, he had no other way of doing the busi-
ness than the course he had taken.
Sir E. KNATCHBULL said that the good sense and dis-
cretion of the Members interested would be a guarantee that
nothing wrong would be done.
Sir J. WROTTESLE Y thought the matter was one of
very great importance. As it was at present, the parties in-
terested in a canal in Yorkshire might have their pet►t►on pre-
sented by a Member from Cornwall, and then the matter would
be decided by Members for Cornwall only.—(No, no.)
Mr. WARBURTON and Mr. PEASE thought the point
one of much importance, and trusted no Committee would sit
before the lists were in the hands of the Members.

The SPEAKER reiterated that as things now stood, he
had no other course to take than the one he Lad done.

Mr. Sergeant TALFO ti RD brought up the Report of a
Committee on a private Bill.

Mr. GORDON said that the present was a case in point.
Here the names of the Committee were not attached to the
Report. He should therefore move that the Bill he recom-
mitted, which was agreed to.

Mr. PENDAR YES presented a petition from Cornwall,
praying for the removal of the Assize Hall.
Mr. SANDFORD presented a petition from Somerset,
complaining of agricultural distress.
NEWSPAPER DUTIES.

Mr. BL A C KBURNE presented a petition from Hudders-
field, praying for the repeal of the duties on newspapers.
The Hon. and Learned Member strenuously supported the
prayer of the petition, firmly believing that literature would be
increased by the adoption of sneh a course.
CARLOW ELECTION.

Colonel BRUEN gave notice that on the 11th instant lie
should present a petition praying an investigation into the cir-
cumstances connected with the late election for the County
Carlow.
STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE.

Sir JOHN WROTTESL E Y rose for the purpose of
moving the appointment of the Standing Orders Committee.
Within the last four or five years the number of the Com-
mittee had increased from twenty-one to thirty-six, and with-
out meaning to impute any inattetttiou or negligence to any
portion of that Committee, it was his intention to reduce the
number from 36 to the original number, 21.
Mr. HUME regretted that he had not been aware of the
Hon. Baronet's intention to move the appointment of the Com-
mittee, as he had intended to suggest some amendment in the
mode of deciding upon objections and matters of form. The
Speaker, who was the person most deeply interested in being
made acquainted with the decisions of the Committee, was ge-
nerally kept in utter ignorance as to the grounds upon which
objections were obviated or admitted; and he (Mr. Hume) had
intended to suggest that a record of their proceedings should
be kept, or that the Speaker should be present at the sittings
of the Committee. .

The SPEAKER understood that it was intended to make
such arrangements as would render the labours of the Corn.
mittee muc more efficient than hitherto.—( Hear. )

The Committee was then appointed.
AGRICULTURAL DISTRESS.

The Marquis of CH A NDOS presented a petition from
some place in the county of Stafford, praying for agricultural
relief.

FACTORY BILL.

Mr. HARDY wished to know whether it was the intention
of his Majesty's Government to make any alteration n the
Factory Regulation Bill ?
Mr. LABOUCHE RE said that if the Hon. Gentleman
had informed him that he intended to ask this question h e
would have been prepared with a precise answer. As it was
he could only say that he did not think that it was intended to
make any alteration.
EXCHEQUER BILLS.
Dr. BO WRING gave notice that on the 28th of March he
would propose the following resolutions, viz :—" That fcr the
purpose of exercising a due control over the expenditure of
the public money, it was necessary that the eress receipts
should he paid, without deduction, into the Exchequer; and
also that no issues should be made from the Exchequer with
out a previous Parliamentary sanction."
lINSTAMFED FUELIC4TIONS.
Mr. HUME reminded the House that they dad passed
last Session an order for 4 return of all individuals who had
been committed for selling unstamped publications. The or-
der had not yet been carried into effect ; and he would, there-
fore, give notice that on Tuesday next he would renew his
motion upon the subject.
JUVENILE OFFENDERS.

Lord JOHN RUSSELL, in answer to a gnestion from an
Hon. Member, as to whether it was the intention of the

THE SUN, LONDON, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, I EroG,

have had the honour of bringing forward this motion, lie •
had put. the names of the Coinmittee be intended to
move for upon paper. He should wait with great
anxiety to hear what names would be proposed by the
Noble Lord. He could not sit down without congratulating
the farmers of England with having arrived at the satisfaction
of having a fair Committee to look into every subject that was
likely to be the cause of distress. If that had not been the
case, he must in duty to them have moved an amendment. He
was glad to be relieved from that duty by the Government
taking the question into their consideration ; and he only
hoped and trusted in God that the inquiry would be so carried
on, as to be a relief to the farmers, and a satisfaction to the
country at large.—(Cheers.
Mr. CLAY said that he did not think it right to press for
any change whilst this inquiry was going on.—( Hear, bear.)
Until, therefore, he saw the report of the Committee, he
would not bring forward the motion of which be had given
notice.—( Hear, hear.)
Mr. T. ATT WOOD rose to move an amendment.—
(Cries of " Oh, oh.") It was due to the public mind, and the
feelings of the public, that he should move an amendment,
and he would move " That it be a particular instruction to the
Committee to enquire into the effect of the Bill of 1819,
commonly called Peel's Bill."—( A laugh.) He did not be-
lieve that there was a man in that House who was
not of opinion that that Bill had been most dis-
astrous.—(Loud cries of " No, no," and some cheers.)
Did any one say " No?" As a gentleman, he would say, that
it was very extraordinary.—( Cries of "Oh !") After witness-
ing the consequences of that Bill for the last 20 years, if indeed
all the Hon. Gentlemen opposite were 20 years of age--( A
laugh)—it was most extraordinary to hear the Hon. Gentle-
men say " No." Have they not had lamentable expe-
rience of the fact ? They had been throwing dust
in the eyes of the agriculturists for the last twenty years,
but they were now wiping away the dust from their eyes, and
the general opinion of the agricultural classes was, that to the
Bill of 1819, the whole agricultural distress was to be attri-
buted.—( Cries of " Oh, oh.") The Noble Lord talked of a
reduction of rent, but there should also be a reduction of
dividend. The same law and justice should be done
to the landholder and to the fundholder. The landholder
had as good a right to be protected from Legislative
wrong as the fundholder. Did the Noble Lord think that we
had now -come to the worst? He knew well that we had not.
The Noble Lord knew perfectly well that under the present
standard of value, the whole tenantry of England must be
ruined, unless the whole landed interest was ruined.--(Cries
of " Oh, oh.") Did the Noble Lord mean to follow up the
iniquity of the Bill of 1819? The Noble Lord might think
we had come to the worst, but he ought to know better. We
had 50 per cent. lower to go.—( Laughter.) At that very
moment every shilling of rent which the Noble Lord's family
derived, was obtained solely by tampering with the currency.
There was not a shilling of rent paid that was not obtained
through the tampering with the currency. The pay of the
soldier and the King's civil list could hot be paid but for this
accursed tampering with the currency. This tampering was
still going on, an at this very moment they had made
the Bank of England notes a legal tender. Was not this
an immense, an enormous tampering with the currency ?
Was there a man in that House who did not know that
the certain consequence of this, and of the spirit of speculation
that it had given rise to, would be a universal panic?
There was a storm coming over them which would inevitably
burst ere long. What they termed prosperity would unques-
tionably turn out a source of ruin to thousands and tens of
thousands of the people of England in a year or two.
(Cries of " Hear, hear, hear.") Let the Noble Lord
revoke the cruel injustice he had practiced upon the industry
of the people of England. Let him at once call out the
military, and sweep them off the face of the earth, for it
would be infinitely more bountiful to kill them by wholesale,
than to allow them to die by inches. He believed it to be
a fact that more had died from the oppression to which they
had been subjected--that more had been killed by broken
hearts than on the field of battle. There had been delusion
upon delusion, and deception upon deception. The indus-
trious classes had been told of over-trading, over-speculation,
over-production, and over-population, but nothing had been
said of over-ruling.—( Hear, hear.) The great misfortune of
the people of that country had been that they had been over-
ruled. The industrious classes had trusted to that House,
and they had been deceived and defrauded, and their capital
' and the funds of their industry had been taken from them.
That House was again about to deceive them—they were pre-
paring them for the butcher's knife again to massacre them.
--(Cries of—Hear, hear.) The moment there was a rise in
the price of agricultural produce, manufactured goods would
become 10, 20, or 50 per cent. higher. What would be the
consequences? Gold would become the cheapest article of
export. Last year the quantity of gold and silver in the Bank
of England was 14 millions; it was now down to seven mil-
lions. It was in reality only six millions ; but it had been
worked up by the Government, purchasing gold bullion
in South America to go back again, perhaps to-morrow,
to pay for the bills it had given. Was that, he would
ask, a solid, healthy currency ? So long as it continued
the gold must leave the country. If the Bank reduced its
accommodations it would break down and ruin half the manu-
facturers of England. Was it intended for a fourth time to
bring ruin upon the country? They all recollected the dis-
tress of 1816, of 1819, of 1826, and 1829, and were they
now, in 1836, to have another deluge of ruin poured out
upon their merchants and manufacturers ?—( Hear, hear.)
One word with respect to the Committee. He was a Mem-
ber of the Committee of 1833, and he could declare,
on his word of honour, that it was nothing but a delusive hum-
bug. The Member for Oldham was another member of
it ; but there were thirty-four of them friends of the
prosperity system. They all saw through the depths
of their own purses the prosperity of the people. The mo-
ment that Committee met, he saw that it was but a delusion,
, for he could assure the House that they passed a resolution
preventing an inquiry into the currency ; and every time he
proposed a question on the subject, he was called to order.
Thatnot
hwassem in 8
a solitaryl2l when he wa
case, for he
examined before
wasthe victim
of
the Agricultural Committee, which was as great a humbug as
the former one. Ile came up from Birmingham for the pur-
pose of being examined before them, and they would not
hear him. He asked, were they not appointed to enquire
into the subject of the agricultural distress ? They said, un-
doubtedly. He asked, would they not examine into the
causes of the low price of agricultural produce ? They said,
undoubtedly. He asked, would they not ask what was
the amount of money in the market ? They said, certainly ;
but they refused
to enquire into the only thing appertaining
to those questions—the currency. That was the system in
1821—it was the same in 1833 ;it was the same when Mr.
Western moved for his Committee in 1822 ; it was the same
when Mr. Davenport and Sir R. Vivian brought the subject for-
ward afterwards. He felt that he was only doing his duty to
warn that House that the days of delusion were fast passing away,
and that if the gates of justice were once closed—if the
people took matters into their own hands—their judgment
would be as cruel as that pronounced by the House
against them.--( Hear, hear, and cheers.) He wanted them
to return to a just currency--be it one of paper
or of gold ; he wished them to do justice between the fund-
holder and the landholder—between the landlord and the te-
nant. He protested against the one-eyed sort of enquiry pro-
posed, and he hoped they would not shut out the question
of the currency from the consideration of the committee. As
to the constitution of the committee, he thought the Members
ought to be selected indiscriminately, that a net might
be thrown around the House.—( Cries of " Hear, hear.")
The Committee, as proposed by the Noble Lord would be a
complete delusion, for it would be nominated by him and his
Majesty's other Ministers. That Committee he had no doubt
would summon before them a deluge of witnesses to prove
that there was nothing rotten in the state of agriculture, that
all would be well by to-morrow, and that any little evils
that might exist, would all be removed by taking off the tax on
shepherd's dogs.—( Laughter.) If, however, the Committee
was appointed by the House as he submitted it ought to be,
there would then be security for the Throne, security for
the aristocracy, and security for every class of his
Majesty's subjects.—( Hear.) He thought the subject ought
to be fairly investigated, and all its dark sides turned to light.
The lion. Member concluded by proposing, as an amendment
to the motion of the Noble Lord, that it be an instruction to
the Committee particularly to enquire into the effect which the
Bill of 1819, commonly called Peel's Bill, hai produced on
agricultural distress.
The SPEAKER stated that it was not competent for the
Hon. Member to move his amendment till the Committee was
appointed.
Col. SIBTHORP implored the Hon. Member, whose ta-
lents he so much admired, to withdraw his amendment.
Colonel THOMPSON said he had been, some time
back, applied to to reduce his rents, and he did so, on con-
dition that he should be at liberty to raise them, in case an
alteration should be made in the existing corn law.—( Hear,
hear.) In illustration of the feeling which prevailed on
this subject in the country, he might mention a cir-
cumstance which had lately occurred. A farmer, who had
great experience in agriculture, came to him and said
our condition is so bad that it is time to try your recommenda-
tion, and seek for an alteration in the Corn Law. Let him not be
understood to advocate a sudden or material change ; the
change he recommended was a gradual alteration, which
could not have an injurious effect on the interests involved.
He concluded with expressing a hope that some attention
would be paid to that rising class of landlords and agricultu-
rists, of which he would have more to say hereafter.
Mr. CA YL E Y did not rise to prolong the discussion, but lie
felt bound to return his thanks to the Noble Secretary for the
Home Department for the kind manner in which he had come
forward on the present occasion. He could not, however,
avoid saying, that unless the Committee were fairly formed,
it would give nothing like satisfaction to the agricultu-
rists.—( Hear, hear.) There was such a spirit abroad
that they would no longer be blinded by such pretexts. It
was not for the Noble Lord, nor for the House to decide what
relief should be given—it was the duty of the country to
do that after a fair and impartial enquiry before a fairly chosen
Committee. If the Noble Lord did choose the Committee in
a fair
manner, and if it was fairly conducted, it would prove
a blessing to the country.
Mr, EAT H COTE said he felt constrained to offer hi;
mosi 411 Oncere tq the Noble Lord for
•
coning vorifttr in the manner be hart _ done ; and
put asfdo all that party feeling which must otherwise
have attached to the question. He tilAV4ii atlYa(4yc ywifair
to raise doubts en the quiljet of the mktiong up of the Com-
mittee, before it was knOwn what names it was proposed
to put upon it.—(Hear, hear, hear.) He wished much for
unanimity, and therefore he would not further cl',[ert to what
had fallen from the Honourable Member opposite relative
to the Corn Laivs, than to say, that he considered the
obserVatiOns were much out of place.--( Hear.) He did
not think that there existed in the minds of any great
body 'Qf agriculturists tiny aestrg for au alteration 3n these

laws ; certainly a great difference 6f opinion existed upon the
Fuhject, and it was unfair to come to a decision until the inquiry
had concluded. If they went into the question of the currency
the inquiry would never end--they would sa there till August,
and then be no nearer a conclusion than they now were. He
hoped the time was coming—he. hoped that the labours of
this Committee would be so successful as to put an end to
thaFe local parliaments which had been denounced by the Hon.
Member for Middlesex.

that ve,ir, as compared with former periods of inquiry.
that
in
the
be, there had bce9, nevertheless, a material imprevenient
know that my conviction from that inquiry
w-conditionhil
am muchoun
was
the requisite
provev'd.a;s; faosr
com-
pared
t
for his money a greater amount of
pared with former prosperous periods,heof wages as
to pro-
cure
this
consolation,
conveniences of life.—(Loud cheers.) I know that
assurance has been to me the greatest possible
when labouring, as I did, under the prejudices excited againstas
me for the measures of 1819.—( Cheers. ) The Noble Lord h
told us that the working of the new Poor Law Bill will neces-
sarily come under the attention of the Committee. In con-
nection with this subject there is one point which I would ear-
nestly press upon the attention of the Government, namely,
the possibility of diminishing in some degree the amount re
quired for the building of the workhouses. It strikes me that
in most cases the interest paid on money borrowed for this
purpose is far higher than it should be—far higher than it Is •
obtained for other public works of a like character. Now,
allow me to express a hope that the circumstance of the ap-
pointment of this Committee, and its being vested
with power
to inquire into the working of the Act genessally, may not
preclude the Government from taking 's:nmediate steps to
remedy this grievance. I believe tb.",t great essential good
will result to the agricultural int-,rests from the operation of
the present system of poo:Aaws, and I have in the county
with which lam connected done all I could to facilitate
itsa
working. I would not, however, overrate too much the per-
manent reduction of expense that may be looked for. It should
be taken into consideration that the Bill is coming into opera-
tion at a period when there is, owing to the construction of rail-
roads and other public works, a great demand for labour, and
that upon this demand ceasing recourse must be had by the
then unemployed labourers to the provisions of the Act. am not saying a word against the present operation of the
Act, but I do not think we should be too sanguine as to the
reduction which will be eventually made.—( Hear.) We should
bear in mind the peculiar circumstances of the pr'.sent hour,
and, doing so, look forward to the time wlel'n the advantages
arising from them should cease. With
r.
etfa the strongnow sag
language used by the Hen. Member r.or Birmingham, I shall
should y nothing. the
present is -not the time for it, and I
tureo debate be sorry to bold out any topic likely to raise a prema-
should apprnhe'ed that the very precise and
Prect;:cal reasoning which t' oat Hon. Gentleman called into
I,',aay to night, will suggest to all the expediency of his being
one.of the first witnesses examined .by the Committee; and
when before them, I do trust, for his own sake, that, without
any of that Tom-foolery to which lie has alluded, but by the
exhibition of sound reasoning and facts, he may be able to
show that an alteration of the currency would tend to improve
the condition of the agricultural interests. I must say, when
I recollect the prophecies which the Hon. Member so lavishly
made some short time since, as to the impossibility of carry-
ing on trade and manufactures at all while the present stan-
dard was continued, I heard with some satisfaction the decla-
rations he made this evening. It is my opinion that, looking
to the vast agricultural and commercial interests at stake, the
Committee will not be able to suggest any great beneficial
amendment. I will not say that the present state of the cur-
rency is unalterably fixed for the best, but that I am convinced
the permanent welfare and prosperity of the country, both in
its commercial and agricultural interests, are deeply involved
in maintaining a permanent metallic standard.—( Cheers.)
Sir C. BURRELL was understood to support the 'ap-
pointment of the Committee, but, in consequence of the 'noise
arising from a number of Members leaving the House, it was
impossible to collect the nature of his remarks.
Mr. WODE HOUSE was understood to say that be felt
bound to declare his conviction that gold was not the best
standard of value. He entertained this opinion, and was
strengthened in it from observing the evidence before the
Committee in 1810, known by the name of the Bullion Com-
mittee, appointed at the instigation of Mr. Horner and Mr.
Iluskisson. It was proved also by the events of 1789, of 1797,
1816, 1819, and 1823. He considered that the appointment
of the Committee was calculated to do good, and he thanked
the Noble Lord for not excluding a full, free, and unfettered
investigation of all matters connected with the question of
agricultural distress. With respect to what had been said by
the Hon. Member for Birmingham (Mr. Attwood) as to the
distress of the farmer not exceeding that of other classes in the
community, he would wish to refer him at any day to any of
the country newspapers, when he would perceive the nusnber
of farms there were to let--a sure indication of the depressed
state of agriculture.
The question was then put—" That a Select Cotsimittee be
appointed to inquire into the cause of Agricultural Distress."
—Agreed to.
Lord J. Russell then rose to propose the names of several
Hon. Members to serve upon the Committee, stating that he
had not been guided in his selection merely by his own judg-
ment, but had consulted the opinion of others competent to de-
cide upon who were the most fitting persons. It would be
found by the list that the great majority of Members were
Members for English agricultural counties, there being only
four Scotch and four Irish Members. The following Corn-
' mittee was then appointed :—Lord John Russell, Sir Robert Peel, Mr. R. Clive, Mr. Clay, Sir James Graham, the Mar-
quis of Chandos, Mr. Gilbert Heathcote, Mr. Shaw Le-
fevre, Mr. Evelyn Denison, Sir Edward Knatchbuli,
Lord Stanley, Mr. Miles (of Somersetshire), Mr. E. San-
ford, Mr. Cayley, the Hon. M. C. A. W. Pelham, the Earl
of Lincoln. Sir Robert Price, Lord Francis Egerton, Mr. G.
Beaumont, Sir William Molesworth, Lord Howick, the Hon.
W. Gordon, Mr. G. Evans, Mr. E. J. Copper (Sligo), Sir
John OWen, the Hon. Sidney Herbert, Mr. Bingharn Baring-,
the Right Hon. C. P. Thomson, Mr. Hawes, Mr. Ord, Mr.
Handley, Mr. Morrison, Mr. Dunlop, Mr. J. Young (Ca-
van), Mr. Loch, and the O'Connor Don. Mr. CAYLE Y. moved that the name of the Illember for
Whitehaven (Mr. M. Attwood) be added.
Lord J. RUSSELL did not like to object to tire addition
of the name of an Hon. Member, but as the Hon. Gentleman
proposed looked at the question as one relating to the cur-
rency rather than to agriculture, he was afraie. that the addi-
tion of his name was
not likely to facilitate the objects the
Committee would have in view.
Mr. CAYLEY we understood to say could not have ven-
tured to propose the addition had not the Hon. Member for
Whitehaven proved so efficient a member of the Committee of
1833.
The Marquis of CHANDOS was sorry to hear the objee-
ti3n of the Noble Lord, a.a there were many names be had
hoped to see on the Committee that had been omitted. There
were certain names so well known among the farmers and to
the country generally, that he was afraid unless they were
added that confidence in the investigations of the Committee,
so desirable, would not be given by the agricultural interest.
Feeling this, he trusted the Noble Lord would te
move that the names of Lord Darlington, M permit him
r. Wodebouse,
and Sir C. Burrell be added to the list.
Sir R. PEEL, who was on the Committee of that he had never seen a Committee conducted witlB33, said
h greater
ability, impartiality, and justice than was that Committee by
the Chairman (the Marquis of Chandos), nor with greaser
evidence of practical knowledge of the subject underge,ing
investigation. He therefore, for that very reason, thought
that the suggestion of the Noble Marquis should be acceded
to. He could not help thinking, that as far as he (Sir IL
Peel) was concerned it would be better his name should be
omitted.
The question was then put that the name of Mr. Attwood be
added.—Agreed to.
Lord J. RUSSELL expressed his determination of oppos-
ing any further addition.
The
should feel it Marquis of CHANDOS was sorry to say that he
his duty, the House unen the if the Noble Lord persisted, to divide
uestion.
Mr. LENNARDq regretted, but he thought it his duty to
propene that Mr. Bramston be added to the list for the county
of Essex, which bad no representative on the Committee. He
hoped the Noble Lord would give way, or the agriculturists,
unless they saw a sufficient number of experienced practical
Members on the Committee, would not continue to indulge
the sanguine expectations of an impartial investigation.
The Marquis of CHANDOS and Lord J. iit.T3SELL
said they thought it their duty to persist ;:a their deter-
mination.
Sir C. VERB said that neither Lincoln, Norfolk nor
Suffolk had a Member on the Committee. ,
Mr. HUME thought that it wonld meet all difficulties if the
Committee were made an open Committee.
The House then divider'. on the motion of the Marquis of
Chandos, when there appeared—
For the minion. .
Against it . 142
Majority 149
When we returned to the Gallery, 7
Lord J. RUSSELL, was speaking ; but the noise of Mem-
wa
bers
inaudible to uss entering ad leaving the House was so great, that, he
Mr. LENN ARD was understood to say that he would not
press his motion.
MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS ACT.
The ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved for leave to bring
in " a Bill to explain and amend' an Act passed in the last
session of Parliament for the regulation of Municipal Cor-
porations in England and Wales." The Hon. and Learned
Gentleman spoke so low, and the noise continued so great,
that we could not catch the first part of his observations. He -
was understood to say that he anticipated no opposition to the
measure lie prayed leave to introduce, as its object was to ob-
viate some evils which had crept into the Municipal Reform
Act of last session. He believed that there were as few
defects in that Act as the magnitude of the subject it dealt
with admitted ; but that there were some he did not desire to
conceal. For instance, one point which was embraced by the
Bill he wished to introduce related to the election of Alder-
men by the Common Council. Now, it so happened that in
two cases—that of Newport, in the Isle of Wight, and that of
Rochesn. r (as we could understand the Hon. and Learned
Member)—the Councils were equally divided, nine being on
one side and nine on the other: the consequence was that no
election was made. To remedy this he proposed to confer
casting vote on the senior councillor. Th onler ant alteration alteration he proposed to make in
thee y Act ootf lhastim session
was in respect to the title of the returning officer at elections.
As the law stood a flaw or defect in the title of the returning
officer vitiated the election;
rendering all clefsclot-is valid to wh no other objection
HQ proposed to remedy this by
should. be .Ken than the informality in the department of the
ren:, rinig officer. The Hon. and Learned Gentleman con-
cluded by moving for leave to bring in the Bill.
Colonel SIIITHORP did not rise to oppose the 'introduc-
tion of the Bill, which he deemed one of great necessity, but
to suggest that, as it embraced a most important subject, every
requisite consideration should be given it, All he asked for
was time, that Hon. Members might be enabled to afford it
that consideration.
Mr. M. ATT WO OD said the Act of the last Session_ re•
quired revision, and he thought the present a faVourable op-
portunity of revising it. He was of opinion that one of its
objects should be the abolition of qualifications for town eosin-

Mr. 'l'. AT T WOOD said, that perceiving there was such
a strong feeling for unanimity oa both sides of the House, lie
would not press his amendment to a division.-4 Hear, hear. )
Sir CHARLES VE RE made a few observations that were
quite inaudible in the gallery.
Mr. ROEBUCK wished to express a hope that the
Committee about to lie appointed would understand what was
meant by the term " agricultural interest ;" for he had often
heard great disputes, and great confusion follow such disputes,
from the not understanding of that term.—( Hear, hear.)
The first and most numerous class of agriculturists were the
labourers, and he particularly wished those who were to deter-
mine what was the cause of agricultural, distress, should first
determine whether or not there was increased distress among the
agricultural labourers ?—( Hear, hear.) That was the first
and most important matter that ought to come under their
consideration ; and if it should so happen that the condi-
tion of the labouring farming population of England was
now better (as he believed it to he) than it had been for
the last twenty years—(cries of Hear, hear, and no, no)--
there would be something then to be said against the
proposition respecting agricultural distress. The next im-
portant portion of agriculturists was that portion that
employed capital in land—namely, the farmers—and he
wanted to learn from the Commitee whether the application
of capital to land was less profitable than the applica-
tion of capital to any other business—(Hear)—and if it was
not, then he wanted to know what was meant by the term
agricultural distress with respect to that portion of the agricul-
tural interests ? The last and least important class of the
agricultural interests—the least important, because they
were the least numerous, and because they were not produc-
tive—were the landlords.--( Hear, hear, and laughter.) He
was willing to own that in that House the landlords were not
likely to meet with much wrong.—( Laughter.) A very large
and important portion of the House thought but a small section
of the community were landlords.—( Hear.) He adhered to
his proposition, that the least important part of the agricultural
interest were the landlords. That portion, he was willing
admit, were in distress—not from the Government—not el-,01,1
the law, which favoured them more than any otter class—
( cries of Oh I) but from themselves.--( Hear, and cheers. )
The cause of their distress was the habits of expense they had
incurred during the time the country was at war ; they, there-
fore, ought not to call upon the House to assist them in diffi-
culties which they had brought upon themselves.
Mr. BENNETT felt himself called upon to defend that
class to which he belonged (the country gentlemen) against
the statements of the Hon. and Learned Member. They had
done their duty—they had been "eye' to their King—they had
done great service to the State, and in their capacity
of Magistrates—they had not been altogether useless.
Neither in that House, nor elsewhere, should he ever advocate
any measure that would not contribute to the advantage of
that class. He could assure the Hon. Member for Bath_
and he was just as cognizant of the habits and condition of
the labouring classes as that lion. Member—that they were
never prosperous unless their masters, the farmers, were pros-
' perous.—( Hear, hear.) He could assure the Hon. Gentleman
also, that the farmers of England, who it was asserted most
erroneously obtained larger profits than the manufacturers—
that the farmers of England could not prosper, unless the
English Country Gentlemen prospered also.—( Hear, hear.)
He wished the Hon. Member, when he said that these
three classes were bound up together, had added to them
another class—the trading classes of large towns.—( Hear.)
The prosperity of one or the distress of one must entail that
prosperity or distress on all. There was another class
also —he meant the manufacturers of home consump-
tion—who were also identified with them. While they
talked about the importance of their exports, they should
not forget the magnitude of the home consumption. —( Hear,
hear.) He felt that they were now forestalling the
business of the Committee.—( Loud ,cries of " Hear,
hear.") He felt obliged to his Majesty's Government
and the Noble Lord for having proposed such a Committee,
which, lie had no doubt, would- be a fair one. Much was to be
expected from it, as it was an unrestricted one—the last had been
a restricted one, and therefore was only a delusion upon the
country. All he asked for the British people was justice,
and ho doubted not they should obtain their demand.
Mr. PLUMPTRE was not unwilling to agree in the
statement of the Member for Bath, that the labouring classes
were a most important part of the British community ; but
from the other assertion of the Honourable Gentleman, that
they were not now labouring under great distress, he should
positively dissent. He was himself in possession of a great
extent of land, and he could assure the House of the disposi-
tion of the farmers to give a better remuneration for labour if
their circumstances permitted.
Sir ROBERT PEEL wished he could concur in the ex-
pectation entertained by some of his friends, who thought
that good would result from the appointment of a Committee.
He should confess in that hope lie did not participate.-
-( Hear.) He firmly believed when the Committee reported,
probably at the close of the Session, after a great deal of in-
quiry, the result would ho the same as that of 1833, stating
the impression on the part of the Committee ; and he could
assure the House that legislative interference -on the
subject could not influence the prosperity of the agri-
cultural community. But yet he thought if a general
expectation was entertained that good would result from
a Committee, those who did not see its advantages were bound
to give up their own opinion. For himself he would say if he
thought this Committee was appointed with the view to
alter the standard, and that this effect would result from the
enquiry, he certainly would oppose its appointment.—( Cheers. )
He was perfectly certain that no good effect could result from
the labours of this Committee if its object was to ascertain the
effect produced upon the agricultural interest by an alteration
in the currency, and that all such inquiries would end in disap-
pointment. As far as the agriculturists were concerned their in-
terests would be best promoted by the Committee ad-
dressing itself to practical remedies. Before they applied
any remedy, they must inquire into the various causes that
had led to a depression of agricultural produce.—( Hear.)
He considered that the condition of the labouring classes
must form an important element of the enquiry. He was
surprised to hear from the Hon. Gentleman who had
last spoken, that the condition of the labouring, classes
had not been improved within the last few years. He felt a
strong conviction that the condition of the labouring classes had
been materially improved.
Mr. O'CONNELL—in England?
Sir R. PEEL—I mean in England; and this countervails
in seine degree the pain [feel at the prejudice which has been
excited against me by the Bill of 1819. Now, Sir, I say again,
If this Committee is about to enter upon the task of inquiring
generally into the working of the currency measure of 1819
they aro entering upon a task which, if the inquiry be pur-
sued in the ordinary way of Committees of this House, must
end in disappointment and dissatisfaction.—( Cheers:) An
extensive and complete history of the working of that mea-
sure throughout every district of the country, and with refe-
rence to each individual interest, might, if it assigned to each
district and each interest its peculiar bearings and distinctions,
prove a highly valuable and useful work ; but such a history, I
maintain, could never be written by any Committee of this
House, however wise its heads or persevering its labours.__
( Hear, hear.) From a slight, partial, and insufficient investi-
gation into the causes of distress in particular parts of the
country, it is evident, inasmuch as it would not tend to show
the necessity of a general measure of alteration, no satisfaction
would result ; and my fear is that more than such an inves-
tigation on this particular subject no Committee would be
able to make.—( Hear.) As to the precise way in which
the Committee should conduct their labours I will not take
upon myself to offer any decided opinion. I and averse to
tying up their powers; and, rather than defining them too
closely, would prefer giving every latitude consistent with the
object in view, I think, however, I may go as far as to ex-
press an opinion that, if any advantage is to result from their
labours, they will best secure its fulfilmeut by addressing their
attention even from the outset to the consideration of practical
subjects and practical remedies. I would instance to them
the consideration as to whether the redemption of the land-
tax, a question not as yet sufficiently considered, might net
be beneficial to the agricultural interests —( Hear, hear.)
This and such like practical subjects the Committee have now
the means of considering, and it will certainly be desirable that
their attention should be mainly directed to them. As to
what were the various causes which led to the depreciation
agricultural prices, I do not think any satisfactory result 'would
attend an inquiry into them. The Committee mould act
upon the fact that there has been a deprecion, and that
their business is to find a remedy for the distress it has caused.
If they did otherwise—if, instead of acting as he recom-
mended, they consume three or four months in inquiring
how far the depreciation complained of had its origin in
the alteration of the currency, or the cessation of the war, or
whether it was attributable to the improvements in ma-
chinery, and the Consequently diminished cost of the raw
material, I fear their labours will be productive of little
benefit. Care should likewise be taken that cases are not
selected from particular portions of the country. If the Com-
mittee arc going to ascertain the real state of the agricultural
interests at the present moment, they should enter upon the
inquiry with a view to its general and not partial bearings.
They should not, for instance, take up the case of heavy soils,
' where the growing of wheat was an expensive process, and,
separating it from its fellows, apply their attention to its most
fitting remedy. They should look upon the question as a
whole, and that not merely with reference to the interests of
agriculture, but of every other interest in the country. I, for
my part, believe that all the interests of this country arc closely
identified.—( Cheers.) Nay, more, my conviction is, that in the
great prosperity of the manufactures and trade of this country
there is mare prospect of remedy for agricultural distress than
in any legislative enactment that can bo devised.--( Hear,
hear, hear.) As the Committee is about to be appointed,
it is not my wish to say anything which might provoke pre-
mature discnssiou, and therefore I will no longer intrude
myself upon the attention of the House. I merely rose to
express my firm beli,e.f,tathat it is as mnels for the inferosts of
agricilltnre as for those of conimero and manufactures that
we sirould the present standard of value.—(Cheetz,,)
I think that the condition of the labouring P°P‘ll4tlon re-
quires the greatest consideration, and I would earnestly im-
press upon the Committee about to be appointed, that it
should bg accorded to it. I may mention, by-theshy, that I
was somewhat surprised to hear it stated by aid Hon. Member
on this side of the House, that the condition of that class had.
not improved of late years. If lam not much mistaken, the
result of the inquiry in 1833 was an all but unanimous opinion
on the part of 'the Committee, that although the condition
of that class was not as gourishing as they might wish it to

cutors, and he contended that none should be suffered to exist.
--Leave was then given to bring in the Bill.
REGISTRATION OF VOTERS.
The ATTORNEY-GENERAL moved for leave to bring
In a 13111 for the more effectual registration of persons entitled
to vote in the election of Members to serve in Parliament in
England and \Vales. The object of the Bill which he wished
to introduce was to give the fullest effect to the Reform Act.
He did not think it necessary to explain it any further.—
Leave given.

inaccuracy existed in the report on which this Bill was
founded, or whatever want of harmony might be apparent be-
tween them, the fault did not rest with the Hon. Mover or
' with the Committee. It was not supposed at the time that
Ireland would be included in any alteration which might be
proposed as the result of its deliberations, and, therefore,
less evidence had been offered in relation to the systens on
which the lighthouses were governed in that country than
would otherwise have been. It was, therefore,' judged only
fair to exclude Ireland from the effect of any legislation
affecting its interests on this point, until they had an oppor-
tunity of ascertaining the actual state of things there. He
felt it a duty to his constituents and to the Ballast Board
of Dublin, to whose case this important department was
entrusted in Ireland, to state, that they lately effected some
considerable additions and judicious improvements in this
branch of the public service, while, at the same time, they
had, by good management, been able to relieve the shipping
interest of a portion of the charges hitherto paid by vessels
availing themselves of the lights on the Irish coast. They
had, in fact, at once reduced the duty and increased the ac-
commodation to the public.—( Hear, hear.) it might natu-
rally be asked, at what outlay were these benefits effected ?
What amounts of salaries were paid for this superior species of
management? Not one ! It was all done gratuitously. This
was (as far as he knew) the first instance of a Board not regu-
larly paid which did any good. It had effected especial good
in the south of Ireland, where formerly not a winter had passed
without numerous shipwrecks ; yet he was happy to say that,
for the last eight winters, not a single one had occurred, mainly
in consequence of the admirable arrangements of the Ballast
Board. These were the reasons why Ireland had been ex-
cluded from the present attempt at centralization. It did well
enough as it was, and it ought to be left so. This was the
opinion both of the Hon. Mover and himself, and he was sure
the House would agree in the propriety of the course pursued
in the Bill now brought before them.
Mr. ROBINSON expressed his conviction of the necessity
of placing the subject on an improved footing, though he did
not think the proposed course an unexceptionable one. His
principal objection was to diminish the charges intended to
promote the benefit of the shipping of this country. He was
happy to hear the President of the Board of Trade had under-
taken to forward the great objects of the Bill, in which he
(Mr. Robinson) felt such a deep concern, and he should esteem
it his duty to lend him his best support.
Mr. G. F. YOUNG was sorry that the Hon. Member
for Middlesex had not given the Bill into the hands of Go-
vernment, and lamented the pertinacity with which he and
the Hon. Member for Dublin clung to an anomalous
system, which, it was avowed, was of no benefit to the indivi-
duals who worked it. He called the attention of the House to
the fact that the item of 42,0001. per annum, which stood in
the account to the credit of the Irish Board of Management,
was paid by English shipping instead of Irish, and he must
therefore contend that England was called on to legislate for
the protection of her maritime interests on Irish shores, and
fully justified in insisting on the adoption of a consistent and
systematic arrangement for the empire. With respect to the
pensions, he believed that the feeling in their favour was
almost universal, and no good reason was shown for their
discontinuance. He defended the shipping owners from
the charges which the Hon. Member for Middlesex ad-
vanced against them, of apathy and ignorance, contending that
they wisely discriminated in all matters of legislation affecting
their interests, and only displaying the anxiety and alarm
on which he (Mr. Hume) animadverted when unwise and
unjust attempts were made to interfere with their earnings by
legislative enactments. In conclusion he expressed a hope
that the Bill would pass, shorn of its objectionable clauses.
Mr. SHAW declared that it was exceedingly unjust to in-
clude the Ballast Board of Ireland in the accusations which
had been made against inefficient public or private bodies.
It was fully established that the system they pursued had
worked well. He hoped that, under circumstances, the House
would see the inconsistency and unfairness of introducing Ire-
land into the contemplated arrangement.
An HoN. MEMBER was happy to hear that the President of
the Board of Trade had consented to support the principle
of the Bill, confirming to the Trinity House the sole control
of English lighthouses. He was not aware of a single
instance brought before.the Committee of abuse of its powers.
Colonel J. PARRY was happy to add his testimony in
favour of the conduct of the Board of the Trinity House, who
were looked up to with gratitude by the poor receivers of its
pensions. These trifling annuities were not receivable till the
claimant was past seventy, and it was further stated as a quali-
fication, was not able to beg. Representing, as he did, the
interests of six seaports, and of a numerous maritime popu-
lation, he felt happy in stating his cunvicion that his consti-
tuents would be quite satisfied with the progress of the Bill
under the care which the President of the Board of Trade had
promised to extend to it.
Lord S A NDON would not allow the Irish Members to
stand alone in their praise of the Ballast Board, whose merits
Ile was happy to substantiate. He disliked the spirit of mono-
poly, and would be glad to see each country administering its
own proper department of the public service. When a late
attempt was made to bring up the old establishment of Kil-
mainham Hospital he was proud of the opportunity it afforded
him of upholding the rights of Ireland and advocating the con-
sideration which should ever be extended by the Legislature
to the feelings of old soldiers in the peaceful sanctuary where •
they had retired to end their days. He felt quite satisfied
that the Trinity House was competent to conduct the English
branch of the service, and be should therefore cheerfully sup-
port the Bill.
Mr. PEASE said that it appeared to be taken for granted
that the whole amount specified by the Hon. Member for Mid-
dlesex might be consistently viewed as a surplus ; but this,
he believed, was not the case. The funds so raised by light-
house dues were properly intended, and liable to be appro-
priated to the improvement of coasts which yet needed the aid
of local Boards, and the application of these very funds in pro-
viding an extension of illumination, and other accompanying
measures, for the safety of shipping, completion of harbours,
the improvement and repairs of lighthouses, &c. If these funds
were taken away the Tiinity House would necessarily be de-
barred the accomplishment of the great national ends to which
this Bill appeared designed as one of the principal means. He
thought that a certain portion of this surplus ought to be an-
nually taken for the improvement of particular portions of the
coast seriatim. He believed it was a question whether the
constitution of the Trinity House was altogether such as the
House would wish, but he felt that it would be unworthy
of Parliament to circumscribe a fund on which much de-
pended.
Mr. HUME would not wish to take a shilling from the fund
at present appropriated to the poor pensioners, but he should
object to allow anything to be added to it,
Leave was then given to bring in the Bill.
The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER obtained
leave to bring in a Bill to amend an act for carrying into fur-
ther execution the compensation for slaves.
On Mr. POTTER'S name being called, he said he re-
gretted that several objections had been made to the motion of
which he had given notice, and which stood for that evening,
to prevent Railways crossing turnpike-roads and highways on
the level ; he should, therefore, withdraw his mutton, and
hoped, with the assistance of a friend, to bring it forward in a
less objectionable shape, He felt convinced the subject was
one of great importance, and he took the liberty earnestly to
recommend to those Hon. Gentlemen, who so soon would have
to sit in judgment on the great number of Railway Bills which
would be introduced, to protect the roads of the country, and
not allow Railways to cross them on the level. A great many
frightful accidents bad happened to persons whilst crossing and
overtaken by the trains. Ho could mention eeveral. The
Noble Lord (the Secretary at War) had a very narrow escape
a short time ago in the North—he was creasing a road, when
the train very nearly caught him—if it had, his Lordship must
have been saerilleed on the 5p0t......( Hear.) He (Mr. Putter)
felt convinced Ratiweya.might, with little lneenvenience to the
proprietors, be prevented atauing roads on the level. In two
Railway Acts; already passed, lie had succeeded in getting a
clause similar to the one he intended introducing in his motion
to night—one was in the North Union, so far as the parish of
Wigan was concerned—and the other was in the Bolton, Bury,
and Manchester Railway, on the whole length of the line. The
latter Act only passed last Session.—( Hear.)
-------

TURNPIKE TRUSTS.
N,lr. F. MAULE moved for leave to bring in a Bill to
tilosise the consolidation of the trusts in turnpike roads hi
that part of Great Britain called -n'land. He said the
country looked to some better system respecting turnpike
roaels than the one now practised, and it was to meet p
t thatur
pectaraex-
tionmed
He expressed his willingness to hear suggestions
from all
quarters, particularly from country Gentlemen ; and
"lifd that, as his only anxiety was to make the measure as
Perfect as possible, he was open to conviction come from whom
It might.
OA.II HON. MEMBER did not wish to see the turnpike trusts in
hi bands of Government, or made the object of Ministerial
ltronsge. He vies of opinion that if the Bill of the Hon.
'Member became law, the Ministers in a very few years would
have to come down isa the House to ask a grant for keeping the
turnpike roads of the kingdom in repair.
Leave given to bring in the Bill.
EXPENSES AT ELECTIONS.
Mr. HUME moved for leave to bring in a Bill to regulate
the expenses at elections for Members to serve in Parliament
for England end Wales. He said that it would be in the re-
collection of the House that in the session of 1834 a Commit-
tee sat up stairs to consider of the subject of elections. He was
then Chairman, and by them he was instructed to bring in a
Bill to regulate elections. That Bill contained three different
subjects .-1. The expenses at elections ; 2. The time of
takingi., the poll; and 3. The qualification of the voters. The
House would recollect that the Bill underwent a change when
st came before them, and that the change consisted in the se-
paration of the " qualification " portion from the others.
His Hon. Friend the Member for Hastings bad subsequently
brought in a Bill respecting the qualification of electors. The
f.r„eset Bill only dealt with the expenses at elections the qua-
if cation would be embodied in another Bill by the Hon. Mem-
-1,3,e for Cornwall. The Hon. Member concluded by moving
Sot leave to bring in the Bill.—Leave given.
LIGHTHOUSES.
Mr._ HUME moved for leave to bring in a Bill for vesting
,;,ffhthoeses on the coast of England in the Corporation of
pinity ficuse Deptford Stroud. It would be in the recol-
lection of the 'House, that in 1334 a Committee sat up stairs
°1: the subject of lighthouses in the United Kingdom, and that
be'
as Chairman 0! that Committee, acting under their in-
structions, had brought in a Bill for consolidating them all in
°ne body of Commissioners, the Trinity Board. On that oc-
Fasion he had been opposed by the Hon. and Learned Mem-
ber fcr Dublin and the Irish Members, who objected to the
transference of their lighthouse admisiistration to the Trinity
Board ; and also by the Hon. Members fcr Scotland, who did
not think the Trinity Board the best for their interests. He
(Me. Hume) would candidly state that he was of the same
?Pinion. He thought the Government should make the sub-
jeet, a Ministerial question, and he should feel very glad to
i,Pgn it into their hands if they would undertake to do so.
.aete were great and glaring discrepancies in connection
With the subject, as regarded the different rates of payment in
1.41i013 places, the quality of the light, and other matters.
4.11' Was proved before the Committee to which he had alluded
ii••
1.,:f no less a sum than 250,000/. a year was raised upon the
tilibists of the coast, while it was in evidence at the same time
ttat 70,000/. per annum would be quite sufficient to keep
Leal up as they were now maintained. The difference
Zutsveen these two sums was a dead loss and a waste
house establment should be taken under the charge of Go-
leranlent. There should not be a weighty and partial impost
exchtsively on that branch of the industry of the country.
thMany Hon. Members agreed with him in this opinion, but he
it °tight that CS a body like the Trinity Board already existed,
w°uld be as wall to begin by consolidating the lights of Eng-
ler in them. It was surprising that none of the shipping in-
est stirred in the nSstter themselves. The shipping as well
ha the agricultural interssst, should look to relief from local
,surtheris. The greatest evil in connection with the subject
hands
that which involved privatg lighthouses—lighthouses in the
ana,ses of individuals. It might be urged that they were
tr,-,,"ted by the Crown in virtue of its prerogative ; but the
tb-swn had no more right to empower then; to tax a portion of
the community than it had to tax the entire itself. That was
I: way the case stood. He complained therefore that Go-
a`rarnents, not the present, but recent Governments—had re-
9wed the leases of the lighthouses, notwithstanding Mr. lIus-
• iss°n and Mr. Berries had pledged themselves to the contrary
th •
air respective times. It was a subject which deserved the
tieasideration of tho Board of Trade. No doubt there were va-
i•eLas reasons urged against the consolidation of these private
titt"t‘s_s with the others, such as the payment of 100,000/. to
1e weeds and Forests, in lieu of the rights of the Crown; but
~,
eofontended that in such a case the Crown ought to have no
heleets, or, if it had, that it ought to relinquish them for the
he Trinity
of the üblic. The mode of management adopted by
Trinity House was in his opinion highly objectionable.
eistleY collected from the commerce of the country fora spe-,
Pese turPose was applied by them to the payment of sailors
taes -Its• Until lately, also, there was no responsibility at-
/ --a"M to that body, so that they could do as they pleased.
Q 1834 the Trinity House had the charge of 55 lights. The
erealentle of this number of lights amounted to 83,000/. per an-
0,350 this, 6,0001. was expended on the collection, and
"01. on maintaining and keeping up the lights, leaving a
surplus of
41,100/. a year. This sum was applied to the pay-
ment of pensions to certain old seamen ; but he maintained
that, however deserving the objects, it was not fit the Board
lbould have such al3 expenditure without any controul. The
neat branch of the subject was the private lights. In 1834,
there were fourteen private lights on the coasts of England
and Wales, the revenue of which amounted to 79,6761. Of
this enormous sum, 10,0001. were spent in the collection of
the entire, and 9,000/. in keeping up the lights, leaving a
surplus of upwards of 50,0001. to divide between thirteen
or fourteen individuals, the lessees and proprietors. It was
a most scandalous thing, and should not be allowed to
eSist a day longer. The object of the Bill which he pro-
Paged to introduce to the House was to consolidate these
Private lights in the Trinity Board, and place them solely
nailer the management of that body. He was of opinion that
these lights should be brought before a jury to award com-
rlnsation to the proprietors. The Bill, however, did not
Corporation
it compulsory. It contained a provision to enable the
s-orporation of the Trinity House to purchase them on reason-
l'hie terms from the lessees, but if they could not agree on it
'Pee, it empowered that body to bring the question before a
op' for arbitration. He thought he might say, without fear
contradiction, that if the suggestions of the Committee
Were acted on from 15,000/. to '20,000/. would be saved the
fir
ti s:Year—a large and desirable economy, which he believed
Board of the Trinity House would be perfectly able to
rY into effect. In the present state of the Irish and Scotch
arils of Management they might safely remain as subjects
.:future consideration ; and he would feel quite satisfied the
House would, at this stage of the subject, confine its attention
e9the more important interest involved in the arrangements
Pecially affecting the safety and liabilities of English ship-
ng• He hoped that Government would give its sanction to
11°1 e Princ: 1 of this Bill. It appeared that there was some
h
f °- etquette (taoug.. -e was not precisely aware on what
e'sundation is existed), which rendered it necessary that the
ilie_asent of the Crown should be obtained to a Bill of this na-
wirle, but which he trusted would not be taken advantage of
aeire such extensive interests were at stake.
rt.- P. THOMSON declared his willingness to give every
'stance to the Hon. Member for Middlesex in forwarding
de very desirable objects of the Committee, and did not un-
sihrsh,tand on what grounds he or the Government could pos-
ue charged with any intention of neglecting the impor-
tant interests involved in the notice now before the House.
p pejlon. Member had brought this measure forward at a
goad
of the previous Session too late to effect any practical.
ca,; but he (Mr. Thorson) had, without hesitation, of-
'th eu the Hon. Member his best assistance in carrying out
ore, principle of reform reconueended by the Committee,
be thought it would facilitate its adoption, would pro-
s,, . "sa Bill himself. He was therefore somewhatnotice surpriseond
the
to
i the Bon. Member coming down without
as-esent occasion, and proposing the Bill without further
rareunication. He had indeed stated, in conclusion, that
Was ready to allow him and the Government
.to follow up
e measure, and leave the Bill in their hands, if they would
adopt; his views ; but be (Mr. Thomsen) thought tlsat this
aS
rather more than the Hon. Member had a right to es:.-
ptieeest' and he must beg leave to decline acting on such dicta-
li'S If the Hon. Member left the subject entirely in his
ands, he would consider it his duty to take every care to
itit to the House in the way that he thought best
a isesulatcd to ensure its support of the principles embodied
sa `",e recommendation of the Committee. He quite agreed
saitt"e encomiums pronounced on the views of that Com-
Sskit„ete, as well as in those on the attention and industry
the Hon. Member fur Middlesex brought to bear on
eve subject, in the capacity of its Chairman. He must, how-
Her' say, that he thought it rather inconsistent that he (Mr.
te„-tue) did not follow up their valuable suggestions in his pre-
()Ft Bill, Hear. ) They recommended the establishment
unifom system for the controul of the lighthouses of
„England, Irelana, and Scotland, and that this power should be
ts„ge(l in the hand .s of the Trinity House ; but the Hon
aoklaoer thought othee•wise on both these points. On the
N, of of pensions, which formed another grand difference of
ft wlif he (Mr. Thomson), perhape, thought with him, that
to
e-8 somewhat inconsistent to levy rates on a particular in-
-441 st ostensibly for one purpose, as:el distribute the proceeds
abt!ugst another class for a very diffe,•ent one ; yet still the
,s,i's'etion to the system was mere specuietive than practical,
sssus.unless some great abuse were pointed out in its operation,
should not think himself justified in being accessary to its
•
11rbance He called especial attention to the fact, that
tit. ssksr of
e tiger the parties interested in the present arrangement
tiletS°lnsslained of any injury or injustice, and both were anxious
fit should continue. He thought there was no just ground
a'.T complains On the necessity for asking the consent of the
rewn in cases of this nature, where such varied and impor-
tant nation f interests were committed to its guardianship. It
has tits a
contin.on usage of Parliament, but lion. Members
g: feel assured that no arbitraq or inconsistent slsfnands
4.1! fl be made on the part of the Crown. The wished-tor
ailZtrassements could not be made on, the instant, as consider-
er,er,
gate property as well as public was involved ; but he
a'ssure the Ilouse that no unnecessary difficulties would-
-1: throe, si in the way. He certainly could not fully acquiesce
nevertheless
Pros isiosse of the Bill of the Hon. Member, but he would,
insifertheless,s facilitate his leading objects, and support the Bill
details as far as be consis could.
Mr, O'Co.IIINELL felt it hisduty to state that, whatever

ON DON, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1836,
THE SUN, .11.4.-

vessels into our ports. Between this and the interdiction of
I all commercial intercourse, or other remedies, you, as the re-
`'‘fatives of the people, must determine. I recommend
press:...the present posture of our affairs, as being the
—munerce, and as attended with the least
di diffic"al
ultyifGovernment
,der us the justice that is
stronger mea-
sures, i..of ofandsho
should
cr tFora thenc :
re..
pbreeliim.einndaerryedstei7 to
necessz:v
subse-
quent events.
The return of our Charge d'Affaires is attended with public
ds also
their as
a adoption prproper
r
notices of naval preparations on the part of France, destined
fur our seas. Of the cause and intent of these armaments
I have no authentic information, nor any means of judging, ex-
cept such as arc common to yourselves and to the public ; but
whatever may be their object, we are not at liberty to regard
them as unconnected with the measures which hostile move-
ments on the part of France may.compel us to pursue. They
at least deserve to be met by adequate preparation on our
part, and I therefore strongly urge large and speedy appro.
priations for the increase of the navy, and the completion of
our coast defences.
If thii array of military force be really designed to affect the
action of the Government and people of the United States, on
the questions now pending between the two nations, then, in-
deed, would it be dishonourable to pause a moment on the al-
ternative which such a state of affairs would present to us.
Come what may, the explanation which France demands can
never be accorded ; and no armament, however powerful and
imposing at a distance, or on our coast, will, I trust, deter us
from discharging the high duties we owe to our Constituents,
to our national character, and to the world.

The House of Representatives, at the close of the last Ses-
sion of Congress, unanimously resolved that the treaty of the
4th July, 1831, should be maintained, and its execution in-
sisted on by the United States. It is due to the welfare of the
human race, not less than to our own interests and honour,
that this resolution should, at all hazards, be adhered to. If,
after so signal an example as that given by the American
people, during their long-protracted difficulties with France,
of forbearance under accumulated wrongs, and of generous
confidence in her ultimate return to justice, she shall now be
permitted to withhold from us the tardy and imperfect indem.
nification, which, after years of remonstrance and discus-
sion, had at length been solemnly agreed on by the treaty of
1831, and to set at nought the obligation it imposes, the
United States will not be the only sufferers. The efforts of
humanity and religion, to substitute the appeals of justice and
the arbitrament of reason, for the coercive measures usually re-
sorted to by injured nations, will receive little encouragement
from such an issue. By the selection and enforcement of such
lawful and expedient measures as may be necessary to pre-
vent a result so injurious to ourselves, and so fatal to the
hopes of the philanthropist, we shall, therefore, not only pre-
serve the pecuniary interests of our citizens, the independence
of our Government, and the honour of our country, but do
much, it may be hoped, to vindicate the faith of treaties, and
to promote the general interests of peace, civilization, and im-
provement. ANDREW JACKSON.
Washington, Jan. 15, 1836.

WAR IN SPAIN.

OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS.
" GENERAL ORDER.

"
" Comrades I—FHoregad Quarters,
etfuloftiiefrAfolbrumrgero Jan. 6
d,
efeatslon,
so many
celebrated positions, and blinded by their overweening pride
and confidence, the enemy are now on the heights of Arlaban,
and have the presumption to defy our power. We accept their
challenge, and, to satisfy your ardour, I am now about to lead
you to battle—in other words, to victory 1
" Let us all, then, call to mind the deep obligations we owe
to our country, to the throne, and to the reputation of this
brave army, at once our honour and our life ; and the honours
and rewards we have hitherto received would only serve to
heighten our humiliation, were, soldiers, the day ever to arrive
on which we should lose these distinctions. Comrades ! I ask
not your confidence, for I know the extent to which I possess
it ; but I ask of you to preserve that perfect order which insures
victory in action, and which at all times reflects honour on the
profession of arms.
" Brave and generous foreigners ! who are come to fight for
the progress of civilization, let us us sec, animated by a spirit
of generous emulation, to which nation Fortune will to-day
award her favours, and Victory her brightest crown.
" My heart, it is true, desires and disputes it for the war-
riors of my own country, but my equity will adjudge it, to those
who, the most favoured by fortune, shall have the best oppor-
tunity of deserving it ; the bond which has united our efforts
and our interests places on the same basis the rights of those
who fight for the cause of liberty.
" Spanish soldiers ! let us act like champions who were the
most ancient possessors of freedom in Europe.

CORDOVA.
" Given at my head-quarters at Vittoria, Jan. 16, 1836.

" Soldiers of the British Legion I—The above is the ad-
dress of the General-in-Chief to this .army, every word of
which will, I know, find an echo in your own generous and
enthusiastic spirit. The moment, then, which you have
so long desired, to engage in a general action with the enemy,
is arrived. You will rejoice at this intelligence. In Britain
and in Europe your conduct excites the deepest interest. The
sacred cause you have come to support is at stake. You will
therefore feel imperatively called on to display the most noble
and energetic efforts. I will only add one word more, and
that is to invite you, on approaching the enemy, to call t•
mind that every step you take will be on a sod already moist-
ened with the blood and illustrated by the imperishable glory
of our countrymen.

"DE LACY EVANS."

" Asua, Jan. 19, 1836.
" Most Excellent Sir,-_I made the movement with the
column under my command of the 16th inst., directed by your
Excellency, for the occupation of Arbulo and Labiana. Pre-
vious to taking up these quarters, deeming it consistent with
your Excellency's intentions, I moved forward on the Salva-
tierra side, first towards the right, and later in the day towards
the left, in order to distract the enemy's attention. During
these movements the companies of volunteers of Vittoria drove
the insurgents out of the village of Mendigur. They, how-
ever, soon returned in much greater force, and might have
overpowered our troops had not Brigadier-General Chichester
rapidly come up with the Ist and 2d British Auxiliary Regi-
ments to their succour, and again expelled the enemy from that
portion of the village they had occupied. The force opposed
to us did not altogether appear to be above five battllions, and
300 or 400 horse. Towards evening they made a second and
more determined attempt to recover Mendigur. The 3d
or Westminster Grenadier Guards, under Lieutenant-
Colonel Churchill, being brought up, they charged into
a wood, immediately below the village, strongly occu-
pied by the Carlists, and drove them out of it in very gallant
style. This seemed to satisfy our opponents ; they fell back
on the fortified heights of Maturara. The night closed, and
we occupied, as before intended, Arbulo, &c. On the 17th,
the column advanced by its left, under cover of some heights
and a heavy fog, and, taking possession of the four bridges
over the Zadorra, near Asua, passed that river, and took up a
position on the heights on the right bank, and towards Ma-
rieta, occupyinc, the whole of this part of the valley of Baron.
dia, up to the foot of the mountains, and holding Asua in our
rear with a brigade.

position I considered well calculated to cover the
right of your Excellency's force, while operating on the French
road, under your immediate direction. In the affair at Mendigur
our position was so favourable, or the enemy are such indif-
ferent marksmen, that up to this time, notwithstanding thelf
heavy fire, our casualties are not, I believe, above 10 or 20,
including 3 officers, one of whom is an aido.de-vamp of Briga-
dier-General

The Spanish brigade, which your Excellency directed to
join me, has arrived, and I have directed two battalion!' of
General Espartero's division from Unguietta, to take post im-
mediately at Manclares de Gamboa, for the security of my
left, which is now exposed by the romoval of the troops from
Arlaban. The fog is now so profound, that I have with-
drawn the troops under Brigadier- General Reid from Marieta
into the main position of Zuaso, and assuring your Excel-
lency that the conduct of the troops, both Spanish and Eng-
lish, including the battalion of Castile and the ist British
Lancers, was worthy of your approval, I have tho honour to
be your ExcelleliCy'S most obedient humble servant,
" DE L, EVA NS, Lieutenant-Gnml,
" His Excellency Lieutenant-General
Don Luis de Cordova, &c,"

" Head-quarters, Asua, Jan. 20, 1836.
" Most Excellent Sir,—After having remained three days
On the positions in the Barondia valley, close to the enemy's
fastnesses and fortified points, the weather continuing intensely
severe and obscure, precluding almost the possibility of any
further operations for the moment, I passed in three columns
to the left bank of the Zadorra, without the slightest inter-
ruption or irregularity, and by your Excellency's despatch,
which I had the honour to receive- last night, I am happy to
find that this will meet with your approbation, as- well as the
movement which I am now commencing, to occupy the ad-
vanced cantoments of Alegria, Argomanez, &.
" I have the honour to be your Excellency' most obedient
humble servant,

DE L. EVANS, Lieutenant-General.
" His Excellency Lieutenant-General
Don Luis Cordova, &c.
" The officers wounded are Major Thompson, Ist Regiment,
slightly; Captain Jockmus, Bth Regiment, Aide-de-Camp to
Brigadier-General M'Dougall, severely; Captain Fitzgerald,
of the Westminster Grenadiers, severely."

The O'Connor Don has refused to pair off with a
decided Tory Member,
THE COUNTESS OF MINTO'S " AT HOME."—
On Friday evening the drawing rooms of the Lady of the
First Lord of the Admiralty, were illuminated for the first
time this season, they having previously undergone some
improvements. The party met at half-past ten, and broke
up at one o'clock. There were present the Polish Prince
mi.. Stephen
Czartorisky, and his nephew, Count Tamowski, Marquis of
Lansdowne, Lady Brougham, and Captain Eden, Count de
Grammont, Mr. and Lady Mary Wood, Lady Charlotte
‘Lindsay, Colonel and Mrs. Ferguson, Viscountess Howick,
Rice, -
Adam, air. and Mrs. Tuffnell, Mr, 1110(11.aav, Ai. poptor-
nay; Mr. Galley v 1 4
Rear-Admiral Sir Charles and Lad,;
~,,, .ol4bqi, 'lle -cligr Ocayat,' of the Austrian
P.g4ibn, k-4.0ii.. Mrs." kridt-jSfis‘ •Eliot, Sir 'John and Lady
Pechell; Lady 'Williams, Mr'. Pi oµ, Mr, and Mrs, Drum-
Mond, &C.,- lace en Friday even.
ing hextl
0
OTANI', DUTY ON NEWSPAPERS.--A public
meeting -will be held at Hull on Tuesday, having for its end
the repeal of this odious, unjust, and demoralizing tax upon
knowledge,