The Sun.
London, England, 1846-10-31 00:00:00

THE SUN,_ LONDON, SATURDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 31, 1846.

spread very industriously, that more men are required
on the Indus, above 15,000 being already there; and
that a march to the northward, for what purpose no one
can comprehend, is in. contemplation. It is supposed
that tales such as these are meant to mystify and be-
wilder the public, it being generally understood that,
however secret the matters may be kept, the purposes
of the supreme Government are fixed, and that by a day
far from distant Sinde will be incorporated with the
Bombay Presidency, relieved of an independent Govern-
ment, and at least of half its army. The arrangements of
Sir C. Napier for his return to Europe are said to be in
a state of forwardness, his family being shortly expected
at Bombay to proceed by the Red Sea route. The cli-
mate of Sinde is at present pleasant and healthy, the
temperature cool and agreeable.. There is, notwith-
standing, a large amount of sickness amongst the men of
her Majesty's 60th and 86th, naturally consequent on
the terrible visitation cholera lately, made them; the
constitutions of those who happen to recover
from the malady always suffering to such an ex-
tent as to lay them in the last degree open
to other attacks. Frauds of a most extensive and
mischievous nature have been detected in the commis-
sariat. False steelyards and weights had been employed
in serving out provisions, by means of which the men bad
been most enormously defrauded in the quantity they
ought to have received. A court-martial has eccurred,
the results of which are not yet known, but it is under-
stood that the parties originally supposed implicated
have cleared themselves of the charges brought against
them. On this, as well as on another matter connected

with the supplies of the men, Sir C. Napier has issued
caustic and characteristic general orders of well-deserved

severity.
" BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR OF SINDE,

"Head-quarters, Kurrachee, Sept. 17, 1846.
" The court of inquiry on the complaint made
against the bakers shows that the men have not been
supported. I set them to work with the object of getting
good bread for the soldiers, and to give these bakers the
full support of the Government, which they had not re-
ceived, but the very reverse. This is the opinion of the
court of inquiry, and I entirely concur in that opinion.
Major Blenkins made a contract with these men, which
they could not fulfil with justice to themselves. They
are to be paid immediately the money due to them, and
this payment is to be made in cash. lam quite at a loss
to conceive how Major Blenkins could think that I
would sanction his forcing the bakers to give a higher
price fur Government wheat than the price paid in the
market. This would have at once defeated my exertion,
and the measure is unjust in itself. I therefore order—
" 1. That the bakers are to be paid in ready cash
weekly.
" 2. That they may take Government wheat, or not
take it, as they please.
"3. That the assistant-commissary-general be re-
sponsible that the Government wheat sold to the bakers
be perfactly clean, and at such prices below the lowest
market price as shall be arranged by me with the advice
of the collector at Kurrachee.

" 4. That if any baker goes to the. Commissariat-office
for wheat, and is put off by any of the people of the
commissariat, instead of being immediately served, as
the bakers complain that they have been, such baker is
to come immediately to me, having marked well the man
who put him off, and who shall learn the danger of op-
posing my exertions to protect the British soldiers from
being robbed and ill-treated by contractors and bakers.
" 5. If the bakers so assisted by the public make bad
bread, the commander of the station will be pleased to
report the same to me immediately, and I will try them,
as camp followers, by court-martial, and execute the
sentence, whatever it may be.
" 6. The present contract with the bakers is to be
torn up, and a new one made out, under the direction of
the court of inquiry and the assistant-commissary-
general,-which contract is then to be submitted to me for
final sanction.

(Signed)

C. J. NAPIER, Governor,
" Major-General Commanding."
The quality of the bread supplied by the public
bakers having been complained of, the utmost efforts
were made for its improvement. It still continued bad,
and the bakers excused themselves that so long as they
were compelled to receive payment, not in cash, but in
grain issued from the Government stores, of worse qua-
lity and higher price than that to be had in the bazaar,
they could not make it better. On this coining to the
knowledge of the Major-General, the head of the Com-
missariat was severely blamed in orders, and directed to
pay in money, not in grain; to take care of the grain kept
in store by him, and to leave the bakers alone to prac-
tise where they thought fit.
Most men are somewhat unreasonable and tenacious

in matters of etiquette—none more so than civilians and
soldiers. It has been a standing rule in the army for
nearly half a century amongst all varieties of troops
holding her Majesty's commission, whether regular or
irregular, home or colonial—that horse artillery should
take precedence of dragoons, foot artillery and infantry;
and this was a matter with which no one ever dreamt of
meddling. At the funeral of Captain J. Napier, the
Hon. Colonel Dundas, who formerly got himself into
trouble while belonging to the household at home, for
some allusion made in public to her Majesty, having the
command of the day, ordered her Majesty's 60th, of
which he is senior officer, to take precedence of Row-
land's Horse Artillery. A great sensation was occa-
sioned on the spot by this very unusual proceeding and
most uncalled-for interruption to the harmony until then
existing amongst the troops. Somehow or other the
local commanders in-chief seemed averse to meddle with
the matter, though the regulations' were so explicit that
it could be settled at once without any reference at all.
It was, however, sent on from hand to hand, till the
Commander-in-Chief of all India set the matter at rest
by the publication of the standing general orders on the
subject, Colonel Dundas escaping with the simple repu-
diation of his acts. The irritation and ill-blood this has
occasioned in a community entirely military, will not
soon be got over or corrected. In Sinde the people con-
tinue to suffer severely from scarcity of food. The addi-
tion of 25,000 made by us to the number of consumers,
while agriculture was checked by war, has transformed
the country from an exporting to an importing one, and
given it starvation instead of excess.

It is rumoured that the 60th Rifles will be sent to
Bengal, and I believe it is certain that her Majesty's
17th return home without delay; they have been sud-
denly cut up and wrecked by disease.
Some inroads on our frontier have of late been made
by the Hillmen, and numerous robberies have occurred
in the upper country. These are incidents which have
been common in Sinde from the time it was first peopled,
and are likely so to continue as long as it is inhabited by
semi-barbarians. They exercise no very material influ-
ence on the prospects of the State.
From Lahore we have tidings to the 12th September.
Matters in the capital continue exactly as they for
months have been. No preparations have as yet been
made for the withdrawal of the army, but it is scarcely
yet time, and not the slightest hint has yet been given
that they are to remain an hour beyond the time origi-
nally agreed on.
The rumour formerly noticed as to the murder of
Lall Singh appears to have arisen from the occasion of
a peculiarly warm debate at court, where the disputants
waxed so hot in argument as to draw their swords up,,n
each other.

Our troops continue healthy, and not a murmur is ever
heard from them of hardship or discomfort. Never did
an army of occupation steer so dear of collision and
misunderstanding, or stand so free of censure as that of
Sir John Littler.

The army just referred to will, it is said, on its retire-
ment, relieve the troops in the Jullundur Doab, and its
gjsllant chief command the troops betwixt the Beas and
the Sutlej. I have of late seen numerous letters from
Simla, and the writers in all cases mention that the Go-
vernor-General loses no opportunity of proclaiming the
highly pacific nature of his policy, and his determina-
tion neither to go to war himself, nor to suffer others to
fight where peace can with safety be maintained. De-
clarations of this nature, confirmed as they are by cor-
responding, practice, gives the greatest confidence to
those anxious for the advancements, and willing to de-
vote their resources and energies thereunto, if at all
assured of the permanence of tranquillity permitting
their effects to become effective, The newswriters are
the only parties who have reason to complain of the con-
tinuance of the present order of things ; these piping
times of peace are ruinous to the annalist.
(From the Bombay Teley; ah.)
" The insurrection in Cashmere is heap
ded by Shaikh
Etnam-ood-Deen, the son of the former governor of the
province; and it is asserted, notwithstanding the strong
denial of Raja Lall Singh, that the Lahore Durbar has
had something to do in the way of fomenting the dis-
turbances. It was at first stated that the Shaikh, on the
3d of September, attacked Raja Ghoolab Singh's troops
with 12,000 men, took them by surprise, and defeated
them, killing several personages of note. All the British
officers, save two, left Lahore on the commencement of
hostilities, and Lieutenant Edwardes proceeded from
Lahore to Jamoo—Ghoolab Singh's hill residence—for
the purpose, it is said by some, of taking measures to
bring Ern arn-ood-Deen to reason.' The place at which
the battle took place,' observes the Delhi Gazette, `is not
mentioned, but we presume that it must have been in
the neighbourhood of or beyond Poonch, as the tribes
of the valley of the Jhelum are especiallynamed as
having joined Emam-ood-Deen, and they would hardly
have gone so far from their homes to encounter the
Maharaja's troops in the defiles leading to the Peer Pin-
jail pass. It is said that in this engagement Ghoolab
Singh lost four hundred men, and all his guns. The
whole of the Hill chiefs are rumoured to have risen
against him, and to have acknowledged Emam-ood:Deen
as their leader, professing at the same time the utmost
anxiety to see us their rulers, but protesting against
their being made over to Ghoolab Singh. The Raja
has taken active measures to retrieve this reverse—his
son having been sent off with a reinforcement of five
thousand men. The latest accounts respecting Cashmere
affairs are to be found in the Delhi Gazette of the 19th
instant, from which paper we take the following ex-
tract:--

" An urzee was received from Dewan Hakeem Rae,
stating that when he hurt iedly wrote his first letter re-
garding the battle between the troops of Ghoolab Singh
with Shaikh Emarn-oud-Deen, he had stated the loss at
2,000 killed and wounded on both sides, he had not
obtained the full particulars; but that new he was able
to say, on pretty good information, that Shaikh Ernain-
ood-deen having made me naarth from Cashmere, was
attacked during the night by the troops of Rija Ghoolab
Singh. The Seilth being on his guard, defended him-
self stoutly, and about 200 people were killed on both
sides. Two officers of rank on the side of Ghoolab
Singh, and two officers of Shaikh Ewam-ood-Deen, fell
in the conflict.
" 'From Hazareh letters we learn that the Mulkcea
people are continuing to make head against the authori-
ties of Ghoolab Singh, under the leadership of Moulvee
Zamun Alec. Dewan Huree Chund is unable to lease
Hurkishunghur. Col. Outtum Singh had gone into the
camp of the insurgents to try end bring them to reason,
but they threatened to shoot him, and he was glad to re-
turn to the fort with his life. The Mulkeeas.are en-
camped about five kola from the fort, Raja Ghoolab

Singh has, it is confidently reported, ordered more troops
towards Hazareh. From Jummoo we learn that Maha-
raja Ghoolab Singh, having heard of the defeat of his
troops by Shaikh Etnam-ood-been, had ordered a body of
troops towards Cashmere. It is stated that his private
orders to these were on no account to fight tie Seikh,
but merely to prevent his proceeding towards Lahore.
An urzee had come in from De wan Hakeem Rae, re-
porting his arrival at Rajoree, and his conviction that he
would soon be able to tiling down the Seikh. He was
told, in reply, at once to report any opposition that might
be offered to his return through Sehun Lall to the British
authorities.'
" What course will be pursued by the British Govern-
ment in respect to the Cashmerian insurrection does not
yet appear. It would seem, however, that Raja Ghoolab
Singh, under the treaty, will have the right to call upon
the British Government to assist him in reducing his tur-
bulent subjects to order ; so that in all probability our
troops will ere long he again engaged in hostilities, with
the;vieiv of forcing an unpopular sovereign on a miserable
and oppressed people. The equivocal procedure of re-
seating Shah Soojah on the throne of Caubul, in utter
defiance of the wishes of those under his sway, is about
to be re-enacted in the little kingdom in the north-
eastern corner of the Funjaub. It is lamentable that
circumstances should necessitate this course of policy,
for our Government sheuld never be permitted to appear
as the countenancer or conniver at deeds of oppression
and injusti,e, or as the ally and supporter of a native
tyrant. It may be said, that it is our duty to afford our
aii in putting down rebellion ; but the question arises
whether the insurrection in Cashmere can be correctly
characterised by that term ? We confess that we do not
think Lord Hardinge would be justified in establishing
Ghaselab Singh as the ruler of Cashmere, without the
consent of the Cashmerians themselves to his assumption
of regal power. The Raja way deserve all the com-
mendation that has been bestowed on him as a
chief of superior vigour and ability ; but com-
mon report represents him as being ferocious as a wolf
and cruel as a tiger ; and it may be doubted whether
these little defects in his character do not more
than counterbalance the favourable and recommendatory
attributes. For the British Government to say to the
trembling Cashmerians, " This man we admit to be
bloodthirsty, grasping, and despotic; be will rule you,
we know, with a rod of iron; you will be subjected,
while he lives, to the most grinding and hopeless op-
pression; -but yet we are bound by treaty to place him
securely on his throne, and lend him our aid to keep him
there—and you must accept him whether you will or
no, or we shall march an army into your country, and
spread desolation far and wide!" —for such an address

to be delivered, we say, to these unfortunate people, by
our benevolent and upright Government, would betoken
a strange disregard of moral principle, and departure
from those laws which should govern civilised nations in
their intercouse with their semi• barbaric neighbours.
Yet the support of:Ghoolab Singh would;place the British
authorities precisely in the position we have denoted. A
'general insurrection' affords no mean or untrustworthy
indication of the state of public feeling, and the refusal
on the part of our Government to view it in its proper
light will be tantamount to establishing the doctrine that
the strong may be permitted to tyrannise to any extent
over the weak, if only political circumstances or the re-

quirements of treaties render such a course for the time
expedient. The results of our interference it would not be
difficult to foresee. A triumphant march of a British force
into Cashmere—a royal installation, amidst the semblance
of rejoicing, and a striking display of rude grandeur—a
withdrawal after awhile of our troops—a brief period of
unrestrained oppression on the part of the monarch, and
unparalleled suffering on that of the people, and then a
sudden outbreak and a bold deed of assassination, de-
structive of the earthly prospects of the tyrant. These,
doubtless, would be the leading events of the drama—
thus would the curtain fall on the mortal career of Raja
Ghoolab Singh. We trust that taking all these little

matters into account, Government will allow the Raja

to settle the existing 'differences in his own way with
his refractory subjects; or, at any rate, decline to
render him the least assistance until satisfied that the

Cashmerians are a little more anxious for his presence
amongst them than would appear from the facts now
known to be the case."

CALCUTTA, SEPT. 21, 2 20 row.
Captain W. T. Salmon, of the ship Forth, lately ar.
rived from Muscat, brings news of the death of the Rev.
T. Brockman, an agent of the Royal Geographical
Society.
The following has just been issued:—

"THE RELIEF.—We yesterday received the Relief,
which will have much interest for our military readers.
We hear the Artillery movements are very numerous,
but we have them not.
2d N. Infantry to Umballab.
sth ditto, Dinapore.
Bth ditto, Phulloor.
10th ditto, Goruckpoor.
11th ditto, Loodianah.
14th ditto, Mirzapore.
15th ditto, Allyghur and Mo,
radabad.

59th Infantry, Bareilly.
61st ditto, Barrackpore.
62d ditto, Dacca.
63d ditto, Neemuch.
70th ditto, Jullundur.
72d ditto, Kangra.
73d ditto, Hooshearpore.
3d 1.C., to Seharunpore.
4th ditto, Sultanpore, Benares.
7th ditto, Jullundur.
Bth ditto, Meerut.
10th ditto, Ferozepore.
12th ditto, Hooshearpore.
13th ditto, Nakodra.
14th ditto, Loodianah.
15th ditto, Mukerain.
16th ditto, Hansi.
17th ditto, Segowlee.
Ist Lt. Cavalry, to Umballa.
3d ditto, Jullundur.
4tl-, ditto, Kutiapore.
50th ditto, Meerut.
Bth ditto, Loodianah.
11th ditto, Nakodra.
The Loodianah Seikh Regi-
ment to Meerut.
fast for the present. Lord
to be ready on the 15th of
Ils.—Calcutta Star, Sept. 21.

17th ditto, Ferozepore.
18th ditto, Jullundur.
19th ditto, Nakodsa.
24th ditto, Lucknow.
25th ditto, Agra.
30th ditto, Delhi.
31st ditto, Jullundur.
32d ditto, Loodianah.
33d ditto, Neemuch.
34th ditto, Arga.
361 h ditto, Almorab.
40th ditto, Kbyok Phyoo.
41st ditto, Nusserabad.
44th ditto, Cawnpore.
46th ditto, Jullundur.
50th ditto, ditto.
52d ditto, ditto.
56th ditto, Noorpoor.
The Lahore troops stand f
Batdinge's cemp is ordered
October at the.foot of the hil,

- GOMMERCIAtA INTELLIGENCE.
From the Chamber of Commerce Overland Price
Current.)

BOMBAY, OCT. 1.
The market for imports has since our last exhibited
but little animation, and the transactions generally have
been on a limited scale. There has, of course, under
these circumstances, been but slight improvement in
prices. Those of cotton piece goods continue unaltered
and most unsatisfactory. The stocks in the hands of the
local dealers are, we believe, heavy, and until the com-
plete re-opening of the communication with the interior
and the coast, which the late rains have tended to delay,
it is hardly to be expected that any active demand will
arise. Favourable accounts continue to be received from
the generality of the agricultural districts.
Metals—The sales of metals have been few, but the
market is in a healthy state, and the limited nature of
the business done arises mainly from the indisposition of
holders to accept the current rates offered by dealers.
In copper, sheathing, raised bottoms, and tiles, may be
quoted somewhat higher than before-60 rupees per cwt.
baying been refused for the first, and 62 rupees for the
second, of the above-named varieties. We have heard of
no transactions; but stocks are light, and better prices
will probably ere long be obtainable. In Swedish bar
iron, a sale has, we hear, been made of 300 candies at
501 rupees per candy; but the particulars have not been
communicated to us for publication. In British bar,
nail, rod, and sheet, we are apprised of no operations,
but the two latter are a shade higher than the date of
our last. The same may be said of hoop, of which, we
understand, a sale has taken place at 7r. 2a. per cwt.
Steel in tubs appears to have a downward tendency; in
faggots it is without change; neither variety is at pre-
sent in demand. Lead, both pig and sheet, is in some
request, and we believe a transaction has taken place in
the former at 11r. 2a. per cat. Of the latter, which we
quote half a rupee per cwt. higher than before, there is
now little or none in the market. Spelter has of rate
been in some demand. Quicksilver, owing to the firm-
ness of holders, has advanced 18 rupees per maund.
The price of Tin Plates remains stationary at 16 rupees,
our former quotation, no sales of the article having taken
place.
Cotton Manufactures—The market for these goods
has been dull, and but little inquiry has been manifested
for any description of fabrics, save 45-inch gray cloths
of a coarse and heavy kind, and 40-inch heavy do-
mestics. For these former prices have been obtained;
but the few sales in other fabrics have been somewhat
under previous rates. There have been few transactions
in prints or died goods, the prices offered for such con-
tinuing unremunerative.
Cotton Yarns—There have been but few sales either
in mule or water twist, nor do prices exhibit any marked
change. We quote No. 20 mule a little in advance of
previous rates.

Woollens—The market for woollen cloths continues
without animation, and neither in prices nor in demand
have we any change to intimate.
Marine Stores—White paint has somewhat improved
in value, while black remains without alteration. Pitch
has declined about half a rupee per cwt. Other articles
uuder this head are unchanged in price.
Beer—The demand for beer is languid. The sales of
Allsopp's since the Ist inst. amount to 200 hhds. at 60
rupees per hhd. We quote Tennant's at 4.5 to 48
rupees per hhd., at both which rates transactions have
had effect.

Spirits—These are but in moderate request, and owing
to the very low prices offering, little or nothing has been
done. The stocks in importers' hands are large.
Red Lead—We are informed of a sale of 150 casks of
red lead at 13 rupees per cwt., and now quote the article
at that rate. White is without change, at 15 rupees
per cwt.
Saffron—There is a good inquiry for the higher qua-
lities
of this article, and the price has still further im-
proved, 18i rupees per lb. being now obtainable for the
first quality. Of this, however, there appears to be but
little in the market, and what there is importers are
holding fur higher prices. Low qualities are difficult
of sale.
Cochineal—This may now he quoted at 3r. sa. per lb.,
a slight further improvement on last month's rate.
EASTERN paoDucE.
Cotton—There has latterly been rather more done in
this staple for shipment to the English markets. Prices
have somewhat given way, but this is rather owing to
the depreciated quality of the stock at market than to
any actual decline in value. The following are the cur-
rent rates :
Broach and Jumbooser ... 751 to 76rs. per candy.
Surat •..
..• 77 do. do.
DoHera ••• ••• 72 do. do.
Oomrawuttee
••• 75 do. do.
Cornptah (old) ...
•.. 71 do. do.
We hear of a purchase of 1,000 bales of broach for the
Liverpool market, at 76rs. per candy.
Coffee—Mocha has slightly declined ; the present
price being Brs. per maund. In Malabar there is no
change to notice.
Ginger has improvied in price about 'Ors. per candy
of 51 cwt.

Opium—This drug may now be quoted from I,loOrs.
to 1,215r5. per chest for Mal wa.
Pepper—Both Bhutcule and Malabar have improved
in price—the former being now 58rs. to 59r5., and the
latter 50rs. per candy.
In other articles of eastern produce we hear of no al.
teration worth notice.

FREIGHTS.
There has been little change in the rates of freight to
Great Britain, which may now be quoted at 3L 103. to
3/. 15s. per ton to London and Liverpool. The rate
offered to China is at 4 per candy.
MONEY MARKET.
The prices of Government paper remain almost un-
changed, and we, therefore, repeat our former quota-
tions :

5 pAr Cent. Loan of 1825 26 Rs. 110
4 do. do 1832-33 " 99
4do do 1835.36 " 95;
sdo do 1841.42 „ 106
4 do do . 1842 43 96
~
Oriental Bank (Old Shares)... 33
Do. do /9 (New Shares) ... 31
ft
Agra Bank
Commercial

PRICE OF BULLION.
Sovereigns, each Rs. 11 3 0
Bank of England Notes, per
Exchange—The bulk of the transactions for the mail
have had effect at Is. I Id. to Is. 114. per rupee, for bills
at six months' sight, and the rate may now be quoted
at Is. 11d. At 30 days' sight Exchange is at Is. 10d. to
ls. 100. per rupee. On Calcutta, at 60 days, the rate
is 98irs.

Baxxs.—We subjoin the quotations of Bank Shares,
which, it will be seen, have improved in vaiue:—
Bank of Bombay-4lirs. per cent. premium.
(From the Englishman's Weekly Price Current.)
CALCUTTA, SEPr.I4, 1846.—We have but little change
to report since our last. Imports continue to move off
slowly, nor do we now see much probability of an im-
proved demand being experienced previous to thePoojah.
In produce a Moderate amount of business is doing, the
decline in exchange having brought several purchasers
into the market, notwithstanding the high prices still
demanded by holders. Exchange continues steady about
ls. 102 d. to ls. 11d. per rupee for good 10 months' date
paper, at which rates some extent of business has already
been done for the mail. In Government Securities and
Bank Stock we have not heard of any extensive opera-
tions, nor have they been in much inquiry lately ; the
quotations are, however, much the same as last week,
say for the 2d or 3d five per cents. from 0.8 annas to 3r.
premium, and for the Sicca and Company's Four per
Cents. from 5-8 to 8.8 discount. The extensive ship-
ments of grain to the Mauritius have taken off a portion
of the superfluous tonnage, but there are still many
more vessels available for Great Britain than the busi-
ness doing at present appears capable of employing, and
rates have again given way slightly, but little dead
weight being procurable above 31. 155. to 41. per ton,
with every probability of a more material decline within
the next week.

BIRMINGHAM AND OXFORD
JUNCTION RAILWAY.
(BY EXPRESS.)
FROM OUR OWN REPORTER.
The first ordinary general meeting of the shareholders
in this company was held at two o'clock yesterday after-
noon, in the large room at Dee's hotel, Temple-row,
Birmingham, pursuant to the provisions of the Act in-
corporating the company. The importance of the meet-
ing was materially increased by an announcement to the
effect that the expediency of amalgamating With the
Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Dudley, would be
discussed, and in the event of the meeting deciding in
the affirmative, to authorise an application to Parliament
in the ensuing session to carry such amalgamation into
effect.

A considerable number of the directors and share-
holders were present ; amongst them we observed—
Lord Hatherton, Charles Russell, Esq., M.P.; E. Bul-
ler, Esq., M.P.; Richard Spooner, Esq., M.P.; W. Mat-
thews, Esq., chairman of the Birmingham, Wolverhamp-
ton, and Dudley Railway Company; I. K. Brunel. Esq.;
C. Saunders, Esq.; and a number of other gentlemen.
Philip Henry Muntz, the chairman of the company,
presided.
The advertisement convening the meeting having been
read, and the common seal of the company having been
affixed to the register of proprietors,
Tiros. HOLROYD, Esq., the secretary, proceeded to
read the report:—
" The success of the Birmingham, Wolverhampton,
and Dudley Railway Company ia an event of the
highest importance to this company, and bringing it
into immediate connexion with the mining and manufac-
turing districts north of Birmingham, cannot fail to be
a most important adjunct to this line. The directors,
therefore, propose an amalgamation, whereby its per-
manent connexion will be secured. To carry out this
Most desirable object, the directors propose to take the
authority of the proprietary to enable them to proceed
to Parliament.
"The importance of securing to this company the
principal traffic of the very populous district of South
Staffordshire, and obviating any inconvenience from a
break of gauge, points out the urgency of applying to
Parliament, in the next session, for power to lay down
the broad gauge rails in addition to those of the narrow
gauge, and the directors propose to take the necessary mea-
sures fur that purpose; and from all that has transpired,
there is very little doubt that, looking to the public ad-
vantage, it will readily be granted.
" The question of an extension from their present
line is one which has undergone the anxious and at-
tentive consideration of the directors, and pressed upon
them as it has been by the landowners and inhabitants
of the district, they have determined to proceed to Par-
liament for permission to make a line from Warwick to
Stratford, with the view of opening a railway communi-
cation between Warwick and Cheltenham . From Strat-
ford to Chippen Camden the Oxford, Worcester, and
Wolverhampton Railway Company obtained an Act to
make a lice last session, and that company will this year
proceed to Parliament for permission to continue that
line to Cheltenham.
" The directors have given the necessary orders for
proceeding with the works with the utmost possible dis-
patch; the greater portion of the line is already marked
out, and the purchases proceeding with.
" The directors have determined, in pursuance of the
power contained in the Act, to allow 4 per cent. on de-
posits, after the sum of 5L has been paid; and the share-
holders wishing to anticipate their calls will be allow e
the same rate of interest upon all sums paid in advance."
The CHAIRMAN said, in moving the adoption of the
report, he hoped they would allow him to congratulate
them on the position the Company now occupied in com-
parison to its position when the directors last had the
pleasure of meeting the shareholders. There was only
one thing in their past proceedings which he looked upon
with regret. It was, that the Nobleman who had so
worthily filled the office of chairman (Lord Hatherton),
and for whose great services:they were so much indebted,
had found that it would be incompatible with his time and
public duties tocontinue to hold that office, and that he (the
Chairman) feared he should but inadequately discharge
the duties of the office he had so ably filled. He begged on
his own part to offer his hearty thanks to the Noble Lord,
and he was sure every shareholder would agree with him,
for the great services which he bad rendered to the com-
pany.—(Cheers.) The meeting was called for various
purposes, and was called in accordance with the Act of
Parliament. The first business which they had to transact
was the appointment of the directors for the ensuing
year, two auditors, and to fix the salary of the secretary.
But these were matters ofsecondary importance in com-
parison to the proposition which the directors had
called them together to consider with respect to the
finances of the company. He have to state that they had
not been' able to obtain all the outstanding accounts
but out of the 100,0001. which had been placed in their
hands for the purpose of carrying the undertaking
through the Parliamentary ordeal, 7770601. remained in
their hands.--(Cheers.) He might safely say, taking
into consideration the outstanding liabilities, that from
255. to 30s. remained out of the deposits of 2/.—(Hear)
—showing that they had practised the utmost economy
in the conduct of their affairs. He now came to one
of the most important matters relative to the company.
It was the question of amalgamation with the Birming-
ham, Wolverhampton, and Dudley Railway. There
were so many, and such important reasons for this
amalgamation, that he considered he should not find the
slightest difficulty in convincing those present, because
it must be obvious that their interests would be promoted
by the adoption of such a course. It was necessary
that no time should be lost in arriving at a decision on
the matter, as the notices for the Act to amalgamate the
companies must be given in the course of a few days.
One of the reasons which influenced the directors in
coming to this decision was, that, by the union of the
two companies, there would be a uniformity of gauge
from London to Wolverhampton through Birmingham,
for no doubt the Legislature next session would sanction
the laying down the broad gauge the whole way from
Oxford to Wolverhampton. The directors were unani-
mous on the subject of amalgamation. He hadseen several
notices relative to this in the local and London newspapers,
and stating that they were apparently anxious to bring
about an amalgamation with undue haste. Now this was
a very erroneous doctrine. The directors had no alter-
native. They must either have brought the matter before
the shareholders and obtained their consent, or, in the
event of not having brought the matter before them,
spent money without obtaining their consent in Parlia-
mentary notices ; but they thought the most straight-
forward course to adopt was to call the shareholders
together, to take their opinion upon it, and to proceed
with their approval.—(Hear.)--He wished also to take
notice of another paragraph, which had appeared in all
the London, and rripny of the provincial papers, stating
that negotiations had been entered into by this company
for the transfer or lease of the line. He begged to state
that there had been no negotiations of any nature what-
soever; he wished most distinctly to state that there had
been no offer from the Great Western Company,
offering either to purchase or to take a lease of
the line, but as the paragraph had been copied
into the Birmingham papers, and as the share-
holders might possibly think that the directors
were withholding some information from them, he
had thought it right to state how the matter really stood.
However desirable hereafter it might be to form an
amalgamation with the Great Western, it was a matter
for future consideration, but, as a large shareholder, he
deprecated the idea of taking terms at the present mo-
ment, which might in a short time be considerably in-
creased, as the advantages of their line began to be de-
veloped. He had little more to add. They had ob-
tained their Act. They- had had to contend with all
those weapons which wealth and interest could array
against them, but, acting upon the sound principles of
right and competition, they had happily succeeded.—
(Hear.) They had had the good fortune to act in unity
whilst their opponents were divided by party interests,
and he hoped the unanimity and good feeling which had
characterised their proceedings up to that time would
continue in the future, for, in his estimation, the rail-
way would become one of the most lucrative in Great
Britain.—(Hear, hear.) He concluded by moving the
adoption of the report, and that it be printed and circu-
lated amongst the shareholders.
Mr. MOSELEY' inquired, if they agreed to the
adoption of the report, whether the meeting would
stand pledged to the recommendations it contained.
He, for one, dissented from its sentiments, more particu-
larly that portion which related to the amalgamation
of the company with the Birmingham, Wolverhampton,
and Dudley.
The CHAIRMAN said if the meeting adopted the report
they would adopt, as a matter of course, the sentiments
it contained.
Mr. MOSELEY inquired if a separate proposition for
the amalgamation would be submitted 'for the approval
of the meeting.
The CHAIRMAN said each matter would be put se-
parately.
Mr. MOSELEY apprehended that in that case he
should not be precluded from expressing his sentiments
in detail.
The CHAIRMAN said he would not.
After a short discussion the Chairman consented to
leave out the word " adopted," and the report was simply
received, and ordered to be printed and circulated
amongst the shareholders.
dirMecrt.oßrsuiEß'the
m d re-electioneiegse he
ef the
aid
it gave him great pleasure as a proprietor, that it was
quite impossible for any of them, in his opinion, to meet
the directors under more favourable circumstances. lie
mentionedALin proposed the report.
spoke thus because he knew the difficulties with which

they had had to contend in obtaining the sanction of
Parliament to the Bill. They had happily overcome these
difficulties, and nothing could be more satisfactory than the
statement which had just been read of their labours in
the service of the company. They had heard that 77,000/.
remained out of the 100,0001. which had been placed in
their hands. Considering the difficulties they had to
contend with, against rival and powerful companies, so
small an expenditure was almost unexampled. He con-
sidered they deserved the utmost praise.
Mr. F. MOWATT seconded the motion, which was at
once carried; as also were motions awarding an allow-
ance of 1,200/. to the directors, and 201. to each of the
auditors (Messrs. Crosthwaite and Alston).
The CHAIRMAN said they had now come to the ques-
tion of amalgamation. He would men
merely request those
who oppose that amalgamation to consider how much it
was to their advantage to enter into it. It was proposed
on equal terms, and if their was any advantage in the
negotiation it was on the side of the Birmingham and
Oxford Company. He therefore proposed,
" That as this meeting deem it expedient that an
amalgamation of this company with the Birmingham,
Wolverhampton, and Dudley Railway Company should
be formed, the directors be authorised and requested, in
conjunction with the Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and
Dudley lt,ilway Company, to apply to Parliament in the
next ensuing session for an Act or Acts to carry such
amalgamation into effect ; providing in the seid Act for

power to lease or sell the two lines when amalgamated,
or any part thereof, to the Great Western Railway Com-
pany ; the directcrs being requested and authorised at
()nee to negotiate with that company for some arrange-
ment for that purpose."
Mr. BULLER seconded the motion.
Mr. MOSELEY rose to oppose the motion. For his
part, at the outset of his remarks, he must acknowledge
that he was ignorant of the advantages which the chair-
man stated the amalgamation would confer on that com-
pany, because it had not pleased the directors to en-
lighten the shareholders as th the precise nature of
them. He did not wish to cast censure on the Chair-
man, because he was boand, by the instructions which
he received from the directors ; but he must confess he
never listened to more meagre reasons for the adoption
of so important a step as the amalgamation of the com-
pany with another. The only reason of the slightest
importance, and that was not a great one, was the laying
down of the narrow gauge. He wished for more infor-
mation, because it might possibly make him a convert.
The figures were most unsatisfactory. He wished to
know the length of the Birmingham and Oxford line ?
The CHAIRMAN said the line was 42 miles in lergth.
Mr. MOSELEY also wished to know the length of the
Birmingham and Dudley ?
The CHAIRMAN—About 14 miles.
Mr. MOSELEY wished to know the comparative cost of
the two lines ?
The CHAIRMAN said the cost of the Oxford and Bir-
mingham was 1,000,0001, and the Birmingham, Wolver-
hampton and Du•lley, 700,0001.
Mr. MOSELEY said, then the matter stood thus:—that
one line cost 1,000,000 L, and the other 700,000/., and
that an amalgamation was proposed on equal terms.
They should be satisfied that the advantages which they
proposed to give were equal to that they should receive.
He did not think they were, and therefore he
was strongly opposed to any alliance of the
kind. The Chairman told them, and he re-
gretted to hear it, that there had been no negotiations
with other companies. He wished to know why no ne-
gotiation had taken place. He was surprised at such a
statement, because it was understood that the line was
to be taken up by the Great Western. That was held
out to the proprietors, and clauses were inserted in the
Bill for the purpose of giving legal effect to an amalga-
mation with the Great Western Company; but at the
eleventh hour these clauses were struck out, rendering
amalgamation optional on the part of either company,
and the Oxford and Birmingham Company were thus
thrown prostrate at the feet of the Great Western. He
admitted he was deeply interested in the North-Western
and Oxford and -Birmingham Companies. He had
heard, and he believed the information was true, that
' there were sufficient proxies in the room to carry the
amalgamation, but the knowledge of this would not
prevent him from expressing his sentiments. Still he
should not object to any offer which seemed likely to be
advantageous to the company, but he would not be a
party to casting away advantages without a commensu-
rate return ; besides, as an independent scheme it would
pay, and could therefore afford to stand by itself. He
contended also that amalgamation at that period was most
uncalled for, because its resources had not been de-
veloped, whereas the other company was opposed by
three companies, and could only yield them an " Omni-
bus" traffic, which would have to be worked at their
expense. He must enter his decided negative to the
motion, and should do the utmost of his power to op-
pose a marriage where the entire dowry was on one
side, and no commensurate advantage on the other.
Lord HATHERTON was very happy at length to make
Mr. Moseley's acquaintance. During the last session,
and when he was Chairman of the Birmingham, Wol-
verhampton, and Dudley, he received several letters
from Mr. Moseley, with respect to the affairs of the
company, but they were so tinged with an inclination
to adverse interests, that he did not take that interest
in them which Mr. Moseley wished. Mr. Moseley was a
proprietor in the North-Western, but he (Lord Rather-
ton) was only interested in the two lines propesed to be
amalgamated. He instituted a comparison between the
cost of the two lines. Supposing the Wolverhampton
line had not passed, and the Birmingham and Oxford
had, did they not think that a line running through
such a dense population would have been cheaply pur-
chased at 700,000/.?—(Hear, hear, and cheers.) Mr.
Moseley was a respectable gentleman, residing at Birm-
ingham ; whereas he (Lord Hatherton) had passed
his line in that district, but not in the traffic
of shares. He had tendered his services to this company
because he was sensible of its importance to the public
at large, who ought not to be subject to one gigantic
monopoly, and be shut out from those advantages which
were derived from competition—those advantages not
only consisting in the reduction of fares, but in civility
and attention to the passengers. He had been chair-
man of both companies, and was satisfied that at that
moment great necessity existed for an union of them.
In fact the line ought to be carried on to Wolverhampton,
instead of terminating at Birmingham. The Grand
Junction was laid out in an inconvenient manner, and
did not come near those towns which the Birmingham,
Wolverhampton, and Dudley traversed. The lines of
the two companies ought to have been made general.
The reason was a natural one, and must inevitably take
place. He did not set his opinior s up against those
who had directed much time to the consideration of
railway matters, but he repeated that their interests would
be best promoted by the proposed amalgamation.
Mr.STEVENS proposed the following amendment, " That
the directors of this company be authorised to proceed to
obtain an Act of Parliament for the amalgamation of
the Birmingham and Oxford Junction Railway with the
Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Dudley Railway,
on such terms as shall be approved of by the proprietors
of this company; that an agreement be previously entered
into by the directors of this company, to be confirmed
by the shareholders of the Great Western Company, for
leasing or selling to them this undertaking." He stated
in support of his proposition that as the line was origin-
ally intended to be leased or amalgamated with the
Great Western, he was anxious to drive the Great
Western to adopt their own child, and not to send it
abroad to seek paternal attention elsewhere.
Mr. TELFORD seconded the amendment. He consi-
dered, as men ( f honour, that they could not go to Par-
liament to seek powers to amalgamate with another
company whilst the clause with respect to the Great
Western remained in their Bill. With respect to amal-
gamating with the North Western Company, which
seemed a part of the Hon. Gentleman's proposition.
Mr. MOSELEY—I did not make any such proposition.

Mr. TELFORD apologised for the mistake ; but the
tinge—the colouring—of his speech went to induce the
shareholders to believe that he, a proprietor of the North
Western, wns opposed to an amalgamation with the
Great Western Company.
Mr. MosELEY—Certainly not. You are mistaken.
Mr. TELFORD—Then you do not object to an amal-
gamation with tne Great Western?
Mr. MosELEY—Certainly not.
Mr. 'TELFORD—That gives me greater confidence in
seconding the amendment.

Mr. BuLLER opposed the motion, and considered that
the directors ought not to be bound to make the atnal-
gatnation of this company with the Birmingham and
Dudley subservient to the consent of the Great Western.
It was true there was a clause in the Act giving the
powers to amalgamate with them if they thought proper,
but if they did not offer fair terms why this company
was at liberty to seek elsewhere tbr better. The pro-
position was absurd, and he said so with all respect
for the gentlemen from whom it had emanated,
It was said the directors had not furnished the share-
holders with sufficient information. Now he would
recommend the shareholders not to press the directors
to afford them too much information, because if they
did so they might depend ul,on it they would thereby
lay themselves open to their opponents, and do them-
selves serious damage. The amalgamation would be
most advantageous, and with cheap trains he doubted
not but it would yield a fair profit to the shareholders.
Mr. PARSONS opposed the amalgamation, and con-
sidered the proposal absurd. That was not the House of
Lords, but a meeting of persons connected with a rail-
way, who had met to consider how they might best pro-
mote their private interests. If the Great Western
wished to amalgamate with them, let them do so at once
—let them come forward and make a proposition, either
to buy or lease the line ; for he would rather take a
lease, or rent from them, if they met them fairly, though
the other company might offer higher terms.—(Cheers.)
Mr. SPOONER, M.P., considered that there was some
misapprehension on the part of the gentlemen who op-
posed the amalgamation, and seemed to think that they
must look to their own interests, to the exclusion of any
consideration of the interests of the public. The Noble
Lord used no such argument, but he advised them, in
considering their own interests, not to overlook those of
the public.—(Hear.) That was the view the Noble
Lord took. After all, they came to this conclusion:—
The whole trade of the district was spread over the four-
teen miles of the Birmingham and Dudley line, and if
they did not unite with that line, the extensive trade of
the district would go up another line—the North
Western. They should nit so much reckon upon
the length of their line, as upon the population and the
tons of goods which the alliance would bring to their
'line. He did not wonder at the objections of the Hon.
Proprietor (Mr. Moseley), because he was a North-
Western proprietor, and was only doing all he could to
prevent the traffic going by Oxford. Now, their object
was to get the traffic on the Oxford line, and they would
have no hindrance, because it was manifest they must
amalgamate. Without the Birmingham and Dudley line,
he had no hesitation in saying that their line we uld not
beof that service to the public, or to them, as it would if
an amalgamation took place. Besides, they would have
a greater power to amalgamate with other companies
when their scheme was complete. He suggested the
withdrawal of the amendment.

Mr. MATTIIEVS(tII; Chairman of the Birmingham,
Wolverhampton and Dudley), also rose to explain away
misconception on the part of Mr. Moseley, and other
gentlemen opposed to the amalgamation.
That gentle-
man did not appear to see the relative merits of the two
lines. He said, as the cost of one was 1,000,0004 and
the other only 700,000!.—one-fourth less, that the
contrast was greatly against the smaller pro-
' ject. The original estimate was 450,0001., but the
station at Birmingham inereased the amount to 4 .00,000/.
That station of course belonged to the Birmingham and
Dudley Company, but in the event of the amalgama-
tion they would have joint use of it. Then the one line
went through almost an entirely agricultural district,
almost bare ;of population, whilst the other ran through
one of the most densely populated districts,
in any part of England so that no disadvan-
tageous comparison could be drawn between the two
companies. After explaining the position of the lines,
and that the hiatus between Fennycompton and Wol-
verhampton would be filled up by the amalgamation, and
that sooner than rest his connexion with the lines on
the mere possession of shares, without an interest in the
district, he went on to say, the grand object of himself
and Lord Hatherton was the amalgamation of the line
Mr. PARSONS said his interest in the line was fourfold
theinterest he held in the London and Birmingham.
Mr. RUSSELL, M.P. (the Chairman of the Great
Western), then rose, and said, Mr. Chairman— I have

_. ~

waited to this period of the proceedings, because I was
extremely desirous to hear the opinions and views enter-
tained by the proprietors of the Birmingham and Ox-
ford: I feel that I can no longer remain silent, and that I
am bound ta express my opinion, as director of that
company ; and, after the taunts which have been
thrown out respecting the silence of the Great
Western, I feel also bound to say a few words
on behalf of that company.—(Hear.) On the ques-
tion of amalgamation, independent of any arrangement
with the Great Western Railway Company, I should be
reluctant to give a strong or decided opinion, although
the opinions I have entertained are in favour of that
amalgamation. This is a question very much influenced
by private considerations, and it is rather surprising
that in the course of the discussion which has just taken
place, all the arguments which have teen adduced against
the amalgamation have proceeded from an Hon. Proprie-
tor residing at Liverpool, and from a second Hon. Pro-
prietor residing in London. I think, therefore, we are
justified in assuming that the local opinions are decid-
edly in favour of the amalgamation.— (Cheers.) Sir, all
prima fade arguments are in favour of it. It needs no
great power of argument to sho v that two lines connected
with each other, and forming one continuous line, are
almost naturally associated. They come together to the
same station at Birmingham. and are possessed in some
measure by the same proprietors, and they can be worked
as joint lines much more economically than they possi-
bly can do as two separate fines. And I thick it must
be obvious to every one that each is calculated to
enrich the other.—(Hear, hear.) On the question
of amalgamation I can entertain no doubt whatever. I
confess, however, that I am rather disposed to concur in
the opinion of the Hon. Proprietor who made the last
proposition, at the other end of the table (Mr. Stevens),
that it was desirable that the two questions—the amal-
gamation of the two companies with the Great Western
should proceed together.—(Cheers.) Gentlemen, there
are many considerations affecting one line which bear
strongly upon the other. It is true that by the Bill of
the Oxford as it now stands we have a right to lease it.
We must be careful, as guardians of the interest of the
Great Western Railway, that we do not permit the
right which we possess by that Bill, but which we do
not possess by the Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and
Dudley line, to fall into abeyance.—(Cheers.) It is pos.
sible the Great Western have made no overtures to the
proprietors of the Birmingham and Oxford. By law
they possess a right of working over that line. The
Hon. Proprietor had said that by that law they have
been laid prostrate at the feet of the Great Western
Railway Company. Sir, I contend that that law was
granted expressly for the purpose, not of laying the
Birmingham and Oxford Company prostrate at the feet
of the Great Western Railway Company, but to enable
themselves to stand against the London and Birmingham
Company. Sir, it is not my intention upon the present
occasion to make any overture on the part of the Great
Western to you. The shareholders and the interests of
the Birmingham and Oxford Railway are well guarded
by the directors whom you have entrusted with the ma-
nagement of your affairs. They are the best judges of the
interests of your company ; but this I will say, that i
they think it right, after taking a view of their interests
to make any proposition to the Great Western, the
Great Western is quite prepared to make and consider
with them such proposition.—(Cheers.) The principle,
however, upon which any negotiations must proceed with
the Great Western Company, must be that of a complete
adherence to the principles upon which this Bill was
granted. The first object that was contemplated
by the Bill was to open a line of communica-
tion between Birmingham, Southampton, and the
southern coast of England. Now it must be
clear, I think, that the Great Western Company
hold a very considerable portion of that line, and that
object will be rather advanced by a connexion with the
Great Western Company than retarded. But perhaps
the most important object contemplated by that Bill
was to open a second, and not only a second, but an in-
dependent line of communication with the metropolis.—
(Cheers.) That a second line was wanted was admitted
even by the opponents of the Bill—that it was to be an
independent line was the very essence of the
purpose of those who first devised it—of
the inhabitants of Birmingham who aided in
carrying it oat, and lastly of the Legislature that
passed the Bill. I must, therefore, contend that no
arrangement can be contemplated by the proprietors of
this company—l frankly and confidently believe
that no arragement will be sanctioned by the Legisla-
ture which does not hold in view that object for which
it was granted—of its being an independent' line.—
:Cheers.) Some allusion has been made to the purchase
of this line by the North-Western Railway Company,
and an intimation intelligible enough has been made that
these two companies should be brought into competition
with each other, to which the Great Western will never
consent to be a party.—(Cheers.) If the Oxford and
Birmingham Company can make a more advantageous
bargain with the North-Western Company—if they
think it is consistent with the principles upon
which the line was granted—if they think
they should make such a bargain—if they
think that the Legislature will sanction such a bargain
—(Hear, hear)—let them at once open their negotia-
tions with the London and Birmingham Company; the
Great Western will stand aloof and leave these negotia-
tions to proceed. If, on the other hand, they think it
more consistent with the principles on which they ob-
tained their Bill that such negotiations should proceed
with the Great Western Company—though I must
be distinctly understood as not being empowered to
make any proposition of that kind on the part of the
Great Western Company—thus much I will take upon
myself to say, that we shall be quite prepared to treat for
such a purpose.—(Loud cheers.)
Mr. Moss:Lev was ready to support the line as an in-
dependent line.
Mr. CROSSTHIVAITE advised an adjournment.
Mr. SAUNDERS (the secretary of the Great Western)
having listened to both sides, trusted he might be able
to bring the matter to an issue. He considered the
amalgamation of the two companies desirable ; and the
Lion. Gentleman who moved the amendment did not
seem anxious to throw any difficulty in the way of effect-
ing this.
Mr. CROSSTHWAITE—" No, no."
Mr. SAUNDERS—He was sure the Great Western had
no wish to do so. It, therefore, came to this issue,
that amalgamation was desirable and ougbt to
be carried out.—(Hear.) But it was stated that the
Great Western had no power to lease the other line,
and that unless there was some stipulation to confer the
same power of lease or purchase on the Great Western
with respect to the Birmingham and Dudley, that the
Birmingham and Oxford would be placed in a disadvan-
tageous position; as, for instance, if it passed into the
hands of another company. Now the introduction of a
few words into the amendment by the solicitor would no
doubt have the effect of destroying any ambiguity—
that when the amalgamation of the two companies should
take place that their position with regard to amalgama-
tion should be assimilated.
Lord HATHERTON objected to fixing down the direc-
tors to the Great Western, and warned that company
that they were not without a powerful rival, and that
as shares changed hands, those who were willing to deal
with them then, might be succeeded by others, who, two
years hence, would exact high terms when the Great
Western were less able to accept them.
Mr. CROSSTHWAITE then proposed, " That as this meet-
ing deem it expedient that an amalgamation of this com-
pany with the Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Dud-
ley Junction Railway should be formed, and that the
directors be authorised and requested, in conjunction
with the directors of the Birmingham and Dudley line, to
apply to Parliament in the ensuing session for an
Act or Acts to carry such amalgamation into
effect, providing in the said Act power to lease or
sell the two lines when amalgamated, or any part
thereof to the Great Western Company, the directors
being requested and authorised at once to negotiate
with that company for some arrangement for that pur-
pose."
This motion having been seconded, was, with the ori-
ginal motion of the Chairman, submitted to the meeting,
and both were carried, but two hands, those of Mr.
Moreley and Mr. Parsons, being held up against either.
The motion of Mr. Stevens was superseded by the
amendment of Mr. Crosathwaite.
Lord Hatherton, having taken the chair, a vote of
thanks was awarded to Mr. Muntz, who briefly returned
thanks, and the meeting gave way to that of the
BIRMINGHAM, WOLVERHAMPTON AND
DUDLEY COMPANY,
which was held in the same room.

Mr. MATTHEWS, the Chairman of the Company, pre-
sided, who briefly addressed the meeting, and concluded
by reading the report, which stated—.
" The Act of Incorporation received the royal assent
on the 3d of August last.
" There was a balance of 59,4211. 17s. 10d., of which
50,0001. is placed to a deposit account, bearing interest.
" The directors, in pursuance of the powers of the
Act, had determined to allow 4 per cent. interest on calls
after 5/. per share has been paid ; and shareholders wish-
ing to anticipate their calls, will be allowed the same
rate of interest upon all sums paid in advance.
the
line Since the Act was passed, a careful re-survey of the
line has been made, and the engineer, Md
r. McClean,
beond the
had
reported
authorised by Parliament.
that n o
deviation
limits uire
had been purchased ; the first contract is ad-
vertised,parroe
6, The property plans of great portion of the line
and preparations are being made for proceed-
pienrtyhehands of the valuers ; some portions of the
ing with the execution of the works with the necessary
vigour.
" The importance of obtaining over this railway all
the traffic which can be influenced by making it a con-
tinuous line, in connexion with the Birmingham and
Oxford, and the Great Western Railways, on the one
hand; and the Oxford, Worcester, and Wolverhampton
on the other, without the interruption of any break of
gauge between I'Volverhampton and London, pointed
out the urgency of applying to Parliament, in the next
session, for power to lay down broadenlgvtaoufrogereesartealriiln,se,aninedf
addition to those of the narrow gauge; and the directors
measurestphlyt
ilteo ico,axfrofloirar
Oxford,
h, a t purpose.
phaenri, a
es fromowe n \Leas txh reotmh
proposed to take proper
proposed
connexionto
with
raLTayheiyn
WStrcuu:vrbvrriireP, tthirouCgohmt
cohn dis-
trict."
triet."
The report concluded by recommending the amalga-
mation of the company with the Oxford
and Birmingham.
The report was received and adopted ; Mr. Aston and
Mr.
. Scott were elected auditors ; and the al am gamation
was carried without the slightest opposition.
A vote of thanks was passed to the Chairman, and the
meeting separated shortly after five o'clock.

DERBYSHIRE, STAFFORDSHIRE,
AND WORCESTERSHIRE JUNCTION, AND
DIRECT EAST AND WEST JUNCTION RAIL-
WAYS.

A public meeting of the scripholders of theso two
companies was held yesterday, at the Railway Protector

office, 11, Bncklersbury. The meeting was presided
over by Mr. Davis.
An irregular discussion took place at the commence-
ment, as to whether certain resolutions, agreed to at a
private meeting of the scripholders, should be read. It
resulted in their being read by Mr. Clark, and their
substance was, that the affairs of the two companies
were in such a state as to imperatively require the most
thorough investigation, and that a public meeting should
be called, at which to determine on ulterior proceedings.
The present meeting had, in consequence, been
Mr. CLARK then proceeded to explain the circum-
stances of the two companies. The first company to
which he would refer was the Derbyshire, Stafford-
shire, and Worcestershire Junction. It was origi-
nally brought out with a capital of 800,0001., the shares
being fixed at 32,000, of 251. each. It was subsequently
altered to 40,000 shares, of 20/. each. The promoter
was Mr. M`Gregor, of Suffolk-street. In respect to the
second arrangement, no regular registration took place,
the prospectus and provisional directors only being regis-
tered. About 17,000 were issued, and 8,212 were paid
upon, the deposit being 21. 2s. Of the Direct East and
West Junction, the originator was a Mr. Arnold, of
Uttoxeter, a solicitor there, who subsequently appeared
to have assumed the name of Bainbr.dge.
Dr. M. ACKENZIE—He toik that name, in consequence
of acquiring some property.
Mr. CLARK—It might be so. The capital of this
comany was 600,0001., being made up of 30,000 shares
of 21. 2s. each. The number of shares was 12,195,
while, from information obtained from the registrar,
there was a blank against the number paid upon.
Dr. MACKENZIE—That is not accurate.

Some altercation arose on this point, which ended in
Dr. MAcKENziE explaining that the certificate of the
registrar was incorrectly filled up, and that upwards of
17,000 shares were issued, while above 12,000 were paid
upon. They had then the fact before them that in the
first company, of 40,000 shares, but 17,000 were allotted,
while in the latter, of 30,000 shares, according to Dr.
Mackenzie, but 17,000 or 18.000 were issued. This was
a great source of complaint among the shareholders, as
they,had been led to believe the shares had all been issued.
It therefore appeared there was not sufficient to go to Par-
liament with. It was a remarkable fact, the directors of the
one company were exactly the same as those of the other.
Finding that the capital was not sufficient for Parlia-
mentary purposes, the directors, without consulting the
scripholders, or calling a meeting. agreed to amalgamate
the two, transferring the capital of the larger to the lesser
scheme, the Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Worcester-
shire. Though the directors advertised that exchange
scrip would be supplied to all who applied for it, he be-
lieved nene was supplied.
Dr. MACKENZIE—That is not so; every one who ap-
plied for it received it.
Mr. CLARK said he was prepared to prove what he
said. The restit of all these proceedings was, that see-
ing the directors in both schemes had but issued 17,000
shares each out of 40,000 and 30,000 shares respectively,
the law gave the scripholders a right to recover their full
deposits. He now left the matter in their hands, and
would conclude by advising them to follow up the pre-
seat meeting with such measures as would recover the
money of the shareholders with whom faith had thus
been broken.

A SHAREHOLDER hoped that some of the gentlemen
present who knew the affairs of the company would
answer what had been stated by Mr. Clark. Perhaps
Dr. Mackenzie or Mr. Matthew, who were both present,
would do so.
Mr. MATTHEW said he was at present Chairman of
the Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Worcestershire Junc-
tion, and he had only been called on to be so since the
amalgamation. The line proposed now to go on with
was much required by the district through which it would
pass. The inhabitants were generally in its favour, and
Lords Hatherton and Anglesey were its warm
supporters. What had been done was for the bene-
fit of the shareholders. The directors had no
object in view but the good of all, in fact,
the carrying out of the scheme was the only way
of getting out of the wood. He had no doubt, were the
Bill obtained, but that good terms would be obtained
from some of the existing companies, as it formed a
lunction with both the North and South Staffordshire
ines. The Hon. Gentleman, after explaining the pro-
ceedings of last session in regard to the line, said that
sufficient arrangements had been made in regard to de-
posits to go to Parliament, without calling on the share-
holders, and they bad every prospect ofobtaining the BM.
Mr. CLARK was glad to hear that the affairs of the
company were so promising. In that case, perhaps, the
directors would be in a position to pay back the deposits
to those that did agree to the amalgamation.
Mr. MATTHEW said what had been done was under
the deeds of settlement of the two companies, and such
a return could not be made.

Mr. BROWN intimated that he held 1,000 shares, and
he thought the proposed line an excellent scheme. If
the Bill was obtained he would be glad to buy 1,000
shares more at par, as the line would have to fall into
the hands of some of the great companies.
Dr. MACKENZIE explained at some length the cha-
racter and route of the line now laid out by Mr. Ras-
trick. It had been much improved in its ennineering
..culiarities since last year. It started from the North
Staffordshire line at the Uttoxeter station, and terminated
at the Walsall station of the South Staffordsbire.

Mr. CLARK thought if the directors meant well they
ought to publish a statement of their accounts.
I❑ answer to a question put by Mr. Brown,
Dr. litacKENzLE complained that there was no oppo-
sition last } ear in the Lords, but they had strong oppo-
sition in the Commons from the Birmingham Canal
Compiny and Lord Anglesey. This opposition would
be withdrawn this year. The line was locally very pow-
erfully supported.
After some further discussion, a resolution was una-
nimously agreed to, appointing a committee of five
shareholders to communicate with the directors, so as
to obtain ail necessary information respecting the affairs
of the companies, such to be submitted afterwards to
the shareho:clers, in order that they might determine
what course to ptr,ue. The meet'n.z then broke up.

Yesterday, Mr. W. Thornburn, who is aiding in
the collection of the fund for " Poor Female Prisoners,"
in memory of the late Mrs. Fry, waited upon Mr. Jones
Loyd, the banker, who immediately handed to him a do-
nation of 501. Five of the highest firms of the Ci'y al-
most followed the example, by promising donations to
the fund immediately afterwards.
STOCK EXCHANGE SPECULATIONS.—Yesterday the
Lord Mayor, in the course of some conversation at the
Mansion House, relative to the late inquiry into the cir-
eumstances of the case in which Messrs. Rochas were
defendants, expressed a hope that the Committee of the
Stock Exchange would adopt some measures upon the
subject. It is currently reported that an immediate in-
vestigation will take place into the particulars of the
dealings referred to in the report. A similar charge
against another broker is, we -understand, to be laid
before the next Court of Record. Alderman Copeland,
who has given notice of it, has expressed his determina-
tion to prosecute it rigorously.
MORE MISCONDUCT OF GENTLEMEN CADETS AT
THE ROYAL MILLITAII Y. ACADEMY, WOOLWICH.—An
extraordinary sensation has been caused at the Royal
Military Academy, Woolwich, at the disgraceful conduct
of three more gentlemen cadets, named Peel (nephew of
Sir Robert Peel), Braybrook, and Birchall, and the
severe punishment the two last have received. The
charge was intoxication, &c., which was fully investi-
gated by the Lieutenant-Governor, Colonel Sir B.
Parker, C. 8., who, after the case had been fully proved
against them, sentnced Braybrook and Burchall to be
confined in the blackhole forty-eight hours, eight days'
confinement to their room, one month's extra drill, and
to be restrained from leave and passing the gates for
the ensuing half-year. The sentence on Mr. Peel
(son of Colonel Jonathan Peel) has not yet been
promulgated.
DEFALCATION OF A CLERK UPON THE PROPERTY
OF LORD HOWDEN.—On Thursday morning information
was forwarded to the police that a clerk employed at
Wingate Grange Colliery, near Hartlepool, had ab-
sconded, taking with him upwards of 6801., the pro-
perty of Lord Howden. He is described as being about
twenty years of age, rather short and stout, light sandy
hair, walks upright, and generally with a quick step.
He is a native of Northumberland, and has a northern
accent.

"BOOKBIRDERS' PROVIDENT ASYLUM SOCIETY.
The annual general meeting of this society was held in
the Mechanics' Institution, Southampton- buildings,
Chancery-lane, on Tuesday evening, for the election of
officers for the ensuing year, and the transaction of other
business, Luke James Hansard, Esq., in the chair. The
report having been read, the Secretary proceeded to read
the balance-sheet, showing that after all that had been
done there was still a balance of upwards of 1201., and
further stating he had received that day the sum of 151.,
out of which was the munificent donation of 101. 10s.
from the chairman, who bad also consented to become
an annual subscriber of 11. Is., until such time as the
asylum is fully completed. A vote of thanks to the
chairman terminated the proceedings.
PUMPKINS FOR Cows.—The South Australian Re-
gister says:—" Many a colonist who had the good for-
tune to call in at Teneriffe or Rio de Janeiro on the
passage from England, will remember the long-keeping
pumpkims or melons put on board for the much cows, if
there were any. A similar supply of nutritive change
in fodder has been successfully resorted to by a judi-
cious colonist, who has laid by a store of pie-melons,
which he cuts into small pieces, and gives at stated in-
tervals to his cows, by which this change of provender is
devoured with avidity. This artificial method of in-
creasing the quantity of milk, when the natural pas-
tures are parched and scanty, has been found to answer
so well that in all probability the example will bo ex-
tensively followed. We need hardly intimate to our
rural fellow-colonists what immense supplies of such
kinds of food might be grown even upon sandhills or
spots of ground hitherto considered barren or unpro-
fitable. The pie-melon will keep in high perfection
from season to season, or even during a voyage to]
England.
DRSTRUCTIVE FIRE AT LIMEHOUSE.—Thursday
evening, between six and seven o'clock, a fire broke out in
the extensive cooperage, belonging to Messrs. Gordon
and Son. in Church-lane, Limehouse. The flames were
first disc' overed issuing through the roof of the cooper-
ag% 11 building nearly 150 feet long by 50 feet deep,
which contained a considerable number of casks and
staves- There were about twelve compartments in the
Molina, which were used as separate workshops. With
such fury did the fire , that in less than ten
minutes after the first laextewne,sed
egiven, at least one half
of the spacious building became
the
in flame. The
..,dmgines quickly attended, but by thetimzets oyn efioruel,danbde
eettoolarlj, ithe,vehole of the cooperage
u,set;isein Church-
, - for Wait 40133 feared that Pthreatoe
lane and Oak-lama would become ignited
eo intense, and th,i'burning flakes were sent flhyeinatgbeeivnegr
the parish church' .;
By half-past eight o'clock th
was at length
_54 premises
Ihed, but not until the e fire
which it -wer4 reduced to a mass of ruins. The
hule
wok la c!.destioyed is also considerable,

SPORTING INTELLIGENCE.
NEWMARKET HOUGHTON MEETING.
THURSDAY NIGHT, 12 O'CLOCK.
LATEST BETTING ON THE NURSERY STAKES.
2 to 1 agat Sultana 13 to 1 agst Miss Whip colt
11 to 2 agst Agnes 14 to 1 agst Pink Bonnet
7 to 1 agst Zipporah colt 15 to 1 agst Vanity
11 to 1 agst Crozier (taken) 20 to 1 agst Dr. Goodall.
12 to 1 agst Circassian Maid
THE SunscHirruarr ROOMS. Mr. Greville and Mr.
Drinkald's term having expired this meeting, Mr. Payne
was nominated one of the Committee on the part of the
Jockey Club, and Mr. G. W. Rush elected in the room of Mr.
Drinkald.
As an instance of the careless mode of settling accounts on
the Turf, we may mention that Andrews, the clerk of the
rooms, found the two halves of a 5001. note under the grate
on Tuesday. He immediately placed it in the hands of Mr.
Isaacson, who caused inquiry to be made, and the requisite
identification having been furnished, it was restored to the
loser, who rewarded the integrity of the finder with 251.
FRIDAY.
Sweepstakes of 10 sous. each ; for two yrs old, 7st 71b ; three,
9st 41b. The winner to be sold for 200 sous. if demanded.
T.Y.C. (7 Subs.)
Mr. Gully's br f Main Brace, 2 yrs (A. Day) 1
Lord Chesterfield's brother to Stitch, 2 yrs ..... 2
Mr. Newton's Redwing, 2 yrs 3
The following were not placed :—Mr. S. Smith's Tell—
Mr. Jaques's Nell Cook Mr. Leigh's Hyderabad —Lord
Caledon's Maid of Lorette.
Betting-7 to 4 agst Mainbrace, and sto 2 agst Bro to Stitch.
Hyderabad made the running, at a moderate pace, to the
cords, when Bro. to Stitch took it up, Mainbrace waiting on
her till the last half dozen strides, and winning a good race
by half a length ; Redwing beaten a length for second place.
The winner was claimed.
Handicap Sweepstakes of 20 sous. each, and only 5 ft. if
declared, &c.; for three yrs old, and upwards. T.Y.C. (19
Subs., 6 of whom paid.)
Mr. Eddisson's Little John, 5 yrs, 7st 41b ......(Simpson) 1
Lord Miltown's Duo-an-Durras, 4 yrs, 7st 81b 2
The following also started, but were not placed ;—Mr.
Merton's African—Mr. A. Campbell's Blackie—Mr. Payne's
Sir Francis—Mr. Goldworthy's My Mary—Mr. Wyatt's
Laundry Maid—Mr. Phillemore's Skeleton—Lord Exeter's
Wood Pigeon—Sir W. Stanley's Pic-nic—Mr. Mostyn's
Wilderness—Mr. Rolt's Collingwood— Lord Exeter's Cocoa
Nat.
Betting-3 to 1 agst Duc-an-duras--4 to 1 agst Wilder-
derness-6 to 1 agst Cocoa Nut—and 8 to 1 each agst Laun-
dry Maid and Skeleton. The running was made at a capital
pace by Wilderness and Collingwood, the favourite and the
winner waiting on them. This lot remained in advance to
the cords, where Duc-an-durras and Little John singled
themselves out, and finished the race, the gelding winning
cleverly by a length. Cocoa Nut and Widerness were third
and fourth.
Match, 200, h ft. A.F. Lord Glasgow's Conspiracy,
Bst 21b (Nat), beat Lord Eglinton's Sotades(Marson). 2to
lon Conspiracy. Won by two lengths.
The Audley- end Stakes of 30 sous. each, 10 ft, for horses of
all ages, 2 yrs old excepted. A.E.C.
Lord Exeter's Hydrangea, 3 yrs, sst 6lb ... (J. Sharpe) 1
Lord E. Russell's Dulcet, 4 yrs, Bst 21b 2
Mr. Wygram's Kesheng, 4 yrs, 7st 21b......... 3
The following were not placed :—Mr. Meiklam's Light-
wing, 5 yrs, Bst 131b—Mr. Morris's Wolf-dog, 4 yrs, Bst 61b—
Mr. Bowes's Mowerina, 3 yrs, Est 71b.
Betting-3 to 1 agst Hydrangea; 3to 1 agst Wolf-dog;
7 to 2 agst Dulcet; 5 to 1 agat Kesheng; and sto 1 agst
Mowerina. Kesheng made the running, followed by Hy-
drangea and Mowerina, the pace indifferent enough to keep
the whole lot together in a cluster, until they were within a
distance of home; Hydrangea then took the lead, kept it,
and won, but only by a head, Dulcet, who came at the
last, making the issue so doubtful, that until No. 7 was te-
legraphed, many thought it was a dead heat. Kesheng was
beaten two lengths.
Match-100, h ft. T.Y.C. Lord Orford's Prussic Acid,
Bst (Nat), beat Mr. W. S. Stanley's Paulton's, Bst 81b.
Betting-5 to 2on Paulton's. Won by a head.
501. for three years old, ist 61b; four, Bst 51b; five and up-
wards, Bst 101 b. The winner to be sold for 100 sot's. if
demanded, &c. A.F.
Mr. Shelley's Campanile, 4 yrs (S. Mann) 1
Colonel Peel's Queen Anne, 3 yrs
Mr. Hesseltine's The Slayer's Daughter, 3 yrs .
Mr. S. Howlett's Libation, 3 yrs 4
The following also started, but were not placed : —Mr.
Francis's Seven's-the- Main—Sir J. Hawley's Alamode—Mr.
Minor's Carissima—Mr. Walker's Princess Olga—Mr. W.
Etwall's Longstock—Mr. W. Oates's Mr. Mansfield—Mr. J.
Day's Milliner—Count Bathyany's Tragical—Mr. Greville's
Polka.
Betting—? to 4 agst Campanile, and 4 to 1 each agst
Queen Anne and Polka.
Mr. Mansfield took the lead, and, with The Slayer's
Daughter, Campanile, and two or three others laid up, made
running at a good pace to the T.Y.C. Campanile then went
in front, was never afterwards caught, and won easily by a
couple of lengths. Queen Anne took the second place in the
bottom, beating the Slayer's Daughter by half a length. The
winner was claimed.
Match-100, h ft. D.M. Mr. Oabaldiston's Giselle,
8-t 41b (F. Butler), beat Mr. Hesseltine's Fitzwilliam, Bst
81b, by two lengths. stolon Giselle.
The Nursery Stakes of 25 sous. each fur two yrs old. D.M.
(18 Subs.)
Lord Exeter's f, by Hetman Platoff, 6st 91b...(J. Sharpe) 1
Lord Strathmore's Sultana, 7st 91b
The following also started, but were not placed :—Baron
Rothschild's Daughter of the Star—Mr. Mostyn's Circassian
Maid—Mr. J. Cheshire's Helen Horne—Lord Orford's c, by
Clearwell, out of Zipporah—Mr. Mostyn's Crozier—Mr. J.
Osborne's Agnes—Mr. Pedley's Pink Bonnet—Mr. Jaques's
Dipthong—Duke of Rutland's Bella Donna—Mr. R. Boyce's
Doctor Goodall—Sir J. Hawley's Vanity—Lord Lonsdale's
Martingale—Lord Glasgow's f, by The Provost, out of Miss
Whip.
Betting-5 to 2 agst Sultana, sto I agst Galata filly, 7to
agst Zipporah colt, 9 to 1 agst Circassian Maid, 9 to 1 agat
Agnes, 10 to 1 agst Crozier, and 10 to 1 agst Pink Bonnet.
After one false start they got off in a line, the running be-
ing taken up by Martingale and Agnes, the favourite, the
winner, Dr. Goodall, and several others very forward, but
the wole lot laid up. The pace was so moderate that no-
thing was beaten off until near the ropes. The Galata filly
then went to the front, followed, but was never caught, by
the favourite, and won cleverly by a length. The Zipporah
colt, Pink Bonnet, Dr. Goodall, and Crozier, were well up,
but so close together that the judge could not place a third.
Jun in 1 minute 16 seconds.
Match, 200, h ft, T.Y.C.—Mr. Osbaldeston's Vice Consul,
Bst 71b, beat Lord E. Russell's f by Theon, dam by Wanton,
by a neck. Even betting.

FRIDAY NIGHT'S GAZETTE.
_ _ WHITEHALL, Ocr. 24, 1846.

The Lord Chancellor has appointed *alter Henry Moore,
Gent., of Woodbridge, in the county of Suffolk, to be a
Master Extraordinary in the High Court of Chancery.

BANKRUPTS.

Benjamin Edward Walker, publican, Fitzroy-street, Fitz-
roy-square, to surrender Nov. 9, at one, and Dec. 14, at
eleven, at the Court of Bankruptcy. Turquand, official
assignee, Old Jewry-chambers; IV ells, l'ercy-street, Bedford-
square. . .

John Jenkins, milkman, Chelsea, Nov. 12, at two, and Dec.
10, at one, at the Court of Bankruptcy. Johnson, official
a..signee, Basinghall-street ; Buchanan, Basinghall-street.
Thomas Bradbridge, cheesemonger, Wardour-street, Soho,
Nov. 6, at eleven, and Dec. 11, at twelve, at the Court of
Bankruptcy, Belcher, official assignee ; Wellborne, South-
wark.

Edward Bowen, meal and flour dealer, Little Bolton,
Lancashire, Nov. 11 and Dec. 9, at elven, at the Manchester
District Court. Fraser, official assignee, Manchester;
Hol-
gate and Roberts, Rochdale; Sharpe, Field, and Jackson,
Bedford-row, London.
Thomas Broady, tea-dealer, Bridge-street, Chester, Nov.
13 and Dec. 4, at twelve, at the Liverpool District Court.
Bird, official assignee, Liverpool; King, Wilmington-square,
London ; Cunnar, Chester.