Huddersfield Chronicle (01/Feb/1868) - page 6
Magistrates in Petty Sessions
West Riding Court House, Princess Street, Saturday, January 25th, 1868.
On the Bench: J. T Armitage and J. Beaumont, Esqs.
Obstructing the Footpath
Obstructing the Footpath. — Hannah Halstead, Spring Street, pleaded guilty to wheeling « barrow on the footpath in Lowerhead Row, and was ordered to pay expenses.
The Licensed Victuallers and the Early Closing Act
The Licensed Victuallers and the Early Closing Act. — martha Berry, landlady of the Crescent Inn, Northumberland Street, was summoned for infringing the Early Closing Act. — Mr. Superintendent Withers said the defendant pleaded guilty, and, as she had promisod not to repeat the offence, he merely asked for costs. ln veply to the Bench, Mr. Withers said the Karly Closing Act had been in operation sonie time: but he beheved it had not been strictly enforced. Police sergeant Moore, in answer to the Bench, said the heuse was visited three quarters of an hour after the closing true The expenses were paid, and the case withdiawn, Mi Withers infor ning the Bench that the defondant had pronuscd not to offen again,
The Result of Keeping Late Hours
The Result of Keeping Late Hours. A billiard marker, named Moses Mastin, a tespectably-attired young man, was charged that he, being auadle and disorderly person, did wander xsbvoad in Back John William Street, and not give a good account of himself. Poliee Constable Worsnup stated that, on Friday morning, about two oclock, When on duty in Back John William Street, he met the young man in Messrs, Thomson and Dodds' yard, It was an enclosed yard. He asked him his reason for being there; and the defendant did not give any account of himself, only that he came from London, was a billiard marker, and had slept at an inn, The defendant was sober. The yard door was open. — The defendant said he had been lodging at an inn, and, uot knowing the hour for closing, he remained out late, and could not get into the house. He had been with a billiard marker at one of the hotels, but was not able to find him again, and could not see any place where to obtain lodgings. It was in the Swan Yard where the policeman caught him. He had been endeavouring to procure a situation in the town. — Worsnup stated that, on enquiry, he found the defendant had been applying for a situation, and the landlady of the Queen Hotel had been enquizing into his character. — Mr. Superintendent Withers said he was in possession of a written character of the defendant; and it was entirely his own fault that he was locked up. — Defendant: We stood talking together for half an hour before I was locked up. — Bench: You are discharged. Defendant: Thank you, sir; much obliged to you.
Thefts by a Young Woman
Thefts by a Young Woman. — Lydia Brummett, domestic servant, residing at Lascelles Hall, was brought up charged with stealing 2 yards of printed calico, and 1 yard of plain calico, the property of John Sykes, shopkeeper, King Street. It appeared the prisoner (formerly a domestic servant for the prosecutor) called at the shop in December last, and asked if she might leave a box there; and permission was given her to place it at the end of the counter. Afterwards she was allowed to sleep at the house two or three nights ; and, on her departure, the print and calico were missed from a drawer in the bedroom. The prisoner, on the 26th December, gave the calico to Mrs. A. E. Battye, to make a skirt fora baby. She said she had bought the calico, but had not suflicient for the purpose for which she required it. The priut the prisoner took to the house of Mrs. Brummett, Lascelles Hall, and said she had bought it of Mr. Dixon, King Street, a statement which was proved to be untrue in court by Mr. Dixon himself. — The woman was further charged with stealing 10 yards of winsey, 1 satin shawl, and 5 yards of carpet, value £1, the property of John Halstead, landlord of the Rose and Crown Tap. The prisoner went to live at the prosecutor's house on the {th of October last ; and subsequently the articles described were missed from several parts of the house. Some of the things she had taken to Emma Brummett's, Lascelles Hall, and represented that she had purchased them at several places, The winsey and the satin shawl had been given by the prisoner to Miss A. Mellor, dressmaker, Northgate, to be made into a dress and a jacket. — Inspector White went to the house of Walter Brummett, and received the articles from the witness Mrs. Brummett. — The accused, who adhered to the statement made to the officer, that she had bought the calico and the print, was committed for trial.
Singular Scene: A Mason Fined for Assaulting a Musician
Singular Scene. — A Mason Fined for Assaulting a Musician. — James Brook, mason and contractor, Commercial Street, and William Smith Johnson, a musician at the circus, were charged with having committed a breach of the peace. — Mr. Henry Moseley defended Brook. On Thursday morning, between one and two o'cleck, when on duty ina part of Castlegate leading to Lowerhead Row, Police Constable Dowling met Brook and Johnson who were in the act of fighting. He separated them, and, assisted by another officer, brought both to the police ottice. — In cross-examination, Dowling said, when searched at the station, Brook had in his possession £18. The sergeant sent the men away, and they were ordered to be summoned for a breach of the peace. Johnson said Brook struck him with a knife, but the officer said he saw no knife. — In answer to the charge, Mr. Moseley stated that Brook, for whom he appeared, had been out late on matters of business. Johnson, he was instructed, ran after him, and Brook called out lustily for the police. A fight commenced ; and the officer separated them. — Johnson, who said he belonged to the circus, stated that, on his way home, he called at the King's Arms, Leedsroad. When he left the house, just before one o'clock, a girl who seemed to be a prostitute, called out "Good night, dear." He took no notice, and the woman said "Are you too proud to speak?" Thinking it was some one who knew him, he crossed over, and, after looking at the woman, said " You have the advantage of me." He had not proceeded above nine or ten yards, when he heard a footstep, and, turning round, received a blow on his cheek from Brook, who afterwards seized him by the muffler, pulled him down, and attempted to strangle him. He seized Brook by the whiskers to defend himself, and, just at the time they were getting separated, the policeman made his appearance. The cut which he received was inflicted by some sharp instrument. — The summons for the breach of the peace was dismissed, but Juhnson preferred a charge of assault against Brook. The same facts were repeated, and Brook was fined 10s. and costs.
Charge of Assault and Attempted Rescue of a Prisoner
Charge of Assault and Attempted Rescue of a Prisoner. — William. Hirst Garside, shoemaker, was charged with unlawfully assaulting Police Constable E. Ford, on the 22nd January, and Thomas Knight, lendlord of the Fox and Grapes Inn, Bradford Road, was also summoned for attempting to rescue Garside. Mr. Superintendent Withers, in opening the case, said Garside and another man were fighting on the road on Wednesday night, and the police officer interfered. After he had separated them Garside became very violent, and assaulted the officer, dragging him on the road once or twice. The other person, Mr. Knight, said Garside was one of hisneighbours, and the officer should not take him. Ford stated that two men, one of whom was Garside, had been fighting on the Bradford Road. He seized Garside, who dragged him from one side of the street to the other, Mr. Knight came up and attempted to rescue Garside. -A crowd of persons collected on the spot, and the (the officer) was pelted with stones and covered with sludge from head to foot. — In defence, Mr. Dransfield said the policeman seized Garside, who had been at the Fox and Grapes, and Mr. Knight came out of his house to see what was the matter, asked the officer to let the man go quietly. The officer had been puiling Garside about, and, a cab coming up at the time, Mr. Knight requested him to let Garside be conveyed home in the vehicle and he would pay the fare. The policeman got into the cab and took Garside away. After the cabman, Edward Kaye, had given evidence, Wm. Briggs, who had been at the Fox and Grapes, said two persons, Garside being one, began to quarrel, and went out of the house to fight. After they had been fighting some time, the policeman dragged Garside from one side of the road to the other in a brutal manner, The policeman had torn his shirt to shreds, and Mr. Knight wanted to put his coat on, and also hailed the cab to take Garside home. Mr. Knight was perfectly sober. The officer must have been besmeared with sludge by coming into contact with the other man who had been down on the road. David Hardy, who was passing the place at the time, saw the policeman attack Garside ""unmanfully." There were plenty of people about, and muuy cried out "shame." Mr. J. T. Armitage: There is not the slightest charge aguinst Knight, and he is discharged. — Garside, however, was fined 5s. and costs. — The Bench repeated that Knight appeared to have acted very properly, and there was not the slightest charge against him.
Tuesday
On the Bench: J. T. Armitage, Esq., and Lieut.-colonel Brooke.
A Persecuted Protestant Irishman
A Persecuted Protestant Irishman. — William Keedy, labourer, Kirkgate, was charged with assaulting John O'rourke, on the 25th January. Mr. J. I. Freeman, who appeared for the complainant, said the defendant conceived a grudge against the complainant on account of his wife appearing against him on some former occasion. On the day in question, he went out to remonstrate with the defendant for abusing a lad of his. Afterwards the defendant assaulted the complainant severely, and, supposing he would be summoned before the magistrates, he exclaimed that he might as well give him all he could before the time. The defendant renewed the assault, and, believing discretion to be the better part of valour, the complainant beat a retreat to his own home. — In defence, Keedy said some ill-feeling was being manifested towards him because he had 'stuck up" for John Lambert, who was nearly kicked to death at his door five months ago. They were always "agate" of him, because he did not adopt the same religion, and was not a Roman Catholic. The complainant called him an ' Orange thief," and applied other epithets of a similar character to him. He was bringing the lad, who had thrown a stone at one of his pigs, and who had called him an "Orange thief," to his father to be chastised, but the father said he would not chastise him for anything he said about the defendant. He never struck the complainant, but the complainant struck him twice on the shins. The complainant was fined 8s. and costs (total 15s.); but the Bench believed he had received some provocation. — Keedy (turning back) addressing the magistrates, said: Can I summons him if the lad comes and throws stones at my pigs." — Mr. J. L Freeman : The magistrates don't sit here to give advice. — Mr. Armitage: You had better consult a solicitor. — Keedy (to Mr. Freeman): You have got one 10s. from me already. (Laughter. }
Smashing Windows, Contempt of Court, and Assaulting the Complainant
Smashing Windows, Contempt of Court, and Assaulting the Complainant. — A young woman, named Ellen Curran, who exhibited a violent temper, was summoned for breaking the windows of a house, occupied by James Gollogher, and doing damage to the amount of Gs. The defendant went to the house of the complainant, on Saturday night, about eleven o'clock, and wanted a young man to come out; but the complainant's wife would not allow him, and she then smashed four panes of glass. On Sunday she broke other seven panes, making eleven altogether, and doing damage amounting to 6s. The complainant said he did not see the panes broken on Sunday night. — The defendant denied having committed the damage. and called a witness to prove that the young man had acknowledged having broken the windows. — The damages were assessed at 2s., a penalty of 5s. was imposed, making, with the expenses, 19s., or in default 14 days' imprisonment. The defendant. on leaving the dock, boxed the complainant's ears, and dealt him a blow on the face, thereby creating great uproarin court. The virago was sent back to the dock, and the complainant ordered by the Bench to lay an information against her for an assault. When the case was heard, and the defendant asked whether she was guilty or not, she said, " You saw whether I was or not. Ile says I broke the windows: I never touched them." Bench: You are a violent woman; and we shall put on a penalty of 20s. and expenses; in default one month's imprisonment- — Henry Brooksbank, the man with whom the woman cohabits, was afterwards brought in on a charge of assaulting Gollogher. The complainant said he was passing through the court Yard, when the defendant, whom he did not know, struck him. The assault was witnessed by Police Constable Yates; and, there hoing several previous convictions recorded against the prisonor, he was committed to the Wakefield House of Correction for two months.
Thursday
On the Bench: G. Armitage and Wright Mellor, Esqs.
Magisterial Kindness
Magisterial Kindness. — Joseph Johnson, on tramp, was charged, under the Vagrant Act, with wandering abroad. Police Constable Smith said, about seven o'clock on the previous night, he saw the defendant going from door to door in Ramsden Street, and, hearing him solicit alms, locked him up. — The prisoner said he came from Doncaster, and was on his way to Manchester in search of employment. — Mr. G. Armitage: You ought to stay at home. We shall send you part of the way. You are committed to the Wakefield House of Correction for seven days.
An Assault in May Last
An Assault in May Last. — Michael Giblin, a member of the "small gang," was charged with. unlawfully assaulting Matthias Greenwood, of this town, on the 15th May last. The complainant said, on the day after the Huddersfield fair, he went to the Wheat Sheaf Inn, Upperhead Row. He did not know the time, but he was sober. He gota glass of beer, and asked the landlord if he knew William Knight, a man who worked with him. Giblin said he knew him, and, as they were going out of the house, he caught Giblin with his hand in his waistcoat pocket. He pushed him on one side; and the pocket, which contained nothing, was torn. Giblin showed him where Knight lived, and, when they were coming away, and were at the top of John Street, he bade the prisoner "Good night." Giblin said " Are you not going to give me anything for showing you the place ;" and he replied that, after Giblin had placed his hand in his pocket, he should give him nothing. The prisoner then doubled his fist, and, giving him a blow, knocked one of his teeth out. He gave the prisoner 13d. ; and after that Giblin kicked him severely on the ankle. — The prisoner, who said the complainant was drunk, put the following question : — "Didn't you say you would give me a clout, and I gave you one? (Laughter.) <A fine of ls. and expenses was inflicted, and the Bench advised the complainant to keep better company.
Juvenile Delinquency. — John Nelson Winterbottom and Francis Payne, two boys, were brought up charged with stealing a bell, naphtha lamp, and a quantity of spent lead, from a shooting gallery, kept by Lockart Muir, St. Peter'sstreet. The place was left in a state of security on Thursday, and, on Monday, when the prosecutor went to the gallery again, the articles in question were missed. — Wm. Parker, whose father is a store dealer in Denton Lane, said on Thursday the two prisoners came to the shop about three o'clock in the afternoon, and offered the lead for sale. He purchased it, and paid them 13d. for it. — John Mitchell, marine store dealer, Castlezate, said on Friday afternoon, between three and four o'clock, the two prisoners came to his shop, and offered for sale the broken bell, and he gave them 2d. for it. — Inspector White said, on Tuesday he apprehended Payne in Kirkgate, and charged him with stealing the articles from the shootiag gallery. The lad replied, "It is not me; it is Jack, the sweep. I sold some lead, but I don't know anything about the bell." He apprehended Winterbottom on the previous day, and charged him with stealing the same articles. He said "It is not me; it was Frank at the lodging House." It transpired that Payne's father, who had recently obtained employment in the town as a moulder, had been lodging in Kirkgate; and Winterbottom had been in the employment, for several years, of a sweep named Wright. Winterbottom, who stood unconcerned in the dock, was committed to the House of Correction for one month, and afterwards toa Reformatory for five years. Payne was ordered to receive six lashes, and the Bench hoped it would be a warning to him to keep away from bad companions.
Huddersfield Chamber of Commerce
HUDDERSFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
The annual meeting of the members of the Chamber of Commerce was held in the Reading Room, on Wednesday afternoon, Wright Mellor, Esq., presiding. The report of the Council was presented, and other business connected with the Chamber transacted. Amongst those present were Messrs. W. Keighley, D. Boscovitz, J. Wrigley, E. Huth, J. Batley, W. P. England, J. Jordan, J. W. Willans, G. Lancashire, J. A. Love, F. W. Crosland, G, Shaw, J. Denham, R. Jackson, R. T. Denton, E. Clayton, W. Love, J. Day, H. Brooke, W. R. Haigh, F. Shaw, W. Hastings, H. D. Taylor, J. Whitworth, N. Wrigley, &c.
The SECRETARY (Mr. C. Mills) read the following report :- —
Fifteenth Annual Report
Fifteenth Annual Report.
The Council, in presenting their annual report to the Chamber, beg to congratulate the members on its removal to premises better adapted to their comfort and convenience. Although this change has entailed additional expense upon the Chamber, and rendered necessary an increased subscription, your Ceuncil cannot but regard it as highly advantageous, the augmented outlay being, as they believe, amply compensated by the superior accommodation thereby secured. Itis a matter of great satisfaction to them to be able to report that, by an active canvass, they have obtained no fewer than 86 new members, and that there is an increase of 20 in the total number of subscribers. Although the cost of furnishing the new premises has absorbed the balance which stwod to the credit of the Chamber prior to its removal, your Council hope to be able to meet the augmented annual expenditure without further increasing the rate of subscription, which is still far below that charged in other towns.
General Trade
General Trade.
The Council regret their inability to report any improvement during the past year in the trade of the district. The financial panic which, in the spring of last year, caused so great a depression of trade throughout the country, produced apprehensions so deep and widespread, that its effects are still felt with equal, if not increased, severity. No branch of industry has escaped the general depression. The shipping as well as the home trade has suffered from that want of confidence which always succeeds a monetary crisis, and to this cause must be added the distrust that has prevailed during the past year in consequence of the threatening aspect of continental politics and the apparent imminence of war between France and Prussia. Notwithstanding, however, these unfavourable conditions, your Council are able to report that the failures in this district during the past year have been comparatively few and unimportant, and they regard this stability as indicative of the healthy and legitimate character of the trade carried on in more prosperous years.
Foreign Trade and Tariffs
FOREIGN TRADE AND TARIFFS, Feeling the importance of facilitating as much as possible an extension of trade between this country and the Continent, the Council have paid considerable attention to Foreign Tariffs ; with the view of modifying, as much as possible, any inconveniences which may have arisen in carrying them into practical effect, and of obtaining a reduction of the rates fixed by them. One of the principal difficulties experienced by the shipping houses arose from the classification of goods adapted by the Zollverein. Instead of the present system of distinguishing fulled from unfulled cloth by means of deposited types, the Council have repeatedly urged the substitution, for woollen goods, of the definition of " carded wool," or " worsted-combed wool." Although these efforts have, up to the present time, proved unsuccessful, your Council entertain the hope that the practical difficulties incident to the present system, will lead to a classification of duties upon woollen goods on a sounder basis.
The Council have again had under consideration the Russian Tariff, and have furnished the Goverament with such information as they thought likely to be of service in urging upon Russia a reduction of the present rates. The Government of that country has already proposed a new tariff, wherein it is intended to substitute for the old classification, which was based "pon a very undefined nomenclature, one which, although clearer and therefore preferable, is nevertheless unsound, viz., the assessment of duty according to the number of square arschins to the lb. The Council have pointed out to the British Government that as milled woollen goods have to be tentered after being fulled, a difference of from 10 to 15 per cent in width may be produced by the manufacturer, without at all changing the absclute cost of the cloth ; whilst that which contained more square inches to the pound might have to pay a higher duty than the stronger milled cloth, although of equal value. 'The basis advocated by the Council for such assessment is an ad valorem one, but no information has yet been received as to the principle finally adopted by the Russian Government. It is, however, Satisiactory to know that the proposed new tariff is far more advantageous to this country than the one at present in force, and the Council cannot allow the present opportunity to pass without acknowledging its indebtedness to Mr. Liebmann for the trouble he has taken in preparing an extensive series of patterns of the goods manufactured in this district, and a tabular list showing weight, cost, and rates of duty into Russia.
Your Council have learnt with satisfaction that the concessions extended to France by the commercial treaty recently concluded between the Governments of France and the Papal States are equally applicable to British produce and manufactures.
They have also under consideration the treaty of Tien-tsin between Great Britain and China, with the view of ing, in compliance with the request of the Foreign Secretary, suggestions for its revision. .
The proposal, which originated with Captain Sprye, for the opening of a new commercial route to Western China, from the port of Rangoon, has been urged upon the Government by your Council, who regard this question as one which will materially aifect the future trade between this country and China. The representations made by this, in common with other Chambers, had the effect of inducing the Government to undertake a survey ef the proposed route. This survey has been completed over one half of the projected line, and, although it embraced probably the most difficult portion of the proposed route, has shown the perfect practicability of establishing railway communication over it. It was, therefore, with regret that the Council learnt that the survey had been temporarily suspended, in compliance with the wish ef the Government of India, on political considerations. The interest, however, that has been evinced by the various Chambers of Commerce upon this subject, and the readiness evinced by the Government to comply with their wishes on matters of commercial importance, leaves the Council no room to doubt that the survey will be resumed as early as possible, and especially so as the French have made considerable progress in a similar survey, which, commencing from the port of Saigon, has already been completed over more than 1,000 miles of the Camboga river.
Conference of the Associated Chambers of Commerce
Conference of the Associated Chambers of Commerce. The Association, being wishful to make its efforts more directly fruitful in practical Legislative Reform, and believing that this might be accomplished by submitting to the Government the objects desired by the various Chambers at an earlier period than the Association's annual meeting in February, has arranged to hold a special meeting in November, in addition to its usual annual meeting. It was found that its representations being made while Parliament was sitting, and when, consequently, the Government had settled its programme for the Season, could net conveniently receive its immediate attention. It is believed that the present arrangement will obviate this difficulty, it being intended that at the earlier meeting a programme of subjects should be discussed, and that such of its resolutions as require to be communicated to her Majesty's Government, should at once be submitted to the proper department ; wuilst at the annual meeting there should be a discussion of subjects not exhausted at the November meeting, and of any measures affecting Commerce, about to be introduced into Parliament, At the annual meeting held in February, and at the speciai general meeting held in November last (both of which were attended by Delegates from this Chamber), subjects of great importance were considered, Amongst others may be mentioned Baukruptcy Law Reform, the Bank Charter Act of 1844, the Registration of Partnerships, the mode of Assessing and Coellecting the Income and Assessed Taxes, Postal Retorm, Telegraphic Communication, and Technical Education. After the Conference, deputations from it waited upon several members of the Government, for the purpose of expressing the views ot the asseciation upon such questions as it deemed ripe for legislation.
Commercial Legislation
Commercial Legislation, The Bankruptcy Laws buve azain formed the principal sudject of attention in this department. The bill, introduced into i Sir John Rolt, was carefully considered by the Cannell. by whom numerous suggestions were made for its amendment. Unfortunately, however, for the progress of this measure, the discussions upon the Reform Bill engrossed, almost entirely, the attention of Parliament, and the consequence was that the bankruptcy, in common with other important bills affecting commerce, were withdrawn, or allowed quietly to drop. It is deeply to be regretted that, notwithstanding the attention which has been devoted to this subject during the last two or three years, the Bankruptcy Laws still remain unamended; and that questions, having no political bearing, but vital to the interests of commerce, should have to share the fate of successive Governments. The evils of this system have been forcibly exposed by the history of the last two Bankruptcy Bills. After having devoted great attention t» the law of bankruptcy, with a view to its amendment, and after having carefully drawn a bill with that object, Sir Roundal Palmer was succeeded by Sir John Rolt as Attorney-general; and the consequence was that the latter gentleman had to qualify himself, as the former had done, to propose a measure upon this subject. Having done this, he embodied the result of his deliberations in a bill which was laid before Parliament, and which received the careful consideration of the Chambers of Commerce throughout the country. In consequence of the attention of the Legislature being occupied by a more engrossing subject, the session passed without the bill having become law; and now the subject has fallen into the hands of Sir John Karslake, who has to repeat what was done by his two predecessors in office. The Council trust, however, that during the next session of Parliament the consolidation and amendment of the Bankruptcy Laws will be accomplished; and that the Scotch system, which has worked so admirably in the North, will be engrafted upon our own. They also trust that the inconveniences, which have so often attended the present system of commercial legislation, will lead to the adoption of some plan by which such legislation shall cease to be impeded. by chaages of ministries, Last year a new County Courts Act was passed, with the view of relieving the superior courts from the press of business caused by the trial at Westminster of causes of comparative unimportance. The changes effected by this Act are of too recent a date to enable an opinion to be formed as to their practical operation.
Your Council regret that the Admiralty Jurisdiction Bill received so much opposition in the House, as they regarded that measure as fraught with great benefits to the maratime community.
Technical Education
Technical Education.
This subject is perhaps of all others the one most interestin to the public at the present time. The growing importance of continental competition has rendered necessary an immediate and careful consideration of the means by which the rapid progress and high excellence of foreign manufactures have been attained. Favoured as this country has been by natural advantages which, in connection with other causes, led to its acquiring pre-eminence in industrial pursuits, it has neglected to associate those advantages with the aids which spring from a theoretical knowledge of science. Our manufacturers have too generally relied on their acquired position, whilst their continental competitors have successfully sought to counterbalance the natural disadvantages under which they laboured, by calling into existence a higher degree of intelligence and knowledge. Such has been the success of these efforts, that the conviction has taken deep root in this country, that in order to enable it to maintain the superiority of its productions over those of other nations, there must, to the practical acquaintance with manufactures possessed by our operatives and foremen, be joined a theoretical knowledge of their scientific principles. It is a startling fact that all the English jurors (including our respected vice-president Mr. Huth) at the international Exhibition, concurred in the opinion expressed by Dr. Lyon Playfair, that this country has shown little inventiveness and made but little progress in. the peaceful arts of industry since 1862, whilst that made by other nations has been rapid and remarkable. With the same unanimity they have attributed the increased rate of progress exhibited abroad, to the admirable system of primary and scientific education which, for many years, has been in operation there. Nor is it surprising that the contrast thus instituted should be unfavourable to England, considering the unfortunate differences that have, for so many years, disturbed the amicable relations between masters and workmen, and the results of which have proved so mischievous to both; and considering also the educational disadvantages under which our artizans have laboured, it is rather matter for surprise that the position of our national industries has been so long maintained. Your Council trust that the former of these evils may shortly be remedied by the establishment, throughout this country, of boards of conciliation similar to the one which has worked so admirably in Nottingham; and that the educational wants of our countrymen may shortly be supplied by a better and more extensive system of primary and technical education.
The interest manifested not only by private individuals, but by Chambers of Commerce and by the Government on this subject, affords ground for believing that the intellectual preeminence attained by the industrial classes of France, Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium, and which has so greatly contributed to the progress of their manufactures, will urge this country to the adoption of means by which it may maintain the position it has so long held amongst the industrial nations of Europe. The Government some months ago afforded every facility to Mr. Samuelson, M.P., for acquiring an intimate acquaintance with the management and operation of the schools established on the continent for primary and technical education, and he has embodied the result of his enquiries and observations in a letter which he has addressed to the Vice-president of the Committee of Council on Education. This will, no doubt, be shortly followed by the reports ordered by the Government to be prepared by its representatives abroad, and your Council beg to assure the Chamber of their readiness to give the subject their thoughtful attention, with the view of making such suggestions either to the Associated Chambers or the Government, as they may deera worthy of consideration.
Paris Exhibition
Paris Exhibition.
Huddersfield and the district as well as Dewsbury (which exhibited in conjunction with ourselves) were well represented at the Paris Exhibition. There were 29 exhibitors of fancy woollens from this district, and six from Dewsbury, andamongst these 35 exhibitors were awarded three silver and eleven bronze medals, and three certificates of honorable mention. The goods exhibited reflected great credit upon our manufacturers, especially as they were made in the usual course of trade and were not manufactured expressly with the view to the exhibition. They displayed an improvement in design which this Council is inclined to attribute, in no small degree, to the art instruction given at ourown and neighbouring Mechanics' Institutes. It is, however, to be regretted that some of our most eminent manufacturers did not exhibit, and this regret was expressed by many foreign jurors to whom the names of our leading manufacturing firms were familiar.
Collection of Taxes
Collection of Taxes.
This subject has again engaged the attention of your Council as well as that of the Associated Chamber of Commerce, and memorials have been presented to the Government in favour of the income and assessed taxes being assessed and collected by the revenue officers. With the view of obtaining such immediate relief as it is in the power of the Commissioners of Inland Revenue to grant, the Council have forwarded them a memorial praying that arrangements may be made by which the duty of collecting those taxes in this district, may in future be transferred to the officers of the crown. A similar concession having been made to Bristol and Clifton, your Council entertain the hope that it willalso be extended to Huddersfield and neighbourhood ; and they willingly embrace this opportunity of recording their thanks to the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, for the able assistance it has rendered to them in this matter.
Telegraphic System
Telegraphic System.
The representations made to the Government by the Associated Chambers of Commerce, in favour of placing the telegraphic system of the United Kingdom under the control of the Post Office Department, seems to have received the sanction of the Government, notices having been given by the solicitor to the Post Office of an application to Parliament for power to carry out this scheme. Your Council believe that such amalgamation would be productive of great benefit to the public, and would remedy the inconveniences and anomalies which are incident to the present system.
The Metric System and International Coinage
The Metric System and International Coinage.
At the last annual meeting of the Associated Chambers of Commerce, the delegates from this Chamber proposed a resolution in favour of the adoption of steps for ensuring regular examination in the metric system in all schools in receipt of Government grants, and under the inspection of her Majesty's Inspectors of Schools; and also recommending that the statistics should be published, calculated in the metric as well as in imperial weights and measures, and that proper standards of metric weights and measures should be provided by the Board of Trade. The former part of this proposition was rejected by the association, but the latter recommendation was carried. A conference on this subject, and also on that of international coinage, was held in London in February last, and was attended by Mr. Joseph Wrigley, jun., as delegate from this Chamber. A resolution was passed similar to the one proposed by this Chamber at the meeting of the association. In the summer of last year a conference on international coinage was held in Paris under the presidency of Prince Napoleon, at which this country was ably represented by Mr. Graham, the master of the mint. Your Council, whilst fully alive to the practical difficulties which would attend the introduction of the metric system into this country, as well as the establishment of au international coinage, are nevertheless of opinion that it is desirable that our populatien should be early familiarised with a comparative knowledge of the metric and imperial systems, and that arrangements should be made by which the advantages of an international monetary system may be extended to British commerce.
Rates of Fire Insurance
Rates of Fire Insurance.
Your Council have had under their consideration the increased charges under the New Woollen Mill Tariff, and have co-operated with the Dewsbury and Batley Chambers in an attempt to obtain a reduction of the present rates. With this object an interview was held between the Northern Committee of the Fire Insurance Companies, and a deputation from several Chambers of Commerce of the woollen district; which has resulted in a considerable modification of the rates previously charged.
Registration of Partnerships and Trade Marks
Registration of Partnerships and Trade Marks.
The registration of partnerships is a subject which, though regarded by a few as impracticable, your Council have, in common with other Chambers, continued to advocate, believing that it would remedy the inconveniences arising from the difficulties at present experienced in ascertaining the names of the partners in a Resolutions in fayour of such registration have repeatedly been earried at the Meetings of the Associated Chambers, and although the Government has not, up to the present time, intimated its intention to legislate upon this subject, your Council cannot doubt that, ere long, the registration of partnerships will be made compulsory.
The registration of trade marks, though already partially in operation, is nevertheless conducted in a most unsatisfactory manner, it being often found impossible te ascertain whether any particular mark has been registered. There are, doubtless, many difficulties to be overcome befere a perfect system of registration of trade marks can be established, but your Council cannot regard them as insurmountable.
Finances
Finances. As already stated, the number of subscribers has been increased, the present list showing a total of 405 members, After paying for the pees of the new charaber, there remains a deficiency of about ; bat the Council hope thig will soon be cured by a still further increase in the number of subscribers.
The Council
The Council.
During the past year 21 meetings of the Council have been held, and have been unusually well attended. A vacancy in the Council arose from the resignation of Mr. Weiss, whose acquaintance with foreign tariffs had often proved of great service to the Chamber, and whose loss was, therefore, deeply regretted. The vacancy thus caused was filled by the election of Mr. George Pesel. .
The five members who now retire by rotation are Messrs. Henry Dyson Taylor, Charles Hirst, W. P. England, Henry Brooke, and James Hinchliffe. The Council recommend to the Chamber the following gentlemen to supply their places, viz.: Messrs. W. R. Haigh, Joseph Lowenthal, Joseph Cresland, Robert Skilbeck, and John Day.
The President said he thought they would agree with him that the report which had just been read was a very satisfactory one ; and showed them that the Council had not been idle during the past year. At any rate the Council, he was sure, had endeavoured to serve the interests of the town; but, whether they had succeeded or not, it was not for them to say. He was exceedingly glad to be able to congratulate the members upon their having entered upon new quarters; and he thought he might take it for granted they would all agree that they had changed for the better. (Hear, hear.) They had now every convenience, and no reason to be ashamed when gentlemen from other towns came to visit the Huddersfield Chamber of Commerce. He wished he could congratulate them, at the present time, upon having bright prospects; but, he was sorry to say, the prospects were not right. They had closed one year which, he feared, had not been a very satisfactory one; and had commenced another year which, he must say, he feared would be equally unsuccessful, judging from present prospects, They could, however, congratulate themselves upon one thing, namely, that, although, through circumstances which he could not stay to enumerate, trade had not been very good, there had been few casualties in our commercial circles ; and altogether, he thought, trade in this district had been conducted with very considerable prudence. Prudence would still be required, and he had no doubt the manufacturers and commercial men in this district would continue that prudential course which they had hitherto adopted. It had certainly been a year of dittieulty. The losses during the past year had been of a character which it were impossible to avoid. The losses in the raw material, for instance. He thought he should not be over-stating the case when he said, with regard to cotton, the losses would have been at least a depreciation of something like 50 per cent. He hardly knew whether he could designate the losses upon wool in the sams way; but he would be put right if he was incorrect in saying the depreciation in the prices of wool would have been 10 to 15 per cent. These were things which they could not stand against; but they almost invariably followed the state of trade experience during the past year. Another reason, he thought for ted trade sprang from that which accompanied it, and which perhaps in some cases caused it — and that was dear food. Those who were engaged in the free trade agitation would know it became a kind of axiom with them that dear bread meant bad trade; and the same principle which obtained then had, he believed, obtained now. The high price of food had no small share in producing the state of trade which was injurious to all. If there was any comfort, however, it was in the fact that they were in the same position as their neighbours ; for, he believed, look where they liked, they would find trade equally as bad as in this country. The same state of trade was to be found on the continent, so much so that the French manufacturers were crying out for protection, for the purpose, if possible, of ameliorating the condition of things in France. If they went across the Atlantic, things would be found about as bad in America ; and, therefore, if there was any comfort, they had comfort in that respect ; and he could only say he hoped they would all be in a better condition, and thatvery soon. The year had been an extra year in another respect. There had been a French exhibition. He did not know any circumstances which appeared to have caused so much excitement in the commercial world as the results of that exhibition had done in England. We had had reports from time to time of the great disadvantages at which we had stood in comparison with other nations — European nations — in our manufactures. Now, he did not think we ought to take an extreme view of the case, either on the one side or the other. There were some people who always would indulge in what had been very properly designated the "Rule Brittania" kind of feeling, and believed that England was the first, and that it was impossible for any other nation in the world tocome uptoher. That was an error on the one hand, and, on the other hand, he thought it was possible to take too desponding a view of our position. The exhibition, it should be remembered, was held some 500 miles from here, and they should not forget that many firms in this district did not send goods to that exhibition ; and they ought likewise not to forget that many of the goods sent were not got up specially for that purpose: they were the ordinary goods supplied in their daily trade — (hear, hear) ; — and, therefore, sending that class of goods, without any special provision for that exhibition, it was only to be supposed that they might appear at some little disadvantage as compared with the goods that had been got up with the greatest possiblecare for the express purpose of being exhibited. He must say that our own district did itself great credit in sending a large variety of goods, but, at the same time, the reason which he had assigned, — that they were the ordinary goods of our ordinary trade, — would account for the fact that, perhaps in some respects, they did not compare successfully with some of the goods exhibited by some of their neighbours. The fact that we had so long held a hizh position as manufacturers would certainly make it very distasteful to. us to suppose that any nation in the world could not only compete with us, but even excel us. We ought not to forget that it must necessarily be a subject of very great, intense competition from this circumstance — that other nations looked at England, and saw she was the richest nation in the world — a nation of immense power, and, as sensible men, they necessarily asked themselves the question — how had she accomplished this? They had found that the great arm of our strength, and one of the great sources of our wealth, had been our manufacturing and commercial system ; and they had tried to imitate us in that by which we had obtained our present position. Now, how had they accomplished this? They had known and felt that they must have good tools and good workmen ; and they had sent to England for tools and workmen until they were able to educate their own workpeople ; but they had done something else which England, he was sorry to say, had not done — they had deen endeavouring to raise workmen of their own ; and educating them and, by giving them a higher education adapted to their work, they had, in that way, not only overtaken us, but positively, in some cases, passed us in the race. As continental nations had taken a leaf out of our book, he hoped we should take a leaf out of their book ; and should not forget, in our turn, to educate our workmen, so that, at any rate, we could regain the ground we had lost, or, if we were at the head, maintain the position we occupied at the present time. The question of technical education, as they had heard in the report, was one that had occupied a good deal of attention. Conferences had been held on the subject in Manchester and in London ; and, at a meeting of the Society for the Encouragement of Art and Manufacturers, he was struck by the observation of one of the representatives, a working man, who said "it was impossible for an illiterate people, for any length of time, to manufacture guods for nations of taste and refinement." (Hear, hear.) That to him seemed to be the jist and pith of the whole question; and, certainly, if we wished to maintain our position amongst the nations of the world, in this respect, we must certainly endeavour to school our workmen, and masters as well, for the position we wished to take. (Hear, hear.) He would not trouble them further on the question ; but he wished to refer to the bankruptcy question. It seemed to him te be a question which would never come to an end. Twelve months ago he ventured to state that the time had come when it was important to ascertain whether we could not in the management of the House of Commons, or in the legislation upon this question, have one department of the State which should really be fixed, and should not change with every change of Ministers — some Secretary of State, who would take in hand questions of commercial legislation, but who himself should not be knocked down with every Government, and set up with every new government, because, though governments changed, the House of Commons did not change. The House of Commons was still there to do its work and legislate if only some parties were there to find work for it; and if a permanent minister were appointed, legislation on commercial matters would not cease. He ventured to throw out the subject at the meeting of the Associated Chambers of Commerce, and the reception with which it was met was very gratifying ; and he for one was not prepared to let the matter slumber. It was a reproach to see that, year after year, we should have bankruptcy bills constructed, first by one minister and then another — first, Sir Roundel Palmer, and then Sir John Karslake 3 and now, possibly, by the promotion of Sir John, there would be another shuffle of the cards. The thing was bandied about from year to year, and the commercial world was defrauded of that which it had a right to claim. (Hear, hear.) The report was full of matter of interest ; but it had so fully and exhaustively gone through the subjects he would not further trespass on their attention. He would, however, conclude by proposing that the report be adopted.
Mr. J. Battery (the late secretary), in seconding the motion, testified to the admirable manner in which the report had been prepared, and to the efficient manner in which the secretary (Mr. Mills) had performed the duties of his office.
Mr. J. WRIGLEY, jun., supported the motion, and said the movement in France to abrogate the treaty of commerce threatened to be of a serious character, In 1860 a treaty of commerce was made between France and Great Britain, and that had been the groundwork of all the other treaties of commerce existing on the continent of Europe. The treaty was to last for 10 years, but if either country should want to abrogate it at the termination of 10 years it was then to become defunct. We were suffering greatcommercial depression ; nor was it confined alone to England : it extended to France also. French manufac. turers were in a similar state to the manufacturers at home; but, instead of looking upon it, as he was happy to say our own manufacturers do, the French were turning ronnd and laying all the fault on the Treaty of Commerce with this country, and were sending petitions from the commercial districts to the ministry, urging them to take steps for the abrogation of that treaty. In those petitions a profound modification of the treaty was prayed for, but he had searched in vain for any figures to show that their trade had in any way declined in consequence of the adoption of that treaty. The French otticial returns went directly to prove the contrary of that which the French people wished the world, and especially their own government, to believe. In order that the meeting might Judge for itself, he gave the following figures : —
EXPORTS FROM FRANCE IN
1859. 1964. Cotton tissues ...... +» 67,000,000 fr... 93,000,000 fr. Linen ditto .......... 15,000,000 ,, .. 000,000 ,, Woollens ............ 196,009,000 ,, .. 356,000,000 " Yarns .........0.0000, 8,000,000 ,, .. 43,000,000 "" Machinery............ 43,600,000 ,, .. 45,000,000 ,, EXPORTS FROM FRANCE TO ENGLAND, 1859. 1864. Woollens ............ 39,000,000 fr... 98,500,000 fr. Cottons s wsmeriewe ene. 5,740,000 ,, .. 12,670,000 ,, @IMS .......... i 8 Metals. 2000000002001 4,400,000 2 8,900'000 " Fish... weseeceeeee 1,000,000 "7° 3 000;000 , These figures were, to his mind, much more conclusive than mere vague statements; and Chambers of Comm ought to watch the subject closely, and, not only tortify our own Government in maintaining the treaty, but show those facts to the French Government, The question ought to be considered very carefully and considerately by all. commercial classes; 'and he hoped Chambers of Commerce throughout the country would devote their attention to the matter, and collect statistics to prove that France had not suffered under the present treaty. and trusted we should not have to undergo the degradation of retrograding from free trade to protection. (Hear, hear.)
The report was then adopted.
Mr. JOEL DENHAM moved that Mr. John Haigh, shareholder, be appointed auditor, and that the thanks of the services, meeting be given to him for his past d the motion ; and it was carried Mr. R. JACKSON seconded wnecenpealy. rt.
E. HUTH moved that the five entlemen sel by the Council from the list nominated by the cmiees of the Chamber be added to the Council in the places of those who retire. Referring to the Paris Exhibition, we had, he said, heard a great deal about foreign manufacturers having prepared extra things for that Exhibition. He had no doubt they had done in a great measure ; but he believed it to be a fallacy as far as woollens were concerned. Asa Juror, he had to examine the woollen goods, and he believed, with very few exceptions, the woollen goods exhibited in the Paris Exhibition were generally those which the manufacturers produced regularly. A great many people thought all those who had spoken on the importance of technical or primary education were alarmists. Unfortunately he had been mixed up with the question in consequence of having written a letter in reply to one by Dr. Lion Playfair; but what he (Mr. Huth) had said was never meant foralarm. All he wanted was to impress upon English minds to be careful, to pay attention, and to be on their guard, and not to excite an alarm, because he was not alarmed of our being beaten by foreign manufacturers; but he thought it was highly necessary to give a note warning English manufacturers to stand by their arms and be ready for the coming fight — and those arms were nothing but primary and technical education. He did not want anybody to runaway with the idea that it was a note of alarm: it was only a note of warning ; and he believed it was very good toe sound.
that note now and then. (Hear, hear.) {
The motion was seconded by Mr. J. WRIGLEY, jun. _
Mr. J. WHITWORTH, in nominating Mr. R. Jackson, said it had been felt that the mixed trades of the district were totally unrepresented in the Council.
Mr. Joel DENHAM, in seconding the nomination, said he believed that the Chamber would not sutfer by having a representative of the retail trade infused into the Council.
The result of the voting was as follows: — Mr. R. Jackson, 26; Mr. R. Skilbeck, 24; Mr. J. Crosland, 22; Mr. John Day, 21; Mr. W. R. Haigh, 20; Mr. J. Lowenthal, 12. The President declared the first five gentlemen elected.
Mr. WHITWORTH proposed that the thanks of the meeting be tendered to the president, vice-president, treasurer, and council for their services during the past year.
The motion, having been seconded by Mr. J. Jordan, was unanimously adopted.
In returning thanks, the Presidentsaid it was becoming not a very light duty toconduct the business of a Chamber of Commerce. Those bodies would have to take no unim-
ortant part in the future, so far as our commercial egislation was concerned. (Hear, hear.) The Governments of the day, whether Whig, Tory, or Radical, were constantly in connection with Chambers of Commerce, and it was necessary that greater attention should be paid to the communications that were brouzht before them almost at every meeting. But he was quite sure the gentlemen with whom he had the honour of being associated would not withhold any labour if by bestowing it they could promote the interests of the district and the country generally. If anything the Council undertook met with approval, he was sure that was the highest reward they expected.
Mr. Huts also returned thanks, and hoped the new members of the Council would attend to the ordinary meetings regularly. .
Mr. J. WRIGLEY, jun., also acknowledged the compliment.
Mr. W. P. Exclaxpd moved a vote of thanks to the secretary, and remarked that every member of the Council had every reason to be satisfied with the services of Mr. Mills; and he had no doubt the same satisfaction would be felt in his future labours.
Mr. W. Kerghiey seconded the motion; and, the President having testified that the vote had been most richly earned, it was carried unanimously.
The Secretary briefly replied, assuring the gentlemen it was to him a labour of love ; and the proceedings were brought to a close, ----
Mechanics' Institution Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting
The annual meeting for the transaction of business of the members of the Huddersfield Mechanics' Institution was held, on Saturday evening, in their large hall, J. Freeman, Esq., president, occupying the chair. On the platform were Messrs. E. Huth, J. Dodds, B. Halstead, E. Greenwood, W. Lidster, J. Lowenthal, &c.
Mr. Joseph Bate, secretary, read the 27th annual report, from which we make the following extracts : —
It was most gratifying to the committee to be able to report that the last year had been one of unprecedented success. They rejoiced to find that the advantages which the institution offered were becoming more generally appreciated, and that the young men and youths of the town were turning to practical account the facilities it afforded for instruction and improvement. A view of the history of the past would show that the institution was healthy and vigorous, and had enlisted in its support the sympathy and good wishes of the inhabitants of the town. The financial position of the institution was equally encouraging ; and, while the committee gratefully acknowledged the unfailing liberality with which the annual subscribers meet the growing requirements of the institution, it was especially pleasing to know that the increased income was, in a great measure, due to the large inerease in the contributions of the fortnightly members, who belonged almost entirely to the working classes. The comunitiee had been obliged to fit up three new class rooms, and appoint three additional teachers, which had added considerably to the expenditure. At the present time, when the attention of the public was especially directed to the important subject of technical education, it gave the committee peculiar pleasure to state that they were never indifferent to promoting technical instruction in every way in their power. Technical classes, connected with the trade of the district, had been fostered from almost the comz.encement of the institution. The committee believed that the competition with the world, which the Envlish artisan was now compelled to undergo, could only be maintained successfully by giving him advantage of such special instruction as would tend to the most successful execution of the details of his business. They had a firm conviction that the very existence of a large portion of the population would, in the future, more than ever, depend upon the successful cultivation of science and art, and their practical application to our mannufactures. They, therefore, hoped the young men of the town would take advantage of the opportunities already atforded. The statistical table saowed: —
1865. 1566. 1867.
Life members...... eeewieres Ww .. 1 ll ABDNDAL 2. . occas ciassansauce 220 2. 235 2... 237 Honorary «2. ocicececs scvneee 20. ab 23 Females (singing class only) 30 .... 34 41 Fortnightly 523 .... 619 .. 723 Presentees eee ZIG 2... BBO 2... BU6
Total... cc... cee eee 1089 1256 1361
Portnightly members and presentees admitted in 1885, 1,300;
1866, 1,463: and, in 1867, 1,420. The following is the income from the two principal sources : — £
ad £s. 4. £34. Annual members.. 301 7 O 317 2 318 3 Fortnightly ...... B21 7 8 341 12 1 330 3 11
Out of 976 pupils who had entered during the year, 941 had attended Sunday schools. At present the number of issues from the library was upwards of 25 vols. per week; and the readers had now between 4,000 and 5,00U vols. to seleet from. The issues were in 1365, 7,287; 1966, 8,660; and in 1867, 10,901. There had been added to the library during the past year 140 vols, The members were greatly indebted to J. W. Carlile, Esq., of Thickhollins Park, for a large and valuable donation of books, which had been in active circulation for several months. The Penny Savings' Bank was doing much to promote the moral and social improvement of the people, by holding out a premium to prudence, and a temptation to exercise the virtues of economy and industry. The management account showed that the receipts had been for the year £172; and there was a balance in hand of £116 3s. 2d. 466. 867.
No. of depositors. ...........22.15,6387 2.2... 13,469 » Withdrawals........ eooeee 4,102 ...... 3,699 £ £ Amount of deposits ........... cewce B20 cevece 1,790 he ewemenmeeeees 2128 22.26. 1,338
The fortnightly meetings were made the means of affording innocent and agreeable relaxation; and the grateful thanks of the members were due to those who had so kindly assisted at those meetings. The attendance at the evening school had been greater during the past year than it had ever been since its formation. Nearly 700 pupils were attending the classes, which were taught by 34 masters, who expresses great satisfaction with the diligence and progress of the students. Special attention was given to those subjects which the pupils would find most useful on entering the business of life — zood, clear handwriting, intelligent reading, and readiness in figures. Since February last 256 prizes had been awarded to junior pupils who had been present at the opening of the classes upwards of 70 times in six months. The doners to the prize fund were — The Earl de Grey and Ripon, £66s.; Lord Warneliffe. £5 ; Colonel Crosland, MP. £5; John Brooke, Esq,, £3 3s.; John Freeman, Esq., £2 2s. : John Eastwood, Esq., £2 2s.; Joseph Lowenthal, Esq., £1 Is.; a friend, 10s.; making a total of £25. In February last 45 candidates, from the different classes, presented themselves for examination by the Yorkshire Board of Education — Eleven in the Higher Grade, and 34in the Lower Grade. Allinthe Higher and 18 in the Lower, were successful in obtaining certificates; and two of these pupils carried off the first and second prizes offered by the Board. (Applause.) Of this number, twelve attended the society of Arts examination, when eight of the students gained ten certificates. The following were the names of those who pussed: — Yorkshire Board of Education — Higher Grade: James Barker, Thomas Eray, Robert Crook, F. W. Dearden, W. H. Dyson, Fred Hill, T. G. Kyne, B. Lofthouse, G. Nicholson, K. H. Senior, and B. Smith. — Lower Grade: J. Ackroyd, J.T. Bottom, T. Davison, J. H. Drury, W. Firth, F. Haigh, J. Haywood, T. Hudson, J. H. Hanson, J. Jackson, T.C. Lord, A. Newsome, J. E. Shaw, A. Sykes, H. 'Telfer, W. Thornton, J. W. Wadsworth, and J. W. Wood. — Society of Arts: Robert Crook, I. W. Dearden (two), W. H. Dyson (two), T. G. Kyne, B. Lofthouse, G. Nicholson, R. H. Senior, and J. E, Shaw. — In the chemistry class, taught by Mr. George Jarmain, the following were successful in taking prizes at the examination, in May last, conducted by the Department of Science and Art: — 2nd class, Henry Hutchinson and John V. Hutton: 8rd class, James Shaw ; 4th class, J. T. Bradley and George Iredale; 5th elass, William Hirst and Gerston Tiffany. — Attention was also drawn to the suecess of the drawing, bookkeeping, loom, French, and singing classes; and, in conclusion, it was stated that the Institution was most deeply indebted to the assistance received from the annual subseribers for its present etticiency and usefulness. The Committee believed that the Institution humanity, as they liked. It depended, in a moderate extent, upon what that original germ was, and the extent to which it could be developed. Let them, in promoting education, endeavour to surround this human germ with all the favourable circumstances, and then, like a plant, it would develop into perfection. If they conld estimate the power in each human being — its possibilities and eapacities — and then at the end of a long life see to what extent that original germ had proceeded, and then calculate what it might, under more favourablecireumstances, have achieved, they would then see what a waste of mental and moral power and what a waste of happiness there had been. We were only just awaking up to the value of education — to the absolute necessity of that simple natural treatment of humanity at large. (Hear, hear.) After all, it was merely a piece of downright selfishness that had driven us ultimately to make, in the present day, education the grand object to which England must aspire. (Applause.) It was a pity we had not seen it sooner — ( hear, hear) ; — for, while we had been discussing the form which education should take, we had allowed the plant to shrivel, and remain undevelopet. But now we found other nations had grasped the grand idea, and gaveevery one the chance of developing what wasinhim. It wasa pity we had overlooked that idea, and allowed other nations, by coniing into contret with us, to teach us the lesson, by pounds, shillings, and pence, that, if we did not do that, we should be left behind in the great race of the world.
Depend upon it, after a child bad been trained to examine evidence, and look into cause and effect, that child would be more able to decide what was truth than it would if left in total ignorance. It might not he their own view of truth, but, depend upon it, nature had so arranged and balanced matters, that the ultimate effect would be that truth in the bulk, and in the main — and, with truth, justice, benevolence, and everything that contributed to make men happy and good — would follow in its wake.
(Applause.) Mechanics' institutions had heen, to a certain extent, technical educational schools. The object of technical education was that an individual should have the power of placing himself under such special tuition as to evable him to excel in a particular branch of business, The acquirement of « practical knowledge of modern languages, to any boy who intended to advance in the world, was of paramount importance; and he should be glad to hear next year that the institution had established a German class, We should, he asserted, not only be Englishmen, but citizens of the world. If people were awaking to a sense of the necessity of technical instruction, he felt satisfied mechanics' institutions, which were now a great fact, and had been for many years, would not he superseded by any new marereee es but very possibly their utility would be expanded, because, whatever advantage might be given in the new code of education which this country was to determined have, the past services of mechanics' institutions would be remembered, their organisation would be examined, and their power for doing good appreciated ; they would not be superseded, ces a utility would be expanded arged. (Applause, an cleo tone moved that the thanks of the meeting be given to the president, treasurer, and retiring committee for their official services during the past year.
Mr. Tomas Hatstead seconded the motion, and it was carried amid acclamation.
The Presipent, in returing thanks, sail, since they had done him the honour of electing him presiden;, he had found the institution to be doing a large amount of good, and willing to do more provided the means of doing it were placed in the hands of the committge. The question of education, as had been said, was manifestly the question of the day, and now we hal been taught — and taught in a manner whieb was likely to touch us in the most tender part, namely, our personal interests — for the Paris Exhibition had shown that those interests were affected — would be affected by what had been done abroad — they would probably he enabled to do more by receiving more support, because every man in England was materially affected by the question as it now stool; and the committee, therefore, were willing to extend their operations so far as they possibly and reasonably could. After cautioning the committee against running into debt, the Presitent reminded the members that the institution was Hourishing, and said he felt it must be @ great sat'sfaction and a great reward to every member of the committee to find that such was the result.
Mr. Joss Brook moved. and Mr. Jonystton seconded,
the following resolution, which was pussed with applause:
That the thanks of this siceting be given te the auditors voluntary teachers, assistants iu the library, and penny bank anditors of the penny bunkiug aceuuuts, wo those ladies and a' tips faa bs gentlemen who have nssistel the i: ution : rtnightly meetings, and to Mr. Beniwmnin Thornton for conducting the half-yearly sales of newspapers.
Mr. W. Stow moved, and Mr. Lb. Lorthouse, seconded the following resolution : —
That the sincere thanks. of this meeting be tendered to the annual subscribers and dunors for thcir generous aid durin past year.
The resolution was passed with acclamation.
Mr. J. Dopps then moved : —
That it becomes our heartfelt duty to express our sense of the great loss which the institution has sustained by the removal from the town of onr esteemed friend Mr. Joss Brook, who, for twenty-five years has been connected with the institution, seven years us a pupil, 17 years as a member of the committee, and that, in consideration of the signal service he rendered the institution during the latter period, as veluntary teacher, honorary librarian, and vice-president, he be elected a life member of this institution. Mr. Dodds said he did not know one, amongst the early supporters and workers of the institution, who deserved the honour of being mae a life member more thoroughly than Mr. Joss Brook — (hear, hear), — who, he believed, had always stood unique in his relation to the institution. (Applause. )
Mr. JOHN SUGDEN seconded the motion, and, after the President had borne testimony to the useful services of Mr. Brook, it was carried unanimously.
In reply, Mr. Brook said he had never calculated upon having the honour of being elected a life member conferred upon him ; but confessed that he was thankful the committee had thought of it. In adverting to its early career, he said he remembered when many good men looked upon the institution as a thing to be avoided rather than aided. He spoke highly of the father of the institution, Mr. Frederick Schwann, who, accoriling to the printed reports, was the first president, and he also alluded to the efficient services of others who had since then oceupied the position of president.
The chair, having been vacated, was taken by Mr. E. Hutu, who proposed the re-election of Mr. J. Freeman to the oitice of president for the ensuing year.
Mr. Wa. Marriott seconded the motion; and it was cordially adopted.
On the motion of Mr. J. Lowrenthat, and seconded by Mr. J. Burcess, Mr. Bower was re-elected treasurer.
Mr. Benjawiin Halstead, in proposing the re-appointment of Messrs. C. Ramsden and Mr. Armitage as auditors, remarked that, since the establishment of the Huddersfield Mechanics' Institution, 16 similar institutions had been established within a very limited distance, and yet, they found the parent association still occupied the position which entitled it to the support both of the subscribers and of those gentlemen who, from time to time, had sustained it. (Applause.)
The motion, having been seconded by Mr. E. GreenWOOD, was carried.
The meeting then proceeded to the appointment by ballot of the committee, youths under 16 years of age being prohibited from voting, On the motion of Mr. Hiner, and seconded by Mr. A. SHARPE, Messrs. Hassall, Dearden, and Westerby, were appointed scrutineers. The result of the voting was as follows : — John Bentley, John Burgess, John Dodds, Fred. Eastwood, John Eccles, Thomas Glover, Edward Greenwood, Benjamin Halstead, Aston Hiley, Edward Huth, William Lidster, Joseph Lowenthal, William Marriott, James Mellor, George Pesel, T. H. Priestley, Benjamin Schofield, Alfred Sharpe, G. F. Shaw, John Sugden, George Thomson, G. W. Tomlinson.
— — er —
a + OT vex 5 ue had contributed largely to the intellectual, social, and moral improvement of the country ; and they had reason to hope that the prosperity which had hitherto marked its progress, would be sustained and increased in the future. Mr. Bower then read the financial statement, amount of receipts was £823 13s. 7d. ments included £306 13s, The The disburse8d. for teachers salaries, and £214 4s, Gu. for the officers. The sum of £30 had been invested, leaving a balance in hand of £67 2s. 53d. against which there were bills now due to the amount of £72.
Mr. Thomwas Denham, moved that the report and balance sheet be adopted, printed, and circulated in the usual manner. In looking over the report, he might say it had been to him one of the most interesting exercises in which he had engaged for a long time. He did not know that he ever read a report of any institution that was so thoroughly satisfactory. The report spoke of "unprecedented success," and that was saying a great deal. To use an expression contained in the report, the institution was healthy and vigorous ;" and, in every department, there seemed to be an energy and life infused which made it exceedingly pleasant to all engaged in the work. It must be grati ying to the gentlemen connected with the institution to see that their efforts had been attended with somuch success. The institution was not established for display or show, but to confer upon every young man, who ame a member, the power of helping himself, which was far superior to alms-giving. The Penny Savings' Banks was encouraging the principle of thrift, and the value of money amongst young mien. In the Post Office Savings, which, it was not generally known, originated at Huddersfield, there had been deposited £10,000. (Applause). It was impossible, therefore, to estimate the beneficial effects of these Penny Savings' Banks. He hoped they would give all the energy and power they possessed tv the cultivation of the minds of the people. It was very gratifying to find that, whatever be the political opinion of the man in high position, education was the question ; whatever be the opinion of the man religiously, the question was education ; and now merchants throughout the country found that education was to be the great question of the day. He hoped ere long a Huddersfield Board of Education would be estab. lished in Huddersfield, where all that was said and written upon the subject should be thoroughly sifted, so that. b bringing it into something like practical shape, the peo 'A might be reached. Government had done a great dealin this direction, but all the surroundings of this town wer utterly ignorant of the provision already made for the education of the people. If gentlemen would only take up the matter, he was persuaded, we could have dow: here means accessable to the poorest lad of getting asm h information, on the subject of his business in life th : richest man in the country. Every working om. ine this town, ought to have in his cottage a reference lib: ay. ta explain every term that referred to his own 'bani? to (Applause). We all felt that unless we were uv to the mark, it our — trades, we should very soon saiehe ing in business. Only that day he al' a the products of three different asteed te week = England, and Scotland. eae When they were i ut bef he suw from the goods themselves where they had im, from. T here was, he concluded, energy and pluck enouzh in the English people to compete with any people on the lace of the earth ; and it only requir ed those who k show the way. (Applause). ower Knew tos Mr. W, R. HAIGH, in seconding the resolution, said the secret of education depended, not entirely. but to some extent, upon the origimal power -call it brain, soul, or