10 May 2009

Here’s another item of interest from the Reform Bill agitation in England in . This is from a news account, carried in an Australian newspaper, of a meeting of the National Political Union:

[Mr. Murphy said:] The time for resistance was come. The taxes were in course of collecting; would the whole of the people say what he did to the Taxgatherer, “Until the Reform Bill is a Law, one penny of my money you shall not have?” (Cheering and waving of hats for several minutes, and cries of “Bravo, we will”). They may carry us into the Exchequer; let them sell our goods and we will pay them a commission for it; but we will replevin, and appeal to a jury of our countrymen (immense applause), then we will try the question, and see what twelve Englishmen will say to a brother contending for his rights. The House of Commons had declared itself not to be the representation of the people, and the people ought not to pay taxes which were imposed by an illegal authority. (Loud applause)

Mr. Powell moved the next resolution, recommending meetings in every county, town, and parish throughout the kingdom—the people were resolved to put an end to a system which outraged common sense by its gross inconsistency — but they would use no arms — their weapons would be in their pockets. (Cries of hear). An old gentleman said to him that day, “The Tories will cajole — they will make fine offers — they will say any thing you please; but, young man, button up your pocket.” (Cheers and laughter). Refuse the pensioners of the public — give nothing to those who, were it not for the people, would not be able to buy a quartern loaf. Pursue the plan which the common hall of the City of London mean to do. Let the commissioners be vested with the supplies. It might be illegal to come to a resolution to pay no taxes in money; but no law could reach a man’s determination, and let them see who would dare to purchase the good destrained thus. (Cheering and waving of hats for some time). The resolution was seconded by Mr. Wakefield, and passed unanimously.

Major Revell rose to move the adoption of the resolution which had been agreed to by the representatives of 240,000 persons at the East end of the Town (though it was never presented in Parliament.) It was to this effect that a petition be presented praying that commissioners receive the supplies and that until the Bill pass they be not managed by the Lords of the Treasury — This admirable resolution was adopted from that passed in the House of Commons in . The House to day need not allow one shilling to pass through the hands of the Treasury Lords; and then what would become of the poor miserable pauper peers, who were themselves, he would again repeat it, unable to buy a quartern loaf?

Mr. Detrosier seconded the resolution — The people he said were deceived by the man in whom they had placed their confidence and must look to themselves and their tried friends — they need not despair — but it is not a moment for seclusion, mere sympathy, hearthside co-operation, would not do — he must take a prominent and decided part — He did not advocate war — least of all a civil war — but there were circumstances and a moment when it became a duty to face the cannon. Do our enemies rely on the army? Do they forget Colonel Brereton? Are not soldiers men, and brethren? Will they become instruments of massacre, in the cause of despotism? But the weapon of peace is in our pockets. The determination to pay no taxes, is not confined to the mass of the people; he knew persons in the House of Commons, who would take their part in this also with their country — they will pay no more taxes. (Immense applause which was renewed several times.) There is also a flimsy piece of paper, of which the value depends upon public opinion. We may refuse to accept one of these, (Hear, Hear.) Will you abide by these resolutions? If a brother be made a victim, will you support him? (Cries of “we will,” from the whole meeting).

The resolution was passed unanimously.

Mr. Wakely moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Attwood, and the inhabitants of Birmingham. He pledged himself to pay no more taxes, unless the Reform Bill was passed. Suggested the formation of a “National Convention.” (Immense Applause.)

It was resolved, that there should be a meeting of the Members at the same place. Before the meeting separated, the assembly gave three groans for the King, three groans for the Queen, and three groans for the “Tory faction.”