Nov. 4th.—Some 2,000 persons had attended an open-air Liberal Demonstration on the Hall-quay, at which G. Danby-Palmer, Esq., presided, and which was addressed by Mr. Watkin.
At the Municipal Election the Tories had been successful, the Liberals “not going in to win.” At the close of the poll the Conservative procession, consisting of a band of music, some flags, bearing such inscriptions as “Cheap Bread and Economy,” and about four or five cabs formed and paraded through the principal thoroughfares. The returns were—
Regent Ward.
Sir E. H. K. Lacon, (C)
118
J. Cherry, (C)
114
J. Owles, (L)
82
F. Palmer, (L)
78
Market Ward.
J. E. Barnby, (C)
128
J. Fenn, (C)
126
J. Scott, (L)
110
G. W. Clowes, (L)
107
St. George’s Ward.
W. J. Foreman, (C)
121
H. Jay, (C)
117
A. D. Stone, (L)
85
J. Fill, (L)
80
Nelson Ward.
S. V. Moore, (L)
211
J. Clark, (C)
151
J. Clowes, (L)
127
North Ward.
S. Nightingale, (C)
144
W. H. Bessey, (C)
132
J. Mainprice, (L)
126
J. Cobb, (L)
109
St. Andrew’s Ward.
J. Hammond, (C)
185
William H. Palmer, (C)
174
Henry Danby-Palmer, (L)
164
J. Barker, (L)
150
Mr. J. Clowes had entered a protest against the return in the Nelson Ward “on the ground of the presiding alderman having left his post during the election.”
Nov. 7th.—The first general meeting of the Shareholders of the Britannia Pier Company had been held, the accounts showing £1,365 received, and £781 12s. 6d expended.
Nov. 11th.—At the Council Meeting, Mr. E. H. L. Preston proposed, and Mr. Palmer (Deputy-Mayor) seconded, Mr. Francis Worship for the office of Mayor. Mr. R. Steward then proposed Mr. W. H. Bessey, who declining the honour, Mr. Steward suggested the name of Mr. Plummer, who also refusing to serve, the Mayor declared Mr. Worship unanimously elected to the office.
The Poor’s rate was 1s. 4d. in the £.
Nov. 14th.—Thirty-six gentlemen had attended the dinner given to the Ex-Mayor at the Town Hall.
Herring was selling at from £12 to £20 a last.
The adjourned Vestry Meeting for the purpose of considering the propriety of making a Church rate had been held in the Town Hall. There was a large attendance of ratepayers, who were, of course, presided over by the minister of the parish. The Committee appointed to consider the value of the Church property recommended that that which had fallen in, and which would fall in on the 25th of March next, should be re-let on repairing leases of 14 years’ duration, at a rental of £76 16s.—Mr. J. H. Harrison, one of the committee, gave a detailed account of all the Church property, both of that which fell in in September last, and that which will fall in during next year and 1859 and 1860. He had no doubt, whatever, that if the property was properly managed, there would be no necessity for asking for a Church rate after 1860.—Mr. C. S. D. Steward and Mr. E. R. Aldred, the Churchwardens, moved and seconded respectively, “That in consequence of the increased rental of the estate belonging to St. Nicholas’ Church not being available for the current year, a rate of 1½d in the pound be now made and assessed.”—Mr. J. H. Harrison thought that St. Peter’s Church ought not to be included in the rate, and moved as anamendment, “That St. Peter’s Church having been erected by voluntary contributions, with an understanding that it should be maintained and supported by its pew rents, and should in no way become a charge upon the parish, this Vestry deems it advisable to refuse making a rate until the Churchwardens do exclude the said Church of St. Peter wholly from their estimate.”—Mr. J. Lawn seconded the amendment, but the Chairman refused to put it, on the ground that he could not consistently with his duty do so.—After considerable discussion, in the course of which the Clerk stated that St. Peter’s Church could be legally included in the rate, Mr. W. T. Fisher moved, and Mr. J. Lawn seconded, on the ground that the Church property, if re-let at its full value, would realize more than sufficient for the necessary repairs of the Parish Church, and that money, which could afterwards be repaid out of the surplus, could be borrowed to defray the expenses for the next two years,—“That this meeting resolves to adjourn for four weeks, to obtain the necessary amount and thereby to avoid the necessity of making a Church rate.”—The Chairman conscientiously refused to put this amendment on the ground that it was not abona fideone, and also the following amendment, which was likewise moved by Mr. W. T. Fisher, “That in order to give the Churchwardens time to prepare a proper estimate, the Vestry to adjourn for three weeks.”—Mr. J. H. Harrison then moved, “That it is inexpedient and inadvisable to make a Church rate at this meeting.”—The Chairman, however, refused to put this, as also another amendment by Mr. J. H. Harrison to the effect, “That a Church rate of a farthing in the pound be levied.”—After a great deal of uproar, the motion of the Churchwardens was lost by a considerable majority. A poll was then demanded, when the Chairman appointed Mr. J. L. Cufaude to be the assessor, and the meeting adjourned. The following numbers were polled during the afternoon:—For the rate 225, against it 195.
Nov. 18th.—The polling of the Vestry had been concluded as follows:—
For the Rate
651
Against
771
and at 10 o’clock on Saturday, Mr. Hills stated that the poll would not be re-opened.
On the following day (Sunday) the clocks at the Parish Church and St. George’s Chapel were stopped, and the bells “tolled” at the hour for performance of divine service.
Nov. 21st.—Mr. D. Tomkins, of the British School, had again satisfied the Government Inspector.
R. Hammond, Esq., had presented 40 cwt. of coal to the inmates of the Fisherman’s Hospital.
Nov. 28th.—It was calculated that there were 400 boats then engaged in the Herring Fishing belonging to Yarmouth.
Dec. 12th.—The Mayor’s “feast” had been held at the Town Hall, 120 gentlemen being present, including Lord Sondes (High Steward), Sir E. N. Buxton, Bart., M.P., Sir H. Stracey, Bart., Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., Colonel Elmhirst, Colonel Sankey, Major Taylor, Captain Nugent, Captain Dunt, the Revs. B. Vaux, J. Gunn, M. Waters and J. B. Bampton, Messrs. R. Hammond, W. N. Burroughs, C. J. Palmer, C. Cory, E. H. L. Preston, E. P. Youell, W. Yetts, R. Steward, B. Jay, C. H. Chamberlin, R. S. Watling, I. Preston, jun., W. C. Reynolds, R. Ferrier, W. H. Palmer, C. Preston, F. Palmer, H. D Palmer, J. C. Smith, D. A. Gourlay, &c.
The “recruiting staff” of the 9th Regiment, then at Yarmouth, consisted of Lieut.-Colonel C. Elmhirst, Brevt-Colonel Sankey, Major A. Taylor, Captains W. Dunt, H. F. Manton, W. Nugent, D. A. Barnett, R. P. O’Shea, J. W. MacFarlane, — Carden, and J. Graham, Lieutenants H. G. H. Grubbe, H. Gipps, and A. F. B. Wright, Adjutant Bolton, Ensigns C. S. Perry, J. L. Bradshaw, S. Lynne and C. T. Coote, Quarter-Master Arrowsmith, and 19 Sergeants and 10 Corporals.
Dec. 30th.—There were 30 prisoners in the Gaol, and they had been regaled with a Christmas dinner by the Mayor.
The Clocks at the Parish Church and St. George’s Chapel had been set going again at the instance of the Town Council.
Jan. 2nd.—Contains the following article on the Old Year:—“1857 has been a good year for our port. Our fisheries have prospered; our mercantile and shipping report is favourable; and our commercial credit has stood firm and upright against the pressure of a severe monetary crisis. We have proved the elasticity of our resources, and have demonstrated the strength and stability of our enterprise. The fashionable season has also been one on which we have to congratulate ourselves. During the summer and autumn of 1857, Yarmouth wasfull of visitors; our beach was crowded with company; and our hotels and lodging houses were all full. In short, on New Year’s Day we find that we can strike a balance on the right side, and look forward with hope based on the solid foundation of proved success. There is but one great drawback to the seasonable satisfaction such a state of things affords. Our political divisions have materially diminished the account in our favour, and have seriously interfered with the social harmony of the town. We have suffered ourselves to be led away into personal altercations, and have so departed from the straight road of a defined and thought-out principle. This has been a grave mistake, as we are now beginning to discover. But generally we have yet to learn that political zeal is not inconsistent with the courtesies of society, and that ill-tempered advocacy is worse than useless. Let us hope, however, that the moderate men of both political opinions, who must, we are sure, see the error of this course, will for the future guard against indiscretions, which are as inherently wrong as they are manifestly prejudicial to any cause that stands upon Principle and is supported by its own Truth. We know we express the opinion of the thinking portion of the constituency in advising an abstinence from the littleness of factious strife, and in suggesting a more elevated view of political verities, we are satisfied we are answering to the wish of the most respectable members of the opposing parties, and are explaining what is only wanting to consolidate the established prosperity of Yarmouth.”
The Hospital meeting showed a deficit of from £40 to £50 on the annual accounts.
Jan. 6th.—It was rumoured than an addition would shortly be made to the local Magistracy.
Jan. 9th.—Mr. C. J. Palmer occupied the chair at the annual Library Meeting. It was stated that there were then nearly 10,000 volumes belonging to that Institution, of which about 22 were circulated daily.
Jan. 13th.—Mr. Roach (Station-master) was, much to the regret of the inhabitants, leaving Yarmouth.
Jan. 16th.—Mr. George Danby-Palmer had presided at a dinner given to B. Fenn, Esq., when that gentleman was presented with 203 oz. of plate (value £100) by the Great Yarmouth Provident Fisherman’s Society, of which he had acted as Hon. Sec. for 30 years.
The Russian guns were to be placed at the South end of the Hall Quay.
Court “Star of the East,” A.O.F., had held its anniversary at the Regent Tavern.
Jan. 23rd.—The Rev. F. W. Johnson had been appointed minister at St. John’s Church.
A meeting of the Town Council had been held to consider the question of the proposed appointment of Justices, when Mr. E. H. L. Preston moved, and Mr. B. Fenn seconded, the adoption of a memorial to the Lord Chancellor, deprecating the proposed appointment of Messrs. P. Pullyn, D. A. Gourlay, Frederick Palmer, William T. Clarke, John Barker, and John Owles, and Mr. George Danby-Palmer moved, and Mr. Chapman seconded, an amendment in favour of such appointments, which, on a division, was lost by 25 to 5 votes. The Mayor made some warm remarks of a personal nature, which brought a similar retort from Mr. Chapman, and it was stated that “the last portion of these remarks was given amid applause in the gallery and laughter of the members, the meeting breaking up in great confusion.”
Feb. 6th.—The same question had been discussed at a meeting of Magistrates, when the Clerk was directed to apply to the Lord Chancellor for the correspondence with regard to the proposed appointments.
Feb. 10th.—This request had been declined by his Lordship, and it appeared that the Roll had been sent for, which led to a discussion of a personal character.
Feb. 13th.—The Town Council, on the motion of Mr. C. J. Palmer, seconded by Mr. Burroughs, had voted an address to the Queen on the occasion of the marriage of the Princess Royal.
A letter was read at the same meeting, stating that the Lord Chancellor had added the names of the six before mentioned gentlemen to the Commission of the Peace.
Feb. 20th.—It was proposed to extend the Marine Parade.
The 9th Regiment of Foot had left Yarmouth for Bradford. During its stay here some 200 recruits had been obtained.
Mr. Frederick Palmer had qualified as a Justice of the Peace.
St. John’s Church had been opened for service, when the Revs. F. W. Johnson and George Hills preached in the morning and afternoon respectively.
Feb. 24th.—The cost of the maintenance of the poor of the parish had increased since the passing of the 9th and 10th Vic. cap. 56 from about £9,000 to £10,376 per annum.
Messrs. J. Barker and P. Pullyn had qualified as Magistrates.
Feb. 27th.—The 24-pounders at the Batteries were to be replaced by 74 pound guns.
March 6th.—Records the death of Rear-Admiral Sir Eaton Travers, K.H., aged 70. The dates of his appointments were—Lieutenant 1804, Commander 1814, Captain 1829, Rear-Admiral 1855. He had seen much service, and was nominated a K.H. on 4th of February, 1834. He possessed the silver naval medal with one clasp, had a good service pension, and was a D.L. for the county. Sir Eaton married in April, 1815, Anne Palmer, eldest daughter of William Steward, Esq., by whom he had issue five sons and two daughters.
It was hoped that the Yarmouth and Haddiscoe Railway would be opened by the 1st of September next.
March 13th.—A dispute had arisen between the Local Board of Health and George Danby-Palmer, Esq., with regard to certain land at the south-end of the town, and Mr. Chamberlin, acting as Mr. Palmer’s solicitor, had complained to the Bench of having been assaulted by Mr. Morant (Town Surveyor), upon the “locus in quo,” and what was described as a “scene” had ensued.
March 20th.—The Naval Hospital was being fitted up for the reception of sick and wounded men from India; it was noticed that although fitted up in a similar way during the Russian war, it had never then been used.
Complaint was made of the “niggardly” way in which the Southtown Road was lighted.
March 24th.—Lord Sondes had presented a petition from the Town Council to the House of Lords on the subject of the Magisterial appointments, but after an explanation by the Lord Chancellor, who justified his action, “the subject dropped.”
March 27th.—Mr. J. S. Cobb had delivered a lecture on “Chemistry.”
April 3rd.—Mr. R. Steward had protested against the Senior Magistrate taking the chair in Petty Session as a matter of right.
April 7th.—Ten publicans had been fined for keeping their houses open at illegal hours.
April 10th.—At the appointment of Overseers, Mr. E. H. L. Preston moved the appointment of Messrs. William Green, James Borking, John Clayton, and William Harbord; and Mr. Owles proposed Mr. James H. Harrison in the place of Mr. Green. Upon the votes being taken, there appeared: For Mr. Preston’s list—The Mayor and Messrs. WilliamDanby-Palmer, E. H. L. Preston, J. C. Smith, W. Yetts, W. Thurtell, B. Jay, W. H. Bessey, J. Fenn, William Hurry Palmer, J. Cherry, R. Steward, C. C. Aldred, J. G. Plummer, and B. Fenn; and for Mr. Owles’ list—Messrs. Geo. Danby-Palmer, J. W. Shelley, W. Johnson, R. Hammond, P. Pullyn, D. A. Gourlay, Frederick Palmer, W. T. Clarke, J. Barker, and J. Owles.
April 17th.—From 3,000 to 4,000 persons had witnessed the launch of the “Froderica,” of 600 tons burthen, from Mr. Branford’s yard.
April 24th.—St. John’s Church had been consecrated by the Lord Bishop of Norwich.
H.M.S. “Edinburgh,” 74 tons, and two gun-boats had passed through the Roads.
April 28th.—Mr. John Clowes had been returned as a Councillor for the Nelson Ward without opposition in the place of Mr. Samuel V. Moore, deceased.
May 1st.—Ninety ladies and gentlemen had attended a ball at the Town Hall.
The sum of £137 had been collected at the Consecration Services at St. John’s Church. The Communion plate and stone pulpit in this church had been paid for from the proceeds arising from the sale of the second edition of the “Story of John Brock.”
May 5th.—Reference is made to the drowning of the only son of Captain Ellis, R.N., at Southwold.
The Poor’s rate was 1s. 4d. in the £.
The Summer excursion trains had commenced running, and had brought many visitors from Norwich.
May 8th.—Seventy invalids from Colchester camp were under treatment at the Naval Hospital. The officers in charge were Captain Jervois, Commandant; Captain Naylor, Pay-master; Staff-Surgeons, Bradford and Joy, and Mr. Rippon, Purveyor.
May 15th.—Disturbances had taken place between some of the Fermanagh Militia and townsmen at Southtown, and the conduct of the Mayor was impugned with regard to his desire to repress the report of this, when Mr. de Caux vindicated the reports sent by him to the newspapers he represented.
May 22nd.—The mackerel fleet (about 100 sail) were nearly all at sea, and prices had varied from 35s. to 45s. per hundred.
The “Nil Desperandum” (500 tons) had been launched from Mr. Rust’s yard.
June 12th.—Records the death of Sir E. N. Buxton, Bart., one of the M.P’s. for East Norfolk.
June 16th.—Sir Henry Stracey, a candidate for the seat thus vacant, had met the Conservative electors at the Angel-hotel, when Mr. E. H. L. Preston occupied the chair. It was stated that “Sir Henry is a favourite in Yarmouth from the interest he has taken in all that relates to the interest of the town.”
June 19th.—The Liberals had met at the Star Hotel, Mr. B. Dowson in the chair, when a resolution accepting the Hon. Wenman Clarence Walpole Coke as the candidate in the Whig interest had been adopted.
John Berry had committed suicide by shooting himself on the South Denes.
June 26th.—Mr. Falcke (a gentleman whose father formerly lived in the town) had given subscriptions to the Hospital and the Ragged and British Schools.
June 30th.—At the County election, Mr. E. Fellowes, M.P., proposed, and Colonel Fitzroy seconded Sir H. J. Stracey, Bart., and Mr. Bulwer proposed, and Mr. Upcher seconded the Hon. Wenman C. W. Coke; the show of hands was in favour of Sir H. J. Stracey, whereupon Mr. Bulwer demanded a poll on behalf of the Hon. Mr. Coke.
July 3rd.—The poll had been declared as follows:—
The Hon. W. C. W. Coke
2933
Sir H. J. Stracey
2720
Majority
213
An analysis of the polling at Yarmouth showed—
Coke.
Stracey.
Yarmouth Voters
288
301
E&W. Flegg ,,
150
195
Out ,,
36
58
Gorleston ,,
6
4
Southtown ,,
14
14
Mr. Isaac Shuckford had been elected an Alderman in the place of Alderman T. Foreman deceased.
A fight had taken place on the North Denes between Plumb (of Bungay) and Swash (of Yarmouth) for £10 a side. It lasted 1 h. and 35 min., and 93 rounds were fought. Ultimately Swash was beaten.
July 10th.—The “Minstrel” had been launched from Mr. Symonds’ and the “Success” from Mr. Chapman’s yard.
July 14th.—“Frequent collisions” were taking place between the Irish Militia and the inhabitants.
July 17th.—Britannia Pier had been opened. The Mayor attended with the “civic authorities;” on his arrival two rockets were let off and cannon were discharged. At the “dejeuner” subsequently held, C. C. Aldred and C. Cory, Esqs., presided at the tables, faced by D. A. Gourlay, and G. B. Palmer, Esqs.
A “Marine Horticultural Fête” had been held on this pier.
July 21st.—A Provincial Grand Lodge of Norfolk Freemasons had been held at the Priory Hall, which 150 brethren attended. Subsequently a banquet was held at the Town Hall, when P.G.M. Bro. B. Bond Cabbell presided, Bros. Sir H. J. Stracey and C. H. Chamberlin occupying the vice-chairs.
July 24th.—Fifty-seven sick and wounded soldiers, mostly Indian sufferers, had arrived at the Royal Naval Hospital.
July 28th.—It was computed that there were between 8,000 and 9,000 visitors then in the town.
There had been a heavy gale from the S.W.
July 31st.—At the Regatta, which was held from the Wellington Pier,—umpires, Lieut.-Col. Beckham and Mr. M. Butcher; hon. secretary, Mr. Henry R. Harmer;—in the first yacht race the “Violet” (J. E. Kirby) beat the “Aretion” (J. Goodson, Esq.), and the “Silver Star” (— Mann, Esq.). The following yawls competed as under:—
Came in
H.
M.
S.
Eclipse
54 ft.
6
0
32
Royal Standard
49 ft.
5
58
40
Queen Victoria
63 ft.
5
50
20
Lady Hume
59 ft.
5
54
30
Young Prince
47 ft.
withdrew
Glance
47 ft.
6
3
23
In the next race (for small yachts) the “Kestrel” (W. Butcher) beat the “Belvidere” (T. Read), “Isabella” (O. Diver), “Rover” (T. Palmer), and “Gipsy Queen” (Harcourt); there were several other races. On this occasion 1,700 persons visited the Wellington Pier, upwards of £40 was taken at the gates, and it was computed that some 12,000 persons were on the Beach; 3,000 persons visited the Victoria Gardens, where “Sam Collins” performed, and Mr. Coe had the management of the display of fireworks.
Aug. 4th.—The acting Charity Trustees, Messrs. George Danby-Palmer and Thomas Brightwen, had selected the following additional Trustees of the Town Charity Estate:—The Rev. George Hills, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. C. J. Palmer, J. Brightwen, B. Jay, E. H. L. Preston, C. C. Aldred, Charles Cory, William H. Palmer, R. Hammond, W. P. Dowson, W. N. Burroughs, and J. W. Shelley. Objection had been taken to the names of Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Messrs. Aldred, Cory, C. J. Palmer, E. H. L. Preston, and W. P. Dowson, and the names of Messrs. Pullyn, C. Miller, G. Blake and J. Fenn proposed as Trustees.
Aug. 7th.—At the Water Frolic, Mr. O. Diver acted as hon. secretary, and in the first match the following yachts competed:—
Endora
(latteen)
Cooke
Horstead
13 feet
Nautilus
(cutter)
—
Bungay
12 ,,
Clara
(cutter)
C. Smith
Aylsham
14 ,,
Fairy Queen
(latteen)
R. Morton
,,
13 ,,
Unique
(cutter)
W. Teasdel
Gorleston
14 ,,
The Endora won. In the second race the entries were:—
Belvidere
T. Read
Yarmouth
28 feet
Victorine
J. Fiddes
,,
—
Iris
A. D. Stone
,,
27 „
Tantivy
Messrs. Morgan
Norwich
19 ,,
The Belvidere won. The third contest was for a cup, presented by D. Falcke, Esq., for shrimp boats; the “Smack” won.
During the sports Mr. Gardiner (editor of theYarmouth Independent) was knocked overboard by the boom of Mr. Diver’s boat, but, being a swimmer, escaped with a “good ducking.”
Aug. 14th.—A meeting had been held for the purpose of establishing a “Beachman’s Institute.” The Mayor occupied the chair, and G. Harcourt, Esq., addressed the meeting at some length; Mr. Fisher and the Rev. G. Hills also took part in these proceedings.
A mirage had been seen off the coast, presenting the appearance of a number of ships sailing between two chalk cliffs, thought by some to pourtray the Isle of Wight. Nothing of a similar kind had been seen in Yarmouth for 75 years. It was noticed the weather had been close and sultry and the tides low.
Aug. 18th.—The sum of £139 18s. 6d. had been contributed for the Beachman’s Institute.
Aug. 25th.—The Norfolk Hotel, Marine Drive, had been purchased by Messrs. Hills and Underwood for the sum of £2,160.
Sept. 1st.—The sum of £448 had been subscribed for the restoration of the Nelson Monument.
About 100 vessels were then engaged in the North Sea herring fishing, the fish realising from £12 15s. to £26 per last.
George Wells Holt, Esq., who had officiated as Magistrates’ Clerk for more than 22 years, had resigned that appointment.
Mr. W. Holt (son of the late Clerk), Mr. H. R. Harmer and Mr. Costerton were candidates for the office.
Sept. 8th.—The following Magistrates attended on the appointment being filled up:—F. Worship, Esq., (Mayor), R. Hammond, B. Fenn, J. G. Plummer, W. Johnson, P. Pullyn, F. Palmer, R. Steward, D. A. Gourlay, W. T. Clarke, J. Fenn, E. H. L. Preston, B. Jay, W. H. Palmer, W. Yetts, C. C. Aldred, W. H. Bessey, G. D. Palmer, W. Thurtell, T. Brightwen, J. Owles, and J. C. Smith, Esqs., and on the motion of Mr. Hammond, seconded by Mr. Steward, Mr. William Holt was unanimously elected.
The emoluments of the office were then about £375 per annum.
Messrs. Mellor and Young, the M.P’s. for the town, had arrived, the former at the Norfolk, and the latter at the Royal Hotel.
The Artillery Militia had assembled for 21 days’ drill.
There had been further disturbances between the Fermanagh Militia and the townspeople, which had led to a conference between the Magistrates and the officer commanding that Regiment, since which the soldiers had not been allowed to enter the town after 6.30 p.m., and a picket had been stationed on the Bridge.
A fancy fair in aid of the Sailors’ Institute was being held in three marquees fronting the Norfolk Hotel.
H.M.S. “Pembroke,” 60 guns, had sailed for Harwich, after remaining in the Roads 14 days. During her stay 40 volunteers had been entered upon her books.
The King of Prussia’s yacht “Grille” had arrived in the Harbour; she was of 400 tons, and rigged as a three-masted schooner. The officers on board were Captain baron Bothwell, Lieutenants Baron St. Paul, Baron Dobenack, and Count Moate.
Sept. 15th.—The Fermanagh Militia had left Yarmouth for Bradford, and were to be succeeded by the Louth Rifles.
The comet (visible with the naked eye) was getting brighter every night.
Sept. 22nd.—One of a recently-arrived advance party of the Louth Rifles named John Carret had been found drowned in the Yare.
Sept. 25th.—Herring were selling at from £3 to £4 per last for manure.
Sept. 29th.—The subscriptions to the Races amounted to only £289 18s. 6d., leaving the balance to be raised by sale of race-cards, &c.
Mr. Colley was acting as House Surgeon at the Hospital.
Oct. 2nd.—The East Norfolk Militia had been inspected by Colonel Lewis prior to being disbanded.
The Louth Rifles, 500 strong, had arrived, and marched into the Southtown Barracks. The officers were Colonel Lord Bellew, Lieut.-Colonel Sir J. Robinson, Bart.; Major Taaffe, Adjutant Bellingham, Surgeon Dixon, Quarter-Master Edward Burke, Paymaster J. Burke, Captains O’Reiley, Smith, Singleton, and Murray, Lieutenants Evans, Osborne, Townley, Murphy, and Cormack, and Ensigns Mason, Lindsay, Standidge, O’Donald and Twentyman.
Oct. 6th.—The mortality in the town was then 23 in 1,000 persons.
Oct. 9th.—The fishing had improved, and herring was selling at from £19 5s. to £22 per last.
William Holt, Esq., had given a dinner at the Crown and Anchor to the officials connected with the Police Court.
Mr. S. J. F. Stafford had been elected Surgeon for the North District.
Oct. 16th.—The County Revision had been held before Mr. R. Couch at the Tolhouse, Mr. Clowes appearing for the Liberals and Mr. Cufaude for the Tories; also for the Borough, when Mr. Costerton appeared for the Liberals, and Mr. Cufaude for the Tories. The Liberals claimed gains on both these registers.
Oct. 20th.—It was understood that R. Steward, Esq., would be Mayor for the ensuing year.
The Mayor (with Messrs. Pilgrim and Cooper as assessors) had held the Municipal Revision, Mr. Costerton appearing for the Liberals and Mr. Cufaude for the Conservatives; the former claimed a gain of 73 on the proceedings.
Oct. 27th.—Lieutenant Mends, R.N., had been presented with a handsome gold pencil-case by the crew of H.M.S. “Dolphin,” (Revenue cruiser on this station), on his resigning his command.
Oct. 30th.—The Bishop of Norwich had confirmed 115 persons at St. Nicholas’ Church.
Nov. 3rd.—The following Councillors had been elected without opposition:—North Ward: Messrs. W. Worship and J. B. Hylton.Market Ward: Messrs. E. R. Aldred and D. A. Gourlay.Regent Ward: Messrs. R. D. Barber and R. R. B. Norman.St. George’s Ward: Messrs. R. Ferrier and B. Jay.Nelson Ward: Messrs. Charles J. Palmer and Charles Woolverton.St. Andrew’s Ward: Messrs. Robert Steward and William T. Clarke.
Captain Ryder, R.N., Government Inspector, had examined 42 pupils at the School of Navigation.
Nov. 6th.—It was “confidently reported” that the Vicar (the Rev. G. Hills) had been appointed Bishop of British Columbia.
Nov. 10th—A claim had been made by a person whose father had served in the army from 1802 to 1816, to sell excisable articles without a license, under the 56 George III. cap. 67.
Nov. 13th.—At the Council meeting held on the 9th, Mr. William H. Palmer proposed, and Mr. Hylton seconded, Robert Steward, Esq., as Mayor for the ensuing year, and he was declared unanimously elected, but as “the late Mayor was about to invest him with the chain of office, His Worship rather prematurely took hold of the chain and placed it on the seat.”
A complimentary dinner had been given by the Council to the ex-Mayor, at which C. J. Palmer, Esq., presided.
Nov. 17th.—The Mayor had dispensed with the formality of being preceded by the maces and other insignia of the Corporation in attending divine service and taking his seat on the Bench. He had also declined wearing the gold chain on the same occasions.
Nov. 20th.—Attention was directed to the “Wonders of the Microscope, published by Mr. Harmer, the photographist of Great Yarmouth.”
Dec. 4th.—The Royal National Lifeboat Institution had sent one of its 30 foot single-banked boats to this station.
The Mayor had issued invitations for a dinner at the Town Hall to 170 gentlemen connected with the town and district.
The Rev. R. H. Nevill had been appointed to the Vicarage, which was supposed to be worth some £350 per annum.
Dec. 11th.—Mr. J. H. Harrison had lent the St. George’s Hall to the tradesmen, who were getting up a concert for the benefit of the Hospital.
Dec. 15th.—The Mayor, Sir John Robinson, Bart., S. C. Marsh and C. J. Palmer, Esqs., had acted as Stewards of the first Subscription Ball, and there were also present—the Mayoress, Captain Winyard, R.N., Captain O’Reiley, Dr. Dixon, Captain Smith, Mr., Mrs. and Miss Harcourt, Mrs. and Miss Gwynne, Mrs. C. J. Palmer, Mr. Cubitt and family, Mr. and Mrs. Ferrier, Mr. W. Travers, Mr. E. and Miss Preston, Mrs. S. C. Marsh and family, Mr. H. Lacon, Mr. and Mrs. Barber and family, Mr. Jolly, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, Mr. Bullock, Mrs. A. Thompson, Mr., Mrs. and Miss Venning, Mrs. and Miss Pearson, Dr. Button, Mr. and Mrs. Biddulph, Mrs. R. Steward, Rev. Mr. Gott and family, Mr. Harmer, &c.
Mr. J. Petts had been promoted to be Chief Coastguard Officer at Yarmouth.
Dec. 11th.—It was proposed to present Bishop Hills with a silver Communion Service.
Jan. 5th.—A meeting had been held (C. J. Palmer, Esq., in the chair) for the purpose of raising a fund with a view to presenting a testimonial to the Rev. George Hills. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. R. Hammond, T. Brightwen, C. C. Aldred, E. H. L. Preston, C. S. D. Steward, and C. Cory, took part in the proceedings, and £145 was raised in the room.
The Mayor (R. Steward, Esq.), had given away 300 cwts. of coal to poor persons.
Jan. 12th.—It was reported that 20 missionary clergymen would accompany the Rev. G. Hills to his new mission, and that Mr. Lupson, Scripture Reader, should be ordained and go as one of these.
Jan. 15th.—The members of the Ship Insurance Society, to the number of 30, had held their annual dinner at the “Crown and Anchor”; Mr. D. A. Gourlay occupied the chair, and Mr. D. B. Palmer the vice-chair.
Jan. 22nd.—The East Suffolk Railway was to be opened on the 1st March.
Jan. 29th.—The Rev. G. Hills had preached his farewell sermon.
The Mayor had given a Juvenile Ball to 130 children at the Town Hall. Among those present were members of the following families:—Reynolds, Youell, Harcourt, Cufaude, Marsh, Impey, Tompson, Clarke,Donald, Norman, Bond, Aldred, Lettis, Woolverton, Butcher, Barnby, Ayers, Reeve, Laws, Bayly, Chamberlin, Dashwood, Bracey, Palmer, Shuckford, Smith, Smyth, Plummer, Barber, &c.
Bro. John Cobb had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship” by Bros. O. Diver and J. W. Bunn, and he had appointed the following officers:—Bros. W. Wright, S.W.; G. Harley, J.W.; C. L. Chipperfield, S.D.; J. H. Bly, J.D.; and George Knox, I.G.
Feb. 5th.—The ladies had presented plate to the value of 50 guineas to the Rev. G. Hills.
Mrs. Gray had given a “ball and reception” at the Town Hall.
Feb. 9th.—About 100 Foresters had attended the funeral of Bro. Hatch, at Gorleston, on Sunday, which proceeding had been objected to by the Vicar.
Feb. 12th.—A “Reform” Meeting had been held, Mr. Livingston in the chair.
Feb. 16th.—Mr. Boning, of Cambridge, had accidentally injured himself while shooting on the Caister Marshes. Dr. Smyth, Mr. F. Palmer, Mr. Skinner and Mr. Colley (Hospital) were attending the sufferer.
Feb. 19th.—Mr. Nevill, the new Incumbent, had arrived, and was going “to read himself in” on the next Sunday.
Feb. 23rd.—This ceremony had been duly performed by him.
A Reading-room had been established in connection with the Subscription Library on the Quay.
Mr. J. C. Smith had presided at Mrs. Sizeland’s annual dinner at the Royal Hotel.
A high tide had washed over the Beach up to the Marine Drive wall.
Feb. 26th.—The Foresters had held a dinner at the Corn Hall; 100 brethren attended. The Chief Ranger (Bro. Franklin) presided, and Bros. Steele, Horne, E. Stagg, Dr. Smyth, Dumbleton and Thompson took part in the proceedings.
March 2nd.—Dr. Hills had been consecrated Bishop of British Columbia at Westminster Abbey.
The first train from Yarmouth had run over the East Suffolk line.
March 5th.—A search for treasure had been made at the “Stone Cairn” on the North Denes, it seems from the report, without effect.
The old Jetty was to be repaired.
The officers of the Louth Rifles had given a Ball at the Town Hall, for which about 180 invitations were issued.
March 19th.—Messrs. Mellor and Young had attended a Reform Meeting at the Corn Hall; from 1,000 to 1,200 persons were present. Among the gentlemen accompanying the M.P.’s were Messrs. R. Hammond, P. Pullyn, Gourlay, F. Palmer, Clowes, Briggs, Barker, &c.
March 23rd—There was a “rage” for new buildings in the town.
March 30th.—A Court of Foresters had been opened at Hasbro’, the officiating officers being D.C.R. Stratford and C.R. Franklin (of Court “Crown and Anchor.”)
April 2nd.—The question as to who were to be the Liberal candidates for the Borough was being “mooted”; it was reported that Mr. McCullagh was to be put on one side, that Mr. Mellor would withdraw, and that Messrs. Watkin and Young would take the field.
A new Coastguard Station was being erected at a cost of £3,500. Mr. Norfor, contractor.
April 6th.—The action of “Morantv.Chamberlin” had been referred to Mr. Barstow.
April 9th.—Both parties had been waiting for notice of the Dissolution of Parliament. Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey were making a house-to-house canvas, accompanied by Messrs. W. Yetts, W. Thurtell, R. Ferrier, C. Cory, S. C. Marsh, W. Worship, E. H. L. Preston, J. G. Plummer, F. Ferrier, J. Fenn, &c.
The Liberals had held a meeting on the Hall Plain, which 3,000 persons attended. Mr. Briggs occupied the chair, and Messrs. J. Clowes, R. Hammond, J. Owles, J. W. Shelly, and P. Pullyn took part in the proceedings, which eventuated in the selection of Messrs. Watkin and Young as the Liberal candidates.
April 13th.—Both parties had held meetings, the Liberals at the “Star” and the Conservatives at the “Fish Stall House.”
April 16th.—Both parties expressed themselves confident of success, but it was supposed that Gorleston would turn the scale; the voters there were described as “dangerous men.”
The barque “Athelstan” (Captain John Bracey) was to be launched from Fellows’ yard on the 19th.
April 20th.—The Liberal electors “and their wives” had met at the Corn Exchange, while the Conservatives had held a meeting at the Victoria Gardens.
April 23rd.—Contains the following report as to
“THE ELECTION.”The greatest activity prevails on both sides, and as the decisive day approaches, the feelings of partizanship are becoming greatly intensified. The printers have had a lively time of it, and turn out a great quantity of matter, an opinion appearing to be prevalent that quality is a secondary consideration. During the last few days, songs, parodies upon songs, speeches, and gross personal abuse have been issued by the supporters of Mr. Watkin, (for it must be admitted that Mr. Young holds himself aloof from this scurrility) with the object, we suppose, of doing that gentleman some good. In our opinion they will have a contrary effect, as we have heard many respectable Liberal electors express themselves disgusted with such unnecessary vulgarity. It may be very true, that in addressing the people, it is necessary to call a spade a spade, but it cannot be at all requisite that the minds of the people should be attempted to be influenced by strong specimens of the Billingsgate vocabulary. Where wit is lacking, silence is preferable to blackguardism. On the Conservative side there has also been a fair number of coloured bills and printed addresses issued; but the writers in this interest have abstained from attempting to be funny. In printed abuse, however, they endeavour to rival their opponents. Betting, if that may be considered a piece of electioneering business, is decidedly in favour of the Conservative candidates. Each party attributes motives of the most improper kind to the other, and it will be seen that Mr. Watkin fears that his opponents may indulge in “corruption.” On the other hand, Sir E. Lacon says voters had told him they dare not support him, as they should be inclined to do, in consequence of persons on the Liberal side having put the “screw” upon them. Tradesmen generally will be glad when the contest is over, as it is daily creating much personal animosity.
“THE ELECTION.”
The greatest activity prevails on both sides, and as the decisive day approaches, the feelings of partizanship are becoming greatly intensified. The printers have had a lively time of it, and turn out a great quantity of matter, an opinion appearing to be prevalent that quality is a secondary consideration. During the last few days, songs, parodies upon songs, speeches, and gross personal abuse have been issued by the supporters of Mr. Watkin, (for it must be admitted that Mr. Young holds himself aloof from this scurrility) with the object, we suppose, of doing that gentleman some good. In our opinion they will have a contrary effect, as we have heard many respectable Liberal electors express themselves disgusted with such unnecessary vulgarity. It may be very true, that in addressing the people, it is necessary to call a spade a spade, but it cannot be at all requisite that the minds of the people should be attempted to be influenced by strong specimens of the Billingsgate vocabulary. Where wit is lacking, silence is preferable to blackguardism. On the Conservative side there has also been a fair number of coloured bills and printed addresses issued; but the writers in this interest have abstained from attempting to be funny. In printed abuse, however, they endeavour to rival their opponents. Betting, if that may be considered a piece of electioneering business, is decidedly in favour of the Conservative candidates. Each party attributes motives of the most improper kind to the other, and it will be seen that Mr. Watkin fears that his opponents may indulge in “corruption.” On the other hand, Sir E. Lacon says voters had told him they dare not support him, as they should be inclined to do, in consequence of persons on the Liberal side having put the “screw” upon them. Tradesmen generally will be glad when the contest is over, as it is daily creating much personal animosity.
The “Athelstan” had been launched; she was of 500 tons burden, and was to take out Bishop Hills’ effects to British Columbia.
The “Haddiscoe Swamp” had caused a great difficulty on the East Suffolk line, which was consequently still not open for traffic.
William Howlett, “Red” bill-poster, and Robert Crisp, “Blue” bill-poster, had been before the Magistrates owing to a dispute arising out of the election placards.
April 30th.—Both parties had been holding nightly meetings of a “convivial character.” On Wednesday some 300 to 400 persons had paraded the town shouting “Down with Lacon and Stracey,” and had broken the windows of the Red Committee rooms in the Market-place.
“THE NOMINATION”took place on the Hall Plain; the platform, in the centre of which was reserved a place for the Mayor and the Candidates and friends, being on the Crown and Anchor “leads.” The Blues were to the left of the Mayor and the Reds to his right; and in front of the house there was at the time proceedings commenced an assemblage numbering 4,000 or 5,000, including a number of females. The Liberals were the first to arrive on the “leads,” and on Mr. Watkin showing himself to the crowd, he was loudly cheered, a compliment which the candidate duly acknowledged. Shortly afterwards the approach of the Conservative party was indicated by the deep groans of the crowd, who manifested some indications of hostility: but on its being discovered that the Conservative cavalcade was headed by a party of very pugilistic-looking persons, decorated with red ribbon, the threatening attitude of the crowd was somewhat modified, and the two Baronets, with their friends, were allowed to ascend to the “leads” unmolested. When the two parties had taken their places on the balcony, the Liberals proposed three cheers, which were given by the great majority, accompanied by the groans of the minority. A number of “beery” individuals struggled to the front, and were a source of annoyance to the speakers throughout. A few minutes before three o’clock the Mayor arrived in state, preceded by his sergeants-at-mace, and accompanied in his carriage by Mr. C. J. Palmer, who acted as his solicitor for the occasion. When his Worship appeared in the balcony the Blues, for some reason, commenced hissing him, much to the disgust of several of the leading gentlemen of the Liberal party, who protested against such unseemly proceedings. We may state, before attempting to report the numerous speeches that were delivered, that during the whole of the proceedings—more especially when it was the turn of the Conservatives to speak—the crowd was exceedingly disorderly, and by their loud shouting and groaning rendered most of the speakers inaudable to persons a few yards distant from them. The Mayor was grossly insulted at the commencement, and as the proceedings progressed several fights were got up, and the interference of the police was frequently required. Anything more unreasonable and unreasoning than the majority of the crowd it would be impossible to conceive, and when the nomination closed there did not seem to be any person in the balcony opposed to the opinion of the Mayor—that the “whole thing was a farce.” One side of the question was not heard at all, and the majority shouted without knowing what about. This was singularly illustratedduring the speech of Mr. Watkin, when that gentleman took upon himself the functions of the returning-officer, by calling upon the crowd for a show of hands, which, singularly enough, was against him. Mr. Watkin said, “All those that don’t want me to go to the poll, hold up their hands.” A forest of hands was exhibited to the great amusement of the Conservatives, who cheered the result. Mr. Watkin then told his friends that they were mistaken, and having explained the mistake to them, assuring them that they were too intelligent to vote him down, he took another show of hands, which was in his favour. We shall be excused for commenting upon the proceedings here; but the disorder and noise was so great that, as most of the speakers could not be heard, we are necessitated to do it, in order to make our report intelligible. From the beginning to the end “noise” had it in numbers; but in fighting the honour seemed to be with the Reds, who exhibited considerable proficiency in the pugilistic art. The crowd, which was very closely packed, was divided into two sections, the Blue and the Red, the former having about ten to one of the latter. At times both sections were very ill-behaved, but their misconduct was kindly overlooked by the whole of the speakers except Mr. Watkin, who took the liberty of designating the minority of the “people” as “scoundrels” and “ruffians.” These polite designations appeared likely to stir up the ill-blood of the people, inasmuch as four or five fights immediately commenced, in one of which an unfortunate fellow sustained a severe fracture of the proboscis, and it was not until the Mayor had, to use a significant local word, “checked” Mr. Watkin, and warned him against the violent nature of his harangue, that comparative order was restored. The fights in question are deserving of notice. One began between a female, whose bonnet was trimmed with yellow ribbon, and a stout man in a blue guernsey. Gallant Reds and Blues rushed into the affray, doubtless with the object of protecting the woman, and there was every probability of a general set-to. The Mayor, however, directed the police to interfere, and the contest was suppressed, with apparently no worse results than the infliction of a few disagreeable blows on the frontispieces of the combatants. The other fights were of less importance; but altogether this display of pugnacity had the effect of causing the outside portion of the crowd to run away from what they considered to be danger. Other fights, as will be seen from the report, also occurred. One feature in the general noise was much remarked by the gentlemen on the balcony, and as it was amusing we notice it. A half drunken beachman or fisherman, just sofar gone as to be witty, but who was unmistakeably a Blue, planted himself in front of the balcony, and by his extraordinary shouting succeeded in making himself heard above the surrounding tumult. There was some natural humour about this fellow, and the way in which he shouted excited the laughter of the Mayor and both parties on the balcony. The man shouted until the veins grew large in his forehead; he jumped and screamed—he laughed and waved his hat, and others laughed with him—indeed, for a time all laughed with him; he was in a state of ecstacy or violent enthusiasm. It was difficult for a time to make out what the man meant, but at length he was understood, and his fun was appreciated. Sir E. Lacon wears a full moustache, and so does Sir H. Stracey, and those hirsute ornaments were the objects of this excited individual’s enthusiasm. He laughed and shouted—his voice being heard above the murmur of the crowd,—for fully an hour,—“The beard! the beard! will nobody shave him? A shave! a shave! Fetch a barber! fetch a barber!—(Loud laughter.)—A clean shave! A shilling for a razor! a razor! a razor! O Lord, a clean shave,” &c. Ultimately the man climbed to the top of a post, and threw his hat into the face of a railway porter; the porter ran to him and struck him in the mouth two or three times, with a force that evidently astonished him, and as his scream then became somewhat distressing, he was ignominiously removed to the outside of the crowd. Many other noticeable incidents occurred, which will be found mentioned in our report. But there is one circumstance which did not altogether develop itself at the meeting, that we feel compelled to notice. Society, from experience, knows that the prude is the loudest and severest advocate of virtue; but, as Josephus has remarked, “Every man will think of this as it seemeth good unto him.” We have noticed the Gorleston voters, we have recorded the boastings and professions on both sides, and we have ventilated rumours which have been so far well founded. The incident we are about to mention we can vouch for; it is possible, should circumstances necessitate it, of being proved. On the Wednesday evening, mob law, intimidation, corruption, “the screw,” and all the worst elements of electioneering were resorted to; and we regret to say that the parties who most publicly exhibited themselves as disorderlies were persons whom we won’t classify, but who cried out, “Down with Lacon and Stracey” and “Three cheers for Watkin.”
“THE NOMINATION”
took place on the Hall Plain; the platform, in the centre of which was reserved a place for the Mayor and the Candidates and friends, being on the Crown and Anchor “leads.” The Blues were to the left of the Mayor and the Reds to his right; and in front of the house there was at the time proceedings commenced an assemblage numbering 4,000 or 5,000, including a number of females. The Liberals were the first to arrive on the “leads,” and on Mr. Watkin showing himself to the crowd, he was loudly cheered, a compliment which the candidate duly acknowledged. Shortly afterwards the approach of the Conservative party was indicated by the deep groans of the crowd, who manifested some indications of hostility: but on its being discovered that the Conservative cavalcade was headed by a party of very pugilistic-looking persons, decorated with red ribbon, the threatening attitude of the crowd was somewhat modified, and the two Baronets, with their friends, were allowed to ascend to the “leads” unmolested. When the two parties had taken their places on the balcony, the Liberals proposed three cheers, which were given by the great majority, accompanied by the groans of the minority. A number of “beery” individuals struggled to the front, and were a source of annoyance to the speakers throughout. A few minutes before three o’clock the Mayor arrived in state, preceded by his sergeants-at-mace, and accompanied in his carriage by Mr. C. J. Palmer, who acted as his solicitor for the occasion. When his Worship appeared in the balcony the Blues, for some reason, commenced hissing him, much to the disgust of several of the leading gentlemen of the Liberal party, who protested against such unseemly proceedings. We may state, before attempting to report the numerous speeches that were delivered, that during the whole of the proceedings—more especially when it was the turn of the Conservatives to speak—the crowd was exceedingly disorderly, and by their loud shouting and groaning rendered most of the speakers inaudable to persons a few yards distant from them. The Mayor was grossly insulted at the commencement, and as the proceedings progressed several fights were got up, and the interference of the police was frequently required. Anything more unreasonable and unreasoning than the majority of the crowd it would be impossible to conceive, and when the nomination closed there did not seem to be any person in the balcony opposed to the opinion of the Mayor—that the “whole thing was a farce.” One side of the question was not heard at all, and the majority shouted without knowing what about. This was singularly illustratedduring the speech of Mr. Watkin, when that gentleman took upon himself the functions of the returning-officer, by calling upon the crowd for a show of hands, which, singularly enough, was against him. Mr. Watkin said, “All those that don’t want me to go to the poll, hold up their hands.” A forest of hands was exhibited to the great amusement of the Conservatives, who cheered the result. Mr. Watkin then told his friends that they were mistaken, and having explained the mistake to them, assuring them that they were too intelligent to vote him down, he took another show of hands, which was in his favour. We shall be excused for commenting upon the proceedings here; but the disorder and noise was so great that, as most of the speakers could not be heard, we are necessitated to do it, in order to make our report intelligible. From the beginning to the end “noise” had it in numbers; but in fighting the honour seemed to be with the Reds, who exhibited considerable proficiency in the pugilistic art. The crowd, which was very closely packed, was divided into two sections, the Blue and the Red, the former having about ten to one of the latter. At times both sections were very ill-behaved, but their misconduct was kindly overlooked by the whole of the speakers except Mr. Watkin, who took the liberty of designating the minority of the “people” as “scoundrels” and “ruffians.” These polite designations appeared likely to stir up the ill-blood of the people, inasmuch as four or five fights immediately commenced, in one of which an unfortunate fellow sustained a severe fracture of the proboscis, and it was not until the Mayor had, to use a significant local word, “checked” Mr. Watkin, and warned him against the violent nature of his harangue, that comparative order was restored. The fights in question are deserving of notice. One began between a female, whose bonnet was trimmed with yellow ribbon, and a stout man in a blue guernsey. Gallant Reds and Blues rushed into the affray, doubtless with the object of protecting the woman, and there was every probability of a general set-to. The Mayor, however, directed the police to interfere, and the contest was suppressed, with apparently no worse results than the infliction of a few disagreeable blows on the frontispieces of the combatants. The other fights were of less importance; but altogether this display of pugnacity had the effect of causing the outside portion of the crowd to run away from what they considered to be danger. Other fights, as will be seen from the report, also occurred. One feature in the general noise was much remarked by the gentlemen on the balcony, and as it was amusing we notice it. A half drunken beachman or fisherman, just sofar gone as to be witty, but who was unmistakeably a Blue, planted himself in front of the balcony, and by his extraordinary shouting succeeded in making himself heard above the surrounding tumult. There was some natural humour about this fellow, and the way in which he shouted excited the laughter of the Mayor and both parties on the balcony. The man shouted until the veins grew large in his forehead; he jumped and screamed—he laughed and waved his hat, and others laughed with him—indeed, for a time all laughed with him; he was in a state of ecstacy or violent enthusiasm. It was difficult for a time to make out what the man meant, but at length he was understood, and his fun was appreciated. Sir E. Lacon wears a full moustache, and so does Sir H. Stracey, and those hirsute ornaments were the objects of this excited individual’s enthusiasm. He laughed and shouted—his voice being heard above the murmur of the crowd,—for fully an hour,—“The beard! the beard! will nobody shave him? A shave! a shave! Fetch a barber! fetch a barber!—(Loud laughter.)—A clean shave! A shilling for a razor! a razor! a razor! O Lord, a clean shave,” &c. Ultimately the man climbed to the top of a post, and threw his hat into the face of a railway porter; the porter ran to him and struck him in the mouth two or three times, with a force that evidently astonished him, and as his scream then became somewhat distressing, he was ignominiously removed to the outside of the crowd. Many other noticeable incidents occurred, which will be found mentioned in our report. But there is one circumstance which did not altogether develop itself at the meeting, that we feel compelled to notice. Society, from experience, knows that the prude is the loudest and severest advocate of virtue; but, as Josephus has remarked, “Every man will think of this as it seemeth good unto him.” We have noticed the Gorleston voters, we have recorded the boastings and professions on both sides, and we have ventilated rumours which have been so far well founded. The incident we are about to mention we can vouch for; it is possible, should circumstances necessitate it, of being proved. On the Wednesday evening, mob law, intimidation, corruption, “the screw,” and all the worst elements of electioneering were resorted to; and we regret to say that the parties who most publicly exhibited themselves as disorderlies were persons whom we won’t classify, but who cried out, “Down with Lacon and Stracey” and “Three cheers for Watkin.”
“THE TIN CANISTER.”
A report had been “current that a mysterious old gentleman hadarrived from somewhere with a tin canister full of sovereigns, and from the way in which he was dressed it was generally supposed that he was either a Russian or a Shrewsbury man come for the purpose of bribery. “Said person,” as the Yankees say, was seen in the rear of the balcony at the Crown and Anchor, defying anybody to penetrate the secret of his identity, but occasionally winking and ejaculating, with an occasionally eructory sound, the words, “All right—in for Watkin.” This strange gentleman departed in the evening, minus, it is said, the canister. We will now pass over the irregularities of the story, and give you the words of our informant, whose high standing and character place him beyond suspicion:—“I had attended the Yarmouth nomination, and took my railway seat, at 8.40 p.m. for Norwich. There were two or three gentlemen in the first-class compartment in which I had placed myself; and one gentleman was a peculiar sort of mysterious individual. After eyeing the party well, the gentleman gravely said, “Both sides are buying, I’m afraid, at Yarmouth.” One of the party doubted the assertion, but the ancient traveller smiled and said, “No, no.” Further explanations took place, until at length our interesting fellow-traveller volunteered this remark, after a feeler from one of the party, “You know I came down from Manchester yesterday, to see my particular friend W—. Deuced clever fellow—one of the best railway men in the country. He did wonders for the Manchester and Lincolnshire line, and if we get him in we shall expect him to be one of the best railway men we have.” One of the party asked, “Are you a Yarmouth voter, sir?” Old Traveller: “No, but I wished to see my friend W— on very particular business, and so I just came down to Yarmouth to see how his election was getting onas well, and to add my mite of influence.” This, perhaps, will account for the story of the tin canister. The rest we shall leave to the report.”
Mr. J. Cherry proposed, and Mr. R. Dumbleton seconded Sir E. H. K. Lacon.
Mr. R. Hammond proposed, and Mr. J. Owles seconded Mr. Watkin.
Mr. E. H. L. Preston proposed, and Mr. S. C. Marsh seconded Sir H. J. Stracey,
And Mr. J. W. Shelly proposed and Mr. P. Pullyn seconded Mr. Young.
The show of hands was in favour of Messrs. Watkin and Young, whereupon a poll was demanded for Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey.
May 4th.—The poll had been taken in Wards as follows:—
Lacon.
Stracey.
Watkin.
Young.
St. Nicholas’
97
89
76
71
Market
117
113
100
99
Regent
112
108
91
88
St. George’s
102
94
89
84
Nelson
166
153
119
106
St. Andrew’s
105
102
93
88
Total
699
659
568
536
But it was stated that “there were many cases of bribery, and the defeated party threatened a petition against this ‘return.’”
May 7th.—Between £500 and £600 had been promised as subscriptions to that end.
There had been a fashionable ball at the Town Hall.
The Norfolk Artillery Militia had left for Sheerness.
Miles Swiney had been shot in the side by one of the Louth Rifles on the North Denes.
May 11th.—It had been proposed to raise a Yacht Club, Mr. H. Morgan acting as Treasurer, and £100 had been subscribed for the purpose. (N.B.—This was the starting of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club.)
Meetings of electors had been held to promote the petition.
May 18th.—The petition was “likely to reveal a ‘highstate of political morality in the Borough.’”
May 21st.—Contains the Lord Lieutenant’s proclamation as to the formation of Rifle Corps.
May 25th.—A few persons were talking of raising one of such corps at Yarmouth, but no active steps had been taken in regard thereto.
May 28th.—On the Queen’s Birthday, the Mayor had given a luncheon and ball at the Town Hall.
The testimonial “consisting of silver candelabra, &c.,” and the Corporation address had been presented to Bishop Hills at the Town Hall. Some 250 persons were present, amongst whom were—Messrs. C. J. Palmer (who presided at the luncheon), Brightwen, C. Aldred, S. Aldred, Sir E. Lacon, M.P., Reynolds, Nash, C. Cory, R. Hammond, F. Worship, W. Worship, E. Frere, F. Palmer, F. Ferrier, T. Brightwen, Captain Holmes, Dr. Smith, Rev. Nevill, Johnson, &c.
June 1st.—Contains the following report of a
“MEETING TO ESTABLISH A VOLUNTEER RIFLE CORPS.”On Friday, a meeting, called by the Mayor, was held at the Town Hall, to take into consideration certain communications which his worship had received from General Peel, the Secretary at War, and Lord Leicester, the Lord Lieutenant of the County. There was a very numerous attendance. Amongst the gentlemen present were—Sir E. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Lieutenant Colonel Beckham, Captain Naylor, Captain Holmes, Rev. J. B. Bampton, Rev. T. Lowe, Messrs. J. H. Orde, F. Worship, W. Worship, W. Yetts, S. C. Marsh, C. C. Aldred, C. J. Palmer, E. H. L. Preston, J. Clowes, Foreman, &c.The Mayor stated that he had called the meeting in consequence of communications he had received from General Peel and the Lord Lieutenant, and in compliance with a requisition which he had received, and which was signed by seventy gentlemen. He read General Peel’s letter and the requisition. He had prepared no resolution or anything of that sort, but should leave the gentlemen assembled to propose anything they might think proper.Mr. W. Worship said the subject upon which they had been called together was one upon which there could be no difference of opinion—(hear, hear)—and in order to put the proceedings into a practical form, he should move that a committee be appointed, which would include Sir E. Lacon and Mr. Orde.Mr. R. Ferrier said he had much pleasure in seconding the motion, and he hoped it would be understood that, although they were forming a military corps, such men as himself might be allowed to contribute to the expenses which would be incurred in its formation. There were, doubtless, many men in the town who could afford to pay for the accoutrements and give up the necessary time; but there was also in the town a fine class of men, in every way eligible, who could not afford that. It was, therefore, in assisting the latter class that such men as himself could be useful. (Hear, hear.) He should be glad himself to pay the annual expenses of some man who could not afford to do it himself; and had no objection to put his name down at once for £10 a year. (Hear, hear.)Mr. S. C. Marsh said he did not wish to interrupt the proceedings; but before they formed the committee he thought they should, by some resolution, declare it desirable to form a Rifle Corps. (Hear, hear.) Having decided to form a corps, the next step would be to form a committeeto carry out the necessary arrangements. He was sure Englishmen would respond to the offer that had been made them to allow themselves to form volunteer corps for the defence of the country. Norfolk had never been behindhand in the manifestation of patriotic feeling, and he hoped that would not be the case on this occasion. Yarmouth had before shown what she could do for the Governments of England and the defence of the country, and he hoped she was prepared to do something now. (Hear, hear.) He begged to move “That it is expedient to establish a Volunteer Rifle Corps for Great Yarmouth and its vicinity.”Mr. Ferrier seconded.—Carried unanimously.Sir E. Lacon, M.P. said he thought it highly essential that a town like Yarmouth should take a stand and come forward at once in obedience to the proclamation that had been issued by the Queen. They must all put their shoulders to the wheel, and wherever they saw a fine young fellow who was a likely man for the corps, if he did not come forward they must ask him to do so. The duty they had to do that day was very slight indeed, but for his own part, he would say that he should give the movement all the encouragement that he possibly could. (Hear, hear.) He should now move that a committee be appointed, with power to appoint a sub-committee, and with directions to go round the town and see what force could be got up. (Hear, hear.) Yarmouth was a large town it was true, but there were also districts around it out of which to draw much assistance; but he certainly thought it would be desirable to take in the Flegg Hundreds and the Island.Mr. J. Clowes said there were many men in the town who, from age and other causes, would be unable to serve in a rifle corps, but who would be very desirous of taking part in the defence of our shores—men who were too old to sleep all night in the marsh ditches, or under hedges. (Laughter.) For that class of men, he thought there should be an Artillery Corps, as many of them, though not fit to take the field, would be ready to man a gun or work a battery.The Mayor said it was out of the scope of the present meeting to discuss an Artillery Corps.Mr. Orde said Government had intended that they would sanction and approve the formation of Artillery Corps.Mr. Marsh’s motion was then put and carried.Sir E. Lacon, in answer to Dr. Stephenson, said it would, no doubt, be a desirable thing to have a mounted Rifle Corps, only they could not get the horses, and if they could get them, many would be unable tokeep them, besides which he should object, unless he wished to see some of them killed, to their mounting horses. (Loud laughter.) But he might say that, at an agricultural dinner, where he was the other day, he heard the farmers express themselves strongly in favour of a mounted force in the Fleggs and the Island.Mr. C. J. Palmer suggested that all who wished to support the corps, either by serving in it or by their subscriptions, should come forward and put down their names at once. (Hear, hear.)The Mayor said he would take down the names of any gentlemen who wished to join the corps. When they saw who were willing to join, they might name a committee, and appoint some gentleman to act as secretary. That being done, the future conduct of the movement would remain with the committee.The following gentlemen then gave in their names as members of the corps:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, M.P., Sir H. Stracey, M.P., Lieutenant-Colonel Beckham, S. C. Marsh, C. J. Palmer, B. Jay, R. Ferrier, W. Worship, F. Palmer, F. Worship, W. J. Foreman, W. C. Reynolds, S. Aldred, Dr. Stephenson, J. H. Orde, G. Harvey, G. Baker, Rev. J. B. Bampton, H. Teasdel, J. W. Bunn, Captain Holmes, C. Brown, J. Tomlinson, H. R. Harmer, G. Diver, H. H. Barber, J. Franklin, E. Fyson, J. B. Stevens, J. Playford, G. B. Costerton, H. Teasdel, T. P. Burroughs, Ambrose Palmer, A. W. Morant, Rev. T. Lowe, and J. Clowes.Mr. R. Ferrier moved that the foregoing be appointed a committee to carry out the arrangements for establishing the corps, with power to appoint a sub-committee; and that Colonel Beckham be requested to act as honorary secretary.The motion was carried unanimously, and the book containing the list of names was ordered to be left at the Police-station during the ensuing week, to give persons desirous of joining the corps an opportunity of entering their names.The proceedings then concluded.
“MEETING TO ESTABLISH A VOLUNTEER RIFLE CORPS.”
On Friday, a meeting, called by the Mayor, was held at the Town Hall, to take into consideration certain communications which his worship had received from General Peel, the Secretary at War, and Lord Leicester, the Lord Lieutenant of the County. There was a very numerous attendance. Amongst the gentlemen present were—Sir E. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Lieutenant Colonel Beckham, Captain Naylor, Captain Holmes, Rev. J. B. Bampton, Rev. T. Lowe, Messrs. J. H. Orde, F. Worship, W. Worship, W. Yetts, S. C. Marsh, C. C. Aldred, C. J. Palmer, E. H. L. Preston, J. Clowes, Foreman, &c.
The Mayor stated that he had called the meeting in consequence of communications he had received from General Peel and the Lord Lieutenant, and in compliance with a requisition which he had received, and which was signed by seventy gentlemen. He read General Peel’s letter and the requisition. He had prepared no resolution or anything of that sort, but should leave the gentlemen assembled to propose anything they might think proper.
Mr. W. Worship said the subject upon which they had been called together was one upon which there could be no difference of opinion—(hear, hear)—and in order to put the proceedings into a practical form, he should move that a committee be appointed, which would include Sir E. Lacon and Mr. Orde.
Mr. R. Ferrier said he had much pleasure in seconding the motion, and he hoped it would be understood that, although they were forming a military corps, such men as himself might be allowed to contribute to the expenses which would be incurred in its formation. There were, doubtless, many men in the town who could afford to pay for the accoutrements and give up the necessary time; but there was also in the town a fine class of men, in every way eligible, who could not afford that. It was, therefore, in assisting the latter class that such men as himself could be useful. (Hear, hear.) He should be glad himself to pay the annual expenses of some man who could not afford to do it himself; and had no objection to put his name down at once for £10 a year. (Hear, hear.)
Mr. S. C. Marsh said he did not wish to interrupt the proceedings; but before they formed the committee he thought they should, by some resolution, declare it desirable to form a Rifle Corps. (Hear, hear.) Having decided to form a corps, the next step would be to form a committeeto carry out the necessary arrangements. He was sure Englishmen would respond to the offer that had been made them to allow themselves to form volunteer corps for the defence of the country. Norfolk had never been behindhand in the manifestation of patriotic feeling, and he hoped that would not be the case on this occasion. Yarmouth had before shown what she could do for the Governments of England and the defence of the country, and he hoped she was prepared to do something now. (Hear, hear.) He begged to move “That it is expedient to establish a Volunteer Rifle Corps for Great Yarmouth and its vicinity.”
Mr. Ferrier seconded.—Carried unanimously.
Sir E. Lacon, M.P. said he thought it highly essential that a town like Yarmouth should take a stand and come forward at once in obedience to the proclamation that had been issued by the Queen. They must all put their shoulders to the wheel, and wherever they saw a fine young fellow who was a likely man for the corps, if he did not come forward they must ask him to do so. The duty they had to do that day was very slight indeed, but for his own part, he would say that he should give the movement all the encouragement that he possibly could. (Hear, hear.) He should now move that a committee be appointed, with power to appoint a sub-committee, and with directions to go round the town and see what force could be got up. (Hear, hear.) Yarmouth was a large town it was true, but there were also districts around it out of which to draw much assistance; but he certainly thought it would be desirable to take in the Flegg Hundreds and the Island.
Mr. J. Clowes said there were many men in the town who, from age and other causes, would be unable to serve in a rifle corps, but who would be very desirous of taking part in the defence of our shores—men who were too old to sleep all night in the marsh ditches, or under hedges. (Laughter.) For that class of men, he thought there should be an Artillery Corps, as many of them, though not fit to take the field, would be ready to man a gun or work a battery.
The Mayor said it was out of the scope of the present meeting to discuss an Artillery Corps.
Mr. Orde said Government had intended that they would sanction and approve the formation of Artillery Corps.
Mr. Marsh’s motion was then put and carried.
Sir E. Lacon, in answer to Dr. Stephenson, said it would, no doubt, be a desirable thing to have a mounted Rifle Corps, only they could not get the horses, and if they could get them, many would be unable tokeep them, besides which he should object, unless he wished to see some of them killed, to their mounting horses. (Loud laughter.) But he might say that, at an agricultural dinner, where he was the other day, he heard the farmers express themselves strongly in favour of a mounted force in the Fleggs and the Island.
Mr. C. J. Palmer suggested that all who wished to support the corps, either by serving in it or by their subscriptions, should come forward and put down their names at once. (Hear, hear.)
The Mayor said he would take down the names of any gentlemen who wished to join the corps. When they saw who were willing to join, they might name a committee, and appoint some gentleman to act as secretary. That being done, the future conduct of the movement would remain with the committee.
The following gentlemen then gave in their names as members of the corps:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, M.P., Sir H. Stracey, M.P., Lieutenant-Colonel Beckham, S. C. Marsh, C. J. Palmer, B. Jay, R. Ferrier, W. Worship, F. Palmer, F. Worship, W. J. Foreman, W. C. Reynolds, S. Aldred, Dr. Stephenson, J. H. Orde, G. Harvey, G. Baker, Rev. J. B. Bampton, H. Teasdel, J. W. Bunn, Captain Holmes, C. Brown, J. Tomlinson, H. R. Harmer, G. Diver, H. H. Barber, J. Franklin, E. Fyson, J. B. Stevens, J. Playford, G. B. Costerton, H. Teasdel, T. P. Burroughs, Ambrose Palmer, A. W. Morant, Rev. T. Lowe, and J. Clowes.
Mr. R. Ferrier moved that the foregoing be appointed a committee to carry out the arrangements for establishing the corps, with power to appoint a sub-committee; and that Colonel Beckham be requested to act as honorary secretary.
The motion was carried unanimously, and the book containing the list of names was ordered to be left at the Police-station during the ensuing week, to give persons desirous of joining the corps an opportunity of entering their names.
The proceedings then concluded.
June 8th.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club had held its first meeting on Breydon Water, and subsequently the members (who appeared in Club uniform) dined at the Club House (Norfolk Hotel), when the healths of Colonel Wilson, Commodore; F. Brown, Esq., Vice-Commodore; Mr. Everitt, of Cove Hall, (father of the Club); Mr. Scott, Aylsham, and others were duly honoured.
Mr. Bradnum’s shop at Gorleston had been struck by lightning.
June 11th.—Mr. Mellor, Q.C., M.P. for Nottingham, had presented the petition against the return of the M.Ps.
June 15th.—The Mayor and the Town Clerk had had a serious “difference of opinion,” and the former gentleman had declined to accept the “amende honorable” tendered him by the latter.
It was stated that some 60 persons were ready to join the Rifle Corps.
June 18th.—The paper had opened a branch office at No. 31, King Street, Great Yarmouth, with Mr. Clarke as correspondent.
Lord Chelmsford, before resigning the seals, had appointed Mr. Francis Worship, Mr. John Clarke, and Mr. E. P. Youell, Magistrates for the Borough.
June 22nd.—A meeting had been held at St. George’s Hall, (Mr. Harrison in the chair), for the purpose of taking steps to advertise the town.
Forty invalid soldiers had arrived at the Royal Naval Hospital.
June 29th.—There now appeared to be two petitions lodged against the return of Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey, one signed by Mr. John Clowes (solicitor), and the other by Mr. Bayly (surgeon) and Mr. Pilgrim (draper).
A meeting of the first Company of Volunteers had been held at Crowe’s Sale-rooms. This body now numbered 90 men, the second Company having 56 members. Mr. Dumbleton occupied the chair, and Mr. Marsh having explained the position of affairs, the following gentlemen were elected officers:—Mr. Marsh (captain), and Mr. Foreman (first), Mr. Brown (second), and Mr. Preston (third) Lieutenants.
July 2nd.—The second Company had met at the Angel. Major Nesbitt presided, and the following officers were elected:—Mr. Orde (captain), Mr. E. P. Youell (Lieutenant), and Mr. J. Tomlinson, jun., (ensign).
There were from 8,000 to 10,000 persons on the Piers, Drive, &c., on Sunday evening.
July 6th.—Mr. Mellor had given notice that he should call attention to the state of the Yarmouth Bench of Magistrates.
The following cricket match had been played on the South Denes:—
Mr. Overend’s Side.
Mr. Willis’ Side.
Mr. Lawry
7
Mr. Ling
1
Mr. Jackson
3
Mr. Borlase
5
Mr. Fenner
1
Mr. Ellis
0
Lieutenant Townley
12
Mr. Larke
0
Mr. Ablitt
7
Mr. Clarke
2
Mr. Overend
7
Mr. Willis
1
Mr. Cocks
0
Mr. Davey
8
Mr. Edwards
0
Mr. T. B. Stevenson
17
Mr. Baker
0
Mr. Tewsley
4
Dr. Stephenson
4
Mr. Stolworthy
0
Mr. Wright
4
Mr. Green
0
Byes
2
Byes
5
Wides
2
Wides
5
Total
41
Total
48