by the council of that body, being then in favour of a fixed duty, but he said that since that time he had rejoiced in the progress which had been made in pressing for unconditional repeal. After Mr. Wilson's gratifying statement of progress, the meeting was addressed by Mr. Milner Gibson, M.P., Mr. William Ewart, M.P., the Rev. Mr. Baker, of Stockport, and myself.
December 22nd. Meeting in the Corn Exchange, exceedingly crowded. The chairman reported that an influential committee had been formed in the city of London, over which Mr. Travers presided, and another at the west and, over which Mr. Charles P. Villiers presided. An important meeting, of nearly 2,000 persons, had been held in Hanley, on the Thursday of the previous week, Mr. Ridgeway in the chair, which was addressed Mr. Cobden, Mr. Bright, Colonel Thompson, and Mr. Moore. On Monday, a large tea party had been held at Bury, followed by a meeting, addressed by Mr. Cobden, Dr. Bowring, Mr. Brotherton, Mr. Moore, and others, and a subscription entered into which amounted to £800. A tea party had been held on Tuesday, at Bilston, at which Mr. R. R. Moore was present. On Wednesday, there had been a meeting, at Dudley, which was addressed by Mr. Bright and Mr. Saul. On the same day, there was a tea party at Ironbridge, Shropshire, at which Mr. Moore was present. Amongst other subscriptions received, Mr. Wilson mentioned one of £50 from the Earl of Radnor, and one of £50 from Earl Ducie. Mr. Hickin read letters, giving a most encouraging account of progress, and Mr. Isaac Crook stated that £1,850 had been subscribed in Liverpool. Mr. Brotherton and Mr. Cobden then addressed the meeting, the latter at great length, and with most encouraging effect.
December 29th. Meeting at the Corn Exchange. Mr. Wilson, in opening the proceedings, said:—
