Page:History of the Anti corn law league.pdf/427

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HUDDERSFIELD AND DUNDEE.
411

says the Leeds Mercury, "was one of high importance, not only for the dignity and benevolence of the object contemplated, but for the enthusiastic spirit manifested by the assembly of both sexes, of the first respectability, extensive in numbers, and intelligent and influential in its character." More than 600 persons sat down to tea, and more than double that number would have been present had it been possible to provide accommodation. William Brooks, Esq., was called to the chair. W. R. C. Stansfield, Esq., M.P., moved: "That this meeting regards the laws which prevent the free importation of corn as the chief cause of the deep, long-continued, and increasing distress under which the nation suffers, and looks to the total repeal of those laws as the safest, shortest, and most effectual remedy. The deputation from the League consisted of Mr. Cobden, Mr. Bright, and Mr. H. Ashworth, of Bolton, who successively addressed the meeting. J. T. Clay, Esq., of Eastrick, after moving a resolution pledging the meeting to promote the raising of £50,000, handed to the chairman, on behalf of his uncle, who was unable to attend, a cheque for £300. Mr. F. Schwann handed his cheque for £50, which he said he had saved by being a "teetotaler." A Voice—" I wonder if Mr. Wm. Brook will do the same." Mr. Brook "I will." Messrs. Geo. Mallinson & Son, and George Crossland & Son, followed with £50 each, and other contributions poured in till they amounted to nearly £1,000.

On the 28th November, a meeting of the Dundee Anti-Corn-Law Association was held, Mr. Edward Baxter in the chair, at which resolutions were passed, approving of the plans of the League. Lord Kinnaird said that the farmers had a good right to complain, for the present pernicious system held out a premium to the worst kind of cultivation, and a succession of white crops exhausted the land. His lordship proceeded to contrast the mode of farming in England with that universally, and with such good effects,