Chapter XVI: Preface (15)

12.--The last stage of the agitation for making Norwich a port was commenced on this date, when Major Peel presented a petition in the House of Commons from the Mayor, Aldermen, and inhabitants of Norwich in favour of the Norwich and Lowestoft Navigation Bill. The Bill having been read a second time, entered the Committee stage on February 21st, when Mr. Alderson opened the case on behalf of the promoters; the examination of their witnesses concluded on Feb. 27th. The case for the opposition was commenced on the same day, and the evidence concluded on March 7th. In the division on the question "that the preamble of this Bill is proved," there were 25 ayes and 5 noes. Peals were rung on the church bells at Norwich when intelligence was received, on March 8th, that the Bill had passed through Committee, and Mr. Crisp Brown, on his return from London, on the 9th, was met at St. Stephen's Gates by a large number of citizens, who, headed by a band of music, drew his carriage to his residence in King Street. On March 11th the Bill was reported to the House, and on the 22nd it was read a third time and passed. On the same evening it was read a first time in the House of Lords; it passed its second reading on March 26th, and was referred to Committee, who took evidence on May 7th, and on the 22nd it was read a third time and carried without opposition. The news of the final success of the measure was received in Norwich with great rejoicing. On the 23rd a procession was organized to meet the promoters on their arrival from town. The Times coach, by which they travelled, was met at Harford Bridges, and at St. Stephen's Gates the horses were removed from the vehicle, which was dragged in triumph through the city, preceded by bands of music and by men carrying models of ships and naval emblems. At night a bonfire was lighted in the centre of the Market Place, and was fed with wooden spouts, palings, and watch-boxes. Some of the ringleaders were lodged in clink, but their comrades rescued them and threw the clink doors upon the bonfire. Sheep were roasted in Ber Street and Bishop Street. The Bill received the Royal assent on May 28th. The first meeting of the proprietors of the Norwich and Lowestoft Navigation Company was held at the Guildhall, on July 3rd, when Col. Harvey presided. Mr. Edmund Newton was appointed clerk, Mr. Cubitt engineer, and Messrs. Harvey and Hudson treasurers. The work of excavation was begun in the Lowestoft section on September 4th, when Mr. Crisp Brown dug the first spadeful of earth, and a dinner and aquatic sports were held to celebrate the event.

17.--Died at Wymondham, aged 69, Mr. Thomas Troughton, who was Sheriff of Norwich in 1810.

19.--Mr. William Smith, in the House of Commons, presented a petition from the inhabitants praying leave to bring in a Bill to regulate the state of the poor in Norwich. The Norwich Court of Guardians Amendment Bill was brought in and read a first time on March 1st. On March 24th it was stated that the promoters of the measure had effected a compromise with the Court of Guardians as to the proportion of representation; persons assessed 10 pounds and upwards were to have two votes, and those above 5 pounds one vote; the Recorder, Steward, and Aldermen not to be Guardians; the hamlets not to be assessed on stock, but the proportion of assessment between them and the city to be five-sixths--_i.e._, when the city was assessed 1s. the hamlets were to be assessed 10d. The Bill went through Committee of the House on the 26th, and was reported on the 28th. It was read a first and second time in the House of Lords in April, finally passed on May 4th, and received the Royal assent on May 28th. The first election under the new Act took place on June 11th, and the first meeting of the new Court was held on June 20th, when Mr. Anthony Hudson was elected Governor, and Mr. Joseph Geldart Deputy-Governor.

19.--The _Crim. Con._ case, Sir Jacob Astley, Bart., _v._ Capt. Garth, was tried in the Court of Common Pleas, when a verdict was given for the plaintiff, damages one shilling.

20.--A cricket match was played on the ice at Diss Mere. It commenced at 10 a.m., and was well contested until dusk, in the presence of about 1,500 spectators.

24.*--"Died last week, at Kenninghall, aged 105, Mrs. Sarah Barham."

--"Died at Yarmouth Mr. Nathan Fenn, in his 101st year."

--A detachment of the 12th (Prince of Wales') Royal Lancers marched into Norwich Barracks from Hounslow, under the command of Capt. Cunnyngham.

25.--Died at Norwich, aged 101, Thomas Greenfield, gardener.

26.--Major Peel presented in the House of Commons a petition from the Chancellor and Prebendaries of Norwich Cathedral, and from the Archdeacon and clergy of Norfolk, against further concessions to the claims of Roman Catholics.

MARCH.

3.--Died at Costessey Hall, the Rev. Lawrence Strongitharm, aged 31, formerly of the Roman Catholic church, St. John Maddermarket, Norwich. "To great learning and a highly gifted mind, to the most elegant and refined manners, and to the most powerful and commanding eloquence he added a most fervent and unaffected piety and undying zeal for the furtherance of religion." His remains were interred on the 9th, before the altar in the chapel of St. John Maddermarket.

8.--"Two celebrated amateurs of fashion," the Hon. W. Berkeley and the other "a military man," appeared in the parts of Othello and Roderigo at Norwich Theatre. They afterwards appeared as Romeo and Mercutio, and in other characters.

9.--Died Adam Burrell, many years carrier between Flitcham and Lynn. "The deceased was rather an eccentric character, and often designated as 'Adam Slow,' as he usually occupied six or seven hours going from Flitcham to Lynn, a distance of about 10 miles. He was, however, a very honest and inoffensive man."

10.--Particulars were published on this date of the Norfolk and Norwich Joint Stock Banking Company, of which Mr. Samuel Bignold was managing director. The capital was advertised as 200,000 pounds, and the bank had branches at Lynn, Swaffham, Dereham, Foulsham, and Harling.

17.*--[Advt.] "Marshland Shales. The well-known trotting stallion, Marshland Shales, will be sold by auction on Tombland Fair-day, unless previously disposed of by private contract. This is the horse which on August 3rd, 1810, trotted 17 miles in 56 minutes, carrying 12 st. 2 lb., and was then sold by auction for 305 gs. For particulars apply, if by letter post-paid, to Mr. Moneyment, veterinary surgeon, Norwich."

19.--A large portion of the city wall at Richmond Hill Gardens, Norwich, fell into the Bracondale Road, from the effects of a violent gale on the 17th.

--Died, aged 59, Mr. Edward Dewing, of Guist. He was out hunting with his hounds when he was seized with a fit of apoplexy and dropped from his horse. During a second attack he expired.

22.--Sixty-five prisoners for trial at the Lent Assizes at Thetford were escorted from Norwich Castle to that place by men of the Norfolk Yeomanry Cavalry.

31.*--"Lately died at Wicklewood, Mrs. Mary Spraggs, aged 100."

--*"Died lately, Mrs. Catherine Mann, aged 102."

APRIL.

1.--A newly-erected malthouse, belonging to Mr. W. Hardy, at Letheringsett, was destroyed by fire. The building was 150 feet by 40 feet, and contained 90 last of malt, a considerable quantity of wool, barley, and empty casks. "The engine from Holt did not arrive until after the roof fell in, the people supposing the alarm of fire to be only an April hoax."

2.--The annual election of Common Councilmen commenced at Norwich. "For several years 'cleansing week' has passed off without any serious contests, and the 'Purple and Orange' party has held uninterrupted ascendency in three of the great wards since 1820. All at once, however, the 'Blue and Whites' have roused themselves from their inaction, and again entering the field of party warfare, have succeeded in displacing their opponents. It is useless to deny that the week's proceedings have been marked by undisguised bribery and corruption, and that the object of the triumphant party has mainly been achieved by superior weight of metal--by dint of money."

10.--Died at his residence in London, aged 78, the Marquis of Cholmondeley, of Houghton Hall, Lord Steward of his Majesty's Household, &c.

13.--Died, aged 82, Mr. Daniel Clark, of Norwich. "He was in the commercial establishment of Messrs. Ives for nearly 70 years and was justly esteemed in nautical and musical communities. To the last his song was cheerful and his convivial good humour unabated, and many a head must lie as low as his before the name of 'Admiral' Clark will be forgotten, or his memory ceased to be cherished with respect."

14.--The Norwich Cricket Club announced that a lease had been taken of a field at Lakenham, "without Ber Street Gates, and nearly opposite Lakenham Terrace," and that the ground had been "laid down with fine turf by Mr. Bentley, of Lords." The secretary of the club was Mr. Henry Hobart, solicitor, of Bethel Street.

22.--Died at Harleston, aged 66, Mr. Robert Paul, formerly of Starston, "well known to agriculturists for several ingenious inventions and for his inquiries into the nature, history, and habitudes of the turnip fly and wireworm."

MAY.

1.--Four candidates were nominated for the Mayoralty of Norwich, namely, Alderman Peter Finch, who received 918 votes; Alderman Yallop, 867; Alderman J. S. Patteson, 566; and Alderman C. Brown, 565. At the Court of Aldermen on the 3rd Mr. Finch was elected Mayor.

3.--Newspaper reporters were for the first time admitted to the assembly of the Norwich Corporation.

9.--Died at Margaretta Farm, Clenchwarton, aged 83, Dr. Charles Browne, for many years physician to the King of Prussia. On his return to England his Majesty conferred upon him the Order of the Red Eagle as a mark of his esteem. Dr. Browne was a man of high literary attainments.

24.--The bounds of St. Peter Mancroft, Norwich, were perambulated. "It gave rise to those scenes of vulgar mirth for which occasions of this kind are used as an excuse for indulging in with impunity. We never remember the ducking system carried to such lengths. The Rev. J. Bowman, in the early stage of the proceedings, was on Hay Hill drenched from head to foot. The pail which a fellow had in his hand (and which had been filled with water from an adjoining pump) being dropped at his feet, he accidentally fell over, but fortunately escaped without any serious injury. The company afterwards met for dinner at the Angel Inn."

29.--The Bishop of Chichester, acting on behalf of the Bishop of Norwich, held a visitation at Lynn and confirmed 1,400 persons at St. Margaret's church, and 620 at St. Nicholas' chapel. The number confirmed at Holt was 1,120; at Fakenham, 1,800; at East Dereham, 1,100; and at Hingham, 803.

JUNE.

4.--Mr. Bolton, formerly coach proprietor and landlord of the Norfolk Hotel, Norwich, was driving between Melton Mowbray and Stamford when his horse ran away and overturned the vehicle. Mr. Bolton received severe injuries, from which he died on the 10th.

12.--A serious riot occurred at Norwich. A party of Wymondham weavers, who had damaged looms and destroyed silk to the value of 1,000 pounds, at Ashwellthorpe, had been conveyed to Norwich Castle for examination. The witnesses were brought to the city in hackney coaches, escorted by a detachment of the 12th Lancers. The Norwich weavers, who had barricaded the Golden Ball Lane entrance to Castle Meadow with a waggon, and placed a similar obstruction near the Castle Bridge, received the military with a volley of stones. The witnesses were then conveyed by way of Timberhill to Orford Hill, and while a large body of special constables displaced the waggon at the bridge, a second detachment of Lancers came from the Barracks, charged the mob at full gallop, and dispersed them in all directions. An attempted rally was frustrated by a second charge. The Militia staff were under arms on the Castle Hill, and the streets were patrolled by the Norwich light Horse Volunteers. At the Norwich Assizes, on August 11th, several of the rioters were indicted before Mr. Baron Garrow for assaults, and were discharged on entering into their recognisances. David Seeker, Henry Rix, and William Thurston were charged with the capital offence of riotously assembling together to the disturbance of the public peace. Mr. Cooper, for the defence, objected to the wording of the indictment. The words of the King's proclamation read at the time of the disturbance were "chargeth and commandeth all persons," &c.; the indictment said "chargeth and command"; and instead of directing the people to "depart to their lawful habitations _or_ to their lawful homes," the indictment said "_and_ to their lawful homes." The learned Judge pronounced the objection to be valid, and expressed the hope that the prisoners "would go home sensible of the blessings of Providence in having shielded them that day, and saved them from an ignominious death." The Ashwellthorpe rioters were bound over in the sum of 50 pounds each.

19.--Breakfast _a la fourchette_ with the Mayor-elect (Mr. Peter Finch) and luncheon with the Mayor (Mr. E. T. Booth), prepared the Sheriffs, Aldermen, &c., for the Guild Day proceedings at Norwich. The customary ceremonies were observed at the Guildhall, service was attended at the Cathedral, and 600 guests dined at St Andrew's Hall.

23.--The Surrey Gardens, Thorpe Road, Norwich, were advertised as a resort "for the reception of respectable families and invalids," where "pure air, unbounded prospects of land and water, refreshing fruits and odoriferous flowers" could be obtained. A military band played on Sunday evenings, from five to seven o'clock.

27.--The Bishop of Norwich confirmed at North Walsham church 1,280 persons. On one day in the previous week his lordship confirmed in Norwich Cathedral 1,100 persons.

30.--Died at Yarmouth, aged 87, Mr. Jacob Preston, senior magistrate of the borough. He was Mayor in 1793, 1801, and 1813.

--Mr. Yates gave his entertainment, "Portraits and Sketches," at Norwich Theatre. On subsequent evenings he was assisted by Mr. Brunton and Mrs. Yates (formerly Miss Brunton).

JULY.

25.--A well-contested prize fight took place at Bessingham, between Rix and Sharpens, for 5 pounds aside. The former beat his opponent, after fighting 78 rounds in 45 minutes.

AUGUST.

5.--A duel took place on Yarmouth Denes "between J--- B---, Esq., and W. M---, Esq., in consequence of a dispute the previous day at the Bath Rooms. Both were to fire at the same time, but on the signal being given Mr. M.'s ball did not take effect, and Mr. B.'s pistol missed fire. The seconds then interfered, and the affair was adjusted without much difficulty."

6.--Norwich Theatre was re-opened for the Assize week. "The return of Mr. Osbaldiston gave rise to scenes of disturbance which interrupted the progress of the performance for several evenings. A kind of set appears to have been made against him, but he has been warmly applauded by the respectable part of the audience."

6.--The Norfolk Cricket Club played the first of a series of matches which took place during the Norwich Assize week. The annual dinner was held at the Rampant Horse Inn on the 10th, under the presidency of Lord Suffield, and in the evening a ball was given at Chapel Field Rooms. The patronesses were the Countess of Albemarle, Lady Anne Coke, Lady Stafford, Lady Suffield, the Hon. Mrs. Wodehouse, Lady Lacon, and Mrs. Gurdon. "The waltz was introduced for the first time in the course of the evening, but a very select few appeared inclined to join in that rotatory movement."

28.--The election of freemen's Sheriff took place at Norwich; the candidates were Alderman T. O. Springfield and Lieut. Fred White, R.N. "As soon as the polling commenced, a ticket was given by the 'Blue and White' party, entitling the voter who chose to accept it to half-a-crown. Nothing was given on the side of the 'Purple and Orange,' Lieut. White having merely come forward in consequence of a requisition sent to him by the poor freemen and signed by upwards of 300 names." The poll was thus declared: Springfield, 1,210; White, 474. Lieut. White, in his subsequent address, wrote: "I consider my failure more honourable than to have gained the day by bribery and corruption. The 474 votes I obtained will at least rescue the character of a considerable portion of our fellow-citizens from the reproach of selling themselves to the highest bidder."

SEPTEMBER.

5.--The first stone of the new Roman Catholic chapel in St. Giles' parish, Norwich, was laid by the Hon. and Rev. Edward Clifford.

8.--Died, aged 74, at his house in St. Faith's Lane, Norwich, Mr. William Herring, 32 years an alderman of the city. He was the second son of the Very Rev. William Herring, D.D., Dean of St. Asaph.

12.--The election of an alderman to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Mr. Herring took place at Norwich. The candidates were Mr. Angell, "Purple and Orange," and Mr. Marshall, "Blue and White." Great excitement prevailed throughout the contest. "The 'Purple and Orange' party were informed in the course of the day that some of their friends had been carried off and were detained in a warehouse in St. Clement's. A magistrates' warrant was applied for and the captives set at liberty." At the close of the day the voting stood as follows: Angell, 215; Marshall, 195. The friends of the latter demanded that the poll be continued on the 13th, "because seven of Mr. Marshall's friends were detained at Ranworth against their will." The other side retaliated that eleven of their voters had been forcibly carried away by the "Blue and Whites." The Mayor deprecated the system that had been put in force, and adjourned the poll till 10 o'clock the following morning. The poll was finally declared as follows: Angell, 218; Marshall, 196. (_See_ September 24th.)

18.--A Musical Festival for the benefit of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital commenced at St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, and concluded with a ball in the same building on the 21st. The principals engaged for the oratorios and concerts were Madame Pasta, Miss Stephens, Miss Bacon, Miss Farrar, Madame Caradori Allan, Mr. Braham, Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Terrail, Mr. Edward Taylor, and Signor Zuchelli. Sir George Smart conducted. The total receipts amounted to about 6,400 pounds, of which 1,672 pounds 12s. 1d. was handed to the Hospital.

24.--An inquest was held by Mr. Bell, the Norwich Coroner, on the body of James Bailey, one of the persons who was forcibly carried away to prevent his voting at the Alderman's election on the 12th. "On the 10th he was taken away by the 'Blues and Whites' to Wroxham Castle public-house, the next morning removed to Horning Swan, afterwards taken to Smallburgh, and on the same night removed to Ridlington Plough. They wanted nothing for eating and drinking, but Bailey being very ill, suffered very much from being moved about." On his return to Norwich he was engaged to sell programmes at the Musical Festival, where he was in attendance from the 18th to the 20th. On the 22nd he broke a blood vessel and died. "His attendance at the Festival took the onus off his captors, and the jury returned a verdict of 'Died from the visitation of God.'"

28.--Mr. Samuel Stone was elected Speaker of the Common Council of Norwich, in the room of Mr. J. S. Parkinson, deceased.

29.*--[Advt.] "100 pounds Reward, and his Majesty's Pardon. Eight horses belonging to Mr. William Slack, of Norwich, died between the 25th August last and the 10th September, six soon after their return from Attleborough (one of the depots for horses drawing the London vans) to Norwich, one at Attleborough, and the other at Newmarket, and upon being opened it has been ascertained that they died by mineral poisoning, supposed to have been administered in water or in some liquid form. The Government offer the above reward."

--*"The week before last Mr. Meyer Levi, gold and silver smith, a converted Jew, together with Mrs. Hannah Levi, a converted Jewess, received the rite of Christian baptism at the hands of the vicar in the parish church of St. Stephen's, Norwich, when the Christian names of John and Hannah were given to the above parties, and at the same time they adopted the surname of Herbert."

OCTOBER.

6.--A number of silver coins, some of them bearing date 1577, were dug up by a gardener at Thorpe, who sold them for 30 pounds.

13.--The portrait of Mr. Henry Francis, Mayor of Norwich in 1824, was hung in St. Andrew's Hall. The artist was Mr. Lane, of Greek Street, Soho.

18.--Died at Costessey, Mrs. Anne Maria Teresa Vere, aged 100, sister of Mr. Charles Gosnold, formerly of Norwich.

20.--Killed at the battle of Navarino, aged 24, Lieut. George William Howe FitzRoy, R.N., of H.M.S. Dartmouth, second son of Lieut.-General the Hon. William FitzRoy, of Kempston Lodge.

NOVEMBER.

3.*--"At the auction mart last week Mr. Hoggart sold the well-known estate called St. Andrew's Hall, Old Buckenham, a fine mansion house, and 532 acres of land, at 29,300 pounds."

10.--It was announced that Mr. Smith, manager of Norwich Theatre, had taken of the patentee, Mr. Wilkins, a seven years' lease of that and the other houses in the circuit.

--Mr. Mathews commenced a three nights' engagement at the Assembly Rooms, Norwich.

17.*--"The expense of erecting the house of industry at Wicklewood in 1777 was defrayed by a tontine called the 'Forehoe Tontine,' consisting of 110 shares at 100 pounds each, bearing an interest of 5 pounds per cent. Fifty years have now elapsed, and in 1827 there are still 50 survivors out of the original number."

25.--Died at Prospect Place, Gorleston, aged 65, Mr. F. F. Hope, for 30 years paymaster of the East Norfolk Militia. "Previously he was an officer of the line, saw much service during the great American War, was at the siege of Yorktown in Virginia in 1781, and there taken prisoner by the combined Armies of France and America, with the whole of the British Army under Lord Cornwallis."

DECEMBER.

16.--The small organ in East Dereham church, mentioned by Dr. Burney in his "History of Music" as a curiosity, which was built by the famous Schmidt, in 1666, for the Hon. Roger North, of Rougham Hall, and purchased for the parish in 1786 for the small sum of 30 pounds, was, after enlargement under the direction of the Rev. R. F. Elwin, of Norwich, opened before a congregation of 1,600 persons, by Mr. Last, of Orford. The builder, Mr. Joseph Hart, of Redgrave, found that Schmidt's pipes were as sound as on the day they were finished.

--A boy of 13, named William Moore, was brutally murdered in a field at Brisley, by John Kenney, a lunatic, aged 24. The body was horribly mutilated. The prisoner was committed for trial on the Coroner's warrant, on the charge of wilful murder, and at the Lent Assizes, held at Thetford on March 21st, before Mr. Baron Garrow, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty, on the ground of the insanity of the accused.

22.*--[Advt.] "A main of cocks will be fought at the White Hart Inn, Swaffham, on Thursday, the 27th of December, 1827, for 50 guineas, between Mr. J. Farrer, of Necton, and Mr. G. Gould, of Swaffham. A very superior day's play is expected, as there are several other matches besides."

--*"Died lately, at Northrepps, Hannah Storey, in her 101st year."

--Lieut.-Col. Harvey, commanding the 3rd Regiment of Norfolk Yeomanry Cavalry, addressed a letter to the Marquis of Lansdowne, Secretary of State for War, detailing the services rendered by the regiment in quelling disturbances, &c., and expressing the hope that the Government would not order the disbandment of the corps. His lordship replied that he had not lost sight of the valuable services of the Yeomanry, but that the Barracks at Norwich were then, and were likely to continue, a station for regular cavalry, and consequently he was unable to accede to the request to continue the pay and allowance to the regiment.

24.--Died at Lynn, Samuel Pearson, a journeyman cabinetmaker, "who, in the intervals of his labour, acquired a deep knowledge of mathematics, and possessed the faculty of communicating his knowledge to others. He established a mathematical academy, which had every prospect of success."

29.--Miss C. Morgan's Menagerie was exhibited on the Castle Hill, Norwich.

--Great excitement was caused in Yarmouth by the discovery that upwards of twenty recently interred bodies had been removed from the churchyard by resurrection men. "The churchyard was quickly crowded by the population. Wives were searching for the remains of their deceased husbands, husbands for those of their wives, and parents for their children." Three men, Thomas Smith, _alias_ Vaughan, William Barber, and Robert Barber, were apprehended, and committed for trial at Yarmouth Quarter Sessions, whence, on April 1st, 1828, the indictment was removed by writ of _certiorari_ to the Court of King's Bench. The case was tried at Norwich Assizes, before Lord Chief Baron Alexander, on August 11th, 1828, when only Vaughan (or Smith) was proceeded against. Robert Barker turned King's evidence, and described the method by which the graves were robbed, and how the bodies were sent to London by the wain. A verdict of guilty was returned, and on November 14th, 1828, the prisoner was brought up for sentence in the Court of King's Bench. He urged that he was driven by poverty to the commission of the offence, and was sentenced by Mr. Justice Bayley to six months' imprisonment in the house of correction at Norwich.

31.--Miss Clark, a native of the city, commenced an engagement with her equestrian company at the Pantheon, Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich.

1828.

JANUARY.

4.--A grand concert, given at Wells Theatre, was attended by Earl Rosebery, Lord and Lady Bury, Lord Dalmeney, Viscountess Andover, Admiral Digby, Lady H. Primrose, the Hon. Misses Anson, the Hon. B. Primrose, &c. The programme opened with Haydn's "Surprise Sinfonia," and the _artistes_ engaged included M. Venna, Master Sporle, Madame Baur, and Mr. Barron. "Gentlemen amateurs" sang glees, and at the close of the concert a ball took place, at which 200 were present.

18.--A resurrection-man was shot in Bacton churchyard by a party of grave watchers. He was in the act of disinterring the body of one James Howlett, who was accidentally killed a few days previously. The resurrectionist, although badly wounded, effected his escape in the darkness.

23.--Norwich Theatre opened for the season with Mr. Smith as manager and lessee.

24.--Died, Mr. Martin Fountain, who was Sheriff of Norwich in 1812.

26.--Atkins' Menagerie was exhibited on the Castle Hill, Norwich.

31.--Lord William Bentinck addressed a circular letter to his constituents at Lynn, announcing his resignation as one of the members for the borough, in consequence of his appointment as Governor-General of India.

FEBRUARY.

4.--Lord George Bentinck was elected without opposition a member for King's Lynn. "No colours were worn, agreeable to the regulations of Lord John Russell's most sapient Act, and for which the ribbon-makers must feel highly indebted to him in depriving them of a source of consumption for an important branch of British manufacture of no inconsiderable extent."

5.--At a meeting of the Norwich Court of Guardians, a report was adopted in favour of altering the mulcts of the assessable property in each of the parishes and hamlets of the city. In the parishes the old valuation was 61,302 pounds; the new, 89,080 pounds; increase, 27,778 pounds--45 per cent. In the hamlets the old valuation was 19,722 pounds; the new, 21,487 pounds; increase, 1,765 pounds--about 9 per cent. At the vestry meetings in several parishes the new assessment was rejected--(1) on the ground of increased local and public burdens to which the citizens would be exposed by increased rent on such valuation; and (2) because of the disproportion of the assessment of the hamlets as compared with the assessment of the city at large. At a meeting of the Guardians on April 1st, a resolution was adopted declaring the mulct to be unequal, and advising that steps be taken to place it upon a fair and equitable basis.

8.--A "trial of speed" took place between the Westacre and Melton Constable hounds. "A noble stag stood before the hounds an hour and ten minutes, but from the numerous field, amounting at least to 400, the greater part of whom were shamefully riding the roads and heading the stag at every point, the sport was not brilliant. Through the greater part of the day the Westacre hounds took the lead, carried the best head, and did all the work; but from the jockeyship of Sir Jacob Astley's huntsman in continually lifting his hounds, and numerous horsemen pressing on them in the lanes and woods, so completely frightened the Westacre hounds, which are more timid and less accustomed to such crowds than the Melton, that most of them were thrown out and could not again recover their ground." The match took place in the neighbourhood of East Dereham.

12.--In the Court of King's Bench, Sir James Scarlett moved for a rule to show cause why a _quo warranto_ information should not be filed against Mr. Angell, of Norwich, for exercising the office of alderman without being properly elected thereto. "A very ancient custom," he said, "prevailed at Norwich on the election of aldermen, which he was sure would not, from its antiquity, receive their lordships' sanction. It was called the cooping of voters, and consisted of taking the voters by force in a body, bribing them, giving them drink, and keeping them locked up until they consented to vote for the party on whose side they had been taken." It was alleged that several of the supporters of Mr. Angell's opponent (Mr. Marshall) were waylaid, carried away by force in a coach, put on board a boat on the broads, and had persons placed over them as guards. If these persons had had their liberty, Mr. Marshall, it was contended, would have been elected. Lord Tenterden granted a rule to show cause. It was abandoned, however, on April 28th, and "the bells of St. Peter rang a triumphant peal on the result being known."

13.--A squadron of the 6th Dragoons arrived at Norwich Barracks, to replace the depot of the 12th Lancers.

23.--A man named Bailey did penance in the chancel of Yarmouth parish church for applying an opprobrious epithet to a Mrs. Jenner. "It being a very great novelty, there was a large assemblage of persons to witness the performance of the ceremony and to hear Bailey repeat his recantations, which continued for some time, but he did _not_, as generally supposed, stand in a white sheet."

MARCH.

5.--The election of a County Coroner took place at Norwich, consequent upon the resignation of Mr. C. Bringloe. Mr. E. Press, of Hingham, the successful candidate, polled 1,073 votes, as against 766 obtained by his opponent, Mr. Henry Hobart, Norwich.

17.--Died at his house in Surrey Street, Norwich, aged 68, Sir James Edward Smith, M.D., F.R.S., President of the Linnaean Society. He was born in Norwich December 2nd, 1759, proceeded to Edinburgh University in 1780, and completed his medical studies in London. In 1792 he had the honour of instructing her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Princesses in botany at Windsor. He married, in 1796, a daughter of Mr. Robert Reeve, of Lowestoft, and in 1810 received the distinction of knighthood. He was the author of "English Botany," and other works.

18.--Mr. Macready appeared at Norwich Theatre in the part of Virginius. On subsequent evenings he performed the characters of Macbeth and William Tell.

22.*--"Died at Canton, in China, by falling overboard, Henry, son of Mr. Alderman Thurtell, of Norwich, master-at-arms of the Atlas Indiaman."

--*"Died at Yarmouth, Mr. David Service, aged 52, the well-known author of the 'Caledonian Herd-boy' and many other poetical productions of considerable merit."

24.--The ward elections commenced at Norwich on this date. "Five shillings a man had been given on each side from the commencement; but about eleven o'clock a placard was put out from the window of the 'Blue and White' (the Reformers') room, bearing the words, 'The Blues pay gold.' This alteration in the market was followed, about an hour afterwards, by a similar declaration from the 'Orange and Purples.' From this moment stock looked up; the price for the freemen altered from five shillings to half a sovereign, and a whole sovereign, and so on to sums of which we are not prepared to limit the extent. A whole club, consisting of 20 members, calling themselves 'the Independent Club,' was purchased in the lump by one of the 'Blue and White' candidates. The price first demanded was 5 guineas a man, but others allow they were knocked down at the price of 50 gs."

APRIL.

2.--Died, aged 106, Thomas Scrape. "He was the father of Mrs. Lovell, of the Lobster Inn, St. John Maddermerket, Norwich, and was born at Stalham in 1722, in the 9th year of the reign of George I. He had been often heard to speak of remembering as a child the illuminations on the occasion of the accession of George II. At the age of 105 this extraordinary old man presided at a large convivial party at his residence. His pipe was his constant companion, and he was often to be seen smoking and enjoying it at his daughter's house, where his latter days were rendered comfortable."

3.--Tombland Fair, Norwich, was ushered in by a severe snowstorm. "The Banisters, the Samwells, the Chipperfields, the Adamses, and a host of other ornaments of the vagrant stage for daylight gauds and the practical wit of buffoons displayed themselves in imposing array." The only "rational" exhibition at the fair was Atkins' Menagerie.

5.--A vessel, named the Lord William Bentinck, was launched from the shipyard of Mr. Frederick Preston, at Yarmouth. She was nearly 500 tons burden, and the largest ship, with one exception, ever built at the port.

7.--Ching Lau Lauro, "the celebrated posture master and buffo from Drury Lane," appeared at Norwich Theatre. On the 10th he performed in a harlequinade, entitled, "The Man in the Moon." "No viler tissue of nonsensical stuff could be foisted on the patience of an insulted audience. It had more revolting coarseness, and infinitely less ingenuity than ever characterised the worst puppet shows' clumsiest performers. 'Harlequin in the Shades' descended to the lowest vault of the Capulets, amidst universal hisses which such execrable trash deservedly called forth, in spite of Ching Lau Lauro swallowing his own head."

19.--The Norfolk County Cricket Club announced the completion of a new cricket ground at East Dereham, described as one of the best in the provinces.

25.--A remarkable whirlwind occurred at Gresham. "It came suddenly as in a moment from the south-west, accompanied by a roar like thunder, and taking a north-easterly direction towards Cromer, spent itself at sea. The extreme force of the whirlwind lasted scarcely three minutes, but in that time it completely ruined one William Watts, by rending the sails and stocks from his mill, lifting the whole fabric from off the post, and crushing the beams and inside works to pieces, together with the roof and walls of the round-house."

27.--Died at his house, Vauxhall, Lambeth, Mr. Thomas H. Hull, aged 74, "a gentleman well-known in Norwich and Norfolk for a great number of years, and where many of his beautifully-executed pictures remain as specimens of his superior talent in the miniature department of portrait painting."

MAY.

1.--Mr. Angell and Mr. Patteson were nominated for the Mayoralty of Norwich. Mr. W. Wilde nominated Mr. Alderman Thurtell, the senior alderman below the chair; and Mr. Alderman Yallop was also proposed. A poll was demanded, and the result was declared as follows: Thurtell, 1,144; Yallop, 1,148; Angell, 1,042; Patteson, 979. Application was made by Messrs. Angell and Patteson for the reopening of the books on the following morning, when the voting was: Thurtell, 1,210; Yallop, 1,212; Angell, 1,097; Patteson, 1,020. The Court of Aldermen subsequently elected Mr. Thurtell.

5.--A public meeting was held at St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, under the presidency of the Mayor (Mr. Finch), at which resolutions were passed affirming that it was objectionable to continue bounties on the export of sugar and prohibitory duties on the produce of Colonial free labour, by which slavery was supported at the expense of the British public. It was also decided to petition Parliament to repeal such bounties and duties, and to take measures to ensure the immediate alleviation and the ultimate extinction of British Colonial slavery. The petition, which was signed by 10,125 persons, measured 150 feet in length, and was presented in the House of Commons by Mr. William Smith.

6.--A new theatre was opened at North Walsham by Mr. Fisher, with the performance of the comic opera, "Sweethearts and Wives," and the musical farce of "The Turnpike Gate."

8.--Died at Tittleshall, Mr. Thomas Riches, farmer, aged 69. "In his early life he for many years, by being pressed from Lynn, served his country at sea, and was in many distinguished actions. He was at Gibraltar, at the Chesapeak with Hood, in the same ship with our present Lord High Admiral, then a boy; and was in the Formidable (flagship) with Sir George, afterwards Lord Rodney, in the memorable battle of 1782, when M. De Grasse was taken. On his discharge and his return to his native county, he embraced farming for a livelihood, and always retained many of the peculiarities and superstitions of a sailor's life."

27.--The first seaborne vessel from London to Norwich port direct, the Thames steam packet, Capt. John Morley, arrived at Carrow Bridge. She was of 120 tons burden, 82 feet in length, and handsomely fitted up for the accommodation of passengers. The duration of her voyage was 28 hours.

--The Norwich Corporation decided to rebuild Fye Bridge of iron, in accordance with the plans of Mr. Stone. The foundation-stone of the new bridge was laid by the Mayor (Mr. Thurtell) on June 2nd, 1829.

JUNE.

9.--Mr. Kean, jun., made his first appearance at Norwich Theatre in the character of Romeo. During his engagement he appeared also as Jaffier ("Venice Preserved") and Felix ("Hunter of the Alps"). "It is difficult, indeed, to imagine," says the critic, "what besides an irresistible _penchant_ for the stage and an hereditary attachment for the most elevated dramatic work, could have induced this gentleman to choose the profession of a tragedian. Of a stature rather below the middle size, and with a countenance that forms no index of the heroic mind, the younger Kean seems studious of displaying all those peculiarities of attitude, action, and intonation which we have been accustomed to regard rather as defects than as excellencies in his justly celebrated father. The genius of the elder Kean does not shine forth in his son."

--A prize-fight took place between Warren and Cocks, light weights, for 50 pounds a side. The gathering, which was at Mattishall, was attended by many of the principal gentry in the county, and by several members of the London ring, including Phil Sampson (conqueror of Big Brown), Dick Curtis, Tom Oliver, Frank Redmond, Ned Stockman, and Frosty-Faced Fogo, "the Poet Laureate of the Ring." The combatants met in a meadow belonging to Mr. Petchell, but a magistrate interfered, and a move was made to Elsing Common, where the fight was brought off. Cocks was attended by Ned Painter and Ben Gale, and Warren by Curtis and Redmond. Forty-one rounds were fought in 56 minutes. Cocks, who won, threw his man 23 times in the first 25 rounds.

17.--Guild Day was celebrated in Norwich. Mr. Alderman Thurtell, on being sworn in as Mayor, stated that he stood in rotation for the office in 1818, and to his utter astonishment the late Mr. Back was put in nomination and elected. "I thank God," he added, "I have had nerve enough to break all connection with a set of men who have acted with so much duplicity and injustice towards me." The Guild feast at St. Andrew's Hall was attended by 460 guests.

24.--Died, Captain John Murray Browne, of the 75th Regiment, aged 36, only son of the Rev. M. Browne, Minor Canon of Norwich Cathedral, and grandson of Dr. John Murray. Capt. Browne, who was drowned while fishing on a Lake near Mullingar, had been in the Army from his youth, and served throughout the Peninsular War. He was the author of a work entitled, "The State of Portugal, by an eyewitness."

26.--Died at Hingham, suddenly, Charles Alexander, aged 23, "an excellent cricketer, and the fastest length bowler in the county."

JULY.

4.--A severe storm occurred in the Dereham, Fakenham, and Cromer districts. Unsettled weather prevailed until the 13th, when the lower parts of Norwich and the meadows and marshes above and below the city were flooded. Much meadow hay was swept away, and the grain crops beaten down.

8.--Twenty-three mackerel luggers contested for a subscription purse of 100 pounds, at Yarmouth. The race, which took place in the Roads, was won by the Brothers (Capt. John Ayres), owned by Messrs. R. and B. Fenn.

9.--An inter-county cricket match, Norfolk _v._ Lincolnshire, was commenced at East Dereham. Scores: Lincoln, 110; Norfolk, 74-30. At the conclusion of the first day's play, a dinner, presided over by Lord Suffield, and attended by eighty-six ladies and gentlemen, was given at the Assembly Rooms; and on the 10th a grand ball took place in the evening.

12.--The following statement was published of the number of benefits, with the gross receipts, at Norwich Theatre during the period of 22 years, ending 1828:--

Number of benefits. Gross receipts (pounds). 1807 15 1090 1808 17 1870 1809 18 1540 1810 20 1610 1811 21 1890 1812 23 2140 1813 23 1970 1814 25 1940 1815 23 1890 1816 19 1250 1817 15 1050 1818 14 1360 1819 14 1320 1820 17 1410 1821 20 1670 1822 21 1620 1823 22 1720 1824 23 1690 1825 22 1900 1826 25 1760 1827 21 1450 1828 23 1430 441 85070

16.--At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, Mr. T. W. Coke, M.P., gave notice that at the ensuing October Sessions he would move "that reporters for the newspapers be admitted into the Grand Jury Chamber when the magistrates assemble there at Quarter Sessions for the despatch of the business of the county." The motion was discussed on October 17th, when, after three hours' debate, the Court divided, with the following result: For the motion, 46; against, 45.

22.--Died at Stalham, aged 103, Isabella Perowne.

25.--A Jews' Synagogue was opened in the parish of St. George, Tombland, Norwich.

26.--The announcement was made that the Norwich Cricket Club had "engrafted an archery branch" on their own "excellent establishment." The members of the Archery Club were permitted the use of the Norwich Cricket Ground on certain days.

AUGUST.

4.--Died at the Deanery, in his 83rd year, the Very Rev. James Turner, D.D., F.S.A., Dean of Norwich, Master of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, and rector of Sudbourne and Orford, Suffolk. He was installed Dean of Norwich on June 24th, 1790. His remains were interred in the Cathedral on August 12th. Dean Turner was succeeded by the Hon. and Rev. George Pellew, Prebendary of Canterbury and of York, and third son of Lord Viscount Exmouth. Dean Pellew was installed on December 13th.

11.--A libel action, Maitland _v._ Kinnebrook, was tried at the Norwich Assizes, before Lord Chief Baron Alexander. The plaintiff was an attorney living at North Walsham, and the defendant one of the proprietors of the "Norwich Mercury." The libel, which the defendant admitted, was contained in a letter published in the "Mercury." The plaintiff had provoked and carried on a newspaper correspondence, and because the defendant published the replies of adversaries of the plaintiff's own creation, the plaintiff sued him for damages, which the jury assessed at one farthing.

--Exchange Street, Norwich, was first opened to the public. There was no communication, however, with St. Andrew's Street, and it was not until April, 1829, that operations were commenced for the removal of the old buildings at the north end of the new thoroughfare. That portion of the street was opened to the public on May 21st, 1832; and public business was for the first time transacted in the Post Office erected there, on June 25th, 1832.

--The members of the Norfolk and Suffolk Institution, the new title by which the Norwich Society of Artists established in 1805 was known, celebrated the opening of their new gallery in Exchange Street by dining at the Norfolk Hotel, under the presidency of Mr. J. B. Crome, with Mr. Stark in the vice-chair. The first exhibition in the new gallery was opened on the 13th, and was visited in state by the Mayor, Sheriffs, and Aldermen.

26.--Mr. George Grout was elected freemen's Sheriff at Norwich.

SEPTEMBER.

1.--Mr. William Martin, a native of Norwich, and the painter of the two large pictures in St. Andrew's Hall--"The death of Lady Jane Grey" and "Queen Eleanor, Consort to Edward I.," was lodging in indigent circumstances at the Trowel and Hammer public-house, St. Stephen's, whence he issued a circular on this date, asking for subscriptions for two engravings--"Interior of an English Cottage Home" and "Children going to bed." The Corporation, on February 24th, 1829, voted him a grant of 100 guineas.

12.--Died at his seat at Terrington, near Lynn, in his 91st year, Sir Andrew Snape Hamond, Bart., a post-captain in the Royal Navy, formerly Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Nova Scotia, and subsequently Commodore and Commander-in-Chief in the River Medway. He was many years Comptroller of the Navy, twice member of Parliament for Ipswich, and one of the Brethren of the Trinity House.

29.--The ceremony of swearing in the Sheriffs of Norwich was performed at the Guildhall, amid a scene of great disorder. The windows of the lower court had been screwed down, to prevent persons entering by that way before the arrival of the magistrates. The court was crowded, the heat intolerable, and the Mayor (Mr. Thurtell) ordered the windows to be broken. Upon the Sheriffs-elect, Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Grout, presenting themselves, the latter was objected to, on the ground that he was not a freeman; and Mr. Stevenson declined to serve unless he received legal indemnity from his colleague. The Recorder (Mr. Alderson) disposed of the legal difficulty in Mr. Stevenson's case, but the uproar was so great that an adjournment had to be made to the Aldermen's Chamber, where the Town Clerk administered the oath to Mr. Grout, notwithstanding a protest by Col. Harvey. At a meeting of the Common Council, on October 2nd, a notice signed by eight of the "Purple and Orange" Aldermen was read, intimating that any act done by the Council would not be valid, as one of the Sheriffs was improperly elected. They therefore declined to attend the meeting. The Mayor complained that he was being set at defiance, and threatened to appeal to a higher power. On November 8th a motion was made in the Court of King's Bench, to show cause why an information in the nature of a _quo warranto_ should not be filed against Mr. Grout, to show by what authority he exercised the office of Sheriff; the Court granted a rule _nisi_. On February 24th the Corporation unanimously conferred on Mr. Grout the freedom of the city. The case, after being several times before the Court, was finally disposed of on June 28th, 1830, when Mr. Justice Bailey delivered judgment, and said that the Court were of opinion that it was essential to the validity of election to the office of Sheriff that the individual chosen should be a freeman. Judgment of ouster was therefore entered. Retaliatory proceedings were taken in the Court of King's Bench by the other political party against Mr. Alderman Patteson for holding the office of Treasurer of the city, and against Mr. Alderman T. S. Day, for acting as Corn Inspector. A rule _nisi_ was obtained against Mr. Patteson on May 30th, 1829, and was made absolute on July 4th, after that gentleman had resigned the treasurership.

29.--The 6th Inniskilling Dragoons marched from Norwich for Chesterfield and Manchester.

OCTOBER.

6.--A troop of the 12th Lancers arrived at Norwich, from Canterbury.

7.--Died, aged 72, at New York, Mr. John B. Murray, eldest son of Dr. John Murray.

9.--Died, aged 74, at his residence, in Carlow, Major John Beevor, formerly of the 9th Dragoons, and for 30 years inspecting-officer of Yeomanry Cavalry in the districts of Waterford and Wexford. He was second son of Sir Thomas Beevor, of Hethel.

11.--The Norwich Corn Exchange, "one of the finest edifices of its kind in Europe," was opened to the public. "Mr. Riches, merchant, of Norwich, bought of Mr. Riches, of Thorpe, the first sample of corn (barley) in the new building, for which he gave 18s. 6d. per coomb." A commemorative dinner was held in the Exchange on November 28th, at which Mr. T. W. Coke, M.P., presided, supported by the High Sheriff (Sir W. B. ffolkes), Lord Lyndock, Lord Neville, Lord Suffield, Mr. Edmond Wodehouse, M.P., and other prominent personages.

18.*--"The proprietors of the Norwich Cloth Establishment have taken a contract for supplying the two battalions of Portuguese troops lately formed at Plymouth out of the refugees from that distracted country with jackets and trousers. These troops are intended to accompany the young Queen of Portugal, whither she will shortly proceed to claim the Crown."

25.*--"The portrait of Mr. Alderman Francis, painted by Lane, was hung in St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, this week."

--*"Died lately at Wimbotsham, near Downham Market, aged 52, Mr. William Henry Ware, many years composer of music, and director of the orchestra at Covent Garden Theatre, and one of the masters of the Royal Academy, Woolwich."

29.--Died, at his son's house, in Southampton Street, Bloomsbury, aged 79, Mr. Luke Hansard, many years printer of the Journals, private Bills, &c., of the House of Commons. "He was born at Watton, served his apprenticeship with Mr. White, printer, of Norwich, was afterwards an assistant of the late Mr. John Crouse, who originally established the NORFOLK CHRONICLE in the year 1761, and had ever since been a much attached and valued friend of all his successors."

NOVEMBER.

3.--The following curious incident was recorded as having taken place at Tunstead on this date. A Chelsea pensioner was about to be married to a widow, and "early in the morning the parties, accompanied by three witnesses, repaired to the cross-ways in the road a short distance from the village, where the intended bride crossed the road _in puris naturalibus_, and was received on the opposite side by the bridegroom, who entertains the idea that by the due performance of this ceremony he is discharged from all liability of paying the debts of the former husband."

4.--Lord Neville, rector of Berghapton, sent a letter to the NORFOLK CHRONICLE, denying a statement made by Mr. Cobbett, at a dinner at Maidstone, that he (Lord Neville) was "rector of a parish in Norfolk and at the same time enjoyed half-pay as a captain of Dragoons." His lordship wrote: "I admit being rector of a parish in Norfolk, but I assure you upon my word that a considerable time before I took orders I resigned my commission, and consequently ceased from that time to enjoy either half or full pay."

9.--The King's letter, "authorising collections to be made for the building and enlarging of churches and chapels (instead of by briefs, as formerly)," was read in the churches in the city and county.

15.--A hamper conveyed by Messrs. Marsh and Swan's London van from King's Lynn, was found to contain the dead body of a young woman, supposed to have been taken from a grave at Lynn.

--*"Mr. Suckling's beautiful yacht, the Marmion, has lately arrived at Buckenham Ferry, to be laid up for the winter. In December last she was laid down and built upon his estate at Woodton, under his immediate plans and directions, and in May last dragged from thence upon a sledge to the water's edge at Carrow Bridge, to the surprise of the natives, who assembled in great number. She dropped down the river and boldly cleared out to sea, on her passage to London, which voyage, though blowing very fresh, she performed much to the satisfaction of those on board. She afterwards went to Calais, made two journeys to Holland, and sailed many times up the canals."

29.--Mr. B. H. Norgate was elected assistant-surgeon of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, in the room of Mr. Henry Carter, previously elected surgeon, on the resignation of Mr. Martineau.

--Died at his house in St. Giles' Street, Norwich, aged 72, Mr. John Hammond Cole, an Alderman of the Great Ward of Mancroft. He was Sheriff in 1797; Mayor in 1811; Receiver of Stamp Duties, Treasurer of the Boys' and Girls' Hospital, and of the Norwich Dispensary, and Treasurer and Secretary of the Norfolk and Norwich Savings Bank.

DECEMBER.

1.--Died at New York, aged 64, Mr. James Valentine Murray, third son of Dr. John Murray, of Norwich.

4.--The Norwich Brunswick Constitutional Club, "for preserving the integrity of the Protestant Constitution, and upholding the principles which placed the House of Brunswick upon the Throne of these realms," was formed at a meeting held at the Norfolk Hotel.

6.--Died, aged 48 years, Capt. Sir William Hoste, Bart, R.N., K.C.B., eldest son of the Rev. Dixon Hoste, of Godwick Hall. "He was among the many brave youths from this county on board the Admiral's flagship, the Vanguard, at the memorable battle of the Nile."