Chapter XXII: Preface (21)

9.--The Norwich Town Council adopted, on the motion of Mr. Barwell, a memorial to the Board of Trade in favour of the establishment of a school of design.

11.--A Committee of the House of Commons commenced the hearing of the petition of Isaac Wiseman and others against the return of the Hon. Robert Campbell Scarlett and the Marquis of Douro, as members for the city of Norwich. The principal allegations were bribery and corruption and the improper keeping of the poll. On May 12th, after an examination of the poll-books, the Committee passed the following resolution:--"That Arthur Wellesley, commonly called the Marquis of Douro, is duly elected; that Robert Campbell Scarlett is not duly elected; and that Benjamin Smith is duly elected, and ought to have been returned." The Orange and Purple Club, at a meeting held at the Norfolk Hotel, on May 30th, under the presidency of Mr. W. J. Utten Browne, voted an address to Mr. Scarlett, acknowledging the services he had rendered to the Conservative cause.

18.--At a meeting of the Norwich Town Council, Mr. Brightwell moved that a petition be presented to the House of Commons in favour of a national system of education. The proposed petition stated that "every individual in the country in early life, without regard to sect or party, should be afforded the opportunity of obtaining the elements of useful knowledge and an acquaintance with the sacred Scriptures." Mr. Barwell seconded. Mr. Seppings moved, as an amendment, the insertion of the clause: "Your petitioners pray that you will not sanction any schemes of education which do not include with the daily reading of the Holy Scriptures a full measure of religious instruction based upon the Word of God, nor any general system of national education which does not secure the careful assistance and superintendence of the National Church." The amendment was negatived, and the original motion adopted.

24.--At Norwich Theatre was performed for the first time a drama entitled, "The Siege of Lynn." Another new piece was produced on May 31st, called "Pickwick, or the Sayings and Doings of Sam Weller."

26.--John Folker, a mariner, who had seen much active service, died at Lynn at the age of 86. "He was the only survivor of the many Lynn seamen who fought in the memorable battle of April 12th, 1782, when the British Fleet, under the command of Sir George Bridges Rodney (afterwards Lord Rodney), engaged and defeated the French Fleet, under Count de Grasse, in the West Indies. Folker steered Admiral Rodney's flagship through the whole of that eventful conflict. He was buried in St. Margaret's churchyard, and was carried to the grave by six seamen on a bier over which was the Union flag, supported by six naval warriors who had served on board the British Fleet."

JUNE.

2.*--"It was Mr. George Borrow, formerly of this city, who was arrested in Spain for publishing the Testament in Spanish and the translation of the Gospel of St. Luke into the gipsy language, but was liberated at Sir George Villiers' request. Count Ofalia declared that Mr. Borrow had been discharged from his confinement with unspotted honour and reputation. He, moreover, ordered the policeman on whose evidence he had been arrested to be punished, and promised the expenses should be paid by the Government."

17.--Upwell church was opened after restoration. The Bishop of Norwich, who preached the sermon, referred to "the boundless munificence of the Rev. W. Gale Townley, through whose exertions and mainly at his expense had been produced one of the most richly ornamented edifices in the kingdom."

19.--Pockthorpe Guild was held at Norwich. "The annual amusements took place, and the 'Mayor,' upon taking office, delivered an address on the green at Patteson's Cellar House, to the effect that he would endeavour to remove the duty off tea and sugar, which was received with great cheering. The evening terminated with the accustomed sports, as climbing the greasy pole, grinning through collars, and a variety of other entertainments. The celebration of the anniversary of Pockthorpe Guild can be traced as far back as the year 1772."

28.--The Coronation of Queen Victoria was celebrated in Norwich with great rejoicings. At half-past ten the Mayor and members of the Corporation assembled at the Free School, and proceeded thence to the Cathedral, where the sermon was preached by the Rev. Samuel Stone, the Mayor's chaplain, from the text, "And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther iv. 14.) The "Hallelujah Chorus" was rendered. At noon a troop of the 4th Dragoon Guards, under Major Makepeace, formed up in the Market Place "and fired a _feu de joie_ with their pistols, and afterwards gave three cheers, flourishing their drawn swords above their heads in honour of the Queen." The officers then retired to the Guildhall, where the Mayor, in the presence of a large company, proposed the Queen's health. The parishioners of St. Peter Mancroft entertained, at the Corn Exchange, 750 poor persons, and similar feasts were given to the poor of other parishes. One thousand workpeople employed at the Yarn Factory dined in ten parties at ten public-houses, and formed afterwards an imposing procession, with Mr. Bignold at their head. In the evening the city was illuminated, and there was a grand display of fireworks in the Market Place. The Mayor entertained 160 guests at dinner at Chapel Field House, and the members of the Orange and Purple Club dined at the Theatre, "which, by throwing a flooring of boards from the stage over the pit, was converted into a commodious banqueting room. In the background was a drop scene, giving a view of St. Andrew's Hall on a banqueting day." Mr. W. J. Utten Browne presided, and many ladies who graced the gathering by their attendance were provided with seats in the dress circle. Similar celebrations took place at Yarmouth, Lynn, and other towns in the county. Every village commemorated the event, "and everywhere it was a joyous day, for

The squire's wide hall
And the cottage small
Were full of good English cheer."

On the 29th the Corporation of Norwich held a special meeting, and voted an address to the Queen, "after a long and angry debate, in consequence of the address containing sentiments in which the Conservative party could not concur." The result was the framing of another address, signed by 5,000 freemen, freeholders, and citizens, praying her Majesty "to preserve inviolate the Union between Church and State."

28.--The Norwich Race Meeting, called on this occasion the "Coronation Races," took place on Mousehold Heath, and was attended by 30,000 spectators.

JULY.

6.--At the county magistrates' meeting, at Norwich, a resolution was adopted for the erection of a new Shirehall at Swaffham, and at the meeting on October 9th a committee was appointed to further the scheme, which was estimated to cost 1,750 pounds. On January 4th, 1839, the justices ordered the carrying out of plans prepared by Mr. Browne, the cost not to exceed 2,141 pounds.

7.*--"A handsome boat, completely fitted out as a phaeton, has been built by Mr. Philip Neale, of St. Giles's Gates, and is now exhibited to the public. It is built for a sporting gentleman, and is capable of containing bedding and luggage, the fore part being enclosed by hatches, and altogether of a novel description."

11.--A meeting of Norwich camlet weavers was held at the Green Hill Gardens, for the purpose of hearing a report from the deputation sent to Yorkshire by the union to enquire into the truth of the statement of the employers with reference to the cause of the reduction of wages, namely, the great quantity of camlets manufactured in and exported from Yorkshire. It was resolved, after hearing the deputation, "that the proposed reduction was perfectly unnecessary, and that they were determined to support a strike by all legal means in their power." The business of Mr. Robberds was obstructed by persons being prevented from taking work at reduced prices. On August 27th a number of weavers complained to the magistrates that they had been subjected to intimidation on proceeding to work at Mr. Robberds', and on the 29th they were escorted to the factory by a large force of police. The military were held in readiness in case of disturbance. In consequence of work having been cut from the looms, the houses of all the weavers were strongly guarded.

19.--Mr. Owen, of New Lanark, expounded "his visionary projects for the new organization and classification of society," in a series of lectures which commenced at St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, on this date.

23.--A remarkable case of body-stealing came before the Norwich magistrates. Mary Maxey, the widow of John Maxey, complained that Mr. George Perowne, a veterinary surgeon, practising in the parish of All Saints, had gone to her house during her absence and removed the body of her husband, who died on July 8th. On the 12th she saw the body at Mr. Perowne's, where the deceased had formerly worked; and on the 14th she saw it again, but the heart had been taken out and the corpse otherwise "cut and hackled." On the 15th, accompanied by the mourners, she went to take the body away for burial, but Mr. Perowne drove them out of the yard with a gun, alleging that the corpse was his property, and that he had paid for it sixteen years previously. It was afterwards taken to the steeple of All Saints' church, where it remained without a shroud. Mr. Perowne was too drunk to appear at court on that day, but he was apprehended, and on the 24th taken before the magistrates, to whom he stated that he had purchased the body of the deceased during his lifetime, and contended that it was his property. He had "cut it up" in the interests of science. The magistrates reminded Mr. Perowne that his practice did not require a knowledge of the anatomy of the human body, and that his premises were not licensed for anatomical studies. Mr. Perowne replied that he was a member of St. Bartholomew's Hospital. The Bench committed him for trial at the Assizes, which were held on August 6th, before Mr. Justice Littledale, who said he understood that no bill would be presented in the case. The accused was called upon and formally discharged.

30.--Mr. Farren, of Drury Lane and Covent Garden, commenced a six nights' engagement at Norwich Theatre, as Lord Ogleby ("The Clandestine Marriage"). His other characters were Uncle Foozle, Sir Peter Teazle, Pierre Galliard ("The Soldier of 102"), Admiral Kingston ("Naval Engagements"), Robert Bramble ("The Poor Gentleman"), Odbody ("Advice Gratis"), Sir Abel Hardy ("Speed the Plough"), &c. Mr. Farren afterwards performed at Yarmouth Theatre.

--Violent hailstorms, accompanied by thunder and lightning, occurred in many parts of the county. At Cockley Cley great damage was done. "Pieces of ice as big as walnuts were found lying under the hedges next morning, and the turnips were out into shreds."

AUGUST.

1.--This being the day on which the "negro apprentices" of the West Indies were admitted to freedom, the event was commemorated by a united prayer meeting, presided over by Mr. Alexander, at Prince's Street chapel, Norwich.

2.--A "foot-steeplechase" took place at Whitlingham. The competitors had to pass several times through the river. The event was chiefly remarkable for "the perfect deluge of base coin put in circulation by the swell mob from London." The landlord of Whitlingham Gardens alone took 4 pounds worth of bad silver. In the disturbance which ensued a constable named Hansell had his leg broken.

3.--The High Sheriff (Sir James Flower) arrived at Norwich to attend the Judges of Assize, Mr. Justice Parke and Mr. Justice Littledale. With Lady Flower he took up his quarters at the Norfolk Hotel, and, as at previous Assizes, dispensed hospitality with most ostentatious liberality.

13.--Died in Norwich, aged 38, Mr. Horatio Beevor Love, portrait painter.

17.--Died at her house in Surrey Street, Norwich, in her 96th year, Miss Elizabeth Lany, the last survivor of the three daughters and sole children of the Rev. Benjamin Lany, rector of Mulbarton. "On both paternal and maternal sides she was allied to some of the best families in Norfolk and Suffolk."

21.--A grand bazaar was held at the New Inn, Cromer, in aid of the fund for maintaining the "defence wall." After the sale "the jetty, the Victoria Parade (between the walls), and the cliffs were thronged with fashionable promenaders," and in the evening "120 ladies and gentlemen repaired to the New Inn ball room, where quadrilles and waltzes were got up."

28.--This was the hottest day of the summer. The thermometer stood at 83 degrees in the shade. A thunderstorm occurred in the evening, and Mrs. Roach, a schoolmistress at Wroxham, was killed by lightning. The weather on the 29th was cold, wet, and boisterous.

SEPTEMBER.

1.--A white sparrowhawk was shot in Lakenham valley.

6.--The "London Gazette" of this date contained the announcement that the Queen had granted to Mr. Isaac Preston, of Stanfield Hall, Recorder of Norwich, her Royal licence and authority to use the surname of Jermy, in lieu of that of Preston.

8.*--"A porpoise, weighing 1 cwt. and upwards, was lately taken at West Somerton, near the free staith adjoining lands occupied by Mr. H. M. Thompson. Its length was 5 ft. 3 in., and after being boiled it produced 5.5 gallons of oil. The distance from the sea is at least 25 miles."

10.--Mdlle. Placci gave an Italian concert at the Assembly Rooms, Norwich. She was assisted by Signor Paltoni, Signor Bogrey, Signor Puzzi (horn), and Mr. Harcourt (pianoforte).

12.--A public meeting was held in Surlingham parish church, presided over by the Rev. E. Day, rector of Kirby, in aid of the Church Missionary Society. Addresses were given by the Hon. and Rev. J. T. Pelham, the Rev. E. C. Brewer, Mr. W. Sparkes, and the Rev. J. Patteson. Similar meetings, some of a purely secular character, were held in parish churches at this date.

20.--Mr. Joseph Wiggins, a well-known and popular coachman, was presented, at the Norfolk Hotel, Norwich, with a handsome silver cup, "in testimony of the respect for his general good conduct during his dragmanship of eleven years on the Norwich and Lynn road."

21.--The Norwich fillover weavers passed a resolution "that the system of copying patterns from manufactured fillover work, as is now practised by Scotch manufacturers, is the principal cause of the depression of our branch of the manufacture, and loudly appeals to the Legislature for their interference."

24.--An extraordinary riot occurred at Stanfield Hall, the seat of Mr. Isaac Jermy. The mob, led by a person named Larner, who professed to be a claimant to the Stanfield property, took forcible possession of the mansion. The 4th Dragoon Guards were summoned from Norwich to aid the civil power. The intruder and his followers were expelled from the premises, and about 80 taken into custody and lodged in Norwich Castle. At the Norfolk Assizes, on April 13th, 1839, before Mr. Justice Vaugham, 70 of the accused were sentenced to one week's imprisonment, and the remainder to terms varying from three months to two months.

OCTOBER.

6.*--"A female specimen of the Peregrine falcon was lately shot by Mr. Walter Roper, of Norwich, whilst it was in the act of stooping at some pigeons at Duke's Palace Bridge. It is almost an unprecedented occurrence for a bird of retired habits like the peregrine, and so rare in Norfolk, to have been killed in the centre of a large city."

11.--During a gale in the night, 2,000 sail of ships sought refuge in Yarmouth Roads. "To supply their wants more than 3,000 pounds were laid out in Yarmouth on Saturday alone, and the butchers were obliged to kill every bullock, sheep, &c., that they could get."

15.--The Hingham Troop of Yeomanry Cavalry, commanded by Capt. Ives, were presented with a standard by the Lord Lieutenant of the county.

20.*--"The match trade, which for many years has been an excuse for begging, is likely soon to be ruined by the superior demand for lucifers for obtaining an instantaneous light, which are now selling at so cheap a rate. One tradesman alone in Norwich (Mr. Wiles, of Exchange Street) has had delivered this week by water and land carriage 20,000 boxes."

28.--The Chartist movement commenced in Norwich. Mr. J. R. Stephens, from Ashton, and Mr. Julian Harney addressed meetings in the Market Place in support of the "people's charter," which, amongst other things, demanded universal suffrage, annual Parliaments, the ballot, and the non-property qualification for members of Parliament. On the 29th a meeting was held at St. Andrew's Hall, the use of which was granted by the Mayor.

NOVEMBER.

5.--A meeting was held at Yarmouth in furtherance of the movement for decreasing the hours of shop assistants. The employers were asked to close their shops at eight o'clock from Michaelmas to Lady Day, and at nine in the summer months, except on Saturday, when they should close at ten o'clock in the evening. Like meetings were held at Norwich and Lynn.

9.--Mr. John Marshall was elected Mayor of Norwich, and Mr. Henry Woodcock appointed Sheriff.

10.--The completion of the building of the new chimney of the Yarn Factory near Whitefriars Bridge, Norwich, "was celebrated by a band of music placed on the top playing national airs and 'God save the Queen,' accompanied by the workmen joining in chorus, when a flag was hoisted and several guns fired from the top. The shaft is 165 feet high, with a coping of cast-iron weighing upwards of 4 tons." The builders were Mr. Everett Cattermoul and Mr. C. Darkins.

22.--Tom Allen, "the faithful servant of Lord Nelson," died at Greenwich Hospital. He was born at Burnham Thorpe, in 1764, and joined the Navy in 1793. He first served on board the Agamemnon, under the command of Captain Nelson. After the death of Nelson, Allen entered the service of Sir William Boston, R.N., at Costessey, and by the influence of Sir Thomas Hardy, one of the Lords of the Admiralty, was enabled to end his days at Greenwich.

24.--Died in Norwich, Mr. James Lambe, aged 56. "He was well known to the managers of the Festivals and to many musical people as a noted and accurate copyist. His endowments were not of an ordinary kind. He was a ready versifier, with considerable humour and some share of imagination. With the works of Shakespeare, Milton, and the poets of Queen Anne's time he was intimately acquainted. He had lived on terms of familiarity with Crabbe, to whom he had acted as amanuensis. Like many other sons of genius, he had endured the extremes of poverty; but under every privation and under many temptations he uniformly preserved his cheerfulness and his integrity. His latter years were passed in comparative comfort, through the kindness of a professional gentleman, who gave him constant employment."

26.--North Walsham was lighted with gas for the first time, in celebration of which a band of music paraded the town and a dinner took place at the King's Arms Inn. The gas works were erected by Mr. John Malem.

--The sloop Volharden, of Flushing, with a crew of nine hands, was brought into Yarmouth Roads by the Badger Revenue cutter, Lieut. R. Perceval, R.N., on suspicion of smuggling. Spirits in large quantities were found on board. Two of the crew were sentenced to six months' imprisonment by the Yarmouth magistrates on December 7th. Lieut. Perceval recommended them to mercy, on the ground that they had rendered valuable assistance to the Badger when she was in difficulties, and the sentences were commuted to three months' imprisonment.

DECEMBER.

3.--A fine specimen of the little bustard was shot in a turnip field at Old Buckenham.

--Cushing and Smith, Norwich pugilists, seconded by Cricknell and Perowne, fought 13 severe rounds on Mousehold Heath. Throughout Cushing had the advantage of his opponent, and won.

6.--The Royal Amphitheatre and Circus at the Pantheon, Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich, opened for the season, under the management of Mr. Atkins. In addition to the circus performance, equestrian spectacles, ballets, "musical soirees," and comic pantomimes were produced.

14.--The "London Gazette" of this date contained the announcement that the 4th Royal Irish Dragoons, a portion of which regiment was then stationed in Norwich, had permission to wear upon their standards and appointments the harp, crown, and star of the most illustrious Order of St. Patrick.

18.--Died in Friar's Street, Lynn, Mrs. Ann Larner, aged 100 years.

22.--The weight of turkeys sent by Messrs. Mack and Co.'s. van from Norwich to London on this day was 6 tons 18 cwt.; before the end of the journey the load was increased to 10 tons.

26.--The Theatre Royal, Norwich, was occupied during the Christmas holidays by Mr. Ducrow's equestrian company from the Royal Amphitheatre, London. Among the pageants produced were "Charlemagne," "St. George and the Dragon," "Mazeppa," and "Timour the Tartar." The season closed on January 26th, 1839.

1839.

JANUARY.

5.--Died at Braconash, aged 85, Elizabeth, widow of Mr. Thomas Berney, and third and last surviving daughter of Sir George Duckett, Bart., of Hartham, Wilts. "Mrs. Berney was a true representative of an English lady of times past, in its dignified and most attractive form." At the funeral at Braconash, on the 15th, the hearse was preceded by "a canopy of plumes of feathers, borne by a mute with two others, one on each side."

7.--A severe gale raged on the Norfolk coast, and many vessels were wrecked. Thirteen sail of vessels belonging to Yarmouth, with 100 hands on board, were missing, and at a public meeting held in the borough on the 23rd, a fund was started for the relief of the widows and children.

14.--At Lynn Quarter Sessions, before the Recorder (Mr. Martin John West), an indictment was preferred by Dr. John Tweedale, of that town, against Mr. William Drake, of East Dereham, and Mr. James Bowker, charging the defendants with provoking him to fight a duel, and with common assault. Mr. Drake, a solicitor, was employed by the Conservative party in the borough to attend the revision of the municipal voters' lists, and a quarrel arose in consequence of certain evidence given by Dr. Tweedale as a charity trustee. The defendant Drake was found guilty of a common assault, and fined 5 pounds; and Bowker was acquitted.

--The agitation for the repeal of the Corn Laws was commenced in Norwich by the holding of a preliminary meeting, at which a petition in favour of the movement was agreed to. A common hall was held on February 7th, presided over by the Mayor (Mr. J. Marshall), when the Chartists attended and created a great disturbance. A resolution in favour of repeal was adopted. The Town Council discussed the subject on February 8th and 11th, and a motion for petitioning both Houses of Parliament for a total repeal was carried by 26 votes to 20. Meetings with the same object became general throughout the county.

16.--Heigham Episcopal chapel, Norwich, was consecrated by the Bishop of the Diocese, and was known afterwards as the chapel of the Holy Trinity.

21.--Died at Catton, aged 38, the Rev. Dacre Barrett Lennard, sixth son of Sir Thomas Barrett Lennard, of Belhus, Essex, rector of St. Michael at Plea, Norwich, and chaplain to H.R.H. the Duke of Sussex and Lord Western. His remains were interred on the 28th "in a vault near the altar of his church."

28.--Died at Hampstead, Sir William Beechey, R.A., aged 86. He was a native of Burford, Oxfordshire, and in early life settled and married in Norwich. Elected an associate of the Royal Academy in 1793, he painted in the same year a full-length portrait of Queen Charlotte, who honoured him with the appointment of Queen's portrait painter. In 1798 he painted an equestrian portrait of George III., with the Prince of Wales and Duke of York, reviewing the 3rd and 10th Dragoons, attended by Lieut.-General Dundas, General Sir William Fawcett, and Major George Goldsworthy. In the same year he received the honour of knighthood, the first instance of its being conferred on an artist since the time of Sir Joshua Reynolds. At St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich, there are four portraits by Sir William, namely, those of Admiral Lord Nelson, Mr. John Patteson, Mr. Elisha de Hague, and Mr. J. S. Patteson. His son, Capt. Beechey, R.N., was one of Capt. Sir Edward Parry's lieutenants in his second expedition towards the North Pole.

FEBRUARY.

3.--This day (Sunday) a prize-fight took place on Costessey Common, between Rix and Clarke, of Norwich, seconded by Cricknell and Blanchflower, "of the new scientific school." Sixty-three rounds were fought, in 1 hr. 20 mins. Rix was the victor. "Never were two men more severely punished by each other."

6.--The Rev. W. J. Bakewell, upwards of eleven years minister of the Unitarian chapel, Norwich, "who is about to embark for America," was presented by his congregation with a purse of 105 sovs.

10.*--"The week before last, in a little more than three days, Sir Richard Sutton, Bart., and a small party of friends shot 1,313 pheasants and an immense quantity of hares, rabbits, partridges, and woodcock, on his estate at Lynford and Tofts." (This was described as "killing, not sporting.")

--Mr. William Dalrymple resigned office as one of the surgeons of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, and Mr. J. Godwin Johnson was elected in his place.

11.--A trotting match took place at Attleborough, between a horse named Scroggins, belonging to Mr. Ling, of Besthorpe, and a cob the property of Mr. Robert Large, of Ellingham. The match was run in two mile heats, and was won by the former, in the presence of upwards of 3,000 spectators.

19.--Mr. Hotson, solicitor, of Long Stratton, while driving to Norwich, was robbed of a purse of money and a case of bank notes, near Harford Bridges. One of his assailants pulled him back in the gig and covered his mouth with his hand while three others rifled his pockets. At the Norwich Quarter Sessions, in April, a man named Daniel Archer was charged with the offence, and acquitted.

21.--The litigation respecting the Norwich charities entered upon its final stage in the House of Lords, when the appeal, Bignold and others _v._ Springfield came on for hearing. Lord Wynford said the question he had to propose was that the judges should state their opinion whether, having reference to the 74th section of the Municipal Corporation Act, the administration of the charities continued in the old Corporation after August 1st, 1836. Mr. Justice Littledale asked for time to consider the question. On June 24th the House decided in favour of the then trustees. Lord Chief Justice Tindal said: "Upon the whole we think the administration of the charity estates did not continue in the persons described in the 71st section of the 5th and 6th William IV. after August 1st." The order was confirmed, with costs against the appellants.

--The Marquis of Douro presented to the House of Commons a petition signed by 1,600 of the inhabitants of Norwich for leave to bring in the Norwich Improvement Bill. The Bill was read a first time. It passed its second reading on March 21st, and was read a third time on June 19th. The object of the Bill was to repeal the then existing Acts and to substitute a more effectual provision for the better paving, lighting, and improvement of the city. At a special meeting of the Town Council on July 16th it was agreed to petition the House of Lords in opposition to the Bill "in the way it should come from the Commons." When the Bill was before the Committee of the House of Lords on July 23rd objection was taken that the notices on the part of the promoters were insufficient, and the Bill was consequently lost. At a meeting of the Paving Commissioners on December 17th it was reported that costs amounting to 1,500 pounds had been incurred in opposing the Bill.

MARCH.

2.--Smallpox was reported to be very prevalent in Norwich. Within the preceding month one hundred persons died of the disease.

5.--An alarming report was circulated about the arming of the Chartists in Norwich, where, it was stated, a club had been formed for the more extensive distribution of pikes and other weapons. "Some are formed like a common halbert, others have a crescent at the bottom and the blade pointed forward, with a sharp edge, supposed to be designed for cutting the girths or reins of horses. It is said that about 60 will leave Norwich armed with these weapons, and some of them with pistols, for the north of England." At a meeting of the Town Council on March 11th the Mayor said, in reply to questions by Mr. Bignold, that the report had been greatly exaggerated. Pikes had been manufactured, but there was not a great number of them. Meanwhile the Chartists held meetings in Norwich Market Place, on Mousehold Heath, and elsewhere. In August pikes and guns were taken by the police from various persons, and on the 10th of that month John Dover, the keeper of a beer shop in St. Paul's, was apprehended on the charge of giving an order to James Tillett, a smith, to make pikes for unlawful purposes, and was bound over to appear at the Assizes. On the 14th the Chartists made a demonstration on Mousehold Heath; the police force was strengthened in consequence, special constables sworn in, and the staff of the West Norfolk Militia held in readiness for immediate action. On Sunday, the 18th, the Chartists attended the Cathedral service in a body, and were appealed to by the Bishop to take to heart the words of advice he addressed to them. On the evening of the same day they attended St. Stephen's church and interrupted the preacher, the Rev. P. Booth, with hisses and noise. The church of SS. Simon and Jude was visited on Sunday, the 25th, and hundreds were unable to gain admission in consequence of the crowd. "A text had been sent to the Rev. John Owen by some of the Chartists, with a respectful request that he would preach from it, and the greatest order prevailed."

8.--A heavy fall of snow took place. The Birmingham mail coach arrived in Norwich ten hours late, and on the 9th several carriers were unable to reach the city.

11.--At a meeting of the Norwich Town Council a petition "from certain persons, denominating themselves anglers," was read, requesting that means should be taken to prevent the dragging of the river for fish. It was stated that fishing for smelts was at one time a source of income to many persons, several boats having earned as much as 23 pounds a year. The petition was referred to the magistrates, who were asked to prohibit illegal fishing.

16.*--"A fine white-tailed eagle was last week shot on Beachamwell Warren. It measured between the tips of the wings 7 ft. 5 ins., and weighed 10.75 lbs. It has been preserved by the Rev. H. Dugmore, of Swaffham."

20.--Fakenham Steeplechases took place. Among the other meetings this season were Eccles Hunt Steeplechases, March 26th; North Walsham, April 12th; and Barnham Broom, April 18th.

21.--Died at his apartments in London, Mr. Edmund Henry Barker, of Thetford. "He had rendered valuable services to literature; in early life he was an intimate and respected friend of Dr. Parr; and his labours on the Thesaurus of Stephens will remain a noble monument of his indefatigable zeal in the cause of Greek literature." He was buried at St. Andrew's, Holborn.

24.--Died, aged 85, Mary, wife of Captain Richard Browne, of the Cathedral precincts, Norwich, and eldest daughter of Dr. John Murray.

26.--The troop of the 4th Royal Irish Dragoon Guards, stationed at Norwich, marched thence for Clifton. They were replaced in April by two troops of the 9th Lancers, commanded by Capt. Fullarton.

APRIL.

1.--Mr. G. V. Brooke appeared at Norwich Theatre as Sir Edward Mortimer ("The Iron Chest"). During the short season he performed a round of his favourite characters.

6.*--"We regret to find our anticipations that the Eastern Counties' Railway is to terminate at Colchester have been realised, as it seems the directors have come to the conclusion not to carry it further, in accordance with the wishes of the Lancashire proprietors, who hare so great a stake in the undertaking." On May 6th a rule _nisi_ was granted in the Bail Court to compel the Company to proceed with the works in accordance with their original contract with the public. (The Act of Parliament was obtained upon the representation that the line should be carried from London to Yarmouth.) In the Court of Queen's Bench on June 22nd Lord Chief Justice Denman, in delivering judgment on the points raised, said: "Upon the whole, without coming to any final decision, we think the case is involved in such doubt as to require the return of the mandamus, and that a writ should go for that purpose."

9.--At the Norfolk Assizes, before Mr. Justice Vaughan, John Hall and Wm. Palmer were indicted upon the unusual charge of stealing a bell from a parish church. The bell was lying in the west end of North Walsham church, and the prisoners, with the assistance of a man named John Daniels (who turned Queen's evidence), took it away in a cart, broke it up, and endeavoured to dispose of the metal in Norwich. The prisoners were sentenced to one year's imprisonment, with hard labour. (For an account of a similar theft see December 28th, 1839.)

10.--At the same Assizes, before Lord Chief Justice Tindal, an action was brought against an overseer named Burrell, of Lynn, for the recovery of a penalty of 50 pounds for failing to deliver a signed list of persons claiming to be registered as voters under the Municipal Reform Act. A verdict was given for the plaintiff, a Mr. King, for the amount claimed.

11.--Charles Daines was indicted at the Norfolk Assizes, before Mr. Justice Vaughan, for the wilful murder of Elizabeth Daines, his infant daughter, by poisoning her at Hempnall on March 11th. The prisoner was acquitted. He was then charged with attempting to murder his wife by poisoning her with arsenic, found guilty, and sentenced to death. The execution took place on the Castle Hill, Norwich, on April 27th. "He appeared to die an exceedingly hard death. He clasped his hands, and raised his arms several times towards his breast, as if in the act of prayer, unquestionably showing that consciousness had not left him. His remains were buried in St. Michael-at-Thorn churchyard."

13.*--"We understand it is in contemplation to revive in Norwich under different regulations and on a more extensive scale those annual art exhibitions, which for the last six years have ceased to take place. It is proposed to form a society, through the medium of which artists and amateurs in Norwich and its neighbourhood may have the opportunity of offering to public inspection and patronage productions in any department of art. The large room in the building, lately occupied as a bazaar in St. Andrew's, is to form the gallery." (The exhibition was opened on August 16th.)

--*"An enormous eel was lately brought to Norwich Fish-market. It weighed 25 lbs., and was sold to be placed in the collection of a London naturalist."

13.--Died at Doughty's Hospital, Norwich, Elizabeth Bentley, "the Norwich poetess," in the 72nd year of her age. She was born in the parish of All Saints, and was the only child of Daniel Bentley, a journeyman shoemaker, who died in 1783. Two years after her father's death she developed a taste for versification, and in 1791 appeared the first volume of her poems, dedicated to Mr. Wm. Drake, jun., M.P. The profits of the publication (from the contributions of nearly 2,000 subscribers) enabled her for many years, with the income arising from a small school, to support the declining age of her mother. Another volume of her poems was published in 1821.

MAY.

6.--At the sale of effects at Gunton Hall, very high prices were realised for the wine, liquors, and ale. Griffith's port (1830) sold at 81s. per dozen; Fontignac, at 8 pounds per dozen; curacoa, 13 pounds per dozen; brandy, 9 pounds per dozen; ale, 4 pounds per barrel. At Tattersall's, 49 horses and colts belonging to Lord Suffield produced 4,400 pounds, and the pack of 47 couples and 13 bitches with their whelps 280 pounds.

9.--The Yarmouth Town Council accepted the tender of the Rev. Mark Waters for the presentation to St. George's chapel. The minimum price fixed was 620 pounds; the highest tender 661 pounds.

14.--The Purple and Orange Club, at a meeting presided over by Mr. W. J. Utten Browne, and held at the Maid's Head Inn, adopted an address to the Queen, expressing regret at the threatening aspect of affairs in our Colonial possessions, and of sedition manifest in England, and imploring her Majesty to summon to her counsels "all those upright and enlightened statesmen whose consistent advocacy of Conservative principles has obtained for them the respect and confidence of the nation." On the 23rd the Norwich Town Council adopted a counter address, "thanking her Majesty for her choice of ministers who deserve the regard of the nation by righteous taxation, by extending commerce, by improving criminal and civil laws, by commuting tithes, by amending the Poor-laws, by granting self-government to the people by municipal corporations, and by making provision for national education."

15.--By the fall of a floor at Taverham paper-mills, a man and a woman were killed.

25.*--"A tomb of novel construction has lately been erected in Diss churchyard. It is constructed entirely of cast-iron, and for neatness, security, and durability excels anything of the kind we have ever noticed."

27.--The Norfolk and Norwich Literary Institution closed its rooms at the Assembly House, Norwich. The library was opened at the new rooms adjoining the Museum in St. Andrew's Street, on July 8th.

--The Norfolk Yeomanry Cavalry mustered on Thornage Green and marched to Holt for six days' permanent duty, under the command of Major Loftus.

JUNE.

1.*--"A respectable young man a few days since, at Norwich, undertook for a wager that he would take the sum of five shillings in one hour by travelling the city with a basket containing threads, tapes, cottons, &c., which he accomplished, and proceeded on the second hour, when he took 4s. 6d. more."

5.--The Norwich Tonnage Bill was read a third time in the House of Commons. This measure was intended to provide a new mode of application of the tolls and dues, first to defray the expenses of obtaining the Act; secondly, to pay interest on all sums borrowed under the powers of the Act, and to promote an accumulative fund for the purpose of paying off all the principal monies; and thirdly to keep in repair bridges, &c., to free Carrow Bridge, Duke's Palace Bridge, and Foundry Bridge, to keep in repair St. Andrew's Hall and the Guildhall, and to pay for any permanent improvement, such as widening streets, &c.

7.--Died at Shadwell Lodge, in his 86th year, Sir Robert John Buxton, Bart. He had successively represented in Parliament for several years the borough of Thetford, and the borough of Bedwin, Wilts.

11.--A prize-fight for 25 pounds a side was fought at Pulham, between Brassey and Bailey, of Norwich. In 1 hour 8 minutes 72 rounds were contested, "during which time Bailey never had a chance." Brassey was seconded by John Stanfield and Charles Utting, and Bailey by Jem Perowne and Bounce Brown. "On Sunday, the 9th inst., no less than five of these disgraceful scenes took place in the parish of Earlham."

15.*--"A full length portrait of the rector, the Rev. William Manning, by Mr. Thomas Ronds, of London, formerly of Diss, has been placed in the committee room of the Diss Hospital, the result of a subscription set on foot by the inhabitants."

22.*--"'The Tour,' a poem written anonymously, published by Simpkin, Marshall, and Co., and printed by Gowing, of Swaffham, is, independent of its literary merits, highly creditable to the West Norfolk press. The frontispiece, Lake Lucerne, is drawn by Wright, of Swaffham."

26.--A fire occurred on the premises of Mr. Bush, cabinet maker, Roach's Court, Fisher's Lane, Norwich, and was one of the most destructive that had taken place in the city for many years. The factory was destroyed, and with it the adjoining house, occupied by a silk weaver, who lost his stock of silk and machinery. "The fire engines were not in a state for such an emergency, and many of the leather pipes had to be tied up with handkerchiefs."

JULY.

6.*--"Mr. Smith, who has managed the Norwich Theatre for the last 25 years, has retired altogether from the concern, which is now in the hands of his son, Mr. George Smith."

13.--A person of eccentric character, named John Coe, of Chapel Street, Crook's Place, Norwich, died on this date. "For 34 years he was a trunk maker in St. Lawrence'. Deceased had made his own coffin five years ago, of old soap chests and tea chests, and had polished it up so that it looked like mahogany. It was composed of 165 pieces, and on the lid was a black plate, bearing a quotation from the Burial Service. The deceased had also made a coffin for his wife, who survives him, but this had to be disposed of to inter the remains of a poor woman whose friends could not find the money to purchase one."

15.--A prize-fight took place on Mousehold Heath, Norwich, between Brundell and Thetford, who were seconded respectively by Perowne and Cricknell. Fifty-two rounds were fought, in 1 hour 15 minutes. Both men were severely punished. Brundell was the winner.

--Died at his house, Chester Square, London, Mr. Praed, M.P. for Aylesbury. The deceased, who was in his 37th year, was Deputy High Steward of Cambridge University, and formerly Conservative member for Great Yarmouth.

16.--The "London Gazette" of this date contained the announcement: "The Queen has been pleased to grant unto Henry le Strange Styleman, of Hunstanton Hall, Esquire, her Royal licence and authority that he and his issue may, out of respect for the memory of his great grandmother, Armine Styleman, eldest of the two daughters of Sir Nicholas le Strange, take and use the name of le Strange in addition to and after that of Styleman."

17.--Two musical artistes who afterwards achieved much local celebrity, Madame de Belleville Oury (pianist to H.R.H. Princess Frederick of Prussia) and Mr. Oury (principal violinist at the Italian Opera in Paris), made their first appearance in Norwich at a _matinee musicale_, given at the house of Madame Oury Crook, Chapel Field, Norwich.

20.*--"A fine specimen of that rare and exquisitely beautiful fish, the Opah, or _Zeus Imperialis_ was taken alive at Hunstanton. It measured 3 ft. 3 ins. in length, 1 ft. 10 ins. across, and 7 ins. thick. It was purchased for Wisbech Museum."

25.--Died, aged 66, Mr. William Snow, many years master of the Black Bull Coffee House, in Norwich Market Place. "He was a man of superior ability in his profession as a cook and purveyor for festive parties."

29.--Mr. George Smith commenced the first season of his management at Norwich Theatre by engaging Madame Vestris and Mr. Charles Mathews. The pieces produced during the visit of these eminent performers were "The Welsh Girl," "Patter _versus_ Clatter," and "Loan of a Lover."

AUGUST.

6.--A correspondent, in a letter of this date, called attention in the NORFOLK CHRONICLE to the use of dogs as animals of draught. "I saw," he wrote, "in a big, overloaded baker's cart this week a disproportioned dog, willing but quite unable to pull his cruel load up Market Place Hill. Let the inhabitants of Norwich withdraw their custom from any baker who is guilty of this barbarism."

14.--The Fakenham coach, on its journey to Norwich, was descending Guist Hill, when one of the leaders fell, the pole broke, and the coach was overturned. The only person seriously injured was a Mrs. Flowers, of London, who sustained a broken thigh and received a severe wound in the neck.

28.--The Cley estate, the property of Mr. John William Tomlinson, was sold by auction in London by Mr. W. W. Simpson, for 32,000 pounds.

SEPTEMBER.

2.--Died at Annesley Place, Cambridge, aged 61, Mr. W. Wilkins, M.A., R.A. He was the architect of Downing College and of the new buildings at King's, Trinity, and Corpus Christi Colleges; the University College, London, and the National Gallery were erected from his designs, as were also the Shirehall and the Theatre Royal at Norwich. Mr. Wilkins graduated as a member of Caius College, of which he was afterwards Fellow. He was the author of "Magna Graecia" and other works on architecture. With his father, Mr. William Wilkins, F.S.A., he resided some years in Norwich.

15.--A cuckoo, in fine plumage, was shot in the garden of Messrs. Howes, Red Lion Street, Norwich.

17.--At the Norfolk and Norwich Musical Festival, which began on this date, the programme included "Israel in Egypt," the new oratorio "Calvary," produced on the 19th and conducted in person by the composer, Spohr; selections from the "Redemption," and the "Messiah." A miscellaneous concert took place each evening, and the Festival concluded with a fancy dress ball. The principal artistes were Signora Persiani, Signora Placci, Miss Birch, Miss Hawes, Madame Stockhausen, Mr. Hobbs, Mr. H. Phillips, Mr. Balfe, Mr. Young, Mr. Francis, Signor Tamburini; Mr. F. Cramer was leader of the band, and Professor Taylor conducted. The gross receipts were 5,639 pounds 0s. 5d., and the gross expenses 4,343 pounds 4s. 2d.

--A two days' race meeting commenced on Mousehold Heath, Norwich, and was attended by 30,000 persons.

23.--The foundation-stone of Yarmouth Hospital was laid by Mr. Simon Cobb, Mayor of the borough.

25.--Mr. Hampton made a balloon ascent from the Gas Works, Bishop Bridge, Norwich, at 4.30 p.m., and descended prematurely in a field at Rackheath. A parachute containing a monkey was detached from the car as the balloon passed over Mousehold Heath.

OCTOBER.

2.--A great demonstration took place at Norwich, on the occasion of the third anniversary of the "Teetotalist" Society. A procession, headed by a band of music, started from Castle Meadow, paraded the principal streets of the city, and arrived at St. Andrew's Hall at five o'clock. After tea the Bishop addressed the meeting, and "declared in the most positive manner his deep conviction of the value of the society." Mr. Samuel Wiseman and Mr. James Jarrold were presented with silver medals by the temperance workers in the city.

8.--The Norwich Paving Commissioners adopted ground plans and elevations for the widening and improvement of Briggs Street, and it was agreed that the cost be met proportionately by the trustees of D'Oyley's fund, the Paving Commissioners, and the Tonnage Commissioners. At a meeting of the Paving Commissioners, on December 10th, it was decided to carry out the contemplated improvements on the east side of the street, and that conjointly with the Tonnage Commissioners, they should spend a sum not exceeding 2,000 pounds.

9.--Mr. Hampton made a second balloon ascent at Norwich. The balloon was filled at the Gas Works, and floated thence by means of guide ropes to the yard of the Cavalry Barracks. Among the persons who availed themselves of the opportunity of ascending in the balloon while in its captive state was Col. Harvey, who, on September 7th, 1825, made an ascent from Richmond Hill Gardens with Mrs. Graham (_q.v._). Mr. Hampton was accompanied by Mr. William Shalders, jun., and the balloon descended on the estate of the Rev. T. Mack, of Tunstead, ten miles distant from Norwich. On October 16th Mr. Green, the celebrated aeronaut, then on a visit to Mr. R. Crawshay, of Honingham, ascended in his "Coronation" balloon, from Norwich Gas Works. "A parachute with a cat in the basket was thrown out, and descended at Catton." The balloon descended at Trunch, after a journey of twenty-five minutes' duration.

16.--At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, William Wales was indicted for maliciously shooting cattle, the property of Mr. Robert Mack, jun., at Hainford, on August 18th. It was proved that the prisoner had shot several valuable beasts. He had already served seven years' transportation, and, on being found guilty, was sentenced to transportation for the term of his natural life.

--Died in London, Mr. Charles M. Curtis, aged 44, an artist of considerable merit. He was a native of Norwich, a brother of the accomplished author of "British Entomology," and for several years devoted his talents to drawing objects of natural history and to the illustration of scientific works.

25.--The centenary of Wesleyanism was commemorated at Norwich. On the 28th 1,000 members of the body had tea at St. Andrew's Hall, which was also attended by 1,200 children from the Wesleyan Sunday schools in the city.

30.--St. Mary's Baptist chapel, Norwich, which had been closed for four months, for the purpose of enlargement, was re-opened for public worship. The preachers were the Rev. Dr. Andrew Reed, of London, and the Rev. Eustace Giles, of Leeds. "The chapel, which is now one of the most elegant in this part of the kingdom, and is capable of seating more than one thousand persons, was densely crowded by a congregation amounting to nearly 1,600 persons."

NOVEMBER.

5.--At Yarmouth Quarter Sessions, before the Recorder, Mr. N. Palmer, Fortunatus Robert Townshend Crisp was indicted for publishing, in a paper called the "Paul Pry," a slanderous and malicious libel upon Henry Holmes Baker. Many persons in Yarmouth had, it was stated, been grossly libelled in this notorious publication. Defendant was found guilty, and ordered to pay damages amounting to 5 pounds.

9.--Capt. Philip John Money was elected Mayor, and Mr. John Barwell appointed Sheriff, of Norwich.

11.--Mr. Arrow, auctioneer, of Lynn, was served with an Exchequer writ under peculiar circumstances. Proceedings had been taken against several individuals in St. Margaret's parish for non-payment of Church rates, and their goods were distrained and put up for auction in the Saturday Market Place. Among other articles offered was a silver-cased watch. Mr. Arrow not having a licence to sell plate, offered the works only, and proposed to make a present of the case to the person who purchased the works, and in this manner the watch was disposed of. On receiving the writ, Mr. Arrow wrote to the Commissioners of Stamps and Taxes, giving a full explanation of the circumstances, whereupon further proceedings were stayed.

16.*--"A new Paving Bill is being prepared by Mr. C. S. Gilman, and its entire management is to be entrusted to a committee of inhabitants and owners of property in Norwich and the hamlets." Among its objects were the prevention of the erection or maintenance of any toll-gate in any part of the hamlets, the acquisition of powers to widen Briggs Street, Theatre Street, and London Street; to open a carriage way through the Back of the Inns from London Street to White Lion Street; to afford public carriage communication from the Back of the Inns through Angel Street to the Castle Ditches, and to effect other improvements conducive to the health, cleanliness, and security of the inhabitants. (_See_ January 31st, 1840.)

22.--At a meeting of the county magistrates, held at the Shirehall, Norwich, the Hon. and Rev. R. Wilson moved, Lord Wodehouse seconded, and it was resolved by a large majority to adopt the new Constabulary Act throughout the county. The force, known as the "Rural Police," was constituted as follows:--One chief constable, at the salary of 500 pounds per annum; 12 superintendents, at 100 pounds each; and 120 petty constables, at 1 pound each per week. Each superintendent was allotted a district of twelve square miles. On January 3rd, 1840, Lieut.-Col. Richard Montague Oakes was appointed Chief Constable.

23.--Ducrow's Circus was opened at the Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich.

26.--A meeting of the insurers in the Norwich Union Life Office was held at the Assembly Rooms, Norwich, "to take into consideration the examiners' report, agreeable to the resolutions of the meeting held on the 6th inst." These proceedings arose mainly because of long-continued personal attacks made upon Mr. Bignold by Mr. Bacon, editor of the "Norwich Mercury." "The character of Mr. Bignold was placed on the highest pinnacle of unimpeachable honour and good fame; and the present state of the society's affairs is founded on that firm and equitable basis of adjustment which fully warrants its members in looking forward to years of increasing prosperity and success for the establishment."

DECEMBER.

21.--Wombwell's Menagerie was exhibited at Norwich. The collection had largely increased in extent since its previous visit, and included three elephants. "In consequence of the rapid growth of the enormous elephant, G. W. has been obliged to erect the largest machine in the form of a waggon that was ever built, so ponderous as to require six roller wheels to support it, and from 12 to 18 horses to draw it."

21.--Died in St. Stephen's, Norwich, aged 65, Mr. William Moore. He served the office of Sheriff in 1824, and of Mayor in 1835. Mr. Moore was the last Mayor elected by the old Corporation before the Municipal Corporations Act came into force.

24.--The weather on this day was only ten degrees colder than on June 24th. "The thermometer out of doors remained at 50."

28.*--"One night last week some persons stole from the church at Swardeston one of the bells. The rogues broke the bell to pieces on the spot, and although the blows must have made a great noise, the villagers were not alarmed, and the sacrilegious depredators were enabled to carry off their booty unmolested."

1840.

JANUARY.