Yarmouth Notes, 1830-1872. Collated from the File of the Norwich Mercury

by Frederick Danby Palmer

1859.

Jan. 5th.—A meeting had been held (C. J. Palmer, Esq., in the chair) for the purpose of raising a fund with a view to presenting a testimonial to the Rev. George Hills. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. R. Hammond, T. Brightwen, C. C. Aldred, E. H. L. Preston, C. S. D. Steward, and C. Cory, took part in the proceedings, and £145 was raised in the room.

The Mayor (R. Steward, Esq.), had given away 300 cwts. of coal to poor persons.

Jan. 12th.—It was reported that 20 missionary clergymen would accompany the Rev. G. Hills to his new mission, and that Mr. Lupson, Scripture Reader, should be ordained and go as one of these.

Jan. 15th.—The members of the Ship Insurance Society, to the number of 30, had held their annual dinner at the “Crown and Anchor”; Mr. D. A. Gourlay occupied the chair, and Mr. D. B. Palmer the vice-chair.

Jan. 22nd.—The East Suffolk Railway was to be opened on the 1st March.

Jan. 29th.—The Rev. G. Hills had preached his farewell sermon.

The Mayor had given a Juvenile Ball to 130 children at the Town Hall. Among those present were members of the following families:—Reynolds, Youell, Harcourt, Cufaude, Marsh, Impey, Tompson, Clarke, Donald, Norman, Bond, Aldred, Lettis, Woolverton, Butcher, Barnby, Ayers, Reeve, Laws, Bayly, Chamberlin, Dashwood, Bracey, Palmer, Shuckford, Smith, Smyth, Plummer, Barber, &c.

Bro. John Cobb had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship” by Bros. O. Diver and J. W. Bunn, and he had appointed the following officers:—Bros. W. Wright, S.W.; G. Harley, J.W.; C. L. Chipperfield, S.D.; J. H. Bly, J.D.; and George Knox, I.G.

Feb. 5th.—The ladies had presented plate to the value of 50 guineas to the Rev. G. Hills.

Mrs. Gray had given a “ball and reception” at the Town Hall.

Feb. 9th.—About 100 Foresters had attended the funeral of Bro. Hatch, at Gorleston, on Sunday, which proceeding had been objected to by the Vicar.

Feb. 12th.—A “Reform” Meeting had been held, Mr. Livingston in the chair.

Feb. 16th.—Mr. Boning, of Cambridge, had accidentally injured himself while shooting on the Caister Marshes. Dr. Smyth, Mr. F. Palmer, Mr. Skinner and Mr. Colley (Hospital) were attending the sufferer.

Feb. 19th.—Mr. Nevill, the new Incumbent, had arrived, and was going “to read himself in” on the next Sunday.

Feb. 23rd.—This ceremony had been duly performed by him.

A Reading-room had been established in connection with the Subscription Library on the Quay.

Mr. J. C. Smith had presided at Mrs. Sizeland’s annual dinner at the Royal Hotel.

A high tide had washed over the Beach up to the Marine Drive wall.

Feb. 26th.—The Foresters had held a dinner at the Corn Hall; 100 brethren attended. The Chief Ranger (Bro. Franklin) presided, and Bros. Steele, Horne, E. Stagg, Dr. Smyth, Dumbleton and Thompson took part in the proceedings.

March 2nd.—Dr. Hills had been consecrated Bishop of British Columbia at Westminster Abbey.

The first train from Yarmouth had run over the East Suffolk line.

March 5th.—A search for treasure had been made at the “Stone Cairn” on the North Denes, it seems from the report, without effect.

The old Jetty was to be repaired.

The officers of the Louth Rifles had given a Ball at the Town Hall, for which about 180 invitations were issued.

March 19th.—Messrs. Mellor and Young had attended a Reform Meeting at the Corn Hall; from 1,000 to 1,200 persons were present. Among the gentlemen accompanying the M.P.’s were Messrs. R. Hammond, P. Pullyn, Gourlay, F. Palmer, Clowes, Briggs, Barker, &c.

March 23rd—There was a “rage” for new buildings in the town.

March 30th.—A Court of Foresters had been opened at Hasbro’, the officiating officers being D.C.R. Stratford and C.R. Franklin (of Court “Crown and Anchor.”)

April 2nd.—The question as to who were to be the Liberal candidates for the Borough was being “mooted”; it was reported that Mr. McCullagh was to be put on one side, that Mr. Mellor would withdraw, and that Messrs. Watkin and Young would take the field.

A new Coastguard Station was being erected at a cost of £3,500. Mr. Norfor, contractor.

April 6th.—The action of “Morant v. Chamberlin” had been referred to Mr. Barstow.

April 9th.—Both parties had been waiting for notice of the Dissolution of Parliament. Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey were making a house-to-house canvas, accompanied by Messrs. W. Yetts, W. Thurtell, R. Ferrier, C. Cory, S. C. Marsh, W. Worship, E. H. L. Preston, J. G. Plummer, F. Ferrier, J. Fenn, &c.

The Liberals had held a meeting on the Hall Plain, which 3,000 persons attended. Mr. Briggs occupied the chair, and Messrs. J. Clowes, R. Hammond, J. Owles, J. W. Shelly, and P. Pullyn took part in the proceedings, which eventuated in the selection of Messrs. Watkin and Young as the Liberal candidates.

April 13th.—Both parties had held meetings, the Liberals at the “Star” and the Conservatives at the “Fish Stall House.”

April 16th.—Both parties expressed themselves confident of success, but it was supposed that Gorleston would turn the scale; the voters there were described as “dangerous men.”

The barque “Athelstan” (Captain John Bracey) was to be launched from Fellows’ yard on the 19th.

April 20th.—The Liberal electors “and their wives” had met at the Corn Exchange, while the Conservatives had held a meeting at the Victoria Gardens.

April 23rd.—Contains the following report as to

“THE ELECTION.”

The greatest activity prevails on both sides, and as the decisive day approaches, the feelings of partizanship are becoming greatly intensified. The printers have had a lively time of it, and turn out a great quantity of matter, an opinion appearing to be prevalent that quality is a secondary consideration. During the last few days, songs, parodies upon songs, speeches, and gross personal abuse have been issued by the supporters of Mr. Watkin, (for it must be admitted that Mr. Young holds himself aloof from this scurrility) with the object, we suppose, of doing that gentleman some good. In our opinion they will have a contrary effect, as we have heard many respectable Liberal electors express themselves disgusted with such unnecessary vulgarity. It may be very true, that in addressing the people, it is necessary to call a spade a spade, but it cannot be at all requisite that the minds of the people should be attempted to be influenced by strong specimens of the Billingsgate vocabulary. Where wit is lacking, silence is preferable to blackguardism. On the Conservative side there has also been a fair number of coloured bills and printed addresses issued; but the writers in this interest have abstained from attempting to be funny. In printed abuse, however, they endeavour to rival their opponents. Betting, if that may be considered a piece of electioneering business, is decidedly in favour of the Conservative candidates. Each party attributes motives of the most improper kind to the other, and it will be seen that Mr. Watkin fears that his opponents may indulge in “corruption.” On the other hand, Sir E. Lacon says voters had told him they dare not support him, as they should be inclined to do, in consequence of persons on the Liberal side having put the “screw” upon them. Tradesmen generally will be glad when the contest is over, as it is daily creating much personal animosity.

The “Athelstan” had been launched; she was of 500 tons burden, and was to take out Bishop Hills’ effects to British Columbia.

The “Haddiscoe Swamp” had caused a great difficulty on the East Suffolk line, which was consequently still not open for traffic.

William Howlett, “Red” bill-poster, and Robert Crisp, “Blue” bill-poster, had been before the Magistrates owing to a dispute arising out of the election placards.

April 30th.—Both parties had been holding nightly meetings of a “convivial character.” On Wednesday some 300 to 400 persons had paraded the town shouting “Down with Lacon and Stracey,” and had broken the windows of the Red Committee rooms in the Market-place.

“THE NOMINATION”

took place on the Hall Plain; the platform, in the centre of which was reserved a place for the Mayor and the Candidates and friends, being on the Crown and Anchor “leads.” The Blues were to the left of the Mayor and the Reds to his right; and in front of the house there was at the time proceedings commenced an assemblage numbering 4,000 or 5,000, including a number of females. The Liberals were the first to arrive on the “leads,” and on Mr. Watkin showing himself to the crowd, he was loudly cheered, a compliment which the candidate duly acknowledged. Shortly afterwards the approach of the Conservative party was indicated by the deep groans of the crowd, who manifested some indications of hostility: but on its being discovered that the Conservative cavalcade was headed by a party of very pugilistic-looking persons, decorated with red ribbon, the threatening attitude of the crowd was somewhat modified, and the two Baronets, with their friends, were allowed to ascend to the “leads” unmolested. When the two parties had taken their places on the balcony, the Liberals proposed three cheers, which were given by the great majority, accompanied by the groans of the minority. A number of “beery” individuals struggled to the front, and were a source of annoyance to the speakers throughout. A few minutes before three o’clock the Mayor arrived in state, preceded by his sergeants-at-mace, and accompanied in his carriage by Mr. C. J. Palmer, who acted as his solicitor for the occasion. When his Worship appeared in the balcony the Blues, for some reason, commenced hissing him, much to the disgust of several of the leading gentlemen of the Liberal party, who protested against such unseemly proceedings. We may state, before attempting to report the numerous speeches that were delivered, that during the whole of the proceedings—more especially when it was the turn of the Conservatives to speak—the crowd was exceedingly disorderly, and by their loud shouting and groaning rendered most of the speakers inaudable to persons a few yards distant from them. The Mayor was grossly insulted at the commencement, and as the proceedings progressed several fights were got up, and the interference of the police was frequently required. Anything more unreasonable and unreasoning than the majority of the crowd it would be impossible to conceive, and when the nomination closed there did not seem to be any person in the balcony opposed to the opinion of the Mayor—that the “whole thing was a farce.” One side of the question was not heard at all, and the majority shouted without knowing what about. This was singularly illustrated during the speech of Mr. Watkin, when that gentleman took upon himself the functions of the returning-officer, by calling upon the crowd for a show of hands, which, singularly enough, was against him. Mr. Watkin said, “All those that don’t want me to go to the poll, hold up their hands.” A forest of hands was exhibited to the great amusement of the Conservatives, who cheered the result. Mr. Watkin then told his friends that they were mistaken, and having explained the mistake to them, assuring them that they were too intelligent to vote him down, he took another show of hands, which was in his favour. We shall be excused for commenting upon the proceedings here; but the disorder and noise was so great that, as most of the speakers could not be heard, we are necessitated to do it, in order to make our report intelligible. From the beginning to the end “noise” had it in numbers; but in fighting the honour seemed to be with the Reds, who exhibited considerable proficiency in the pugilistic art. The crowd, which was very closely packed, was divided into two sections, the Blue and the Red, the former having about ten to one of the latter. At times both sections were very ill-behaved, but their misconduct was kindly overlooked by the whole of the speakers except Mr. Watkin, who took the liberty of designating the minority of the “people” as “scoundrels” and “ruffians.” These polite designations appeared likely to stir up the ill-blood of the people, inasmuch as four or five fights immediately commenced, in one of which an unfortunate fellow sustained a severe fracture of the proboscis, and it was not until the Mayor had, to use a significant local word, “checked” Mr. Watkin, and warned him against the violent nature of his harangue, that comparative order was restored. The fights in question are deserving of notice. One began between a female, whose bonnet was trimmed with yellow ribbon, and a stout man in a blue guernsey. Gallant Reds and Blues rushed into the affray, doubtless with the object of protecting the woman, and there was every probability of a general set-to. The Mayor, however, directed the police to interfere, and the contest was suppressed, with apparently no worse results than the infliction of a few disagreeable blows on the frontispieces of the combatants. The other fights were of less importance; but altogether this display of pugnacity had the effect of causing the outside portion of the crowd to run away from what they considered to be danger. Other fights, as will be seen from the report, also occurred. One feature in the general noise was much remarked by the gentlemen on the balcony, and as it was amusing we notice it. A half drunken beachman or fisherman, just so far gone as to be witty, but who was unmistakeably a Blue, planted himself in front of the balcony, and by his extraordinary shouting succeeded in making himself heard above the surrounding tumult. There was some natural humour about this fellow, and the way in which he shouted excited the laughter of the Mayor and both parties on the balcony. The man shouted until the veins grew large in his forehead; he jumped and screamed—he laughed and waved his hat, and others laughed with him—indeed, for a time all laughed with him; he was in a state of ecstacy or violent enthusiasm. It was difficult for a time to make out what the man meant, but at length he was understood, and his fun was appreciated. Sir E. Lacon wears a full moustache, and so does Sir H. Stracey, and those hirsute ornaments were the objects of this excited individual’s enthusiasm. He laughed and shouted—his voice being heard above the murmur of the crowd,—for fully an hour,—“The beard! the beard! will nobody shave him? A shave! a shave! Fetch a barber! fetch a barber!—(Loud laughter.)—A clean shave! A shilling for a razor! a razor! a razor! O Lord, a clean shave,” &c. Ultimately the man climbed to the top of a post, and threw his hat into the face of a railway porter; the porter ran to him and struck him in the mouth two or three times, with a force that evidently astonished him, and as his scream then became somewhat distressing, he was ignominiously removed to the outside of the crowd. Many other noticeable incidents occurred, which will be found mentioned in our report. But there is one circumstance which did not altogether develop itself at the meeting, that we feel compelled to notice. Society, from experience, knows that the prude is the loudest and severest advocate of virtue; but, as Josephus has remarked, “Every man will think of this as it seemeth good unto him.” We have noticed the Gorleston voters, we have recorded the boastings and professions on both sides, and we have ventilated rumours which have been so far well founded. The incident we are about to mention we can vouch for; it is possible, should circumstances necessitate it, of being proved. On the Wednesday evening, mob law, intimidation, corruption, “the screw,” and all the worst elements of electioneering were resorted to; and we regret to say that the parties who most publicly exhibited themselves as disorderlies were persons whom we won’t classify, but who cried out, “Down with Lacon and Stracey” and “Three cheers for Watkin.”

“THE TIN CANISTER.”

A report had been “current that a mysterious old gentleman had arrived from somewhere with a tin canister full of sovereigns, and from the way in which he was dressed it was generally supposed that he was either a Russian or a Shrewsbury man come for the purpose of bribery. “Said person,” as the Yankees say, was seen in the rear of the balcony at the Crown and Anchor, defying anybody to penetrate the secret of his identity, but occasionally winking and ejaculating, with an occasionally eructory sound, the words, “All right—in for Watkin.” This strange gentleman departed in the evening, minus, it is said, the canister. We will now pass over the irregularities of the story, and give you the words of our informant, whose high standing and character place him beyond suspicion:—“I had attended the Yarmouth nomination, and took my railway seat, at 8.40 p.m. for Norwich. There were two or three gentlemen in the first-class compartment in which I had placed myself; and one gentleman was a peculiar sort of mysterious individual. After eyeing the party well, the gentleman gravely said, “Both sides are buying, I’m afraid, at Yarmouth.” One of the party doubted the assertion, but the ancient traveller smiled and said, “No, no.” Further explanations took place, until at length our interesting fellow-traveller volunteered this remark, after a feeler from one of the party, “You know I came down from Manchester yesterday, to see my particular friend W—. Deuced clever fellow—one of the best railway men in the country. He did wonders for the Manchester and Lincolnshire line, and if we get him in we shall expect him to be one of the best railway men we have.” One of the party asked, “Are you a Yarmouth voter, sir?” Old Traveller: “No, but I wished to see my friend W— on very particular business, and so I just came down to Yarmouth to see how his election was getting on as well, and to add my mite of influence.” This, perhaps, will account for the story of the tin canister. The rest we shall leave to the report.”

Mr. J. Cherry proposed, and Mr. R. Dumbleton seconded Sir E. H. K. Lacon.

Mr. R. Hammond proposed, and Mr. J. Owles seconded Mr. Watkin.

Mr. E. H. L. Preston proposed, and Mr. S. C. Marsh seconded Sir H. J. Stracey,

And Mr. J. W. Shelly proposed and Mr. P. Pullyn seconded Mr. Young.

The show of hands was in favour of Messrs. Watkin and Young, whereupon a poll was demanded for Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey.

May 4th.—The poll had been taken in Wards as follows:—

	Lacon.	Stracey.	Watkin.	Young.
St. Nicholas’	97	89	76	71
Market	117	113	100	99
Regent	112	108	91	88
St. George’s	102	94	89	84
Nelson	166	153	119	106
St. Andrew’s	105	102	93	88
Total	699	659	568	536

But it was stated that “there were many cases of bribery, and the defeated party threatened a petition against this ‘return.’”

May 7th.—Between £500 and £600 had been promised as subscriptions to that end.

There had been a fashionable ball at the Town Hall.

The Norfolk Artillery Militia had left for Sheerness.

Miles Swiney had been shot in the side by one of the Louth Rifles on the North Denes.

May 11th.—It had been proposed to raise a Yacht Club, Mr. H. Morgan acting as Treasurer, and £100 had been subscribed for the purpose. (N.B.—This was the starting of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club.)

Meetings of electors had been held to promote the petition.

May 18th.—The petition was “likely to reveal a ‘high state of political morality in the Borough.’”

May 21st.—Contains the Lord Lieutenant’s proclamation as to the formation of Rifle Corps.

May 25th.—A few persons were talking of raising one of such corps at Yarmouth, but no active steps had been taken in regard thereto.

May 28th.—On the Queen’s Birthday, the Mayor had given a luncheon and ball at the Town Hall.

The testimonial “consisting of silver candelabra, &c.,” and the Corporation address had been presented to Bishop Hills at the Town Hall. Some 250 persons were present, amongst whom were—Messrs. C. J. Palmer (who presided at the luncheon), Brightwen, C. Aldred, S. Aldred, Sir E. Lacon, M.P., Reynolds, Nash, C. Cory, R. Hammond, F. Worship, W. Worship, E. Frere, F. Palmer, F. Ferrier, T. Brightwen, Captain Holmes, Dr. Smith, Rev. Nevill, Johnson, &c.

June 1st.—Contains the following report of a

“MEETING TO ESTABLISH A VOLUNTEER RIFLE CORPS.”

On Friday, a meeting, called by the Mayor, was held at the Town Hall, to take into consideration certain communications which his worship had received from General Peel, the Secretary at War, and Lord Leicester, the Lord Lieutenant of the County. There was a very numerous attendance. Amongst the gentlemen present were—Sir E. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Lieutenant Colonel Beckham, Captain Naylor, Captain Holmes, Rev. J. B. Bampton, Rev. T. Lowe, Messrs. J. H. Orde, F. Worship, W. Worship, W. Yetts, S. C. Marsh, C. C. Aldred, C. J. Palmer, E. H. L. Preston, J. Clowes, Foreman, &c.

The Mayor stated that he had called the meeting in consequence of communications he had received from General Peel and the Lord Lieutenant, and in compliance with a requisition which he had received, and which was signed by seventy gentlemen. He read General Peel’s letter and the requisition. He had prepared no resolution or anything of that sort, but should leave the gentlemen assembled to propose anything they might think proper.

Mr. W. Worship said the subject upon which they had been called together was one upon which there could be no difference of opinion—(hear, hear)—and in order to put the proceedings into a practical form, he should move that a committee be appointed, which would include Sir E. Lacon and Mr. Orde.

Mr. R. Ferrier said he had much pleasure in seconding the motion, and he hoped it would be understood that, although they were forming a military corps, such men as himself might be allowed to contribute to the expenses which would be incurred in its formation. There were, doubtless, many men in the town who could afford to pay for the accoutrements and give up the necessary time; but there was also in the town a fine class of men, in every way eligible, who could not afford that. It was, therefore, in assisting the latter class that such men as himself could be useful. (Hear, hear.) He should be glad himself to pay the annual expenses of some man who could not afford to do it himself; and had no objection to put his name down at once for £10 a year. (Hear, hear.)

Mr. S. C. Marsh said he did not wish to interrupt the proceedings; but before they formed the committee he thought they should, by some resolution, declare it desirable to form a Rifle Corps. (Hear, hear.) Having decided to form a corps, the next step would be to form a committee to carry out the necessary arrangements. He was sure Englishmen would respond to the offer that had been made them to allow themselves to form volunteer corps for the defence of the country. Norfolk had never been behindhand in the manifestation of patriotic feeling, and he hoped that would not be the case on this occasion. Yarmouth had before shown what she could do for the Governments of England and the defence of the country, and he hoped she was prepared to do something now. (Hear, hear.) He begged to move “That it is expedient to establish a Volunteer Rifle Corps for Great Yarmouth and its vicinity.”

Mr. Ferrier seconded.—Carried unanimously.

Sir E. Lacon, M.P. said he thought it highly essential that a town like Yarmouth should take a stand and come forward at once in obedience to the proclamation that had been issued by the Queen. They must all put their shoulders to the wheel, and wherever they saw a fine young fellow who was a likely man for the corps, if he did not come forward they must ask him to do so. The duty they had to do that day was very slight indeed, but for his own part, he would say that he should give the movement all the encouragement that he possibly could. (Hear, hear.) He should now move that a committee be appointed, with power to appoint a sub-committee, and with directions to go round the town and see what force could be got up. (Hear, hear.) Yarmouth was a large town it was true, but there were also districts around it out of which to draw much assistance; but he certainly thought it would be desirable to take in the Flegg Hundreds and the Island.

Mr. J. Clowes said there were many men in the town who, from age and other causes, would be unable to serve in a rifle corps, but who would be very desirous of taking part in the defence of our shores—men who were too old to sleep all night in the marsh ditches, or under hedges. (Laughter.) For that class of men, he thought there should be an Artillery Corps, as many of them, though not fit to take the field, would be ready to man a gun or work a battery.

The Mayor said it was out of the scope of the present meeting to discuss an Artillery Corps.

Mr. Orde said Government had intended that they would sanction and approve the formation of Artillery Corps.

Mr. Marsh’s motion was then put and carried.

Sir E. Lacon, in answer to Dr. Stephenson, said it would, no doubt, be a desirable thing to have a mounted Rifle Corps, only they could not get the horses, and if they could get them, many would be unable to keep them, besides which he should object, unless he wished to see some of them killed, to their mounting horses. (Loud laughter.) But he might say that, at an agricultural dinner, where he was the other day, he heard the farmers express themselves strongly in favour of a mounted force in the Fleggs and the Island.

Mr. C. J. Palmer suggested that all who wished to support the corps, either by serving in it or by their subscriptions, should come forward and put down their names at once. (Hear, hear.)

The Mayor said he would take down the names of any gentlemen who wished to join the corps. When they saw who were willing to join, they might name a committee, and appoint some gentleman to act as secretary. That being done, the future conduct of the movement would remain with the committee.

The following gentlemen then gave in their names as members of the corps:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, M.P., Sir H. Stracey, M.P., Lieutenant-Colonel Beckham, S. C. Marsh, C. J. Palmer, B. Jay, R. Ferrier, W. Worship, F. Palmer, F. Worship, W. J. Foreman, W. C. Reynolds, S. Aldred, Dr. Stephenson, J. H. Orde, G. Harvey, G. Baker, Rev. J. B. Bampton, H. Teasdel, J. W. Bunn, Captain Holmes, C. Brown, J. Tomlinson, H. R. Harmer, G. Diver, H. H. Barber, J. Franklin, E. Fyson, J. B. Stevens, J. Playford, G. B. Costerton, H. Teasdel, T. P. Burroughs, Ambrose Palmer, A. W. Morant, Rev. T. Lowe, and J. Clowes.

Mr. R. Ferrier moved that the foregoing be appointed a committee to carry out the arrangements for establishing the corps, with power to appoint a sub-committee; and that Colonel Beckham be requested to act as honorary secretary.

The motion was carried unanimously, and the book containing the list of names was ordered to be left at the Police-station during the ensuing week, to give persons desirous of joining the corps an opportunity of entering their names.

The proceedings then concluded.

June 8th.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club had held its first meeting on Breydon Water, and subsequently the members (who appeared in Club uniform) dined at the Club House (Norfolk Hotel), when the healths of Colonel Wilson, Commodore; F. Brown, Esq., Vice-Commodore; Mr. Everitt, of Cove Hall, (father of the Club); Mr. Scott, Aylsham, and others were duly honoured.

Mr. Bradnum’s shop at Gorleston had been struck by lightning.

June 11th.—Mr. Mellor, Q.C., M.P. for Nottingham, had presented the petition against the return of the M.Ps.

June 15th.—The Mayor and the Town Clerk had had a serious “difference of opinion,” and the former gentleman had declined to accept the “amende honorable” tendered him by the latter.

It was stated that some 60 persons were ready to join the Rifle Corps.

June 18th.—The paper had opened a branch office at No. 31, King Street, Great Yarmouth, with Mr. Clarke as correspondent.

Lord Chelmsford, before resigning the seals, had appointed Mr. Francis Worship, Mr. John Clarke, and Mr. E. P. Youell, Magistrates for the Borough.

June 22nd.—A meeting had been held at St. George’s Hall, (Mr. Harrison in the chair), for the purpose of taking steps to advertise the town.

Forty invalid soldiers had arrived at the Royal Naval Hospital.

June 29th.—There now appeared to be two petitions lodged against the return of Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Sir H. J. Stracey, one signed by Mr. John Clowes (solicitor), and the other by Mr. Bayly (surgeon) and Mr. Pilgrim (draper).

A meeting of the first Company of Volunteers had been held at Crowe’s Sale-rooms. This body now numbered 90 men, the second Company having 56 members. Mr. Dumbleton occupied the chair, and Mr. Marsh having explained the position of affairs, the following gentlemen were elected officers:—Mr. Marsh (captain), and Mr. Foreman (first), Mr. Brown (second), and Mr. Preston (third) Lieutenants.

July 2nd.—The second Company had met at the Angel. Major Nesbitt presided, and the following officers were elected:—Mr. Orde (captain), Mr. E. P. Youell (Lieutenant), and Mr. J. Tomlinson, jun., (ensign).

There were from 8,000 to 10,000 persons on the Piers, Drive, &c., on Sunday evening.

July 6th.—Mr. Mellor had given notice that he should call attention to the state of the Yarmouth Bench of Magistrates.

The following cricket match had been played on the South Denes:—

Mr. Overend’s Side.		Mr. Willis’ Side.
Mr. Lawry	7	Mr. Ling	1
Mr. Jackson	3	Mr. Borlase	5
Mr. Fenner	1	Mr. Ellis	0
Lieutenant Townley	12	Mr. Larke	0
Mr. Ablitt	7	Mr. Clarke	2
Mr. Overend	7	Mr. Willis	1
Mr. Cocks	0	Mr. Davey	8
Mr. Edwards	0	Mr. T. B. Stevenson	17
Mr. Baker	0	Mr. Tewsley	4
Dr. Stephenson	4	Mr. Stolworthy	0
Mr. Wright	4	Mr. Green	0
Byes	2	Byes	5
Wides	2	Wides	5
Total	41	Total	48

Afterwards the players dined at the Crown and Anchor Hotel.

July 16th.—Owing to his altercation with the Town Clerk, the Mayor declined to attend the meetings of the Council.

July 20th.—One of the petitions against the M.Ps’ return had been withdrawn.

The Rifle Companies numbered over 200. Mr. Orde’s Company mustered 80 at their first drill in the Barrack Square.

There were then on the Parish Books 272 indoor and 1,247 outdoor paupers, as against 1,134 in the preceding year.

July 27th.—Lieutenant-Colonel Mason had retired from the command of the East Norfolk Militia.

The Foresters had held a “gala” at the Vauxhall Gardens.

Aug. 3rd.—A very large number of Speaker’s Warrants had been issued in connection with the Election Petition.

Aug. 13th.—Eliza, second daughter of S. C. Marsh, Esq., had been married to Captain Burke, of the Louth Rifles, at the Roman Catholic and St. Nicholas’ Churches. The bridesmaids were Miss Marsh, the Misses Victoria, Louisa and Emily Marsh and Miss Waters; the bridegroom’s men were Major Taafe and the officers of the Louth Rifles, and the carriages of Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Marsh, Mr. and Mrs. Palmer Kemp, Mr. and Mrs. W. Danby-Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. W. Walpole, Mr. and Mrs. Dashwood and others were present on the occasion.

The Donegal Regiment was to succeed the Louth Rifles at Yarmouth.

Aug. 17th.—The transport “Himalaya” had brought the former, and taken away the latter regiment; the Louth Rifles had given a ball on board that ship.

Aug. 20th.—The porch of the Parish Church was being restored.

There had been a great deal of rain, but the town was very full of visitors.

Aug. 24th.—It was reported that the shock of an earthquake had been felt at Hopton.

One hundred and fifty Horse Artillery had been encamped on the North Denes.

Mr. Marsh’s Company of Volunteers were to be equipped as Artillery.

Mr. Orde’s Company had drilled on the South Denes in public for the first time.

The expenses of the Borough Election had been returned by the auditor as follows:—Conservatives, £809 15s.; Liberals, £603 17s. 4d.

Visitors were flocking to the town, and it was supposed that the standard population had thus been doubled; beds were fetching the “highest prices.”

The “Prophet Jack” was preaching on the Beach.

Sept. 3rd.—Among the company present at the Races were Count Batthyany, Lord W. Powlett, the Hon. Harbord Harbord, Colonel Wilson, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, M.P., and Sir H. J. Stracey, M.P.

Sept. 7th.—Colonel Henderson had attended at Yarmouth to report on the proposed Artillery Corps, and had informed the Mayor and Mr. Marsh that it “would have every encouragement from the Government.”

William Ingram, a labourer, had been scalded to death in Mr. Frosdick’s Tanning Copper.

Sept. 10th.—The Magistrates had had another “warm” discussion on Licensing Day, as to the granting of new licenses.

There were 400 cases of appeal against the Poor’s Rate from the St. George’s Ward. The Overseers proposed to compound up to a rental of £6 10s. per annum.

The Rev. W. Griffiths had been “ordained” at the King Street Chapel.

Two or three “Dutch schuyts” had visited the port.

The officers of Mr. Orde’s Company had received their commissions.

The Donegal Militia had marched out for their first drill on the Denes under the command of Major Todd.

Sept. 17th.—The 6th annual meeting of the Elocution Society had been held, Mr. W. Gill in the chair, when Mr. Lovewell Blake, the Secretary, brought up a favourable report of the proceedings of the Society.

There were a great number of Rate appeals from the North Ward.

The Mayor having determined to commit a prisoner named Angel, (in which course the other Justices did not concur) left the Bench, and had intimated by letter “That he should not sit again as a Magistrate.” Next day His Worship again informed the Bench that he had been misled by Mr. Holt, and that he should not sit.

Sept. 21st.—Three “gents” having hired a house in Brandon Terrace, had been victimising the tradesmen.

Sept. 24th.—Two of these persons, who gave the names of Thomas T. George, and William Arnall, had been before the Bench and ordered to find two sureties for the peace in £50 each, themselves being bound for £100 each; subsequently George was bailed out by his stepfather, a London gentleman, who stated that the prisoner was an articled clerk in receipt of £200 a year from his mother.

The North Sea herring voyage was “fairly alive,” as much as £30 a last having been realised for some of the fish.

Sept. 28th.—The following were the tenders for the Ballast dues:—James Pumfrey. £405; D. S. Bayfield, £375; and Jacob Preston, £600. The late lessee, Mr. J. H. Harrison, did not send in a tender.

Mr. Preston, however, subsequently threw up his tender, and the dues were offered to Mr. Smith (an ex-lessee) for £550 per annum.

There had been a “fine illustration of the Northern Lights.”

Oct. 1st.—A special meeting of the Council had been held as to the Ballast question, when Mr. C. C. Aldred stated “they had been called together through Mr. Preston’s tomfoolery.”

Captain Marsh and Lieutenant Foreman had received their commissions, and thereupon taken the oaths before the Magistrates.

Oct. 5th.—The Revision of the Voters’ Lists had been proceeded with before Mr. Couch, Mr. W. C. Reynolds representing the Tories and Mr. Costerton the Liberals. The latter claimed a gain of four votes as the result of the proceedings.

Fifty members of the 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers had been sworn in by B. Fenn, Esq., and were subsequently entertained by their officers at the Crown and Anchor Hotel.

A Poor’s Rate of 1s. 4d. in the £ (to raise £3,365 3s.) had been signed.

One Corporal and three Privates of the Donegal Militia had been heavily fined by the Justices for assaulting Mr. Nall (printer) and several policemen.

Oct. 22nd.—Lord Claude Hamilton and officers of the Donegal Militia had entertained the officers of the French steamer “Galilee.”

Oct. 26th.—The appointment of officers and non-commissioned officers in the Volunteer Companies had been made, as follows:—

Artillery Company: Captain: S. C. Marsh; Lieutenant: Foreman; Sergeant-Major: Franklin; Sergeants: Dumbleton, Moody, and Stolworthy; Corporals: Suffling, Clarke, and Clements; Armoury-Sergeant: Offord; Orderly Clerk: Sergeant Crowe.

Rifle Company: Captain: J. H. Orde; Lieutenant: Youell; Ensign: J. Tomlinson, junr.; Sergeants: Harmer, Bunn, Preston, and James; Corporals: Dick, Willis, Fellows, and Pearson.

Oct. 29th.—Sixty feet of the Britannia Pier had been carried away by a vessel during a gale which prevailed on the coast.

Mr. Chapman had retired from the representation of the Regent Ward.

Nov. 2nd.—The “Shipping Interest” was in a distressed state.

The Herring Fishing was going on satisfactorily, £15 per last being given for fish.

Nov. 5th.—Five wards had been contested. In the Regent Ward Mr. S. B. Cory beating Mr. F. Palmer by one vote. The following were the Councillors elected:—North: W. N. Burroughs and H. Boulter. Market: C. C. Aldred and F. Worship. Regent: S. C. Marsh and S. B. Cory. St. George: J. G. Plummer and J. C. Smith. Nelson: G. D. Palmer and C. E. Bartram. Gorleston: E. H. L. Preston and H. Teasdel.

Among the company present at a Ball held at the Town Hall, were—The Mayor and Miss Steward, Lieut.-Colonel Lord Hamilton, M.P., and Lady Hamilton, the Hon. Harbord Harbord, Sir H. Stracey, Bart., M.P., and Lady Stracey, Lady Plumridge, Mr. and Mrs. I. Preston and the Misses Preston, Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. L. Preston, Mr. and Mrs. A. Steward, and the Misses Steward, Captain and Mrs. Marsh, Captain J. H. Orde, Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, Dr. Smith, Mr. Tilson, &c.

Herring was making from £18 to £20 per last.

Bribery had been practised (it was stated) in the Regent Ward, “to a disgraceful extent.”

A drinking fountain was being erected at the north end of the Town Hall.

On Tuesday, the gale which had commenced on the previous Tuesday abated, and the weather since that day, had continued to improve.

The Regatta Committee Accounts showed a balance in hand of about £60.

Nov. 12th.—At the Council Meeting, Mr. R. Ferrier proposed, and Mr. Nightingale seconded, Mr. William Worship as Mayor, and he was unanimously elected to that office.

The retiring Aldermen were Messrs. T. Bunn, G. S. Shingles, W. C. Reynolds, J. G. Rivett, I. Shuckford, and E. P. Youell, the following Aldermen were elected:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., T. Bunn, G. S. Shingles, I. Shuckford, E. P. Youell, and R. Purdy.

Nov. 16th.—Owing to the damage sustained by the structure, it had been determined to shorten the Britannia Pier by about 100 feet.

“ON ALDERMANIC SIXES.”

“At Norwich, Tories loud complain,
’Cause Liberals are elected;
At Yarmouth, he’s alleged insane
Who growls that they’re rejected.”

Nov. 23rd.—The Municipal Elections on November 21st had been held as follows:—

RegentWard.
Mr. W. C. Reynolds	110
Mr. Frederick Palmer	77
St.Andrew’s Ward.
Mr. Richmond elected without opposition.

Nov. 26th.—A dinner had been held at the Town Hall in honour of R. Steward, Esq., the ex-Mayor. Sir E. H. K. Lacon presided, and C. J. Palmer and J. B. Hylton occupied the vice-chairs.

It was proposed to raise, by shares, £8,000 for the purpose of building Assembly-rooms on the Marine Drive.

Nov. 30th.—The Rifle Company had met “in full dress at the Victoria-gardens,” mustering between 80 and 90 strong on this occasion.

Dec. 3rd.—The foundation-stone of the “Wherryman’s Church” had been laid by W. Worship, Esq., the Mayor.

The Mayor had presented rich window hangings and carpets to the Town Hall.

Dec. 7th.—It was proposed to form a second Company of Artillery Volunteers.

The Rifle Corps had dined at the Corn Hall, when Captain Orde presided, and the Mayor, Lord C. Hamilton, Captain Marsh, Lieutenant Foreman, and Dr. Stephenson (1st N.A.V.), had been present.

Dec. 17th.—At the Mayor’s Inaugural Dinner, 150 gentlemen had attended, the Volunteer Officers appearing in full uniform. The following took part in the after-dinner proceedings:—The Mayor, Lord C. Hamilton, Rev. H. Nevill, Lord Sondes, Mr. E. Howes, M.P., Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Stracey, Bart., M.P., the Recorder, (Mr. N. Palmer), Captain Orde, Captain Marsh, Mr. F. Worship, the Town Clerk, Mr. R. Ferrier, and Captain Donelly.

Mr. E. R. Palmer had offered a prize of £3 3s., to be shot for by the 1st N.A.V.

The Mayor had presented £50 to the District Visiting Society.

About 100 Rate Summonses had been issued.

Dec. 21st.—The Rifle Volunteers had attended St. Nicholas’ Church on Sunday in uniform.

The Magistrates were discussing the question as to who was entitled, in the absence of the Mayor, to the chair at the Petty Sessions.

Dec. 24th.—The Rev. F. W. Johnson, Minister of St. John’s, had died in London somewhat suddenly.