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[BNA: Buckmaster Battersea 1860]
[BNA: Buckmaster Wandsworth 1860]
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Numerous articles to follow up.
[BNA: Buckmaster Battersea 1860]
TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES. Sir, — I hope you will agree with me in thinking that the following facts ought to be made public.
This day, at about half-past 3 p.m., I was walking on Wandsworth-common with my sister and some of my children. Four persons, dressed in the uniform of a rifle corps, were practising on the common; one of them aimed at and shot a very handsome dog belonging to my sister; one of my little girls was close to the dog at the time. These four "gallant defenders" of the nation immediately ran away, leaving us in great distress at the moans of our poor dog, to seek aid from a couple of workmen who presently came in sight, and who showed no lack of sympathy with the victim, nor of indignation against those whom they scrupled net So call cowards.
The shot might be attributed to ignorance or awkwardness; the flight needs no comment.
I am, Sir. your obedient servant, E. G.. March 20.
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WANDSWORTH.- Mr. Alfred Jones, a solicitor residing at Wandsworth-common, applied for a summons against Mr. John Kerrison, a member of the Surrey Rides, of No. 25, Manor-street, Capham, for cruelly torturing his dog by shooting it.
The applicant stated the nature of the case, from whioh it appeared that on the 20th ult. his sister and two young children and the dog were walking along the avenue upon Wandsworth-common hc sapbl otah when the lady was startled by heing thero of a gun, which was immediately followed by the dog springing up in the air wounded. Upon looking in the direction of the smoke from the gun, four young men dressed in the uniform of a rifle volunteer corps were seen running off as fast as they were able, and very soon after disappeared from sight.
It was afterwards found that a shot had passed through the body of the dog, but it had been in the hands of a veterinary surgeon ever since, and was now likely to recover. Information was given to the police, and a reward of 10f. was offered for the discovery of the parties, and it was only through Kerrison having mentioned the circumstance to some of his companions that they were traced.
Mr. INGHAM granted a summons against Kerrison, who fired the gun, and also for the attendauce of his three com- Malbrog.vlas, Bniedradlphm Mr. B gartrusn, address being unknown.
The applicant also applied for a summons for discharging firearms in a publc thoroughfare, but the magistrate said one summons would be sufficient.
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WANDSWORTH.Yesterday was appointed for the return of the summons against Mr. Joln Eerrlson, of No. 25, Manor-street, Clapham, and a volunteer In the lGt Surrey Rifles, for an act of cruelty to a dog under circumstances which have caused much attention.
Upon the summons being called, Mr. A. Jones, a solicitor and the complainant, rose and stated that his worship would remember that his application was against the defendant for wounding a dog by shooting when it was ranring about on Wandsworth-common with a lady and two children. There would be very little difficulty in the matter, as Mr. Kerrison had expressed his great sorrow for what happened, and had assured him that it was quite a mistake.
Under these circumstances he was ready to allow the case to drop, the defendant being willing to make an apology and to pay all the expenses. It was most important that a stop should be put to rifle volunteers using their fire-arms in public thoroughfares, as the most dangerous results were likely to occur. The dog in question was shot through the hind quarters, and was running about at the time close to his niece.
rir. Ic;s, if here inquired if the defendant was present. Wmr. aerrison, e young gentleman, then stood up in front of the table.
Mr. tbaOss t then addressed him, nnd said he hoped that he saw what a dangerous practice it was. He had no doubt it was done thoughtlessly, but he ought to be more careful in future. The country was much obliged to those gentlemen for the zeal they had shown in fonning themselves into ride corps, but if they were not more cautions with their fire-arms the nubbll would have to trst more to n i nvading enemy than to their friends.
A gentleman who appeared for the defendant expressed his thanks to the complainant and has worship for the nan. ner in which they had acted in the case. HRe said that it was one of these unfortunate occurrences arising from the indiscretion of youth. The great fault rested with the of ficers in net having issued orders tn the first instance against using the rifles except in ball practise or on parade. If an order had been issued to that effect the accident would not have happened. He hoped it would be a cauttion to the volunteers not to take out their rifles in that way.
Mr. INGHAM said, in the open country there would not be any danger, but in the metropolitan parishes, where persons were constantly passing to and fro, it was very dangerous to use fire-arms. He had, however, no doubt it was done in a thoughtless moment, and he therefore would allow the summons to be dismissed.
The defendant then left the court with his friends.
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BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION.
adjourned meeting of this society was held at Mr. Harrison's, the Prodigal's Return, Bridge-road, on Wednesday evening. Mr. Hart presided. The chairman said, in explanation of the absence of many of the members on the meeting night, he hoped the non-attendance of the committee would not be misconstrued, as it arose partly from misconception as to the evening, and also that it was not contemplated to publish the names for overseers, &c, on that occasion. He thought it would have been very indiscreet at that time to have given publicity to the names of those who were to be nominated.
Mr. Pemberton, the secretary, stated that the magistrates had chosen Messrs. Ayles, Buckmaster, Hillier, and Denny as the new overseers.
Mr. Lyth said that there had been bills lately posted in the parish which contained nothing but gross falsehoods. He read a statement showing there had been a decrease in favof of the overseers for the year ending March 25, 1860, of Is. sd. in the pound, as compared with the amount previously paid under the old corrupt system, and exposed the general falsity of the assertions made in the placard to which he alluded.
Mr. Buckmaster really thought the society was greatly indebted to Mr. Lyth. There were few men who would devote so much time to promote the interests of the parish. Several members simultaneously concurred in the opinion expressed Mr, Buckmaster.
Mr. Finch moved and Mr. Poupart seconded, that Mr. Buckmaster and Mr. D. Jones should be added to the committee for the election of Vestrymen. — Agreed.
Mr. Allen was very glad that the above two gentlemen had been added to the committee, and he trusted they would act energetically, so as to secure the right men for vestrymen. The next meeting of the society will take place a the Farnborough Arms, Bridge-road West, on Wednesday, April 18th, at half-past seven o'clock.
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Battersea Literary and Scientific Institution
The annual general meeting was held on the 27th ult., in the Lammas Hall, the Rev. Mr. Jenkinson. parochial vicar, in the chair. The committee occupied the platform, and a large audience was present in the hall.
Mr. Hardy, the honorary secretary, read a carefully drawn up report of the financial state of the Institution, which exhibited a present debt of £35.
Mr, Thornton moved, and Mr. Cope seconded, That the report now read be adopted, and printed for distribution amongst the members.
Mr. Buckmaster then moved an amendment, That as the report now read by the secretary contains a statement that the committee will guarantee the extinction of the remaining debt, the meeting accept that guarantee provided the committee engage to relieve the members from all liability by May lst, 1860.
Mr. Lyth having seconded the amendment, a discussion ensued, when the committee denied having given such a guarantee as that referred to by Mr. Buckmaster. After some remarks by Mr. Hardy and Mr. James Walton, the original motion was carried without opposition.
Mr. Cazenove moved That the best thanks of the members be given to the officers of the institute for their services. This being carried, Mr. Gregg moved That the word " annual" be erased from the 12th rule. This he moved because the rule as it now stood virtually excluded the working class from acting on the committee, or having anything to do with the management of the institute.
Mr. Buckmaster seconded, and quoted Lord Brougham's statement that such institutions generally fail if the working classes are excluded from the management.
Mr. Hardy moved an amendment That the rule stand as it now is. He did so because they want an executive upon whose labors they can depend for at least a year continuously.
Mr. Story seconded the amendment, which was carried by a large majority. Mr. Buckmaster moved That the rule empowering the senior curate to act on the committee ex-officio, be erased. Tbis motion he made because the rule now existing made the institute sectarian, which to avoid he would either erase the rule in question, or render the Nonconformist ministers of the parish also ex-officio members of the committee.
Mr. Hardy observed that Mr. Soul, the Independent minister, had declined to subscribe to the institute, and consequently could not act on the committee.
Several remarks were made complimentary to Mr. Battcock, the senior curate, and an amendment proposed that the rule in question be not rescinded.
Mr. Buckmaster said he would, for the present, withdraw his motion; consequently, the rule was not interfered with. A vote of thanks terminated the proceedings.
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EXTRAORDINARY PAROCHIAL PROCEEDINGS AT BATTERSEA.
The proceedings in this parish on Easter Tuesday are very likely to engage the attention of the ecclesiastical or civil courts of law. The members of the representative Vestry met in the Lammas Hall, Battersea, at nine o'clock on the morning oi the above day for the purpose of electing a churchwarden for the ensuing year. Mr. Hart and Mr. Allen, both members of the Ratepayers' Association, were respectively nominated, but the choice fell on Mr. Hart by a majority of one vote. This Vestry, since the Metropolis Local Management Act came into operation in the parish, a period of about four years, have always elected the churchwarden.
In the usual printed notice, however, which is annually issued by the churchwardens, calling an open or public vestry of .the inhabitants, and which was held at half-past nine o'clock of the same day (Easter Tuesday), for sundry purposes, it stated, in addition, that the inhabitants were also, "according to annual custom, to proceed to the election ot churchwardens, sidesmen, " &c, thereby repudiating the previous election of Mr. Hart by the representative Vestry in the earlier part of the morning.
Accordingly, at half-past nine o'clock, a numerous meeting of the ratepayers assembled in public Vestry, at the Evening School Room, Green Lane road.
The first business was to receive the report of the Auditors on the Churchwardens Accounts for the past year, and to make a rate or assessment for and towards the necessary repairs and expenses of St. Mary's and St. George's Churches for the present year. H. S. Thornton, Esq., the vicar's churchwarden, presided.
Mr. Buckmaster objected to two sum 3 in the churchwardens' accounts, and stated that one of them especially had been illegally placed there. He read a clause in the act showing the consequences or penalties attached to such a proceedure.
The Chairman: If anything illegal has been done you have a remedy at law. After considerable discussion the accounts were pa-sed. Mr. Pariss moved that a church-rate be levied at 3d. in the pound. Mr. Sellars rose to second the motion. He had no doubt it would appear strange that a dissenter from the Church of England should adopt such a course, but when he considered that church rates would soon be abo'ished, and kuowing the present need of repairs at both the churches, together w- r the fact that those holding minor offices had to paid their stipends, ha thought on the score justice a rate ought to continue for another year. After a stormy discussion a divi. ion took place, and the rate was only carried by the chairman giving his casting vote.
Mr. Paris* then rose to move that Mr. S Ncnfe he elected churchwarden for the "ensuing } v which being duly seconded produced considerable excitement.
Mr. Buckmaster protested against such a dishonourable course of proceeding.
Mr. Reynolds, and other gentlemen who acted in concert with him, attended the Vostry held that morning at the Lammas Hall, and thus" admitted its legality, but. now came to the public Vestry, and declared the previous proceedings in the morning tc be illegal.
Mr. Reynolds here denied the inference drawn, and a very considerable altercation took place, when The Chairman stated that he could stop «° longer, and called on the meeting to appoint another cnairman, whereupon Mr, Alder was unanimous')' requested to occupy the chair, to which propositi 11 he consented. .
Mr. Buckmaster continued, "It was the duty ot the rateyayers to set their faces against this laid stratagem. If the present motion was carried and the proceedings of the Vestry annulled, alt the efforts they had made to obtain parochial reform* for the last four years, would be rendered entirely nugatory. .
Mr. Bridge vindicated the course be had pursued and denied that he had expressed any opinion on the subject as imputed to him. He contended that they were now acting legally. Mr. Reynolds pursued a similar course of argument, and said that they had been acting under a mistake. Mr. Juer wished to know how it was that Mr. Reynolds had for four years sanctioned the select Vestry in electing a churchwarden? The proceedings must have been illegal.
Mr. Reynolds explained that having been ecclesiastically admitted into the office the elections were legal. He then said he should move an amendment, , which was that Mr. Allen be elected churchwarden. He did so to show that he was not actuated by party feelings. Mr. Bridge would second the amendment for the same reason.
Mr. Buckmaster said (ironically), and I propose Mr. Reynolds for churchwarden, in consideration of the great services he has rendered to the parish. (Great laughter.)
A scene of the greatest confusion here ensued, and Mr. Juer moved an adjournment, which was lost.
Mr. Alder, as chairman, asked the Vestry Clerk which of the elections would be legal.
Mr. Chadwin, the vestry clerk, said he was incompetent to answer the question.
Mr. Juer referred to the.second section of the amended Metropolis Local Management Act, July, 1856, and said he should most certainly gi in a written protest against the election. Mr. Poupart considered the proceedings altogether illegal, and he should therefore protest against the course adopted. The chairman put the motion in favor of Mr* Neate, but only two hands were raised.
The amendment was next put and carried by a largemajority of those present. He then officially declared that Mr. Allen had been duly elected, inopen and public Vestry, as the churchwarden far the year ensuing. Thus terminated these extraordinary proceedings for the present.
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Order of Sale — This Day
MR. WHITTINGHAM begs to announce that the ORDER of SALE, at the Mart, THIS DAY, will be as follows:
Bolingbroke-grove, Wandsworth-common.- Eligible Freehold Building land, Estate in Chatham-road, Bolingbroke-grove. In 18 lots.
Bolingbroke-grove, Wandsworth-common. Eight Freehold Cottages, In Chatham-road, Bolingbroke-grove, le: to good weekly tenants. In eight lots.
Clapham Station, Surrey.- Eligible Freehold Building Land sltunto in Park-road, close to the Clapham-common and the new Wandsworth stations. In 15 lots.
Clapham Station.- A Pair of Freehold Villas, situate in Wandsworth-road, on the Clapham Station Estate, closso to the station and the new Wandsworth statlon, let to good tenants. In two lots.
BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS' SOCIETY.
An adjourned meeting of this society was at the Plough, St. John's Hill, Battersea s Wednesday evening last. y .Mr. Hart, on taking the chair, said he was to observe that there had been lately a opinion amongst the members hope when they considered the great reduction rates which had taken place as the result "j* society's exertions, they would be again united. would be a sad affair to see the fall back to its former position. The elect 10 proper persons to fill the office of Vestrym % the principal duty of the society. oll ]y Mr. Pemberton, the secretary, said ' ne business was the election of Vestrymen. eS
Mr. Allen considered that the election of men was a very important business and h e j_j it, to know the names those proposed. the chairman, had stated that he could not ' . her the names, which to him was very sU se He could not understand what was the list not being produced. The elect%% near at hand, and it was clear that memories of those the Committee e 3 very bad, or else they had bean neglect's duty. Mr. Poupart said, aa one of the .% ' that Mr. Finch had the list, but it was for him to recollect the names. c
The Chairman assured the meeting \ xi&' Committee felt the greatest desire to act cially for the interests of the parish. jjst- still sufficient time for the production of arr Mr. Allen continued %The time the when the members had right to c.^, jnt* f ' from the Committee whom they had They were now told that Mr. Finch and he was absent from the meeting- ask whether the committee were thus to the society? . . s j, e Mr. Poupart appealed to the em, );1 l '\e whether they understood that the produced that evening? he had t0 x would have seen Mr. Finch, and got ihe list. He should prefer to see earlier, so that the parishioners mit, 0 i 0 propriety of electing the names pudiated the charge of wishing to c the desire of the society.
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BATTERSEA RATE PAYERS' SOCIETY.
This meeting, which was held at the Swan Tavern, near Battersea Bridge, on Wednesday last, was very numerously attended. Mr. Buckmaster presided. The Chairman said that he was very glad to observe so many present, as the business of the even.in" was of considerable importance. The aub-committee, appointed the society to make out list of candidates for Vestrymen, had met on Friday, the ult., and he would now submit the names separately which were proposed to the meeting. The ratepayers had, according to the official notice circulated in the parish, and which they had right to conclude was legally correct as it was signed by the churchwardens, to elect twelve Vestrymen, viz., eight members who retire by effluxion of time, and four who retire by resignation. Mr. Graham expressed a hope that the name of Mr. Allen should stand first on the list. That gentleman had been a most active and useful member the society, and he had otherwise by private means endeavoured to benefit the parish. He would move, with great pleasure, the following resolution: — " That the name of Mr. Allen be placed first on the list." Mr. Pemberton seconded the motion, and was carried unanimously, after which Mr. Allen briefly acknowledged the compliment. The meeting then proceeded to fill up the list, but as some of the individuals proposed had not yet returned an answer as to whether they would allow themselves to be nominated, the publication their names are necessarily postponed for a few days. Mr. Hart said before they proceeded further with the list he wished to express the same opinion as he did last year relative to it. He still thought, as a society, to return any body of men was illegal. He formed his idea after reading carefully over the Metropolis Local Management Act. He did not wish to misunderstood. He was only anxious to avoid the charge of combination, for every man ought to exercise his own judgment in the matter. Several members expressed themselves satisfied that Mr. Hart was laboring under mistaken view the Act, after which Mr. Hart proposed, and Mr. Graham seconded, "That Mr. requested to propose ttie list at the Vestry." — The motion was carried with anplause. Mr. Lyth spoke the necessity urging the ratepayers generally to clear up their arrears, as some persons, through forgetfulness, were last year prevented from voting. He concluded offering several suggestions for the consideration of the Overseers. The Chairman could assure Mr. Lyth that the Overseers were most desirous to do all in their power to benefit the parish. There were other important objects to be effected, however, before they could direct their attention to the matters to which allusion had been made. There was still much more work to be done than was generally imagined. He was glad to see the unity of purpose which had been manifested that evening. The next meeting of the society will be held at Mr. Sherman's, the Duchess York, Battersea Fields, Wednesday evening, the loth inst., eight o'clock precisely.
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BATTERSEA. RATEPAYERS' PROTECTION SOCIETY
general meeting of the members of this Society was held at the Duchess of Yprk, Battersea Fields, on Wednesday evening, Mr. Buckmaster in the chair. There was a considerable discussion relative to the forthcoming election of Vestrymen, when Mr. Finch moved, Mr. Hart seconded, and it was unanimously agreed, That the list of names agreed upon at the sub-committee as candidates for Vestrymen be adopted, and supported by the members of this association." It was proposed by Hart, seconded by Mr. Kewney, and resolved, " That five more names be added to the sub-committee for the purpose of conducting the ensuing election." It being considered advisable to issue placards inviting the parishioners to attend the election. Mr. Finch moved, " That 200 bills be printed and circulated through the parish inviting the ratepayers to attend the meeting to be held on the at the Lammas Hall." Mr. Hart seconded and it was carried unanimously.
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WANDSWORTH.
Parochial Squabbling.
Parish of Battersea
Mr. Corsellis, the clerk of the Wandsworth district be .artl, attended before Mr. Ingham in support of summonses against Messrs. George Alder, G. Ayies, W. F. Cross, S. Seldort, J. C. Buckmaster, T. Boeve" Denny, W. T. Ilillier, AY. Pickering, and H. Sykes Thornton, as overseers for the parish of Battersea, for distress warrants against their goods end chattels for the non-payment of a precept issued by the board forthe sum of 088/. 15s. assessed upon their?? for the main drainage rate.
Mr. Reynolds, a solicitor, o! .Battersea, appeared for the two last-men' inned gentlemen, who were the churchwarden?. the other defendants appeared in person.
Every step of the board had to bo proved, and tbo arguments on both sides engaged the attention of his worship nearly all the morning.
Mr. Reynolds said there were only four overseers and two churchwardens in Battersea, and he should like to know how his friend, Mr. Corsellis, could make out that there were eight.
Mr. Corsellis explained flint Messrs. Buckmaster, Uillier, end Denny wero three of the new ovtmvrs, aii'l they succeeded to all the duties of their predecessors.
One of tie new overseers complained that he ba.l never been served with the precept which ho wa3 described in the sunmons as having received.
The short facts wire these. On ti of November last the board issued the pre.-, 'fendants, with the exception of Messrs. Duckmei and Denny, and it set forth that the money shou! or before tlu- %
that, order was not made until January last, and Mr. Cor. . that part of I had been collected, and not any of it paid over. .It also appeared that there was a sum o which had been drawii from the current acoouot ot the over- seers, and place i to the private account of the la Messrs. Aiders, Ayies, Cross, and Seldon, a-e ceeding had given rise to disputes. The that they liad money to pay over, but wow not obey the order.
Mr. Reynolds explain-. 1 with r- GOO/. He was formerly the Ic^sl over- seers, and wheu the new ones cam." into p that they could dispense with his st r lawyer was a dear article. lf<- wus in possession of < papers which the new overseers called upon him to deliver up, but be declined until his claim wa-e paid. Proceedings j were taken, and thd court ruled thai the papers should he, delivered up upon their paying his demand, something about 500/, and the overseers drew a cheque from the current account and placed it to their own account in to protect theni. elver.
Mr. Corsellis said _ the had nothing to do with tlie-e proceedings, and, oould be only mentioned as to show that overseers were in posses Is.
Mr. Ingham inquired when the new rvt %'
Mr. Reynold.: On the 31st of M should have been tnad
upon %heir term of ol%ce.%Mr. Or was a I Reynolds ciil ** the late had al. ro the n%w overseers were i 1 ppoiuted, t! o subsequent orerseers could never be made liable fos the; deeds of their predecessors.
Mr. Ingham thought Mr. Reynold's was right. The question required consideration, more especially when he was asked to levy a distress warrant. The late overseers m'-jhteay that they had handed their books ever to their successors perfectly correct, and on the other hand, the new overseers might say that they had not sufficient time to collect the money.
Mr. Reynolds said there were now seven rates under the?? Management Act in the course of and argued that this proceeding was quite hostile on thi of fho Buttersea members of the board. %?? Corsellis complained t'imt Buttersea had been in arrears very considerably with their rates, end hence the difficulty.
Several of the Overseers said a rate had been made, and if a sufficient time were allowed the money would be paid.
Mr. Ingham recommended that the summonses should be adjourned for a month, for the parties to effect a settlement, and said he hoped in future the board would issue their precepts to the overseers of the current year, and for the time of payment to be limited to their year of office, lf that had been done in this case he should have had no hesitation in issuing his distress warrants. He also recommended the parish otlicers in future to make their rates immediately upon the receipt of the precepts, und not allow months to elapse before they proceeded to do eo.
The summonses were accordingly adjourned for a month.
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PAROCHIAL SQUABBLING IN BATTERSEA
Mr. Corsellis, the clerk of the Wandsworth district board, attended before Mr. Wandsworth Police Court in support of summonses against Messrs. George Alder, G. Ayles, W. F. Cross, S. Seldon, J.C. Buckmaster, T. Reeve Oinny, . Hillicr W. Pickering, and H. Sykes Thornton, overseers for the parish of Battersea for di warrants against their goods and chattels for the nonpayment of a precept issued the board for the sum of £938 15s. assessed upon their parish for the main drainage rate.'
The facts of the case were these. On the of November last the board issued the precept to ail the defendants, with the exception of Messrs Buckmaster, Hillier, and Denny, and it set forth that the money should be paid on or before the 20th of April. The rate for that order was not made until January last, and Mr. Corsellis showed that part of the money had been collected, and not any of it paid over. It also appeared that there was a sum of 600/. which had been drawn from the current account of the overseers, and placed to the private account of the late overseers, Messrs. Alders, Ayles, Cross, and Seldon, and that proceeding had given rise to dispute. The board complained that they had money to pay over, but would not obey the order.
Mr. Reynolds explained with respect to the 600/. He was formerly the legal adviser of the late overseers, and when the new ones came into power they thought that they could dispense with his services, the keeping of a lawyer was a dear article. He was in possession of certain papers which the new overseers called upon him to deliver up, but he declined until his claim was paid. Proceedings were taken, and the court ruled that the papers should be delivered up upon their paying his demand, something about 500/., and the overseers drew cheque from the current account and placed it to their own account in order to protect themselves.
Mr. Corsellis said the 600/. had nothing to do with these proceedings, and could be only mentioned to show that the overseers were in possession of Mr. Ingham inquired when the new overseers came into office.
Mr. Reynolds. — On the 31st of March.
Mr. Ingham thought the order should have been made upon the overseers to pay within their term of office.
Mr. Corsellis contended that the duty was attached to the office and not to the officer.
Mr. Reynolds differed in that opinion, and said that supposing the late overseers had collected the while of the rate, and had absconded before the new overseers were appointed, the subsequent overseers could never be made liable for the deeds of their predecessors.
Mr. Ingham thought Mr. Reynolds was right. The question required consideration, more especially when he was asked levy a distress warrant. The late overseers might say that they had handed their books over to their successors perfectly correct, and on the other hand, the new overseers might say that they had not sufficient time to collect the money.
Mr. Reynolds said there were now seven rates under the Metropolis Local Management Act in the course of collection in Battersea, and argued that the proceeding was quite hostile on the part of Battersea, which had been in arrears very considerably with their rates, and hence the difficulty. Several of the overseers said the rate had been made, and if a sufficient time were allowed the money would be paid. The summonses, at Mr. Ingham's recommendation, were accordingly adjourned for a month.
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Parochial Squabbling Important Proceed
Mr. Cnrsellis, the clerk of the Wandsworth Diatrict Board, attended before Mr. Ingham at the Wandsworth Police Court, on Tuesday, support of summons against Messrs. Alder G. Arles, W. F. Cross, S. Seldon, J. C. Buckmaster, T. Reere, Denny. W. T. Hilliar, W. Picking, and A. Sykes Thornton, as Overseers for the Pariah of Battersea, for distress warrants against their goods and chattels for the non-payment of a precept issued by the Board, for the sum of %9BB 155., assessed upon their pariah for the Main Drainage Rate.
Mr. Reynolds, solicitor, Battersea, appeared for the two last-mentioned gentlemen, who were the Churchwardens. The other defendants appeared in person.
Every step of the Board had be proved, and the arguments on both sides engsged the attention of his Worship nearly all the morning. Mr. Reynolds said there were only four Overseers and two Churchwardens, in Battersea, and he should like to know how his friend Mr. Corsellis could make out that there were eight.
Mr. Corsellis explained that Messrs. Buckmaster, Hillier, and Denny, were three of the new Overseers, and they succeeded to all the duties of their predecessors. One of the new Overseers complained that he had never been served with the precept which was described in the summons having received. The above facts were these. On the 9th of November last the Board issued the precept to all the defendants, with the exception of Messrs. Buckmaster, Hillier, and Denny, and it set forth that the money should paid on or before the 20lh of April, %iB6o. The rate for that order was not made until January last, and Mr. Corsellis showed that part of the money had been collected and not any of it paid over. I', also appeared that there was a sum of %600 which had been drawn from the current account of the Overseers, and placed to the private account the late Overseers, Messrs. Aider, Ayles, Cross, ana Srldon, and that proceeding had given rise disputes. The Board complained that they had money to pay over, but would not obey the Order. ~ . .
Mr. Reynolds explained with respect to the %600. He was formerlv the legal adviser of the late Overseers, and when the new came into power they thought that they could dispense with his services, the keeping of a lawyer was a dear article. He was in possession of certain pjpera which the new Overseers called upon him to deliver up, but he declined until his claim was paid. Proceedings were taken, and the Court ruled that the papers should delivered up upon their paying hia demand, something about £500, and the Overseer* drew cheque from the current account, and placed it their own account, in order proieat. themselves. .
Mr. Corsellis said the £600 had nothing to with these proceedings, and said only mentioned it to show that the Overseers were in possession of funds. Mr. Inghsm inquired when the new Overseer* came into office. Mr. Reynolds eaid on the March. Mr. Ingham thought the order should have been made upon the Overseer* to pay within their term of office. Mr. Corsellis contended that the duty was attached to the office, and not to the officer, Mr. Reynolds differed in that opinion, and said that supposing the late Overseer* had collected the whole of the rate, and had absconded before the new Overseers were appointed, the auhsequrnt Orerseers could never be liable to the deed% of their predecessor%. Mr. Ingham thought Mr- Reynolds was right. The question required oonsideration, more especially when he was asked levy distress warrant. The late Overseers might %ay that they had handed their books over to their successors perfectly correct, and on the other hand the new Overseers might say that they had not sufficient time to collect the money. Mr. Reynolds said there were now rates under the Metropolis Local Management Act in the course of collection in Battersea, and argued that this proceed]ng was quite horrible the part of the Battersea' members of the Board.
Mr. Corsellis complaine' that Battersea had been in arrears very considerably with their rates, and hence the difficulty. several of the Overseers said a rate had been made, and if sufficient time were allowed the money would be paid. Mr, recommended that the should adjourned for a month for the partly effect settlement, and said he hoped in future the Board would issue their precepts to the Overseers of the current year, and for the time of par men t to limited their year of office. If that had been done in this case he should have had hesitation in issuing his distress warrants. He recommended the parish officers in future to make their rates immediately upon the receipt df the precepts, and not allow months to elapse before they to The summonses were accordingly month.$$
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BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS' SOCIETY
special meeting of this society was held at the Prodigal's Return, Bridge-road, on Wednesday e last. Mr. Buckmaster was voted to the Chair.
The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, hoped that the speakers would be as brief as possible remarks, as very probably business of considerable importance would be brought forward. resolution was unanimously carried that the following members constitute the committee of the fOciety:%Messrs. Buckmaster, Kewney, Poupart, "race, Jones, Lyth, and Rose, and that Mr. Dart " c requested to act as treasurer, and Mr. Pemberton as secretary, both to be considered as officio members of the committee. Mr, referred a general rate of lOd. in Ihe pound, and to a lighting rate of 6d, which arp low in the course of being made, and which will he shortly submitted to the magistrate for his signature. He maintained that these rates would leave * very large balance hand. It was necessary fiat the ratepayers of the parish should take some decisive measures at once in reference to the proposed rate%. Nearly %40, 000 had been expended during the last few years, and no audit over that Unmense sum had been made. He would move tie following resolution:%"That this meeting approves of the course that is being pursued by Messrs. Ayles& Buckmaster, overseers, in refusing make any more local rates, by which refusal the right to do so will be invested in the District Roard, who will then make the rates and appoint the collector, by which means the ratepayers will *Uow that all the moneys they pay will direct that Board, and they will always enabled to ceitain that no portion is misappropriated, which has been the case in this parish ever since the Passing the Metropolis Local Management Act, a that his course, if adopted, will procure a great Eduction in the rates and place the affiirs of the Parish in a more satisfactory position." Messrs. Hart, Poupart, and others, having spoken 0n the subject, Mr. Ashton said he would second the resolution, was detei mined, although he had not been long 111 the parish, to refuse the payment of the rates Us: til he had some account of the past expenditure. Mr. Hart declared it was no use refusing payment unless the illegality of the rates could be proved. Mr. Ashton replied that it would be well to print a statement of the accounts, and circulate it in the pari>h, then the ratepayers generally would more c 'early see how the moneys were expended, and thought it would be the only effective way to check that system of which they justly complained. The Chairman then fully explained the position affairs in reference to the local rates. parish j officer, or overseir, ought to act in opposition to the wishes the majority of the ratepayers. The parish officers are the representatives of the ratepayers.% C irried unanimously. Mr. Ashton moved the next resolution, and Mr. iregg seconded, That as many of the ratepayers s possible do attend before the magistra'e to state lc objections against the making cf any new ates."%This resolution was unanimously carried. . Brace then said had a subject of some portance to bring before the'meetmg. hud atted some time for the arrival of Mr. Allen, but had not yet come (this was past nine o'clock) c *el t it his duty to pre ceed with his remarks 1 to that member. lie considered Mr. Alien, at the recent election j . vestrymen, altogether such as to disqualify for continuing a member of that society. % hear.) He thought resolution to that ct ought to be proposed. Lyth, after animadverting on the course Pursued Mr. Allen, moved, " That Mr. Allen's be removed from the list of members of this ociation, in consequence of his having proposed 'st Vestrymen in opposition to that unanitt adopted at a meeting of the members of ls Association, at which meeting Mr. Allen was . B ent."%This motion was carried without a patient. <% %ther resolution was then unanimously carried, p, a t Mr. Crrss he no longer considered a member I, s Association, for similar reasons, ep essrs — Walton, Juer, Broad, and Purdy, have Roa% f lec, ea hy the Vestry men as members of the of Works for the Wandsworth District.
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BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS' SOCIETY
On Wednesday last numerous meeting of the members of this society was held at the Swan Tavern, near Battersea Bridge. Mr. Buckmaster the chair.
The Chairman said the principal object of the meeting was to receive the report the Committee. It was very desirable that this society should be properly supported, and hoped therefore they would be unanimous their operations, and firm to their principles. would read the report, as some poitions related to their respected Secretary. After giving a financial statement of the affairs of the society, which were very satisfactory, the Committee state that they *' have had under their consideration the long and useful services their Secretary. Through every struggle and temptation he has always remained faithful to the interests of the society, and it would only an act of justice on the part the members to recognise those services in some more substantial form. In a tew days a list will be opened to receive subscriptions, and it is hoped every member will do the best lie can according to his means.
The Committee have reason congratulate the members on the success of their past efforts. They have been successful in every fair contest, and it was only when legal quibbling and unworthy means were resorted to that we have disappointment and defeat. At the time the society was established the were ifriusuariy heavy, through the expenses heavy It struggled on against many difficulties without sympathy aud with but little support, but society now numbers wT.ose-votes can made available on any emergency.
The Committee are anxious direct the attention of the ratepayers to the importance and duty of taking an interest in their own affairs, and while every member at liberty to act according to his own feelings and convictions matters of detail, they feel that all questions where the improper expenditure of the parish money concerned, or a principle involved, that unanimity and decision should characterise the efforts of the members. support the election of men to parochial office whose past conduct gives us hopes of a good future — to exercise a watchful vigilance over the expenditure — to secure the regular audit of the local rate, and reduce them to the lowest amount consistent with good government, are the main objects for which this society was established, and they therefore solicit the support and co-operation of their fellow-ratepayers in these efforts.
The subject of the local rates was then brought forward, and, after remarks from--Messrs. Poupart, Finch, Gregg, Ashton, Broad, Ebans, Jones, Brace, Hart, and Lythe, the following resolution was unanimously carried: — That in the opinion this meeting the rate signed by the magistrates the of June last, being improperly and illegally made, this meeting pledges itself to afford all the information and evidence in their power to assist any the ratepayers in opposing the payment of that rate.
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TO BE DISPOSED OF, the owner not having accommodation for them, TWO fine BRAHMIN COWS. Have already calved down in this country; one of them again In calf by a thoroughbred Alderney, the second has her calf still with her. Price of the two cows, £20. Apply to Mr A.J. Ashman, opposite Neal's nursery ground. Wandsworth-common.
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Ratepayers' Association
A special meeting the commitee of this society Was held at the Rising Sun Tavern, Battersea, on Friday, the *th inst., Mr. Buckmaster in the chair. The business transacted was entirely of a preliminary character.$$
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BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION
A meeting of the members of the above society took place at the Risirg Sun, Bridge-road, Wednesday last, Mr. Buckmaster the chair.
The Chairman rose and said, Gentlemen, it is nearly four months since we last met, and during that time many circumstances have transpired of which the members of this society ought to be informed. the time when I was appointed overseer I found there was a very great difficulty the collection of the rates, but hope shall very shortly improve. I considered that some enquiry should be made to the manner in which these rates are collected. think the books should be held the hands of one man, and should held responsible to the overseers for the due collecting of the rates.
There was one who had tried to sow the seeds discord among us, and then formed Ratepayers' Defence Association, but it had since appeared that that association had met with an untimely end. There was question of importance nov agitation — the local rates. There doubt whatever but that these rates are increasing in a degree most frightful, and there ought not to be more collected than is immediately required. When the rate was made June last he found there was arrears of rates outstanding amounting to near whilst the call of the District Board was only for so the positive rate required was ouly about and feel confident that if those arrears had been properly attended to, instead of having a ls. l0d. rate, 6d. rate would have been sufficient for all ordinary purposes. This was a matter that deeply concerned the small ratepayer. It did not so much affect those who had only to write a cheque for the amount.
There are great many gentlemen who think when the collectors call for the rates that it is all right, sign cheque and pay the demand; but there are great many who are in the habit of saying to the collectors when they call, wait until we make some enquiry into the rate, for we believe thut it has not been legally made. A number of circulars had been sent to several gentlemen who were the largest ratepayers in the parish, who having heard both sides of the case, determined to delay the paying of the rates until they had ascertained whether the rate was legally made or not.
One of the gentlemen instructed an eminent parish solicitor to look into the matter to see if anything could be done to set those rates aside, and possible it would be done. It was all laid before the solicitor, who said that there could not be any doubt but that the rate had been illegally made, and an appeal ought to have been made at the Quarter Sessions; but they had let the time pass by, and they had now no opportunity of doing anything, so must pay the rate.
So gentlemen you see there can be no doubt but that the rate made in June hard and unjust; it i 6 clear that it was illegally and improperly made; but we must take greater care for the future. A gentleman intends convening a number of influential friends to a meeting his own residence, to take means to prevent such things taking place in future. He was glad to see this, it was step the right direction. On Monday an opinion was taken on the right of the open Vestry to appoint a churchwarden, and that opinion was in favour of the appointment by the select vestry. With reference to the rates it evident we must pay them; but we must see that the balance remaining goes toward a reduction in the next rate that is made.
He then referred to the affair of the Burial Board, and said that the expenses- would exceed the £8000 allowed; and when one gentleman found that he got his bills settled, then it might get on as best it could. The time year is now approaching when we should meet together, and he trusted they would meet with the support of all classes. There may a difference of opinion among them, but they had a great principle to contend for. We must see that the rates are properly expended, and bring those rates down the lowest possible amount. He was sure that no one would object to pay their rates if they were sure there was no injustice done, and that the was properly expended. He was also glad to find the movement which was taking place amongst gentlemen of the wealthier classes, and also they would see by the notice in the local paper what was taking place at our meetings.
Mr. Hart said it was very evident they had let the time slip for appealing against the rates, so they must now pay them. He said it appeared to him that the collectors of the parish, instead of being the servants of the overseer*, they had been more like masters, when the collectors had refused to give up their books the overseers ought to have said produce them, and if you do not do so, I will collect the rates and discharge you, — they were empowered law to do that.
It was evident their present overseer (Mr. Buckmaster) could not do it he hoped now that it was decided that the rates would have to be paid, that the ratepayers would coma forward and pay their rates without delay so as to relieve the overseers from their difficulty.
Mr. Lythe said that the local rate books for 1858 and 1859 were not missing, but in the hands of the collectors. He said he would pay his rates, but before doing so he would see that the rate made in October 1858 was collected.
The Chairman said it was a fact that three-fifths of the assessments in the parish were paid by companies and large firms and only two fifths had to be collected from the shop-keeper and householder. Collectors were not always the most civil people, and he thought if a polite note were sent round to the small ratepayers before taking any measures against them, to say it was necessary to meet calls, &c, would be great improvement, but the system had been to do as little as you can, and get as much as you can.
Mr. Lythe said that twelve months ago he informed the vestry that so long as were without vestry clerk, there would be no improvement reform, for under the present system you could not tell where one person's office began where it ended.
Several other gentlemen addressed the meeting, after which, the secretary announced that the member's subscriptions were now due, and that the secretary would wait on them for the amount. The next meeting of the members of this society will be held at the Swan Tavern, Bridge-road, Wednesday, November 14th, at Seven o'clock in the evening.
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[Buckmaster v Reynolds?]
BATTERSEA RATEPAYERS' PROTECTION ASSOCIATION.
The monthly meeting of this Society was held the Swan Tavern, Bridge-road, Battersea, on Wednesday last, ; Mr. Buckmaster the chair, who said the time of the year was coming on, when they should meet, We should soon have Christmas here, and after that our work begins. Those meetings of the Association were for the parish, and must know no party but the parish, and what did must be for the good of the parish.
Since our last meeting, as one of the Burial Board, have had a notice given me for law costs of £100. Now this money must come from the pockets of the ratepayers, and it was therefore necessary that every ratepayer should become acquainted with these tilings. Now, as to the Burial Board setting aside the necessity of the burial ground, find that the warrant from the Secretary of State was that £8, 000 was to be the amount of money expended on it, and which the parish is now bound to pay. Now, at the last meeting of this Board I was much astonished to find a solicitor there; I thought we had got rid of him, therefore was much astonished to find him there. He managed to get resolution passed there, made according to his own dictation, requesting him to attend the meeting of the Board.
On Tuesday last we had a meeting, and was there then, and the substance of his remarks were that he was instructed to carry forward the appeal that was now pending reference to the which had been disallowed by the Poor Law Board. It was also determined to send a letter to the overseers, as they were about making new rate. That on or about the 29th of March, ISGI, they would be required to pay to the Pelican Life Office lbs. Id., one year's interest, and thirtieth part of the principal, of the £S, 000 borrowed from them account of the burial ground; and as the poor-rate would be mortgaged to meet this expense, he should not for the present propose any claim for current, expenses. Now, will take 80 years to pay off this money, and the parish will have paid between £15, 000 and £20, 000 before this matter will be entirely clear from them.
We must endeavour to do the best we can until March, and then there will be new members on that Board, and this Association must do their best to send some of their own members. The burial ground is still incomplete state. It is not yet consecrated, and the expenditure of the Board |is not completed; therefore I consider it, is quite premature to levy rate to increase the burden of the ratepayers until the whole of their accounts are audited. Now to-day I have had to appear before the magistrate to answer why the rates have not been handed over to the District Board.
Before these rates were made, I wrote to the Board, declining to be responsible as to the making of these rates, for I saw great difficulty in the Avay, and thought the District Board should make the rate. I told the magistrate I was no party to the making of the rate. last Mr. Ingham got angry, and said the District had the power to make the rate, and appoint collector to collect them, and said the Board were quite willing, only the majority were against it. All we desire is, that everything is carried on fair and just; but I believe before this parish takes its stand with other parishes, we must have a thorough and entire change throughout the establishment.
Mr. Poupart said the £Soow was borrowed by the parish, to be paid out the poor rate, so we cannot get over that; but any excess of that sum we should resist to the utmost.
Mr. Hart said he could not see any ground for going to law to upset the Burial Board; this money would be due in March, and it was very natural the Insurance Society should expect to be paid the interest. Now, this would not a perpetual expense of £600 per year, could not be so every year, as it will decrease in principal and interest every year; but now they call for the full year's assessment. As regards the making ot ls. 3d. rate, he considered a ls. rate would carry them over March, and he thought the quieter they were the better.
There was no mistake, the money must paid. He was sorry to speak against the Burial Board; but it was got a mysterious way. As for collecting the rates, have attended the Board of Works, and they have come to the resolution to memorialise the Board adopt a certain principle as to the collection of the rate, and considered it s shame that the Overseer should be summoned on account of the rate not being collected and handed over to the District Board. And as to the collectors not treating the officers right, and not attending their duty, they should have an independent collector, not having other duties perform.
The collection of rates had become so important that it was necessary they should be paid, and thought the Board should appoint a collector in the same manner that Government did.
The Chairman explained that he could not do as he wished, as he was a minority, which made him quite powerless.
Mr. Hart said there were several parish officials who had not even paid their rates. Mr. said the call from the Insurance Company is £100 for interest, and £2<>'3 lOs. 4d. as thirtieth part of the principal.
Mr. Hart said considered that the expenses of the Board exceeded the £BG00, that the Board themselves would be responsible. Mr. said that money being paid by the parish in instalments in this manner, the principal and interest would amount to He said he had been very quiet lately, but bo -had been looking into financial matters, and among other things had looked into the balance sheet of the Overseers, which he considered, the whole, a very good one.
The income for the half-year ending Sept. 29, 1860, including balance per last audit was £3829 lis. 3d. The expenditure had been £3383 lSs. 10d., leaving balance of more than £400; but he understood there was a debt due which more than covered the balance. lie also informed the members that Id. rate produced £299 os. Hid.
Mr. Hart said considered if the Overseers only made shilling rate they would be in as good position next March as they were in March of this year.
A lengthened conversation then followed on the balance sheet which had been read to them Mr. Lyth; after which the meeting adjourned until Wednesday, December 12, at eight o'clock in the evening, the Rising Sun, Bridge-road.
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