The Western Messenger (Volume 6-7) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1838. Excerpt: ... THE WESTERN MESSENGER: DEVOTED TO RELIGION AND LITERATURE. Vol. VII. OCTOBER, 1839. No. 6. THE CHARTISTS. This is the name of a new party in England. It has sprung into existence within a short period, and is composed principally of the working class. At first this party was ridiculed; but from its numbers it has commanded attention, and is destined, we think, to exercise no small influence in that realm. Fears, we know, are felt that the chartists will do harm, and the opinion is rife, both here and elsewhere, that they will retard the progress of liberal views, and a wise reform. Are these fears well grounded? Is this opinion correct? The enquiry is worth making, and we propose saying a word or two on the subject. To come, however, to any correct conclusion, we must understand the condition of parties in England; the effect which the chartists have produced upon them; the principles of the. chartists; their conduct; and then we may know how far they will advance or retard the reform cause. The condition of parties in England is somewhat peculiar. The Tories, as they are called, are the strongest, and they are so simply because they arc united in opinion and action. They oppose all change. They are for the government as it is, with all its hoar abuses, and ancient usurpations, and will surrender no right, and diminish no power, unless compelled by necessity to do it. In opposition to this party stand the Whigs. They are now in power. They are not united in opinion or action. They are for certain changes; but they fear going too far. They contend for progressive reform; but they refuse to eradicate bare and acknowledged abuse. While in opposition to the Tories, Vol. Vii.--47 therefore, they are in fact aiding them, and, of course, present to the country no..