Schoolroom
Captain EH Verney
On Friday evening, the 23rd inst., Captain E. H. Verney, R.N., addressed a meeting held the Schoolroom at Steeple Claydon. Mr. Hatley occupied the chair, and commencing the proceedings alluded to the Hares and Rabbits Bill. He asserted that Sir Wm. Harcourt brought in a Bill giving the farmers permission to destroy the rabbits, but the fact was the Conservatives would not allow the principle of the Bill to be properly carried out. (Applause.) He knew that one of his relatives had been brought almost to a state of poverty, and others had been driven almost mad over the increase and ravages the rabbits; and instead of the provisions of the Act being applied, the keeper went round and told them that if the rabbits were killed, they must leave the farms. Here then they had an instance where the Liberals passed an Act for the benefit of the farmers, and the Conservatives cancelled its beneficent operation. Then, again, let them look at Ireland. The Liberals had made it comfortable for Irish tenants, and depend upon it, if the farmers would only be united, the Government would help them in England, and we should see better times.He then called upon Captain Verney to address the meeting. Captain Verney said he believed we were now passing through a most eventful period in the history of our country. He did not think that the progress of education, of compulsory education, had passed over the country without leaving its mark. Within twelve months the great bulk the people, who are householders, would be able not only to understand the political questions, but also able to influence the course of the country. (Applause.) But with these additional powers there came also greater responsibility. There were many questions which at once presented themselves to the minds of those who looked forward to the possession of this political power, and in every part of the country people were asking ” What will the working men do with the vote ?” (A voice : ” Use it!”) Yes, that was true, but above all let be used intelligently. He asked them to search to the very depths of the questions, and to learn the truths of them. Let them read and hear both sides of the questions, and if at any time others whose opinions differed from his came to address them, let them ask the speakers questions—let them not hesitate to attend such meetings, and push home to them any questions which they considered were of special and vital importance to them.to be continued……..
Bucks Herald – Saturday 31 January 1885 …
