1st May 1816: The Rev WR Hay expresses concerns about discontent in Manchester to the Home Secretary

New Bailey Court House, Manchester. 1 May 1816

My Lord,

It becomes my duty, in obedience to the directions the Magistrates who met this morning in Quarter Sessions to state your Lordship that on Monday Information was received by the Boroughreeve and Constables of Manchester that from conversations which had been overheard, & other circumstances, there was reason to believe that it was not improbable that some disturbance might shew itself in this neighbourhood. It appears that the Weavers, & some other branches of the Manufacturers are for the most part out of employ; and those who are so, talk boldly, and in conversations which have been overheard, they seem to lay great stress on the small number of men in the barracks, which they represent to be only one hundred. I cannot help saying that on coming into Manchester I particularly remarked that parties were assembled in groupes, in the same manner as I have observed in former times of disturbance, in each of which some one seemed to be talking to the crowd around him. The Boroughreeve & Constables early on Tuesday informed me of what they had heard, and I lost no time in communicating with Mr. Evans the Magistrate here, in their company I instantly, as was then settled, wrote in Mr. Evans's name and my own to General Barlow, who we understand to command at Liverpool, informing him generally of the circumstances, & requesting to know, in case of necessity, what force could be brought to bear on this neighbourhood.

The opening of the Sessions I laid the subject before the Magistrates in sessions, where it was of course resolved that these particulars should be laid before your Lordship – It so happened that Major Brice who has the command at Liverpool was today in Manchester. In the name of the Court I communicated with him and with Col Holmes of the 3d (or Princes) Regiment of Dragoon Guards, part of which Regiment is now in the Barracks here. We learn from them that the forces of Cavalry in Manchester Barracks is Rank & file 151 – horses 95 – in Liverpool 261; horses 227 – The infantry under Major Brice does not amount to 500. These particulars I am also directed to lay before your Lordship. How far discontent may spread, and whether it will assume a more serious shape, we cannot judge. But I am desired to state, that in the opinion of the Magistrates, should any commotion take place in this manufacturing district, the force at present here would be found inadequate to the public service.

The Sessions here, from the weight of business, are likely to continue far into next week. Any communication, with which your Lordship may honour the Magistrates will probably arrive during our sitting. At any rate Mr. Evans will be authorized, should the Sessions have finished, to open any letter from your Lordship on the subject.

I have [etc]
William Robert Hay.

To The Rt Honble Lord Viscount Sidmouth
One of H.M’s principal Secretaries of State &c &c

16th May 1814: William Hay sends the spy John McDonald's memorial to the Home Secretary

No. 31 Clipstone Street 16th May 1814

My Lord,

At the request of the Magistrates at Manchester I have the honor to enclose a memorial from John Macdonald, petitioning for some compensation for his services during the disturbances in 1812. I understand that he was out between two and three months, and that his expences out of pocket were paid, but no recompense has been afforded him. Not being able to judge what might be considered as a proper sum for him, should Government think him entitled to the prayer of his memorial, I desired that the Magistrates would favor me with their opinion on that head; that opinion I take the Liberty of enclosing. Col. Silvester and Mr. Wright were present when the Commission was given by Genl. Maitland, and a promise made that the parties to be sent should be paid by Genl. Maitland. I heard of it immediately afterwards, and was present at the York Assizes when John McDonald gave his evidence – it appeared to me that he had been very active, and in situations at considerable peril—

I have [etc]
William Robert Hay

To
The Right Honourable
Lord Visct. Sidmouth
One of H. Ms principal Secretaries of State &c &c

28th March 1814: The Rev WR Hay tells the Home Office that Master Printers are scared to act against the Union

(Private)

Ackworth 28 March (Eveng) 1814.

Dear Sir,

Having written the only official answer which it is in my power to give to your letter of the 14th instant, I think it right privately to enclose an extract of such part of Mr. Evans’s letter to me, this day received, as refers to the subject of Lord Sidmouth’s enquiry, & to transmit some particulars connected with it.

In immediate answer to my letter, Mr. Evans (who was convening the Magistrates, & had sent a copy to the Sollicitor for the Master Printers) held out little prospect of any advantage to be expected. This was no surprise to me, as I had occasion to be aware the difficulties might occur in respect to the procuring information.

I will now state to you as surely as I can what had passed on the subject prior to my writing to Lord Sidmouth.

The Magistrates in Sessions, before whom the rules were laid, thought them of too serious a complexion, more especially after all they had witnessed, not to be sent to Government. This Order was unanimously made.

The Master Printers hearing of the determination of the Sessions, seemed pleased with what we had resolved on; and, by their Sollicitor, intimated to me that they were ready to communicate with me on the subject, if I wished it. I instantly fixed the time, & met them—After hearing the state of the combination & other particulars my advice was given as strongly as I could present it, that without loss of time, & laying aside all minor considerations, they should proceed to put down the combination, then sufficiently strong, but which would every hour become more formidable, for that delay and indecision must operate in favour of the men, & against the masters—Their sollicitor was a strongly of the same opinion. I found however (as is too often the case) that present advantages were an obstacle to some of the masters. In fact, they were unanimous as to the grievance; but not united as to the mode of resistance, if any were to be made. A Plan they had; not strictly legal perhaps; but under the circumstances probably justifiable. I proposed that, whatever plan they might think proper to pursue, they should instantly by delegation from their own body inform Government of the combination; because the question was too general in its bearing to be considered merely as respecting their own branch of trade. They stated to me some of the instances of outrage, & from what passed, I had every reason to believe that they would furnish me with a summary of several grievances already experienced by the masters; some of which, as I have stated, were the subjects of conversation. I called for this whilst I was in Manchester—On not receiving it, I requested that it might be sent after me; stating to the Sollicitor that I would withhold my letter to Government for some days, that I might have an opportunity of receiving it: but none came—I therefore could no longer delay writing on my instructions from the Sessions.

Amongst many other grievances was one which I conceive Mr Evans to refer. A Gentleman (whether or no he had been in the trade I am not sure, tho I believe he had) went to dine with a Master Printer. The journeyman heard of it. They insisted to the master that his guest should leave his house—a considerable parley ensued; and it was not till after a thorough explanation of the relation of the parties, an assurance that the guest was not in the situation of a master printer, and that his visit had nothing in its object that respected their trade—that he was suffered to remain.

In another instance a roller for the purpose of printing was in use at some extensive works. The men insisted that, inasmuch as that roller was not made by such persons, & under such circumstances as they approved, it should not be used—The master remonstrated; and, with apparent firmness; but at length he judged it prudent to give up the roller—The men, not satisfied with this, would not continue to work for him (or, probably has the term is, would have declared him in a state of blockade) unless he pay the expenses of the combination: £1.16. 0—this he did,—and I have since been informed that some other demand for expenses was insisted upon and paid.

These would have been two of the cases furnished by me. I need not state to you how important they are. When the Masters with the law in their hands dare not put it into force, the case is very serious. The evil complained of is vital - it will roll through every branch of trade; ultimately it may reach even the interior of private families.

I must request that this letter be considered as private; to be communicated only to Lord Sidmouth. As such I find it necessary to write it. Tho it may contain more perhaps than I have permission to communicate officially, it may be useful to his Lordship by way of explanation, and in respect of my brother magistrates & myself may operate so far as to protect us from censure.

I am, Dear Sir,
Your faithful & obedient humble serv.
William Robert Hay.

To
John Beckett Esqr &c &c

14th March 1814: The Home Office ask The Rev Hay for more information on a North West Printers Union

Sent to
Revd. W. R. Hay
Ackworth
near Pontefract

W.H. 14th of March 1814

Sir

A copy of your letter

Lord Sidmouth having directed a reference to be made to the Attorney & Solicitor General on the Subject of the “Rules for the conducting of the Union Society of Printers Cutters & Drawers in Lancashire Cheshire Derbyshire &c" which you transmitted to His Lordship in your letter of the 20 of last month—I have received His Lordship’s directions to acquaint you that the Law Officers have reported that the articles entered into are illegal by the Statute of 39. & 40 Geo: 3. Ch: 106

The object of these articles is to prevent the masters from using machinery by agreement of the workmen who are parties to the articles not to work for such masters; & also to prevent the workmen from working in certain sorts of work described in some of the different Clauses of the  Articles.

This is a combination for controlling & affecting persons who carry on the Trade or business, & as such is illegal, & any of the persons who can be proved to be members of the Society or to have subscribed their money for the purposes of the Combination are guilty of an offence for which they may be convicted—as however no facts are stated as to any particular case the Law Officers cannot point out on which peculiar Branch of the act any individual should be prosecuted, the peculiar offence meant to be charged on any Individual must depend on the specific facts which can be brought home to him; and the Law Officers are further of opinion that when sufficient evidence can be procured of the Society acting upon the principle of these articles the persons who can be proved to be parties to such acts will be very fit subjects for prosecution.

Under these circumstances it would be very desireable that the magistrates should take measures for ascertaining who are the Individuals composing the Society in question, and that sufficient evidence should be procured so as to bring fact home to one or more of the parties of their being members of the sd. Society or of their having subscribed money for the purposes set forth for in the Rules, in order that a case should may be made out for immd. prosecution; and as soon as you the Magistrates have collected any Information on which they conceive a prosecution may be instituted, Lord Sidmouth requests that it may be transmitted to Him for His information with as little delay as possible.

Case.

Lord Sidmouth having received from the Magistrates assembled at the last Salford Sessions a Printed Copy of certain Resolutions which have been lately published at Manchester entitled ‘Rules for the conducting of the Union Society of Printers, Cutters, and Drawers in Lancashire Cheshire Derbyshire &c.  has directed the Solicitors of the Treasury to submit the same to the Attorney and Solicitor General and Consult them as to,

How far it would be proper to constitute any legal Proceedings against them.?

We are of opinion that the articles entered into are illegal by the Statute of 39 & 40 Geo 3. ch 106.—

The object of these Articles is to prevent the masters from using machinery by agreement of the Workmen who are parties to the Articles not to work for such masters, and also to prevent the workmen from working in certain sorts of work described in some of the different clauses of the Articles. This is a combination for controlling and affecting persons who carry on the trade or business, and as such, is illegal, and any of the persons who can be proved to be members of the Society or to have subscribed their money for the purposes of the Combination, are guilty of an Offence for which they may be convicted. As we have no facts stated to us as to any particular case, we cannot point out on which peculiar branch of the Act any individual should be prosecuted, the peculiar offence meant to be charged on any Individual must depend on the specific facts which can be brought home to him; and we think when sufficient evidence can be procured of the Society acting upon the principle of these articles the persons who can be proved to be parties to such acts will be very fit subjects of prosecution.

W Garrow
S: Shepherd

Lincolns Inn
11th March 1814

20th February 1813: William Hay lauds informers and spies to General Acland

Ackworth 20th Feby 1813.

My dear Sir,

Sir Francis Wood (who is confined to his bed with the gout) yesterday evening sent me over your letter of the 25th instant, wishing that I would consider it. We feel much obliged by Genl Maitland's & your kind offer of continuing a detachment at Pontefract. I understand that there is at present a considerable Store of Ammunition there which it would not be adviseable to leave without guard. Some correspondence is carrying between Sir F. Wood & Lord Fitzwilliam on the subject of applying for a more regular Depôt than we now have: I therefore think, that for the present, it would be adviseable for the Riding to avail itself of the offer you have been so good as to make, assuring you that as soon as any thing is determined in respect of the new Depôt, or any change takes place respecting the deposit of Arms, you shall be informed.

The time of my journey from Manchr was so limited, that I was not able to call at Milnsbridge, as I had fully intended. What I heard at Huddersfield was certainly very encouraging and I should hope may be lasting. I understand that some attempt has been made in respect of Walker the Evidence. Surely he can never be so fool hardy as to continue in his Old neighbourhood! If he is impressed that he is safe, I should think most others will be so. We have a last closed with Fleming, the witness against the 38: he has been paid for his trouble &c and with liberty to settle with his family, wherever he pleases. His wishes were ridiculous – wanted an ensigns commission &c &c – but this being out of the question, a sum was paid him; & the public has done its duty fully. I suspect that he will remain in Manchester—It is quite delightful to those who witnessed the triumphant ground on which McDonald stood at York, to read the report of the case as it is now printed. He certainly rose powerfully in proportion as he found how weak Mr. Brougham was on his Cross Examination – I know that it will give you pleasure to hear that (unless some new cause has arisen) John is free of incarceration. I applied for a pardon as soon as I got to Manchester, and saw our friend in all apparent freedom – seemingly returned to his old Habits. He had no expectation of this – and when Dunstan told him that he had orders to Liberate him [Shan] was quite overcome, & would not believe it. I have only to add my best wishes. I expect to be at Wakefield soon, when I hope to be so fortunate as to meet with you. I am, Dr. Sir,

Your faithful & obedt humble servant
WR Hay

[To] Majr Genl Acland

12th July 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office that Joseph Radcliffe has had no luck with Joseph Barrowclough

Police Office Manchester 12 July 1812

Sir,

Not knowing whether or no Mr. Radcliffe men informed Government of the result of Barrowclough's going into Yorkshire, I feel it to be my duty to state that I have this day received a letter from Mr. Radcliffe by which I find that that attempt, as the last was, has proved to be fruitless. Mr. Radcliffe has, on informations laid before him granted warrants against certain persons; and I understand from Mr. Lloyd of Stockport, who is just arrived here out of Yorkshire, the several persons, I believe nine, have in consequence been apprehended. The enquiries in respect of these will of course be carried on in the W. Riding; probably before Mr. Radcliffe between whom and myself, should occasion require any interference, there is a regular intercourse – but I apprehend that I shall have no further communication to make on the subject – as Barrowclough must be from henceforth considered as altogether forthcoming in the West Riding, to which he will probably be sent back tomorrow.

I have [etc]
William Robert Hay.

To
John Beckett Esqr &c &c

10th July 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office that he has handed Joseph Barrowclough over to Joseph Radcliffe

Police Office Manchester 10 July 1812

Sir,

In consequence of the anxiety expressed by the Prisoner Barrowclough on learning that no arms had been found in consequence of his information, and the desire he expected himself to point out the some of the places I have directed that he should be sent over to Mr. Radcliffe the Magistrate near Huddersfield, who will I am sure give him every opportunity of being of service which he proposes to wish; and likewise of pointing out any places he may think have been difectively searched – as the evidence of Taylor & Whitehead can no longer be wanted as against him, there is no reason for detaining him out of Yorkshire. As soon as I know the result I will instantly write, but I conclude that Mr. Radcliffe will do so himself.

I am [etc]
William Robert Hay

[To] John Beckett Esqr &c &c

9th July 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office about his doubts about Joseph Barrowclough

Police Office Manchester 9 July 1812

Sir,

Having in my letter by last nights post mentioned that it would be necessary to try the veracity of Barrowclough I have now to state to Government that as far as I am able to judge it is not improbable but that he may have totally deceived us. An Arrangement was made here yesterday by which several places mentioned is depôts for arms were to be searched as nearly as possible at the same time. I have seen some of the officers who are returned, and I believe that altho they found the places which were most accurately described by Barrowclough, in no instance have any arms been found. I issued two search warrants, what the result of those may be I cannot say — but after what has passed I have little expectation of any thing being found. Should I hear any further particulars before the post goes out, I will make them the subject of another letter. I have the honor to be.

Sir, [etc]
William Robert Hay
To John Beckett Esqr &c &c

7th July 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office about a rioter from Ashton and Joseph Barrowclough

Police Office Manchester 7 July 1812

Sir,

I feel it to be my duty to inform Government that I have this day committed to Lancaster for Trial at the Assizes a man of the name of Solomon Low who appears to have been a very leading man in the riots at Ashton Under Line on the 20th April. The informations incomplete as they are sufficiently clear, but will be materially strengthened on further enquiry. I have directed copies to be forwarded to Mr. Litchfield without delay.

Government are probably aware that two men have for some days been travelling in Yorkshire to obtain information. One of the good effects of their having been employed is the apprehension of one Joseph Barrowclough, a corporal in Sr. Geo. Armitage’s Regt of Local Militia. He has been twice before me for examination – the last time yesterday and was committed for further examination till Thursday — but yesterday Evening he turned informer; and I understand that the circumstances disclosed by him are of the most important nature. These examinations have been taken from him by Mr. Lloyd of Stockport, & Mr Allison a Sollicr at Huddersfield, who is Clerk to the Comee of Gentlemen at Huddersfield to preventing rioters & who is also Capn of the Company in which Barrowclough is a Corporal. He has come over here on purpose. I have thought it best not to be present myself. The examinations cannot be sent up to Governmt tonight, and indeed tho they took the whole of yesterday evening, and have occupied the whole of this morning, very much, it is understood, remains behind. No time shall be lost in sending up a copy, if it could be managed I should very much wish that part at least should be sent tonight – and yet I hope that may be managed. Such steps as it may be judged proper take, will of course be instantly resorted to. I must apologize for the haste in which this is written; but I must confess that I am a good deal agitated by what I have heard of the contents of the examinations.

I have [etc]
William Robert Hay

To John Beckett Esqr. &c &c

7th July 1812: Information given by Joseph Barrowclough

Four days after being arrested in West Yorkshire, Joseph Barrowclough had been interrogated by the Stockport solicitor John Lloyd along with Captain John Allison and the Manchester Magistrate the Reverend William Hay. By the evening of 6th July, he had started to give information, and Lloyd & Allison recorded a long deposition on the morning of Tuesday 7th July 1812.

Barrowclough began by implicating a man named Samuel Haigh as the principal assassin of William Horsfall. He continued to describe the origins of the 'Lud System' in Scotland 22 years ago, and described the oath in use.  Barrowclough then dropped the bombshell that French prisoners of war were involved with the Luddites.

The rest of the deposition describes the system of arms raiding, even the way raiding parties were organised, as well as the signalling system used. Dates, times and locations were given for future Luddite meetings and well as  the location and sizes of arms dumps.

Barrowclough stated there were four principal un-named leaders organising the arms raids, 3 of whom were French, and that they paid out wages to the Luddites in the 24th of each month. He also confirmed that a rising was planned - the "Marriage feast of Mrs Ludd" - which would involve French Prisoners held at Chesterfield, Plymouth and on Dartmoor, but would not take place until the 24th anniversary of the formation of the system - 24th July 1814.

Barrowclough stated there was religious element in West Yorkshire Luddism: "The Luds go by the 21st Ezekiel 25th 6th 7th verses - They call themselves the Godly".

4th July 1812: General Maitland writes to the Home Office about Joseph Barrowclough

Buxton
4th July 1812

My dear Sir

In my last letter to Lord Sidmouth, I informed him, that I thought some thing important, might be derived, if we succeeded in getting, hold of a Man, that we had sent out a Party to seize. We have taken him, but I can give no satisfactory Report to his Lordship on the results.

He is now under examination, but nothing has transpired of any Moment.—

It would have been my Wish, to have tried him quite in a different Way, than by Examination, but I could not interfere upon such a Subject, & I have no doubt, that on Monday Mr. Hay will do what is right.

That he knows much, is my Belief, & if the original Information, upon which I sent my own Aid de Camp to seize him, with Lloyd, whose Character you well know, is correct, he must know who other Murderers of Mr Horsfall, & is a Ring leader in all the Proceedings about Huddersfield.

I have stated my Opinion to Mr. Hay distinctly, & have pressed him, as far as I can, to get the Information the Prisoner may possess, & send it forthwith to Government. But with every respect, which I really entertain for Hay, & others, there is a sad feeling, that if we can commit a man that is implicated himself, that it is the Extent of their Duty, whereas by letting him easily down, we might implicate twenty others, all of them of greater Importance, & if it be necessary for the good of the Country, lead them all to trial and condemnation.

I write this certainly without Pique or Prejudice, for to do Mr. Hay the Justice he merits, he is extremely ready, and Active, but I must regret, there are not Modes of trying these men, previous to, & in a different manner from any Judicial Proceeding.

At the same time however I say this, I am not without Expectation, that even, according to their Forms, real Information will be got out of this Gentleman—

My Anxiety was, if he had any to send it up, pending the Proceedings in Parliament, if there be any Opposition given to the Measures of Government—

I am [etc]
T Maitland
[To] John Beckett Esqr.
Under Secretary of State
&c &c &c

3rd July 1812: John Lloyd arrests a Luddite in Yorkshire on the information of his spies

In the afternoon of Wednesday, 1st July 1812, a spy called Thomas Whitehead sent by the Solicitor, John Lloyd, into Yorkshire travelled back to his master at Stockport and informed him that he and his fellow spy, Joseph Taylor, had made contact with a Luddite in Holmfirth.

Lloyd wasted no time in taking a deposition, and then went to Manchester to get a warrant from the Magistrate William Robert Hay before heading into Yorkshire with General Maitland's Aide-de-Camp. They raised troops at Marsden, and after finding the alleged Luddite, a Corporal in the Upper Agbrigg Local Militia called Joseph Barrowclough, they arrested him in the early hours of the morning of Friday 3rd July, bringing him back into Lancashire for questioning at the New Bailey prison in Salford.

The Leeds Mercury and the Lancaster Gazette, both of the 11th July, printed Barrowclough's name. The Gazette  also carried an article from the Sheffield Mercury of the 4th July which, although many of the facts were wrong, suggested that someone was leaking information to the Press at a vry early stage:

On the 3d instant a Luddite of the name of Barrowclough, charged with the atrocious crime of twisting-in, was brought from the edge of Yorkshire to the New Bailey prison, Manchester, in a post-chaise, escorted by a party of dragoons.

The Sheffield Mercury of Saturday last furnishes us with the following information; probably the man in the preceding paragraph is the person alluded to:

“At a late hour last night we received highly important and very gratifying intelligence to every friend of peace and good order. It says that two Bow-street Officers have been in the neighbourhood of Huddersfield for nearly three weeks past, and that they had been Twisted-in, or in other words had taken the oath of the Luddites. By this means they have learned the proceedings and ways of those infatuated persons, and have obtained the knowledge of the depot where their arms were concealed. Warrants were yesterday (Friday) issued the apprehension of fifty of the ringleaders, and in the course of the day great number of them were taken into custody. The actual murderer of Mr. Horsfall was discovered in a house about eight miles from Huddersfield, and is committed to Lancaster Castle* to be tried for the said barbarous deed. He was seized yesterday morning about two o'clock, within the county of Lancaster. The Queen’s Bays were on duty during the whole of Thursday night and yesterday morning; and the Scotch Greys have arrived from Manchester to assist in this business. LET THE GUILTY FEAR AND TREMBLE.”

*This is not correct—Edit

Over the next few days, under the questioning of Lloyd and Hay, Barrowclough would go on to relate much of Luddite activities in Yorkshire.

1st July 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office of a suspected Luddite in Saddleworth

Private/

Police Office Manchester 1 July 1812

Dr. Sir,

I had the honor to receive your letter (private) dated 26th June instant with the accompanying paper, and immediately directed enquiry to be made respecting the person referred to in them. I find that a man of the name of Walter McLean als McLauglin lived at No. 19 Chapel Street, Bank Top – he was a Silk weaver – to cheat his Landlord out of his rent he removed to Mr. Normans Buildings – he then hawked numbers about the country – he lately left his house in Normans Buildings, and it is said that he is gone into Saddleworth – This man has always been suspected of being a Luddite, and seems to have been intimate with a person at Oldham of the name of Travis, who is considered as a very disaffected man; and who is stated to have told McLaughlin sometime back, that three of Ludds men had come from Nottingham, that they rode grey horses; came to give orders, and rode off immediately. Travis is said to have offered McLaughlin to find him work if he would come over to Oldham.

Such is the Information given to me by Nadin the Depy Constable here. Should it the Lord Sidmouths wish that enquiry should be made in Saddleworth, I will endeavour to promote it. I am, Dr. Sir,

Your [etc]
WR Hay

To John Beckett Esqr &c

23rd June 1812: William Robert Hay sends the confession of the convicted Luddite Samuel Radcliffe to the Home Office

Police Office, Manchester 23 June 1812.

Sir,

Not knowing whether the information contained in the accompanying paper has been transmitted to Government, I feel it to be my duty to send it. I have only received it from Mr. Higgins the Gaoler of Lancaster Castle by this mornings post. It is in account given by Samuel Radcliffe under sentence of transportation from the last Lancaster Assizes being concerned in the administration of oaths. He was the man who administered the Oath to Holland Bowden nr Holton as appeared from the evidence of one John Stones – appears to have been a leading man at the meeting on Dean Moor, and was proved to have afterwards been very active at the fire at West Houghton. On that charge however he was acquitted – his escape was a very narrow. Mr. Higgins has detained this man for the present, thinking that he may be very useful.

I have [etc]
WR Hay

[To] John Beckett Esqr.

Samuel Radcliffe says he has been a delegate from Bolton to Preston. The papers to be conveyed by a delegate are delivered by one of the Secret Committee of the Town or place into other hands by appointment. Thus after having gone through several hands, the person fixed upon as a delegate is told that he must go to a certain field where he will find a stick or mark, where the papers and counterpart Card are deposited. On finding them he takes with him the counterpart card and proceed to the Town or place, where, in an adjacent field he looks of the staff, stick or Mark, & if he finds the counterpart of his card, he there leaves the papers. This is generally done about 11 Oclock at night—He then goes into the Town & visits some of the weavers during the next day. The next night he resorts to the same place, & finds the papers to be returned. There were meetings held every 3 or 4 weeks, and if a delegate be detected or suspected, the signs, countersigns and counterparts are altered – he says the Gentleman at Manchester hold meetings for the district. That there is a considerable fund & many depôts for pikes which are particularly constructed. The Pike part is called the drill from its likeness to a blacksmiths drill or pointrell. The Crescent with two Edges is called the snigger. The whole pike consists of three parts & can be taken to pieces, & fits together by a socket, with a thorough pin & nut screw. It is the rule of the Union never to keep any books more than one night in a house the fear of a search; but every thing is kept out of doors. He does not doubt that there are many thousand Pikes made & deposited. All information is conveyed from Town to Town by the delegate Messengers; who are allowed about 5 [shillings] or 5 [shillings] 6 [pence] per day, & Coach hire, if necessary. He believes the Union extends from London to Nottingham, & from thence to Manchester & Carlisle. Small Towns line between principal places are not yet organized – such as Garstang & Burton. Only some of the Trades have taken the first Oath. He says there is a second Oath taken by superior persons. In the list of names transmitted there is a mark placed opposite the name to denote the possession of trade.

18th June 1812: The Manchester Magistrate, William Hay, writes to Home Office with a ticket for a Luddite meeting

On Thursday 18th June, the Magistrate the Reverend William Robert Hay wrote to the Home Office with his latest news from Manchester. He informed the government that 6 women had been committed to Lancaster Castle for rioting at Barton-upon-Irwell on 20th April, and also that information from the examination of the Manchester 38 had been sent to Government.

Hay enclosed the report from the informer RW, about meetings in Stockport. Finally, he enclosed a ticket from a Luddite meeting, which can be seen above. He did not offer an explanation for where this came from, or how he had obtained it, so we do not know if it relates to the activity of the informer RW or some other source.

14th June 1812: William Robert Hay informs the Home Office of the arrest and committal of the 'Manchester 38'

Police Office Manchester 14 June 1812.

Sir,

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated June 11th and have to state for Lord Sidmouths information that 38 persons are at present here under commitment to Lancaster Castle on a charge of administering an unlawful Oath to a man of the name of Samuel Fleming & of being present at and consenting to the administration of such Oath.

Of these men 37 had met at a public house in this town on Thursday night — there were delegates from different parts of the Country — the proposed purpose of their meeting was to promote a petition and address the peace & parliamentary reform. At this meeting Fleming was twisted in, and, having got away, information was conveyed to the Constable who with the assistance of military at ½ past eleven surrounded the house, and took the whole party into custody. The 38th man was the person who introduced Fleming to be twisted in, but did not remain in the room, but waited down Stairs. The informations I will direct to be forwarded as soon as may be, but they are long, and took the whole of yesterday in preparing. I have the honor to be, Sir, with great respect,

Your [etc]
William Robert Hay

To
John Beckett Esqr.

5th June 1812: Delegates from the North & Midlands meet in Lancashire Hill, Stockport

On 18th June 1812, the Manchester Magistrate, William Robert Hay, passed to the Home Office a report from an informer called 'RW'. He had obtained the information from a third party, apparently the man's employer. The letter set out the details of a delegate meeting which had taken place at Lancashire Hill, Stockport on either Thursday 4th or Friday 5th June 1812:

I have just had half an hours conversation with my Informant, from whom I learn that on the 4 or 5th inst four delegates from Nottingham, Derbyshire, the Neighbourhood of Huddersfield & Lancashire came into This Town & Had a meeting with a few leading men amongst the Ludites in this neighbourhood at a private House near Lancashire Hill. These delegates after blaming in strong terms the rashness of the people here in beginning the Riots before the time appointed, & before they were sufficiently numerous & furnished with arms, proceeded to report progress. Their papers are numerous & state the number of people twisted in, & the quantity of arms they possess, for instance Middleton Derbyshire 120 men & 10 stand of arms. The Roll is wrote in Numbers not names/of the former they count very high, but of the latter they complain of great scarcity, however in addition to what they may be able to collect by their nightly depredations, they say report that they have a manufactory going on for them in Sheffield of Pike heads, that are to be sent out in Boxes by the regular couriers. The Delegates suppose it will be the end of Septr or beginning of Octr before their plans are sufficiently ripe for execution, when a blow will be struck, but I understand in the first instance they do not intend to meddle of Mills & Machinery.

These delegates pretend to report for the Counties of Nottingham, Warwick, Stafford, York, Lancaster, Chester, & Derby. They say the whole of the Kingdom are proceeding in the same way.—

6th May 1812: William Hay informs the Home Office about threatening letters from North Wales

Police Office Manchester 6 May 1812

Sir,

I have the honor to inform you that the Information against three more rioters at Mr. Burton's premises are directed to be transmitted to you by tonights post. The parties are all committed to Lancaster.

I feel it proper the Government should be made acquainted with the following circumstances. There are very extensive Cotton Works carried on Holywell in Flintshire, under the firm of the Holywell Twist company. The proprietors have a Warehouse in Manchester, and the partners Mr. Douglas & some others live at & near Manchester—Yesterday by the Post Mr. D received a letter of which the following is a copy with the Post mark of Holywell upon it – “Sir if you do not advance the wages of all your workmen at Holywell, you shall have all your mills burned to the ground immediately – it is harder upon many of us here and upon those who receive parish relief – we are starving by inches by reason of our small wages & provisions so high. You had better be content with a moderate profit, than have your mills destroyed. You know how it is with Burton & Goodier & many others, it will be the same with you in a few days, if you do not advance all hands – All the Miners and Colliers are ready to join us – 3000 men can be collected in a few hours

The poor cry aloud for bread
Prince Regent shall lose his head
And all the rich who oppress the poor
In a little time shall be no more

Take care you be not in the number of the oppressors we cannot wait but a very few days, we are all ready for blood of bread, any thing is better than starving by inches.”

By the same post which brought the above, a letter was received by the proprietors in Manchester containing a copy of one received with the Holywell Post mark, & addressed to Mr. G. Platt who is one of the Principal servants at the before mentiond mill

“Sir, We cannot live with the wages we have – unless all hands are advanced the mills shall be burned to the ground immediately - the miners & colliers are all ready to join - 3000 men may be called to join us in a very short time — We can also send for Bolton & Middleton mob to come. We have proper direction to some other leaders. Letters have been received thereupon lately. We are all read for blood or bread – anything is better than starving by inches as we do, rely upon it.”

Then follow the four lines before written, with the Addition of the two following

“With deep regret, I write these things,
They'll contest pass in spite of kings—

N.B. A copy of these lines in the same handwriting was taken from the Window shutters of Mr. Jones Junr. last week.

By the same letter came a copy of a Hand Bill taken from the wall of a house in Chapel Street Holywell, & more of the same were pasted up.

“Come brave boys, & make ready your arms, pikes & pitchforks to upset the rich tyrants of the land and grind the face of the poor, such as Mr. Thos Mostyn, Sir Pyerce, Pennant and many others too numerous to mention, have tribled the rents of the farmers, the poor the sufferers.”

The foregoing particulars had been communicated by me to General Maitland & in another quarter where I hope there may be some chance of detecting the writer—All the papers are in the same handwriting—

I beg leave also to add, as the view to ascertain whence this revolutionary Spirit proceeds, that Mr Leigh Phillips, (whose brother Mr Fras Phillips is now in London on Parliamy business) has this morning recd a letter from his brother in London; wherein he says that on 4th of May he had spoken with Mr. Howard the son of Col. Howard of Baltimore, who left Paris 5 days before; & who said “that in that place the Manchester riots were better understood than in London”—Messrs Phillips & Hardman were obliged to go to the House of Coms which prevented further conversation at the time —

Of this we may probably hear more tomorrow; but I thought it better to send up such circumstances as have occurred, nearly in the order in which they have done so.

I have the honor to be, Sir,
with great respect,
Your faithful & obedient humble servant
William Robert Hay

To
The Right Hon. Richd Ryder
One of Hs Mjs princ. Secs of State &c &c

PS — I find on inquiry that at the Holywell works the wages are as high as at Manchester – they have never heard a murmur or complaint from their people respecting wages, till the notice above written – their works, with the exception of 6 or 8 are worked by Welch people. Mr. Thos. Mostyn has notice of the handbill—

WRH

2nd May 1812: William Hay informs the Home Office about the preparation of arms in Manchester

Police Office Manchester 2d May 1812.

Sir,

I have the honor to inform you that the night of the 1st of May has passed over without any general outrage - a great number of strangers resorted to the town yesterday whose intentions we could scarcely doubt, but they proceeded to no violence in the town; and we understand that the arrival of Military has had a great effect on the disaffected already and that has probably occasioned the flight of very many from their homes, who are afraid of being apprehended. Of course from the same cause which has created apprehension in them, the informations against offenders will increase. We hope by tonights post to send you copies of such informations as may have been taken here in cases where the commitments have been to Lancaster or Chester - It being intimated to us that Government propose that special commissions should be issued for the purpose of trying the rioters. We are sorry to find that instances of partial outrage are very frequent which we trust by the hearty cooperation of householders, supported as it now is by the presence of the troops will in time be got the better of. In the night of 30th of April 7 men attacked a house in which a quiet and inoffensive man lived - 2 stood at the outside, 5 went in - all armed they throttled the man in bed – stood over him with pistols threatening him in the most horrid manner - his house was robbed of every thing excepting the wearing apparel of himself & daughter. Last night in the same township, at Rodin Lane & Rainsal 6 weavers houses were entered — the work stolen out of the looms — these people entered by the cellar windows.

We inclose a representation of the Spear or Halberd mentioned in a former letter; it is but imperfectly drawn, but is sharp in all its points. It is to be used for cutting & dragging men from their horses in different directions - the pattern is said to have come from Sheffield, and a man who lived in Newton lane made some - who this man was is not decidedly known but from the circumstances of a search having been made for arms in that neighbourhood and the immediate absconding of a blacksmith, there is reason to believe that he may be the person; & this more particularly, as we can not hear of any other Smith in that neighbourhood. This instrument is fixed to staves of different lengths, from 2 to nine feet long. The sticks have a sort of Spike at the bottom of the Ferrill, that Spike takes off, and into the vacant Hole is inserted the Spike the bottom of the Instrument. We have thought it right to order copies of the Act against taking illegal oaths to be printed & published - i.e. the three leading clauses, in order that the unwary may be put upon their guard.

It is said that an instrument has been prepared with 5 or more points, which is affixed to cords or chains which are to go across the Streets. This is to be used to annoy the horse who may in pursuit be driven against them.

The inclosed copy of an Oath has been delivered to us — it is in the same spirit & expression as those formerly sent, and seems only to apply to those who enlist. vide A.

Thus far I have written with the knowledge & and approbation of Col. Sylvester & Mr. Wright – but I have annexed the Copy of an Extract since received in an extract from a letter from Mag. Clarke of which I consider to be of importance - marked B.

I have [etc]
WR Hay

29th April 1812: William Hay informs the Home Office about strangers in Manchester

Police Office Manchester Ap. 29. 1812

Sir,

We have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Mr Beckets Letter of the 27th instant, & on the part of the public to express our best thanks to the prompt attention given to our suggestion. No part of the force alluded to as yet arrived (12 noon) – but as this letter will be kept open, any further particulates that may occur, may be added up to the time of the posts going out. It is more than probable that in the course of the day some part of it will arrive, if not, tomorrow morning. In the mean time the public is benefited by the ready assistance of the Cheshire Legion, & other provincial corps, which enable Col. Clay to make his arrangements with greater ease, & in greater extent we feel considerable confidence that on the arrival of the force mentioned in Mr Beckets letter sufficient will be prepared to protect this part of the Country, & to restore that firmness which one could not but expect would in some degree give way under the unprecedented & barbarous outrages and menaces of the Insurgents. General Dirom is expected here this evening – It has been thought necessary to increase the proportion of Col. Silvesters Regiment of L. Mila & we have the honor to implore you a formal multiplication of the same.

Mr. Beckets letter very satisfactorily removes our doubts respecting the receipt of our letter.

We should feel obliged, as the Loc. Militia is partially resorted to, if we could have a copy of such act as may have lately passed—we are told that there is such a one, that it contains m[a]ny material alterations; but in the course of Office, no such as yet reached as.

In respect of the state of this place, we could not but observe that in the course of Sunday & Monday some thousands seemingly strangers resorted to this town. They were all of such awkward description - yesterday these people who very many of them had bundles & newly cut sticks totally disappeared. Whether are no they were drawn off by order of their directors we cannot tell - It much bore such appearance. However, be that as it may, we understand that the weavers for the most part are returned to their work for the present; and we are given to understand that there has always been work for such as would go to it. We enclose you a paper marked A which contains a copy of 2 resolutions passed last night at a meeting of the journeymen printers. It is confidently stated that the weavers had, in case the printers would cooperate with them, promised to join with them with 15,000 weavers & destroy the machinery for printing throughout England. This was declined by the printers who said that they wished to settle their own business - If that is true, which we believe it is, a copy of the Resolution is an important & satisfactory document.

The exertions of the well affected are unremitted, & confidence seems returning so far that the parties begin to inform – 4 were committed to Lancaster yesterday for trial, which together with 7 before committed were sent off under escort this morning. We understand that from Bolton 8 have been committed to Lancaster & that 9 are remanded to further examination. We have written to the Keeper of Lancaster Castle for returns of those committed from other parts of the County - The arrival of the Military will we hope embolden many to lay informations who from dread have hitherto been deterred.

We are given to understand that the mode of the Committees meeting is contrived in some such way as the following - The meetings are held sometimes in public, sometimes in private houses – but never 2 days together in the same. A committee having yesterday met at A., one of them today returns to A, & there waits till a 2d member arrived, he tells him where he is going, & leaving him he takes himself to the place appointed for the day – the 2d waits till a third arrives, & then goes as the first had done; & so on till all the Committee has notice – this is the practice from day to day - It appears that the day or mode of assembling for the main attack is not to be communicated to the main body till the morning preceding. We cannot help hoping that the appearance of such an increased force as will be provided by the time, & which must exceed any calculation the disaffected can have made, may deter them from carrying their main purpose into effect, at least for the present.

We have the honor to be, Sir,
with great respect,
Your faithful & obed humble servants

W R Hay
J. Silvester
R. Wright

To
The Right Honble Richard Ryder
One of H. Ms principal Sect of State &c &c

PS. 10 night. Gen Dirom is arrived – No troops are yet come in; but from circumstances we have reason to expect them – I am sorry to say that in the course of this afternoon, many very awkward people have again made their appearance - they seem very active, & intelligence for some purpose or other is quickly communicating. WR H.

[Enclosure] A

Resolved. 1st that this meeting fully disapproves of all measures that have been designed by any individual or individuals to be taken of a coercive or riotous nature to do away with machinery, are determined as a body at all times to discourage any measures of an illegal kind to accomplish a check on the same, and are determined not to take or encourag to be taken any steps thereunto but those that are consistent with our legal privileges as Englishmen.

2d. that the same committee appointed to the purpose of carrying into effect the Petition to Parlt for the purpose of withholding the bounty given by Government to Machinery all prints+ exported from this country, & continue to act as was first proposed - that an address to our masters be circulated as soon as possible, & the same committee be directed to execute the same as soon as it can be done.

+ I understand this to mean when the goods are printed by machinery
WRH.