Monday 24 December 2012

24th December 1812: General Maitland writes to the Home Office about the resurgence of Luddism in Nottinghamshire

Wakefield
24th Decr 1812

My dear Sir

I am sorry to inform you that I last night received a Report from Major General Hawker, stating that two Frames had been broke, one on the 19th and one on the 21st Inst: and that in both instances the People themselves and their Neighbours have shewn the greatest Apathy upon the occasion.

The one broke on the 19th was broke in the House next to a Constable in Nottingham, the one on the 21st at Beeston where Troops are quartered was broke and the Men off upwards of half an hour before Information was given.

These Outrages of themselves are of little moment unless as they may be considered as a commencement of another Scene like what passed last Year.

If there are any more instances of it, it will be necessary to make the Magistrates more active by writing to them on the Subject; but I shall say nothing more at present as expect to hear further this day.—

I am [etc]
T Maitland

P: S: I have not yet heard any thing further—

10 PM
T Maitland

[To]
John Beckett Esqr
Under Secretary of State
&c &c &c

This letter can be found at HO 42/130.

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