Page:History of the Anti corn law league - Volume 2.pdf/455

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THE LEAGUE CONDITIONALLY DISSOLVED.
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parts of the kingdom.' Mr. G. Wilson, the chairman, gave a sketch of the operations of the League from its first formation to its triumph. Mr. Cobden then addressed the meeting, congratulating them not only on the success achieved, but on the instruction conveyed to the people, which would render it impossible ever again to impose the Corn Laws. Of the premier, he said: "If he has lost office, he has gained a country. For my part, I would rather descend into private life with that last measure of his, which led to his discomfiture, in my hand, than mount to the highest pinnacle of human power." He acknowledged with gratitude Lord John Russell's latter services, and the services of such men as Mr. Deacon Hume, Mr. M'Gregor, and Mr. Porter, for their statistics, arguments, and facts; and in reference to his own labours and those of his colleagues, said: "Many people will think that we have our reward in the applause and eclat of public meetings; but I declare that it is not so with me, for the inherent reluctance I have to address public meetings is so great that I do not even got up to present a petition to the House of Commons without reluctance. I, therefore, hope I may be believed when I say that, if this agitation terminates now, it will be very acceptable to my feelings; but if there should be the same necessity, the same feeling which impelled me to take the part I have taken, will impel me to a new agitation—ay, and with tenfold more vigour, after having had a little time to recruit my health." He moved: "That an act of parliament having been passed, providing for the abolition of the Corn Laws in February, 1849, it is deemed expedient to suspend the active operation of the Anti-Corn-Law League; and the executive council in Manchester is hereby requested to take the necessary steps for making up and closing the affairs of the League with as little delay as possible." Mr. Bright, in an eloquent speech, seconded the resolution, which was carried unanimously. Mr. R. H. Greg moved, and Mr. Henry