use at
Liverpool became vacant by the death of Mr. Hardman, who had for many
years filled that situation. The special vestry, after mature
deliberation, decided upon recommending Mr. Hewett, master of St.
Andrew's, Holborn, London. The recommendation was, that Mr. Hewett and
his wife should be governor and matron, at the joint salary of L300 per
annum. As the situation was a very desirable one--a handsome residence,
with all the necessaries, comforts, and even luxuries of life being
provided, in addition to the salary--a host of candidates (no less than
thirty-seven) were quickly in the field. Amongst those who sought the
office was Mr. Shipp; and, though he came rather late to the goal, he
pursued the contest with his accustomed energy and perseverance.

On the 23rd of May, 1833, a special vestry was held for the purpose of
nominating candidates and electing a person to fill the office. Mr.
Hewett, who was backed by the most influential men of the select vestry,
was nominated by two of the members of that body, amid many expressions
of disapprobation. Other individuals were nominated by their respective
friends; but they were but coldly received. At length Mr. Venables, a
barrister of high standing and respectability, proposed John Shipp, with
a glowing eulogium on his character and qualifications. The nomination
was received with loud and reiterated cheers. Mr. Hall, also an eminent
barrister, afterwards a magistrate at Bow Street, seconded the
nomination. The show of hands being greatly in favour of Mr. and Mrs.
Shipp, a poll was demanded on behalf of the other individuals nominated.

On the following morning, at ten o'clock, the polling commenced at the
Sessions House, in Chapel Street. It was soon evident that Mr. Hewett,
the candidate recommended by the select vestry, had not the slightest
chance of success; and that gentleman accordingly resigned, an hour or
two after the opening of the poll. A contest unparalleled in elections
of this description followed between Mr. Shipp and Mr. Haram, who, with
a certain class, was the favourite candidate, though the popular voice
was for Mr. Shipp. The town was canvassed in every quarter, and placards
covered the walls in all directions, as at a parliamentary election. At
the close of the first day, Haram was upwards of 140 ahead of his
opponent. On the second day, Shipp brought up his lee-way, and at the
close of the poll on Monday he was upwards of 300 ahead. On Tuesday
m