ength of fresh men, relieving each
other, until human nature can bear no more; and then, if pains are taken
to recover the unhappy sufferer, it is only that he may undergo
fresh agony. The most disgusting part of the whole transaction is the
attendance of a surgeon--whose business seems to be a profanation of the
healing art--to detect any lingering principle of life, which can enable
the wretched man to undergo more suffering. I do not believe that in the
description which the poets give of hell there are any tortures equal to
what is called a military punishment." Sir Francis was ably seconded by
Mr. Brougham, who contrasted the conduct of the Duke of Cumberland with
the more noble conduct of the Duke of Gloucester, whose regiment was in
the highest state of discipline, although there had not been a single
flogging in it for more than two years. But though the house had been
prepared to ameliorate the condition of the slaves of India, the members
were not yet in a temper to soften that of their brethren at home: and
the address was rejected by a large majority. Subsequently they showed
still less sympathy with the sufferings of their fellow-subjects.
A corporal in a militia regiment had been sentenced to one thousand
lashes. He received two hundred of these; but it was found that he could
not endure anymore, and he was placed in the hospital for three months;
when, having recovered, he had the option of undergoing the rest of his
sentence, or of serving in a condemned regiment for life in the West
Indies, which latter alternative he chose rather than expire under the
lash. Colonel Wardle moved for inquiry into this case, and only one was
found to vote with him. This apathy manifested in the commons tended to
increase the desire of parliamentary reform among the people.

LOUD SIDMOUTH'S MOTION RESPECTING DISSENTING PREACHERS.

In the course of this session Lord Sidmouth introduced a bill, as an
amendment of the toleration act; prohibiting any person from obtaining a
license to preach, unless he obtained the recommendation of at least six
respectable householders of the congregation to which he belonged, such
congregation being willing to listen to his instructions. The bill
also required that those who intended to be itinerants should bring
testimonials, stating that they were men of sober life and character,
and qualified to perform the functions to which they aspired. This bill
raised a great sensation among di