n and equalisation as would convert the government
into a democracy, or some more modified degree of change, did not
appear. Others said that a real, substantial, and effectual reform in
the representation of the people had become necessary; but what reform
they actually wanted was all conjecture. Some petitions, however,
plainly declared what species of reform the petitioners required.
These demanded the annihilation of all influence on the part of the
aristocracy in returning members of the house of commons; the shortening
the duration of parliaments; the extension and equalisation of the
elective franchise; and vote by ballot. Another set of petitions
recommended a reform of property as well as of representation, actually
demanding that the possessions of the church should be seized, and
appropriated to "the necessities of the state." In other petitions, the
petitioners, apparently at a loss to conceive what kind of reform was
required, were satisfied with announcing that the country was ruined,
and that it could only be restored by reform; at the same time gravely
leaving it to his majesty's ministers to declare what change would
best answer the purpose. But, besides petitions in favour of reform,
permanent political associations had begun to be formed in different
parts of the country, for the purpose of organising large numbers of
individuals into one body, to act on the mind of the public, and to
press the question upon government. These associations took the name
of Political Unions; and they had a regular array of officers, with a
council, which transacted the ordinary business. Their objects were to
push on changes to any extent possible; to insist on whatever they chose
to demand, as a right which could not justly be refused; to repress
opposing opinions in their neighbourhood; and to make even the
government feel that they existed in order to dictate, not to obey. The
whole kingdom was indeed in a ferment; and not only the correction of
abuses, but immediate relief from national calamities, was confidently
expected by the multitude in a reform of parliament. It was to prove
a balm for all their sufferings--the commencement of a golden era of
prosperity.

MEETING OF PARLIAMENT.

Parliament met, pursuant to adjournment, on the 3rd of February.
Hitherto ministers had veiled in profound secrecy the plan of reform
which they intended to produce. The question was introduced on this day
by Earl Grey; but it