West Cumberland Times Sat Oct. 25, 1884 Harrington Literary Association

Harrington Literary Association

West Cumberland Times - Saturday Oct. 25, 1884

HARRINGTON LITERARY ASSOCIATION. _____         The first in the contemplated  series of meetings for mutual improvement in connection with the above was held  on Wednesday evening in the Victoria Buildings, when a debate took place on "Are  co-operative societies as at present conducted beneficial to the working  classes?"       Mr. R. P. GRAHAM was called to  the chair, and in opening the proceedings expressed the pleasure it gave him to  see such an unusually large number of persons in attendance, and thought it  augured well for the success of the proposed session.       In proceeding years the  programme had almost invariably to be abandoned in consequence of the very  meager support vouchsafed by the members and their friends; but they seem now to  have "repented their ways," and to be determined that a much needed improvement  should be effected. He hoped this might prove to be the case.       Mr. James CRAWFORD then opened  the debate in the affirmative, and delivered a carefully prepared address, full  of argument. Mr. Joseph SHACKLEY, who took the negative side of the question,  followed at great length, and as he evidently spoke from conviction it gave zest  to the proceedings. An animated discussion followed; but when the question was  put to the vote the numbers were - for 26; against, 2, while several refrained  from voting either way.       Votes of thanks to the openers  of the debate and the chairman, which were duly acknowledged, terminated what  proved to be a most enjoyable and profitable meeting.     **********************

 

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