In our last paper we inserted a letter describing the destitute conditions of a number of seamen, who being unable to find employment, were under the hard necessity of taking up their lodgings at nights, under the piazzas, cellar lids, and other similar places. It was stated there that a considerable number had been in the habit of passing their nights in the open air at the Harrington Lime Works –
We find upon enquiry, that there are about a dozen who remain there yet; some of whom are stout active men, who would be very grateful for any kind of employment. Some of the persons who reside in the neighbourhood, have acted with the most laudable humanity towards these wretched men, who might otherwise have perished for want.
We copy the following paragraph from the London Courier, as it contains a hint relative to the Overseers of the poor, which may be useful to those persons in Harrington who have taken an interest in the situation of these poor destitute me.
“It is lamentable to observe, during the present inclement weather, the number of discharged sea-men, particularly Africans and other Foreigners, wandering about this metropolis in an apparently destitute condition, and probably unacquainted with the proper means of obtaining relief. The Public should therefore be informed, that the law has provided a remedy for all cases of this nature, by an application to the Overseers of the Poor of any parish where such objects of humanity may happen to be found; and in case of their refusing the necessary relief, then by an application to a magistrate, who is authorised by law to summon the Parish officers before him, and to make such order as may be necessary for the relief of the party, as coming under the description of the casual poor, of whom the Overseers of the poor of every parish are bound to take care”
A subscription is now going for the temporary relief of these men, and any sum, however small will be received by EGERTON-SMITH Pool-lane and Mr ROBINSON and Mr KAYE Castle-street.
Caryl Williams www.old-liverpool.co.uk Old