Database of Poems
A Seasonable Hint to the Electors
1832: Representation of the People Acts
1867-8: Representation of the People Acts
Author: Anon [W.]
Publication: Radical Reformers' Gazette
Published: 15 December 1832
Place of publication: Glasgow, Scotland
Publication type: Newspaper/Periodical
Featured individuals:
James Ewing (1784-1853)
James Oswald (1779-1853)
Daniel Sandford (1798-1838)
A full copy of this poem is available.
Archive/Library: Mitchell Library, Glasgow
Classmark(s): Reel Number 3015; Pressmark: SNMU 161/97
Pages(s): 79-90
The speaker of this poem is a 'six pounder' who is still without a vote, following the Reform Bill of 1832. The addressee is those who now have the vote. The poem reminds the newly enfranchised that they relied on those who do not have a vote. The latter half of the poem satirises the newly enfranchised by performing their condescending voice, which bids those without the vote to be mute and accept their position. These are the type of people who vote for [James] Oswald, [James] Ewing and Sir Daniel [Sandford] we are told - those who stood for the Glasgow Political Union Ballot (which is covered in this issue of The Radical Reformers' Gazette). Ewing and Oswald would become the elected members for Glasgow.