| Description | Papers relating to a likely riot at Thirsk on election day, including:
- copy information dated 16 November 1868 given by John Richardson of the township of Thirsk gentleman. He expects there to be a riot in the parish of Thirsk on 18 November 1868, when there will be the election of a burgess to serve in Parliament for the borough of Thirsk. There have been threats of violence against him and others, and the ordinary constables appointed to keep the peace are not efficient or sufficient in number
- letter dated 16 November 1868 from J. Arrowsmith clerk to the Justices for the division of Birdforth to the Earl of Zetland at Aske Hall. Because of information received as above, they have appointed William Carr labourer, John Wardle fitter, Robert Snearey fitter, John Ward fitter, William Johnson fitter, William Richardson fitter, and Francis Cole gasman, all of Thirsk, Edward Willey of the township of Sowerby foreman, John Willey foreman and Robert Foxton labourer, both of Thirsk, Charles Robinson labourer, John Shields labourer, and Thomas Fox labourer, all of Thorpefield, Thomas Raper of Sowerby labourer, Henry Kelly of Thirsk labourer and Robert Ayton of Sowerby labourer, to act as special constables in the parish of Thirsk for the next four days
- covering letter dated 21 November 1868 from Lord Zetland at Aske for the letter received from Thirsk on 17 November. He had also received a letter from Captain Hill saying that Sir W.P. Gallway had applied for a force of police to aid the special constables |