Despite these radical leanings , Abel 's business prospered .
Abel was able to be active in public life , becoming one of the Commissioners of Police , essentially a 180 strong town council , in 1836 , having responsibility for paving and sanitation .
Despite these radical leanings , Abel 's business prospered and he was able to be active in public life , becoming one of the Commissioners of Police , essentially a 180 strong town council , in 1836 , having responsibility for paving and sanitation .