The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

15G YEARS AGO. 4 (Extracts from the "Courant," dated December 17, 1751.) Chester. December 1G.—Last Saturday Evening, as some Country People living in Wirral, were leturning from Liverpool Market, they set off in a small Boat in order to go to the Eastham Boat lying at a little Distance from Shore, but in their *Vay they ran against a Heap of Stones, which a Vessel had thrown out, it being her Ballast, whereby the Boat overset, and about Nine Persons were drowned Five were taken up alive, whereof one was a Woman and notwith- standing all means were used to preserve her Life, it proved ineffectual, she expiring on Sunday Eveiiinfif. PRICES OF GRAIN AT CHESTER. Wheat 4/1) to 5/6) Barley 2/7 to 3/- [per measure. Grey Peas 2/10 to 3/-J R'd Oates }Ji~ 1 per bushel. «ew Oatoa 6 0 to !> J

LOCAL GOVERNMENT JOTTINGS. Tho Holyhead Council has received a. com- munication from tlb3 Postmaster-General, stating that he is fully alive to the importance of arranging with tho steamship companies for the adoption of the port most suitable for mail transport; but when IIolyhed s claims were considered some years ago it was not found practicable to uso the port for the mails. Tre Chairman (Captain Roberts) said it was ridiculous to think that the country was going to pay E150,000 a year for nothing, as the delay to the Mauretania in the previous week shewed they were doing. It was resolved to :1ga:n approach Mr. Buxton with the claims of Holyhead. In several districts in Preston there has been a water famine, owing to a epecice of fine moss having found its way into the mains, and so into the service pipes, causing stoppages. Men with stand-pipes had to be stationed in the streets affected, asci wherever thero was a flow there was a big demand for the water. Great efforts had to be made by the authori- ties before a clearance of the pipes could be effeoted. Bucklow Boaj-d of Guardians havo decidod by 17 votes to 15 against any increased liber- ality at Christmas to those in receipt of out- door relief. Their heavy outlay on water supply and sewage works is given as a reason by tho Yeovil (Somersetshire) Town Council fcr re- fusing and being unable at present to take advantage of Mr. Carnegie's offer of £2,500 towards a free library for the town. At the Board of Guardians a communication wa3 received from the Local Government Board, enclosing some extracts from a report by their inspeotor (Captain Harvey) respecting the Workhouse, which he described as, in his opinion, the worst in Suffolk, and one which ought to be closed. Apart from the total inadequacy of the ar- rangement and accommodation, it formed a daily menace to the elck and. infirm in case of fire. The Local Government Board asked for the guardians' opinion in regard to this latter item, and it was resolved to inform the Department that JB90 had recently been spent to provide means of escape in case of fixe for the decrepit, and a general reply in regard to the other complaints. The General Purposes Committee have de. cided ro recommend the Leigh Town Council to levy an extraordinary rato of 16. 6d. in the £ to clear off a deficit of £11,000 on the Gas- works' revenue account, \vhich has been ac- cumulating for thirteen years. After considerable discussion, the Denbigh- shire County Co unci I, at a special meeting, re- jected a committee's scherno for the proposed Edition of twelve mcmbere.n.ine councillors aitd three aldermen—to the Council, mainly JjS representatives of tho Eastern Division, •the discussion was mostly in opposition, Mr. •oa^z Jones declaring that it would entail an add,itional expenditure, with which it was not fair to burden the ratepayers. The present i.jembership was sufikuent for the work, and he believed the proposals wore made simply with the view tha.t the eastern members on a division lnigiht be able to dominate the western. Tho proposal was rejected by 37 votes to 15. At the Marylebone Guardians' meeting a letter was read from the Local Government Board, to the effoot that representations had r'-p, been made to the President of injury being done to persons employed in the production of frrewood resulting from the sale by boards of gitardiane at a price below the market value brought about by too labour of the in- mates of workhouses. It eoemed to the De- partment that tlio inmates of work- houses were so engaged the guardians should tak care that the selling should not be carried on in suoh a umnner as to euibjeot outside workers to u n fair competition. The Chairman repudiated the idea that t;he guardians had sold at suoh low&r price. The Relief Com- mittee recommended that a grant of an extra 2s. be made to adult recipients of outdoor re- lief, with 6d. extra for oach child, during the Christmas w Mr. White, chairman, pointed out that while this has been previously ,;Iy done there was now risk of guardians who signed the cheque for this extra expense being surcharged by the auditors, who were now icroasingly strict. As an instance, he men- onod the,fact that mem bens of the Borough Council, who signod the cheques, have been surcharged for extra costs incurred in carting snow. The recommendation was, however, adopted by a majority of one. There has been issued by the Local Govern- ment Board a summary of the local taxation acoount.e for the year 1904-5, and some of the foots with regard to rates, though necessarily out of date, are of some interest. It appears that tbe total amount of public rates received by local authorities during the year, including 8,837,079 for purposes of elementary educa- I tion, was £ 56,047,715. The corresponding amounts for 1903-4 wore £7,841,146 and £ 52,941,665. The ratable value of England find Wales at, the commencement of the year 1904-5 was, for purposes of poor rates and other rates levied in the same manner, £ 199,355,590, including £ 23,768,029, the rat- ablo value of agricultural land. The conre- ponding amounts for 1903-4 were £194,716,894 and £ 23,828,606. Ca.lcula.ted on the basis of the first-men- tioned values, the average amount in the £ of the public rates raised during 1904-5 (inc-lud- tng rates raised for purposes of elementary ^duoation) was 5s. 11.8d. Calculated on the basis of estimated population, the average Amount of rates raised (including those for lementary education) was JE1. 13s. 2d. per h-&d. The corresponding average for 1903-4 were 5s. 9.5d. and JB1. lis. 9d. respec- tively, go that both figures were increased. Rates raised for purposes of elementary edu- tion amounted on an average to 11.3d. per Pound in 1904-5 and 10.3d. per pound in 1903-4, or, calculated on estimated population, to 5s. 2.8d. per head in 1904-5, and 4s. 8.4d. per in 1903-4. Loans outstanding in the books of the various local authorities at the end of 1904-5 amounted to £ 420,515,712. The inmates of St. John's Workhouse at High- ?ate are proud of one of their number, Robert •-homas, who is still in a hale and hearty state at 0 remarkable age of 101. Thomas, who has only °een in the Workhouse for a little over three years, was a water-cress seller in Islington, and i? enjoys the unique distinction of having plied calling in the district for over 80 years. When nomas recently celebrated his 101st birthday a party was arranged in his honour, and the old ofa", °y special request repeated his street-cry enj0ywaater cre-e-sses" with great vigour and

ti WILL OF REV. W. R. JOLLEY.-Among t>_r a^esfc wills proved is the following:—Tho demif ^°we JolLey, M.A., of Chester, In -cLerk of tho closet to the King, formerly tator t Navy as a chaplain, at one time £ >ukc 0t ^r'no° Alfred and afterwards to tihe Con.nau~a'xe,(-5o^)ur» aac* again to the Duke of Ordinar5 r S3vcsral years chap!ain-in- late Queen, £ 3,220.

FRODSHAM PARISH REGISTERS. « [FROM 1558 TO 1812.] 111. *15:h Instalment. 1714. ( Jan. 10. George Browri and Martha Hall, by banns. Jan. 24. Jonathan Ellia and Mary Helebey, by banns. Feb. 9. John Griffith and Hannah Golding of Midlewich, by banns. Mar. 30, Joseph Helsbey and Eliz. Burroughs of Weaver ham, by banna. Apr. 6. John Cotter and Mary Cane, by banne. May 18. Ralph Hoole and Eliz. Robbinson, by banns. May 18. Edward Done and Jane Dowries, by banns. May 18. David Holland and Sarah Wright, by banna. July 1. John Hanley and Eliz. Proflltt, by banns. July 27. William Walley of Tarpor!ey and Sarah Dutton of Weavcrham, by licence. Aug. 18. David Hensham of Liverpool and Sarah Musskett of Runcorne, by lie. Oct. 28. John Browne and Ellin Jackson of Runcorne, by banns. Nov. 19. William Cartwright and Sarah Okell, by banns. Dec. 25. John Bazley and Sarah Ashbrook of Runcorn, by banns. Dec. 26. Jonathan Stringer of Weverham and Mary Kellsall, by banna. 1715. Jan. 1. John Roberts and Mary Hough, by banns. Feb. 14. Daniel Baesnett and Margaret Drink- water, by banns. Apr. 21. Joseph Saint and Mary Cooper, by licence. May 12. William Evans and Hannah Sanders, by banns. June 6. John' Jackson and Anne Barrow, by banns. July 23. William Jcllicoe and Mary Picken, by banns. July 25. William Sanvage and Anne William- son, of Ince, by banns. July 31. Peter Percivall and Sarah Davies, by banns. Sept. 28. Robert Whiteaker and Mary Sylvester, by banns. Nov. 30. James Jannion and Eliz. Marrow, by banns. Dec. 11. John Gildcriet and Anne Tirtbey, by banns. Dec. 31. John Hcys and Mary Harrison, by banns. 1716. Jan. 12. Edward Billington of Plimsiall and Mary Keleall, by licence. Jan. 21. John Adshead of Tarpurlcy and Alice Whitley, by licence. Feb. 12. John Braminall and Elizabeth Taylor, by banns. Apr. 3. William Hallows and Jane Faulks, by banns. Apr. 29. Thomas Pane and Esther Taylor, by banns. May 16. James Gerrard and Mary Ethell, by banns. May 22. Richard Griffith and Mary Cooke, by banna. June 3. Wharton Green of Rosthern and Mary Woodward, by licence. Oct. 2. Henry Sherlock, parish clerk, a.nd Mary Robbinson, by licence. Oct. 21. William Martland and Anne Minshull, by banns. Dec. 11. John Hanley and Mary Peacock, by banno. Dec. 31. William Earle and Martlia Griffith, by banns. 1717. Jan. 7. Petor Woodward wid Mary Cooke, by banns. Jan. 15. John Hall and Sarah Massey, by banns. Jan. 15. Peter Clark and EUeanor Parker, by banns. Jan. 29. Richard Okcll and Mary Church- man, by banns. Jan. 30. George Taploy and Eliz. Woodward, by banns. Apr. 23. Slam lie 1 Davies and Margrett Fryer, bv banns. Apr. 25. Ra'ph Wright of Tarvin and Anne Bebington, by licence. Apr. 25. Samuel Parker and Mary Clark, by banns. Apr. 27. Samuel Becke of Liverpoolo ani Mary Fox, by licence. May 2. Richard Norman and Margaret Tomason, by lioencc. May 4. John Davies and Margery Tapley, by banns. May 4. Tho. Crosso and Mary Kerfoot of Runcorn, married at ye Cathedrall in Chester, by licence. May 30. Tho. Burroughes and Miartha Helaby, by banns. Aug. 31. John Chorlton and Margt. Ravens- croft, by banna. Sept 21. John Davies and Eliz. Tarner, by licence. Oat. 19. Peter Saruders and Mary Byrban- head, by banns. Nov. 5. Riohard Wareing of Neston and Ellen Whitley, by lioenefc. Nov. 9. Thomas Wharton and' Ellen Worrall of Thornton, by barms. Nov. 23. John Jones of Thornton and Mary Williamson, by licence. Dec. 28. Thomas Longworth and Margery Owen, by banns. 1718. Jan. 13. Tho. Griffith of Budworth and Mary Kettle, by lioence. June 24. William Taylor and Jane Beine, by banns. Oct. 21. John Peacock and Sarah Simocck, by banns. Nov. 6. Joseph Hcys and Alioa Usherwood, by banns. Nov. 9. Robert Pool and Elizabeth Meredith, Loth of Runcorne, by licence. Nov. 15. Edward! Gerrard of Weverham and Sarah Beckett, by lioence. 1719. Feb. 10. James Winstanley of Wiggan and Martha Wright of Tarvin, by licence. Aug. 10. William Ashbrook of Presoott, Lanes., and Eliz. Redditch, of Lymme, by licence. Oct. 15. George Yawood and Eliz. Wilkinson, by banns. Nov. 6. John Narcatt of Runoorn and Mar- garet Fletcher, by licence. Dec. 26. Thomas Whitley and Sarah Dutton, by banns. 1720. Jan. 26. Thomas Barrow and Elizabeth Hanily, by banns. Feb. 16. Ralph Dodd and Deborah Rylance, by banns. Feb. 18. John Churchman and Eliz. Burcli, by banns. Alar. 1. John BrieTwoo4 and Catherine Richardson, by banns. Apr. 26. Thomas Woodward and Margaret Massey, by banns. May 3. John Barrow and Amne Ilatton, by banns. May 7. Edward Daniel, gen., and Mary Wortihington, gen., bjy licence. Juno 25. Robert Burrows and Catherino Barrows, by banns. Aug. 30. Benjamin Roberts and Mary Shone, by banns. Sept. 10. John Barker and Mary Cheehyre, by banns. Sept.. 25. Dajiiol Winstanley and Mary Web- ster, by licence. Oot. 4. John Cheshyrp of Thornton and Martha Woods, by banns. Odt. 9. William li-yes of Thornton aidd Alice Washington, by banns. Nov. 17. Robert Harrison of Bidston and Mary Ellis, by lioence. Dec. 26. Tohn Mounfoild and Eliz. Dutton, by banns. 1721. Jan. 31. John Usher wood and Hannah Oar tor, by banns. Feb. 4. Samurai Hignitt and Mary Barrow, by banna

*The publication of this interesting record of marriages from the registers of the church of St. Lawrence, the Frodsnam Parish Church, was commenced in our issue of Sentember 11 tb.

THE CHESHIRE ASSOCIATION. A private meeting of the County Territorial Association for Cheshire was held at the Chester Castle on Tuesday. Col. Bromley-Davenport, who has been elected chairman of th8 association, presided. The principal business was the appoint- ment of secretary, for which position there were 32 applications. Four selected candidates ap- peared before the association, and Col. Thompson, late chief engineer, Western Command, was ap- pointed. The meeting also discussed the question of co-opting additional members, and their future procedure. The new secretary joined the Army in January, 1871, as lieutenant in the Royal Engineers. His promotions were as follows :—Captain, January, 1883; major, June, 1889; lieutenant-colonel, October, 18%; colonel, October, woo. On Dec. 17th, 1898, he was appointed Assistant Inspector General of Fortifications to the War Office, and until about a year ago he was chief engineer at Watergate House.

Lieut.-General Sir 0. J. Burnett, Western Command, has approved of his aide-de-camp, Lieut. E. T. Ridpath, taking up the duty of assistant military secretary in the command in the vacancy caused by the death of Capt. W. O. Hollo way.

AGRICULTURE IN PARLIAMENT- t CENTRAL CHAMBER'S DECISION. The Council of the Central Chamber of Agri- culture met at the Whitehall Rooms on Wednes- day, under the chairmanship of Lord Des- borough. The following resolution was moved by Mr. Sam Kidner, of Taunton: That in tho opinion of the Council, an independent Agricul- tural Parliamentary Party should be formed, and that, with this object in view, immediate steps should be taken to appoint a committee to consider the matter and report to the Council." Mr. G. L. Courthope, M.P. (Sussex), proposed, aa an amendment, that the words "and other steps be taken to strengthen the representation of agriculture in Parliament" be inserted after the word "formed." Other amendments having been dealt with, Mr. Kidner's motion as amended by Mr. Courthope was carried, the fol- lowing committee being appointed for the pur- pose of giving effect to it:-Memm Dennis, C. Turner, Kidner, Balden Latham, Simmons, Christian, Kendrick, Orlebar, Eve, Davis. It was further decided that the committee should have power to add to ita numbers to the extent of twenty members. DECISIONS OF OTHER CIIAMBERS. The proposal to have an independent agricul- tural party in the House of Commona was approved on Saturday by the Worcestershire Chamber of Agriculture, but disapproved by the Isle of Wight Agricultural Society.—A resolution declaring the proposal impracticable was carried by a large majority at the annual meeting of the Berka and Oxon Chamber of Commerce, while the Lincolnshire Chamber of Agriculture fully approves of it.

ECCLESTON. FIRE.—On Tuesday, about seven p.m., it was discovered that a largo rick of well- gathered hay, belonging to Mr. James Parker, and valued at £100, was on fire in the meadow near the ferry. The Duke of Westminster's private steam ongine was summoned, and was quickly on the spot, and in a short time the brigade succeeded in mastering the flames; but considerable damage was done, both by the and water, and probably the hay will be of little value. The loss is oovered by insuranoo. 4

BRIDGE TRAFFOIID. RENT AUDIT.—Mr. Harry Barneton's rent audit was held at the Nag's Head Inn, Bridge Trafford, last week, Mr. Harry Barnston and Mr. Henry Taylor being present. Mr. William Shepherd, the agent, took the chair. The health of Mr. Barnston was proposed by Mr. Hassall (Trafford Hall), and cordially received with musical honours. Mr. Barnston, in replying, referred to the Cheshire Agricultural Society's meeting to be held in August at Chester, and expressed the hope that, he having been elected president of the society for the year, his tenants and friends would do all they could to make the show a success.

WHAT PUDDING IS IT TO-DAY? Bo ready at least three days a week with the answer: "A pudding with lots of currants in it." The craving which little folks have for fruits and sweetmeats is a natural one, and should be gratified by supplying them with that most healthful and nourishing of all fruits-dried currants. Here is a recipe for a nice light pudding just right for the children BT,ACK-CAP PUDDING. Ingredients: Half a pound of flour, two eggs, three-quarters of a pint of milk, three ounces of currants, a pinch of salt. Method Sift the flour into a basin, add the salt, beat up the eggs, and stir gradually into the flour, add the milk by degrees, and work into a batter. Butter a large pudding basin. Sprinkle in the currants, and pour in the prepared batter. Cover the basin with buttered paper, and steam for one hour.—Your Grocer will give you free on request a booklet entitled "Currants—A few Tasty Recipes," which is full of useful recipes suitable for the family dinner.

LITERARY NOTICES. NEW BOOKS. NATURAL HISTORY ESSAYS.* In the present volume Dr. Rentib.aw concludes a series of throe books dealing with the life history of quite a crowd of wild animals. This last is styled "Final Natural History Essays," but in view of the amount of pleasure and in- struction which the author has conveyed to the public by means of these writings, we trust tho finality is not yet awhikv Although Dr. Ranshaw may have many rivals in natural history equally keen and obs^Tvanr, we know of none who 00.11 rival his life-like picturc-s of the strange and savage beast in its native wilds. In the dazzling moonlight of the Arctic regions or under the grilling sun of tho African desert 1 he is equally at home, conjuring up before the reader a cinematographic scene in which the outlandish beasts and birds play their part. The book is valuable as a work of reference, 00 account of the pai-ns taken to secure accuracy on a subject which is often treated loosely by half-informed scribes. From the popular stand- point, however, it is likely to be a great. favourite from the piot.urt-squonesa with which tho various animals are invested. In describ- ing the drill baboon, it is interesting locally to observe; that "in October, 1799, a mandrill was exhibited alive at Chester. It is interest- ing to note. that, alt,hough these baboons have for many years been brought alive to Europe, no full-grown mandrill was exhibited in the London Zoological Gardens until Nov. 20, 1906." It is curious to the non-scientific reader to discover the wealth of baseless superstition with which natural history is surrounded. To quote our author:- In spite of the rapid progress made in matters zoological of Jato years, many popu- lar errora respecting animals still persist. Tho magnanimity of the lion is pure non- sense. The tiger is not more blood-thirsty than the leopard, the jaguar, or even the weasel. antelopes and door have before now turned furiously on their keepers. Gorillas said to have boan killed while charg- ing are found to have the shot-holes in the back. The small-brained Indian elephant is not so superlatively intelligent as the average writer makes out; the bumps of his forehead indicate air-cells and not intollcc-t,. "Silly" shoep shew true wisdom in fo''o\ving the foot- steps of a tacitly elected I n-; pigs are- not fonder of wallowing in u.c mire than rhinoceroses, buffaloes, or even some ante- lopes. The various species of hyena, though largely oarrion-feeders, are not exclusively so; they are to some extent distinctly car- nivorous, attacking cattle and even man. It i2 impoEsib'o in a brief review to follow Dr. Ibmhaw in detail in his wanderings over the faee of the uncivilised globe, but the reader is constrained to sympathise with him in his lament over tha march of civilisation which has driven many interesting species of wild crea- tures out of existence. The life-like sketches of the state of affairs before the European's adv-ent in Africa are no less fascinating than the scenes that are conjured up of prehistoric Britain, when the musk ox, the antelope, the rhinoceros, the bear, the wolf, and the mam- moth stalked over the land. Like its prede- cessors, this volume is liberally illustrated with excellent photographs of the most interesting species of animals, either caged alivo or in tnuseum-cases. Every reader, we believe, will jonn in the wish that the autJior must not regard his nauiral history work as completed with this hook. DEBRETT'S PEERAGE. During its phenomenally long life, "Dcbrott'i Peerage, Baronetagia, Knightage and Com- panionate" has proved its indispensability as a work of reference. The present is its 195th ycar of issue, a record which is, we suppose, practically unrivalled in this class of publica- tion. In all sorts of public and' private busi- ness nothing is more necessary than to have accuracy in all names, titles, etc., and there are few spherce in which there is more opportunity for error, in the absence of a reliable guide like "Debrott." What, for example, is easier than to confuse Lord Napier and Ettriok with Lord Napier of MagdaJa, Lord Clifford of Chudleigh with Lord de Clifford, Lord Manners with Earl Manvers, Lord Gillford with the Earl of Guilford, Lord Newborough with the Earl of Newburgh, ajid so forth? The pre- faoo of the present volume of "Dobrett," dis- cussing the proposed reform of the House of Lords, points out that "sinoo the accession of Queen Victoria there has been conferred some 540 peerages and 460 betrOiTiotages, so that the average of hereditary honours bestowed per annum works out for this period of seventy years at, for peerages nearly five, and for baronetcies under seven, in itself not an ex- cessive number, especially as, on the average, three peerages and four baronetcies become extinct annually." Between December 6th last year and December 5th this year the new honours announced shew that five new peer- ages have been created and seven barontaies have become extinct New baronetcies to the number of 17 have been created, while three have become extinct; 23 members have been sworn of the Privy Council; 175 new knights have been created; 236 new members or com- panions have been nominated to the various orders. An instructive table is given, shew- ing the number of new honours oonforredyear by year sinoo 1883. "THE LICENSED TRADE" (By Edwin A. Pratt. London: John Murray, Albemarle- streefc. Is.). Suoh has been the popularity of this excellent work on the licensing question that it has nm into a second edition already, published ait a shilling. When it originally appeared, we spoke in terms of the warmest commendation of its excellence, and now it has been reduced in price, it ought to bo studied by every political speaker and writer, as weil as by the many people who are in- terested in the question from tho trade point of view. The Government's Licensing Bill promises to be the great subject of contention in the next Session of Parliament, and those who hopa to be. able to tackle the matter in- telligently ought to make a point of reading and digesting this lucid work, which has been brought right up to date. "CAPE COLONY TO-DAY" (By A. R. E. Burton, F.R.G.S.—Sold by Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son, 2&). This is a handsomely- bound, printed and illustrated handbook of Capo Colony, published under the authority of tho Cape Government Railway Department. The general soh&me of the work is to give a comprehensive description of the Colony, by means of ten towns, each of which embraces a different section of the country, and each of which was undertaken by the oompiler of tho work. The book is written in a brighter strain than most handbooks, and forms really good reading. Speaking of the progress of the Colony, the writer says:—"In comparison with the population of some other British oversea Colonies, the white population of Capo Colony is small, nevertheless proportion- ally her place as a produoor is not far, if at all, behind. In many instances, they (the returns) reveal wonderful growth. Less than a decade back, lean in many cases than five years previously, many of tho&e products for which some places 'have become noted were not recorded at all, and, taking a series of years, it is found that there is a steady general annual increase owing largely to the irresistible natural expansion of an essentially agricultural country. The annual increase in some of the most important products may be estimated at from five to ten per cent., and, allowing the most ample margin, it is safe to forecast Cape Colony's agricultural produces ten years honoe, with but normal exertion, at double their present value. With tn ex- pansion of policy that would make for closer settlement she would leap instantly into pro- minence aa a successful rival of the Australian states, who are many thousands of miles more distant from Coven t Garden than Cape Colony." Of the general optimistic tone of the book, the following sentence is typical: — "To the new chum fresh from the fight for existenoo that makes to-morrow a horrible problem to nearly half the people of the Old World our 'depression' is a. oomfortablo inflation."

"Final Natural History Essays" (by Graham Renshaw, M.B., F.Z.S., illustrated. London and Manchester: Sherratt and Hughes; 6s.). "Debrett's Peerage, Baronetage, Knight- age and Clornp&niona.(, 1008," (Lonflon: Dean and Son, Ltd., 160a, FTeet-street.E.O. 31s. 6d. nett). "THE MOTHS OF THE BRITISH ISLES" (by Riohard Louth, F.E.S. London: Fredk. Wam-e and Co., Chandos House, Bedford-street, S'traiid; 7s. 6d.).—The fact that the author of the vo!ume is the well-known editor of "Tho Entomologist" and the author of "The Butter- flies of the British Isles, ought to ba a sufficient guarantee of the thorough and woikmanlike character of the work. Like many other books on natural history published by the same firm in the "Wayside and Woodland" series, the volume is profusely illustrated with accurately coloured examples of every species and many varieties. There ano no fewer than 670 iliuatra- tions, w'hich aro of the utmost, value to the student, cspoci-aily tho drawings of eggs, cater- pillars, chiysalis and food plants comprised in Li-ii, families sphingidaj to noctuidse. Compared with our butterflies, remarks the author in the profaoe, the number of moths found in the British laics is very Large. "Like the butter- flies. moths, too, are dependent upon plant life, and almost every kind of herb, busii or tiIGe will be found to nourish the caterpillars of one or more species of moth." The usefulness of this "vado meeum" is apparent, when it is re- flected that the field boianist and the country rambler constantly comes acioss moths or cater- pailars that not only interest but puzzle. The first thing the true student desires is to know something about their habits, their life*-hi story and the position they occupy in tho arrange- ment and classification of natural history ob- jects. Those who have read Mr. Louth's in- structive work on butterflies wiU perceive that he has treated moths on the same practical lines, 4 much information on t.he subject being crowded into the space available. If any one should be disposed to quarrel with the author on account of his condensed descriptions, ample compensation is found in the life-like pictures which are presented, and which are really more useful to the know Ledge-seeker than the best written paragraph or chapter. Two conclusions are warrantable from this publication, (1) that the average entomologist will be profoundly appreciative and grateful, and (2) that the volume will tend to an extension and increase of this highly-interesting branch of study. FARMER AND STOCKBREEDER YEAR BOOK (Messrs. Macdonald amd Martin, 6, Essex- street, Strand, London; Is.)-In this year book for 1908 is a fine variety of subj xts discussed by able writers and illustrated in a manner which leaves nothing to bo desired. It not only is a thoroughly practical manual for far- mers and bieedois, but is a useful volume for reference. The feattircs include a record of the season's pedigree stock trade in public sale rings, and a resume of the show season in con- nection with the various breeds of livo stock. The numerous tables of reference and statisti- cal particulars provided at the end of the Year Book, the gestation tables and calendars, pre- serve tho almanac features so much appreciated by farmers. The articles include a discourse on "Rofhamsted and Its Woik," by Mr. J. J. Willis. Mr. C. Armstrong deals with "Horses and Hunting," while Mr. James Jebson writes on "Carriage Horses and Their Breeding." Prof. J. Win tor has a contribution on "Welsh Black Cattie and Their Improvement," in the course of which he discusses the efforts which are being made by breeders in various districts to grade up the cattle of th, Principality. Dairy farmers will rc-ad with interest Mr. Walker Tisdolc's discourse on "Buttc-r-making with Experiences of Butter Samples." There are many other interesting papers. The illus- trations are profuse, and include, in the shire hoise section, pictures of Earl Egerton's Tatton Friar, bred by the lato John Ball, of Shotwick Lodge, and the oolt foal, Eaton Drayman, bred by the Duke of Westminster. THE DECEMBER MAGAZINES. (Third Notice.) The Christmas number of the "Queen" has as a supplement a really fine work of art, a as a supplement a really fine work of art, a Rembrandt gravure reproduction on a large scale of the original painting, "Sir Roger De Ooverley," by Fred Morgan, the well-known artist. It is a delightful picture of children, and made a great impression, when exhibited at the Royal Academy last year. The number itself is filled with matters appropriate to the season. The Christmas number of "The Grand Maga- Ûuo" contains many pages of excellent reading, while it can scarcely be said to cater particu- larly for the season. Mary Choimondeloy, the woll-liked author of "Red Pottage," gives her "beat story," and a very pathetic tale of a tragedy it is. In "Matrimonial Squabbles" Maud Ohurton Braby expresses the very frank opinions of a woman of tho world on the question. One reads with wonder the impres- sions (under the title "Road Experiences") of a parson who was operated upon for appendi- citis after being locally ansestheticised by the method of "lumbar puncture" lately introduced, one of the greatest, triumpiis of modern sur- gory. This interesting account was communi- cated to the "Grand" by a well-known physician, to whom it was sent in the form of a Letter by a former patient.

PULFORIK THE BELLS' FAREWELL.—A true peal was rung on the parish ohuroh bolls by eight members of the Chester Diocesan Guild of Change Ringers on Wednesday night. They na-ng Parker's twelve-part peal of grandsiro triples (5,040 changes) in two hours and 49 minutes. The following took part:—Henry W. Wildo (Eccleston), treble; George Jones (Pul- ford), 2nd; Robert Spelling (Chester), 3rd; Geo. Pierce (Gresford), 4th; Thomas Newell (Wrex- ham), 5th; Walter Thomas (Pulford), 6th; Edwin H. Lewis (Widncs), 7th; and James Mor- gan, of Pulford, tenor. The peal was conduo- tOO by Edwin H. Lewis, and was rung as a birthday and farewell salute to Waiter Thomas, who is an old member of the Guild, and who is leaving the parish shortly. This is the first time this peaJ has been rung on the pariah church bells. 4

HOLT AND FARNDON. ENTERTAINMENT.—A miscellaneous en- tertainment was given in Kenyon Hall on Wednesday, by the young ladies of Holt Hall school. The principal items were two sketches entitled "Done on Both Sides" and "Poor Pillicoddy," both plays being well acted. SHOOTING -NUTM.-Though the reading and recreation session in the Kenyon Hall Holt, began two months ago, yet the members are fewer than they have been for several years. The Rifle Club is almost a failure, ow- ing to several causes. The first match of the season was hastily arranged with Farndon on Tuesday. Farndon were the b-itte-r team until nearly the end of the match, when one of their members lost more t.han half his points, and Holt were declared the winners by 34. COURT LEET.—The court leet of the Lord of the Manor of Farndon (Mr. Harry Barnston) was held at the Nag's Head Inn on Wednesday. The steward (Mr. Henry Taylor) charged the jury, of which Dr. Parker was chairman, and the following members: Messrs. C. Hughes, W. Taylor, S. Shone, B. Edwards, G. Clubb, S. Williamson, J. Jones, G. Ince, W. Clubb, J. Jones, S. C ha loner and W. Lowe. They retired, and afterwards made their presentments and appointed the constables, burleymen and pindar, who were severally sworn in by the steward. Mr. S. Shone, the pindar, presented his case about tho pinfold and old lock-up at Farndon. It appears that the latter is now used for the purpose of storing the fire-engine, which belongs to Holt and Farndon Parish Council. A movement has been started to claim the old lock-up as the exclusive property of the fire brigade committee. It was decided nearly unanimously by the jury that the pin- dar be presented with two locks and keys for the purpose of looking after the pinfold and the engine house.—The proclamation was then made discharging the court, and the proceed- ing terminated. Afterwards the jury and the tenant &at down to an excellent dinner, served by Mr. Jones, the landlord, presided over by Mr. William Shepherd, the agent, who WM supported by Mr. Barnston and the steward (Mr. Taylor). The health of Mr. Barnston was proposed by Mr. Shaw (Crewe Hill) and supported by Mr. George Nice, who coupled with it in feeling terms the health of Mm. Barnston and the Misses Barnston.—Mr. Barnston thanked them for their kind expressions, and for the good feeling which existed towards him, his mother and sisters. He trusted they would support him during his presi- dency of the forthcoming Cheshire Agricultural Society's meeting. The health of the Steward was proposed by Dr. Parker and that of the agent by Mr. Clubb.

in Cirele5 n Nor-a H. UTEN9S COC A THE BEST dW,

NANTWICH. The Rev. S. A. Moor, headmaster of Nantwich Grammar School, has bN'n appointed head- master of Kendal Grammar School, vihoro he will succeed the RénT. H. Gray, who has been appointed to Warrington. There were 95 applicants. Mr. Moor was at one time prin- cipal of Grasia College, Gond-al, India.

WREXHAM. A DOCTOR'S DEATfl.-Dr. J. Llewellyn Williams, of Holt-street House, Wrexham, died on Friday night after a brief illness. The deceased gentleman, who was 63 ytars of age, was well-known throughout the district and greatly esteemed. He was a justice of the peace for Denbighshire and an official referee under the Workmen's Compensation Act. He was the first medical officer of health for the borough of Wrex- ham. Before joining his father in practice at Wrexham the deceased was for some time house surgeon at the Northern Hospital, Liverpool. He was a staunch Unionist and a Churchman.

TALtYIN. LOCAL SUCCESS IN MUSIC.—In the re- cent local examination, held by the authorities of Trinity College, London, Masters H. B. Town- send ar;d W. B Shurrock (Tarvin Grammar School) passed in the junior division for piano- in forte playing. CHOIR SUPPER.—On Wednesday night the Vioar gave his annual supper to the axiult members of the choir and the bellringers. The repast was served in the parish room. The Vicar presided, and was supported by Dr. T. W. E. Moreton and Mr. N. Large (church- warden;). «

BUNBURY. DANCE.—A dance was given at the Publio Hall on Wednesday, under the auspices of the Cricket Club. Thanks in a great measure to the keen interest always taken in the club by Captain and Mrs. Gordon, of the Oak lands, this event was again a great succees. Not only in promoting tho da.nce were Mrs. Gordon's ser- vices greatly appreciated, but aJE-O in the decor- ations of ihe room, which presented a very pretty appeirance. There was a oompany of about 120 present., and a programme of 24 items was gone through. Dr Robertson and Mr. G. F. Dutton were the M.C.'s. «

FLINT. MARINE-STORE DEALER SUED.—An action of interest to dealers in lead was heard by Judge Moss at Rhyl on Friday. Messrs. Sheffield and Son, ironmongers, of Rhyl, sued Simon Challoner, marine-store dealer, of Flint, to reoover PA. 8s. 6d. dan-ages for alleged mis- representation.—Mr. F. J. Gamlin, who appeared for the plaintiffs, stated that Mr. Sheffield pur- chased a quantity of "scrap lead" from the defendant, hut be found that the major portion of it consisted of old accumulator plates from the electric light works. On sending it to the smelt- ing works of Messrs. Walkers. Parker, and Co., Limited, Bagillt, the plaintiffs were allowed 5s. 3d. per cwt. less for the accumulator plates than for old lead of the ordinary kind.—Mr. J. P. Lewis, for the defendant, contended that the principle of caveat emptor applied in the case and that the lead was open to the inspection of the plaintiffs before the purchase.—Mr. Gamlin submitted that the defence did not apply, inasmuch as the goods were bought unier the trade name of "scrap lead," and accumulator plates were not to be so described.—His Honour said that was the only question in the case. He understood that the accumulator plates would not be pure lead, but would contain a certain amount of zinc.—Mr. William Eckford, manager for Messrs. Walkers, Parker, and Co., stated that the accumulator plates consisted of about one-half of metallic lead and the remainder of a very com- plicated substance formed of oxide and per- oxide of lead and carbonate of lead. This was rather indestructible matter, and it would be ridiculous to describe it as scrap lead. Mr. E. H. Wright, electrical engineer to the Rhyl Council, game similar evidence.—His Honour said it was clear that if he had sanctioned the transaction he would be lending himself to a fraud, and with retrard to caveat emptor it might have applied had Mr. Sheffield seen the material, but it was mostly in bags on the cart.—Judgment was given for the plaintiffs for B4. 7s. 4

NESTON. PARISH SALE OF WORK.-The annual sale of work, on behalf of paro- chial objects connected with Neston Parish Church, took place on Thursday and Friday, in the Town Hall. The sale was formally opened on Thursday afternoon by Mrs. Reginald Bushell (Hinderton Lodge). The Vioar 6a.il it was the fifteenth consecutive sale, the amounts raised ranging from 1;85 to 2,106. The latter sum had been the high- water mark in this direction, but they were anxious on the present occasion to establish a new record, for not only were there the ordinary annual expenses of the choir, the parish nurse fund, etc., but they were called upon by the education authority to make ox- pensive alterations at the Church schools, and they were anxious to devote some of the balance to this object. He referred in complimentary terms to Mrs. Reginald Biwhell's kindly co- operation in this and other good works in the parish, and mentioned the general gratifies- tion that was felt at finding her among them again after her long illness. (Applause.)—A vote of thanks to Mrs. Bushell and to tho stall- holders and their assistants, was proposed by Canon Turner and carried with much applause. --A brisk sale followed, and the cntertain- ments, including some clever oonjuring feats by Mr. W. F. Gilbert, were freely patronised. On FriJay afternoon the annual rummage sale took place in the Volunteer Drill Hall, and the J proceeds will be added to the general fund, The stallholders and helpers were as follows Refreshment stall: Mrs. R. L. Price, Mrs. H. J. Graham, Mrs. Bingham, Miss Carter, Miss Price, 2«fLss P. Price, Miss G. Grdmsbaw, Miss F. Riohard^, Miss D. Gi 1 zoan, Nurse Munro, and Miss Davis. Plain and fancy stall: Mies M. Lyon, Mrs. Beckett, Miss Gamon, Sister Emmeline, Miss Livermore Miss Fairbrother, Miss Webb, and Mis^ Seager. Christmas tree Mrs. Pemberton, Mrs. W. Ariel Gray, Miss Lilian H. Bushell, Miss Cramer-Roberts, Miss Pemberton, Miss Gladys Cramer-Roberts, Miss Gibson, Miss D. Muir, Miss M. Jones, Miss A. Jones, and Mr. Alan Pemberton. Poultry and dairy stall: Mrs. W. F. Barrett, Mrs. Liver- more Mws Roberts, and Mrs. and Miss Gill. Entertainment committee: the Rev. H. J. Graham, Mr. J, G. Lee, and Mr. R. Howick. j Hon. treasurer, Mr. R. L. Price; hon. see., I Mr. J. G. Le«. 1

i FRODSHAM. j SALE OF WORK.—A sale of work, under the auspices of the Iron Church parishioners and friends, was held on Wednesday in the parish room, to raisa funds for improvements at the Iron Church. Miss Ashley opened the proceedings. An entertainment in after- noon, given by Mies Hutchings (violin eolos), Mrs. Clinton Holmes (songs), and Miss Leek (recitations), was greatly enjoyed. The stalls were presided over as follows:—Dairy stall: Mieedames A. Bate and Selby. Refreshment stall: Mesdames Tudor, J. Gamer, Ormsby and A. Jones. Work stall: Miss Ashley, Mes- dames J. lllidge, J. Morris, and W. Lewis. China stall: Mies Barrow. Miss Cliff, Mes. dames J. Barrow and Dutton. In the even* ing concerts were given by members of the Iron Church choir. The gross takingw amounted to £ 45. -9

MALPAS. OPENING OF RIFLE RANGE.—On Thurs- day night, in the presence of a numerous assembly of ladies and gentlemen, the new miniature rifle range was opened by Captain R. W. Ethelston, who has taken a special in terest. in the movement since its inception. In opening the range, the Captain said it was open to all membere of the institute. He took the opportunity of thanking Mr. St. John Oharlton, on behalf of Lord Cholmondeley, for giving the groand upon which the range was erected, and he also thanked the ladies who assisted the funds by their efforts at the con- cert, which took place some time ago in aid of the funds. He (the Captain) trusted that those present would give the movement their support, ani that the range would swell the membership of the institute, of which he was president. He declared the rifle range open. (Applaase-.)—The Rev. L. Armitstead said they all knew that the establishment of the range was entirely due to the generosity of Captain Ethetsl^n, and he (the speaker) was only too glad to thank him, for without the captain's help it would havo been impossible for them to have erectod it. The Institute Committee thought that upon so fitting an occasion they would present Mrs. Et-helston, the lady who so kindly got up the recent concert in support of the institute, with a rifle as a memento of tha occasion, and as a token of the good wishes to Captain and Mrs. Ethel- stcn, from the membere of the institute, not a single member of which had refused to sub- scribe to the present. He therefore had great pleasure in presenting Mrs. Ethelston with a rifle and a pair of glasses, and he hoped that she would, when using the rifle, shoot straight and hit the mark in the same way that the captain and herself had reached the hearts of the people of Malpas by their many kind acta of munificence. (Applaase )-Captain Ethel- ston thanked them for there kindness.—Subse- quently Captain Ethelston and the Rev. L. Armitstead were the first to use the range, firing five rounds each with capital effect. The range is 103 feet long ard 13 feet wide, and is well lighted with gas. Tho rifles used are of the miniature Martini Henri type, as used in the Army. 4

UPTON. CHESTER CATHEDRAL.—On Monday evening Mr. Frank Simpson gave a. lecture before a well-attended meeting of the Upton Mutual Improvement Society on Xh-a Chester Cathedral and Cloisters." Mr. presided.—Mr. Simpson mentioned that Chester was one of the four cities of the world which had two cathedral churches, St. John Baptist's having represented the see until the time of Henry VIII. The other cities were Rome, London and Dublin. The monastery of St. Werburgh was not the first ecclesiastical structure occupying that site. A Christian church stood there during the occupation of Chester by the Romans, being dedicated to St. Werburgh and St. Oswald. That was at least as early as the reign of Athelstan, as he and several later kings were recorded as having paid their devotions at St. Werburgh's Church. In describing the exterior of the Cathedral, Mr. Simpson mentioned that from the top of St. Werburgh-street a good view could be obtained of the political corbels. In restoring the sculpture of that part of the Cathedral a very ancient fashion had been revived. In sculptures of the middle ages celebrated persons were fre- quently held up to ridicule or admiration. Ono of the corbels represented Mr. Gladstone, pen in mouth, in the apparently congenial act of uprooting a venerable church, the allusion being to the Vatican pamphlets. In another corbel Mr. Disraeli was armed with a sword and was defending the Crown against the attacks of Dr. Kenealy. The corbel cn the extreme left repre- sented the present King. Mentioning the Consistory Court, which he said had been used sinoo about 1636, Mr. Simpson said it formed the base of an immense tower, which was con- templated and begun a short time before the Reformation. Prior to 1636, the Lady Chapel had been used for the purposes of the Consistory Court. At the west end of the north aisle was the base of the tower of the Norman church of Hugh Lupus, originally used by the monies as a wine cellar, but now fitted up as a baptistry. The beautiful font was presented by Earl Egerton of Tatton to the Dean and Chapter in 1885. It came from a ruined church in the Romanza, and was originally a Roman well- head, which had been carved by Christians with symbols of a font. The work was of the Ravenna type of the sixth or seventh century. Mr. Simpson gave a detailed description of the points of interest, in the Cathedral, and paid special attention to the Cloisters and the beauti- ful carvings of misereres in the Choir. The lecture was most instructive, and added con- siderably to the knowledge of the Cathedral possessed by most of the audience. A special feature was the lantern illustrations, made from beautiful photographs by Mr. Simpson.

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