The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

COTTRANT TIME TABLE. 4 WITH THIS ISSUE OF TIlE" CHESTER COCRANT" IS PRESENTED OUR MONTHLY RAILWAY TIME TABLE AND DIARY FOR JANUARY, 1908. THE COURANT ALMANACK. t WE HAVE PLEASURE IN ANNOUNCING THAT OUR ALMANACK FOR 1908 WILL BE PRESENTED WITH NEXT WEEK'S ISSUE OF THE CHESTER COURANT (8TH JANUARY). THE ALMANACK WILL CONTAIN PAR- TICULARS OF POSTAL ARRANGEMENTS, LIST OF FAIRS, CITY AND COUNTY MAGISTRATES AND OFFICIALS, AND OTHER USEFUL LOCAL AND GENERAL INFORMATION.

FATAL STATION ACCIDENT. Last night, Mr. Oliver Screen, assistant station- master at Derby (Midland) Station, was running to shut a compartment of a train when he stumbled over a box and fell between the moving train and the platform, sustaining injuries to which he subsequently succumbed. +

THE LATE LADY STANLEY ERRINGTON. FUNERAL AT HOOTON. (Special Telegram) The imermant of the late Lady Stanley Erriagton, widow of Sir John Massey- Stanloy Errington, twelfth baronet, and last member of tiha Cheshire branch of the fam; I Y. took piaoo at St. Mary's of tho Algols Catholic, Church, Ilooton, to-day. The oluef mourners were Count de Bascas and Count do Vilie Neuvo Guiibert. The Earl of Cromer and Viscount Erringtoi) were both absent through indisposition. Mgr. Marsden represented* the Bi&hop of Shrewsbury, and MgT. Clegg was the celebrant of the requiem mass. Thirty other clergy also took part. Lady Stanley Errington passed aw-ty on tb3 24til Drc. at Femhill, Windsor. Sho was a daughter of the Late Baron do TaAleyrand- Perigord, and niece of the famous Prince Talley- rand. In 1841 she married Sir John Stanley Massoy-Stanley, who died in 1893, when this old Cheshire baronetcy became extinct, having (says Deb roll) assumed in 1876, by .RoyaJ. iipenoo, the surname of Errington.

SPORTING. 4 HURST PARK MEETING. TUESDAY. WOLSEY STEEPLECHASE.—Orpington, 1; Cynique, 2. Three ran. PALACE HURDLE.—Happy Hampton, 1; Smoker, 2; Bradshaw, 3. Nine lan. RICHMOND HANDIC-AP.-Flax Park, 1; Shanloth, 2; Jack, 3 Eighteen ran. MOLESEY STEEPLECHASE.—Canary II., 1; Sprinkle Me, 2; Judas, 3. Eleven ran. THREE-YEAR-OLD HURDLE. Collar- maker, 1 Bonniface, 2 Macmurrough, 3. Fourteen ran. OLD YEAR HANDICAP. -Chegsin -ton, 1; Royal Rouge, 2; Brigand, 3. Six ran.

DRUCE GRAVE OPENED. 1 THE SECRET. The secret, of the Druce tomb at Highgata was revealed on Monday. After many years of OOIlLrOVOÁBY, the great question as to whether the "Taomas Charles Drucm" coffin in the Druce vault contained huma,n remains or not (con- tained the real remains of T. C. Druce, of the Baker-street Bazaar, or rolls of lead to aid in the alleged "mock funeral of tha fifth Duke of Poitand to destroy his identity as 1. C. Druoe) was settled once and for all on Monday by exhumation. The official statement of the iinmcdia:e> finding on lihe exhumatiorj was is- sued soon after midday as foJows: ''The coffin was opened, and contained the body of an aged boa;tL>d man. The plate on the coffin bore the trains of Thomas (-harks Druce."

RAILWAY FARES RAISED. SCOTTISH COMPANIES' AGREEMENT. Tho Midland Railway Company on Monday! issued a new order for the increase of fares on sh, d'stAnoos by a halfpenny, and the new ecia; wiil come into force to-day (Wednesday). A Glasgow telegram eaya: An intimation was j made on Monday that tho Scottish and English railways have agreed to substantially advance week-end faros between Scottish and English stations. Return week-end fares between London and Glasgow are to be raised from 34s. to41s. 3d., from (lia^gow to Birmingham from 25e. to 30s., to Leeds from 18s. 6d. to 21s. 8d., to Manchester from 18s. 9d. to 22s. 3d., and to Liverpool from 16s. to 186. 9d. Further arrangements as to the collection of goods, reduction of mileage, and the removal of competition, etc., iro stated to be in contemplation. The following official an- nouncement was also made: "Ihe negotiations which have for eomc time been proceeding be- tween the North British and Caledonian Rail- ways with referonc.c to all classes of competitive traffic in Scotland, have now been completed and an agreement satisfactory to both companies has been arrived at. While the interests of the public are protected by the maintenance of an efficient service on both systems, the companies will as a result of the agreement be enabled to effect material economies in working." MORE PARTICULARS. A telegram received at this office yesterday (Tuesday) states:—The working agreement between the North British and Caledonian Ra.Iw.ty Companies is to be extended to 1936. It provides for the pooling' of all competitive trafn •, and on all roiites earnings will be divided. It is expected the pooling will at first shew a reduction in traffic returns, but a saving in working will prove a valuable and substantial set-off to this apparent reduction. The rates may be raised in some parts of the country where they are at present below the usual limit. It is understood there is no in- tention to ask for powers to raise rates gener- ally. The agreement does not refer in any way to English traffic, and will not interfere with the existing arrangement with tho Eng- 1 ;sh mil ways. -4

.11 At a meeting of Grin sby trawler owners on Saturday a deputation was selected to Lieet repre- sentatives of Hull trawler owners at Hull next Monday, with a view to taking combined action !1O real I 1 h: Jn:ütd or colliery proprietors fori increased prioes ai ooala used on board trawlers.

BR0XT0N SESSIONS. 11 SATISFACTORY STATE OF AFFAIRS. Yesterday (Tuesday) the monthly petty sessions for the Broxton Division were held, the magis- trates on the bench being Mr. T. M. L. Vernon (in the chair), Lord Arthur Grosvenor, Mr. Robert Barbour, Capt. R. W. Ethelston, Mr. Geo. Cooke and Mr. John Jonea (Saighton). There were no cases for hearing, and the only business before the court was an application by Mr. A. Callcott for a theatrical licence for the •Jubilee Hall, Malpas, which was granted.—Supt. Hicks remarked that aa that was the last court of the year the bench would feel, M he did, very highly gratified that there were no cases before the court. He was very pleased to say that there had notbeena singleapprehension fordrunkenness, nor any persons reported for breaches of the licensing laws through the division or the Chester Castle division during Christmas week.—Mr. T. M. L. Vernon said it was a very satisfactory state of affairs, and he was very glad to hear the news. It was the first time since be had been sitting on the bench that there had not been cases of some description before the courb.-Supt. Hicks added that he had been in the police force 29 years, and that was the first time he remembered there being no cases in Christmas week.

CATHOLICS AND EDUCATION. Roman Catholic teachers from London, the Midlands, Lancashire towns, and other centres assembled at Manchester on Saturday to consider the contracting-out clauses which is is expected will be contained in the forthcoming Education Bill of the Government. Mr. F. J. Worswick, president of the Catholic Teachers' Guild, occupied the chair. Resolutions were passed in the following terms:- That no Education Bill can be regarded aa satisfactory which does not make due provision for the religious instruction of the children in accordance with the wishes of the parent. That as Cowper-Temple or simple Bible teach- ing is Protestant and entirely unacceptable to Catholics, Catholic schools should not be penalised in any way by loss of grant or public money for their conscientious ability to teach it. That this conference, knowing the intolerable strain of the pr9-l!X)2 days, is of opinion that con- tracting-out would be calamitous for the Catholic schools, the future of Catholic education, and the professional interests of the Catholic teacher, and that it must lead inevitably to a reimposition of the old evils of under-staffed aud ill-equipped schools and under-paid teachers.

FESTIVE FROLIC. 4 On Christmas Eve, William Henry Jacobs, of Clewer, met some friends in Windsor and made merry. The result was that he found himself unable to get back home. On the way he soniehow gained access to Clewer Mead, the riverside residence of Mr. Oppenheim, and was discovered shortly before midnight fast asleep in an armchair in the dining-room. As a consequence he had to appear before the Windsor magistrates on a charge of being on premises for an unlawful purpose. Mrs. Gladys Treacher, the housekeeper at Clewer Mead, said as the servants were retir- ing to bed between eleven and twelve they beard a noise downstairs, and the bull-terrier commenced to bark viciously. The police were telephoned for, and arrived four minutes after. On making a search of the hou'3e Jacobs was discorvered fast asleep in an armchair in the dining-room. When aroused by the constable he appeared very dazed, and wanted to know how he got there Ho wae covered with mud, and being unable to give an account, of himself was taken into custody. Mr. F. T. Ryland, who appeared for defend- ant, said the position in which Jacobs found himself v,-as owing to the kindness of friends and the festive season. The Bench ooncluded there was no evidence of "unlawful purpose," and discharged1 the defendant.

REMARKABLE MATRIMONIAL CASE. t OONNAH'S QUAY WIFRS UOMPJAINT. ALLEGED ATTACK EN ROUTE TO COURT One of the IllO.3ot sensational oases ever biought before the Northop justices assumed the form, of an application, at the Northop Sessions, 011 Friday, by Harriet Strong, wife of Joseph Strong, ironworker, of No. 1, Dee-road, Con- nah's Quay, for an order of judicial separation on the ground of persistent cruelty. The complainant, whose face was badly bruised, eaid her husband had boon guilty of "consistent. cruolty" and had accused her of "immoral impurposes." Ha had not worked during the last four years. lIe threatened her an the 18bh December, and an the following day ho assaulted her. She ran out of the OOUS,3 and took refuge with a neighbour. Sho dared not return. That morning, on the way to the polico court, tho defendant ran after har and attempted to strangle her. Whc-n in work the defendant earned 6s. per day, and, was em- ployed at the Hawarden Bridge Iionworks. The defendant (tromulouely) I could get rid of her altogether if I wished, but I don't want to broach it; only for her to come back. Elizabeth Phcebe Nocks, a neighbour, spoke to seeing ma.rks of defendant's fingers on. com- plainant s neck, and she had also setai him throw knives at her. On tho 19th she found Mra. Stioag lying bleeding on the pavement. Fanny Sulbv oonoborated, a.nd spoke to find- ing the complainant on the 19th DeoDmber "covepod with blood." rnk EdwaTds corroborated, and spoke as to the aesault on the wa.y to (lie Court House. Ho heard Strong say "I worship the very ground she stands on, but if I had a revolver I'd blow her bra-ins out." After some police evidence, the defendant, who elected to give evidence on oath, described himself bitterly as the most unhappy individual on earth. He admitted having struck his wife, adding, "And you'll not be surprissd when you know all." The defendant continued that in the month of August last he rose before da.y- break to go and gather mushrooms. Finding only one mushroom ho returned home after a short absence, and removing his shoes down- stairs. went upstairs with the intention of re- turning to bed. Continuing, he made a state- ment alleging misconduct against his wife find a lodger.—Mrs. Strong denied her husband's allegation.—The defendant (hysterically): There's no Maker above, or He'd cut you down. —Sternly rebukc-d by the bench, the defendant retorted warmly: You can do what you like with me. Hang mo if you like. Give me ten years. What is there loft in the world for me? The Chairman &a.id an order of separation wou'd bo granted, defendant to pay 14s. per week maintenance and 14a 6d. costs. Tho complainant: I claim tho custody of my obildion. Defendant: YOll'n claim none., my lov. Four- teen shillings a wc.ek! Why, it wouldn't keep them in bread Tha Chairman announced that the legal cus- tody of t.ho six oh i Id ran under 16 years of would be committed to tlhe mother.

MYSTERIOUS NELSON RELIC.-There has just come into the possession of the authorities at the Royal Naval Museum, Greenwich, a watch which is believed to have been, at one time, the property of Lord Nelson. The watch is fairly well preserved, although the cuter ease is missing. The works are heavily jewelled, and are of the bulky nature which characterised the timepieces of the eighteenth century. On the inner case runs the inscription Admiral Nelson. Lord of the Nile, 1st August, 1797." Mr. Pratt, the curator of the museum, while prepared to vouch for the authenticity of ths relic, is unable to trace the sender. The watch arrived at the museum last Thursday, but was unaccompanied by any covering letter, nor was the postmark on the package decipherable. EXCITING FIRE SCENE. About two o'clock on Sunday morning a fierce tire was dis- covered in a building in Burdett-road, Bow, London, in the upstairs rooms of which 10 persons wero sleeping. When they awoke they found the ordinary means of exit barred by tiames, and rushed to the windows, but the crowd urged them not to jump. Two boys were safely dropped into blankets held out by neighbours, and two other inmates leaped on to the roof of a cab which had been backed on to the footwalk, and escaped uninjured. A fire escape arrived shortly after- waids, and, amid great excitement, the remaining occupants were safely brought to the ground. The flames were overcome in half-an-hour after the arrival of the engines, but shops j ented by a tobacconist and hairdresser and rooms on the ground floor were nractinallr burnt out.

DISCOVERY OF GOLD. + ON THE WELSH BORDER. Extraordinary interest has been aroused in South Wales by a report that gold has been discovered on a small farm known as Pandy Bach, at Henllys, near Newport. Pandy Bach Farm is at the foot of a high hill, and itS below the outcrops of the coal and limestone measures. The present occupiers, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Jones, have for a long time de- plored the shallow formation of the soil. A little wiiile ago two gentlemen called at the farm, and, after engaging in casual conversation with Airs. Jones, said, Do you know you have been mending your roads with gold?" Mrs. Jones at first thought her visitor was joking, and offered to sell him the farm for £ 1,000. The visitor thought the sum was not extortionate, and proceeded to discuss the purchase seriously. Eventually he offered to buy it outright for £ 700, whioh is more than the farm's value. Mrs. Jonea then deolined to eelh A week later she and her husband received another visit from the gentleman, who said the eample of etomo he had taken had proved upon examination to be extraordinarily rich in gold, and he advised them, if they would not sell the farm, to wait until an agreement could bo arrived at between thorn. If they would allow him the right to form a company and work the ore, he would give them a percentage of the profits. An agreement on this basis was settled on the spot. Of course, gold has undoubtedly been discovered in the Wye Valley, which is near by, and one of bhe gentlemen who has made the discovery at Henllys has taken an active interest in the Wye Valley operations. He was struck with the similarity of the strata on Pandy Bach Farm to the strata. of the Wyo Valley. The samples which have been taken are described by a metallurgist as extraordinarily rich.

PRIZE CREW ABDUCTED. -i-- TRAWLER'S ESCAPADE. Grimsby fishermen are famed for reckl- ness and courage, but no more amazing story has been told in recent times than that which leaked out on Saturday, when the Alliance Steam Fishing Company's trawler Catalonia. returned to port. On the vessel's deck was a smart navail offloer, and he suxpised the local Custom authorities immediately the vessel reached the piers by calling upon them to arrest the ship and confiscate the gear. rOben the story leaked out. Last Monday midnight the fisheries oruiser Freya was patrolling the Moray Firth, when her search- light picked up a trawler steaming steadily aJong with the gear down. The cruiser's commander ran alongside and charged the skipper with poaching wit'hin the three miles' limit. The skipper hotly denied the allega- tion, but the officer's "You are under arrest and must accompany me to Cromarty" settled matters. A prize crew was put on bo,ard and the skipper was ordered to stow his gear, while tho naval commander checked his position on tho chart and verified his soundings. With a final peremptory "Follow me," the cruiser headed for Cromarty. The trawl-men heaved their nets and prepared to follow, but by the time they were ready the cruiser was out of sight, and instead of heading for Scotland the trawler put about It was in vain that the officer in chargie of tho prizo crew protested and spoke cf pains and perils and the long arm of the law. The fishermen were four to one, and had no fancy for Scottish prisons. At full speed the brawler ran out to sea, and daybreak found her out of sight of land, with a crew intent on fishing, and some very eoro officials, who felt they were being badiy treated. With true Soottish philosophy, how- ever, they accepted the situation, and, inci- dentally, tbe fishermen's tobacco. Fishing was oontinued until Christmas Day, when the jovial skipper and his captured captor enjoyed Christmas dinneir together. That afternoon 8aW the trawler's gear t30 badly damaged that she had to give up fishing and run to port. The naval men brightened up when the Humber was reached, and with the local authorities behind him the cruiser's offioar was able to arrest the ship in very truth. A Soottish court will now have to de- cide the skippor's fate.

FLINTSHIRE QlJARTElTsE SS IONS. --+- (From Our Own Reporter.) Tho general quarter sessions of the peace for the county of Flint were held yesterday (Tueó- day) at the County Hall, Mold, before Mr. P. P. Pennant (chairman), Mr. J. Eldon Bankes, K.C. (deputy chairman), and a full bench of magistrates. ♦ The Chairman informed the Grand Jury that there were five cases involving three prisoner's to be dealt with. LICENSING COMMITTEE'S WORK. Mr. Eldon Bankes, K.C., presented tho report of the County Licensing Committee on their pro- ceedings for the year 1907. Five licences, viz., ono from Mold, one from Flint, and three from Northop, had been referred to the committee, who refused to renew the licences subject to the payment of compensation. Th-ey also decided to allow the justioes1 casts subject to taxation. The total sum claimed in respect of the five liocnces amounted to £ 1,720. 01. 4d., and the committee, after hearing tho evidence, fixed the value of the five Jioonces in their opinion at £ 1,156. This valuation was accepted by tie parties in each ca¿,e, and the distribution of the amount among the various parties interested, as proposed by the committee, ww also accepted by the parties. The committee had during the year to take into consideration the question of the ealary of the clerk of the committee, and they oonsidored t.hat such salary should depend upon tho amount of v.ork to be done in each year. They accordingly fixed the salary at 25 guineas per annum as from the 1st January, 1907, with three guineas extra for each case referred and proceeded with, such salary to include the clerk's expenses. The total receipts during the year were £ 2,065, and the total expenditure £ 1.270. 6s. 2d. The balance at the end of the year to the credit of the Compensation Fund was £ 3,322. 6a. 6d. On the proposition of Mr. i'lldon Bankes, K.C., it was agreed to authorise the committee to tcsue a circular letter to the clerks to the licensing jiwtioes, caliing attention to the amount of the fund available and of the best means of dealing with the questions which arose at the next licensing sessions. The existing members of the County Licensing Committee were re-elected. The Court had under consideration the ques- tion of the charges to be levied under section 3 of the Licensing Act, 1904. The Chairman pro- posed that the maximum charges should be levied as in previous years. He thought the county was gradually becoming alive to the ad- vantages of the Act, and would bo more in- clined to make full use of the compensation fund. Ho tlid not think, therefore, that the maximum charges would boat all too much. lor The resolution was agreed to. IMMORALITY IN NORTH WALES. The Court afterwards retired, and considered in private a notice of motion received from the chairman as follows: That there is urgent need to establish an organisation to combat the immorality prevailing in North Wales, and to provide preventive and rescue measures for the protection of women, such as exist in other parts of England and Wales." TRIAL OF PRISONERS. Richard Grosvenor, clerk, Rhyl, was bound over under tho First Offenders Act for.stealing a cash register till and a sum of over £10 from his uncle's shop at Rhyl. David Jones, a young labourer, was wnLerwcd to six moni'hs for eattkv.stoaling near Caorwys, rij.eclital evidence shewing that tlia prisoner was mentally deficient. Meredith Jones, labourer, was sentenced to ;x months for thefts at Nortliop, Brynford and Holywell. BUCKLEY COUNCILLOR'S APPEAL. In the caa3 of an appeal by Henry Hughes, district councillor, Buckley, against a convic- tion by the local magistrates on a oliargo of being drunk and disorderly, on the information of P.C. Dimilo, Mr. Trevor L'oyd, for the re- spondrait justices, said intimation had been re- ceived from appellant's solicitors that the ap- peail had been withdntwa.

CLAIM TO A PEERAGE. 1 ROMANTIC SCOTCH STORY. The claim to a peerage by a Soots-Irish labourer, which involves the story of a disowned daughter and recalls a murder mystery, is ex- citing much attention in Port Glasgow. William John Dougherty, a hole-borer by occupation, who resides with his wife in Port Glasgow, has for some time been advocating his claim to the title of Viscount and Baron Gardiner, of Tor- woodhead. So far his claims have not met with success, due principally, ho says, to an accident which incapacitated him for work, and because of lack of means. Recently, however, with the assistance of a friend, Dougherty has been able to advance his case a stage by taking professional assistance, and his papers have now been placed in the hands of Mr. Donald Shaw, an Edinburgh solicitor, who makes his client's affairs public with a view to full information regarding the claim being obtained. Mr. Shaw was only instructed a day or two ago in the matter, and haa hardly sufficient information at present before him to express a definite opinion on the claim. He is actively engaged prosecuting inquiries in Ireland concerning the family. The claimant avers that he is descended from the Hon. Colonel James Gardiner, who was killed in the battle of Preston Pans on September 21, 1745. The colonel waa married to Lady Frances Erekine, of Renfrewshire, daughter of the fourth Earl of Btiolian. and fourth Lord Cardross. Their eldest surviving eon, David Gardiner, was the claimant's great-grandfather. When Lady Mary Gardiner's father was with his regiment in Ireland during the rebellion of 1798 she fell in love with Patrick Dougherty, who was a coachman in the family, and married him, much against the wishes of her parents, who cast her off for ever. Patrick Dougherty was the claimant's grandfather, and his wife, Lady Gardiner, lived in Dungiven for many years and died in Londonderry. William John Dougherty bad an older brother, Patrick Dougherty, who according to the claimant was heir to the peerage, but Patrick, who was unmarried, was mysteriously murdered at West Calder a few yearo ago. The next heir is accordingly the present claimant. Before tho ease was handed over to Mr. Shaw's care Dougherty had been in direct communication with the King and officers of State regarding it, but without any satisfactory result. At the Chancery Office, London, he was confronted by the officials with piles of documents and other material, with which naturally he struggled ;n vain.

LORD ROSEBERY ON SMALL If OLDINGS. 4 CTRlTICISM OF THE SCOTTISH PRO- POSALS. DISASTER IN THEIR WAKE. Lord Rosebery made an interesting speech at Dalmeny House on Friday at the annual dinner given by his Lordship to the tenantry on the estates. This year, he thought, had been a most remarkable year in Scottish agriculture for more reasons than one. In the first place, there had been a harvest of the most devastating and disastrous kind. The year was also noticeable in respect. that there had been an attempt by the most powerful Government of modern time to re- modial the whole system of Soottish agricul- ture to extend to the whole of Scotland the orofting system which, euited to meet parti- cular exigencies and fmdS, was certainly not a model of what agriculture should 00 in the fertile and highly-cultivated parts of the country. They were to have a Land Court and Land Commissioners on the Irish sys- tem. The example of Ireland was not one that they had been accustomed to follow in Scotland. He was quite certain that the ex- tension of the Irish Bystem to Scotland could only spell disaster to all engaged in agricul- ture. They had been its reeults in Ireland. They had 8et:Sl a long agrarian civil war mg- ing there which had not even yet reached its termination. On the other hand, to a large extent, in Scotland landlords and tenants had been an agricultural fraternity, not indifferent to each other's welfare, and1 producing under I these circumstances higher results than were produced by any other system in the world. This proposed intervention of the Government, his Lordship pointed out, was, according to many of the arguments use I in its favour, not proposed in the interests of agriculture at all, but was an urban question. In the House of Lord-s the Bill was advocated as a means for preventing 010 over-population of Glasgow. But if the Government wish to try experi- ments of this kind with a view to checking over-population in a great city, they shoulld do it at their own cost and their own re- sponsibility. The State, liko an individual, should behave as an honest individual, and try its own experiment at its own expense. He suspected there was a considerable pro- portion of members of Parliament who be- lieved that if they took a grocer out of a small street in Glasgow and placed him on 50 acres of moorland, that man would at once become an intelligent agriculturist. (Laugh- ter.) in their humbler agricultural sphere they suggested that agriculture was a trade or profession which must be learned liko any other. The idea that people from the slums who had failed to earn a living in their cities oould go back to the land and earn a living there was a delusion of the wildest description. He did not think the Government Bill in its present form would e n pass, but if it did, it was difficult to foresee the results which would accrue to this country. Ono offcct of it was already visible, because no landlords or factors in their senses would invest ;,ny further money in improvements until they saw how they were going to stand in the. legislation that was proposed. They had proved in Parlia- ment by their votes on tho English Bill that [ they wished to sea small holding established on a logical and practical b_i.fi s. But he did not wish to see any such Bill as the Government had proposed passed into law, for one reason—that he felt that. the old Soottish friendly relations between Landlord and tenant would materially change, that their good fellowship would disappear, and that. they would be plunged shortly into those discussions which had torn Ireland and made her a subject of anxiety and distress to this country.

WILLASTON (WIRRAL). DEATH OF A COTTON BROKER.-We regret to announce the death of Mr. Philip Henry Morton. cotton broker, Liverpool, which took place on Friday at his residence, Hargrave Hall, Willaston, Cheshire. Mr. Morton had been in failing health for some time past, but was able to attend business up to about a fortnight ago. He bad been for several years a partner with Mr. Samuel L. Clegg, previous to which he was for many years with the old and well-known firm of Messrs. James Blundell and Co. Mr. Morton was of a quiet and unassuming manner and universally respected on 'Change. Ho was about 57 years of age.

4 POULTON. BURGLARY.—On Friday night a daring robbery was perpetrated at Mr. William Minshull's, where the thief or thieves found a gold woteli and albert, a spade ace guinea, and a few other artioles, making off with about JB40 worth of plunder. Not satisfied with this, they next visited Mr. William Jones's, a farm a little further down the village, where they "took slight refreshment," starting on a picoe of beef and finishing with minoe pies. The robber or robbers have got clear away with their plunder. Tho work is supposed to be that of a tramp who was teen in the neighbourhood, and the police are pursuing inquiries.

HUNTERS AND POLO PONIES' SHOWS Schedules have just been issued for the shows of hunters and polo ponies to be held in London next March. The Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington, i3 the venue in each case. For polo ponies prizes are offered to the value of £500 and there are two challenge cups and three gold medals to be competed for. Prizes at the hunters' show will be of the value of over £ 5,000, and include two challenge cups and money prizes given by the Royal Commission on Horse Breeding.

SHOCKLACH. MIRISTMASTIDE-Oti Christmas Daly there were two celebrations of the Holy Eucharist. The rollootions were as tteual in aid of the poor. The sacred edifice was very beautifully adorned. The singing of a Christ- mas carol instead of hymn or anthem was a much admired innovation. The Vicar thanked the ladies who had taken part in the decorations.

LITTLE BUDWORTH PARISH CHURCH.—There was a good oon- gregation at the morning service on Christmas Day, and also in the evening- when Christmas carols were sung after a shortened service. There were celebrations of the Holy Com- munion at seven o'clock and eight o'clock, and also after the morning service. The church was very tastefully dec-orated with holly and palms, and the collections were in aid of the Sunday School prizo fund. The carols ren- dered at the Christmas evening service were again sung on Sunday evening. 4-

ECCLESTON. DANCE.—On Monday the Vicar (the aeT. M. W. Kinloch) entertained the choir and villagers to a dance which passed off most pleasantly. Mrs. Kinloch graced the function with her presence and contributed much in making everyone comfortable. Messrs. Chater and Matthews efficiently acted as M.C's. Light refreshments were bountifully provided under the able superintendence cf Mrs. Davis. The school was very tastefully decorated by Messrs. Dunning and Matthews. Massa Bros. arranged the music. Three hearty cheers were given at tho close of tbe programme for the Vicar and Mrs. Kinloch, and "God save the King" was sung.

FLINT. QUADRILLE PARTY.—A successful ball, tmde-r the auspices of the Flint. Quadrille Party, took place at the Town Hall on Boxing night, at which tihore was a large attendajaoo. Messrs. W. Johnson and D. E. Devirs ably discharged the duties of M.C.'s, and ('onpars' Band was responsible for tho music. UNIONIST CLUB.—The usual Christmas billiard handicap was brougfht to a conclusion on Christmas Eve, wheal the prizes were dis- tributed to the successful competitors by Major C. E. Dyoon, V.D. Mr. R. H. Bithcll (with 10 stait) comfortably disposed of Mr. H. O. Wil- liams (scratch) in the final round, tho ouher ahief prize-winners being Mr. Harold Bithcll (received 35) ajid Mr. Ben Bc-llis (received 5). In all 32 valuable prizes were distributed. It may bo noted that this olub has latterly greatly increased its membership, and the pjemises have recently been enlarged and a splendid new billiard table added. There are now three billiard tables on tho premises. t

FRODSHAM. PARISH CHURCH.—On Sunday at the Parish Church the services were of a, special oiuiracter. The Vicar preached. The anthem, "Unto us a child is born" (E. Nichols), re- ooivod creditable rendering. ORGAN RECITAL.—At the clcsa of the evening service on Sunday at the Parish Church, a well-attended organ recital which testified to the popularity of these functions, was given by the organist, Mr. 0. H. Ilibbertt, L.L.C.M., while the evar-popular carolawa-re sung by the choir. The eolo.st was Mrs. A. D Lomias, her soprano voioo being heard to advantage both in Sullivan's "Lost Chord" (sung by request) and the Handel ian recitation and air, "Angels ever bright and fair," both of which were greatly enjoyed. Too pro- gramme consisted of organ solo, "And tihe glory" (Handel) oarol, "While shepherds watch" (Hibbertt); song, "Lost Chord" (Sui, livan); organ solo, air, with variations, from Symphony in D (Haydn); carol, "The Bethle- hom Babe" (Maunder); reo:t. and air, "Angels ever bright and fair" (Handel); organ solo, "Hallelujah Chorus" (Handel). +

ELLESMERE PORT & WHITBY. SUDDEN DEATH.-We regret, to announce the death under very painful circumstances of the wif-e of Mr. F. Derbyshire, the popular conductor of the P.S.A. Choir. Mr. and Mrs. Derbyshire went to their home at Long ton for Xmas, when Mrs. Derbyshire was appar- ently in good health and spirits. They in- tended returning on Monday, but on Satur- day Mrs. Derbyshire was taken suddenly ill and passed away the same day. Deceased took a lively interest in lie P.S.A. movement, and was of great service. Great sympathy is ex- pressed on all sides with Mr. Derbyshire in his bereavement. Flora.1 tributes were sent from the P.S.A. choir and members. In oonso- quencc, Mr. Derbyshire's gypsy oonaort, which was billed for the 8th inst., will be postponed. THE CHURCHES.—On Xmas Day three celebrations of Holy Eucharist took place at tho Parish Church. The Rev. H. J. Dawson preached at both morning and evening ser- vices. The church wes nicely decorated by Mrs. Blayney, Mrs. and Miss Wright, Mrs. Catherall, Mrs. Steele, Mrs. E. Jones, Mrs. A. Jones, Mies M. Williams, Miss Fogg, Mies lies lop, etc.—At Whitby tho services were well attended at. the Mist-ion Church, and the choir gave a selection of carols on the Sunday previous.—On Christmas Day the usual sor- vice was held in the Primitive Methodist Church, when the Rev. G. T. Lovat preached, The collection was in aid of the Connexional Orphanages at Alresford and Harrogate. In the evening a sacred concert was given in the Central Hall, under the oonductorship of Mr. Wm. Johnson. +

NORLEY. THE CHURCH.—Last Sunday the services wert") well attended, especially in the evening, when tho Vicar gave a review of 1907, and t.he choir admirably rendered the anthem "While Shepherds watched." CHRISTMASTIDE.—The festival was well observed in this parish. The church ohoir went out carolling on Christmas Eve. The churoh was doooiatied by Mrs. Nunn with handsome flowers and evergreens, sent by Mrs. Pilking- ton, and a beautiful cross of holly., made and brought by Miss Walton, and a orces and wreath from the Hal!, which arrived after the decora- tions were finished. Christmas Day was uslherod in with an early celebration of the Holy Comrnunian. Morning prayer awd souond cele- bration followed. Them was a fair congrega- tion, and a good number of communicants. The ohoir jang carols. Evensong was said at four o'clock. SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT.—The children of the Church Sunday school were given a most enjoyable treat car Holy Innocents' Day by Mrs. Lee Pilkington, of "Norley Bank." After a short service in church, the youngsters partook of a sumptuous tea, including all sorts of lovely cakcs and mince pies, otc, which rapidly disapp,-aied-a deserved compliment to the expert cook. Crackers wero distributed and made things still more lively. Tea ended, a .soreen was removed, displaying a gorgeous Christmas tree, laden with good things and brilliantly illuminated, from which each scholar received two suitable presents, to the unbounded joy of all fortunate recipients. Handsome books, as prizes for attendance, lessons and good conduct, were handed to the winnoll3. The Vicar expressed the pleasure it gave himself and all interested in the Sunday school to have Mrs. Pilkington once more among them. He was sure it also gave their kind and generous friend the utmost pleasure to make tha children happy, and with grateful fceling3 on his own part for the courteous and generous support ac- corded to his work in the Sunday school, he pro- posed a hearty voto of thanks to her, which,, with expressions for a "Happy New Year," the children endorsed with enthusiasm. Mrs. Pilkington touched all hearts by assuring them, ill response to tho vote, that the pleasure was hers, as she, loved to see and to make little ones happy. Votes of thanks and new year's best wislies were passed to the Vicar and Mrs. Nunn, to tihe Sunday school teachers, to visitors and to all who bad kindiy assisted to make the treat one to be remembered. Various scholars gavo recitations and songs. "God save the King" was sung, and tho bairns, receiving an orange and apple each, went home witth their motbero deiigbteds

PULFORD. CHOIR SUPPER.—The annual ohoir supper (kindly given by the rector and Mrs. Fuller) was held on Monday at the Groevenor Arms, Pulford, the party numbering about 50. Among those present were the Rev. J. R. and Mrs. Fuller, Mr. Eric Fuller, Messrs. Joshua Smith (choir- master), Thomas Okell, E. Cookson, R. Parker, W. Toft, T. Partington, W. Thomas, Basil Hughes (organist), the Misses Smith, Gookson, Parker, Toft, Denson, Leech, Richardson, etc. The Rector gave the following toasts:- "Churchwardens," "School Managers," "Choir," "Choirmaster and Organist," "Bell Ringers," "Sunday School Teachers," etc. Songs were contributed by Miss Cookson, Miss Williams, Messrs. R. Jones, R. Huxley, W. Thomas, and the Pulford Quartette (Messrs. R. Huxl-ey, T. Huxley, T. Astley and T. Watkin). The latter four gentlemen shewed themselves to be the possessors of fine and well-balanced voices. At the conclusion a vote of thanks was passed to the rector and Mrs. Fuller for their kindness, and was carried with musical honours. The party broke up to the strains of "Auld Lang Syne" and the National Anthem, at about 10 p.m., after a most enjoyable evening. CONCERT.—A smoking concert was held in tho Reading Room on Friday evening, and was well attended. Great credit ie due to Mr. Joshua Smith, who arranged the concert and secured the services of the following artists:— Messrs. Sullivan and Rogers, of Chester, whose songs and "Fairy Tales" kept the audience in Laughter; Mr. Gerald Smith, who sang "The Drum Major" and "Lighterman Tom," both of which were encored; Mr. Sidney Smith, who gave a selection of topical songs, which were very cleverly put together, a verse about the "Choirriondeley Burglary" bringing the house down and Mr. Thoe. Kelley who gave a grama- phone selection. The rector (the Rev. J. R. Fuller) was unable to be present., so Mr. Joshua Smith took the chair, and recited "A German Jew" and "The Quaker." The proceeds were in aid of the reading-room and the football club.

MOLD. CONSTITUTIONAL CLUB HANDICAP.— The annual Christmas billiards handicap in con- ntction with the Mold and County Constitutional Club was this year followed by p.n unprecedented degree of interest, and it was not until late on Christmas eve that the final event was decided. Arthur Evans and E Parkinson were the rival cueists in the ultimate stage, and both players by their previous performance merited their position in the contest. During the earlier periods of the game Evans made the running and was much fancied, but at 169 he shewed symptoms of degeneration and Parkinson ran out to 200, leaving bis opponent at 178. PRESENTATION TO THE VICAR.—At the National Schools on Monday evening there was a large gathering of the tcholars attending the Mold Church Sunday Schools, assembled for the purpose of presenting the vicar (the Rev. T. P. Poole-Hughes, M.A.) with evidences of their affection and appreciation, on the occasion of his departure from Mold to take up the rector- ship of Cor wen. Mr. Rupert Prince (superin- tendent of tire boys' and girls' d-epartment) pre- sided, and he referred to the life and work of Mr. Poole-Hughes in Mold, first as curate and afterwards as vicar. Ho then called upon Miss Tmbshaw (superintendent of the infants' de- partment) to present the vicar with a handsome Sherrington inlaid bookcase (suitably inscribed) and an address. In the course of an interesting speech, tho Rev. Mr. Poole-Hughes referred to the good work accomplished by the Sunday School, and spoke in terms of affection of both teachers and scholars. The vicar's favourite hymn, "Now the day is over," rung, and the meeting terminated with the benediction. OWNERSHIP OF A HEDGE.—Judge Moss has forwarded to the Registrar of the Ruthin County Court his reserved judgment in the case oi Hough v. Jones, heard in that court recently. The plaintiff was Elizabeth Hough, wife of Mr. Alfred Hough, proprietor of the Portland Hotel, Birkdale, near Southport, who claimed 20s. from Miss C. P. Jones, of Conway-street, Mold, as damage to property. She further claimed an injunction to restrain defendant from trespass- ing on her property. Mr. R. Vincent Johnson (Ruthin) appeared for the plaintiff and Mr. Churlon (Chester) for the defendant. The plaintiff contended that she was the owner of Tanyronen, a small house in the neighbourhood of Graigfeehan, Ruthin, used by herself and family as a summer retreat. The next adjoin- ing property was Tanyrwyth, owned by the de- fendant, who one day in July uprooted posts, which held up some trellis work on a hedge in front of Tanyronen. The plaintiff remonstrated with Miss Jones, but the latter became insolent and had the gates and trellis work thrown into the footpath. The defence was that the hedge on which the trellis work had been built wad part of the Tanyrwyth property. The Judge gave judgment for the plaintiff on all points, with oosta-

BICKLEY. CHRIST-MAS SERVIGES.-St. Wenefrede's parish church was prettily-decorated by members of the congregation, among whom were Mrs. Charlton and Mr. St. John Alan Charlton, Mrs. and Misa Welsford, Mrs. Swift, the Misses Wil- eon, the Rev. E. F. Gorat a.nd Mis. Gorst, etc. Holy Communion was celebrated at 9 a.m., the Christmas morning service being held in the ancient chapel of Chohnondeley. On Sunday evening a full choral service was held at St. Wenefrade's, when special Christmas music waa rendered by an augmented choir. Among tho helpers were Mrs. St. John Charlton, Miss Charlton, Mrs. Gorst, Miss Copeman, Miss Mainwa.ring, and Miss Lily Hughes. Christ- mas carols were sting, and the sacred solo "Abida with me" was given. by Miss Charlton, accompanied upon the organ by Mias Main- waring (of Peover). The officiating minister was the Vicar (the Rov. E. F. Goret, M.A.), The congregation was a very large one. + —

BUCKLEY. CURIOUS MILK CASE.—At the Moid Police Court, on Monday, before Major Basil E. Philips (m the ohair) and Mr. Edward Wbeldon, William Jones, farmer, of Crab Mill, Buokley, was summoned for selling to Supt. John Ivor Davies, D.C.C., a quantity of milk to the pre- judice of the purchaser. Defendant was accom- panied in court by his wife, the appearance of the couple being in keeping with their high repute in the Buckley district-Supt. Davies deposed that on the 2nd Doc. he purchased a pint of milk from the defendant. He divided it into three parts, and forwarded one-third to Mr. W. F Lowe, the county analyst. He now submitted the analyst's oortifioatc, which stated: Specific gravity, 1032; fa.t, 3.72 per o-nt. nenfatty solids, 3.88 per cent.; borio acid, .0149 por cent. The sample contains 10.4 grains of borio acid per gallon. lifie use of any preservativo in milk is prohibited, as it is considered to be injurious to the health of young children." A copy of the analyst's re- port had been served on the defendant at the same time a3 the oiunmoris.—The Chairman How is the fat?—Supt. Davies: Up to the standard, the minimum being 3.—The do- fendant said he had nothing to ask tlie superin- tendent. He had n^ver been using borio acid, and didn't know wha.t it was. Ho bad never used or bought a.ny. His wife might be able to explain.—Mrs. Anne Jones, tho wife, said only she and her husband interfered with the milk. She had used borax to wash the tankards and milking pails, and tbe only thing she could suggest was that a sediment had ad he red to the bottom of the vessels. Was it possible the analyst had made a mistake?— Supt. Davies said if he had been told that the certificate was disputed, the analyst would havo boon in attendance. He did not prass for a heavy fine. Ho had taken several samples be- fore from Mr. Jones, and they had always be-on up to the mark both as to quality and cleanli- ness.—The Chairman said tho bench could not accept too explanation set up by the defence, seeing that the sample contained eo large a quantity of borio acid as 10.4 grains per gallon. A fine of 10s. and costs (13s. 7 £ d.) was imposed.

MARKETS AND FAIL13. 4 LIVERPOOL CORN, TUESDAY.-Wheat markot closing firm, after fair consumptive business, £ d. to ld. per cental dearer than Fri- day last.. Flour, small trade, unchanged prices Maize in much better request, prime mixed American old 5s. 6 £ d., new 5s. 5 £ d., 2 Plata 5s. 2., Odessa 5s. 4d. per cental. Beans, oats and barley steady, unchanged; peas firm, inactive. SALFORD CATTLE, TUESDAY. All classes of cattle in good demand. Quotations from 5d. to Gild. Sheep too were firm and prices varied. Ewes at 7d., to choice small at nd. Calves 5d. to 7fd. per lb. 2 WREXHAM CATTLE. MONDAY. The market to-day wore quite a holiday aspect. Very little stock was penned, and trade very slack. Beef made Gd. per lb., mutton 7d. to 8d., veal 8d., and pigs from Us. to 9s. Gd. per score I bs. LIVERPOOL CATTLE, .MONDAY. The supply of cattle was smaller than expected, the inclement weather in some degree accounting for it. Demand good and prices rather higher. Sheep supply also very small. Trade good, :md an early clearance was effected at advanced rates. Prices: Beef, Gid. to 4 £ d.; mutton, 9Ad. to 7d. per lb. LONDON CATTLE, MONDAY.-At the Metropolitan- Cattle Market this morning the supply of beasts compared with Monday last shewed an increase of 090 head. A few Scotch beasts left over from the Christmas market were offered, and cleared early in the day at our top buotation. For both prime and second quality English cattle trade ruled firm at fully late rates. The Irish consignment consisted entirely of Waterfords. Time also sh-ired in the firm trade. Fat cows were in good demand, and made an ad vance in value. Fat bulls steady. Top prices paid per 81b. as follows80 to 90 stone polled Aberdeens 4s. 8d., extreme 4s. lOd. 90 stone Devons 4s. 6d., extreme 4s. 8d. 90 to 95 stone Herefords, 4s. 4d. to 4s. Gd. 90 stone Norfolks, 4s.:4d. to 4s. (jd. 95 stone runts, 4s. 2d. to 4s. 4d. 100 stone shorthorns. 4s. to 4s. 2d. 95 stone Irish, 4s. Id. to 4s. 3d. 90 stone fat cowa 3s. 6d., extreme, 3s. 8d. fat bulls. 2s. 9d. to 3s. 3d. Trade for both wethers and ewes ruled firmer, though the majority of the sales were governed by late rates, only in a few cases an advance in value being noticeable. The Scotch and Irish season is now practically at an end consequently no consignments were received from either of these countries. Calf trade not worth noting. Quotations per SIb., sinking the offal Beasts, 2s. 9d. to 4s. lOd. sheep, 4s. to Gs. 2d MANCHESTER HAY AND STRAW, MONDAY.—Hay 5d. clover, 5 £ d. to 61d. straw, oat, 3d. per stone. 2 BRADFORD WOOL, MONDA Y.-A fairly cheerful tone prevails, though actual business 18 very small. In both merinos and cross-breds there is still some weakness, but the forced selling has apparently ceased. Crossbred forties are quoted at 12d., merino sixties tops 2s. 2d. Mohair and alpaca are quiet with prices steady. The export yarn market is extremely quiet, but mohair spinners are kept busy. CHESTER EGG AND POULTRY.—Butter, Is. 2d. per lb.; eggs. 7 for Is. chickens, 2s. 6d. to 33. Gd. each; capons, 43. each; ducks, 3s. ôd. to 4s. each turkeys. Is. to Is. Id. per lb. geese, lOd. and lid. per lb. pheasants, (j. 6d. per brace; grouse, 5s. (jd. per brace; hares, 4s. to 4s. "0. rabbits. Is. and pigeons, 9d. each. CHESHIRE BUTTER AND EGG.-The sup- ply was not quite up to the average, and prices were about as last quoted. Stockport (Friday): Butter, Is. 3d. and Is. 4d. per lb.; eggs, 5 and 6 for la. Crewe (Friday): Butter, Is. 3d. and Is. 4d. per lb.; eggs, 6 for Is. Northwich (Friday): Butter, Is. 3d. per lb. eggs, G for Is. Sandbach (Thursday): Butter, Is. Id. and Is. 2d. per lb.; eggs, (j and 7 for Is. Macclesfield: Butter, Is. 2d. and Is. 3d. per lb.; eggs, 5 and G for Is. Congleton Butter, Is. 3d. per lb. eggs, 6 for ls. Altrineham; Butter, Is. 3d. and Is. 4d. per lb. eggs, 5 and 6 for Is. Nantwich Butter, 18. 3d. per lb. eggs, G and 7 for Is. Knutsford Butter, Is. 3d. per lb. eggs, 5 and G for Is. Runcorn Butter, Is. 2d. and Is. 3d. per lb.; eggs, G for Is. Chester: Butter, 1?. 3d. per lb. eggs. G and 7 for Is. CHESTER CORN, SATURDAY.—Market is of a holiday character, and trading is in small compass. English grain steady at recenS quotations, feccJ: 0; stuffs in fair demand at hardening rates, bran 3d. to 6d. per lOillb. dearer. Flour steady, unchanged. Foreign wheat dull. with prices about d. over last market day. 2 Quotations NB',V OLD ]S. X>. K- D. !S- ». 3- Wheat, white. per 751b. 0 OtoO OOutoOJJ Wheat, red 751b. o> — 6 3 0 0 — 0 0 Malting Barley „ 6 Jib. 0 — 0 0 0 0 — 0 0 Grinding do. It 6ilb. 0 0 0 ol 0 0 0 0 Oats 401b. i 7 — 2 9 0 0 — 0 0 Beans 601b 0 0 — 0 0 0 0 — 0 Egyptian Beans 2401b. 00—0 0 0 0 0 inaiau Corn II 2401b. 0 0 0 0 14 ii -15 0

FIRE AT A PARTY.—After severe suffering a child, named Ada Ellis, died. at North Stafford- shire Infirmary on Saturday morning A children 9 Christmas party was given by Mrs. Ellis, of North- wood, Hanley, 011 Friday night. While the little folk were romping about a paraffin'lamp on a table was overturned, the oil ran out-, and the flames leaped up from the floor. The children shrieked, and, stricken with terror. Wf-re unable to get out of the room. Ada Ellis was soon enveloped in the flames, as was also a girl iiaiiic-d Beatrice Newbold- Mrs. Ellis made heroic efforts to extinguish the Humes, and was severely burned in taking the blazing clothes from her child. A doc:or was called, and Beatrice Newbold and Ada Ellis wer taken to the hospital, where Ada died. Beatn Newbold was on Sunday in a critical condition, but the doctors hoped to save her life. Printed and published for and on behalf of the Cheshire and North Wales Newspaper Company, Limited, J JAMES ALBERT BIRCHALL, at the Chester Gouraw Offlct', 8, Bridge-street, in the City of Chester, or. January 1, 1003.