The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

FOUCHE SURPRISED. Middelburg, Thursday. Lord Lovat surprised Fouche's laager at Staple- ford yesterday. Two Boers were killed and four captured. All Fouche's personal kit was taken.

A STORY OF THE WAR. UNRECORDED CAPTURE OF A LONG TOM. If there is one military art that the Boers acquired more quickly than another it was that -of removing cannon from a place of insecurity itt the shortest possible time. They stood a British assault out to the finish at Elandslaagte, and sacrificed two field-pieces as the price of their temerity. Never again; and it was months before we heard of the capture of Boer guns in an open and stand-up fight. No matter the "weight, no matter the calibre, the Boers seemed to know by instinct the exact psychological moment, and up came the limber teams, whether horses, mules, oxen, or men, and the guns were saved. Now, great military prestige and morale would appear to attach to the capture and loss of guns in battle. In the estimation of the modern mind their possession seemed to rank with the captured chariots in a Roman triumph. It' is the humble opinion of the writer (says a corre- spondent in the "Pall Mall Gazette") that during this war in South Africa more lives have been spent in the attempts to capture and defend artillery than have ever been sacrificed through the accuracy of aftillery fire. But doubtless guns have served their purpose. It is good in war to have something besides human life with which to tally the losses and the gains; something more civilised than the Dyaks' show of heads, or the Redskins' collection of top-knots. Well, we have met the great General who oould shew by his staff diary that he had captured the little Free State hamlet of Vrede seven- teen times in one month. We are familiar with his keenness to excel in the game of war, and we appreciate the caution with which he was voont to temper his success. This great General was ambitious. It was that solid kind of ambition which, based upon a mighty fulcrum of caution, takes long to develop; consequently the great General, as well as the nation, was hardly used a few months ago, when his ambition was "nipped in the bud" by his being caught by the age limit and placed in that secure little nook on the shelf investment proved the taxpayers' cheapest But to this blighted ambition. The great Lerl t,hat the safe road to success would be in the capture of Boer cannon—six-inch "Long Uoms for choice—and he told his pocket corre- spondent so. It happened that the fates seemed propitious to his schemes. The army which the great general commanded was called upon to work through an area of mountain fortresses, and there opposing the advance was a "Long Tom," a real, black-powder-burning, six-inch-shell-flinging "Long Tom." The general rubbed his hands with glee, and made the big gun's presence an excuse to halt his army for a week. Reconnaissance, my boy—reconnaissance," he would say, when his chief of ataff tried to goad him into action, "reconnaissance is the secret of successful soldiering!" And his army sat down and reconnoitred for a week. Then came the -order-the order which his army had been pant- ing for. The gun was to be taken by a night attack after the position had been sufficiently reconnoitred." J Slowly but surely the attacking column hauled itself up the steep breast of the hill. Semicircles of glinting bayonets narrowed round the summit rL. nU 1Clk0?je' f The rim of the moon *'S'nZ. above the tip of a neighbouring height tKJir g ey?Ug to allow the men to correct r ;-d iUnCe/ f was an exciting moment. Up been no challenge, no indication Was ,b?ld" Yet at ^ndown the enemy had been working at "Long Tom's" em- placement. Another fifteen feet, and yet no Srenf.e- „ Now, men!" and with a Light? cheer the British infantry hurled themselves sandbags of the epaulement. The i eer died away, expired in a sickly wail The gunpit was empty the platform deserted DaranW„l«m? deserted; there, posted on the Firrk* gleaming m the strengthening moon- T\S°me,thJng- A Httle toy calnon on ridgl Nor Td !l°m P16 °ase of a Mauser cart- Snage. JNor did the pleasantry of the Boer nners end here. Attached to the toy was a igment of document. It was a CODV of She atrtr da/,6d threo da>'s backf propound knt TomV' and ? °°rner "me wit from barked com-

"TOMMY" DESCRIBES A DRIVE. J:.n a letter from Pretoria, containing n. de- ^.n ,a letter from Pretoria, containing n. rlo •cription of Colonel Colenbrander's operations against Commandant Beyers and the drives recentlv S™H™il £ ,GTrra'Br?? •' TlaSl ?!?' u» Spe?lal of the rri y, ■"ta&J'aph asks: Would you have a the^ast dav^f86 TST descnPtion of and 7 ,? av dnve 1 vouch for the occasion and tW f' fr!Tg a little Bowdlerising," "d £ Vmo5 adjectives. "How did it end up, Bill. Vv ell, there was four of our blanketv generals gone mad, a-whooping and a-hollering, and ^,1WU i? us blankety blankety Tommies ?'/ ?g'v.,che,ermg' and shooting like blank and twenty blankety blankety Bogers, so frightened their faces looked clean, as couldn't hold themselves, and didn't know which way to run. We bagged the lot, and a dirtier lot you never see.'

THE BOERS' LAST KICK. A CESTRIAN'S OPINION. Mr. G. F. Haswell, late of the 21st Co. Cheshire Yeomanry, and son of Mr. J. E. Haswell, has received an interesting letter from Mr. Harold Mills, son of the late. Mr. Milis, of Dicksons, Limited,, and who is serving with Kitchener's ♦v,orui?nFC°V*S'i riting from Klerksdorp on the 29th March, he says:We have just landed here, after being three months on the veldt without visiting a town. I don't think we would have got here but for the peace negotiations and for re- mounts. This town is the base of operations at present. We had a fight the other day. We came across Delarey's commando, with Kemp in com- mand. The Boers thought they had got Von Donops convoy again, and charged like fanatics, but they soon found that it was his column in- etead. We quickly got into them, and got a bit or our own back to make up for Methuen's capture and the oonvoy disaster. They retired as hard as they could, and we chased them for about 20 miles. The ground was covered with Boers, and among the killed was Potgeiter, shot in the head. We read in the papers about people at home blaming the Imperial Yeomanry for running away in the Methuen disaster. Let me inform them that it was the Dutch Colonials who ran. The only Imperial Yeomanry who were there were about 40 of the 5th Battalion, and it was these men who held out so long. Methuen told De- larey that if it had been his own column that had been attacked, he would never have been cap- tured-and he never would. You are aware that these Dutchmen are afraid of their miserable skins, and it is death to all who are captured by the Boers, so I suppose they thought it best to clear off. They have now been disbanded. I would like to see some of those fireside, public- house brave men, who have such a lot to say, out here just now that the Boers are so desperate. They would die of fright. I really wish we could get swords; a rifle is not enough for mounted men. Kitchener is serving the mounted men with their lances and rifles again. The captain told us we should not be home for the Coronation. We have not seen any new Imperial Yeomanry yet. I think this is the Boers' last kick. I sincerely hope it is."

MR. SEDDON AT PRETORIA. Mr. Seddon was present at Pretoria on Friday evening at a dinner given by the New Zealand Association. Replying to the toast of his health, proposed by Colonel Adye, he said Colonists must always respect the Union Jack, for i, was the flag of freedom, under which they had come to- gether there, a blending of kindred souls and nations fighting beneath its folds. Colonists had obtained a good knowledge of and respect- and admiration for British officer^ and Tommy Atkins, who were all fighting men of the best stamp. Ho regretted to find that restrictions were stiil main- tained on the Press, for they were un-British, un- necessary, and a great drag on liberty of speech and writing. He hoped and believed that the war was near the end, and that their sacrifices had not been in vain. The British forces had done their duty, and the time had arrived for statesmen to do theirs. If from the British forces were taken the honour and glory won by brave deeds, the re- sult would recoil upon the heads of the statesmen. What the majority of the people, both in the Mother Country and the colonies, wished was the establishment of a lasting peace, and their unani- mous opinion was that that could be obtained only by the unconditional surrender of the enemy.

CRONJE AT ST. HELENA. PRISONER'S SCHEME OF ESCAPE. During a conversation with a well-known officer BOKie particulars were obtained regarding General v^ronie, with whom he was in daily contact at St. .Helena. The Boer General is a stern man, and appears to have lost all interest in the war and in the peace negotiations. Although repeatedly ques- tioned on the matter he is listless and silent. He is practically free on the Island of St Helena, pro- vided he reports himself at a certain hour in the evening. He does not speak English. Governor Sperndale despatches his carriage and pair every day to Cronje s residence, and the Boer, with his wife, nephew, and secretary, drives as a rule to the camp, where his fellow-countrymen salute their General by raising their hands. Cronje replies by holding up both hands. Talking of the toys which the prisoners make for shipment, a case of some significance came to light recently, when a large wooden box marked" Boer curios' was shipped on the British steamer Goth, and addressed to Captain Marling, of the 4th Gloucester Regiment, at Gloucester. A few days out from St Helena, a stranger was noticed by one of the ship's officers to be sitting on the box. The matter was at once reported to the captain, who ordered that the identity of the stranger should be ascertained. This was impossible, as he had dis- appeared mysteriously. The case was opened, and inside was found Count Smoremberg, a Boer prisoner of some note. Round him was packed carefully bully beef, liquids and biscuits for his use during his incarceration. Ventilation holes had been bored in the box. When discovered the fugitive was made a prisoner again and landed at Ascension.

DEATH OF A WREXHAM YEOMAN. News reached Wrexham on Tuesday by means of a telegram from the War Office that Trooper L. Perkins, son of a well-known Wrexham tradesman, residing at Rhosddu, Wrexham, had succumbed at Elandsfontein, in South Africa, from enteric fever. The deceased formerly belonged to the Denbigh- shire Imperial Yeomanry, and fourteen months ago went out with the 29th Company of Imperial Yeomanry. He was 23 years old.

WOMEN EMIGRANTS. WANTED FOR SOUTH AFRICA. The Press Association states that the South African Expansion Committee, with offices at the Imperial Institute, has been formed for the pur- pose of assisting women, especially those who have been educated, who are desirous of emigrating to South Africa. The committee has sub-committees for every territory in South Africa, which are in touch with lo-c-al- committees on the spot. The society has the personal support of Lords Milner and Wolseley and Mr. Chamberlain. The first- named, in a letter to a member of the committee, says: If anything I can say can be of assistance to your South African Expansion Committee, I shall be very happy. In helping respectable and competent women to come out you will be doing South Africa great service." At the annual meeting of the United British Women's Emigra- tion Association Mr. Chamberlain moved—"That m view of the pressing demand for competent and responsible women throughout South Africa, this meeting recommends great expansion of its work, and that a special fund should be raised for South African emigration." Writing on the same sub- ject, Lord Wolseley says: "As soon as the present guerilla war is extinguished, the surest solution of our troubles in that part of the Empire would be a good system of emigration. English women of all olasses are sadly wanted. I am glad to find the matter is in such good hands." It is antici- pated that there will shortly be a demand for dressmakers, shop-aseistants, laundresses, florists, clerks, technical teachers, and mothers' helps. The climate is healthy and invigorating, and ealaries range from about JB30. Emigrants will go out in small parties in charge of an experienced woman to Capetown, Durban, or Beira for Rhodesia, where on arrival they will find a comfortable and moderate hostel; and where permits will be obtained and their journeys arranged. As help- less, unpractical women would be worse than use- less in South Africa, several of the technical schools, including Gloucester, Liverpool and Leeds, have opened a special course for intending emi- grants, which includes hygiene, sick nursing, cook- ing, special colonial dressmaking, dairy work, poultry-keeping, housewifery, etc. It is specially recommended that the training shou'd be of six months' or longer duration. University College months' or longer duration. University College (South Wales) and the Dorchester, East Sussex, and Newcastle schools all give instruction in domestio science. It is feared that the country is still too unsettled for the immigration of large numbers of women, but when peace arrives there will, it is expected, be many openings for educated women.

RAPID BRICKLAYING. 0 ARGUMENTS OF BRITISH BRICKLAYERS. SPEED AND SCAMPING. A manifesto appears in the form of a letter in Wednesday's "Times." It emanates from the president and secretary of the Operative Brick- layers' Society, and its main points are as follow: To allow charges of misoonduct, etc., always to pass unchallenged is to risk the chance of allow- ing the outside publio to regard you as guilty, because you refuse to deny or refute them, heAce our reason for issuing this manifesto. Our object in doing so is to place before the publio an official reply to the charges made against our members and bricklayers in general. Had the complaints been confined to one or two letters on what is termed the "ca' canny" policy, we should not have considered it necessary to reply, but the systematic way in which false and misleading statements are now being circulated through the Press and otherwise, leading the publio into error, has rendered it imperative that we should say something in reply. This then is our excuse for issuing this pronouncement. It appears that Mr. Stewart, the building manager for the British Westinghouse Company, has submitted to the "Times" some figures relative to bricklayers' work which have called forth a whirlwind of criticism from a number of persons who evidently do not understand the trade. The mere fact that high averages may be reached on a certain olass of work is no proof that they can be reached on other classes of work, and this is apparently what most of our critics fail to realise. That a great number of bricks would be laid each day we are prepared to admit; the quality of the work, the state in which it has been left for finished, the absence of arches, pilasters, etc., which necessitate the devoting of much time to plumbing, levelling, etc., all favou' high speed and good records; but we hope we will be pardoned when we decline to accept Mr. Stewart's figures as absolutely correct. Notwith- standing Mr. Stewart's assurance, we decline to believe that the bricklayers working on tne chimney at Birkenhead laid upon an average 1,976 bricks per day. To have reached any such average would mean that the chimney would have to be scamped to such an extent as would en- danger its stability. But before leaving this question of high averages, and before taking leave of the subject, we would like to draw the attention of those interested in the question to one or two points in the matter that must always be considered by those who wish to have correct ideas concerning quality and its bearing on speed. First of all, when people make comparisons between the amount of work done for the Westinghouse Com- pany and that of the contractors, it ought to be remembered that the Westinghouse Company were building for themselves, had only them- selves to please concerning the quality and finish of their work. Not so with the contractors, who in niost cases have to satisfy their client, the architect, and the clerk of the works; and no architect or clerk of works would allow a con- tractor to finish his work in the fashion that is necessary for attaining high rates of speed. As an evidence of our desire to be just in this controversy, we challenge any architect of posi- tion or any clerk of works who has had a few years experience in the erection of brick build- ings to say that the class of work which can be secured by high rates of speed, no matter how well paid for they may be, is the class of work they are prepared to accept. Any impartial observer will see clearly what class of work the VV estinghouse Company were turning out when he finds the "Times" correspondent saying, "It I- mubi, ue renaemoered, however, in regard to this question, that there is a great difference in the quality of bricklaying. What is good enough for rough work out of sight will not do for the front of first-class dwellings, not to speak of such re- finements as rubbed bricks." This leaves the practical man with no room for doubt regarding +w q"allty the work; but he is also aware the architect and clerk of works would not ahow speed to be procured by any such methods; therefore it is grossly unfair to make a comparison of men who are employed under conditions so dissimilar. Again we would say that wQ recog- nise the right of employers to demand a fair day s work for a fair day's wage; but to cite such cases as Mr. Stewart and the "Times" corre- spondent have favoured us with is to disappoint employers, dishearten the men, and destroy the very object they seek to secure.

LORD BURTON'S GIFTS.-Lord Burton's gift to Burton was announced on Saturday afternoon. He ni new church at Horninglow, costing £ 14,000. Bass and Co. give £ 3,000 to an endow- ment fund. This makes half a dozen churches which have been built by members of the firm. St. lauls, built by Lord Burton, is more elaborate than some cathedrals. Very recently Lord Burton gave £ 4 000 to improve the view of the handsome town hall which he presented to the town. HOLLOW AY s OINTMENT AND PILLS need only a 8U! -j make known their capabilities. No outside sore or inward, inflammation can long with- stand the cooling, purifying and healing influences r'wf by these twin Mendicaments. Be the mis- chief recent or chronic, great or slight, painful or STS lfc w,"™c°umb before tlie curative virtues of these remedies, which can be risrhtlv applied by any person who will attenti vely read their accompanying directions, which are pro- pounded in the plainest language, void of all technical terms, and printed m the most legible characters, To the man of business, confined to his counting nouse, and harassed by engagements, also to the man of pleasure addicted to free living these Pills are invaluable. 6 I

CORONATION FESTIVITIES. *.——— COMPLIMENT TO THRIFT INSTITUTIONS. His Majesty King Edward has paid a high com- pliment to tne thrift institutions of the United Kingdom in extending invitations to 12 representa- tives of the principal friendly societies to be present at the solemn ceremonial of the Coronation of their Majesties King Edward VII. and Queen Alexandra at Westminster Abbey on June 26th. The invita- tions have been given to the 12 representatives appointed by the recent conference held at Man- chester to form the committee, viz Mr W. G. Bunn, London, president Hearts of Oak Society; Mr. J. Lister Stead, Barrow-in-Furness, vice- president Ancient Order of Foresters Mr. R. J. Vallender, Gloucester. Grand Master Manchester Unity of Oddfellows Mr. G. Wilde, Manchester, Grand United Order of Odd- fellows; Mr. F. Litchfield, London, National Deposit Society; Mr. W. Wightman, London, Sons of Temperance; Mr. J. Boyd, Glasgow, British Free Gardeners; Mr. W. Marlow, Ancient Order of Shepherds; Mr. J. J. Stockell, London, Parliamentary Agent of Manchester Unity of Odd- fellows Mr. A. Chapman, London, Parliamentary Agent of Ancient Order of Foresters; and Mr. R. Campbell, Manchester, Order of Rechabites. CORONATION BONFIRES. The Central Coronation Bonfires Committee states that four hundred and sixty-four bonfires have been already arranged for in the various counties of England in connection with the Coronation, besides thirty in Scotland and fifteen in Wales. It adds: "We would specially urge that the Bonfire Com- mittees should not be discouraged from joining the movement because they happen to have no commanding eminence on which to build their bonfires. The pleasure and loyalty round a bonfire on June 26 will not be diminished because their bonfire will not be far seen At the same time we ask that Bonfire Committees shall take every pre- caution against damage to the surroundings of their bonfires, prevent any firing of furze or heather, and discourage any irresponsible and indiscriminate bonfires which might lead to loss or harm to property. BEESTON AND PECKFORTON. BONFIRE ON BEESTON. It has been arranged for the inhabitants of these parishes to celebrate the Coronation to- gether on Beeston Castle on Coronation day. As on the Jubilee nights of 1887 and 1897, Lord Tollemache has decided to have a bonfire on the summit of the hill, and his lordship has kindly arranged to provide tea for the juveniles and adults of the two parishes. A programme of sports is being drawn up, and fireworks will also figure in the evening's entertainment. BARROW. The Coronation is being celebrated in Barrow in a befitting manner. A committee, with Dr. Foster as chairman, has been chosen to make and to carry out the arrangements. These will con- °?„a procession of the friendly societies of the village to church, where the special service for the Coronation will be held. At two o'clock a substantial meat tea will be provided for every- one in the parish, Mr. C. Newport having placed his sheds at the disposal of the committee for the purpose. At six o'clock the Irish harvest- men working in the parish will also be enter- tained. It is also proposed to hold sports, etc., in a field lent by Mr. Higginson. At dusk a bonfire will be lit, a very prominent site having been secured for this purpose in a field belonging to Miss Owen, the Post Office. The whole of the expense is being met by voluntary subscription. WORTHENBURY. The parishes of Worthenbury and Threapwood have decided to combine for the purpose of cele- brating the Coronation by holding festivities in Broughton Park, kindly lent for the oocasion by Mr. R. Howard. The joint committees of the two parishes held a meeting at Worthenbury on luesday, when Mr. Hay ward was elected chair- man, Mr. A. Broad treasurer, and Mr. W. R. Urmson hon. secretary. The other members of the committee are Messrs. Hop'ey, J. Broad, S. Done, Jno. Huxley and Lee (Worthenbury), and Messrs. Hobson, J. Houlbrooke. Jas. Povev Mellor and P. Broad (Threapwood). The funds will be raised by subscription, and the following sums have already been promised:—Mr. R. Howard JB20, Mr. C. W. Bailey jB5, Lady Pu!eston £ 3, and the Rev. A. E. Lofts R2. The date fixed for the festivities is Friday. Julv "4th v NESTON AND PARKGATE. It has been decided that the celebration of the Coronation here shall practically follow the lines of the Jubilee celebration, the chief feature being a procession of the public bodies, Volunteers, friendly societies, school children, &c., headed by a band, and starting from the National Schools at 2 p.m. If permission can be obtained from the necessary authority the procession will walk to the racecourse, Parkgate, where a variety of amuse- ments, athletic sports, side shows, &c., will be pro- vided. The schoolchildren will be supplied with tea in the Town Hall and schools, and there will also be a treat for the old people. A huge bonfire will be fired at night. Mr. Joseph Conway has been appointed hon. secretary, to superintend the arrangements, and Messrs. H. T. Gill and T. J. G. Gleave have consented to arrange the athletic sports. It is suggested that the township of Ness should be allowed to participate on paying their proportion of the expenses, and Mr. Pemberton has offered to pay for the teas of the additional Ness children. FRODSHAM. A meeting of the various committees in con- nection with the proposed Coronation festivities in Frodsham took place on Wednesday evening, in the Town Hall, Mr. Henry Tiley presiding. It was definitely resolved, after some discussion relative to the merits of the Town Hall and Drill Hall as a tea room, to hold the old people's tea in the latter room, as it was thought that the whole of the people of 60 years and upwards- estimated at about 360 approximately-could be accommodated at one sitting instead of two, which would have been necessary if the Town Hall had been chosen. It was resoived to invite the ladies of the parish, including the wives of the committeemen, to preside at the tables for the old folks' tea, and that printed invitations be distribu- ted to the latter by the various canvassers. The committeemen and their wives will also be in- vited to partake of tea, with or after the o:d folk. With regard to the eligibility of the latter, it was to be understood that if a man was 60 years of age or upwards and his wife less than 60, or vice-versa, both would be invited, and that all people receiving outdoor relief, irrespective of age, will be eligible.—Mr. Steward reported that he had interviewed Mrs. Parker-Hoose, of Mersey View, and had come to a most satisfactory ar- rangement for the providing of a good tea to 1,000 to 2,000 children of the parish up to 15 years of age. Mrs. Parker-Hoose would reserve the Mersey View field entirely and absolutely for the children, and would provide waitresses at the table to help the ladies and committeemen who were expected to be present to look after the young people.-The books of the canvassers shewed that up to the present about £ 112 had already been collected, but it was generally expected that con- siderably more would be forthcoming, as this sum was inadequate to meet the requirements. It was arranged that the school children should meet in front of the Town Hall at two o'clock on the second day, and after singing and having medals presented to them by the various teachers, form into procession and proceed up to Mersey View. The little ones would be taken in lurries. Con- siderable discussion took place with regard to a band. The Frodsham Volunteer Brass Band had been given the preference, and their estimate for the two days, from 1.30 to 8 p.m., was £ 20, in addition to refreshments. It was the unanimous feeling of the meeting that, considering the band was almost entirely supported by the inhabitants of Frodsham, a better spirit of patriotism was naturally expected from them, and that the esti- mate seemed rather large for the sum at the com- mittee's disposal. The question of fireworks was also considered, but as nothing definite could be settled, pending the agreement with the band, the matter was left in abeyance. It was re&olved to approach the band, and ascertain whether they would agree to take JB20 inclusive of refreshments. The question of the bonfires was left to the Sports Committee. GRESFORD. The adjourned public meeting in connection with the Coronation festivities was held on Tuesday evening. Chancellor Trevor Parkins was, on the s motion of Mr. Allington Hughes, seconded by the Vicar (the Rev. E. A. Fishbourne), voted to the chair.—The learned Chancellor suggested the elec- tion of a number of residents, who were not present, upon the committee.—This was unani- mously agreed to.—The Chairman proposed the election of several sub-committees, to take charge of the arrangements concerning the tea, sports, music, etc., which was duly seconded and adopted. -Dr. Mules proposed, Mr. Barker seconded, and Mr. Percy James supported, that everyone should have a tep.This was eventually agreed to.—Dr. Mules also suggested the desirability of supplying the children with mugs bearing a suitable motto in preference to having medals, and promising a handsome donation towards the cost.—The pro- posal was received with much favour, and re- ferred to a special committee to deal with.—Mr. Bray reported that the Band Committee had se- cured the services of the Rhosrobin Brass Band for the sum of 28 10s., which was approved of.- Coronation Day was the date chosen, the sports and tea to take place in a meadow kindly lent for the purpose. FLINT. With the sum of £100 voted out of the rates a comprehensive programme for the Coronation celebration has been drawn up. Dr. Mould has granted the use of Cornist Park for the day, and here some 1,200 children will be regaled with tea, sports, &c. Provision is also being made for the aged poor, and there will be a public and repre- sentative procession through the streets.

FORMER CHESTER MINISTER.—The General Committee of the Primitive Methodist New Con- nexion received, on Monday, a letter from the Rev, W. R.- Bird, Southport, formerly of Chester, stating that he was willing to accept the appoint- ment of Connexional missioner. The Southport circuit have also intimated their willingness to release him with a view to his appointment at the l conference next month.

NEW BOOKS. "EDWARD EDWARDS" (Messrs. Scott, Greenwood and Co., Ludgate Hill, E.C. 2s. 6d. net.).—This is the story of the life and sad death of Edward Edwards, whose great work as a pioneer of that movement which resulted in the establishment of the municipal library system throughout the country, has not been yet appraised at its true value. Time, which so often sets wrongs of this kind right, will no doubt make amends, and to such an effect this book may be one of the principal contributing causes. It treats exhaustively not Ed,wards' Life- about which there is no particular glamour, but of that life's work. THE UNKNOWN GOD" (Messrs. Warne, Bedford- street, Strand, Is. 6d. net).—Twenty years a°-o Sir Henry Thompson, Bart, one of London's and therefore Britain's foremost scientists, as well as a literary man of ability, began the collection of notes to aid him in his search for "The Unknown God." The result of his study is the book under notice. In the first part the author devotes himself to demon- strating that man, throughout his long course of development, has acquired his knowledge of the conditions and influences with which he is sur- rounded solely by his own unaided efforts and that the idea of divine revelation has nothing to sub- stantiate it. This done, Sir Henry Thompson pro- ceeds to inquire into the tendencies, disposition and purpose of that which Herbert Spencer terms the "Infinite and Eternal Energy from which all things proceed." He arrives at the conclusion that the Infinite energy is beneficent, and that it will not for ever remain wholly unknown or unknow- able. Sir Henry finds peace in this, his religion, but it will not appeal to the myriad people who, trusting to revelation, find their inspiration and their enthusiasm for goodness in their belief in and love for a God who first loved them.

MR. W. CONGREVE'S WILL. The will, with six codicils, has been proved of the late Mr. W. Congreve, of Congreve, Stafford, and Burton Hall, Wirral, who died on January £ 40 82? amount o{ the estate is Mai'or Waif M ^8tator appointed his son, Major W alter Norm Congreve, V.C., his brother, v\ alter Ralph Congreve, and his cousin, Colonel Bayly, his executors and trustees. He bequeathed to his wife such articles of plate and furniture as she might select, and £3,250, while he devised the residue of his plate, &c., to Major Congreve, to whom he also bequeathed his heredita- ments and farm land at Whiston, Penkridge, to- gether with his interest in a moiety of tithes at Wybunbury. The remainder of his estates he de- vised to his trustees, upon trust, to pay his wife £ 500 per annum, and to set apart for each of his children, who should not at his death come into possession of the freehold family estates at Con- greve and Burton, E3,000 as soon as possible after his death, and £2,000 after the death of his wife. He bequeathed the residue of residuary trust funds to Major Congreve. In one of the codicils testator revoked the bequest of the residue of his plate, etc., to Major Congreve, and directed, sub- ject to the right of selection given to his wife, that some of his plate, paintings and pictures should be held as heirlooms on account of their historical or family value, and bequeathed the residue to Major Congreve. In another codicil, dated July, 1898, he revoked the bequest of the residue of the residuary trust funds to Major Congreve, and directed that his trustees should stand possessed of it in trust for his wife^ if she should survive him, and if she should pre- decease him, in trust for his children living at his death, except Major Congreve and any daughter who. being a spinster, should at the time of his death be a member of any sisterhood or home, or institution of any religious community. There are several minor bequests.

ARMY AND VOLUNTEERS. « DENBIGHSHIRE HUKSAIIS.—In this regiment of Imperial Yeomanry Sec. Lieut. (now Lieut.) E. E. Hutton (Temporary Major in the Army) was on Tuesday seconded for service with the Imperial Yeomanry in South Africa. THE RoYAL WELCH.—The following changes were gazetted on Tuesday :—1st Vol. Batt. the Royal Welch Fusiliers, Lieut. A. W. L. Butler to be instructor of musketry. 2nd Vol. Batt. the Royal Welch Fusiliers, R. S. Underhill, gent., to be second lieutenant. DEATH OF A BALACLAVA VETERAN.—Trumpet- Major Thomas Monks, of the Inniskilling Dragoons, who sounded the Charge" for the Heavy Brigade at Balaclava, died at Shrewsbury on Sunday. After leaving the Army he joined the staff of the Shrop- shire Militia, and subsequently for twenty years held the post of trumpet-major of the Shropshire Yeomanry, his total military service amounting to fifty years. Monks was specially awarded the French war medal in the Crimea. He will be buried at Shrewsbury with full military honours. 1ST CHESHIRE AND CARNARVONSHIRE ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY (VOLUNTEERS).— Reg-imental orders by Lieut.-Colonel and Hon. Colonel Wilford N. LLoyd, commanding^ for the week ending Saturday, May 31st, 1902. Chester, Wednesday, May 21st, 1902. 1. Drills and Parades: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, gun drill; Tuesday and Wednesday, ambulance class; Wednesday, layers and fuze borers special course. 2. Inspection by C.R A. N.W.D.: No. 3 (College) Garr. Coy. will be inspected at the College on Wednesday, the 28th inst. at 3 p.m. Parade at 2.30 p.m. sharp. Dress—marching order with helmets. 3. Corona- tion of H. M. the King: A detachment consisting of two officers, two sergeants, one trumpeter, and 20 rank and file will represent the corps in London on 27th June. Full details have been issued to officers commanding batteries and companies. 4. Honorary Member: No. 285 Sergt. J. Harper having resigned is placed on the list of honorary members. 5. Extracts from Army Order, dated 1st May, 1902. Dress Officers-Badges of Rank: His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to command that the rank of second lieutenants, lieutenants, and captains shall in future be denoted on all uniforms other than the service dress jacket by the following badges: — 2nd lieutenants, 1 star lieutenant, 2 stars; and captains, 3 stars. The badges of other ranks will remain as at present. A.O. 113 Garr. Arty. Vol. Ill: (1) Revised Regula- tiens for Garr Arty. Training 1902. Vol. III. have been approved and copies will be issued to all con- }2l0t FJ7 and the edition of Garr. Arty. Vol. II. (altered to Vol. III. by A.O. 113 of ) aro cancelled. A.O. 116, Re-marking Arms and Equipment: In consequence of changes in the designatKm of the R.F.A. (Militia) R.G.A (Militia and Volunteers), the R.A.M.C. (Militia and Volun- teers), notified by A.O. 27 and 28 of 1902, the arms and equipment (except valises) in their possession will be marked as follows :-R.G.A. (Volunteers) V.R.G.A. A.O. 120, Designation of Semi-Mobile Volunteer Artillery: The batteries of Volunteer Artillery hitherto described as Position Batteries I will in future be designated Heavy Batteries." The Volunteer Regulations will be amended accord- ingly. 6. Extract from District Order, dated 14th May, 1902; Royal Visit: Major-General Swaine has much pleasure in publishing for information the following letter which he has received from Sir Arthur Bigge, K.C.B., Private Secretary to H.R.H. the Prince of WalesYork House, St. James's Palace, S.W May 12th, 1902. To G.O.C., N.W.D. Sir,—By direction of the Prince of Wales, I have the honour to request that you will be good enough to convey to the officers commanding the following corps the expression of his Royal Highness's satis- faction with the manner in which they respectively performed the duties of furnishing escorts, guards of honour, or when lining the streets during the visit of their Royal Highnesses to Bangor, Car- narvon, Dinorwic Quarries, and Rhyl, on the 8th, 9th, 10th, and 12th inst. His Royal Highness was also much pleased with the general appearance of these troops under Arms. University College Company Cheshire and Carnarvonshire Artillery.— I have, &c. (signed) Arthur Bigge. 7. Circulars: All circulars issued from this office are to be copied into the permanent order book. 8. Detail for the ensuing week: Orderly officer, Capt. A. P. W. Blencowe; orderly sergeant, Sergt. T. R. Bennett; orderly trumpeter, Trumpeter E. Cheers.—By order (signed), C. E. FORESTIER WALKER, Captain R.A., Adjutant 1st C. & C. R.G.A. (Vols.) 2ND (EARL OF CHESTER'S) VOLUNTEER BAT- TALION CHESHIRE REGIMENT. Headquarters, Chester, 22nd May 1902. Regimental orders by Colonel T. J. Smith, V.D., commanding. For week ending Saturday, 31st May, 1902. 1. Parade and Drills: Headquarters Company train- ing, Monday and Friday in the Drill Hall, 7.30 p.m. Wednesday, on the Roodee, 7.30 p.m., under company officers. Dress, drill order. Band to attend. Saltney: Company training, Tuesday, 7.30 p.m. Dress, plain clothes. Thursday, 7.30 p.m. Dress, drill order Cyclists: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 7.30 p.m., drill order, with cycles and rifle clips. Signalling class: Monday and Friday, 7.30 p.m. Machine gun detachment: Wednesday, 7 30 p.m. 2. Musketry: B Company will parade in the Drill Hall, first party, 8 a.m. second party, 12 noon, 31st May, and proceed to Altcar for class-firing. Dress, optional. Members attending in uniform must do so in drill order. 3. Promotions and Appointments: No. 4613 Lance-Corporal G. Carr, D Company, is appointed sergeant-master tailor to the battalion from this date. E Company: No. 3415 Lance- Sergeant A. Gibson to be sergeant vice he^ea J. Red resigned Corporal J. Harrison is appo lance-sergeant vice Lance-Sergeant A. Gibson pro- moted No. 4379 Private W. Frost is appointed lance corporal from this day's date. Detail: Orderly officer for the week, Second Lieutenant A. G. Hamilton battalion orderly sergeant, Colour- Sergeant F. T. Holland A Company, Sergeant W. B. Richmond; B Company, Sergeant G. Tilston C Company, Sergeant J. Haytr; D Company, Sergeant J. K. Jones; E Company, Sergeant A. Gibson; K Company, Sergeant H. Ellis. The orderly bugler will be furnished by C Com- pany.—By order (signed), C. E. BROMLEY, Captain and Acting Adjutant 2nd V.B. Cheshire Regiment.

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AFRICAN MAIL BOAT LOST. I ♦ ALL PASSENGERS SAVED. A telegram received at Liverpool on Saturday from Grand Bassam, on the French Ivory Coast, states that the mail steamer Stanleyville is a total wreck, having struck the Hoeven Rock, near Axim, on the Gold Coast. The Stanleyville was one of the fine steamers of the Cie Beige Maritime du Congo, trading between Antwerp and the River Congo, calling, when occasion required, at ports on the Gold Coast. The Stanleyville was under the command of Captain F. W. Tubbs, and was a steamer of 4,081 tons register. She left Antwerp on the 8th inst., and after calling at Southampton, left the latter port on the 9th, and Teneriffe on the 14th, where some of her passen- gers were landed. At the time of the disaster she would have about fifty-eight passengers on board, nearly all of whom were from Antwerp. The African Company's steamer Sobo is reported in the telegram to have got the passengers on board, and will land them at their destinations, as she herself is bound for the River Congo. The Sobo left Liverpool on the 7th inst. The Stanleyville had a valuable general cargo on board, but no reference is made to it in the telegram. Further telegrams received here from Axim, West Africa, state that the passengers' baggage b,ts been saved, and is being landed, and that some portion of the cargo is also being landed. The steamer herself is fast on the rocks, and there is no chance of saving her. The Hoeven Rock is in Axim Bay. The Stanleyville was so named as a compliment to Sir Henry M. Stanley, who for some time was in the service of the Congo Free State. The line to which the Stanleyville belonged is run almost exclusively for the Free State and the Belgian commercial companies of the Congo. She was a magnificently appointed steamer with twin screws.

THE BRITISH INSULATED WIRE 'I COMPANY, LTD. The phenomenal success which has attended the efforts of the Telegraph Manufacturing Com- pany, Limited, of 'Helsby, is well known to the readers of the "Courant." This success is in a very great measure due to the energy and enter- prise displayed by two of the directors-Messrs. James and Crosland Taylor. The Telegraph Company is now amalgamated with the British Insulated Wire Company. The "combine" will be without doubt beneficial to shareholders, as the combined concern will be in a position to develop and increase their business and output to a degree which was impossible in the past. The constantly-growing business of the two com- panies necessitates the provision of further capital. With a view of providing such capital, the new company is now issuing L250,000 First Mortgage Debenture Stock. The issued capital of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company con- sists of 20,000 £ 5 fully-paid preference shares (il00,000) and 25,000 £ 5 fully-paid ordinary shares ( £ 125,000). The purchase includes the whole of the assets and undertaking of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company, other than a sum of B12,354 3s. 4d., due as dividends to its shareholders; and the whole of the purchase price payable to the Telegraph Manufacturing Company has been satisfied by the issue of 2C,000 fully-paid £ 5 preference shares and 30,000 fully-paid £ 5 ordinary shares of the amalgamated company, such shares being taken at the mean market prices as worth, in round figures, £400,000, which, at the mean market prices, is the approximate value of the 20,000 fully-paid JE5 preference shares and the 25,000 fully-paid JE5 ordinary shares of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company. The con- sideration for the purchase of the undertaking of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company has been arrived at as a whole, and no separate amount has been ascertained or can be stated to be the consideration for the goodwilh With a view of making the amalgamation complete, Messrs. James Taylor, J. S. Harmood Banner, and G. Crosland Taylor, three of the directors of the Telegraph Manufacturing Company, have joined the board of the amalgamated company, and its name will be changed into one embodying the distinctive features of the names of both companies. On the 4th page of this issue appears the detailed prospectus. In that advertisement is published the share capital, the nett profits of the business of the two companies and many other particu- lars which it is impossible to give in this notice.

DROPSY CURED. Dropsy is one of the sure symptoms of kidney disease, one of the most distressing, one of the most terrible. Bright's disease is another; Rheu- matism, Sciatica, Lumbago, and Gout also result from disordered kidneys. They are curable in one way only, by curing the kidneys. This Dodd's Kidney Pills do daily. They cure Dropsy. They cure Bright's disease. They cure Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, and Gout. They curecfMr. W. H. Scott, of Ten Mile Bank, Downham, Norfolk, after he had suffered for fourteen years with Dropsy. After taking a few boxes he had no signs of Dropsy about him, and four months after, the last time he wrote, Mr. Scott was thoroughly well. It seemed like a miracle. But it wasn't. Dodd's Kidnev Pills cured his kidneys. They will cure yours,' and nothing is likely to ail you if your kidnevs are sound. Dodd's Kidney Pills are 2s. 9d per box, of all Chemists, or post free on receipt of price from The Dodds Medicine Co., 23, Famugdon Avenue, London, E.O. Be sure of the. name, D-o-d-d- e.

CHESTER GOLF CLUB. SPRING MEETING. The following club prize was played for last week:— Gross. H'cap. Nett. E. S. Giles 92 20 72 H. B. Toller 87 6 81 Dr. Swetenham 102 20 82 R. T. Richardson 96 10 86 C. H. Bushell .110 24 86 T. G. Froat 95 8 87 R. W. Shand 90 2 88 J. B. Birch 105 16 89 W. E. Whinnery 90 scr. 90 W. D. Jolliffe 97 7 90 R. Wilkinson 101 11 90 C. B. Toller 103 12 91 Dr. Harrison 108 15 93 G. W. Hayes 96 2 94 S. Owen 112 17 95 R, James 118 20 98 The following bogey competition was played on Whit-Monday H. B. Toller 4 down R. W. Shand 7 R. T. Richardson 7 0. Okell 7 T. G. Frost 7 J.'T. Dickson 7 T. S. Comber 8 „ Dr. Harrison 9 J. M. Frost 10 Rev. J. D. Best 11

ROYAL CHESTER R.C. Not many of the present generation know how the Royal Chester Rowing Club came to receive permission to use the prefix Royal," of which they are so proud. While looking through the files of the "Courant" the other day, we came across a lengthy account of the Regatta of 1840, which, by the way, it was found impossible to conclude in one day in consequence of a dinner taking place at the Hop Pole Inn, and a ball at the Royal Hotel." In this year, it seems, Lord Robert Grosvenor gave a prize which he named "Prince Albert's Cup," in honour of Queen Victoria's nuptials. Lord Robert also sent the following letter to Mr. E. Watson Lloyd, the hon. secretary ot the Chester Rowing Club, as it then was entitled 109, Park-street, June 20th, 1840. Sir, I have just received her Majesty's most gracious per- mission to desire you to inform the members of the Chester Rowing Club that from this day they are entitled to the appellation of the Royal Chester Rowing Club.' I remain, sir, your obedient servant, R. Grosvenor." The King, it will be remembered, has graciously permitted the continuation of the prefix Royal." The final heat of the race for Prince Albert's Cup, it may be added, resulted in the victory of a Liverpool four over Royal Chester Rowing Club.

POLO WIRRAL v. LIVERPOOL. These teams met at Hooton on Saturday, and although the ground was rather on the heavy side, a most interesting game was witnessed by a large number of spectators. Both clubs put good sides in the field, the teams being as follows: -Wirral: F. W. Wignall, back; L. Watson. 1; W. Mid- wood, 2; A. Tyrer, 3. Liverpool: W. L. Pilking- ton, back; J. Crewdson, 1; G. H. Pilkington, 2; R. A. Rigby, 3. Messrs. A. T. ickson and W. Ball officiated as umpires. In the first period Wirral pressed, and towards the close Mr. Watson scored the initial goal of the match. In the early part of the second period Mr. Rigby equalised matters. Before the end of the period Mr. Wig- nall once more gave the homesters the lead. Both ends were quickly visited in turn in the third period, but nothing further was scored. In the next Wirral further increased their advantage by the aid of Mr. Tyrer and Mr. Watson. Air. Tyrer added allother in the fifth, while Mr. G. H. Pilkington put on a second for Liverpool. Later on Mr. Watson put on another for the homesters, the score at the end of the period being 6—2 in favour of Wirral. In the last period Mr. Watson notched another point, and the game ended in favour of Wirral by seven goals to two.. The second teams met on Saturday at Childwall, and after a good game Liverpool won by the nar- row margin of four goals to three.

LAWN TENNIS. LANCASHIRE v. CHESHIRE. These counties met for the first time this year on the' ground of the Southport club on Saturday. Lancashire was not at full strength, but Cheshire had a very weak team, and did not win a set in the singles, and only one in the doubles. Details: Singles: J. A. Macfie beat A. Herschell 6 2, 6 0; L. E. Mason beat B. C. Wood 6 1, 6 2; T. J. Walmsley beat G. R. Rudolph 6 1, 6 0; E. Carey beat J. A. Wolff 6 4, 6 2; X. E. Casdagli beat A. J. G. Posnett 6 3, 6 2; E. Gardner beat R. Mar- quis 6 3, 6 2. Lancashire won by 6 events to 0, 14 sets to 0, and 72 games to 20. Doubles: Macfie and Walmsley beat Herschell and Wood 7 5, 6 2, 1 6, 6 3; Mason and Casdagli beat Rudolph and Wolff 7 5, 6 2, 6 3; Carev-aiid I Gardner beat Posnett and Marquis 6 2, 6 3, 6 3. Lancashire won by 3 events to 0, 9 sets to 1, and 57 games to 34. Grand total: Lancashire won 9 events to 0, 21 sets to 1, and 129 games to 56.

EXCITING MOTOR RACE. THE HORSE WON. While out in his motor-car on Thursday morning, Dr. Abbot, of Tunbridge Wells, met with an exciting experience. In the neighbourhood of Eridge he passed an unattended horse and van standing in the road. The animal became restive, and finally bolted after the motor-car. Realising the danger of the situation, a.<} the road was very narrow, Dr. Abbot increased his pace, but no sooner had he done so than the horse galloped harder than ever, and for a mile or so an exciting race took place. Dr. Abbot, who has only been a motorist a few weeks, drove his car at top speed, but the horae slowly gained on him, and a smash-up seemed inevitable. Just before coming to a steep hill the doctor noticed in the distance a vacant spot at the side of the road, used for stone storage, and into this he ran his car. He reached it just m time, for the horse tore by at a terrific pace, and missed the car by a few inches. After running half-way up the hill, it came to a standstill, exhausted.

DEATH OF LORD PAUXCEFOTE -+- Washington, Saturday. Lord Pauncefote died here at half-past five this morning, surrounded by the members of his family. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. Lord Pax.noefote, G.C.B., G.C.M.G., was created £ "it Baron in 1899. He was the third son of the late Mr. Robert Pauncefote, of Preston Court, Gloucestershire, and was born at. Munich on Sept. 13, 1828. He was educated in Paris, Geneva, and at Marlborough College, was called to tho Bar at tho Inner Terop'e in 1852, and joined the Oxford Circuit. In May, 1865, he was. appointed Attorney-General of Hong-Kong, and acted as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in 1869, and again in 1672. For his services to the Colony he received the thanks of the Executive and Legisla- tive Councils of Hong-Kong, and in 1874 was knighted by patent. He was appointed Chief Justice of the Leeward Islands in 1S73, and in 1874 Legal Assistant Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies. In 1876 he was appointed Assistant (Legal) Under-Secretary- of State fcr Foreign Affairs. He was created a C.B. and a K.C.M.G. in 1880, and in 1882 he succeeded the late Lord Tenterden &s Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. In 1885 be received the Grand Cross of the Order of St. Michael and St. George. He was the first British delegate to the conference at Paris fcr drawing up an Act reiative to the navigation of the Suez Canal, In 1885. In 1888 he succeeded Lord Sackvilie as British Minister at Washington, and the following year was ap- pointed Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Pleni- potentiary to the United States. In 1892 Lord Pauncefote received the Grand Cross of the Bath for his diplomatic services, and in 1893 he was raised to the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to tho United States. On November 21st, 1894, during a visit home, Lord Pauncefote was sworn of the Privy Council. He was the first. British delegate to the Peace Con- feience at the Hague in 1899. Lord Pauncefote leaves no lic-lr.

BIG SCHEME AT PWLLHELI.—The Pwllheli Town Council has decided to invite tenders for the con- struction of a great local wOTk-a harbour of refuge. The works are estimated to cost £f).c)UIJ, of which the Treasury will pay £ 17,500, the Cambrian Rail- way Company £ 20,000, and the Corporation the remainder. In return the railway company will be given sufficient reclaimed land to extend their line of railway into the town. Their station is at present ha.lf a mile away. CADBUIIY'S COCOA is a pure refined beverage, nutritious, stimulating, and digestible. The "Lancet" pays it "represents the standard of highest purity." Entirely free from admixtures, such as* kola. malt, hops, alkali, etc. Insist upon having CADBURY'S, as other Cocoas are some- times substituted for extra pnlnt. In Packets and I Tins only. 5