Haverfordwest and Milford Haven Telegraph and General Weekly Reporter for the Counties of Pembroke Cardigan Carmarthen Glamorgan and the Rest of South Wales

 Dates to be Remembered at Milford Haven. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9.—An entertain- ment will be held in the Temperanco Hall on Thursday, November !Jth, in connection with the Prido of Milford Lodge, I.O.G.T. 1. 0 ( T WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29.—Grand concert at Rehoboth Chapel, Hakiu. IHRS])AY, DECEMBER ?Til.—A grand cutcrtamment will be given by the children of thc?kiu N ahonal School on the above date. Full particulars will shortly appear. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14TH. A grand concert in connection with the Tabernacle Sunday school will be given in the Masonic Hall on Thursday, December 11. l'arheuhrs will shortly appear. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18th. Tabernacle Sunday School Anniversary. Preacher, Rev. J. Towyu Jones. )

I Terrible Explosion at Man- chester. I GAS WORKS MAIN BLOWN UP. t THE MANAGER KILLED. TWELVE OTHER PERSONS INJURED. A disastrous explosion occurred on Monday morning at the Rochdale-road branch of the Corporation Gas Works, at Manchester, by which the manager of the branch lost his life, the under manager was severely burned, and eleven of their assistants were also sufferers, two of them having to be detained at the Royal Infirmary as in- patients. The cause of the explosion was not ascertained. It is conjectured, however, that some mishap attended the operation then in progress of transferring the plant from an old meter-house to a new one, and some gas, which might escape while the alterations were going oil, was possibly ignited from a light in the clock-tower. 1 The explosion is thought to have taken place in a 24- inch main, and the immediate effect was, besides injuring everyone at work on the spot, to set fire to the meter- house and the tower. The fire brigade having been sent for, the staff of the works speedily turned their attention to averting a greater calamity. Orders were given to cut off as far as possible aU connections with the main in which the fire was 1 raging. This required great care, as there was a risk of sending too great a pressure of water in the meters, which would have caused further explosions. The fire brigade were quickly on the scene and fought the huge column of flaming gas, but, except that they extinguished the flames which caught hold of the building, their efforts were fruitless, and thousands of feet of gas continued to flare out of the old meter-house. Tons of water were poured on the fractured main, and just when it seemed that the firemen were successful, another fierce burst of flame told of the hopelessness of attempting to extinguish the fire by that means. The firemen then proceeded to cut the two mains which fed the lire—a work of great danger, as the place was burn- ing like a furnace. Below the tower of the meter-house the flames enveloped the four legs on which tha tower Itamls. Twenty yards or so away the huge hydraulic charger of the .1Ctorts was working with crashing noises. The live coal was quickly pulled from the furnaces, and great clouds of steam arose as the embers were damped down, causing the yard to resemble a vast seething cauldron. At one o'clock the Clock Tower was in such a ruined condition that it was feared it would collapse on to a large tank containing half a million cubic feet of gas. The firemen, however, stuck gallantly to their work. At four o'clock good progress had been made in cutting the connections, and at half-past four the fire was under control. Mr George Stevenson, the manager, who was blown a distance of some yards from the meter-house, and ter- ribly wounded in the head, died in the infirmary on Monday afternoon. He formerly hold appointments at gas works in Abordare, Peterborough, and Buenos Ayres. The deputy manager, Mr J. R. Hill, was conveyed home. The workmen injured include George Tooley, James Drew, Reuben Richards, Henry Talbpt, James Prior, John Fletcher, Thomas Macmahon, William Tomlinson, Dmllli Xeven, Charles Littler, and Thomas Hornbv. The explosion was heard over a wide area, and sur- prise was felt that the building set on fire had not been wrecked by the shock.

Jleoieius. I I Religious Tract Society. Loiadon, Nov., 1899. 1 The Leisure Hour begins a new series with November. It is now more readable in shape and popular in style, while its articles maintain their old pre-eminence for literary value and interest. As before nothing but that which is worth placing on permanent record will find a place in the new issue. It is impossible to give even a list of the many excellent articles and tiiles in this first part. We can only notice that the serial tale The Alabaster Box," is by Sir WIlte" 13etizilit, the scene being laid iu a London settlement. There is also a most valuable paper on Reading by the Right Hon. James Bryce, D.C.L., M.P., while another of the chief features is a series of letters on "Betting" which give the opinions of a number of well-known persons. A Singer of the South is a short story by Rentoul Esler. And so my Love came back to me," a short story bv Beatrice M. Hicks, is interesting, and the frontispiece A Stranger in the Land exceedingly good. The Sunday at Home. This valuable periodical com- mences a new series with a good frontispiece from the painting by H. E. Crocket Before the Fight," and from Frederick Langbridge a poem on "Putting on the Armour." Serial stories open well and are contributed bv Mary E. Pal grave, and Edith Ferguson Black Deb Clavel," and "A Princess m Calico." A short story The Cassock, a Tale of a Country Parsonage," by Ida Lemon, is particularly good. Missionary subjects are represented by "The Dawn of Light in Central Africa," and "The Huguenot Seminary at Wellington, South Africa." "The Ghosts Revenge" and "Little Senacherib are among the Golden Gleanings for young folks.

BIRTHS- On the 26th ult., at Great Honeyborough, the wife of Mr W. J. Davies, W.R.S., of II.M.S. Northamp- ton, of a son. MARRIAGES. On the 21st ult., at St. Ishmael's Parish Church (by special license), Mr John Morgans, to Emma Mathias, Tangiers. DEATHS. On the 27th ult., at 58, Charles Street, Milford Haven, Mr Francis Jones, shipbuilder, aged 65 years. Deeply regretted. On the 26th ult., at Pill, Milford Haven, Thomas Henry Evans, aged 21 years. On the 25th ult., at the Lord Nelson Hotel, Mil- ford Haven, Lily Frances, the dearly beloved and only child of Mr and Mrs ii. Keeping, aged 7 years.

Special Telegrams to dd The Telegraph." We are pleased to inform our readers that we have made arrangements with the Central News for a complete service of telegrams direct from the seat of War every Wednes- day up to 6 p.m. This arrangement will place readers of The Telegraph in an exceptionally favourable position for obtaining the very latest and most authentic intelligence direct from the scene of hostilities.

TO-DAY'S WIRES. FIGHTING AT LADYSMITH SPLENDID ARTILLERY DUEL. BRILLIANT WORK BY THE NAVAL BRIGADE. BOER GUNS SILENCED. (Central X ews Telegram). The Central X ews has received the following express message:- LADYSMITH, Tuesday, 7.30 p.m. On Monday evening the Boers closed in again, re- opening with their big guns and sending shells into the camp. Sir George White during the darkness had two of the fifty pounder guns from the cruiser Powerful mounted in position bearing directly upon the Boer Battery. The Xaval Brigade manned the guns and at a quarter to six this morning the order was given to open fire. Our men made beautiful practice and the guns were splendidly served. The cannonade was instantly replied to by the Boers who seem to have got more guns up. Some have been silenced and the fire has slackened. The enemy's losses must have been great to -day, our shells repeatedly bursting among them. We are in good spirits and confident. The men are full of fight. At this moment the Artillery duel is still going on.

I DISASTER. TWO REGIMENTS LOST. DEFEAT AND SURRENDER. The following has been issued from the War Office "From General Officer Commanding, Xatal. to Secretary of State of War. Received 4.4 I- 3 1 st October. j "Ladysmith, Monday, 11.3") p.m.—I have to report disaster to a column sent bv me to take a position on the hill to guard the left flaiik of the troops. In these opera- tions to-day the Roval Irish Fusiliers, Xo. 10 Mounted Batteiy. and the Gloucestershire Regiment were sur- rounded in the hills, and after losing heavily had to capitulate. Casualties not yet ascertained. "A man of the Roval Irish Fusiliers, employed as hospital orderly, came in under a flag of truce with a letter from the survivors (r) of the column, and asked fur assistance to bury the dead. I fear there is no doubt of the truth of the report. I formed the plan in can-vmg out which the disaster occurred, and am alone responsible for that plan. K 0 blame whatever attaches to the troops, as the position was untenable.

THE BATTLE ON MONDAY. I ENEMY IN GREAT FORCE. I BRITISH MAIN UODY HAVE TO -L I RETIRE. I (Central Xews Correspondent.) Ladysmith. Monday, 6 p.m.—The series of actions fought to-day, the general result of which has already been telegraphed to you, arose out of a reconnaissance in force undertaken by Sir George bite, and it was well cerried out. Two battalions and a mounted battery operated on the left flank from positions taken up in the early morning, while the bulk of the troops marched against the enemy on the right. All the available artillery were also used. The troops breakfasted before .5 o'clock this morning, and an hour later all were hotly engaged. General French's cavalry brigade were naturally the first to apme under thc enemy's fire. lie was well in advance, but the engagement soon became general. The enemy displayed smartness, courage, and good generalship, gradually retiring as we advanced, but giving a good account of themselves at every turn, but throughout the day there was no fighting at close quarters. By noon Sir George White, having obtained all the in- formation which has set out to obtain, gave the order to return to camp, aud at the same time the enemy made an attempt, which was promptly met and foiled. to outflank our right. It had been purely skirmishing work all along with an artillery competition in which the Boers had to take second place. We had little trouble from their guns after 10 o'clock. As the engagement pro- ceeded the enemy seemed to increase in strength in a wonderful manner and in all directions save due south. They outnumber us largely at every point, but they did not attempt seriously to interfere with our retirement. Most of our casualties, about 100 altogether, had occurred before the retirement. They were for the most part due to rifle fire. The Boer artillery were not up to their best form Their general fault was overshooting the mark. As we neared camp big guns were firing, and they proved to be those of the Naval Brigade, the arrival of which from Durban has been awaited with great anxiety by Sir George White. They had got the range of the enemy's 40 pounders, and silenced them within [ half an hour. The enemy's guns were not, however, dismantled, as we had hoped. As I telegraph there are the two 40 pounders exactly in their old positions, and the enemy are back with them in force. The Bluejackets are hard at work, but the Boers are as busy and are taking a lot of beating. We are, in fact, about as we were, and to-day's work maybe the best described as Xot quite decisive." When we started this morning nobody doubted that with such a large body of troops moving straight upon the enemy it had been decided to drive the Boers out of their positions and keep some of them, but we were mistaken. The Royal Irish Fusiliers and the Gloucesters, with the Mountain Battery, are still out amongst the hills, and we cannot imagine what has become of them. We know that they hotly engaged in the forenoon, but we know nothing more at present. There is a strong feeling here against the dilatoriness of the Imperial Government. which, knowing what was coming, failed to place an adequate force in South Africa. Everywhere in the town and in the camp one hears bitter remarks like this, A hundred miles of British territory and a dozen British towns are in full possession of" the Boers, and ordinary foresight would have prevented such humili- ation.

I THE BHOYS. I Gre, brcah the dawn over Mu!? Dundee, Grey hangs the mist on the plain, Gorman and Dilion, Fitzpatrick, Magee, Brady. O'BrÜm. and Kane. Will t_h'e world doubt of what stock ye are bred? 'Ti iu- are the lads for the work- Wait till they hear how the fight has sped, Gilligan, Kelly, and Burke Thunder of guns Stout gunner, well done But Patrick is waiting below A run; choose your cover a climb and a run Up, Dolan up, Carey ye go 0 fierce was the shriek of the shell overhead, 0 fiercer the shimmering steel Ali Pat, when they hear how the fight has sped, They II guess how the Dutchmen feel. But what of the fallen r Ay, brave and true, Who doubts of what breed are ye ? Ye have done the good work that was yours to do, Work of the years to be Better the grave 'neath your hard-won hill, With the love of them that mourn. Than the life of the Mocker, mocking still, 'Mid wrangle, hate, and scorn. ) Gorman and Dillon. Fitzpatrick. Magee, "Tis yr were the lads for the work God give us others as loyal as ye, Gilligan, Kelly, and Burke

1- Do You Know ? That the Xarberth Butter Factory is about being floated as a limited liability concern with a capital of £ o. »00 to be alloted in £1 shares. That in addition to the butter industry the Company will carry on the business of general merchants. That this years President of the London Board Teachers' Association is a Pembrokeshire man, Mr J. H. Jones, who began life as a pupil teacher at Penffordd, Liysyfran, and Xarberth Schools. That Mr Jones delivered his presidential address last Saturday. That there has been rather a severe outbreak of influenza at Carmarthen Lunatic Asylum and many of the attendants as well as patients have been sufferers. That for the year 1898-99 Pembrokeshire contributed £ 301 to the funds of the British and Foreign Bible Society. That the authorities at Pwllheli have decided to invite the owners of the Columbia and Shamrock to take part in a yacht race which is being arranged for next season. That amongst the candidates for the gold medal offered by the Chief Inspector of the Welsh Central Board (Intermediate Education) for the best candidate in the Certificate Examination, was Mr William Howard Williams, Haverfoidwest Grammar School, who was awarded honourable mention. That Mr Michael Davitt, M.P., for one of the Divisions of Mayo, has resigned his seat in Parliament as a protest against the war in South Africa. That there was a large audience present at the Masoaic Hall last Wednesday night to witness the performance of the sensatioaal melo-drama en titled" When London Sleeps." That there was no lack of the sensational element, and any amount of incident, dramatic situations, and hair-breadth 'scapes. That the fire scene was particularly realistic. That good taste might suggest to some people in the audience that smoking in such a confined area and in the presence of so many ladies, was slightly out of place. That during the last Act the atmosphere was almost suffoc-ating with the odour of tobacco smoke. That the Bishop of Llandaff is about to retire from his See owing to ill-health. That this reminds me of an Irish newspaper which recently told its readers that "in consequence of his failing sight the Bishop of Cashcl is about to resign his See." That the opening of the Xew Church at Xeyland on W ednesday last was a big event locally and most of the business houses closed for the aftarnoon during the dedication ceremony. That the Bishop of St. David's who officiated is one of the youngest prelates on the Episcopal Bench. That the regiment of the Welsh Fusiliers which left Pembroke Dock on Sunday week for South Africa was formed so long ago as lGsy by Henry Lord Herbert on the authorisation of William III. That William Council, au eld Balaclava hero aged 78 years, has just resigned his position as signalman at Car- marthen Station on the Great V est em Railway. That the Haverfordwest Town Council Elections take place to-day ^Wednesday). That there are six candidates and four vacancies. Tnat it is ckar they cannot all be elected. That the Mayor of Cardigan, Mr C. Morgan-Richard- son who has been chief magistrate for two years, was entertained to a complimentary banquet on Wednesday night and presented with an address. That an inquiry was held at Trelch, Carmarthenshire the other day concerning alleged irregularities in the administration of the late William Davies' Trust amounting to about £ i,5G0. That the Directors of the Great Western Railway have agreed to reduce the hours of duty for Guurds from 66 to 00 per week, to date from 1st January. That a meeting of the members of the newly estab- lished reading room at Neyland was held on -Tuesday week last. That the Society is making good progress, and it is to hoped that the membership will increase as the winter advances. That the proposed debating class wH! afford young men a grand opportunity of improving their _.Toung and conversational abilities. That a concert and tea are to be held shortly in con- nection with the Xeyland Baptist Chapel. That the proceeds will be devoted to the new chapel building fund. That the new police station at Xeyland is under-way, and quite time too. That Mr de Rutzen, the popular London magistrate, and brother of Baron de Rutzen, of Slebech, has gone to Tenby for a change. That there will be a football match to-morrow on the Prendergast Ground between the Haverfordwest Harle- quins and the Tenby Harlequins. Kick off at 3 o'clock. PERIWINKLE.

MOTHER AND CHILD DROWNED. On Tuesday morning the body of a married womad named Lathenne Phillips, aged oo. together with that of her infant child, seventeen months old, was fished out of the Biimingham Canal at Wolverhampton. The woman left home on Sunday night, taking the child with her, and stating that she was going to see her mother. They were not heard oi again until the dead bodies of thg mother and child were found m the canal. The inother had suffered from paiJJs in her head for some weeks past LIBERAL PARTY AND HOME RULE. The Marquess of XoAhampton. speaking on Tuesday at the Liverpool Reform Club, spoke upon the relation ol the Liberal party to Home Rule. He said, owing to what had taken place, it would be perfectly impossible for any self-respecting jx»]itiea] party to Jurce on the question of Home Rule in the immediate luture. A., to wheu Home Rule might again be in the lorefront ot the Liberal pro- gramme would depend on the Irish party and people. These remark* were loudly cheered. OLD FALSE TEETH BOT-GITT. Many lauies and gentlemen have by them old or dis- used false teeth, which might -Is well be turned into money. Messrs. n. n. &°J. n. Fraser, of Princes Street, Ipswich (established since. 1833), buy old false teeth. If you our teeth to them they will remit you by ],e,lI uf post the utmost value or, if preferred, they win make vou the best offer, and hold the teeth over for y. ,j- re.plv. If reference Jiecessar' v. apply to i'essrs. Bacon & Co, Bankers. Ipswich. 1326 A Syav; a Irishman, advertising in a local paper warning tradespeople against giving his wife credit winds up follows:—"And so please don't trust my wife, as I have never married hel."

MILFORD HAVEN. Our readers are respectfully invited to forward us notice of births, marriages, or deaths, which we insert free of charge, the only condition being that they are accompanied with the name and address of the sender. Communications left at our Milford office not later than Tuesday noon will ensure insertion in the next issue of the Telegraph. Every description of Plain and Ornamental PRINTING neatly and expeditiously executed at very low prices, at the J clegraph Printing Offices, Priory Street, Milford Haven. William Lewis & Sons Pro- prietors. DENTAL NOTICE. Messrs F. Owen & Co., Surgeon Dentists, now attend at Mr Bevans, stationer, 12a, Charles Street, MilfordHaven, every other Tuesday. See large advertisement. Consultation free. American Dentistry. Teeth fixed by the company's Patent Suction requiring no fastening. For eating and articulation they are equal to the natural teeth. NOETH ROAD CIIAPEL. The amount contributed by this church to the funds of the Pembrokeshire and Haverfordwest Infirmary was £2 7s Gd, being 11 17s Sid collected at the thanksgiving service, and the balance made up by friends. The proceeds from the sale of fruit, &c., were devoted to the church funds. SUDDEN DEATH OF SERGT. SQUELCH.—The news reached Milford on Monday morning that Sergt. Squelch, of the permanent staff of the Pembroke Artillery, (who had been for some years stationed at Fort Hubberston), had died suddenly at Pontypridd, whither he had pro- ceeded last week in the discharge of his duties as a recruiting ofifcer. DEATH OF MR. FRANCIS JONES.—A well-known and highly respected inhabitant of Milford passed away on Friday last in the person of Mr Francis Jones, retired shipbuilder, of Charles-street. Deceased, who was 65 years of age, had been in failing health for a long time past, and had suffered much. He was one of the deacons of the North Road Baptist Church, and had also held the office of superintendent of the Sunday school. Mr Jones was a staunch Liberal in politics, and took the greatest interest in everything pertaining to the advancement of the cause locally.—The funeral which took place yester- day was largely attended. The remains were first con- veyed to the North Road Chapel, where a short mamorial service was conducted by the pastor (Rev W. H. Pros- ser), who very feelingly referred to the loss which they as a church had sustained by the death of Mr Jones. The cortege then proceeded to Milford cemetery, the place of interment. POIJCE NEWS.— On Wednesday last—before Mr J. Whicher-J,i.me: Bt,rues, alias Sausage," was charged with sleeping on the deck of the S.S. Hydrangea, at Milford Docks, without visible means of subsistence.— Prisoner was found at 1.30 in the morning by a watch- man named Daniel Hercomb, who drew the attention of Dock Police-constable Rigby to him, by whom he was handed over to P.S. Brinn.—The prisoner was remanded to the petty sessions on Wednesday next. On Saturday —before Mr J. Whicher and Mr J. LI. Davies—Barnes (or Sausage) appeared again and was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the night ve -evious.-P.C Morris, No. 8, deposed that at 11.30 p.m. he met accused lying down in Hamilton Terrace in a state of drunkenness, he lifted him up, whereupon he became very disorderly, and called witness obscene names, witness then took him into custody. Fined 10s. and costs, or seven days hard labour no money being forthcoming prisoner was com- mitted.——On Monday—before Mr J. Whicher—Ernest Myhill, cook on board the trawler "Japonica," was brought up in custody charged with stealing various provisions, of the value of 10s. from the above ship, the property of Mr F. J. Sellick, on the 29th ult.—Formal evidence having been taken, prisoner was remanded to the next petty sessions. Bail was allowed. WESLEYAN CHURCH TEA AND CO-NCERT.-The annual tea and concert in connection with the above were held at the Masonic Hall, on Thursday last, Oct. 26th. Tea was provided at 5 o'clock, to which a goodly number sat down. The tables were ably presided over by Mrs Turner, Mrs Farrow, Mrs Wilkins, Misses Griffiths, Whicher, Carter, Newinson, Adams, and Do-ve, assisted by a host of willing helpers. The concert commenced at 8 o'clock, when there was a fair attendance, but not so good as might have been expected. The programme was opened with the pianoforte duet, "Hebrides" by the Misses Pallister, of Haverfordwest, which was performed with marked skill. Miss Edith Jago, of Pembroke Dock, was well received and of her contributions perhaps The valley by the sea" was the best. Mr D. Adams, as usual, gave the" Vision of the Cross" excellent treat- ment, while Miss Lily Tucker, Pembroke Dock, was heard to advantage, and for a splendid rendering of Dolly's Revenge" was accorded an undeniable encore. The items "The Light of the World" and "Mary" were also very creditably rendered by Mr J. Collins. Miss Pallister quite delighted the audience with her two recitations, "Home, sweet home" and "Editha's Burglar." The duties of accompanist were discharged by Miss Daisy Farrow, R.A.M., whose capabilities need no further commendation, being so well-known. The Choir, under the energetic leader, Mr C. W. Bridgwater, were at their best throughout the evening, the chief feature perhaps being a charming interpretation of the chorus "The Now Quay Fisherman's Song," all the pieces, however, were very well done. Appended is the programmePart I. Pianoforte duet, "Hebrides," Misses Pallister; anthem, Awake, put on thy strength (Dr. Greenish), the Choir: solo, He was despised," Miss Edith Jago; solo, "The Vision of the Cross," Mr D. Adams; recitation, Home, sweet home," Miss Pallister solo, Eternal rest," Miss Lily M. Tucker anthem, Resurrection," Choir solo, The Light of the World," Mr J. Collins. Part II. Part song, Rouse ye comrades," Male Voices: solo, "Tho Valley by the Sea," Miss Edith Jago glee, "May Day," Choir; solo, "Dolly's revenge," Miss Lily Tucker; recitation, Edithas' Burglar," Miss Pallister; chorus, The bells of St. Michael's tower," Choir; solo, Miss Lily M. Tucker solo, Mary," Mr J. Collins chorus, "The New Quay fisherman's song," Choir. The pro- ceedings were brought to a close with the singing of the National Anthem. The proceeds were in aid of the new church and school fund.

PRESENTATIONS TO A POPULAR OFFICIAL A representative gathering assembled at the Lord Nelson Hotel on Thursday evening last to bid adieu to our highly respected townsman Mr Alfred Burgess, on his leaving Milford Haven to take up a more impor- tant position as postmaster at Launceston (Cornwall). The testimonial which was presented to Mr Burgess con- sisted of a massive gold curb albert with match box appendage, suitably engraved, and was subscribed for by Mr Burgess's many friends amongst the tradespeople and buyers on the Fish Market, who desired to shew him on his promotion, some tangible proof of the respect in which he was held in the town. Messrs Thomas Cleaver and J. T. Hill acted as joint secretaries to the testimonial committee. Dr Gritfith, J.P., C.C., was called upon to make the presentation, and in doing so made a very appropriate speech, in which he paid a very high tribute to the ability of Mr Burgess as a postmaster, and to the great impartiality with which he at all times discharged his duties. Mr Burgess had been at Milford Haven seven years, and great had been the changes and improvements effected during that period in the postal arrangements, &c., of the town and district, and he felt sure Mr Bur- gess carried with him the good wishes of the townspeople generally for the future success of himself, Mrs Burgess, and familv. Dr Griffith in handing Mr Burgess the chain said he hoped he (Mr Burgess) would live long to wear it, and that it would remind him in years to come of his friends at Milford Haven. Mr Burgess in responding thanked Dr Griffith and the subscribers generally for the handsome testimonial given him, and said he felt sure he should often cherish in years to come pleasant recollections of his residence in Milford Haven. Other gentlemen present having spoken the meeting terminated, the best possible wishes being re-iterated by those present for Mr Burgess's future success. Another presentation was made to Mr Burgess on be- half of the Post Officials connected with Milford Haven. The meeting for the purpose was held at the Post Office on Wednesday evening last, when a handsome marble clock was presented to him. The presentation was made by the medical officer, Dr. G. Griffith, J.P. He spoke in high terms of the recipient of the presentation, and said lus term of good service at Milford Haven reflected upon him the highest credit. (Applause).—Mr Burgess suitably rephod -Mr T. J. Chalindcr, supervising clerk, said it afforded him very great pleasure to be present that evening, and testify to the ready manner iu which the donations were contributed towards the token which they presented to Mr Burgess and which proved the good feelings that existed between Mr Burgess and" his officers. (Hear, hear). He wished him good health and every prosperity in his new sphere of labour.—Mr J. Sheard, provincial clerk in charge, spoke in compli- mentary terms of Mr Burgess, aud expressed the great pleasure it had given him to be present that evening.— Mr John Williams, senior town postman, also spoke in high terms of Mr Burgess and regretted his departure after spending so many years iiiiol,it tbeni.-After au enjoyable evening was spent the usual votes of thanks vvei.e passed, and the proceedings terminated by singing the National Anthem.

Melancholy Occurrence at Milford Haven. THE INQUEST. We deeply regret to have to announce the death of Lily Frances Keeping, only child of Mr Alfred Keeping, manager of the Lord Nelson Hotel, MilfordHaven, which took place on Wednesday last. Owing to the circum- stances surrounding the sad occurrence, the authorities considered it necessary to hold an inquest and post- mortem examination. Mr Herbert J. E. Price held the inquiry on Friday at the Lord Nelson Hotel, when the evidence of a number of witnesses was taken. Dora Palmer, servant at the hotel, deposed that the deceased was about seven years old. On Friday about five o'clock she complained of pains in the stomach, and about seven she put her to bed. She was sick in the stomach nearly all night. She stayed in bed on Saturday, and was very quiet all Saturday and Sunday and said she felt sore from her right shoulder to her leg. She cried when she was moved. On Sunday afternoon the doctor was called and he attended her till she died, about twenty past four on the 25th. She told witness that on Friday she wanted to go up the garden at Mrs Meyler's School, and a little boy, named Vivian Jones, pushed her and she fell against a piece of wood. She said he also hit her on the leg with a stick. She stated this when asked by the Doctor, and when asked why she did not tell before she said she did not think that she was suffering from that. Vivian Jones, examined, deposed that he knew the de- deceased by sight, and he never pushed or hit her as described. At the time he was supposed to have done this he was in the school tidying the books. Mrs Mary A. Meyler deposed that deceased was a pupil at her school for about fifteen months. She had no knowledge of any accident and no complaint was made to her. The first she heard of it was from Mrs Keeping on Monday afternoon. Vivian Jones was monitor last week and he had to put things tidy when the others were out playing. He did not leave the school at all on Fri- day at play-time. On Friday morning when she was putting the children in line there was some pushing and deceased fell on the walk. She slipped on her hand but got up at once. She rubbed her hand and said she was not hurt. She came into the school with the others and seemed all right. There were no steps for her to fall over. Dr. Matchett deposed to seeing the deceased on Sunday afternoon. He found symptoms of peritonitis and treated her for this. She got gradually weaker until on Tuesday night she became unconscious in which state she remained until her death. On making a post-mortem examination with Dr. Griffith they found a laceration three-fourths of an inch in length and a quarter of an inch in breadth on the liver. The cause of death would be peritonitis due to this. A fall might have caused it. He did not think it was due to direct violence as in that case he should expect to find an external mark. Dr. George Griffith corroborated last witness. He said it was possible the laceration referred to could have been caused by an accident such as Mrs Meyler had described. The jury returned a verdict of death from peritonitis, but there was not sufficient evidence to show to what cause it was due. The funeral of the deceased took place on Monday afternoon, the place of interment being Steynton Church- yard, when a large number assembled to pay the last tribute of respect. The coffin was covered with beautiful wreaths sent by sympathising friends. Mr and Mrs Keeping desire through the medium of the Telegraph to offer their sincere thanks for tie expressions of sympathy extended to them on the occasion of the sad bereavement above referred to. I

VISITING, WEDDING & MOURNING CARDS In a Great Variety and at very Low Prices can be obtained at the Telegraph Printing Offices, Bridge- street, Haverfordwest, or Priory Street, Milford Haven. A choice selection of Cards sent free be return of post for intending purchasers to choose from. i——— .—-———-

WEATHER AND THE CROPS. (From Monday's Mark Lane Express.") J Le heavy rainfall of the last five days has put an end for the time being to ploughing and drilling, at the same time that it has rendered threshing inex- pedient. With regard to trade, the large shipments ot wheat from the Atlantic have had a weakening cffect on trade in the country. Californiau and Australian wheat does not move off very rapidly either at or Liverpool. It is too near in general eharaetor to fill" white English to be in favour at 31-s. The new home (;rop wheat is pressed on sale at 2'Js 2d per quarter. Russian wheat, when strong and good, as much of it is, sells well, but the supply is not good, and Indian red sorts arc also looked up through, scarcity. The market for English malting barley is not quite so good as it was a fort- night ago. The demand for oats is fair, but can scarcely be called vigorous. Maize, despite its recent rise on the British market, is still thn cheaper by far of all the leading cereals for its price. Hay and clover, despite rains, are held for a slight advauce.

"BETWEEN YOU AND ME." Following the local Municipal Elections, which will be decided this evening, the next event is the election of Mayor for the ensuing year. Upon this matter I think there are not two opinions and if Sir Charles Philipps will consent to wear the chain of office for another year it will, I am sure, be unani- mously accorded to him. For two years he has presided over the affairs of the Town Council with tact and conspicuous ability; he has shown a thorough interest in the welfare of the town, and in short he has been an ideal Mayor. There is, moreover, an especial reason why the continuity of the chair- manship should not be broken at the present time. We are on the eve of taking a very vital step, in all the intricate details of which Sir Charles is not only thoroughly au courant, but he has shown the deepest personal concern and anxiety that it should be carried through, and, what is all-important, that it; should be carried through successfully. It will, therefore, be a distinct advantage to the town if Sir Charles is able to see his way to accept office for the ensuing year. The formal election takes place to-morrow week. oJ(, 'X- it is pretty safe to say that the last meeting of the Town Council has brought the solution of the great water question appreciably nearer. I never like to prophesy—unless I know—and to prophesy in connection with a matter which has baffled two generations is especially dangerous; but I think I might stake my prophetic reputation on the certainty that within a period of say three years those of us who are left in Haverfordwest will enjoy the blessing of a full and ample water supply. The decision of the last meeting justifies this assumption. Three years is no doubt a long time for the hope to be deferred, but we can wait so long as we have waited for the last three score years. jt- The Council has now definitely decided to do the right thing, and I only regret the decision was not unanimous. Two experts will immediately be engaged to ransack the country within a radius of ten miles for a source of supply, and having found it they will stake their professional reputation on its yielding an adequate supply, capable of being gravitated to the town. There is hardly any doubt that such a source is available, but it is of the utmost importance that the rate- payers should have the highest expert opinion upon it before the vast expenditure which the work will necessarily entail is entered upon. ? *:If.:If. Two sources have been named over and over again. Plumbstone, which is about four miles from the town, and Little New- castle, which is double that distance. I re- frain from expressing any opinion on either, and the majority of the Council did likewise. That is what the experts are paid to do. It is true that there may be other sources. That also will be for the experts, and as they already know the outline of the district pretty well they will not have much difficulty in determining it. Meantime we are not to be allowed to live for these three years on the hope of what is to come. A new engine for the pumping station at Barnsley has been procured, and this, it is expected, will provide the needful supply during the interim. At the same meeting of the Council there was served up anything but a pleasant description of the abattoir and the adjoin- ing locality. Dr. Brigstocke grew quite elo- quent over the condition into which it had degenerated. A dumping ground for all sorts of filth-that was his graphic descrip- tion of the vicinity of the Slaughter-house which ought of all places in the town to be the cleanest and most sanitary. And then he went into details and told of the broken medicine bottles which came from what source of contagion no one knew, the waste paper and rubbish, the sweepings of barbers' shops, and above all the long tresses of female hair." There is something quite touching about the fate of these "tresses." The Sanitary Committee was at once di- rected to visit the place, and it is to be hoped that by this time a state of affairs which seems to have been really serious has been remedied. 1(- In the matter of sport for the coming season I am glad to note that Haverfordwest is not likely to lack anything. Football Clubs, both Association and Rugby, are in full swing, and the Hockey Club has also commenced operations. All these have mani- fested a good deal of vitality and we may look forward to some interesting contests during the season. The Hockey and Rugby Clubs have secured an excellent pitch in Prender- gast, only a few minutes walk from the town, where I witnessed a fine dashing game on Thursday afternoon between the Harlequins I and Pembroke Dock. The 'Quins showed some excellent material, and though defeated by a small margin they have nothing to re- proach themselves with. The people of Milford Haven know a good public official when they find one, and this week they have given practical demonstration that they know how to appreciate him. For the past seven years they have had the advantage of the services of Mr Alfred Burgess as their postmaster, and on his departure to take up a position of greater responsibility as postmaster of Laun- ceston (Cornwall), they paid him an ex- tremely graceful, but thoroughly deserved compliment, by presenting him with a valu- able testimonial. Mr Burgess showed himself a capable man, and enterprising so far as a department notorious for red-rtapeism would permit of enterprise and the many improve- ments effected in the local postal adminis- tration are monuments to his ability. The fact that the entire postal staff joined the public in complimenting Mr Burgess con:- clusively proves that the carrying out of a progressive and enlightened policy in a public office is not inconsistent with the maintenance of a perfect esprit de corps. I congratulate Mr Burgess on his well-merited advancement, and trust that the present move is but a stepping-stone to higher things. Hero-worship is perhaps the weakness of the hour. But the hero that the present day idolator wants is the one who. plays the greatest havoc with the Boers. For this reason such deeds performed at our own doors are liable to be overlooked. Yet It is rarely we see such a beautiful example of heroism as that which was shown the other day at the little Welsh village of Brynamman. A lad got into a disused coal drift in search of his dog and was at once overcome by the foul gas. His father upon hearing this in-imedi- ately rushed to the rescue and he too was rendered unconscious. When rescued both were quite dead. The story is pathetic and tragic beyond all conception, but it s hows that all the heroes are not in South Africa THE INVETERATE GOSSIP,

Rose-lnnes Divorce Suit. In the Divorce Division on Monday (before Mr Justice ISarnes) the case of Rose-Innes was mentioned. This was a, case III which Mrs Cosmo Rose-lnnes (a daughter of Mr Bowei-i- Rowlands, Q. C.) had obtained a decree nisi from Mr Cosmo Rose-lnnes, a barrister.—M r Inderwick, O.G., who appeared for the petitioner, said that Mrs Cosmo Kosa-Innes obtained a decree nisi on the 31st of July last. Since then tho husband and wife had come together again. There had been mutual explanations, and the result was the petitioner and respondent were living to- gether agam. He had, therefore, to move on behalf of Mrs Cosmo Rose-lnnes that the decree nisi be rescinded, and the petition be dismissed.—The decree nisi was accordingly rescinded, and the petition was dismissed.

The Gleu-Spcy and Strathniill Distilleries, situated in tlie finest Whisky-producing district of Scotland, arc the property of W. & A. Gilbey, and the Whisky is made from Home-grown Barley only Glen-Spey 8'6, and" Strathmill," 3/G, sold by W. & A. Gilbey's Agents in every town.

MONDAY'S DISASTER. FURTHER DETAILS. Sir George White telegraphs to the War Office further details of Mondays disaster. Two boulders rolled from a hill, and rifle shots stampeded the infantry ammunition mules. The stampede spread to the battery mules which got off with the whole of the gun equipment and the greater portion of the small arm ammunition was similarly lost. The Infantry battalion thereupon seized the hill with little opposition, and fortified it with sangars and stone walls. At dawn the Boers commenced skirmishing. At half-past nine the enemy was strictly reinforced and pushed the attack with great energy. The fire became very searching and the enemy pressed to short range, the British losses becoming very numerous. At three o'clock the ammunition was practically ex- hausted, and the position was captured, the survivors of the column falling into the enemy's hands. The enemy treated our wounded with great humanity. The failure of the column was due to the mules stam- peding and loss of ammunition. The security of Ladysmith is in no way affected.

DISASTER AT LADYSMITH BOERS CAPTURE TWO CRACK REGIMENTS. BRITISH LOSS, 2,000 MEN. J SIR GEORGE WHITE'S MESSAGE. I THE RESPONSIBILITY WAS MINE." I Unquestionably the gravest news from South Africa since the outbreak of the war was received in London on Tuesday morning, when a telegraphic despatch reached the War Office from General Sir George White reporting a serious disaster to British arms such as has not been recorded in the annals of the Empire for upwards of half a century. In his telegram to to the Army headquarters on Monday afternoon announcing that the greater part of our forces at Ladysmith had moved out against the enemy, and having driven the Boers back several miles had returned to the cantonments after several hours' fighting, General White made mention of the fact that the column which he sent out on Sunday night to guard his left flank for the operations on the following day had not returned to camp, but he added that he expected them back that evening. The column consisted of a Mountain Battery (X o. 10), with two infantry battalions, these being the Royal Irish Fusiliers and the Gloucester- shire Regiment, altogether about 2,000 men, and the general's reference to their non-return bore such a striking smolarity to the message regarding the 18th Hussars after the battle of Glencoe that fears were felt, if not expressed, that the sequel in their case might prove equally tragic. Unhappily the worst apprehensions were only too speedily realised, for early on Tuesday morning the officials at the War Office received a telegram from Sir George White stating that the column was surrounded in the hills, and after suffering heavy loss from the fire of the Boers were compelled to capitulate. He added that he accepted the sole responsibility for the plan in the carrying out of which the disaster occurred, and that no blame whatever attached to the troops, as the position in which they found themselves was untenable. The news, promptly conveyed to the public by the evening papers, caused the most profound sensation all over the country. The only thing tending to lighten the prevailing gloom was a telegram from Cape Town conveying the welcome intelligence that General Sir Redvers Buller had reached tb ei-Q sa f el -v iild laiide(i oil morning, his oppor- there safely and landed on Tuesday morning, his oppor- tune arrival at so critical a juncture being everywhere hailed with intense satisfaction. The arrival of Sir Redvers Buller should be followed within about a week by the landing of over 20,000 officers and men. Befuie next Sunday, however, the troops to arrive i,n South Africa will be quite incapable oi lliaLenally augmenting the present force at Ladysniith. Oil Tuesday the Gaika landed at Eait Londoii, Xatal, 11 officers, I warrant oijicer, 230 men, 120 horses, and 53 waggons, comprising all ammunition column of the arrnv corps, and tle,e should be speedily followed by the detachment of Xew South Wales Lancers in the Xiiievah, Until the arrival of the transports Roslin Castle York- shire, Harlech Castle, Lismore Castle, and Manila, the bulk of the army corps will not be available. These vessels having all left England about the same time, on the 20th inst,, should commence to arrive at Cape Town on Sunday and Monday next, and be followed at frequent intervpjsby theXubia, Gascon, Goorkha, Malta, PavGllia. Oxiental, Hawarden Castle, Aurania, Armenia, Xen-adic, aud America, in the order given. The combined capacity of these vessels is conveying 1,089 officers, 17,oG3 non- commissioAed officers and men, 1,621 horses, aud an im- mense amount of ammunition, war stores, dec. At 8 o'clock Press representatives were authoritatively At 8 o'clock Press v evj ;ce that no cables had ,irrived informed at the War Office that no cables had arrived beyond those posted earlier in the day. Telegraphic de- lay was reported, and it was very improbable that any list of casualties would be received during the night. In some quarters the wording u Gejicral White's message, I formed the plan 111 carrying out which the disaster occurred, and am alone responsible for the plan," has been regarded as a sort of placing himself m the hands of the Government in case they should desire his recall. But ihe official view is not all in this sense. It is thought rather that the general hns acted in the chivalrous, sportsmanlike spirit that is usual with him, and which showed itself the other da) in giving the direction of the fighting at Fiaiuts Laagte, and the credit of it to General French, although present in person. In othei words, it is suggested that General White's message means, "I thought my plan a good one, and it has proved bad. The troops and their officers fallowed out the plan in pursuance of orders and are not to blame. It would have been easy foi hnn to shift at least a portion of the blame, and to plead the difficulties of the position and the overwhelming numbers in extenuation. He has chosen to do otherwise, and will be all the more respected for it.

Opinion in Military Circles. DIVERGEXT VIEWS. A BLUNDER OF AX INEVITABLE IXCI- DEXT r" Interviews obtained by a representative of the Press Association with a number of influential officers seem to show that there is some difference of opinion in military circles as to the significance of the unfavourable news. A well-known general, whose distinguished record in- cludes the Indian Mutiny and the Siege of Lucknow, and who stipulates that his name shall be withheld, says:- I fear the deplorable news as to the capture of two of our regiments is only one more proof of serious blunder- ing. Although General White is a good regimental commander he certainly does not seem to excel in strategy or in the management of a big division. I regard the Glencoe business as another example of blundering upon the part of some of the officers. Why were the enemy allowed to take up a position on the hill and to get their guns placed r Surely our scouts and patrols shpuld have seen what was going on, especially as five big guns could not be taken up without lights. Yet apparently nothing was done until the enemy began to shell the next morn- ing, and now, with regard to this morning's reports of what is admittedly a disaster, it seems inexcusable that the two regiments which the Boers captured should have been allowed to get separated from the main body, es- pecially when there was a considerable army swarming against them. At least l. )00 appear to have been taken by the enemy, which must not only cripple and dishearten our remaining forces, but will also encourage the enemv. In speaking thus plainly, I know I am expressino- the opinion of many experienced military officers with whom I have spoken on the subj ect. We are rather disgusted that the War Office has prematurely allowed the issue of glowing reports of victories without being equally prompt and frank in disclosing circumstances calculated to dis- count these reports. It is not conceivable that the present misfortune can throw any doubt upon our eventual success in the campaign, but its immediate effect is most unfortunate. Lieutenant-Colonel Terry, who has had some military exp.- rience in the Transvaal, takes a more optimistic- view. He says Much as all military men and the pub- lic must regret this disaster, I regard it as important only in the sense of limiting the aggressive activity of our troops against the overwhelming force with which they are confronted. It will no doubt cause the general to reserve his strength within more purely defensive lines. Ladysmith is a favourable and carefully chosen position which has no doubt been in process of strengthening for many weeks past, and is not likely to be ahandoned. One great ad vantage of our opponents is their extreme molality. The Boer Army consists in the main of mounted intantry, which is somewhat difficult for us to locate, and which can more easily than infantry be quickly con- centrated in force at a given point. Probably General "W hite intended a reconnaissance in force, but' owing to the extreme mobility of the Boer force, his detachments were cut off, and captured after a more severe engage- ment than they had any reason to anticipate. This is one of the almost inevitable incidents of what is known as offensive-defensive tactics when pluekily conducted. Such warfare must necessarily be very adventurous. I doubt whether the commanding officer will he able in the immediate future to pursue the same tactics under the changed circumstances. he will have to stand more upon the defensive, and no doubt he is well provided in that respect. Unless the Boers are able to collect a greater number of heavy guns than they appear to possess they cannot be expected to carry such a strong position as Ladysmith. I do not think that to. day's news need cause us depression. The loss of two regiments is not so material to a defensive army in a fortified position as if they were entirely in the open field. It is apparently part of the Boer tactics to take a position from which they can retire into the arms of a second line which, instead of attacking in front, comes round in horn-shape for a surrounding movement. It was probably in this way that our two unfortunate regiments were cut off from their main supports. Major-Gen. Webber, who ^ei\e.d as assistant adjutant and quartermaster-general of the western lines of com- munication «.n the last South African War. said to a Centval Xews representative on Tuesday night that no one could form an accurate opinion on the situation created at Ladysmith except those on the spot. The British public must recollect that through their represen- tatives they placed 10,000 n.en hi the power of 30,000 of the enemy quite as guod fighters as ourselves, and more mobile alsu; and that General Yule's force after their march were ouly fit fi -)i, a week's rest. He thought Sir George White did quite right in attacking. ——————-————————— WAR ITEMS I A Southampton t<-ii--g«-ain says that Chief-Gunnery- Instructor Richard-Marks, H.M.S. Australia, whilst j proceeding W his ship yesterday, received news that he as ordered to the St. George, ordered to the Cape as one 01 the Flying Squadron. The news excited him so much that he fell down wd died while being conve" yed to Xetley Hospital. During the past two days large drafts of horses have been requisitioned by the Government from the London General Omnibus Company and the London Road Car Company, in accordance with a long-standing arrange- ment which provides that these two companies shall hold their stables at Irie disposal of the War Office ill times of need. The cost of retaining the option of seizure is understood to be ten shillings per horse per annum, and as the companies own many thousands of horses the annual sum ended upon this form of provision is very huge. It is not only in times of war that the Govern- ) ment avail themselves of the option they possess. Horses have been requisitioned in connection with the autumn manoeuvres, and have done good transport service on Salisbury Plain. They are, of course, quite unsuitable as chargers, but are admirable for transport purposes, and might upon emergency do useful work in the haulage of artillery. The labours of the manoeuvres sometimes tell very sevt-rely upon the horses, and valuable animals have been returned in a condition which has rendered them quite worthless for the purposes of bus traction; so that if the Government pay the capitation fee upon a large number of hObes. they er require, they cvidclotl j get good value out 01 OthUb. It i,? unl'ke" th t Y corses taken to South Africa will ever je;u¡;" omnibu. work in London, in ordet* I'D their takin'g5s ''of between ._O,(J.) ?d i:.u u(.) a week, thec?ane? win ,beund.rt?neec?yoir?t.oring their .taf.Ics to the ilcl1i'l-l-l?lt staii(l:ii-,l I nder the circumstances an increase in the value of the particular class of horse require(I is practically inevitable. (, I  I bd<4X s PAHA]ALDEIINHOT. An A.dci'biioT correspondent states that the most es tra- oidmaiy military parade ever held was that oil the Long l dlle\ "11 Monday afternoon, when 1-^ traction ( ana about 40 truck* were- tested and inspected t) t heir embarkation for South Africa. I lie cn^-p es were nf various sizes i,ii(i tvpes, aud the trucks weivbiu't to convey all possible war material from loose grain to iron pipes. There were present to see the trials, the Duke of Connaught, Prince Louis Napoleon, and Prince Victor Napoleon. The Long Valley, with its great stretches of sand and rock, was admirably suited to the trials, as similar country will have to be traversed in South Africa. The engines with trains of truckt were started off across country, taking hillock and ditch in their way in marvellous fashion. Some of the ditches had steep banks of between two and three feet, yet these were negotiated with safety, and. although the wheels sank often to the hub in the wet ground at the bottom of i the ditches, yet nothing stopped their progress. A speed I of eight miles an hour was obtained, and the display ended with a march past. Some twenty-four engines are to be dispatched, those not on parade having the finishing touches put to them. REVOLVERS FOR THE ARMY. Messrs. Webley, of Birmingham, have received an order from the War Office for 4,000 military revolvers of the pattern which the firm have invariably made for the Transvaal. In the past very large consignments of re- volvers have been sent to the Transvaal. A feature of the local gun trade is the large number of special guns sent to Englishmen at the Cape for their private use. AMMUXITIOX FROM PEMBROKE DOCK. One million rounds of Le-Enfield ammunition packed in safety cases were on Tuesday despatched from the Hut Encampment, Pembroke Dock, to Woolwich for shipment to South Africa.

HAVERFORDWEST TOWN COUNCIL ELECTION. The polling commenced this morning, at eight o'clock and is proceeding steadily, but without any feature of particular interest. The polling closes at eight this evening after which the counting will take place. The result may be looked for about nine o'clock. A heary poll is expected.