Papurau Newydd Cymru
Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru
6 erthygl ar y dudalen hon
[All Rights Reserved.] THE…
[All Rights Reserved.] THE TEMPTATION OF ADRIAN NORREYS. BY 'IAN ASHTON. AUTHOR OF "Love's Reward," "A Spirit's Curse" &c., &c- CHAPTER V. I "SPEECH IS SILVERN; SILENCE IS GOLDEN." "1 SHALL have a pleasant task this afteriiotn, Miss MacKeith;" said Adrian next day, at lunch. "Mother is driving over to Hackness to make some calls, and she has given the children a holiday half. They are going to spend it in the good old English pastime of archery. Have you ever shot with the bow and arrow ?" No, never," said Vida. But I have ever thought it must be a delightful amusement." It was more than that in old times," said Adrian, laughing. "When we lost the battle of Hastings, chiefly through the great superiority of the Norman archers, the value of the bow began to be understood. Edward the Fourth, Richard the Third, and other monarchs, passed Acts of Parlia- ment encouraging the manufacture and use of the bow, and it was only the introduction of gun- powder which gradually rendered the bow useless as. a weapon of war. But you shall try how you like it as an instrument of sport. Let us go down to the field." Arrived there, they found a servant waiting with all the necessaries of first-class archery. He had erected the targets opposite each other, at a dis- tance of thirty yards only. This was a short range, but it was to suit the capacities of Olga and little Elsie, not to mention Vida, who was entirely a novice. Now let me equip you for the contest," said Adrian smiling. There is a great deal to be done besides just picking up the bow and shooting away. You must first have your quiver;" and tak- ing up the long leather pouch, he filled it with arrows, and before Vida was aware of his inten- tion, passed the strap round her slender waist and buckled it closely. She coloured slightly, but said nothing. And this is the brace. It goes round the arm to preserve it from the violent stroke of the string when loosened; besides, it lets the string glide more easily along it without being hindered by the folds of the sleeve," fixing it in its proper position as he spoke. Dear me," said Vida, with a smile; I had no idea all these things were wanted in archery. What next, pray ?" The shooting-glove, Miss Vida," he replied, in the same gay tone; "you would get, on badly without it. No, you must really let me fasten it on for you; you would not do it rightly the first time. "Please," he said entreatingly, but firmly, and looking straight into her eyes. She dropped them before that gaze of evident admiration, and Bilently allowed him to fit her with the shooting- glove. As Adrian Norreys passed her taper fingers into the three leather stalls of the glove, and fastened the strap around the girl's soft, white wrist, he was conscious of a slight thrill passing over him, and he lingered a trifle longer over the business than was absolutely necessary. Then the tassel and grease box having been hung from the belt, com- pleted her outfit, and Adrian briefly explained their use. Now take up position," he said. Oh, no, that will never do. See, stand thus, left side to the target; stand quite erect; left foot advanced, bow in left hand, grasped firmly. Draw the arrow to your ear, and in aiming don't look along the line of the arrow; that is the great mistake young archers make; look right at the centre of your target, now shoot. Good, you have hit the target with your very first shot, and that's what many don't do. I congratulate you, Vida." Was it consciously or unconsciously that Adrian had advanced in twenty-four hours' time from "Miss McKeith" to "Miss Vida," and then to Vida ?" Who shall say ? Yet his companion, after a quick glance at him from the depths of her lovely eyes, suffered the freedom to pass unchecked. My successful shot is entirely due to your skil- ful tuition," she remarked. I should never have atruck the target if you had not instructed me so well. And even now I have only just succeeded, the arrow is on the extreme lower edge." Yes, an outer white, as we call it, value one point in the scoring. Never mind, it is a capital beginning, and in time you will make your first gold, which counts nine." I hope so. But will you tell me why I must look straight at the target when aiming, and not down the line of the arrow." Because the hand follows the eye, not the eye the hand. The most successful archers say that if from the very beginning of learning to shoot you resist the temptation to aim with the arrow, in- stead of the eye-your hand will adjust itself to the angle required. But let us go on now. Olga and Elsie are impatient for their turn." They shot for some time with varying success, except Aerian, who did this, as he did most things he undertook, in excellent form. When all their arrows were expended, and sticking in the opposite target, or lying around it; they sauntered leisurely towards it. The children ran on ahead, and busied themselves in searching for lost arrows, leaving Adrian and Vida alone. Did you ever teach Miss Sybil Clare to shoot p" she said suddenly, turning a mirthful glance upon him. Adrian started, and felt the hot flush rising in his face. He little expected such a question, and was completely embarrassed for a moment. Ah, you saw the paragraph, then ? he stam- mered. Of course. It was in the most prominent part of the paper* I should indeed have been blind not to notice it." Will you tell me why you did not mention this yesterday to my mother or sister ? I mean, why did you observe a rigid silence about it ?" You told us of your accident," returned Vida, steadily. "You said nothing of ypizr companion, nor how you rescued her; it was a brave act; I admire you for it." Adrian liked this part of her sentence very much. As you did not mention anything else, I thought you had your reasons for silence; and when I, by chance, tecssme possessed of your secret, I did not think I had any right to speak of what I knew. It may appear in some other paper, but I do not feel call&d on to interfere with your private affairs. Still, I think you should reward me a little for my silence, and my reward shall be the gratitude of feminine curiosity. Did you ever teach that lady the science of archery ?" "Never," he replied earnestly. For Adrian felt that he could answer that far with a clear con- science. Never. I met her accidentally at a party in London, I was thrown into her company two or three times afterwards, and, rather, foolishly perhaps, I consented to take her for a row on the river yesterday afternoon. lean tell you this much about her, that like so many actresses, she is married, and Sybil Clare is her stage name." Adrian thought this was a master stroke of diplomacy on his part. To tell Vida that Sybil Clare was married (strictly true, of course,) would be to divert possible awkward suspicion from him- self. Vida's next words, however, showed him the needlessness of his volunteered information. Very likely," she answered carelessly. I don't particularly want to know more about her. I admit I was curious to know if she had ever had the benefit of lessons from you in the use of the bow and arrow. You have been good enough to answer me. Let the subject drop." "Certainly," he said. "But not till I have thanked you heartily for the delicacy and kind reserve you have shown. I am greatly obliged to you. Don't think I am in love with this person; or engaged to her. She is no more to me than a mere acquaintance." I can quite believe it," said Vida. And they resumed their pastime. "After all, it is true," mused Adrian. "I am not in love with Sybil Clare; emphatically not. I am not engaged to her; only married, confound it. She is no more to me than a mere acquaintance, that is sadly true. If I could only get rid of her aI easily as a tiresome, mere acquaintance, how happy I should be. But what a charming girl Miss Vida i«?" 80 now there was a new bond between Adrian Norreys and Vida MacKeith-the tie of a mutual secret, with interested forbearance on her side and grateful admiration on his. And if Adrian asked himself occasionally what this shared secret was likely to lead to in the end he did not trouble himself to work out the problem to its final development. "Sufficient for the day is the evil thereof," he thought. I CHAPTER VI. I OVER THE PRECIPICE. THE days passed rapidly by, and Adrian Norreys found himself more and more attracted by the gentle goodness and sweet calm beauty of Vida McKeith. He flattered himself that the feeling of admiration he could not restrain from showing was not disagreeable to her, but he would have been more elated still, had he known the truth which Vida successfully concealed as yet, that she loved hjjfla with her whole heart and soul. Yes, Vida loved him, and a new happiness was added to her life. Nature seemed more beautiful, mankind more loveable, because of her affection for Adrian. In her desk reposed her locked diary, with the one single entry which she permitted herself to write on the subject. It consisted simply of a man's Christian name, and four lines of verse-a translation of Alfred de Musset's exquisite lines: I ADRIAN." Let no one ask me how it came tc pass, Enough that I am happy, that for me A livelier emerald twinkles in the grass, A brighter sapphire melts into the sea." That was all, but it was enough, and more than enough to tell the whole story. But though Adrian could not read the secret entry carefully, locked away in Vida's desk, be was des- tined speedily to know the truth it told. A mere chance, an unexpected accident brought on the double crisis which was to so seriously influence the future of their two lives. And it came about in this way. The children want to sail their ship, this after- noon, Adrian," said his mother, one morning, just before lunch, will you do down with them to the little bay, and see they are all right ? I should feel easier if you are there." Willingly, mother," said Adrian, secretly won- dering if Vida was to be one of the party, but not venturing to ask. He wondered more than once lately, at the in- difference which his mother had shown to his being so much in the society of the governess. True, the children were always engaged with her during the morning; but the afternoons were free, and it was seldom that Adrian, Vida, Olga and Elsie were not together part of the afternoon at least. Lawn tennis, archery excursions into Scarborough, long country walks amid the lovely scenery of the neighbourhood; there were abundant opportunities of companionship for the party. And except when Mrs. Norreys took Vida for a drive, calling on country neighbours, she seemed to care little whether the girl were in her son's company or not. What the deuce does it mean ?" soliloquised Adrian to himself one day, over an after breakfast series of cigarettes in the shrubberies. It must be one of two things. Either the dear old mother thinks that I should never marry a governess, or that she is quite aware of Vida's goodness, and fitness to be any man's wife, and so doesn't care if it does come off. But which is it, I wonder. It was the latter opinion which was the true ex- planation of Mrs. Norreys' lax guardianship. With a mother's keen insight, she detected the earliest signs of ripening attachment between her son and Vida MacKeith. She took serious counsel with herself on discovering this, but on careful con- sideration was quite satisfied to let matters take their own way without interference. Adrian might do worse," she reflected. He need not look for money; he will have an ample income of his own, and he is not an extravagent youth. Vida has birth. She comes of a very good old Scotch family, though they were not well off. She is a lady in herself she has a most lovable, admirable nature, and is as good as gold.' If they really care for each other, that is the great thing, since I see no objection to such a match." And thus it came about that all the circum- stances smiled favourably on Adrian's love suit, except that one dark, sinister im- movable obstacle which blocked the smooth course of true love, his wife. If he had only seri- ously considered things for a minute he would have realised, not only the impossibility, but the unfair- ness, the wrong to Vida of winning her love, when he could not honourably offer his own in return. But with all his many good points of character, this was just the fatal weakness of Adrian's disposi- tion. He never liked to steadily face any diffi- culty, to consider any embarrassment. He hated worry, he often said. Work-steady, hard con- tinued work-he could meet cheerfully and master, and this quality enabled him to take honours at the University. But in all difficulties he postponed meeting the crisis as long as he possibly could. Something is sure to happen, which will clear up matters," he invariably hoped. Events help to settle themselves. Why worry unnecessarily about it. Something is due to time and good fortune." Thus he let himself drift on with poor innocent unknowing Vida, till the storm broke, and he was compelled to face the terrible dilemma into which he brought himself. And then began the Tempta- tion of Adrian Norreys. Olga and Elsie had run upstairs for boat, a beautifully rigged small schooner, to sail which was one of their greatest delights. They now ap- peared in the hall, with their miniature vessel, more leisurely followed by Vida, whose heighten- ing colour betrayed the secret pleasure she felt that Adrian was to be one of the party. The place selected to sail the Fairy" was by the side of a reef of rocks which ran out for nearly a quarter of a mile into the sea. About a hundred yards from the sand, the rugged, shelving side of this reef became smooth and perpendicular, re- sembling a wall or pier, and it was here that the two girls had determined to sail their ship. What a curious formation," Vida said, wonder- ingly, as she stood on the edge of the natural wall, and peered down at the swiftly-moving current) some four or five feet below. "Rather," replied Adrian, as he unrolled a ball of stout cord, and fastened it to a ring let into the the deck of the schooner. But take care of your- self, Vida, and don't stand too near the brink; the seaweed is slippery, and if you take a header down below here you'll plump into ten feet of water at least, to say nothing of a strong current." He had come to call her Vida, now, as a matter of course. The old formal address, "Miss MacKeith," was laid aside for ever. And if she did fall in Ady," said Elsie, cheer- fully, "you'd jump in and pull her out again, wouldn't you ?" Vida found it impossible to resist one meaning glance at his face. That swift look said plainly, Would you do as much for me as for the actress ?" And she was satisfied with the answer she read in his eyes, for she quickly lowered her own." "Now tjlen for it," cried Adrian, gaily, and watching his opportunity he gently swung the model schooner down on the waves. The beautiful little craft bent gently over to one side, then as the fresh breeze filled her mainsail, foresail, and fore- staysail, she started off swifty on a course parallel to the reef, at, first; next, obeying the impulse of her rudder (which Adrian had fixed at port), she came round with a graceful curve on the tack and stood in for the reef. The young man hauled her out of the water, and, waiting for a smooth inter- val, lowered the boat again for another cruise. So pretty was the sight, that not only Elsie and Olga but Vida also were charmed with it. Adrian now entrusted the line to Vida's hands while he lighted a cigar, the wind being too strong for a cigarette. Just at this moment a cross wave, beating back from the wall side of the reef, met another coming in, and a small but violent whirlpool was formed, in the centre of which, unluckily, lay the Foam. The combined influences of wind, current, and vortex of water, all acting in contrary directions, proved too much for the poor little ship, and her sails flapping helplessly she whirled round and fell over, her slender masts whipping the water like J Miniature fishing rods. Elsie shrieked with dismay, believing that her favourite boat was lost, and took a hasty step forward. Vida, in alarm, seized the child by the shoulder, and stopped her on the very edge of the reef. But in doing so she let go of the l'ne and the tension of the model boat dragged it off the rocks. The governess make a quick effort to save the vanishing end of the cord, but vainly and in doing so her foot slipped on the wet seaweed, and she went over the edge of the reef. It was all the work of a second. One instant, Vida was standing with them on the rocks, tha next, she instantaneously disappeared from their sight. But there was a quick eye and a strong arm among that party, or the poor girl's fate would have been sealed. Adrian had seen the for- ward movement of the governess to secure the line, and instinctively guessing the danger, he sprang towards her. He was too late to save her going over, but just as she was disappearing he seized her helpless hand, throwing himself on his knees as he did so. It was well that the ready brain and the trained experience of the young University gymnast prompted him to this quick pre- caution. Otherwise the falling weight of Vida must have dragged him over too; and the pair would have been plunged into ten or twelve feet of foam- ing, tossing waves with strong cross currents, and no chance of regaining firm footing till Adrian had succeeded in swimming some seventy orfeighty yards, supporting Vida. For it was impossible to clamber up the smooth face of the reef at that spot. It was very doubtful if all his strength and courage could have achieved the task, and the proba- bility was that both of them must ha,ve been lost before the eyes of the terrified children. But his quick action averted that catastrophe, and the girl now hung over the side of the reef, her feet immersed in the water, her head some two feet below the level of the rocky platform, and, one arm upstretched, the hand grasped by the kneeling athlete above her. Your other hand, Vida—quick," he said, in a low, firm voice. I must have both before I can raise you." Half unconsciously, she raised her right arm to- wards him, and he took it in his strong grip. Then collecting himself for the effort, he drew her up the side of the reef, and, placing an arm round her waist, brought her on the rocks. By this time the shock, the danger, and the sudden rescue had proved too much for Vida to bear with her custom- ary composure, and as Adrian laid her on the reef, she lost her consciousness and became ifisensible. "Run home quickly; Olga," said Adrian, "and tell them to send the pony carriage down to the bay as fast as possible. She can't wall: back after this. But don't be anxious, she has only fainted, and I have my flask with me which will soon revive her. Off you go." Almost before he had finished the last word, Olga bounded off like a deer, followed by Elsie. And Adrian was left alone with Vida. A few drops of Cognac from his silver flask unconsciously received by the lips of the insensible girl, sufficed to reanimate her. Opening her eyes, she found him bending over her, anxiously watch- ing her returning colour and quickening breath. You saved my life," she murmured. How can I thank you ?" If his existence that moment had hung upon the discretion of his conduct just then he could not have expressed the words and action. Forgotten the wife he had already; forgotten all bonds of I honour, justice, and duty. Passion swept away prudence, and he bent over and kissed the quiver- ing mouth which thanked him. I would have died for you and with you, Vida," he said. Do you not know it ?" Yes, I know it," she said softly, and I owe you a life." And love," he madly replied for the words should have been locked for ever within his lips. And your love, Vida." "It is yours already, Adrian, she murmured simply. I love you with all my heart." Thus were the fatal words spoken; thus did the hideous entanglement of Adrian Norreys begin. (To be continued.)
THE MYSTERY CLEARED. I
THE MYSTERY CLEARED. I AN AMERICAN TRAIN STORY. Marwin, from San Francisco, stepped from the Pullman to the platform of the small station where the eastbound flyer had drawn up to await the pas- sing of the flyer going west. It was barely dawn. The dampness of the night was still upon the sweet prairie air and he threw back his broad shoulders, breathing deeply-once, twice, thrice, before the headlight of the coming train appeared like a star upon the horizon. Then he walked rapidly back and forth, intent upon getting as many of the kinks out of his travel-stiffened legs as possible before his train continued on its flight to the east. Exercise without definite object," he told him- self, quoting from something he had read while at school, "is worse than none at all. Ergo, have an object. I do. I walk down on one side of this train and back on the other, my object being to- er-walk down on one side and back on the other." There were faces in the windows of the coaches, and he glanced up at them curiously, wondering what nature of beings they were that they did not get out into the air and kick a bit while they had the chance. He reached the end of the train still wondering. Then his attention was attracted otherwise. A young woman was sitting within the netting of the rear platform. She was sitting on a camp stool, and she was quite alone. Marwin grasped one of the platform irons and looked at her in be- wildered astonishment for a full minute. She flushed to the roots of her hair, and her glance fell. Marwin spoke, lifting his hat. Good-morning, Miss Dartlin," he said. Why, Mr. Marwin!" The young woman arose hastily from the camp stool and held her hand to- ward him. I thought it looked like you, but it didn't seem possible. Where in the world did you drop from." "San Francisco," said Marwin, simply. He noted with some interest that the young woman's eyes were full of reproach, and that her manner was constrained. I am on my way to New York," he added, after a short interval; my first visit in three years." "And I am going to San Francisco," said the young woman. How strange." How long are you expecting to stay ?" asked Marwin. I don't really know. I had arranged to remain indefinitely, but circumstances may-in fact, are quite likely to-alter my plans materially. Are you to be in New York a great while ?" It is impossible for me to say, I had hoped to transact my business in a very short time, but one can never tell until one finds out, you know. The person I was going to see may be—er—out of town or something, and I have registered a vow not to return without a definite statement from her—his own lips." He looked at his watch and stepped to the side of the platform, glancing nervously toward the station. "You see," he continued, it is really a most im- portant matter. I undertook the commission only under protest, because it is one involving several extremely delicate considerations, and I am not good at such things. I am a natural blunderer. You know that well enough." The young woman lowered her eyes again. "Yes," said she, "I—I have known you to blunder." Marwin climbed over the railing and seated him- self upon the platform steps at her feet. It was an impulse characteristic of him, and the young woman smiled as if pleased. We won't talk business any more," said he. Business is an abomination. I want you to tell me a little—just a little—about yourself. You are not-er-married yet ?" The young woman winced, but he did not notice it. Of course, you aren't," he went on recklessly, or you wouldn't be sitting out here at this time in the morning-alone. What have you been doing since that night, hundreds of years ago, when you and I last met ?" Nothing worth mentioning, I believe," replied the young woman. I have laughed a little and wept a great deal. I have been sick, and have been restored to something which bears a close resemb- lance to my normal condition of health, although it is not really the same. I am taking this trip with a definite purpose, the doctor thought it might make me feel better." Did he recommend California ?" asked Marwin, quickly. "No, he merely recommended a change of air and scene. I chose California of my own accord." Why ?" Marwin's tone was eager aud his hand clutched the platform iron convulsively. "Because-because I wished to see Cali- fornia." Marion "—Marwin raised his eyes suddenly to hers, and there was supplication in them-" tell me all about it. We may as well understand each other. We are to part in a little while. Perhaps we will not see each other again—ever." About what ?" About your tears. Why did you weep ? You were not much given to weeping once upon a time. About your sickness. You used to be as the trees and the birds and the winds of the prairie. About your determination to visit California. Was it— was it because I was there ?" Do you think it could be possible ?" She spoke reprovingly, and Marwin bowed his head. "No," he replied gloomily, "it was ridiculously presumptive in me to suggest it. I-I had hoped it might be so, that is all." The young woman placed her hand lightly upon his shoulder, and he quivered at the touch. Russell," said she, three years ago you honoured me by a proposal of marriage. I de- ferred my answer for one week. I was not in doubt regarding my own mind, but I had a good reason. And you did not come back for your answer. Why?" Why ?" Marwin repeated the query as one dazed. Yes, why ? I had a right to expect something better of you than I received. I waited for you, but you neither came nor sent word of explanation. There was but one inference to be taken, and I took it. You had changed your mind; I could forgive you for that, but it was cowardly not to let me know. It was cruel. It hurt me, Russell, more than I can tell." "But your letter-" 11 I wrote you no letter." "I received a letter, Marion"—Marwin spoke slowly, after the manner of one who has been stunned-" written by you. It contained one line, and that line was Russell, my answer is no; I can- not.' It was delivered to me by your maid. I did not think it necessary to see you after that. I thought you did not wish me to." The young woman stood up excitedly, then seated herself again. She was laughing, but there was a look of pain upon her face, and her eyes swam with tears. I understand it now," she said brokenly; I see how it happened. My brother was in trouble. He and father had disagreed over the payment of certain debts, and he applied to me for money. I gave it to him-poor boy!—until my allowance and my patience were exhausted. He had sent an ap- peal for money on the day you received that letter. I wrote to him, saying that I could not give him more. I put the message in an envelope and told the girl to take it to Mr. Russell. You and he have the same name. The stupid creature took it to you. I never knew." Oh, my dear "—Marwin grasped her hand and fondled it. After that," she continued, hurriedly, I seemed to lose my strength. I was attacked one night in the street by a man-a huge, coarse brute, who threw his arms about me &ud stuffed a hand- kerchief into my mouth. I was not able to utter a cry, so suddenly did he come upon me. I was Eiaved by mere chance. A gentleman saw the wretch attack me and rushed to the rescue. He did not even take time to call the police. He was very brave. He was not so large as my assailant, but he grappled him fearlessly, and-and was stabbed with a knife. I knew nothing after that. I fainted. When I returned to consciousness I was in an ambulance rumbliing. toward home. The police knew nothing of a fight, they said, beyond the fact that the pavement was covered with blood. They seemed quite disgusted when they found that I had not been murdered. I told them all I knew, and that ended it, so far as they were concerned; but so far as I was concerned-well, it was weeks before the doctor declared the danger of brain fever passed." She looked down into Marwin's upturned face tenderly, and something she saw there impelled her to lean forward and touch his forehead with her lips. Marion, dear," said Marwin, gently, I would confess to you. During those days when you were waiting for me I was following you like a dog. I wanted to be near you. I was near you that night." Then it was you who-" In answer he pulled up his sleeve) disclosing a long red sear. It was a small price to pay for the opportunity of fighting for the girl I loved," he said. I went away after that quite satisfied. I felt that it had been worth while after all. I There was a sound of escaping air beneath the Pullman and the train began to move. Marwin stood up and made a movement as if to jump to the ground. Then he turned to the young woman and put his arm around her. I think I'll go with you, dear," he said. They stood thus, the morning sun bathing them in a radiance akin to that which they felt within them, as they passed the eastbound train. Both were laughing like children. I say called Marwin, waving his hand at the engineer of the eastbound, "you were right, it was fate; tell the conductor that I proved it to be so!" I wonder what's the matter with that lunatic," said the engineer to the fireman. Then he clam- bered to his place and the eastbound train went on its way.
[No title]
COTTAGE homes for children near Leadgate have been erected by the Gateshead guardians at a cost of £ 15,095. THE Emperor William has just presented a cross of great artistic beauty to the Convent of Saint-Sepulchre, in the district of Prieznitz. THE consecration of Dr. Paget as Bishop of Oxford will take place in London on the 29th inst. THE King has appointed Abbas Kuli Khan to be Assistant Oriental Secretary to his Majesty's Legation at Teheran. THE new Victoria Bridge over the Tyne at Had- dington is of iron, with two spans, and is 180ft. long by 33ft., the carriage way being 21ft. wide. The abutments and the centre pier are of heavy masonry with strong foundations. THE Church House for the Liverpool Diocese will (says the BuildingWorld) cover a superficial area of 1061 square yards. The buildings, when completed, will have a frontage to Lord-street of 52ft., to South John-street of 141ft., and to Cable- street of 71ft. The site, with the buildings on it, cost £ 50.000. The building is being put up in sections, the first, recently completed, having cost £ 15;000. The exterior is constructed entirely of red Ruabon brick, with terra-cotta facings. Entrance to the building is obtained by a wide vestibule and hall from South John-street, and in the north wall of the former is the foundation stone, laid by the Countess of Derby on August 1, 1899. The entrance hall is laid in black and white marble, and the first floor is reached by a wide staircase leading to a fine spacious landing. The doors opening on to this landing, as well as all the others in the building, are of Gothic design, in- clining towards the Tudor style. The walls of the landings and staircases are of straw-coloured glazed tiles, interspersed with bands of blue, and the floorings and staircases are of pitch-pine, the balustrades on the stairs being of mahogany. The walls of the various rooms are coloured with Dureseo, of a light blue shade. The building throughout is heated by means of hot-water pipes, and lighted with electricity. An hydraulic lift gives access to the various floors.
I ,HOME HINTS. I
I HOME HINTS. I A THROAT GARGLE.—A level teaspoonful of boracic acid dissolved in a pint of freshly-boiled water is an excellent remedy for a sore throat if used as a gargle. WORTH KNOWING.—If anything boils over on your stove and begins to smoke and cause an un- pleasant odour, throw a handful of salt on it. This quite removes any objectionable smell. STAINED PIE-DISHEs.-Try rubbing these with a bit of flannel dipped in damp whiting. It will quite remove the brown stains caused by baking. To CLEAN LIGHT WALL-PAPER. — Try rubbing the soiled spots with dry plaster-of-Paris. When all traces of dirt are removed dust the powder off with a soft cloth. To STONE RAISINS EASILY.—Pour boiling water over them, let stand for a few minutes, drain the water off, and you will find that the stones can be quickly and easily squeezed out from the stem end. To TAKE OUT A SCREW.—If you want to move a screw that is difficult to loosen, heat a poker red hot, and hold it on the head of the screw for a short time; then, while it is still hot, apply the screwdriver, and it will come out quite easily. To PREVENT STEEL GRATES RUSTING.—First clean the steel in your usual way, then with a soft rag rub a little unsalted lard all over the bright part. Leave for half an hour, then wipe off the grease, and polish with a soft duster. WORTH KNOWING.—If you are doing white work which you particularly wish to keep clean, powder your hands occasionally with fullers' earth or any other white powder On the hottest day your fingers will not soil the work if you follow this plan. BOILING NEW POTATOES.—If you add a little lemon-juice to the water in which new potatoes are boiled, they will be a good colour and will not turn dark after cooking. If they are difficult to scrape, put them in salt and water for a few minutes be- fore beginning. To DISTINGUISH GOOD MUSHROOMS. First sprinkle a little salt on the spongy part of gills of the sample to be tried. If it turns yellow at once throw it away, as it is poisonous; if it turns black it is quite wholesome. Give the salt time to act before deciding the question. SALT-WATER STAINS.—To remove these, dip a piece of the same material as that on which the stain is in vinegar, and rub with this till fie stain disappears. For grease stains, rub with benzine, lay between two pieces of blotting-paper, and iron with a moderately hot iron. A GOOD FURNITURE POLISH. Mix together two ounces of boiled linseed oil, three ounces of turpentine, one ounce of vinegar, and a quarter of a pint of methylated spirits. Rub the mixture well in, and polish with soft dusters, finishing off with a piece of soft flannel or an old silk handkerchief. THE KITCHEN SINK. — Now that the warm weather has come, this needs special attention. Hot water in which soda has been dissolved should be poured down every day, and some disinfectant every few days. By attention to little things of this kind the danger of illness is minimised. Lava- tory pipes should also be flushed with disinfectant every week or fortnight. The cheapest disinfec- tant is carbolic acid, which can be procured from any chemist. THREE or four cloves added to a cup of tea will relieve headache almost immediately. MORTAR and paint may be easily removed from windows by rubbing the panes with hot vinegar. WHEN boiling bacon a small onion and one or two cloves should be boiled with it it will be found to improve the flavour immensely. HANG pictures with copper wire, for it is moth- proof, and wears for years, and is better than cords, as there is no danger of its breaking. IF the washerwoman scorches your white drill or piqu6 skirt in the ironing, wear it or hang it in the hot sun, and the scorch will fade out. IF, when sewing anything on the machine, you put a little bit of tissue paper under the beginning of the article you want to sew, and start sewing the material, your sewing will not give way at the ends as it generally does without the paper. When finished you can tear the paper away. WHITE-ENAMELLED FURNITURE.—First wash it well with warm water and soap-no soda. Wipe dry, and then well rub with a slightly damp flannel dipped in dry whiting or prepared chalk. Polish with a dry, clean chamois leather. Furniture of this kind when it gets shabby should be given a thin coating of new enamel. It must be washed first, and then painted evenly with the prepared enamel which is sold for the purpose. TASTY HOT CAKES FOR TEA.—Half a pound of flour, two ounces of sugar, two ounces of currants, one ounce of candied-peel, one and a half teaspoon- fuls of baking-powder, one egg, a little milk. Mix thoroughly the dry ingredients, adding the egg with sufficient milk to make the whole into a very stiff batter. Have ready a frying-pan, with sufficient boiling fat to cover well the bottom. Put in batter in small quantities-say, half a teacupful-so as to form little cakes, placing a piece of candied peel on each. They should be turned when a nice brown. Time, five minutes. BOILED APRICOT PUDDING (TINNED FRUIT).— Make a good, not over-rich, suet paste; roll thinly, and have some small cups or tin moulds greased and finely floured. Boil up syrup with a little sugar, put two pieces in as one fruit, add a little syrup and sugar. Put a lid on to each; tie greased paper over, and steam 1.1 hours. Serve some of the syrup with puddings as sauce. BOIL JELLY CAKE (AMERICAN).—Take two eggs, well beaten, two cups of flour, one of sugar, four teaspoonfuls of baking-powder, one cup of fresh milk, 2-1 tablespoonfuls of butter. Mix well 2 and thoroughly, and bake in a quick oven on a big tin for about ten minutes. While hot spread with jelly, and roll up in clean thin cloth till wanted for cutting. Dust with castor sugar before putting on table; serve in slices. Jam can, of course, be used instead of jelly. FOWL A LA FRANCAISE.—Prepare in the usual manner a fine plump young bird, cut it up into very small, neat joints and slices, then season these pleasantly with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and lemon juice, and fry them in hot clarified fat for a few minutes over a quick fire just to lightly brown them, after which drain thoroughly and place the chicken in a stewpan with two tablespoonfuls of finely minced onion, half-a-dozen tomatoes which have been peeled, carefully freed from seeds, and cut in pieces, a bunch of savoury herbs, and three- quarters of a pint of thick creamy brown sauce, or very good stock, and sufficient brown roux to obtain the necessary consistency, then cover closely and cook as gently as possible until the meat is quite tender. When ready, dish up the chicken and the sauce—which should be as thick as good cream— in a pile in the centre of a nicely-prepared potato border, and on the top of the latter, which should be flat, arrange some daintily fried curled bacon, garnish outside the potato border with green peas or French beans, which, after having been skilfully cooked, have been tossed with a little butter and appropriate seasonings as directed for cucumber garnish, and send to table as hot as possible.— "Marie," in the Agricultural Gazette.
[No title]
BANK CLERK (scrutinising cheque): "Madam, we can't pay this unless you bring someone to identify you." Old Lady (tartly) "I should like to know why." Bank Clerk: Because we don't know you." Old Lady: Now, don't be silly; I don't know you, either."
I ..MARKET NEWS. - - - |.-
MARKET NEWS. |. MARK-LANE.- The attendance was moderate, and beyond a little inquiry springing up here and there for feeding stuffs, there was no feature. Although the supply of home-grown wheat remains at a-very low ebb, sellers are prepared to make concessions in order to facilitate trade, but quota- tions are nominal. What little takes place is still confined to the country markets. White. 641b. 31s to 31s 6d, and red, 30s 6d per qr. delivered up. American, 4961b. 6d to 9d easier since last Mon- day. No. 1 Northern Spring, old, 3is, and new, 29s 6d, landed. Hard Manitoba, No. 1 old, 32s 6d landed. Hard Duluth, in the same position, 32s 6d. Hard Kansas. 29s ex-ship. 29s 6d landed. Australian. 29s 6d to 30s ex-ship, and 30s to 30s 6d ex-store, 4861b. New Zealand in continued light supply. Hunter's. 28s 6d to 29s; and Tuscan, 298 6d to 30s ex-store, 4961b. American flour 6d to 9d lower since the early past of last week for patents, but bakers' white, not so plentiful, are only 3d easier. American first patents quoted at 23s to 23s 6d second ditto, 20s to 20s 6d. First bakers, 18s 6d to 19s; and second ditto. 16s to 17s. Cascadias. 22s ex-store; Hungarian common firsts, 26s 6d; seconds, 27s 6d; and best, 28s. French patents, 21 s 3d. Australian patents, 20s to 20s 6d ex-ship, 20s 6d to 21s 6d ex-store, 2801b. Country flour maintained. All English patents, up to 25s, and roller whites up to 22s. The London Millers' Association reduced their prices. Town households, 24s; and whites, 27s. Whole meal 182s per ton. Grinding barley 3d easier. Persian, 16s 9d ex-quay Odessa, 18s ex-ship. A few new samples of Smyrna, &c., were submitted, but there is no reliable price as yet. American oats quite steady, and, if anything, in sellers' favour, with lighter shipments. Mixed clipped. 15s ld ex-ship, 15s 6d ex-quay; white clipped, 15s 7-Ld and 16s 3d in these positions, 401b.; Petersburg prime, and 15s asked ex-ship, 15s 3d ex-quay, 381b. The supply of Libau becomes fast exhausted. After relapsing 9d on the week, flat maize recovered 6d of the depression, 19s 3d being demanded ex-ship, and 20s landed. With supplies of round corn now asserting themselves, a tendency towards ease continues to follow. Odessa, old, 22s 3d ex-ship nearly due. and nominal ex-quay a scarcity new, 23s landed; Turkish, 20s ex-quay; sound Plate, 22s. The market for imported beans and peas remains in holders' favour, apart from inadequate demands, both cereals being out of season. Egyptian splits, 20s 9d ex-mill; Mazagans, 20s 9d ex-mill. New Zealands. 33s 6d to 34s ex-store, 5041b. Of peas, Maples. 40s to 42s ex- store, 5041b. Canadian white peas held for 30s ex- ship, 30s 6d ex-granary. American maize germ meal remains very scarce, and firm on spot at £4178 6d; English, R4 13s 9d per ton, ex-wharf. LONDON METROPOLITAN CATTLE.—A heavier supply of beasts. The demand was generally quiet, and at late prices sales proved somewhat difficult to effect in both prime and second quali- ties, but no quotable change occurred in values. Fat butchering cows evidaneed very slow support. Quotations: Norfolks, 4s 4d to 4s 6d; Lincoln shorthorns, 4s 2d to 4s 4d; and fat cows, 3s 8d per 81b. Irish stores, three-year-olds, £ 12 two years, £8 per head. Sheep pens were also more extensively supplied, but with no increase in the demand, trade proved very dull for both wethers and ewes. tit to 8-stone Down wethers, 5s 2d to 5s 4d; 9-stone ditto, 5s to 5s 2d; 10-stone half- breds, 4s 8d to 4s lOd; 9-stone Yorkshires, 4s 8d to 4s lOd; 10-stone Down ewes, 4s. Lambs met with a slow sale; 5-stone fat downs, 6s 2d to 6s 4d. Calves nominal, only a few being offered, while no pigs were received. Milch cows, £16 to £ 22 per head. Coarse and inferior beasts quoted 2s 4d to 2s lOd; second quality ditto, 3s 2d to 3s Sd; prime large oxen, 4s to 4s 2d; ditto Norfolks. &c., 4s 4d to 4s 6d; coarse and inferior sheep, 3s 2d to 3s lOd; second quality ditto, 4s to 4s 8d; first, 5s to 5s 4d; inferior lambs, 5s Od to 5s 6d; second quality ditto, 5s 8d to 6s and firsts. 6s 2d to 6s 4d per 81b. BILLINGSGATI FISH. — A large supply waa brought forward, but the demand ruled slow, and only a moderate business transpired. English salmon, Is 6d to ls8d; Scotch, Is 7d to Is 9d i Irish, Is 6d to Is 8d; Norwegian, Is 3d to Is 5d; soles, 9d to Is 2d; slips, to lOd; red mullet, Is 3d to 2s Od; dories, 2d to 3d per lb.: turbot, 7s to 10s; brill, 6s to 7a; halibut, 7s to 9s; lemon soles 5s 6d to 7s; plaice, 5s to 7s per stone i large steamer plaice, 35s to 40s per trunk: Aberdeen plaice, 40s; whiting, 7s to 15s; hake, 10s to 12s skate, 7s to 10s; bream, 6s live cod, 14s to 20s; dead, 10s to 16s per box; English mackerel, 9s to 12s per 60; large steamer haddocks, 10s to 16s per trunk; loose, 3s per stone; live eels, 16s to 22s per draft; roker, 14s to 18 per barrel; lobsters, 15s to 35s per score; crabs 20s per hamper; whitebait, Is per quart. COVENT GARDEN.—Apples, Australian (South), Victoria, and Tasmanian, case, 6s to 10s; apricots, per box, Is; bananas, per bunch, 7s to lIs.; ditto, loose, per dozen, Is to Is 6d; eherries, per box, 9d to Is; ditto, per sieve, 4s 6d to 7s figs, per dozen, 3s to 7s; gooseberries, sieve, Is 6d; grapes, Muscats, home-grown, lb., A, 4s to 5s; ditto, B, Is to Is 9d; ditto, Alicante, lb., 2s to 2s 6d; Gros Colmar, 2s to 2s 6d; New Hamburgh, per lb., A, 2s to 2s 6d; ditto, B, Is to Is 6d; ditto, Belgian, black, per lb., lOd to Is 4d melons, each, 2s to 4s; nectarines. A, per dozen, 7s to 12s; ditto, B, per dozen, 3s to 5s; peaches, A, per dozen, 15s to 21s; ditto, B, per dozen, 4s to 6s; pines, each. 2s 6d to 4s; Sapucaia nuts, per lb., Is; strawberries. A, per lb., 2s to 2s 6d; ditto, B, per lb., Is 3d to Is 6d; ditto, Southamptons, baskets, 2s to 3s; artichokes, globe, per dozen, 2s 6d to 3s asparagus, home-grown, per bundle, 9d to 5s beans, Channel Islands and home, dwarf, new, per lb., 8d to Is ditto, French, dwarf, packets, 4d ditto, broad, English, in sieves, 4s; beetroots, bushel. Is to 2s beet, per dozen, 6d; cabbage, tally, 2s to 4s ditto, dozen, 6d to Is carrots, 12 bunches, Is 6d to 2s; new, per bunch, 6d to 9d j cauliflowers, per dozen, 4s to 5s; cress, per dozen punnets, Is 6d; cucumbers, per dozen, 2s to 3s 6d; endive, new French, per dozen, Is 6d to 2s; garlic, per lb., 2d; horseradish, foreign, per bunch, 9d to Is; leeks, per dozen bunches, 9d to Is; lettuces, cabbage, per dozen, Is to Is 6d ditto, Cos., per dozen, Is mint, natural, dozen bunches, 2s to 3s; mushrooms, house, per lb., 6d to Is; onions, Egyptian, bags, 4s to 4s 6d; ditto, new, bunches, per dozen. Is to 2s parsley, 12 bunches, Is to Is 6d; peas, blue, per bushel, 7s to 8s ditto, frame, per lb, 6d to 8d; ditto, flats, Is to 2s; ditto, English, per bushel, 3s to 5s; radishes, per 12 bunches, 9d to Is salad, small, punnets, per dozen, Is 3d; shallots, per dozen bundles, Is; spinach, English, bushel. 2s to 3s tomatoes, English, per 121b., 4s 6d to 6s; ditto, Channel Islands, per lb., -d to 5d; turnips, now, per 12 bunches, 4s to 6s vegetable marrows, per dozen. 9s; watercress, per dozen bunches, 6d to 8d. WOOL.—Trade is still very dull. Buyers of wool seem less inclinsd to deal than before, the new clip thus coming upon a most unwilling market. The fairs that have been held show a low range of prices, but compared with market rates sellers are having the advantage, and it re- 9 mains to be seen how the purchasers at these local auctions will fare when they offer the fleeces to spinners and others. Under these circumstances no one is satisfied with business, and the position of the trade gives rise to anxiety respecting the future. Spinners find no improvement, and are unable to accept offers made to them, prices being so low, and the state of the wool market being so unsatis- factory. Shropshire fleeces have made about 7!-d to 8!d, Lincolns about 5d, half-breds about 2 2 6fd, Downs, 6fd to 8d, Kents, 5d to 5i-d, Long- wools about 6d. WHITECHAPEL HAY AND STRAW.—Best picked hay, 90s to 96s; prime hay, 84s to 92s; in- ferior hay, 70s to 82s; best old clover, 97s to 102s; good clover, 80s to 95s; inferior, 65s to 78s prime mixture, 82s 6d to 95s; straw, 25s to 36s per load. CAMBRIDGE CATTLE.—There was a fair supply of fat beasts, and trade was better. A very small show of store beasts. Trade for fat sheep was not so good as last week at less money. Some good lots of store sheep were offered, and nearly all cleared. A fair show of fat pigs, and trade was brisk at more money. A good trade all round for store pigs. Short supplies cf hay, straw, and roots. Prices: Beef, 6s 9d to 8s: mutton, is 2d to 5s 2d; pork, Gs 3d to 7s 6d