Cheshire Observer

OPERATIONS OF THE COLUMNS. DESPATCH FROM KITCHENER. DELAREY'S LOSSES. Lord Kitchener telegraphs that the total cap- tures for the week are 19 Boers killed, f wounded, 802 prisoners, 9 surrenders, and a quantity of stock No further news from Ookiep. Enemy all with- drew towards Langburg. Bruce Hamilton's columns moved north again from the Lindley Line, in conj unction with Elliot and Barker, on the 9th May, capturing 27 prisoners. Colenbrander, continuing operations about Dylkop and Molipspoort, had added 70 more prisoners to those already reported. Ian Hamilton's columns, after clearing the area east of Hart's River, formed a line and moved west on the 7th May, in conjunction with Colonel Rochfort, from Bloemhof. All arrived yesterday on the western railway with 357 prisoners and practically all the wagons and stock of the com- mandos in this district. This makes a total reduction in Delarey s forces of 860 men since his successful attack on Major Paris's column two months ago.

THE CHESHIRE MILITIA. I ARRIVAL FROM SOUTH AFRICA. I The transport Britannic arnvea at douiij- ampton on Friday from South Africa with about 1,600 officers and men, including 15 officers and 420 men of the 4th Cheshire Regiment, under the command of Colonel Beck. A large number of friends of the returning troops assembled on the quay, and as the vessel entered the dock the band on board appropriately played Home, Sweet Home." The battalion arrived at Maccles- field early on Saturday morning and was met at the station by members of the Corporation, u n- fortunately the Mayor was ill and was not able to welcome the warriors home. After detraining, the battalion marched to the Town HalL where Colonel Thorp handed over the regimental colours. After- wards the men proceeded to the barracks, where breakfast was provided by the Mayor, after which Colonel Ommanney distributed the medals and the b&ttalion disembodied. The 4th Battalion was raised in Stockport in 1853,. and was known as the 2nd Royal Cheshire Regiment of Militia. In 1881 its name was changed to the present title. On February 20th, 1900 the battalion Droceeded to South Africa, having been preceded by 60 men who sailed on February 14. The strength of the battalion was 579 men and 23 officers. On the 25th February the regiment sailed from Queenstown by the s.s. Oratava. Practically the whole of their two years in South Africa was spent in the well-known Bethulio Bridge district. Colonel Beck proved himself an energetic and resourceful officer, and was given the important appointment of Com- mandant, Bethulie Bridge." The Cheshires, when under fire, acquitted themselves with credit and distinction. In October, 1901, Colonel Beck was created a C.B., although most of the Militia colonels only received the C.M.G. At the same time Lieut. E. B. Flanagan was given the D.S.O., and Sergt.-Major J. W. Willis and Sergt.- Instructor Davies the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Many of the men have died for their country, and Lieutenant and Quartermaster Mackay and his son were among those whose loss is sorely felt.

I ARCHÆOLOGAL SOCIETY. t RALPH HIGDEN'S TOMB. THE CITY CHARTERS. The annual general meeting of the Chester Archaeological and Historical Society was held at the Museum on Tuesday evening. The Ven. Archdeacon Barber presided, and there were also present Dr. H.-Stolterfoth, Dr. J. C. Bridge, Mr. Henrv Taylor, Mr. E. Hodkinson, Mr. T. S. Gleadowe, Mr. T. B. Blower, Mr. W. E. Brown, Mr. W. Conway (secretary), etc. Apologies for absence were read from Mr. Robert Yerburgh, M.P., and the Rev. H. Grantham. The Secretary presented the treasurer's state- ment of accounts for the year ending 31st March, 1902. The total income amounted to L126 8s. 5d. and the expenditure £12.3 Os. 2d., leaving a balance in hand of £ 3 odd. It was explained that the present journal of this year had not been paid for, and would cost J358 19s. 6d., thus causing a debit balance. The council, in their annual report, recorded a particularly interesting session, not only with regard to the papers that had been read, but also with regard to the increasing interest which the members themselves had taken in the various meetings and excursions. During the session six meetings had been held. By making a charge for admission to non-members to Dr. Bridge's lecture, "The Masque of Comus," the council were enabled to grant a sum of £ 10 to the fund which was being raised for providing better ac- commodation for the curator of the Museum. The summer excursion took place on June 5 to Much Wenlock, and on the 16th July there was an afternoon exoursion to Basingwerk Abbey. The recommendation of the council that more frequent excursions to inspect the many objects of interest in the city should be arranged had been carried out, and by the kindness of the Dean and under the guidance of the Archdeacon six visits had been paid to the Cathedral. It was intended that a permanent record of these excursions should be published in the journal of the society. The council had to report the issue of volume eight, new series, of the journal and to express their obligations to the editorial secretary, the Rev. F. Sanders, M.A., F.S.A., for his labour in connection therewith. The hon. treasurer's statement of acounts was sub- mitted, shewing a deficit of £ 49 lls. lOd. The following gentlemen bad been selected to repre- sent the society upon the Grosvenor Museum Management Committee, namely: Archdeacon Barber, Mr. H. Taylor, F.S.A., Mr. T. S. Gleadowe, Mr. E. Hodkinson, Mr. F. Skipwith, and Dr. J. C. Bridge, M.A. The council, while thankfully reoordingr the fact that new members had been elected during the past year, again appealed to all members to do their utmost to induce others to join, and thus to place the society in a better financial position. Mr. E. Hodkinson, hon. librarian and curator, presented his report, and said that a few coins ana pieces of pottery had been received and a number of volumes exchanged for other publica- tions. The Chairman proposed that the report of the council, the hon. curator's and librarian's report, and the statement of accounts be adopted. It was certainly satisfactory to see the membership increasing and a larger attendance at their meetings, and espeoially at the excursions. He felt the society should be more widely and liberally supported than it was. Mr. Henry Taylor seconded. He would like to emphasise what the Archdeacon had said about the society's being better supported than It was. There was in an historical city like Chester, unique in its architecture and teeming with information of all kinds and all periods, a mass of material which had yet to be brought to light. They ought to be better supported, and if the public would only realise the great and good work that that society had done and was doing, be felt certain that there would be a considerable addition to their members.—The resolution was carried. Mr. W. E. Brown moved the re-election of the retiring members of the council, namely, the Rev. H. Grantham, the Rev. Canon Cooper Scott, Dr. Stolterfoth, Mr. Henry Taylor, F.S.A., and Mr. W. W. Tasker.—Mr. Gleadowe seconded and the motion was agreed to. Mr. Haswell was elected hon. auditor, on the proposition of Dr. Stolterfoth seconded by Dr. Bridge. Mr. E. Hodkinson moved a vote of thanks to the donors of books and objects of antiquarian interest. He thought the society and city in general had been most fortunate in the kindness of their patriotic donors.—Mr. Tasker seconded aEd the vote was heartily accorded. Mr. T. B. Blower moved a vote of thanks to the president, vice-presidents, and officers of the society for the able way in which they had con- ducted the affairs of the society during the past arH^as sure they owed them their sincere thanks.-Thls was unanimously carried. Archdeacon Barber, in responding, said every- one present must have known how they were indebted to the vergers of the Cathedral during the visits that had been paid to it. He thought it would be a graceful thing if they elected the two vergers hon. members of the society. They ought to pass a resolution of that kind .-Dr. Stolterfoth seconded and Mr. Henry Taylor sup- Stolter,foth see,n d e d an d ported.—The resolution was heartily agreed to. At the close of the meeting Archdeacon Barber read a paper on the discovery of Ralph Higden's tomb. He said he had not been able to find any papers in the published transactions of the society relating to the subject, but the Rev. E. L. Y. Deacle, who was precentor at the time, had very kindly furnished him with his recollections,j of tiio ovt'ut, a,law wrwi some uoiiespondence on the subject. By the kindness of the editor, he was able to give an extract from the "Chester Courant" of June 3rd, 1874, being the portion of a paper read by the Rev. E. L. Y. Deacle at a meeting of the Archaeological Society on May 27th. The Archdeacon read the quotation, which described the discovery of a grave Oil February 16th of the same year, containing a body perfect in form. In a short time after its discovery the distinctness of the form was gone, and, besides some of the larger bones, nothing remained but a glittering white powdery matter. Writino- on March 10th, 1902, the Rev. E. L. Y. Deacle said the grave was proved to be that of Higden, by an account of a Royal Progress found in the Bod- leian Library. Writing again in April, Mr. Deacle said that he sent a bit of the serge cassock which he found on the body to the British Museum, and from an unguent use d they fixed the date of burial, which coincided with the death of Higden. The tomb, if not actually in the wall, was close to it, and might have been partly in the wall and partly in the adjoining pavement. At the time of the discovery of the tomb, Canon Blomfield drew Mr. Deacle's attention to the fact that several of the later abbots were buried in the south aisle of the Choir. In mentioning these facts, he contended that it was unlike that a richly ornamented tomb would be erected in honour of an ordinary monk. Among some notes by the late Mr. Ewen he found one mentioning the discovery of a coffin with the remains of an embalmed body in the Cathedral. According to the note a record had been found, proving it to be the body of Thomas Birchelsey, otherwise Lytheilen, a chaplain to King Edward I. He had since ascertained that the paragraph was ex- tracted from the "Chester Chronicle" of March 2nd, 1787, and he was much indebted to the chief reporter, who had kindly made search in the files of the paper and verified the extract. To account for the presence of the hazel rod, he read a letter signed Emily S. Holt, which ad- vanced the theory that the hazel rod was a guard against witchcraft. Against this theory must be set the opinions of two ecclesiastics or the Roman Church. In a fragment of a letter he found it stated that hazel rods were buried with persons who had done penance in lifetime, and were so to say post-mortem absolutions. In some cases, it appeared, the dead body was scourged with rods of this wood and the rods were buried with the corpse. As Higden was a lay monk, no sacramental vessels being found in the coffin, the wand most probably indicated that he had ro- ceived absolution in hora mortis. They would agree that it was interesting to have had those points brought to their notice, and that they owed a debt of gratitude to Mr. Deacle for his kindness in making this possible by placing the various papers at their disposal. Dr. Bridge said that they were very much indebted to the Archdeacon for putting on record what Mr. Deacle saw. It was a pity that society did not preserve Mr. Deacle's papers. He hoped it would now appear in print in their proceed- ings. Dr. Stolterfoth then exhibited and explained, by means of magic lantern slides, a number of the old city charters, from 1171 to 1689. He said that the beauty of the writing was most remarkable, and as far as penmanship went we had not improved upon what our ancestors could do. Some, unhappily, had been damaged. The scroll work on some of the charters was very beautiful, and the portraits of the Sovereigns were excellent, except in the case of the one of Ojiver Cromsrell, which must haqe been'done by a Royalist. At the conclusion the Doctor presented the slides to the society. Mr. Henry Taylor said few cities had such a valuable series of documents. He wondered if the Corporation could we their way to print copies of the documents.

A PAINFUL INCIDENT.—On Sunday evening quite a painful sensation was caused at Barthomley by the sudden death of Mrs. Lindop, & lady of in- dependent means, residing in the village. She attended Barthomley Church, and during the service fell ill and walked out, but almost immediately she expired. The deceased lady was exceedingly well known in the district, al wave; lending a liberal hand in .all philanthropic objects. WILL OF MR. HENRY TATE.The will Glf the late Mr. Henry Tate, a managing dtiector of Henry i.i Tate and Sons, Limited, sugar refiners, has been proved, the aett value of the personal estate being £ 7.22,440. The testator bequeathed R2,000 to the Hahnemann Hospital, £1,000 each to the Liverpool Royal Infirmary, Northern Hospital, Bluecoat HospitaJ, W ocjion Convalescent Institution, and the Manchester Unitarian New College at Oxford, and £500 each to several other institutions. THE PUBLIC-HOITSE TRUST.—The Earl of Cork, Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, presided over a con- ference held at the Shire Hall, Taunton, on Satur- day afternoon, to consider the desirability of forming a Public-House Trust for the county. Earl Grey explained the scheme in detail, and said its first result would be to diminish the temptation to the consumption of drink, while he thought that even- tually large sums might be secured from the profits for devotion to public purposes. A resolution in favour of forming a Public-House Trust was adopted, and an organising committee was adopted. Mackintoshes. Large variety of patterns. Guaranteed. Various styles, 14/11, 18/11, 21/11, 24/11, 27/6, &c. Guaranteed for 12 months. Any coat not satisfactorily waterproof replaced.— Bradlel-s, Foragate-otreet, Chester.

I DISTRICT COUNCILS. I ELLESMERE PORT URBAN. I I -11 a meeting oi tne JMiesmere fort Urban Distriot Council was held on Monday evening. Mr. W. Stockton was the chairman and Mr. H. Price vice-chairman, while there were also present the Revs. W. Bidlake and T. Kynaston, Dr. Finney, Messrs. C. Whitndge, J. Wynne, W. Breckon, T. Jones, J. H. Lloyd, J. D. Dutton, W. Worsey, J. W. Ellis, L. Lindop, and the clerk (Mr. D. Bunting). SHOULD OWNERS BE RATED? The question of rating owners instead of occu- piers of cottage property, and as to deductions in consequence, was considered.—Tne Cierk said that Council could agree to rate owners instead of occupiers, and allow the owners oft" 20, 25, 30 or $5% per cent. It wou d be a great convenience to the collector.—The Cnairman asked whether it would be a gain or otherwise to the Council.—The Clerk could not say. it was impossible to tell how it wouid work.-—The Chairman said it resolved itself into tins, that they comd give their sanction as a district council to what had been done by the overseers.—i\Ir. Breckon said tuat the man who put up jerry property at low rents got the plum. Compounding encouraged jerry builders.—Mr. Price said compounding provided for the rating of houses wnether occupied or not.—Mr. Whit- ndge proposed that they rate owners and allow compounding up to £ 8.—Mr. Liojd did not think there were many nouses at £ 8.—The Cnairman said there was a great anoma.y in the assessable and ratable value of property in Ellesmere Port.— Mr. Breckon seconded Mr. 'whitridge's motion, and it was carried.—The Clerk understood that the overseers allowed 30 p6r cent, oli, but tne owners had to pay whether the houses were occupied or not. He thought 25 per cent. quite enough, and advised that the Council aiiow for empty houses as well.—The Chairman: Tiiat is the best arrange- ment.—The cierk's suggestion was agreed to. NO CORONATION RATE. I A letter was read from the Local Government Board enquiring whether the Council proposed to raise any other rate.—The Chairman explained that they meant an extra rate on account of the Coronation.—The clerk was instructed to reply in the negative. WIRRAL JOINT HOSPITAL BOARD. I me .Local Government Hoard wrote asking for I tho Council's observations on the subject of repre- sentation on the Wirral joint Hospital Board, and forwarding a letter Wiey had received from the I Hospital Board on the subject.—Dr. Finnev Dro- posed that the clerk be instructed to write and ask the Wirral Board what they wou.d take their cases for per member per week. It would be very much better if they paid per case, as the Chester District Council did.—It was resolved that the clerk reply to the Local Government Board, stating that they were negotiating with the Joint Hospital Board. I MEDICAL OFFICER'S APPOINTMENT. The Clerk stated that the Local Government Board wished the Council to fix the period of the medical offioer of health's appointment. It was usually five years.—On the motion of Mr. Price, it was decided to fix the period at five years. I rT" INSPECTOR OF CANAL BOATS. .1 ne appointment ot inspector ot canal boats was then discussed. It was stated on the agenda that Mr. T. WaJaoe had declined the appoint- ment.—Mr. W. Breckon believed that had they known a fortnight ago what they know then, the inspection of canal boats would have been added to the ad vertisement for the building and roads surveyor, etc., and no increase in the salary offered would have been made. He proposed the resolution at the last meeting for the appointment of Mr. Wallace because of the compensation busi- ness. They would have had five items in the advertisement instead of four, had they had the information they had now. He proposed that the inspection of canal boats be added to the other items.—Dr. Finney asked if it would be legal, after advertising, to add another item?—Tire Chairman did not like the matter at To take advantage of people by tacking on another duty did not seem to him to be quite fair. The idea was to take advantage of the information on the agenda, and so save £ 5 a year. He did not agree with it.—Mr. Breckon said he was there to keep down the rates. (Hear, hear.)—The Chair- man did not see Mr. Breckon's point at ali. Un- less he could shew that that Council would have compensation to pay he ought not to take advan- tage of the information.—Mr. Breckon altered his proposition to read-that the gentleman who should be appointed surveyor, etc., be asked to accept the position of inspector of canal boats, without an additional fee.—Mr. Lindop seconded, and the motion was defeated, only the proposer and seconder voting for it. NUISANCE INSPECTOR AND SURVEYOR. 1."110 applications tor the post ot inspector ot nuisances and workshops and building and roads surveyor were then considered. There were three applic,ints-Alfred Dumbervand (Whitby), J. E. Jackson (Ellesmere Port), and J. M. Hudson (Ellesmere Port).—Dr. Finney asked if all the ap- plicants were qualified.—The Clerk said no especial qualifications were necessary.—Mr. Whit- ridge asked what the regulations of the Local Government Board were.—The Chairman thought that if the gentleman who was appointed was not duly certified, he would have to submit himself to some examination in order to satisfy the Local Government Board.—Mr. Whitridge suggested that the appointment be not binding until the Local Government Board signify their satisfaction. —The Chairman: Let us take the r is k. -iMr. Breckon As Mr. Priest is here, could not he tell us anything?—Mr. Priest said that with regard to +1>0 ea.aUa.fy Iviipioma, wniGh was held by one of the applicants, they were not valued at anything beyond what they were stated to be. That diploma had no value from the Government, point of view. As far as he was aware, the Local Government Board only required to know that the man was suitable in the sense that he was an able man. An inspector of nuisances was not necessarily a man 0. large attainments. They did not make enquiry as to the man's technical know- ledge, but rather as to his suitability from another point of view--his moral position, perhaps. Cer- tainly, from his experience, he knew there were many inspectors appointed who were certainly not possessed of all the scientific knowledge they should have.—The voting was taken by ballot, each mem- ber voting for two of the applicants. On the votes being counted, J. E. Jackson, having the least number of votes, was dropped out, and the vote for the appointment was again taken by ballot. Hudson then defeated Dumbervand by ten votes to three.—Mr. Hudson was then ap- pointed to the position.—Mr. Price proposed that he be appointed for a term of twelve months.— Dr. Finney moved that it be five years.—Mr. Breckon seconded Mr. Price's motion, while Mr. Ellis seconded Dr. Finney's amendment.—The original proposition was carried by nine votes to three.—It was decided that the inspector should devote the whole of his time to the duties of the office.—Mr. Whitridge proposed that Mr. Hudson be asked to commence his duties at once if he was at liberty.—Mr. Lloyd moved that he be asked to commenoe on the first of next month.—The amendment was carried.—Mr. Breckon: Would it not be better to get him to keep a diary? He moved a proposition to that effect.-The Chair- man Mr. Breckon wants to know where he is every hour of the day. (Laughter.)—Mr. Breckon: No, no.—The motion was agreed to.— It was decided that the post of inspector of canal boats be added to the position of surveyor, etc., at a salary of E5 a year. I THE SEWERAGE WORKS. I I EXPLANATION BY Mil. PRIEST. I The report of Messrs. Be.oe and Priest en the sewerage works stated that the works were now complete, though it might be necessary to make slight alterations. The whole cost of the work was £ 3,414 IC-s. 6d., and the amount of the con- tract was £ 3,050, leaving about £ 300 for extras. The charges by the Shropshire Union Canal for compensation would account for a good deal of ,,n t for a good deal of the extras. Under this head so large an expendi- ture had not been anticipated. The cost of the material would account for another extra. It had not been anticipated that they would have to go such a long way for material.—Dr. Finney asked what arrangements had been made for the Council to get to the sewer by way of the bridge, and who would be responsible for keeping the roads in order. Was Mr. Burdock going to keep the road down to the Smelting Works in order? What was the advantage of having the sewer passed behind I the houses in Ewart-sireet instead of in front? With regard to the tunnel, Mr. Ollive said the increased cost would be accounted for by the Shropshire Union charges for tlie stoppage of the canal. He thought the contractor wouid have known that there would be some charges. Part. of the groove for earring off the surplus water from the filter beds to the machine was leaking. He would like to know if it had been repaired? Mr. Priest explained why he asked the chair- man at the enquiry not to allow the discussion about the price of the land. As to access to the land, the conveyance of the site provided that the District .Council, the purchasers, should have access over both roads, that. was to say, Nlr. bur- dock had to give the Council, for all time, access to the land, which went by the Smelting Corpora- tion's works to the wooden bridge, and from that bridge down alongside of the brook and the fences to the gateway they had put up. He might give them an alternative for that, but. he must give them access through the land. The Council had access to the corner of Mr. Parkes's land from where-the bridge was. As to the sewer behind the houses, that matter was dealt with at the time. If the Parish Council had wished the sewer to be altered, it might have been altered, but the Parish Council did not, wish it, and therefore it was left alone. With regard to the tunnel under the canal, it was provided in the contract that the pipes be carried under the canal. When they came to do the work and arrange with the canal engineer, he would not consent to its being doce by that method. They had to do it the engineer's way, as he was master of the situation, and it proved more costly. The 3eak in the channel between the l septic tanks and the filters had been stopped. He did not know of airy other. Some damage had been caused to the surface, but that, was above the water level, and was due to the frost in the 'e?-i':y part of the year. It had, however, been made good, As to the question of the ashes, when these beds began to be built it was found im- possible to specify the ashes. One had to pick and choose what one wanted. It had become the general practice for the cinders or clinkers to be bought in that way. The report explained that they did not get the ashes they relied upon. The speaker had been all over the country looking for suitable ashes. He had even to send to New- castle for them. Dr. Finney: The ratepayers will be very much obliged for Mr. Priest's explanation. The Chairman: There is still J3225 17s. lid. owing. When can we get some money? (Laugh- ter.) I think the contractor might- wait a little. Mr. Lloyd: I thir.k the Wirral District Council ought to pay. They got us into debt, and they outrht to get us out cf it. (Laughter.) The Chairman suggested that as large an amount as the Council had in hilnd be paid, It was a fear- ful bill of extras. Would they take an overdraft on the bank and run the risk of the auditor's sur- charging them, or would they borrow off the Local Government Board? Mr. Lloyd: If I took on a contract for £5,000-- The Rev. W. Bidlake: Don't you do it, Mr. Lloyd. (Laughter.) Mr. Lloyd: I could do it to-night. If I took on a contract for £ 5,000, and it cost me £ 6,000, it would be my fault, and I would have to bear the loss. Mr. Whitridge took it that they had no remedy. Mr. Lloyd moved that they apply to the Local Government Board for what money they required. Dr. Finney seconded. Mr. Ellis moved that the matter be left in the hands of the Finance Committee, and that the committee report at the next meeting. Mr. Lloyd's motion was carried. The Clerk said that the agreement with the Pontoons and Dry Docks Co., Ltd., concerning the line of sewer through their land was submitted to the Wirral District Council in December. The company asked for B7 10s. in consideration of allowing the Council to enter upon their land and examine the pipes. The Wirral District Council had passed the agreement.—The Chairman: They will pass anything.—A Member: That they don't have to pay for. (Laughter.)—On the proposition j of Mr. Whitridge, seconded by Mr. Breckon, it was resolved to accept the agreement, and ask the company to reduce the compensation they de- manded. t PURCHASE OF A SHED. The committee appointed to consider the pro- posed purchase of the shed from Mr. J. Taylor, recommended in the report that the Council pur- chase for £ 5.—The Chairman proposed, and Mr. W. Breckcn seconded, that the Clerk offer that amount.—This was carried. H THE PINFOLD, WHITBY. I Air. J. ii. ijfoyd asked it the pmlold at Whitby could not be used to keep stones, etc., in.-The Chairman did not think it could be maintained for anything except for keeping cattle in.—It was decided to leave the matter in the hands of the Highways Committee. THE COST OF THE SEAL. I A I I An estimate was received irom alessrs. bhaw and Sons, London, for the sea], with a screw press, at J38 7s. 6d., and with a lever press at £ 7 10s. 6d.-The estimate at £ 8 7s. 6d. was ac- cepted, and a vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. Breckon, and seconded by Mr. Whitridge, was passed to Mr. Lindop for the time and labour he had given in preparing the seal. VARIOUS MATTERS. I A letter was read from Parrs Bank, Ltd., agreeing to let the Council the rooms for £ 10, and the overseers agreed to pay the Council half the rent.-Dr. Kenyon wrote accepting his appoint- ment as medical officer of health, and a vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Wallace for attending to two infectious cases.—It was agreed, after some discussion, that the whole Council consider the question of the diversion of the footpath leading from Merseyton-road to Overpool, in preference to leaving the matter in the hands of a committee. I MOLD URBAN. I I APPOINTMENT 1 OF CLERK. ,1 I I ?, -1 1 .1 1 ?1- 1 ivir. oamuei nerresiora presided over me monthly meeting of this Council on Tuesday even- ing.—The Council adopted the recommendation of the Finance Committee, that for the year end- ing 31st March, 1903, a rate of 2s. 9d. in the £ be levied for the old area, and Is. 9d. in the £ for Broncoc-d.—Mr. J. E. Davies, as chairman of the Finance Committee, explained the surveyor's esti- mate., which required for the extended area £895 8s. 2d., of which J6653 14s. 2d. was for the original area. There was a reduction of 3d. in the rate for the old area, and the other remained un- a'.tcred.—The estimates were criticised by Messrs. J. B. Marston and W. P. Jones, it being con- tended that the advantages enjoyed in the old I are- were not extended to the Broncoed people, although they paid the same rates.—Mr. W. B. Rowdon was re-appointed inspector of nuisances. —The Acting Clerk (Mr. W. R. Havard Evans) read a communication from the Local Government Board on the subject of the application by the trustees of the Pendre NVelsh Wesleyan Chapel, who desired to purchase on lease a portion of the Bailey Hill for extension purposes. The Board advised that the case was not one in which the Council were empowered to sell or lease.—Mr. Robert Morris moved that instructions be given that a flag-staff be erected at the Town Hall.- Mr. Marston seconded.—Mr. Thomas Roberts said that when some years ago the Council were exer- cised as to the stability of the building, an archi- tect stated emphatically that a flag-staff must not be put up. He moved as an amendment that a flag-staff be not erected.—There was no seconder to this, nor to a further amendment referring the matter to the Town Hall Committee, and the original motion was carried, the General Purposes Committee being empowere d to act.-On the motion ot Mr. J. Wynne Williams, it was resolved I to draw and submit for the approval of the Local Government Board a bye-law regulating the speed of motor-cars and cycles.—Applications for the post of clerk to the Council, rendered vateant by the death of Mr. J. H. Simon, had been received by the chairman from Mr. J. Llew. Roe Browne, solicitor, Wrexham, Mr. W. R. Howard Evans, the clerk pro tem., and Mr. R. Stewart Kelly. solicitor, Mold.—The applications having been read, together with one testimonial in each case, Mr. Thomas Parry proposed, and Mr. W. P. Jones seconded, that the voting be by ballot.—Mr. J. B. Marston said that voting by ballot for the election of clerk was irregular and contrary to the Act of Parliament. He deprecated such a childish proceeding as secret voting, and moved as an amendment that the appointment be made by open voting.—The original proposition was carried and on the voting papers being counted, the result was announced as follows:—Kelly 10, Howard Evans 4, Browne 0.—On the motion of Mr. Robert Morris, seconded by Mr. Marston, Mr. Kelly was unanimously ap- pointed.

AIRSHIP HORROR. I A MID-AIR EXPLOSION. 1 Paris was horror-stricken on Monday by the news of a dreadful accident which occurred early in the morning, when the latest airship, "La Pax," was wrecked in mid-air by an explosion, and its inventor, M. Severo, a Brazilian Deputy, hurled to earth 1,500 feet below to meet a shocking death. The balloon, manned by Senor Severo and by an engineer named Sachet, in the employment of the Peicket firm which made the motors of the airship, left the park where it was kept. at half-past five on Monday morning. The mot-ions of the balloon, which seemed to be executed with great facility, were followed by a large number of per- sons, some in carriages, some in motors. The air- ship had arrived over the Avenue du Mame, nearly opposite the Rue de la Gaite, when suddenly a huge sheet of flame was seen to burst from it. The flame was followed by a tremendous report like that of a cannon, and the balloon, which was at the time at an altitude of about 150 yards, dropped to the ground. The two occupants fell on to the pavement. Efforts for their assistance were made at once, but Senor Se-vero and his assistant were dead. They had terrible wounds on their heads, and, moreover, their legs were broken. The bodies were taken to the police station in Rue de la Gaic-tc, the officials of which had at onco been apprised of the accident. The corpses of Senor Severo and his assistant, as thev lie on the mattress at the police station, present a fearful spectacle, especially that of Sachet, the engineer. The flame which caused the exp'osion burned him in the most shocking fashion. The skin of his face and hands was completely charred, and crumbled away at the touch. An effusion of blood to the head accentuated the ghastly aspect of the face. Sachet had evidently fallen on his left side because the thigh and ribs on that side alone are fractured. Senor bevero ieL en his feet. Bv the force ot tne impact the joints ?erc forced out of their place. It resul?ts e more- over from an examination conducted by Dr. Macret that the pelvis and ris e the unfortunate inventor were fractured, while his skull was also fractured.

LAUNCH OF THE OEONTES.—On Saturday there was launched at the Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Company's Yard, Govan, for the Orient Steam Navigation Company, the Orontes a steel twin-serew steamship of 9,000 tons register, intended for the fortnightly mail service of the Orient-Pacific Line between London and Australia. The length of the ship is 530ft., her breadth 58ft. Gin., and depth 38ft. 2in., with a displacement of about 10,000 tous. The engines are quadruple expansion of 10,000 horse power. A noticeable feature of the ship is the adoption in the first class of the tandem system (Bibby's patent) of arrange- ment of state-rooms. Under this system the advantage of direct communication with the light and air through the ship's side, possessed hitherto only by what are known as outside" cabins is extended to "inside" cabins. Both descriptions of cabins are provided with a port-hole The ceremony of naming the'vessel was performed by Miss Devitt, daughter of Mr. Thomas Lane Devitt' one of the managers of the Orient-Pacific Line. VALUABLE DISCOVERY FOR THE I-IAIR.-If your hair is turning grey or white or falling off use the MEXICAN HAIR, RENEWER, for it will positively restore, in every case, grey or white hair to its original colour. It makes the hair charmingly beautiful, as well as promoting the growth. Price Is. 6d. per bottle.

i NATURAL HISTORY NOTES. I (From The Field.") I a STARLING NESTING IN MAGPIE'S KEST. j I hardly think this is so rare an occurrence as your correspondent imagines. Some years ago I found a starling's nest with eggs in an old magpie's nest in the top of a tall Scotch fir. I have also found a starling's nest with young ones in an old rook's nest, and a starling's nest, with eggs, in an old squirrel's "drey" in a tall spruce fir.-E. W. H. Blagg (Cheadle, Staffordshire). NUMBER OF EGGS LAID BY A TAWNY II OWL. I shall be glad to know if any correspondent ha.s noted the average number of eggs in a clutch of the tawny owl (S. aluco). While in Somerset- shire in March last, I had an opportunity of examining five nests, in all of which the birds were sitting hard on three eggs. I had thought that four was the usual number, although Mr. Saunders, in his "Manual," says three, four, and even six. I should be obliged for replies from personal observation.—N. G. MATERIALS OF MAGPIE'S NEST. I Un April ZZ 1 tound a magpie s nest, which, in-I addition to the usual lining of fibrous roots, con- tained a goodly amount of black horsehair. This may have got there by chance, but I think not, as there was too much of it. Although I have examined many magpie's nests, I have never before seen hair of any kind employed in the lining, and it strikes me as being distinctly unusuaL—J. A. Walpole Bond (Tynllwyn, Lian- fanedd, Builth, Breckonshire). BIRDS' NES.TS IN .PRIVET HEDGES. u I I have two privet hedges, one some 70 or 80 yards in length, and the other about 20. Though nests abound in other parts of the garden, I have never seen any in these, though one would have imagined them specially suitable for many birds. I also notice that birds do not seem to frequent these hedges as they do the neighbour- ing thorn hedges. Is it possible that the smell of privet is offensive to birds? I should be glad to know if others have noticed a similar instance. —F. H. H. G. WHITE EGG OF GROUSE. I When orossing the moors near Pen-y-ghent last week I came across a grouse's nest with ten eggs in it. Of these nine were the usual brown mottle, the remaining one white. Never having seen or heard of a white one before, I wonder if any of your readers have. I have asked several old sportsmen, but not one has observed such a thing.—W. Foster. [Many birds which normally lay coloured eggs occasionally drop a white one. This is a mere accident arising from some injury to the glands which secrete the colouring pig- ment, and as a result the egg is colourless.—Ed.] EARLY ARRIVAL OF THE SWIFT. I The swift is usually one of the latest of our summer migrants to arrive, seldom appearing before May 2 and 3. This year it has been re- ported from several localities in the south of England quite a week earlier than usual. For example, in the "Field" of April 26 Mr. R. H. Cecil Baker announced that it had reached Exeter on April 21, and on the 25th five were seen by Mr. F. Penrose passing along the coast from west to east at Lynton, N. Devon. Three days later Mr. II. E. Forrest, writing from Shropshire, reported some at Bewdlay. Yet further to the West, namely at Axbridge, Somersetshire, Mr. C. L. F. Edwards saw none until May 5, which is about the normal date for their arrival in that part of the country.—Ed. WILD ANIMALS AT PLAY. I The note in your last number on fox and leveret playing reminded me of a curious inci- dent. I was watching two rabbits feeding near some gorse, when a large stoat ran out of the gorse between the two rabbits, and began frisking, about all round them, with his back arched up, like a ferret at play. The rabbits were not at all alarmed, and continued feeding, until one of them became annoyed by the stoat jumping just in front of his nose, and turned on him, and chased him for twelve or fifteen yards up the hill. The stoat was apparently delighted at having roused the rabbit from his apathy, but, on the rabbit refusing to continue the game, he rolled over five or six times, and ran back into the gorse.—R. M. WHEATEAR IMITATING SOXG OF LARK. Ull Lki-y Z I heard a wheatear (Saxicola OEnanthe) imitating in a wonderful and marked manner the song of a skylark. Many times pre- viously I had noticed a few of the notes of the skylark intermingled with the ordinary song of this species, but never listened to such a master- ful imitation as that exhibited bv the bird alluded to. I watched it ascend from a stone wall several Limes to a height of from 7 to 10 yards at a slight- arigle this performance was done in so ludicrous and clumsy a manner that one could hardly refrain from smiling at its attempts. Skylarks are very abundant in the vicinity, as also the corn bunting, and I have noticed that old ones ?f he former .occasionally give utterance to a ia rrin o* note borrowed from the corn bu?tmg. Indeed, not many years ago the lark „ dcstroye? as many as they could for this rpason.—Rosse Bu?r?f;? ?v;)? ? U__f_J\ unoacij, uiauiuiu I/C-1 TL-E"r»ITO/-vI-rS sITE FO NT OWS NEST I I  swallows, presumably the same pair, r??r. ? broods evey year in the porch of St. PanlV Church, CaU3evay H?ad, near Silloth. The tint nest attached to a chain hanging from the roof, which was once used for suspend- ,no V3' -Malp' chain is an ordinary curb rhnf-) Ub Ki!dj" The nest is attached an inch or t^ \.ci bb<e5 low the point where the chain is fastened to the roof, and in appearance, allowing for the difference of budding material, is not unlike the He.tof what, I th?nk, Vs called the "paper" wasp, such J as one sees attached to the twigs of trees. I&? net a swallows nest of this kind upset, the od story that the swallow, through inattention to t,h?t# o lessons of her teacher the magpie, only learnt to build half a nest. and so stuck it against the wall to hide the deficiency? The second nest is stucii in the usual way against the front wall of the porch, inside, where the remains of last year's nest could be seen.—(Rev.) Francis Lewis (St. Bees, Cumberland).

TIME TRIES ALL. For over 50 years Hewitt's Baots have stocd the test of time, and are still unsurpassed and unequalled. Abbey Gateway and next to Music Hall. CAUTION.—How TO TEST THE 'PURITY OF COCOAS.—if treated with alkali and chemicals, such cocoas will have a medicinal scent when the tin is opened, and it will be a darker colour when in liquor. CAT ibury's COCOA has no addition of any kind and is guaranteed absolutely pure. D HEWITT'S FOR BOOTS REPAIRING.— No matter where your Boots were bought, W e can them repair And when you think they're fit for naught We'll make them fit to wear. Fifty years' reputation for Durable Boots. .> ') ) j { \f'-l fj I I j I j i\V\ w' A PEOPLE'S WEALTH j j '(..?s 1 í J A PEOPLI:"S Wr.:Al.TU I (/ t),)) t prudence persuade you j i d' fp¿llff: i W M I ^ean5 0 disinfects at one u the same time. I SOAP PvVi?ER Cleans o d-,Slnlecfs -a t ci?,e t???,e same t i lrio.- ( 5- Pl:OPLl:S tlJ:A,LTfI, I f 'ts regular use will lessen the risk of infection in the ho?e I I and promote Heaithand Comfort. It isa very economical I and promote Health and Comfort. It 15 a very eCOnOffiICé!1  ? j fi Soap Powder in 'Ä\¡ }. r." use is not exhausted, I Soap Powder in lJse and even after use is not exhausted, 1/ /■ t ? J I f°r the soapy water from the wash should be poured I | for the soapy water from the wash should be poured  ,l, AJ.; /f\ them and so down the drains and sinl<.s to disinfect them and so I I ? I/,¡f"r to 1-t ¡ q i II I III 1I1I 1 prevent the spreading of disease germs. I Cteans ù disinfects at one ¡¡ the same time. i h Its regular l1se wiU.lessen the risk of in.fedion in the hqme I ((f ,,). f S DOOR xwm \Soap powder for many purposes is have found it excel fen t. j I Ii" Soap Pov,dg^ E have ever used" DiSLSL fLi r:s OUT   (OÑL N ATTIi[ DOOR j \?? prevent the spreading of disease germs. !.horouQ? n j disinfectant for tne skin. | I SZXD A PGSTGtfRD GJVIRG T0TO ???! ?3 ABBESS m LL^ussrMsMm^ pssimus«r.cams £ i p Sosp Jafg&drsIc jfts fsts Oi/c'tA ¥»C73R($. f 1 -r<?t!! !<? .I—— ,?. .-????-f,.— ———?——————?——?— —————.?.———————.——.————————?———?T——————————————————?'MM-)tmH?!t)! !.?——.??.?-<e?.MMt.M?.

THE CHURCHES. «, FREE CHURCHMEN AND EDUCATION. rnl me organ 01 tne LIberatIOn boeiety is thoughtful enough to publish a list of places at which public meetings have been held to protest against the Education Bill. There are no details as to the size or circumstances of these meetings, though by far the larger proportion are those of the Free Church Councils and betray a mechanical organisation. But the list is of no particular account after all there must be some limit to the degree of importance which the nation will attach to the voice of a meeting held at Stow-on-the-Wold, New- quay, Bluntisham, Rushden, Rayleigh, or Thetford. Anyhow the list suggests the absolute failure of the endeavour to create a great agitation against the Bill. A HINT FROM OPPONENTS. T I it is always permissible to take a hmt fi-fini opponents, and we cannot help wishing that more Churchmen would follow the example sometimes set by rural supporters of the Liberation Society. The current number of the Liberator supplies an example of what we mean, when it quotes a correspondent writing from a district in Norfolk, who says that "meetings were held in forty-three chapels, representing altogether fifty-six separate places of worship, and extending over an area nearly twenty miles square. Sometimes the weather was very unpropitious, and the meetings suffered in consequence but on the whole they were well attended, and very much appreciated. All the ministers—saving one who was unable—took part in the effort, and a number of friends lent traps." Might not such united efforts, though not of course in consecrated buildim. s, be made in defence of as well as in the attack on tb Church? At the Ruridecanal Conference, held in CL:;st [ Chuich, SJuthport vestry, on Tuesday evening, the Rev. W. Hodgson, viear of St. John's. Waterloo, read a paper on "Betting and gambling," treating the subject in a very comprehensive manner.-A resolution was passed urging the free library com- mittee to obliterate all betting news from the papers in the library. The Congregational Union on Tuesdav instructed the general committee to prepare a scheme on the lines of Dr. Parker's proposals, which might serve to unite congregational churches more closely for common purposes. Dr. Hunter (London) said the proposals sacrificed their first principles of indepen- dence. In the afternoon a conference took place on the Ed^ ucation Bill, wnich was condemned. We have received from Messrs. Novello and Cc. music publishers, Bemers-street, London, a copv (price fjd.) of the music for the form and order of service issued by the King's command and recom- mended for use in churches of the Church of England throughout the Empire on the day of the Coronation. The publication contains the com- plete words of the service, and a special feature of music is that the whole of it will be sung at the Coronation in Westminster Abbey on June 2Gth. The Coronation hymns and tunes are printed at the end of the service. This form and order of service has been generally authorised by the bishops for use in their respective dioceses on Coronation Day or on any of the three days following the 2Gth of June.

FREE CHURCHES. j I J I Preachers for next Sunday in the various Free I Church I.,Iace-, of wor,iilT) Congregational, Queen-street: 10.45 and 6.30, Rev. Wynne Evans. Congregational, Upper Northgate-street 10.45 and G.30, Rev. F. Barnes, B.A. Congregational Welsh Chapel, Albion Park 10.45 and 6.0, Re". Ivor Jones. Congregational. Great Boughton 10.45 and Supply. Congregational, Handbridge: 10.45 and 6.30, Rev. W. Jones. S English Presbyterian, City-road 10-30 and 6.0, Supply. Presbyterian Church of England, Newgate-street: 11.0 and 6.30, Rev. J. Mitchell, B.D., F.R.A.S. Baptist, Grosvenor Park 10.45 and 6.30, Rev. D. Hughes. Baptist, Milton-street: 10.45 and G.30, Supply. Baptist, Hamilton-street 10.45 and 6.30, Mr. J. Emerson. Welsh Baptist, Penri Memorial: 10.30 and 6.0, Supply. 1 Wesleyan Methodist, St. John-street: 10.30, Rev. A. W. Ward, B.A. 6.30, Rev. T. Hollis. Wesleyan Methodist, City-road: 10.30, Rev. T. Hollis G.30, Rev. A. W. Ward, B.A. Wesleyan Methodist, Garden-lane 11.0, Mr. Lucas; G.30, Rev, W. S. Hackett. Welsh Weslevan, Queen-street 10.30, Brodvr 0.0, Rev. I. C. ÈVanB. Welsh Calvinistic Methodist, St. John-street: 10.30 and G.0, Rev. J. Pryce Davies, M.A. Primitive Methodist, George-street: 10.45 and 6.30, Rev. J. Travis. 1 Primitive Methodist, Hunter-street 10.45 and 6.30, Mr. Peters, Buckley. jI j Primitive Methodist, Saltney: 10.45 and 6.30, Mr. W. B. Tunley. Primitive Methodist, Boughton 10.45 and 6,30, 1r R Newns. Methodist New Connexion, Pepper-street: 10.45 and G.30, Rev. J. Benson. Waverton Presbyterian 10.45 and 6.30, Rev. D. Manuel, M.A. Matthew Henry, Unitarian 11.0 and G 30, Rev. H. E. Havcock. Church "of Christ, Upper Northgate-street: 10.45 and 6.30, Supply. Church of Christ, Saltney; 10.45 and 6.30, Pastor Dobson. j New Jerusalem Church, Temperance Hall: iJ.30.

IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT. .in .ih.. w EARLY CLOSING BILL. In the House of Lords, on Monday, the Earl of Onslow, replying to the Marquis of Ripon, who expressed the sympathy the House felt with France in the disaster which had befallen Martinique, said the deaths in St. Vincent were estimated at 500.—Lord Aveburv moved the second reading, of the Shops Early Closing (No. 2) Bill. This measure, he stated, had the approval of two Com- mittees of the House of Commons and the unani- mous approval of a Committee of their lordship's House.—Earl Wemyss moved the rejection of Jthe j Bill.—Lord Morley called attention to tlie circum stance that a Bill on the same subject had alrpady been disposed of this session. The Lord Chancel- lor considered the Bill was out of ordt-T.- The Bill was ultimately rejected.—The Earl of Rosebery inquired if the Royal Declaration Bill, introduced last session, and over which they spent so much time, was to be proceeded with. —The Marquis of Salisbury said it might be perfectly clear from what passed in the House of Commons and in this House that the Bill could not be proceeded with. —Their lordships rose at six o'clock FRIENDLY SOCIETIES BILL. POOR-RELIEF PROBLEM. In the House of Commons on Friday tne Out- door Relief (Friendly Societies) Bill was the first order of the day. It directs boards of guardians when asked to grant outdoor relief to a member of a Friendly Society not to regard his being in receipt of eick pay as a factor which sheuld influence their decision, as long as the sum which he receives from his society does not exceed 5s. a week. Under an Act passed in 1894 the guardians are given discretion in such cases either to giant or withhold relief. The Bill was read a third time in the House of Commons last year and was thrown out in the House of Lords, where, however, it had previously been read a ffecond time. Mr. Long on Friday gave the Bill his warm support, urging that the thrifty people whom it would benefit ought to be given a. statutory right to relief when they were incapacitated by sickness or old age. He pointed out that thrift which took the forms of contributions to a friendly society merited special recognition. He said he should strongly oppose any modification of the Poor Law in favour of the wastrel and undeserving but he held that it should not lie administered with unnecessary severity against those who had done their best to help themselves. Whether other forms of thrift should be enconraged by an extension of the applica- tion of the principle of the measure was a question well worthy of consideration. The Bill, of which Mr. V. Gibbs had move' the rejection, was carried on a division by 2ü2 votes against ] 9 THE SKIPPING COMBINE. THE FINANCE BILL in the Mouse oi Commons, on Monday, answer- mg a question by Mr. Chancing, Mr. Gerald Bal- four said he had been considering the Shipping Combine agreements. The Law Officers of the Crown stated that there was nothing to prevent the ships from retaining their British register- Mr. Arnold-Forster, replying to several questions, said the subvention agreement with the White Star Company was about to be renewed, with a. provision that the company would not, without the consent of the .Admiralty, transfer to a foreign flag any of the subsidised vessels.—Mr. Toulmiii ) having taken the oath and his seat for Birry. Sir M. Hicks-Beach, moving the second reading of the Finance Bill, said he had decided to abandon the cheque tax, and would consider how to make up the deficiency.—Sir W. Harconrt moved an amend- ment declining to impose di:tk«e upon grain, ifour and other articles of the first necessity for the food of the people. He spoke of the corn tax as the blackest spot in the Bill, and said that of all taxes it was the one which provoked the 1 bitterest memories.—The Chancellor of the Exchequer, in. replying, pointed out that there was not the faintest recognition of the fact in the right hon. gentleman's speech that the country was face to face with a necessary expendituio which the House was Lourd to provide. He quoted from returns to shew that there had been no general rise in the price cf bread, and denied that the duties would raise the price of corn cr aiiect the food of the people.—Sir H. Fowler recommended Ministerialists to come to an agreement as to whether the duties would raise the price of bread or ,ot.Vir. Broadhurst v. e .'1 rig in fa- ~■ — of the amendment when up v. as- ponded. The House resiMixd sitUng at -im < o'clock, when Mr. Broati-yret continued nit de- nunciation of the corn tax..—- <-ariey a?v&!HMd a techajc&J argument ?' ehc? ? the duty on fion was protective a,in" own CekfUH;— Sir Edgar Vincent held ti- • ■ !louse would be justified in f refiti-ng furth. .• until it !<Mi evidence of more efhc;r i >ration. —Mr. Fletcher Moultcn said the v. ••;fy on the poorest class. The> money or hiiiig,)r.-Mr. (k, tu, tax was protective in pract„:<. at! ho ill sti.ot, economic- theory :t might be.— The debate wa* ad- journed cn the motion of M* Buxton, wc., thP I House rose at about half?— t;i o'clock I I CORN-TAX DEBATE. Iin u tuhie cHuuouu se of ComB*^ 'T* to a qu"tiOI3 h:v Mr. l*" v,-ith r-eferetr ta tji relief of the sufferers m M ■ Mr. Balfour said the Gov- >»,w^re what distance could be t ,"i. but ,.t P?the could make no st&tem? on one ?:hjert.—r:w debate on the motion for se-ond re;>&" of -1 Finance Bill was resumed ;v Mr Syare'v who criticised adversely the nnauciai the Budget Bill, and insisted that the Chan- cellor should have imposed more taxation and added less to the Nr,ticnJ Dilit. A-r. | Austen Chamberlain denied that the corn tax was protective, and pointed out that the expenditure sanctioned by the country must be borne by all classes comprised -.vithin it, Mr. J- Redmond said that as the Irish pa.rty believed that the tax would be injurious to Ireland they would support the amendment. Mr. T. W. Russell also opposed. Several other members supported the ?r membet-, -,Ip p or amendment. Mr. Holla.nd urged that many indus- tries in which Seur was used -vonld be prejudicially affected by the tax. Mr. Lees Knowles supported the duty. which he maintained would be paid by the foreigrti-. Mr Chaplin contended that the rise in the p, of bread was not permanent. On a division, Sir \Y i'.lifkvm ~Harcourt's amendment was rejecttd by i*>- to is

BRITISH WAR METHODS. A SWISS VINDICATION. Some Swiss gentlemen from the cantons of Geneva, Vaud, and Neuchatel, including Lieut. Pache, who went out to fight for the Boers, have issued a protest against the hostile attitude of the Swiss Press towards England in connection with the war. They say:—"We are a neutral country and abide by that neutrality. At this moment, when there is a talk of arbitration, it is to Switzer- land that one naturally looks, and yet with a few exceptions where can we find writers and journalists who have had the common honesty to look at the question except from the Boer stand- point. They have all too quickly forgotten that it was the Boers who declared war, and that no country could brook such an ultimatum as Kruger despatched to England. Wherever we glance over that immense Empire over which the English Bag floats we find that it bears with it an equal justice for all races, giving the same rights of life and property to all men, irrespective of oolour, and in commerce extending an open door to all, without privilege for the British nationality. Not only has the English nation never skewn us hostility, but on several occasions has effectively come to our aid. In several of their colonies there are constantly Swiss in great numbers, often at the head of commercia1 and industrial concerns, and always reaping the benefits'of that colonial system where there are no fetters on enterprise and whose freedom is in some aspects grander than that of which we are so proud."

ANOTHER LIBERAL SPLIT. EON. T. A. BRASSEY RESIGNS. The Hon. T. A. Brassey has addressed the fol- lowing letter to the secretaries of the National Liberal Federation.—" Park Gate, Battle, May 9. Dear Sirs,—The decision of the Executive Committee to include in the Bristol programme the two resolutions to which T save notice ..f 1 objection before going abroad last montn leaves me no option but to resign my position as a member of the committee. I take this strong step because (1) I believe that the resolution on the war will have an injurious effect on the jarospects of peace, which were never so bright as at the present moment, and because (2) I am -convinced that to make Home Rule for Ireland one of the chief planks in the party platform is to renew an attempt which the experience of 1886 and 1893 has proved to be futile, and is a fatal mistake from a party point of view.—Yours faith- fully, (signed) T. A. BRASSEY."

ROiSEBERY AND HOME RULE. DEFINITE PRONOUNCEMENT. Lord Rosebery has written the following prefatory note for the reissue, by the Liberal League, of his speeches at Liverpool and Glasgow :— The Liberal League desires, contrary to my in- tention, that the following speeches should be republished. If so, it must be with a few words of preface. That portion of them which relates to the Irish question has been denounced strongly, but not unexpectedly, by Irishmen and others. It has been maintained that there is something of apostasy in my attitude towards the question of Irish govern- ment. On the other hand, I hold, and it is clear as daylight to all but those who are honestly or wilfully blind, that it is not the speaker but the question which has changed. After an eruption the cone of Vesuvius is apt to assume a new shape. The blind would be justified in declaring that they saw no alteration; the obstinate might make the same assertion. But the new cone would still differ from the old. So of Irish government. In 1885, mainly or largely from the refusal of the Conservati ve Govern- ment to renew the exceptional powers which the Liberal Government had deemed necessary, Mr. Gladstone and his friends were impelled to con- sider whether it was not possible to meet the Irish demand for self-government-a demand which by the operation of the new suffrage had acquired new strength. a Several plans offered themselves. It had been suggested to form some 3ort of central administra- tive board of Irishmen without the name, but with much of the power, of Parliament; it was possible to give a subordinate and limited Legislature with the name of Parliament; or it might be practicable to give to Great Britain and Ireland a similar and equal system of county or local government, mutat is mutandis, so that f.or the future there should be no -question of administrative inequality. For reasons given in one of the speeches here re-published it was decided to adopt the second course. Twelve years later the Conservative Government adopted the third, the one which I had always desired. In October, 1885, before the question of Home Rule had assumed a concrete form in British politics, I made a speech at Paisley, which has been so often quoted against me that I may be allowed .to quote it again on my own behalf:— "I am afraid there is only one policy to be jxursufed towards Ireland, and it is this-to treat Jreland exactly, so far as may be, as you would .treat any other part of the United Kingdom, when- .ever you can do it, without regard to language of menace and insult or opprobrium from those you are trying to benefit. Whenever you can do it, try and treat Ireland exactly as you would treat Scot- land or Wales. If you pass a measure of local government for Great Britain, pass as near as may be exactly the same measure of local government for Ire- land. She will not than! you she will recei ve your measure rather with a curse than with a, blessing but what I want to point cut is this, that it is un- worthy of British statesmen, who know so much of Irish affairs, to heed any laager the reception which may be given to their measures by the leaders of public opinion in Ireland. If, in the exercise of Ahat measure of local government, she shews some of the qualities which encourage statesmen, do not be ,deterred, but give her more than we have ourselves, in consideration of her long suffering, in considera- tion of her ancient sorrows, i; of the treatment she has received from us. At the seme time the then and present Prime .Minister was indicating his belief that county overnment was more dangerous than a Parliament in Ireland so that time may be said to have played liavoc with judgments as to Irish government. But this, after all, is not the important matter. "What does concern the public is this. Does anyone suppose that, given a new and equal system of county government in Ireland, it would have been the policy of the Liberal party, either in 1886 or 1893, to add to it a Parliament such as was proposed in those years ? Some few abstract and advanced thinkers might have urged -such a course, but it is not credible that the Liberal party would have adopted it. This, then, is the point—that the conditions of the problem of Irish government have fundamentally changed, that it must be viewed in a new aspect, and approached in a new spirit. Equality of treat- ment, so far as possible, throughout these islands, which constitute the heart of our Empire, should be the aim that statesmen should have in view. That is a policy of justice and of true union, a policy in accordance with the best Liberal traditions. But it is a policy which must be pursued gradually and tentatively, if it is to receive the necessary support of the nation at large.

THOSE DIZZY FEELINGS. Sudden fit-, of dizziness, faintness, palpitation, shortness-of breath, and spasms, are five common but startling symptoms which prove the kidneys are out of order and need attention. Dodd's Kidnev Pills are just the attention they need; a few dotes will soon make such symptoms dis- app ar. Thousands suffering from such affections, and believing they have serious trouble with the heart, have found the kidneys to be the secret of the trouble, and the cure. Dodd's Kidney Pills. Mrs. A. Nicholson, of 24, Balfour-street, Paley- road, Bradford, was under this impression, and I suffered for seven years, believing all the time she had heart trouble. At times she was bed- fast. Hearing of Dodd's Kidney Pills, she tried them. Eight boxes made such an improvement that she subsequently wrote: "I can positively say they have completely cured me. I am not like the same person, and really believe they saved my life." We have hundreds of testi- monials like this, and they are worth every sufferer's consideration. Dodd's Kidney Pills are 2s. 9d. per box, of a11 Chemists, or post free on receIpt of price from The Dodd's Medicine Co., 23, Parringdcn Avenue, London, E.C. Remember the name, D-odd-E,

CORONATION FESTIVITIES. THE BONFIRES COMMITTEE. '1 K viscount uranDorne, iNi.,r., presided on xues- day evening at Westminster over a meeting of the Central Coronation Bonfires Committee. Canon Rawnsley and Mr. Griffith-Boscawcn, M.P., as hon. secretaries, reported that they were already in communication with between five and six hundred places throughout the United Kingdom, where it was proposed to light bon- fires on the night of June 26 by way of cele- brating the Coronation. It was stated that a scheme for lighting a large number of bonfires in Ireland had been organised by Colonel M'Calmonr, M.P. The committee agreed to ac-cept the offer of the Great Wheel Company to sent up rockets from the top of the Great Wheel at. Earl's Court Exhibition at five minutes to ten on the appointed nig-ht as a signal to those lighting bonfires in London and throughout the ¡ Home Counties. 1 IX CE. A meeting of ratepayers was held m the School- room on Monday night to consider in what form the Coronation should be celebrated. The Vicar presided. He informed the meeting that Mrs. Park-Yates had kindly offered to provide the festivities. It was proposed by the Rev. E. Charley and seconded by Mr. Houghton That Charl ey an d secon d e d by '? the parish do something to celebrate the King's Coronation." This was carried unanimously. It was decided that a double lamp be erected in the square, and as many single lamps as funds would allow. A committee to arrange matters was ap- pointed, consisting of Mrs. Park-Yates, the Rev. E. Charley, Messrs. T. Darlington, A. Scott, E. Littler, T. Ellams, W. Brown, W. Greenway and C. Cheers. WIRRAL PARISHES JOIN HANDS. Un Friday evening a meeting of parishioners was held in the Thornton Mission Hall, to con- sider what action should be taken to locally cele- brate the Coronation. Mr. Thorburn presided. It is understood that the Council are not desirous of levying a rate, as it is their wish to raise the necessary funds by voluntary subscriptions. There was a committee formed to ascertain whether the Little Sutton Council would be willing to join with them. The following are the members of the committee:—Mr. N. M. Barron, Mr. A. Bradley, Mr. J. E. Hughes, Mr. Prince, Mr. Latham, Mr. Walker, Mr. Morris, Mr. Osbourne. Mr. Grinisditch, Mr. Waring, Mr. Sutton, and Mr. S. Hancock. They waited upon the Little Sutton Council on Monday evening. The discussion was opened by Mr. N. M. Barron, who stated that the deputation were desirous of learning whether there was any possibility of having a general celebration on behalf of the three townships, Hooton, Childer Thornton, and Little Sutton, similar to that of the last Jubilee. —The Chairman of the Little Sutton Council (Mr. Woodward) stated that they were open to receive any suggestions the deputation might make. He informed the members of the deputa- tion that his Council had exercised the powers vested in them and had levied a rate, and inquired if Thornton Hough were prepared to guarantee ail amount equivalent tc twopence in the pound, as he was of opinion that was a fair basis to work upon. Mr. Woodward was thereupon in- formed that they were not authorised to pledge themselves for any amount, as they would have- to consult the parishioners before doing so.— Mr. Latham stated tnat in Thorntön the general impression was that no compulsory rate should be levied, but that a voluntary rate of twopence in the pound should be collected.—Mr. Wood- ward asked if the deputation were prepared to guarantee the sum of fifty pounds.—Mr. Bradley was of opinion that thGre would be no difficulty in raising the sum required.—After careful con- sideration of the matter, Mr. Woodward stated tnat his Council were quite willing to join with Thornton and Hooton, on the understanding that they contributed the sum of JE65. which would entitle them to equal representatives on all com- mittees, and thereby secure the same right- and privileges as Sutton.—The Parish Council held a special meeting in the Mission Hall on Tues- day evening to consider the report of the deputation. Mr. N. M. Barron presided.—The Chairman stated they would be glad to have the expression of opinion from the meeting as to whether they would ioin Little Sutton or not.— Mr. Hughes was of the opinion that it would be advantageous to join Little Sutton, seeing that they would be willing to accept them on equal terms with themselves.—A discussion then ensued as to whether the necessary funds could be raised without levying a rate of 2d. in the JB. Seeing- that the railway company's subscription would be equal to JB20. there was a general impression that they would not contribute unless compelled to do so. After considering the matter, it was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Hughes, seconded by Mr. Waring, that Mr. A. Bradley and the clerk (Mr. S. Hancock) be authorised to at once solicit subscriptions on behalf of the fund. and that the money collected be paid into Parr's Bank.—The c-lcrk was instructed to advise the Hocton Parish Council to send a representative to the next meeting, so that the feelings of the Hooton Council might be ascertained. In the event of this parish joining Little Sutton a field would be selected in the most central part- of the district for the festivities. WREXHAM. At 3- meeting of the Executive Committee re- sponsi.ble for the due celebration of the Corona- tion at Wrexham, held on Monday evening at tho Giiildhall, under the presidency of the Mayor (Mr. W. Soames), estimates of expenditure were submitted from the various committees, amount- ing to a total of £ 336. Four thousand Sunday school children are to he provided with tea, at the rate of 6d. per child, and 2d. per child is to be devoted to sports for them, on the Thursday (June 26V Eighty pounds is to be expended in providing 800 aged and poor people with a dinner; J640 is set apart for bicycle and foot races and old English sports, which are to take place on the racecourse on the Friday (June 27). The borough and local volunteer bands are to be engaged on both days. at a cost of £45, and £ 10 is to be naid for the ringing of the parish church bells. The Wrexham Church Sundav School teachers memorialised the committee with refer- ence to the age limit of the school children to be invited to the tea being fixed at 15, as it would debar 25 per cent. of the Sunday scholars. The committee decided to adhere to the age limit already agreed upon. The Mayor is going to present a medal to every school child and has also promiied a subscription of £ 25 to the funds. •  LLANDUDNO. ) The committee which, under the presidency of Councillor Robert Roberts, is preparing for the Coronation festivities at Llandudno met on Mon- day evening, when a letter was received from Lord Mostyn (chairman ci the District Council) i expressing his readiness to grant a 99 years" les.se on the Public Library building, in the event of the town's deciding to adopt the Free Libraries Act, as one form of celebrating the Coronation. Much satisfaction wa-s felt by the committee at the generous offer, and the matter was referred to a sub-ccramittee. Arrangements are being made for the festivities to cover two days, and ;n the programme will be included treats to all the poor people and the school children.