Cheshire Observer

I WOMEN WHO TEACH ROYALTY. I db I The zoverRelSOS to the Queen of Holland and the King of Spain were English ladies. This is proof that English women are well to the fore in the race for success. Thousands of women have been successful owing to being strengthened and made fit for their daily work by Chas. Forde's Bile Beans. Mrs. Gertrude Morley, of Crown- street, Awsworth, near Ilkeston, began to be troubled by anaemia when eighteen years of age. The anaemia became chronic, and lasted for four yea.rs. Sleep seemed to afford her no benefit. She always felt tired and weary as though she would like to lie down and not get up any more. She had also a swelling across the stomach, and suffered most severely from constipation. She lost all relish for food. as well as the ability to digest it. One day her husband bought a box of Bile Beans. His wife took them regularly, and before the box was finished felt a great improvement in her condition. She continued with the Beans, taking them regularly, and her improvement be- came more and more rapid. The distressing con- stipation left her; once more she felt a desire for food, and she found herself capable both of en- joying" and digesting it. She is now completely cured, and recommends Bile Beans whenever she hears of a person suffering from anasmia and debility. Chas. Forde's Bile Beans for bilious- ness are a certain cure for indigestion, ansemia, constipation, debility, "summer fag," pimples, skin eruptions and all blood impurities, palpita- tion, headache, liver and kidney disorders, nervousness. and female ailments. All chemists stock Bile Beans, or they may be had, post free, from the Bile Bean Manufacturing Co., 1^9, London Wall, E.C. Housewives and governesses have by them benefited alike.

THE AMERICA Crp.-Sir Thomas Lipton con- tradicts the report issued by the Exchange Telegraph Company that he had decided to challenge for the America Cup next year. He says he has before him many months in which to make up his mind.

CRICKET NOTES. I Rain again set at defiance the wishes of cricketers on Saturday, and from everywhere come reports either of games unfinished on ac- count of the disagreeable mood Jupiter Pluvius was in or of rain interfering with the game. Saturday was fixed for the playing of the first round of the Cup Competition, but, as far as we are aware, only one game, that of Helsby and Pontblyddyn-was brought to a successful issue. Chester should have met Mold at Chester in the same competition, but owing to the state of the ground the match was cancelled. Boughton Hall and Eaton Park had the un- pleasant task of cancelling their fixtures with Oswestry and the London and North- Western Recreation Club respectively. The Helsby premier eleven scored their fifth successive viotory on Saturday, when they met and defeated Pontblvddyn on the athletio field in the first round of the Chester and District Cup. Fortunately the rain which had fallen during the greater portion of the morning had not affeoted the wicket to such an extent as to delay the start. The visitors, who won the toss, decided to put the home team in to bat, and J. Crosland and R. Wilson took first turn at the wickets, to the bowling of E. T. Parry and M. Roberts, a fair number of spectators being present. Both men played steady cricket, Wilson, however, doing most of the scoring, and the total was taken to 32 before Crosland retired with seven runs to his credit, being caught in the slips. Cartwright s l Ps. Cartwright partnered Wilson, and another grand stand was made. At 43, however, a heavy fall of rain took place, which delayed the game about threequarters of an hour. On resuming, Wilson and Cartwright continued to play confident cricket, and it was not until the score had been taken to 62 that the latter was caught in the deep field for 13. With only another run added, Cole having filled the vacancy, Wilson attempted a short run and lost his wicket. His 41, although marred by one mistake, was obtained by an excellent display, and he was deservedly applauded on his return to the pavilion. Cole and E. Crosland, who now became associated, again got the measure of the bowling, both men playing in capital style, and the score was increased to 98 when the closure was applied, the former being not cut 17 and the latter not out 16. For the visitors. E. Hayes, with 18, and M. Roberts, 13, displayed the best batting, the last wioket falling just on the close of time, amid excitement, with the total at 57. For the home team, Cowap secured three wickets for 16, Wilson three for 20, J- Crosland two for 8, and E. Crosland two for 5- Helsby 2nd were without a match on Saturday, but the juniors opened their season with a match with Alvanley 2nd on the latter*' ground, which they won by 43 runs. For the juniors, G. Fowles, in addition to scoring 22, captured five wickets for 7 runs, and A. Cartwright soored 17 and obtained three wickets for 7 runs. A Noden, who carried his bat through the innings, was top scorer for the home team with 7 not out. Alvanley had to acknowledge defeat by Inco, whom they met on the latters' ground, the total scores being 35 and 72 respectively. Alvanley batted first, and were be-t represented by A. Booth not out 18, and W. J. Britland 11. For the home team, E. Hassall, with 19, H. Hassall 12, and W. Seeker 10, batted well. On Saturday Ashton Hayes first team were at home t. Chester St. Mary's, but rain interfered with the play, and, although stumps were not drawn until seven o'clock, the game was un- finished. The home team scored 64, F. W. Hayes, 21, being top scorer, while St. Mary's got 138 for the loss of three wickets, O. Humphreys notching 18 of the number. The second team journeyed to Christleton. The home side batted first, but the weather cut short their endeavours, which yielded 38 for six wickets. Frodsham Athletic premier team should have had as visitors on Saturday Weaverham in their first gamo, but as the weather looked so unpro- pitious in the morning, the game was cancelled. The third team of Frodsham, however, nothing, daunted, journeyed to Runcorn and brought off their engagement.. The home team took first turn at the wicket, but so well did T. Gorst and C. Booth bowl that the whole lot were knocked out for 37, the two bowlers dividing the wickets with five each, Meredith being top scorer with 17. Frodsham did much better, scoring 45 for the loss of seven wickets, T. Gorst following up his bowling success by making 13—top scoro for his side. Frodsham Athletio premier team, with a slight mixture of the Wednesday team. had Northwioh as visitors on Wednesday. Batting first, the visitors made very light of the Frodsham attack. Barker and Harper were the first representatives. After the latter had been nicely caught by Gamier off Hutchings, Brown and Barker laid about them in fine style, batting well and freely all round the wicket. The first comer was clean bowled by one of Ashworth's lightning deli veres. and made way for the Rev. C. R. McKee, a batter who has during his sojourn in Helsby had a warm relish for the Frodsham trundlers. He soon made it evident that he had lost none of his batting prowess, and gave a beautiful exhibition of clean cricket. Going in fourth, he carried out his bat for a finely played 59. Brown played a good game with 26, while Moreton carried out his bat for 19. Northwich declared with 156 for six wickets. Frodsham started disastrously, losing Hatchings at 4 and A. Kennerley at 11. The Rev. T. V. Garnier and F. Kennerley enlivened matters a little, and played good, patient cricket, the bowling being too good to take liberties with. F. Kennerley's total was 11 when he was beaten with a ourly one from Wood, the visitors' pro. Dr. Selby and A. Ashworth tried hard to save the game, but, after the former bad left with a well- played 19, the end soon came about five minutes off time, the score being 58. Woods bowled in I fine form throughout. FIXTURES. The following fixtures will be played on the I ground of the first-named club to-day (-Saturday) Oswestry v. Boughton Hall Boughton Hall 2nd v. Mollington Dawpool v. Eaton Park Overton v. Chester Hoole v. Gwersyllt St. Mary's v. Rhos Mold v. Mostyn Park Reaseheath Hall v. Tilstone Lodge Bunbury v. Haslington Heisby v. Tattenhall Alvanley v. HpFsby T # ? ? Widnes v. Frodsham Frodsham 2nd v. Mooro Neston and District v. Bromborough Pool Bromborough Pool v. Neston and District r CUP COMPETITION.—FIRST ROUND. I HELSBY V. PONTBLYDDYN.-—Played at Helsby on I I tffltnrrln v •— I HELSBY. J Crosland c Parry b Roberts 7 Wilson run out 41 Cartwright c Hayes b Roberts .13 Cole not out ,lï E Crosland net out .1G Nicholas did not bat Malpas Knight Harding „ Stanway" Cowap Extras 4 Total (for 3 wkts) ..98 PONTBLYDDYN. E Haye-s b Cowap ,18 E Roberts b Wilson 0 Jones c Wilson b Cowap 2 M Roberts c Wilson b J Crc,iland I 13 MeLellan-Jones b E Crosland 4 Hayes c Wilson b E Crosland 5 T Parry b J Crosland 1 E Parry not out 1 I Dodd c Wilson 5 Griffiths h Wilson 0 Hewitt b Cowap 0 Extras 8 Total 57 ASHTON HAYES V. CHESTER ST, MARY'S.—Played I at Ashton Haves on Saturday. Score :— ASHTON HAYES. Nickson b Campbell. 1 Gamon c Dryland b I Rathbone. 01 Hayes c Humphries b Rathbone 21 Haycraft b Campbell 7 Shallcross st Humphries b C?mpbell. 1 G!em'ebCampbeH 0 Mounheld c Campbell I b Rnthbone. G Wade run out 5 Schofield c Humphreys I b Swinnerton 0 Alvey not out 7 Waring c & b Camp- bell 4 Extras ..12 Total .64 I ST. MARY'S. Ca.mpbell b Schofield 4 Humphreys e Shallcross b Mounfield 18 Rathbone b Schofield 0 Speakman not out 5 Dryland not out 5 Walters did not bat A Dry land" Swinnerton Goodwin Rev Vesey" Pritchard" Extras. 0 Total (for 3 wkts) 38 ALVANLEY V. INCE.—Played at Ince on Satur-I day. Score :— ALVALET. Leech c White b W Nield 1 Green c F Lloyd b E Hassall 3 L Greenway st E Hassall 0 A Booth not out 18 Wright 1) W Nield 0 T Booth b E Hassall. 0 H Greemvav c Turner I b W Xielèl 0 Britland run out 11 N ixon c Garner h J Nield 0 Noden c Llovd b W Nield .L 1 Ainsworth b J Nield. 0 I Extras .1 Total 35 I INCE. E Hassall b T Booth. 19 J Nield b Wright 4 James b T Booth 7 Proffit b T Booth 5 Lloyd b Leech 6 H Hassall h Wrieht 12 W 2Sield b T Booth 0 I Seeker b A Booth 10 Turner not out 1 White run out, 1 Garner b 0 Extras 7 Total 72 MOLLINGTON V. PEN YFFORDD.—Played at Mol- lington on Saturday. Score :-Penyffordd: C H Skinner b Dunning 0, Bellis b Dunning 4, Wass b Dunning 1, Roberts b Dunning 0, 'Bell b Dunning 1), T Wright b J Williams 24, C Wright b J 9W, illiams 3, Brooks b Nicklin 7. Press run out 0, Hughes c Dunning b J Williams 0, Skinner not out 3, ux,;ri crl 54. Mollington L V Roberts c Wright b >» 1-4, J Williams b Bell 2, H Williams b Bell 0, NicKlin b T Wright 17, Roberts c C Hughes b Wass 0, Dunning c Press b Bell 1, Clarke c Roberts b Wass 0, Hayes run out 8, Minshall c Wright b Skinner 0, Hughes not out 0, Gillham run out 2, extras 2, total 36. ,7' HELSBY JUNRS. V. ALVANLEY 2ND.-Played at Alvanley on Saturday. Score :-Helsby Juniors Dixon b Britland 2, Cartwright b Britland 17. Oates b Cobbe 1, Griffiths b Cobbe 6, Fowlea b Noden 22, A Millichamp b Cobbe 2, Howorth c Cobbe b Greenway 4, L Millichamp not out 2, Edwards b Greenway 0, Stott c A Greenway bE Greenway 0, Jones b Britland 0, extras 2, total 58. Alvanley 2nd A Noden not out 7, Cobbe b Cart- wright 1, Britland b Fowles 0, Booth b Fowles 6, A Greenway c Cartwright b Fowles 0, Llovd b Cartwright 0, E Greenway b Cartwright 0, Pye c Cartwright b Fowles 0, Norcross run outO. T Noden b Fowles 0, Leach run out 0, extras 1, total 15.

QUOITS. I NORTHERN LEAGUE. i NESTON v. BOOTLE. I This match took place on the Ne-ston ground and resulted in a victory for the Bootle team with t majority of eight shots, after a pleasantly fought game. Score:— JN KSTON. BOOTLE. G. Bell (capt.) 25 J. Eccles (capt.) IS John Medcalfe 22 Thos. Mawdsley 25 E. Cartmel 25 W. Mawdsley .14 W. Cartmel 25 M. Nicholson 22 W. Gittins 15 J. Massom. 25 Jos. Clarke. 23 R. Hou,hton 25 R. Kameen 5 E. Mawdsley 25 S. Medealfe 25 A. Wilson 19 R. Peers 14 R. Lindsay 25 Thos. Kameen 19 R. Rothwell 25 E. Grundy. 25 J. P. Wilson, 15 Jos. Medcalfe 25 J. P. Nicholson 18 Handicap allowed. 30 Handicap allowed. 30 Total. 278 Total. 286

POLO. I WIRRAL v. BELFAST. 1 This match took place on the Hooton ground on Tuesday afternoon, in the presence of a large number of spectators. The teams were as follows:- Wirral: Messrs. L. Watson (1), G. Lockett (2), A. Tyrer (3), and W. H. Midwood (back). Belfast: Messrs. T. J. Burrows (1), G. Reade (2), Goodman (3), and R. B. Houston (back). The game in the first period was exceedingly fast, and after both ends had been visited in turn Mr. Tyrer notched the first point for Wirral, the same player scoring a second before the period ended. In the next the game was very even, both sides playing in a most spirited manner. Belfast scored their first through Mr. Houston, while on the other hand Mr. Watson increased Wirral's lead with a brilliant shot. In the next, Mr. Watson scored a fourtif for Wirral. Mr. Tyrer then shewed splendid fornx his efforts resulting in a simple goal to the credit orMr. Midwood. After a hard struggle in the Belfast goal, Mr. Lockett, who had been playing a brilliant game all through, scored a sixth point for Wirral. In the fourth period Mr. Watson added another, while Mr. Reade registered Belfast's second goal. There was no score in the fifth; but in the last period Wirral added three more, the scorers being Messrs. Midwood, Tyrer, and Lockett. The result was: Wirral 10 goals, Belfast 2. Captain W. J. Lockett, D.S.O.. officiated as umpire.

QUEEN'S FERRY SPORTS. The first annual sports promoted by the Athletic Club connected with Messrs. Willans and Robin- son's Queen's Ferry works, were held at Queen's Ferry on Saturday afternoon. Not- withstanding the cold and showery weather, a large crowd witnessed the sports which were of a keen order. There was an excellent entry, and this, combined with the paiagtaking arrangements and capable management throughout, promises well for future meetings. The following were the officials, all of whom are to be congratu- lated on the smoothness with which the sports passed off Committee Messrs. A. Roberts, E. H. Partington, P. Davis, J. T. Eyre, T. Edmonds, C. Cope, and W. Field; stewards: Messrs. W. Eagles, D. Price, J. Williamson, R. H. Birkett, T. Hall, C. Moody, W. F. Statham, and G. Atherton; clerk of course, Mr. J. Bithell; starter, Mr. G. F. L. Clayton East; handicapper, Mr. E. Griffith;, judges Messrs. H. Swetenham, H. C. Powel, R. S. Underhill, and E. H. Partington; secretary, Mr. Thos. Nield. The band of the 2nd V.B. Royal Welch Fusiliers, from Hawarden, was present and discoursed selections of music! during tho progress of the sports. Results — 100 yards handicap fiat race, confined to Ferry Works—First heat: 1, J. Taylor (scratch); 2, W. Pritchard (4yds). Second heat: 1, E. Massey (3yds); 2, R. T. Daries (5yds). Final: 1, J. Taylor 2, E. Massey; 3, W. Pritchard. 100 yards handicap flat race—First heat: 1, W. R. Edge, Chester (7yds). Second heat 1, G. Moses, Chester (8yds). Third heat 1, W. Rogers, Hawarden (7yds). Fourth heat: 1, W. J. Hughes, Connah's Quay (10yds). Fifth heat: 1, R. Jones, Helsby (llyds). Final: 1, R. Jones; 2, W. R. Edge; 3, W. J. Hughes. Half-milo cycle race- First heat: 1, W. Durham, Pentre (30yds). Second heat: 1. R. Thomas, Cefn-y-bedd (G5yds). Third heat: 1, W. Scott, Tarporley (10yds). Fourth heat: 1, G. Hughes, Aston (55vds). Final: 1, W. Durham 2, R. Thomas; 3, \V. Scott. 220 vards handicap flat race—First heat: 1, W. R. Èdse. Second heat: 1, H. Pugh, Queen's Ferry. Third heat 1, W. Peters, Connah's Quarry. Fourth heat: 1, J. Tavlor, Queen's Ferry. Fifth heat: 1, A. Taylor, Chester. Final: 1, A. Taylor; 2, J. Taylor; 3, W. R. Edge. Staff race, sealed handi- cap for staff engaged at Ferry Works-First heat: 1, W. F. Statham; 2, E. Faulkner. Second heat: 1. C. Moody; 2. W. J. Bithell. Final: 1, W. J. Bithell; 2, C. Moody; 3, W. F. Statham. One i mile handicap cycle race—First heat: 1, C. Clutton Ellesmere; 2, T. Vickers, Saughall. Second heat: 1. W. Durham, Pentre 2, R. Thomas, Cefn-y-bedd. Third heat: 1, J. Brown, Great Saughall; 2, W. Scott, Tarporley. Final: 1, W. Durham; 2, T. Vickers 3, R. Thomas. 600 yards obstacle race— 1, J. Goodall, Frodsham; 2, C. Moody, Hawarden; 3, E. Massey, Queen's Ferry. Tug-of-war—First heat: Charlesworth's team" beat Smith's team. Second heat: Wilcoxon's yardmen beat Saltney. Final: Wilcoxon's yardmen beat Charlesworth's. In addition to these events, there was on the pro- gramme a committee race, but for some reason it was decided that this competition should come off on another day. The prizes were distributed by Mr. H. C. Powel, who said that, was their first meeting and he hoped it would turn out successful. Had it not been for the inclement weather they would probably have had one of the directors of the company present, and a lady to distribute the prizes.—On the motion of Mr. A. Roberts, a cordial vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Powel.

I FOOTBALL. I CHESTER AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATION. ANNUAL DINNER. The Chester and District Football Association held their annual dinner on Monday evening, at the Holborn Restaurant, Chester, where an enjoy- able evening was spent. Mr. J. B. Blomerley (chairman of the Cheshire F.A.) presided, and was supported by Messrs. J. Davies (secretary of the Welsh Association), W. Nunnerley (Welsh F.A.), E. T. Hallmark (chairman of the Chester and District Association), J. Maddocks (Cheshire y- TT r.A.), 11. <?rowder (cnairman ot the Hoole Rovers F.C.), G. S. N. Hull (secretary of the Chester and District F.A.), Stanley Smith (president of the Wrexham Victoria F.è.), W. H. Fletcher (secre- tary of the Chester F.C.), Len Hales (Stoko player), J. Blaylock, R. Atherton, etc. Apologies for absence were received from the Rev. F. Clifton Smith (president of the Chester Association), and Messrs. C. J. Hughes, Northwich (secretary of the Cheshire Association), E. Case (West Kirby), Bert Lipsham (Sheffield), and A. Scragg (Crewe). After the repast, the Chairman proposed "The King, Queen, and the rest of the Royal Family." Ho said that that was the first football gathering that they had attended during the reign of King Edward VII. in peaceful times. (Hear, hear.) Since the death of our late. lamented Queen, until quite recently we had been associated with war, and we were all very pleased to know that peace had come. Mr. J. Maddocks gave "The National Associa- tion," by which, he said, he meant the Association of England and Wales. He coupled with the toast the name of Mr. J. Davies. One of the most pleasing features of football was the enormous amount of money which was being raised for the relief of the distressed and the support of our hospitals and infirmaries. He believed that he was well within the mark when he said that the foot- ball clubs of England raised C35 OW per annum. One of the signs of the times was the setting aside of the fund to provide for players who met with disaster on the fields. Great strides had been made in football; but incidents still occurre d which should not occur, and he was not a true friend of football who shut his eyes to those things, and did not stamp them out from the game. It was neces- sary to legislate for the greatest good, and for the first principles and the interests. of the game of football. Mr. John Davies responded. Referring to the forthcoming international Board, he said that cer- tain drastic proposals had been brought forward. Some had been supported and encouraged by two or three associations for some few years. It was a very good sign that no sudden changes had come about; but whatever changes might occur they might- be sure were well thought out. There was the proposed alteration of the penalty law, and he could say that every time that he had attended the Board that alteration had been the subject of some conversation. Those who had to legislate in connection with the laws of the game did not do things in a hurry. Reference had been made to charitable objects. It had been a grand sign of the feeling shewn by footballers throughout the kingdom that such a feeling of sympathy had gone forth to the sufferers in that regrettable ac- cident in Glasgow last April. When they remem- bered that the Scottish Association realised all their assets that they might do whatever possible for the sufferers, and when they remembered that the Welsh and English Association gave £ 1,000, and the Irish Association £ 25, it shewed the bond of union and sympathy between the National Association.. Mr. J. Blaylock proposed "The Cheshire F.A. During the season there had been one regIettable incident, and he knew that when the Chester Association tried to adjudicate upon it, they were misunderstood by a great many people. He re- ferred to that lamentable occurrence which took place q.n the Chester football ground. He was not there himself, but he was on tfte committee which investigated the matter, and when that portion of the Ellesmere Port team Qntered the room, he was so much disgusted with the whole proceeding that he felt he would like to sever his connection with football altogether. Speaking of the Cheshire Football Association, he said that it de- served the support of everyone who took an inter- est in football. When the Ellesmere Port case wes oarried to the Cheshire Association, the Chester Association were prepared to stand on their merits, as their case was a just one, and it was sufficient to know that the Cheshire Association supported them in everything they did. :» o< The Chairman, in responding, said that with regard to the Chester and District Association, out of the great number of cases that had been sent to the county body, he did not think ex- ception had been taken to any of the decisions. The Chester and District Association ought to be proud of the clubs under it. Some of the junior clubs had produced players who had held their own in all the olasses of football to-day. Mr.- R. Atherton gave the toast of the evening, "The Chester and District Football Association." He said the president of the association was Mr. Yerburgh, and whatever their politics might be they would all acknowledge that the member for Chester threw his heart and soul into athletics. District associations and county associations, work- ing together, had a tendency to bind clubs to- gether in one strong bond of fellowship. The Chester and District Association had a list of re- wards which would compare very favourably in- deed with any other district associations, of the size. Speaking of the players, he said that Mr. Len Hales had played for a local club. He had also played for Crowe Aloxandra, and he had played for England. There were one or two others. There was Mr. Halliday, who in his younger days played for a club belonging to the Chester and District Association. After playing for Crewe Alexandra and Everton, he now played for Bolton Wanderers. Their friend Mr. Hewitt had played excellent football for Sunderland. The last gentle- man, Mr. Bert Lipsham, had played in his first football days for clubs representing the Chester Association. It was a distinct honour, not only to Chester, but particularly to the association, that they had produced a player of the calibre of Mr. Lipsham, who had won the medal for the English Cup. He coupled with the toast the names of Mr. E. T. Hallmark (chairman), Mr. J. Blaylock (vice-president), Mr. G. S. N. Hull (secretary), and Mr. Webster (treasurer). Mr. G. S. N. Hull, who responded, said ha was pleased to state that the association was in a. very flourishinsr condition. Thev had had no reason to regret the work they had done during the pasb season, which he thought would compare very favourably with the work of other seasons. He knew that some would say that that dinner was tho funeral march of tho Chester and District Football Association, on account of the formation of a big league in Flintshire. The Chester and District Association could look forward confidently to the next season. The record in the past would prove to clubs that they were worth supporting. He acknowledged the debt of gratitude he owed to his brother officials, especially to Mr. Hallmark and Mr. Webster. He regretted the absence that even- ing of one who did a great deal of quiet work for the association. He referred to Sergeant Belshaw. (Cheers.) Ho also tendered his thanks to Messrs. Russell and Errington. They had heard a lot that night about the Ellesmere Port case. On that occasion, the Wrexham Victoria team played a very sportsmanlike game. No team had a greater temptation to loee their tempers than the Wrexham team, and no team played the game better. He thanked the Wrexham Victoria team for the part they had played that afternoon in upholding the honour of the association, and shewing how the game could be played. In that team they had a team to be proud of. He did not forget the very brilliant game played by Helsby, when just a goal might have turned the victory the other way. The He!sby men took their defeat as Helsby could always take defeat. He saw that at a meeting of the Hospital Saturday Committee a complaint was made about the Charity Cup ties. He could say that the Chester and District Association had always done their utmost for the cause. The competition was not so successful last season, owing to unforeseen circumstances. Other toasts were "The Visitors," "The Artists" and "The Press." Tho following cups were then presented, namely The League trophy, the Senior Cup and the Yer- burgh Challenge Charity Cup to Wrexham Vic- toria, and tho Junior Cup to Hoole Rovers. Medals were a'so presented to the members of the winning teams.

THE CHESTER HEARTH TAX. INTERESTING RECORD. 1 A writer in tho "Sheaf" column of the Courant" this week says:- After the restoration of Charles II. in 16G0, Parlia- ment had a number of difficult matters to arrange. One of these was the revenue. The feudal dues were abolished and a number of new taxes instituted, among these being the Hearth tax or "Chimney money." Says Mr Pepys in his Diary (March 3, 1661-2)—" I am told that this day the Parliament hath Toted 2s. per annum for every chimney in England, as a constant revenue for ever to tho Crown." The occupier, not the owner, of the house had to pay the tax. Tho overseers had powers of search, in case the householder refused to state the number of hearths in his house, and a few exemp- tions were allowed in the case of those too poor to pay the ordinary rates and taxes. The Act was amended and altered in the following year and in 1664, in order to secure a better return and prevent evasion. One authority states that this Hearth tax was an ancient one in England, though now for the fiist time regulated by Parliament, but Mr. Dowell in his History of Taxation asserts that it was copied from a French example. Under the name of Fuage or Focage (hearth money) an impost of 12d. for every fire was laid on the subjects of the duchy of Aquitaine by the Black Prince (25 Ed. III.) The tax was farmed out, and of course the farmers did their best to make a profit from it, and therefore brought as many as possible into the contributories. To the Crown it yielded from £ 170,000 to £ 200,000 a year. In 1600 Pepys mentions a scheme for abolish- ing; the tax at an eight years' purchase, which was estimated as worth £ 1,600,000. It was a very unpopular impost, the power of search being specially objectionable, and on the Revolution it was abolished "to gratify the people," as Evelyn records in his Diary (March 8, 1688-9) with a gloomy foreboding-" But what was intended to supply- it, besides present great taxes on land, is not named." The landowners were, however, saved from an extra tax on land by the device of a Window tax, which in a few years replaced the Hearth tax, and was in its turn, about seventy years ago, replaced by the Inhabited House duty. The importance of the Hearth tax from the antiquarian point of view is that, the tenant being charged, lists of householders had to be drawn up, township by township, and ward by ward, giving the number of hearths in each house and many of these lists having been preserved it is possible to compile fairly complete directories of the various districts for the period in which the tax was levied, and to estimate the population and its degrees.of prosperity as shown by its dwellings. The returns tor Chester for the half year ending March 25, 1664, have been copied out for tho "Sheaf" by Mr. Gilbert P. Gamon, but as they are too long to be here printed in full a selection had to be made, and only the householders with four hearths and up- wards are given. The full list for Eastgate Ward, for example, has 122 names of persons chargeable, and there are added 22 besides of others excused (all having one hearth each); while only 47, or about a third, come within our limit. Those excluded number 45 of one hearth (including the 22 excused), 33 of two hearths, and 19 of three hearths. The lists are signed by the constables of the wards those for Eastgate being John Hulton, Thomas Lloyd, Randle Bingley, and Richard Matthews. I ASTGATE W ArtD. John Poole Esq. I Randle Sargeant. 4 (mayor) 7 Alin Clerke Wid 4 Robert Harrison 4 Doctr. Edward Bur- John Heath 4 lace 7 Mr. John Bennett 5 Mr. William Ouldham 5 Samuel Gerrard 5 John Travers. 8 Richard Townevsend. (j Calvin Bruen. 4 Richard Taylor(Alder- Richard Minshull man). 6 (Alderman). 7 Thomas Billington 5 John Cowles 7 EdwardBradshawE8q 7 Mrs. Hannah Leiues- Thomas Pickering 5 ley Wid 12 Sarah Parnell wid: 5 Ann Salisbury Wid: 4 Thomas HaDwood 5 Margery Butler Wid: 4 Mary Ince wid: 4 Edward Lincka. 4 Nathaniel Basnett 5 Thomas Jones 5 John Harrison 4 William Godfry 5 Thomas Bruen 5 Richard Hiccock 5 John Buck 5 Dorothy Griffith Wid: 4 Samuel Bucke 6 Edward Russell (j 1homas Hawaii 9 Mary Hulton Wid: 5 George Mainwaring Katheriiuiet Ashton G,??t: 6 Wid: 5 Thomas Poole Gent: 5 Sarah Dod Wid: 4 I- !1 1 1 11 -1 v- A MW u Aiaerseyijrent: t nicnani r raiiuis t Thomas Wright 4 Edward Hulton 7 Kath. Kerkman Wid: 5 Jonathan Crosse 4 ST. JOIIN- WARD. Robert Bulkeley Esq. 8 Elizabeth BridgeWid: 9 John Pulson Esq. 4 Alice Whittingham William Bennett Wid: 4 (Mercer) 10 j Hugh Stringer 4 Mr. John Spurke. 5 Josuiih Taylor 6 Mrs. KatherineKend- Thomas Davenport. 5 rick Wid 8 Thomas HOIC G Silvanus Giles G Robert Leiusley 4 RichMd Brett 14 Richard Heath 4 Mr. Thomas Ashton 14 Jane Cotgreave Wid: 4 Thomas Baker Gent. 13 Henry Hull 7 Thomas Ashton (Beer Mr. Peter Leigh 4 brewer) 8 JarnesLynne, 4 TRINITY WARD. Hugh Roberts 0 Richard Bird (AId'n) 8 Thomas Harrison 5 Richard Leuing Esq. Valentine Short 6 1 (Recorder) 8 Richard Shons 4 Richard Higginson 7 Elizabeth 4 ArthurWalley (Alder- John Brett. G man). 5 Richard Bird (Alder- Mrs. Lettice Hough- man). 5 ton. G Hugh Maddock 4 William Snead 4 Gawen Hudson (ler- Thomas Marsh 5 chant 12 Robert Mosse 4 Ann Hulton Wid: 6 John Whittle 4 Richard Wilson (Cl'ke) 6 William Williams 41 Sarah Mothershead. 7 ST. MARY'S WARD. Gp-orve Manley Gent: 5 I John Brueii 4 William WrightGent: 11 Marke Jelliceour 5 Richard Bridge 5 Thomas Fletcher 4 John Poole (Ald.n..). 5 4 1 T h omas Fletcher 4 John Poole (Ald'n). 4 John Taylor 4 Elizabeth Alcock G Edward Bridge. 5 XOUTHGATE WARD. William Ince (Alder- Katherine liice 4 man). 5 William Wilme. 19 1 John Ratcliffe Esq. 10 I Margaret Annyon 15 I Dr. Henry Bridge- Ralph Bingley 5 man (Dean) 12 ¡ George Wilson ti Mrs. Frances Booth IRichard Williamson 4 Mrs. Katherine Booth J 14 Margaret Green 4 Charles Farrington 6 I' Elizabeth Prickett 41 Margaret King Wid: 4 William Kennyon 4

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AGRICULTURE. PROGRESSING. The last fortnight of intermittent rain and fine weather, and more especially the last week, has brought about a wonderful improvement in the aspect of agricultural affairs, doing much to bring into line many matters which a few weeks since were most indifferent for the season. The soil has received a good soaking, and though we could even do with more, a spell of sunshine would now be most acceptable. Crops of every description are greatly changed for the better, and on some good soils give promise of being equal to any during the last seven years, grass included. Still, the cold lingers, and the winds, which have alternated considerably between north and south by way of east, have been such as to make one glance wistfully of an evening towards the fireless grate, wh;ch uni versal custom orders shall obtain when May is out. In spite of this, however, the country is looking its best and for the "leafy month" is posi- tively charming; and if we are in for a "dripping June," which wo are told puts all things in tune, there will probably be little to complain of as the season advances. Not the least marked feature in the improvement is the supply of garden produce now comin into the markets. All sorts of green- stuffs together with the new crop of potatoes are plentiful and reasonable in price, the chief regrett- able item from the housewife's point of view being the dearness of meat, which, though a shade easier, is still above normal quotations. It is sincerely to be hoped that we have now progressed too far along the road of summer weather to have our hopes dashed, as has been unfortunately too frequently the case in the past, when what was written represented a different state of affairs when in print it reached tne reader. According to reports from various districts there seems to be a prospect of fair crops of the later sorts of apples and pears, and the smaller kinds of fruit; but the outlook for plums, damsons, and other stone fruit, is represented as likely to be microscopic. Strawberries having been kept in check in the early stages of growth, and beiag now well mulched with the rains, have a better chance, and given fine weather, will no doubt turn out well. The cheese markets in the past week presented variable features. From London we learn that the trade was decidedly 'peaceful,' and buyers were disinclined to do more than fill present require- ments; while officially it was reported that Eng- lish produce was quiot without special feature. At Liverpool the demand was good, all lots being cleared on arrival, and were mostly of the now make. New Cheshires hold their own, inciting ready sales at 62s. to 68s. for finest, fine 55s. to 59s., medium and lower 53s. to 50s. Canadians, of whioh there is only a very limited supply of old, espeoially of coloured, commands the full values of 60s. to 61s., white 50s. to 58s.; new is selling at 53s. to 54s., white 52s. to 55s., good value 50s. to 53s. I CARLISLE ROYAL SHOW. At tho recent monthly meeting of the council of the Royal Agricultural Society, Prince Christian presided, and the attendance included the Prince of Wales, the Mayor, Town Clerk and others from Carlisle, representing the looal committee. The Earl of Derby reported from the General Committee that the implement and dairy departments only will be opened on Saturday, July 5th. All departments of the show will be open on Monday July 7th, when the judging of live stook, poultry, and produoe will take place. The charge for admission on that day will be 5s. On Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday there will be daily paradee in the larger ring of cattle and heavy horses in the morning, commencing at 11 a.m., and of light horses, followed by horse jumping competitions in the afternoon, commencing at 2 p.m.. The charge for admission on the Tuesday and Wed- nesday will be 2s. 6d. and on the Thursday and Friday Is. Butter-making and horse-shoeing competitions will be held on the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The Secretary said numerous letters had reached him from Agents- General and other announcing the intention of representatives of their colonies, who will shortly be arriving in London for the Coronation cere- monies, to inspect the society's show at Carlisle. I ANOTHER BACILLUS. I It is reported that Professor Hamilton, of Aberdeen, has discovered the baoillus of louping- ill in sheep, and if this be true, as there seems to be no doubt that it is, the discovery will have a most material effect on the flooks of this country, particularly in the north, where the disease flourishes at times to the great detriment and enormous loss of flockmasters. The discovery is all the more welcome as up till now the evil haa baffled the researohes of our most eminent veterinary scientists; once given a correct diagnosis, there can be little doubt that a remedy will soon follow the isolation of the bacillus. In the North of Sootland and northern counties of England there is a mysterious disease locallyknown as "bra/y," somewhat in sympathy with the louping-iil, and it is to be sincerely hoped that the investigations, whioh, of course, will now bit thorough and exhaustive, will lead to elucidation and cure of both, whioh cannot fail to bo of inestimable benefit to flock-owners of every degree, both in this country and elsewhere. I ROTATION FARMING. C.B. writing on this subject in the "Rural World," pertinently remarks: -Farmers are fre- quently told that they should go out of the beaten track of rotation farming; but I wonder what kind of an individual it is who offers this advioe! Tho man who cultivates land, and who does not adopt some sort of a rotation system, will soon find his bank balance dwindling, and I should like to see some of the seif-styled instructors of tho agriculturist attempting to succeed where the intelligent practical farmer fails. The farmer is bound to have a rotation of some fixed and sensible sort; although he for- tunately has more liberty in the matter than he used to have, when landowners used to put a clause in agreements and leases assigning exactly what the rotation should be. In my opinion, the farmer should be allowed to farm as he likes, provided aJways that he keeps up the fertility of the soil. He is not likely to go on growing one white straw crop after another, and of the same charaoter, but he will adopt a sensible rotation nevertheless. He will not injure the land, and he will pay his rent. I LANCASHIRE AGRICULTURAL RnHTFTTT I RECORD ENTRY OF CHEESE. The Lancashire Agricultural Society has been making strenuous efforts of late years to promote the making of long-keeping cheese within its district, and, it is stated, is meeting with great success in its endeavours. At a recent com- mittee meeting, the Secretary reported that he had received tho largest entry of cheeee in the history of the society. Mr. Windham E. Hale, Mr. Philip Park, and tho secretary have commenced their tour throughout Lancashire to inspect and seal these cheeses, which will have to be kept until the Guild Show in September, and then exhibited for the prizes. Tho number of cheeses to be sealed is 480, and six days have been allocated for the work, the distance which tho stewards will travel visiting the farms being up- wards of 350 miles. FARMERS' WEATHER FORECASTS. A most important item which has been con- siderably over-looked by agriculturists, is the sup- ply of weather forecasts by the Meteorological Office (63, Victoria-street, S.W., London) which is prepared, as in previous years, to supply them daily to those desirous of receiving such informa- tion, for the bare cost of the telegram, and if the address exceeds three words, a halfpenny extra for every additional word. The forecasts are so worded that the cost of each message is 6d. for any one district, including the address. The speoial harvest forecasts are prepared at 3.30 p.m. daily from June 1st to September 30th (except Sundays), and are applioabio to the twenty-four hours from midnight following the time of issue. This special service is arranged for consecutive telegrams only, and is in addition to the ordinary service of daily forecasts prepared at the office at 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. The arrangement is a splendid one in its way, but, unfortunately, it is super- seded in a great measure by the daily newspapers, scarcely any one of which is without its weather forecast. THE COLORADO BEETLE. I I The importation of foreign produce into this country has been responsible for many evils and vexations to which fanners, as well as others, arc subject. To name these would be easy, but they must bo obvious to any intelligent mind. Cattle plague, foot-and-mouth disease, and a few others are among the more prominent of our afflictions for a number of years; but it is not till within the last year or two that the Colorado beetle has put in an appearance, and was thought to have been stamped out. Tho Board of Agriculture, however, give notice that the pest has again made its ap- pearance at Tilbury. Potato-growers are requested to carefully examine their plants, and to send to the Board without delay for identification speci- mens of any insects suspected to be the Colorado beetle. The Board will supply copies of a leaflet, with a coloured illustration of the beetle, post free and free of charge to all applicants. Letters or packets containing specimens, and applications for leaflets should be addressed to the Secretary, Board of Agriculture, 4, Whitehall-place, London, S. W., and need not be stamped.

SWINE FEVER IN SALOP.—The London Gazette" of Friday night contained the following :—An order of the Board of Agriculture, dated June 3, which declares an area comprising the petty sessional di visions of Oswestry and Pimhill, and the borough of Oswestry in the administrati ve county of Salop, to be an area infected with swine fever. The order comes into operation on June 10 DEATH OF MR. OWEN WILLIAMS, GLANCI.WTD.— One of the best-known agriculturists in the Vale of Clwyd passed away on Saturday, in the person of Mr. Owen Williams, Glanclwyd, at the ago of 72 years. He was a native of Llanrhaiadr, Denbigh, and had farmed Glanclwyd (which is on the estate of the Lord-Lieutenant of Flintshire) for the past 35 years. He was at one time chairman of the St. Asaph Board of Guardians and of the Denbigh- shire County Council. He was one of the leaders of the Calvinistic Methodist Connexion, and a past moderator of the Vale of Clwyd monthly meeting. He was an uncle of Mr. J. Herbert Lewis, M.P. The interment took place on Tuesday at Rhewl Cemetery, a service being previously held at Bodfari Chapel. The funeral was attended by a large number of public men, including Messrs. J. Herbert Lewis, M.P., and J. Herbert Roberts, M.P., who had travelled from London in order to attend. Addresses were delivered by the Revs. Francis Jones, Abergele; John Owen, Mold; Evan Jones, Denbigh; Griffith Ellis, Bootle; WTynne Roberts, Bodfari; and Mr. J. Herbert Roberts, M.P., all of whom paid a high tribute to the deceased as a man of unblemished character, and to his public services. The funeral cortege was made up of eighty carriages and was witnessed by many hundreds of people, who had congregated along the line of route.

THE SENIOR WRANGLER. — This year's Senior Wrangler at Cambridge is Mr. E. Cunningham, of St. John's. The Second Wrangler is Mr. F. Slator, of St. John's. Mr. Ebenezer Cunningham, the Senior Wrangler, is son of Mr. George Cunningham, of London. He was educated at Lady Owen's School, Islington. Mr. Slator, the Second Wrangler, is son of Mr. Henry Slator, of Burton-on-Trent. He was edu- cated at Burton Grammar School. t .?■

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PEACE SETTLEMENT. OVER 4,500 SURRENDERS. THANKSGIVING AT PRETORIA. ) Up to Sunday, says a Reuter telegram front Pretoria, 4,552 Boers had come into our lines. Lord Kitchener reports that on Saturday after- noon and the following day 2,500 lilies were sur- rendered. Of these 448 were given up by ("ape rebels, and most of the remainder by De Wet's I men. "Cheers for the King," concludes the t despatch, "were hearty." t Pretoria, Monday. Surrenders continue throughout the different districte, the total to this morning being over 7,000. Sunday's thanksgiving service in the Church- square, Pretoria, was an exceptionally picturesque and imposing ceremonial. Six thousand soldiers, representing every branoh of the South African Field Force, took part in the oelebration, and at its oonolusion, by the singing of Mr. Rudyard Kipling's "Recessional," three tremendous cheers were given for the King, and another salvo for Lord Kitchener. Speaking at a banquet at Johannesburg, Lord Milner pleaded for a truce to political strife for the next few years, so as to enable the country to prosper. He trusted that all would develop a wider patriotism that would feel devotion to South Africa as part of a world-wide Empiro- I THE BRIGHTEST JEWEL. I I The Archbishop of Capetown, in his sermon at I I the g r?aT hm b,i,s,h t:P thanksgiving a. Pretoria, on Sund&y, said that peace would be the brightest jewel in the Crown at the King's Coronation. I "GREAT BRITAIN AND SONS." I Viscount Cranborne, speaking at Rochester on Saturday, said the war had shewn the wealth and rosourCeti of England and its great powers by the co-opemtion of all parts of the Empire, and it had taught the world that sometimes this country was in deadly earnest. Great Britain had taken her children into partnership on account of the multi- plication of responsibilities, and hencoforth the firm would be known as "Great Britain and Sons." The chastening lesson of the war was that in times of peace England should not neglect obvious pre- cautions. I BURGHERS AND THEIR BEER. I ELATION AT SURRENDER. fretoria, June ». Thirty men of Opperman's commando sur- rendered here this morning. The recent sur- renders at Balmoral produced some interesting incidents. The men belonged ohiefly to Muller's oommando. When they arrived at the place ap- pointed for the surrender they threw down their rifles with shouts of joy, and nearly insisted on shaking hands with the British oiffcers. When they entered the town they sang, laughed, and cheered. In the evening a big "sing-song" was held. Among other refrains, "Rule, Britannia" was sung with great heartiness. The remarkable feeling of comradeship displayed between the British soldiers and the Boers is a leading feature of the surrenders everywhere. The soldiers have behaved magnificently, not a single word being uttered which could possibly hurt the feelings of the defeated burghers, who are most enthu- siastic in their appreciation of this considerate treatment. They declare that they never ex- pected such magnanimity, &nd that the British soldier is a thorough gentleman. Every Boer on his arrival received first of all a pint of beer, and was then supplied with as much food as he wished. I MR. KRUGER. I The "Echo de Paris" reproduces a despatch I from Brussels according to which Mr. Kruger has definitely decided not to return to South Africa but to end his days in Holland. I ARMY EXPENDITURE IN SOUTH AFRICA. A Parliamentary paper issued on Tuesday con- tains a statement of the estimated amount still required to be expended on the Army in South Afrioa in the current year. The total amount is E28,000,000, of. which E4,850,000 is put down to pa.y of troops, £ 3,800,000 to war gratuities and other gratuities on discharge, E460,000 to medical servioes, L450,000 to pay of Militia, B6,500,000 to transport, £ 7,200,000 to provisions, forage, and other supply services, £4,375,000 to olothing, stores, works, and miscellaneous servioos, E330,000 to gratuities and other non-effeotive charges for officers, and £ 35,000 to non-effective services for men. I MOLD COUNCIL AND THE KING. In reply to a telegraphio message of congratu- lation on the cessation of hostilities addressed to his Majesty the King, Mr. Samuel Berresford, ohairman of the Mold Urban District Council, has reoeived the following replyBuckingham Palace. The King thanks the Moid Urban I District Council for their loyal good wishes.— Knollys. I NATAL PREMIER'S VIEWS. I I EMPIRE AND COMMERCE. I The mail steamer Kildonan Castle arrived at Southampton on Saturday. Among the passengers on board was Sir Albert Hime, Premier of Natal, who, in an interview, said he thought the peace conditions were extremely generous. The main point to be considered was the csm- mercial relations of the Empire, with special regard to preferential treatment for British im- ports. He looked forward to the establishment of a permanent Imperial Council to which these conferences might in time lead, but, until this result was attained, he thought it would be found desirable to hold every three years a conference of Colonial Premiers in London. METHUEN RETURNING. I Lord Methuen leaves South Africa shortly on board the steamship Canada, and is expected to ba in England in the second week of July.

PLOT AGAINST KITCHENER. FORTY-FIVE ARRESTS. The "Daily Telegraph" says :-By Saturday's mail from South Africa we received from Mr. Bennet Burleigh the duplicate of an interesting telegram concerning the discovery of another con- spiracy at Pretoria. This message, which was dated May 17, was evidently suppressed by tho censor. Mr. Burleigh says Another plot has been unearthed at Pretoria, than which nothing can be more fatal to the best interests of the Boers. It recalls the last days of the southern confederacy, but happily the conspirators have been foiled here. Last Thursday the troops in the town stood to arms all night. Again to-night the guards were doubled, the men returning to quarters at 6 p.m. A number of arrests, in all about 45, have been made. Among others apprehended are several lawyers, including Holland and Lingebeok, and also the latter's clerk, Dr. Van Wyk, and Messrs. Botha and Tossil. It is stated that the conspira- tors expected help from outside. The town was to be attacked, and, if possible, raided for supplies and arms, and during the tumult the buildings were to be blown up and the British officers, in- cluding Lord Kitchener, were to be killed or cap- turod. A desperate attempt was to bo made to kill or secure Lord Kitchener.

CAPT. MACGILLYCUDDY'S PROTEST I IRISH DISLOYALTY. I We have received a copy of the following letter, which Captain MacGillycuddy, of Bache Hall, Chester, has sent to the editor of the "Kerry News":— Dear sir,—I have read in the Kerry News the report of the proceedings of the committee of the Killarney Lunatic Asylum at the recent monthly meeting. Being a member of the committee I desire to dis- associate myself in every way from the action taken by the majority of the very small number present, in forcing Dr. Griffin to act disloyally on the occasion of His Majesty's approaching Coronation. It is a matter for very serious consideration for the people of Killarney that this foolish and discredit- able action was apparently instigated by the man who is supposed to look after their interests in preference to his own. Dependent as Killarney is on the tourist traffic, Mr. Murphy could hardly have discovered a more ingenious manner to injure every individual who is, however distantly, gaining a living by that traffic. It is not the work of one who loves his nati ve land and understands her real wants, to harm that land or any portion of it for the poor purpose of attaining an ephemeral personal notoriety. it is an insult to the Pope to represent the Corona- tion Oath as an offence to the Roman Catholic Church, in view of the fact that a special mission is being sent by His Holiness to represent him at the Coronation. I have no wish to do more, how- ever, than express my indignation that the name of Killarney should be sullied and that the interests of Killarney people should have been injured, as they undoubtedly will be by the man who, of all others, should have safeguarded and fostered those interests. The resolution, as far as His Majesty is concerned, and the few similar resolutions from different parts of the country, are but infinitesimal ripples on the surface of the great and growing ocean of loyalty on which he is borne to his throne.—Faithfully YOllrs, JOHN MACGILLYCUDDY. I Ballinagrown, 23rd May, 1902.

DISTRICT COUNCILS. ELLESMERE PORT URBAN. A meeting of this Council was held on Monday evening, Mr. W. Stockton presiding. There were also present the Revs. W. Bidlake and T. Kynaston, Dr. Finney, Messrs. J. W. Ellis, C. Whitridge, E. Williams, L. Lindop, H. Prioe. J D. Dutton, J. H. Lloyd, W. Worsey, S. Jones, Wynne and Breckon, with the clerk (Mr. D. Bunting) and surveyor (Mr. Hudson). AN INFORMALITY. The Clerk read a letter from the Local Govern- ment Board intimating that as the Council did not give the prescribed public notice of their intention to appoint a medical officer, Dr. Kenyon's appointment was not strictly valid, and the Council would have to go through the formula, of giving public notioe and making a fresh appointment. It was pointed out, how- ever, that the advertisement in the Press need not invite candidates for the appointment. The Clerk explained that when the appoint- ment was made ho was not aware it was neoessary to give public notioe beforehand, as the Public Health Act did not state so. It was decided to go through the necessary formula, but not to invite candidates for the appointment. PROPOSED FOOTPATH nTVTrnsTmvr Considerable discussion took place on the sub- ject of the proposed diversion of a footpath leading from Merseyton-road to Overpool, and on the motion of Mr. H. Price, seconded by Mr. Williams, a deputation, consisting of the chair- man, vice-chairman, Mr. Breokon and Mr. Williams, was appointed to interview the secre- tary and engineer of tho Shropshire Union Canal Company with a view of making a new footpath from Merseyton-road to the bridge over the rail- way on land belonging to the company. W lKKAL HOSPITAL BOARD. A letter was received from the Wirral Joint Hospital Board stating that they could not admit patients from this district into their hospital upon any other terms than that the Council should be a contributory authority of the Joint Hospital Board. Mr. Whitridge asked if the Boa.rd were within their rights in refusing to admit their patients. Mr. Breckon said he understood they had law on their side. Dr. Finney proposed that the Council approach the other infectious diseases hospitals to appertain on what terms they would take cases. Mr. Breckon seconded. After some discussion, however, the motion WII.3 withdrawn. and it was docided, on the motion of Mr. Whitridge, seconded by Mr. Breokon, to ask the Local Government Board if the Council was still legally bound to the Wirral Hospital Board. I MR. THORNTON'S CLAIM The committee appointed to consider Mr. Thornton's claim for JE35 Is. 6d. as compensa- tion reported that the claim was originally made against the Wirral Di ,tricb Council because of the alleged failure of that authority to comply with the terms of an agreement they had entered into with Mr. Thornton. They recom- mended that the Council should purchase the material and do the work of connecting Mr. Thornton's houses with tho sewer. On the motion of Mr. Price, seconded by Mr. Breckon, the recommendation wa.^t adonfwl I THE SEWERAGE WORKS. The Clerk reported that in accordanoe with the resolution of the Council he had applied to the Local Government Board for sanction to borrow £ 370 to meet the extra cost of the sewer- age works, and the Board had replied asking to be furnished with a copy of the resolution of the council authorising the application and with plans shewing the alterations and details of the east.- The clerk was instructed to comply with the request. I THE PONTOON COMPANY'S CLAIM. A letter was received from tho Pontoon Com- pany in regard to their claim for j37 10s. as com- pensation. They stated they had already had a. long correspondence with Messrs. Beloe and Priest (engineers) on the subject, and informed them that the sum of 27 10.9. did not nearly com* pensate them for the sewer coming from their land. With regard to the Council's suggestion that they should reduce it to a nominal figllre, they (the compa.ny) could hardly fall in with thetf views, as they were not established for the benefit of the general public. (L&ughter.) The sewer was of no benefit to them, and they woul d very muoh rather have been without the JB7 10s. or the sewer. The Chairman: Wo have no option in the matter. These are legacies. It was agreed to pay the amount claimed. TO FIGHT CONSUMPTION. An invitation was received from the County Council to appoint two representatives of the Council to attend a conference between the sanitary authorities in the oounty and the Isola- tion Hospitals Act Sub-Committeo of the County Counoil with a view to steps being taken for the establishment of a sanatorium or sanatoria for the treatment) of consumptives. Dr. Finney and the Rev. W. Bidlake we"* appointed to represent the Council at the con- ference. TENDERS. lenders for emptying ashpits, eto., for tile ensuing twelve months were received from Messrs- S. Crawford (for £130), R. Atkins (Ll70), George Catchpole (£127 10s.), Joseph Parker (£130), and Stephen Cowap (£145). The Council voted by ballot, ten members voting for Catchpole, foilr for Parker and one for Cowap. Mr. Catchpoie'¡; tender was accordingly accepted. SEWER ATTENDANT'S SALARY. An application was received from George WeIl. sewer attendant, for an increase of wages 01). account of extra work.—Dr. Finney pointed on1; that Mr. Wells was only temporarily appoilited until the nuisance inspector was appointed on tilo 1st of June. By retaining his services tile Council would be practically orea.ting a net oiffce. The inspector himself was perfect capable of looking after the sewers, and if t!lt'Y. appointed a. person to assist him in looking aftel the sewers, Mr. Wells would not be required. Mr. Price: Surely you don't expect our i'1' spector to go down the sewers. Dr. Finney: It is his duty to look after the sewers. I Mr. Williams thought that there was so little work in connection with tho office of sewer attendant that it would bo unnecessary to pay a man 25s. a week to do it. c The Chairman said the Finance Commit;^ recommended the application to the favouraol consideration of the Council. After further discussion it was decided to rc:e the matter to the inspector with the direction ltieo, mako a recommendation to the Council if thought it desirable. On tha motion of Dr. Finney, tho surveyor instructed to furnish the Council with Pfl ticulars of the duties of all the men under )11, supervision. THE CORONATION FESTIVITIES: NO MONEY VOTED. I The Roads and Improvement Committee recou mended the Council to undertake street decoi-^ tions for the Coronation and to join the Coroii' tion Committee in an appeal to the residents t deoorate their premises for the ocoasion. Thc also recommended that in order to oomniemoi'i' the event a suitable tree be planted in the Victoria. Gardens, subject to the permission of the Shropshire Union Canal Company. Dr. Finney asked what form the street deCOfao tions were intended to take. The Chairman said he understood the idea ,8 to decorate the lamp-posts and trees WJt bunting, etc. Mr. Breckon: Does it mean we are spend1 » money out of the rates? The Chairman Yes. ,'0 Mr. Breckon: I move a resolution that 1e spend not one halfpenny of the money out of tile rates in decorating the village in commeIXJOf tion of his Majesty's Coronation. Mr. Worsey seconded. Mr. Breckon added that money was being ¡"[,IiII' for the festivities by voluntary subscription- i-o was as loyal as anybody, but he was therø {O defend the ratepayers. tJ¡° Mr. WIHiams said he understcod that iflo money required for this purpose was to be CIl-l' j,?Cit voluntarily. He was prepared to give his ??' ?c. but he was certainly under the impression th? ,Io money was to come out of the rates. e¥ 1 Mr. Whitridge If we decide to spend think we could spend it in a better manner t providing flags and bunting. The motion of Mr. Breckon was agreed to- ,,¡¡l- It was decided, however, to join the Cl""to tion Committee in an appeal to the reside??,i decorate their premises, and to give Pern' to the planting of a tree subject to the api?1^v^ of the Canal Company.