South Wales Echo

LONDON LETTER. I s- Specially Wired. By Our Own Correspondent. LONDON, Sunday Night. The word baa been passed to the Conservatives that the coming session is to be as gentle as a Iamb. This is not in strict accordance with the probabilities of the situation, but does represent the wishes and the policy of the Government. To get through a session without any mention of Ireland, to reform procedure, to add a local government and one or two other bills to the Statute Book—this is the idea of the Cabinet. This implies an unwillingness to resort to coercion. At the same time, while it is for the Government to propose, it is for the leaders of the National League to dispose. If the attempt to spread the adoption of the plan of campaign" be persevered in, beyond all doubt the Government will apply for new powers. Aa to the plan of campaign, it is clear that the leaders of the League will have to make one modi- fication in its details. Already they seem to recognise this, and appear to be taking Ineasure for a change of front. The calculation of the authors of the plan was that as the money did not belorg to the landlord more than to the Govern- ment, a civil action would have been necessary before it could be recovered. In strict legality there seems little douot that this opinion is correct. The opinion pronounced by Mr Holme*, the Irish Attorney-General, declaring that ciie executive had no authority to seize the ao uiey, lias never been disavowed, nd probably represents his view. But in the midit of coercion 3he iaws are silent, and the Government have 3learly proved that they ara determined to seize the money of the tenants, whether it be legal to jo so or not. That puts an end to the power of sollecting the money publicly, as has been done hitherto. It is doubtful if even meetings recom- mending the adoption of the CI plan of campaign" will be allowed. Probably the news you will receive from Ireland in the course of this evening will supply information upon this point. What the leaders of the agrarian movement will do probably is to change the proceeding from a public to a private one,and if the priests stand by them, there is little doubt that this could be done, at least, in some parts of the country. The pinch has now come to the Uhtar farmer, who is calling out aloud. A feature that is still more alarming in the situation ia that the present agrarian movement is bringing about some sort of co-operation between farmers of different creeds in Ulster. The reality of the danger is emphasised by the remarkable letter of the Rev Dr. Kane. You know the political opinions of that gentleman. Of all the firebrands of the North of Ireland be is the worst, and yet here he is demanding abatements for the tenants, and even recommending the employment of pressure to do 10. I believe that such a letter coming from such a man will be regarded by the National Leaguers as counteracting the effect of the stroke of the Government, and will give the agrarian rising another and a dangerous fillip. It will certainly strengthen the hands of Mr Gladstone if be should propose that a court should be appointed to do justice between landlord and tenant. The Colin Campbell ease is once more the great topic of discussion, the approach of the withdrawal of the jury arousing an interest that had begun to languish. The friends of both sides profess to be very confident of a verdict, but the general ex- pectation is that there will be a disagreement. The conduct of General Butler is the subject of much wonder, and the tacts of the case, as they become known, make his action still more extra- ordinary. The accusation against him is of ancient date. It certainly was made before he went to the war in the Soudan, and one of bis last acts before starting on that expedition was to make an affidavit denying the charge, an affidavit to be used in case he should be killed. Since the trial began he has gone to Dinan, and it has been found impossible to get him to budge from there. Letters and telegrams were sent after him, all to no purpose military officers who are at once his official superiors, and personal friends and high ecclesiastical authorities, have been appealed to for their influence, but General Butler, in return, met their appeals with the same sphinx-like silence as he did those of lesser persons. It is not believed that this was because of any consciousness of guilt. People say it was rather an eccentric idea of the privi- leges of innocence. I will not repeat the vigorous comments made up on the nature of an eccentricity that allows a woman to face the chances of ruin in obedience to a strong personal opinion of the rights of oneself. A good story is in circulation which I have every reason to believe is true. You will remember that in the course of the trial the fur coat of Dr Bird became one of the piices de conviction. It is part of the case of Lord Colin that a coat of Dr Bird's was found at the house during Lord Colin's absence, under suspicious circumstances. A person of intelligence has been noting the fact, and a few days ago a messenger came to the house of Dr. Bird to say that Mr Lewis, the solicitor for Lady Colin, wanted Dr. Bird's fur coat. The porter, who doubtless had been reading the case attentively too, was not at all surprised to hear that this fatal garment should be required by the solicitor who, in defending Lady Colin, was also defending his master, and so the coat was delivered. You will know the sequel. Dr. Bird sent word to politely ask whether Mr Lewis bad yet done with his coat-it is worth upwards of a hundred pounds, and a certain anxiety was intelligible—and the reply, of course, was that Mr Lewis said he had not got the coat and had never sent for it. The disgust of Mr Lewis was great when he saw there were people still innocent enough to be taken in by a trick so stale. Scotland-yard was communi- cated with, and in the course of 24 hours the coat was found in a pawn-office, pledged for 215. Charles Wyndham, the celebrated actor and manager, is as interesting in private as in public. Considering that he was an active combatant in the civil war of America upwards of 20 years ago, be looks astonishingly young. There isn't a grey hair in his head, and he moves with a grace and agility that would do credit to one of eighteen. He is a curious instance of a determination of the defeated and yet finally successful. His father was a doctor, and bis destination was the same profes- sion. But from his earliest age he wanted to be an actor, and he used to be delighted when be was a child at his face being dirty because it made him so much more like Othello. But bis father would have none of the abomination, and when things seemed to approach the crisis of a life-long quarrel, the compromise wa3 made that the young man should take his degree, and that then, if he persevered in his crazy idea, he should be allowed to go ahead. So Wyndham went over to Dublin, graduated from the well- known Peter-street School, and then went off to Amenca. He tried to get an engagement, and was taken on and performed with Wilkes Booth, the future assassin of the President, at Washing- ton, and was almost hooted out of the compaoy. Then he wenttothe war and fought for a year. He returned to New York, got an engagement from Mrs John Wood, and was given the part of a sentimental young man. He was cock-sure of success until the time came. There was a speech of some few lines in length. When the fatal passage came, Wyndbam was full of excitement; tbe great point waa sot to deliver the lioee well, but to get them ever any- how. But this could not be done. He came to a line that ended fa some words like Drunk with joy," but when it came to the point Wyndbam's memory went, "Drunk," he said, and then stopped. He tried once more. "Drunk," be cried, but the memory would not work I drunk," be cried again in wild despair, by which time iick I can understand the state ot the audience. He was sent about his business the next day, and went bttdt once mere to the camp. The next engagement proved more successful a good chance was gained, when he went ahead. Americans welcomed him with open arms. He bad a succession of splendid tours. He became manager of the Criterion at a moment when its proprietors were in despair, made it successful in the first week, has never bad a failure, and is now worth at least a hundred thousand pounds, and I don't think there is anybody that envies him.

I VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE. I Prize Distribution in Cardiff. I Addl ess by Colonel Hill, M.P. On Saturday evening the annual prize distribu- tion in connection with the 1st Glam. Artillery Volunteers took place in the Drill-hall,Cardiff. In the afternoon the regiment, to the number of about 450, assembled on parade, and subsequently a competition in standing gun drill, with a 40- pounder, for two prizes of L5 and 23, given by Colonel Hill, C.B., M.P. (commanding officer), and the corps respectively, took place, the compe- titors being nine members of each battery who had made the h'giiest aggregate number of attend- aticei at uniform parades from the 5th April to the annual inspection. While the regiment were re-assemoling in the evening for the prize distri- bution the baud played a selection of music. The prize? were distributed by Colonel Hill, and tho other officers present were :—Colonel Page, Major Pitman, Major Thompson, Captains Rizg, Barrett, .■nd Oruwsuay, and Lieutenants Woods and Saulez, Colonel HILL said he had hoped that an o:njer of considerable importance would have done tnem the honour of presenting the prizes, but he had been called elsewhere, and so they had no one to fall back upon but ti.f f own colonel. (Applause.) Proceeding to remark upon the state of the volunteer service in general, and this corps in particular, he observed that the time for depre- ciating the volunteer service had long passed by, and he believed there was a sincere desire on ttie part of tbe high military authorities to do all they possibly could to improve the condition of the auxiliary services of this country. For some time past a parliamentary committee had been sitting to consider how the volunteer service might be improved, and whether cr not heed should be paid to the request for some further assistance from the Government. He did not know what the result might be, but ha thought they might safely forecast that something would be done to help tbem. (Applause.) It was not right the nation should expect them to do more than give their time—to many of them of great value—and he thought they should be sup- plied with all that was necessary for them as volunteer. They were greatly in need of over- coats and leggings, and there were other things they ought to have. He was glad to say the total strength of the volunteer servico was kept up, and the enthusiasm and euergy which produced the movement was finding vent in other directions. In Cardiff there was a corps of Marine En- gineers, and in other places Royal Naval Artillery Volunteers. With regard to this regiment their strength was practically maintained. There were 1,334 efficients in the whole regiment, as against 1,344 last year, or a slight falling off of 10. Eitrbt efficients had joined the regular torces. The great event of the year in connection with the regiment was their trip to Maker He gbts. Although the weather was very wet, all the duties in camp were l cheerfully and well performed. Major PITMAN, at the colonel's request, read an extract from the report of the commanding officer of the Auxiliary Artillery and DepAt, Welsh Division, commanding the arrangements made for the health and comfort of the men in camp. The volunteers had zealously atteuded to the instruction imparted, and their behaviour in camp was excellent. He also read an extract from the report on the inspection, saying the con- duct and discipline of the men in camp was ad- mirable, but there was a large proportion of the men absent, which was to be regretted. Col. HILL, resuming, said the drills with the regular troops did the regiment very great pood, and he hoped,with an increased Government grant, greater numbers would be able to go more fre- quently. Two detachments went to SlioeburynesF. and though they did not bring back a prize, the report on all the detachments there was satis- factory. With regard to the men absent from the annual inspection, he had taken an opportunity of explaining that from the nature of their employ- tnent it vras-absolutejy impossible for ail to attend. Those making the highest number of attendances during the year were Captain Bassett, Sergeant- Major Willows, Corporal Fitzgerald, Bombardiers Price and Rigg, and Gunners Christopher and W. R. Brown (a tie). He hoped they would all do their utmost to increase the numbers and efficiency of the regiment during the coming year, and that next year they would be able to form a regimental camp. He then acknowledged the valuable services of Major Pitman to the regiment, and referring to the Queen's approaching jubilee, said no doubt there would be some military demonstration in celebration cf it, and they would all wish to show their loyalty by being present. (Applatise.) Many suggestions had been made for celebrating it, and he did not think volunteers could celebrate it better than by taking care there was not a single non-efficient in the whole volunteer force of the country. (Applause.) The prizes were then presented by Col. Hill as follows :— No. 1.—First prize ( £ 15) for battery, numerical at- tendance, drill, and guard-mounting at bittery inspec- tion, and gun drill also challenge cup (given by Sir E. J. Reed, K.C.B., M.P.). 12 Battery, Capt. Harrison E. J. Reed, K.C.B., M.P.). 12 Battery, Capt. Harrison 2 (210)1 15 Battery, Capt. Ova-, shay. No. 2. -Glamorgan Artillery and Rifle Association prizes-I (£15), Sergt. Page. 11 Battery 2 (£10), Sergt. Trott, 6 3 (£6), tiers t. D. Jones, 10 4 (£4), B.S.M. George. 12. No. 3.-For skill at arms (open to all rinks-1, Sergt. W. Lewis, 12 Battery; 2, B.rj.M. A. llull,9 3, B.S.M. Willows, 10; 4, Corpi. Fitzgerald, 11; 5, Gunner Thrift, 11. No. 4.-Repositorycompetition-I(EID),B.S.M. Hall: 2, Sergt. Wilkins, 8; 3, B.S.M. Willows; 4. B.S.M. Maiaey, 16; 5, Sergt. Bartlett, 17; 6, B.S.M. Richards, 14. No. 5.—Competition with rifloil guns, for detachments who did not' compete for the County Association prizes-1, Sergt. Connock, 12; 2, B.S.M. Gould, 8. No. 6.-gtanding gun drill (referred to at the head of this report)-I, 9 Battery, 98 2, 13 Battery, 95. No. 7.—Gun drill bv detachments from each section of battery-I, Corporal Crawley, 8 2, Corporal Trebleeock, 9 3, Corporal Fitzgerald, 11; 4. Born. bardier Wakeham, 12 5, Corporal HuLtie. 13. No. B.-Knottinz (open to all ranks) -1, B.S.M. Hall 2, Sargeant Connock 3, Sergeant T. Wilkins 4. Corporal Gifford, 11; 5. Gunner lamplin, 8; 6, Corporal G. Pnillips, 13. No. 9.—Trumpeters—1, Corporal Trumpeter Searle 2, C. T. Briez; 3, C. T. Hawkins. No. 10 — £ 3 was awarded to the six best attendants of the headquarters band. Carbine Prizes.—1, Sergeant J. Brimson, 12 Ba.t. tery 2, Sergeant J. R. Evans, 11; 3, Sergeant Instructor Hyde 4, Captain Rigg: 0, Sergeant T. Lewis, 15; 6, B.S.M. Hale, 9; 7, Gunner Farr. 16 8, Gunner Elsworthy, 9 9, Gunner Churchill, 12 10, Bombardier Percy, 16 11. Bombardier Wakeham, 12; 12, Sergeant Harding, 14; 13, B.S.M. Bolland, 17; 14, C.S.M. A twill, R.A.; 15, Q.M.S. Beasley 16. Gunner Stevens, 10 17, Gun. ner Hicks, 14 18, Gunner Crawley, 9 19, Gunner Fennell 20, Gnnner Sandiford, 13; 21. B.S.M. Wil. lows, IO; â, Gunner Gillard, 12 23, Gunner Ciuwley. Prizes for Gun Practice at Bri(i,-end.-I, Sergeant- Major Webber 2. Gunner Fennell. At the close of the distribution three cheers were given for Coi. Hill, which were followed by three tor the Queen. This ended the proceedings. ANNUAL COMPETITION AT ABERDARE. The Christmas prize shooting between the members of the 0 and P companies was held at Aberdare on Saturday. There were two schedules of prizes, the first'being limited to members of the shooting club, and points allowed to the younger recruits. The officers present were Major Phillips and Captain Howell, anl we append a few of the principal reeults.- Points 2CO 500 allowed. Total. Private W. D. Phillips.<8 27 B 63 D. Davies 30 30 60 Sergeant O enbam 30 29 59 Major Phillips 31 28 59 Private Arnold 27 31 58 It H. Griffiths 28 30 5a Sergeant-Instructor Doult. 31 27 58 Corporal Chivers 31 27 58 W. H. Jones 30 27 57 Sergeant James 29 27 57 Private Shannon 32 24 56 Thomas 26 25 53 Col -Sergeant K. Shannon. 30 19 — 49 Private P. Griffin 21 23 4 — 48 Kergsant Buckneil 28 i3 Ó 47 captain Howel-I 26 16 — 12

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I A STORY OF INSANITY CONCLUDED. I CHAPTER II. When I retired to rest that night I could not sleep. Tho melody of Reba's voice ran: in my ears and her beautiful face haunted my vision. I got up and dressed. I gazed out of my window at the clear, moonlight night. It was tempting, so I descended and strolled to the rusty old foun- tain. Everything was quiet and the far-off bark of a dog had a lonesome wail in its dying echoes. Suddenly a light beamed from a lower window in the bouse. It was in Reba's room. I could not refrain from looking, when my heart sank within me at the sight I beheld. Toe figure of the girl, clad in white material, that clung in classic folds to her superb form, was standing erect, her long hair falling in wild dis- order over her shoulders. In her right hand she hold a poniard on high, its bright blade pointed at her bosom. In imagination I saw the crimson stream stain the white robe, heard the short gasp and moan, and pressed the cold form that lay silent on the floor. I sprang to my feet and rushed forward, my only impulse being to reach her before she fell. I prayed that some thought would seize her and make her stay her mad purpose but for a minute. I reached the window just as the flashing blade was dashed to tbo floor, and the girl stood un. harmed. With a single bound I cleared the low window. eili, and caught her in my arms. "JKeba, for God's sake don't kill yourself!" 1 cried. ig; ie turned pale and freed herself from my arms. I thought perhaps she womd faint. She sat down ill a cnair and bjgan t* laugh heartily. It s emed to amuse her infinitely. My feelings were wrougut up to a nigh pitch, and I started to speak harshly to her for such levity, when sud- denly it occurred to me that her crazy fir, was upon tier. Pity for her condition was more in order than censure. Did you see me -with the poniard she asked smiling. When I explained where I was and how I felt, rushing forward to save her, she said 1 belive you have the elements of a hero in you. You wanted to save my life, did you not? Perhaps 1 may give you the chance yet, but only on one condition. Will you promise V I promised anything if she would not attempt suicide again. "Do not tell my father anything that happened to night. Before you leave for the city I have a plan to disclose to you. Will you trust and be- lieve in me?" How could I resist such a pleading look! So in order to humour her I agreed. She then walked to the poniard, picked it up and presented it to me. She asked me to keep it as a souvenir. As she bowed me out with the grace of a queen, she re- peated these lines: Beneath misfortune's stroke The firmest mind will fail and stunned depart From its sage plan of action. Evidently the unfortunate woman knew then that she was insane, or else she never would have utiered words that conveyed that idea. The next day I mat Reba and my uncle at the breakfast-table. She was looking bright and sa- luted me with a smile. She even went so far as to ask me if I had a good night's rest and if my dreams carried me back to the busy scenes of the city. What admirable acting; nothing but insanity could make such an utter forgetfulness on her part of the transactions of the night," I tbougnt. My uncle declared that I looked as if I had not slept a wink, and I felt it decidedly. The case began that day, so I was occupied until nearly sundown in the task of getting a jury. At dmner the deacon persisted in talking about the jurors I had selected, but I told him that if I did not win the snit for him and put the plaintiff in for costs and damages I would charge no fee. This put him in a good mood, and in the joy of the moment he said Reba that is the way big lawyers in the city do things. I think my nephew would make some woman a good busband. it The remark was embarrassing to both of us and brought forth no ready response. Finally, she coloured up like a full-blown rose and merely suggested: "Doubtless he has made a selection already among his many friends in the city." It now came my turn to protest that I was still free to act as my feelings dictated. This untimely allusion to marriage by my uncle pretty much checked conversation and I was glad when dinner was over. As on the first evening of my arrival we enjoyed an hour or so in the parlour. Reba sang divinely and was as chatty and pleasant as if she had never contemplated suicide. Oace I noticed that she looked at me, but for a moment only, with that sad, piteous expression that I observed when we first met. "My white tuft of hair again," I thought. I was very sleepy and retired early. When I bade father and daughter good-night in the par- lour, I was surprised to see her come forward and offer her hand. Instantly I felt a note and my fingers quickly closed upon it. Its contents were as strange as the writer and as mysterious My New Friend and Cousin -If the case is finished to-morrow, meet me at midnight near the old fountain. I desire to impart my plans to you. I have prayed for some strong friend like you. REBA. Her plans," I imagined, were the rambling fancies of a diseased mind. I resolved to humour her, because I felt sure that she would do herself harm if disturbed in any of her ideas. My inten- tion had been to remain a month, but now my great desire was to finish the case and leave. My steep was full of sweet dreams about this beauti- ful girl, and I arose refreshed. The deacon and I bad early breakfast alone, and hurried to the court-bouse. There were few witnesses to ex- amine, and by noon the plaintiff's lawyer ad- dressed the jury for three wearisome hours. I knew the jurors were farmers and wanted to get home by sundown, so 1 spoke five minutes, saying that I did not desire to keep them away from their families, and that I bad such a clear case that to argue for boun a self-evident fact to them would be an insult to their intelligence. In a few minutes the jury decided against the plain- tiff and mulcted him for costs and damages. My uncle was disappointed because I made such a short speech, but when the decision was rendered his satisfaction knew no bounds. On the way to his house he slapped me on the back and said that he had something to impart to me the next day. He declared that it would be a surprise. IVly anxiety was to get away, for I knew that if I remained much longer I would be a slave to the caprice of a crazy woman. Hence I paid little attention to what my uncle was saying. After dinner I took a long walk and returned to my room. I read until near midnight and then quietly slipped down the stairs and reached the rusty old fountain. A slight breeze was stirring and wafted the fragrant ouour of flowers upon its current. The moon was far down and the Pleiades were holding a carnival of brightness overhead. I had heard that the moon affected the insane, so I stood within the deep shadow of a tree. How noble in my uncle to watch over this girl and keep her from going to an asylum," I said in thought. I turned, and at my side, dressed in a black travelling habit, with a valise in her left hand, stood Reba, Her face was pale and her eyes looked is it the had, been weeping. She spoke first: My plan is simply tbiu I wish to By to the city with you.' It took my breath my. It was some minutes before I could answer, "ahe is as crazy as a March baro." I mentally uttered, "so I'll humour her." Yes, we will fly to the city, but not to-night. To-morrow I'll get uncle's permission for you to accompany me." "Ou, no he'll never consent for you to go any. where with me. He thinks you ire-" She stopped and looked, down. I urged her to finish the sentence. That you are inflicted that you are a mono- maniac." And pray what do you think ? I asked, I think you are just as sane as I am. At first I thought you might be afflicted, but I have no such idea now." Well this was a revelation. The girl had thought I was insane the deacon bad evidently told her so because I lectured on evolution. The next thing I expected her to say was that she wished tc fiy to the city and marry me, so I resolved to rush cn fate and discover her fnll plan. "What do you intend to do in the city?" I asked. I am studying to he an actress, bnt my father will never consent. He took me away from sehool because he heard I was inclined to <aeb a profes- lion." Then you are not emy t" I almost ahauted. I taw it all, the suieide scene waa aetisf. You are not cratty o. religiom, are yonl" the asked naively AI a response. I am mad witb love," t aaswered. By that old rusty fountain two crazy people vowed eternal ddslity, and the same old, olastcry was repeated, My uncle, the next day, gave ct his blessing, and said thit .flat I bad won t2" jast he resclved tc xosba me bis hei".

I YANKEE YARNS. I DIDN'T THINK HE KNEW HIM. A Detroiter who recently paid a visitto Harper's Ferry accoated a citizen with 46 1 suppose you know all about old John Brown?" "John Brown—old John Brown? Did be live here?" Why, I mean old John Brown who tried to free the slaves. Wanted to free the slaves, eh ? did he have any middle name?" I am speaking of John Brown who got up the insurrection." Yes. I supnose you are. Got up au insur- rection, did he? He shouldn't have done it. When did he leave here? Is it possible you have never beard of John Brown I Seems to me I have heard his name mentioned here. What did the insurrection amount to, and who insurrected ? "He captured the engine house down there, Haven't you ever rea 1 the si»n on the building?" "Lots of time. but 1 didn't suppose it amounted to anything. John Brown? John Brown ? How old a man was he ?" "Never mmd," replied the Detroiter. h I'll probably find some one here who can tell me what I want to know." Let's go together, then. You've got my curiosity excited, and I'd really like to know who he was and what reasons ho had for leaving the place. Say we go and ask the bridge-tender. Ho's a great hand to remember picnics and in- ,urrection* Detroit Free Press. I DISCOURAGING WILLIAM RENITY. A teacher In a country school wax very much annoyed the first day by the would-be smart per- formances of nn overgrown boy of about 15. Mild expostulations proving of no avail, the indignant teacher amazed the obstreperous pupil greatly by treating him to a most thorough and deserved thrashing, after which U6 was seat home to reflect on the errr of his ways. A half .our later he reappeared in company with his mother, an angular, wiry female, evidently perturbed in spirit. William Hel)l'y says you licked him," she said abruptly. Yes," replied the teacher coolly. "He an- noyed me beyond endurance and I punished him for it." Well, you hadn't ort o' done it," eaid the woman. Why not ?" 'C;Juse it's apt to have a discouragin' 'effect on 'im." How so ?" Well, ain't you found out that he's the smartest boy in this here school ? He's clear to compound fractions in his 'nthinetic and they ain't another boy ferder along than division." What of that ?" He kin out-scell airy boy in this school." What if he can ?" "He kin beat any of'ein readiniz and he kin say the multiplication table back'ards as easy as for'ards. And he kin bound airy State m/the American Union an' tell its capital an' rivers." "Indeed." "Yes, sir an' I'd like to know if that don't give him some privileges the others ain't no right to expect ? It's discouragin* to William Henry to be mauled 'round name as if be was an a b c scholar or one o' the first reader class. It tuk him down awfully to git liked like a common mental 'rithmetic or firlit part o' jogerfy boy. Ain't his larnin' goin' to give him no privileges here ? "He cannot be impudent and disobey the rules of the school under under any circumstances." An' he's got to 18e as common as anybody, eh ? He must behave &8 the other boys do." M Well, it don t seem fair, an' it's mighty dia- couragin' for 'im. He might as well not go in for an edgucation if that's all the good it'll do 'im. It's an awful set back for 'm, smart as he is. I'm feerd he won't have no heart to tackle partial pay- ments an' grammar if he's got to be licked as com- moo as any body. "-Detroit Free Press.

FAILURE OF A RHONDDA COAL I COMPANY. I Winding up Order Granted. 011 Saturday, in the Chancery Division of the High Court of Justice, before Mr Justice Stirling, Lewis's petition against tho Rhondda Mor- thyr Steam Coal Company, Limited, was heard. This was a petition for the winding up of the company, and was supported by Mr Graham Hastings, Q.C., for the petitioner, the company being represented by Mr Norton. Mr Hastingi4 said that this was a creditor's petition, which was now unopposed. The petitioner was a creditor for a sum of nearly £ 80,000. Tne company was incorporated in 1871, and the petitioner bad for the last seven or eight years been its managing director. He had ad- vanced for the purpose of keeping the company going no less than £ 56,000 odd. He had guaranteed the company'* account with the London and Provincial Bank at Cardiff for £ 5,380; he was liable on acceptances, &c., 25,524, and as managing director had guaranteed the debt or a mortgage creditor for £ 13,407. The com- pany was also iudebted to various other creditors, and was insolveut, and wholly unable to pay its debta, and it was obvious that it must be wound up. By an order made by his lordship on the 9th inst. a provisional liquidator was appointed, and he now asked for a winding up order, and a refer ence to chambers to appoin the official liquidator. Mr Norton, for the company, admitted that he could not resist a wiuding up order. His Lordship then made the usual order for winding up the company.

CHRISTENING AT WINDSOR CASTLE. There was a brilliant gathering on Saturday afternoon in the somewhat sombre private chapel of Windsor Castle on the occasion of the baptism of the infant son of Prince and Princess Henry of Battenburg. The Deaa of Windsor officiated. The choir of St. George's Chapel, with the organist, Dr. Parrott, was in attendance. The Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince and Princess Christian, Princess Louise, and the Duchess of Albany were present, with all the Chief Officers of State, and the Lords and Ladies in Waiting. The Ministers present were Lord Iddesleigh and Lord Cross. The infant, who wore the christening robe worn on so many similar occasions by members of the Royal Family, was taken from its mother's arms at the proper place in the office by Princess Louise of Wales, who named it Albert Victor Alexander. The other godmother was Princess Irene of Hesse, and the godfather Prince Alexander of Bulgaria. Luncheon was served in the Oak Dining-room.

LOCAL LAW CASE. In the High Court of Justice (Chancery Division) on Saturday-before Mr Justice Kay- the case of Sir William Lewis v. James was mentioned by Mr McClymont, who said that as it was now impossible that the hearing of this action could come on until after the Christmas vacation, and as it was now discovered that a material witness bad been ordered abroad iu consequence of ill-health, he had to apply for leave to serve notice of motion for Tuesday next as to why this witness should not be examined and cross-examined by a special com- missioner abroad. Mr Justice Kay gave the necessary leave to serve notice of motion for Tuesday eext.

THE ALLEGED SHIPPING FRAUDS. On Friday, at the Liverpool city sessions—be- tore Recorder Hopwood— the trial of the young men, Alfred John Bowden and Frank Lake Bowden, described as clerks, on the charge of obtaining money by false pretences from master mariners, was concluded. The allegation was that they carried on business as shipbrokers in Liverpool under the style of Bowden Brothers, and that, by falsely pretending tc be owners of certain vessel they obtained investments of large sums of money from master mariners by promising them commands. Prisoners were acquitted.

CHILD MURDER. The wife of a collier named France, living at Aspnll, near Wigan, murdered her child, six Munthi- old, on Saturday, almost severing its bead from the body with a tablt-knife, Bhe » in natody, and is believed to be insane.

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FACTS AND FANCIES.1, Why is a bachelor never brilliant ?—Because he has but &t single idea, and even that he would be better without. On the bill of fare at the Grand Hotel in Paris. —"Soup: Sarah Bernhardt." Needless to ask whether it was thin? The man who has not anything to boast of but his illustrious ancestors is like a potato*—tho only good belonging to him is underground. Take care always to form your establishment so muob within your income, as to leave a suffi- cient sum for unexpected con Chestei- ftcld. A newspaper chronicling the wrecking of a vessel says, The only passengers were T. B. Nathan who owned three-fourths of the cargo, and the captain's wife." Smith—"My wife wants a new dress every day in the year," Jones—"She must be awfully ex- travagant. Does she get it?" Smith—"No that's the reason she is compelled to want it." Speaking of a new ndmg habit the Boston Herald thinks that it will not be generally worii by the girls until a great Inany girls wear it. That seems clear enough, yet it is a trifle confusing. That Sponger is a perfect fiend for borrowing money." Yes, I know. He used to borrow 0: me till I cured him." "How did you do it?" I lent him a bogus ten-dollar bill once, and IK has uever forgiven me, thank heaven." The water carts oi Lowell are decorated with patent medicine advertisements. An iuuocent Irishman from the rurai districts looked at one the other day, and remarked Faith its no wonder Lowell is healthy, whin they water the streets with -'a sarsapanila, Armand: Come fly with me, I implore you Camille: Never I air you insult me.-Ariuand What! You will not go?— Camille: I will resist you with all the strength of my woman's nature. It you would tear me from this place, you must first drug me and reudor me unconscious. You will find a bottle of chloroform on the bureau over there. Little Johnny has, severe pain in his cheek and holds a warm poultice over it. Little:iissy watches him attentively. Johnny," she says, "I hope you will be- real well soon." "Thanks. dear," he says. U Johnny, will you give me that poultice when you are through with it?" "Of course. What do you want it for?" "Ob, I want to use it for a bustle for my new dress."

FATAL FIRE NEAR PORT TALBOT Early on Saturday morning last a fire broke out on the premises of Mr John Joseph, at the Duffryn Farm, doing considerable damage to the house and outhouse. Three arge bullocks perished, and a fourth was severely burned. The fire originated, it is said, through a lighted match falling on some of the thatch of one of the out- houses attached to the farm. A labourer named Burke, who slept in the outhouse, was very much burned, and died during the day.

WINDING-UP OF A WELSH I I GLASS COMPANY. I In the Chancery Division of the High Court of ) I Justice on Saturday,before Mr Justice Stirling,Mr Phipson Beale appeared in support of the petition of a creditor, named Baker, for the winding-up of the Sonth Wales (Siemens Patent) Glass Manu- facturing Company Limited. There was no opposition, and Mr Beale appeared also for a large body of creditors, who supported the petition. He had affidavits showing the state of the company. Thoir business was a vast one, aud there was a very large amount of stock, and it was absolutely necessary for the advantageous realisation of the assets that the business should be kept going and to maintain the furnaces, which could not be stopped without considerable loss to the company. A provisional liquidator had already been appointed by a meeting of creditors, and the petition asked that the pro- visional liquidator might be appointed official liquidator, as it was necessary he should have power to carry on the works to prevent the busi- ness being destroyed.—Mr Justice Stirling said that he should not depart from the usual practice. -Mr Beale reminded bis lordship that in one case Mr Justice Pearson had departed from the rule by making the appointment in court, but Mr Justice Stirling declined to fotlow that precedent in the present case, and made the usual order for wind ing-up the company, with a reference to chambers to appoint a liquidator. I

ORDINATIONS AT LLANDAFF. The Lord Bishop of Llandaff held his Advent ordination at the cathedral on Sunday, when, after a sermon by the Archdeacon of Llandaff, the following gentleman were admitted to orders PRIESTS :-DAvid Davies, B.A., St. David's College, Lampeter, curate of Skewen; John Rowland Leiab, B.A., Oriel College, Oxford, curate of Blaenaton; Hugh iinith Nicholson, B. A., Trinity College, Oxford, and Cuddesion Tiieological College, curate of Ibath Henry Richard Roberts, L.D., St. David's College, Lampeter, curate of Beaufort. DEACONS David 0 iver Evans, L. Th., Durham University; David Jones, B.A., Trinity Cullego Dublin James Sinnsct Jones, B.A., Sc. Peter's College, Cambridge John Percy Morgan, B.A., Keble College, Oxford, and Wells rheolngical C,-Ilege William Morgan, B.A., St. David's College, Lampeter Robert Evan Rowlands, B.A.. Queen's College, Oxford, and Bangor Church Hostel. Mr D. O. Evans was the gospeller. Hit lord- ship afterwards granted the following LICENCES TO CURACIES Rev David Oliver Evans. L. Th., to Merthyr Tydfil, Glamorgan Rev David Jones, B.A., to NantygJo, Mon. Rev James Sinnett Jones, B.A., to Llanblatb.an, with Cowbridge ami Welsh St. Donats, Glamorgan; Rev John Percy Morgan, B.A., to St. John Baptist,, Cardiff. Glamor- gan; Rev William Morgan, B.A., to Llantrisant. Glamorgan Rev Robert iCvan Rowlands, B.A., to Pomypridd, Glamorgan. His lordship held a special service on the 18tli instant, when the following licences were granted The Rev F, E. Williams, to Penarth C., Glamorgan; Rev B. Williams, toLlanelen C., Mon.

POPULAR CONCERTS AT CARDIFF. On Saturday evening Mr H. W. Dodd gave the second of his series of popular concerts in the Park Hall, Cardiff, and a large and representative audience assembled, all parts of the house being well patronised. A capitalanrl varied repertoire (f vocal and instrumental music was provided for the occasion. Mr Dodd's choir sang several part songs and choruses with fine rhythm and aplomb, suggestive of very careful training. Signor Quaglia repeated, by desire, the ea- politan buffo song, Funiculi, Fuui cula," and secured an enthusiastic encore. He also contributed Le Marriage do Thomas" in a finished style. In The Old Folks at Home" and Kathleen Mavourneen" Madame Gertrude Lewis used her sweet and resonant voice to great advantage. The manner in which Mr Herv< d'Egville delivered a "Bedouin love song" produced several rounds of applause, and in response to a general encoie he gave Th* Village Blacksmith." Mr Arthur Hudson on the violin and Signor Scauda on the mandolin, a very pleasing and tuneful instrument, created spontaneous approbation at the hands of the audience, and Mr Henry W. Dodd was very successful and happy in his comic song*. Mr J. E. Deacon was an efficient and masteny accom- panist on the piano. On Christmas night an even- ing with Gilbert and Sullivan's operas is an- nounced.

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THE LIFEBOAT DISASTER. Inquest and Verdict. The inquests ori the bodies of the 26 men drowned by the lifeboat disasters at Southport were concluded on Saturday. Henry, Roblnsun, one of the survivori of the Southport boat, stated that the coxswain would keep thebioadside to the sea, wantiner to get more quickly to the Mexico. The crew wanted him to bond the sea. They were capsized in 17 feet of water. Evidence as to the Lytham boat was given to the effect that directly sail was taken in a sea struck tho boat, partly tilled her, and broke three oar", Never- theless they reached the ship. A verdict of Death from misadventure was returned. A telegram from General Sir H. Pon.-onby has been received by the Mayor of Southport stating that the Queen will give one hundred pounds to the fund for the relief of the sufferers from the lifeboat,calamitie.-5. The mayor replied, gratefully thanking her Majesty for her ffift.

G. A. Sala, special correspondent to the Daily Telegraph, says" And in particular » couple of AUcock s Porous Plasters ciapped on—one on the chest and another between tho shoulder blades—soon s8J.m.f right again," referring to an attack h« had of bronchitis and asthma on his way to "The Land of theOoicisn Fleeee," and the above remarks are contained in his letter to the London Daily Telegraph, pubiisneo AujfUit 14 th, 18S5, Rest assured that All cock s Porous Piasters are an excellent remedy. Tbey have proved wonderfully efficacious in bronchitis, asthma, cougn*, weak chest, rheumatism, lumbago, sciatica, stifi joints, weak backs, and, in fact, t, Joe..1 pains anri ,Lffectioni, They have ou.y to be used to be appre ciated. Secure the genuine, and take none but Allcocb'.s see the stamp. 9

I ATHLETIC NOTES. II By An Old Stager. I For the first time after a tapse of several Year. !NM Cardiff and Carmarthen met to try conclusions oi« Saturday. As might only have been expected, th result was a victory for Cardiff, but it victory gained by tho skin of tiieir teeth. tries and two minors to nothing looks substantia enough, no doubt, but, looking at tiie pl;iy> home team were certainly not tins oiuuh bel<te' thau their opponents. A more evenly ci'n ^s'-ea game there could not possibly have beer.. Vrj>™1 the start rgiit up to within th* minutes matters vvern about as nic" balanced as they could he-iî anythii't" ttt e the visitors having the best of Nt Then came a change as agreeable to a nvijoi' Nt) of thn spectators as it Wits unexpected. f ball was taken to tiie Carmarthen end, an i visitors' combination (roing to piecos »ud<iei''X* O..1. Kvans and A. H. Williams were fciK«b'elj1' though even then uul without visitors' combination (roing to piecos »ud<iei''X* O..1. Kvans and A. H. Williams were fciK«b'elj1' though even then uul without I difficulty, to score. The half-frozen ground ient itself to fast PI¡tY, and tast: it WilS accordingly. er:mlll 'C" W¡¡tO I neither frequent nor of pr<onjj<d duration, -8 i I forwards on either j The bncks consequently trot plcuty of op(>->i't'su* ties, and were very busy all through. I Forward, Cardiff had rather the weights, but notwithstanding this, thev had r.°n3 the i,est of the gati,e, the Ijig c pf/lving fully their equal. As regards t! e L)I>'i-w quarters the C irmartiini men, talo n ivcre the better lor, and hud taey been h>' good halves, I am inclined to think Card If Wi'U'1' have fared badly. Tho halves, in.ue\-r, wera much too slow, anH any chaHce ti. thre -quai't<'r-') got they had to make tor them-ei ves. TH s beiUfj so, it was really astonishing to see the amount o work the three-quarters put in. Otte )r(,ttier them was continually on the move, and altogether they were seen to vastly greater advantage their rivals. The Cardiff three quarters have seldom inadf worse show than they did on Saturday. 'ArthcP being for the nonce on the opposite side, ani» Adams having gone* away, two 'substitutes, in tl'S persons of A. H. Williams and W. H. Morgan. had, of course, to be played, but the ition in the play could not by attributed w th¡!! circumstance, because as a matter of fact rJle substitutes did exceedingly well. Wilfiato-, indeed, covered himself with glory, and was and away the best three-quarter of the iou1'* | How to account for the failing off I c .n:t c"»" ceivc. The half-backs were not to blame. N" fault could be found with their feeding, -,t,iti ),el. somehow the old combination was missing. Tho tackling, too, of Douglas and Young was wretchsd as t.iiat of Williams was urilliaut. It Is to hf hoped that tiie "rot" aw present existing among the forwards is not going to d«ve'o|ie itself amougst tiie three-quarters, II it doe*, Car may as well throw up the sponge at ouce. The forwards were still far from satisfactory' There appeared to, be no understanding exist'"# among them in the scrimmages, and httleor n" assistance was given to the lialvos. This is not as it used to be. AlonRtimeyou might venture to lay odds on the ball coming smartly out of iH"« scrimmages in ten straight ti- the exp,-ctai)t halves, but now, if a halt back wants the oali# has to prow) around on his own accouut. fancy a great deal of this is owing to the want oi some recognised leader. Since Simpson retired from the team the forwards have got alt., out of hand, and it is said by those wiio ought to know that theie are men' in the pack, now comers, who will persist in playing a game /If their own-and a prallle, too, totally at variance with the traditional tactics of last year's IriViu- Cibles. If this be so, and my information comet* from a good source, tao match committee ought to see to tbo matter. H The Carmarthen fui-wat-6, worked capitally H together. They -.vere evidentiy iu prime condi- tion, judging from the amount of vigour they threw into their work, and as I have already F,ai(It though lighter than their opponents, were fully equai to them. Lloyd, the International reserve, was conspicuous throughout, as were J. Thomas aud Spivey. Lloyd was unlucky in not sconoR once. Backing up one of his three-quarter* bti forged ahead aocut a foot, and just at the moment the ball was passed to him. Having almost a uie.ar course lie rau in (fromhaif-way),bnt the score wasf of coi.rse, disallowed. The three-quarters played a grand game, PI'VCS Jenkins in particular shining. A. H, Willialv' looked after Arthur, and stoppe him frequently* H but he still managed to do a li t <>t work- H Norton, a younger brother of the t)ne,t\1Jl cra<jk Cardiff th;,e'quarter, displayed great protnise» H (nd ran I'ryco Jenkins very, close for .Ρr8[; bottoms. iJroga", too, played well, but SeInle4i to have a weakness for rltiltlitill (,VeC t"" toucii line. H I intimated last week that Bob Gould meant to ■ trot out, a strong team against Swansea, and tny H intimation proved to be weil-iounded. A stron g*r ■ team thau that or Saturday Newport, has not P**6 H in the field for a long time. i must say, th"Ui?"» H I hardly expected they would be found gooa H enough t.o beat Swansea. In justice to the latter* H it should not be forgotten that they ■ were without their regular ha!f-ba:k-, a ,Oril,ull H drawback in the case or any team, out lIltlrtl H especially so where a team like Swansea, Wflll H affect a passing game, is concerned. too, H the meo have imt yet fullv recovered from ■ ,,ffect.- ,f their tour up North. Making every ■ allowance, however, Newport's victory, narro. ■ though it was, was a highly creditable one. I Better forwards than Newport possesses ili H would be hard to find, but the Swan.-en men coil. ■ firmed the goad opin-on I formed of them wh«u H they defeated Cardiff, anjl held the:r own alm»s ■ to the end of the game. Tho superior weight o H "the home t-iii-tiot only were they b gger meu. ■ but they had nine ill the scrimmage as agai^ ■ eight—then began to tell, ami the concluding ■ portion of the match was fought out entil,ely 0 H I he visitors'ground. H I ■ The S wansea pacing was (jot up to tilo mark, I ■ and, if anything, did more haim thaO ■ I good. The Newport bacics don t pass as » ■ rule, but on Saturday they veiKuted occ»« ■ sionally. and profited by it. George Thomas, H Arthur Gould, and Jordan were nntir.ng :i6 ■ three-quarters, and D"Wtui and Ch.nl e Thoin. H at half back uere too much for the "'scratch ■ I halves pitted against, them. Webb once m"' I played fui! back, and made,so good a show tlil;t it ■ is a pity he can't be got n> iemam there | H ma.nent.ly. Edwards was the best, forward .<n j I ground. His following up and tackling could 13 | H h<<,vu been surpassed. I I For tiie visitors Towers played a tine [I game at the start, but was not so good by J I way as Bowoo, who worked like tw» ? I Richards, the captain, was another el forward, as was also Cronui. The thre.e-q1'1 |l were «ry inadequately fed. and theel of their opponents bothered them greatly. I Cwynii, although marked, brought oil his r;uos II repealed!}', and on tiie wholo was ■ bis side. Bishop, too, distinguished Ini" ■ required a lot of attention. Tborogoo'. s ■ would not correctly describe his back p y. ■ was just a little indifferent. I George Thomas's t>7 m«a;»I by the spectators, wlo, crowd.n* on the mound, ■ prevented him from running r<^1 ( ° tK"; P"' I as he might easily have dor had the people been ■ in their proper piace tiie ropezi. Arthur ■ Gould's goal was tho outcome of a won.iedtuiy ■ smart kick. 11 Newport have .now won two-out of tbrea I matches played witn few„nsea and as the Utte | have beaten botfc Oaid «T ami Lianelly, the MoO ■ moutbsbire men, <o>' the m,, being, are justly ■ entitled to occupy t.ie br.-t piace among Wel»U ■ clubs. They meet Swansea twice again.this season. ■ The Lla,le^y. hoys, v/ho, by-the-way, deserve II to be congratulated on their bie achievement of ■ Saturday, start for Yorkshire on Sunday next, aod ■ play the Brigbouse Rangers on the lollovvme day. ■ On the 20tf; they encounter Dewsbury, and after- ■ wards meet Wignn and Mossley. I Stadden, I am «>v«?n to understand, fully in I tends to play iu tah 1 nter-u aioiul at Lianelly ■ next month, provi-jed hi- doing so will not dis- ■ qualify him from pl,,y: for Yorkshire next ■ seasou, v I b Several letters—notably one from "A lein ber, 'I of the Cardiff Club"'—I am compelled to noiu ,■ over for want of space With i ■ the peynission of the editor, to give this t¡:h Ler I I communication in tbe correpondence CG umo ■ bsfore tbs w«ek closes, I

I POLIOK BAND CONCERT, Park HAII, Decembe* I 22, 1885. Critics «,f bras- band iietforumn ;e-; « reapcctfuliy intited | Printed anri P'ibii*tiesj foe Pr;>pnet"rs« D VID DUNCAN A -ON> at tlieu steam PnrtU» I Works, lb and 76 St Ma.-y -scnet, ami »Vesl2*,s'-L! j pi th« towu r«» tjtvrdiff, i.i lot county oi