The Cardiff Times

I DESTRUCTION OF A LONDON '■rjfcic HALL BY FIRE. Lusby s Music-hall in Mile-end-road, oue of the largest places of entertainment of the variety character in the Metropolis, was totally destroyed by fire on Sunday evening. The hall, which was under Uie management of Messrs Crowder and Payne,_who are also lessees of the Canterbury, in Westminster Bridge road, was capable of seating about 3,500 persons. The fire was discovered shortly aftei- six o'clock by the tenant of an adjoining house, who gave the alarm to Mr Crowder, who occupies the Eagle Tavern, contiguous to the hall. Mr Crowder at once entered the main corridor of the building, in order to use one of the hydrants kept in readiness in case of fire, but v/as compelled to retire. In a short time the fire engines arrived, but the flames had then obtained a secure hold of the budding, which was burnt down in about an hour and a half. The hall had recently been redecorated and fitted with new seats and carpets, and contained a quantity of valu- able scenery and properties, the principal among which was that belonging to Mr Harry Day, of Birmingham. Captain Shaw was in attendance vvith nearly 30 engines, and prevented the exten- si on of the fire. The damage was roughly estimated by Mr Crowder at £11-0,000, only partly covered by insurance.

A FEMALE LABOtJREE IN MALE ATTIRE. A singular and touching incident was, on Mom day, reported from Belfast. A person known as John Coulter was taken to the Royal Hospital there suffering from severe injuries, which caused death. Oll the body being prepared for burial, it was discovered that the deceased was a woman.. On inquiry, it was ascertained that the deceased had for many years worked as a labourer on the j quays, and hei sox had never been suspected.

[COPYRIGHT RESERVED.J 1 OUT OF EDEN. i i I A KOVEL, BY DORA RUSSELL. Author of BENEATH THE WAVE," "FOOTPRINTS IN THE SNOW," CRCESUS' WIDOW," &C. CHAPTER XXVII. -LOOKING THINGS IN THE FAOE. By the will of the late Lady Blunt, made before the unhappy knowledge of Mr Chester's short comings had reached her ears, she had left sundry small legacies to her servants and friends, and the bulk of her savings (a very large sum) ly- ing as she then supposed in deposit account with her bankers, to her son Harry. Mr Howard had produced this will at her funeral, as well as the copy of her husband's will, and the documents connected with his first marriage. But the overwhelming nature of Mr Howards news, and the rage and disturbance it had created in Harry Blunt's mind, had swept all all other con- siderations for the time away. But while in London it occurred to him he might as well see his mother's bankers, and know how much ready money sile had left behind her. Accordingly, ac- companied by Mr Larkins, he called at the bank, and having sent in his card, he was ushered into the presence of one of tlie partners. Then for the first time he heard of his mother's (supposed) losses in business speculations, and listed pale and speechless to the whole story of certain suspicions having occurred in the bank at •the very large sums withdrawn by Mr Chester by cheques signed by Lady Blunt's name and how one of these cheques had been taken down to Weirmere, but that Lady Blunt subse- quently explained that the money had been lost in unfortunate speculations. Mr Chester was known to be an unfortunate speculator, I believe, Sir Henry," said the banker, with a shrug and a smile, and his death hap- pened on the very day after my visit to Weir- mere, and we-well, wo naturally drew our own conclusions as to how the money had been lost, but the cheques were signed by Lady Blunt's name, and Lady Blunt admitted the sig- nature." "They were confounded forgeries cried Harry, pale with passion. I understand it all now, that scoundrel Chester Upon this, Larkins tapped him on the shoulder. Do not forget," he half-whispered re- member (and he smiled) you married-" I don't care who I married," interrupted Han-y Blunt roughly. "I remember now, poor mother told me when—when she wented to stop my marriage—but I was married then but she told me Chester had forged her name." We always believed so," said the banker, but the man was dead, and Lady Blunt did not repudiate the signatures—so there the matter ended, but it means a considerable loss to you, Sir Henry." Upon this Harry indulged in some very strong and coarse abuse of his late father-in-law. Larkins, however, tried to stop him, and Harry left the Bank, having learned that only,a very small sum of ready money could come to him by his mother's will, after the different lagacies that she had left had been paid. When they reached the hotel he burst into a perfect storm of rage, Larkins standing by looking at him with a strong feeling of contempt in his heart. Larkins was nearly tired of London by this time, and was certainly tired of Harry Blunt. I think you know," he said presently, when Harry paused for want of breath, that we had better now look things straight in the face." Havn't we been looking them straight in the face?" swore Harry. "What the —— do you mean, sir ?" Well, abuse does no good, you know, Mr Harry," said Larkins. Mr Harry Has it come to that, then, shouted Harry furiously. What else can it come to ?" replied Larkins, calmly. We have had the best advice, you know, sir, the very best and what is the upshot? There is but one opinion among the big-wigs—the late Sir Harry married Mary Fetcher and I must candidly admit I fully concur with them." 011, you've changed yonr tune now, then ?" sneered ilarry, bitterly. I have gone fully into the case, sir," answered Larkins, nettled I have studied it, sir, and I've had the best advice, sir, and the best advice is unanimous—there Can a sensible man want more and I, therefore, advise you to make the best of it." That's very easy talking," It can be done, Mr Harry. I have seen Mr Howard, who has the management of—well, what's the use of mincing the matter—of your brother, Sir Robert's case, and Sir Robert is in- clined to be generous, Mr Harry. Mr Howard assures me very generous." "The cur swore Harry. 1\0 good, sir," said Larkins, shaking his head, his glass eye staring ominously at Harry's angry face. Make the best of the situation. This is the situation: Your brother Sir Robert is found to be the heir your father left a will, leaving everything to the heir it was a clever dodge of the old boy in fact;, He wanted his wife's property as weli as his own to increase the family estates 80 he made a follow me, Mi, Harry ?" And Larkin's lively brown eye winked glass eye I or course, immovable still. I follow well enough," answered Harry, roughly. Then you understand that as heir—and he is the undoubted heir—that Sir Robert steps not only into his father's shoes, but into the property, the landed property, that your mother brought Sir Henry, and which was unfortunately not set- tled on herself, and as the law then stood, became her husband's on his marriage. Your present posi- tion is this then you are a younger son, with five hundred a year left by your father, and the ready money bequeathed to you by name by your late mother, but which as we have just unhappily heard, is much diminished by the—by unfortu- nate speculations in fact." By that cursed Chester, and no one else ?" cried Harry, with an oath. Well, Mr Harry, Mr Chester has gone to his account, but, of course, the sad end which at the time took us all by surprise, is now accounted for. As the banker has just told us, he took down one of the forged signatures to your poor mother. Lady Blunt sent for poor Chester, he rode home —what was left for him ? Upon my soul I think he acted wisely and Mr Larkins shrugged his shoulders. Curse him I" said Harry, darkly and fiercely. It is all very hard on you, no doubt," con- tinued Larkins, and Sir Robert recognising this means to be generous. I had a hint, Mr Harry- remember I am not authorised to state this as a fact—but I had a hint from Mr Howard that Sir Robert means to make over the income derived from your mother's Yorkshire property to you for life. If this is so, it is splendid of him, simply splendid." I would say it was simple justice," growled Harry. Ah, ah, bat Mr Harry," said Larkins, smil- ing, remember, that this touches a man's most tender point—his pocket It's all very fine talk- ing of honour and generosity when one hasn't to pay for it but to give up pounds, shillings, and pence, ah! "there's the rub," and Mr Larkins rubbed his e.yes sympathetically, it's a fine muddle for me anyhow," said Harry, It's unfortunate, most unfortunate—but, Mr Harry, make the best of it—and to begin with, I do not think it's any use spending any more money here. I propose to return to Cumberland to-day; see Sir Robert to-morrow have the thing settled in fact." After some of his customary language Harry Blunt finally agreed to take Larkins'advice, and the two accordingly left London by the first train they could get, and had a very dull and heavy journey down. There were no stories told for Harry to enjoy on this return journey no jokes, no fun. The two men sat opposite to each other reading their newspapers. Harry glum, silent, angry Larkins tired, and glad to get home. They reached Oniston late in the evening, and Harry had a long dark drive after this before he arrived at Weirmere Hall, which tended to increase his ill- humour, When he did get there tired and hungry, he found Florence and Bessie on the point of going to bed, and th3 drawing-room fire nearly out. It was a miserable coming home, miserable to the man who came, and to the woman who had. I dreaded his arrival. But Florence tried her best tosoftenlt. I have some good news for you, Harry," she said, as Harry, by turns grumbled and swore at his ill-luck, "Robert Blunt was here a day or two ago-" Here i" interrupted Harry, "I won't have him comin/r here Harry, do not be foolish, do not forget this is really his home, and he came to tell me he intends to offer you the whole income from your mother's estates. 1 think this is generous," said Florence with quivering lips. GeneVous I dare say," ret-»rled the gracelesi Harry, Generous, indeed My own mother's money If that cursed scoundrel of a father of mine did marry Fletcher's mother, her son, at least had no right to my mother's money, you can't deny that at any rate?,1 <- It was in Robert Blunt's power," answered Florence, in a low tone, to take it all," ló Oil, so ycw'¡8 quite up in the case, are YOU ?" sneered Harry. "Anfl what else did my dearly beloved brother say? Did he give us notice to quit V He said nothing—notnmg, but—but what was and Florence's voice broke and faltered. „ But, but whet pray ?" ffJd Harry roughly. I was going to sa-y but what was generous," answered Florence with some spirit, looking up with her dark eyes into her husbands face. j If you dare speak to me thus cried Hariy, advancing menacingly towards her if you dare take his part I say, and turn round on me after vou and yours have rmncd me, well by dove l b j • 7 -n, Why don't you strike me ? said Florence, completely roused, and forgetting all her good^re- solutions to put up with Harry and to remember thewrongshehaddonehun. Why don't- you add unmanly blows to unmanly wcrds ?' j Luckily the entranceof Appieby at tuismoment with the supper tray stopped Harry'shand in time. But as he sa1 opposite to her his heart was full of rage and jealousy. He kept looking at her, and his food seemed to choke him. How handsome Sh0 was, he was thinking, with hfirgreat shining eyes he had seen no one like her in London no one who was so thorough-bred, so proud, as this daughter of the scoundrel who had robbed him, and forged his mother's name. Florence on her part, too, was looking at her husband. He had not improved in appearance during the last few days his face was bloated, i its expression lowered. The test of adversity had folicd him wanting, and the useless rages that he had indulged in, had somehowJeft their disfigur- ing marks. He had been fairly good-natured as Sir Harry Blunt an insolent, selfish boy enough, but there were darker lines on his countenance now certain suble i'1dic:Ü¡,m:< of mental dpgra- dation and fall. Is that sister of yours hare still ?" hepreseatly asked, when they were alone, for Bessie had re- tired to bed afraid to face him, Of oourse, Bessls is with me," answered Florence, — f There is no of course' about it," said Harry 1 Blunt. "Lookhere Flo," he continued, crossing the room and laying his hand emphatically on her shoulder, I am going to have no Bossies here, or wherever we go. I can't afford it for one thing, and for another I object to it. I married you, but I didn't marry Bessie Chester, and by Jove, I've good reason to hate the name Very well, Harry,"she can go," shrinking back a little from his touch. Yes, she must go," said Harry, and if we have to leave here Harry, we must leave here," said Florence this is your brother's place now, do not let us stay until we are compelled to go." I'll take my uwn time about it; I'm not going to be ordered by you or Sir Robert, or Sir Devil, or whatever he is said Ilarry brutally. I think you would be wise to keep friends with him, at least not to abuse him/'jsaid Florence. Oil, 1 suppose you want to keep friends with him, is that it ?" said Harry, disagreeably. I do not wish to see him, I do not care to see him," answered the unhappy Florence I only advise you not to quarrel with him. I'll quarrel with him if I choose," said Harry sulkily if ever a fellow had a right to quarrel with another and to hate him, I have a right to quarrel with and hate this low-born brute 1" CHAPTER XXVIIL—HOBSON'S CHOICE. Nevertheless Harry Blunt did not m spite of his abuse chooso to quarrel with his half-brother, Sir Robert. Nay, when, on that day after his return to Weirmere, Robert wrote a straightforward, manly letter to Harry Blunt, telling him in plain language the same plain facts that Larkins had told him in London, and at the same time offering him an income of three thousand a year—the in- come that his mother had brought to her husband —Harry, by Larkins's urgentadvice, determined to be civil to Sir Robert. Facts are stubborn things,' you know, Mr Harry," quoted Larkins "and we ail must bow to them with the best grace we can. This is a handsome letter, sir," and he tapped Robert's letter, which Harry had brought for his inspec- tion a manly, outspoken letter, and, if I were you, I would take the hand of peace that he so handsomely offers to you. By Jove, I'd jump at it Pleasant thing to do, indeed," grumbled Harry. "1-Iy dear sir, reflect," said Larkins. "Sir Robert need net give you a penny Sir Robert is doing this simply from a feeling of horror. 1 ad- mire an honourable man." Fellows are generally thought honourable when they're in luck's way, and come in for pots of money." Yes, Mr Harry," said Larkins, philosophically, closing his bright, brown, twinkling' eye, with am air of contemplation, "money, no doubt, does make a considerable difference in our estimate of a man. And it is but natural, sir, the rich man commands our respect and why ? He has the means to buy what we have to sell—our brains, our goods—whatever, in fact, we deal in, and we accordingly respect him." And find out he's honourable, and all that sort of thing," sneeered Harry. Larkins laughed. We look for his good qualities, sir," he said, whereas poverty is apt to dim our vision, and hide man's excellence from all eyes but his own. But come, come, Mr Harry, you are rich enough yet for us to find many virtues in you and again Larkins laughed. It's a confounded sell, that's all I can says," growled Harry. It was an unfortunate position, sir, no doubt," replied Larkins briskly, but it is an unfortunate position no longer. You are but the younger son instead of the elder, Mr Harry, of a well-born gentleman, and an honourable wealthy lady. Not a bad start in life, sir," continued Larkins, putting his hands in his breeches pockets, and fixing his bright brown eye on Harry's face and when we add that the income of this wealthy honourable lady, your mother, is now placed at your disposal; I say, when we add this, you are to be envied, Sir Harry, yes to be envied." Can't see it." You blind yourself willfully, my young friend, but let us to business now, Mr Harry. Take my advice sit down here, and write to Sir Robert. May I dictate? Write him a manly, friendly letter, a letter in a good spirit, no half measures. He is found to be your father's heir, he has acted most generously, he holds out his hand to you, then take it, Mr Harry, take it." Harry sat sulkily down, and took up Larkins's pen, and then began to bite the end of it, looking all the while hopelessly in Larkins's face. Deuce a word I can find to say," he said. We must commence," said Larkins, standing behind Harry, with his glass eye sternly fixed on the crown of Harry's head, and his brown eye closed meditatively. How shall we commence? Dear Robert ?' I'll be hanged if I do said Harry, throwing down the pen. Dear sir,' then," continued Larkins, yes, that will do. Dear sir, I have received your letter, and I am much touched by the generous feeling it displays—' Can't write such bosh," interrupted Harry. Nonsense, nonsense," said Larkins, now go on Mr Harry—' much touched by the generous feeling it displays—' Have you got that. Go on then—' I own,' continued Larkins, dictating, that for a time the extraordinary circumstances which have so entirely changed my position almost overwhelmed me—' what are you stooping for, Mr Harry?" You use such confounded words," said Harry, how the —— do you spell overwhelmed ?" Larkins gave him the necessary information, and then started oft again But now I have be- come accustomed to the idea, and wish to show the same friendly spirit that yon have evinced—' Evinced ?" Inquired Harry, dubiously. Yes, evinced to me,' continued Larkins. Can't spell it," said Harry, doggedly. Again Larkins directed him, As regards the hansomeincome,' continued Larkins, dictating, that you propose allowing me, I accept it in the same temper in which you offer it, and I trust that this friendly relationship will always continue batwean us. I shall be pleased if you will call at some early date so that we may make arrange- ments about leaving the Hail That's sharp work, Mr Larkins," interrupted Harry, looking eagerly up. My dear sir, you have but Hobson's choice' about it," said Larkins make a virtue of neces- sity, Mr Harry give the place up with a good grace, and he'll think all the better of you come now, finish your letter. 1 remain, yours very truly,' that will do, and your signature. There Mr Harry, the thing is done, and you are the for- tunate possessor of a large income and an affec- tionate elder brother." And Larkins laughed aloud. He may keep his affections to himself," said Harry, surlily. But don't tell him so," said Larkins, smiling "virtually pat him on the back, my friend, and you'll get all the more out of him." And having- given this prudent piece of advice, Larkins made Harry direct his letter, and send a clerk with it to the post at once. When this letter was delivered at the cottage by the lake-side, it filled Robert Blunt's heart with strange emotion. For one thing it was "tMresaed to him by Irs r £ al name—Sir Robert Blunt—a public recognition of his changed position for another it opened v vista down which he scarcely dared to look. Yet lie was pleased. He went out into the little garden in front; he stood looking across the water at his future home, thinking per- haps of the dark-eyed woman living there, who now could be nothing to him. Then he read his letter again, and smiled, He knew quite well as he did so that Harry Blunt had never composed it. For a moment, he thought Floronce might have done so and the idea was distasteful. But he suddenly remem- bered Larkins—yes Larkins had dictated it, de- c'ded Robert, and as he was entering the cottage, again he met Mary, and put the letter in her hand. Mary read it and then looked upinher brother's face. Sir Robert," she said tremulously, and with moistening eyes. Yes, at last," answered Robert, and as lIe did so Mary kissed his cheek. May God bless and lc^ep you," she whispered, and Robert turned away his head, ashamed that she should see how deeply he was affected, After a moment's silence, he said, trying to speak lightly, Well, we must do the civil, Mary, and gel anù call on our new rektions Kuppose we go to-day, it will only be polite after Master Harry's letter ?" Mary made no answer to this. She warmest unwilling to go most unwilling to have anything to do with Florence, and yet she did not wish to annoy Robert. It is much better that weshould ba on friendly t,wms," c(,ntinucd nohpl't, "and since Harry Blunt is ready to be civil, I am sure that Florence W'il: Oh I daresay,said Mary, rather coldly, and then alter a moment's reflection she added, Bui it you wish me to go, Robert, I will go." I do wish you to go, Molly," said Robert, and j the matter was settled. The brother and sister walked up together to the Hall on the same afternoon. As they as- cended the green hill in front of it, Harry Blunt, who chauced to be looking out of the drawing- room windows, reeognised them. Here's that confounded fellow and his sister cried Harry, looking-round at Florence and Bessie, who were drinking tea by the fire. I'm off if tiiey ask for tne, say I'm out." And in another minute Harry had disappeared. In the mean while Robert had rung ,t the Hall door, and Mary had inquired of Appleby, in would-be indifferent accents, if Mrs Ilarry Jilunt were at Imine?" Yes, Tllrs Harry is within, Sir Robert," h)t- j swered Appleby, with a pleasant air of decision, He knew, indeed, all about it he kt; ,w his future master was standing before him if he remained) butler at the Hall, and as ho bad every intention <>? doing EO, we may be sure be did his best to propitiate Sir Robert." There was no falter or hesitation ill his voice now, when a few moments later he threw open the drawing-room door, and aiummcd in sono. ous accent#— Sir B.ohert Llnut and Mhs P'tini" And with 1 a smite Florence rose to receive her visitors. You see, she said, looking up in Robert's I face, '-nd speaking in her old gracious pleasant j way,"Appleby is determined to put us all incur proper positions at once. Well, I am glad to see Sir Robert—and Mary," And Flounce %turned round and went up and softly kissed Mary's heal- thful cheek. Mary blushed, but could not resist the chai Florence's manner. She felt'nervou-. audcon uiSd, sad was glad to take refuge in Bessie'- comm-n place and tranquilising remarks. i Will you sit here ?" said Bessie, agreeabiy. Row very cold it is to day "j a-,d Mary meek: a m-ited and took the chair that Bessie present 3d, while once more Florence turned to Robert. It is very good of you to come," she said, and very good to bring Mary." j I do not see any good in it," answered ^.oba.rt smiling. T am pleased to crane," You got Iiarry's letter, I suppose?" answered .Florence. Yes, I was glad to get it," said Robert. "Is ¡J0 at home V" Florence smilingly shook her head. Polite psople say not at home,' don't they, she said, when they do not intend to appear ? and Harry, I bslievc, doss not." Well, we must do without hitii, then," an- swered Robert, still smiling, and he drew a chair near Florence's, and sat down, H I wished particularly to see you to-d:tý," hè continued, "because I wanted to tell you there is not the least occasion for you to think of hurrying away from here." "Please tell me nothing of the sort," said Florence. "There is every occasion, and I really shall be glad to be gone, for I feel in a false posi- tion here; indeed I do." "You never can be in a falso position in this house," said Robert, gravely; "do not forget, please, tha.t Harry is in truth the heir of Weirmere still." Unless Sir Robert marries," said Florence, a little tremulously. II Sir Robert is not at all likely to nnrrY-llo, Florence, you need not think of that." Florence did no speak; she rose nervously, and began stirring the fire. And, Florence, if there is anything in the house you care for, will you please take it," went on Robert. Where do you think of living when you leave ?" In London," answered Florence, looking round. I have persuaded Harry to take a small furnished house in London, and your generosity has made this quite easy, you know, Robert." And you would like best to live in London ?" Yes it is easier to get through life in a stir, I think." "Perhaps," said Robert, and he sighed. "And, Robert, went on Florence, casting down her shining eyes, I have something I want to give to you—to give into your own hands. You know when we first-came here, after poor Lady Hlunt's sudden death, Bessie took charge of Lady Blunt's jewel case—there are some valuable things in it, I beheve-and, of course, now it is yours, and I would fed happy if you had it." "These were Lady Blunt's jewels, I conclude?" said Robert, quietly. So I was given to understand by Jenkins." "Then what have I to do with them ?" said Robert. "If they had been my mother's it would have been different, but my mother, poor woman, had no jewels. Sir Henry was too poor in those days to buy jewels, and, of course, would no doubt sell the family ones and he never men- tioned anywiing about jewels to me. No, Florence, these have been Lady Blunt's own jewels, and go naturally to—Stsrry, and, of course, J fo you." 1 Don fc tempt me, Robert," laughed Florence all women, you know, love jewels they are among the snares of the Evil ""One, though, to be sure, the Evil one is quite out of fashion." "But not his snares, as you can them, Florence." "No, indeed, we each have an Evil One in our own hearts, I think, Robert—vanity, folly, what- ever we call it—the tempting lure that leads us on until—" Until what, Florence?" Bessie, my dear," cried Florence, without answering Robert, "Ring for some fresh tea; Mary, I know, will have some." And won't; you give me some ? said Robert. Still Florence did not answer him She flitted about the room, graceful, charming. Even Mary admitted her charm, as Mary's almost uuwilling eyes followed the slim, little, black-robed figure. Then Florence sat down by Mary's side, and talked in her winning way. She told Mary she hoped to live in London, and she hoped Mary would stay with her there. Though I am almost afraid of the conse- quences,' she said, with her pretty laugh. You will make a sensation, Mary t Oh, of course," said Mary, blushing. "But, really, will you come? I shall be so delighted. I don't know," answered Mary, embarrassed. I am a country girl. I would feel lost among all the great people. That's the pleasure of London. You can be virtually lost there. No one knows anything about you, no one cares but here, my dear, all our little faults, peccadilloes, and misfortunes, form an unending source of amusement and gra- tification to our friends." That is quite true, I think," said Mary. While Fiorence was talking to Mary, Bessie crossed the room, and began to compliment Robert. I must congratulate you. Sir Robert," she said, "though, of course, at first both Florence and I felt, wen-a little upset; still, the title has come to a most worthy possessor, much more worthy than my poor brother-in-law." And Bessie laughed, and modestly cast dowa her eyes. Thank you, Miss Bessie,"said Robert, smiling. "Oh yes," said Bessie, "and I blame myself so much but for me poor Flo would not have married Harry Blunt." "Why did you persuade her to do so, Miss Bessie ?" asked Robert gravely. You see we were so poor," said Bessie and —and it seemed such a good match. Oh yes, it was all my fault it has made me very unhappy." Robert did not speak. He bit his lips he ner- viously played with his hat. She tries to make the best of hiin," continued Bessie, in a low confidential tone, "but, for my part, I cannot endure him. I cannot forgive him that night we came to your house-" Robert, it is time that we were going,I think,' here interrupted Mary quietly, approaching her brother, and Robert could only rise. "About the jewels ? said Florence, addressing Rooert. Will you take them now 2" Certainly not they are L^> ly Blunt's jewels. I have nothing to do with them," he answered. Well, suppose you come up—what day shall we say? Will the day after to morrow do, and we can go through them, and see to whom they have belonged, and to whom they have to be- long," smiled Florence. I shall be very glad to go ove-l..theni with you," said Robert. Do, then, come on Thursday afternoon, and Mary will come too 7" And Florence looked at Mary. But Mary declined; she shook hands with Florence and Bessie, but sLe was glad to go away. She was afraid for the dear brother who walked by her side so silent and absorbed after they left Weirmere Hall. A sort of mutual em- barrassment, in fact, arose between Mary and Robert during their walk home, and neither men- tioned the sisters nor the jewels, nor anything connected with their recent visit. It was a relief, indeed, to both when, as they neared the cottage, they saw a stranger, mounted on a good horse, ride up to the little gateway just as they came in sight. It's Larkins, the attorney, from Oniston, I be- lieve," said Robert. It was Larkins—Larkins gay and debonnair, who, when he recognised them, dismounted and came forward, doffing low his shiny hat. Sir Robert," he said, "and Miss Blunt, I was just going to do myself the honour of calling upor. you." We are very pleased to see you," answered Robert courteously and accordingly Larkins, having thrown his bridle-rein over the gateway to secure his horse, followed Robert and Mary into the cottage. Artistic tastes, I see," said Larkins, glancing his lively brown eye round the pretty parlour, his glass eye, with its steady gaze, having settled itself uncomfortably on Mary's face. Yes, I am fond of painting," said Mary. You have many charming subjects ai-ou.id you on this spot," continued Larkins, with a little gesture towards the window. What says the poet, With hue like that when some great painter dips his pencil, etc., etc. Yes, the colouring oil our hills and fells inspire—hem—I ll1lY say many emotil)]1, ¡ Mary laughed, and then left the room. As I dare say you wish to talk to my brother on busi- ness," she said by way of apology to Larkins, who made a rush to open the door for her. Both on business and pleasure," said Larkins addressing Robert, after she was gone first allow me to have the pleasure of congratulating you, Sir Robert, as I told your young brother, Mr Harry Blunt, never did a gentleman more worthy of them succeed to an ancient title and extensive property. Yes, Sir Robert, continued Larkins with conscious virtue, I told your brother this, although he was my client but I told him the truth. You are aware I went up to town with him to take the advice of eminent counsel on this case ? That was my duty, although I did not disguise from him after eeing the copies of the convincing—yes, Sir Robert, the soul-convincing—documents which my respected friend Mr Howard had forwarded to Mr Harry no, I did not disguise from him my opinion I said in fact in homely language, Mr ;Ham f W8 have not a leg to stand on, not a single leg jiut, still it was my duty to take the best-advice pro- curable, and I did take it. The big wigs were unanimous—then I said, Mr Harry, look the thing in the face '—these wpre my very words." And you helped him to write the letter in answer to mine, did you not?" asked Robert, with a laugh. I did. Sir Robert," laughed Larkins in reply; Tllr Hai ry is a little brusque not a student, in fact, and I rounded his sentences a bit for him ? ha. ha. ha Well, it's all right, now," said Robert. Your noble generosity h '8 made it right, sir! I do not wish to be fulsome (J am suppressing my admiration, Sir Robert, instead of expressing it in fu1!), but I must say something I have lived, snail I say^almost to middie a.g", though age is a delicate snnject to a widower on the look out for a charming wife, ha, ha, list But we will admit the middle age well, to middle age then, and I nave mixed with my fe-low-men, and my fellow- men have inixcd with rue. but [ have seen noth- ing like it, sir nothing; like your noble generosity in giving up a noble income, for what ? Yes, for what, Sir Robert? For a feeling that live, not, or ->looms not, at least, in many breasts as it does ia yours—for honour, sir, yes, for honour And Larkins slipped his own waist- coat in front to denote that a corresponding feel- ing lay ir. Hen there. It was but right, [ think, said Robert. t I' was nobie, Sir Robert—but talking of right, we have the right man in the right p:ace now-end this reminds me as you have stepp. d upwards into your proper posit on among the aristocracy of the land, you will not care to trar.sac'- your own business, I presume, Sir Rooert, in the future and if my humble services will be of any assistance I place them at your dis- posal, sir The late Lady JYllnt gave our poor :"riend Chester .even hundred pounds a year, I b b'-ve fqr;-{ similar -sum my whole energies will -it your command." "I ba_ve not decided on my future arrange- me- *Ir Larkins," teobed Pobgrt, with a s!.id-\ out I shall remember your proposition." "I shall be prond if you will, Sir Roo-o't, but now I must take my leave. Pray present my respoc s to Miss Blunt, and tell her I regret not having had ti.e honour of bidding lie.- good-bye. I have heard much of her be-wifcy, Sir Robert, but in her ca.Se reality far exceed any thing I have been told. Again, good bye." \](1 after an impres- "ivB ban-i-clasp cr two Lark.ns went. FTis visit highly amused b- th Robert and Mary, Robert gravely assuring Ma-y she had an evident chance of tlrs gity widow- should her fortune be found suitable. At alt events Larkins made the evening more lively, iait twfore it was over somethiug occurred that again created ..n uneasy feeling in Mary's hear: Tins was caused by th" arrival of Appleby at the cotta-go, with a .otter frorn Florence for Sir Robert." It contained but a few brief words, yet Robert read these words with a flush on his cheek, and held the paper on which they were writteft with a trembling baud; ) (To be continued.

Dymvmir i'n gohebwyr Cymreig gyfeirio eu goheb. iaethau, llyfrau i'w hadolygu, &c., fel y canlyn: Dafyid Mon/anwg, Morjarmg Ifowc, Llmtwit- street, Cardiff,

t BAHDDONIAETH. Y MAC AFRADLON. Troi'i gefn oddiar ei ddigon,—i wlad Lom, mae'r mab afradlou; Yr enaid, ar ei union, I wartii a oddiwrth Ion, Cwmbwrla. PABELLWYSON*.

Y GAUAF. Yn nghol angeuol fiwng auaf-haddwch Y werdd ddol a god,if; Dan ei awch teleidion haf Yn dylwyth gwywllyd welaf. Rhoi nodfm marwnadol—wna ei wynt, Drwy y wig ruddfanol; Ar ei brig crinedig oawn 61 Ei fawr rvddid llofruddiol. Mynydd Cyntfig. CrNFFiawrSON.

YMSON CARDI, Wrfch gael yr olwg gyntaf ar weithfeydd Mor- ganwg. Wei, dacw wlad y caledi,—a'i mwg Mawr i'r nen sy'n codi; Yn ei golwg 'rwy'n gwelwi,— Och yn ol yn f'ol af fi. CLEIFON.

BYRFYFYR Wrth wel'd lien wr ar garn geryg ar ddiwrnod gwyntog. 0 mae'n llym, :1' hen wr yma—ei hun Un nghanol y gaua'; Och! yr awel cliwareua A'i hit, wallt, sydd o liw'r iâ. CLEIFON.

Y FALWODEN. Un hir yw, â ar ei hyd,—un gorniog Arnynt, ni rydcl crgyd Un arafaidd, ddewr befyd, Gariai 'i bwth dros geiriau byd. CLEIFON,

MIS IONAWR. Teyrn olaf blwng gauafol,—grymusawg Ormeswr gerwinol Cenllysg ddaw'n gymysg o'i gol, Khua a'i anadl rewol. Ferndale. THOS. HEWITT.

BUDDUGOLIAETH COR MORLAIS YN NGHAERDYDD, (BUDDUGOL.) Ser y gan sy ar gyanydd,—a mawrlwydd ^Cor Morlais drwy'r dolydd Eu gwir enwog arweinydd Gariai y dorch o Gaerdydd. CADIFOR.

DEIGRYN HIRAETH Ar ol Miss Sarah Ann, anwyl ferch Lewis a Rhoda Williams, Pengam, a fu farw yn 21 oed. I lwch oer i lechu aeth—ein Sarah Ann siriol, O'ch alaeth, Rhoi'r un lwys dan gwys yn gaeth, Yn oer wely marwolaeth. 0, dduwiol eneth ddiwyd,—fu yma'u Fyw em, aeth i'r gweryd Aeth o'i bodd oddiwrth y byd I wych oedfa uwch adfyd. Y lachar lili ddilychwyn-fwriwyd At feirwon i'r dyffryn Un oedd dlos fel rhosyn, Dan glo'n ngweilodion y glyn. I ganu i wlad gogoniant-diangodd, Uwch du ing a'i soriant, Yn nghlyd gol rhyw swynol sant Nofia mewn bythol nwyfiant. Pengam, MEUDWY GWKNT.

Y GOEDWIG. Y werdd goedwig hardd gydwedd—urddun- Un farddonol Senedd [wyd Canghenau llawn cynghanedd, Mewn llawn wisg, mewn llawen hedd. Mawreddus yw'r sycamorwydden-hardd A'i hirddail ddiddorlen; A'r ddiwyro gref dderwen, Caughenog a brigog bren. Tlysau'r wig yw'r menion frigau,—harddwyd A gwyrdd-ddail a ffrwythau Pob planhigyn, brigyn brau, Fel adail o dan flodau. Cerddorion mwyn y man Iwyai—deiliog Mat dylif a'u cerddi Yn swyn awelon a'u si A ddaliant I addoli. Ond, 0 nesau mae'r gauaf, I ddiosg lioll hardd wisg haf; I'r berth cilia'r adar bach, Heb allu odli bellach Ac eihvaith y wig welwyd Ddoe yn lion sydd heddyw'n llwyd. Ystradgynlais. DANIEL JONES,

YR ENETH AR Y GRAIG. Ar graig eisteddai geneth dlos Yn swn y mor a'i donau, Pan oedd cysgodion hwyr y nos Yn ddistaw wisgo'r brynia.u Fel angel gwyn o wlad yr hedd, Eisteddai hon ei hunan, Pan oedd unigedd arei sedd, A'i aden dros y cyfan. Ac yna codai'r lloerwen dlos, Fel olwyn d&n o'r dwyrain, A clianai'r eos gan i'r nos, Fel nefol forwyn firain Ar awel wrth fyn'd ar ei thaith, Y n sisial chwedlau mwynion A'r mdr wrth chwareu ar y traeth, Yn murmur iaith ei ddwyfron. Ac yua wedi eu mwvnbau, A clianu gyda'r eos Nes gwncyd gofidiau i leihau, A'¡ mwyniant i yniddangos, Yn eerfiedig ar ei gwedd, I 'Roedd diniweidrwydd c'iomen 0, mor ddenawl ar ei sedd, Edrychai'r wylaidd feinwen, St. Clears. GLASFRYNOG.

Y TUCHANWYR. Yn mysg cymeriadau gwahanol y byd, Ceir dosparth huuanol tuchanllyd MaeV^byd a'i drefniadau yn hollol o'u lie, 'Nol barn a syniadau eu bywyd; Am nad yw neb felly yn iawn wrth ei bodd, Na-dim hyd yn cael pi iawn-arwain, Y cyngor fydd genyf i bawb y'nt fel hyn, Yw gwneuthury cwbwl eu hunain." Yn Maelfa y drefla n'r oedd Sam o'r Maes hen ] Yn chwylio am sylwedd cot newydd C'add weled brethynau yn 11u o bob math, Ond methodd a dewis'r un defnydd Gan iddo ymadael ,/r Faelfa yn swi), A myne l tuag adref dan gwynfan Y cyngor caredig sydd genyf i Sam, Yw gwneuthur brethynau ei hunan." Daeth If an y labrwr tuag adref pa dydd, I 'mofyn am damaid o ginio 'Rol eistedd, ac edrych ar hiliad y bwrdd, Ni welai rldim byd yn ei foddio, Gan nad oedd trefnusrwydd darpariaeth y wraig [ fynu a meddwl mawr Ifan Y ffordd i'w fawrhydi i ddyfod i hwyl "Yw gweithio gwell ciniaw ei hunan." Bu amryw o weithwyr gan yswain yPlas, Onti iiid oedd yr un yn ei foddio, 'Roadd rliai yn rhy eiddil, rhy llesg, a rhy hen, Ac ercill rhy ienanc i weithio Gan nad yw\' boneddwr yn llwyado cael neb Yn wertiuvyr i leddfu ei duchan, Ffordd oreu o ddigon i yswain y Plas "Yw gweithio y cwbl ei hunan." Mae Twm er y" blwyddi yn chwilio am wraig, Ond nid yw hyd yma'n llwyddianus, Mae thai o'r llancesau'n rhy sal IV a byr, Ac eraill yn dal ac annhrefnus; Gar. nad yw'r rliianod i fyny ar nod, Na'r un yn ei foddio yn unman, Y ffordd fwyitf iiwyius o lawer iTwm,— "YwrhwyfocilMstreibunan." 'Roe-id Madam y Dolau yn melhu cae! un 1 siarad heb arno ei feiau 'IJoedd rhai yn rhy araf, a rhai yn rhy riiwydd, Ac eraill YI1 siarad trwy 'u fIrncnau I Gan nad y>v neb felly y;i siarad yn iawn, 'Nol clorian ei meddwl hi, druau, Ffordd oreu o ddigon i Madam y Ddol, "Ywslaradycwbleihuuan." 'Roedd beirniad y canu yn 'Steddfod y Fro, Yn traethu ei farn am y canu 'Roedd rhai wedi taraw oi tanau'n rhy gryf, Ac ereíll yn wan i'w ryfeddu Gan rod yr hod gorau yn canu inor wael, Ar 01 yr hot! amser a'1' ffwdan, Ffordd orell 0 lawer i feirniad v gân "Yw canu y cwbl ei hunan." Mae gweit'niau'r prif awdwyr yn llyfrgell Huw, Ond ni cheir ef byth yn eu canmol I Mae rhai o'r cyfrolau yn Rawer rhy ddwfn, I Ac ereill yn rhy avwynebol; Gan nad yw cynyrchion prif aivdwyr y byd Y n cyrhaedd â safno ei anian, Y cynghor sydd genyf yn serchus i IIuw, I Yw gwneuthur gwell llyfrau el h:Ina11. Yn wag o weinidog oedd eghvys y Bryn, I A methid c'iwallu ei heisiau 'Roedd rhai 0'1' frawdoliaeth yn dysgwyl caellJais, Ac ereill yn dewis cael pethau Gan fod prif d.ilentau y Gogledd a'r De' Yn methu a chyrhaedd ei ham can, Y cynghor a roddif i eglwys y Bryn- j Yw gwaer.timr y cwbl ei imnan." iJiiinvxWYN.

THE CONTINENTAL SHIPPING TRADE. The shipping trade would appear from reports to be in a- very depressed eondii-ion on the Conti- nent. The II.tvre correspondent of the Liverpool Journal of Commerce says that some of the leading lines are reducing their sailings by ono-hah amongst others the Hamburg-American line.

The miners a' v<ran\dle Colliery, Oldhill, near Dudley, have resumed work, t-be employer- with- drawing the objectionable notice-

SWANSEA CHAMBER OF e COMMERCE. The annual meeting of this body was held at the Guildhall, Swansea, on Monday, the mayor (Mr R. D. Burnic) presiding. THE LATE IIIR T, FORD. Upon the motion of the MAYOn. seconded by Captain SIMMONS, a resolution was passed ex- pressing appreciation of the services of the late Mr Thomas Ford, and according a vote of condolence with the family on their loss. THE ANNUAL nRPZ Br. The Secretary (Mr Jones) read the annual re- port as follows The council have much pleasure in submitting their report for 1885. The number of members during the year was 117. There were held 13 meetings of the chamber, including three called for special purposes. With the view of establishing the chamber on a firmer basis, it was decided to incorporate it under the Companies' Acts by license from the Board of Trade, and a special fund was raised to attain this object. The necessary certificate from the registrar has lately been received, and the memorandum and articles of asso- ciation aad bye-laws will shortly oa ready for distribu- tion amongst the members. It is in contemplation by the Government to allow to chambers of commerce thus incorporated a locus standi before the llailway Commissioners and Parliamentary committees. The President of the Board cf Trade having occa- sion to visit Swansea, the chamber took advantage of the same to present him with an address of welcome. This took place on the 2nd February, and brought together a large and influential meeting of business men in the town and neighbourhood. In acknowledg- ing the address, Mr Chamberlain delivered an and interesting speech, in which he dwelt upon the importance of establishing and maintaining chambers of commerce, and bore testimony to the assistance he had himself obtained from these bodies in his ministe- rial office. The following matters have occupied the ttention of the chamber during the year RAILWAY COMMUNICATION WITH TIIE RHONDDA VALLEY. The chamber again presented a petition to Parlia- ment in favour of the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Rail. way Company's Bill; and also o»e in favour of a bill introduced by the Great Western Railway Company, to shorten the route from Briton Ferry in connection with their scheme for tapping the Rhondds Valley at Forth. The latter was thrown out by the Parliamentary Com- mittee; but the former bill, after a most arduous and prolonged struggle in both Houses, was finally passed, the company thereby obtaining powers tor the comple- tion of their line to Swansea by means of a tunnel under the Neath river. There is thus every prospec; of Swansea having, ere long, direct communication with the important coalfields of the Khondaaand Avail Valleys, which should be of incalculable value to the port. Tha works are now in progress, and will be pushed forward with all speed. BANKRUPTCY BILL. A sub-committee of the council was appointed to consider the details of Mr Chamberlain's B 11 on the bankruptcy question. A report presented by them was adopted by the chamber, and duly f" rwarded to the President f the B ard of Trade. Mr W. Itosser, of Ithydyrlielig, being prop >sed as the official receiver under this Act for the Swansea and Neath district, your council were asked by the Board of Trade to state if they were aware of any objedhn to the appoint- ment, They replied cordially approving of the same. FRENCH BROKERAGE. A communication was received from the Foreign Office asking for the observations of the chamber on this question. A resolution was adopted and forwarded to Lord Granville, embracing certain suggested steps to be taken for the protection of British shipowners and masters. COMMITTEE OF LLOYD'S REGISTER. « A representative has been allotted on this committee to the ports of Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport. In view of the large and increasing number of ships ownein this district, your council made an effort to secure an increased representation for the three ports, but were unable to induce Lloyd's committee to grant same. Colonel E. S. Hill, of Cardiff, has been ap- pointed the repiesentative. NORTH MAIL. Your council regret to be still unable to record any improvement in the North mail service, A further memorial has been forwarded through Mr Dillwyn to the Postmaster-General, who, in reply, states that tlie question has not been lost sight of, but that it forms part of a large scheme at present being negotiated with the Great Western Railway Company, and cannot be dealt with separately. To urge the matter forward, copies of the two memorial were sent to all the cham- bers of commerce in the North requesting that they would support the movement by similarly memorialising the Pos master-General; and this has been done by the chambers at Hull, South Shields, Barrow-in- i urness, Sunderland, Wakefield, Middlesborough, and Tyne- mouth. It is intended to prepare yet another memorial for joint signature by individual members of the vari- ous chambers pressing Mr Fawcett to leceive a com- bined deputation on the question, and your council trust that these many efforts may have the effect of hastening the much-needed improvement. HARBOUR FACILITIES. Several improvements have been effected during the year, which the chamber may fairly claim to have been mainly instrumental in bringing about. An additional crane has been erectedat the South Dock for discharging vessels. The charge for the transfer of coal to and from the Prince of Wales Dock has been reduced from 6d to 3d per ton. Your council trust the company will ere long see their way to abolish the charge altogether. After prolonged negotiations the necessary exchange of land in the North Dock, between the Great Western Railway Company and the harbour trustees, to enable the former to extend their tipping acc:ommodation, has been arranged. This will give the railway company space for the erection of another and higher tip capa- ble of bunkeriug light steamers, the want of which has long seriously hampered the traffic at that dock. The question of a public graving dock at the Prince of Wales Dock has occupied consider- able attention at the meetings of the chamber. That the Harbour Trustees were going to provide such a dock was regarded a; definitely decided, and early in the year the chamber submitted to them a series of resolutions suggesting and giving reasons for a change of site from the one selected. The trustees did not, however, entertain this proposal, but it was with great astonishment that the chamber learned in November that the trustees contemplated abandoning the idea of a public dock and handing over the site to a private firm. A deputation from the chamber waited on the trustees to urge the carrying out of the original inteu- tion, but the latter have ann0UnC()G that financial con- siderations prevent this being done. Your council view this decision" itli extreme regret, being strongly of opinion that a public dry dock would be the means of attract ng a large number of vessels to the port, and so considerably increase the revenue of the trust. A plan f a dry dock proposed to be bnilt) IV Messrs Young and Chrisdes between the new cut and the North Dock has been submitted by the Board of Trade for the observation of your council. They have replied that they see no objections to the construction of "ûch a d'ck. ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE. At the annual meet ng of tbis body, held in London, in February, the i'11-,msea chamber was represented by Messrs T. Ford, C. Bath, and A. W, Halden. The autumnalmcetinp; was held at Derby, in September, Messrs A. W. Halden and W. Howell attending on behalf of this chamber. LOCAL MARINE COURTS. The proposals of Mr Chamberlain for the settlement of questions of overloading, &c., of ships by the estab- lishment of local marine courts and merchant shipping commissioners have been considered by the council^ and a report on the subject has been forwarded to the Board of Trade. RETIRING DIRECTORS. In accordance with the article bearing on the subject, the vacancies in the council will have to be filled at the annual meeting. DEATHS OF DR. ROGERS AND MR T. FORD. It is with very deep regret that your council have to record the death- of these two gentlemen. Each of tliem i ad taken particular inierest in the welfare of the i hamb r, Mr Fo d being our president at the time of his death. The chamber can but ill-afford the loss of two such warm and staunch supporters. TRADE OF THE PORT. The fo lowing figures will be interesting, as shewing the steady and continual development. of the trade of the port inwards. 1883. 1882: 1873. Vessels entered.. 5 195 5,302 5 379 Registered tons.. 1,130,864 1,041,993 797,325 Imports (tons) 656,427 659,317 593,400 Outw rds. Vessels cleared 4.973 5,010 5,198 Registered tons 1,109,483 1,017,006 769 274 Exports (tons) 1,836,064 1,640,099 1,121,'000 j.u win oe Heell iroin eueue statistics tnat swansea is attracting a far larger class of vessel than formerly, seeing that whil in th, last ten years the number of vessels entering the port has decreased 3'42 percent-, the register tonnage of the fame has increased 41-83 percent. Th's is due ti the large proportion of steamers which now frequent the port, the number and tonnage of those entering in the above-named rears being 1S83. 1882. 1873. No. Reg. tons. No. Reg. tons. No. Reg. ton* 2,165 741,693 1,853 601,371 979 237 733 ..LUG ouvpom wio iDiibc yn w e* now may be gat-here-t from the fa-fc that a comparison of the num- ber and n?t register tonnage of vessels entering the d ck during the last six month of 1882 and 1383 shews an increase in the latter year of 277'24 per cent in the number, and 165 .6 per cent in the regist. r tonnage, the figures being :— & T -r. -N°- Heg. tons. July—December, 1853 464 201 395 T.. »l"o 1882 123 76,537 XI, lo grawijing to note, too, ttiat this success has not been ootained at the expense of the other docks, the tram ill wh ch has been fully up to the average. The MAYOR, in moving its adoption, said that although the meetings had not been largely at- tended, the report showed that the chamber had being doing an important work. With respect to the mails, he thought that the movement WllllÍch was being made would show some result in a short time. Although, perhaps, Swansea was not going ahead by leaps and bounds, good steaà) progress was being made with the port. Mr HALDEN seconded the report, which was carried, and after some formal business the chamber adjourned.

THE BANQUET. SIR H. H. VIVIAN ON THE HOUSE OF LORDS. THE PROGRESS OF SWANSEA. At the Mtu'kworth Arms Hotel, Swansea, on Mono ay night, the first annual dinner of the chamber of commerce took place, when there was a representative gathering of the commercial men of the port and town, Mr Dillwyn, M.P., the president of the chamber, occupied the chair, and was supported by the Mayor (Mr R. D. Burnie): Sir Hussey Vivian, M.P., Mr Charles Bath, Mr J. B. Phillips (president of the. Llanellv Chamber of Commerce), Mr J, C. Fowler, and Mr F. A. Sreo. Amongst others present there were Messrs J. Rosfer,G. Symons, W. H. Jenkins, A. G. Moffat, C. Ftiltoii, T. R. W. Mason, W. R. Hooper, L. G. Mouchel, E. Roberts, T. R. Robinson, Q, Hammond, J. R. Lewis, H. Golding, T. R. Francis, R. Rosser, A. W. Halden, V, Imrie, W. A. Essery, W. Howell, W. 1\f, Jones. F. A. Yco, B. A. Tuttiett, H. Goldberg, A. Mason, K. Groves, Lsnnard, W. David, Pascoe, II. C. Evans, Williams, Passadora, Lever, Beard, J. Beynon, W. G. Foy, D. Jones, T. Le Bonlanger, W. Simpson, W. F. J3V.ilI, R. Capner Wat,-on, E. W. Jones, E. W Cook, Wallace', Ladd, Bainbridge, W. Meager, M. Tulton, C. Ricnards, W. B. J ones. C. Rvdiardson, Shad dick Dahne, M. T. Jones, E. S. Williams, J. MADRE) T, Glasbrook, J, Jones, T. R, Stephen, Mugford' P. Smith, Thomas F. Whitehead, an(] j )_ Rowland. The CHAIRMAN, before opening the toast list said that letters of apology for inability to attend had been received from the Earl of Jersey, Mr C. i*. M, Talbot, General Benson, Mr B. Williams, Q.C. (coui.Lv court judge), Mr j. T* £ >• Llewelyn,^ xMr A. Hood (president of 'the I Carom Ghaui""r of Commerce), Mr J R Francis, and Mr E R. Daniel. He must also, he said, express the regret of Sir Jno. Jones JENKINS, who wasannouncad to be present, but was unable to attend owing to an engagement with his con- stituents. The CHATKMAN then gave the toast of "The Que311 and Royal family," which was honoured in the customary manner. Mr J, C. Fownm (stipendiary magistrate of Swansea), proposed "The Houses of Parliament." >le said he supposed very few would wish to see that great assembly, the House of Lords swept away by the democratic wave which was gradually advancing; but if the House of liords was to fulfil its functions firmly and com- pletely, in his humble opinion it would be neces- sary^ that some reverent amending hand should <\c«A>ribly, and place it upon a larger, wider, and more representative basis thsw ) the narrow basis on which it no ,y reefed—aimplv the hereditary princinje. (Loud applause.) Sir HUSSEY VIVIAN, who was received with the greatest enthusiasm, said, in reply, that he joined entirely with what fell from his friend Mr Fowler, who proposed the toast. He (Sir Hussey) was one of those who admired, respected, and revered the House of Lords. It was the ancient assembly of this country. It was a direct descendant of the last old Saxon institution of the Witenagemote, when every freeman was called upon to be a representative, and take part in the great council of the nation. As they were aware, the House of Commons was a inucfe later institution, and it was a very curious fact that we owed the institu- tion of the House of Commons to Simon de Montfort, to a great extent a Frenchman. He also agreed with Mr Fowler that, if the House of Lords was to retain its high position amongst us, some reforms must be introduced into that House, whether by a reverent hand or otherwise he was not prepared to say. (Laughter and applause.) For his own part, he thought that, without in any way trenching upon that institu- tion, it might be made more representative than at present, especially in regard to the so-called representative peers of Scotland and Ire- land. They might depend upon it there could not be such constitutions as ours without having two assemblies. In all parts of the world where representative in- stitutions had been introduced, so far as he knew, there were two assemblies. In America there was a Senate as well as the Congress, and so it would be found in ail other places where our great institutions had been copied. He believed that it would be most unwise to in any way tam- per with that old institution, the House of Lords. The House of Commons was a representative assembly and was the governing body of the nation, because we are a self-govern- ing people. We had always been so from the earliest times, and we should always continue a self-governing people. That was engraved and ingrafted in our natures, and when the mind of the people was clearly expressed upon any particular subject it was expressed through that great assembly the House of Commons, and whatever was the mind of the people would eventually become the law of the country. He believed that the present House of Commons was a very strong House. He had sat there now for many years. He had had the honour to sit in Parliament for between 31 and 32 years—(a-p- plause)-and during that period he had seen many Houses elected. He had never seen one stronger or more capable than the present House. He thought there was greater ability and power in the present House of Commons than in any he had seen. As they knew, the House of Commons had passed through troublous and bad times. Whether they were destined to see those tunes again he was unable to say. He must say that he, intiividually, took a somewhat gloomy view of the future of the coming session." He looked forward to it with anything but pleasure. (Laughter.) He thought it was no laughing matter he thought it was a very serious matter. (Hear, hear.) We all valued our great institution, the House of Commons. We looked to it as the representation of our freedom, and as our self-governing power and to see that insti- tution tampered with by men who intended deliberately to drag it through the dirt, and make legislation impossible, was to him detestable and horrible. (Loud applause.) What was to become of this sad condition of things, when a certain number of members duly returned to the House cf Commons set themselves deliberately at work to prevent the possibility of that House doing its duty by the country ? He was unable to say. But one thing he was sure of, and that was that the representatives of the English nation, and in that he included Scotland, and Wales would know how to reduce the griev- ances which the country suffered. He was sure his hon. friend on his right felt as strongly as he did upon this matter, and that they would one and all set their shoulders to the wheel in order to endeavour to hand down to our children the grand traditions of that great assembly, the House of Commons, in all its integrity. (Loud applause.) The CHAIRMAN also replied, and in brief terms expressed" his reverence, love, and affection for the House of Commons, in which he said he had sat 29 years. Mr WYNDHAM LAWRENCE gave "The Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces," to which Capt. PIKE replied. The CHAIRMAN, in proposing the Town and Trade of Swansea," said that the trade of the dis- trict had long been depressed, and as aresultthere had been a great depression in the value of local property, so that those who held it did not think it desirable to sell it at present prices but he asked was that to continue ? (No, no.) He said "No," for he believed in the future of Swansea, and he believed in Swansea's future because be believed in Swansea's resources. It contained within itself, as he thought, more elements of prosperity than any place in the kingdom. (Ap- plause.) The MAYOR, who was very cordially received, said that the local trade was most promising, whilst the affairs of the harbour were most satis- factory, most progressive, and in such a condition as gave great hope for the future of Swansea. Large companies, amongst them the London and North-Western Railway Company, were evi- dently turning their attention to Swansea in many respects. On the east side of Swansea there was the Earl of Jersey, who was taking an interest in the Rhondda Railway scheme and other projects for the improvement of the district. Bearing these matters in mind, he thought that they had reason not to be wholly discouraged at any depression which might exist at the present time. He believed that the chamber of commerce would do much. It was encouraging to find at the meeting held that afternoon that it had risen like Phoenix from its ashes. He expressed a hope that the railway companies would assist the chain- berof commerce, and see in what way the passenger, as well as the goods' traffic to and from Swansea could be so arranged and regulated as to enable Swansea to take its proper place with Liverpool, Warrington, and other places which ran it very close. In a district like this, where there were such large manufactories and varied industries, it would be very desirable to obtain some means for promoting and assisting the technical education of workmen, in order that they might become more skilled in their labour. This was being done at Chemnitz and other places, and we ought to keep pace with foreign competition. Mr F. A. YEO also replied, and said that al- though there was a real and substantial increase in the trade of the port for the past year over the preceding 12 months, the increase was not so great as that of 1882 over 1881. The returns showed an increase for the past year of only 10 per cent, over 133d, whereas the increase of 1882 over 1831 was 20 per cent. With respect to the future he said very confidently that the deepening of the channel would have a very favourable effect upon the development of the trade of the port. (Applause ) Sir HUSSEY VIVIAN proposed the "Swansea Chamber of Commerce," which, he said, had emerged from its chrysalis condition, and from an abstract protoplasm—(loud laughter)—had be- come a solid concrete body. During the past seven years the imports of the port of Swansea had increased 77 per cent, and the exports 64 per cent, whdst there had been an increase in tlie income of the harbour during the past seven years of 67 per cent. All these things showed an enormous vitality and growth. He looked upon what recently occurred as a most hopeful sign. He looked upon the trade of the American liners which come to the port as a most important one, and he had not the slightest hesitation in saying that he looked upon Swansea as a port with which no other in the United Kingdom could compare as a port of departure for American liners. (Applause.) He went on to recommend to the chamber of com- merce the consideration of agricultural questions, and said that his mind was not clear au the pre- sent moment upon the question of the importation of live stock or dead meat. To devise a scheme which, while it prevented the importation of live stock, did not bring disease into the country, was a matter well worthy of the most serious attention, not only of that chamber, but of any statesman in the kingdom. He was very glad that the question of agriculture was included amongst the objects for which that chair was established He alluded to the part which he had taken in the new Bankruptcy Act, and expressed the hope and beliei that it would cure those sores which had been afflicting commerce for Eany years past. With respect to Mr Chamberlain's new proposals for dealing with merchant slupping, tjie chamber of commerce would have to consider whether the suggestions of the President of the Board of Trade were right or wrong, (Voices, "Right," and others, iong. ) They would have to consider whether in view of the enormous loss or hf-winch occurred at sea, it would be desir- ableto bringsnipownerswithinsomesuchlawasthe Employers Liability Act, and make them liable for the neglect theirsuperiorofiicers. (Applause ) In conclusion Sir Hussey referred briefly to the question of arbitration in all disputes, and lastly, expressed his approval of the establish- ment of an exchange at Swansea, such as that at Liverpool and elsewhere, where business men could meet business men. The honourable baronet resumed his seat amid loud applause. The toast of The Visitors," proposed by the Chairman and responded to by the President of the Llanelly Chamber of Commerce, closed the toast list.

THE END OF A PRACTICAL JOKE. On Monday, at an inquest at Bunwell, Somer- setshire, a verdict of manslaughter was returned against four young men named George Gooding William Jacob Harris, Thomas Barrington, and JohnDuckett. It appeared that a brickmaker named Iuehard Thomas became drunk and quarrelsome, and a crowd hustled him towards a large mul-pond, He was thrown in, and managed to rea -h a fountain in the middle of the pond, but, on returning, was drowned. The accused were stated to have taken a prommantpartin ducking the deceased. The jury censured P.S, la-loot lor not attempting to rescue the man.

ThlANSLAUGHTER BY A SALVATIONIST. A verdict of manslaughter was returned against John Fairchild, an officer m the Salvation Army, at an inquest h:dd on Saturday, at Peterborough, on Thomas Gnrton, a youth, who was killed by a blow from Fairchild during the passing of the Salvation Army procession. It appeared that deceased was not connected with the army, and merely followed the crowd, The evide^^p showed that the blow produced concussion of the brain. The jury added to their verdict a recommenda- tion that the authorities should stop further pro- cessions of UV). ,'irmv.

At Bow-street police-court, on Monday, Thos. Jackson Poggitt Chrispm, a sailor, was charged on remand with the murder of Emily Novell, on December 13th, at 7, Artillery-square, West- minster. The case against the prisoner was one of suspicion only, and the police having no fur- ther evidence, Mr Flowers discharged him, saving the charge was absurd, and the accused left the court without a sta%n upon his character.

MR JAS. BROWN AND RAIL- WAY FARES. At Newport County Court, on Monday oefore Judge Selfe—Mr James Brown, of railway-fare celebrity, brought an action tc recover one penny excess fare from the Great Western Railway Company. The plaintiff conducted his own case Mr E. Robin- son, solicitor, from the company's headquarters, appeared to defend the action. It appeared from plaintiffs opening, and from the evidence he ten- dered, that on the 4th January he travelled from Cross Keys, on the Western Valleys section of the defendants' line, to High-street Station, New- port. lie went by third-class in the parliamen- tary tram for the day, and paid 8d for his ticket. The hue, as by law required, -was measured by quarter-mile posts, and from these he ascertained that the distance travelled was seven miles and a fraction less than a quarter of a mile, the 7{ mile post being- situated about 200 yards on the far or north side of Cross Keys Station. The plaintiff referred to his previous tilts with the company, to the action which he successfully fought before the Court of Queen's Bench, and said it was unfor- tunate that the defendants should have earned the character of being arbitrary, harsh, and exacting in its dealings. On that point he would, however, say no more.—His Honour: Thank you. Mr Brown then proceeded to argue that it was obligatory on the company to run a parliamen- tary train, and to charge a penny per mile for third-class passengers.—Mr Robinson replied that by the Cheap Trains Act of 1833 that obligation had been repealed, as to which Mr Brown ap- peared to be under a misapprehension.—Mr Brown: Surely it is not going to be set to that there is no necessity to run parliamentary trains? God help the general public if that is the law. — His Honour: If it is the law, I am not going to say that it can be helped. The railway company will not even grant me a circular ticket for the towns I travel to in the county court district.— Mr Robinson Railway companies cannot be expected to perform more than is legitimately ex- pected of them. (Laughter.) The plaintiff was tnen cross-examined by Mr Robinson, with the view of shewing that in several previous cases he had been unsuccessful.—Mr Brown (after answering and explaining several cases) If it is any satisfaction to you I will admit that you have had a dozen decisions in your favour but, as a matter of fact, you have had only one. (Laugh- ter.)—Mr Robinson Have you measured the line from Newport to Cross Keys ?—Plaintiff: I have not. I .wught to measure your lino a few mornings ago, and your officers inter;ered with me. I was summoned for a trespass, and very much to your discredit I was fined Is. You were refused your costs. (Applause.) The defen- dant's case was that the line known as the Eastern and Western Valleys Railway ran through Newport, and that zero or starting- point to estimate distances commenced at Court v- bella, near Belle Vue, and not at High-stieet station, as suggested by Mr Brown. From tiie latter station to the Gaer Junction, a distance of 66 chains, the line ran over the old South Wales Railway, and the total distance from the booking office at High-street to the booking office, at Cross Keys was 7g miles, or 7 miles and 70 chains—80 chains constituting a mile.—Mr David Roberts, company's engineer for this portion of the district, gave evidence as to having emp'oyed men to measure the line. The exact distance was 7i miles and 237 yards. By the old South Wales Railway consolidated orders, and also by the scale ot fares sanctioned on the Monmouthshire Valleys line, a charge of 11,-d a mile couid be made. Mr Robinson pointed out that the de- fendants had complied with the regulations of the Cheap Trains Act by running third-class accom- modation with every one of the six trains which daily went from Newport to Cross Keys.— ilie plaintiff asked his Honour to bear in mind that there was a special law and ordinance laid down with regard to parliamentary trains running at one penny per mile, and suggested, if any doubt existed in his mind, to defer giving judgment until a future date, as it was the first time the new act (the Cheap Trains Act) had been brought into a judicial court.—His Honour said if any doubt existed in his mind as to the result of Mr Brown's public-spirited action he should certainly accede to the suggestion, and reserve judgment, but it appeared to him that the raatter was so plain that he would not be justified in delaying a decision. He was of opinion that the plaintiff's case failed in fact as well as in law. The distance was greater than he alleged, and, according to the statutes regulating the company's affairs, they were entitled to charge a penny for any fLléLi,¡11 of a mile less than half-a-mile. There was now no statutory obligation upon railway companies to run trains at one penny per mile, but if they did not do so, the Board of Trade could interfere. According to their statutes the company could charge Is for the particular journey, being 1^1 per mile, and no passenger would be entitled to complain of overcharge. Judgment would, there- fore, be for defendants with costs, which his Honour ultimately reluctantly gave on the higher scale.—Mr Brown: I think that is a little bard on me.—His Honour: It is rather hard, because the company can more afford to pay than you can.—Mr Brown: I should have done better before one ot the superior courts.—His Honour: Well, Mr Brown, you can have a case.—Mr Brown I'll try what I can do with the Board of Trade.—His Honour Perhaps Mr Chamberlain will help you. The matter of the constitution of the Railway Commission is pending.—Another case of a similar nature was withdrawn by plain- tiff.

MR MUNDELLA ON MIDDLE CLASS EDUCATION. Mr Mundella, presiding on Monday night at a public meeting in Clapham Hall, London, of the Boys' Public Day School Company, Limited, said he desired to show his hearty sympathy with the work the company had undertaken. Elementary education had made great strides during the last twelve years, the number of children receiving instruction having risen from less than one million and threp quarters to more than four millions and a quarter. But ours was the only country in which the State had not done something for the organisation of middle-class education. He thought public opinion was hardly yet prepared to pronounce an opinion upon State supported secondary education, but he would say that the middle and lower class contribute more to the support of elementary education than any other class. Endowments as yet had been imperfectly dealt with, and in that quarter he believed there was a resource for middle-class education, which they all hoped would be more and more speedily utilised.

FOOTBALL. CARDIFF v. SWANSEA.—A match between thc>e clubs was plsyed at Swansea on Saturday, and ended in a victory for Swansea by two goals and one toucU down to nil. The visitors played a capital game, and made every euort to score A Cardiff man obtained a free KICK, and Barlow, as usual, was entrusted with the place. The ball was put down near the centre, audit tell iiRht in front of the goal posts, just a couple of yav. is from the cross bar—an attempt that deserves a passing word of praise. The visitors at times played with much spirit, and compellsd their opponents (0 act on the defensive, but they did not appear able to follow up this temporary advantage at anv time, as the Swan, sea men would soon get the ball out and take it right aero s the ground. Evi dently the Cardilit ineu suff red by not having some of their prominent forwards present. \Y, D. Phillips, Simpson, Spickett, J L. Evans, and Treatt were conspicuous for their absence, whilst Morris (captain), E, S. Richards, and J. Thomas did not play for Swansea, and they have taken part ur most of the first fifteen matches this season. It is im- possible t) say that the result would have been differ- ent if both teams had been fu11y represented, as oftentimes substitutes play nearly, jf not quite, as weWas the absentees. Clare worked very hard throughout, and frequently changed the aspect of the game when the Swansea men were getting near the Cardiff goal line. He and Norton made some really good runs, using their hands effectively, and required a lot of stopping. Barlow, as usual, was a good full back. punting In tile proper time, and always near when required. Of course it is well ni;tl impossible for a full back to stop every run over the goal line. The twa tries for Swansea were obtained by Bowen and Payne respectively, and the goals kicked by T. Kneath, both very good kicks, The f llowinq; are a few details of the game :—Swansea kicked off aboat 10 to 3, anù the ball was at once in the Cardiff 25. Shortly after the throw out Purdon tried to drop a goal, put failerl. just in front of the goalposts. The lea'h"! was kicked over the goal line, and Cardiff had to touch down, After the drop out some extremely good pass- ing between Purdon, D Gwynne, and Kneath b-at the visitors for the time, and the Cardiff 25 was in- vaded. After a short dribble, by Swansea man. Barlow obtained possession and panted out, Vivo, tiie ball rebounded agains;, one of the players. The Cardiff men now warmed to their work, and dribbled wel;, forcing the play near the home quarters, where p tfsht scrimmage was formed. When heeled out. T. Williams ran into the Swansea 25 near the goal lino. 1), t;n v»n ran through the Cardiff forwards, and took the leaihet by the home 25 post. Norton, from a pass, made It gallant a'tempt to cross over. aud was shoved into touch by Purdon just in time to save the try. Shortly afterwards, a long pass left the ball in the hands, of Clare, who nearly ran over, The Swansea men had to play a strictly defensive game for some time, and then W. H. Gwynn came to the rescue, and dribbled capitally, a bit of play which relieved the goal at a critical time A kick by* one of the home team sent the ball to Barlow Some good passing and running by the Cardiff forwards ended in tin ball being left in tile custody of Clare, who rail well up. but it was soon returned to Badow, who in turn pun od at one Ihe ball however, rebounded against cue of t-ae players, Studdard kicked over, and Bowtn fol- lower up and obtained a try, which Kneath converted into a goal The visitors now played with spirit, and invading the Swansea 25.Clare tested the homedefer.ee, and tried hard to find tn opening, but failed, a* the Swansea Inen (hd Lot allow the slight- est chance McPherson endeavoured to g-et < ver but was soon col1arer( Norton now got possession, and ran 10 yards from the Swansea goal line before he w s tackled. Again, at a critical time, W H Gwyun rc lieved the pressure and all iml1wdiat,e danger, hy a nm clean out" whICh was wel1 fojJoweti UfJ, and the play was in central ground. Cardiff claime; a íree kIck. which was entrnsted to Barlow but iu .thing resulted except a splendid attempt. '1 ile ::Ow,.11 ;ea men now exhibited some effective passing. \V. II. ane! )}, Gwynn got clean through the Cardiff forwards and the half-backs. A scrimmage was formed near the Cardiff quarters. Bishop got tu? ba'1 when out of sn manage, and parked to Kneath. who ran, and wiseiy kicked into touch. After the tLrow out, Purdon passed to Walter Jones, who ran near the Cardiff c .arters. Kneath, from a pass, cot uncommonly near die Cardiff goal line, but lost the ball. Clare was soon up and ran and punted into neutral ground. The leather was passed t<f Norton, who used his hands well, and showed be had plenty of strength about the shoulders. lie wa.? collared by Andrews, and then Bishop made off. The play for a time became verv even. W H. Gwynn van near to the visitors' territory, but Cla.s nlé\e off and got to central ground; P. Gwynn passed to Kneath, who got very near the Cardiff goal Hn", Rnd shortly afterwards Payne ran over and got a try. which was converted into a goal bv Kneath. After the kick off, the home team ma le an eSV-c IT« rush and took the bail five yards from the Cardiff goal line, but the visitors met the attack, and dribbled bar!; in tine style, H. Jones and McPherson got a couple o) short runs. The game was evenly contested for some time, and neither side scored anything. The Swansea men at times passed in admirable style, whilst Clare, Norton, and Barlow rendered sign d ser- vice to their side. On Saturday Swansea will play Neath, at that (own. On February 2nd, Llanelly will play Cardiff, at the latter town. Sides Cardiff—Back, T. Barlow half-backs, H. Douglas and T. Williams; three-quarter backs, W. B. Norton. J- Clare, and McPherson forwards, J. S. Smith (captain), Hinton, H. Jones, A. Hill, F. H'iid, H. James,. R.mery, T>. K. Lewis, and J, BCorris Swansea— Back, Bowen half-backs. Bishop and W lJ, Gwynr (captain); three-quarter backs, 'J. Kneath, lJ. Gwynn. anu F. Purrlou; forw ,rds, Payne, GoldsworlLy, Bow, p, Morgans, Studdard, Andrews, Walter Joues, It. Bait and Burkland.

NUMBER ONE. Yn tynu ato'i hunan,—hei bio daeth Yn mhob duil ac amcan; Felly mae'r ffolaf allan Yn bur wir divs Number One. 0 ran hyny yr un anian—y w pawb, A'r un pwnc yn gyfan Ac ni cheir trwy'r byJ. llydan Neb ar 01 i'w No. 1. OGWENYDD.