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WORKMEN'S TOPICS. H.I
WORKMEN'S TOPICS. H. I By MABON, M.P. rHE ENGINEERS' STRUGGLE AT AN END-ITS COST. Not for a very long time have we been able to fejoice more heartily than when we saw the en- by their votes of the terms of peace. Probably Ifcineers resuming work after the ratification :i MI the engineers have not yet resumed their occu- pation but the arrears of engineering work of all ( descriptions seem to be immense, and fortunately Employment will therefore be afforded to all lhose that took part in the too ill-considered )truggle. And it is to be hoped that all will as toon as possible avail themselves of the work to ie got. We want no strikes in our industrial tany—strikes and malingerers are its disgrace Wherever found. But when gentlemen of the Press and others say that this is a special feature i ttnong our British workmen we defy them to I tven bring their equals, 100 men for 100 men, I from any part of the civilised world. The Cost Counted. We have it from a very good authority that the i lispute has cost through the A.S.E. alone some £ 400,000. To this we are to add a loss of wages \0 the tune of about Zl,200,000, making a total of El ,600,000. During the seven months the struggle I iaged the flow of capital was checked on account M ships, engines, machinery, armour, armament, tod outfit to the tune of £ 12,000,000. And we are Also told on equally good authority that it would be a lower estimate to put the amount locked up On account of locomotives, cranes, implements, tools, guns, firearms, the machinery of electrical engineering, etc., at £ 12,000,000. It is said amount locked up," because it will now flow in Again in a larger stream until the normal condi- tion is reached. But who can estimate the in- direct damages "-the most serious loss in trade Utat has flown away from us never to return ? Lessons from the Struggle. Now that the struggle has come to an end People may fairly study its lessons and mode. two gentlemen have already delivered speeches )n the same, one by an eminent employer of labour, Mr Siemens, and the other an able leader Of men, Mr B. Pickard, M.P. Mr Siemens' Contention. The above gentleman contends that the con- tention among Trades Unionists and others that jbere was a certain quantity of work to be done, fcttd that the less workmen that did it the more raen would be employed was a Socialistic fallacy, tend alleges that the way of prosperity to do the greatest amount possible of work in the least Possible time. One must seriously suspect even The correctness of Mr Siemens' allegations that 10rades Unionists believe that there is a certain fIXed quantity of work to be done under all cir- "•ances. But had it been so I would question tfty much if he would have been very much 14tiher from the real truth than he himself is -hen he avers that the way to prosperity for the "^king classes is that every man should do as %all work as he can and at the lowest possible I Hies. ""P¡ckard's Lesson from hrr Pickfcrd, of course, lookf* ox the fiwuo of the di^Ma Holu tu workman's point of view, and his deductions, depend upon it, were very different hom those of Mr Siemens. The battle, according to Mr Pickard, had been for the eight hours day, toUd it was nobly fought. The engineers had the ttrongest Union in the kingdom, and they had been liberally aided by other Unions and even Dther nations but that the men had been merely harrying out the advice of penny-wise members of Parliament, who did not believe in obtaining the sight hours' day by legislation. The Northern Miners' leaders and colliery owners had been ad- Vising them to get the eight hours by Trades Unionism but he asked whether if the finest trade society in the world had failed, would not the miners equally fail if they took the same ad- vice and try for it in the same way ? His advice "as, and the right course undoubtedly would be, for working men to send 400 workers' representa- tives to the House of Commons instead of spending Money on strikes. This, he said, could be done With little cost if the working men would take the Matter in the right spirit. If necessary they stop the grants to the Army and Navy to meet any Opposition from the House of Lords. Far was it from him to desire that such a thing should of Necessity come to pass, but it was evident that the effort to obtain an eight hours' day by Trades Unionism had been futile. The National Superannuation Fund of France. Once more we a.re able to call attention to what is being done in other countries to relieve the Bufferings of their workers in various ways and by divers means, one of them being the above Superannuation Fund. According to the Indus- trial Report, Government Office, there were ^03,286 persons in receipt of old age annuities from this National Superannuation Fund on December 31st, 1896. The aggregate annual value Of these annuities are £1.335,875, or an average of jE6 lis 5d per annuitant. These annuities may be obtained by any person residing in France Who has paid the necessary contribution into the tttnd, and they become payable at any age from SO to 65, according to the choice of the contri- butor. The amount of the pension varies accord- ing to the payments made to the fund and accord- ing to whether or not the contributor has stipu- lated that upon his death his representative shall lie entitled to receive the total amount of the Snms cotributed by him. The maximum annuity Obtainable is E48, and the smallest contribution accepted is one franc (about lOd). The sums deposited are allowed to accumulate at 3f per cent. per annum. Under the law of December 29th, 1895, the State supplements annuities pay- j able to persons of 70 years of age and upwards IMcl of French nationality, who have paid contri- butions directly or through a Friendly Society for • specified number of years, whether consecutive Or not (17 years at present, 18 in 1898, and so on, tUltill905, when 25 years will be the number) but the total income of the annuitant, including the annuity and supplement, must not exceed tl488. The amount voted for this purpose in the Estimates for 1896 was £ 80,000. The annuity :tna.y be drawn before the age of 50 by persons who "-ve sustained a. severe injury or become pre. maturely infirm. The State sets aside a sum "h year, out of which the pension due to such j Arsons may be brought up to a maximum of 1£14 Sa per annUnl. Contributions payable by mine ^Wners and miners under the law of June 29th, *894, establishing compulsory superannuation frinds for miners, have to be deposited with the I "ational Superannuation Fund, in the absencc of duly authorised private pension fund. Besides the nliM owners many of the largest private OrAploy in France (including all the principal tailway companies), as well as the administrators Of Government factories, and municipalities con- 5^bute regularly to the National Superannuation *nnd for the benefit of their employees. The total amount paid into the fund in 1896 for the I)Atchage of annuities was £ 1,516,535. Of this 81un £ 906,140 was paid with the stipulation as to Repayment of the capital, without interest, at the death of the depositor. The amount of capital ^turned in this way in 1896 was £ 325,685. Con- tentions were paid for the first time by 100,664 Persons in 1896. Of these 66,294 were work- &eople employed in industrial establishments, I • ^lnes, transport trades, and Government fae- ries, while 19,161 were railway officials.
[No title]
Da\vr.on Dave We're purly hard up for vittles e*e in the Klondike but we ain't the only t^Sgcts in the claim.—Juneau Jake: We ain't! ■^here do you find the others ?—Dawson Dave hy, J found an old paper, and I've been reading L piece about the Raines law. You may not To £ Ve kut I guess it's true that right in New ,city the people are so destitute that they a little sandwich, an inch square, a full meal.
Illustrated Fashions.
Illustrated Fashions. 4 We laughed a great deal but a short time ago at the idea of hats in which single feathers played so prominent a part, and yet what have we to-day but the long half-curled ostrich plume or the more pliable coque feather fastened in the front of a velvet toque with all the effect of the jaunty cap belonging to a page of the Henry II. period ? The newest of toques rejoice particu- larly in this single feather trimming. It is not altogether an economical mode, for the feather must be good and of the longest description. Moreover, an ostrich feather that has been curled np closely is practically of no value for the pur- pose it must hang quite straight from the centre quill, and have the ends only just turned. But this extravagance is not for the many, who will fain be content with that make of feather whose origin is somewhat difficult to trace, but which has all the characteristics of those known as belonging to the farmyard chanticleer. These can be bought with just that upward and down- ward curve, and the necessary bend, so that the amateur hat-maker need be be at no pains to make it take the particular direction desired, and indicated in the accompanying sketch. To leave plumage for a moment and consider the founda- tions which it decorates one of the prettiest novelties that I have seen for sometime consisted A MODERN HAT. of a toque made entirely of strips of corded silk, the centre of which had been treated to a kind of drawn-thread process, after which they were bent over and drawn up, placing one double strip above the other in three shades cherry, cerise, and coral pink-until the whole toque was nothing but a soft mass of silk fluff. At the moment I take it for granted that the majority of people are struggling with various remnants acquired at the sales. There is nothing so tempting as short lengths of Liberty velveteen, and yet they often present a sartorial problem difficult to solve. The shopman tells you with confidence that they are quite sufficient for a pur- pose for which the dressmaker decides they are utterly inadequate. Now lengths of any material, be it velveteen or its more luxurious prototype brocade, satin, or what you will, are far cheaper when not quite sufficient for the actual blouse length—say, for instance, three and a half yards. The illustration shows a very charming way of disposing of such remnants, and at the same time an excellent mode for the semi-eveninglittle bodices which many women prefer to don for ordinary evening wear to a more elaborate decolletage. A close-fittingtlining of fine mull should be made and well boned. This is cut away and filled up, as will be seen in the drawing, by rows and rows of lace insertion alternating with that little open beading of lace through which the rib- bon can be run. Then the remnant is arranged over the lining so as to fall a little loosely in the frpnfc, but fit closely at the back and sides. EVENING BODICE FOB DEMI-TOILET. Points are caught here and there in pinafore fashion, and fastened to the lace chemisette, and the long plain sleeves are cut up at the wrist just sufficiently to show a cuff of the same kind of lace and ribbon. This design would be very pretty for girls from fifteen to eighteen. It is often difficult for mothers to find suitable even- ing attire for girls who are, so to speak, be- twixt and between." But it must be remembered that in the making of blouses the skirts have now to be much more considered in their relationship to the bodices than has been the case for the past year or two. While not necessarily actually matching, the colour of the blouse must be some- where repeated when the materials contrast; but the tint of both should have some sort of con- necting link, the darker shade being occasionally used for either bodice or skirt. Striped skirts, having the bodice aepeating the colour of the stripe, will be very much in favour during the early spring. I give here a suggestion of an evening skirt for a woman who has not by any means lost her figure, but is inclined to embonpoint across the hips, who. in fact, shows a tendency to what is known as middle-aged spread." If trimming be placed on a plain skirt in this fashion, care being taken to graduate it towards the waist so that by te time it has reached it there is a, mere FOR A STOUT FIGURE. nothing of trimming apparent, a very desimble effect of elongation will be produced. The material may be of any kind-glistening pail- letes, silk embroidery, butter-coloured guipure, or what you will, but by no moans overlook the little edging of chiffon frilling which detracts from its otherwise severe appearance. The bodice is of drawn chiffon, and the same kind of trimming is laid on with the intention of again producing the effect of lessening the size of the figure at the waist. Only the back is shown here, but the front is exactly the same. The sleeve, too, be it noticed, is not overlaid by any kind of trim- ming. The coft puff of chiffon turns over on to the shoulder straps, narrowing their width con- siderably. COQOB'*T*i.
- [ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.]
[ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.] GARDEN AND FIELD. With Hints on Poultry and Stock. BY "COUNTRY COUSIN." Early Salads. In modern lists of vegetables there are few more generally acceptable, or which, with some knowledge of vegetable culture are more easily grown or obtainable than are the several crisp and piquant forms of what comprise the well- known salads. Happily all these subjects are of very easy culture. They can be grown by all, in a limited space, and with a very small outlay for the necessary seeds, and with a small amount of labour or time expended. Salads again will afford a constant supply larger in bulk from a given space than any other comestible grown. It is, however, a singular fact that really good salads are only obtainable in Metropolitan shops, and are rarely met with at private suburban or country tables. Yet, as already stated, they can be cheaply and expeditiously produced if only 9, little thought and consideration be employed in the process. As a general rule kitchen gardening in moderate or small spaces is too complex too many things are expected from a given area of ground consequently minor subjects (and these generally include salads) suffer. Pretty well every garden possesses one or more long strips of ground in a sunny aspect, either in the shape of a wall border or divisional quarter." This, be it six or nine feet wide, should be set apart entirely for salad growing, and by exercising a little care the cultivator may dispose of his crop at good prices. Towards the end of the month, if the weather be open and mild, seeds of radish, lettuce, and curled endive may be sown in the open in a warm sheltered border but, provid- ing the convenience be at hand, it will, notwith- standing, be as well to shelter the bed with a frame and lights, or with bell or hand glasses. Where these are wanting sow on a warm border, and during bad weather and at night shelter with a covering of mats. It must be remembered that when lights are used as soon as the young plants are up air should be admitted daily, either by raising the lights at the back, or, during fine weather, taking them off altogether. On the other hand, should the weather prove cold, such as frost, snow, or cold rain, recourse must be had to the hot-bed. A bed about 18 inches or 2 feet high, with about four incnes or five inches of soil, will be ample. Sow rather thickly, sift sufficient soil over to cover the seed, set on the lights, and when the plants appear give plenty of air. Endive may be forced, or rather blanched, in the mushroom- house, and although this is convenient the leaves are not so crisp as when grown in a compara- tively cool place. A batch of chicory roots should be introduced into the mushroom-house, as also may dandelion. Watercress will grow freely in CURLED OR NORMANDY CRESS. a frame if kept moist. Mustard an crass are extremely easy to grow, an old box or two with two or three inches of soil being all that is re- quired, or a. bed may be m&Ca on the floor of the vinery or hothouse. In a temperature of 50 deg. deft, it will often germinate in 24 hours. A good radish for early salads is early white- tipped scarlet turnip this ia grown extensively in France for this purpose. For lettuce sow the black-seeded crisped cabbage for early work under bell-glasses and frames, and the white- seeded crisp cabbage in the open air. The Co.'s varieties for frame work should be either the white Paris or the gray Paris. The curled or Normandy cress-illustrated above-will be a pleasing variety to grow, both as regards flavour and appearance. Both this and mustard pay extremely well, from 23 to 4s per dozen punnets being charged during the early months of the year, but after March they become cheaper. For the use of the above illustration we are indebted to the courtesy of Messrs Vilmorin,Andrieux et Cie, of Paris. Laying Down Land to Grass. Undoubtedly the quickest method of creating a pasture is by sowing seeds of clovers and grasses, and not as was the practice in former years when it was considered sufficient for this Eurpose to gahter and sow the sweepings of the ayloft. In the result there is but little differ- ence between sowing such seeds as may be found in the hayloft, and allowing land "to go to grass naturally. Indeed, worthless grasses are more pernicious than weeds, because they are accepted as useful, whereas weeds are looked upon as fit only for extermination. When about to lay down land to grass it must be remembered that it is utterly impossible to form first-class pasture on land holding stagnant water. Unless there is proper drainage the crop will quickly become poor and unprofitable. The soil must also be clean, as it is folly to waste seed only to see plants overmastered by weeds, with which it is impossible to deal with until after they have done immense damage. Should there be the least doubt as to the land being clean enough, give the grasses the benefit of it, defer sowing for a year, and take a cleansing crop of some kind mean- while. No matter how poor the soil may be, it is in many instances looked upon as good enough for grass. Now, this is a great mistake, as liberal treatment in the preparation of pasture will pro- duce a return commensurate with the outlay, and it is no more possible to secure an abundant crop of grass from exhausted land as it is to obtain a heavy crop of mangles or swedes. A crop of turnips or a bare fallow will afford an excellent opportunity for cleaning the land, and it will be true economy to supply extra manure to the root crop for the sake of the grass that is to follow. A dressing of lime will be of benefit to both. As soon as the root crop is off set the plough, harrow, and scarifier to work at once, then plough up rough, and when the time for sowing comes round the surface can easily be worked into a good seed bed, which must be level, firm, and very fine- In pre- paring the land for grass it is almost impossible to do too much with the harrow and roller. A capital preparation for grass i#a root crop fed off by sheep if with the addition of cake so much the better for the grass. But grass will succeed and do well after any crop that can be cleared in sufficient time to allow of the land being thoroughly cleansed and cultivated. A well- made pasture will outlive the maker and should made pasture will outlive the maker and should be a standing credit to his skill and ability as a farmer. There are two items on which an imme- diate outlay can be saved, viz., seeds and labour but in either case it will be found false economy and later on it will be dearly paid for. When about to lay down land to grass the farmer must remembered that each case requires to be treated on its merits, and that it is impossible to have a mixture of seeds that will suit all soils. The best thing to be done is for the farmer to place himself in the hands of some respectable firm, give them iull particulars as to soil, etc., and abide by their ad- vice. It may mean a difference of a few sove- reigns in the first cost, b'a that difference will mean either success or failure, according to whether the farmer acts on the advice of an expert or not. Asparagus Beds. The asparagus beds should be prepared now without further delay, although the planting should not be done until March or even April. The preparation need not be of a. very radical character when the soil is light,asnothing more is Required than trenching about 2ft. deep and add- ing a liberal quantity of good manure. Where difficulty is experienced in growing good aspara- gus is on heavy lands, and this note is intended i for amateurs who have land of that kind to man- age. Assuming that there is a clay subsoil near the surface the beds will require to be made very carefully. In the first place remove the whole of the subsoil to a depth of 3ft., the beds being about 4ft. wide. Into the bottom of this trench place a layer of small stones or broken bricks to a depth of 12in. Next make a compost as follows :—A barrowf111 of leaf mould, the same quantity of clay chopped very small, a trifle less of good rich—not strawy—manure, and about two shovelfuls of sand, the coarser the better. Fill the bed up to the level of the ground with this mixture. The top soil has not yet been used. That will be required by and by. About the end of March, when the crowns are active, procure your young plants and place them on top of the bed, allowing 3ft. between plants, and the same space between the rows. Take the top soil and mix it with an equal quantity of well-rotted manure, and with this cover the plants to a depth of 6in. or so, and after levelling off sprinkle a little salt—about a pound to each square yard— over the surface. This dressing of salt should be repeated every year at the same time, viz., March. If really good asparagus is wanted, the grass should not be cut until the third year after plant- ing, but with extra. liberal dressing a little may be cut during the second year. After the first ¡ week in June none should be cut in any year. Apply liquid manure freely during the growing period, for although asparagus will not thrive with stagnant water about its roots it requires, nevertheless, b^ing a marine plant, abundant sup- Elies of water. Some growers dig out the walks etween the beds in the autumn and spread the soil over the beds to keep off the frost." Now. this is a great mistake, for in the first place the plant is perfectly hardy, unless newly planted, even in the most severe winter and in the next place, serious injury is done to the roots of those plants nearest to the walks. Regarding varie- ties, the giant Dutch purple is most generally cultivated, but it so closely resembles the white German that the two varieties may be pretty safely looked npon as identical. The early giant Argenteuil is a most handsome variety, and worthy of more attention by our English growers. Visitors to Paris during the early spring, and who have visited the markets, cannot have failed to notice the splendid bundles of this early variety. English market gardener^ who wish to supply their own markets at the earliest moment should certainly encourage the early giant Argenteuil. Vegetable Culture: Onions. The onion delights in a deep, rich and mellow, yet free and warm, soil of a loamy nature, in. clining to be sandy rather than stiff or clayey. The two extremes of over-richness and poverty of the soil should be carefully avoided, certainly where a heavy crop of medium-sized sound bulbs is required, although the large roots seen at shows demand a good deal of nourishment, both in the soil and supplied afterwards either in a liquid form or in the shape of artificial manures WHITE PORTUGAL ONIONS. while the crop is growing. The surface of a good onion-bed cannot well be worked up into too fine a till. and in order to obtain this result it is advisable to leave the surface quite rough for the winter (of course the ground having been well trenched and manured in the pnevious autumn), and at the first fine dry weather in March, or if the season be mild and the soil in good condition, rake the bed down to a Dne even surface and sow the seed. The seed is best sown in drills, and these may be eight inches or nine inches apart for the small and medium-sized varieties, and 12 inches, or even 15 inches, for the larger kinds. So long as the seed is fairly covered the shallower the drills are the better- tin. deep is plenty. The cultivator must also be particular that the soil is made quite firm, especially where it is of a light or sandy nature. The earlier the seed can be got in the better, especially if large tubers are required and the soil is in proper condition. After sowing keep the bed free from weeds by hoeing, or better still, by hand weeding, as onions will do much better when the surface is distributed as little as possible. Immediately they can be laid hold of begin thinning the young plants, doing this work by degrees. Later on thinnings may be trans- planted or used as salading. Should large roots be required thin to 6 inches or 9 inches apart, for ordinary use 3 inches to 6 inches will be sufficient, but the heaviest crops and soundest roots are obtained by leaving the plants rather thickly in the rows. If the onions are visited by an attack ot the grub or maggot give the bed a thorough soaking with a solution of nitrate of soda—loz. to a gallon of water, to which a small handful of soot is added. To obtain forward plants and bulbs of the largest size the seed must be sown during the autumn—sown onions are never attacked by the grub. There are many varieties of onions. Space, however, will only permit of a few being mentioned. The New Queen is exceedingly early, but it is a bad keeper, and not a productive kind. Early Paris silver-skinned, although not so early as new queen, is a better keeper and is one of the best early kinds. The white Portugal—see above illustra- somewhat later than the preceding, but is an excellent beeper. It will beM- .comparison in this latter respect with the good red or yellow varieties. Danver's yellow is a good early variety, and a remarkably good keeper it is equally well adapted forfield cultivation as for the kitchen garden,but should always be sprint sown. If sown in the autumn it will run to seed in the* following spring, without bulbing to any extent. The many varieties of the globe onion known as Bedfordshire champion, James's long keeping brown globe, and magnum bonum only differ from each other by the careful manner in which their shapes are maintained. All of them keep well, but the largest and best keeper is magnum bonum. Messrs Vilmorin, Andrieux, et Cie, of Paris, have kindly permitted the use of the above illustration of white Portugal onions. More About Pigs. Generally speaking, pig breeding and feeding have paid somewhat better during the last two or three years,probably owing to many people having given up pig keeping altogether. In this country, where most people esteem pork and bacon as highly as any other kind of food, pig keeping should pay, and the demand for pig meat should be encouraged, more particularly with regard to bacon, which can be produced here of a far superior quality to that imported. When in a large way of business farmers seldom or ever trouble much about pigs, as naturally they turn their at- tention to something bigger. On many large farms only about a couple of breeding sows are kept, with a sty or so of fattening animals, and these chiefly to eat up unmarketable grain and refus of various kinds which could not be turned to any better purpose, together with spare skim milk now and again. In this way the animals are got along without much expense, and in the case of fatting pigs they are easily enough disposed of, as the farm labourers are supplied with one or two each, according to their requirements, and which are paid for by easy instalments, a very old and very good plan. It is the cottagers and the small farmers who are free to keep what they like that should be able to undertake pig keeping,and make it a profitable business. The former class will tell you that they always make their pigs pay, which is a fact, simply from the manner in which the animals are managed and fed. These people have no heavy millers' bills to meet. The pig is kept along in store condtion on the scraps and refuse of house and garden, together with boiled roots mixed with a little bran, or whatever else can be managed, until sufficient frame has been made. Until the last few weeks of the animal's existence no great expense is incurred, afterwards it is fattened rapidly off, and is fit to kill. It is on these lines that pig keeping may be made a profitable occupation. To buy pigs in at about eight or ten weeks old and then to feed them on a fattening diet until it is intended to send them to the Dutcher is simply ruinous to the owner. When buying in young pigs care should always be taken that thev have not been coddled up upon milk, for if they have been accustomed to milk they will go back "tremendously when taken off this and put on a different diet. The pur- chaser can always tell by their appearance how they have been fed. When selecting pigs, choose them rather rough than fat, smooth, and glossy, and withhold all fattening and expensive kinds of food until it is intended to finish them off. Diary of Garden Work. Week ending February 19th. Flower Garden. -Should the weather be mild the snails and slugs will come out to feed on the young, tender foliage of tulips, pansies, pinks, etc. There is no royal road to the banishment or destruction of the various pests which trouble the gardener. Sifted ashes sprinkled round plants liable to be attacked will save them, while a little soot or lime sprinkled around or among the young plants slugs affect,early on mild mornings, will destroy a good many. At times it may be necessary to lay some little heaps of fre§h brewer's grains about to attract slugs, and these traps should be visited about 9 o'clock in the evening, and the snails, slugs, etc., which have accumulated round the plants destroyed. When snails clear off many of the young plants it is a sure sign of neg- lect. Transplant self-sown hardy annuals during mild weather. Set out Oriental and Iceland poppies, and divide the former to increase tbe stock. There are several good varieties of the Oriental poppy which everyone should grow- salmon queen, Prince of Orange, and blush queen. The new large-flowered cannas are charming things both for the garden and greenhouse. Fruit Garden.-—It is not always convenient to get the strawberries out during autumn, and in such cases it will be better to wait until March, when the land is in good condition, than plant when the land has not been properly prepared. Under ordinary circumstances strawberries will occupy the land several years, and to plant any- thing which cannot receive any assistance except surface dressings in badly-worked land is doing anything but justice to the crop. Although strawberries are to a great extent surface-rooting plants, they also send roots deep down into the soil, and it is these deep roots which are so valuable in a dry season, and for which due pro- vision should be made. Trenching and manuring should be done before the plants are set out, as there is no chance of doing it after. Intending planters, therefore, must lose no time in having the land well trenched up and manured ready for the plants any time during March. Vegetable Garden.—Fetch up all arrears of diggiug, trenching, and manuring when the weather is favourable for the work. Kemember the more the land is stirred about with a fork during the spring cultivation the better the plants will grow in it; bat it mast always be understood that the heavy land must not be trampled upon when the surface is frosty. About the chief difficulty5 with the small gardener is that of suitable manure. One cannot carry on a garden profitably for any time without manure, and those who have any difficulty in procuring it must stir the land deeply. If possible get stable manure. Artificials are expensive, aud there is always a doubt a.bout their action upon certain soils. Soot is a valuable manureand pretty cheap. Salt, on dry, porous soils, has a value beyond its manurial value while lime may often be used to advantage on heavy land. Manures rich in potash will generally suit beans, peas. and potatoes. Nitrates are suitable for cauliflowers, cabbages. and other green crt,-s, including onions. Greenhouse.—Keep fires steady. During cold weather it will be better to let the temperature fall a little, so long as the frost is kept out. No harm will ennsue if the mercury does not fall below 35 degrees. Do the necessary potting, striking cuttings and sowing seeds, during settled weather. The best cuttings are made from young soft shoots, and they will root much quicker, but they will root much better if kept close. Where there is no hot-bed or forcing-house for raising seedlings or striking cuttings it is an easy matter to rig up a smalf propagating case in a warm corner of thegreenbouse. Turn the plants round as often as possible change of position is bene- ficial. Prune straggling plants and utilise the cuttings to increase stock. Frames.—Be particular that all tender plants have sufficient covering to keep out frost. During severe weather it will be much the better plan not to uncover at all. Window Garden.—During cold weather use as little water as possible, but the foliage may he sponged over so as to remove dust and to gener- ally freshen up the plants. Do any repotting that may be required when the weather settles down. In some windows seeds may be sown and cuttings inserted. Answers to Correspondents. Designs for Gardening Beds (Mrs Cole).-We do not know of any book dealing fully or exclu- sively with designs such as you require. There are a few models in the English Flower Garden which deal with outdoor gardening in a very comprehensive manner. Increasing India-rubber Plant (Richards).- The best time to increase this plant is in the spring. Small side-shoots or any pieces of the branches with two or three leaves on will answer well. Insert singly in pots. Use peat mixed with silver sand, and place them in a warm house or frame. Keep close and shaded. Hambnrghs (Novice).—Pencilled Hamburghs have parallel bars across the feathers; spangled Hamburghs have a black mark at the end of each feather. In the pencilled and golden- spangled breed the ground work is a rich golden bay. Roses for Button-holes (H. J.).-Try Glorie de Dijon, W. A. Richardson, General Jacqueminot, and, on a wall, Niphetos.
--------------------PAST EVENTS…
PAST EVENTS IN OUR ISLAND RECALLED. FEBRUARY 14th. 1837-The Irish Poor Law Bill was introduced. 1842-A grand ball was given in the Park Theatre, New York, in honour of Charles Dickens. About 2,500 people were present. 845—Sir Robert Peel made his annual financial statement. He calculated the revenue for the ensuing ye|a: at £ 51,000,000, and the expenditure at ,£49,690,000. 1855—Lord John Ruasell was appointed to pro- ceed on a special mission to the impending Vienna Conference. 1861-Sir George Lewie obtained leave to bring in a Bill for confertin17 the four vacant seats bythedisfra-nehtaement of Sudbury and St. Albans, on the West Riding, South Lancashire, Chelsea axid Kensington, and Birkenhead. 1870-Mr Gladstone introduced his Irish Land Bill. FEBRUARY 15th7 1839-Five of the Canadian rebels were executed at Montreal. 1844-The water broke into the Landshipping Colliery, Haverfordwest, and only 18 out of 58 men and boys escaped. 1848—Opening of the Caledonian Railway be- tween Carlisle, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. 1863—Following the course of the White Nile from Ripon Falls, Lake Nyanza, Speke and his party Catered Gondokoro, where they were met by Mr Samuel Baker, and hospitably entertained. 1871-Mr Chambers'. Marriage with a Deceased Wife's Sister 13.1l was read a second time in the Commons by 125 to 84 votes. 1383—The Gladstone Parliament opened. A Bill for establishing a Coart of Criminal Appeal was announced. FEBRUARY 16th. 1842—Riot at Northampton on the occasion of the burning of Sir Itober Peel in effigy. 1849—In the Court of Queen's Bench the East India Company obtained verdicts against several persons for illegally trafficking in the sale of commissions. 1852-Lord John Russell explained the Govern- ment Militia Bill. 1869—Parliament opened by commission. The Speech hinted at the restoration of he Habeas Corpus Act to Ireland. 1871-In the Lords the Duke of Somerset ob- tained the appointment of a Committee to inquire into the constitution of the Board of Admiralty, &c." In the Commons Mr Gladstone's motion for a grant of £ 30,000as a dowry to Princess Louise was carried by 350 to 1 vote. Mr Cardwell introduced the Army Bill, abolishing the purchase of commissions and promotion. 1887-Great Imperial Jubilee Festival in India. FEBRUARY 17th. 1843—Sir Charles James Napier routed the Scinde insurgents at Meeanee. The enemy were 35,000 strong, the British 2,600. 1851-The Chancellor of the Exchequer intro- duced his Budget. Estimated revenue, £52,140,000; expenditure, £ 50,247,171. 1855-Bread riots at Liverpool. 1866-Suspension of the Habeas Corpus Act in Ireland. 1868—The Lord Advocate introduced the Scotch Reform Bill. 1870-Mr W. E. Forster introduced the Govern- ment Billproviding for elementary educa- tion in England and Wales. The Bill 9 eventually passed both Houses. 1879—The Lord Chancellor introduced the Bank- ruptcy Act Amendment Bill and the Debtors' Act Amendment Bill. FEBRUARY 18th. 1846—The Maharajah Dhuleep Singh made his submission to the Governor-General of India. 1854—Explosion in the Arley Coal Mine. near Wigan, causing the destruction of 89 lives. 1857—Sir John Pakington's Permissive Education Bill, founded on the plan advocated by the Manchester Reformers, was read a first time without a division. 1869-The Foreign "Affairs Committee of the American Senate recommended the rejec- tion of the Alabama Claims Treaty nego- tiated between Mr Reverdy Johnson and the Earl of Clarendon. 1884—A small British force under General Gra- ham landed at Suakim. 1892—Mr Balfour brought in his Irish Local Government Bill 1895—Lord Acton was appointed Regius Professor of Modern History at Cambridge. This was the first Roman Catholic professor ap- pointed to a university since the reign of James II. FEBRUARY 19th. 1839—Mr Villiers moved that the House resolved itself into a Committee of Inquiry on the Corn Laws. The motion was rejected by 361 to 172 votes. 1850-Mr Disraeli moved for a Committee of the whole House to consider such a revision of the Poor Laws of the United Kingdom as might mitigate the distress of the agricul- tural classes. 1857-Expulsion of James Sadlier, M.P. for Tipperary, from the Commons. 1858-Defeat oj the Palmerston Ministry on the Conspiracy to Murder Bill. 1863—In view of the marriage of the Prince of Wales, the Commons adopted unanimously Lord Palmerston's motion to settle £100,000 per annum on his Royal Highness. 1868—Mr Gladstone's Compulsory Church Rates Abolition Bill was read a second time. 1879—Prince Leopold, Mr Gladstone, and Mr Goschen spoke at the Mansion House in favour of tne extension of university teach- ing. 1885—Parliament opened by Commission. _u FEBRUARY 20th. 1843—Sir Charles Napier took Hyderabad. 1851—The Government was defeated on Mr Locke King's motion to introduce a Bill for assimulating the county franchise to that of the boroughs. 1867-Princess Louise of Wales (Duchess of Fife) was born. 1879—Nearly 8,000 workmen in various branches of iron shipbuilding on the Tyne struck in consequence of a wages dispute. 1894—The f Employers' Liability Bill was with- drawn by Mr Gladstone. 1895—The Prince of Wales opened the new buildings of the United Service Institution. 1896—Sir John Millais was elected president of the Royal Academy.
[No title]
Fragile: You dance exceedingly well, my friend you're so nimble and light on your feet. Whore did you learn ?—Aggie I was conductor for ten years on a mountain railroad. Well, little girl, what is it ?'' If you please, sir, Mr Slimmer will not be able to come down this morning. He's just got back from a two weeks' rest in the country, and he's all tired out."
ITHE HOUSEHOLD. ..
I THE HOUSEHOLD. HAT an accumulation of calendars one gets in the early part of the year They seem to come by every post in the first week of January, and one looks at them, admires them, and puts them down again, wondering what can be done with them, and yet not liking to consign them to the waste paper basket immediately. Beautiful as many of the new calendars are. the most useful ones are those which are very plainly printed in clear type and dead black ink, for by these one can see the date at a glance, which frequently -cannot be said of the more elaborate and artistic productions. Bot. though preferring the plainer type, one is not al- ways prepared to sacrifice beauty entirely to com- fort, and evidently some such feeling had prompted the invention of the bent-iron work calendar flag which I saw the other day in a friend's house, and of which I now give the sketch. First of all a frame was made of strips of iron to exa-ctly fit the calendar that was to go inside, and then the ornamental side piece was made separately. Anyone who has ever tried bent-iron work will very easily follow the simple but effective pattern seen in the illustration. Beginners must be careful to make the curves quite round, and the ends of the securing bands must be fastened very neatly one over the other. Tiny curls of iron make a pretty border to the calendar, and the straight bit of iron at the side must be rounded off so that it will fit into a tiny socket fastened to the wall for its reception. At the back of the frame were a few cross-way strips A WELCOME NOVELTY. of narrow iron forming a kind of cage,oiit of which the calendar can easily be taken as each month passes by, necessitating the sheet being changed. A convenient place on the wall should be found where the tiny staple is to be affixed, and the straight leg of the calendar is then dropped into it. The original of my sketch swung just over the writing table, gives a very quaint. pretty effect, as well as being well in sight and yet out of the way of the writing paraphernalia. It is an absolute necessity tha.t a calendar should be near every kind of desk, but the'tepace they take up is too often grudged by the busy woman who finds that every inch of room is required for her papers. All those who are fond of making dainty articles, somewhat vaguely termed fancy work, will be pleased with the suggestion of the novel night-gown sachet shown in the sketch. We so soon we&ry of the usual white linen ones em- broidered with Good-night or a spray of out- lined leaves, and with the short or deep flap as taste may have dictated, that I am sure we shall all welcome the innovation of a case composed of some delicately tinted silken fabric with no flap at all. This is a very excellent style of twin bag for a double bed. as each side has "a pocket. The two sides are made quite separately, being cut tb the necessary size. The outside is of brocade, silk or satin, and the lining of quilted satin of either white or some very pale colour. Then THE LATEST NIGHTGOWN SATCHJET. again to this is attached a deep pocket, which is fnll enough to allow of p" night- dress being in- serted. When complete thick silk cord must be sewn on all the way round, -r making it into careless knots at the corners, and at one side it is carried across top and bottom in order to con- nect the two portions of the sachet together, but in doing this a sufficiency of cord must be left to allow of the bu^ge when the pockets are in use. The front edges of the sachet are tied together by bows of broad satin ribbon. These cases look very pretty, and all that ''gap- ing effect-too often the result of the bag being ovrflowing-is avoided. The particular sachet of this description that I have in my mind's eye was made of a rich sage green satin, with a spray of forget-me-nots embroidered in satin-stitch, whilst the cord was a happy mixture of various shades of green and blue, and the ribbons and lining were of the most exquisitely delicate^ sky blue. The pockets on the inside should extend over the whole side, and the" mouths of these shonld be at the back of the case. About this time of vear so many small and informal dances are being given that it seems apropos to talk about hangings for doorways, when the doors themselves have been taken off their hinges and stowed away somewhere in cellar or attic and the fact that the dance is a small and earlv" makes it none the more possible to have the doorways bare and bereft of draperv, so that the only thing to be done is to set our wits to work and do the best we can. In most households there are some spare heavy curtains that can be requisitioned for the occa- sion, and these may be furnished by bordering them with strips of embroidery or Oriental- looking fabrics, outlined by furniture braid. A doorway draped in Louis XVI. style is shown in my sketch, and made a very pretty background to the entrance-hall of a medium-sized house at which I was visiting not long since. On one side the heavy curtain hangs down in long straight folds, but on the other side it is looped up gracefully, and a narrow bit of plush or furniture velvet is vandyked down the edge of the doorway. This is LOUIS XVT. EOORWAY HANGINGS. bordered with ball-fringe anJ is lined with a con- trasting s lk which gives a very desirable touch of colour. Across the top of the door a piece of the bordered curtain is tightly stretched, and again over this the velvet is slung. Twisting slightly in places to give a glimpse of the lining, it is caught up in the middle with a rosette of velvet and then tails in careless folds below the cornice- like bit of curtaining. and from the extreme corner descends in vauayke down the opposite side. White lace curtains should always be hung inside these heavier draperies, as seen in the illus- tration, for they give a delightfully fresh appear- ance. A rich purple colour is always very effective for the heavy curtains, and the fancy bordering may be embroidered with sequins thai glitter and glisten charmingly. Quite an Oriental effect may be given by the outlining of this embroidery being in gold galon. This style is especially suitable if the dance be a fancy dress one, for then Chinese lanterns are almost certain to be plentifully en evidence in the decoration of the rooms. ETHEL.
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Mr Dobson (to prospective son-in-law): What are your means ? Can you support a family ?— Prospective Son-in-law: That all depends. How many are there of you ? I wonder." said Mrs Meekton, why they say that silence is golden." I guess," replied her husband, very unguardedly, it must be cause gold is so hard to get sometimes." Sam That's a queer habit Jack has of writing to his girl on ruled paper. Doesn't he know better ?-Bill Don't you know about it ? He does that so she can read between the lines.
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Andrew Fletcher, of Sal boon, in » letter to the Marquis of Montrose, wrote :—" 1 know a very wise! man that believed that if a man were permitted t. make all the ballads he need not care who shouli make the ia^s of the ua.Hoc.
WAITING.
WAITING. Serene I fold my hands and wait. Nor care for wind, or tide, or sea I rave no more gainst time or fate, I For lo my own shall come to me. I stav my haste. I make delays. For what avails this eager pace ? I stand amid the eternal ways. And what is mine shall know my face. The stars come nightly to the sky; The tidal wave unto the sea Nor time, nor space, nor deep,nor high, Can keep my own away from me. JOHN BCFRODGHS.
ON THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET,…
ON THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET, The poetry of earth is never dead, When all the birds are faint with the hot sun, And hide in cooling trees, a voice will rnn From hedge to hedge about the new-mown mead That is the grasshopper's—he takes the lead In summer luxury-he has never done With his delights, for when tired out with fun He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed. The poetry of the earth is ceasing never On a lone winter evening, when the frost Has wrought a silence from the stove there thrills t The cricket's song, in warmth increasing ever. And seems to one in drowsiness half lost, The grasshopper's among some grassy hills. JOHN KSATS. Green little vaulter in the sunnv grass Catching your heart up at the feel of Jane, Sole voice that's heard 'midst the lazy noon, When ev'n the bees lag at the summoning brass And you, warm little housekeeper, who class With those who think the candles come too soon, Loving the fire, and with your tricksome Mne, Nick the glad silent moments as they pass Oh, sweet and tiny cousins that belong One to the fields, the other to the hearth, Both have your sunshine both though small, are strong, At your clear hearts and both were sent on earth To sing in thoughtful ears this natural song- Indoors and out, summer and winter, mirth LEIGH HUNT.
----_._-HARD TO DECIDE.
HARD TO DECIDE. After the members of the jury had filed in and taken their seats the Judge said— Am I to understand that you wish further instructions from the Court ?" Well, not exactly that, Judge," explained the foreman. As we understand L' it there is no dispute as to the facts in the case. The defendant unquestionably took the goods, but her lawyers claim that it was a case of kleptomania, while the attorneys for the prosecution have en- deavoured to show that it was just plain theft. Are w. right so far ?" Quite right," said the Judge. Both sides have introduced experts," went on the foreman, "and we have had scientific explana- tions of the theory and cause of kleptomania until we are all confused, and would certainly disagree if we were foolish enough to pay any at- tention to the experts. But we have decided to cross their evidence off the slate and worry a-long as best we can without it." It is your privilege as jurors to attach as much or as little weight to the evidence as you may see fit," said the Judge. Of course," returned the foreman. And now we come to the real problem, which we are of the opinion has been sadly neglected by the lawyers on both sides. What is this woman's social position ? What I" exclaimed th £ Judge. What is her social position ?" repeated the foreman. How can we tell whether she is a kleptomaniac or a thief without knowing that? If we are to reach a decision we must hear more evi- dence on that feature of the case, and if it is too late to have it introduced you might just as well call it a mistrial and start all over again. We never will be able to agree."
A PUZZLING PROBLEM. J
A PUZZLING PROBLEM. J SMART CITY MAN (to assembled rustics): If a herring and a half cost three ha'pence how many could you buy for a shilling ? FARMER WURZEL (after 15 minutes' deep deli- fceration): 'Errin's, did yer say ? CITY MA" Yea,\herrings. FARMER WURZEL Drat it, an' I've bin a reckonin' haddocks.
AN UNEXPECTED DENOUEMENT.
AN UNEXPECTED DENOUEMENT. It was a strange-looking little old man who sat at a table alone sipping his hot Scotch. His thoughts must have been pleasant, for he smiled at tham and paid little heed to what transpired about him. I'm writing a plav," laughed au athletic young fellow at the next table. Don't do it," sharply interposed the vener- able gentleman who was taking steam and liquid from the same glass I was once a play- wright myself. Don't do it. Take a warning from my experience. I wrote a play that de- lighted my friends. It was instinct with drama- tic fire an d my fortune was in sight. Just as I was about to deliver my manuscript to the pub- lisher it was stolen. For months I did nothing but lament and curse my luck. One night I went to a leading theatre, gloomily considering the irony of fate, for there was a new play to be presented. Not a dozen lines had been read before I recognised my own. It was maddening when the persistent shouts of Author rang through the theatre. I hastened to the stage, bent on claiming the paternity of my own. When the ostensible writer of the drama appealed on the stage, bowing Rnd scraping, 1 was beside him doing the same. A work of collaboration.' shouted someone from the audience. We looked at each other and instinctively joined hands. He felt guilty and I felt dependent." "Not so bad," laughed the athletic young man. You shared in the bonanza ?" No,'> sighed the old man as he drained his hot Scotch while we were figuring on the division of the spoils the genuine and original author forced his way to the stage.'
-""""-.... EARLY EDUCATION.
EARLY EDUCATION. ETHEL (aged six, with her eye on the con- ductor) Mamma, when shall I have to say I'm only three?
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I'm all in the dark a.bout how those bills are to be paid," said Mr Hardup to his wife. Well, Henry,' aiid she, as she pulled out a yellow one and laid it on top of the pile, youVill be if you don't pay that one, for that's the gas bill." You ought to have your ears boxed," said Miss Sharpleigh, to a young freshman, who had just stolen a kiss. Well," he asked, whv don't you do it ?" I would," she replied, if 1 had a box large enough." He The sight of an old schoolmate is--er- well, it might be called both meat and drink.— She: Yes, that's what you men usually do under the circumstances.—He: Eh ?—She • Meel i and drink.
----I Welsh Tit-Bits.
I Welsh Tit-Bits. yleu Wreichion Oddiaryr Eingio". By CADRAWD. List of Principal Eisteddfodau (Continued). 1825. Merthyr Tydfil. In memoriam of William Moses (Gwilym Lew Glan Taf). The sue cessful bard was Taliesin ab Iolo. At this same Eisteddfod Brychan took the palm for the best poem on Friendship." Daring this year & second Eisteddfod was held and promoted by the Society of the Chair of Merthyr, which appears to be the fourth held of these series. The Rev. T. Price (Carnhuanawg) was invited to the Eistedd- fod, and to preach an Eisteddfod sermon at the parish church. The eminent divine and historian complied with this request, and based his dis- course on I. Chron. xix. 13. He also acted as chairman at the Eisteddfod, and Gwilym Mor- ganwg was the adjudicator of the poetical com- petitions. Cawrdaf at these meetings acted as adjudicator with loan ab Hywel. Evan David jleuan ab Dafydd) Llangrallo (Iolo Fardd Glas). of Cowbridge,and those already mentioned were the successful bards at these meetings. The successful poems and a brief account of the society's transactions were published in 1826, in a. little volume called Awenyddion Morganwg," neu Farddv^yfeth Cadair Merthyr, with a preface by Taliesin afc Iolo." For the awdl," The Grave," Mr Thomas Williams, Merthyr, took the prize, or rather the medal, for it appears that very little I money was given in prizes, some Haner Tey- maur" (half a sovereign) for the best rendering of a song, Ac., but all those who excelled in prose, poetry, playing upon the harp, and pen- nillionsinging were awarded silver medals, ranging in value from S2 to X4. 1826. Brecon. The Giving of the Law." Pedr Fardd. It was at this Eisteddfod the late Hiraethog took his first prize at an Eistedd- fod for the best Cywydd on the victory at Trafalgar and the death of Admiral Lord Nelson. The prize was eight guineas and a silver medal value E2 2s. The adjudicators were Dr. W. O. Pugh, Walter Davies, and J. Blackwell. When the latter declared that the poem signed Hiraetbog" was by far the best out af the great number which had been sent in the chairman, Lord Rodney, asked if he was present, but there was no answer. Then the seal was broken, and it turned out to be William Rees, of Llansannan, but yet tttey were none the wiser. Dr. Pugh said that he lived in that neighbourhood, but knew of no Hard there. Robert Davies, Nantglyn, rose and paid that he knew Llansannan well, but never heard of anyone living there who wrote poetry. However, it was decided that Dr. Pugh should represent the unknown bard, who upon his return made inquiries and found out that he was the son of the Caedu, and this interesting circumstance was the means]of bringing these two gerat Welsh- men together for the first time. Both the doctor and Mr Davies, Nantglyn, after this showed much kindness to the young bard, for which he always felt grateful. Defrobani. Some important historians in tracing the origin of the Welsh and whence they first came to this country say that they came hither from a place called Defrobani, and that this was i situated in an island in the Indian Ocean, which they designate as the Isle of Keylon. This, can I only be admitted, so far as it seems to refer the cradle of the human race to Asia. This allusion to Defrobani may be, I think, explained without going so far as the Indian Ocean, since the word which seems to have caused so much confusion appears to be a Welsh compound word, dwfr and bannau," the Dourobaniaa and Dovober- niau of the Romans, and our modern Dover-the water heights—"Shakespeare's Cliff." The Straits of Dover was easily crossed over in canoes from the coast of Gaul, and the immigrants landed at Defrobani, and in progress of time and distance of ptaces the tradition prevailed amongst the first settlers in this isle that they came from Defrobani instead of landing at Defrobani. As yeacs rolled on the place and the situation of Defrobani were forgotten, but the name was cur rent amongst posterity, and some who wished to make a great people a noble people, and perhaps an aristocratic people of the first settlers here, must go to the Indian Ocean so to do or what is very probable, failing to discover what was meant by Defrobani, they made it more puzzling still by placing it at an enormous distance, far enough out of the reach of ordinary persons. It is very clear that the first settlers came to this country from Gaul, the modern France. Englynion in English. A week or two ago all English englyn by, Talieaiii ab Iolo to the RiLinbow" appeared in this column. Since we have endeavoured to collect some more, with the following result Twm o'r Tant: was refused a night's lodging in the Royal Hotel, Chester, on one occasion, and before leaving he addressed the landlord, whose name was Tanner, with the following im- promptu :— I say, sir, I never did see—in a town A tanner so saucy No bed man, and I bid money, May your town go down the Dee Taliesin ab Iolo is said to have composed the following to a schoolmaster by the name of Roger :— A person fond of parsing—is Roger. So rigid in learning In his books always looking, And to his prose close he'll cling. Another to a schoolmaster :— To the last he will blast and blow-Old Crew Is a wild, cross fellow Man in work, many I know, Would shudder at his shadow. To make an englyn in English is hard And they say is foolish But one now and then when I wish I easily can accomplish.
A SIMPLE REMEDY.
A SIMPLE REMEDY. PATIEKT Doctor, I am troubled with rhea- matic pains, caused, I believe, by the dampness of my new house. What would you advise me to do ? DOCTOR (laconically): Remove.
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The promotion of Mr Thomas Jones from the postmastership of Poniypool to that of Abeidare has in it all the elements of popularity, and our congratulations are extended both to the Aber- dare people and the new postmaster. Mr Thomas I Jones is a Carnarvon man who has spent all his life in the postal service, and his departure five or six yea.rs ago from Carnarvon to Pontypool was keenly regretted in the former town, in the public life of which he had long been a prominent figure. The new postmaster is an ardent Welsh- man with whom love 01 country is a. predominant passion, and in his hands the postal interests-of such a peculiarly Welsh district as Aberdare are safe. Mr Thomas Jones is of a literary turn of mind, and acceptable contributions from his pen have several times appeared in this column. Edith She lost Freddy through her own stupidity. A girl should never permit herself to appear more intelligent than the man she is talking to. That is the rule I always follow. —Bertha But then it is so easy for you, you know. You ought not to be too harsh upon poor Hettie. f ¡ Hotel Proprietor (to guest at breakfast): Did you enjoy the flute playing in the room next to fou last night ?—Guest (savagely) Enjoy it ? should say I did I spent half the night pound- ing on the wall for the fool to stop.—Proprietor Why, the man told me that he played over every • piece be knew four times, and the person in the next room applauded after every one.
GOSSIPS' CORNER. ..
GOSSIPS' CORNER. Lord Aberdare is likely to be a candidate for a. seat on the Mountain Ash Local Board. The election takes place the end of this month. We regret to learn that Sub-Lieutenant Francis Crompton Lloyd Fitzwilliams, of H.M.S. Rambler, fourth son of Mr Fitzwillisam, JJP., Cilgwyn. Cardiganshire, was drowned at Ber- muda on the 29th ult. Mrs Lloyd-Williams, relict of the late Mr W. Llovd-Williams. of Plas Gwernant, Troedyraur, Cardiganshire, has just died at Cheltenham in her 76tb year. As she left no children the estate reverts to her husband's heir. A marriage has been arranged and will take place shortly between Mr Henry Chester Vivian, third son of Mr Fred. E. Vivian, of Nottage House, Porthcawl, Glamorganshire, and Gladice, second daughter of Mr S. A. Brain, Roxburgh, Penarth, Glamorganshire. The teachers of the Rhondda are looking for- ward with interest to the address which will be delivered to them on the 15th inst at Porth by Mr Legard, the chief inspector of schools for Wales. Mr Legard will also on that occasion distribiifce the science and art certificates. Heard at Abersychan and Talywain Station :— Old Lady, awaiting the Abergavenny market train and reading placard For what on earth be 'em making all this fuss in the papers about Talienwan (Talywain). I should think this is about the last place the Roosians 'ud kom to. We couldn't grow leeks for em here, let alone 'taters, Major Morgan Lindsay will in all probability be opposed by Mr E. Edwards, J.P., of Penylaa, for the representation of Caerphilly Division on the Connty Council. Mr Edwards has closely identified himself with public matters for years, and jj. he accedes to the wishes of the Liberal electors he will make matters lively for. tjhe gallant major. Mr Ben Wolfe, son of the Ret E. J. Wolfe, of Swansea, has just received the appointment of senior matj&ematical martsr at Victoria College, Jersey. Mr Wolfe wen an open scholarship at Magdalen College, Oxford, and two years later he gained a Hastings Exaction and a first-class in Mods. i The year after he won a Lancaster Exhibition, and the next year he was placed in the second class in the Final Mathematical School. Now that Cardiff has the Welsh language taught in its schools," writes R. L., and has a constituent college of the Welsh University planted there, and is anxious to assert its righto to Metropolitan honours, is it not time to move in having its, squares beautified by erecting statues to Welsh worthies ? Coald not a start be made by erecting one to the late Dan Isaac Davies—' a worthy citizen of no mean city V Whc will set the ball rolling ? Why ffo not our landed proprietors insist upon places 4Jeing called by their right names ? Lore Tredegar might set the ball roiling by correcting the orthography of jsome places within shooting distance of his ancestral home. What a barbarity is Bassaleg I Why not re^-christen it "Maesaleg?" It is the Campus Alectcs of the Romans, and it spelt Maesaleg in the works of his Lordship's dis- tinguished ancestor, Dafydd ap Gwilym. It was signifirant-or was it a coincidence ?— that when the subject of the inclusion of a Welsh emblem on the Royal Standard was brougtrt before the last meeting of the MoBmerathshin County Conncil the only meml r i* ^t^sjstSec hailed from Abergavenny The iasrport&nt part played by Abergavenny in Welsh history is noi known by this County Council. One cannot mov< ten yards in any part of the town without being face to face with some reminder of its formet glory. Mr Thomas Ellis. M.P., the Chief LibereJ Whip, is a man of many parts. Notwithstanding hit multifarious engagements, he still finds time to attend to the duties of the diaconate at Cafa. ddwy Sarn Chapel. The other night the hon. member manipulated the magic lantern to a lec- ture on The Holy Laud," delivered by the Rev. Gwvnoro Davies, of Barmouth. Additional interest was attached to the proceedings by the services rendered by Miss Ellis, Cynlos, and JO. Davies, Cwrtmawr (the future Mrs Ellis), botk ladies being dressed in -the costume -of An daughters of Jerusalem. Professor Henry Jones (the successor of Princi- pal Caird) had promised to deliver a lecture oc Free Trade, in Llanerchymedd, Anglesey. A large number of the inhabitants ar« shoemakers, and the learned professor, as a practical teacher, and having some knowledge of the gentle craft oi St. Crispin himself as well, astounded the &.6. sembled audience by appearing in the pulpit witl a pair of boots, and delivering a masterly objec lesson on Free Trade, as exemplified in the staple manufacture of the place. Needless to say tha there are no Protectionists left at Llanerchymedc to this day. The number of brewers who have given up thei connection with the trade to take up temper ance and philanthropic work are very few. Mt F. N. Charrington, however, has not only made t great sacrifice by severing his connection with o,&( of the largest breweries in London, but for man] years past has lived in the East End to devote his life as well as his fortune to help thai neglected district. The Sunday Closing Move ment is now attracting a great deal of attention ii England, and Mr CharringtoD has invited Mr 3 Glenelg Grant, of Cardiff, to visit him anc^during his stay to show how Wales has benefited by th* measure. The welcome announcement is now made bj Mr John Ballinger, the Cardiff librarian, that tit. catalogue of the printed literature in the Welsl department of the Cardiff Library is now nearb completed, and it is intended to print it forth with. The catalogue will include the books ii Welsh, and also the books relating to Wales, ant it will be a valuable work of reference not ontJ to Welsh students and bibliographers, but to al in search of information about the history biography, language, literature, music, archie ology, topography, and the religious and social life of Wales. The chief entry for each bookwil be under the author, and will include in ever; case the place of printing and the printer's same with other details. Books will also be enterec under their subjects, and in some cases under the title. An attempt has been made to give thi correct names of authors using bardic names or pseudonyms, and to identify the authors of anonymous work- The whole of the catalogue will be arranged in one alphabet on the dic- tionary plan. With the exception of Rowland Cambrian Bibliography (which only inclnaei books published up to the year 1800). there is no work available on this subject. The catalogue will be about 300 pages, royal octavo, and a list o subscribers to this edition will be printed in thr book. Intending subscribers should place them selves at once in communication with 3tt Ballinger. The catalogue has long beet anxiously expected, and its appearance we ieef sure wil be cordially welcomed by all lovers o Welsh literature.
A SATURDAY SERMON,
A SATURDAY SERMON, Happiness is supposed to be something drpopet upon us or withheld, not drawn to us by anj attracting force or will of our own. It is thought to be easy enough to be happy when everything conspires to make one so, and impossible to helf being unhappy in opposite circumstances. If tbi be so, while men may be congratulated in th one case, they are not to be commended ant while they may be commiserated in the othel case, they cannot be blamed. If there is ac power, there can be no choice, and no duty except to bow, with as good a grace as m?y be, tu th(. decrees of fate. Yet, if this were so, happinesf would always be in the exact ratio of what an called favourable circumstances. Wealth witi its various opportunities would always let in floods of unmingled delight, while their absence would always be Attended with unmitigated glomr and sadness. 1W know that this is not be Some at least on Icvhom Fortune seems to snail/ are far less happy than some on whom abe owfc rowol*