The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

DIARY OF COMING ENGAGEMENTS. Nov. 15, &c.- The Sign of the Cross" at Royalty Theatre. 15- Wirral Board of Guardians. 15-Chester Consistory Court. 15-Dioresan Conference at Chester. 15-Chester Paxton Society's Exhibition. 15-Whitchitrch Dairy Show. 16-Chester Cattle Fair. „ 16—Cheshire County Council. 18-Chester County Court. 16-Hoole District Council. 17-Lecture at Museum. „ 17-Hooto-a Park Races (first day). 20-Mold Petty Sessions. 20—Wirral District Council. )

THE MOND COMEDY. That Mr. Mond's fatuous expedition to South Africa is attracting widespread atten- tion and evoking much mirth in that quarter of the globe is attested by this week's mails from the Transvaal, which teem#with news- paper and other criticisms of the experiment. Mr. Samuel Evans, the Chairman of the Glen Deep Ltd., at the annual meeting of that company at Johannesburg, on October 18th, delivered a lengthy speech on the subject of Chinese labour in general and of Mr. Mond's experiment in particular. We com- mented upon the cabled summary of the speech at the time, and this week's mailed full report furnishes further instructive reading. The issue, as Mr. Evans tersely puts it, is this-" is it or is it not possible to work the ore deposits of the Rand profitably and to the best advantage of South Africa by having the unskilled work done with imported white labour, aided by the available supply of Kaffirs 1" Mr. Evans holds the negative view, adding that to limit the industry's unskilled labour force to Europeans and Kaffirs would have a paralysing effect on the whole of South Africa, as it would mean that only a few selected portions of the Rand could be profitably worked. Mr. Evans's testimony is to the same effect as that of all other experienced South African Colonists, namely that every attempt to induce white men to do manual labour to any extent and for any length of time in South Africa has invariably failed." The mine-owners on the Rand are not the only people who employ coolie labour. Firms engaged in large works in that region invariably engage coloured men for the hard, manual labour, just as is done in other tropical or sub-tropical countries. Coming to Mr. Mond's "curious experi- ment," as he described it, Mr. Evans observed that a simple statement of the facts would enable all who are acquainted with South Africa to appreciate "the ridiculous and worthless character of this so-called demonstration of the capability and willingness of white men to do unskilled mining work in the Transvaal." The five men, who live in tents in that pleasantly-named region of Avoca, are engaged in cutting surface trenches and doing odd jobs, an under- taking which is not likely to endanger their lives or their health. Quoth Mr. Evans to his audience, you can see Portugese and Italian gardeners doing somewhat similar work in the vicinity of Johannesburg to-day." Some of the other criticisms passed by Mr. Evans on this amusing experiment are very much to the point. Bearing in mind the fuss which Radical speakers at home have made con- cerning the hardships inflicted upon the Chinese by sending them to South Africa without their wives, Mr. Evans draws attention to the fact that Mr. Mond's men have been sentout also without their wives, also under contract. The contract under which the Chinamen toil has been represented by unscrupulous agitators as slavery. The only difference between Mr. Mond's contract and the Chinese contract is that the public are in full possession of the conditions of the latter, while the former is a secret between Mr. Mond himself and his men. The mine-owners are under an obligation to provide the coolies with proper food and lodgings, medical attendance and hospital accommodation. To what extent Mr. Mond's obligations go we are unaware, because of his remarkable secretive- ness. For all we know to the contrary, Mr. Mond may be under contract to pay, in addition to the men's wages and expenses, a substantial bribe for their success in the farcical experiment. To Mr. Mond's personal wealth there may be no limit, notwithstanding his constant jeers and sneers at his brother capitalists," but to Mr. Mond's election expenses in this city there is a statutory limit, as he will eventually discover to his cost. The "Trans- vaal Leader," adverting to this aspect of the case, points out that the costs ot this experiment, undertaken in furtherance of his contest at Chester, will have to be included in Mr. Mond's election expenses. We have," says that organ, "a legal opinion before us that any expenses incurred by Mr. Mond to obtain information to be used in furtherance of his cantlidature should be included in his return." This is a little matter which has not escaped the notice of people nearer home, many of whom are beginning to wonder how Mr. Mond will succeed in keeping his election expenses within the legal limit. He was adopted so long ago as July, 1903, and his election expenses date from the day of his adoption. Our Radical contemporary has been striving to whitewash him, by describing him in a humiliating style as the prospective candi- date," but that is a device which will not absolve Mr. Mond from the consequences of his formal adoption. If Mr. Mond treats his five "gardener" proteges with anything approaching liberality, he will be left, "stranded," without a shilling to spend on posters even, when the election arrives. The headlong haste of his adoption was due partly to ignorance and partly to the con- fident belief in Radical quarters two years ago that the day of the Dissolution was at hand. The Government have seen no reason to resign up to the present, hence these tears from disappointed "adopted candidates," who know how tightly they are tied in the matter of election expenses.

In view of the present aspect of the Eastern Question, there are stirong- reasons for hoping that the Balkan Committer will continue to press the position of Macedonia upon the aitt-ention of hia Majesty's Government. With the collapse of Russia, Turkey doubtless will be disposed to per- sist in refusing her assent to the necessary re- forms. The chief officers of the Balkan Commit- tee, which has done so much good work to secure the freedom of Macedonia, are Mr. Bryce, M.P., who is the president, and Mr. Yerburgh, M.P., who acts as honorary treasurer.

,+- The disingenuous way in which Mr. Mond is treating the public over his South African excur- sion is emphasised' by another incident during the past week. When the secret expedition was alleged to have sailed from these shores, our re- presentative was informed by Mr. Mond's agent that "at the psychological moment" the destina- tion and looation of the five men would' be divulged. That assurance was given in June last. Notwithstanding our repeated appeals to Mr. Mond to disclose the whereabouts of his emis- saries, 'in order that people might judge for themselves the merits of the case from indepen- dent eye-witnesses, Mr. Mond has preserved a oomplete silence, rigorously suppressing1 t'he ad- dress from which the alleged miners' letters were alleged to hav,2, been ^vfirtcn. Last week, how- ever, thanks to the entefprise of our contem- porary, the "Gold Fields News," we were enabled to publish the fact that the missing men had been located at last at the Sheba Siding Bar, and that they were working near the adjacent Sheba Sid- ing. Mr. Mond, perceiving- that "the psycho- logical moment" had, arrived at last, or in other -words, that the game of secrecy was up, con- descended to write a letter to last Saturday's "Chionicle," incidentally mentioning that, the fire men were working at the Sheba Crown, Bar- berton. We thank Mr. Mond for telling us what we knew already we thank hi pi for nothing. The public were notified in last week's "Courant" were the men were supposed to be working, and Mr. Mond's news of Saturday was, therefore, rather belated. e

For oool impertinence a letter sent by a Rochester Labour leader to the Earl of Darnley on the subject of "free gifts of Nature" would be had to beat. Hitherto the public have en- joyed the free privilege of admission to the Earl's park and woods at Cobham Hall, Kent, but m view of the flagrant. abuse of the boon, it has been found neoeseary to ourtail it. Trees have been damaged, flowers and ferns dug up on a whole- sale scale. Recently three working men were prosecuted and fined for stealing chestnuts from the private ground's. Thereupon the Labour agitator in question sent an impudent letter to fc s lordship, describing the chestnuts as "free gifts of Nature," and begging the Earl to remem- ber that "working-men enabled him to live in comfort; and permitted him to hold lands which wera the common right of the people, and that he was only God's steward with regard thereto." Luid Darnley's reply was that his ancestors pur- chased the lands and planted and maintained the chestnut trees—an unanswerable argument. By way of heaping coals of fire upon the heads of the offenders, his lordship adds that, as he has no wish to deal harshly, he will pay the fines him- self, but 'he warns others that he will not repeat this action. It is the conduct of vulgar ingrates such as this that is responsible for the curtailment of public privileges on many a beautiful English estate.

LOCAL NEWS. CHESTER CATHEDRAL. SERVICE LIST FOR WEEK COMMENCING NOV. 15. WBDNKSDAT, NOVKMBHR 15TH.—Morning, 7.45: Matins and Holy Communion. 10.16: The Litany; hymn 6H. Even- ing, 5.0: Service, Russell in A; anthem, I will sing of Thy power (Sullivan). THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH.-Morning, KO: Holy Com- munion. 10.0: Service, Travers in F; anthem, "Praise the Lord" (Clarke). Evening, 4.15 Service, Travers in F; anthem, Why rage fiercely" (Mendelssohn). FRIDAY, NOVKMBBK 17TH.-Morning, 7.45: Matins and Holy Communion. 10.15: The Litany; hymn 113. Even- ing. 4.15: Service, Goes in E; anthem, "Remember not" (Macfarren). SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH.-Morning, 80: Holy Com- munion. 10.15: Service, Calkin in B flat; anthem, "O taste and see" (Sullivan). Evening, 4.15: Service, Calkin in B flat; anthem, I will seek (Greene). SUNDAY, NOVKMBHR IVTII (-22nd Sunday after Trinitv).— Morning, 8.0: Litany and Holy Communion. 10.30: Ser- vice, Garrett in E; introit, hymn 319; Holy Communion, Garret in E preacher, the Canon in Residence. Evening, 3.30: Service, Garrett in E flat; anthem, "Lead kindly light" (Stainer); hymn 262. P.30: Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis to Chants; Processional hymn, -218; hymns 184, 537, 237, 231; preacher, the Rev. Precentor Corte, M.A.

The window to be erected in Wrexham Parish Church in memory of the late Sir R. A. Cunliffe, of Acton Park, is to be the westernmost window in the south aisle. Mr. C. E. Kempe is the artist. Mr. Yerburgh, M.P., has been elected a Governor of the Corporation of the Sons of the Clergy, an excellent institution for assisting necessitous clergymen, pensioning and assisting their widows and aged single daughters, and for providing grants towards the education, apprentice- ship, or outfit of their children. The Earl of Shrewsbury and Talbot is entertain- ing a shooting party this week at Ingestre Hall, and among the guests are the Earl of Lonsdale, Viscount and Viscountess Castlereagh, Viscount and Viscountess Ingestre, the Marquis of Anglesey, Mrs. MoDonald, and several others. Birds are very plentiful, and good sport is anticipated. Shortly after Christmas Lord and Lady Ingestre are going on an expedition to Canada, and part of the time will be gueeta of Earl and Countess Grey. Sir Pyers W. Mostyn and Lady Mostyn, of Talacre, Prestatyn, have just celebrated their silver wedding. Mr. J. H. Welsford left Nantwich on Monday to attend the National Union Conference at New- castle, where he is the guest of Colonel Swan at Prudhoe Hall. Mr. Welsford attended the luncheon given by Lord Ridley and the dinner by the Duke of Northumberland to Unionist candi- dates, and afterwards the mass meeting addressed by the Prime Minister. Mr. Robert Yerburgh, M.P., last week addressed meetings at Gloucester and Cirencester, under the auspices of the Agricultural Organisation Society. He explained the various spheres of operation of the Agricultural Organisation Society, and of the directions in which such a movement was of benefit to farmers. He appealed to the experience not only of Continental countries, but also of existing English and Irish societies, in support of his views. Resolutions were passed in favour of promoting agricultural co-operation. GREAT RUN OF DEE SALMON.—During the last eight days, writes a correspondent to the "Courant," a welcome change has been ex- perienced in the aspect of the Dee as a salmon river. For the last four or five months very few fish found thoir way up the Dee, and matters began to look serious for a bad spawning season. On the 5th inst., however, a nioe fish-travelling flood came in the river, and since then a splendid run of spawning fish has gone to the upper reaches and the tributaries, where they are now well distributed over a large area of good spawning ground, which is comparatively free from pollution, and by far the most fertile in producing strong and healthy fry. It is strange why these migratory oreations of the finny and feathered tribe should generally connive to upset the moot certain expectations of the rural prophets. Yet only a fortnight ago our piscatory authorities were pre- diotirtg a poor spawning seaeon, whereas now we are certain to have one of the best experienced m the Dee for many years. The Right Hon. George Wyndham, M.P., left town on Wednesday for Saighton Grange. The Rev. W. H. Egerton, rector of Whitchurch, has just attained his ninety-tifth birthday. The Secretary of the Chester General Infirmary begs to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of a legacy of £ 100 from the estate of the late Mr. John Taylor. Mr. Robert Yerburgh, M.P., will open a debate on the subject of "Agriculture and the Nation's Wealth," at the December dinner of the Imperial Industries Club in London on December 4th. The marriage arranged between John Charlton, eldest son of John Charlton, of Huntingdon, Dum- fries, and Gwendolen, eldest daughter of Thomas Bate, of Kelsterton, will take place early in January. The marriage arranged between Lieutenant- Colonel F. J. do Gex, Duke of Wellington's Regiment, and Edith, daughter of Mr. (i. I J. Miller, of Oughtrington House, Lymm, will take place at Oughtrington on Wednesday, the 29th inst. The marriage arranged between Heury P. Hussey, son ot the late Mr, Edward Husaey, of Scotney Castle, and Margaret, daughter of the late Mr. Edmund Peel, of Brynypys, will take place at Holy Trinity Church, bioano-street, on Monday, the 11th of December, at two o'clock. A marriage has been arranged, and will take place early in January, between Captain Washing- ton Hibbert, the King's Own Kogiuieut, eldest sou of the late HuOurf Hibbert aud Airs. Hubore Hibbert, of 2, Beaufort-gardens, and Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. W. Neisun and Mrs. Nelson, of Acton Park, Wrexham. The Knutsford County Ball is fixed to take place on Wednesday, December 13oh, and for it Lord Egerton of Tatton and the Duchess of Buckingham and Chandos will have a largo house party at Tatton Park, as will also Lord and Lady 6tariiey at Alderley, Lord and Lady xNewcou at Lyme .fark, Sir Philip and Lady Mainwaring at Peover Hall, and Mr. and Mrs. Egerton Leigti at Jodrell Hall. ANOTHER SPORTING CHALLENGE.— Mr. Brodrick, questioned on Chinese labour at Blackheath, Guildford, on Tuesday, otfered to pay the expenses to South Afncd. it anyone present would go out and do work which the Chinese were doing in the mines there. CYCLE PARADE.—The committee of the Chester Cycle Parade beg to acknowledge with many thanks the reoeipt of the following dona- tions to the priae list since the publication of the official programme:—Mr. G. E. Shelvoke (repie- sontmg the Valor Company, Birmingham, manu- facturers of the New Era. fire appliances), per Mr. J. Shone, LI, Is.; Densois Stores, 51b of toa; Mr. W. Roberts, aheniist, Brook-street, perfume; a. tradesman, Watergate-street, breads; Mr. Richards, Watergate street, 5s.; Mr. W. Simp- son. Northgate-street, books; Hoole Carpet Bowling Society, per Mr. W. C. Armstrong, 10s. A POACHING "FREE FIGHT."—At Wina- ford, on Tuesday morning, Samuel Dentith, Nay- lor-street, Crewe, was charged with night poach- ing in Minshull Wood. Horaoe Blomfield, head- keeper for Mr. Verdin, Da-rnhall Hall, stated that he disguised himself as a poacher, and sur- prised a gang of men who were working the wood. Immediately the witness was recognised a fierce struggle ensued with stones and blud- geons, both keepers and poaohers being badly mauled. A number of rabbits and poaching im- pedimenta were seized. The prisoner was re- manded. MILITARY DRILL FOR BOYS. Earl Egerton has forwarded to the Prime Minister and the Lord-President of the Council the memorial of the Justices of the Peace of the county of Chester, embodying the resolutions passed at the quarter sessions on October 16th in favour of the instruction of boys of a suitable age in military drill and the use of the rifle as part of the curriculum of all schools receiving grants from public funds, the cost thereof being made a charge upon the Imperial Exchequer, and has received an acknowledgment from the Right Hon. A. J. Balfour, M.P., and the Marquis of Londonderry CHESHIRE LADIES AND THE POOR.- On Friday an influential gathering assembled at Davenbam Hall, Northwich, at the annual exhibi- tion of work connected with the West Cheshire Needlework Guild. There was a collection of nearly seven hundred garments, which are to be given to the deserving poor during the year. Mrs. Kay, President of the Division, spoke of the success attending the Guild's operations, and Lady Gros- venor expressed pleasure in supporting a movement for the assistance of the poor, who needed all the help they could render. She was delighted, she said, with the work performed by that division of the Guild. CHESTER MAN'S SUDDEN DEATH.-Mr. E. Braasey, city coroner, held an inquest at the Red Lion Inn, Handbridge. on Thursday after- noon, touching the death of Richard Astbury, 1, Rope-walk, Handbridgo. It appeared that the deceased was 43 years of age, and followed the occupation of a ropema.ker. He rose at seven on Thursday morning, and. complaining of pains in his head, he had two cups of tea for his break- fast. Ho went to work about 8.30 a.m., and worked for an hour. Then was missed by his son, who worked! with him. On searching about, the lad found his father iving dead near some ropes which he had juat made —Dr. Jephcott said death was probably due to heart dise-aw.-A ver- dict to this effect was returned. THE LATE MR. R. LL. JONES, RHYL.-rA movement has been set on foot in Flintshire to pro- vide a memorial to the late Mr. R. Llewellyn Jones, of Rhyl, who died some six months ago, and who at the time of his death held the position of chairman of the Flintshire Education Committee and was one of the most prominent public men in the county. It is proposed to place a portrait of Mr. Jones in the County Council Chamber at Mold, and with the balance of the fund raised to found and with the balance of the fund raised to found scholarships in connection with the county of Flint. An influential committee has been formed to carry out the matter, with Mr. J. W. Summers (chair- man of the County Council) as chairman and Mr. Richard Bromley (clerk of the peace) as hon. secre- tary. Already a substantial sum has been obtained in subsciptions. DEATH OF MR. WILLAMSON JONES.- Many will regret to learn of the death of Mr. Thomas Williamson Jones, Boughton, at the age of seventy-seven. Deceased complained of having been knocked down by a horse and trap on Grosvenor-road on Saturday, October 7th. He stated afterwards that his hip gave him pain, and he was removed first to his shop and then home. He was attended by Dr. Roberts, Abbey-square, and died at 1-30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11th. Deceased formerly carried on the business of printer and stationer, and at one time had a shop near the Abbey Gateway in Northgate-atrpet. Mr. Jones took great interest in civic affairs, and in 1866 he was elected to the Town Council as a representative of Trinity Ward. He held office until the November elections of 1878. when he was defeated. In 1882 Mr. Jones came out for St. Oswald's Ward and was returned. This time he held his seat for only three years. Deceased at the time of his death was a widower, and he left a grown-up family. An inquest will be held. BEQUESTS FOR MACCLESFIELD.—Mr. Francis Dicken Brocklehurst, D.L., of Maccles- field, who died last October, left gross estate valued at 2176,782, including;285,009 net personalty. He bequeathed £ 1,000 to Macclesfield Free Grammar School for a Brocklehurst Exhibition tenable at Cambridge University; CI,000 to the Infirmary Endowment Fund; and £ 1,000 to the Macclesfield Certified Industrial School. The property of the Fence Hospital, in Buxton-road, Macclesfield, and the stocks standing in the Endow- ment Fund he devises to his nephew, Mr. Edward Howard Brocklehurst, in the hope that he and his successors in title will continue the same as a charity as heretofore. To his nephew, Mr. R. W. D. Phillips, he bequeaths £ 20,000, and the Hore Hill estate absolutely on condition that he shall assume and use the surname of Brockleburst, while to his nephew, Mr. Edward Brocklehurst, he leaves his Macclesfield property, and makes dispositions as to property and money left to other relatiresv TRAM TRAFFIC,—Last week 39,142 passengers travelled on the Chester trams, being an increase of 3,339 compared with the corresponding week last year, and the receipts were JE162. 2s. lid., an inorease of £10. 7s. 7gd. The fact that the Cycle Parade was held last week doubtless partly ac- counted for the increase. RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION.—The pro- posed grant to tha Mayor h.1IiJ excited considerable interest in the city, and in order to give the rate- payers an opportunity of considering it a public meeting, open to all ratepayers, will be held in the Assembly Rooms. Newgate-street, at 3 o'clock on Thursday eveiiing. OUR DUMB FRIENDS' LEAGUE.-A branch of Our Dumb Friends' League, V, society for the encouragement of kindness to animals, has recently been opened at Chester, and the Countess Grosvenor has kindly consented to become patroness. The local hon. secretary of the branch is Mr. James Chad wick, Industrial School, Chester. CHILD'S SUDDEN DEATH.-The death occurred at the Infirmary on Friday of Joseph Henry Lawler, aged 4 years and 5 months, the son of John Lawler, 41, New Crane-street. Deceased had a fall on Monday, but seemed none the worse for it. On Thursday he was seized with a convulsive fit, and taken to the Infirmary. An inquest was held at the Infirmary on Monday, and a verdict of Accidental death was returned. Dr. Spencer said death was due to hemorrhage. THE KING'S SCHOOL.—The vacancy caused by the presentation of the Rev. J. R. Fuller to the living of Pulford has been filled by the ap- pointment of Mr. G. K. Allen, B.A., late ex- hibitioner of Trinity College, Cambridge. Mr. Allen, who was at Wellington College, was placed in the second class in the Modern History Tripos in 1904. He will take charge of the school games. Mr. F. J. Allen, M.A., St. John's College, Cambridge, -B.Sc. (Lend.), the science master at the school, has been appointed to the charge of the boarding-house. CHESTER EDUCATION COMMITTEE.The annual meeting of the Chester Education Com- mittee was held on Monday in the Town Hall. On the motion of Alderman Churton, seconded by Mr. James G. Frost, Alderman H. T. Brown was re-elected chairman. Alderman Brown expressed his appreciation of the compliment and hoped the forthcoming year would be a useful one.—On the motion of Alderman John Jones (S.O.), seconded by Mr, Siddall, Mr. James G. Frost was re-elected deputy; chairman. -The committees were re- elected, Mr. Tom Mills taking the place on the Higher Education Sub-committee of Alderman Dr. Roberte, who had ceased to be a member of the Education Committee, and Mr. Percival Gamon taking the place of Mr. C. P. Cockrill, who had ceased to be a member of the Council. INDEPENDENCE LODGE OF FREE- MASONS.—A very pleasant ladies' social in con- nection with tho Independence Lodge of Free- masons, No. 721, was held at the Masonic Hall, Chester, on Monday night. The gathering was presided over by the popular W.M., Bro. George Day, who was ably supported by the Senior Steward (Bro. Alex. Hornby) and the Junior Steward (Bro. R. Butterworth), also the past masters and brethren of the lodge and visiting brethren. The latter included Bro. G. H. Ditch- burn, of Manchester (late of Chester Cathedral), who was an acquisition to the vocalist party. Tho brethren met for lodge purposes at 5.30 p.m., after which the W.M. and Mrs. Day received their guests in the lodge room. There was an attend- ance of nearly 100, including many ladies. Bro. and Mrs. H. C. Houghton were ably assisted in the musical programme, which was of a high standard of excollence, by Bro. E. Robinson, Bros. Ditch- burn (2). and Paat Master Coveney. Bro. T. Mills contributed a recitation. Everyone seemed to be delighted with the evening's scheme of pleasure. These social gatherings have become regular institutions in local Masonic life, and are invariably carried out with much success by the officer-; of tlio lodges. ASSAULTING A BLIND WIFE.—Before the Mold Justices on Monday, Joseph William Huxley, formerly of Chester, well connected and of superior address, was charged under warrant wioh assaulting hid wife, Catherine Huxley, a blind woman, who with the defendant and children nssidos with her mother, the licensee of the Rail- way Inn, Penterwyl. Prosecutrix stated that in October her husband returned to the Railway Inn, after having- served long terms of imprisonment at Ruthin Gaol for assaulting and threatening her mother. From that time to the previous day he had committed a series of unprovoked assaults upon her. On Sunday ho threw a piece of bread, which struck her in the eye. When remonstrated with he struck her in the face and kicked her. She fell down from the violence of the kick. He had similarly assaulted her on the Saturday.— Other evidence was called, after which defendant made a statement on oath to tho offeot that the case against him was all made up. and making reflections upon the moral character of his wife and mother-in-law.—Defendant, who had been V tl: previously convicted on 13 occasions, was sen- tenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour for an aggravated assault, and bound over in £10 for s;x months, the latter time to commence at tho expiration of his sentence! DEMONSTRATION OF FIRE EXTIN- GUISHERS.—On Wednesday- afternoon at the r Linenhall a small company witnessed an interest- ing practical demonstration in fire extinguishing by a hand appliance named the "New Era tho solo makers of which arc the Valor Company, Limited, Birmingham. This fire appliance, which is claimed to be tho most practical and powerful of its kind made, is charged with a chemical liquid of extinguishing power fifty times greater than that of ordinary water. Four experiments were made and all proved entirely satisfactory. A big blaze made by the ignition of a wooden structure filled with pieces of wood and shavings, on which were poured tar, three gallons of petroleum and one gallon of petrol, wa. completely extinguished wtell within onto minute. A similar test was afterwards made on a wooden structure filled with nieoes of wood and shavings, tar barrel inside, soaked with 1 gallons of petrol and four gallons of petroleum. This fire was subdued even more promptly. The impossibilty of extinguishing burning petrol by ordinary water was also demonstrated. A quan- tity of petrol, distributed over the ground, was set alight and a bucket of water thrown upon it without effeot, the flames being afterwards ex- tinguished by the "New Era." SCOTTISH CONCERT.-The Chester Cale- donian Association inaugurated their present session by a concert held at the Temperance Hall, George-street, on Thursday evening. The change of locale, coupled with the attractive programme, ensured a good attendance, the members and their friends turning up in large numbers. The pre- sident for the year, Major T. J Leadbetter, took the chair, and, in his opening address, infused the necessary "go" into the proceedings by relating some of his choice Scottish stories. So excellent was e the performance and so enthusiastic the audience that encores were frequent, the general opinion being that the concert was one of the best on record. At the close the artists were warmly thanked, on the motion of the Sheriff (Mr. Wm. Ferguson), seconded by Dr. Hamilton. The arduous duty of accompanist was discharged throughout by Miss J. M. Ferguson with con- spicuous taste. The programme was as follows:- Pianoforte duet, Bonnie Dundee," the Misses Phillips; song, "Bonnie Wee Thing," Mr. J. P. Hodge; song, "Annie Laurie," Mrs. Hamilton; song. "March of the Cameron Men," Mr. R. Hill reading, "The Cottar's Saturday Night," Mr. J. Stirling song, The scent of the Lilies," Mr. G. H. Plant; song, "Sing to me the Auld Scots oangs, Mrs. Simon song. "Take a pair of spark- ling eyes," Mr. J. P. Hodge comic song, He was a Sailor," Mr. J. Phillips; song, Deep in the Mine," Mr. W. Hopton seng, The Laird of Cockpen," Mr. R. Hill; song, "Charlie is my Darling," Mrs. Hamilton reading, A Window in Thrums," Mr. J. Stirling; song, "The Lang Lang Syne," Mrs. Simon; song. "The Maid of Malabar," Mr. G. H. Plant; song, The Wander- ing Clown," Mr. W. Hopton comic song, Tober- mory," Mr. J. Phillips "Auld Lang Syne."

THE LATE MR. J. EYTON WILLIAMS. I HIS BEQUESTS AND RELIGIOUS TESTS. An interesting point has arisen in coiia^ction with the bequest of Mr. John Eyton Williams of £ 10,000 each to the Welsh University and the Bangor University College for scholarships and prizes. Mr. Wilitarris attached two conditions to his will limiting the benefits of the endowment to bOJs who believe in the existence "of a Supreme Being, tho almighty and all-wise and all-merciful God, creator of heaven and earth, and ail things therein, supreme ruler and governor of the uni- verse," and who acoept and! believe in the tenets and principles of the Protestant Church. It is now suggested that these religious tests may debar the Universities from accepting the be- quests. The matter was considered at a meeting of the govornors of the University of Wales at Bangor. The Deputy Chancellor said the bequest of £ 10,000 was complicated by the desire of the testator that there should be a theological test of a broad character imposed upon the holders of the scholarships and prizes. It need hardly te eaiid that too University could not accept a bequest or award of scholarships under these con- ditions It was debarred in the most unmistake- able terms from imposing any theological test upon any person whatsoever. The obligation on the executors, however, to arrange that this con- dition should be imposed was not, so far as he could see, in the text of the will, but in a memorandum left for the executors. In an earlier part of the will, however, there was a clause to the effect that while the testator had confidence that the executors would dispoee of the bequests in accordance with any memorandum he might leave, auah memorandum should not be deemed to form part of the will, or to have any testamen- tary oharacter, and that the disposal of the per- sonal estate and effects should not create any trust or legal obligation. How the executory would in.terprat) two such contradictory direotions he (the Deputy Chancellor) could, not oonœive; but the University would do well to refer the tout of the will to their legal adviser. Principal Reichel pointed' out that the bequest had to be accepted or rejected within six months, aod the Court decided to refer the matter with full power to t)M Standing Exwufcivo Commit too.

DOWAGER LADYWILLIAMS vVYNN'S ESTATE. The will has been proved of Mary Emily, tho Dowager Lady Williams Wynn, of Llangedwyn, Denbigh, who died September 21, aged 78. She was the widow of her cousin, Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, 6th Bart., M.P. for Denbighshire, and daughter of the Right Hon. Sir Henry Watkin Williams Wynn, K.C.B., British Envoy to the Court of Denmark, third son of the 4th Bart. ]- nQofatV* »ailfd at„ £ 14'470 8'™^ and at £ 10 996 nett. By her will of July 6, 1905, Lady Williams Wynn bequeathed J3500 to the vicar and churchwardens of Llangedwyn parish, the income therefrom to be applied for the deserving poor of the parish, who are members of the Church of England; ^100 to her maid, L150 to her keeper, Deighton, one year a wages to each indoor servant in her service at the time of her death (other than her said maid), who have been in her employment for twelve months; and ajbo to her gardener and aw logac\G9r other servants. Lady Williams Wynn left numerous specifio bequests to relatives and friends, and left her furni- ture at St. James s-aquaro and Llangedwyn to ^ot h<"

CHESTE GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Chester Board of Guardians was held yesterday (Tuesday), at the Workhouse. Mr. T. Butler presided. CONDOLENCES. The Chairman moved with deap regret a vote ?«r "i, °'orioe with the family of the late Mr A. W. Butt, a member of the Board. He was a conscientious, straightforward member, always doing his duty to the people he represented, both the poor and the ratepayers. He thought not only had the widow lost a good husband and the children a good father, but the c.ty had lost a good citizen, and the Board had lost a good member. Mr. S. Wedgwood seoonded. He said he had never met a more straightforward and honourable man than Mr. Butt. The motion was carried. Mr. W. Vernon said the Rev. H. E. Haycock was very ill, and tho doctor had ordered his friends to be sent for. He moved that the clerk be instructed to write a letter of sympathy to Mr. Haycock. r seoonded. He said Mr. Hay- oock while he hod been a member of the Board had tried to do his duty. Some of them had not always agreed with him, but he admired a man. who would not be led by the nose. This was also agreed to. The Rev. Wm. Jones mentioned that Pastor R Dobson was present at the Board meeting for the last time. He was about to leave for Lancashire, and he moved a hearty vote of thanks to him for his past services, and that the Board. wish him well in 'his new sphere of labour. Mr. Dobson had been a very faithful and painstaking member. ° ^having seconded, this was carried, and Mr. Dobson briefly responded. THE LATE MASTER. The Chairman here produced a large handsome- silver bowl and two silver candlesticks, and called upon Mr. Rowe Morris. c Mr. Morris said Mr. Turner, the late msLster^ was seriously ill, and1 it had been suggested' that the Chairman and Mr. Vernon should be re- quosted to take tho small present exhibited by J! if and hand it to Mr. Turner be- half of the Board, at eome convenient time This was agreed to. The bcwl, which was afterwards handed round, bore the followtino- in- senption "Presented by the Guardians of the Koor of the Chester Lnion to Mr. and Mrs lumer, late master and matron of ths. Union. Workhouse, on their retirement after a service of 21 years. 14th November, 1905." On the recommendation of the Visiting Com- mitte.e for the second time, Dr. Butt was ap- pointed medical officer to the Central and Uprow Hornet", at a salary of £ 8 and £ 5 respectively. I he appointment oamo up for confirmation at the last meeting, and was referred back to the Visit- ing Committee, who .repeated the recommenda- tion.

CHESTER WOMEN LIBERALS. --Go MEETING AT SALTNEY. MR :XJCKRILL'S DEFEAT DISCUSSED. A meeting under tho auspices of the Chester Women's Liberal Assoc.ation wa.s h0d at the Lec- ture Ha!l. Saltnsy, Monday evening, under the presidency of i Alfred" Mond, p'cc.i dent of the Association. Slio waa supported by Mr. and Mis. W. II. Den::on, Mr. and Mrs. W. Carr, Mr. ana* Mrs. H. B. Dutton, Mis. Reuboik Robiv.-ts, Mr and Mrs. C P. Cocur.il, Mr and idl. C. H. Dot'iey, Mia W. H. Griffiths. Mrs. Aitaur Orwic, M.&a Dauou, a-ici Miss Bail. Mond, who wai roeoiv ed w:th aopiauso saici; sh>^ Wits afraid) siie was in a ratuior apu.o_,L t.ic humour that evening. They would be VO,T da«- appoinced to hear ti,c,m had1 been a nnsu'ider- SiaJiduig about. Miss Brigg-s's engagement to speak to them that night. The misundeistandhv was between the chief office and Miss Brggs. ai?o saw that Mr. Mond's name was dovvn°oii the handbills as coming to that meeting. It was qmto a misundei'steindiny"; Mr. Monu never pro- lii.scd to be (hero Lnafc night, and was keeping all engagement in London. Mr W. Carr, who in the absence of Mr. Mond and Miss Br.ggs^vas tho principal speaker of the even ng, dea t chiefly wicn the new Eisc;u pro- posals and the Unemployed Bill, He said the workers of the country had made up their minds to have nothing to do with Protection, and ac- cused Mr. Chamberlain of introducing the ques- tion with the aoie intention of trying to become leader of the Conservative party. The cau«y of the unemployed at the present time was, lie con- te-ruled, because we had got the wrong people at the helm. We had got the legislative machinery in the hands of people who did not care for tho wodare of the toiling masses. With regaid to the Unemployed Biij, a greater faro- had never been submitted before to the country. It was simply a delusion and a mockery, and one which would not solve the problem of the- da v. The oniy thing for the workmgmen was to band to- gether and try and bring such force to bear upon the picsent Government that would drive to resignation. It behoved tho workingmen to sü that some change was brought about. For Mr. Yei burgh as a gentleman ho had overv respect, but he d eag:eed with his politics, and he wanted tho workitigmen of Chester to set their mincts on bringing about a change in the political repre- sentation of the city. Instancing some of the legislation of the present Government, Mr. Carr mentioned the Small Dwellings Acquisition Act which had been adopted in Chester, and declared tnat the conditions laid down were such that the workingmen could not use it. He was very pleased to find that Mr. Mond was conducting this campaign in a pioper way. (Applause and •Wo will shove him up.) Sinoo they lost that good and able representative, Dr, Foster, the Liberals of Chester had been in a kind of de- spondency, and they had never nut their armour on until the sound of battle proclaimed the hour of the fight. They remembered the splendid oandidate they had in Mr. Idris, and -the short to ma-ke himself known to the people of Chester. If Mr. ldrl3 had had an opportunity of working up the constituency he (Mr. Carr) candidly believed the result would have been different. He was glad to say the present cam- paign was conducted quite. differently. They had got a candidate in time, and Mr. Mond was known to the workingmen and txrople of Chester. Tho speaker prooeedod to give Mr. Mond an advertisement as a member of the firm of Brun- ner. Mond and Co., talked of somo rumour about mou. being discharged, and praised the way in which the firm treated their eniniove« Mrs. Mond took up tho latter subject, savins ehe was astonished to hear there had been'baS ilka about tne firm. Mr. Mond was only one of ilka about the firm. Mr. Mond was only one of the company, and if a. man was discharged Ito was not discharged by Mr. illond. and if '\a man was engaged ho was not engaged by Mr. Mond (Hear, hear.) Mr. H. B. Dutton took the opportunity of re- turning thanks for his re-election to the Council, and for deploring the defeat of Mr. Cockrill. Mr. W. H. Denson spoke of the Education Act and said it had given greater dissatisfaction than any OR Act of the past decade. Referiing to. Mr. Cockrill's defeat, he said he was in a position, to know that Saltney was true to her old love. Where, they lost ground in the late municipal contest was in the city. Mr. Cockrill said lie would rather lose his seat than sell his principles. The cause of his defeat he knew. He had boon defeated because lie had tried to benefit the ladies of Saltney and the ladies of Chester. He had tried to protect, tho children of Chester, and because he had done this a certain band had turned the election. tie was naturally disappointed, but there was plenty of work to be done in Saltney and St. Mary's Ward that he was interested in, and the disappoint- ment of the election would make no difference* to any good work ho could do for the bonefit. of his fellow-resident9. (Applause.) Mrs. Humphrey Dsoley, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mrs. Mond, mentioned that her grand- father fought by the side of Richard Cobdori and John Bright for Free Trade.—Tho vote was seconded by Miss Dutton and carried.

HIMROD'S CURE FOR ASTHMA.-Estab- lished over a quarter of a century.—Prescribed by the Medical Faculty throughout the world. It is used as an inhalation, and without any after bad effects. Testimonials of effieacy from the late Lord Beaconsfield, Misa Emily Faithful, Sir Morett Mackenzie, and Oliver Wendell Holmes. Trial sample free by pest. In tins at 4/3. British Diepdt: 46, Holborn Viaduct, London; also of Nowbery, Barclay, Sanger, Edwards, May Roberte; Butler and Crispe; Thompson, Liverpool; all Wholeidfli Houses.