Evening Express

MUNICIPAL PROFITS. Parliamentary papers are favourite receptacles for the condemnation of muni- cipal trading, and the return just issued by the Local Government Board on the sub- ject of reproductive municipal under- takings, although the figures are fast getting out of date, will serve to remind us that on account of this form of extra- vagance the municipal indebtedness of the United Kingdom is becoming a more serious burden than the National Debt. Whatever may be the opinions regarding the desirability or otherwise of a National Debt, it can never be claimed that an out- standing debt of over a hundred millions on so-called reproductive undertakiDgl- i.e., trading concerns—is a good thing for the municipalities in the country. The outstanding borrowings of all municipali- ties amount now to £100,786,404, and on this magnificent sum the net profit is no less than the splendid total of 2378,2811 Can this, by any stretch of the imagina- tion, be called a satisfactory return? It is very poor comfort to Cardiff, Swansea, or Newport to be told that other towns have made profits, and that, between them, these amount to £ 378,281. Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport have enough to regret in their own unhappy ventures and their long record of financial loss. The charges for these reproductive under- takings have become a very serious burden on the rates, and this means handicapping large trading concerns, which have to cut down their expenses to the lowest possible limit in order to meet competition. Municipal undertakings are just those things which do not keep expenses down, and the large ratepayers have to pay the piper.

I CtaufTKl Bullets friends must wish that the curtain had not been rung up 011. yes- terday's proceedings of the War Commis- sion for the benefit of the public. Badly- nay, execrably—served as he was by the War Office at the start, his subsequent failure was largely his own. The evidence he gave yesterday does not redeem him. It is a pity that telegraphic dispatches should be worded clumsily enough to be misunderstood by a none too intelligent War Office. It is a greater pity still that Spion Kop was fought to give the men knowledge of war and confidence in them- selves and their officers." The claim that these advantages resulted from Spion Kop is preposterous. The engagement was a lesson in how not to make war. No Tommy Atkins will want to learn his drill, or act as a pawn for his officers to learn the art of war, on another Spion Kop.

Lady sanitary inspectors are increasing throughout the country, and a very impor- tant adjunct they are to the male variety. Men cannot well go round and instruct the females of various households in certain sanitary and kindred matters which it is important they should know. But a lady inspector can do these things perfectly, bringing to bear also that womanly tact and perspicuity which are of such value. Cardiff is to have a lady inspector, and now Flint is following suit. But some people in the North Wales borough are very angry, and regard the appointment as a reflection on the com- munity and on the present sanitary offi- cials. We cannot find that anyone has taken this absurd view in Cardiff, the opinion here being that there is ample work for a conscientious, keen-eyed, tact- ful lady inspector.

The attention of the police is respect- fully directed to the football matches which take place nightly in Bridge-street, Frederick street, and other Cardiff thoroughfares, to the great annoyance of residents as well as passers-by.

Mr. Councillor Sessions sought yester- day to allay public feeling in regard to the growing rates. He said his committee alone—the property and markets-paid some 21,800 or -P,1,900 in rates. Quite so; but this sum does not come out of the pockets of the members!

Mainly About People. The Duke of Roxburgh*, who moved the Address in the Lords at the re-assembling of Parliament, is in his twenty-seventh year, and a moot eligible bachelor. He served with the Composite Household Brigade in South Africa, and was mentioned in dispatches for the gallant rescue of a dis- mounted trooper under Are. He is in the 1st Life Guards, and had the honour of lead- ing the contingent in the late Queen's funeral procession. The Earl of Leitrim, who seconded the Address in the Lords. was also at the front, with the Irish Yeomanry, and celebrated his majority in the Boer prison at Nooitgedacht. Since his return he has espoused the only daughter of the late Mr. Robert Henderson. of Sedgwick Park. He is popular with his Irish temmts, though his great-uncle, the third Earl, wae shot dead one wild night in 1878. It is notable that both mover and) seconder of the Address in the Commons represent the beer interest. Mr. John Gretton repre- sents Bus, Radcliffe, Gretton, and 00. Like- wise South Derbyshire. The Hon. B. H. Fulke Greville, 8041 son-in-law of Mr. William McEwan has a direct interest in the prosperity of Edinburgh ales. The Cochrane* seem fated to be badly taed. That gallant old salt, Thomas Cochrane, tenth Earl of Dundonald, whose natal exploits gained him a reputation only second to Nel- son's, is an example. He constructed a sub- marine infernal machine for blowing up ship- ping, which he submitted to the Admiralty, in the eonrse of our naval war with France. It wae rejected as being "too terribly in- human." Nearly half a century later he made appli- cation to the naval authorities to be allowed to shatter Sevastopol "in a few hours" with his machine; but a second time the scheme was considered too atrocious for use in civilised warfare. The drawings of the machine are said to be pigeon-holed some- where In the Admiralty to this day. The great Earl Dondonald's whole life was a protest against tyranny and oppression, whether at home or abroad. He rendered great service in our own Navy, and left it because he refused to be a party to the cor- ruption and oppression he found there. He is the captain described by Captain Marryatt in Midshipman Easy." After leaving our service Dundonald fought for freedom in three revolutionary navies of Chili, Brasil, and Greece. To come to our own time, the present Lord Dundonald, a gallant and brainy officer, had to go out to South Africa at his own expense and in a private capacity. When the gune began to ahoot. however, the Government was extremely glad to avail itself of his services. He commanded the mounted brigade of the Natal Army, and was, it will be remembered, the first man into Ladysmith. The Marquess of Queensberry wae formerly a midshipman in the Royal Navy, and after- wards lieutenant in the King's Own Scottish Borderers, so that he is able to speak with experience of what the junior officers of both services have to expect. The marquess, who succeeded hie father, the well-known and somewhat eooentric eighth marquess, in 1900, was born in 1868. He married a daughter of the Bev. T. Walters, vicar of Boyton, in Corn- wall. "What are you swearing about?' inquired the senior member of the firm. "Oh, that new office boy," replied the silent partner; "he's never to be found when he's wanted." "Hereditary, I suppose. His father's a policeman, you know." The curators of the patronage of Edinburgh University have unanimously elected Dr. D. J. Cunningham. Professor of Anatomy in Dublin University, to succeed Sir William Turner in the Chair of Anatomy at Edinburgh, the vacancy having been eaueed by Sir William Turner's appointment as Principal of the University. Lady Beatrix Herbert is one of the hand- someat girls in society. Tall, and very like her graceful mother both in appearance and ways, her small oval face is framed with soft dark hair, and she has lovely dark eyes. She and her sister, Lady Muriel Herbert, are both very popolar among the young girls of society, and are to be seen at all the smart boy-and- girl parties, as well as at some of the biggest balls during the London season. Lady Muriel Herbert did not accompany her parents to India, but during their absence stayed about in the country with friends, and waa among those invited to Windsor during the visit of the King of Portugal for the theatricals which took place there. Mr. Wilson Barrett, who was yesterday fifty-seven, was born in Essex, his father being a farmer of that county. Early in life he determined to go on the stage, and in 1864 made his first appearance at Halifux. He first acted in London about twenty-five yea rs ago, at the Standard Theatre, where he played the part of "Tom Robinson" in lies Never Too Late to Mend." In 1874 be became a manager of the Amphitheatre at Leeds, which house was shortly afterwards burnt down, and II re-opened as the Grand in 1878. He did not arrive at the Lyric Theatre until 1899. He naa been five times to America and twice to Australia. Sir Phillip Burne Jones has been getting into trouble in the States, it seems, or. rather someone else has been getting him into trouble. He drew a caricature, it is said, of the American society woman, which an enter- prising paper printed, adding the name of a well-known hostess. Of cdnrse the "400," or, rather, the "600," as it is now called, rose in arms against the artist, who spends most of his time denying the story in other papers, which describe him as tearing his hair and crying, "It's a Lie! Lie! Lie!" Lansdowne House, in Berkeley-square, where Lord and Lady Lansdowne have just taken up their residence for the season, is one of the few interesting old mansions in London which have been in the possession of the same family for any length of time. Built by the Adams for Lord Bute in 1760, it was soon after purchased by Lord Shel- burne, afterwards Marquess of Lansdowne. It was here that Priestley, the great chemist, who was librarian to the marquess, made his discovery of oxygen, and here many men of science and letters were honoured guests. Crabbe, poor and unknown, begged here once to no purpose, but later his genius made him welcome, while "Tommy" Moore was also a frequent guest. One of the chief features of Lansdowne House is the magnificent ball-room, which is 100ft. long by 30ft. wide, and contains some beautiful statues. The dining-room, which is severely classic in style, was once famous for its gatherings of the old Whig coterie, and Cabinet Councils were held in the old days where now in the season the cream of English society is wont to gather to partake of the hospitality of Lord and Lady Lans- downe-a great change indeed, for politicians in those old days were more outspoken than the present generation, and Lansdowne House has seen many a turbulent gathering in its time. Among* the Ministerialists who are un- avoidably absent from the meeting of Par- liament is Mr. H. C. Leigh-Bennett, who was taken suddenly and dangerously ill a few days ago at Windlesham, in Surrey. The member for the Chertsey Division of Surrey is a barrister, with a leaning towards local government, for he is a member of the Surrey County Council, chairman of the Chertsey District Council, and chairman of the Thorpe Parish Council. He is also a railway director and a connoisseur of "old masters." He is fifty years of age, and has only been in Par- liament since 1897.

"THE SILKEN REIN," Our New Story, Begins Next Saturday.

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY I Suggested Electrification Scheme I We understand, says the London "Evening Standard," that the directors of the Great Western Railway Company have appointed a committee of their number to investigate the question of the electrification of portions of their system, and that this committee have called in Professor Kennedy, the well-known elect rioat expert, to advise them, in conjunc- tion with Mr. Churchward, who, at the begin- ning of the present year, succeeded Mr. Dean as chief mechanical engineer of the com- pany. Mr. 0. G. Mott, chairman of the City and South London Railway, who has been at the head of that pioneer electric line since its inception, and who is an authority, th,re- fore. on the advantages of electrical traction, is a director of the Great Western Bailway. I

PITIFUL TALE OF CHILD NEGLECT I Mr. W. H. Mathias and Dr. E. Naunton Davies, sitting at the second court at Porth this morning, heard a pitiful tale of child neglect. Inspector Thomas, of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, preferred a charge against Frede- riok Wright, 27, Furnace-row, Pontygwaith, of neglecting his child in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering." Mr. Spickett. Pontypridd, prosecuted.—The Inspector said he had given the defendant warning in 1900. Subsequently witness visited Upper Boat, where the family lived. They occupied a cellared dwelling, but made use of only one room. The wife was very ill in bed with a baby ten weeks old. The child was fairly well nourished, but had not been attended to that day, although it was half-past three o'clock. There were in the same room three other children, one of them, though it was a very cold day, not having boots or stockings on his feet. The same child complained of hunger. A doctor was called in, and the lower part of the baby's body was found to be raw owing to continued contact with wet garments. While the inspector and doctor were there the defen- dant came in with some food, a pair of boots for the boy, and also a coat and vest from pawn. The doctor said he had warned the defendant the previous day of the inspector's intended visit, and the wife complained of being unable to look after herself or the children. In the feeding bottle were the leavings of condensed milk turned sour. In consequence of a threat that the children would be taken away, the defendant engaged a woman to look after the wife and children, but she was totally unfit for the work. Wit- ness made further visits, and found the con- dition of things slightly improved. In December the inspector discovered that the family had left UpperO Boat. Receiving a complaint from a sanitary inspector about the state of 27, Furnace-row, witness found in Jan uary that the occupier of the house was the defendant. The husband, wife, and four children slept in the same bed, and the etench in the room was almost unbearable. The wife was still very ill, and the baby emaciated. The children were removed from the house, and in response to the wish of the mother, she was taken with them.—Defen- dant said he gavo his wife plenty of money- Dr. Evans (Pontypridd), said he weighed the baby, and found it was ten pounds, whereas it ought to have been twice as heavy.-Further evidence was given by Police-sergeant Bowen and others, and Mr. Mathias said the case had been made out very clearly. Defendant would be fined £10, or imprisoned for two mohths.—Defendant said he could not pay.

SUICIDES ON A MAIL STEAMER The New Zealand mail steamer Gothic, due in London to-day from Wellington, after calling at Plymouth, reports having two dis- tressing suicides on board during the voyage. iOn January 26 a third-class passenger named Buckley disembowelled himself, cut his throat, and almost severed the left wrist. Last Mon- day night Mr. A. Cooper, formerly chief officer of the mail steamer Corinthio, hanged himself in his cabin on the Gothic, on which he was a passenger to London.

THEATRE ROYAL, CARDIFF. Mr. and Mrs. Kendal and their talented company, which comprises players who have been with them for years, and whose loyal help and artistic impersonations hate added lustre to the Kendal name, visit the Theatre Boyal, Cardiff, on February 26. opening with Still Waters Run Deep," the sterling old comedy by Tom Taylor, a clever piece of work which suits the lover of light entertainment admirably. On Friday will be performed "The Elder Miss Blossom," an instanee of modem comedy at something like its sweetest and best, ever meriting a warm welcome. Satur- day will be devoted to the new piece, Mrs. Hamilton's Silence," an adaptation from Der Dotnenweg" of Felix Philippi. Mr. Kendal is said to have an excellent part as a bluff, kindly, old Glasgow shipowner, while Mrs. Kendal gives a moving picture of Mrs. Hamilton, a loving woman who casts aside unhesitatingly every ordinance of God and man for the sake of saving her child. So great a theme in the hands of a dramatist of any power could not but yield a moving and human play.

BAROMETRICAL INDICATIONS The following an the readings since five o'clock last evening, as gifen by the barometer in the vestibule of the Bveainj Kipress," St. Mary-streat, Cardiff, which 11 33ft. abcrfu men sea level:—

THE LONDON PRESS. Examples of Their Views To-day. BRIEF EXTRACTS FROM LEADING ARTICLES. Cape Colony The leaders of the Cape Dutch are men of education and ability, and they can hardly fail to realise that, whatever may be their desires, the dream of a. butch South African Republic has been shattered for ever by the war. Men like Mr. Hofmeyr and the other Bond politicians who had private interviews with Mr. Chamberlain yesterday cannot ignore this palpable and fundamental fact in their plans for the future.—"Times." A loyal Cape Colony will be a powerful factor in a. Federated South Africa, but a dis- loyal, discontented, divided, or even dubious Colony will, as Mr. Chamberlain said, almost in the words of Mr. Rhodes, be left entirely in the cold. The Moderate Dutch have the issues largely in their own hande.—"Daily Telegraph." Municipal Trading I It used to be laid down as a. general rule that the municipality ought only to embark on those undertakings which could not be so successfully conducted by private manage- ment. But it is at leaat questionable if this rule holds good any longer in England and Wales.—"Morning Post." The Turk's Hideous Rule I It is due from the Powers as a whole that they should repair the wrong they did in leaving Ma-cedonia to its fate 25 years ago, and that they should remove at all costa the curse that hangs over the Christian victims of the Turk's hideous rule.—"Daily News." Before the War According to General Buller, the British I Army had not been trained for war. The nation, in fact, was before the war spending millions upon a force which was of little more serious value than the wooden artillery of the Chinese. Even now it is certain that this disastrous policy of neglecting war-train- ing is being perpetuated, for the reason that the Army has not the manoeuvring grounds without which it cannot become a serious weapon.—"Daily Mail." < The Irish Land Bill The cautiously-worded reference in the King's Speech to the forthcoming Irish Land Bill has been interpreted most favourably in Ireland, and the comments of the leading local organa indicate the general anticipation that the Bill will not be a tentative or peddling measure, but a final and satisfactory settlement of the land question.—"Daily Graphic." A London Vacancy Lord Oharlea Beresford's appointment to the Channel Fleet will. on the one ha, nd. muzzle a candid friend of the Govern-ent- though past experience leads us to believe that the muzzle will get loose occasionally— and, on the other hand, provide London with its first bye-election since 1900.—" Morning Leader." Railway Reform Passengers complain with justice of bad connections, inadequate services on this line, and unpunctuality on that. Shippers, mer- chants, farmers, and producers of every kind have a heavy bill against the railways on the score of rates, while the consumer, of course, consequently suffers in each instance.—"Daily Express." The Cloud at the Cape Mr. Chamberlain tells the statesmen of the Colony that they have an opportunity now which may never recur. If he can leave South Africa with the assurance that the unity he desired could be brought about and the things of the put forgotten, he may feel that his mission bag been fulfilled. May the statesmen of South Africa listen to his per. suasions It may yet be that he may suoceed in making the Bond as truly loyal as it is fond of pretending to he.—"Morning Adver- tiser."

I A RELIGIOUS ORDER. Remarkable Dispute Heard at Bristol Assizes. Yesterday at Bristol (before Mr. Justice Channell) the case of Jones v. Ellis was tried with a common jury. This was an action between two ladies, and the claim was for money expended at the defendant's request for the benefit of the defendant. It appeared that both ladies held advanced High Church views, and the plaintiff till the year 1901 lived at a place called Hyde, near Salisbury; but in that year she and the defendant, at well as two other ladies, a Miss 8teel and a Miss East- wood, determined to found an order based on the rule of the Benedictine Order. It was necessary to have a larger house than the one at Salisbury, so the plaintiff went to Clevedon, and there, at the request of the defendant, took a house at the yearly rent of 990. and, in addition, purchased a quantity of furni- ture, including a new organ. It was further agreed that all the adherents of the order should put in all their money. In pursuance of this agreement, the plaintiff became the mother superior of the order, and a further term was that the defendant should not retire for at least one year. In pursuance of this agreement, it was alleged, the plaintiff moved to Clevedon and the defendant came to reside with her as well as Miss Eastwood. Matters went smoothly enough at first, but Miss Steel had become a Roman Catholic, so that she was not able to remain in the order any longer. In April last the defendant left the house, and refused to pay any moneys to the plaintiff.— For the defence, it was alleged that there were several conditions precedent upon which the defendant had relied before she would advance any money, and that the plaintiff by her own conduct had terminated the tenancy, and had thereby absolved the defendant from any liability.—The jury were discharged at this point by consent, and the parties asked the judge to take the case alone. —Mr. Justice Channell said it it was only to be a question of how much the liability was to be he would assess and decide that matter. —This the counsel agreed to, and his lordship thereupon heard evidence. After carefully going through various items, the learned Judge said that he would give judgment for the plaintiff for £47 10s., and on the question of costs said that neither party had been entirely successful.—After consideration the defendant offered M for costs, and the learned Judge said that that was a very proper arrangement, and just the sum he would have suggested.

SOCIAL EVENING, AT CARDIFF A social evening was held in the iron-room, Bromsgrove-street, Cardiff, last night, in oem. neotion with St. Barnabas Church. An inte- resting programme was gone through. Songs were sung by Miss Annie Glossip and Miss Ethel Chinn, Messrs. Pomeroy, B. R. CI eves, and S. Longville. Mr. B. T. Chinn gave a capital performance on the concertina. Selec- tions were rendered by the St. Barnabas Brass Band, Mr. F. W. Kitcher oontrituting a trom- bone solo. A comic duet by Messrs. Quips and Johns and a sketch by Messrs. Ethel and Rich concluded the proceedings. Mies E. Burge was the accompanist.

WOfoAN DECAPITATED ON THE RAILWAY. While proceeding to a postal apparatus on the Kincardine Line, near Auchterarder, to- day, the rural postman came upon the body of a. woman with the bead practically severed from the trunk. The body was afterwards identified as that of Jlrø. Taylor, widow of James Taylor, a tenant of the Farmton Farm, on Lord StratbaUan's estate.

'Mr. S. A. BRAIN DEAD. Popular Representative of Public Life. PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LATE ALDERMAN. We regret to have to announce the death of Alderman S. A. Brain, J.P., which occurred at his residence at Penarth this morning about half-past nine o'clock. It is only natural that the sudden attack of cerebral mischief, which has so quickly terminated in death, has shocked not only the members of the family, but the thousands of friends whom the late Alderman Brain had made since he took up his residence in Cardiff. As we have already stated, he was on his way to the South of France when the first symptoms of the fatal malady showed themselves. He had reached London on Wed- nesday in last week, when he felt unwell, and a doctor who was called in did not discover that anything serious was the matter. The medical man advised his return to Penarth, and stated that there would be no danger in his travelling. The pulse was a little high, but the temperature was below normal. On Thursday a sort of stupor seems to have set in, and the alderman wanted rest. His condition on Friday wae much the same, but on Saturday he revived, and it was then believed that he was recover- THE LATE ALDBRICAN BRAIN. I ing from what from the first was considered to be a touch of inftuenza, with its consequent prostration. On Sunday he was worse, but it was thought that this was possibly due to the effects of some stringent medicines which had been administered. On Monday the family became alarmed at the patient's oondition. He was in a perfectly comatose condition, and fears were entertained that the malady was more serious than at first imagined. It was evident that the brain was in some way affected, and a telegram was sent to Sir William Richard Gowers, the eminent specialist on brain diseases. Sir William had just returned from Paris, where he had been attending to Mr. Schwab, the general manager of the great American Steel Trust, who has for some time suffered from over, work and consequent temporary cerebral paralysis, and he was not prepared to make an immediate journey to Cardiff. In this dilemma Dr. Mitchell Clarke, of Clifton, was sent for, and, after an examination of the patient, confirmed the worst fears of the rela- tives. Sir William Gowers arrived about three o'clock on Tuesday, and, after a careful diagnosis, had no doubt that there was cerebral trouble, caused, probably, by a clot of blood on one of the cells of the brain. Unfortunately, there was no remedy either by operation or otherwise,* and all hope of the patient's recovery was gone. On Tuesday evening Alderman Brain was unconscious and helpless, waiting the time when death would relieve the anxious relatives of a suspense which was pitiful to witness. The extraordinary thing is that a man practically in the prime of life (for he was only 53 years of age, and very active), without a possibility of business or domestic worry, should be thus suddenly struck down. He never suffered any previous illness of a serious character, and "roughed it" in Volunteer and Regular camps with the strongest and the youngest of the officers. He was abstemious in regard to alooholic drinks, rarely taking more at a sitting than a glass or two of Scotch whisky and Apollinaris, a refreshment which he always considered the least injurious. Some reference has been made to an accident which happened to him about eighteen months ago at Porthkerry, but this, we are assured on medical authority, had nothing whatever to do with the brain disease which caused his death. Mr. Brain passed away in the midst of his family and relatives, including Mrs. Boole, sister-in-law, and Mr. J. D. Thomas, brother-in- law. l Two Half-Masted Flags. Immediately the mournful communication was made'to the Mayor of Cardiff, a flag was hoisted at half-mast on the Town-hall, where there are now two half-masted flags convey- ing the sad fact that two members of the corporation have just been stricken down by the hand of death—Alderman Brain aad Coun- the hand of death- cillor Norman. Biographical Sketch. No more popular representative of the public life of Cardiff ever lived than Alder- man S. A- Brain. In whatever company he moved, to whatever purpose he devoted his energies, whether political, social, or other- wise, he was always able to make his personal characteristics felt; always able to command the reepect and even the admiration of his opponents. JSlessed with a presentable figure, endowed with a sweet reaaonableness" which enabled him to appreciate the argu- menta of those who differed from him, and an affability which was almost irresistible, he made friends wherever he went. Engaged in what io called the trade," he had among his beet supporters those who would vote for the complete extinction of the traffic. It was the personality of the man and his exceptional moderation in all matters, coupled with an extreme aversion to polemical disputes, which placed him in a position which was unique in the history of the town. These were the characteristics which enabled him to retain his seat as a councillor in such a Radical ward as Grange town, and which earned for him also the goodwill of all who came in contact with him, irrespective of religious creed or political conviction. Tracing down the details of his life we find that Alderman S. A. Brain was the second eon of Mr. Samuel Brain, of Kingswood, Glou- cestershire, and was bom in 1850, so that at his death he was only 53 years of age. He was married in 1872 to a daughter of Mr. J. Thomas, of Cardiff, the proprietor of the Old Brewery in that town, with which the subject of the sketch was connected throughout his commercial life. It was in 1876 that he first took an active part in the business, which was then a comparatively small concern. In conjunction with his uncle, Mr. J. B. Brain, of Stoke Bishop, he developed the business, and converted it into one of the most success- ful in South Wales. When, for family reasons, a limited liability company was formed, Alderman Brain became chairman and managing director, and his cousins, Meærl. J. U. and W. H. Brain, the famous cricketers, after their collegiate education, also became directors. This took place about six years ago, and the prosperity which has followed is in a great measure due to the business capacity of the subject of our sketch. It was through the persuasive eloquence of Alderman Carey that Alderman Brain allowed himself to be nominated for municipal honours for the Canton Ward in 1885. when he and the late Mr. Daniel Loughor defeated Dr. James and Mr. F. J. Beavan. Then came the division of wards and re-distribution of seats, and in 1891 Alderman Brain was allotted to Grangetown. Here he wae opposed by a work- # ing man's representative in the person of Mr. Gardiner. In one of the most Radical wards of the town he was returned to the council by a majority of 258, a. proof of his popularity among all classes of the com- munity. In 1894 he was challenged by Mr. Allen Upward, and again succeeded in defeat- ing his opponent, with the result that in 1897 he was allowed a walk-over. In November, 1899, he was elected mayor, and the number of public functions which fell to his lot were exceptional. There was the outbreak of war in South Africa, and Alderman Brain hospi- tably entertained many of the reserve detach- ments which were sent out to the front. When the mobilisation of the Militia Battalion of the Welsh Regiment took place preparatory to their departure for South Africa, he received, as mayor of the town, the colours of the regiment, which for nearly three years remained in the council-chamber unfurled-a. standing reminder of the arduous work which the Welsh boys had undertaken in the defence of the Empire. When those colours were returned by Mr. F. J. Beavan (the ex-mayor of Cardiff), Major Brain was a prominent figure in the military display which took place in the Cardiff Arms Park. But his chief idea during his year of office was to en. tertain in sections all classes of the com- munity, the trades council and the friendly societies in particular. He spared no trouble and stinted no money to maintain the reputa- tion of the town as the capital of Wales, and the hospitality which it has always given to the important public bodies who visit the town. It is reported that his out- of-pocket expenses, in addition to his salary during his year of office, approached 93,000. The most important department of corpora- tion work to which Alderman Brain latterly devoted his attention was that of the finance committee. As chairman of this committee, he brought to bear the expe- rience of a successful commercial man, and never failed to impress upon the members the importance of dealing with the borough finances in the same manner as any private company would treat them. The grasp which he possessed of the various intricate matters which came before this committee only strengthened his position, and if he had a fault, it was in the direction of being too generous to those who disagreed with him. He was on several other committees of the corporation, and always brought a level head to bear upon the business to be transacted. Another phase in the character of the late alderman is the work which he did for the country in connection with the Volunteer Service. He joined the ranks of the Glamor- gan Artillery Volunteers in 1865, and quickly rose to the position of aergeant,, Busi- ness demands then compelled him to resign, but later he was gawtted ae captain of No. 7 (Cardiff) Company, or Battery, as it was then known. Re- joining a-o captain, he rose to the rank of major, and at his death was in command of No. 11 Company (Barry). Like most men who rise from the ranks and pass through the grades of non-commissioned offieership, he knew his drill, and even if he had not pos- sessed that charming personality which was always in evidence, he would have been a popular officer. Had he lived, there can be little doubt that eventually he would have succeeded to the command of the battalion. As it was he devoted much time and money in order to procure such efficiency as may be possible under the Volunteer regu- lations. That his efforts were appreciated is shown in the fact that for several years he held a staff appointment at Shoeburyness, where the National Artillery competitions annually took place. He took a detachment to London for the King's Coronation cere- mony, for which he was awarded a medal, and was in command of another detachment from Barry which went to Plymouth for quiok- firing practice. In fact, artillery work was one of his chief hobbies, and he left no det&il untouched. In parochial matters, both in Penarth and Grangetown, Alderman Brain was ever to the fore. At All Saints' at Penarth, where he was in his earlier days a. prominent member of the ohoir, there is a handsome oak pulpit to remind the worshippers of his generosity. and at the church of the Holy Nativity at Cogan a stained-glass window. To St. Paul's at Grangetown he was a liberal contri- butor, and the poor in that district will never forget hie kindly remembranoe of them at Christmas and! other feast days. In 1899 the late Alderman Brain wae elected chairman of the Oonnty Brewere' Association, which includes the whole of South Wales, Monmouthshire, and Herefordshire, and his connection with that body enabled him to be- come a freeman of the City of London. Alder- man Brain was deputy-chairman of the exeou. tive council of the Cardiff Exhibition, and in that capacity inaugurated a scheme by which 33,000 burgesses and their wivee were admitted free on a particular day. The brunt of the expense fell upon Alderman Brain, the sub- scriptions outside those of the local news- papers being very small. Some years ago he stood for the school board, and headed the poll with over 10,000 votes, but pressure of business and other public appointments did not allow h\D1 to continue his interest in the work, On several occasions Alderman Brain was approached with the view of his becom- ing Conservative candidate for Cardiff, but he always considered that he had done his fair share of work for his country, and refused the honour. Latterly, however, when he prac- tically made up his mind to resign his seat as an alderman of the borough, he looked more favourably upon the suggestion, and his name was mentioned in connection with the seat by many of the more prominent Conservatives of the town. Alderman Brain was the father of three daughters, all of whom are married, the happy partners of those ladies being well- known not only at Penarth, but in Cardiff, namely. Mr. Sidney Sweet-Escott, Mr. H. Cheater Vivian, and the Rev. j. Ostrehan, senior curate of Cogan. A portrait of the late alderman, painted by Mr. George Ostre- han, brother of the rev. gentleman referred to, waa presented to the corporation, and hangs in the council chamber. Tribute by his Colleagues. A special meeting of the Cardiff Par- liamentary Committee had been called at the Town hall this morning to consider legal business. When the mem- bers had assembled, -4 Worship the Mayor (Mr. E. Thomas, Ooohfarf ") said that, in view of the sad nme they had heard that morning, he felt aure they would all agree to postpone the consideration of the matters down for discussion. His worship then for- mally moved a Tote of condolence with the relatives of the late Alderman Brain, and, in doing so, said it appeared to him, to quote a familiar phrase, that the Angel of Death" had been so near to them during the past week that they could almost hear the flutter- ing of his wings. It was difficult to realise that two colleagues, who it seemed but yester- day were with them in the full vigour of life, were now no more. The late Alderman Brain possessed so many good qualities that it was a distinct loss to the community that such a man should have been taken from them in the prime .of life. Alderman Jacobs, as one who had enjoyed the late alderman's intimate friendship for many years, seconded the vote, and said that a more generous, more feeling man they could not meet with. He was ever ready to help the poor and needy, and was always sympathetic towards any object for the well-being of the community. Alderman Ramsdale said the late alderman was kind-hearted and generous to a fault. With his winsome smile he was ever ready to soothe sorrow and drive away tears. Mr. F. J. Beavan thought that for geniality and generosity of spirit Alderman Brain held the very first place amongst them. Mr. Courtis, speaking with considerable feel- ing, said that, as they might remeber, he acted as the late alderman's deputy during his mayoralty, and no one knew better than he did what his generosity was. Mr. Bird said he regarded the late Mr. Brain as one entirely free from anything approach- ing prejudice, and he very much admired him. The vote was agreed to in silence, and the committee adjourned. Artillery Ball Postponed. In consequence of the death of Alderman S. A. Brain, J.P., the ball arranged by the 2nd Glamorgan Royal Garrison Artillery at the Drill-hall, Oardiff, on Tuesday next, has been postponed. The late Mr. Brain held the posi- tion of major in the corps named. Date of the Funeral. The funeral will take place on Monday.

FAILURE OF A SOLICITOR I At the London Bankruptcy-court to-day a trustee was appointed under the failure of Mr. W. HI. Booty, solicitor, Raymond-buildings, Gray's Inn. The liabilities were stated at £ 150.000, and the assets were estimated at £ 200,000, but said to be of doubtful realisable value.

FAILURE AT NEW TREDEGAR A meeting of the creditors of Solomon Hill, carrying on business as J. and S. Hill, at Vic- toria Stores, Elsie-road, Bargoed, was held to- day at Merthyr.—The statement of affairs showed liabilities amounting to V27 It. 8d. The assets were put down at R,126 2s. 10d., leaving a deficiency of E-300 18s. lOd. Bad debts, insufftoient capital, and pressure by j cre4iton were the caumo to which the ,u,, was "cribed.

BIG FIRE AT GLASGOW Serious Destruction at the Harbour. STREAMS OF BURNING OIL OVERCOME. Another great harbour fire broke out about ten o'clock last night, originating in Stevens's general stores, Govan-road, adjoining Glasgow Dooks. As the stores were stocked with large quantities of resin, paraffin, naphtha, &c., the flames spread with great speed, and in a few minutes an area of several acres was burning like a huge furnace. The burning oil ran towards the harbour, and the Allan steamship line sheds caught. At eleven o'clock the fire was extending, but the aid of the Glasgow Fire Brigade had been invoked, and it was hoped the conflagration would be grappled with. A telegram received at an early hour this morning says:-The fire threatens to spread to the boiler-house and dynamo sheds of the Glasgow harbour tunnel, and the total damage cannot be less than £ 20,000. Three weeks ago kM,000 damage was done by a fire in the adjoining docks. The fire broke out afresh this morning, and all available firemen were summoned to the scene. Burning oil ran in streams towards the Clyde, and the firemen took to boats to prevent the flaming oil reaching the shipping. In this they were successful. The Clyde ship- ping sheds have been destroyed, and also the landing ferry stages. The loss will reach £ 40,000, only a small part being covered by insurance.

OCEAN TRAGEDY. 1 The Alleged Murders at Sea. I Mail advices to hand, dated Mobile, January 30, state that the crew of the British barque Veronica, which was burned at sea, and four members of whose orew are under arrest at Liverpool, charged with mutiny and murder, were shipped at Scranten, Miss., forty-one miles from Mobile. The Veronica was in port at Ship Island from August 30 to October 8, and the crew on board when she sailed on her ill-fated voyage were:—Captain Alex. Shaw. Cardigan Bridge, Prince Edward Island; Chief Officer A. M'Leod, Belfast, Prince Edward iBland; William Smith. Rot- terdam; Alexander Bravo, Calcutta; Henry Flohr, Bahin Strauss, Hanover; Gustaf Johanson, Talma, Sweden; J. Person, Essing- burg, Sweden; Gustaf Ban, Stettin, Ger- many; Otto Monsson, Lubeck, Germany; Frederick Abrahamsan, Sunderland, England; A. Thomas, Norfolk, Va.; Patrick Dorran, St. John's, Newfoundland; and Moses Thomas, cook. Captain Shaw secured most of the crew himself, and they were taken on board the Veronica at Biloxi, Mass. Captain Shaw was regarded as a strict disciplinarian, but of a very genial and pleasing manner. The four men in custody are Smith, Flohr, Ran, and Monsson, and it was upon a state- ment made by Moses Thomas, the black cook, that they were arrested and charged with the murder of Captain Shaw and the rest of the crew.

SMALL-POX. I Case Notified at Cardiff Dooks Yesterday afternoon Dr. Walford, medical omcer of health at Cardiff, removed a modi- fled case of small-pox to the small-pox hos- pital from the Hamadryad Hospital. The patient is a sailor from a steamer trading be- tween Cardiff and Liverpool.

A FATAL FALL. I Llanelly Man Breaks His Neck. About two o'clook this afternoon a fatal r accident occurred at the Llanelly Conserva- tive Club to the popular manager, Mr. Henry Harris. Mr. Harris was unfortunate enough to fall down the steps leading to the under- ground kitchen, and only survived the acci- dent a few minutes. Dr. J. M. David was immediately in attendance, but could do nothing. It is believed that death was caused by a fractured neck. Mr. Harris was well known in the town, and was highly successful as the manager of the Conservative Club. Before taking over the management he was the lioensee for many years of the Central Hotel. The news of his tragic death has caused a painful sensation in Llanelly.

OONVOCATION OF CANTERBURY The Primate to-day addressed the Lower House of Convocation of the Province of Can- terbury. After alluding to the fact that for two hundred years he was the first Arohbiahop who had the advantage of sitting as a member of that assembly, his Grace said their desire was to make Convocation as serviceable to the nation and the Church as it could pos- sibly be. Its serviceableness had grown quite steadily since its revival, and Convocation was no longer looked on with "jealous amuse- ment." The practical results of its work had been seen in the co-relation of primary and secondary education, in combatting intem- perance, and in grappling with impurity. He went on to indicate how, without breaking with the past. Convocation might increase its beneficent influence by reforming certain rules of its procedure, which he regarded as archaic and out of date.

BOON TO TELEPHONE SUBSCRIBERS. The Secretary of the Post Office states that, although arrangements have been made at all the chief towns of the United Kingdom and at many of the smaller towns by which sub- scribers to telephone exchanges can commu- nicate over the trunk wires at any hour of the day or night, it is found that little or no use is made of the system after eight o'clock at night and before six in the morning. With a view to promote a more extended use of the trunk wires during the night. the Postmaster- General has decided to allow a double period of conversation—that is, six'minutes—between eight p.m. and six a.m. for the same fee as is charged for a single period of three minutes during the day. The new arrangement will come into operation on March 1 next.

CHASED BY THE DEVI-L A young farmer from County Mayo is in a Dublin hospital awaiting a charge of attempt- ing to commit suicide by drowning. He con- ceived the idea that he was being chased by the devil," and to avoid the evil one he pro- ceeded to the Grand Canal, divested himself of his clothing, and walked into the water up to his neck. In this position he stood, with a large crowd on the towpath as spectators, until a policeman came and removed him to the hospital.

NAZARETH-HOUSE ASSAULT-AT-ARMS One of the events on the excellent pro- gramme of the Nazareth House assault-at- arms next Monday weeft;, which is being looked forward to with the keenest interest looally, is the aix-round exhibition bout between Chris Oteu-ke, the ex-amateur eham. pion, and Jam Driscoll, of Cardiff. In his first contest as a professional, Clarke suffered dsfeat, but he has since regained his repu- tation by winning several important com- petitions. In his meeting with Driscoll, an opportunity will occur of seeing how the local man. who is undoubtedly a clever boxer, will stand in comparison with a first-class man.

ROATH HARRIER8 I At a meeting of the committee of the Roath (Cardiff) Harriers this week. the following teams were selected to represent the club in the Welsh Cross-country Championship, to be held at Oaerleon on March 7:—A team: J. A. Elliott, H. T. Johnson, Barry Tylke, Rhys Evans, J. P. Mountjoy (captain), H. H. Wadej L. V. Everett. A. L. Pow. T. W. White, W. Tiler, J. Summers, and 0. W. Winter. Reserve. -C. King. T. O. Edwards, and B. Ambrose. B. team: B. Ambrose (captain), W. H. Facey. J. G. Malzard. S. Ball, M. Gray, W. i M. Parker, T. L. Coppock, 0. Johnson, F. W. Pipe, T. O. Edwards, C. King, and J. S. Pow. Reserves:-T. E. Jones, W. T. Lewis, and J. E. Evans.

WELSHMEN IN TROUBLE. Tttoustnds of Welshmen are in pain and trouble every day through Backache, Lumbago, Gravel, Kidney Disease, Dropsy, Wind. Water Com- plaints. AU those will find a positive cure in Holdroyd's Gravel Pills. Money returned if not iattilled. 1.. 144. all Chemists. Post free twelve stamps. HOLDBOYD'S MEDICAL HALL, CLBCXHEATON, You" *Uoo"

LEYTON HORROR. I Edwards" in a Contrite Spirit. HE APOLOGISES FOR HIS CONDUCT IN COURT. Edgar Owen, or "Edwards," who will be hanged on March 3 for the murder of William J. Darby and family, has considerably altered his demeanour during the past few days. He no longer manifests great excite- meiit or swears at his warders. Instead of restlessly pacing in the condemned cell in Wandsworth Prison, he sits silently on his cot or chair, and often does not speak for hours. "Edwards" has written a letter to his soli- citor, Mr. Harry Lovibond, in which he expresses sorrow for his conduct at the Old Bailey, when he frequently interrupted the proceedings or sent notes to his oounsel de- manding that the examination of witnesses be stopped. "I cannot in the least account for my conduct," he says. "I must have greatly marred the proceedings, but I was like one demented during the trial, and also for a day or two prior to its commencement. I am heartily sorry for all that occurred. I am getting on as well as I could possibly under the circumstances. Of course, I need hardly tell you I shall be glad when the end comes, and that I shall use the time allotted to me to the beat of my abilty to prepare for that end. I am more than satisfied with the result. It was what I wished for, and I beg your forgiveness for the many obstacles I put in your way when you were doing your utmost to thwart my condemnation." "Edwards" expresses his "sincere gratitude to Mr. Hughes for the masterly speech he made in my behalf." Three doctors have made a oareful examina- tion of "Edwards's" mental condition, in- cluding Dr. Scott, the Brixton Prison medical officer, and Dr. Luff, who testified in relation to the Camberwell murders. A joint report will be made to the Home Secretary, and further examinations will be made of "Edwards" in private. "Edwards" has had a long conversation with the prison ohaplain. He never sleeps more than two hours at a time, and has not yet availed himself of the privilege allowed him of using tobacco. Keeping Germans in their Place New York, Thursday.—A Maracaibo tele- gram of yesterday's date aaye:-The com- mander of the Panther this morning requested Fort San Carlos for authorisation to enter Lake Maracaibo. He was informed that the request should be referred to the authorities at Caracas, and that while awaiting a reply the Panther must wait outside. The incident has created fresh excitement. Three thousand troops have arrived here, and will be transported to Caracas. Another tele- gram from Puerto Cabello reports that the officers of the Vineta on Tuesday drove over the town in oarriages. They went to Fort Solano, and asked permission to xisit them interior. The commander received them politely, but said that an order from the President would be necessary. The Germans left, laughing. A Caracas diapuatch announces that the Supreme Court has awarded the heirs of an American named Henry Rudoff $700,000 damages on account of the annulment of a concession granted to him in 1892 to build a market at Caracas. The United States representatives attended all the sittings of the court, and watched the case closely. It seems unlikely that Mr. Bowen will represent Venezuela at The Hague, as his presence there might cause the Relief that the United States was over zealous on behalf of Vene- zuela.—Renter.

POLITICAL NOTES. Ballot for Private Members' Bills. No fewer than 343 members of the House of Commons had put down their names to parti- cipate in the ballot which took place to-day for precedence for private members' Bills and motions. Mr. David M'lver came out first in the drawing, and the next in order were Mr. Chapman, Dr. Macnamara, Mr. C. M'Arthur, Mr. Butcher, Sir Gilbert Parker, and Mr. Galloway. Two of the Irish Nationalists had each put down his name for two numbers, but their double chance was disallowed.

DOWN WITH MAN. Spinsters Scatter Love to the Winds. "The Society for the Promotion of Man- Indifference Among Women" ie among the latest of organisations. Its home is at Guild. ford. and is called the "Spinsters' Retreat"- some of the spinsters being very attractive. Regulation I. sets- forth that all members muat have attained the age of seventeen, wear long skirts, and drees their hair in a be- coming manner. Members are inTited to render their appearance as attractive as pos- sible, and to be maidenly in their conduct. Members axe also compelled by the law of the society (a) to be entirely proof against the charms of man; (b) to have a wholesome contempt for fwiur in love; and (c) to abhor marriage. Love-sick maidens trembling on the awful precipice of connubial existence are to be acquainted with the advantages of the society, members of which are urged to earn their own living, and thus be independent of such an evil as a husband. Fines for breach of the rules run up to something like M. It is at least comforting to know that members are permitted to shed the light of their friendship on the opposite sex, but such friendship must be absolutely free from sentiment and "everything that I appertains to that undesirable state of being." It is pointed out that a great advantage that members will enjoy over their sisters will be the entire independence of their position and the freedom which they will experience when associating with the sterner sex in business hours or in pleasure.

CARDIFF TAILORS FAILURE The first meeting of the creditors of George Stewart, merchant tailor, residing at Mark- street, Canton, and recently trading as Stewart and Stewart, in the Castle Arcade, Cardiff, was held at the Official Receiver's Office. Cardiff, this morning. Debtor's defi- oiency was stated to be £ 529 3s. 6d., and he alleged as his causes of failure, "want of oapi- tsul, keen competition,, and heavy working expenses, and illness in family." He com- menced business in 1894 in partnership with a man named Harpur, whom he subsequently bought out for .£120. In July, 1899, he was compelled to effect an arrangement with his creditore, paying a composition of 10s. in the J8. He continued trading with the aid of borrowed money and the assistance of his creditors, but was not now in a position Co submit any offer for composition. The Official Receiver (Mr. George David) remains trustee.

FATAL FALL OF ROOF At Tetrist Colliery, No. 2, Tredegar, late last night, Joseph Dickson, sixteen, re- siding at Edwards-terrace, Tredegar, was killed by a fall of roof. John Saddler, Union- street, Tredegar, who was working in the same stall, was also seriously injured.

AMERICA CUP DEFENDER Bristol (Rhode Island), Thursday.-Messrs Herreshoff have issued orders to hasten the construction of the new cup defender, so that the hall may be completed by April 16. The boat is at present little more than half finished. Henceforth the work will proceed both night and day. Extra rivetters and a quantity of plates, believed to be of nickel steel, arrived yesterday. The plates will be used for the top sides, with the nickel steel top sides, and bronze underbody. The boat will be the first composition yacht since the Defender. The work on the sails continue. One majim sail and two suits of light sails have been oompletedAeuter.

"Cortifaifs" Comments. The worst that was feared of Dr. Joseph Parry has come to pass, and his genial face will be known to us no more. In Welsh musical circles his death has left a gap difficult to repair. How great a factor he has been in strengthening the natural trend of the people of Wales towards musical art must be left to the historian, but there never was a man more in earnest in his endeavour to lift his fellow-countryman to a higher level. His success as a composer and a leader would have been greatly enhanced had he culti- vated a more systematic method of work- ing, but so great was his impulsiveness that no sooner had he conceived a musical idea than he must present the fruit of his talent before the same day was closed. Now and again his compositions, pre- pared under such circumstances as the above, would catcft the popular taste at once, and of this the production of the solo Cymru Fydd" was a striking instance. There was to be a meeting of the Cardiff Cymmrodorion Society of special interest, and Major E. Rowland Jones, the then American Consul at Car- diff, he being the chairman of the society for the year, was desirous of getting a special musical programme prepared. The Rev. E. Rees (" Dyfed ") had been invited to write verses suitable to be set to musio which Dr. Parry had promised to compose. On the evening previous to that upon which the meeting was to be held not a single note of the promised new song had been placed upon the paper, and the major was far from pleased. Just after the meeting had commenced on the appointed night Dr. Parry rushed into the society's old lecture room in St. Mary- street and, without scarcely paying any attention to what was going on in the room, placed a score upon the music stand of the piano, and sang the song Cymru Fydd" to his own accompaniment. Its success was instantaneous, and it has been sung thousands of times between then and now. The history of the hymn-tune "Aber- ystwyth" is equally interesting. When Dr. Parry resided at Swansea he waa organist at the Welsh Congregational Chapel, of which the late Rev. Thomas Rees, D.D., author of "The History of Nonconformity in Wales," was minister. Every Sunday after the morning service he insisted upon writing a hymn tune at one sitting. Several of those, so com- posed are to be found in his published collection of original tunes, and "Aber- ystwyth" was one of them, and is, of course, far and away the most universally sung of all his compositions. His restlessness was remarkable. However desirous his personal friends were to advise him on business matters concerning his profes- sion, and, although he bad actually sought their advice, he would abruptly divert the conversation to purely musical matters, as if his thoughts were under the influence of a supernatural agency. His desire to establish a Welsh school of opera musio dominated every other consideration. He spoke of it, wrote of it, and, as he told me, dreamed of it. I well remember the boyish delight with which he looked forward to visiting "Gefn IYdfa" with the librettist of the opera of that name (Mr. Joseph Bennett, of the "Daily Telegraph"), and a few other friends, of whom the writer was one. The first part of the journey, from Bridgend to Cefn Ydfa, via Coity Castle, was under- taken in a tremendous downpour of rain, and it was seriously suggested that the visit should be postponed. I well remem- ber the dismay pictured on Dr. Parry's face when he was told of it, and, spite of the risks to health involved in facing the storm that raged, no one had the courage to repeat the suggestion. The effort to write any more of one with whom I was most closely acquainted for many years is too great for me just now, and I must wait until the mind is calmer. Ah. never mind! it is only death, It often comes giving no warning; Let our friend sleep, for God will mend The broken chord in the morning. Dr. Maurice Evans did not show his usual aptitude to form a happy Welsh phrase when he was confronted at the Caerphilly Police-court with the need of a Welsh equivalent for the "black lister." Literally translated, "black list" means "rhestr ddu," but of the two it is less euphonious than its English original. Literal translations are scarcely ever idiomatically correct, and I prefer waiting for a happy Welsh name for the black- lister" until the many- eourts of "whiff spells" at the collieries have had time to discuss it. The Welsh collier will not be long at a loss for a name that will "catch on," even though it may only be a nickname. I venture to prophesy, how- ever, that it will be a descriptive one, and with this opinion I am sure Dr. Evans will agree. It is" gratifying to learn that the alarm felt by traders by the Great Western Railway regarding the rumour of an intended increase in the cost of season tickets which could be optionally used on the Gloucester and Bristol routes to London is unfounded. Sir Joseph Wil- kinson stipulates that every application for the usual season tickets is to be granted upon its merits. This, probably, means that the usual charges will not be increased to bona fide traders with the company, and that ordinary travellers may be asked the increased price. Perhaps holders of season tickets will be told, also, that they must not give un- necessary trouble to the company's officials when they are inspecting tickets. I have known cases of ticket inspectors being tan- talised for several minutes by season ticket-holders, who consider it a personal offence to be asked to show their tickets. Why? The request is a reasonable one, and should be readily complied with. The movement in favour of a National Museum for Wales has advanced another stage, and the 94 elected councils of different kinds which have agreed to sub- mit the task of locating the building to an arbitrator are now asked to elect representatives to form a deputation to lay the matter before the Lord President of the Council (the Duke of Devonshire), and to ask him to select an arbitrator. The matter has been thoroughly thrashed out in Wales and in Parliament, and, surely, it is ripe for judgment. Scarcely a person can be found who cavils at the decision of the arbitrators who settled the site of the South Wales University College, and the fact that so overwhelm. ing a majority of the Welsh Council have agreed to the same plan for deciding where the site of the National Museum shall be further proves that the principle is a popular one, and before the present Parliamentary session is over the arbi- trator ought to be able to give his deci- sion.