Welsh Newspapers
Search 15 million Welsh newspaper articles
12 articles on this Page
[COPYRIGHT] THE GYPSY SINGER.…
[COPYRIGHT ] THE GYPSY SINGER. 1 By MRS. GEOttGE CORBETT, Author of "The Adventures of an Ugly Girl," "A Mere Masquerader," "When the Sea Gives up its Dead," "A Fair Blockade Runner," &c. CHAPTER I.-A DEATHBED WARNING. Amos White was very ill, much worse tnan ne thought, for he was in the grip ot one of the most fatal forms of influenza. Had he been in good health just now, he would have gone to Italy with the son of his adoption, who had apparently a great musical career before him. But Fate had willed otherwise. His slight ailment had de- veloped serious complications, and his doctor was already convinced that the kind-hearted old man s eyes would never again rest upon Cosmo, the one being in the c id upon whom he had lavished his store of aliejtion. Doctor," he said, "don t you think I may get up for an hour or so to-morrow? I want to write to Cosmo. He will be alarmed if he doesn't hear regularly from me while he is compelled to be away. Dr. Penistone had heard certain rumours which did not redound to the credit of Mr. White's adopted son, and he had strong doubts of the honesty of the young fellow's love for his bene- factor. But he naturally kept his doubts to him- self, and answered his patient more soothingly than his inner convictions warranted. H I wouldn't risk getting up too soon," he said. "A cold like yours pulls people down fearfully, and the slightest chill or over-fatigue might cause serious developments. No, you had better not get up to-morrow." The sick man sighed impatiently, for he was of an active temperament, and hated to be coddled without sufficient reason. "It's all nonsense," he told himself. That doctor is pulling a long face because he wants to keep a profitable patient under his care as long as he can. But I won't be tyrannised over, even by a doctor." Given a man of Amos White's self-willed temperament, combined with a sceptical opinion re the seriousness of his own condition, and the result is a foregone conclusion. The doctor's orders were disobeyed, in spite of the professional nurse's remonstrances, and within a few hours there were indubitable proofs of a speedy fatal termination of the victim's illness. All too late the poor old gentleman recognised how foolish he had been. He knew that his end was near, and ordered his solicitor to be hastily sent for. The interview will probably excite you and hasten your end," warned the doctor. How long is it possible for me to live at all?" was the feeble inquiry. Not more than five or six hours at the most," was the grave reply. Then it cannot matter for me whether I see my lawyer or not. But it matters a great deal to Cosmo, for I have a secret to disclose, and I will not be thwarted." An hour later Mr. Donaldson, the solicitor, was closeted with the dying man, and to him was confided a sealed packet of papers which was believed to contain the clue to the real identity of Mr. White's adopted son, together with a brief account of the circumstances under which the adoption had been brought about. I was not always rich," said Mr. White. "My early life was spent in a pretty Devonshire village, where there was no opportunity of advancing one's prospects. So when I grew up I took the first chance of emigrating, and went to California, where I was fairly lucky as a gold-seeker. Some years later I took a sheep ranche and gradually built up a large fortune. After a thirty years' exile from my native place I returned to. it, hoping still to find some of the friends of my youth there, and picturing the pleasure I could give them and myself by sharing a portion of my fortune among them. Alas! there was not a soul left in the village who knew my name, and either death or emigration had claimed everybody whom I had hoped to meet again. To have settled down in Owtringham now would have been to condemn myself to melancholy, so I strolled away from the village, hardly knowing what I intended to do next. I certainly felt very miserable at the failure of all my expectations, and was so deeply im- mersed in thought that I took no notice of my surroundings until I was suddenly accosted by an old gypsy woman, who wanted to tell me my fortune. At first I bluntly refused to have any- thing to do with her. But eventually her im- portunities proved amusing, and I ended by fraternising with the tribe of which she was the Queen. It was midsummer, and the weather was delightful for camping out, so I grew more cheer- ful, and spent most of mv time in the company of A bright little fellow called Cosmo. I suspected -from the first that this child, with whom I had fallen in love at first sight, was no relation to any -of the gypsies who were his present guardians And I resolved to adopt him as my son, thereby filling a void in my heart, which longed for some- thing to lavish affection upon, although no lwoman had ever reigned in it. The old woman, Esther Raymond, met my proposal with many trivial objections, all of a selfish nature, but at length accepted a large sum of money to give the boy to me. though she would not agree to my terms until she had in- duced me to swear upon oath that I would never open, or allow anyone else to open, a small packet which she then handed to me for safe keeping until June 17th, 1892, when Cosmo would have completed his twenty-first year. As you know, my adopted son is both hand- some and gifted, and though he is heir to all I possess, he has always wanted to make a. name for himself as an opera singer. That is why he has gone to Milan to study, and to cultivate his glorious voice, and that is why I am deprived of his love and care in my last illness. I have never believed that he was of gypsy parentage, and I have often longed to know the secret -which this packet of papers contains. But I have respected my oath, and I know no more about my beautiful boy's real parentage than I did when I first saw him. Yet I have looked forward to solving the ,Iorwar d to solving h,, mystery next June, and I meant Oosmo to have been present when I opened the packet. All that is ended now, and I look to you, Mr. Donaldson, to carry out my last wishes. Cosmo has been telegraphed for. But he cannot be here until it is too late too see me alive. So I entrust the packet to you, to hand over to him as soon as he arrives, and I want you to tell him all that I have confided to you now." The narration of this story had proved a great drain upon Amos White's remaining strength. And it had, perforce, suffered many interruptions by reason of the patient's extreme weakness. But the task was at last acwmpr-ished, and Mr. William Donaldson, with many solemn asserva- tions, undertook to do all in his power to deserve the confidence reposed in him by a man already struggling in the throes of death. Then here is the packet," said Amos, feebly, as he drew his hand from under the coverlet and shewed a small bundle of papers convulsively grasped therein. "I have not let it out of my sight lately, for it may be the means of restarim-, Cosmo to a great birthright." "I will take as good care of it as you have done, sir, and will neglect no means of carrying out your wishes." Saying this, Mr. Donaldson held oat his hand to take the precious packet, but the old man drew it back again, saying: "You haven't taken the oath yet. And you must be bound just as I have been, for only Cosnw himself must open the documents now. You will take the oath after me?" If you fear to trust my word of honotir, I suppose I must take the oath, though 1 assure you it is quite unnecessary. My professional standing-" Never mind your professional staiwimg just now. Say after me: I, William Donaldson, do hereby swear upon oath that I will not open the papers marked 'Cosmo,' .and that I will not allow any other person to open them or to break thf; seal thereon." 'I, William Donaldson. do hereby swear upon oath that I will not open the papers marked "Cosmo," and that I will not allow any .other person to open them or to break the sea l thereon. I also swear to deliver the said papers to Cosmo White in the same condition in which they were "banded to me, and to execute all the instructions of Amos White to the best of my ability, so help me God!" 'I also swear to deliver the said papers to Cosmo White in the same condition in which they were handed to me, and to execute all the j instructions of Amos White to the best ot icy lability, so help me God!' I And ray my happiness be for ever blasted if I fail to keep this oath" Mr. Doxtakison hesitated an instant before re- peating tig* last clawse, but the dying man's eyes were resting upon him suspiciously, and lie feared to risk tho lessof future profitable business with the heir to all this wealth Mr. White was leaving behind him; so, much against his secret inclina- tion, he repeated: ""And may my happiness be for ever blasted if I fail to keep this oath" That will dc,? said the patent "Yc??? dare to break ;I?ur oath now, and when Cosm. owns the packet he will havehis destiny m his ,own hands. But beware, any breach of tho trust reposed in you win bring upon you my curse, anJ ven in the grave I shall stiH have the power to avensre anv wrong done to Cosmo. I Pray calm yourself, sir; I am not lIKelY to GO itim a wTong." No, I warn you again that if you do I shall -<urse you from the grave—curse you What more Amos White would have said can- not be recorded, for the excitement of the inter- view "had proved too much for him. Though he had partially raised himself on his pillow, the better to emphasise what he was saying, his strength suddenly failed him. and he fell back a corpse, with his staring eyes still directed threateningly towards the man whose fidelity he was doubting at the last moment. CHAPTER II.-A BROKEN TRUST. Mr. Donaldson was m anything but a com- fortable frame of mind. He held in his the clue to what mi?ht prove to be an immense  aprret Yet a solemn oath, extracted F?m nS in a moment of weakness bound him to letTt pass from hi? keeping without makinghim- ?!' acquainted with even a portion outs content.. g? in his own private room, turning tho soiled and faded package of papers in his hand, and lamenting the folly which had allowed him ?tie hSfto a co? of action which might possibly be the m?. of losing hisa th?ands of po-3,ibly be the of losink 1,1,I?.- t"t)ll,,ands of ••If I only knew," he muttered. "If I only knew what was written in here, I should be much more easy in my mind. Fancy that oid fool keeping tne thing intact all these years because of :11: promise to a. long since defunct gypsy woman I A promise Lke that wouidn t be very binding witn me; but 1 cannot tace a dying man's curse. Brides, he swore tu be revenged even irom tne grave, so 1 dare not deiy his commands. i wouaer 11 I canuot circumvent his orders without breaking them? Cosmo would never know the exact condition 111 wmcii tfiese papers were de- livered to me, and i should never torgive myself if 1 allowed a good chance of business to slip through my fingers. W tula iv.Lf. iiorlaidsou thus trifled with tempta- tion, a. nc.iCiOiue kitten, belonging to the care- taker ot tHe chambers, strayed through the sugntly opeu uoor, and begau to look aoout for armi^eiacnt. it soon spied the waste-paper basket, and gleefully hung on to one side, not being in the least disconcerted when the basket toppied over and scattered its contents over the carpet. Un the contrary, it became more gleeful,. and indulged in some wonderful pranks with various scraps 01 paper. Mr. Donaldson was so engrossed in meditation that he paid no heed to tne kitten for a. time, but turned the mysterious package over and over in his mind, longing, yet not daring, to break the seal which barred him from the knowledge of the secret he was anxious to become acquainted with. There isn't much of a seal on it, either," he muttered Part of it has crumbled away, and very little would remove the rest. I wonder if By Jove! I have it! There cannot be any harm in providing a kitten with a plaything, and if it does a little damage to the thing it is playing with, well—the kitten will be responsible, not I." Fired with this brilliant idea, Mr. Donaldson softly rose from his comfortable revolving chair, walked to the door, and carefully closed it, alike to prevent the intrusion of unwelcome visitors or the premature departure of the unconscious little animal which he had chosen as the instrument of his intended breach of trust. His next proceeding was to fasten a length of string to the paokage, being careful to tie the knot where it would be most likely to damage the seal without further active help on his part than inviting the cat to have a game with him. Pussy! Puss, puss, puss L" he whispered, and Pussy, not being in the least shy, promptly responded to the invitation, and joyfully sprang at the tempting plaything which was being drawn about the lfoor entirely for its benefit. Had Mr. Donaldson's clerk seen him frolicking with a kitten, he would have been not a little astonished, for the tall, grey-haired, staid-looking solicitor was not in the habit of indulging in frivolities. Neither did he regard his present proceeding as a frivolity, for he. watched anxiously for the psychological moment when he could pront by the pranks of the unconscious instrument of his rascality. Long before Pussy was tired of her new play- thing, she had done what was required of her. She had broken the fateful seal, and there was now nothing to prevent Mr. Donaldson from satisfying his curiosity. "There," said this eminently respectable solicitor, his broad, clean-shaven upper lip curling in a smile of derision. "I haven't broken your precious seal, Mr. White, and I haven't allowed any other person to do so. Nobody could call a cat a person, and I cannot be held responsible for the playful vagaries of a. kitten. So, you see, there are means of evading even a death-bed oath, if you are only clever enough to think of them." Was it fancy? Or did a weird whisper pervade the room, having for its theme nothing but the long-drawn word "'C-u-r-r-r-s-s-e" ? Mr. Donaldson, just for one weak moment, was inclined to beiieve that this was the case. Then he dismissed the idea as foolish fancy, and at- tributed it to the wind without, which was rapidly rising to the velocity of a gale. "How foolish I am, to allow such a stupid fancy to cro.5S my mind for a moment:" he told himseit. Mrs. Danks has left that passage door open, and the wind always howls terntically through it. I've told her several times about it, and i she is not more careful, I shall have to employ another care- taker in her place. Here, get out of this, you httle imp! Who wants you in here?" And, very much to its astonishment, the kitten was summarily ejected from the room in which it had just played so important a part. Mr. Donald- son opened the door with a great show of anger, and sent the poqr cat Hying into the next room, calling out as he did so: Mr. Wood, there'll be mischief in this estab- lishment if evc-ry stray beast in the neighbourhood is allowed to come into my private room and upset my papers. See that it doesn't occur again." 'Yes, sir; certainly, sir," acquiesced Mr. Wood, hastily concealing the latest issue of the "Sporting Miracle" from his employer's observation. "Cer- tainly. sir; it shan't occur again. Get out, you little beast!" Having thus rewarded the kitten for her services, Mr. Donaldson once more shut himself up in his private room, bent upon reading the papers without iurther delay. He would not own even to himself that he was superstitious. Yet he could not banish a certain weird feeling which possessed him when he actually unfolded the package that should have been guarded intact. Nay, more than that, his inner consciousness seemed to be aware of another presence in the room besides his own, and he looked hastily around,, to make sure that it was not fancy. Fancy it must have been, of course, for there was nobody to be seen in the room but himself; and he once more turned to his task, only to be again startled by the tricks of imagination. This time h(, could almost have sworn that a cold, clammy hand was laid on his own, as if to restrain him from tne perpetration of an unhallowed deed. So strong, indeed, was this impression, that he hastily wiped the back of his hand against his coat-sieeve, to remove the ice-cold feeling which the mystic touch had left. But he soon recovered his wonted firmness, and could even laugh at what he believed to be nothing more than the foolish whisperings of a cowardly conscience. "I li get it over quickly," he muttered, "and then all this nonsense will cease. It isn't like me to hesitate over anything. And in this case I have nothing to*fear, in spite of my oath, for I have not broken the seal. And, if it suits my interests, I will do as well for Mr. White's heir as any other lawyer would do." Having arrived at this pitch of determination, Mr. Donaldson deliberately read the documents which for so many years had been held sacred, and, as he did so, his face assumed a look of jubilation that shewed the result of his unhallowed curiosity to be quite as great as he had dared to hope. "Wonderful!" he exclaimed. "Fate is playing into my hands in a. most astonishing fashion, and I am now the arbiter of more destinies than that of the Gypsy Singer. I'm sorry to disappoint you, Mr. White, but I fancy I'm the best custodian of these papers now." "C-u-u-r-r-s-s-e!" wailed the wind again. "C-u-u-r-r-s-s-e!" But Mr. Donaldson was in too great a state of jubilation to notice the ominous sound, or, if he did, he dismissed it from his mind at once as merely a consequence of the caretaker's negligence. "ril lock them in my .private safe," he mut- tered, after reading the documents.once more, to assure himself that what he had already read was not an amazing freak of an excited imagination. "Wood must never suspect their existence, and it remains to be seen whether Cosmo White ever gets to know about them." Once more that weird whisper, "C-u-u-r-r-s-s-e!" went hissing through the room. But Mr. Donald- son was unaffected by it, for he unlocked his private safe, stored the documents carefully therein, re-locked the safe, and was contemplating his de- parture from his business chambers, to his subur- ban villa when Mr. Wood announced a visitor. "Mr. Cosmo White wishes to see you, sir." "Certamly. Ask him to step this way. Ah, how do you do, Mr. White? I cannot teU you how grieved I am at the untoward death of your es- taouied guardian. He was a most "Thank you," interrupted the new-comer. "But my time is limited, and I have come to consult velt on business, not to listen to a panegyric on the virtues of a departed friend." "To be sure, to be sure. No weakness about you, I perceive, .sir. Straight to the point. Yes, jiray sit down. You have come about Mr. White's futeral arrangements?" "And about pecuniary matters." "Certainly, certainly; of course. Well, you have no need for anxiety on that score. Mr. White has left a will, bequeathing the whole of his wealth to you, and his last thoughts were of jou. It"s v-eri aad." Cosmo White .smiled sarcastically at the solicitor, and turned his full, lustrous dark eyes upon him, as he replied: Sad? To be the heir to a great fortune? Surely, that is a peculiar view for a solicitor to .bold?" Mr. Dctaldson, rogue though he was at heart, wae accustomed to the conventionalities by which even the aaost selfish people usually cloik their real feelinp; and he looked in some astonishment at the supechly handsome young fellow who made ae paxrtetiop « £ being anything but pleased at the good fortane which had befallen him. "CJeEtainly," he agreed hastily. "But one has to aoT&>Tzn £ o ipopular sentiment on these subjects, and-" Cieeme had aideyc-d the id-vitafim to be secefcad, but gov impatiently. "Lrfjok here," he said, cuttty. "I am quite sen- sible oi aU I owe to my late guaadian; but I do met choose to odiseuss ihim with sttaegers, so we will stick to husiness if you please. You were with Mr. White when he ■died, I believe?" "Yes; it was my melancholy (privilege to be with him in hi6 last moments." "You therefore took his final icsUvuctions. Did he leave amy .special message for me?" lie leave &Dy -rof 1, is great Jove for Fou and his  regret at not bWiUg 'yW once mt?na before he That is no more than I expected, for Mr. White wa.i always happiest when I was near him. But he hinted more than once of some ipecial dis- deulre he wished to maike tR me as aoos as I was of a^e. Did he mtcy nothing about that you?" "'O-Ttaiuly not. Tiawe ate no instructions of I any kind eoncemiag you except those which are contained in the will "C-u-u-r-r-s-s-e Mr. Donaldson turned pale, Biid Coemo White shivered sligbtlv. when the wiÐd moaned wuind the apartanent, as jif in angry rergoestrance at the nflrinnr d.,ch had just OOeQ committed* admughty hole this seems to be. merited Cosmo. "That noise reminds tIle of that horrible bit of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin" Vlhere the villain Legree thought he was haunted by the spirits of the dead. I'd stop it, if I were you. William Donaldson's lips twitched, and his eyes wore a scared expression. But never for one moment did he now contemplate retreat from the line he had marked out for himself, and he sud- denly turned the tables on Cosmo be remarking, soberly "4I bciipve you wish to consult me about various h'li:;c" details; and, as we are both pressed for tide, ws had better get to the point." i "I think I have got to the point already, for the present," answered Cosmo. "So far as you are concerned, I mean. I am sure there is some secret connected with my early origin to disclose. Mr. White would not have implied as much if this had not been the case, and I confess 1 am I u t disappointed to hear that you know nothing about it. However, it is just possible that my adopted father confided the secret to somebody else, ana i shall probably know everything next June, when i come of age." "Yes, yes; of course. If there was anything to disclose to you, Mr. White would be sure to provide for the event. But why worry about a secret which may turn out to be a very unpleasant one for you? You have youth, and wealth, and everything else that can make life pleasant, so why desire to know of things that are hidden from "Because I have probably a better right to know of them than anybody else. And because it is not my nature to forfeit even the shadow of my rights, if I can help it. So if important information is being withheld from me, either by you or by any- one else, rest assured that I shall know all about it some day. Good-afternoon." And, without further ceremony, Cosmo White, looking angry and disappointed, left the solicitor to his own reflections, and went back to the hand- some residence in which his late benefactor had died, his last moments filled with thoughts of him. It was part of Cosmo's creed to proclaim himself a selfish worshipper of his own interests only, but he really felt Mr. White's death more than he cared to let anyone else see. Unlike many young men brought up with as much indulgence as he had been, he was not involved in debt, for his extravagances, though large enough in their way, had never outrun the unfailing generosity of the man who had practically adored the adopted son whom he had first seen as a wandering little gypsy lad. He had always had as much money as he needed, and no caprice of his had been too ex- pensive to be indulged. Therefore, there was no special reason why he should be eager to assume sole control of the wealth devised to him, as might have been the case if he had been in the clutches of money-lenders or other heavy creditors, and he shed tears of genuine sorrow over the body of the kind old man who had loved him more than aught else in the whole world. Yet his was not the sort of nature to spend much time in vain regrets over that which was not abso- lutely necessary to his happiness; and he soon settled down to the pleasures and responsibilities of his position. He found himself even richer than he expected; but he was not quite satisfied about the secret which had enshrouded his birth so long, and he could never feel sure Mr. Donaldson was not Iving when he repudiated all knowledge of the affair. For he had a distinct recollection of having heard Mr. White allude to some documents which awaited perusal on his own twenty-first birthday; and if such documents were not confided to the care of the solicitor whom he had employed for years, to whom else was he likely to have en- trusted them? Cosmo could think of nobody but his bankers; but they knew nothing of the missing papers, and he marked his distrust of Mr. Donaldson by with- drawing his patronage from him entirely. "And I will take care never to put a penny in his way," muttered the young fellow to himself. "I'm sure he's a rascal; and I cannot imagine why poor old dad trusted him at all. And, talking about trusting people, I wonder if there is any- thing in that advertisement I saw yesterday? Let me have another look at it." The advertisement had evidently made consider- able impression upon Cosmo, for he had cut it out of the newspaper in which he found it, and had placed it in his purse for safety. It was not one that would have attracted any but romantic per- sons, for it savoured too much of quackery to be reliable, running Tnus: "Professor Frantz Naumann, the great voice specialist, is prepared to accept a pupil who will give himself up to serious musical study, with a view to a great operatic career. The professor guarantees to transform the most unpromising voice into a marvellous organ which will astonish the world, provided his directions are implicitly obeyed. Numerous original testimonials will be shewn to any lady or gentleman having the means and ability to become his pupil. Terms: Board, residence and attendance during course of tuition, and a fee of three hundred guineas when voice is developed to perfection. Failure impossible. No fee taken unless pupil is thoroughly satisfied that the professor has performed the service herein guaranteed. "I've a good mind to try the man," mused Cosmo. "Only fancy how glorious it would be to eclipse everybody else as a singer! How I should revel in the fame and adulation that would be mine. True, I am supposed to have an exceptional voice already. But a phenomenal voice, such as nobody else can equal! Yes, I'll engage the fellow. His hi-gh fee proves him to be pretty confident of his ability, for he forfeits the whole sum if the pupil is not satisfied." The result of this meditation was the ultimate engagement of Professor Frantz Naumann, on his own terms, to bring his vaunted system to bear upon Cosmo White's vocal organ; and the young musical enthusiast, whose only incentive was am- bition, practised nearly all day long until his throat ached, and his tutor advised him to depend for awhile upon the effect of certain pilules which were supposed to be almost miraculous in their properties. Constant diligence in any direction will achieve important results, and even Cosmo himself was almost convinced that he had the professor's sys- tem to thank for the delight with which his songs were listened to by the friends whom Mr- White's heir had found it an easy matter to gather round him. "Yes, I am proud of your progress," quoth the professor, a few weeks after he had installed him- self with Cosmo. "You will be a great man. What a pity it is you have not a. high-sounding name. 'Signor Bianco' would sound so much grander than 'Mr. White,' although it mpans just the same thing." The idea took Cosmo's fancy, and he resolved to adopt it, having all the fewer scruples about Italianising his name because he knew that in neither one form nor the other did it originally belong to him. Alas! if he could but have known the professor for what he was! And if he could have guessed that this was but the first wedge in the long course of malign influence by which his own and other lives were to be subverted to the interests of a wicked disciple of Satan! But there was nobody to tell him that the man was a rank impostor, with whom voice-training was but regarded as a promising means of ac- quiring possession—body and soul—of some easily- managed individual of sufficient wealth to satisfy his own cupidity; that he had for years devoted himself to the study of the Black Arts; and that he was known to everybody in his native place as "The Man with the Evil Eye." (To be continued.)
I A CHESTER WOMAN TALKS. 1
A CHESTER WOMAN TALKS. 1 When an incident like the following occurs here in Chester, and a Chester woman relates her experience in a Chester newspaper for the benefit of Chester people, its genuineness cannot be doubted. It deserves close attention. It has the ring of truth about it that there is no getting away from. Mrs. Hannah Wynne, of 8, Steele-street, Chester, says: — I have suffered very much with a lame back. The pains affected me across the small of the back and up between the shoulders. My kidneys and liver have always worried me, so I knew only too well the real cause of these worrying pains." As time went on these pains increased. Headaches annoyed me and my eyesight be- came a little impaired. I became tired with the slightest exertion. I consulted a medical man, and he told me it was all caused by chronic Dyspepsia." by "I felt sure that my kidneys had something to do with these back pains, so noticing the splendid work that Doan's Backache Kidney Pills were doing in curing such ailments, I went down to Boots, and obtained a box of them. I can honestly say they have done all that was claimed for them. The pains are completely gone from my back, and I feel bettor in every way. Already I have been recommending them to my friends, and I gladly give this testimony. It may help other sufferers to obtain relief from pain,' said Mrs. Wynne in conclusion. Doan's ^Backache Kidney Pills are sold by all chemists and storekeepers at 2s. 9d. per box (six boxes 13s. 9d.) or will be posted on receipt of price by the proprietors, Foster McClellan Co., 8, Wells-street, Oxford-street, London, W., formerly 57, Shoe-lane. See that the word "Backache" is in the name, and that the signature of James Doan is on the wrapper. It is important to get the same pills which Mrs. Wynne used. Therefore ask for Doan's Backache Kidney Pills. But,—be sure they are Doan's.
[No title]
JUDICIAL CHANGES. The King has been pleased to approve the appointment of Lord Justice Henn Collins to be Master of the Bolls in place of the Bight Hon. Sir Archibald Smith, resigned. His Majesty has also been pleased to approve the appointment of Mr. Justice Mathew to be Lord Justioe of Appeal in place of Lord JuBtice Henn Collins. It is understood that Joseph Walton. K.C., will be appointed to fill the vaeaaey in the King's Bench Division caused by the elevation of Mr. Justice Mathew to the Court of Appeal. Forborne years past Mr. Walton has enjoyed a very large commercial practice at the Bar, I and it is probable that the commercial her will I devolve upon bim. Legal circles find some diffienhv in fixing upon a probable successor to Mr. Justice Day. Among the names (men- tioned are those of Mr. CrippB, K (I., M.P., Mr. A. T. Lawrence, K.C., Mr Rpginnld Bray, K.C., and Mr. Henry Sutton. The last named gentleman has filled the post of Common LLw Junior Conn eel to the Treasury for over eleven years--an oftce which is traditionally held to entitle its owner in the fulness of time to a seat on the Bench.
Advertising
IE ppg-S COCOA. The most nutritious I Eppg.g ^lOCOA. Grateful and comforting. EPPS'S C'IOCOA. For breakfast and supper. pps COCOA. Witb natural flavour only. E Pn'.q COCOA. From thefinest braiodn. DRINK AND ENJOY LIPTONS DELICIOUS TEAS AWARDED THIO GOLD MEDAL AT THE PARIS EXHIBITION, 1900. THIS 18 ANOTHER PROOF OF THEIR SUPREME EXCELLENCE. THERE CAN BE NO SURER SIGN OF POPULARITY THAN THE ENORMOUS DEMAND ALL OVER THE COUNTRY FOR LIPTONS DELICIOUS TEAS. THEY ARE APPRECIATED EVERYWHERE FOR THEIR DELICATE FLAVOUR & EXQUISITE AROMA, <& UNDOUBTEDLY HAVE ATTAINED THE PINNACLE OF FAME. LIPTONS" TEAS HAVE THE LARGEST SALE IN THE WORLD. THEY ARE BLENDED TO SUIT THE WATER IN THE DIFFERENT DISTRICTS, THUS ENSURING TO EVERY CUSTOMER A FRAGRANT AND REFRESHING CUP OF DELICIOUS TEA.  GOIi]Ly ff«I^L .A. W -A.. R^TP) AL LIPTONS ? DELICIOUS — TEAS Gp?ri! | AWARD NO NEED TO PAY HIGH PRICES. Why pay 2/- to 3/- for Tea when you can buy from LIPTONS THE FINEST THE WORLD PRODUCES I AT 1/9 OUR SPECIAL BLEND AT | I STANDS OUT ALONE AND UNRIVALLED. THE PERFECTION OF QUALITY & VALUE. ALSO RICH, PURE & FRAGRANT TEAS AT 1/2 & 1/4 HIGHEST HONOURS PARIS EXHIBITION, 1900. LIPTONS COFFEE COCOA WERE AWARDED THE GRAND PRIZE ? ?THIS IS STEAISST HON&) q OBTAINABLE Lovers of Perfect Coffee and Cocoa will find LIPTONS Unequalled for Excellence of Quality and Delicacy of Flavor., LIPTO LTD., TEA, COFFEE & COCOA PLANTERS, CEYLON. CHIEF OFFICES: CITY ROAD, LONDON. ;j LOCAL BRANCH: 3, NORTRGATE STREET, CHESTER. LOCAL AGENTs:-Chester: DUTTON, A. S. & F., Confectioners, 48, Frodsham-street, and 69, Foregate-street; BROGDEN, JAMES, 73, Christleton-road. V ■ ■' 1 ■ 1 I I
BILLIARDS.J
BILLIARDS. J FLINTSHIRE CONSTITUTIONAL CLUBS. At the annual meeting of the Flintshire I Constitutional Clubs' Billiard League, held at Rbyl on Friday, Mr. C. Erryon presiding, I Colonel Howard, C. B., was re-elected president, and Mr. T. J. Scott, Prestatyn, secretary and treasurer. The present holder of the champion shield is Rhuddlan Club, and efforts to secure it during the coming winter will be made by the clubs at Flint, St. Asaph, Mold, Prestatyn, and Rhuddlan. It is anticipated that Colonel Howard will shortly address the members of several of the clubs in view of the winter political work.
HOCKEY. I
HOCKEY. I CHESTER v. STOCKTON HEATH. This match was played at Stockton Heath on Saturday, and resulted in a win for Chester by three goals to nil. Chester had most of the game, and the three goals were obtained in the first half. The wing men in the home forward line made a few good rushes, but were stopped by the Chester backs, who played a capital game throughout. The goals were scored by Rowley, Drake, and Maude, the latter's being the result of a beautiful bit of individual play. Chester team: Grimes, W. A. V. Churton, G. Martyn, P. M. Morria-Davies, F. Batberwick, J. P. Douglas, H. W. Maude, C. J. Drake, A. P. Gamon, L. Rowley, and G. P. Gore. CHESTER 2ND v. STOCKTON HEATH 2ND. The second team of the same clubs met on the Roodee, Chester also winning by five goals I to four. The Rev. r. Caine played an excellent I game for the home team, scoring no fewer than I four of the five goals. I HOOLE v. NESTON AND DISTRICT. The iioole team journey ea to rteeton on Saturday to meet the local hockey team. Enjoyable, keen and brisk weather prevailed, and the teams, each anxious to wipe off old scores, were well represented. A very even game ensued, first one and then the other having the best of matters. From a corner Ormerod scored for Neston, with a first-class shot, and shortly afterwards Mott added another from a pass by the right outside. Halt-time arrived with Neston leading by two goals to nil. On resuming, Hoole, playing down hill, appeared to gain ground, and soon added a goal to their credit. Each side pressed and played with great vigour, a fast game being the result. The Neston halves did great work and checked the Hoole forwards with fine tactics. A give-and-take game followed, each defence being well tried, but neither side could add to their score, and a most enjoyable game ended in a well deserved victory for Neston by two goals to one. The return match is fixed for Saturday next, when a good game is antici- pated.
Advertising
TO CURE A COLD IN ONE DAY. Take laxative Bromo Quinine Tablets. All Druggists re'und the money if it fails to cure. 1/1 J. The genuine Ï8 stamped L.B.Q. NAVIGATING THB Aiu.-M. Santos-Dumont, according to his own and many other people's reckoning, has won the Deutsch prize, at the close of a series of experiments in whicb he has displayed almost every heroic quality. He ascended from the ground of the Aero Club in his dirigible aerostat on Sunday afternoon, sailed triumphantly round the Eiffel Tower, and was hovering over the spot from which he bad set out twenty-nine and a half minutes after his departure, having in that period steered his way over a course of about seven miles. Unfor- tunately, more than another minute elapsed before his guide-rope was grappled on the earth, and by the modified rules introduced since he made his first attempts in the competi- tion he has thereby failed of victory. The ingenious and intrepid aeronaut has never acknowledged the validity of the new condition, and it remains to be seen whether his claim to I the lOO.OCOf will be admitted. LIVERPOOL AND NORTH WALBS STEAMSHIP COMPANY.—The annual report of the directors of the Liverpool and North Wales Steamship Co. has just been issued. The total number of pas- &engers conveyed throughout the season shews an increase on any previous year. Mention is made of the extension of the scope of the com- pany's sailings, when on several occasions the St. Elvies made trips from Liverpool round the Isle of Anglesey. These trips have become popular, and there is little doubt they will become permanent features of the company. The catering on board the steamers, taken by the company into its own hands this season, resulted in a larger nett profit being derived from that source than formerly; while, in consequence of the saving effected by the reduced price of coal, the working expenses, it will be seen from the balance-sheet, shew a decrease as compared with last season, and the balance to credit of profit and loss account a satisfactory increase. After deducting the sum of £4,218 14s. 3d. for depre- oiation, and placing the sum of £2,000 to the credit, of a reserve account, the amount available for dividend and other purposes is £ 4,966 14s. lid.: out of which the directors recommend tho payment of a dividend of 6 per cent. per annum, together with a bonus of 1! per cent., free of income-tax. We make a leading line of our Ladiea* RAIN PROOF COATS at Two Guineas, usually sold else- where at Three Guineas. They are cut and made on the premises, where only the most competent workmen are employed.—W. BALMFORD, Ladies' Tailor, 67, Brook-street. To MOTHERS.—Mrs. Winslow's Soothing Syrup I has been used over fifty years by millions of j mothers for their children while teething with perfect success. It will relieve the poor sufferer immediately. It is pleasant to taste; it produces natural quiet sleep, by relieving the child from pain, and the little ohercb wakss up as bright as a button." Of s.H Chuoavsts, la lid. rer bottao
AGRICULTURE. I
AGRICULTURE. I VARIABLE BUT SEASONABLE, j No reasonable fault can be found with the weather we have been experiencing during the last week; for while we have had almost every possible variation of cold and warm atmos- pheres, and from heavy rain showers and cold, to drying winds, the days have been fairly seasonable and for the most part enjoyable to people blessed with health. Nor can farmers complain, at least not those whose routine of I work has not been interrupted by the dairy I show. The ploughs and harrows have been still busy, for the surface of the arable soils has dried readily, and there seems a prospect of a I good seeding for autumn wheat. The slight touches of frost have served to remind farmers and gardeners that mangolds and potatoes require attention, and that while some may be tempted to allow the former to stand as long as possible to increase the bulk, little is to be gained by procrastinating the gathering of the crop into the clamps. A fair amount of corn has been drilled in over the country into a good seed bed, retaining sufficient moisture to tavour germination. As the sowing seasons recur there seems to be a tendency to restrict the wheat area, and this was particularly the case last autumn, when the weather was broken and unfavour- able; but with the present season there is a possibility of regaining some portion at least of the 140,000 acres deficiency of last year as shewn by the recently published agricultural returns. The pastures are still green and growing, but, of course, they afford only a minimum of keep and require to be supple- mented by the clover stubbles or chance crop feeding. Strange variations are said to be revealed by the threshings now going on. From Essex comes a story of 52 bushels to the acre, while in all probability the average for the whole country is barely 30 bushels. Potato lifting has proceeded satisfactorily, the tubers for the most part being of good size from any- thing like retentive soils; but, unfortunately, much disease exists and continues to spread among them, demanding strict watchfulness before storing. GOOD PRICES FOR SHIRE FOALS. in conneobon with the sale of Mr. F. Crisp a Girton stud of shire horses it is worthy of men- tion that nine foals realised the splendid average of £96 each. A somewhat singular circumstance also is the fact that of the nine mares and foals the foals in seven cases realised more money than their dams. I THE KING'S FAT STOCK. I The statement is made that the usual sale of Christmas fat stock bred and fed upon the Royal demesne at Windsor will not take place this year. His Majesty's decision to abandon the sale was fully anticipated at Windsor several months ago, and the consequence is that the usual operations on the farm have been modified. But the absence of Royal stock from the shops during the forth- coming season is purely temporary, and it is un- derstood that durmg next year the sales will be renewed. Some sales are expected this year upon the Sandringham estate. CARLISLE AND THE R.A.S.E. SHOW. I The local committee in connection with the show of the Royal Agricultural Society-which it will be remembered will be the last show to be held in the provinces-have resolved on a most gener- ous treatment of the society in regard to local interests. They have determined to set aside 21,500 for looa: prizes, as compared with 2950 I at the show held there in 1880. The scheme drawn up for the approval of the Royal embraces local classes for agricultural horses, hunters, riding ponies, mountain or moorland ponies, harness horses and ponies to be shewn in harness, dairy cows, white shorthorn bulls for crossing, polled cattle of the first cross (covering blur-greys for feeding purposes), Ayrshires, and Herd wick sheep. B200 is apportioned for farm prizes, and handsome premiums are to be given for jumping. In ad- dition, a private movement is on foot for offering two champion prizes of £ 20 each for the best male and female Clydesdale respectively. PROFESSOR BOYCE AND KOCH'S THEORY. I The Central News states that the work of the ) Royai Commission on Consumption has already commenced, and experiments with a view to test- ing the accuracy of Professor Koch's theory of the nontransmission of bovine tuberculosis are now taking place, the most prominent of the ex- perimenters at present being Professor Boyce, of Liverpooi, a member of the Commission. A famous medical expert told a. Central News repre- sentative that since Professor Koch's announce- ment no effort has been spared by scientific men to arrive at the truth of the matter. As to the Commission, the names of the members invited confidence, and their decisions would be accepted without question by leaders of the medical pro- fession. The work of the Commission will be almost completely if not quite experimental, for witnesses will not be able to throw much light on the subject. The Government will probably provide a farm for experiments. The labours of the Commission will extend over months, but the problem of transmission or non-trans- mission of bovine tuberculosis will prob- ably be absolutely solved within a year. As matters stand, the medical profession consider that I Professor Koch has been hasty in his deductions I an d neglectful of necessary conditions in his ex- periments. I EARLY AND LATE MANGEL-WURZEL. I Under this head a correspondent in "The Agri- cultural Gazette" communicates the experience of a friend, which may be of considerable interest to readers of this column. He writes: "I think you know my custom of growing long red mangels early on light land that will not grow swedes. My lambs were getting into a miserable condition about the middle of August j there was absolutely no feed, and they began to die, so I determined to sacrifice my long red mangels and commenced pulling them at once. My friends told me that I should kill the lambs unless I pulled the mangels and let them lie a few days; but I gave them to I the sheep, tops and all, just as they were pulled, and the effect was magical. I have hardly lost a sheep since, and with liberal cake-feeding they have prospered most satisfactorily. I only hope: they may do as well on the swedes." It is im- portant to remark that the land was too light to grow swedes. Many farmers believe that mangels can only be cultivated to advantage upon clays or I on deep, stiff loams; but I find that. on sandy soils long red mangels can be grown in drills, 20in. apart, and although the roots are not large, they produce a great weight per acre. Their large tops j seem to shade the land, and draw moisture from .thA Rtmosnhere. CHEESE.1 The splendid collection of the staple product ot the county at the Cheshire Dairy Show last week- the aggregate of which and the market sale amounted to 140 tons—constituted a record, and will be long remembered a.-& such, as well as for the uniform quality of its most prominent lots. For, while there was much that was unripe, the 4 bulk surprised dealers in the maturity of botl* 1 the August and September makes. The large quantity on offer, however, was somewhat detri- mental to prices, and while there was a good iv quiry for choice samples, a few dairymen chose to take their lots home again, and await better tirneg- The markets have been dull all round, and "The Grocers' Journal," in accounting for the drop, attributes it more or less to the fluctuations on the other side of the Atlantic. The season opened, says our contemporary, with little stock left over at the principal centres in England, and scarce anything—and that mostly sold on account of im- porters here—on the other side, and the produc- tive capacity of England has been hampered and curtailed to a large extent by the phenomena. summer we have passed through, which has not shewn signs of mending much in the autunaH- Everything pointed to a high-priced season for Canadian and American cheese, and the opening of the new make saw these probabilities inerea-al as there was a rush of buying orders from peop absolutely bare of stock. The speculative elexnellt has not been so strong this year, but it is there all the same, and has had an effect on prices" These had steadily risen for some time, and the, slowness with which quotations moved along gave every appearanco of steady markets right through- This has turned out to be the case well on through the summer make, but the beginning of the autumn make has seen a most decided quieteni!1# down, which has upset many people's calculations, and while disconcerting to shippers has bee? j equally matter for puzzlement to importers ILI'& j distributors in England. It is an undoubted f8c? that the home make has been small, and it IS likewise true that not only has Canada sent us les5 to date by about 39,000cwt., but every country supplying our needs in this respect, with soØle in significant exceptions, has fallen back in export capacity, the total deficiency to the end of Sep- tember being 194,648cwt. At the metropolitan market the trade has bee unsettled and depressed. English produce waS quiet with prices unchanged, best Cheshire being quoted at from 60s. to 65s., and lower grades froto 40s. to 50s. per 1201b. Canadian and kmericalls finest 47s. to 49s., fine 42s. to 45s. At Live the quotations for the latter were 2s. lower, tbø trade being of a retail character. ANTHRAX IN CHESHIRE. j We are in receipt 01 a notification from l" 1 Board of Agriculture to the effect that an Out-I break of anthrax had been reported in the jj corn district, and enclosing leaflets, in order that information as to the nature of the disease  be made public. These leaflets contain little or ) nothing new on the subject, with which, un or- tunately, our agriculturists are already informed After alluding to the nature and symptoms o f the disease-which, by the way, may strike dOw' an apparently healthy animal almost at ally moment—the instructions strictly enjoin th3 e nothing whatever should be done to let flow  bloqd of the animal by killing it, if the atta? should be discovered before death, or by skinn" it after death. On the contrary, all the pass?6?' of the beast should be stopped with plugs steOP4 in carbolic acid, and the carcase buried as speed"y as possible in some spot not accessible to oths? animals of the farm. The indications when aIf animal is frst attacked with anthrax are geoer?? dulness, swelling of the throat and neck, and disinclination for food or association with (Jthe animals; while in all likelihood the poor beast will roll over and expire as it is watched. The, strictest care is enjoined against propagating the' disease from the blood or excrements of tke animal. The inspector of the local authority to be notified, whose duty it is to carry out,  supervise tho carrying out of, a rigid aysteC!? f disinfection. There is no doubt, the I e a, i, et that the cause of the periodic recurrence ?' persistanco of anthrax on many farms in t 1 country has been due to the skinning of the ¡' diseased carcases and to the want of proper 'j cautions for their burial and disinfection. 1 most effectual manner of destroying the gcr? of anthrax is by burning the carcase.
! NANTWICH FARMERS' C L U…
NANTWICH FARMERS' C L U D. I SWINE FEVER REGULATIONS- I A meeting of the Nantwich Farmers' Cluy I held on Saturday evening, under the P?? ,,cy of Mr. Simon Gleave. The principal usilies' was to consider the swine fever regulation to a view of inducing the Board of A i iture, to open the markets for the sale of fat pi 0 gub- Mr. John Emberton, in introducing d the ject, said the restrictions which ted the sale of fat pigs were prejudicial tq the :0 hint of agriculturists in the county. It seecosd ?? that the authorities, in refusing to opei?tho markets for the sale of these pigs, were ?u?g? the agricultural industry at a time when xu0se who were interested in commerce and trade WerO doing all they possibly could to increase tho facilities for the importation of foreign p'"04' 0 of every kind. As a result of the restrictive C?? ,j.- acter of the regulations he estimated that he boa | lost quite C50. Swine fever was a disease W l'ich broke out spontaneously, and was probably Joe to the existence of bad sanitary conditions. j4o did not think for one moment that the Boar d of Agriculture would ever succeed in stampin# Otit the disease, and under. these circumstance 10 harm could result from the markets for f ^j0 of fat pigs being permanently kept ope?- Mr. John Hobson said he felt n ? OJjg. swine fever resulted from bad sanitary c-4PI2 ditiolls. If the Board of Agriculture would n«r a? If the Board of Agriculture would bes tbese much trouble in looking up farms vvhoretheso insanitary conditions existed as they d d "? making regulations they would do far more b,cd. (Hear, hear.) re- The meeting eventually decided to *° rep?' sentations to the Board of Agriculture wjth view of inducing the Board permanently O11 the markets for the sale of fat pig? nCil t01 further decided to request the County -?,ncil? support the appeal. rd of A resolution was passed asking the 330,,rd of Agriculture to make policemen inspectors un?? the Act, with a view of facilitating the gaDjjjjg of licences. A discussion took place with rega rd to cool- ?bit' munication which had been sent by the aI Wbit- church Dairy Farmers' Association t tpe Cheshire County Council suggesting *? ? Councils of Cheshire, Salop and FI'?ahire OboI;id make similar regulations for the -Ovc'Ot'L' t of animals where the conditions were the ssoo, sO as to minimise as much as possible loss an ?of venience to farmers. ShrOP- i Mr. J. Furbcr expressed the view that gh?? shire was a most protectionist coun- ty, atx4 tbot regulations were made in that county W hicb 3- was most difficult for Cheshire farmers to ?w'j{ to- A resolution was passed requesting   Eberton to oppose the object of the CO ?t ^pr|berton^ to ^ipo3e ^he ^b j ect
Advertising
Diamond .???Dy??'"? They Wk? md Clothe. Look NaW. .?. i  trea. DIAMOND D"EB,3i-39.  to-r
NO*ri4,-FOOTBALL NOTES.
N O r i4, FOOTBALL NOTES. It was not expected that Chester would win on e to moot Saturday, when they journey to Cobridge to meet Burslem Port Vale Reserve in a Combination fixture. But to return beaten by the margin of six goals to one would be a surprise to many of the Chester supporters. It cannot be said, how- ever, the Cestrians were disgraced in this en- counter, seeing that the Vale team included no fewer than seven players who have appeared in Second League matches this season. Great in- terest was taken in the match and there was a large muster of spectators. The teams faced each other as follows:—Chester: Moore, goal; Morris and Wakefield, full backs; Barker, Farrall and Dawson, half-backs; and Davies, Gibbs, Griffiths, Spencer and Prescott, forwards. Burslem Port Vale Reserve: Chadwick, goal; Watkins and Davies, full backs; Croxton, Cook and Lander, half-backs; and Eardley, Tunstall, T. Simpson, Jones and Steadman, forwards. The Vale had the benefit of the wind in the first portion of the game and soon pressed, but the opening exchanges were of a scrambling nature. Chester then worked their way to the front, and after Watkins had headed away a shot by Barker, Spencer rattled in a hot one which Chadwick saved. The Vale promptly retaliated, and Croxton put the ball across. Moore came out of his goal a yard or two,and partially saved, but Jones ran up and headed through the first goal at the end of about twenty minuws' play. Shortly after the kick-off Cook sent in a line shot which caught the crossbar, and another good shot was kept out by the Chester custodian. The homesters continued to have the best of matters, and Simpson soon soored a second goal, after receiving a neat pass from Eardley, who had temporarily gone into the centre. It was not long before another goal was put in for the Vale, and a fourth goal was scored after some smart passing on the part of the home forwards. Shortly before half-time Chester forced a corner and Dawson shot outside. However, the visiting -1 forwards returned to the attack and scored their first and what proved to be their only goal. On the resumption of play the Vale were the first to assert themselves, but they were unable to penetrate the opposing defence. The Chester left wing got possession and ran well down, and Prescott sent across a dangerous centre, com- pelling Davies, of the home team, to head back to Chadwick, who cleared. Eardley was next conspicuous with a fine sprint. He forced a corner, but nothing tangible resulted. Chester made several good attempts to score, and the opposing custodian had to save some stinging shots. The Vale, however, were not to be denied, as it was not long after the interval that they scored two more goals, Simpson putting in the last. Chester were kept busily at work on the defensive, their goal being frequently in jeopardy. Towards the close Chester rallied and Chadwick had to save smartly from- Farrall and Prescott. There was no further sooring, how- ever, and Burslem retired winners by the respect- able margin of six goals to one. Teams representing St. Paul's and St. Oswald's met on the former's ground on Saturday. Almost at the start St. Oswald's went awav at a fast pace, and Garner scored a neat goal after about fifteen minutes' play. This aroused the home- sters, and they continually attacked the visitors' goal, but it was stubbornly defended by Paddock and Kelly. At last F. Jones rushed up and scored the equalising goal. Half-time arrived with the score one goal each. On resuming, St. Paul's instituted a vigorous onslaught on St. Oswald's goal, but met with no success. N. Gilliam fed his forwards judiciously and played a splendid game at half-back. Ultimately the homesters' left wing dashed down with the leather and the left outside gave a. neat pass to Owen, who had no difficulty in placing the homesters one goal ahead. The visitors now retaliated, and Butter- worth with a huge kick placed the teams on level terms. No further scoring took place, and the score stood St. Paul's 2, St. Oswald's 2. Chester St. John's should have met Ellesmere Port Reserve on Saturday in the first round of the Chester Junior Cup, but owing to the latter team having scratched, the Saints were allowed to enter the second round without playing a match. Shotton succumbed on Saturday in their first struggle in the Welsh Junior Cup Competition. They paid Adwy a visit, and came home defeated by three goals to one. Shotton, however, have lodged a protest, alleging that Adwy played ineligible men. The Helsby first eleven scored an easy victory on Saturday at the expense of Tarporley, whom they met on the latter's ground in the first round of the Cheshire Amateur Cup, winning after a one-sided but pleasantly-contested game by seven goals to one. The visitors' forward; Played a particularly smart game. Vernon, the nome goal- keeper, however, in spite of the big score against him, played a capital game. The goals for Helsby were scored by R. Jones (3), and R. Evans, T. Tweedale, J. Bibby and E. Hughes (one each). Helsby second eleven, who had to journey to Wrexham to tackle St. Giles's in the first round of the Chester and District Junior Cup, were less successful than tfheir seniors, being beaten after B.,tough struggle by 5 goals to 3. The Helsby men, who were leading by three to two up to about a quarter of an hour off time, were, however, very unfortunate in having Sutton, their goalkeeper, hurt, and although he pluckily stuck to his poet, it was undoubtedly through his injuries that the home team were enabled to draw level and eventually win, as he was unable to do himself justice. The Helsby ground was occupied by the local juniors, who beat Ellesmere Port Juniors after a well-contested game, in which both teams at times displayed exceptional smartness, by Wthroo goals to none, scored by L. Jeffs (2) and J. Worra ( )• Sealand goad met Chester United in the first round of the Junior Cup, on the ground of the latter, before about three hundred spectators, on Saturday. The game was very exciting, and about five minutes from the start Coppack scored a beautiful goal. Shortly afterwards the United equalised, and before the interval scored two more goals in quick succession. At half-time Chester United were leading by three goals to two, Coppack having put in the second goal for Sealand Road close in. Directly after the restart Ruffeil equalised with a splendid shot for the Sealanders, and not long afterwards a beautiful run by Sconce ended in that player finding the net for the fourth time. About ten minutes after this the same player rushed the ball into the net, and shortly afterwards Ruffeil tricked several of his opponents and put the sixth goal through. A good game ended in favour of the Sealanders by six goals to three. Frodsham Parish Church premier eleven were I at home again on Saturday afternoon, the visitors J being Latchford. The homesters won the toss and Latchford set the ball in motion with the sun < and wind at their backs. The Parish pressed immediately, but found the visiting backs safe, j and Latchford returned and forced a corner which j proved abortive. Some midfield play was indulged ;? in, the sides being very evenly matched. Bot-h sets of backs played a stern game, but at half- time no goals had been scored. Resuming, Frodsham pressed for a considerable period, but could not beat the defence. Then the visitors asserted themselves, and with a smart rush went right to Turner's charge and scored the first goal. After this reverse the Parish men got into their swing, and after a fine passing movement among the forward quintette, Clays placed a beautiful goal right out of the keeper's way. The home- sters still assumed aggressive tactics, and as the result of another beautiful movement Robinson (a. speedy outside right who has lately signed on for the Parish) sent a swift shot from near the touch line right into the net, thus giving his side the lead. Soon afterwards Latchford, with another of their characteristic rushes, went clean through their opponents and landed the ball into the net. The sides were now again level, and both teams put any amount of energy into their play to secure the winning point. The home contingent almost scored in the last minute, but the scores were 2-2 after a well-fought and even game. Chester Old St. Mary's met Tarvin on the Roodee on Saturday in the first round of the Chester and District Junior Cup Competition. Tarvin, who were a strong eleven, kicked off, and St. Mary's at once attacked, but off-side spoilt them. St. Mary's still continued to press and forced a corner, which was well placed by J. Davies, and W. Jones headed into the net, thus scoring the first goal for St. Mary's. Tarvin im- mediately ran down from the kick-off and the outside right man scored with a good shot. After a time E. Formstone scored a second goal for St. Mary's, who were playing a good game. Just before half-time Tarvin scored again from a scrimmage, and thus they crossed over on level terms. On the re-start Tarvin pressed but could not get through the defence of Snelson, Roberts and Davies. Tarvin sent in many shots, which Davies, the St. Mary's custodian, saved in good style. St. Mary's now began to play up, and the Tarvin goal was visited by them, but Molyneux shot over. Pickering headed just over from a oorner. The game was now evenly contested, and neither side could score. Towards the close St. Mary's pressed and several shots were tried at the Tarvin goal, but none took any effect. Time eventually arrived with the score two goals each. Extra time was played, and neither side scored during the first portion. In the second portion St. Mary's scored, through J. Davies. and thus won a good game by three goals to two. Sealand Road Reserve had as their opponents All Saints' Reserve on the former's ground. Sealand won the toss and put the visitors to face the sun. After about 25 minutes' play of an even character Sealand seemed to be getting the best of matters, and after a neat run up F. Lee sent in a shot which the visiting custodian just cleared, and D. Hands gaining possession, gave Sealand the lead. On resumption of play after the interval, Sealand again got away and Delaney scored with a grand shot. This seemed to arouse the Saints, and after a smart run down they forced a corner which proved fruitful, Ashton doing the trick with a low shot. Sealand were soon in the visitors* quarters, and Edwards scored with a splendid shot which just grazed the cross- bar. The Saints tried hard to add to their score, but were unable to do so. Davies, for the visitors, played a capital game, breaking up some very neat combination by the homesters. Before the whistle blew for cessation of hostilities H. Lloyd added a couple of goals and H. Ainsworth one goal, thus the game ended in an easy win for Sealand by 6 to 1. A meeting of the executive committee of the Chester and District Football Association wes held at the Oddfellows' Hall, Chester, on Monday even- ing, Mr. E. T. Hallmark presiding.—It was re- ported that Newton Rangers had played E. Row- lands, a registered professional for Haydock Foot- ball Club, in one of their matches, and the secre- tary was ordered to send the particulars of the case to the English Football Association to be dealt with.—With reference to the inter-association match with Wirral on November 2nd, it was de- cided to select the team on Monday, and all clubs are invited to nominate two players for selection. The draw for the second round of the Junior Club competition will also be taken on Monday.—The Secretary reported that at a meeting of the Referees' Association, to be held on Monday night at 8.15, it had been arranged that Mr. R. Atherton would read a paper, and it was resolved that all referees, players and officials and others interested be invited to attend. At a meeting of the executive of the Chester and District Football League, held at Chester on Mon- day night, Mr. G. S. N. Hull presiding, Newton Rangers were reported for playing E. Rowlands, a registered professional who had not been re- instated, in their League match with the Royal Welch Fusiliers.—The Secretary of the Rangers attended and pleaded ignorance of the fact.—It was ordered that in accordance with the rule two points be deducted from the Rangers' score, but no fine be inflicted. Rowlands is also to be re- ported to the English Football Association. CHESTER & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION II. RBSTJLTS UP TO DATJ. pld.Won.L'st.Drn For.Airt.Pts. St. John's 6. 6. 0.0.35. 3.12 Hoole Rovers 5. 5. 0. 0.19. 3.10 Seeland Road 6. 5. 1. 0.28.11.10 Wrexham St. Giles. 5. 4. 1. 0.36. 7. 8 Saltney Reserve 6. 3. 2. 1.14.12. 7 Holeby Reserve 5. 2. 2. 1. 8.10. 5 Whitby. 6. 2. 3. 1 .12.24. 5 E. Port Church 5. 1. 2. 2. 7. 9. 4 R. Port Iteserve 5.. 1. 4. 0.. 8.15. 2 Chester United 6 1. 5.. 0.17.30. 2 Chester All Saints' 5. 0. 4. 1. 6.17. 1 Cnrist Church Inptitnbs. 6. 0. 6. 0. 5.54. 0
I ROWING.I
I ROWING. I I CANADL4NS AND HENLEY REGATTA. I Englishmen who have just arrived from Canada, and who have mixed with all classes of sportsmen in the Dominion, have been asked to represent the feelings of Canadians generally on that burning question to amaWr oarsmen, the c'osing of Henley Regatta against "foreigners." In the first place, the Canadians deeply resent being described as "foreigners." They say, "We are as loyal sub- jects to King Edward VII. as any Englishman. We sent our Volunteers to the South African war, and lost some of our best blood, and we claim to be treated on the same level as any other subjects of his Majesty. Why, then, should we be shut out from the privileges enjoyed by an ordinary amateur in England." There is no doubt that shouM Mr. W. H. Grenfell's resolution be carried in its entirety, there will be a bitter feeling raised in Canada, more especially as the Argonaut Row- ing Club, of Toronto, now possesses a very fine eight-oared crew, which they fully intend shall row for the Grand Challenge Cup at Henley, if permitted. Captain Barker, who will be remem- bered as the coxswain-ooach of the 1899 crew, and who has since been on active service at the front, is to be in charge, and already many preparations have been made for the intended visit. Moreover, Canada is at one with a project for I holding a big Coronation Regatta for professionals on the Thames next year, when an international four-oared race, with crews from Australia, Canada, England and any other country that likes to be represented, will form part. of the programme, which includes, besides, champion sculls and handicap sculls. I