Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

tALL RIGHTS RESER VED.) OUR LADIES' COLUMN. BY ONE OF THEMSELVES. I CONGESTION IN THE LONDON STREETS.—IMPEDED TRAFFIC.—THE TUBES OF LONDON.—PERFORA- TIONS OF THE SOLID EARTH.—CHRISTMAS PRESENTS FOR BELOVED FRIENDS.—CHRISTMAS THOUGHTS.— CHRISTMAS CARDS AND VERSES.—AP- PROPRIATE LINES AND ANCIENT MOTTOS.—LIVES OF THE SAINTS—CHRISTMAS DECUHAIIONS AND ENTERTAINMENTS—NURSERY RHYMES.—RESIDEN- TIAL FLATS —GOOD LUNCHEONS.—TIRING SHOP- PING—RECIPES FOR EPICURES. The London streets at the West End are almost impassable just now, when everybody seems to be doing their Christmas shopping all at once. It is, indeed wise fo begin in good time, for a little later on it will be a work of hours to gain even an en- trance to some of the well-known sweetmeat shops. Policemen stand at every crossing to regulate the congested traffic, and what we are coming to I do not know. I suppose we shall have to build bridges overhead in the air in the higher altitudes, for the lighter traffic (cabs and carriages, etc.), as they do in New York. or go on perforating the earth with tubes and underground trams, as we are now doing for heavy traffic, such r s wagons and omnibuses. It is to be hoped that we shall not continue to perforate until the solid earth on which we tread becomes absolutely riddled and honeycombed. Friends of mine living in Hyde Park tremble as they describe the vibrations they are fensible of as the local t-a;n, pass along the twopenny tube, but they are •esuied that they will aret accustomed to it in time! I have already made all my Chri-tmas purchases for expectant nephews and nieces, sisters, cousins and aunts. Oh, dear! the mental strain of considering the fsnecial tastes and most ardent desires of all t'nese^dea-r people, and the physical fatigue of fly:ng a.b'iiA from one end of Londan to ths other in the ivour to ZrittifV the pa-rtion-W w hims and fancies of ones brloved re'a;ive-. However. Christ- mas comas but once a year, and it is the time for thankfulnes, of peace and goodwill toward all vien and of ioy and festival for the children of one's household. They—dear lamb-—have no sad memories, no yearning longing for the presence of beloved forms and faces that were wont to be the nry pivot and centre of the many Christmas gathering-. They do not not'oe the empty chair:—dear little enrs how should they—and it is only seemly that ihr-sa older ones who, though they feci that sad, aohing prun, down deep in their hc-arts, should try to ent'r into the joy and pleasure of the innocent babies who know no pains at this time of rejoicing, that Christ was born a little baby into the wor'd. This is the time to teach our little Christian children to rejoice, to t-ell them beautiful stories about- the Epiphany Star—the angels and the shepherds-- to take them to WfI the image of the little infant Saviour lying in the manger, amidst the cows and oxen, guarded by the watchful angels, and his tender loving mother- Mary was the mother mild, Jesus Christ her little child." Try to make the little ones see how beautiful it is to be gentle and low-ly as He was, though Ho was the King of all the world. On some Christmas card-, bought at Masters, in Bond-street, I found such sweet words, and must quete from those which seemed to me particularly appropriate for the passing year. during which time so many have lost their noarct and dearest. Dost thou dread the ChrLstmastide, For the banished f;ices? Where Christ cometh to abide There are no lone places. Welcome Him on Christinas day, And within thy dwelling, Joy will shine, and hope's bright ray And a peace past telling. Remembrance clings About this charmed day, With dews of living yesterday"; filled up; Lost smiles shine back From very far away, The past—which never passes Maketh day. I find, too, an old Quaker motto, illuminated ii colouredl-ettc-rs, as on a scrip, which I like very much I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing, iheie-lore, I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being let me do it now, let me not defer it, or neglect it, for I shall not pas.3 this way again." I intend itnding ma.ny of thesc pretty mottoes and ionic quaint legend* to my intimate frieild6 to prove th-at I think of thtttt on Chrisuna- taut—though majiy of them are far away—that they are not out of sight, out of mind." I havt* had a dniigntful pre- sent myself of eight little volumes, bound ill gieen Morocco, "The Golden Legend, or Lives of the Saints." I have often wished for a realiy y.mpie account of the lives of tlu* Saints, whose histories have been handed down to us from bygone ages. I am so fond of the beautiful loueiK; and otoried i of the mediaeval isaints and v. arrior knights. Fiowers tor Christinas entertainments will not necessarily now be of foreign growth. Since last year an immense spurt in this industry has taken place throughout the native nurseries of Kent and Surrey, and the extraordinary mildness of our December weather has proved an added help: but many of us will not have ambiti-jn to go beyond the fertile, useful chrysanthemum, that precious flower of many lives, and of a hardihood that will carry it through the decorations of Christmas and over the frontier line into New Year's Day without even drooping its head. the brilliant colours temper the gloom of t!ic dark hoHy and ivy leaves. Last ves.r'j novelty ill the shape of a green chrysanthe- mum, was a tour de force in production certainly, but for decorativo purposes it is no rival for the rich yellows, the soft browns, and the shaded pinks of the older blooms. What a gain, too. in church decoration are the beds of lovely white chrysanthemums, in lieu of the horrid cotton wool of our childhood. A timely book of the season, when catering for the little ones is our chief thought, is, What shall we do now," by G. V. and G. Lucas. We have before now met with various publications 011 children's games, but few so comprehensive, and none written with the understanding and spirit which makes this book most pleasant reading apart from the subjects of which it tred". Parents and much enduring governesses will be grateful for the chapter headed "In tho train," suggesting games of an absorbing and delightful naturo for the restless little people. Picnic games, and party games have a full share of attention, but my special admiration is evoked by the instructive, or rather constructive chapters, for how infinitely precious to every child is a thing it haa made itself. Roys are initiated into the mysteries of kite making and toy boats: girls are given the most entrancing hints for the furnishing of a doll's house, even to the pictures on the walls which may be midget photographs parted on fractions of visiting cards, and framed with a tiny band cf gold paper. I Illustrated children- toobs appear this year lo I "run to" animals, as the Americans might say. and the animal treatment is mainly protesque. I am not qiiit- -ure that I approve of this, for children are so dreadfully literal that many ebi,di 'h im- pressions founded on cariciture; have to be unlearnt later. I know thi- from experience; but granted this protest I have nothing but eulogy for the immense cleverness of the varied zoological pano- rama. Among other well-known -artists Mr. E. R-eed, of Punch fame, has entered the lists for the children with ati immensely funny book, Tails with a Twist." Perhaps the ict-uilly cleverest book cf the kind for the season is Cats," by Mr. L. C a t ?z, by Mr. U. Waiii-merely cats, not grotesque, but inimitable. I cm glad to see a re-issue of Mr. Walter Crane's pretty Baby's Opera," and to welcome another charming song book for children. Old English Singing Games," by Miss Alice Gomme. It has many graceful and quaint illustrations, and a. good selection of the dear old nursery tunes that should be as familiar, I hope, to our children's children as they were to eur great grandmothers. As if a. "ufficien t'y acute stage had not, a lready- been r ached in t.he servant question by the dif6 u'ty of g-.rtt.ing do;nMies at any price, we have :at"l)p been brought f ce to faci with a public correspon- dence on the unreliable me hods of registry offices, and are further thre hnrd with a Domestic Hervants' Union. It is no wc.nder that people turn with in- creasing willingness to the solution of the prob'em offered by co-operative housekeeping. A very pleas.mt experience of this s ductive mode of exist- ence re%-ea' d itself to me in a visit I paid to a friend who has taken up her residence at IIvde Park Court. Between a flait proper, and a flat in a residential hotel, there is a vast difference. In point of privacy they are the same each is shut off by a hall door from the main building, and entered by a \-poStibu' a3 any houses from the street. But when Hhe com- missariat question cor.es in, the great divergence is ?ppa.r:nt. In tho flats of a residential hotel the smell and round of cookery is banished from th.9 home. With tho cookery vanishes also th? c-ok- tha' bngbrar of many hf)tisclio!ds-- iiid a competent s aff of servants, under the control cf the manager, appears ready equipped, at ¡,h? first summon-, like M nerva en-crging ful'y armed from the brain of JIIT)*T -r. The po?:tion of Hyde Park Court is quite unique. Fronfng" g oare-C" and several of the fashionalble shops in the Brc-rnpton-rd.. its back windows 'ok directly over the whole exra.nse of the Park, facing the Lady's mile, with the Serpentine winding to the left. On ev-ry floor this lovely prospect can be survey-d net cn'v from the windows, but from a, projecting iros b?!cony wh:ch is in connection with on irrn Ktalrca-e 'that runs from the top of the build- ing to the ground. A simi ar safeguard, in case of fire. is attiehcd outside in the front of the mansions. If Hyde Park Court admits, as I am told, ladies who are shopping in the neighbourhood to luncheon, or if a table can be retained by letter or te egram, in th- Ciiiiitig-ro-.m for that purpose, then the pLaoe has iad-ed all the perfections for Albert Gate j* situated a long way from all the good restaurants and clubs, and the only alternative offered between hizn-rr iiid a drive home, in the very midst of pur- ohase making, is that of the unattractive confec- tioners and bun-shops, whi-h are, in that, as in all neighbourhoods, at. th? :unche?n hcur. a masticating ma-s of customers, jc-stling ca,ch other in insufficient sparoe and s pungent at nosphere of s-tale coffue. It would ?cem as though the more restaurant and lunch ,il-ry-.i--is and ir-a-shops increase, the more they are in demand. If a new Asmodeu« were to lift the rcof from every public eating plaeo at one é)'c'(x'k in the day, he would probably find them all full, nnd wonder that- Lord n could contain so large i population, unable to realise what a mere fraction so occupied rep -esenU'd. It -1. well, tind- sucli conditions, to know where a refined tsu'sine a -.d select company may obtained. Such i-=l-'ci ~us sob s, done wi h c' -rrso. we had for lunch. [ don': know exactly how they were done, but tha result was ex,eknt. It -e-i-nr-d Ps if the fish had seen fried in cheese instead of breadcrumbs and br-wnpd wiih a saia end-er. Partridge, when young, are best roasted. TaeTe is itC combination which can improve on their natural delicacy. But our guns do not always bring LL" in young partridge, and a receipt for making a delicious tliish with old partridge is worth having. It require; pat once, but so does all good cooking. Take a Ouple of partridge, bone them by splitting down the back, b; careful not to cut the.skin of L,ho breast. Season the meat wall with oejffisr Zsad ealt, mince up the liver and inide "bits with chopped parsley, a few breadcnnnb s tind butter, an 1 spread upon the partridges laid fcroast downwards on a cleaa olot'R. Prepare a stuffing of chopped truffles ham, rasped lemon peel, and a calf's tweet bread (if this is unprocurable use the whitt- meat of at chicken). Stir these ingredients over the fire, them turn them on apate to get cald, emp)oy:ng the in- terval in breaking up th? bon0 and tnmnnnge, which place in a saucepan with a little watcr, a si ce at lean ham. an onion, cloves, and a small piece of mace. Let these simmer a couple of hours to reduce into gravy. When the prepared stuffing is cold fill the birds with it, flattening them slightly. and sew up. Place the birdi with a si ce of butter in a saucepan, colour both sides, add half a pint of water and the same of Madeira wine, let the birds simme: slowlv, placing a. wcll-blit.-ere-I paper over them. Remove them when cooked, :,n(\ reduce the gravy rapidly, adding to it an equal tuia-t- ty of the game stock. Re-place the birds, and thicken the gravy, if it requires it. with a little rasped raw Hamboro ham. Our new contemporary, tiie "(),i.'oolzpr," an- I., f!o-,i-i C o l ont, ? Kentiv nounce-, I see, contributions fiotn Colone-i Kenny Herbert, the" Wyvern of former famous gastro- nomic articles. The forowine is Wyvein's re- ceipt for -\ut Sv!uoi: T.-Ie loz. of puis kernel (pignonsl; wash, dry, end mine them. Melt 2oz*. (butter and add a. little chopped c>ou. Fry till tho nuts begin to turn, then throw into a mortar and pound to paste. ]\lake a roiix. l i.e., white sauce of butter ar.d flour, and, if required, a little milk. Moisten with white stock. Stir in the nut paste and boil. Remove from he fire, tnen blend in nearly a pint of cream and keen hot in a bain-marie (jar placed in hot wr?ter\. Cood with ail grills, plain roasts, or fried fish in fillets. Lohdon. Thursday. PENELOPE.

WREXHAM FREE CHURCH COUNCIL. The seventh annual meeting of the Wrexhsm Free Church Council was held ill theCcPsnegatioiml Church, Chester-street, on Monday cvessng, when the president, Rev. Edward Jerman. occupied the chair. There was a fairly large attendance. Thf meeting was opened with the singing of a hymn, an-1 the reading of Scripture and prayer by the li :v. G. T. Sadler. The Chairman, referring to the coming School Board election, Slid a special meeting of the Council had been held to make the necessary prepara- tions, but satisfaction was fxpn'd with the w.), k of the Board during the pasc throe years, and they had no desire to disturb present arraugein-nis. Ttie Board had acted with grtat wisdom and fairness, and they were deeply indebted to the menibera, iiiclu.'lin« Mr Francis, a membsr of that Church Mr Wm. Thomas, whom they were so glad to see present th-.t evening, and Mr Robert Ssuvnge, the representa- tives of the Nonconforini.it Churches. He was bound to say also that he felt deeply indebted to Mr Oswell Bury and Sir Eobert Egerton, for the fairness :ttici %v;i,h which they had taken the work of the schools in hand. They, as a Free Church Council, wanted to safeguard the education of the chiidifii in Wrexham from sectarianism and clericalism, and from unfair or injurious influences. ko th",t. the l"t e<nicatio>i which the excellnt atnff of teachers ac schools was able to give should be given. He trusted they would stand Bhoulder to ahonl 'er aq Nor-conformi* and t;Pt they sbou!d have with the in also the trade union* and fiiendly societies and tne w\TI<Í';g' num of the town. Alluding to the couihig mission, which it is proposed to hold in February next, the speaker rfniil be hoped it would b-* the meat's of npliftiug the spiritual K-i(i religious character cf ibat tovvn, and that nt the begicning of the century thp. followers of ''brisr, ghould have groat cause to r, joiee. (Hear, hear.) Aiicr the singing ot a hymn, Mr Henrv Boothey, the secretary, read the animal report of the council, which stattd that several comm ttee meetings had been held during the year to consider (1) the suggested memorial to Morga i Llwyd, (2) Lord Peel's report, ard what stepti should taken at the Brewster Sessions, and (3). the bininUaneous misson in Febiuary next. The Morgan Llwyd memorial committee recommended thaL mn obelisk be placed in tilio-ititiu graxeyard, but tht :he raising of sab- sciipt'uns be postponed to the many callti which had recently been made upon the public. The c >1110111166 were glad to report that there was no necessity for engaging a solicitor at the Brewster Se-i-ions. a-i the licemsing committee and the police ;,nL!,orities did their work in a praiseworthy manner. As rft-iiit of a circular which had been hcui out to each church, it had been decided to hold separatu missions for English and Welsh in Febtuti-y next. For the English mission,, the services of Mr Henry Them, who had conducted many hundred successful missions, had been engaeg, the arrangements for the Webb mission would be made by the Welsh chnrchrR. The receipts during the year amounted to E12 15i 7d, and the expenditure to X17 12s lljd, ik,:tvi!i, a ci.1- ficiency of £4 17s 4jd. On the motion of Mr Willi tin Tnomas, seconded by tho Rev. D. W. Elia*, the report was adopted. Dr. Joseph Ferguson, of Glasgow, then delivered an excellent and inspiring address, in the course of which, alluding to the educational q-; stion, Ite referred to the time when, 250 years ago, the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge were closed against Free Churehmen, not because they were less acceptable in society than those who were allowed to go in, not because their creed was defective theo- logically or evangelically, but b;cause; they could i:at gulp thirty-uiue articles and a few odd osie^— (laughter),—because they could not take in a bit of subtle theology that very few men ou-d take in b- day. (Renewed laughter.) But the a imittance of Nonconformists showed that they were not quite brainless, that they were prepared to study a:ut »ii. for examinations, to their own advantuge and honour, and to the honour of the churches they, in some, limited form, represented, for during the last twenty- three years all those students who had reached the highest positions had been reached by Noncon- formists or Free Churchmen. (Applktuse.) He con- cluded with an eloquent appeal to Free Churchmen to see that their children were not, whilst in school, brought under clerical and unfair influences. The usual votes of thanks were accorded, 0;1 the motion of Mr Birkett Evans, seconded by the Rev. Joseph Beanpre, and the meeting closed with the singing of the hymn, God bless our native laud." and the Benediction by Mr Simon Jon,s.-Doi-irig the meeting a collection was taken ou behalf of the council funds. The annual business meeting of the Conncil was held prior to the public meeting. The Rev. Edward Jerman, retiring president, occupied the chair. Tne draft of the seventh annual report and financial ;t,FLtement were submitted to the meeting. The officers elected for the coming year were President, Mr Charles Dodd, who would be excused from taking any part, in the event of a School Board contest vice-president, Dr. Richard Evans secretary and treasurer, Mr Henry Boothey (re-elected). The secretary was authorised to appoint an assistant secretary to help in preparing for the coming mission. A

I WHITCHURCH GREAT CHRISTMAS SALE. Messrs Frank Lloyd and Sons held their annual show and sale of Christmas stock in the above Smith- field on Monday week. There was an excentionallv pond lot of stock, comprising 172 fat cattle, 229 sheep, 385 pigs, and 61 calves. The judging of the cattle and sheep was entrusted to Mr tdkinF;, Birmingham, and Mr Harvey Jones. Wem; pigs, Mr J. B. Roberts Liverpool; calves, Mr Tom Jones, Wem; their awards giving every satisfaction. The Shropshire Challenge Cup, for the best butcher's beast-1. Mr Topham, with a grand heifer making £ 23; r, Mr J. Fittin, E20 5s. Pair butcher's beasts 1, Mr& Nottingham, iE51 151. Four fat beasts—Mr S K. Bickley, X91 5s r, the Hon. Mrs Kenyon. JE82. Fat bnll-Mr A. G. Wilkinson, zE26 15s; r, Mr Topham, S23 15s. Fat cow-Mr Moses Ikin. X23; Mr J. Griffithg. f23. There was a very keen competition for the Bibby Cako prize. kindly g.ven by Mr W. E. Bright, their agent. The two guinea prize for the best pair of fat beasts, being carried off by the Hon. Mrs Kenyon, sold at £43 10s; r, Mr Topbani, zE41 103, One gainea for the best fat beast-I, Major Harrison, sold at X25 10s; r, Mr Fitton, f20 5-1. 10s 6d, fat cow-Major Harrison, £ 25; r. Mr W. J. Griffiths, S23. Pen of five fat sheep—1, Mr Thomas Wilscn, with a pen of ripe Clun wethers, making 593. also gettinL7 reserve number, making 56s, 30 averaging over 55s. Five fat lambs-1, Mr Topham, sold at 45s. Although it was not the auctioneers' turn to sell their pigs first, they were favoured with a large entry, nice quality pigs far exceeding anything seen at the previous auctions, as will be seen hy some of the following prices:—Rpst fat nigR—1, Mr J. Griffiths, sold at JE6 15s r, Messrs Hughes, 97:3. Three bacon pgs-1, Mr J. Ikin. with three of the best nigs in the market that day making S9 each r, Mr G. Clutton sold a.t £6 6s. Three pigs, estimated between six and ten scorps-1, Mr W. J. Griffiths, sold at 863 each r, Miss Nunnerley, 80s. Three porkets. nnder eight score—1, Mr J. Griffiths, sold at 61s; r, Mr Jones, 56s. Christmam pig—1, Mr Jabez Evans, sold at X8 12 r, Mr Higgins. JE8 12. Cottagers' pig —Mr Holland, iE5 Mr Madele.v..i4 8s. Fat ealf- Mr J. Powell. with a grand caif, making 16 4s; r, Mr Edwards, S4 7s. There were a very useful lot of dairy cows on offer. which were well sold, the gninea prize going to Mr Jonathan Cotterill, mfkmg JE23 5s, closely followed by Mr Lakin (two) £45. Boyer" were in attendance from Birmingham, Stalev Bridge, The Potteries. Wolverhampton, Crewe, Oswestrv, Wellington, Wrexham, and other centres. The sale throughout was a great success, the auctioneers being highly complimented in having held the largest and most successful sale of Christmas fat stock ever known in tbA above smithfield, [Crowded out of our last edition.]

TREFYNANT. I CEMETERY COMPANY, LI)TITFD.-The. annual general meeting of the Trefynant General Cemetery Com- pany, Limited, was held on Thursday at the office of the Company, Cemetery House, when Mr Wm. Roberts presided. Amongst those rresent were Meissr* D. Jones, M. Edwardi. J W. Jones, T. Tranter, Rev. T3. J. Williams, -and Mr E. R. Evans, clerk. The finanoial report was presented, which showed a balance in banker's hand" of JE21 33 2d; the cash received for fi-R.ves so'd was iE28 4s 61, and for digging graves iell 17s. Tli* two retiring directors. Messrs Wm. Roberts and Alderman C. Jones, were re-elected. Mr J. Jones, auditor, was also re-elected. Mr T. Tranter, in proposing a vote of thanks to the Chairman, referred to the great services rendered by him to the companv. and trusted he would continue to preside over their aff.iirs for many years to come. (Applause). This was seconded by Mr J. W. Jones, and carried. The Chairman afterwards responded. I

Most sugar now sold contains heet and rhemicals I but Pure Cane Sucrar. free from chemicals, can still be bought at W. Phillips & Co. Ld.—Ask for Pure Cane Granulated Sugar in linen bags. A guarantee of pnrity is printed on each bag.— W. PHir,LIPS Co, Lrd. WREXHAM. 3170 LINSBBD COMPOUND' euros Consrhs and Colds. Gives immediate relief. Si 3. and 13d- t3024

BOYS' COUNTY SCHOOL, WREXHAM. ANNUAL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. LORD KENYON ON EDUCATION. The annual prize distribution to the successful students connected with the Boys' County School, Grove Park, Wrexham, took place on Monday after- noon last, at the Public Hall, Wrexham, particular interest being given to the occasion by the announce- ment that Lord Kenyon would undertake the cere- mony. The Mayor (Councillor T. Jones) presided, and there were also on the platform the Mayoresa, Lord Kenyon, Sir Robert Egerton, K.C.S.I., and Lady Egerton, Mrs Griffith-Boscawen. the Rev. R. J. Hopkins, Rev. E. K. Jones, Mr and Mrs W. Thomas, Mr J. Oswell Bury, Mr and Mrs Russell, and Mr Job Mason. There was a large attendance of the parents and friends of the pupils, nmongst those present being the Town Clerk (Mr Thomato Bury) and Mrs Bury. The Mayor ia opening said he would take up very little time of the meeting. It was scarcely necessary for him to tell them that it give him great pleasure to be there, and he deemed it a very grext honour to preside again over the annual meeting of the Grove Park Schools for the distribution of prizes and certificates, and especially so, as part of his duty was to introduce them to Lord Kenyon, who was going to distribute the prizes. The name of Kenyon was exceedingly well known and highly esteemed in Wrexham. (Hear, hear.) It had been known for a very long time, and the Kenyous -were always ready to render whatever service and assistance they could in anything pertaining to the welfare and good of the town. (Hear, hear.) In regard to education, and especially intermediate education in Wales, no name was moie familiarly agsociated with it than that of Kenyon. (Hear, hear.) Of course, this was more particularly in the parson of the Hon. George Kenyon, but Lord Kenyon took equally as keen an interest in matters educational, and no one would be more welcome there thm his lordship. To the boys no doubt, that day was looked forward to with great interest and anxiety, ¡bat also with great delight, as it brought in its train the holidays The day v^as specially delightful to the pupils who has wan prizes and certificates, and also very interesting to the parents, who took such interest in their boys and ,their progress in educa- tion and beyond this it wfig interesting to the town generally, who watched the progress of the work done at the school. He was pleased to know that the high reputation which had attached to the school for so long ha.d been maintained during the past year. It had taken a very high place, one of aomu distinction in the Welsh Central Board examination. All this was very gratifying and encouraging to the headmaster and his assistants, because it was the index by which they could judge of their work in the school, and he thought they were to be heartily con- gratulated on tho success of the school during the past year. (Hear, hear.) He learned that one of the masters, the Rev. H. S. Chignell, who had been at the school some time, and was very popular and successful with the boys—(itpplauae)—was, to the regret ef all, going' away, and he (the Mayor) was Bure the very best wishes of the boy: thair parents, and the town went with him to his new sphere of labour. (Applause.) His Worship, in conclusion, said he hoped some future Mayor, before long, would be able to congratulate tho town and the County School npon having a new school building to carry on the work they had been doing so well in the old buildings. The proj ct had been talked about for a considerable time, bnr. he thought it was now in the initiating stages, and that before many years they would have a building which would be the highest credit to the towu and education. (Applaune ) The Mayor then introduced Lord Kenyon. Lord Kenyon, who had a cordial reception on rising, said he was very glad to be there that after- noon. First, he had to thank the Mayor for the kind words he had said of his family with reference to any work they had done with regard to Welsh education. It was his (Lord Kenvon's) ancle's good fortune to be in tho House of Commons when the Welsh Intermediate Education Act was in preparation, and certainly he had a share m the passing of the Act, which be believed had been and would be of still greater benefit to Wales. (Applause.) Well, the wcrk which his uncle, with others, initiated he (Lord Kenyon) hoped to go on with. It was not given to everyone to begin a work, but it was given to all to continue it. At the present moment there was very large opportunities, particularly iu connection with Bangor College. The other day they were kind enough to sleet him as president of the college. (Hear, hear.) The future of the college, be thought, depended largely on the people of North Wuies. They were now in the condition-and he did not think he was telling any secrets in saying so-when the buildings and the house they occupied were inadequate for their needs, and they would very shortly have to come before the people of Wales-and to those outside who f would be liberal enough to help them-ind ask for their support in the endeavour to produce a building worthy of the University of North Wales. Money would have to be found in large sums if they were to raise a building worthy of the task, and he was quite sure they would get the support not only of the people of North Wales, but of Liverpool and other adjacent towns who sent their sons there to be educated. This wasperhaps a little apart from their subject that night. He came to congratulate the head and assistant masters of that echool upon the successes gained by their pupils in tho Welsh University examinations and other houours, and he did most heartily congratulate Mr Russell and the masters on these successes. He did it the more heartily because be believed that the stpndard of examination in the University of Wales was equal, if not superior, to that of any other uuiversity in the United Kingdom. He had been talking some time ago to Dr. Isambard Owen, who, as they knew, was Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales, and he said that their main object, their one object-the only reason for their existence in fact-wag to see that their standard should be high so that the honours gained in their university should not be false honours, but be worthy of the name. (Hear, hear). Well, they had now very nearly come to the end of the century—some said they had come a year ago, but he did not agree with them. Any way they were embarking on the twentieth century, and they had to look to what the future of the country would be during the twentieth century, and he thought the future of the country depended upon the way they educated their children. Therefore no small responsibility rested upon them to see that the path of education was a right one and a clear one. Some of them might have read not long ago, as he had, the excellent address Lord Roeebery made to the students of Glasgow University. It was full of thought and full of fact, and he could not summarise it to them, but the effect it produced upon him (Lord Kenyon) was the impression that if they were to hold their place in the nation—their supreme place might he say-if they were to hold that place they must look to the education they had to provide. and thev must not stick too closely, possibly to the old methods. They must not be bound by old ties. One thing he noticed very much in the speech, Lord Rosebery quoted from the Consul at Kemnitz, and he thought he said that whenever any industry in Germany went wrong, a commission was immediately appointed,'and the result generally was that a technical school was established to provide education to put that particular industry right. All this seemed to point to a more systematic teaching of technical knowledge, and particularly lately when in England and Wales they had seen this technical education brought to the front. He did not say that all other education should bo neglected. It was extremely difficult to say that all education should be absolutely practical, and also he ventured to think it was impossible to say when they began the education of a boy that they could be absolutely sure what his vocation would be. They might educate a boy for a musician, and might find in three or fonr years that he had no aptitude or inclination for it. They should, he (Lovd Kenvon) thought, cultivate the soil in every degree. It was perhaps only one student in ten who went on with the studies with which he began, but it was worth while for the sake of one to dig deep, and, as far as they could, in every sort of ground. The study of Greek by many was thought to be absolutely useless, and yet what fund of interest lay in the study, and what a very large part of the English language was derived from Greek. He did know that he could dilate much more on the subject, but what he wished to emphasise was this, that if they were to do any good as a nation, if they were to compete with the German-who was all enterprise—and with others, like the Americans, who spoke our own tongue, and had an extraordinary talent for invention, then their teaching must be very thorough, and they must try to make it not only practical and useful but attractive. The Principal of Bangor College, speaking recently in regard to the rifle corps, said that he found science pupils showed most aptitude for things of that kind. It was a peculiar thing, but the science students seemed to have a more apt brain than those who took up art subjects, and he thought this was because their eye was educated as well as their mind. demonstra- tions and interesting experiments appealed to them so much that they sharpened their intelligence. Continuing, Lord Kenyon said he thought they could safelv trust the future of their education to such schools as Grove Park and kindred schools in North Wales—(hear, hear), backed up as they were by the Welsh University Colleges of the Welsh University. Ha thought their system was fairly complete, and given proper buildings- and he was glad to hear that in Wrexham they were contemplating such a thing-proper laboratories, and everything that could be provided in the shape of implements and so forth for the cultivation of the subjects, he thought they woald find they would not be behind other nations. (Hear, hear.) But they must not pause or shrink. Education was the one thing to keep them to the front of the nations, and, therefore, money spent upon it was money extremely well invested. (Hear, hear.) In concluding, the noble lord said be would give a small prize annually fur any subject in which the head master would agree with him was for the benefit of the school— (applause)—and he would also be very glad to ask —what no doubt the boys would enjoy more than anything—that the students should be given a holi- day. He again congratulated all upon the success attained by the school, and wished them every prosperity in the future. (Applause.) Mr Russell, after expressing his great regret at the absence of both the chairman and vice-chairman of the governors owing to illness, said he had received letters of apology from Sir Robert Cunliffe and the Misses Cunliffe, Mr E. Peel, BrvnypysMr and Miss Evans, Bronwylfa and many others. Mr Chancellor Trevor Parkins hoped to be present at the distribution, congratulated Mr Russell on the continued success of the school, and on the election of Rev. John Bennett Lancelot-for many years a pnpil of Grove Park-to the principalship of Liverpool College. Mr I Russell said that there were now ï ,UU pupils in the newly constituted secondary schools of Wales, and if allowance were made for those that were in schools under the intermediate scheme, Wales could show a return of more than 5.3 pupils receiving secondary education for every 1,000 inhabitants. Tbis was very I gratifying, as the correspo- ling nnmher in France was only 4.1, and even in Prussia only 4.9, though in I the United States it was 8.6 The number in their own school at present was 132, and the average for the year was 122. The tone and standard of diligence had been fairly good. A new feature of the year had been the opening of their workshop, with benches for twenty four boys. This had been of great benefit to them, developing the brain, muscles. and nerves in a new direction, and tending to make the boys neat and handy. It was also valuable in restoring the con- fidence and self-respect of boys who might excel in such work, but were incapable of doing well in the ordinary studies, and might even stimulate them to increased efforts in their studies. (Hear, hear.) Another novelty had been tried during the year—a piece of ground that was not in use had been divided among the boys, and ten plots had been taken up by sixteen pupils, and many of them had been neatly kept and well cultivated. Prizes were given at the end of the term, and we had reason to be pleased with the iinecess of the experiment. Their school magazine—the TV;-exhamian -con ti nued to prosper, and their debating society had been very vigorous and flourishing. He thought both of these very valuable, as they caused the upper boys to take an interest in the leading questions of the day, and trained them to express their thoughts on paper or before an audience. Turning to the work of ithe year, Mr Russell said that time prevented his read- ing the whole of the report of the Central B)ard, but the following extract was a fair summary There seems to be sound and careful work in ail the main departments. The impression I received during the days of inspection led me to believe that a very high standard of work was maintained in the school-work- that would compare favourably both in quality and quantity with that of a much larger school." They were very proud of the success of Mr Percy H. Wykes in gaining a first class in mathematical moderations at Oxford. Last year Mr Wv kes had gained an open scholarship at Batliol —the blue ribbon of such competitions—direct roan the school, and this brilliant success was ail the more striking as the report of the Chief Inspector for tha year had contained the remark that The school was so organised as to secure a high level of attainment for entire classes rather a than for individual pupih." (Cheers). lie thought this criticism would be reassuring to parents who felt that their sons were not destiued to gain scholarsaips. They had reasoa to be very pleased with their success in the com- petition for the Cuief Inspector's Gold Medal, waich I'll-L-1 open to the ninety-four sjcoudary schools ot Wales. Grove Park had wou it last year, and C H. Dodd was mentioned this year as one of those who were worthy of honourable mention as counug very near the winner. In speaking of old boys who had distiuguishe.i themselves, Mr Russell mentioned several who had been fighting in South Africa, and referred with particular pride to the fact that Lieutenant Maurice Griffith had been mentioned in Lard Roberta's despatches for having behaved witn gc-jat eallautry on August 27th in the engagement near Kraai Station. (Cheers). The interest in games had n'at in any way fliggcd. They had p:u.yed the UTtial Luatcu^o iu cricket and football with the average success. lu couclusiou, Mr Ka-isell expressed his indebtedness to the Governors and tne stall of masters, und particularly rtferred to the heavy loss they sustained in the departure of Mr Chiguell, wao would carry with him the atf=ctuii and estceui of both masters and boy=> and their uest wishes foe his success in his new work. Lord Kenyou then distiibutcd the pr:ze^ its appended to tne list of honours wuich io..o»vo — LIST OF HONOURS, &C., 1900. University of Oxford.—Mr Percy H. Wykes, who, in 1898, was elected direct from the school to an opeu scholarship at BalLol College, Oxford, haa taken a first class in mathematical moderations. County Exhibition.-O. A. Sadler has been awarded a county exhibition of qc value uf iE20 per annum for three years. Civil Service.—W. A. Y rnon has gained an assis- taut clerkship in the h yal Navy, in open com- petition (direct from the hcitool). Chief Inspector's Gold Medal.-C. H. Dodd is honourably mentioned as one of those qui proxtine accessernnt. in the competition for this mettai, which was won last year by a Grove Park boy. Mayor's Gold Medal.—R. I. Mop wood receives the gold medal given by the Mayor of Wrexham (i\ Jones, Esq.), C. H. Lodd, who Btocd first, having gained it last year. Institute of Bankers.—Mr Lemuel E. Davies, a former pupil, has pasaed the examination of the Institute of Bankers, and has been awarded a prize of JE5. CENTRAL WELSH BOARD. The list of candidates who have been successful in the examination for certificates of the Welsh Central Board is given below. The Wrexham (Boys) School, Grove Park, presented thirty-four candidates (nearly one-third of the total number of boys in the school), of whom thirty-two were successful, four gaining honour certificates, twelve senior, and sixteen junior i certificates. The total number of marks of distinc- tion gained is sixty. The value of these certificates is greatly enhanced by thd fact that they ara (under the nsual conditions) accepted in lieu of the preliminary examination of the Medical Profession, Society of Architects, Pharmaceutical Society, and Board of Education. The following is a complete list :— Honour Certificate.-C. H. Dodd, distinguished in Latin and Greek Bo. 1. Hopwood, distinguished in Latin, Greek, and English composition; C. A. Sadler, distinguished in physics, history, and Bigli sh composilion A. T. Thomas, higher mathematics. Senior Certificites.—H. L. Crockett, distinguished in arithmetic, Latin, and French A. Clayton Davies, distinguished in arithmetic and French; John Davies, distinguished in arithmetic, Welsh, and French J. W. Davies, distinguished in arithmetic D. J. Edwards F. H. Jones, distinguished in arithmetic J. L. Mann, distinguished in English language and arithmetic W. H. Morgan, distin- guished in French A. G. Olgers, distinguished in English language and arithmetic W. G. R >berts H. H. Thomas, distinguished in Scripture, English language, mathematics, Latin, French, and science A. Williams, distinguished in arithmetic. Junior Certid.gtes.k. J. Allmand, distinguished in Scripture, arithmetic, mathematics, French, Mechanics and English composition. T. F. Crornar, distinguished iu Scripture, arithmetic, mathematics, Latin and French. W. G. Evans, distinguished in English composition, Scripture, arithmetic, mathe- matics, and history. C. H. H. Harold. W. B. Holmes, distinguished in Scripture, arithmetic aud mathematics. Lloyd Hughes. W. Johns^u, dis- tinguished in Scripture, mathematics and French A. G. Jones. Bertie E, Jones, distinguished in French. Sidney Jonc-s, distingui6hed in arithmetic an-i ui tics. F. H. Nicholson, distinguished ia arifhmeric and mathematics. D. R RJgers. F. F. S?unon \V. j H. Shone. J. E. Su-clff?. K. 0. W)Hin.M<. dis- tirigaiiihed in 'arithm,,ti,?, and Fr-a?. Pnarmiceutical Society.-OveLi Hdury Baw?a h:n p&aaed the Parliamentary Examia?.t?n. North and South Wales Bank.—A. Y. E»aur, E. M. Cartwright. PRIZE LIST. Sixth Firin.-C. H. Dodl. i. I. Hapwjol, C. A. I Sadler, A. T. Thomas, A. J. Allmaud. F.fch Form.—H. II. Thomas, iI. L. Crockett, John Divies, A. Williams. Fourth Forin.- I. F. Cromar, W. G. Evan3, R. O. Williams, Sidney Jones. Third Form.-B. Wynn Jones, Thomas Evans, Gilbert Morgan. Second Form.—Victor Hilditch, G. E. Morgan. First Form.—F. Holt, H. Wyune. Extra Prize-Corumercial Sabjects.-A. H. Clay, Harry Evans. I Welsh (presented by the Headmister) John Davies. Mr J. Oswell Bary moved a vote of thauks to Lord Kenyon, and said he would say a few words to com- mend the motion to them. It was a matter of con- gratulation to know that Lord Kenyon baci accepted the high position of President of Bangor University, which would no doubt still farther stimulate his interest in educational matters in Wales. It must be very gratifying to his Lordship, after earning there three or four times, to find that the school was prospering so splendidly, giving sncli good results, and gainiog such high honours, aad he would ba equally gratified to know that some ot the boys had done well since leaving the school, and that some also had shown gallantry in fijhting for the country in South Africa. Tneir s, at present was not such a one as they would lik- oJ have, but he thought that they might ljok forward to :he completion of Fat; new buildings in the near future, and he trusted they would be the great success it was hoped they would be. Mr W. Thomas seconded, and said he was sure Bangor College would not suffer through Lord Kenyon accepting the distinguished position of president. (Hear, hear.) Tney were also all very gratified that his Lordship had been appointed to so distinguished a post in counectiou with her Majesty, which was an honour, not only to Lord Kenyon, bat to theminwrexham, because they felt that he belonged to them in this little Waies and he hoped the noble Lord would long live to occupy such position. (Applause). The motion was earned with acclarn:itio-i. Lord Kenyon, in responding, said one thiug in Mr Thomas's speech pleased him very much, and that was the statement that they looked upon him (his Lordship) as belonging to Wrexham. He was pleased to think he belonged to this part of the world. His home was not far from here, and his life had been spent in this locality. His uncle (the Hon. George Kenyon) was a good friend of theirs, and they were good friends of his, and he (Lord Kenyon) hoped that, politics apart, they would always keep good friends. For himself, he could say that in all classes —amongst Churchmen, Nonconformists, Conserva- tives, and Radieals-in North Wales he had found many true and loyal friends. (Hear, hear.) He aiso thanked Mr Thomas for the reference to bis appointment as Lord-in-Waiting to the Qaeen. He trusted this was the first step on the ladder of service to his country. He hoped he might in the course of the session get work at the Lacal Government Board or some other Department, which would enable him to give some service to his Queen and country. (Applause.) Sir Robert Egerton moved a vote of thanks to the Mayor, who, be said, had performed his duty that day in the excellent way he performed all his civic duties, whilst his speech showed the interest be took in education, and especially in the County School, Wrexham. (HeM.bear.) I The Rev. E. K. Jones seconded, and the motion was unanimously carried. The Mayor briefly responded, and three cheers were given for the Mayor and Mayotess, Lord Kenyon, the goverikors, Mr and Mrs Russell, and the assistant-masters. „- The afternoon proceedings were brought to a close with the representation, by a number of the pupils, of the trial scene from The Merchant of Venice." The tit-aiiia,isi)ei-so,i,.e will be found below. EVENING ENTERTAINMENT. j The cnstomaTY entertainment was held in the evening in the Public ??"' when there ?3 a crowded audience, many being unable to obtain sitting room. The programme was &a follows Pianoforte solo.Pas triste, Pas gai  tn (S'emdale Bennett). Emlyn Davi- es. bong and chorus. The Admiral's Broom (F. Be aD). Rev. H. S. Chignell and Choir. Part song. Jolly Winter "(C. Vincent) School Choir. n Part songCome Thou long-expected Jesus" School Choir. (D. Pughe-Pvar, Song "The Arab's ride" [ ((i « Mai%, Mr N. D. Bird. Trial Scene-" The Merchant of Venice." Dramatis Persona: The Duke of Venice C. A Qbadler. Antonio, the Merchant  r" ?' "Mter. B h. f. d A T tIP*00^. aSI!DlO, hia clen A. J.  Gratiano } ) FriendsofAntonio -LIcyd?- Salanio G. Higbv* Shylock, a. Jew Mr A. E L' ?'??' Portia, an heiress, disguised as Doctor of Laws Portia, an heiress, disguised as Doctor of Laws.. N. h .d d.. d DOdd Neriaaa, her waiting maid, disguised as ?' ?°?' lawyer's clerk. W G. p )?' Clerk to Court of Justice rji \tl{ Magnificoes and Atend%nts. as. Scene—Court of Justice in Venice. Pianoforte solo L? Vivacite riv ntranz ) Emlyn Davies. Partsong The Night Bells i(n UXv,Qcent) School Choir. n Violin solo (a) Melody n« n (b)GAIOP.C. £ TS); A. J. Allmand.. Song. The Vagabond Mr N. D. Bird. Seng and chorus. The Deathless Army (H. Trothe) Rev. H. S. Chignell and Cboir?' ?°?''e). Instrumental quartette. Barcarole "(T^.rn 36,. A. T. Taomaj. A. J. Attm?d. E. Djdd' Em!?°  Davies. Farce-" Which ? Characters Mr Albert Lascelle3, father of Maude.. Mr R p T Mr John HibbeTt, father of Marion.. H. I • Mr Hubert FiczGiloart, a young artist.. o. Mr A. R p.„Per- f B t U.. \.JJper Mr M?a::? P. Sniita, of B.)stoa, MrJ.H Bee-r f£ Miss Maude IjMceUos, engaged to FLZZG I' A. E. Ror .? Mis3 Marion Hibbert, eng?&d to FnzGi)ber: ,a,aID. Jeweller's Man \y.  I JewelIlilr'sMan 'V.H.Shon' Scene—Studio of FitzGilbert, in S?a.Uow ?*-?' National Anthem. I This it wiii at once be seen was a more than oHic lri-"i? attractive intellectual and musical ,1/7iu-ii arty so say—and when it is added-to keep metaphor-Ghat each dish was well 88rv"d venT ,6$ 1 b .d R H S C. ,t e more nee d be a?id. The Rev. H. S C??.?t  Mr N. D. Bird well sustained their repnt?iM  vocalists of much merit, and in each of th->n=,T8 allotted to them they were heard to much ad??f,,?' a very persistent encore baiu? worthily elicited fa  Mr ChtgaeHfor his moat eSec;ivo renierin" of Th Deathless Army." The choral—whodi?p?%dciref? training—seconded hi? efforts a.d'mr?Oty aud de3rve much credit for what they did. ander ths able eon dnctorship of Mr Wilfrid Jones, R.A Jl. The executive ability of Emlyn Davie3, a pk"aist is undoubtedly of a remarkably high order, and each of his solos was played with much skill and correct- I ness. Probably as he advances ia years he will euter more ioto the spirit of what he pfay9 a-id cultivate expression-both of which are necessary to make him a really good pianist, which he oaht to be Almost the same ma.y be said of A. J. Alimand as a young violinist. He plays with excdleut tune, bnt would do well to put more colour and verve iuto his interpretation. The trial scene from The Merchant of Venice in the first part of the programme was, taken throughout, admirably performed The stcny-hearted and relentless Jew Say lock was impersoniated by Mr A. L. Lccknby in a manner which did him the highest credit, and almost the sa ne pra 89 onh: to be beatowed upon Mr C. H. D )-id as Portia, arid qpJa Mr C. A. Sadler, who looked quite regal and ùiautfied as the Duke of Venice. Mr ii^pwood gavs aaaufe- what listle-is representation oi Antonio, and Mr Allmand as Bessanio might lia,, shown a little more-c jncern for the fate of his friend. Thefirce Which ?" made up tho humorous pirt of tne even- ing's entertainment, a.nd it was very effectively played. The bold, heartless, gay Lothario of a young artist, Hubert FitzGilbert, whose wealth of black cnriy locks, luxurious black m)us:aihe and ingenuous captivating mauner naturally made ud havoc in the hearts of the ladies, was, of course, the pivot of the piece, rouud which all else revolved, and it was his flirtings which went too far, with the fair- haired gentle Maud, the dark-eyed fisry beauty Marion, and the very matter-of-fact and aggressive Bister of Mr Magenta P. Smith, of Boston, T,S A., which led to the complications out of which the little story is made up. It is c.rta.in'.y a highly diverting farce, and those who took part, almost without exception, made the most of it, and pretty well kept the audience on a rou" until the curtain rang down. Praise is due to Messrs R. p, Jones, Hopwood, A. H. Cooper, and Beecrofi for their parts in the farce. CONTRIBUTED. The annual entertaiumenc given by the inaster6 and boys of the Grove Park School took place on Mouday evening in the presuuee of a large and appreciative audience. The programme, which was partly musical and partly dramatic, was admirably arranged. The Rev. fl. S. Chignell is to be con- gratulate don his excellent stage-minageaient. the long and tedious pauses which usually mar all amateur performances being conspicuous by their absence. The choir showed careful training. Of their part songs we especially likdd Come Tiloa long expected Jesus," which merited more applause than was £ iven. Another item which deserved a better recaption was the instrumental quartette in the 2nd part of th- pro- gramme. The Rev. H. S. Chignell was in splendid voice, his second song, The deathless army," receiving an encore. The remaining items on the pro- gramme were capably rendered, bat special mentian must be made of the pianoforte playiug of Emlyn Davies. The success of the evening was, in great measure, due to his masterly performance. As an accompanist he was particnlarlv successful. The trial scene oat of Th<■ Merchant of I'ruice brought the first L) trt of the programme to a close. Taken collectively the characters lacked lifo;, with the notable exception of Mr L3ckenby as Shylock, whose rendering of this all important par: left nothing to be desiriei. Autaniodid no; seem to realise that his life WAS ia jeopardy, t/en tha sighi of Shylock's knife and «CV!JS failed to rou-se hhu from a ocate of atoiid indiS-:reuc- In the representation of U character so nsn kuj>vr. as Portia, C. H. Dodd. had a difficult task o perf jnn, but he acquitted bim- self with marked ubiiity. Tii-3 minor parts were adequately rendorei, Gratiano especially causing mach amusement. Tnè costumes, which were pro- vided by a Liverpool firm were, tasteful ani correct. The i:n;er:aiuui-n; concluded with au amusing farce, enmted" Which." It would be invidionsto single; out any one nanio for special praise where all did so well, but the adtmrabls make up" of the two young ladies" in tkeir charming OWI1 did macb to ensure the success of the piece.

♦ I THE CLOSING CENTURY. I A SHORT TALE FROM REAL LIFE. I I do not know, I cannot tell, but it seems to me that my experience of the past few days was ordained to be recorded, I-do not know how, 1 cannot tell why. Having leisure at this time of year, I thought I should like to visit one or two of the large towns to take my two elder children "round the sbops." Fall of high glee my children (boy and girl) and I started off to Liverpool. It was a bright beintifal day, and we were full of Christmas, joyous and anticipatory in-the train, and when we got to the landing stage everything was bright aud glad. Here and there we saw tokens of Christmas—bundles of holly and mistletoe, and large packages of every kind; people were hurryingt3 and fro with set pur- pose, and the whole scene was a busv one, Several big craft were in the river, and when we got the other side all was bright and g lorious-the smart and elegant electric trams, and once in the main thoroughfares, well, th3 ahops. It is not my inten- tion here to dwell upon the magnificent dressings of the many windows, although I had the most costly articles pointed ont to ma as required by my children for Christmas. Dolls houses (not the old fashioned two storied plain houses, with a door only in the front), but palatial marvels of architecture and beautiful in detign, with doors (for the parcels") at the back, or side and stabliDg galore, with fittings and fixtures suitable for a millionaire. Talk about the Zoo. why there are in Livorpool aloue many really splendid collections surpassing Wombwell or our old friend Cuss." All the eccentrics and freak* of Barnum were eclipsed here altogether. After I' parading several streets, and exhausting pretty nearly Gur store of money, for my little boy aud girl had sixpence each to spend and (I can answer for them) sorry indeed when they had spent it 'hnagry and tired, we went into a restturant for dinner, and were seated when a young lady waitress quietly dressed in black brought in tho menu. While I was looking it over n and discussing with my heir as to the selection we should make, my little girl was busv with the waitress, and presently I heard the waitreesssay "will yon give me a kiss." My iittle girl responding, I looked up from the menu smiling-y, and said. Are you fond of children" Not particularly," was the answer, but this dear little girl i3 like my brother Toui s little Nanny." Oh," said I, how old is she then 1" A shadow came over her face, and I saw in an instant that I had, unconsciously, made a slip. She replied, Little Nancy died last Ch'.iatmas Day." "I'm very sorry," I said, I'm afraid yonr Christmas was a very sad one." Yes," she said, it was for she was a dear little child, and the light of our houie. Do you live with your brother then ?" I asked. Oh, yes," she pleasantly replied, Nanny's mother is dead also, and then Tom came back to us." Ilhis interesting waitreis brought ns what we required- and dnring the periods of her waiting upon ns I elicited the following fa.ct? :—Her father had been a musician, playing some instrument (the vionn, I think,) at the seaside resorts in the sammer and the theatres in the winter, but now ho was on the shady side, and rheumatism had made him so infirm hat he had descended the social scale, until now he was (this week) engaged as Fatner Christmas" at one of the toy shops, Her brother Tom was a clerk in one of the city establishments, but he wi-I oea" sumptive, and but for the consideration and kindness ot his employers, he would b3 now out of wirkl '-s he was quite untit. She (poor girl) was 44 dciilg her best" according to her light. And that, oar readers, is oue picture I have to show YOIl of the end of the nineteenth century. We started out full of joy auu gladness, but as 'I same across on the boat, an1* looking over the rail at the beautiful pictnre cf the receding lights on the Landing Stage, I sorrowfully thought of poor old rheumatic Father Christmas, and (like the receding lights) paor Tom's ideas and thoughts at the city oSnc. ?nd also the poor waitress hurrying home tired and leg-weary, to try and ma?e Christmas as bright as possible.

LINSEED COMPOUND of 35 years' Proven Efficacy for Coughs and Colds. 9id. and 13t4