The Aberdare Times

NATIONAL POULTRY AND PIGEON SHOW. The 16th annual national four days' poultry and pigeon show opened at the Crystal Palace on Mondav. The number of entries, 5646—just 200 more than those of last year-is the largest. known at these shows. Fourteen hundred prizes, inclusive of 140 silver cups, made up a total of awards amounting in the aggregate to £ 1800, which the judges were occupied in distri- buting from half-past seven a.m. to half-past three p.m. on the first day. Although the poultry classes were larger than ever, the number of pigeons showed a decrease, but the absence of quantity was more than atoned for by the quality of the birds, which, like those in the poultry classes, were of more than average excellence. In poultry the Dorkings and Cochins were fully up to the average, the pullets in the former class and the white cocks in the latter breed being especially fine. The Spanish, Houdans, and Ham- burghs were a grand lot, as were the Langshans, and the Polish breeds with their stately crests. The Leghorns and the dark Brahmas were inferior to those seen in former years, but the game birds and bantams were more beautiful in shape, colour, and chief characteristics than ever. In the pigeon classes the Pouters, Carriers, Homing Antwerps, and Jacobins were perhaps the best of an especially excellent lot of birds, whilst the Oriental frilled varieties, with their numerous shades of plumage, were quite a special feature of the show. The Russian Government has resolved not to con- tinue the fortifications of Aakabad, which are now less important, but to hasten those of Merv and Sarakhs. The Roumanian Sanitary Board have resolved to prevent the Oriental express running through from Paris from crossing the Roumanian frontier. In future passengers must join the ordinary train at Verciorova, after medical examination and disinfec- tion. It is stated that the borough of Rotherham, together with the district which is dependent upon its water supply, is threatened with a water famine. For eome time the water has been restricted. The principal awards were as follow: The 20 guineas Challenge Cup for the best Langshan cock or cockerel was carried off by Mr. S. Millard, and the 20 guineas Challenge Cup for the best hen or pullet of the same breed fell to the lot of Captain H. Terry. The 25 guineas Challenge Cup for the best-formed bantam cock or cockerel went to Mr. W. Forrester Addie, and the 25 guineas Challenge Cup for the best bantam hen or pullet was awarded to Mr. T. P. Lyon. Amongst the other principal cup and prize winners are Miss N. Waterer. Mr. B. Smith, Mr. J. Cranston, Mr. W. W. Ruttledge, Mr. S. P. Hill, Mr. G. H. Procter, Mrs. J. Turner, Miss E. Rouse,' Mr! J. Maughan, Mr. L. C. R. Norris Elye, Mr. R. But- terfield, Mr. W. F. Potter, Mr. J. Powell, Mr. S. Harmer, Mr. P. Shaw, Mr. J. P. W. Marks, Miss M. L. Clayton, Mr. J. Ainsworth, Messrs. G. and J. Duckworth, and Mr. E. Ratcliff.

THE GLADSTONE MEMORIAL. A numerously attended meeting of the subscribers to the statues of Mr. Gladstone recently placed in the London City Liberal Club was held on Monday at the club-house in Walbrook to consider proposals for dealing with the balance in hand. Mr. Bertram Wodehouse Currie occupied the chair. The hon. secretary, Mr. Frank L. H. Collins, stated that the subscriptions amounted to £ 1375 12s. 6d., and the interest on deposit was E24 6s. 4d., making a total of X1399 18s. lOd. After paying £1000 to the sculptor and incidental expenses forprinting and for presenting a photograph for the statue to each subscriber, there remained a balance of 200 guineas in hand. The chair- man explained that a great many proposals had been made to them as to applying the surplus of the Glad- stone Statue Fund, and he proposed to enumerate them and leave the subscribers to decide which one commended itself to them. The first proposal was that the balance should be applied in founding a scholarship in honour of Mr. Gladstone. There was however, an objection to that, as it would necessitate a further appeal which he was sure would not be agreeablo to Mr Gladstone. The next proposal was that they should further remunerate the sculptor of the statue. Another proposal was to place the statue in the centre arch of the vestibule of the club, and to apply the surplus fund in making that change. That wou.d be a legitimate) way of spending the balance remaining, as it would be in the direction of beautifying the statue. A further proposal was that the sum remaining should be handed over to Mrs. Gladstones Home. And the last pro- posa was that one of the bookcases in the library should be called the Gladstone Library, and the sum should be employed in purchasing works which had reference more especially to Mr. Gladstone's career, including all his own works. He then invited the subscribers to express their views on the subject. On i the motion of Mr. W. C. Anderson, the following resolution, which was seconded by Mr. Hyde Clarke, was agreed to almost unanimously: "That the balance remaining to tlw credit of the fund be placed at the disposal of UJO library committee, and be expended on works illustrating as far as possible the Opinions and careei- of Mr. Gladstone." Votes of thanks were then accorded the honorary officials.

THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON AND COLONEL STURGEON. After the battle of Orthez, and a force having been sent under very peculiar circumstances towards Bordeaux, the Duke having written his despatches for England, with an account of the battle, also having others for Sir John Hope, who was blockading the fortress of Bayonne and with whom it was of the utmost importance to communicate, called for the couriers and guides who were to carry them, or rather to accompany the officers from relay to relay, when to his astonishment poor Sturgeon (who bad totallv forgotten all about them, being full of the grand movements of the army) had not a single courier or guide ready, nor indeed knew anything about them; neither bad he made the slightest arrangement for the communications of the army, and his corps of guides had gone where they pleased. He could tell nothing about them, and in consequence the despatches were delayed several days This made Lord Wellington furious, and he was so violent in manner and harsh in his expressions that poor Sturgeon sank com- pletely under it, and a few days afterwards took the opportunity of the affair at Turbes to gallop in among the enemy's skirmishers and got shot through the head! That the Commander-in-Chief had sore cause to complain and was justly angry I deny not; but I cannot help regretting that he should have publicly and severely reprimanded so distinguished an officer for the first and only fault, and I still more regret that Lord Wellington, after Sturgeon's death, should in his despatch merely say, Colonel Sturgeon of the Staff Corps was killed by the enemy's sharpshooter's," thus leaving the merits and distinguished long and faithful services of a gallant and skilful soldier unre- corded or unadorned by his praise, when his censure was such that the wounded spirit of this honourable man sought refuge in the arms of death. I am sure Lord Wellington felt it afterwards, and deeply too but lie has always kept to that system of never acknow- ledging he was wrong or mistaken.—Earlv Military Lije of General Sir George T, Napier,

F TELLING EXTRAORDINARY. At the County Petty Sessions at Wolverhampton, on Monday, a woman named Ellen Aston was charged for the third time with telling fortunes. A young married woman, named Beckett, wife of an hotel keeper, admitted that she went to the prisoner to have her fortune told, and prisoner, after looking in a glass globe, told her her husband, who was double her age, would die at the end of the year, and then she would be married again to a young husband, would have seven children, and then happy days would begin. She also told her that her husband kept bags of money locked up in a separate room, and she would eventually have some of it. She also informed her that the room in which Beckett kept the money-bags had been locked up five years, and there appeared to be a number of dead children in it. The police stated that the prisoner was an inveterate offender, and on the occasion of her last fconviction a young woman had committed suicide in consequence of what pri- soner told her. In the present instance the result of Mrs. Beckett's visit led to a serious quarrel between her and her husband. The prisoner was sentenced to three months' hard labour.

tALL BIGHTS KESERVED.] AMBITION'S LADDER. 1111 the Author of 41 Atherslone Grange,' J Lift for a Love,"$'c. CHAPTER XXIX. 2 ON THE TRAIL. To-morrow, "ud to-morrow, and to-morrow, Creeps in this petty pace from day to day, To the In. -yliable of recorded time. M. DESPARD W (8 very much disappointed at being baulked of the revenge he had promised himself upon the impostor who had so nearly suceeded in robbing him of the rich inheritance that would place him amongst the foremost ranks of the richest jrroprietaires in h:s native province and reviled the police commissary in no measured terms for not having taken better precautions. During the scene of confusion and excitement which followed upon the audacious str it igem by which the false heiress escaped the danger that threatened her, while M. Despard himselt was too busily occupied in venting his passion upon the impeturbable official, and foaming with rage at being baulked by his prey, Carrie availed herself of the opportunity that offered itself to slip unnoticed through the curious throng that had assembled to witness the arrest, and con- trived to make her way back without attracting attention to the hotel where she was stopping, the same-by an odd coincidence -at which George Sartoris put up when the accident occurred which cut short h s journey. Here she remained quietly for nearly a fortnight, waiting expectantly for news from the man who had doubly wronged her, but whose safety was still her foremost object It was weary work, but she had no dread of his playing her false a second time, at least, so far as concerned the rival from whom she had separated him, and at last a letter came. In it Clarence Woodville warned her against making any attempt at joining him for the present, giving such reasons for observing caution in this respect as—if they did not serve altogether to satisfy Carrie of their necessity-at least pre- vented her from openly disregarding the request he Siade. Of his former companion nothing more was heard in Rouen. She had vanished as completely as though she had never been-had accomplished her disappearance so effectually that not a clue was to be discovered by which her flight might be traced, and M. Despard gradually cooled down !tnd solaced himself with the reflection that after all he had lost nothing except the satisfaction of seeing her placed in the felon's dock. The chief sufferers, mdeed, had been the lawyers, who had allowed themselves to be hoodwinked and made some considerable advances on the strength of a fictitious claim, but for them the heir felt little pity, rather chuckled, indeed, over the misfortune brought upon them by their own gullibility, and as the first heat of his rage died away congratulated himself on being spared all further trouble in the matter. There « ere others, indeed, besides th *lawyers, who were not at all inclined to regard thugs with quite so much of placid contentment as M. Despard at last arrived at. Sundry worthy tradespeople who had pressed their wares upon the oupposed heiress, disdaining the idea of such caution as insisting upon cash payments in their anxiety to isecure the patronage of so wealthy a customer, now tewailed their blindness and credulity, and wept and tore their hair in wild despair, but to no good purpose. The adventuress was beyond their reach. Once, indeed, it was rumoured that her capture might yet come to pass. A certain jeweller who had supplied the lady with various articles of adorn- ment, in her selection of which she had shown herself possessed of very good taste, made the discovery that the greater part of the property he had no confidingly parted with had been pledged at various intervals, and a watch was set upon the establishment Laura Desmond had selected for her purpose. But she never appeared there again. Whether it was that she had discovered the danger, or that she had made good her escape altogether, the dupes whom she and her colleague had contrived to swindle so successfully failed to find out, and the affaire Despard," after serving its purpose as a nine days' wonder, died a natural death. While the excitement lasted, however, tho papers every day contained some fresh paragraphs furnish- ing extraordinary and wonderfully concocted details respecting the antecedents of Laura Desmond and her accomplice. None of these, indeed, bore the remotest connection with the truth, but that made no difference to the lovers of sensational criminal literature; and although Mr. Sartoris seldom glanced at such items, the frequency with which they occurred had served to attract a vague attention from: him now and then, and caused a feeling of familiarity when he read the name of the woman mentioned in his father's letter as Eve's companion. How or when he had heard it before did not occur to him for some time, not indeed until the knowledge seemed to be useless. Meanwhile, there were other matters to engage his attention—the unexpected meeting with his old friotwl, in the first place, and another specimen of his servant's remissness. He had told Edwards so emphatically that he depended upon him for that evening to wait at dinner, and now, when it was close upon the time that Lord Lynwood might be expected to make his appearance, there was no Edwards—only a note signed by that worthy to the effect that he was unable to attend, but had pre- sumed upon his master's forbearance to excuse him, and accept the services of a deputy whom he had Bent in his place. Cool Very cool, upon my word!" muttered Mr. Sartoris. It would serve the scoundrel right if I sent him about his business for playing me such a trick." But his anger did not last long. Edwards was too useful to him to be parted with, except upon provocation of the strongest kind; and although his present escapade was both ultimely and annoy- ing, a different light was put upon it when Lord Lynwood arrived, and mentioned the incident of which he had been an involuntary witness. "I don't know that it's any business of mine," he remarked, but perhaps it is as well that you should know. Perhaps it would be advisable to keep an eye upon a fellow with such expensive tastes." Mr. Sartoris, however, though quite aware of the form his friend's suspicions respecting Edwards's conduct had assumed, by no means shared them. "What he had been told threw a fresh aspect on the man's absence, and went far to convince him that there was some strong cause for it. I fancy I see light," he muttered. The fellow will-have to make a clean breast of it sooner than he intended." But at present all was mere conjecture, and for the rest of the evening Mr. Sartoris took care not to revert to the subject, but led the conversation in another direction, engaging h13 friend in such discourse as came most naturally after so long a separation—of bygone days and mutual acquaint- ances who had drifted out of sight and almost memory. Who had turned over a new leaf," married, and settled down into respectable citizenship. Who Was gone to pot," come into a heap of tin, entered Parliament, risen to the bench, or fallen upon evil days. Who, alas was gone to join the majority. These, and kindred matters, all in such loose, dis- jointed sentences as have no interest when set forth in black and white, but are all engrossing and full of charm when two old comrades meet after long Years, and compare notes of their several ex- periences, made the time slip by so imperceptibly that it was not till the deep boom of the church clocks sounded the hour of midnight that Lord Lynwood rose to depart. I had no idea it was so late he said. ? Nor 1. But I shall see you in the morning ?" Without doubt," returned his lordship, with a hearty, almost affectionate grasp of his old friend's hand. I had purposed going straight on, but as there is not a single individual in England to whom my presence or absence is a matter of the smallest consequence, I am quite at your service for as long as you like. Besides, I am anxious to know the result of your enquiries about that fellow-what did You call him-Wood f" "Yes. I fancy that your anxiety will not last long." Indeed r' Mind, it is only fancy at present. Merely an idea that has struck me, you know." You make me curious, George. What Is it ?'' Ah Curb your curiosity for awhile, laughed Ur. Sartoris. ",I can hardly explain myself at present. So be off with you now, and-look here, is your eyesight good ?" Fairly so, I believe. Why?" Because I want you to make use of it—at least "while I am unable to get about for myself." In what way ?" Only to keep a sharp watch on the person you Suspect of having been smitten with my man, that's all. I should like to know something more about her. Now, good-night once more; I positively must be off to bed." Which sage intention he carried out, waking early Dext morning to find Edwards standing by his bed- side with as quiet and unconcerned an air as though his escapade of the previous day needed no apology Ðr explanation. Oh, you're there, are you P" said Mr. Sartoris. Yes, sir." Well. What excuse have you to make for yourself ?'' Edwards attempted none, neither did he show by his manner that he felt it necessary. Quietly, Methodically as usual, he assisted his master to rise *Qd make his toilet; and then, while waiting upon him at breakfast, related to him the sequel of his Meeting with Carrie. Mr. Sartoris listened with grave attention to his story before offering- any remark of his own. Came hereafter her husband, did she?" he said, ?'ben Edwards had finished. And pray what bought him to Rouen ?" But this question Edwards declined to answer Nothing of any good, I'll be sworn," muttered 'r- Sartoris. Perhaps you won't mind telling me J'hy ho has left her here alone ? What has he gone 10 England ;'or ?" "ShA dirl not tell me. sir." „ Shows rather a lack of sisterly confidence. However, you need not trouble yourself about that. You can keep a still tongue, I know. Don't let it run too fast to her about my interest in her hus- band's movements., [By the by, you are sure [she is his wife ?" Mr. Sartoris!" Well, well, don't be huffed at my asking the question. I am quite satisfied to take it for granted that there is no doubt about the matter. And now, listen to me, Edwards. I don't want to pry into anything that does not concern me, but at the same time I expect you to observe a strict silence with respect to my affairs; and. as I said before, don't tell Mrs. Woodville—that is what she,lis called, you say ?" Yes, sir." Very well; don't tell Mrs. Woodville anything that may induce her to warn her husband against me. Do you understand r" Perfectly, sir. Only-" Only what e" asked Mr. Sartoris, as his valet hesitated. ell, you see, sir, she is my sister, after all." I have no reason to doubt it. But what fol- lows ?" And he is her husband. "So you before informed me. Well, what of that ?" Only this, Mr. Sartoris," sturdily exclaimed the man; before I knew that she cared for him so much I was ready enough, but now-for her sake-I'd rather not have any hand in bringing him to harm." "And yet only yesterday you were wishing for an opportunity to do so." And I meant it then. But you see that she Chap 29 "I quite comprehend," broke in Mr. Sartoris. "You have been induced to make all sorts of promises, I suppose. Well, your feeling is natural enough, and as I have no animus in the matter if we can only contrive to circumvent your very clever relative's schemes without recourse to harsher measures, I shall be willing enough to let him go free. At any rate, you may make your mind easy on that point. I shall not be more severe on the fellow than is necessary to'gain my object." With which assurance Edwards was satisfied, and went about his duties, Lord Lynwood coming in at the moment, and to him Mr. Sartoris explained now more fully the position of affairs, and the conclusion he had arrived at of Clarence Woodville's in- tentions with respect to the documents he had possessed himself of. But why not let your father know all this p., asked Lord Lynwood. He would be better able to deal with the fellow then." Very likely, but I have a fancy to manage the affair in my own fashion. Settle it right out of hand, and so convince him that I am not quite the useless, idle vagabond he considers me. I'll make use of what help you choose to give me, of course— you have a right to share what troubles are to be encountered and when we have brought them to a successful issue-as I am convinced we shall—we'll go to him together. He will be rejoiced to see you again, under any circumstances." I am afraid not, George," gravely replied Lord Lynwood. Your father liked me once, I know, but that was before- Tush, man said Mr. Sartoris. You were not so much to blame. 4 Let the dead past bury its dead,' and do not recall bygones that can [have no remedy." "No remedy! You are right, George, and there is the bitterest pain. But as you say, there can be no good in brooding over the irrevocable. All that remains is to make what atonement is possible for that poor woman's misery to her child." And that may come to pass," returned the other. Always supposing that we are not upon a false scent, and that this Leonard Grant is indeed poor Gertie's missing son. However, I don't imagine there is much room for doubt upon that point. My father would scarcely speak so decidedly as he has without good grounds. At any rate, we shall soon be able to judge." Not so soon however, as they anticipated, for the foe it was their object to overcome was both ounnin" and unscrupulous. CHAPTER XXX. A ROMANTIC STORY. A coodly apple, rotten at the heart. 0, what a goodly outside falsehood hath r, By one of those fatalities which sometimes occur to frustrate the most carefully-considered projects, the letter written by Dr. Sampson to recall his protege from the useless journey he had undertaken failed to reach Leonard Grant, who, however, lost no time after his arrival at Melbourne in acquainting the doctor of the fact, and of the earliest results of his enquiries, which were by no means of a satis- factory nature I can gain no intelligence whatever," he wrote, "beyond the fact that Alick availed himself of Mr. Pounceby's introduction on his arrival in the colony, and was some months in the employ of a. mercantile firm in Bourke-street, the principal of which remembers him very well, and speaks highly oi his conduct at first. But he seemed discontented with his position, and after a time grew so careless and inattentive as to call down censure, and soon after dismissal since which time they know nothing of him, and as nearly twelve years have passed, and the colony has received large numbers ofimmigrant8 every year, it appears almost hopeless to expect to find him. I certainly should not be likely to recognise him, even if we were to meet, and. the probability is that the difficulty is increased by his having taken another name. However, I do not altogether despair. The matter at stake is too great to allow me to give in without making every effort in my power to succeed in the task I have set myself, and I am determined to leave no stone unturned to that end. At any rate I shall not return till the time we fixed upon has expired. I had hoped to find a letter from you awaiting me but after all you can have little to say until you hear from me, and I shall look for an answer by return of mail. I may not write to Eve herself, you told me, and I must obey but don't let her forget me, or think that the neglect is from any lack of willingness on my part. Tell her- &c.f &c." Which conclusion of Leonard's epist e may with advantage be filled up by fancy, for the message it contained only reached the person for whom it was intended through the medium of Mr. Sartoris, who delivered it in a very diluted form, substituting kind regards" for dearest love" and undying remembrances," and other formal, cold-sounding sentences in place of the tender, love-breathing words which Leonard had indited. No doubt the intention was good, and that according to his lights Mr. Sartoris was acting judiciously in suppressing the passionate utter- ances which his ward would have rejoiced to hear but, as generally happens when one fallible mortal takes upon himself to control and shape the destinies of others, such interference worked more mischief and sorrow than it did of good in the long run. For Evelyn Trenchard, angel though her lover deemed her, was but mortal woman after all, and asjincapable as the rest of the world to read a locked volume, or peep below the surface and detect the true reason of the reticence and seeming indiffer- ence of him to whom she had given her heart. All unavailingly given, she told herself, for what lingering hopes she might have cherished were now utterly destroyed by the well-meaning but short- sighted policy her guardian in his superior wisdom adopted; and having come to the very natural, though entirely false, conclusion that Leonard cared for her only as a friend and old playmate, she resolved to school herself in such wise as to prove that he was equally an object of indiifereme to her. It was a hard task, and one that Eve was not altogether so successful in as she fancied, though outwardly she continued so to bear herself that she completely deceived Mr. Sartoris, and made tha gentleman plume himself not a little on his sagacity but the hidden effort had one effect in rendering her less docile and sweet tempered than she had been, and made her give way to little fits of wilful- ness and ill-humour that were somewhat trying to her guardian, so that it was almost with a sigh of relief that he received one day a letter from a far- off Scotch cousin of Kve's dead mother imiting his ward to pay her a visit. Eve herself was by no me )na averse to such a change from the dull monotony of her life, and wrote Mr. Graeme a pretty note of acceptance, and Vir. Sartoris at once set about looking out or some one to accompany her, partly as companion, partly to aid in the completion of'her education, which he did not consider as altogether finished. To this end he advertised his requirements re'- ceiving in reply such a shoal of applications' as filled him with a temporary dismay at the bare id a of having to wade through all of them before coming to a decision. But he was not a man to be daunted by diffi- culties, and applied himself to the task with so much energy that in the course of a week he had weeded out from the mass of correspondence with which he had been deluded about a score of letters from which to make his final selection. Of these, again, after careful consideration, the larger num- ber were re ected, until at last he found his choice narrowed down to some half-dozen applicants, and these he determined to select one from after a per- sonal interview. Two he dissmissed at once, with polite expressions of regret for the trouble he had given thum, as too old and starched to be likely to meet with Eve s approval. There remained then but four, but these proved his greatest diiliculty, since their qualifica- tions and references were—with an exception as to the last requisite—equally balanced. The ex- ception was a young, prepossessing lady who gave her name as aura Desmond. In everything else she was all that could be desired, but when it came to the matter of refcrences she frankly declared her inability to furnish any.. IFm said Mr. hartoris, dubiously, and strok- ing his clean-shaven chin with the palm of his hand as an aid to consideration. I am very much afraid then in that case, Miss-—" Desmond." "Miss 'esmond. Yes, exactly," he went on, glancing at her card. It is an Irish name. I think ?" t r You do not object on that score, sir, surely p. By no means! Most certainly not! Nationality is matter of no consequence. It was a mere idle remark." My name is certainly Irish," Miss Desmond went on. And I suppose to a certain extent I am an Irishwoman, though I never saw the country in my life. My father however, was born there, but left when a boy, and never saw it again." Indeed May I enquire what he was ?" Certainly. He entered the Austrian service, and attained high rank thore." Then surely some one must have known you who can speak of your-of your—that is, I should say to whom you can refer me." Give me a character, I suppose you mean, Mr. Sartoris," she said, with a slight inflection of sarcasm in her tone, and then suddenly assuming a mournful aspect. Yes I suppose that it is only right, only just, that it should be required, but in that case it will be useless for me to take up any more of your time." You mean-" That I cannot give you the name of a single living creature whose reccommendation would avail me. Really I regret it very much," returned Mr. Saitoris, surveying her as she made this confession with some little interest. Frankly speaking, Miss Desmond, if you had been able to satisfy me on this point I should have felt inclined to give you the preference, but as it is- There is no hope for me," said Miss Desmond, as he hesitated to find a phrase with which to put his answer in the most delicate way. "Well, I cannot complain. You are quite right, of course, and I must bear it (To he continued.)

ENGLAND AND HER INDIAN EMPIRE. Under the auspices of the East India Association, a meeting of officers and gentlemen interested in the affairs of the British Empire in the East was held on Monday at Exeter Hall (General Sir George Balfour, K.C.B., M.P., presiding), for the purpose of consider- ing the mutual advantages of the connection between England and her Indian Empire." The principal address was delivered by General Sir Orfeur Cavenagh, K.C.S.I., chairman of the council of the association, and consisted mainly of an elaborate analysis and refutation of the statements recently advanced by various pessimist writers regarding the value of India to England. He avowed his pleasure at being able in the presence of men of wide experience and long service, and under the auspices of an association formed with the object of advo- cating equally the removal of real grievances and the introduction of salutary reforms, to show the important advantages that mutually accrue from the connection of the two countries, in the hope that all subjects of her Majesty might recognise the neces- B1i? vf ma^nta'n^DS the supremacy of the British rule, which to the one race brings an increase of national powerand prosperity, and to the other the blessings of personal liberty and public peace. In conclusion treneral Cavenagh urged that there was a task for the English people greater than any they had yet under- taken in relation to India-the fitting of the people there for self-government, and teaching them to under- stand and fully appreciate the blessings of political liberty; though he trusted that long ere that question was ripe it would be universally recognised that the interest of the two peoples are so interwoven as to be identical and inseparable. In the discussion which followed, there was a general agreement with the views of the opener.

IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT. WATS AND KHANS. In the Hoosa OF COMMONS, Nov. 22, the report of Ways and Means was agreed to, Mr. Norwood expressing his regret that the Government had not availed them- selves of the opportunity to ask for a small additional vote for strengthening the navy, particularly in view of the great distress now existing in Sunderland and other shipbuilding ports. In this view Sir John Hay, Mr. Gourley, aad Mr. Maclver expressed their warm concurrence, but the Chancellor of the Exchequer de- clined to discuss the matter pending the statement which the Government would make as to their inten- tions. THE INCOME TAX BILL. On the order for going into Committee on the Income Tax Bill, Mr. Hubbard moved, that in view of the con- tinued and aggravated imposition of the income tax pressmg with especial severity upon land and industry the adjustment of the tax and its equitable administra- tion should be no longer delayed. The Chancellor of the Exchequer pointed out that the question had already been fully debated and decided by the House during the present year. Admitting that the income tax was full of anomalies, he held that if it was to be retained as part of the permanent system of the country it must be taken with all its anomalies. The reform which Mr. Hubbard proposed was simply a reform in the interest of traders, and would throw a larger burthen upon the land and upon farmers. The bill then passed through committee, and the House adjourned at ten minutes to four o'clock.

THE INFANTS 3ILL. In the HOUSE OF LORDS, Nov. 24, on the motion of Lord Fitzgerald, the Infants Bill, which proposes to amend the law relating to the custody and guardianship of infants by enabling the mother to act as guardian of her children during her husband's lifetime with the sanction of a court of law was read a second time, and, at the instance of Lord Bramwell and the Lord Chan- cellor, was referred to a Select Committee. A BOULEVARD FOR THE EAST-END OF LONDON. Earl Cowper called attention to the desirability, in the interest of the inhabitants of the East-end, of con- verting into & public boulevard the main drainage embankment passing through the districts of Stratford, Plaistow, and East Ham; but Earl Granville pointed out that the matter was one the decision of which rested with the Metropolitan Board of Works, with whom he promised to communicate on the subject. THE INCOME TAX BILL. The Income Tax Bill was brought up from the Commons and read a first time, and their lordships rose at five minutes past six o'clock. QUESTIONS. In the HousE OF COMMONS Mr. Gladstone assured Baron H. de Worms that the statement reported to have been made by M. de Freycinet in the French Senate, that England intended to propose a second con- ference on Egyptian affairs, was not correct. In reply to Mr. T. P. O'Connor, the right hon. gentleman said a draft bill had been prepared to enable the Australa- sian colonies to establish a small federal council for the purpose of dealing with certain questions of common interest, but in the opinion of her Majesty's Govern- ment it required amendment in certain respects, aLd the more convenient course, therefore, would be to have the amendments settled in concert with the colonies before the bill was) introduced into Parlia- ment. SENDING THE DEAD BODY OF A CHILD TO THE BOMB OFFICE. Mr. Illingworth asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he would state what measures he had taken in the matter of the clergyman who sent the dead body of a child to the Home Office, in consequenco of a dispute as to the appropriation of a cemetery. Sir W. Harcourt, in the course of a lengthy reply, ex- plained that there was a dispute in the parish respecting a new cemetery. It was proposed by the Burial Board, of which the rector was chairman, to allot to the Dis- senters a portion of ground which had formerly been a quarry. This was objected to, and the matter was referred to the Inspector of Burial Grounds, who reported that the Burial Board Rhould have shown more consideration for the feelings of the Dis- senters. He (the Home Secretary) accordingly told the rector that he could not sanction a proposal which seemed to be offensive, and that he would withhold his sanction to the use of the cemetery until some proper arrangement was made. He was told in reply that he would be attacked in the House of Commons by six influential members. (A laugh.) He had not heard of the attack, but on Sunday, the 2nd of November, the dead body of a child was delivered at the Home Office. It then appeared, on inquiry, that the clergyman, the Rev. Mr. Mirehouse, had been to the house of the parents of a stillborn child in the parish, and had obtained the body on a promise that he would bury it in the presence of the father the same night. The parents went to the Vicarage, but were put off with some excuse, and the next morning the clergyman drove to the station, and delivered a box there. He told the footman to address the box to the Home Secretary, saying he was sending him a small present. (A laugh.) The servant thought at the time it was a box of grapes. (Laughter.) Mr. Mirehouse proposed to make an apology to him (the Home Secretary); but in his (the Home Secretary's) opinion there was no offence against him. The offence seem to him to have been committed against the Church, of which the clergyman was a minister—(hear, hear)—against public decency and against the parents of the child whom he had deliberately deceived. (Cheers.) He had in- structed the law officers to advise him whether there was in this any offence which could be proceeded against by law, and if that was no, it would be put into the hands of the Public Prosecutor. (Cheers.) Whether that was so or not, he would bring the conduct of the clergyman before the bishop, in order that he might, if possible, remove the rev. gentleman from the charge of the parish to which he was eminently unadapted. (Cheers.) SEATS REDISTRIBUTION BILL. Mr. Gladstone, in giving notice to introduce a Redis- tribution of Seats Bill on Monday next, explained that he could not be absolutely certain that he would be in a position to introduce the measure on that day, and in that case it would be necessary to ask for a postpone- ment. His hope, however, was that it might be intro duced in a state for its immediate circulation among members, and viewing the nature of the measure and the general acquiescence in its principle, he thought it would be for the convenience of the House that the second reading should be proceeded with on Thursday week. PROPOSED ADJOURNMENT. The Income Tax Bill having been read a third time, and the Consolidated Fund (No. 1.) Bill a second time, Mr. Gladstone moved that the House,at its rising, should adjourn until Monday next. Sir John Lubbock protested against the motion as another attack upon the rights of private members, and also because it would render impossible the discus- sion on Friday next of his motion on proportional re- '0"* presentation. To this the Prime Minister replied that it would be a very great stretch of power on the part of the Govern- ment if they were to endeavour to force a motion of this kind upon the House, but that was not the case, as they were merely taking a course which was agreeable to the general sentiment of the House. In the course of subsequent discussion Mr. A. Elliot complained of the surrender which the Government had made to the House of Lords, and declared that he felt less confidence in them when he found them in concert with the Opposition leaders. He asked for an assurance that the freedom of the House should be preserved in regard to redistribution. Sir 0. Dilke, in reply, stated that the freedom of the House would not be lost by the communications which were taking place at the present time. Sir W. Lawson warned the Government that their credit was at stake, and that unless they brought in a Redistribution Bill which was acceptable to the Liberal party it would go hard with them in the country. Mr. Illingworth reluctantly admitted that the Prime Minister was justified in taking the course he had done. but regarding it as an acknowledgment of the supremacy of the House of Lords, he trusted no Prime Minister would ever find it necessary to take such a course again. Mr. Labouchere intimated that the Radicals, believing that everything good in the Redistribution Bill was the work of the Prime Minister and everything bad that of Lord Salisbury, would not hesitate to move Radical amendments wherever they were needed. IRISH AFFAIRS. Subsequently a discussion, which was prolonged for several hours by Irish members, took place as to the trial and execution of Joseph Poole for the murder of a man named Kenny in Dublin, the position of Mr. George Bolton and Mr. Clifford IJoyd, and the extra po ice tax in Queen's County. On a division the motion was carried by 57 to 19, and the House adjourned at a quarter past twelve o'clock until Monday next.

GOSSIP ON DRBSS. III deøcribing" London fashions," a writer in the Queen says :—Plain woollen fabrics are mixed with brocades of the richest and costliest kind, and these are combined with both feathers and fur, or laden with glossy chenille. Silk serge is much used for skirts of the costumes designed for home wear, and the tunic and bodice of thin woollen stuff has a pattern of frise silk loops, either diamonds, "tear drops," or spots. Diagonal serge of a new shade of elephant-grey is being used, its surface bestrewn with, small, closely-placed spots of deep crimson chenille. The drapery falls with graceful effect on the plaited round skirt of silk serge, and the quick changing hues of the coloured chenille throw a nuance that cannot but charm. The short-pointed bodice is simple in make and yet distinguished in style. A second, and equally pretty, costume was of figured and self-coloured wool, a lustreless blue with a pattern of squaresof short-piled bright ruby chenille. The skirt 19 was box-plaited, the drapery puffed, and standing out well at the back; at the sides were long points of the figured material well-nigh reaching the edge of the skirt. They were here folded over, crossed on the front, and again travelled up to the waist like a long narrow scarf, gathered in at the end with a lining of plain dead-blue wool. In similar style was a ribbed blue-grey serge, made with velvet side pieces to match, and the skirt all box-plaited behind, the front being tabbed with a short kilted flounce, which bordered the skirt at its edge. On each tab was a pattern of braid, grey with silver and gold metal thread, while a bolder design at the back of the skirt appeared on the wide spreading plaits. The jacket-shaped bodice was also braided, and bad a small grey velvet waistcoat. A STYLISH ribbed woollen costume of a beautiful fibade of steel-grey had a tucked plastron front, flanked with long narrow panels from waistband to hem of a gold pattern woven in squares. Beyond these again were others of velvet, exactly the same size and shape. All had the front and lower edges free from the skirt, falling flat like the leaves of a book. They were lined with grey satin, and bound with a cor i of mingled grey silk and gold thread. The back of the skirt was artistically draped with one long loopea-up scarf of close folds. The bodice was jacket shaped, short on the hips, and outlined with grey metal cord. The gold-woven waistcoat, puffed at the bust though quite plain and straight down below it, was pointed, and bound with grey velvet and fastened with round gold buttons. The grey velvet collar was high at the throat, and the cuffs on the sleeves were untrimmed. Plush here, as everywhere else, is much and suc- cessfully used in the composition of smart winter gowns, mixed with fine woollens of fancy design, or with soft silk, both figured and plain. Entire cos- tumes are made of this attractive fabric, and one merits description. In colour a lovely seal-brown, the round skirt was draped at the back with close- gathered folds from the waist. The overdress, plain in the front and but slightly festooned on the hips, was cut up its length on the left, and tied with three narrow plush ribbon bows, having silk acorn drops at the end. On the right shoulder of the close-fitting bodice was a scarf of plush, which crossed to the left of the basque. Near the throat was a jabot of soft S'ellow crSpe, reaching straight to the waist on the eft, and folded tuckers of the same colour were seen at the neck and the wrists. A BALL-ROOM toilette for a young married lady con- sisted of a long square-cut train of cream satin and plain skirt of rich gold brocade this was cut out in wide shallow tabs with a box plait of satin below. At the top of each slit were small marabout feathers, all spotted and sparkling with gold. From the sides of the waist hung sash ends of ribbon, which were loosely tied up on the front of the skirt and fell in long loops to its edge. The low-pointed bodice was prettily trimmed with a shaped-out full berthe of old lace studded with gold-headed pins. On the right of the basque there was also a pouf of the golden tipped feathers en suite. A second costume was of black beaded tulle and black satin worked with jet leaves, the front of the skirt being entirely covered with em- broidery and bordered with a heavy ruche of satin. The waterfall back was of close-gathered tulle thickly sewn with small loops of cut beads. Down each side of the skirt were sharp tongues of black satin with ribbon bows placed at the points; and about the hips was a short festooned scarf, which appeared from beneath the basque of the pointed black satin bodice. A black velvet dress had the back cut in one, en princesse, and was made with a very long train, edged with a frilling of lace. The front of the skirt was shaped at the edge, the pointed tabs being headed with butterflies of jet and every- where bordered with lace. Beneath the tabs was a narrow box plaiting of velvet; the bodice was pointed in front at the waist, and was much trimmed with lace at the neck and sleeves. A jabot of lace mixed with jet butterflies was arranged on the chest. NOTWITHSTANDING all adverse opinions, we still see the crinolette worn, and, at least, we can urge that its use well displays the rich fabrics that are now in rogue. The great weight and the length of the mantles, all heavily trimmed as they are, would be a sufficient excuse to adopt the supporting tournure. By the term crinolette, we by no means allude to the preposterouely ugly and unattached cage" which was formerly tied round the waist and there left to dangle, to twist, to bulge out, and be swayed to and fro with the wind, its wearer not heeding its senseless discomfort (for was it not quite the last thing?), and haply unconscious of its comical vagaries. Tempora mutanter, its days has long passed; the petticoat- crinolette has appeared upon the scene, and it is dif- ficult to be really well dressed (for the reasons we just now explained) unless we resort to its aid. THE hygienic-slip-petticoat-crinolette is a skirt of. soft satin or silk, in crimson and other dark shades, flounced half way up, and most daintily trimmed with white, black, or cream woollen lace. The lining of this is of finest wash leather, the skins, of unusual size, are pierced with a number of holes, so that air passes freely all through. A warm winter skirt and a wholesome one, for the wash leather slip" is removed, and when cleaned is quickly put back on the buttons, which keep all in place. The skirt has no waistband, it buttons in front on the edge of the corset. At the back it is carried to the waist, where buttons again secure it. Thus the crinolette is raised to the proper angle, and gives great effect to the dress. The hem of the petticoat escapes the uplifted heel, and everyone knows what a comfort that is when walking in mud-besplashed roads. A striped winsey skirt had the back part made taut by a number of narrow steel bands. These were fastened perpen- dicularly from the waist, and ceased quite a foot from the edge. The steels were curved under on reaching the waist, and thus the extension of the dress was most simply produced, that is, by pressure alone. The ridiculous waggling motion is altogether absent, and the gown falls in long graceful folds. Near the hem of the skirt there is sometimes inserted one single steel crossing the back, but if wearing a velvet or cumbrous cloth dress it is often then added all round. TAILOR-MADE jackets-we ask pardon—coats, are as much in demand as of yore, and now that the winter has really set in all the new styles and shapes are observed. The materials used are thick, rough, and comfortable-looking, delightfully warm, but not heavy. Young ladies lacking rich furs content them- selves with cloth, while many for choice don the trim, cosy coat than which there is nothing so chic. It goes without saying they must be well out, in finish and fit without flaw; these essentials obtained, the result is assured. A novel make of undyed vicuna, thick and warm, had a tartan lining woven in one, of all the chief recognised clans. Short round jackets of this, buttoned high to the throat, were trimmed with real grey Persian lamb, and the soft curling woel showed up well on the cloth of a curious whitey-brown hue. Being reversible, it is easy to imagine the numerous ways of ornamenting travelling ulsters, walking coats, jacks, &c., with lappets, waistcoats, pockets, or cuffs of the hues of bright-coloured plaid. Long walking coats of soft Scotch lambswool tweed, made in all the new shades of the season, are lined with coloured satin and trimmed with fine Astrakan fur, forming a roll-over collar and large lappets low on the chest. The coats are double-breasted and fastened with horn buttons. The gap from the chest to the neck is filled up by a waistcoat of cloth. At the back are large double box plaits, which decrease into points at the waist. Hats of Astrakan and fur-trimmed muffs of cloth are made to be worn with these coats. THE feeling for black Astrakan seems to slowly but surely increase. Stylish jackets of prune-coloured thick stockingette, trimmed round the basque with the fur, the front ornamented with rings and loops of military braid spreading out over the chest are made a speciality. Down the back seams from the shoulders run two rows of braid to the waist, where they join and appear to be one, an effect which produces be- coming results, as the figure looks gracefully slim. A knockabout ulster, warm and well lined, was of rough Harris homespun of natural colours, hand made, and innocent of any kind of dye. The material is water- proof without actually going through the process- for the oil is still left in the wool. Mud does not soil it, and raindrops will run off its surface. Neat gowns for walking or country home wear are made of rough esta- mene serge of genuine Scottish manufacture, and in the most popular shades. The skirts are kilted down from the waist, and have a plain, short apron front. The back draperies are round, full. and deep, and are raised at the sides to the hips. The jacket bodices have collars, cuffs, and very narrow plastrons of velvet. The latter are fastened with hooks, which are placed down the front to one side, but are ornamented in the centre with a thickly-placed row of gilt buttons, like an officer's mess waistcoat. Other kilted skirts have Highland jackets, made in true Highland fashion. These are most widely adopted by ladies who walk much and long on the country side lanes, hills, or moors, a practical proof of a fast-growing taste for that absolute freedom of limb which a gown that is chosen as properly fit for the purposes for which it is donned can alone and undoubtedly give.

A telegram from Amble siates that the Sophie, from Abo to Grangemouth, anchored in Amble Bay behind the north pier, the sea being high, and a gale blowing. The crew took to the boat, and in attempt ing to reach the beach it was capsized among th breakers, and four of the crew were drowned.

DOUBLE EXECUTION at MANCHESTER. On Monday Kay Howarth and H. Hammond Swindells, were executed at Strangeways Gaol, Man- chester, the former having been condemned for the murder, at Bolton, of Richard Dugdale, a commercial traveller, and the latter of James Wilde, at, Oldham. The convicts were tried at the recent Manchester Assizes, and no hopes of a reprieve were held ont in either case. They both slept well the previous night and were awakened at six o'clock next morning. Having dressed, they partook of a hearty breakfast, and were afterwards visited by the prison chaplain and a town missionary. Shortly before eight o'clock, Berry, of Bradford, the executioner, entered the cell and successively pinicned the culprits. A procession was then formed, consist- ing of the various gaol officials and the condemned men, and walked to the scaffold, which both Swindells and Howarth ascended without support, and took their parts in the prayers without exhibiting any emotion. Berry gave a drog of eight feet, and death appeared to be instantaneous. Howarth made a written confession of his guilt, and acknow- ledged the justice of his sentence. Swindells made a verbal confession to the like effect.

FRENCH AGRICULTURISTS AND PROTECTION. The Paris Agricultural Congress has passed reso- lutions in favour of import duties of 5fr. per quintal on wheat, 9fr. on flour, 60fr. per head on oxen, 7fr. on sheep and pigs, 20fr. per 100 kilos on fresh meat, 15fr. on salted ditto, 70fr. per head on horses, 35fr. on foals, and similar duties on other descriptions of corn and cattle. Thus, while the Paris Municipality wants bread to be made artificially cheap, the large landowners and farmers want it to be made arti- ficially dear. The chief speaker at Friday's meeting was M. Pouyer-Quertier, the veteran Pro- tectionist, who seceded from the Bonapartists on account of the Anglo-French Commercial Treaty. He assured the meeting that English farmers, though having to pay only a quarter of the taxes of French ones, were ruined, and that the rural population was crowding into the towns, where, with cheap bread, cheap clothes, and almost constant short time, they were perishing of hunger. Such. he said, were some of the results of free trade in England, and unless important duties equivalent to the inland taxation were imposed. France would have the same fate.

A "MEDICAL TALK" BY SIR ANDREW CLARK. On Monday night in the hall of the Young Men's Christian Association, Aldersgate-street, London, Sir Andrew Clark, Bart., M.D., delivered, under the title of A Medical Talk to Young Men," an address on the subject "Considerations respecting the constitution of man and its relations to Health, Knowledge, and Religion." There was a large attendance, principally composed of the young men of the association. The Earl of Aberdeen presided. Sir Andrew Clark, who was received with hearty cheering, prefaced his address by stating that his subject had been chosen in order that he might convey to his hearers some scraps of useful knowledge, that be might suggest to them some counsels for guidance in life, that he might beget in their minds some fresh utterance of thought on a most important subject, and especially because he thought that there was to be found in the consi- deration of the constitution of man arguments for the position of the Christian which were not to be sur- passed, if they were to be equalled, in any other natural field of inquiry. In entering upon the topic of address, Sir Andrew drew attention to the relations and analogies subsisting between the four classes of objects which were presented to human observation when directed abroad on the universe. These objects were either physical, vital, mental, or spiritual, all dependent upon each other, yet all absolutely distinct, and each in the order named introducing a new fact to the observer. Man was the only possessor of all the qualities of that quadruple division, and man himself, like God, was three-fold. He had bodily life in com- mon with plants, mind in common with animals, spirit in common with God. Or he was like a well-ordered State, where the body was the subordinate executive, the mind, the deliberate council, and the spirit the sole supreme ruler. Proceeding to deal with each of these divisions in turn, Sir Andrew remarked of the body that its great concern was health. As to what health was it might be suffi- cient to say that health was that state in which ex- istence of itself was a joy, in which it was a delight to see, to hear, to think, to be. (Hear, hear,) As to the conditions of laws of health, he doubted very much whether people in general knew whether there were such laws at all, for in his profession he found such violations of them that he preferred to think of men as ignorant transgressors rather than as arrant fools. (Laughter, and Hear, hear.") But these conditions were really few and simple. The first con- dition was proper food, and temperance in food. There should be three or four meals a day and he would not be particular as to their nature if they were moderate in quantity. The food should be fresh, and if possible no preserved food should be used; it was an abomination before men who knew anything of the matter. (Hear, hear.) The other conditions specified were a moderate supply of fluid, a proper regulation of the bodily functions, and regular and purposeful labour of work, which genteel people preferred to call exer- cise. (Laughter.) Two other questions presented themselves in that connection-one that of personal purity, and the other the question of the use of alcohol. In discussing the latter Sir Andrew said that he was not a partisan, and would not take a side; but, as to the relation of alcohol to health, he did not mind saying two or three things about it-(hear, hear) -though he was afraid he would be misrepresented as he had always been. He would say that alcohol was not necessary to health; that in his opinion alcohol was not a helper of work, physical or in- tellectual and that if a man was as well with alcohol, he was ten thousand times better without it. (Laughter, and hear, hear.) But there were in this world of ours poor, weak, ailing people who were never well, always complaining, and travelling along their journey with great difficulty. These took a little alcohol, and said that it made them comfort- able, and that it enabled them to do the little work which they bad to do, and which otherwise they could not do. Another class of persons, engaged in physical and mental labour, declared that a certain portion of alcohol was an assistance to them, that they bad tried the experiment without it, and that they could not work so well without it as when they took it. Speak- ing as a person of considerable experience, who had made the subject a special study, and who was as anxious as anyone to get at the truth of the matter/he (the speaker) was bound to say that, though he was a most earnest advocate for temperance, it bad yet to be proved to his satisfaction that alcohol in certain small quantities, which he had called the physiolo- gical quantity" taken at stated times—namely, with dinner and supper—did interfere with the physical, the mental, the moral, or the spiritual develop- ment of mankind. (Hear, hear.) He did not say that it did not; he said it had to be proved. (Hear, hear.) The one argument against this concession of his was the argument of example-(hear, hear)- and that he would leave to others to deal with. But the less alcohol the better it certainly took the bloom off the spirit and joy and brightness of life. (Hear, hear.) After an earnest exhortation to the young men on the question of purity, Sir Andrew proceeded to deal with the second division of man's nature—the spirit—analysing its phenomena into the perceptive, the reasoning, the motional, and the festhetic func- tions. Speaking of the last named, he remarked that there was no better feature in modern education than the increasing importance given in its curriculums to the training of the aesthetic faculties, which, in their operations, did so much to idealise, to beautify, and to sweeten life. (Hear, hear.) As to the third and last division-the mind-its proper concern was defined to be knowledge, which was the consciousness of what was or had been going on without or within us. The relativity of knowledge was insisted on and on that admitted relativity the speaker urged that a strong argument could be based in support of the Christian theist's position. God, a Christian would say, was as much an object of knowledge as was physical matter, for man did not know matter as it was, but only as it seemed to be. (Hear, hear.) The organ of the spirit was the will—a free moral force, which broke through the dead uniformity of physical laws, and in the guidance of which lay the secret of a true and a noble manhood. Sir Andrew Clark con- cluded a long address by an earnest appeal for the cultivation of holiness of spirit. The address was loudly applauded, and, on the motion of Mr. Hugh Matheson, a vote of thanks both to the speaker and the chairman was carried by acclamation. The Earl of Aberdeen briefly responded, and the proceedings germinated with the singing of the Doxology.

A plan for establishing telephonic communication between Brussels and Paris is being considered. THE NEW POST)JASTER GENERAL. Mr. Shaw- Lefevre, the new Postmaster General, has formally taken np his position at the Post-office. Almost his first duty was to receive a deputation from the Cor* poration of Birmingham with reference to their post* office,

Bis!tllatttD'lts HOJlB, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL. CONGREGATIONALISM.—Mr. Samuel Morley, M.P., has consented to become President of tho English Con- gregational Chapel Building Society in succession to the late Mr. Robert S. Hudson, of Cheater. Mr. Morley, whose name appears in the last report of the society as having, at various times, contributed £3,557 to its funds, has for a great many years taken a practical interest in the work. TE WHBORO.—Major Te Wheoro, the New Zealand chief, is so far recovered from his dangerous illness that he is expected to sail for New Zealand in the Ionic on Dec. 3. It is not considered likely that he will receive the final answer to the Maori memorial from the Colonial Office before he sails. SOCIAL SCIENCE.—At the last meeting of the Council of the Social Science Association, an invitation from the Corporation of Portsmouth to hold the Congress for 1885 in that borough was considered, and its acceptance by the Committee of Council confirmed. The Presi- dency of the Association for the ensuing year has been accepted hy Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild. TECHNICAL EDUCATION.—A conference of members of trades unions and members of the Artisans'Technical Association has been held at Anderton's Hotel, Fleet- street, London, to consider the best means of placing before artisans and workmen the important work the association had undertaken, which Te&Uy was to bring technical education to the homes of the worKmen. Sir Philip Cunliffe Owen, C.B., presided, and there were present representatives from several societies. A long discussion took place upon the question of technical education, and eventually it was unanimously resolved That this conference earnestly requests the trade unions of the United Kingdom to assist the Artisans' Technical Association in its endeavours to spread a knowledge of the advantages of technical education, and to induce artisans to attend technical classes." SEA DEFENCES OF SHEERNEss.-The War Depart- ment authorities at Sheerness are energetically engaged in strengthening the sea walls as a protection from the inroads of the sea, which has made great encroach- ments daring the past few years. On Saturday morn- ing, in expectation of a high tide, on account of a north-easterly gale, the approaches to the town from the sea were barricaded, but fortunately no overflow took place, although the waves rolled on the top of the esplanade. Some damage caused to the wall beyond Cheyney Rock was speedily repaired by the Govern- ment authorities. PRIZE ESSAYS ON THE SUNDAY QUESTION.-Thecom' mittee of the Working Men's Lord's Day Rest Associa- tion have issued a circular which offers prizes amount- ing to JE95 for essays by working men or women on various aspects of the Sabbath question. The subjects are: "What does God's Word teach about the Sab- bath ? The Moral, Social, and Physical Advantages of the Sabbath Day;" The Sunday Closing of Public Houses; Objections to opening museums &c., on Sun- days;" "The arguments for opening the national collections and places of amusement on the Lord's Day carefully considered and answered; t: Railway Traffic and Postal Work on the Lord's Day." NICE.—The programme of the Nice authorities for the winter season is just to hand. It states that the Casino was opened on the 15th of October for theatrical representations, concerts, &c. The Winter Garden is in beautiful condition. The races will take placo on the 12th, 15th, and 18th of January with prizes to the amount of 50,000 francs. The new Opera House will open some day between the 15th of January and 1st of February for operas and dramas, and with a first-class corps de ballet. The Carnival begins on the 1st of February, and will last until the 17th. The Mid-Lent Corsos, Venetian fetes, Battle of Flowers, &c., will take place on the 11th and 12th of March. The International Regattas are fixed for April 7th and 9th; the prizes amount to 90,000 francs. THE CHRISTMAS HouDAYS.—An extended Christmas holiday is likely to be given in many branches of whole- sale and retail trade in the metropolis and in numerous provincial towns. Christmas-day falls on a Thursday, Friday is Bank-holiday, and Saturday is already in many trades a half-holiday. By closing their premises on Saturday morning employers will be able to afford their assistants four days continuous absence from business instead of two. Several large employers of labour have intimated to the Early Closing Association their in- tention to give the four days'holiday; and an organised effort is to be made to secure as general a closing as possible. On Saturday, at Birmingham, the borough coroner held an inquest respecting the death of Ann Rice, wife of Thomas Rice, a dealer in oils in Aston-road. The evidence showed that early on the morning of the 6th Nov. the prisoner threw a large quantity of paraffin over his wife, who was carrying a baby at the time. A large portion of the liquid went over Mrs. Rice, some over the baby, and a little over the servant, Annie Burrows. Flames immediately shot out from the fire, and the furniture and chimney piece, where part of the paraffin had fallen, became ignited immediately. The servant ran out of the house with the baby, which she seized from her mistress, but Mrs. Rice was so seriously burned that she died last Wednesday after suffering intense agony. The jury returned a verdict of" Man- slaughter against Rice," who is in custody." AN EXCITING SCENE.—On Saturday evening, shortly before six o'clock, an accident which might have had serious results occurred in the Hurley-road, Lower Kennington-lane, London. An elderly female, who gains her livelihood by hawking paraffin oil, which is stored in a zinc tank placed on a donkey barrow, was in the road in question, when the woman was in the act of serving a customer by the light of a lamp, when by some means the oil running from the tap became ignited. Mr. George Ware, an official at the Lambeth Workhouse, who happened to be near the spot, imme- diately rushed to the donkey's assistance, and with great prompitude cut the harness, and freed the poor creature from its dangerous position. Immediately after the tank burst with a loud report, and the burning liquid covered the whole of the roadway, and caused great consternation and alarm in the neighbourhood. 1 he Hurley-road and the adjacent thoroughfares were brilliantly illuminated, and in consequence a large con- course of people assembled. In the meantime the Fire Brigade, whose station is near at hand, arrived, and through their prompt attention what might have been a great destruction of property was averted. THE BRADFORD CHIMNEY DISASTER.—A number of the relatives of victims and sufferers through the chimney disaster which took place nearly two years ago at Newlands Mill, Bradford, were on Saturday called together, to receive their proportion of compensation in the shape of money collected for them by public sub- scription and paid over by Messrs. Ripley, the owners of the mill. The question of compensation originally formed the ground of a civil action at the Assizes; but the jury were unable to decide the question of liability. With a view of saving further litigation, it was agreed by the parties to the suit to refer the question of com- pensation to the President of the Chamber of Commerce (Mr. Henry Mitchell), the Mayor of Bradford (Mr. Isaac Smith), and Mr. Robert Sutcliffe. These gentlemen, with the assistance of the Town Clerk, have examined each individual case, and have made an assessment of what, in their opinion, is due to the sufferers. The total sum arrived at for distribution amounts to P2500. which is. to be divided among nearly 100 persons. Of that amount B1500 was on Saturday distributed among 32 persons, who presented themselves before the Com- mittee. The legal expenses connected with the pro- ceedings amounted to about ^600; but the greater portion of that sumhns been collected in subscriptions, to which Mr. Forster, and the Clothworkers' Com- pany have contributed among others.

THE MARKETS. MARK-IANE. At Mark-lane there was no special feature. A quiet busi Bess was passing throughout, but prices were firm. New York advices report a firmer tra e. Fresh sup- plies of produce were moderate. Eng.ish wheat was in quiet request at late rates. i he dem.)ni for foreign wheat was inactive but prices were steady. The flour market was dull at late rates. Barley was purchased quietly malting and grinding were about the same in value, grinding occa- sionally making 3d more money. Oats were firm and 6d dearer. Maize realised ful prices at a fair demand. Busi- ness in beans checked by high prices asked Halian, 26a to 27s; Egyptian, 26s 6d to 29s per 4801b. Peas firm-White Canadian, 30s to 31s; Egyptian lentils, 25s to 26s per 5041bs. METROPOLITAN CATTLE MARKET. The total imports of foreign stock into London last week amounted to 12,4S7 head. In the corresponding period last year we received 8937; in 18S2, 21,626; in 1861, 11,184; in 1880, S699; in 1879,15,219; in 187*, 9 6=i; and in 1877, 13,514 head. At Liverpool w-re received 84 beasts from Baltimore, 455 beasts and 276 sheep from Boston, and 264 beasts and 1393 sheep from Montreal and at Southamp- ton 11 beasts from Jersey and Guernsey, and 60 beasts from Oporto. The cattle trade has been very dull, and prices have not been maintained without difficulty. Fair supplies were offering. About an average number of beasts came from our own grazing district-. the market was very dull. and prices remained about the same as last week. The best Scots and crosses realised 5s 8d to 5s 10d per 81b. There was a moderate supply of foreign beasts on offer, which changed bands slowly at former currencies. As regards sheep, supplies were fairly exten-ive. A drag. ging trade was experien ed throughout, and prices were weak. The best Downs and half-breds ealised 6s Od to 6s 6d per 81b. Calves and pigs sold at late prices. Quotations Coarse and inferior beasts, 4s to 4e 6d: second quality ditto, 4s 6d to 5s prime large oxen, 5s 6d to 5b 8d; ditto Scots. Ac., 5s 8d to 5s lod coarse and in- ferior sheep, 5s to 5s 6d; second quality ditto, 58 6d to 6s prime coarse woolled ditto. 6s od to 6s 4d; prime Southdown ditto, 6s 4d t, tts fid; 1 rc-e coarse calves, 5s 4d to 5s 8d; prime small ditto, 5s Sd o 6a large hog?, 3s 6d to 4s; neat small powers, 4s to 4s 6d per 81b. to sink the offal. Total supply Beasts, 3720; sheep and lamb?, 8560; calves, 340; pigs, 40: milch cows, 30. Foreign; Beasts, 160; sheep and lambs, 6' calves, 10. Prom the midland and home counties we received 2430 beasts; from Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, 100; from Ireland, 900; and from Scotland, 130 beasts. METROPOLITAN MEAT MARKET. The supply, although not heavy, is in excess of demand. Trade contini s very bad, nd there is no improve- ment in prices. For plain and inferior quality there IS scarcely any inquiry, even at lowest quotations. The prices were as follows: Inferior beef, 2s Sd to 3s 4d; middling ditto, 3s 4d to 3s 8ii; prime large ditto, 4s Od to 4.s Cd; prime small ditto, 4s sd to 5s; veal, 5s to 58 4d inferior mutton, 2s 8d to 3s 4d Hiiddling ditto, 3a 4d to 3s 8d; prime ditto, 4s Od to 5s d; large pork, 2s 8d to 3s 4d; small ditto, Ss 8d to 4s 4*1 POT 81b. by the carcase. GAME AND POULTRY. partridges, Is 6d to 2s 3d pheasants, 2s 3d to 4s 6d plovers, 8d to 9d; golden ditto, lod to Is Id; wild ducks, 2s 6d to 3s widxe n, 1* 9d to ,'s pintail, 1. 6d to Is lOd teal, Is 4d to Is 8d wood pig-eon, 6d to lOd Bordeaux ditto. Is 2d to Is 5d h res 3s 6d to 4s fid white ditto, Is tId to 2s 9d; rabbits Is 4d to 2* conies, 9d to Is Id; geese, 5s to 7s 6d and fowls, 2s to Ss each. Ftsa. Good supply of fish, with trade quiet. Prices: Soles, Is to Is 4d per lb slips, 9d to lid p"r lit. lemon soles 6d per lb; turbot, 6d to 9d per lb; brill, ed per lb cod, 4d to 6d per lb plaice, 3d to 4d per lb: hake. 4d per lb eoalfish, 2d per lb; sturgeon, 8d per lb eels, bid to is 2d per lb conger eel, 4d per lb; fresh haddock, 3d to 4d per lb skate, 4d to 6d per Ib; sprats, 14*1 to 2d per lb; fresh herrings, 6d per dozen; whiting, 2s to 4s per dozen: Auf-'lo-Portuguese oysters, lOd to is per dozen Hutch ditto, 2s per dozen; native ditto, Is to 2s 6d; red mu let, lOd to Is edeach John Dory, 6d to 2s 6d ench lob-.t--rs. I r, to 3s each; crabs, 6d to 2s 6d eac'b dr ed lindrto k to 1 f' each shrimps, 2d to 3d per pint; winkles, 2d per t,;nt whelks, Id per pint; mussels, 8d to Is per gallon smelts. Is to 2s 3d per bas- ket; Digby chicks, 4u to lid per i uudle. POt A TO KS. There was a moderate supply of potatoes on offers The trade was dull at the nimuxe<i r--te, Kent regents, 70s to 80s: Essex Shaws, 50s t< 60s; champions. 50s to 60s; Magnum Bcnums, 6tts to 70s Victorias 70s to 80s nee