The Aberystwith Observer

KTHE GIFT OF A HEART: A SCOTTISH STORY. [ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CHAPTER XLV. MISFORTUNE. ■SSLBOTXT a month after Catlin's death, Mr. Robinson -threw open the door of Edward's counting-house, looking very pale and haggard, and exclaimed: Have you heard the news ? Blank, Bowley, and Company have suspended payments, and I'm in to the tune of—I don't know how much. I haven't bad the heart to look." You don't tell me that seriously ?" said Edward, his face and lips turning ashy pale. 1 wish I didn't," replied Mr. Robinson, for I'm a ruined man. Are you in much ?'' "I am, indeed!" exclaimed Edward, with a deep tligh. They were considered such a good house," he added. To be sure," rejoined Mr. Robinson. If I haan t considered them Al, d'ye think I would have credited them ?" Will they be able to pay much of a dividend ?" Inquired Edward. It It is supposed it will not exceed three or four shillings; although, of coarse, it's not exactly known yet." When Robinson left., Edward put on his hat, changed his coat, and went out. "I'll go and ascertain first," said he to himself, If it's all correct; and if it is, I'll go home and tell her." In little more than an hour afterwards he had reached his own home. He entered their little parlour, and sat down on the sofa. Annie came and sat down beside him. "I am the bearer of bad news," said he, trying to force up a faint smile. s, Oh, nothing very bad, I hope," said she. But the apprebension of evil tidings brought the dew-drops to her eyes. Blank, Bowley, and Co. are down," said he, And do they owe you anything ?" A great deal, Annie." How much ?" she inquired, anxiously. "Five hundred and thirty pounds." "Five hundred and thirty pounds Ob, Edward! what shall we do ?" "Yes, what shall we do?" said he. "We have been getting on so well-everything promising so fair; and now, in one hour, all our hopes are dashed to the ground. We are ruined!" "You have nothing left ?" "Yes, something—a great deal. I have a good name, a good wife, and a sweet little child. Call you these nothing ?" Your good name is much," she answered but vour wife and child will be but burdens to you now." Burdens! Say not that, Annie; say, rather, in- citements to urge me on to greater exertions—com- forters to cheer my heart under the calamity." "Bless your generous heart, my husband!" said she, pressing her lips to his brow. What can we do ?" he asked. Do you think any of your creditors would be billing to give you time to make up your accounts ? If they would, and you thought you could do it, I'm sure I would try and save all I could on the house- keeping." "I do not know," he answered; "but I know you could not be more economical in the housekeeping than you are, Annie." Who are your chief creditors ?" she inquired. "Your old master, Mr. Campbell, of Springvale, is my largest creditor at present. I have "n account of four hundred and sixty pounds to pay him within a fortnight." "He's a kind, good-hearted gentleman," said Annie. He would wait; I am sure he would. If he would wait, I suppose you could meet all your other engagements ?" U No, Annie; I must ask indulgence from them all." At any rate, write to him. Do, dear husband; and I am sure you'll not regret it. He has plenty of money, and it won't distress him in the least. And you could remind him too that you're the husband of his late governess. It would do no harm." "You advise well, Annie; but I'm far from being as sanguine regardiug the result as you are. There's no friendship in business." With a kiss and a promise to write to Mr. Camp- bell, he said Grood-bye," and hurried back to the city. "My poor husband," said Annie, as she heard the door close after him; and throwing herself on the sofa, she burst into tears. After thus relieving her feelings, she sat down and wrote a letter, which she presently tock to the post-office. It may well be supposed that the letter to his creditors soliciting time was, to Edward, no labour of love. The tardiness of his progress with it was in keeping with the irksomeness of his task, when the door Of his countiag-house was thiown open, and Mr. Robinson entered. All right, I see," he said, glancing at the table; the letters are not gone off, and I am just in time. I wish you joy, Campbell. I came with bad news to you before but I have good news now. You won't want to send those letters at all." "lnäeed 1" cried Edward, dropping his pen with astonishment; that is good news indeed, Mr. Robin- eon. But what does it mean ?" Just this," replied his visitor that by a lucky chance I can put you in a way of making enough to set yourself straight again, and prevent you wanting accommodation from anybody. The thing is just this a friend of mine who does a good deal in our line- Horsey, of Whitechapel, in fact-came to me this morning to offer me eome goods that he wants to get rid of at a very tempting figure-thirty-lhrøe per cent. under the manufacturer's prices. I only wish I had the cash, to lay my finger upon it; but as I haven't, unluckily, and "bills won't do for him, I thought you should have the chance, ana pay me ten per cent. on the profits when you realise." Thank you, Mr. Robinson," said Edward but what is your friend's reason for wishing to dispose of his goods at such a reduction ? They are damaged, I suppose ?" Not a bit of it, I understand," replied Mr. Robinson; "first-rate goods, every bale, he tells me. Here is the sample, and he warrants them quite up to it." "If so, better need not be," observed Edward after examining the piece produced but there must be some reason." is You are a deal more scrupulous than I am Camp- bell," said Mr. Robinson, with a slight laugh "If anything is offered to me that I know to be a bargain, I never trouble my head about anything else. How- ever, I don't mind telling you that I believe he is in difficulties, and his creditors are pressing him. He will have to call his creditors together, I can see that; and they are sura to leave him as poor as Job when "they have done with him.' You mean to say," returned Edward, that he is going to make a private purse for himself, and offer his creditors what there is left." "I mean to say nothing of the sort," replied Mr. Robinson, curtly. "How am I to know what he wants the money for ? Indeed, what ia it to me, or you either ? The only thing that we, as men of business, have got to do with is this: Here is a splendid bargain offered. I can't lay my finger on it, worse luck so I give the chance to you. Will you take it, or will you not ? Edward reflected for a few moments, and then his mind appeared to be made up. 1, Where are these goods," he said so that I could see the bulk if I wanted to ?" They are at Lightfoot's Waggon-office. They are a consignment from some house in the North, sold to Horsey through Tomlins in Old Broad-street. He has just got notice of their arrival, and he says he would rather tell them off quietly, and let the buyer take them away from where they are than have them hauled down to hIS place. Pushed for room, perhaps or wants to save the expense of cartage." You dcn't want an answer before the morning, I suppose ?" observed Edward. IIOb, that will do very well," replied Mr. Robin- son. Is Indeed, I know what it will be as well as I had it now. Ten per cent. commission for me, mind." We shall not quarrel about thar, if I take the Bocds," said Edward. If1£ I" repeated Mr. Robinson, with a significant wint. Ain't you a Scotchman ? p, pretty shameless piece of roguery," observed ~«ward, when he found himself alone. Here is a coundrel ordering goods which he never intends to for, and offering to Bell them for half their value en before they come into his posBession, with the ident intention, as soon as he has realised all that j he dares to appropriate, either to abscond with it, or to offer his creditors some paltry dividend out of the trifle that remains. But the fraud is still uncom- mitted, and it is in my power to prevent it. There shall be no time lost about that. I know nothing of Tomlins, of Old Broad-street; but if I could tamely sit down, and see any man defrauded of his property, I should be as guilty as the wretch who did it." He immediately sat down, and wrote a letter to Mr. Tomlins, acquainting him with the circum- stances. Edward then finished the circulars to his creditors, without feeling the bitterness of spirit that had well- nigh crushed him down at the commencement of his task. On reaching his counting house the following morning, he found two letters awaiting him: one from Mr. Tomlins, which concluded thus: "I have thought it right to report your hfcndsome conduot in this matter to the owner of the goods, Mr. Campbell, of Spring- vale, and beg to add my personal thanks. As I am opening a connection with several leading manufacturing houses. I shall often be in a positioa to offer you bargains, both in price and quality, and shall be happy to supply you with anything you may require, and to meet your convenience as to payment," The other, from Robinson, informed Edward that there had been a "confounded hitch," and their chance was lost. Mr. Campbell, City, 18—. SIR,—There has been a confounded hitch in the matter I spoke to you about yesterday. Somehow or other the thing has got wind, and our chance is lest. I am sorry, for both our saltes but sorrow won't mend it. Another time, strike the iron while it is hot. I always do, and you will find it to your interest in future.—Yours, THOS. ROBINSON." CHAPTER XLVI. THE CLOUDS CLEARING AWAY. THE family at Springvale had just concluded break- fast, when a servant announced that a gentleman downstairs wished to see Mr. Campbell. My good triend exclaimed he, as he entered the parlour into which his visitor had been shown, I'm. glad to see you. How d'ye do ?" Thank you, sir, I trust you're very wall. I hope I don't intrude, calling on you at this early hour of the day ?" "Not in the least. Have you breakfasted^?" •' Yes, thank you," said the visitor. Do you remember," said Mr. Campbell, my re- marking, when you were here the first time, that I thought I had met you somewhere before ?" Yes," said the gentleman, who was no other than our old friend, Mr. Rule; but really one meets so many strange faces when travelling, that it it difficult to remember who's who." You were one of a party that met in the com- mercial room of the Silver Unicorn at Stirling, some -oh, fifteen years ago, I dare say ?" Dear me! so I was," replied Mr. Rule, "and you were another. A pleasant meeting we had. I'm de- lighted to meet you again, sir. I haven't informed you yet, though, what has brought me here now." No but you'll have plenty of time to do that," I said Mr. Campbell. You'll remain a few days, now you are here ?" You are very kind; but if you please, we will dispose of our business first. Have you had a letter from a young friend of mine in London ?" The young man, Campbell, who commenced b u&iness there lately as a dealer in Scotch woollen manufactures ?" f. The same," answered Mr. Rule. Have you re- plied to his letter ?" Not yet." That's well," answered Mr. Rule. I am very glad I have seen you before you answered it. What do you think of the matter, sir ?" Let me have your opinion," replied Mr. Camp. bell. He's a superior young man, sir," said Mr. Rule, "He was a scholar of mine, and has proved an honour to the establishment where he received his tuition." He belongs to your place, then ?" His parents were Inverness people, I believe, but he was brought up with a family who resided beside us--living in humble circumstances, but a very exemplary family indeed. Talking of the family puts me in mind of an inci- dent I must tell you of, which speaks most favourably as to our young friend's self-denial and gratitude;" and Mr. Rule forthwith proceeded to describe the course taken by Edward on hearing of the difficulties into which Mr. Scott had fallen. That was very good," said Mr. Campbell, when Mr. Rule had concluded his narration. "He does credit to our clan, that young man. His name is the same as that of a brother I once had. Your friend is married to that young person who lived with us as governess for several years ?" f. And a very superior young woman she is," said Mr. Rule. "I may inform you that it was on receiving a letter from her that I resolved upon this journey." And I'm very glad you have come," said Mr. Campbell. I suppose you think that by allowing this claim of mine to stand over, he might get on his feet again?" I'm not in the least afraid of him," answered Mr. Rule. Nor I either," observed Mr. Campbell. The fact is, Mr. Rule, my mind was made up before I saw you; and you will be glad to hear that it is in your old pupil's favour." Mr. Rule expressed his joy at this determination, and added, Allow me to Bay, sir, that this confidence in Edward cannot but be, in his present precarious position, attended with risk; and in that risk you must let me be a sharer." "Indeed, I shall do nothing of the sort." You must, indeed," persisted Mr. Rule. I have got a little money by me, which I have no present use for so I have brought a draught with me for JE250, and I have great pleasure in presenting it to you. I am sorry it is no more. Please to take it, sir," he continued, seeing that Mr. Campbell leit the document in his outstretched hand. f' Not I, I assure you," replied that gentleman; "I always take all the risks of my trade on myself. And now I am afraid I must not keep Mrs. Campbell's tea- pot waiting any longer; so come in. I daresay you can take another cup of tea; and after breabfa&t I will tell you exactly what I mean to do." The substance of Mr. Campbell's communication to Mr. Rule will be found in the following extract from a letter which was received by Edward a few evenings after: "I received your letter, applying for time, and enclosing statement of affairs, and list of creditors; and the next post brought me a letter from my agent in town, informing me of your conduct in the affair of that swindling rascal. This 1 considered so praiseworthy, that I have written to each of your creditors, informing them of it, and urging their acceptance of your offer. I am now happy to tell you that we are unanimous in giving you the time you require. Your application has also been backed in a very disinterested manner by an old friend of yours, Mr. Rule, of Moss-side, who is at present staying with me anll, from what he tells me of your character, I shall be glad to know more of your views and prospects, and shall perhaps be able to put your business matters 'on a more satisfactory footing. In the meantime, if you want any description of goods to go on with, or any ready cash for immediate purposes, let me know. Respects to your good wife." Join me in thanking God, my dear," cried Edward as he placed this letter in Annie's hand; this may prove the turning-point of our fortunes." (To be continued,

MAIL TRAIN IN COLLISION. A serious collision occurred on Friday night of last week at Retford Great Northern Railway Station shortly after eleven o'clock. The mail train for London was at ,he platform about to start, or had just started, and a fish train, which had been shunted to allow the mail to pass, was standing in a siding. The driver of the latter train saw the signals off and took them to be an indication to himself that the line was clear, whereas they were taken off for the mail train. Both trains were bound for London. The fish train driver put on full steam coming through the station, and, failing to perceive the tail lights of the mail train, he dashed into it with considerable violence. Some of the carriages were so damaged by the impact that they had to be detached. The pas- sengers were much bruised and knocked about, and two of them were too much injured to continue their journey. These were Mr. John Henry Bentley, of Holmfirth, near Hudderfield, whose left eye was seriously cut and who sustained severe bruises; and Mr. John Douthwaite, of London, whose forehead was contused and his system generally shaken. Both were travelling in a third-class carriage.

Princess Christian on Saturday laid the foundation- stone of a church at Hackney-wick, which is to be in connection with the Mission established by Eton Col- lege, near Victoria-park. AFTER all, some of our proverbs are pretty correct. It is better to make hay when the sun shines." It would be very awkward going out after dark trying to hold a candle and swing a scythe at the same time.

FROM THE "COMICS," [FBOM "PUNCH."] A SEVERE SENTENCE.-She: Yes, dear, I'm afraid cook wants judgment." He: Judgment J She wants Execution A DOUBTFUL COMPLIMENT.—Sympathetic Spinster And is your other boy at all like this one ? Proud Mother Oh, no; quite a contrast to him! Sympathetic Spinster How nice TOPPING THE TRIPOS Or, Something like a Score for the Sex. [In the Cambridge Mathematical Tripos Miss P. G. Fawcett, of Newnham, daughter of the late Professor Fawcett, is declared to be above the Senior Wrangler."] Above the Senior Wrangler Pheugh! Where now are male reactionaries Who flout the feminine, and pooh-pooh Sweet M&thematic Megs and Maries ? Who says a girl is only fit To be a dainty, dancing dangler ? Here's girlhood's prompt reply to it: Miss Fawcett tops the Senior Wrangler I Would it not have rejoiced the heart Of her stout sire, the brave Professor ? Agneta Ramsay made good start, But here's a shining she-successor Many a male who failed to pass Will hear it with flushed face and jaw set. But Mr. Punch brims high his glass, And drinks your health, Miss P.G. Fawcett! "GOOD OLD GRACE!" (Doggerel on The Doctor," by an Old Duffer.") L" Dr. Grace, who seemed to forget his lameness, played with great vigour and dash, and his cuts and drives possessed all their old brilliancy."—The Times, on the exciting finish in the cricket match between the M.C.C. and the Australians.] One hundred and eleven runs, and eighty-five minutes to make 'em in, And with Turner and Ferris to trundle as fast as they could pitch and break 'em in [ And it looked any odds on Murdoch's men contriving to make a draw of it; But Cricket, my lads, is a curious game, and uncer- tainty seems the sole law of it. So they sett in Grace and Shuter to start. Well, the Doctor is now called a veteran," But at forty-two when he's on the job 'tisn't easy to pick out a better 'un. And he spanked for four," like a lad once more, and he cut and he drove like winking Though his leg was lame, he forgot that same, and he played the game without shrinking. And Surrey's Shuter he did his part, and so did Notts' Gunn, Sir, Though he might have chucked the game away when the Doctor he managed to out-run, Sir. It was bard, you see, upon W. G. in that way to lose his wicket, But all the same ho bad won the game, and had played superlative Cricket. Forty-three to make, and forty-five minutes But Grace and Gunn were equal to it; And a win, with a quarter of an hour in hand, was the satisfactory sequel to it. The Australians played a manly game, without any dawdling or shirking; And if they didn't avoid defeat why it wasn' t for want of hard working. But the stiff-legged Doctor who forced the game in the most judgmatical fashion, And forgot his leg and his "forty year" odd, full flushed with a Cricketer's passion Why he's the chap who deserves a shout. Bravo, brave" W. G. Sir. And when you next are on the job, may the "Duffer" be there to see, Sir [FBOM "FUN." I HE SCORED THESE !—Doctor: "But, above all things, my dear fellow, have patience. That is my favourite prescription and motto—' have patience. Cranky Invalid: Have patients! Course it is Have patients and keep em, eh ? THE BOARD SCHOOL PIANo.-Fair School Teacher (on receipt of 2^d. from child): What's the half- penny for, dear"?" Child: "Please, miss, mother says I'm to have a ha'porth of pianey-forty, and I ain't to be kept waiting, for she won't stand that «air. NOT SO VERY BAD.—Anxious Young Wife: Do you really feel too unwell to go out to dinner, dear ? You see, I am all ready." The Would-be Invalid: Well, what is there for dinner if we stay at home ? [FROM "JUDY."] SPACIOUS.-Aclolph: Why, Charlie, how is it you don't kiss your wealthy cousin Clara ? Charlie: Well, old chap, it would do me no good. Her mouth is so large one might as well throw open a window and kiss the wide, wide world." ONE WAY OF FINDING OUT.-Clara (meditatively): How can I be quite certain that Augustus loves ma for my wealth alone ? Ha! a sudden thought strikes me! Augustus! Augustus (tenderly): My own!" Clara: Between two who love there should be ¡ perfect frankness, should there not ? Æu,r¡.: My angel, a thousand times, yes (Aside) What the deuce does she want to know?" Clara (slowly): Then listen. My hair grew upon other heads, and my teeth are the best money could buy. My eye- brows are false, my lips are painted, my cheeks are rouged; and my dressmaker makes me as well as my dresses. Say, Augustus, can you love me after these disclosures ? Aug. (faintly): "1-1 can Clara (sotto voce): Ye gods, how deeply in debt must this young man be! CABBY DIDN'T KNOW HIS FARE.— Cabby: "'Ere I want my fare out o' yer, guv'nor." Fare: My good man, I always live on the c-credit shysht'm. (Producing sixpence.) Theresh half th' amount- resht to remain on mortgage at three 'n' half p'shent. Goo' ev'ning." ARRAH, MORE BETOKEN.—The Mint has issued a warning to 'busmen and all whom it may concern, regarding certain shillings apparently of Jubilea period and patterns, but in reality silver tokens im- ported by private speculators, and (of course) made in Germany," although not bearing that cheering legend. Och, be ja.bers, indade, an' would Ju-bilee-ve it, these tokens are not Mint to do good, any- way, but, begorra, are coins of a most de-coyin' koin'd ? STOCK EXCHANGE CAUTIONS. Do not buy- 1. Russians, as they are liable to get into the hands of the bears." 2. Foreign rails, as it is always possible that they may come down with a run." I 3. Aerated breads, as they are apt to be in- flated." 4. Hotchkiss, as all ordnance is liable to burst." A BABY is the best example of much cry and little wool." COOL. Let us float in a boat in this heat, my sweet, The zephyrs blow fresh on the stream As a rule there's a cool little breeze by the trees, And there we may loiter and dream. I can joke as I smoke, while I laze 'neath your gaze, And you, in the coolest of frocks, Can cull, as you scull in the sun, much fun, And fork out the browns for the locks. [FROM "FUNNY FOLKS."] BOTTLED UP.—He: 'Scuse me, dear, bein' little late. Been-hie I-been t' lecture on Drink. She: "Yes, sir; and you've come home full of tkø subject ELECTRIC CURRENT INTELLIGENCE.—An electric piano is now on the market. That electricity should be put to musical purposes need excite little surprise, since lightning is often seen playing in the skies in quite a brilliant manner WEEL HE Lo'Es a SNEESHIN'—A weekly paper in its column of Notes gives us the exciting in- formation that Sir Charles Russell takes snuff. The inference is not only that the eminent lawyer is up to snuff," but that he is good at a pinch." SHORTHAND NOTES.—A stenographic machine has been invented which in the hands of an expert will take down 250 words a minute. Its appearance on the market will be productive of very diverse results, for while reporters are likely to be greatly" taken up" with it, it is evident that public speakers will inevitably be taken down." A GIDDY JOKELER.—A polka under the title of the Influenza is advertised. This is rather late in the day, but if the composition has a catching" melody, no doubt it will be popular. At the same time, we should have thought the waltz would have been a more suitable dance, because when the infl»* enza attacks a family, it generally goes round I

COURT AND SOCIETY. [FROM "THE WORLD."] The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh went down to Balmoral by the particular wish of the Queen, as they had not been there for several years, and during her Majesty's autumn sojourn at the Castle they will be abroad. The duke, who stayed for a week, went out salmon-angling on two days, and had fair sport, as, although the Dee is now running very low, the pools on the Royal stretch (which extends for 14 miles) are well stocked with fish. The duke returned to Clarence House on Saturday morning, and the duchess has left Balmoral for London. They are to be the guests of the Prince and Princess of Wales at Sand- ringham-park during next week. The Duke and Duchess of Connaught are to make their first appearance in society at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, the 25th, at the second State concert. I am enabled to state that the announcement made recently by the morning papers, that the Queen "will have a large garden-party at Windsor Castle, in honour of the return of the Duke and Duchess of Connaught," and that there will also be garden- parties at Buckingham Palace," is entirely incorrect; for her Majesty does not intend to give any such parties, either in London or at Windsor. The Queen, as I have already announced would be the case, will be present at the garden-party which the Prince and Princess of Wales are to give at Marlborough House early next month. The second State Ball and the Marlborough House garden-party will both be given during the first week in July. The Prince of Wales is to open the Portsmouth Town Hall early in August, during his stay at Cowes, and it is probable that about the same time H.R.H. will open the new docks at Southampton. The Emperor William is about to send the Sultan a magnificent sword of honour, which has been made at Berlin. The blade, which is of the finest steel, is heavily inlaid with gold, and the handle is a lion's head, with gold ornamentation, the eyes being made of rubies. The hilt bears the monograms of the Emperor and the Sultan. It is ia the form of a Saracen sword. The sons of the German Emperor passed last summer at Oberhof, a hunting lodge in the Thuringian Forest which belongs to the Duke of Saxe-Coburg- Gotha; but it is thought advisable that they should have some sea-bathing this year, so they are going for two or three months to the island of Riigen, in the Baltic, near Stralsund, and a house has been taken for them in the beech woods near Putbus. The Empress is to join her sons at Riigen after her Ems "cure." Riigen is generally flat and sandy, but the island is richly wooded, there is capital bathing, and the air is extremely bracing. The coast scenery is very pretty, and the water round the cliffs and bays is of the deepest blue. The island belongs to Prince Putbus, who has there a palace surrounded by a most picturesque park. Prince and Princess Frederick Leopold of Prussia will probably come to England early in July on a visit to the Duke and Duchess of Connaught at Bag- shot-park, and they will be the guests of the Queen at Windsor Castle. Prince Frederick Leopold, who is one of the wealthiest of the German Princes, is the only brother of the Duchess of Connaught, and the Princess is a younger sister of the German Empress. They were married at Potsdam last June. I hear that Prince Bismarck has ordered a special train of the Dutch railway authorities to convey him from Yenlo to Flushing on the 21st inst. The fine estate of Balfour, in Fifeshire, which is one of the most beautifully-wooded properties in that county, has been privately sold by Mrs. Charles Con- galton Bethune to Mrs. Wemyss, of Wemyss Castle. Balfour House is a very interesting old mansion, and has many associations with Scottish history. It is famous for its art treasures, among which are portraits of the celebrated Cardinal Beaton, and one of Mary Beaton, who was one of the "four Maries" of Mary Queen of Scots. The Balfour estate is only separated from that of Wemyss by the water of Orr. Now that an unfortunate pedestrian has been run over and killed, and a verdict of manslaughter has been returned against the cyclist, whether bi or tri I know and care not, there may be some chance of a drastic measure of reform or regulation in regard to the new terror" of the road. It is not less than monstrous that the whole traffic of the main roads, not only in but all round London, should be at the mercy of these plagues. During the Whitsuntide holidays the Brighton road, to give only one instance, was completely lined with one long procession of them. It is the simple truth that a scream from their whistles, a howl from their squeezers, or a tinkle from their tin-kettle bells is held to be sufficient justification for a total disregard of the presence of the mere pedestrian. Now that tramcars, bathing- machines, Billingsgate porters, steam-launches, round- abouts, and pug. dogs have all to be regularised by certificates from somebody or other, why should bicycles and balloons be the only vehicles that may trip you up, or run over you, or burst over your back garden with absolute impunity from supervision ?" [FROM "TRUTH."] The late Due de Montpensier has left his French titles (as he had power to do) to his grandson, Prince Ferdinand d'Orleans, the younger son of the Comte do Paris, who was born in September, 1884, and he will ultimately inherit the valuable estate and fine chateau of Randau, in which his mother has a life interest. The Due d' Aumale has given up his house at Brussels, and during his recent visit to Sicily his col- lections of pictures, books, china, and objects of art have been removed to Chantilly. The Due d'Aumale comes to London next week for a short stay, and he is to be the guest of the Queen at Windsor Castle before he returns to France. After a delay of five months the colonelcy of the 2nd Life Guards has been filled up by the appoint- ment of Lord Howe, who distinguished himself in the Kaffir War (1852-53) and during the Indian Mutiny. Lord Howe becomes Gold Stick-in-Waiting in right of his colonelcy. LINES TO A LONDON LION. Mr. Stanley, Mr. Stanley, You have been a nine days' wonder; But already it would seem, sir, You are destined to go under. For, alas the public interest In fresh objects ever centres, And you'll have to make your exit Now the young Due d'Orleans enters. Tis a common fate, believe me, Which you now are doomed to know If you doubt me, ask Boulanger If it was not ever so ? And if further confirmation You should stand in need of still, You have but take the trouble To inquire of Buffalo Bill." You, in fact, dear Mr. Stanley, Forced so soon to yield the pas, Are but sharing the experience Of Cetewayo and the Shah. And this fact may bring you comfort, That the fate now threatening you Has befallen Mrs. Weldon And the Tichborne Claimant," too! The story of the Duke of Portland's wonderful luck in drawing both Surefoot and Sainfoin in the Turf Club sweepstakes is not strictly accurate. The fact is that the duke drew Surefoot, but agreed before the race to divide with Lord Cadogan, who had drawn Sainfoin. A now pier is to be built at Brighton, opposite the Old Steine, which is to be 500 feet longer than the West Pier, and at the sea end there is to be a Marine- palace, with restaurant, sheltered seats, and pro- menades, and a spacious hall for concerts. It is in- tended to remove the old Chain Pier, as the new one will be within about 50 yards of it. The Queen intends to exhibit stock from her farm at Abergeldie Mains, near Balmoral, at several of the principal Scottish shows this year. Her Majesty has one of the finest herds of Aberdeenshire black dod- dies"in Scotland at this farm, which is leased from Mr. H. M. Gordon but it is in contemplation to es- tablish a home farm, with model buildings, at Bal- moral. The Duke of Fife has sold the fine estate of Rothle-) may, Banffshire, which extends to about 2000 acres, to Colonel J. F. Forbes, of Dunlugas. This property has belonged to the Fife family since the middle of the last century, when it was purchased by Alexander Duff, of Braco, from the Abernethies of Saltoun, to whom it belonged when Mary Queen of Scots resided at Rothiemay House in 1568, during her northern progress, and her rooms are still to be seen in the mansion, which is one of the most ancient in the county.

AN ESCAPED BALLOON. The Swedish barque Architect, from Fernandina, arrived at Queenstown on Monday. Captain Ludh reports being quite close to a large balloon in mid- ocean on May 24. It had wide blue stripes, and had ropes out with tackles attached. Darkness prevented Captain Ludh from rescuing the occupants or captur- ing the balloon, which passed quickly out of sight with a south-west wind.

NELSON AND BURNHAM THORPE. A meeting of the Committee of the Burnham Thorpe Church Restoration Fund was held at Marl- borough House on Monday, the Prince of Wales pre- siding. Amongst those composing the committee are, in addition to his Royal Highness, the Duke of Edin. burgh, Prince George of Wales, the Duke of Cam- bridge, the Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk (the Earl of Leicester), the High Sheriff of Norfolk (Mr. T. Leigh Hare), the Duke of Portland, the Earl of Rosebery, Earl Spencer, Earl of Leitrim, Earl of Kimberley, Lord Henry Bentinck, M.P., the Bishop of Norwich, General Sir Dighton Probyn, Sir Edward Birkbeck, M.P., and a number of distinguished naval officers. The Prince of Wales said that though it was perhaps unnecessary for him to state the object for which they were called together, he might mention the interest he took in the proposed restoration of Burnham Thorpe Church, in which parish the great Nelson spent his younger days and of which his father was rector for 46 years. It seemed to him and other Norfolk men, and to many of tho so present who held high rank in the navy, that something should be done to perpetuate more than ever the memory of the great naval hero and to take means, if sufficient subscriptions were forthcoming,to restore the church in a fitting manner. His Royal Highness then called upon the Rev. J. Lister Knight, Rector of Burnham Thorpe, who gave a short account of the church and the connection of the Nelson family with it, which extended over a period of more than 99 years. Sir Arthur Blomfield, who produced plans, followed with an account of the details of the work required to be done to restore the church. Mr. C. H. Stone, R.N., was then appointed honorary secretary of the committee, after which a working committee was formed consisting of the Duke of Edinburgh, chair- man Admiral Sir George Willes, vice-chairman; and nino other gentlemen, the first meeting being fixed for Wednesday, at Clarence House. The Prince of Wales invited subscriptions, which resulted in the encouraging sum of £1750 19s., including £1000 guaranteed by the family of Mr. Lister-Knight, the rector.

ATTACK ON A GAOLER. As some prisoners were at work in ArmJey Gaol, Leeds, the other day, one of them suddenly turned on one of the warders, struck him with great ferocity, and felled him to the ground. The warder called for help, and his fellow-warders were for the moment apprehensive lest this might be the commencement of a riot or mutiny. Luckily the other men in the gang sided with the gaolers, and by their prompt action prevented the rebellious prisoner from re- newing the attack. The defaulter was quickly secured and lodged in his cell.

THE NEW CODE AND OYER PRESSURE. The last teachers' objection to the new code is described by the London correspondent of the Liver- pool Courier as "an interesting one." It is urged that the evil of over-pressure of the very young scholars lurks within the code, and notwithstanding that it is recognised that the code gives much scope to true educational principles it is interpreted as de- claring that every child must be examined. This will, it is asserted, have a particularly prejudicial effect in the case of those children who are admitted to schools, ignorant even of the alphabet, a few weeks before the examination. Of course it is not contended that every inspector would visit the con- dition of these children upon tho school, but it is possible that a martinet would.

AN ENGINE DRIVER'S DEATH. William Cobb, an engine-driver on the Great Nor- thern Railway, and formerly resident at New Eng- land, near Peterborough, died at the Cottage Hospital, Barnet, on Saturday, after having been for several days in an unconscious condition from the effects of an accident in Oakleigh-park Tunnel on that rail- way. It appears that on Saturday week he was driving a goods train between London and Peter- borough, and when near Oakleigh-park Tunnel climbed J on to the tender of his engine for some purpose. A few minutes later the fireman looked round and missed him, and, finding he was not on the train, pulled up, and raised an alarm. A search was made, and the driver was discovered in an unconscious condition near the mouth of the tunnel. The brickwork was under- going repairs, and it was evident that the man had been knocked off his train, his head coming in contact with some of the scaffolding or gearing. From the nearest signal-box a telegram was sent to New Barnet, and the injured man was removed to that station, by which time Dr. EJam was in attendance. The injuries were of a shocking and serious nature, and the man was removed to the Cottage Hospital, where he died on Saturday. That be did not meet with his accident through want of knowledge of the state of the tunnel is clear from the fact that be, in common with every other driver on the line, had been furnished with a printed list of the operations in pro- gress along the entire route.

CURSED BY THEIR KING. A Samoa Show has arrived in Berlin. Of nine natives who sailed from Samoa, after having been solemnly cursed by King Malietoa for leaving their country, two are dead, having succumbed to measles. The remainder are in fair health and proudly exhibit their names etched in blue colour on their stomachs. The chief Marogi was instrumental in saving some lives at the time of the disaster to German and American warships which H.M.S. Calliope managed to escape. Lealofi is a poet aad musical composer of considerable fame in his native country. The names of the other five are: Leasuasu, Letungaifo, Foi, Tasita, and Mua.

CHASE AFTER A LEOPARD. On Monday afternoon a valuable young leopard escaped from a circus at Taunton, just as the pro- cession had returned from a tour. Hundreds of people were about, and the excitement was great, some people climbing trees and swimming the river, while many took refuge on the roofs of the caravans. The leopard made for a garden, where it was sur- rounded. It bit a man in the arm, and then dashed off into the backyard of a house in Canal-road, where, after springing through a window into the kitchen, it was shot. A DIRECTOR of a railway, who is a great hater of tobacco, hearing it remarked in a meeting of the Board that the life of a locomotive is only 30 years, wanted to know, If, in the opinion of the Board, the I longevity of the locomotive would not be increased if it smoked less ? MASTER ROBERT tells of the glories of bis papa's new house. There is a beautiful large entrance, with carved stone windows; and on the top of the house there is a splendid cupola." You don't say so ?" Yes and that's not all. Something else is going to be put on. I know, because I heard papa whisper to mamma that he intended to have a mort- gage on the house."

I UNION LINE FOR THE SOUTH AFRI- CAN tJOLD FIELDS. The Royal Mail and Interm Steamers Kill from Southampton every Friday, for calling at Lisbon, Madeira, and Canary U!aLd* ApX to ti UNHI» STEAM SHIP C«., LIMITED, Canute Road, SoutbamntS and South African House, 84 to 90, Ohopgffat* LiidSn* CASTLE WEEKLY SERVICE from LONBOk V**h' "■ TOR TFIR T.TIJTJ GOLD FIELDS of SOUTH AFRICA. In/erm*tUn a'fiy Cc tht Managers, DONALD mm & CO.. a^^orne^^<?Q0s^eV WHITTINGTON LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY. (Jatablighed 1S55.) 5A, Moorrate Street. Londna. LIFE ASSURANCE. LOANS. REVERSIONS. „ ALFRED T. BOWSER, Msnaginir Director Wanted. WILLIAM H. PKR KATT, Secretary. OTj' IMPERATRICE.-Perfect Table Water. SAINT-JSAN.—FOR the Stomach and Difli- IJPP^1 PRECIEUSE.-For Bile, the Liver, Gravel. In every good Hotel, at every Chemist's, Druggist's, and at Mineral Water Dealers. One Bottle per Day. Al! information at 4, Eue Greffulhe, Paris. SANATORIUM, BADEN-BADEN. Altitude 60 metres above level of Baden. Under the medical direction of DR. M. SCHNEIDER & DR. W. HENRY GILBERT (Englishman), Electric lighting, excellent ventilation, hydraulic lift, Prospectus on application to M. LR MAISTKE, Proprietor. NORWAY. — PLANNING OF TOURS. Circular Tickets. BEYER'S TOURIST OFFICES BERGEN C 'L and CHHTSTIANIA. Photos, Souvenirs, Curiosities. IRON BTJILDIN&S ana ROOJ'UNGr, New and Second-hand T ACii I] RELIES ^CHAIIELS. ^MIUCION and + TJ^SGOI^STABI(M»,FANN BUJ'ldings,G&CL JD\ JXYYIB IH.I jj FELL. £ IRON here on view. ? J £ J ICQ TONS of Iron Roofing$J|B htdCk. HARBROWS WORKS, South Bermondsey Station, London'S B. PERAMBULATOR AGENT WANTED FOR ■ PATEH1 BASSINETTE. Dunkley, Patentee, Birmingham. a a CltrYoFLONDON ki Established TEA COMPANY 1561. Tjiror TC A Q TRAVANCORE (Pure Indian) 2/- a pound. ADC iCEYL0N <in Lsad Jackets) 21- „ Ant FIRST RATE CONGOU I/S „ DELICIOUS. PEKOE CONGOU 1/4 „ Samples and Terms to Anents on application to 1,2, & 3, Beer Lane, Great Tower St., London, E.G. IRON llllLilKQ8c» Mission Halls, Class and School Rooms, Cricket and Lawn Tennis Pavilions, Shooting Boxes, Farm Build- ings, &c. Hoofing, new and second-hand. Estimates and ALL PARTICULARS FREE ON APPLICATION TO THE LONDON IRON' BUILDING COMPANY, BATTE ItS EA. PA Li K STATION, L. B. & S, C. Ity., LONDON, S.W. Aberdeen GRANITE MONUMENTS f 0111 £ 5, carriage paid. Inscrii tions accurate and Iwautiful. SHEFFIELD CORPORATION zC3 PER CEETT. STOOKe Issue of J2371,320 at par. Forms of Prospectus, .c., and all information required, will be supplied by W. FISHER TASKER (Registrar). Borough Aceo»antaiit's Oiiioe, Bridge Street, Sheffield. December. 18SS. H A V R E. CRAND HOTEL fRASCATI, facing the Sea. Open all the year. Baths. ZXTKICH;. HOTEL BAUR AU LAC. First Class, Electric Light, Garden. Proprietor, C. KP.ACHT. MONT-LORE (AUYERGNE) FRANCE. JJrJL MINERAL SPRINGS good for respiratory organs, chronic rheumatism, nervous and skin diseases. Casino and theatre open every night. Concerts fvrice a day. S?esob from June 1st to October 1st. J. CHABAUD (Grantee). K.B.—The establishment will bp entire!v restored and Improved hy nest year. PERPETUAL INVESTMENT BUILOfHQ SOCiETY, Eetablisiied 1851. Metiers received on Shares or Deposit. Witiidratva'ble at three dsvs' notice. Advances made upon Houses and Land Prospectus sent on application to J. E. TRESIBDEE, Secretary, ^6, New I'-IRTYE ijtrefi- C. ALL INVESTORS SHOULD READ THF FINANCIAL TI M ES A A i. v j8. ^ABSOLUTELY TRUSTWORTHY^! o= SEND FOR SPECIMEN COPY FREE TELEGRAPH STREET. LONDON.

A TRANSVAAL JUDGE. Law in the Transvaal, gays a Colonial writer in Galignani, is simply a euphemism for mockery and deception, while, as for justice, it exists but in name. An action for libel was recently brought by one news- paper proprietor against the nominal head of another. In due course the case came on for hearing, when judgment was entered for the defendant. Thus far, and without any evidence on which to form an opinion, there is nothing surprising but will it be credited that one of the judges who tried the action was the actual ovner of the ergan sued for damages ? And, worst of all, it is imposs ble to upset a decision given in the High Court, as it is erroneously called, or to adversely criticise the judges, for, so far as the latter course is concerned, unfavourable comment is construed into contempt of court, and punished with long terms of imprisonment. If this is not corrup- tion, then Dr. Johnson can no longer be regarded as an authority on the English language.

SHOT DEAD BY INDIANS. A despatch from Miles City, Montana, announces that there has been a serious conflict between the cowboys and the Cheyenne Indians. Twenty Cheyennes had stolen 3000 lbs. of beef belonging to Mr. James Ferguson, of New Hampshire, the largest owner of live stock in the district. The plunder was recovered, but the Indians subsequently lay in ambush for the white men, and shot Mr. Ferguson and another man dead, while two others accompany- ing them were fatally injured. In consequence of the prevailing insecurity many settlers in the neighbour- hood are abandoning their homes.

mE L L F 00 H W M TOIL INFANTS AND ■ INVALIDS. HASLEMEKE LODGE, KEW GARDENS, SURREY, 19th February, 1889. The Honourable MRS. TURNOUB writes" She was a most delicate child, and I quite despaired of rearing her she could not digest any milk food. I consulted a physician when she was four months old, and he told me to give her Mellin's Food. From that time until she was eighteen months old she was fed entirely on it, and became perfectly healthy and strong." Samples, Pamphlet, and Prospectus Post Free on Application to G. MELLIN, Marlboro' Works. PECKHAM, S.E.