Evening Express

+?.. ? ? m Hotes from London ALL THE GOSSIP OF TOWN AND CLUBS. Progress of the Bye-Elections—The Irish Vacancy-The Muddle at Leamington -Primrose Day. The bye-elections are the one topic of political interest. As matters stand, there is little chance of any alteration in the state of parties. It looks at present as if the Unionists will keep Oxford, capture Mid- Norfolk, and lose Leamington, while the Ministerialists will certainly keep East Leeds and may keep East. Wicklow. The pros- pects at Oxford are much brighter than when the contest commenced. Were it not so conspicuously uncertain a constituency, I would say that Oxford is safe to return the Tory. The absent voters have given satis- factory assurances of their intention to go to the poll, and, a* Lord Yalentia is a pcpular local candidate, there is no reason why he should not do at least as well as Sir George Chesney, who oame before the con stituency as an unknown candidate. Mid- Norfolk is also doing well, This is a seat which the Tories ungrudgingly admit to be Liberal Unionist, and both wings of the party are working unitedly and strongly. East Leeds, as I before hinted, i,s not for the Tories this time. The most we hope from that division is a further reduction of the majority. THE IRISH VACANCY. East Wicklow is very uncertain, inasmuch as Colonel Tottenham, despite the pressure that has been brought to bear on him, per- sists in going to the poll, and was accord- ingly nominated with tine other two to-day. The gallant colonel's candidature is against the strong wishes both of the Loyalist members in Ireland and of the Unionist leaders here. He is doing it entirely off his own bat, and will receive no assistance, pecuniary or otherwise, from the party. It is held by the chiefs that the two sections of the Nationalist party should have been allowed to ficrht out the ouarrel, inasmuch as the return of a Parnellite would, in the present state of parties, have been more disastrous to the Government than the election of a Tory. The supporters of the three candidates in the constituency are almost equally divided, and it is a tow up which comes in first. In the best-informed circles, however, it is felt that the unfor- tunate candidature of Colonel Tottenham may tend to the victory of the Anti-Par- nellite by 'Mvinsr Parnelb'tes to vote for him rather than let in a Tory. THE MUDOLK AT LEAMINGTON. Leamington and Warwick is certainly lost to the Unionists unless Mr. George Peel withdraws. Although the local Tories will not bring out a candidate of their own, they will not vote for Mr. Peel. No assistance will be given to him from the Tory head- quarters here. It will be impossible to do #o, because it would violate one of the cardinal principles of Tory organisation, namely. that the local party must have :ts freedom of action respected. Under the circumstances, it is thought that if Mr. Peel goes to the poll he will receive not more than five hundred votes. PRIMROSE DAY. It is Primrose Day to-morrow. The eve is celebrated by the receipt of the first floral tribute, which has been laid in the place of honour at the foot of the Beaconsfield statue in Parliament-square. It is from the gentle- man at Hong Kong who is distinguished a.s one of the most regular of the annual contri- butors. From a large case of primroses there rises up a shield, in the shape of a heart, in ivy, with Œte and other inscriptions in white everlasting flowers. The motto is God defend the right." This is Hong Kong's tribute to Beaconsfield's memory. SPEAKER AND EX-SPEAKER. The Speaker has appointed Archdeacon Farter his uhaplain. His secretary is still to be appointed. To-night the ex-Speaker is giving a farewell dinner to the officials and S»lice of the House of Commons at Grosvenor ouse, Buckingham Palace-road. Mr. Peel and Miss Peel were present, together with the Serjeant-at-Arms and the Clerks. ROYAL MARRIAGES. ? arises Tue strange pertinacity with wfciefa some of the papers insist on the engagement of the Duke of Gotha's two ifildren—Prince Alfred and Princess Alexandra—to the Queen of Holland and the Prince of Naples respectively? Even "Truth," which usually gets hold of some trustworthy backstairs gossip, while deriding the story as far as it concerns the Princess, accepts Prince Alfred's engagement seriously, and kindly informs us that when he becomes King Consort of HoMand he will have to give up the succession to Saxe-Coburg, which will then fall to the Duke of Connaught. There is nothing in either report. One tnay aswime that they are derived from speculation due to the coming visit of the Queen of Holland to London and of our Queen-Empress to Darmstadt. THE QUEEN'S INTERVENTION. As matters stand, I am not the one to say there has never been any project of marriage in either of the two cases named. They would both be excellent matches. The Duchess of Coburg has been an admirable match- maker, and successful in marrying earlv and well her two eldest daughters. It would, no doubt, have pleased her maternal mind to have married her son to the Queen of Hol- land and her third daughter to the future King of Italy. In that event her four eldest children would have become reigning Sove- reigns. But often in these matters where Royal mammas propose politic statesmen dispose. There was a striking illustration of this in the case of the Princess Victoria of Prussia, second daughter of the Empress, Frederick. Her mother desired to have the Princess married to Prince Alexander of Battenburg, then on the throne of Bulgaria. The Emperor William 1. and Bismarck strongly opposed the match, on account of the danger to the peace of Europe, by sriving offence to Russia. When our Queen was! made acquainted with the circumstances she also unhesitatingly opposed it, and this drew from Bismarck an admiring observation on her Majesty's statesmanlike capacity. So the engagement was off, and the Princess Victoria is still unwed. POPULAR OPERA. We may not be a musical nation, accord- ing to the classicists, but no one can witness- the crowded houses which are the rule at Drury Lane this week without coming to the conclusion that the love of melody, to put it at a very low standard, is very powerful amongst us. At popular prices, Sir Augustus Harris is nightlv staging one of the old-time operas, so ridiculed by the modern school, and nightly he is receiving his reward in the shape of full coffers and enthusiastic attendances. It is a question whether "Faust" or "Uaxnien" is the more popular with the pubMe. They cer- tainly appeal more to the audliences than either the "Bohemian Girl" or Mascagni's works. An exceptionally strong list of artistes nightly appear. Madame Fanny Moody, who is so popular in the provinces, has achieved an excellent reputation here. Her husband, Mr. Charles Manners, is like- wise excellent, and Mr. Joseph 0 Mara,, Mademoiselle Dagmar, Mr. Harrison Brock- bank, Mademoiselle Olitzka, Miss Florence Monteith, and Madame Amadi have likewise contributed to the excellence of the revivals. DELIA HARDING." Victorien Sardou's new three-act play, Delia Harding," which saw the light for the first time at the Comedy last night, is artificial to a degree. Interesting, un- doubtedly, but marred by the staginess of the old hand and the worst tricks of the old school. This is to be regretted, for it, undoubtedly, contains the essentials of a very powerful and interesting play. The story in a nutshell concerns a girl's heroic sacrifice to save a worthless brother's life. She confesses that she is "the villain's mistress, and that her brother shot him as he was coming out ef her room. Unfortu- nately, instead of developing this story in a natural manner, Sardou has resorted to the tricks which he found so successful years ago—the stolen letter; the poison which the heroine has placed for herself taken in mistake by the villain,and the hurried inquiry into his death at the last moment which brings the play to a happy ending. Yet, despite these defects, the play is interesting; it is likewise admirably acted and beautifully staged, and, though the familiar stage devices were guyed by pit and gallery, the reception accorded the play at the close was of a very friendly and cor- dial nature.

BURSTING OF A MAIN. WHERE WAS THE TOWN CRIEB WHEN IT OCCURRED. (To the Editor of the "Evening Express.") Sir,—I agree with his wcrsliip the mayor that it was a "blackguardly shame" informa- tion was net given to householders. If the mayor had used another word for "black- guardly." even that would not have been too strong, but I have no doubt he refrained lest he might have offended "the Nonconformist con- science" present. It is absurd to report that it would take hours to communicate the fact to householders. Is our tow n-crier paid for ornament or use? If this showy individual had been given a proper announcement, you will, I am sure, Mr. Editor, agree with me that he would have done the job all over the district in an hour. One "official crier" being in the streets would have made many amateur er,ers, and the news would have spread like wild fife. It is a miracle there was not some accidents with the hot water cisterns, and if there had been the corporation would have been liable for damages. To prevent an acci- dent with my own. I had to supply my hot v ater cistern by hand with cold water. It vas either that or to let the fire out. Our officials, in such emergencies, ought to exer- cise a little more wisdom, and, in future, trot out the "town crier" to make any necessary announcement to householders. This course cculd be adopted when, for ordinary purposes, it may be necessary to turn off the water for seme hours—I am, Ac., W. J. Roath, April 18. 1RIIEGULAR WATER SUPPLY AT CATHAYS. (To the Editor of the Evening Express.") Sir,—Allow me, as a ratepayer, to thank our wcrthy mayor (Alderman Carey) for his frank remarks at the lighting committee on Tuesday last. Often in the Cat hays district from the hours of 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., and then again later in the afternoon, the supply is cut off without any intimation whatever. This is a frequent occurrence, and, I may add, has been carried on for years. These who live in this district will. I am sure, agree with me that no other corporation (but Cardiff) wcLid be allowed 'to leave the ratepayers without a sup- ply of water at a time when it is most needed for household purposes. I am positive the corporation has no right to treat the consumers in such a manner- and I, therefore, ask those v ho represent us on that body to bring this long-neglected matter forward at the next meeting and right our wrongs.—I am. &c., E. ROWLAND. 39, Woodville-road, April 17.

BAZAAR AT CARMARTHEN, A bazaar was held in the Assembly-room, Carmarthen, on Thursday in the form of a nautical exhibition, gaily-painted and prettily-decorated boats serving as stalls. The effect was very striking. The proceedings were held to raise funds for the renovation of the English Wesleyan Chapel at Carmarthen, and the opening ceremony was performed by the mayor (Mr. H. Brunei White).

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Welsh Liberals Talk. CYMRU FYDD OR FEDERA- TION ? Mr. Lloyd-George Appeals to South Wales to Take Part in the Annual Convention, ABERYSTWITH, Thursday. Things look healthier to-day. The forlorn ki.ots of yesteiday have greatly expanded, and from 150 to 200 delegates, nearly all from regions outside Aberystwith, gathered at the Assembly-rooms in this town to set the new National Federation on its legs, and arrange, as Mr. Lloyd-George once put it, for "the merging and the extinction" of all the other organisations. Last night the Assembly-rooms were also crowded, but then Aberystwith people "ruled the roast," and outnumbered visitors by four or five to one; and, no wonder, for Abfci yfctwith people know a good thing when they see it—though they are exceedingly cautious with regard to Cymru Fydd—and the reception, with its buffet and its music, was a very good thing. This morning the visitors held the fort and the tield, and the women were on hand in full force. Mr. Thomas Gee presided, supported by Mr. Lloyd-George, M P. Mr. Herbert Roberts, M.P., Councillor Thomas ("Cochfarf"), Cardiff, and Mr. Beriah EVhns, secretary. In opening the proceedings, the Chairman said he was glad to see such a large attendance of delegates from North and South Wales. He hoped all Liberal Welshmen—ancl he thought that all real Welshmen weie Liberals —would have a voice, a very distinct voice, and a very definite part in the election of Libtral members in England—members who ere fully in sympathy with all their aspira- tions, and determined to secure them justice. (Applause.) The old federations had done much good work. (Applause.) Before their formation the Libei al representation of Wales was very small. Now there was very little left to do in that direction. There were only three seats throughout Wales to be captured, and of these three he was ashamed to say that Denbigh was one. He hoped that with tht* new organisation, which included women, they would secure the whole 33 seats. (Ap- plause.) "AND THEY ALL WITH ONE ACCORD BEGAN TO MAKE EXCUSE." Mr. Wvnford Philipps wrote expressing regret that an attack of influenza prevented attendance at the convention, and added: —I rejoice at this effort to strengthen national Liberal organi- nation in Wales. It appears to me abundantly evident that the local Liberal organisations in many parts of Wales are far from being in a vigorous condition, and unless matters are speedily put on a better footing I fear that seats may be lost at the next general election. It has also been a source of weakness to ales in the past that there has been no one central Liberal body to represent and voice at an emergency the ideas of Liberals throughout the Principality. Such a central force would be invaluable at the present moment, when, for want of it, we may see the Disestablishment Bill lost, or all but lost, on the tithe question bv its professing friends. I hope that the Welsh National Federation may do something to organise the constituencies wherever its help may be invited, and that it eventually may supply the strong Liberal centre for which all admit the need." Principal Edwards, of Cardiff, wrote apolo- gising for absence, and added :—"The new move- ment is bound to succeed, and those who place obstacles in the way are rendering a disservice to their country." Letters of apology expressing sympathy with the new federation wer> read from Mr. Lloyd Morgan. M.P., Mr. Frank Edwards, M.P., Mr. Egerton Allen, M.P., Major Jones, MJP., Mr. Humphreys Owen, M.P., >lr- Herbert Lewis, M.P., Mr. D. Brynmor Jones, M.P., h-nd others. Sir George Osborne Morgan, M.P., wrote an like mood, and said, while not wishing to pre- vent discussion, he suggested that they should avoid as much as possible raising amendments, so as to avoid playing into the hands of the Opposition, who had declared their intention of smothering the Disestablishment Bill in Com- mittee. The Rev. Lewis James (Brynbank) wrote that, as the Glamorgan County Council had refused the population basis in the allocation of tithes, and Mr. D. A. Thomas and the South Wales Liberal Federation appeared to collapse, he trustee the convention would give a unanimous vote in favour of that provision of the Bill as it stood. He would favour the surplus tithes being devoted to old-age pensions for the indus- trious poor. k CONSTITUTING THE NEW FEDERA- TION. Mr Betiah. Evans gave a resume of the steps taken to bring the National Federation into being, beginning with the meetings at Llan- drindod last year, and oontended that the reso- lution of the South Wales Federation execu- tive last Thursday could not set aside the prior resolution of the federation itself, and, there- fore, the convention of that day was thoroughly representative of the whole bf Wales. (Applause.) DISSECTING THE DRAFT CON- STITUTION. The objects set out in the draft were adopted en bloc, with the addition of the following paragraph "To secure for women equal rights of citizenship with men." DIVISIONAL COUNCILS. The scheme provided for 36 divisional councils one in each Welsh Parliamentary division and three in England—London, Liverpool, and Manchester.—The joint constitution committee proposed that the Welsh Women s Liberal Union, which desired affiliation to the fede- ration, should be created a separate divisional i ouncil, and a great deal of discussion arose, in the course of which much humour was created by Miss Gee, who talked about the difficulty of "bringing the men and women together."—The Secretary (Mr. Beriah Evans) "nut on side," as he announced that the Welsh Women's Literal Union, of which Mrs. p, A. Thomas, "wife of the senior member forMe thyr," was president, wished to join the federation, and. with the other officials of the Union, would devote herself to promoting the interests of the national organisation. Then Mrs. Wynford Philipps chipped in with the remark that Mrs. Thomas and herself, "although some of those dear to us may differ" -(a laugh)—"as to what kind of organisation is best suited tJo Wales," were thoroughly democratic and as one in the matter. Miss Gee moved even her father to laughter by her references to the jealousy of the women and the fact that men and women's Liberal associations in the same town would generally have nothing to do with each other. Another rash man who wanted equal rights for women was covered with confusion when the chairman gravely elicited from him the fact that he was a married man. Finally, the section as amended by the joint constitution committee was adopted. IGNORING THE SOUTH WALES FEDERATION. Mr. J. Evans, solicitor (Aberystwith), secre- tary of the Cardiganshire Liberal Association, said the South Wales Federation had not had proper opportunity to attend that convention, and, in order that it should not be put on an inferior footing, he moved that, if the South Wales Federation afterwards desired to re- main separate, they should be permitted to affiliate on the same terms as the women's Union. (Loud cries of "No.") Mr. Evans: Why do you not allow equal terms to men as to women? (Laughter.) We have not had a chance of attending here like the North Wale« Federation and Cymru Fydd. The Chairman For that you can only blame yourselves. We caamot entertain your ]-yo- posal. It is entirely inconsistent with the whole scope and character of our proceedings. We cannot recognise the South Wales Federation as an organisation after to-day. Your motion is so inconsistent that I rule it out of order. (Cheers.) After discussing other provisions of the draft constitution. the convention adjourned. SOUNDING THE TOCSIN. After the federation had been safely floated, The Rev. Aaron Davies, of Pontlottyn, moved.: "That this Welsh National Conven- tion meeting under the auspices and autho- rity of the South Wales Liberal Federation, the North Wales Liberal Federation, and the Cymru Fydd League, having adopted a constitution providing for the amalgamation of these organisations and the unification of all available Liberal and national forces, ex- presses its earnest hope that every Welsh Liberal and Nationalist throughout the country will use every Legitimate effort to wbablisih branches of the Welsh National Iederation in tiheir own localities, and thus strengthen by consolidation, instead of weakening by division, the available forces now making for the attainment of Welsh national objects." Dr. Jones, J.P. (Dolgelly), seconded. Mrs. Wynford Philipps supported, and The resolution was carried with applause. AMENDING THE DISESTABLISHMENT BILL. MANAGEMENT OF CHURCH FUNDS. When the convention resumed in the after- noon the tinkering of the Welsh Disestab- lisnnxent Bill was taken in hand. Mr. Lloyd-George, M.P., introduced the subject in a resolution with the foliowing preamble —That this meeting of Welsh Liberals, representing existing organisations in 28 Welsh constituencies, while thanking the Government for introducing the Welsh Church Bill, desires to express its strong objection to certain provisions of the Bill, and urgently calls upon the Welsh members to use every legitimate means to secure the passing of the amendments specified below." The first amendment, moved by Mr. Lloyd- George, was —' ;As regards Clause 10, that the administration of the ecclesiastical funds should be entrusted to an elective Welsh national assembly, that the appointed Com- missioners should be an exclusive judicial body for the purpose of deciding disputes between owners of vested interests and local authorities The Rev. T. Levy seconded, and the resolu- tior. was carried. Mr. William Jones (Oxford) moved: "As regards Clause 3, that the tithe rent-charge now payable to lay impropriators, should be ac- quired by the body administering- the Act, on the payment of ten years' purchase that th*3 tithes now payable "to colleges should be definitely allocated for the benefit of Welsh sti dents." Professor Morgan LtjUvis Aberystwith) seconded, a.nd the resolution was agreed to. 1 he Rev. Gwvnoro Davies (Barmouth) iroved: "As regards Clause 6 (1), that par- sonages should be vested in the sane way as glebtiS; that all churches should be vested, in the parish councils or urban district councils, subject to the right of the disestablished body to i-se them for its own purposes, the local authority to nave a right of re-entry in the case of the churches not being used by a con- gregation or of neglect to repair," and this was agreed to. 1 he Rev. Machreth Rees moved- "That, v bile it would be just in the opinion of this convention to pension off the clergy on 'the Civil Service list, the alternative suggested in the second schedule of the Bill should be made compulsorv, and be regarded as a maximum compensation." Mr. Moses Walters seconded, and the reso- lution was carried. The Rev. J. Eidd')n Jones moved, and it was agreed, that, "as regarded Section 18, no com- pensation whatever be paid to patrons of bene- fices. Mr. Lloyd-George moved, and it was agreed, "that. as regards Clause 13, the decision of the Welsh National Assembly as to schemes and all other ma.tter3 of administration not involving vested interests shall be final." ALLOCATION OF TITHES. Mr. Herbert Roberts, M.P., moved :—"That. in the opinion of this convention, the proposal to allocate the surplus funds of the Church on the basis of population would, if adopted, be most unjust to the rural districts. The con- vti tion, therefore, deprecates all attempts to drain the resources of poor and sparsely popu- lated parishes in order to endow the populous and thriving industrial centres, and rejoices to learn that such attempts do not receive the support-of the constituencies." In a brief speech Mr. Roberts said he heartily supported the Government proposals that tithes should be allocated to the parishes to which they belonged. The towns owed an incalculable debt to the country for the strength and vigour brought in by those who had migrated to the centres of industry, raid he would rather give the country a larger than a smaller share. The Rev. Towyn Jones seconded. The resolution was carried after a. brief dis- cussion. THE NATIONAL COUNCIL. The national council was then appointed, and the convention (which Mr. Lloyd-George ecstati- cally declares is the best national convention which has ever been held in Wales) dispersed. after a hearty vote of thanks had been passed to the chairman. THE EVENING MEETING. MR. LLOYD-GEORGE AND THE SOUTH WALES FEDERATION. St. Phillip's-hall was well filled for the night meeting. Mr. Alfred Thomas, M.P. for East Glamorgan, presided, well supported by an array of Liberal leaders. In the opening pro- owlinrfji The Chairman said the Young Wales move- ment was the fruit of the efforts of that baud of Welsh patriots, the first students at Aberyst- with College. It appears they were satisfied that Welshmen should not continue to be hewers of wood and drawers of water for the great party for which Wales had made so many sacri- fices. (Applause.) The great feature of the movement was its nationalism. That was a feature to which the older federations did not lend themselves,, and they could not wonder at that, for was not the birthplace of the federa- tion found in Birmingham, and Birmingham, they knew, had fallen from grace into deep dis- sraoe. (A laugh.) Cymru Fydd was the child of Wales, racy of the soil, Welsh in origin and in spirit. (Applause.) They were assured of Disestablishment, and the goal of to-day would

MARGARET OF ORLEANS. "I wonder if it idealises lier We stand beside the statue of this famous %ouian, Margaret erf New Orleans, iaid. after the inaiiTier of strangers, conjecture on what we for the first time see. "Net at ail," a voice answers in the soft 80uthern tongue. "It looks just like her." I "Ah, thank you. You live here "I was born here; this is my home." "You were here during the war and yellow fever aud everything • and was Ben Butler so dreadful ? and have you seen Cable?" A nod answers each one of my young com- panion's impetuous queries. "How delightful!" concludes my friend, but the lady shakes her head and taps her fan lightly on the girl's soft cheek and says musingly— "It did not seem as if I would live through it, but I have, and now comes one who calls my trials 'delightful.* How cruel!" "Ah, pardon! Butl was thinking of that Charming man who wrote the delicious '}Ime. Delphine.' I was thmking how perfectly lovely it must be to live here and know him—and then to live in a city that has had s-uch a. history- it is so romantic. And you can tell us anything ■bout Margaret?" "This little spaf'e—Margaret plaae, it is oaJlfod-il is a pleasant spot to rest in." With this invitation, given more In looks than in worde, we seatedourselve^ near our new ac- quaintances on the settees in the little park. The perfume of March roses overhang the city; we forest in its deliciousness the signs of decay that in portions of that quaint old town imports a pensive melancholy to its beauty. Near by us in the green grass is a. pooi set a;botl t with a low border of cactus: a mimic fort, with all its bristling thorn guns out, aiud its blossom floating from the ramparts, which are guard- ing from such fierceness only do lazy fleet of water lilies, under the shade of which there is a .Lid of goldfish. A stone footbridge crosses the pool and spans-the river of cactuses. It is 3 very odd and tasteful device, this pool. and the little park in which it ig placed is unique in i way. There is nothing overdone, neither neglected. It is a well kept, refreshing, siraplw setting for the statue itself. "She was working woman—a servant here. When I fiiwt remember her I was living near here. and she was taking cure of the cows in » stable that stood almost on the very spot irltere her statue stands now. She was working; then for the sisters of the asylum. She fed and milked their cows, and sold milk in a cart about the city. She was a strange lookin- person -remairkable in her appearance. I think now :10 I re-cull her she had a broad forehead, serious eyes, a pleasant, broad smile, a rather short, stout figure. I do not suppose she ever in her life wore anv drese better than a Guinea blue calico always wore heavy shoes and a black straw bonnet trimmed with a neat band of black over the top. From my residence I could see her many times a day while she way at her stable work or coming back and forth with her milk cans. "What was her name? Her name was Mar- garet Hauiggery; she had been married, and at that time was a widow. Her husband and little child died just after riie came to New Orleans so we learned after she became famous. She was alone and poor in a strange country, and went to work in the stables for a living. Somehow, everybody liked Margaret; her smile was sweet and her words shrewd. The chiklren called her Margaret, and she knew their names and answered their salutations along the street as she drove by in the milk cart. "After some years Margaret had saved enough to buy a bit of ground that had on it a sanall bakery. The place was sold for a trifle, but now Margaret was in Royal trim—a landowner and a manufacturer; for she opened the shop and began bread and pie making for the neigh- bours. Presently there w a large bakery built: WXHI bread carts were running over the eitybearing the words 'Margaret's Bakery.' It became the fashion to buy at Margaret's place. During war, pestilence, amd disaster Margaret's firea were never out, and the de- licious rolls kept up their weight and quality, ,no master what else in life failed. Then she began running her free bread carts during the fever panic. No one went hungry who was within sound of her cart wheels. From that time on no one need go hungry in New Orleans —those too poor to buy were given a loaf fresh and white a# the best, and it was given heartily, with a 'Gcd bring thee better tim**?.' There was no distinction in Margaret's favours. She gave to white and black, of auiy church, or none. 'Are you hungry ?' that is all that was necessary. 'Here is bread; take it with God's blessing.' There have been in this city dread days, which seemed as if God and everybody had failed us bnt Margaret: days when she almost literally fed the city. During the yellow fever oanio Margaret began her noble work of taking the them into a house under good care supporting children from the house of death amd putting them herself in every particular. Soon the one asylum grew into many; the dozens of her little chargcs were numbered by hundreds--and at the time of her death thousands. At the wate of every orphan asylum in the city Margaret's bread cart, with its smoking rolls, was seen daily at every charitable institution whatsoever she took the privilege of giving her bread freely, and Margaret's name headed the list for every oharity. "Our grand Charity hospital, one of the most famous in the world, was largely the gift of Margaret. You must visit that hospital. It will make you better all your life for having seen it. Right through the trees there, at the right, do you see that magnificent buutmig with its four galleries running around the first four stories of the house? Its gate tehs in golden letters that this is a children's home,given by Margaret, where to the end of time orphans will be cared for and educated by her bequests. Many of our cemeteries contain in form of hand- some tombs Margaret's simple yet munificent thoughttulness. Here you know all are buried above ground in crypts or ovens of masonry, and when you visit our cemeteries—as strangers always do, for there are no burial places like those in America-you will see stone tombs (containing one, two or four dozen bodies maybe) inscribed: 'Given to the Little Sisters of .he Poor by Margaret. I suppose Margaret spent more money for the city than the richest man in the history of the state, and of the sympathy and discernment of the needs of the poor the half could never be told. She spent nothing on herself. A clean, blue calico, stout shoes, a biack straw bonnet, a knitted jacket or shoulder shawl, an iron bedstead in a room without even a rocking chair, and overlooking the bakeshop. She had no time to enjoy luxuries, even had she possessed them. As long as there was a weeping child or a friendless woman in the city what time had she to fold her arms in a rocking chair ? While there were unburied, loffiniess forms, could she adorn her home of the living ? And so it happened that to the end of life Margaret spend neither time, care, nor money on herself. She forgot there was such a mortal as Margaret. "And when one day the news went around that Margaret was dead, the great city arose and put on mourning; the business houses were closed; all the employments of the city stood still. The day of the 'burial thousands of her little orphans followed her bier as mourners, every church sent delegations of honour bearers, the public school children joined in the throng, the houses were draped along the line of march, all the bells in the city tolled, civic and military joined In the procession with ecclesiastics there never was here a funeral iike Margaret's. "Afterwards it was found that her posses- ions had been so disposed that had death come at any moment the affairs of this life were weil and intelligently wound up. There were, no pergonal effects of value, but even her few garments she left to the poor, and with the proceeds of her wise investments her charities are royally endowed. "This statue is the gift of the city, to show- in this public way the esteem in which she is held. It is very like Margaret. The motherly figure, seated with one arm encircling a standing child at her fide, the untrimmed dress, coarse shoes, croohetted shawl about her shoulders are homely, but who wouid change them for finer clothing ? The smooth hair, wit-h its old fashioned French parting, the strong chin, the pleasant mouth, the serious eyes—is there not something fascinating in the contradictious of the fok-e ? "Did you ever see such a head on a woman's shoulders ? Massive, wonderful That 18 the head of a statesman and financier, while its mouth with its pleasant smile, telling of the tact and natural suavity of Margaret's cha- racter, proclaim the elements of a bom dip- lomat. Yet, look again at the broadi. massive brow, and see the earnest, loving eye that speaks of the true womanhood, lrok once more at the coarse garments and you will see that poverty addled her load to the ordinary burden of womanhood, while ignorance, bereave- memt, affliction, loitelinese join hands with poverty- against this soul. But the massive brow conquered, the untaught brain triumphed, a.nd under the leadership of the sad, gentle eyes gave to the suffering what might, had "he been a man born in other circumstances, have been the gain of nations and the glitter of the trap- pin, of a diplomat. "When I consider what Margaret did for one city under such desperate disadvantages, I won- der wha.t she could have dene for the world if all the environments had been right. I was thinking of that as I looked, in passing for the hundredth time, at the strong, fascinating face this morning, when your question met my ear. "Yes, it looks like her, and there will never be another in marble like it to the end of time. She was a gratnd character-tender, strong, original, pitiful, helpful, wise."—"New York Evening Sun."

MORTIMER'S MIXTURE is the Best Cough tnd Croup Medicine in the World. Of all Chemists, per bottle. e39CH LIVER COMPLAINTS.—Dr. King's Dandelion and Qurnine Liver Pills, without Mercury, are a pc tent remedy; removes all Liver and Stomach Com- plaints, Billiousness. Headache,. Sickness, Shculdur Pains, Heartbure, Indigestion, Constipation. After the influenza the Best Treatment is Oeneroui Diet and Pleasant Tonics. The Best Tonic Yet Pre- pared is Owilyni Evans' Quinine Bitters, the Vegetable Tonic. In Bottles, b. l^d., 2s. 9d., and 4s. 6d. MLCh. 26212 MOTHER, if BABY COUGHS or Wheeze* run no rsks, bnt give it a Vwe of Mortimer's Cough Mid Croup Mixture. Of all Chemist*. Is lid. per Bottle. *908 he the starting-place for to-morrow. The next auestion was that of the land. Those who started the question—brave old farmers of Car- diganshire, the village Hampdens of 1869, he would like to see monuments erected to their memory, and would aid in doing ,o. (Cheers.) The great question of the future was the land ouestion, and they needed a great and stiif Land Act. He urged all farmers to rally round Cymru Fydd, for what the national league had done for the farmers of Ireland Cymru Fvdd would do for the farmers of Wales. (Cheers.) Mr. Herbert Roberts M.I. moved a resolu- tion congratulating the Welsh National Con- vention upon the success which had attended its first session, and on the attainment of its orimary object in the establishment of the Welsh National Federation, which aims at the unification of the Liberal and national forces of the Principality. (Cheers.) Referring to Welsh Disestablishment, the speaker said it was the day of the triumph of Welsh Dissent. (Applause.) They were fighting for themselves, for England, and. better than all, fighting for the truth. (Cheers.) Mr. Llovd-Georg°, M.P., said the success of the convention had been complete, and fully justified the efforts of those who had been striving to consolidate and concentrate the forces of Welsh nationalism. After an allusion to Mr. Bryn Roberts's recent indulgence "in periodio spasms of wrath against the young manhood of his country, Mr. Lloyd-George said he regretted the South Wales Federation had not.taken part in the convention. He was positive the Liberals of South Wales were in no way responsible for the remarkable action taken by the federation officials during the last few days. He felt convinced that upon reflection those officials would recommend the association to join the federation. They had, of course, to meet the opposition of vested interests, whether in Disestablishment, licens- ing, or an amalgamation scheme. In all these they had to reckon upon the strenuous and not always scrupulous opposition of men ex- tensively privileged in connection with such interests. (Cheers.) If Wales, however, allowed its efforts towards unity to be frus- trated by personal considerations of that kind, it would hardly deserve success in the objects it sought. (Applause.) Speaking as a South Wales man representing a North Wales con- stituency, he appealed to South Wales to throw in its lot with the federation. The resolution was carried with applause.

INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERS. ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SOUTH WALES BRANCH AT CARDIFF. The annual general meeting of the South Wales Institute of Engineers was held at Park- place, Cardiff, on Thursday, under the presi- dency of Mr. Arthur J. Stevens. Mr. Thomas Evens, M.Inst.C.E., Cardiff, and Mr. H. K. Jordan, F.G.S., Newport, were elected vice- presidents, and the following members were elected on the council :-Messrs. T. Jones Price, B.A., F.G.S., Neath; J. T. Green, Clifton: J. R. Bennett, Bristol; W. D. Wight, Ystrad Rhondda; G. W. Wilkinson, Risca; and H. T. Wales, Pontypridd. NEW MEMBERS. The following gentlemen were elected members of the institute, viz. :-Messrs. Joseph Heald. Newport-road, Cardiff; A. Leighton Stevens, A.I.E.E., Stow Park-gardens, New- port, and E. A. Worthy, Parkeud, Lydney. Mr. Herbert C. Riches, engineer and dentist, Penarth, was elected an associate. COAL SCREENING. Mr. Robert Jordan, replied to certain stric- tures on his paper on "Coal Screening," which was read at a previous meeting. Mr. Deakin, Mr. James Bari owr and others took part in the discussion which followed, Mr. Barrow stating that he was very favourably impressed with Mr. Jordan's screen.—Mr. Deakin wished to know whether anyone had thought of a tipping plate which would rise to the coal in the process of tip- ping and go down with it.—Mr. Wales promised to get some results of coal screening for the next meeting.—Mr. Barrow added that. those engaged in the coal trade were indebted to Mr. Jordan for his efforts to put the coal in the market in the best possible condition.— On the motion of the" President, a cordial vote of thanks was given to Mr. Jordan. PRESSURE IN PUMPS. A long discussion took place on Mr. M'Mur- trie's paper on "The Variation in Pressure in Cornish and Other Pumps, in connection with which another paper by Mr. E. H. Hann, M.I.C.E., on "An Outburst of Water and the Means of Dealing with It," was consi- dered. The speeches were of a purely tech- nical character, and, after several members had spoken, the discussion was adjourned. THE CHEMISTRY OF IRON AND STEEL. Mr. John Parry's paper on this subject was discussed at considerable length, but the only new point raised was by Mr. E. P. Martin, who desired to know how the quality of the metal was affected by hydrogen.—Mr. Parry was not prepared to answer this impor- tant question on the spur of the moment, and suggested that it was a good subject for a paper.—Discussions on other subjects were down on the agenda, but were adjourned for future consideration, one of the most impor- tant being "Observations on the Western Part of the South Wales Coalfield," by Mr. Arnold Thomas, Assoc. M.I.C.E. THE DINNER. The annual dinner in connection with the institute was held at the Royal Hotel on Thurs- day evening. Mr. Judah, who has always been able to please his patrons, exceeded the expeo- tatious of the members of the institute. Not only was the dinner, consisting of several courses, well cooked and excellently served, but the enjoyment of the evening was enhanced in a large measure by Mr. Fred G. Roberts's string band, which played the latest music. The president of the society (Mr. Arthur J. Stevens] occupied the chair, and among those present were the mayor (Alderman P. W. Carey), Messrs. T. Forster Brown, J. Batey (Bath), R. W. A. Southern, Hort Huxham, T. E. Wilson, J. Treharne Rees, Professor Elliott, R. Evans (Barry), F. F. de Morgan (Newport), Frank M. Morgan (Newport), Enoch James, J. D. Thomas (Rhymney), Gething Lewis, James Radley, J. P. Edwards, J. A. Llewellyn (Coletord), w. Vorath Lewis (Bridgend), N. Appelba (Car- diff), F: Lewis (Cardiff), T. W. Wailes, Edwin Cottam, John Weaver, Joseph Rose, C. Lid- dell Simpson (London), Llewellyn B. Atkin- son (Cardiff), E. H. Parry (Swansea), C. Poly blank (Swansea), H. Hunter (Bute Docks), J. H. S»^ood (Barry). T. H. Riches (Cardiff), C.T. Hurry Riches (Cardiff)„A. Clarke Jones (Newport), E. R. Thomas, H. Hey- wood C. A. Heywood (Cardiff). Hugh Wad- dle (Llanelly), W. R. Waddle (Cardiff), J. C. Bedlmgton (Cardiff), W. R. Parker (Penarth), W. H. Cullen (Cardiff), George J. Mav (Penarth), Henry White (Newport), Daniel John (Pontyoymmer), G. Forster Martin (Car- d'it); E. M. Bruce-Vaughan (Cardiff), W. E. 0 Williams (Cardiff). W. H. Lewis (Cardiff), Charles S. Morris (Cardiff), William John- son (Merthyr), L. Richards (Llanishen) T Ellis (Bargoed), W. Davies (Llanhilleth)!' Evan Owen (Cardiff), R. Lewis (Pentre) J T. Salathiel (Garw Valley), J. B. Harrison (Cardiff), W. Jones (Grellidegr, Pontypridd), D. Morgan (Stratton-on-the-Fosse) H W Pearson (Clifton), A. W. Metcalfe (Clifton),' A. H. Case, M.I.C.E. (Port Talbot), James Sinnott (Bristol),and E.S.Sinnott (Port Talbot). —The loyal toasts, proposed from the chair were received with the usual enthusiasm.-Alder- man Grove proposed "The South Wales Steel, Coal, and Kindred Industries," and Mr. Forster Brown, who responded, in the course of a brief speech said there was to be an exhibition in Laraiff next year—(hear, hear)—and it would be discreditable to the town if that exhibition was not made a success from a mining point of view. If they could not subscribe in money, they could subscribe in models, and extend the knowledge of the South Wales coalfield.—Pro- fessor J. Ryan (Bristol College) gave the toast of The South Wales Institute of Engineers," to which the President replied.—In responding for the town the Mayor made a very happy speech. Miss Gwen Coselett received a hearty encore for her songs, and Mi. A. H. Perkins was also applauded.

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? Development of Africa. AN IMPORTANT SPEECH BY MR. STANLEY. Talks of the Opening Up of Eastern Africa and the Need of Railway Facilities. The annual dinner in connection with the Neath Constitutional Club was held on Thurs- day evening. Mr. J. E. Moore (president of the institution) presided, and the large num- ber present included Mr. H. M. Stanley, the distinguished explorer; the Revs. David Lewis, Briton Ferry; Lewis Jones, Cadoxton; D. A. Lewis, Neath; and John Morgan, Aberavon; Colonel Young, Major Green, and Messrs. W. P. Struve, A. S. Gardner, J. N. Moore, T. S. Sutton, C. Coombe Tennant, H. J. Morris (secretary of the Swansea Conservative Club), E. V. Pegge, L. J. Kempthorne, J..Edwards Vaughan, A. Lloyd Evaais, H. P. Charles, Hopkin Jones, H. Stone, James Grant (vice- chairman of the club), E. J. Dyer (secretary), and David Rees, Cadoxton. The walls of the dining-hall were adorned with appropriate namew and mottoes, prominent among which were "Beaconsheld," "Salisbury," "Balfour," Hartington," "Goschen," and "Uphold the Union," ''Union is Strength," "God Save the Queen," "Queen and Country," Success to Our Club," and Long Life to Our President." The front of the platform was decorated with plants and flowers. At the intervals during the evening musical selections were rendered by Hutchins' String Band. The dinner was excellently served by Mr. F. Dicktns, steward of the club.—The usual loyal toasts were given in happy terms by the President, and duly honoured. In submitting the next toast. "The Bishops, Clergy, and Ministers of all Denominations," Mr. A. S. Gardner said that he felt compelled to refer to the question of Disestablishment and Disendowment. It was not intended for the welfare of the country, but was a party cry for political purposes. (Hear, hear.) The Rev. David Lewis (rural dean) and the Rev. Lewis Jones responded. The former said that the Bishop of Llandatf was a straight- forward, hard-working-, ana noble-minded man, and when the recent history of the Church was written his name would be found on every Tj-'ge. (Applause.) And the Bishop of St. Asaph would not be forgotten. (App.ause.) They bad only to compare the Church of to-day with the Church of 50 years ago to prove eoncluvAt-ly that she had made great progress. (Applause.) The Roman Catholic Church, which was truly alien in Wales, was tightening her grip. The residuary legatee was holding its own, and very soon there would be appointed a Vicar Apostolic and a Welsh hierarchy. He (the speaker) pleaded for unity amongst Churchmen, so that the interests of true religion might be advanced. The Rev. Lewis Jones gave irrefutable facts to show that the Church in Wales vas the ancient Church of the Cymru, and cr-ncluded by eulogising several Welsh Churchmen who had rendered invaluable service to fie cause of religion, particularising tbf Vicar of Llan- dovery, who was the first who k'-o i.<;it refonn to the country. Mr. W. P. Struve submitted "The Army, Navy, and Auxiliary lorces," and Colonel Young and Major Green responded. The next toast was "The Conservative Cause and Party," which was given by Mr. JJ N. Moore. Mr. J. E. Vaughan, who replied first, speaking as Conservative candidate for Mid- Glamorgan, said he had travelled over the whole of the district, and found that there was muoh misconoeption on the part of the electors as to the aims and policy of the party hø represented. He had devoted a considerable portion of his time to removing the misconceptions which prevailed, and had been ably assisted by Mr. Lloyd Evans. (Applause.) Mr. Lloyd Evans, agent for the Mid- Glamorgan Conservative Association, speaking in Welsh, said Mr. Vauglian's prospects were highly encouraging. (Applause.) Mr. T. S. Sutton. in proposing "Our Guests," with which toast, the name of Mr. Stanley was ecu pled, said they heartily welcomed their distinguished visitor. But Mr. Stanley, in name at least, was no name was famiiiar in every household and fireside—and they hailed his presence, not as a stranger, although that was his first visit amongst them, but as a friend, and especially as a Conservative friend. (Cheers.) Everyone who had read Mr. Stanley's books had become acquainted with his career, and for the manner he had undertaken and the consummate skill with which he conducted his expedition must feel deeply thankful to him for the gTeat service he had rendered in' exploring Darkest Africa, and in adding to the British possessions a province nearly equal in size to the whole of Europe. (Applause.) The toast was received with great enthu- siasm and with applause for Mr. and Mrs. Stanley. MR. STANLEY'S SPEECH. Mr. Stanley, who was received with loud cheers, after a few introductory remarks said: Not being a voter or Parliamentary candidate for this part of Wales, I may as well invite your attention to matters outside the Principality. (Hear, hear.) I happened to say the other evening at the Geographical Society, in a dis- cussion on Ruwenzori, that it was necessary the railway from Mombasa to Lake Victoria should be ccrstructed as soon as possible, because it was the good genius which would nullify any strategio ideas of our friends and neighbours across the Channel in regard to the Nile Valley. One would imagine that the conductors of news- papers wouid have longer IDemories than those of their readers, because every well-regulated newspaper office ought to be able to refer a.t any moment to any subject it may have pub- lished. But. whatever English editors may be, in France editors appear to be badly informed. ("Hear, hear," and laughter.)The Paris "Figaro" the other day, in commenting upon that remark of mine, ascribed my statement to hostility to France. I take this opportunity to correct the impression. (Hear, hear.) One day in December, 1885, as we were returning from Brussels after a conference on the Congo Rail- way, Sir William Mackinnon, Mr. James F. Hutton (president of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce), and myself formed an East African syndicate to operate in that part with a view to connect the coast with the Victoria. Nyanza by a railway. Our principal object in this formation of this little company was, of course, to obtain some solid rights in the country, which would preserve as much of the hinterland to the British as would prevent the Germans from monopolising the whole of East Africa, leaving power to negotiate with the Sultan of Zanzibar for a port when the railway could start. (Applause.) At that time the British East Africa Company was not dreamed of, but such is the nature of these inceptions one begets another, and by constant evolving aud discussion they grow more dis- tinct and assume their fated form. It was the long discussion of the Congo Railway that sug- gested the railway to Taveta. our newly-ac- quired possession near the snow mountain of Kilimanjaro. The railway to Taveta sug- gested its continuation to that large! fresh water sea, the Victoria Nyanza, which was always staring at us on our map. The necessity of securing land to attract the capitalists to give us their support compelled us sufficiently far along that course which ended in and was concerned with negotiating with the Sultan of Zan- zibar for a concession of what remained of his territory not comeded to the Germans. From Zanzibar, you know, I sailed to the relief of Emin Pasha—(cheers)—and when I returned the emissaries of the East Africa Company were at the north-cast corner of Victoria Nyanza. Since that time I have been year after year preaching the necessity of that railway. (Hear, heaf.) The Blue Books of 1887 will prove to you that Lord Granville, the Liberal Foreign Secretary, acquainted Prince Bismarck with our inten- tion to build a railway. Had we had a fr'e hand the railway would by this have been an accomplished fact, but several onerous condi- tions were imposed on the company which was the sequel to our little syndicate, and the capital obtained was frittered away on mine. cessary expeditions and on other purposes. You will thus see that the conception of the ra.ilway was due to something far apart from French designs on the Nile, and that it was the natural outcome of our studies on East African subjects. The French were never mentioned until lately, not, in fact, until the French inter- ixised in the Anglo-Belgian agreement and t-irted a force up the Congo with the object of occupying that part our Government had Ie;i.sed to the Congo State. Had, the Belgians not been released from the agreement we should bv this time have heard of a conflict between French and Congo troops upon territory helieved by us to be in our snhere of influence, and which we had leased. Such a. conflict would have implicated our Government, and we would have been in duty bound to have disputed the right of France to interfere in diplomatic arrange- ments between our Government and another Power. It will be seen clearly that it was the action of France in this affair that drew our attention to.another necessity for this railway. At first it was a commercial necessity we were under to build the railway. The Brussels Con- ference of 1890 laid down that it was the duty of all Governments possessing territory in Africa to promote the construction of roads, especially of railroads, for the prevention of the slave trade and for the proper administration of justice. (Hear, hear.) Then followed the entry of the East Africa Company into Uganda, and, finally, the proclamation of a Britisht protectorate, and nl" substitution of direct Imperial control upon the retirement of the company. We had a sufficient number of reasons for not nesrlecting this very obvious method of communication between the East Afrioan coaefc and the lair* reariorm baforo tha J French were ever thought of. (Hear, hear.) British subjects and British proprty were in peril from their very remoteness. The lives of thousands of Christians on British territory were at stake, depending solely upon a fear of the British power. The lessons to be drawn from the. collapse of the Egyptian authority in the Soudan on account of a similar condition ot things into which we had drifted brought the necessity of the railway still nearer to. us. Finally, there was the climate between the coast and the lake, which made the journey almost intolerable, and was often fatal to black and white the inefficiency of the transport and its extravagant expense, and the danger that, with the increasing need of porters, we should be in- advertently supporting the slave trade. All combined were quite enough to make us all anxious that the Government would see lit to enter upon the construction of that railway which a Liberal Government in 1886 had pro- mised the Imperial Chancellor of Germany should be made immediately. (Hear, hear.) Now, with all these consielerations already mentioned, France, by her action last year, has indicated that, if she needs, she can disturb us from the west. It is not my province to tell you what she can do, or how she might net about the occupation of terri- torv which we believe to be British. It may assist you in your conjectures if I were to remind you that, according to the Berlin Treaty, the waters of the Congo are free, and that all canals, waterways, or rail- ways connecting the navigable paits of a river are to be put in the same category. (Hear, hear.) Sir Edward Grey epoke the other day in a manner implying that he thought France had to march half across Africa to reach the Nile Valley, but the truth is that French territory reaches to within 250 miles of the Nile, and that their nearest post to it is about the same as from the Viotoria Nyanza. Having ex- plained so much, let me say that, apart from the advantages which a railway will have in a commercial sense, we have the political advantage that we are within easy striking distance of the navigable Nile, with thousands of natives with whom anything cculd be made. (Hear, hear.) Examine French, Belgian, or German territory neigh- bouring the Nile and you can find no native tribe or force which could oppose the over- whelming native force which we could pour upon any point of our territory that was menaced. (Applause.) It is the possession of Uganda and U soga that gives us this pre- ponderance. Assuming that the railway to the lake was made, it would only be neces- sary to send a few hardy British officers and supplies and we should be simply unassail- able. (Cheers.) We have ,now 1,200 Sou- danese troops in Uganda. If the country has only a fifth of the force tliat I saw under Mtesa, it could easily, in case of necessity, turn out 20,000 native fighting men. These, armed with rifles and commanded by British officers, would be capable of meeting 10,000 Europeans in Central Africa. (Applause.) I think you will be able to understand what I meant by saying that the railway would be the genius that would render hostile European operations abortive. (Hear, hear.) Such a force as I have mentioned would require at least 50 cartridges apiece—1,000,000 cartridges—and without a railway it would be impossible to carry these, let alone arm the natives, and, as nothing so defeats hostile intentions so much as the sense that your opponent is armed and defended at all points, I hope that there will be no further delay in making this point of the British Empire completely secure against the chance of disaster. (Applause.) To my mind that is not the strongest of reasons why we should proceed with this railway, but some minds are so constituted that they can only act under the stimulus of danger. (Hear, hear.) The member for Mid-Glamorgan, for in- stance, is one of those who voted against the vote for the administration of Uganda. To a person pledged to the seve- rance of the union between Great Britain and Ireland, and of all those bonds which hitherto have tended to promote national security, social peace, and commercial prosperity, it would be useless to remind him of them, but to you, the forlorn hope of this part of Wales, I need only mention that. if we intend to con- tinue great and respected among the nations, we must have close regard to our promises made before Europe, and prove that we do not intend to shirk our obligations. (Cheers.) "The Neath Constitutional Club" was pro- posed bv Mr. H. J. Morris, and responded to by the President, and other toasts followed.

BARRY CONSERVATISM. CELEBRATING THE RECENT SUC- CESSES AT THE POLLS. Dr. E. Treharne, of Cadoxton, was enter- tained at a complimentary dinner at the Barry Dock Conservative Club and Insti- tute on Wednesday in honour of his recent success at the poll at the election of first county councillor for the Cadoxton division, when he was returned by a substantial majority. The chair was occupied by Captain H. Muirrell, K.D.—In submitting tine toast of the evening, that of Dr. Tre- harne, the Chairman oongratulatei the members upon what he described as the triumphant vietoiy achieved by Dr. Tre- harne at the late county council election at Cadoxton, in spite of 1he combined forces Ot the Liberal Hundreds and Tliousands^ (laughter)—the Labour Electoral Associa- tion, the so-called Trades' Council, the chepel vestries, deacons, preachers, &c (Appla.use.) A Radical Association had since been formed to supersede the Liberal Hundred, a-nd the next step probably would be the establishment of an Independent Labour Party, and he warned the workÜw- classes against this party—a party which, at its conference at Newcastle this week, passed a resolution of sympathy with the Nihilists of Russia and the Socialists of Spain. (Cries of "Shame!") The only party, Captain Murrell maintained, that would fight against disruption and anarchy and resist disintegration ard promote the best interests of the general body of the people was the Conservative party. (Cheers.) —-Ihe toast having been received with great erlhusiaan, Mr. D. Lloyd Lougher, address- ing the gathering, said there was a tre- mendous wave of Unionism passing over the county, and the South Glamorgan DivWon and the electorate of Cardiff and the Rhondda Valleys in particular. He felt that th-e last election in South Glamorgan was lost to Conservatism through the indifference oftlie party in the Barry district. This defect, a,, however, was now nemedied, and he looked fcrward with confidence to the result of the ^ext election. (Cheers.) In Cardiff tlie Liberal party was utterly disorganised, and t'hpy might take his word that in the Wekh Metropolis it was a case of three to one on Mr. Maclean. (Applause.) Mr. Lougher described Major Wyndliam Quin, the Unionist candidate for South Glamorgan, as a gentleman whose credentials were of the highest and most unique order, and the constituency would have in him a candidate- worthy of their best energies and undivided support.—Mr. James Price, in responding for Dr. Treharne, who was suffering from a severe cold, and had temporarily lost his voice, contendied that a nation that became more and more Liberal and Radical was a nation which became less and less pros- perous. (Cheers.)

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ROMAN CATHOLICISM. BLESSING A NEW BELL AT CAR- MAtRTHEN. Perhaps at no previous time in the history of Carmarthen, oertamly not in post-Reforma- tion days, has such a ceremony been witnessed there as that which took place at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Thursday evening, when the Right Rev. Dr. Hedley, O.S.B., Bishop of Newport and Menevia, performed the cere- nt ny of blessing a new bell, to be put up in the church in commemoration of the silver jiibilce of Father Peter Paul Smyth, one of the Passionist Fathers, now at Caimarthen. Special significance was given to the occasion, btcause it marked the severance, technically and officially, at all events, of Dr. Hedley's CCI.-I eetlou jyith that town, which, together with the rest of Catholic Wales, except Gla- morganshire, will henceforth be under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the new Vicar f Apostolic. It could not be said, however, that tll) proceedings were very largely attended; ir deed, the number of Catholics from a dis- tance was comparatively small. Bishop Hed- ley's arrival at Carmarthen, which took plice between five and six in the evening, was made the occasion of a fitting display of respect. Accompanied by the Very Rev. Canon Woods, the bishop was met by the Provincial and the priests in residence at Carmarthen and others. At the entrance to St. Mary's Church was arawin up a guard of honour, composed of 46 men from kite Carmarthen Artillery, under Captain and Adjutaut Turner, R.A., and Lieutenant Kean. To set at rest any misgiv- ing which the presence of the men (but few of whom were Catholics) might give rise to, ii, is necessary, perhaps, to state that they all volunteered their services, at an hour when they were off duty. By six o'clock the churoh itself was almost full. Well on in front of the pews, and almost at the foot of 'the altar steps, appeared the bell, suspended from a pullv, the somewhat rude and primitive sup- ports of which stood out rather grotesquely in the midst of so much that was highly decora- tive and artistic—for the interior of St. Mary's is, indeed, very beautiful. The bell weighed 14cwt., its tone, deep and mellow, is A natural. Thursday evening's ceremony of blessing the new bells was marked by all the pomp and oir- oumstance characteristic of the Catholic Churoh. It opened with the recital, in Latin, of several Psalms. Then the bishop ascended the altar to preach. It was. however, rather a disser- tation on the antiquity and poetry of bells than a. sermon. Taking as his text the words, "Praise Him on High, Sounding Cymbals, Praise Him ou Cymbals of Joy; Let every Spirit praise the Lord" (Psalm cl., verse 5), the bishop said the ceremouy was well under- stood by Roman Catholics, but not so well by non-Catholics. Consecrations, dedications, and the blessing of various kinds and degrees were very numerous in the ritual of t.he Catholic Church, and also of those of Eastern Churches which had become separated from the unity of the Apostolic See. After dealing with the historical aspect of the use of bells in the Church, his lordship described the ceremony which was to follow. There was the recitation of appropriate Psalms, the washing of the bell with blessed water- holy water; there was the anointing in holy chrism as priests and kings had been anointed in every age of the world, and there was. finally, the blessing in these verses:—May this bell of the Lord be sanctified and consecrated in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost to the honour of St. Mary and St. Peter." After the ceremony of blessing the bell had been performed a Benediction ser- vice was held, to special music, which was nearly Gregorian throughout. The tenor solo, "Zin- garelli" was rendered by Mr. James Morgan. Before dispersing, the congregation gathered round the church's door, and Father Polvoarp, on behalf of the priests and Catholios of Carmar- then, presented Bishop Hedley with an address expressing regret at the severance of his con- nection with Carmarthen and the lively gr. tude for the fatherly love and guidance they h- experienced at his hands during the last quarter of a. century. The Bishop, in acknowledging the address, said he was touched and gratified by it. He did not expect anything of the kind. He could not help thinking, on looking back, how little he had done to deserve their kind expression of affection or regret. Indeed, Carmarthen was too far from Cardiff for any bishop to do vary much, and he hoped in the future there would be much greater solicitude for their interest than he could ever have shown. He took the opportunity of wishing Father Peter Paul every grace and blessing. He was glad that the Passionist fathers had settled down in that, in some respects, improving spot, and he hoped they would develop the good work they had commenced in that part. After the Benediction the proceedings ter- minated.—This (Friday) morning Bishop Hed- ley will administer the sacrament of confirm*. tion.

PONTYPRIDD COMMON. ALLEGED ENCROACHMENBT BY THE MARQUESS OF BUTE. Considerable feeling has been roused at Pontypridd owing to the alleged encroach- ment upon the common by quarrying operations by the Maj-qmess of Bute. The town has for years utilised the common, upon which is situate tihe famous Rocking Stone, as a recreation ground, and it is alleged that the surface is being contiually encroached upon in the way referred to. In 1861 an award was made by the Charity Commis- sioners, by which the surface was vested ia the churchwardens and overseers of the parish of Eglwysilan, and the minerals (though legal opinion differs in this respect) were given to the Marquess of Bute. A public meet- ing of ratepayers was held at the Leoer Town-ball on Wednesday night, when pro. tests were made against the encroachment, and a deputation appointed to wait upon Sir William Thomas Lewis. A deputation from a meeting held at the Chainworks on Thursday night week waited upon the district council on Thursday, and asked them to take steps to prevent any further encroachment. A suggestion was made that the marquess would, undoubtedly, be prepared to sacrifice the htitie revenue derived from the quarries for the sake of the town, and the deputa- tion was assured tha,t the council would do all it could in the matter. A letter was read stating that the communication asking Sir William Thomas Lewis to meet a deputa- tion from the council respecting the matter would be laid before Sir William upon his return from tJhe North of England.

_?. MOTHER, if BABT COUGHS or Wheezes run "0 risks, but give it a done of Mortimer's Coul;h fcnd Croup Mixtuie. Of all Chemists, 1s. lid. pw* Bottle. f'3eü8 PKVPKR-o OTTXTVK VNP IEOV TONIC. em- bracing, vivifying, sustaining, dispels depression, cures indirection, neuralgia, and all aches or pains. Pepper's, the only real tonic. Shilling bottles. Strengthen and Renovate the System after the Trials of the Past Winter by Taking a Course of Gwilvm Evans' Quinine Bitters. In Bottles, Is. 1W-. 2s. id and 4s. 6d. each. 26212 MORTIMER'S MIXTURE is the Beet Couch and Croup Medicine in the World. Of all Chemists, 1.. Ild. per bottle. e3908 Printed by the Proprietors, Daniel Owen and Co. (Limited), and published by them at their works, Tudor-road. Canliff: at their offices, Castle Bailey- street, Swansea; at the shop of Mr. Wesley Wil- liams. Bridsrend—ail in the County of Glamorgan; at the "Western Mail" Offices, Newport, at the shop of Mr. J. P. Caffrey. Monmouth, both in tha County of Monmouth; and .-it the shop of Mr. CL Davies. T.lm»lly. in the Countr of CVmarthea. [ FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 1895.