Evening Express

DISCOVERED AFTER DEATH A WOMAN PASSED OFF AS A MAN FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS. The corpse of a labourer named Lang, who died a.t Troyes two days ago, was being prepared ior burial, when it was discovered that the sup- posed man wag a woman. For over twenty tears Lang had passed off as a man, and was tne of the most active members of the fire bri- gade. -?-??-

CYCLING. CHALLENGE TO PfROFESSIONAI. WHEELMEN. 3\tr. Albert Milsom, of Bristol, Anxious for a Match. Mr. Albert Milsom, writing from 17. Pictcm- Etreet, Mcntpelier, Bristol, to the" Evening Express." says:—Will yluu kindly oblige lie by putting the following challenge in your Paper? I am prepared to ride any profes- sional cyolist in Wales from one to tan miles for £25 suide, on any track in Wales or the West of England."—(Signed) ALBERT MILSOM." -?_?-

PUBLIC-HOUSE RIOT. NEW USE FOR A BABY. At Dudley Albert Pantall, landlord of the 1' |vi'd Inn, was fined £ 5 10s. and costs for being ^runk on his licensed premises a.nd permitting riotous conduct. During' the disturbance, ^1) it'll was described as a regular riot," one J of the female combatants struck her antagonist with her own baby.

A DORSET VICAR'S INCOME. £ 4 5s. 4d. A YEAR NET. The Rev. Arnold M. Sharp, vicar of St. Andrew's, Kinson, Dorspt, publishes EO'll1e. re- 1113.rkable figures respecting his clerical income ;tnd expenditure durmg the five years he I'as beld. the living. For the period mentioned his total income haa been £ 1,868 Os. lid. This Eludes £ 180 rent of vicarage, the incumbent, through the kindness of Lord Wimborne. re- Bl<H? rent free in another house. Of the £ i,S&8, £1,617 lis. has gone in stipends to assistant clergy, and £2?9 3s. 5d. for repairs to vicarage, leaving a net income for the five year.-s of j321 6s. 8d., or an average of £ 4 5s. 4d. y ear.

NEW RUSSIAN NAVAL PRO- GRAMME. British naval shipbuilders (says tas '"Western Daily Mercury") are not going to get anything out of the new Russian programme. The Russians intend to make all their machinery themselves. They have, of course, a large dumber of English supervisors in the yards, but beyond this it is not likely that we shall R-t any benefit out of their naval plans in the future. Perhaps, a few breakdowns would send I them back again, however. The British con- tractors must pra.y for breakdowns! I -?.

AN IDEA FOR OUR TECHERS Mdlle. Kosnig, inspector-general of the *e*nale schools in Franci, has organised a very ^teresting exhibition of dolls at Paris. Nctwing that all taste for plain sewing was fa^t disappearing from the primary schools, ^he thought a stimulus might be given by offer- ing prizes for the bsst-drec.sed dolls sent in by the young teachers of the country. If a. ^°r'al costume were still worn in the provneo th9 doll was to give an exact representation of it, If all trace cf such a costume had dis- appeared, either that worn a' hundred years kerore, or something of a.n historical character, rtll'ght be substituted. The result has been so satisfactory that there is talk of the dolls being purchased to form a permanent exhibition. -L-=-=-?

KILT V. TREWS. 'I':El:E LATEST SARTORIAL FAD AT BOMBAY. The Scots of Bombay are (cays the "Admiralty and Horse Guards' Gazette") ioud in their Jvrath and indignation at this, the latest srrtorlal of the Commander-in-Chief, the conversion of. the Highlander into a Lowlander by the SUlh- 8htution of trousers for kilt Recollections of he glorious days past of the i-ameroni&ns a!! y^atre Bras, of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders at Balaclava* of the Seaforth High- Anders at Delhi, these splendid memories ,>f 6 kilted regiments have stirred up their riinds and hearts to raise one loud and thrilling Protest against any interference with this time- honoured custom. Lord Wolseiey is inspired iw*P of intentions in suggesting this thinks thereby to improve the th C:enoy bpi" Majesty's Army, to strengthen t6 esprit de corps in Highland regiments, an J o encourage recruiting in the Highlands. But doubt he has reckoned without bis hosts, j'l attempts at a.ny such conversion ^ave hitherto ignominiouslv failed. The 1-pjote would have none of the in. *he essay a .few years ago to l^etamorphoee the Cameronians into a hat:t.a.- hon of Scots Guards was indignantly repelled -y nublic opinion in Scotland. So far back as beginning of the century, to a question as to |he advisability of abolishing the kilt in High- regiments, the commander of the 79th gave answer: "The abolition of the kilt would prove ^.complete death-warrant to the recruiting ser- l^'e. in the Highlands." Though the Ipiid of t/°b Rov and Maegregor has changed, and ^«c>ugh their descendants have yielded to the ^oftening influences of culture and associations, he ancient traditions survive, and the High- Oder's bonnet and kilt will still continue to af?use feeling and kindle a sDirit which our chief should be the last to discourage.

An interesting wedding took place at St. jury's Catholic Church, Wyndham-road, Car- last week, the contracting parties being W. N. Walker and Miss Nellie O'Le-ary. brlrle was grven awav by her uncle, Mr. ^tarry Griffiths, the Rev.'H. E. Stuart Mills, officiating. Subsequently a party of idenda was entertained at breakfast, given by j»r- Harry Griffiths, at. the Duke of Clarence >iotel, sanongat those present, being the Rev. ■■ather Stuart MiJls, Councillor Gerhold, -lessrs. W. B. Franc-is, R. Bridcut, J. H. B. vjewis, L. x\nstice, J. Walker, C. Walker, V^eorge Jukes, C. Lane, W. Flook, W. Hutt, "The Health of the Bride and 1'ride- sToom' was proposed by Mr. W. B. Francis, nd responded to in a neat speech bv the bride- groom. The ha.ppy couple shortly after left 10p London.

I The Scott-Russell Case I RESUMED PROCEEDINGS AT THE OLD BAILEY. PUBLIC INTEREST IN THE PRO- CEEDINGS HEIGHTENED. JHE DEATH OF EAST. MR, MARSHALL HALL AND THE JUDGE. The Scott-Russell case was resumde on Mon- day at the Central Criminal Court (before Mr. Justice Hawkins and a common jury). Mary Selina Elizabeth, Lady Scott, John Cockerton (ship's engineer), and William Aylott (valet), severally surrendered to their bail on an indictment charging them with having maliciously published a certain defamatory libel of and concerning John Francis Stanley. Earl Russell. The Enforced Adjournment. The enforced adjournment, in consequence of the illness of the fourth prisoner, Frederick Kast, and the tragic circumstances of his sudden disappearance from the scene, and his sub- sequent death in the infirmary of Holloway Gaol, might have been eXiDected, naturally, to heighten the public interest in the proceedings. Not only .0, Lady Scott's indisposition added another element of uncertainty as to the course of an inquire which, not only from its very nature, but from all the circumstances surround- ing it, has already become somewhat unique, even in the annals of the chief criminal court of the kingdom. The Counsel. The counsel for Earl Russell are Sir Frame Loekwood, Q.C., M.P., and Mr. C. Matthews; Lady Scott in represented by Mr. Lawson Walton, Q.C.. M.P., Mr. Geoghegan, and Mr. Lowenthal; Cockerton and Aylott are defended by Mr. Marshall Hall and Mr. Percival Clarke. Appearance of Lady Scott. Lady Scott took a seat in the dock at a quarter-past ten, at which time there was but a sparce attendance. The senior jailor assisted her in the removal of her fur-lined cloak. The casting oc of this outer garment disclosed a costume of black velvet, with trimmings of jet, and bonnet to match, being unrelieved by the slightest touch of coiourf Her ladyship's attire was strongly suggestive of mourning. Lady Scott, it may be added, looks little, if any, the worse for her recent illness, except that her handsome face wears a very pensive expression. As the jury were assembling Lady Scott seemed to lapse into a condition of great men- tal depression, and now and again wearily supported her head upon her white-gloved hand. At half-past ten three iurvmen were still ab- sent. and the judge was already in his own room awaiting their appearance. A few minutes later Earl Russell followed his solicitor to a seat in the well of the court, and held a whis- pered consultation with Mr. Llewellyn Davies, who, on the day of the adjournment, acted for M,<. Methews, who was unavoidably absent Îrom indisposition. The full somplement of twelve answered to their n?.ine«3 by 10.40, and Mr. Justice Hawkins (Proceeding.)

LOCAL POST OFFICE GRIEVANCES. COUNTER DUTIES AND TELE- PHONE NIGHT SERVICE. For a long time (says the "Telegraph Chronicle, under the head-liue of Cardiff) the local postal authorities have endeavoured to work the telegraph counter duties from then- own staff, but, in consequence of the men listed being "unaccustomed' both as regards work and rules, the attempts have repeatedly and wretchedly failed. Of jate these clerks have been constantly withdrawn to per- foxm sorting duties, vwth which they are better acquainted, substitutes being provided from the instrument-room. To such a. great extent has this requisitioning of men from our department obtained that for the week ending November 21 there were no less than six telegraphists at the counter. Obviously, these continual changes are undesirable from several standpoints, .nd are detrimental and irritating both to the public and the press. In consequence of the night service con- nections being frequently out of order, sub- scribers have recently had to call for lengthy periods without obta.ning a itply. This service has proved itself a humbug to the .solitary telegraphist performing all-night di.y in the instrument-room, for when it is out" of order he has to drag himseif up and d iwn stairs at certain intervals. One of our officers has already been severely taken to task for allov. ing telegraph stations to call whilst his attention was given to the tele- phone-room. We trust a remedy will be speedily applied, and we would suggest a constant attendant at night to telephones solely. -?.?.-

THE ELOPING PRINCESS- FACING THE FOOTLIGHTS. The Vienna correspondent of the "Daily Mail" wiring on Sunday says: — La-test reporcs from Budapest sta-te that Princess Chimay and the gipsy Rigo, with whom she eloped will shortly be compelled by financial exigencies to abondon the magnificent and ostentatious style in which they have hitherto lived. The Princess is going on the music-hall stage, and is said to have already signed a. contract with the manager of a Budapest music-hall. Rigo ha.s obtained an engagement as violinist, in the some hall, and will figure in the orchestra whilst the Princes sings from the stage. The Princess Chimay has written to the papers vigorously protesting against the state- ment that Rigt> is a.n "ugly and ignorant fel- low." She assorts that he is an artiste and a. gentleman, and contends tlrat for his sweet sake she was quite justified in leaving her bus. band. _??? _?-

EXPLOSIVES IN MINES. Commenting the. Order in Council on tiie use of explosives m mines just issued bv the IjPome Secretary, the "Newcastle C.hrc|rtiele," says:—"Practically it abolishes the use of gunpowder throughout the district, and creates a new class of officials in non-fierv mines, to fire hitherto T'erformed by the hewer. This proposed ohinge in the methods of working' will add very considerably to th-> cost of orodacincr ccal. The price of gurmowder is 3d. per lb.; bellite. the most likely substitute, costs Is. Each hewer, using gunpowder to the value of £2 a year, will in future require bellite to the value of £8..A t a moderately-sized colliery affected by the order the new regulations would impose a charge of about £ 5.000 per annum."

LATE MR. W. H. SONLEY JOHN- STONE. Sympathetic references were made, to the de-ath of the late Mr. W. H. Sonley Johnstone, formerly a journalist at Cardiff, by the Rev. J. Williamson at the Charles-street Congrega- tional Church on Sunday night. Mr. William- Ron spoke also of Mr. Johnstone's deceased brother and father. He spoke of the high attainments of the two sons. and referred to the time when Mr. W. H. S. Johnstone was :1, lad at the Charles-street. Sunday School, and ex- pressed the condolence of the Church with the bcreaved relatives. -?-?-?-

CARDIFF GUAKDTANS WANT A DONKEY. At Saturday's meeting of the Cardiff Board of Guardians Mr. Enoch called attention to the hardships imposed upon some of the paupers in having to haul firewood through the streets for sa.le in hand barrows. He suggested that a proper light vehicle and a donkey to do the work should be provided.- The matter was referred to the visiting com- 'I' mittee. I

A fine cf £100 a.nd coots, or three months in defauli, wa.s imposed by the Chesterfield magis- trates on Saturday upon John Oxle-y, for she- beening at Shirebrook, on the East to West Railway, aiter having ix-en convicted previously. I A policeman disguised as a collier got up the necessary evidence. -{Jiv.ce Ellis was lined B50 and Elizabeth Patteson .S20 for similar offences.

Sensational Chase 1\1 REMARKABLE ESCAPADE AT •WOLVERHAMPTON. A Young- Man Becomes Temporarily Mad, and after a Struggle Thrusts Himself Through the Window of a Hotel. A startling and sensational affair took place at Wolverhamtpon in the ear'" hours of Satur- day morning, arising out of the extraordinary conduct of a visitor at one of the principal hotd.8 in the tGwn, whose maniacal behaviour led up to a series of exciting incidents. On Friday night two yeung gentlemen, one repre- sented to be an invalid, and a young lady, en- gaged rooms at the Victoria Hotel. On-e of the men—they were brothers-clesired that. the boots might occupy a bedroom next to the one occupied by himself and the invalid, so that he would be near Ül t:l1£. event of anything being required in the night. About five o'clock next morning the boots was startled toy hearing cries. and hastening in their direction found a despe- rate struggle taking place in the lavatory on the second noor in the back part of the holtel. The invalid was endeavouring to force himself through the email window of the lavatory, while the other was striving to hold him back. The boots s0ized one lep" and the brother the other, but the man slipped from his trousers, thrust himself through the window, and rolled from the roof of a shed below into some baskets con- taining empty mineral water and champagne bottles. Hastily throwing on some clothing. the brother and the boots started after the'fugi- tive, who ciimibedi the double doors of the hotel yard, and ran dwn Piper's-row, being, with the exception Of a flannel vest, in a state of nudity. The hotel servants sleep on that side of the hotel, and they were roused by the cries and smashing of glass, and many of them rushed on to the landing in their night-dresses in a state of graat alarm. The maniac, for such he undoubtedly was at the time, left a trail of blood behind him. The nursuers wer-? joined by [L policeman, and here and there obtained infor- mation of the direction taken by the runaway from persons early abroad, and who had caught a. glimpse in the dim light of a semi-nude figure rushing wildly along the street. In Eagle-street a workman said he had passed a man in an entry, who shook hands with him, wished him "Goùd morning," and hurriedly dis- appeared. The man was afterwards startled to find hie hand covered with blood. So the pus- suit was carried on, one or two policemen having joined in, but in Steelhouse-laiiie all trace oi uTe runaway was lost. Just about this time a family residing ait 131, All Saints'- rcad, had a mo-it exciiting a.nd alarming ex- perience. The house is occupied by a Airs. Wurr and her three grown-up sons,— John Charles, audi xiiiiam JJavies. The lions were suddemy startled by the breaking ot glass in some portion of their dwelling. Jumping cut of bed to ascertain the causa, they were astounded on finding themselves confronted on the landing by a slightly-dressed and blood- stained1 figure. The man was muttering in- coherently, and the brothers immediately tried to seize him. A desperate struggle took place, the extraordinary visitant, who was still bleed- ing profusely, fighting with grea.t strength. At length he roiled d«;wn the stairs into the kitcben, wh2re he seized a, chaiir as a weapon of resistance. Ultimately he was\ overpowered. A neighbour named Charles Foster having gone tthe assistance of the brothers through hear- ing the scuffle. Police-sergeant Harvey was c:1led, aud with assistance the man was re- moved to ths workhouse, where he was placed in the insane ward. There he became calmer, and furnished his name and address. The main's name is Howard Creese, and he is the son of a tradesman rut St. John's, Worcester. It appears that he had been spend- ing a short holiday with friends at Man- cheder, and on Friday night was returning heme to Worcester in company with a young lady friend of the family. After leaving Man- chester his conduct was at times soinewhait strange. When Stafford was passed he sud- denly beoam9 violent, and attempted toO throw himself through thei carriage window. He did get his leaf through the window, but the other passengers succeeded in preventing him from carryiu;, out his intention. The young lady was naturally greatly terrified, and Creese's feHow passengers, as may be imagined, had an excitii'iig timte. On arriving at Wol- verhampton th" station-master was informed of the man's strange conduct. A telegram was despatched to Creese's brother, Mr. Herbert Creese, at Worcester, ar.d as soon as possible he arrived at Wolverhampton. It was then decided to take rooms at the Victoria Hotel for the might. The yoi'tag men. occupied a joint bedroom, and, it aippears, sat up the greater part of the night. About five o'clock young Creese left the bedroom, remarking that he should not be away long. After waiting awhile the brother1 became suspicious, and, following Imp, found Creese trying to force himself through the lavatory window. How the runaway got to Mrs. Wurr's house is not the least remarkable of the night's adventures. To reach the house he would have to gü up several entries, and over yard walls. He broke the back kitchen window to1 effect an entrance, and the strugtrle in the house lasted quiie haH am hour. The injuries he received consisted of cuts on the hands and arms, and bruises on varJOUR parts of 4he body. He was seen at the workhouse by Mr. Wolverson. the police surtreon, and a three days' detention order was granted. Mr. Herbert Creese be- lieves that it is no temporary mental averration only, and thalt his brother will soon recover. Mr. Howard Creese is about 24 vears of age, and nKir.aiges a business at Mftlvern Wells. The young ladv proceeded to Worcester cn Saturday, but Mr. Herbert Creese remains in Wolverhampton ready to take charge of his brother. On Sunday the detained man. who is closely w'1..tched. was going on well. There is nothing to fear frcrn the injuries rie re- ceived, the only danger was felt to he that puemnoinia might arise as the result of the exposure on :1, bitterly cold, frosty morning. -?.?--?--?.?

SHIPPING CASUALTY. The Central New. Agency at New York, telegraphing on Monday, savs:—The Wilson liner Hindoo, which collided with the Creole, has been safely docked. Her bow plates are cracked and she is leaking.

FATAL HAT CHASE. SAD DEATH OF A LOVER. A young man was walking with his sweet- heart in the outskirts of Aberdeen on Sunday night. His hat blew off, and he went in pursuit. In the darkness lie fell over a nreci- pice into a disused quarry and was drowned.

TERRIFIC STORM IN AMERICA. The Central News Agency at New York, telegraphing on Monday, says:—Terrible weather is reported from the western States. The heavy rain on Saturday has been. followed by terrific snowstorms. Railway tratiic is carried on with the greatest difficulty, and in the outlying settlements a great deal of damage has been done.

MONSTER RELIGIOUS MISSION. CONVERSIONS AT ONE DOLLAR PER HEAD. The New York correspondent of the "Daily Mail," wiring on Sunday, says:—A o-igantio religious crusade will be inaugurated' here on Monday by Moody, the evangelist, who claims that 1,000,000 fcouls can be saved by spending l,000,000dols. Several millionaires have pro- mised to subscribe this amount if the scheme is perfected. The money will be used in employ- ing hundreds of evangelists. Every church, public hall. md theatre in New York and the 1 sutyirbs will be engaged daily: meetings will be constantly 'held, and. every means employed to arouse The unconverted. -418U- -?_

INTERNATIONAL CHESS. M>\ Lasker has won the sixteenth game in the match with Mr. Steinitz at Moscow in 42 moves. The score now is:—Lasker 9, Steinitz 2, and drawn 5.

ÜXB OF THE WONDERS OF THE AGR is ■Spencer's New High Ann lland Sewing Machine, with walnut cover and full set of app:ia»'»is, for S2 1&. M.. "tifcii. Money returned if net approved. Beet value ill Sewing Machines.—Spencer's ilcniestic MbtVue Aeuot. St John's-s^uaiCK CardiS. C!S>07

Killed on the Spot. FATAL FIGHT AT EBBW VALE. AN ARREST- I On Saturday afternoon, between the hours of four and five, the Victoria- Blast Fur- naces, belonging to the Ebbw Vale Steel, Iron, and CoaJ Company (Limited), situate about a mile from Ebbw Vale, were the scene of a fatal encounter between a foreman of the works, named Price Williams, and an iron carrier, named Henry Lathan, in which the latter was, unfortunately, killed on the spot. From inquiries which our representa- tive made immediately after the affray, it would appear that the deceased, Henry Lathan, thirty-two years of age, single, lodging with Mrs. Sheen, Victoria Town, and employed at the blast furnaces carrying pig iron, had been drinking at the Bush Inn, or what is better known as the Coedcae. He called at his lodgings on the way back to work, and gave Mrs. Sheen a jar of beer, which he described as "Christmas beer," remarking at the same time that he had to do another two hours' work, after which he would be able to go for his usual Saturday night's "ramble." Lathan proceeded to the furnaces, where he had an altercation with a man named William Brown, contractor, and demanded his "time." Brown was not in a position to grant this request, and sent for the foreman, Price Williams. The deceased made the same request to the latter, and, ~po« being informed that ic would be im- possible for him to have his "time" at that hour, Latham became abusive, and said that vnless he (the foreman) gave Jlim his money "he would b well knock it out of him." Price Williams replied, "If you do I shall certainly knock you back." Lathan then struck Williams in the eye. The men closed, and a desperate struggle ensued. What happened it is impossible to say, but, at all events, Lathan died almost immediately. He was conveyed to his lodgings, where Dr. J. Durance Evans was quickly in attendance, only to pronounce that the deceased was beyond all earthly aid. The occurrence caused a deep impression in the whole dis- trict. Price Williams, who is about 45 years of age, and has a wife and family, is a man held in the highest respect in the neigh- bourhood, and considerable sympathy is felt for the position in which he is placed. The deceased man, who was a native of Here- fordshire, was a fine, powerful young fellow, but, unfortunately, was addicted to drink, and was well known to the police. Police- constable Gray, the constable in charge of the Victoria Police-station, was soon on the spot, and arrested Prick Williams, faking him to Ebbw Vale Police-station, where he was received into custody by Inspector Piiee. About ten o'clock the same night Inspector Price and some police-constables lud the body of the deceased removed to the Ebbw Vale mortuary. The Post-mortem Examination. On Sunday evening Dr. J. Durance Evans and Dr. Corry conducted a post-mortem examination on the body of Henxy Lathan at the Ebbw Vale mortuary. The examina- tion was a most minute one, occupying about two hours and a quarter. In a conversation with our representative. Dr. Evans said he was not in a position to give the cause of death., although they had arrived at a definite decision. He said that it was evident that the deceased had been a heavy drinker. The man Price Williams will be formally re- manded to-da.y (Monday), pending the result of the inquest. The sad affair formed the topic of conversa- tion in th.g town on Sunday, and Williams's family came in for the deepest sympathy. PRISONER BEFORE THE MAGISTRATES. AND REMANDED TILL AFTER THE INQUEST. Mr. Edward Phillips, J.P., attended at the Ebbw Vale Police-station on Monday morning, when Price Williams wag brought up before him and formally charged with killing and slay- ing Henry Latham, on Saturday. No evidence was called, and on the application of the police the prisoner was remanded until the inquest has taken place.

PARAFFIN" LAMP EXPLOSION AT CARDIFF. HUSBAND AND WIFE BADLY BURNED. Woman in a. Dying: Condition. On Saturday night, between nine and ten o'clock, a policeman was called to No. 8, Ordell-street, Splotlands, where he was informed there had been a serious accident, causing burns to a man and his wife. named Gale. The couple occupied apartments at Ordell- street, and on Saturday night, it is stated, during a quarrel over some money matters Gale attempted to strike his wife, and in doing so upset a paraffin lamp, which exploded, with the result that both of them were severely burned, in spite of the assistance rendered by Mr. Stacey, the occupier of the house. The jnjurod people were subsequently attended to by Dr. Corrigan and Dr. Phillips, and after- wards removed to the workhouse infirmary. Mrs. Gale's injuries are expected to have a fatal termination, as on Sunday night she appeared to be in a sinking condition. The man's injuries ,arc not considered to be of ."o serious a nature, albeit he ie badly burned about the hands and lace. ??;I

THE AUTOCAR. Mr. Rhys Jenkyns is contributing to the "Antiquary" an interesting series of papers on early mechanical carriages. From these it will be seen that the autocar has a most respectable pedigree. Whatever may be thought of the Athenian triumphal wagon mentioned by Helio- clorus as moved by machinery worked by the wen whom it carried, or of the declaration credited to Friar Bacon as to the possibility of horseless carriages, there aTe many references to actual or potential autocars in the literature of the sixteenth and succeeding centuries. Ricci, the Jesuit missionary in China, is credited with an invention of this kind, and Mr. Jenkyns has with great industry collected data about a num- ber of other schemes. Huvghens and Leibnitz were amongst the projectors, and the latter is said to have devised a post-wagon to go from Hanover to Amsterdam in six hours. Carriages with sails, so that the wind might bo utilised for propulsion, were 'earned of by many in- ventors. Another Jesuit missionary in China, Father Verbiest, is said to have been the first to apply steam power to a road carriage. Eras- mus Darwin, in his famous apostrophe to "un- conquered steam," looked for the speedy aD- nearance of its "rapid car" upon the common highway. Most of the curious schemes recorded by Mr. Jenkyns "appear to have remained on paper, aiid the number of carriages actually constructed is not great." The "Pedestrian Hobby-lW)Tse," "Velocipede," or "Patent Acclerator" wa.s a kind of bicycle in which the rider's feet touched the ground. In a number of schemes it was proposed to cany a horBe or other animal in the vehicle which its action was intended to prowl. It is an instructive lesson in industrial evolution to observe the many trials and restless ingenuity with which man has endeavoured to solve this problem of a prac- tical mechanical vehicle. The autocar is the heir of many, if not all the ages.

CLUB RAID IN LONDON. At an early hour on Sunday morning the police raided a club in Dean-street, Soho, London, and arretted Rome fifteen men and three women. They were conveyed to Marl- borough-street, Poiice-ccurt and charged. The steward and boot; are said to be amonsr those arretted. Forty policemen were in attendance. -??'?'?H_?

On Friday evening the Rev. Llew Croft, until roceiiuy the curate-in-charge cf Newtown dis- trict, under the Rev. D. J. Llewellyn, vkar of Beaufort, was presented with a beautifully bound autograph album, a silver pocket com- munion service, aril a purse of gold, oa the occasion of his departure to the curacjy of Blaina. occasion of his departure to the curacjy of Blaina.

A Death Drama THE SHOOTING OF "THE WORST MAN" IN UTAH." An Exciting and Romantic Tale from the City of! the Hormonsi The "Wild West" has sensations to which we are strangers. From Salt Lake City comes a dramatic story of an execution, compared with which, even the tales of the old open-air executions in this country are mild and feeble recitals. The name of the criminal was Patrick Cough- lin, and he is described as "the worst desperado in the territory, and as fearless as he was bad." The particular crime for which he paid with his life was the shooting of Police-officers Stagg and Dawes while they were in pursuit of him for horse-stealing. A law of the State of Utah permits a prisoner condemned to death to elect whether he will be hanged or shot, and Coughlin preferred the latter. The scene of the execution was Sage Hollow, about three miles north of Woodruff, in Rich County, and 25 miles from the spot where the murders took place. It was the first execution in Rich County's history, but though It Created some Excitement, not more than 200 people assembled to see Coughlin's death. Though small in numbers, the crowd was very serious. Many men were armed with Winchesters, in apprehension of some attempt at rescue. In the middle of a hollow the death chair was placed. It was of common oak, with round arms. Its llegs were fastened to stakes driven deeply into the ground, while its back was sup- ported by two heavy planks. Thirty feet from the chair was the riflemen's tent, in the west side of which were five openings, just below the meeting of the roof and side wall. The most southerly of the apertures was directly opposite the chair, the remainder being to the northward. At 8.30 o'clock the men selected as execu- tioners arrived. Before the coming of the next visitors they had practised their duties several time3. From that time they remained within the little tent that had been erected. Who they were none knew, and none sought to learn. At 10.18 o'clock the sheriff's wagon appeared, and a moment later Coughlin followed. He alighted almost In Front of the Cb air, upon which for a second's ispace his gaze fell. He was wrapped in a heavy storm ccat. The overshoes had been removed from his feet, leaving as their covering a new pair of patent leather slippers. The irons were taken from his ankles, and his overcoat, coat, and vest removed. Coughlin stood upright, the ashen hue of his face intensified by the black silk shirt he wore. Hit eye roved slowly over the little, pitilesg gathering, the cluster of wagons in the background, and the low limestone hill to the east, upon whose summit another little knot of curious had gathered. As he looked, he stroked his downy moustache pensively. "Patrick Coughlin, have you anything to saiv?" asked Sheriff Dickson. "Nothing," replied Coughlin, "except that I don't want my picture taken." Then, in obcdience to the sheriff's pointed ¡. finger, the condemned sat in the chair, while the sheriff's assistants began to fasten him tightly to the oaken seat. By the ankles, wrists, and shoulders they bound him to the chair with stout hemp rope. With scarcely a tremor he viewed the prepara- tions of death. The only indication of feeling he gave was when Dr. Lee pinned over his heart, the white paper target for The Concealed Marksmen. Coughlin appeared for a moment to catch his breath, but he was calm a*gain in a moment. Then Father Gailigan gave spiritual consola- tion to Coughlin, who had already expressed penitence. "Be of good courage," said the father once, and Coughlin replied, "You bet your life." The black cap, which in this instance was a large silk handkerchief, was adjusted, and Coughlin's cousin, Dennis Lane, affectionately kissed him good-bye and with tearful face shook his hand. Following the priest's words, Coughlin several times repeated: "Into Thy hands I commend my spirit, Lord Jesus, receive my soul." He kissed the crucifix held to his lips by Father Gailigan, who asked, "Do you forgive everybody, and want everybody to forgive you?" "Yes," came the answer. "Keep up your courage, my boy," repeated the father,^ ''and it will soon he all over." Then Father Gailigan said farewell, and Coughlin responded "Good-bye." These were the last words he uttered, for as the priest had withdrawn a few yards Sheriff Calverly had begun to count, slowly. When be reached eight there was a volley of sound, a.nd five streaics of flame were emitted from the tent side. Coughlin appeared almost to straighten up from the impact of the bullets. Death wa.s not instantaneous, but sensibility ceased a t once. The shots were fired at 10.25. Four minutes later Dr. Hooker, of Evanston, and Dr. Lee, of Randolph, pronounced him dead. One of the bullets had grazed the lower comer of the black diamond in the centre of the square piecf of paper pinned over the man's heart. Another went slightly to the right of the diamond, while the remaining two missed the paper, one strik- ing to the right and below, and the other directly underneath the target. One rifle was not loaded. Every bullet struck his heart. The four bullets passed entirelv through Cougiilin's body, and almost through the four inches of plank behind him.

A SPORTING SCARF PIN. One would hardly expect that sixpence could be made out of a rabbit bone, yet this is what one enterprising individual makes. In the backbone of a rabbit is a joint bearing a remark- able resemblance to a fox's head. Lightly painted brown, a oouple of beads for eyes, a cheap pin affixed, and lo a real sporting scarf- pin is produced at a nominal coet. It finds a ready sale among stabiemen and others at six- pence, end our worthy friend really makes a very good thing at it. How does he get the supply? W ell, lIe visits eat-ing-houses, and scrapes acquaintance with servants who wil- lingly save the parts he requires.

THE VANDEEBIIT PEARLS Reference has often 'been made to the bean- tiful pearis which Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt gave h^r daughter, Miss Consuelo, when she b%aHie Duchess of Marlborough, but nothing like justice has ever been done to a collection which Ù;, undoubtedly, the finest and most costly in the world. The pearls originally con- sisted of two strings, onp of these being historic and a part of tiiie once glorious strand of Catha- rine of Russia. This siring was about two yards long, and while the pearls are well (matched, of-great size, and of good "skin" or brilliancy, they are nothing to be compared to the second string, which Mr. William K. Van- derbilt began to collect for his wife soon after their marriage. This now comprises the first loop, one designed to be close to the throat, the second and third coils being long enough to hang down over the bodice of a dress, the whole string going three times around the neck. These larger pearls are without enual in the world most of them measure fully half an inch in diameter. j |

TEETOTAL BISHOPS* There are at least six teetotal bishops besides the Hew Archbishop of Canterlmry, the profess- ing abstainer;' be:ng Dr. Bardeley. Bishop of Ca-tflisle: Dr. Walsham How. Bishop of Wake- field; the Rev. the Hon. E. Carr Glyn. Bishop- elect of Peterborough: Dr. Legge, Bishop of Lichfield Dr. Jacob, Bishop of Newcastle, and Dr. AVilberforce, Bisnop of ( h H-hester. The latter has recently been asked to join the Good Templar Order, *it has declined, although he has been presented with wi illuminated address bv members of the Order in Chichester. The obstacle in the way of the bishop assisting the work of Good Templary appears to be bis belief in the medieinal value of alcohol. -?-

ASSESSMENT OF LICENSED HOUSES AT MERTH1R On Saturday the Merthyr Union Assessment Committee heard two adjourned appeals against the assessment of licensed houses. In the case of the Wheatsheaf Hotel, rated at JB260 gross and JE221 net, the appellant (Miss Bottrill) put in a draft lease showing that the premises were held for twelve years from the 1st of July, 1896, at an annual rent of £135, and that a premium was paid of £ 2,000. The assess- ment was confirmed. With regard io the Globe Hotel, rated at £80 gross and j668 net, Mrs. Williams produced a lease which showed that the premises were leased for 50 years from the 1st of May. 1892, at a rent of £30 a year. The committee made a reduction to £ 50 net.—Wil- liam Evans, who occupies the house formerly known as the Mountain Hare, the licence of which has been extinguished, succeeded in getting the ratable. valu." lowered from £ 17 10s. to f'b,

I Penrhyn Quarries ALL THE EMPLOYES PAID OFF. I PRACTICAL SYMPATHY WITH THE MEN. Ail the workmen at Lord Penrhyn's quarries, including those employed on tho loading quays at Bangor and as attendants at the quarry hos- pital st Bethesda. were paid off on Saturday •night. There appears no sign of any re-opening of the quarries. About half the men have, it is stated, found employment- elBewhere. The determinatioin of Lord Penrhyn, who is on a. visit to his son-in-law. Lord Falmouth, to close the quarries came as a great surprise and shock upon the neighbourhood. It had been arranged that the men still working at the quarries shou.id, if there was no sign of the settlement of the dispute, be paid off in monthly batches, the younger men being first selected for dis- charge. Lord Penrhyn must have wired peremptory instructions as to the course to be adopted. Sympathy" with the Bten. The publication of the correspondence between Lord Penrhyn and the Board of Trade has had the effect of creating widespread sym- pathy with the men. The following letter from Mr. James Saanuelson, of Birkenhead, speaks for itself. It was received on New Year's Day — "Trevenna, Birkenhead, December 31, 1896. "Dear Sir,—Enclosed please find a small donation towards your quarrymen's fund. It is not so much oharitahle contributions you need as help to find work for your members else- where. As a. considerable employer of labour, I know the need of reasonable discipline in large establishments, but Lord Penrhyn does not seem to be satisfied with that. He is setting a very (bad example in refusing to allow a representative of the Board of Trade under the Conciliation Act to be present at a meeting with his employes, and certainly 'he is creating a feeling against his order which will not easily be allayed. I wish your members a happier year than the one just closing has been. and hope the next may soon bring a successful issue to vour straggle.—Yours faithfnllv. JAMES SAMUELS ON." Messrs. Lloyd George. M.P.. and W. Jones. M.P., have placed their services at the disposal of the. quarrymen, to address meetings on their behalf in the large centres of population in England. The Secretary of the Amalgamated Society of Engineers has forwarded £ 150 to the Lon- don "Daily Chronicle," representing a donation voted by the society towards the Penrhyn quarrymen. This welcome aid has been ^ent on to Mr. D. R. Daniel, the organising agent of the North Wales Quarrymen's Union.

THE LATE MESRER EVANS. PREPARATIONS FOR THE FUN3SEAL. In view of the expected enormous influx of persons into Bangor to-day (Monday) for the purpose of attending the funeral of the late Dr. Herber Evans, arrangements have been made for a free supply of refreshments to all who come at the Queen's Head Cafe, Bangor, and the Central Cafe, Bangor. For t.his pur- pose a number of persons will meet all trains this (Monday) morning, and will give tickets for refreshments to all who ask for them. The official arrangements for the funeral are as follow —The funeral starts from the house at two o'clock punctually for Pendref Chapel, where a funeral service will be held, and addresses will be delivered by Dr. Roberts, Wrexham, the Rev. D. J. Woods, B.A.. the Rev. Griffith Ellis, M.A.. and Mr. D. Lloyd- George, M.P. From Pendref the cortege will proceed to Glanadda Cemetery. The funeral sermon wiJ be preached in the even- ing at 6.30 at Pendref Chapel by the Rev. W. Pierce, London, in English, and the Rev. Owen Evans, D.D., London, in Welsh. PULPIT REFERENCES. CARDIFF. The Rev. J. Williamson, preaching at Charles-street Congregationafl Church, made a sympathetic reference to the death of Dr. Herber Evans, whom he described as one of the most prominent, eloquent, and gifted preachers Wales had known for many a. day. With great oratorical powers, which were conspicuous evan when he used the English language, but blos- somed into fulness only when his native tongue was their vehicle, he was as simple as a child. The last occasion on which he visited Cardiff in a public capacity was when he came, fifteen months ago, to serve that Church by conducting the anniversary services. Those who had heard him then in the Park-halll. as he thrilled the thousajxU who crowded that spacious building, would not soon forget the impression which he made. He possessed the kind of gifts that were dear to the Welsh heart and that had done so much for the evangelisa- tion and enlightenment of the people. It would be long before Wales became reconciled to the loss of her beloved Herber. or would be able to recognise herself under the new conditions. But his influence was great throughout the whole of England, and he was well known in Congre- gational circles throughout the world. Only a month ago the venerable principal of Brecon College was suddenly taken to his reward and now the esteemed principal of the North Wales College had followed his friend and tutor into the unseen world. His body would be laid to rest on Monday (to-day) in Glanadda Cemetery, Bangor; but the true Herber was not dead. He would speak yet to multitudes of his younger feMow countrymen, calling them to the higher life of Christian faith and service for Jesus Christ. He was a Christian who knew and followed his Master; a patriot who loved hi:s country and his countrymen with a self- denying devotion, and a Nonconformist who had a passionate attachment, to the simple worship and the New Testament politv of the Free Churches of the land. Other faithful men would, no doubt, be raised up to serve the cause of Jesus Christ in this land. but the exact place of Herber Evans would not be filled. The Rev. H. M. Hughes, preaching at Ebe- nezer Welsh Congregational Chapel, referred to the death, both morning and evening, his references being most sympathetic. In the morning he referred to the loss they had sus- tained in both the colleges at Bangor and Brecon, and pointed out that the denomination must look for Divine guidance in effecting a suc- cessful and happy re-arrangement. In the night the reverend gentleman preached from the last verse in the Book of Daniel. He characterised the Rev. Herber Evaug as a man of great enthusiasm. Ererything he took in hand he was burning to carry out. He was not a man of great ideas in the abstract, but a man to tafae up a great practical! line of conduct and to carry it through. He referred to the departed preacher's services at their great festivals; Wales would feel the influence of them for generations. Though they were losing their great leaders, though the period was a critical one. they were str.ll buoyant as regarded the future. They had a grand history and a Divine captain. PONTYPRIDD. The Rev. W. I. Morris, preaching at Sardis Chapel, Pontypridd, on Sunday evening, said: I cannot help asking the question, "How have the mighty fallen?" A few weeks ago the able and highly respected principal of Brecon College, the Rev. Dr. Morns, was suddenly called hence; after that the venerable saint and faithful pastor, the Rev. W. Evans, of Aberavon, fell asleep in Jesus, and now, again, after a few days' illness, another mighty man of Ged has passed a way in the person of the Rev. Herher Evans. It never occurred to anybody that his end was so near. None were prepared for the sad and lamentable event. Although he was not young, yet he was not old. Valuable service was expected from him for many years yet to come. but life is disappointing. His 'sun set while not far beyond its meridian. He occupied most important positions in denominational spheres, and he will be sadly missed from the great gatherings of the denomination, but especially so from the pulpit. He was pre-eminently a preacher. He had created for himself an exceptional place in the Welsh pulpit, and, indeed, in the English pulpit also. In him were united all the elements of the true and great preacher, and he made the best use of them. He made himself a necessity in the pulpit and on the platform. He had many a time during the past thirty years preached to large congregations, and his indescribable power will never be forgotten. He was expected in this town and elsewhere in South Wales during the present week, and great was the expectation but our Heavenly Father ordained otherwise, and now gTeat is the dis- appointment. May God in His mercy grant guidance and help to his widow and daughter j in their heavy and sad bereavement, and cause to be raised mighty men yet to appear ion the.. w*Ua of Zion.

Cuban Rebellion I, THE LOSS OF THE COMMO- DORE. A Cuban Expedition Wrecked.—- Terrible Sufferings. The Central News Agency at New York on Monday says:—Dispatches from Jackonville leave not the slightest doubt that the supposed fiiibustterkig f t comer Commodore Ivaa been los't. From the evidence of some of the survivors it wowd appear that the vessel luid been scuttled. There wei'i-1 several feet of water in the hold before it was discovered that anything was wrong. The!, wrier all hands were oalled to the pumps it was found that tbey had been tampered with, and it was im- possible to do effective work with them. So far, only the captain's boat- has reached the shore. The weather was rough, and the sur- vivors had a terrible time, the boat capsizunir once, and all being thrown into the water. Fortunately the boat righted, and all were able to get on board her again. The boat, which was under the command of the mate, contained nine Americans. She was smasned on leaving the ship, and the men hastdv con- structed a raft, upon which they lashed them- selves. This was swept away in the gale, and nothing more has been heard of the men. It is feared that they are all lost. Another boat which left th3 ship with six Cubans on bos-rd her has been washed ashore on the Florida coast. All the men, however, are missing, but whether they were drowned or have been taken off by some passing steamer is not yet known. V

Turf Notes Mr. G. S. Daviee, as last year, is first or. the list of amateur horaeinen. It is somewhat strange that neither the leader nor the res- pective second and third in the table, Mr. J. Fergusson and Mr. A. W. Wood, is anything like as well-known generally as many others who are much below them. It is entirely different with the professionals, as George Williamson comes out first, Arthur Nightinga.ll second, and George Morris third- The five-year-old Spinning Boy is for sale, his owner, Mr. Adderley, probably being dis- gusted with the continuous ill-luck of the chest- nut. An exceptional opportunity is here given to buy a nailing good young horse, whose ill- fortune cannot continue. To owners of jumpers we emphatically say buy Spinning Boy. who is practically certain to make speedy and ample return for has purchase money. Hoggarth, the Pont-efract trainer and jockey, is a man of great grit, if not of wisciom- lie broke his thigh recently at Rotherham, and is still unable to walk without crutches, but, nevertheless, he gets lifted into the saddle and rides out at exercise. Billy Brown, the Royston trainer, has been making merry and entertaining his friends and employes at the ChequHs liot-fel in the little Cambridge town. J. I,owe, at lisley, will in future train Mr. Tom Worton's horses, and this will be a great lift to a deserving man. If another Victor Wild were in the troop, Lowe might soon become a "fashionable" trainer. May he do well with them, however, under any circumstances. Most, folks were rather astonished when it proved possible to race at JNIanchestcr on Satur- day. Fog would assuredly have made racing impracticable in the South on that afternoon. The fog, however, was only sufficient to some- what mar proceedings at New Barns. The feature of the day's racing was the suc- cess—as has been invariable of late—of the top- weights in the important, handicaps. Wnh Soliman. Ebor, and Knight of Rhodes, the heavy brigade more than held their own during the week. Aa was predicted, Knight of Rhodes did not fulfil his hurdle handicap engagement here, which proved the "stone certainty suggested by a crack jockey for the well-handicapped and moderately-penalised Soliman. Escott's stable continued their triumphant career when the Australian Ebor gained the Th Trafford Steeplechase in a trot. His runner- up was Idalus, so those who averred that out for a. tumble the latter would have won at Not- tingham were silenced. The market was very cramped, but the horse's merit j nstified the impetuosity of backers to take 11 to 10 about Ebor in a good class field of a dozen. And this was a handicap, too-th" word implying the imparting of an equal chance to each competi- tor! Enthusiasm, the defeated favourite for the i Countv Steeplechase, was better known on the flat as an erratic plater, and a runaway rail- jumper. at Alexandra Park. Four of the six ioeheys riding in this race bore the names of verr well-known flat race Inrsemeii in BeL. Fnilay, Wood, and Colling, the last-named, of course, being the consummately skilful fiat artist himself. Kibbv. who now rides Mr. Aston s horses, used to live with Gregory when training J^ord Shrewsbury's horses, and many times wore the "S. T." nobleman's colours. Lotus Lily has been so often "placed" in races over this course that, she deserved a win at last. It is noticeable that Bob Nightingall is not impressed—unless it be bodily through his face on the previous day—with Ardcani s jumping abilities, and he has now relinquished t.he mount to Donnelly. Harry Chaloner has again left Newmarket for abroad, to fulfil his engagement, both to ride and train. We wish all success to the youngest member of this noted family of horsemen. It is pel&sing to see Bill Daniels now getting a few rides under these rules, and more than astonishing that his. Gamecock Grand National win has not done more for this experienced horseman. Mr. J. M. Bell—"Jim" Bell to his frierds who ha- been riding in Germany all the sum- mer, won two races. Noiseless, who ran in the Selling Steeple- chase, was once "spirited away" (as her name suggests) clandestinely for a. few day.- from Binnie's stable at Malton. If the owner of Joan of Arc—Mr. J. Wilmot Sit well—does not belie his name, he ought to be a safe horseman.

SPORTING I-ROPHECtES LING FIELD. YrtetiJe Hand-cap Hurdle.—Sportsman."—Ho.-fe- plav or Armitajr?. "Sporting LYe"—Hortljpiliy "Field"—Bnor-arat. cr Midnight Sun. "Land end Wcter"—Horseplay. "Sporting Timet,"—Dissenter or Midnight Sun. New Tear Handicap Steeplechase.—"Sportsman"— LH H, "Sporting Life"—Florendean. "Field"— Car- rinirton or Gauntlet. "Land and Vvuter'—lil II. "Sportintr 'rill}& -Olibø.num. Holly Steeplwliaee.—Sportsman"—Mr Miller's selfeied. "Sporting Life"—Th? Cowan. 'Field"— Argrnaut. "Land and Water"—Scampanio. "Sport- iug Miller's seledod- Tandridge Court "Sporting Life"—Bayreuth. "Field"—Skill cr King Spider. '"Land and Water"—Svengali. Weald Handicap Steeplechase—"Sportsman''— BiiDyohara or Misanthropist. "Snorting Life''—Mav Day" "Field''—Norton. "Land aud Water"—COoori- tiyn. Eden Vale HurdSe Handicap.—"Sportsman"—. Champs d'Or or Annitage. "Sporting Lite"—Caiai- sand. "Field''—I 0 U or Champs d'Or. "Laud and I "tu -Pr,nce Frederick. Blindley Keath Maiden Hurdle I!ace.—Sports- man"—King Spider or Red Kay. "Sporting Life"— M'Alpine. "Field"—Biavo or Pilot. "Land and Water"—Pilot. Iiairanarwood Steeplechase.—" Sportsman"—Bally- Iiairanarwood Steeplechase.—" Sportsman"—Bally- albany. "Sporting Life'"—Settee. "Field"—Settee. "Land ana

AN AMERICAN THIRST. The "New York Journal" tells a storv of a water thirst, stating that all the records" of all the drinlcings known to conviviality or science do not disclose anything to compare with it. It declares that there is nothing aqiocryphftl about this tale of bibulositv. It is taken from the professional notes of a physician who stands high in the medical fraternity throughout the State. He 'himself witnessed this marvellous thirst, saw, during a period of two weeks, bucketful after bucketful of water disappear down the incredibly dry throat of Georsre Sawyer, and one? obsei-ved him put his mouth to a mountain spring, and drink until the water level sank, and left a broad wet band around the brink, just as a receding tide does. George Sawyer, it appears, is not alone in the possession of this remarkable thirst. It is a family belonging, handed down through four generations, and distributed among all the iip- mediote branches, and even to every individual of the Sawyer kin. Unlike other thirsts, it had caused no decadence in the family. The Sawyers are all sensitive about their strange propensity, and ha\e tried coax'unr. threatening, and -even punishment in the effort to keep their children away from the pumpN But nothing has availed. They wouid get up Ln the night when they thought theii fathers and mothers were asleep, and steal out and swallow a few dipperfuls of water, then go I back to bed amd to slepe acain. I back to bed amd to slepe acain.

I Cycling Notes. 1 I JIU. HOOLEY AND ROAD I ? RACING. A New Cyclometer.—-Cycle Skating Performance.—A New Dutch Cycle. (BY iilE ROADSTER.) I The Chiea20 Coliseum is one 0: The largest -buildings in the world, and p-t, according to a1l accounts, there will nOt De nearly enough space for all who wish to ex.hi.bit. It appears that the Birmingham Cycle Show, whicll opeus on the 22nu iyst., will reach such dimensions us to yival the two great London exhibitions recently held. The applications for space have been so numerous thai the number of machines to be shmyn by er.ch exhibitor has been limited 10 fifteen. This wiil giye some id-ea, of how rapidly ih" trade is continuing to progress. Austrian cyclists seem determined to have good roads. At the recent elections at Vienna a candidate was asked whether he would vote to reduce the tax on bicycles and to improve the roads. He expressed himself willing to further these claim*, and succeeded in being elected. Racing cyclists should note that the Licensing Committee of the National c.'yrlists' Union gives notice that all licences issued by it expired on December 31st. and should be at once renewed in case tfue rider wish63 to C'ompete or pace this year. According to rule any rider in future who applies for an amateur licence and is refused, or lIas such licence I revoked for infringement of the amateur definition, cannot obtain a professional one for at least three months, and that period can be indifinitely prolonged by the said committee if, in their opinion, the ease is a bad one. This rule will be most strictly enforced. Persia, in spite of what poets of old have told us. does not appear to he a model touring ground for cyclists. The expuience in that country of the trio of riders who are touring round the world would appear to be rather unhappy. They have found Persia anything but a land of song, myrtle groves, and sweet streams. On the contrary, they found it a barren, mountainous, desert region, with bands of robbers on the frontier, so that for loa miles they had an escort. They were overtaken by the snow, and the exposure, combined with scanty food, sleeping in draughty mud huts, and riding in wet shoes and stockings, after wading across rivers, resulted in serious illness, to at least one of I' them. English and Irish cycling ladies have now I a grand chance to win a nice gold watch and chain! The committee of tiie Dublin Cycle Show have decided to hold a Ladies' Photo Competition. The particulars of the com- pHition are Each lady sends a photo of herself on her bik" in what she considers the most suitable costume, and the lady who in the opinion of the judge (who will be a competent and uninterested one) is the most suitably dressed and graeefully mounted will be awarded the before-mentioned watch. All entries (free) should be sent immediately to W. L. Martin, 14, D'Olier-street, Dublin. I Mr. E. T. Hooky, amidst his all-absorbing ¡ business of maiki-ng millions, has found time I to attend the annual dinner of a cycling club in the neighbourhood of his Long Eaton residence, and to make speeches giving his views on cycling. He said he had never before in public given his opinion on cycle clubs, and he hoped anything he might say would be taken in the spirit in which it was meant. He thought cycle clubs, in the first instance, ousnt not to eonsist of men who were always riding on tracks. After all the letters they had .seen in the papers the last lew days, and considering the doctors' opinions, he was not in favour of track racing. Say now. for in- stance, they started weekly or fortnightly rides, and went to places 50. 40, 30, 20 or 10 miles away, and gave prizes for first, second, andw third he thought it would be very much better for the health of the people that rode cycles and for everybody concerned. They r would see all the different scenery in their country lanes, and would see the architecture of different countries. It would be very much beHer for everybody if tLley eould get them off the tracks, pimply going on the tracks to train, exactly as they would a racehorse. Such country rides would benefit their health, improve their social position, and do them good ail round. While fullv endorsing Mr. Hocley's views on the benefit of riding through the country, ir would be foolish to support his suggestion as to road racing. The police would have a word or two to say on that subject. Ana the road "scorcher" camfot possIbly enjoy the country lanes and architecture. His thoughts seem to be centred on getting over as much ground as possible in the smaiiest space of time. With hL» nose touching the handlebar of his machine he has not much opportunity I of seeing much scenery, save that which I comes immediately under his from wheel. Mr. Ho iley had also something to say about rariway rates. lie thought it was a very great I shame of the.r members af Pariiament that re' presented constituencies where there were many cycle riders did not take up this question and see that something was done to prohibit the railway companies from charging for carrying cyeies when they went as passengers' luggage. Thi" was a very sericus question, and he thought it only wanted placing before their members in a proper light by people connected with the trade, and he thought that very soon there would be a:i alteration. Possibly when there would be an alteration. Possibly when Mr. Hooley finds a seat in the House the altera- tion will arrive. I A eyclometcr registering 100,000 miles has been invented. Would any of my reader- care to test its accuracy up to the full distance'; On a comfortable riding average of 2,000 miles p-r I annum it wouid only take fif ,y ve.,rs to accoin- plLsh. Anyone ready to try? No. Then j let us pass on to the next subject. I An attraction at the National Skating Palace in London is the cycle-skating performance of a young lady. Miss Mabel Davidson to wit. h is ait the N.S.P. that fashionable sociciy ,-kates in frostless days, and the rink is generally well filled with skaters and onlookers at Mise David- son g graceful movements on her cycle skate. The young lady is an American, and she cer- tainly acquits herself admirably on the "artifi- cial" ice. 'Hie cycle-skate differs from an ordinary bicycle in that the front wheel is ab- sent. a set of strong stays being fixed to the axle-holes and crov. a of the front forks. To these a skate of steel is fixed. Mies David- son can ride very fast across the rink. and hEr graceful movements are much admited. I The feat of building a barrel around a bung- I,. hole has been emulated by a Danish inventor, who has just a-rrived in England with a bicycle built on extraordinary hues. And these extraordinary lines, we are to.d by the inventor, have been made nec-a--ary to suit a new seat or siijpport for the 'body. This seat is made of strings of different degrees of tension, running I from a point in front to a cross steel bar giving I the requisite width behind. ] n order to give the right width and form, cross strings are inter- woven. The seat is suspended l>etween two sup- porting points aLout two feet from each other. The fra-me ie constricted on the cantilever principle, and consists of 21 perfect triansrle«. It is the most extraordinary looking machine I have seen. Its weight is also extraordinary. The frame eea; and handle-bars only weigh 41b. the complete machine coming out at 111b. Australian records have lately been a good deal improved L'lpou, aiad they now compare fairly favourably with European times. The principal i'hort-d'sisnce records, ail held by ridei't- of Dun lop tyres, are ?.s follow Quarter- of Dun lop tyres, are ,18 follow Quarter- mile, 26 2-5sec.: halt-mil-?, 5ftsec.; and one mile, 1 min. 51sec Cycle lamps should I^e lit csn Saturday. Januarv 9. not later than 5.8 p.m. 1 Januarv 9. uot later than 5.8 p.m. I

"Yours, Mr. Burglar." A POLICE NOTE FROM A HorSE BEEAKER. I BURGLAR AS POLITE LETTER- WRITER. I T\\o burglaries, 'both presenting unusual fea- tures, were committed in Ealing in the early hours of Saturday morning. The first took place at j6, Nortih Common-road, a largt house occupied by Mr. R. Woodhouse. TtW residence was locked up as usual ov Frict.J night, and with the exception of a nurse, alt the inmates slept soundly till the morning. The nurse was awakened ill the small hour* by unusual noises, but as a cry, "Is anyone iIlt', elicited no response, and the movements ceased she went off to sleep again. In the morning it was found that the place had been forcibl; entered and some valuable property stolen. 1 careful examination of the premises suggest is that what occurred was this:—The burglaat obtained an entrance by lowering themselvef through a fanlight in the conservatory, and. then cutting away the lock of the door between the1 conservatory ard the morning-room- Whila one of them sawed away the lock the other, apparently, sorted over the contents of a tool* cii'sst in the conservatory, and packed up the implements that looked likely to be usefui in future operations. J udging from the dirt and grease oiL the floor the burglars spent some time in the morning-room, but there they only appropriated a handful of cigars. In th* butler's pantry the yexamined the plate, eol-, lectuig all the silver, including some antiqu* silver spoons, and rejecting all the electro- plate. In the kitchen tbey helped themselves to a good meal, and carried away a plum pudding, a roasted pheasant, and the remainll of a turkey. They then appear to have been on their way upstairs, when they were dis*- turbed by the nurse's shout, and Quietly left the house. On the kitchen table was found a slip of paper with these words written oa it :— "With thanks for a good meal. Wishing you a Happy New Year.—Yours, Mr. Burglar." On the same night No. 20. Madcley-road, the occupants of which were all away from home, was entered. In neither case have the police any clue to the identity of the offenders. A daring burglary has been perpetrated at the residence of Mr. Underbill, who lives at 36, Alexandra-road. Wimbledon. It appears that during the temporary absence of the family thieves entered the !ioj:ise by itlie drawing- room window and ransacked the place from top to bottom. They drugged a ferocious dog that was allowed the run of the house, and. after enjoying some beer and fruit, decamped' with ieweilerv to the value of JE10 A number of article* ,y,¡ich had been made up for mo-sal were .ic-ft on the drawing-room table.

On the Stock Exchange MINING (AUSTRALIAN AND INDIAN). Aladdin Laint 1-g- Brnkeii Hill Proprietary Burma £ ab-r £ CkuBpimi Keef 8| Clark's Consolidated '1" Great Boulder 7" Hunpt*n 1'1.ins 2ft Hainan's Browa Hill.„ 6% Kaig-urli ] Lady L»ck 1-^ Londonderry 4 6 Jlawsen's Meazie's Diiuiaj ifj Meazie's Keef Mysore 9 Mysore Goldfielis 20 6 Jferti Boulder 1% K«adydro#s 3% PaxMiufton Ceissois lj Ooreg-um Ordinary 3^« l»o. Pret. Weatwortk Gold Wealtia of Nations 1-j^ White Feither West Australian Finance 4j ,.v l>o Goaifields Kio Tiato 26 MINING (SOUTH AFRICAN). Afrikander Aayelo 36- Baraato Celisols 1 ?6 Baatjes 2 I'd BeckuanaiaBd \J;t Buffeisdoorn 1¡ British S. Africa (Chartered) 2ii City aad Suburb** Comet 1, COB. Gldfieids. S. Africa Def 9% Consort Coasol ? Cresus i;4' Crown Keef 10- De Beer* 29'1' Barsan Koodepoort £ ast.K&»«l 31 Ferreira 19 Geldealiais 3% b". Deep A -;s GleBoaira 2j Graskop 7*6 Hoadersea Traasyaal 2 Heary Moarsc C>!i- Heriot 7rv JayersfonteiB it) Johamiesburs Invest 2ï' it*. Water Jubilee 7% Juaaperf JCleiafontieu 2 li Kierksdorp 9 5 ICaiffht E-% Langiiasigte 4^ Lisboc Berlyn 5,3 Loudon iitta Paris N- Luipaards Viei New 1- Lyd*nburs Estates l¡? 3feashonais,nd Agency 1? May H H 2'1,c Meyer a.nd Cbatlt.&u 5.% Modderfoiiicia 5 £ New PriMn.r0s.-5 4^ Nigel do. Deep \f Consolidated £ Pioneer 9 PetehefstrocBi 10/0 Kaadfontem 2if Kaad Miaes '574 Kietfoateia 2 Kobiasoa t% Salisbury 3 Sheba 2% Simmer and Jaet 5 South Afrieau Gêld Trust 7^ Spes Bona £ Tat; Coacessioa XrKoiSTaiU Go id 5 Vm By# 4 Villag-e Ma-iHresf 5- Vojelstruis 4,^ Wtaaaaer 7J Woihuter 51^ Zaatbesi Exploration 1'l.t

No o'uc wtters to the altar now (remarks a witty writer of the present day). It would not be good form crying at weddings." And ciymg OIl other occasions has certainly gone out al,o-at any rate, crying in public. The modern, woman àües not cry over much; and much if she bas a fit of the blues she goes fox a spiii 00 her bike. Crying is distinctly un- becoming, and the new woman has grasped thi? fact, and knows that more is to be done by smiles than by tears. Flirt as much as you like," says the worldly old woman in a reoent novel, "only never be serious; for if you are serious you oea-e to be fascmatmg. Sc modern women does not cry over much; and the modem man would not at all appreciate the alteration if she did. For it certainly is not becoming!

!??i Too Lato far Classifieatiam. \jn-*Au3k'>;7JKl CO.. 98. QUEKV-ST., CARDIFF, VV ACOOUN TA NTS. £ b to £ 1.000 AD\ ANCKD DAILY. PROMISSORY KOTUR AOlTEPTEP AS SECURl'lY. TOWN OR oorvritY. IMMKDi ATE ATTENTION'. K.B.—Look for name on windows over shop. eE906-l \"i) Friends Depart when you are short of Beadv; fTL Moiipv.—Then write or call on Wallace and Co., SS, Queen-street. Cardiff. e59Q6-2 Ml!, L. liEED, 56. Bailway-sireet, Moors, O&rdift llJ. Advances from £ 2 to £2:) Borrowers receive courteous and prompt att-pnucwi 1'5906,3 'ib Let, Double-fronted Shop, 2<Ut. square; stone baocment; ad jacent to station; near Arcade: loW rpnt —Appiy Fde's, Newpirt. Mon. e9782i7 Wanted, in Neighbourhood of Oathays or Roath, Sliop suitable for Sxnali Coffee Tavern rent is ode- rate.—Apply Y 65, Exp-ess Office, Cardiff. e9774-;A To Let, 21. DUIIJries-placx three reception rooms, seven bedrooms, bath-ronm, lot and cold water: spa- cious kitelWl. Brnoe Vaughan. 19. St, Mat v c'ireet, or 20. Dunvfries-plaee. e9779t6 Eed Band Shirt. Warranty, 12 months' weai guaranteed with Two of our Red Band Shirts. 28. fed each. New ones should they wear out before the 12 month-; reasonable wear expected Thousands sold. Beware of imitations in the neigh hi urh-~od. Jied B&nd Sliirt. 2s bd,-HLAIBERG'f A1?CW.. BLAJREWS ABO.IDE. WATCKMAKEUS. KINGMAKERS, IRACTICAL JEWELLICKS. ri.AlBERP'S ARC*.PE—Watches. BlTAIBER~GrSl^eADE.—K i n^s. BLAIBF.itG 'S~ARCADE^jewe! i-ry. KLATKERfrS ARCADE.—Alberta. _J>. LAIBEHG'S ~AJJCaT>E.—Elcctrc-piate. FXaTpERG'S-ARCADE.—Cutlery." ELAiBERG'S ARCADE. —Clo-xn. };lX!TJ,Pri{G'S~ AltCAO^-y^rr'a: Boxes. ELAIBERG'S ARCADE. I Article*. BLAIlHil^'SF^ARCADEi—Spectacle*. PT-ATBERG'S ARCADE.—Taiioriug. lilAIBKRG'iS ARCADE.—Outfittei*. B1 ATBERG'S ARCADE.—Hatters, Hosiers. Hand- kerchiefs. BLAtBERG'S ARC-ATiE—Shirt-maker*. FLA1 BERG'S ARCADE.—Women's Clothinfr. I LAI BERG'3 ARCADE-—Bedding. FLAIBERG'S ARCADE.—Boots and Shoes. i .LArBERG'SARCADE—ArMy,Md" Railway Clothing. bLAlBCRG S AS0ADE.—fid i* £ UD ohki- elift-