The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

SHEEP ROT-PERIOD OF INFECTION. A correspondent inquiries respecting the alleged peculiarity in the state of rotting lands in the spring of the year, when; sheep may be grazed on them with impunity, while in the i summer and autumn they cannot be used without great risk ot; the induction of the disease. j. It may be observed that the idea of rot being prevalent only in autumn, and not in the spring of ^he year, is of very old date. Youatt—holding, as he evidently did, the view that rot is in a great measure due to the character of the herbage and the effects of miasm-remarks that the disease rairely appears before the end of the spring, unless there is a great deal of wet, and adds that few new cases occur alter November. He explains that this is attributable to the fact that the grass is too yoang and vigorous in the early spring to undergo putrefaction-only a long continuance of wet can so injure the herbage that it will decay and become putrid; and refers to the immunity which sheep enjoy when turned into water meadows in spring, while the same meadows are certain to rot sheep turned into them in the autumn, especially if the land is overstocked; the larger number of animals eating the pasture bare allows the damp sur- face of the ground to be exposed, and the sheep suffer from the emanations, which did not reach them so long as the grass was abundant. To avoid the alleged injury which exposure to the wet ground causes, it is advised that sheep &all be taken into the fold early in the evening, before the dew begins to ^all—or rise-and shall not be released in the morning until the mois- ture has cleared away; the reason for this particular care being that the excess of moisture favours decomposition, and thus Jeads to the escape of deleterious gases, which the sheep inhale. Whatever effect may be produced by the. emanations from marshy grounds and decomposing plants, it is now well known that rot cannot be caused by miasm. The disease is purely a parasitic malady, and the question always is, not what kind of herbage or soil is present, but are the germs of the flake there in such a condition that they will advance to a state of maturity if they are taken into the system of a warm-blooded animal ? It is true that sheep fed on water meadows in the spring do not usually show any signs of rot at the time but, it must be re- membered, some months may be required after the introduc- tion of the embryo flukes before the disease reaches a state of development which would be considered serious. Professor Simonds, in his essay on "rot" which was pub- lished in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society in 1862, remarks on the subject of infection of rot, in reference to the period of the greatest danger, tSi&t a wet autumn will certainly cause rot, but a wet summer is far more likely to do so; and the experience of farmers who have water meadows is that the disease may occur as early as the end of May or the begin- ning of June. Bakewell believed that he could produce rot as soon after May-day as he chose, by flooding and afterwards stocking his meadows. Steenstrupp found numerous fluke nurses, or cercana sacs, in the water in which he had kept some of the common kinds of water snails, and experience would justify the belief that the young and immature parasites commence to become active as soon as the temperature is sufficiently high. An early and warm spring might therefore be more dangerous than a cold summer. Frost is known to arrest the further produc- tion of rot on contaminated lands, most likely by stopping the development of the fluke embryos; but, as the parasites in some of their stages are certain to be present on wet lands at all times of the year, and as their activity depends more on the tempera- ture than the time of year, the experiment of grazing sheep on dangerous grounds at any time must be attended with risk, although in a large number of cases no harm may arise if the ■weather is so cold as to interfere with the progress of the embryo parasites on which the disease depends.-Field.

SHREWSBURY HUNT MEETING.-We hear that efforts are being made ft institute annual races in connection with the popular Shrewsbury Hunt meeting. The canvass made so far has been very Successful, and Lythwood is mentioned as the probable scene of the meeting

THE UNIVERSITY BOAT RACE. Thfi-TTniversitv Font race will take place on Saturday, April 6 Jr *™ *re ucv rood work on the Thames. The follow- ing »TA the latest weiuute < I tbe crews OXFORD. St lb. 1. Wharton, Magdalene 11 it 2. Robinson, New 10 1St 3. Disney, Hertford 12 it 4. Southwell, Pembroke 12 9 5. Crosby-Burrowes, Trinity 12 10 6. Rowe, University 1113 7. Hobart, Exeter £ « Marriott, Brse. (stroke) 12 » Beaumont, New (coxswain) ° CAMBRIDGE. St. lb. 1. Prest, Jesus 11 2. Sandford, St. John's 3. Bird, 1st Trinity 4. Gurdon, Jesus 6. Hockin, Jesus k 6. Fairbairn, Jesus 2 7. Routledge, Emmanuel 12 ° Davis, 1st Trinity (stroke) 12 8! Davis, Clare (coxswain)

RACING FIXTURES. Manchester April 14 Lichfield « Bangor APrU 25

DIVISION OF THE DIOCESE OF LICHFIELD.-On Thurs- day, March 27, a meeting of the committee of the arch- deaconry of Salop was held in the Shirehall, at Shrews- bury, for the carrying into effect the Act of Parliament 41 and 42 Victoria, c. 68, for the division of the diocese of Lichfield and the formation of the new diocese of South- well. There were present Archdeacon Allen, who occupied the chair; Mr. T. H. Sandford, Mr. R. P. Ethelston, the Rev. Canon Pigott, the Rev. Canon Lloyd, Rev. W. Egerton, Rev. R. K. Haslehurst, Rev. A. T. Pelham, and the secretaries, Mr. A. P. Lonsdale and the Rev. E.V. Pigott.—Canon Pigott moved, Mr. A. P» Lonsdale seconded, and it was agreed, that the following resolution be adopted and circulated We, the undersigned, knowing the diocese of Lichfield to be too large for the oversight at one bishop, and being grateful for the pro- vision made for separating the county of Derby, pledge ourselves to do our best to raise the £ 6,000 asked for from the archdeaconry of Salop towards the £ 70,000 which is Quired for tbe endowment of the proposed new bishop- _j3"_Mr T. H. Sandford moved, and the Rev. Canon Llovdseconded, "That all the payments promised shall within a period not exceeding two years—i.e., vT Lilarv 1881" This resolution was also carried, and P^Sk ^C.^C^P^ottf £ 50^ Slshrewbur^ ThfSw& profession are now wdemg, tMbn-fl. Cocoa Essence in thousands of cases, „nv otiier more nutritions and flesh-forming elements tbanmj^other beverage, and B preferable to £ ribiir/s Cocoa ordinarily sold. When you ask for OadDury » Essence be sure that you get it, as shopkeepers oftenp imitations for the sake of extra profit. Makers to the Queen. Paris depot: 90, Faubourg St. Honore. RECKITT'S PARIS BLUE. —The marked superiority of this Laundry Blue over all others, and the quick appre- ciation sf its merits by the public has been attended with the usual result, viz. a flood of imitations the merit of the latter mainly consists in the ingenuity exerted, not simply in imitating the square shape, but making the general appearance of the wrappers resemble that of the iennine article. The manufacturers beg, therefore, to caution all buyers to see Reckitt's Paris Blue on each PAHOLLOWAY'S PILLS.—Good Spirits.—Every one has fre- entlv experienced sudden personal changes from gaiety to "loom. The wind and weather oftentime receive the blame when a faulty digestion is alone the cause of the depression. Holloway's Pills can be honestly recom- n.ipfl for regulating a disordered stomach and improv- ing digestion. They entirely remove the sense of fulness and oppression after eating. They clear the furred tongue, and act as a wholesome stimulant to the liver, and as a gentle aperient to the bowels. They healthfully rouse both body and mind. Holloway's Pills are the best known antidotes for want of appetite, nausea, flatulency, heart- burn, langour, depression, and that apathy so characteris- tic of chronic derangement of the digestion. ROYAL DEVONSHIRE SERGE.—Is the best, the cheapest, most fashionable, and the most durable of any article woven. Th? Queen says it has no rival either in appearance or utility. Tf la made of selected and elastic staple wools produced in T.»W colours and mixtures for the Spring of 18<9; also in light fA,i varns for Summer wear and warm climates. Prices for T^liW wear Is. Is. 11M,, 2s. 3d., and 2s. 9d. per yard. milled'and strengthen^ lor gentlemen s suits and boys' wfJTLw patterns) from 2s. lid. per yard, 54 inches in hard wear ( Fa £ tors cut any iength, and pay carriage on all rVc into London, Dublin, Belfast, Cork, or Glasgow. In parcels "ito which are sent post free, state whether for rSwC^ntlemen's wear. Address, Spearman and Spearman, l -rLILnshire Serge Factors, Plymouth. Special attention ^Hi^Un tha fact that this Firm is devoted exclusively to the J?™oHon ofVure wool materials for ladies' and gentlemen's £ S se?ges sold as used by Her Majesty's Government

MARKET REPORTS. CORN AVERAGES, For the week ending March 29. The following are the quantities sold and the prices this yeai and last year:— QUANTITIES SOLD. PRICES. This year. Last year. This year. Last year. Wheat 42,230 32,503 40s. 8d. 48s. 9d. j Barley. 23,127 22,966 33s. Od. 41s. 5d. Oats 4,417 4,606 20s. 8d. 23s. lid. s Corn, &c. LIVERPOOL, TUESDAY.—The market to-day opened steady Eor wheat, but millers held back, and subsequently prices yielded Id. nji cental. Only a moderate business was done. Flour dull of sale, at previous rates. Peas unchanged. Beans Ld. V cental dearer. Indian corn passed to a fair extent, and ihe tendency of prices was rather in sellers' favour, though they are hardly quotably higher. PRICES (this day). s. d. s. d. American Wheat,$100 lbs 7 9 to 9 8 French Flour,$100 lbs 0 0 15 11 Malting Barley, 3P 100 lbs. 8 2 9 4 Grinding Barley, PS 100 lbs 4 8 6 4 English Oats, 100 lbs. 6 4 8 6 Canadian Peas, 13 100 lbs 6 4 6 5 Egyptian Beans,$100 lbs 6 3 6 7 Indian corn, American new white 4 9 4 9k mixed American. 4 6k 4 8 Malt, pale new English, V quarter 54 0 69 0 LONDON, WEDNESDAY.—The market was inactive. A slow sale for wheat and flour, without alteration in values. Oats, naize, and barley dull, and prices tend in buyers' favour. Beans md peas quiet, but firni.-Arri-als: British wheat, 420 quarters; )arley, 430 quarters. Foreign wheat, 12,060 quarters; barley, L,600 quarters; oats, 10,950 quarters; maize, 24,000 quarters; lour, 7,460 sacks and 9,760 barrels. CURRENT PRICES OF GRAIN AT MARK LANE. Reheat, new Essex and Kent (white) 34 to 46 Ditto ditto (red). 32 43 iVheat, Norfolk, Lincoln, and Yorkshire (red) 30 42 Barley JDhevalier) 36 58 Vlalt, English pale, hew 63 78 ats, feed i 20 24 Li us ( ft7Ag.111) 32 35 Peas, white boilers (English) 34 38 „ (foreign) 35 36 Maize ^2 26 Flour. Town Households, V 21U lbs., 35s. to 40s. MANCHESTER, THURSDAY.—English wheat was in short supply, and brought quite late prices; a moderate trade was lone in foreign, without change in value. Flour in only limited lemand, but not quotably lower. Oats and beans steady. Maize the turn in favour of sellers. WAKEFIELD, FRIDAY.—Wheat met with a fair consumptive lemand, at last week's prices. Barley dull, and rather cheaper. Beans, oats, and maize steady. LIVERPOOL, FRIDAY.—Only a moderate trade was done in wheat, the firmness of holders checking business. The full prices of Tuesday were obtained, and occasionally some ad- vance. Flour ruled steady. Peas unaltered. Beans Id. rd cental dearer. Indian corn in fair demand, at the extreme rates of Tuesday for old, and at id. V cental more money for new mix American. LONDON, MONDAY.—The market was inactive. Slow sale for botli English and foreign wheat, and forced sales of the Latter c.aftld only be effected at less money. Flour very quiet at previous vaiues. Barley and oats dull of sale, and the turn easier. Maize met a slow trade at barely late rates. Beans and peas vuiet, but steady. Little demand for clover seeds, owing to the unfavourable weather.—Arrivals British wheat, 4,383 quarters; barley, 806 quarters; oats, 770 quarters; flour, 16,488. Foreign wheat, 40,764 quarters; barley, 9,574 quarters; oats, 45,150 quarters maize, 19,353 quarters flour, 6,939 sacks and 3,505 barrels. SHREWSBURY, SATU-RDAY. -This market was but thinly attended by sellers and buyers, and the supply of grain was small. Wheat sold readiiy at last Saturday's extreme rates, and barley of good quality also met with an improved enquiry, at former rates. Oats, beans, and peas were steady. Current arices were as follow:— s. d. s. d. White Wheat,$75 lbs (j ,8 @ 7 0 Red ditto; 11 6 0 6 4 Barley,$70 &s 5 « 6 0 Oats3?225 1bs 20 0 22 0 Beans,$235 lbs 18 0 19 0 Peas,$225 lbs. 19 0 21 0 Malt .h. 9 0 9 6 CHESTER, SATURDAY.—.Last week's rates for wheat were current at this market, fine samples of red realizing Gs. 4d.$ 75 lbs. Oats and barley without alteration in value. BRIDGNORTH, SATURDAY.—The following were the prices at this market: White wheat, 5s. 8d. to ÛS. 6d. ;¡j! 72 lbs.; red wheat, old, Os. Od. to Os. Od.; red, new, 5s. 4d. to 6s. 4d. Malting barley, 5s. 4d. 6s. Od. zR 38 quarts; grinding barley, 12s. Od. to 13s. Gd. 40 200 lbs. Beans, 14s. Od. to lbs. od. V 200 lbs. Peas, 14s. Od. to 18s. Od. V 200 lbs. Oats, 15s. Od. to 18s. Od. V 160 tbs. Indian corn, lis. Od. to 12s. Od. 200 lbs. Malt, 8s. 6d. to 9s. 6d. V iuiperial bushel. There was a fair attendance of farmers, millers, maltsters, and others, and a good number samples of wheat and barley was on offer, but business was very dull, trade in every branch of produce being limited to few completed transactions. Last week's prices were, however, tolerably well maintained throughout. WELSHPOOL, MoNDAY.^JVheat, 6s. 9d. to 7s. od. V 80 tbs.; barley, 5s.. M. to 6s.. Od. P 40 quarts; oats,-20s. Od. to 21s. Od.; eggs, 0 to 16 for a shilling; butter, Is lhd. to Is. 5d. W lb.; fowls, 5s. Od. to os. 6d. P couple; ducks, Qs. Od. to Os. Od. '*■ couple; geestf, Os. Od. to Os. Od. each.; turkeys, Os. Od. to 00s. OJ. each; potatoes, Os. Od. to 5s. Od. W 90 lbs. NEWTOWN, TUESDAY (Apr. 1).-Wheat, 0s. Od. to Os. Od. 75 lbs.; barley, Os. Od. to Os. Od.; oats, OOs. to OOs.; eggs, 16 to 18 for a shilling; butter, Is. 4d. to Is. C(l. V lb.; fowls, 4s. 3d, to 5s. 9d. 1JJ couple; ducks, Os. Od. to 3s. ed. i couple; geese, 6s. to 0s. each; turkeys, Os. Od. to 7s. Od. each; potatoes, 8 lbs. for sixpence; beef, Od. to lod. V lb. mutton, Od. to 9X: veal, 6il. to 7d.; lamb, Od. to 00d.; pork, 7d.-to 8d. OSWESTRY, WEDNESDAY (Apr. 2).—The following were the quotations: Wheat, 6s. Od. to 6s. 10d. 40 75 lbs.; barley, 21s.0d. to 23s. 8d. 280 lbs.; oats, 17s. Od. to 18s. fld. :w 280 lbs., butter, Is. 3d. to Is. 4d.$lb.; eggs, 0 to 18 for a shilling; fowls, 5s. Od. to 5s. 6cl. N couple; ducks, Os. Od. to Os. Od.; geese, Os. Od. tu Os. Od. each; turkeys, Os. Od. to Os. 0d. each; potatoes, 16 lbs. t. 18 tbs for a shilling. WREXHAM, THURSDAY.—Wheat, 6s. Od. to 7s. Od. P 75 tbs.; barley, 4a. Od. to 6s. 4d.; oats, 3s. Od. to 3s. 10d.; butter, Is. 2d. to Is. 4d. "0 16 oz.; eggs, 14 to 16 for a shilling; fowls, 3s. 6d. to 5s. 6d couple; ducks, 4s. 6d. to 5s. 6d. 39 couple; geese, 9d. to lOd. tt> potatoes, 3s. 3d. to 3s. 6(1. 90 lbs. Cattle. LIVERPOOL, MONDAY.—There were at market 1,412 beasts and 2,723 sheep. A small supply of cattle on offer to-day, but an increase in sheep. Stock dearer by 20s.$head on cattle and about 4s. on sheep. Trade good. No Spanish or Canadians at market. Country buyers scarce. -Prices.: Best beasts, 8d. to 8jd.$lb.; second ditto, 6,td. to 7 £ d.; sheep, 9Jd. to lid. METROPOLITAN, MONDAY. The general quality of the beast supply was below the average. A few choice animals of selected breeds passed off fairly, but beyond these great dulness prevailed. The British supply comprised 140 Scotch, 200 Irish, 1,700 Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, 760 Midland and Home Counties. The foreign supply was moderate, but prices were difficult to maintain. The sheep market was dull and in- animate. Quotations after to-day will be for sheep out of wool. Brisk trade in lambs. Calves were dearer. Pigs also higher.— Prices: Beef, 4s. Od. to 5s. 2d.; mutton, 4s. Od. to 5s. 10d.; veal, 5s. 6d. to 6s. 8d.; pork, 4s. Od. to 5s. Od. The stock on offer consisted of 3,190 beasts, 13,440 sheep, 40 calves, and 30 pigs; included in which were 390 foreign beasts. BIRMINGHAM, THURSDAY.—There were at market to-day- Beasts 521; the beef trade ruling at last week's prices. Stores 57; for which there was a fair enquiry. Calves 704; anything choice sold freely, and inferior met with a, steady sale. Sheep 539; with a slow trade. Fat pigs 1,208; a good clearance was made.—The quotations were: Beef, 7d. to ¡¡d.; mutton, Sld.' to 91d-; veal, 6d to 9id.; bacon pigs, Os. Od. to 9s. 3d. V score; sows, 7s 6d. to 8s.; porkets, 10s. to 10s. 46d. BIRMINGHAM, TUESDAY.—There were at market to-day- Beasts 303, which met a steady trade. Sheep 8U7; with a slow enquiry. Pigs 143; a clearance made.—Prices Beef, 7d. to 7fd.$lb.; mutton, 8 £ d. to lOd.$lb.; bacon pigs, 0s. Od. to 9s. 3d.$score; sows, 7s. 6d. to 8s.: porket pigs, 9s. Sd. to 10s. 6d. SALFORD, TUESDAY.—The supply of beasts at market was not quite so large as last week, but the quality was very good. A brisk demand prevailed for the best class, at slightly advanced prices. With the exception of a few Danish, there was an entire absence of foreign beasts. In sheep there was a better demand for clipped animals, and prices had an upward tendency. Sheep in the wool sold slowly, but late rates were maintained. A few foreign sheep met with "a good sale, at fair prices. Calves of good quality sold well, but other descriptions moved off slowly. —Quetaiions: Beef, 5|d. to 7|d.$lb.; mutton, in wool, 9d. to 10id.; clipped, id. to 9d.; veal, 8id. to 9jd. SHREWSBURY, TUESDAY.—There was an unusually large show of store stock, which was very slow of sale. Beef was not largely represented, and sold at a reduction from last week. Calves also were lower. Mutton in good condition sold well, aud realized fair prices.—-Beef fetched from 6d. to 7d. ?lb.; mutton, 8d. to gid.; -eal, Oid. to 7id.; porket pigs, 9s. to 10s. 6d. 40 score; bacons, 8s. 3d. to 9s. 6d. LONDON DEAD MEAT MARKET, MONDAY.—The follow. ing were the quotations v 8 lbs. by the carcase: Middling and inferior beef, 2s*. 4d. to 4s. Od.: prime ditto, 4s. 2d. to 4s. lOd.; middling and inferior mutton, 2s. 8d. to 4s. 6d.; prime ditto, 4s. 8d. to 5s. 4d.; veal, 5s. Od. to ,5s. 8d.; large pork, 3s. 2d. to 3s. 8d.; small ditto, 3s. 10d. to 4s. 2d.; lamb, 7s. 4d. to 8s. Od — Under the influence of a large snpply and mild weather, trade this morning was heavy, at reduced prices. Miscellaneous. LIVERPOOL PROVISION, WEDNESDAY. Beef is steady since Wednesday last, and previous quotations are generally repeated. Pork quiet, and lower qualities of new Eastern are quoted 2s. 6d. barrel lower. Bacon quiet, aud prices have declined 6d. to Is.$cwt. Hams and shoulders quiet, at a like reduction. Cheese and butter, especially the latter, were ex- ceedingly dull during the past week, and prices have been some- what nominal: the quotations of butter are lowered 8s. to 10s. cwt. Lard unchanged. IRISH AND AMERICAN PROVISIONS, LIVERPOOL, FRI- DAY.—Butter: The best qualities are in good demand, and holders meet the buyers freely. Quieter, and late quota- tions are barely upheld. Lard 3d. <& cwt. lower. Cheese slow of sale, and medium qualities are offered on easier terms. LONDON PROVISION, MONDAY.—The arrivals last week of sale, and medium qualities are offered on easier terms. LONDON PROVISION, MONDAY.—The arrivals last week from Ireland were 2,938 bales bacon, and from foreign ports 15,93] packages butter and 2,509 bales bacon. The butter market continues to rule slow, buyers take sparingly to supply their immediate wants, and prices generally are in favour of buyers; inferior qualities pressed for sale, and buyers can almost dictate their own prices. Quay price of Dutch about 110s to 112s. The bacon market ruled very slow early in the week for all descriptions except best Waterford sizeable, which maintained last week's prices, but other descriptions of Irish declined is. to 2s., and Hamburg sizeable also 2s. AGRICULTURAL SEEDS, LONDON, MONDAY. Current Prioes:- s. d. s. d. Cloverseed, British, com., V cnvt 60 0 @ 64 0 n Foreign, red 66 0 64 0 „ white „ 76 0 90 0 Trefoil, fine new 26 0 28 0 Ryegrass, British, <P quarter 22 0 24 0 » Italian,$2 cwt 32 0 34 0 Linseed,$quarter 53 0 68 0 Kapeseed 62 0 66 0 new winter 4 0 5 0 Mustard, brown and white 9 0 13 0 i V f,.OTATO, MONDAY.— Sound potatoes went off 1 steadily, but there was not much demand for inferior kinds. The supplies were moderate Victorias 110a to 135s> ton> Regents 95s to 120St Flukes 110s. to 135s. Rocks 65s. to 70s. „ Champions 7os_ to 95s. WORCESTER HOP, SATURDAY. Messrs. Piercy, Long- bottom, and Faram, m their circular, say—Our market is very poorly supplied with hops, and barely sufficient on offer to meet the small demand. When the prices asked are reasonable, good hops command a ready sale, but in some instances holders ask rates that prevent business. LONDON HOP, MONDAY.—Our market continues quiet; the demand for fine hops is good, but medium and low descriptions are slow of sale. The low prices at which yearlings and olds are offered attract the attention of consumers, and a little more business is doing? in them. Mid and East Kent A 0 e5 15 Weald of Kent •••• 0 0. 5 15 Sussex. 1 10 0 0 3 10 Farnham and Country. 3 10 0 0 5 10 Worcester 4 4 0 0 5 12 American 2 10 0 0 4 15 LIVERPOOL WOOL, FRIDAY. The public sales of miscel- laneous descriptions on the 25th and 26th March did not attract much attention, only a very moderate number of buyers having attended them. The principal kinds consisted of 3,026 bales Turkey, &c., 1,855 bales Syrian, &c., 3,228 bales Morocco, 1,718 bales Oporto and Castle Branco, 846 bales Egyptian, and of these only a comparatively small quantity, in the aggregate about 1,9J0 bales, found buyers, at prices without material change from January. The sales of alpa this week consist of 260 bales inferior at 4jd. to 10d., and 300 bales fleece at 12d. and 12id." also 73 bags mohair at 20d. <¡jJ lb.-Qu,otitions: East India white, 5d. to 12d.; yellow, 2Jd. to 10id.; gray, &c., 2Jd. to 8d.; washed Peruvian, 8d. to 13d.; washed Biver Piate, 9d. to 13d.; unwashed River Plate, 6d. to 91d washed Morocco, 9d. to lid.; unwashed Morocco, 4d. to 6d.; EgyptIan white, 7d to 13d.; Oporto fleece, Od. to 10d.; Uiohair Is. 9d. to Is. lOd.; alpaca, Is. to Is. 3d. i. BRADFORD WOOL, MONDAY.—The wool market continues to show more animation, but prices have not further rallied, although the tendency is still against buyers. In yarns, how- ever, there has been a more general enquiry, and considerable stocks oftwofolds and coloured yarns have been cleared at about late rates. But few cheap lots are now to be met with, and spinners generally have advanced their quotations. LONDON WOOL, MONDAY.—Since the close of the public sales there has been very little doing in Colonial wool, but prices have continued firm. As regards English produce, the feeling continues pretty cheerful. More disposition has been shown to buy, and prices, without being quotably higher, have a hardening tendency. Skin wools are in fair demand, and rates are certainly firmer. CURRENT PRICES. This year. Last year. (Per lb.) s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d. FLEECES.—Southdown hoggets 1 (11 to 1 It-l 3 to 1 4 Hali-bredditto 1 0* to 1 l..l 2fctol 3 Kentfieeces. 0 llj to 1 0J..1 2 to 1 3 S. Down ewes and wethers ..1 0 £ to 1 l £ ..l 3 to 1 4 Leicester ditto 0 ll £ to 1 0 ..1 2 to 1 3 1' SOILTS.-Clothing I Ottol 3J..1 5 tol 6 Combing 1 1 tol 5..1 6 to 1 7 WOLVERHAMPTON HIDE, SKIN, AND FAT, SATUR- DAY.—Hides, 95 lb. and upwards, 3id. ¥ lb.; 85 to 94, Bid.; 75 tc 84, sd.; 65 to 74, 2N.; 56 to 64, 2fd.; 55 and under, 2ku. Cows, 2gd. to 2 £ d.; bulls, 2 £ d.; flawed and irregular, 2d.; kips, Od. tv 3d. Horse hides, 0s. Od. to 12s. Od. each. Calf, 17 lb. ami ] upwards, 4id.; 12 to 16, bid.; 9 to 11, 5id.; light, 4id.; flaweo and irregular, 3Jd. Wools, A-l, Os. Od.; A, 6s. Id.; B, 4s. 2 I each. Pelts, A, Os. (id.; B, Os, 0.1. each. Lambs, A, Os. OJ., B, 0s. Od. each. Fat, 2d. to 2 £ d. & lb.—JNO. s>. Arc V, broker Cleveland-street. < ANOTHER REPORT.—Hides, 95 lb. and upwards, Od. to 3 £ d.; 85 ] to 94, Od. to 3id.; 75 to 84, 3d f5 to 74, 2iù.; 56 to 64, id.; o5 and under, 21d. Cows, 65 lb. and upwards, d.; 64 and under, 2gd.; bulls, 2Jd.; flawed and irregular, 2id.; kips, Od. Horse bides, Os. Od. to Os. Od. each. Calf, 17 lb. and upwards, 4gd.; 12 to 16, 5 £ d.; 9 to 11, 5 £ d.; light, 4d.; flawed and irregular, Jd. Wools, is. 6d. to 6s. 0O. each. Fat, 2d. to 2gd.$lb.—THOMAS FISHER, Broker. • BARK, TANNING MATERIALS, &c.-SATURDAY. 4 s. Z a. English, load of 45 cwt. delivered in London.. 14 0 @ 15 0 Ditto, Coppice 6 10 7 0 Mimosa, chopped £ 7 10 @ £ 9. Ground 6 10 12 0 Valonia, Smyrna zCl2 10 @ £17 10. Morea 11 0 14 0 Gain bier, in bales £16 15 @ iel7 0. Cubes. 20 0 23 0 1 Cutch, best Pegu 23 0 27 0 Sumach, Sicily 15 0 16 10 LEATHER.-LEADHALL, SATURDAY. ;o lb. s. d. s. d. Hides, crop, 28 lbs. to 40 lbs 0 11@1 3 Ditto, 40 lbs. to 60 lbs 1 2 1 9 English butts, 14 lbs. to 24 lbs 1 1 2 4 Ditto, 25 lbs. tenths. IS 2 lu Foreign butts, 16 lbs. to 50 lbs 10 2 3 Crop bellies 0 6 0 10i Shoulders 0 9 1 3 Dressing hides, common 0 10 1 5 Ditto, snaved 1116 Calfskins 1 4 6 LONDON PRODUCE, SATURDAY.—Sugar: The market re maius very quiet, without change in prices. Coffee firm, but little business doing. Rice steady at late rates. The cotton market remains very firm. Jute More doing at full prices. Tallow, old 34s. 6d.; new 35s. 3d. on the spot. Oils Rape, 29s. 9d. linseed, 25s. 9d. Petroleum, 7id. to 7. & gallon. Spirits of turpentine, 22s. 3d. Saltpetre steady, at 19s. # cwt. for good Bengal. LIVERPOOL PRODUCE, WEDNESDAY. Sugar and other Colonials continue in limited demand. Nitrate of soda 13s. to 13s. 3d. 40 cwt. Palm oil in sellers' favour. Olive oil quiet, at previous rates. Linseed oil 25s. 9d. to 26s. 6d., in export casks. Rape oil 36s. to 36s. 6d. for refined Stettin. Cottonseed oil, Liverpool refined, 28s. 6d. to 29s. Tallow 35s. to 36s. for North American. Lard slow, at 3Ss. to 33s. 6d. ? cwt. on the spot. Spirits of turpentine 22s. 9d. Ashes, pots, 21s. 6d. Petroleum 8fd. to Sid gallon for refined oil, and 9d. to lOd. for spirit. Rosin, common, 4s. 9d. V cwt. FERTILIZERS. —LIVERPOOL, SATURDAY. -e s. d. L s. d. Peruvian Guano, 10 to 12 am. ton 11 10 0 @ 13 0 0 Ditto, high phosphatic 7 13 3 8 0 0 Sone Ash, River Plate 5 10 0 5 15 0 Superphosphate, 26 to 28$cent., in bulk 2 17 6 3 0 0 Ditto 35 to 37 cent. „ ..4 1 3 4 5 0 Nitrate of Sod,% 0 13 0 0 13 3 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE.—LIVERPOOL, WEDNESDAY. Hay, V cwt. s. d s. d. t V ton. Old 3 7 @4 9 s. d. s. d. New 0 0 0 0 Carrots 0 0 @ 0 0 Straw Turnips 0 0 0 0 Whaat 2 6 3 0 Mangel Wurzel.. 0 0 30 0 Oat 2 3 2 7 Manure 4 6 0 Barley 2 0 2 4 Grass, 20 lbs.00 00 HAY AND STRAW.—LONDON, TUESDAY. s. d. s. d. Prime meadow hay (is ton) 75 0@ 84 0 Inferior ditto 40 0 70 0 Prime clover 95 0 1060 Inferior ditto 80 0 90 0 Straw ($36 trusses) 30 0 „ 35 0

Trade Intelligence. WOLVERHAMPTON IRON TRADE.—WEDNESDAY. The ironmasters' meeting this afternoon was but a quiet affair in respect either of the sales effected or indeed of the purchases which it was desired to make. Pigs were plentifully offered, and offered at prices which, as compared with this time last quarter, should have been tempting; but they were not, for the business doing at the mills and forges is unimproved upon this week. Few works are occupied to half the extent of their capabilities. The subsisting quotations leave a loss, but they are made with a view to keep customers together. MINERAL REPORT.—MANCHESTER, SATURDAY. Messrs. Berger Spence and Co., in their weekly report, say- While there is no material change in the coal trade of this dis- trict, there is perhaps a slightly increased demand for house coals. The increase, however, is merely nominal, and in face of the sustained supplies being brought forward it cannot be ex- pected that it will counteract the downward tendency of values. It may be anticipated that early next month will witness a reduction in price of most of the descriptions of house coals. Slack is not being pressed so persistently, and although no firmer a steady business is being done. Several enquiries are on the market for gas coals, but only as a test of future prices. Engine fuel generally remains extremely dull, and without any anticipated change for the better. Shipments are sustained, but the rates obtained are most unsatisfactory. Brimstone has undergone no important alteration during the week. Con- sumers are chary of buying beyond their immediate wants, and most of them hold fair supplies for present need. Iron ore is in less request. THE CROPS AND THE CORN TRADE. The Mark-Lane Express says:—The inclement climatic change which attended the passing of the vernal equinox has continued throughout the past week, and the spring quarter has com- menced with weathel characteristic of mid-winter. Wheat- growing has of late years become so unremunerative that it is not surprising to hear that the acreage devoted te its culture will probably be considerably less than an average this season. We may, on the other hand, expect a corresponding increased breadth of barley, though it does not follow that the sowing will take place very early. Fanners' deliveries of wheat at the provincial markets have continued on a more liberal scale than might have been expected after the commencement of spring tillage. At Mark-Lane English wheat has been sparingly offered, and all dry lots have commanded last week's prices, though the trade has been devoid of anything like healthy ani- mation. Foi eign wheat has arrived more freely, last Monday's list indicating an arrival of over 40,000 quarters into London, while Liverpool must also be credited with about 63,000 quar- ters. With the exception of oats, which have secured an advance of 3d. to 6d.$quarter, no article has materially varied in value.

IMPERIAL PARLIAMENT HOUSE OF LORDS.—THURSDAY. The Earl of Belmore brought in a measure proposing to give effect to the recommendation of the Dublin University Com- mission, that the divinity school of Trinity College should be transferred from the College to the representative body of the Irish Disestablished Church. The Bill was supported by Lord Plunket, and after the Lord Chancellor had expressed a hope that an opportunity would be afforded before the second reading for the Synod of the Church and the governing body of the University to consider the provision of the measure, the Bill was read a first time. HOUSE OF COMMONS.—THURSDAY. Mr. O. Morgan asked the Secretary of State for War whether it was intended to confer upon the non-commisioned officers and private soldiers, as well as upon the officers engaged at Rorke's Drift, and particularly upon the men singled out for special notice in Major Chard's Despatch of the 25th of January, any distinct and substantial recognition or reward for their services on that memorable occasion.—Colonel Loyd Lindsay said the subject was under the consideration of the Secretary for War.—Mr. Dillwyn gave notice for Monday of a question as to the accuracy of the statement made in a magazine article, by Mr. Archibald Forbes, with reference to direct telegraphic communications be- ween the Viceroy of India and her Majesty the Queen.- In reply to Sir W. Lawson, Sir Stafford Northcote said that Government did not intend this session to bring forward any measure based on the recommendations of the Lords Committee on Intemper- ance.—Replying to the Marquis of Hartmgton, the Chancellor of the Exchequer said it was true that representations with re- ference to a joint occupation of Eastern Roumelia by the Powers who were parties to the Treaty of Berlin, on the retirement of the Russian forces from that province, had been made by the Russian Government to the Governments of the other Treaty Powers. The matter was under consideration, and it would be very inconvenient to make any statement on the subject at present. THE ZULU WAR.-SIR BARTLE FRERE. Sir C. Dilke moved the resolution with reference to the Minis- terial policy in connection with South African affairs of which he had given notice. In a speech ef two hours duration, he re- viewed the whole course of Sir Bartle Frere s conduct in connec tion with the Zulu difficulty, which he condemned,and contended that be had begun an offensive war for which there was no necessity. The hon. baronet went on to argue that the war had been commenced without adequate preparation, both as to the con- dition of the native contingent and in respect of the number of British troops, and yet the man who had begun this war under such circumstances was the man whom the Government eulo- gized as the only person on whom they Olld rely at this juncture, though they had thought fit to tie his hands for the future, and leave him in the position of a whipped child. What security, he asked, would the Government have in the future as to the action of other men in like position, who might have motives of their own for dragging the country into war ? —Colonel Mure followed, with a motion to add to the resolution the words, and that a war of invasion was undertaken with insufficient forces, notwithstanding the full information in the possession of her Majesty's Government of the strength of the Zulu army, and the warnings which they had received from Sir Bartle Frere and Lord Chelmsford that hostilities were unavoid- able." He censured the Government for refusing to send out reinforcements until Lord Chelmsford s urgent representations as to the weakness of his force compelled attention, and also for organising a Zulu force, which was subsequently disbanded. He blamed Sir Bartle Frere for declaring war at a time when Lord Chelmsford represented that his force was insufficient, that force having been strengthened, as Sir Bartle Frere knew, for defensive purposes only. Sir A. Gordon seconded Colonel Mure's amendment.—Mr. Marten defended the Government, contending that the censure passed upon Sir Bartle Frere was sufficient punishment for the fault he had committed, which did not merit the forfeiture of confidence in him.—Mr. Chamber- lain followed, and urged that Sir Bartle Frere's recall was neeessary because of the mistaken policy he had pursued.—Sir Michael Hicks Beach and Mr. Knatchbull Hugessen also took part in the debate. HOUSE OF LORDS.—FRIDAY. Lord Cranbrook, in reply to the Marquis of Ripon, said that the Government had received no information confirmatory of the report published by the Standard that an advance of the British force on Cabul had been ordered. He had no reason to believe that the report in question was correct.—Earl De la Warr moved the second reading of the Workmen's Compensation Bill.—The Lord Chancellor called attention to the fact that a Government Bill on the same subject had been introduced in the House of Commons, and he moved the adjournment of the debate until this measure came up to their Lordships' House, which was agreed to.—The Marquis of Huntly asked if Government in- tended to enquire, by means of a Royal Commission or a Select Committee, into the causes of the existing depression of trade and agriculture.—Lord Norton said that, fo far as agriculture was concerned, the depression was due to a series of bad har- vests while a variety of causes had operated to produce the same result in connection with trade but he was sure that no legislation would ever successfully meet foreign competition. Home energy was the only resource for that. The enquiry asked for would open up, he was afraid, a wide area, give rise to wild theories, and excite anticipations which would never be realized.—After a few words from Lord Forbes, the Earl of Beaconsfieid said that no doubt the lowering of prices had been partly caused by the large influx of gold into the European markets and the depreciation of silver. He did not think the enquiry now asked for would do much good, .though the pro- gress of events might render an investigation necessary with reference to the change h the value of the precious metals and its effect on the national industry.—The subject then dropped; and the Medical Act Amendment Bill having been read a second time, their Lordships adjourned. HOUSE OF CO.Nl'IONS.-Frl DAY. Lord Robert Montagu gave notice that on that day four weeks he would call attention to Lord Salisbury's despatch of the 26th of January, and move a resolution regretting that the treaty en- gagements with Turkey, entered into by this country in con- nection with other Powers, in 1856, had not been fulfilled.—Sir G. Campbell gave notice that, in committee on the East India Loan Bill, he would move to reduce the amount to two millions, and to limit the application of the loan to the purely temporary purpose of meeting drafts on India.—In reply to Mr. W. E. Forster, Mr. Stanhope said that no information had been re- ceived at the India Office up to that morning from the Viceroy, and the news previously received by the Government did not at all tally with the statement published in the columns of the Standard that an advance of the British forces upon Cabul had been ordered.-A new writ was ordered for Longford, in the room of Mr. O'Reillv, appointed an assistant Commissioner of Intermediate Education in Ireland.—The debate on the resoiu- tionof Sir C. Dilke with reference to the policy of the Govern- ment in connection with affairs in South Africa, was resumed by Mr. Hanbury, who urged that Sir Bartle Frere's ultim::tum to Cetewayo was a reasonable one, that the late Government had neglected the defences of Cape Colony, and that Sir Bartle Frere was the only man who had induced the settlers to co-operate for defensive purposes. To recall him from his post at the present juncture would be a most impolitic act, and he urged the House to support the Government in retaining him in office.—At:. L. > .ve followed, contending that the only course open to the Govern- ment was to recall the High Commissioner. There was no pre- cedent for continuing in office a high official whose proceedings had not only been repudiated by the Government, but who had been personally so severely censured. Not being able to find his documents, the right hon. gentleman apologized to the House, and suddenly resumed his seat.—Sir R. Peel supported Sir C. Dilke's resolution, urging that it was impossible to acquit Sir Bartle Frere and Lord Chelmsford of rashness and of a direct violation of orders which had precipitated events that had greatly moved the feelings of the people of this country.—SirC. Russell defended Lord Chelmsford, whom he believed to be wholly irresponsible for the Isandula disaster, which he would ret retrieve if he had fair play. The Government were according tlim that, and he was supported by the confidence of his Queen. -The debate was continued by Mr. Evelyn Ashley, Colonel Chaplin. Mr. W. James. Sir H. Holland, and Lord Colin Camp- tjell, and was again adjourned. HOUSE OF LORDS.—MONDAY. The Premier intimated that it was the intention of the Sovernment to ask the House to adjourn for the Easter holi- lays on the 4th of April, and to meet again on the 21st.-The Earl of Cadogan. in reply to Earl De la Warr. read a ieleeram from Sir Bartle Frere, dated from Maritzhurg on March 11, but it contained nothing that has not already been published in the newspaper telegrams beyond an expression of minion that Cetewavo's brother, Oham, seemed to have effec- tually broken with him, a defection which the Governor re- jarded as very important.—Lord Dorchester asked if it were true, as was stated in a Natal newspaper, that Colonel Pearson's column went into Zululand with only one military surgeon to two full batallions of troops, and whether the Army Hospital Corps were composed of lads, about whose want of nerve and jxperience the doctors had complained. -Lord Bury gave a dis- tinct denial to both statements, and explained the organization sf the medical staff.—An important return was ordered, on the notion of the Duke of Somerset, showing the quantity of meat, beef or mutton, imported from the united states, in tons or jarcases, during each month, from February, 1878, to January, Lg79_—Their Lordships adjourned at 5-45. HOUSE OF COMMONS.—MONDAY. Private members had a larger number of questions than ordinary, but few of them possessed much general interest. In mswer to Mr. Onslow, the Chancellor of the Exchequer stated that the negotiations with the authorities of Afghanistan had not been broken off.—The debate on the motion of Sir Charles Dilke, which involves a vote of censure upon the Government in reference to the conduct of affairs in South Africa, was re- sumed by Mr. Courtney, who warmly condemned the policy of Sir Bartle Frere, and said it must be evident to every one that the High Commissioner was the man to extend the authority of this country by all kinds of iniquities, and with a total disregard of the honour and interests he affected to promote.—Lord Sandon, who energetically defended the Governor General and Lord Chelmsford, asked the House to sacrifice party feeling, and determine that nothing should induce them to trample upon the fair fame and noble feeling of men who were serving their country with might and main in a dis- tant patt of the world.—After this point the debate flagged con- siderably, for only minor speakers rose whom no one cared to hear, until Sir W. V. Harcourt gave some animation to the pro- ceedings with a vigorous attack on the Government.—Lord Hartington expressed his regret that the military conduct of the campaign had been drawn into the debate by the amendment of Colonel Mure, who, he hoped, would see that it was not the disposition of the House to mix up the military question with the question of policy, and would therefore withdraw his pro- posal.—After Sir Stafford Northcote had replied, the amend- ment was withdrawn, and the House divided on Sir C. Dilke's motion, which was rejected by 306 votes to 246-a majority of 60 for the Government. HOUSE OF LORDS.—TUESDAY. The Lord Chancellor presented a Bill for the institution of local bankruptcy courts in Ireland, the object being to give Ireland the same benefit of local bankruptcy jurisdiction that was possessed in England by means of county courts.—Lord Cottesloe moved for a statement of the trade of the United Kingdom with the United States of America for the years from 1873'to 1878, in continuation of the'annual statement of trade for the year 187, as presented to Parliament in June, 1878. She returns would show that in 1877 our imports from America were £77,835,000, and our exports only £15,253,000, while the gross trade showed a balance against us of 172 millions. He hoped the United States would see the advantages of recripo- city, because while it was the manufacturers of the North that benefited by high prices, it was the interest of the producers of the South to have free trade.—Lord Henneker had no objection to the production of the information asked for, and the motion was agreed to. The House adjourned at twenty-five minutes to six o'clock. HOUSE OF COMMONS, TUESDAY. In reply to Mr. Richard, who asked whether there was any truth in the announcement in the public journals that an ulti- matum had been sent last week to the Resident at Mandalay, demanding that the British Resident should be received at Court without the ceremony of approaching the King without boots that a British cantonment and garrison be established at Maudalay that no Europeans be employed there without the British sanction; and that all the existing monopolies be abolished also whether it was true that General Gore, com- manding in British Burmah, had applied for 5,000 more troops, and whether this was granted, Mr. Stanhope said his noble friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, was in constant commnuication with the Viceroy of India and he had informed him that there was nothing to lead him to suppose that anything of the sort had taken place, and he (Colonel Stanley) was surprised at both the rumours mentioned by the hon. gentleman. -Mr. P. Taylor gave notICe that on that day week he would ask the Under Secretary for India whether it was true that in the small state of Mysore, 4,000 persons had been subjected to corporal punish- ment for offences during the past year.—In reply to Sir Julian Goldsmid, the Chancellor of the Exchequer said he was in- formed that the Colonial Secretaryifhad received no com- munication to the effect that a serious disagreement had occurred between Sir Bartle Frere and Sir Hy. Bulwer. as to the treatment of the native levies.—Replying to Sir R. Peel, Col. Stanley said Lord Chelmsford's plan of campaign against the Zulus was not submitted to the military authorities at home in the usual form which that expression involved. The military authorities were, however, cognizant of the memorandum Lord Chelmsford had attached to the despatches, and they saw no reason why they should in- terfere with, perhaps, imperfect knowledge in the discretion of the general officer on the spot. With regard to the future, he had no reason for believing that Lord Chelmsford's general view was changed, and he considered the circumstances would be exceptional that would justify the Home Authorities in inter- fering with the plans of the general officer in command.— Mr. R. Yorke called attention to the foundation and manage- ment of Wellington College, and moved an address for a royal commission to inquire into the origin, objects, and administra- tion of the College, and report how far the same administration was consistent with the conditions under which public subscrip- tions were obtained, and to advise her Majesty as to the best m,eansofcarryingout the original objectsofthe institution.—Mr. Gladstone opposed the nppolD tment of a royal commission, believ- ing that any necessary inquiry might be achieved by other means. —General Shute quoted the opinions of military authorities in praise of the Collee.On a Uvision the motion was rejected by 67 to 60—majority against, 7.—The House went into Committee on the Hypothec Abolition (Scotland) Bill. The Bill as amended passed through Committee.—Mr. Rodwell moved the second reading of the Relief of Insane Poor Bill, under which it is proposed to establish infirmaries for the re- ception of harmless pauper lunatics and imbeciles, with the view of reducing the present cost of their maintenance, and of relieving the strain upon the accommodation afforded by the county lunatic asylum.—Mr. Salt, on behalf of the Government, assented to the second reading, on the undertaking' that the Bill should be referred to a Select Com- mittee.—The second reading was agreed to. and the Bill ordered to be referred to a Select Committee.— Mr. Rodwell moved the sccond reading of the Licensing Act (1877) Amendment Bill, which provides that no new licences shall be granted, except on the presentation of a requisition fromtht inhabitants of the district, satisfying the Local Autho- rity that the licence is necessary to supply a public want.—Mr. Cross said the Bill was a step in the right direction, and he hoped it would pass into law. The measure was also sup- ported by Mr. Serjeant Simon, Mr. Wheelhouse, and Mr. Mark Stewart, and the second reading was agreed to.—On the order for going into Committee on the Education of Blind, Deaf, and Mute Children Bill, the House was counted out at 10.40. HOUSE OF COMMONS.—WEDNESDAY. Mr. Mundella's Municipal Corporations (property qualification abolition) Bill came up for discussion in the House of Commons on Wednesday, on the motion for the second reading. Its object was to abolish the property qualification required for members of municipal corporations, towns commissioners, Boards of guardians, select vestries, and all local governing bodies, and in this respect to place England and Ireland on an equality with Scotland. It was urged by the supporters of the Bill that Government, having done away with the property qualification of members of Parliament, might well remove the last vestige of such a qualification for other bodies, especially as in the case of School Boards—the last public body created by Parliament—no property qualification was deemed necessary, nor wa it insisted that members of such Boards should be rate- payers in or residents of the particular district, for which they were elected. The Bill did not propose the repeal of any proper disqualiifcation, such as b:1Rkruptcy, or the receipt of pauper relief. It was urged as II striking anomalv that a man who should be thought fit to sit in the Imperial Parliament and assist in making the laws of the country, should not be deemed competent to sit in a town council and administer matters of drainage. The motion was supported by Mr. Chamberlain, Mr. Cowen, Mr. Hibbert, Mr. Burt, Mr. Rathbone, Mr. Stansfeld, &c., and opposed by Mr. Wheelhouse (who moved its virtual rejection), Mr. Marten, Mr. Assheton, Mr. Newdegate, and Mr. Salt (on behalf of the Gov- ernment). Their arguments were to the effect that the larger ratepayers would be swamped by the new element it was proposed to introduce, whereas it was essential that due provision should be made for the representation of property; and that it was not desirable to remove the present safeguards to local government until some idea could be formed as to bow those institutions would be affected by the change. On a division, the motion for the second reading was rejected by the narrow majority of six, the voting being 167 for, and 173 against. Mr. M'Laren moved the second reading of his Bill to ensure a proper audit of accounts in joint stock banks in Scotland, to the principle of which Mr. Cross promised his support, but the debate had to be adjourned.

THE AFGHAN WAR. REPORTED ADVANCE ON CABUL. f The correspondent of the Standard at Calcutta tele- graphed on Thursday that Major Cavagnari had reported to the Viceroy that his negotiations with Yakoob Khan for peace had hopelessly failed, and that Lord Lytton had ordered General Browne to make an immediate advance on Cabul. Lord Cranbrook, however, stated in the House of Lords on Friday, in reply to a question, that he had received no information confirmatory of the Standard correspondent's report, and he had no reasoa to believe it to becorrect. ATTACK BY TWO THOUSAND AFGHANS. DEFEAT OF THE ENEMY. A telegram from Lahore, dated March 31, states that on the 27th March a small force, under Major Hum- phrey, was attacked at Sherawak, in the Pishin Valley, by nearly 2,000 Baretchi Afghans. The enemy were de- feated with a loss of sixty killed, including two Malliks. There are no casualties on the side of the British. Five chiefs have since surrendered to the British authorities. THE NEW AMEER. The following is furnished from the London office of the New York Herald:—Tashkend, March 13.—This morning General Kauffmann has received a letter from the chief of the last Afghan Embassy, stating that most perfect order reigns in Afghanistan, so far as the authority of the new Ameer is concerned. Yakoob has decided to carry out the intentions of his father, and prosecute the war to the last extremity against the English. A telegram from the Viceroy of India, dated 1st April, 1879, says Jthat Sandeman reached Thull on the 27th March. Mr. Fryer goes with supplies from Leghari. Barkau to meet Biddulph. Two sappers, who were es- corting camel men with forage, near Candahar, were at- tacked by robbers, but drove them off, killing two and wounding one. One sapper and two camel men wounded. General Browne reports some excitement among tribes about Jellalabad, Futtabad, and Karbagh. Being threat- ened by unfriendly tribes, he has sent small forces there. Cavagnari left yesterday ior Jellalabad. A DISASTER. General Browne reports from Jellalabad that a squadron of the 10th Hussars, in attempting to cross the Cabul River on Sunday night, missed the ford and were carried away by the current. A lieutenant and fifty men are missing. Sixteen bodies have been recovered. The Standard's correspondent at Lahore telegraphs that the negotiations with Yakoob Khan are not nominaUy broken off, but his last letter remains unanswered. In the best informed circles there the ostensible motive of the despatch of troops to Futtehabad and Charbagh, that the tribes in those neighbourhoods threaten to harass the inhabitants friendly to the British Government, is not believed to be the real cause, the advance being meant to demonstrate toYokoob Khan that our troops will certainly march upon Cabul when the passes are open, which he at. present appears to disbelieve.

THE ZULU WAR. The mail steamer N-^anza arrived at Plymouth on Thursday, March 27. fron" Capetown, bringing details of the news ef which a. summary was telegraphed from Madeira on the arrival of the steamer there. Lord Chelmsford had decided not to attempt the relief of Kkowe till the arrival at Natal of reinforcements. It had officially announced that on February 18 Colonel Pear-son had sufficient provisions for his troops for at ieat six weeks, and that mealies in the neighbourhood were alrea .y ripe enough to be used by the native portion of the force. Lord Chelmsford, in addressing the troops at Fort Pearson, said the British force at Isandula would have been-suffi- cient to repulse 20,000 Zulus had they been kept together. Further correspondence relating to South Africa was issued on Thursday. The despatches chiefly relate to transoort. On November 25th last Lord Chelmsford writes to the Secretary for War that the guarantees de- manded of Cetywayo aijf necessary for the peace of South Africa. He cannot whether they will be accepted or not, but in the event ot their non-acceptance, an advance into Zululand would be absolutely necessary. This despatch was received in London on December 27th. THE GARRISON AT EKOWE. The News correspondent supplies the following telegram, dated Pietermaritzburg, March 11:—"A messenger is in from Ekowe. He was chased a great part of the way to the Tugela. The garrison is well. The Zulu army is said to be collecting round Ekowe. Communication has been established between Ekowe and Fort Tenedos by means of mirrors. There is no further news. The mail steamer Taymouth Castle arrived at Madeira on Saturday night, with despatches from Capetown to the 11th of Marth. No important change had taken place on the Zulu frontier since the Nyanza left. Her Majesty's ship Shah had landed at Dtfcrban 500 troops from St. Helena, and the troopship Tamar had also arrived at Durban with the 57th regiment from Ceylon. When the Nyanza left Capetown, hope of an early collapse of the Zulu resistance was founded on the overtures made by Oham, Cetewayo's brother, for submission to Colonel 1 Wood but it is now stated that these overtures were a mere ruse to cover the retreat of the forces of the chief into Swazieland. The rumours which had been current that Cetewayo had sent messengers to Pietermaritzburg to sue for peace are denied. An unsuccessful attempt had been made on the 10th of March to communicate with Ekowe; and there had been a slight skirmish between some raiding Basutos and a colonial force. All was quiet in the Transvaal. THE FIGHT AT RORKE'S DRIFT. The Pall-Mall Gazette has published an account of the fight at Rorke's Drift from wlách we extract the follow- ing:— It now became qusk. Zulus crept up nearer and nearer. Under cower of tlfe bushes and long grass they were able to get within five yar of the hospitsj without being seen. From this point, in parties of fifteen to twenty, they repeatedly attacked the end room of the hos- pital. They made these attacks in the most deliberate manner, advancing after the manner of their dancing, with a prancing step and high action; they cared nothing for slaughter, but endeavoured in the most persistent manner to get over the barricade and into the hospital. Many times, seven or eight at least, Lieutenant Brom- tead, collecting a few men together, had to drive them off with a bayonet charge. Then they would retire, and all of them in chorus shout and strike their shields. Our men cheered in answer, and let them have it. There was plenty of ammunition. After the first half hour there was no waste. How deliberate and telling the fire was may be gathered from the following incidents. Private Joseph Williams, a young Welshman, under two years' service, had a small window in the hospital to shoot from. Next morning fourteen dead warriors were counted out- side his window, and yveral more down his line of fire. As soon as his ammunition was all expended, he and the other men with him defended the door of the room till the enemy by sheer weight of numbers forced it open. Poor fellow, he was seized by the hands aud arms, dragged out, and assegaied and mutilated before the eyes of his com- rades. Another instance—Private Dunbar, the same man who shot the chief on horseback, was posted to watch the hill. As the Kaffirs streamed down from their right, this man, also a Welshman, and of less service than the above-mentioned, shot eight of the enemy in as many con- secutive shots. Lieutenant Chard was standing by him as he did it, and the bodies were found heaped one on the other next morning. "The names of those who especially distinguished them- selves must be mentioned. Privates John Williams, Henry Hook, William Jones, and Robert Jones, all of the 2-24th Regiment, had been posted in the hospital. They defended the house, room by room, to the last. None of them had a round of ammunition in his pouch when they left the burning building, and it was entirely owing to their bravery that the last of the patients escaped. Cor- poral Allen and Private Hitch must also be mentioned for their courageous work and assistance. Badly wounded early in the evening, and incapacitated from firing them- selves, they never ceased going round and supplying ammu- nition from the reserve to the'fighting men. "It was a gallant defence. The young soldiers stuck together, backed each other up, and fought splendidly. They never wavered for a moment. Most of them Welsh- men by birth, by a few months of drill and training and infusion of esprit de corps, they had become the best and pluckiest of Warwickshire lads,' and gloriously kept up the traditions of the old 24th. It was of the utmost strate- gical importance that this place should not be captured. It may also be said that the safety of the remainder of the column and of this part of the Colony delWlded on the result."

LLANBRYNMAIR THE FAIR.—The March fair was held here on Monday." March 24th, and was well attended by Midland graziers. There were not so many store cattle as usual at this fair, owing to the number that were bought up last autumn. Nearly all the store cattle changed hands at good prices, and the fair was considered a good one.

CAERSWS PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY, MARCH 31.—Before J. P. Davies, W. H. Adams, and Offley J. Crewe Read, Esqrs. Appointment of Overseers and Constables.—The overseers for the several parishes and parochial constables for the division were appointed. Sunday Amusements.—Richard Lewis, William Jehu, Edward Smith, Edward Morris, Edward Lewis, and Edward Morgan, all ef Caérsws. was summoned by P.C. Pearson for kicking a Sootball on the turnpike road between Caersws bridge and Maeemawr Level Crossing on Sunday, the 9th of March.—After hearing the case the defendants were let off on paying 9s. each, costs, and re- ceiving a good reprimanding from the magistrates. A Dangerous Dog. — John Edwards, of the Stone Factory, was summoned by Sarah Hicks for keeping a dangerous dog, which bit her little boy.—The magistrates ordered the dog to be kept under proper control, and the defendant to pay the costs. Assault.—Edward Watkin, of Henfryn, was summoned by William Watkin. of Llanwnog, for an assault.—As the summons was served on Saturday, the case was adjourned to the 14th of April.

LLANIDLOES CHARGE OF POCKET PICKING.—At the Borough Police Court, on Monday March 24th, before the ex-Mayor (R. Jones, Esq.), Thomas Pearce and John Hall, were charged by P.C. Lewis with being in Llanidloes fair on the paevious Saturday for the purpose of picking pockets. The officer's suspicions had been aroused by the conduct of the defendants ami he bad locked them up. They were discharged with a caution. COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS, THURSDAY, MARCH 27.—Before R. Woosnam and T. F. Roberts, Esqs. Appointment of Overseers.—Overseers of the poor were appointed for the parishes of Llanid loes Llangurig, and Trefeglwys. Appointment of Constables.—Parish constables were also appointed for Llanidloes, Llangurig, and Trefeglwys. Drunkenness.— Police-constable Edwards charged Hugh Evans with this offence in Llangurig.—Fined JE1 and costs.

MEIFOD LENTEN SERVICES.—I enten services have been held at the Parish Church every Wednesday. Oa March 26th, the Rev. D. R. Thomas, vicar, officiated. There was a fair attendance. TEMPERANCE MEETING.—On Tuesday evening, March 25th, a branch of the Church of England Temperance Society was established in Meifod. when a large audience assembled at the National Schoolroom, and about fifty persons joined the society. The Rev. D. R. Thomas, M.A., Vicar, was elected president of the society, and Mr. Parry, schoolmaster, secretary the remainder of the evening was spent in discussing the rules and other routine business. LECTURE.—On Monday. evening, March 24th, a lecture was given at the Methodist Chapel, by the Rev. E. Griffiths, C.M., pastor of the chapel, on the histories and relative connection of India and Afghanistan. Mr. Ed- ward Jones, Pentrego, was voted to the chair. The Rev. lecturer gave a brief history of the two countries, dwelling for some time on the present war between India aud Afghanistan, and expressed his conviction that it was un- called for. The admission was free, but the audience was not so large as might have been expected. The lecture was delivered in Welsh. The meeting terminated with the usual votes of thanks.

PONTROBERT AMATER CONCERT.—On Friday, evening, March 28th, an amateur concert was given at the National School, under the presidency of the Rev. D. Ll. James, vicar. The following took part in the proceedings:—Mr. D. A. P. Hughes, National Schools, Llauerfyl; Mr. J. Griffiths. Llangyniew School; Messrs. E. Griffiths, A. Pickstock, and J. M. Pugh, Meifod. Appended is the programme song, "Twr Babel," Mr. Pugh; song, "Tooralooralooralee," Mr, E. Griffiths; song, "Y cynghor carwriaethol," Mr. Pickstock; song, "The rifles of old England," Mr. Hughes; song, "Dyna'r dyn," Mr. J. Griffiths; song, "The price of coals," Mr. Pugh; song, "Johnny don't wriggle the baby," Mr. E. Griffiths; song, "They all have a mate but me," Mr. Pickstock; song, "Little sweetheart come and kiss me," Mr. Hughes; song, The country squire," Mr. J. Griffiths; song, Sessiwn yn Nghrymu," Mr. Pugh; song, One-cry two-cry," Mr. E. Griffiths; song, "Oh George, tell me if you love me," Mr. Pickstock; song, Mr. Hughes; song, Mr. Pugh; duet, Dau hen lane," Messrs. Griffiths and Pugh; National Anthem." Mr. D. P. Hughes sang extremely well. Mr. J. Griffiths gave complete satisfac- tion in his interpretation of his two songs. The singing of Messrs. Pugh, Griffiths, and Pickstoek needs no comment, as they are very well known in the locality and are always willing to give their services at such meetings. ■ Their performances elicited hearty applause from the audience. The spacious schoolroom was well filled, and the proceeds were for David Morris, an aged inhabitant of this parish. The singers gave their services gratuit- ously. The concert closed about half-past nine, after the l usual votes of thanks, with the National Anthem."

[ LLANDINAM > A RUN AFTER A RED HERRING.— During- the past week well-known paekofhoundts met at Llandinamforthe purpose of hunting a fox. Unfortunately Mr. Reynard was not, to be found. Our gallant sportsmen, however, would not r be done They procured a, red herring from a. local grocer's store for a "drag." A well known runner started F for a three mile race across the Lilandinam mountains, time being allowed to enable the herring to get to .ground before the hounds were laid on. Considering their ignorance of what they were pursuing, they went at a wonderful pace. There was some splendid fencisg. # A well-known old grey mare from the neighbourhood carried her rider well to the front, and a foreigner oa a fine going donkey was not much to the rear. r~ 1 iiiMWi;'

NEWTOWN NEWTOWN A\D LLANLLWCHAIARN HIGHWAY BOARD. The ordinary monthly meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday, April 1, when therewas a full attendance of way- wardens. The representatives of the press were respect- fully informed by the vice-chairman that they would not be admitted into the room, as it was intended the meet- ing should ba a committee meeting of the whole body prè:-ell t.. SEKVICE OF SOG.-On jdnesday evening, March 26, a service of song, illustrative cf the life of David, was given in the Wesleyan Chapel, Penybryn. The choir were conducted by Mr. W. Francis, and were accompanied on the organ by Miss S. J. Jones. The Rev. W. L. Wingell, superintendent minister, made some introductory remarks, and the Rev. S. Snowdon conducted the devotional portion of the proceedings. The choir went through the service very efficiently. NEWTOWN AND LLANIDLOES UNION.—ELECTION OF GUARDIANS.—The following gentlemen have been elected Guardians of this Union. There were no contests:— Aberhafesp, Edward Lloyd Bettws, Edward Morgan. Carno, Andrew Davies; Kerry, Edward Morris and Pryce George Hughes; Llanllwchaiarn, James Hall and Thomas Pryoe; Llanidloes, John Smout,Thos.Williams and Wm. Russell; Llangurig, John Baxter Owen and John Rhys Pryce Llandinam, Thomas Lewis Pryce and David Davies; Llanwnog, Edward Jones and David Lloyd; Llanwyddelan, John Thomas; Llanllugan, John Nutting; Manafonj Richard Jones; Moughtrey, Evan Woosnam Savage; Newtown, Richard Bennett, John Hall, and Cornelius Morgan; Penstrowed, Thomas Francis Trefeglwys, Matthew Henry Davies and John Evans Tregynon, J olm Pryce. LOCAL BOARD ELECTION.—The following were the re- tiring members of the Board:—Messrs. E. Rowley Morris (chairman of the Board), Thomas Turner, Edward Jones, John Hall, and Richard Pryce. The two first named are the only members who were re-elected.—The new mem- bers are Mr. William Francis, Mr. Thomas Jones, and Mr. George Humphreys. There was no contest. Mr. Humphreys occupied a seat on the Board a few years ago. LOCAL BOARD.—A special meeting of the Board was held on Monday evening, March 24th, when there were present Mr. C. Morgan, who presided; Messrs. John Hall, Edward Jones, George Morgan, Edward Woolley, T. E. Issard. T. Parry Jones, Edward Edwards, and W. Cooke (clerk). The meeting was called by the Chairman (Mr. E. R. Morris), for the purpose of coming to a decision with reference to letters read from the engineer and three contractors, viz., Mr. Mackay (of Swansea), Mr. Green (of Swansea), and Ir. Davies (of Wrexham). All these gentle- men offered to carry out the sewage scheme for the amount stated in their tenders.—Mr. George Morgan, after hearing the letters read, proposed that another meeting should be called as early as possible to rescind the resolution arrived at at a previous meeting. —Mr. T. E. Issard suggested that they sheuld rescind the resolution, and take the lowest tender.—Mr. Edward Jones, as proposer of the resolution at the previous meet- ing, said that if such information had been at hand as at present they would have taken the lowest tender.—On the motion of Mr. T. E. Issard, seconded by Mr. Edward Jones, notice of motion was given to rescind the resolution. —The meeting was fixed for the 2nd of April. POLICE COURT, THURSDAY MARCH 27TH.—Before R. Lloyd, Esq. Stealing Pork.—Richard Edwards, a tramp, was charged with stealing 51b. of pork from the shop of Mr. G. E. Birch, butcher, Horse Market, Newtown, on the previous evening.—Evan Pryce, a carpenter, stated that he was passing Sir. Birch's about nine o'clock on Wed- nesday evening, and observed the prisoner come out of Mr. Birch's shop and take from off a board outside a large piece of meat. He watched the prisoner for some minutes and then returned and told Mr. Birch, who ac- companied the witness to a yard in New Church-street, where they found the prisoner with the meat under his coat. Mr. Birch asked him where he got it from and what he was going to do with it, when the prisoner stated that if Mr. Birch would not say anything about it he would give him four times the value of the meat. In- formation was at once given to the police, and the prisoner was locked up.—Remanded. PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, MARCH 2S.-Before R. E. Jones, Esq., J. C. Bayard, Esq., J. H. Blythe, Esq., and R. Lloyd, Esq. Overseers, (be. — The lists of overseers and parish constables for the parishes of Newtown, Llanllwchaiarn, Aberhafesp, Mochdre, Bettws, and Tregynon, were presented. Poaching. -J no. Bywater, dyer, Tregynon, was charged with poaching on land belonging to Lord Sudeley on March 13.—John Felinder, gamekeeper to his Lordship, called Jnl). Davies, who said he saw the defendant about five o'clock on land in the occupation of Daniel Williams, in the.parish of Tregynon. Saw him take a hare out f a wire and re-set the wire.—Fined 20s., and 9s. costs, in default 14 days' imprisonment. Drunkenness.—John Bywater, the same defendant, was charged by P.C. Owen with being drunk in Broad-street, Newtown, on March 19, and was fined 2s. Gd., and costs. SCHOOL BOARD, FRIDAY, MARCH 28th.-Present: Mr. George Thorne (chairman), Mr. James Hall (vice- chairman), Messrs. Alfred Ford, Clement O. Ray, Richard Williams, Richd. Lloyd, Mrs. Howell, and Mr. Edwd. Powell (clerk). After a conversation about pupil teachers and a new newspaper for the use of school children, which it was decided to order for a while, Mr. Ford called attention to the question of prizes, and gave figures to show the number of children on the regis- ter, and the attendances in 1877 and 1878. The number on the register in 1878 was 636, and the average attend- ance 368. The increase in average attendance of 1878 over 1877 was nearly 9 per cent. In 1877 out of an average attendance of 336, 174 gained prizes; in 1878 out of an average attendance of 368, 173 gained prizes, but if the children had done as well as in 1877 the number should have been 190. He was therefore sorry to say the prize system he had proposed had not had the effect desired, and he did not know whether it would be desirable to con- tinue it. Perhaps it would be best to continue it for another year on the same terms, and he felt inclined to propose this. Conversation followed, and it was remarked that the attendance was not what it ought to be. No definite resolution was arrived at. Mr. William Lewis, attendance officer, resigned, and it was decided to advertise for a successor. A motion to in- crease the salary from J340 to £50 was rejected. TEACHERS' SALARIES. The three teachers, Mr. W. Cooke, Mr. F. Cooke, and Mrs. Chapman, applied for an increase of salary, and a long discussion ensued on the CHAIRMAN'S proposal that £10 be added to each of the salaries, which up to the present time stood as follows :—Mr. W. Cooke £150, Mr. F. Cooke, JB120, and £10 for sewing, and Mrs. Chapman £98. Mr. W. Cooke, according to the proposal, was now to re- ceive JE135, and inhabit the new house rent free. The CHAIRMAN said it was an understanding that Mr. F. Cooke was to receive an increase of salary if the school was successful, and the results were highly satisfactory— some £30 in grants over last year, and more than double the sum received when he came. Mrs. Chapman's would be increased on the same ground. The increase in the grant and fees she collected was JB40. Mrs. HOWELL seconded the motion. Mr. RICHARD WILLIAMS said he was very sorry he should have to move an amendment. He thought it was so very recently they had made an increase, and that it was premature, to say the least, to bring the matter on again, especially in the present state of trade. More than that, he thought they were already paying higher salaries than almost any other School Board in the king- dom. According to a table he had seen, in the Elemen- tary Schools the average was £117, London Board Schools JE132, other Board Schools J3118. They, therefore, already paid their principal teacher a good deal more than the average in any of these schools. As to the schoolmistress, the average was—Elementary Schools, £69; London Board Schools, £102; other Board Schools, £77; so that, with the exception of London, they paid considerably more than the average of other places. Now the Board paid Mr. Cooke JB150, which was j618 higher than the average of London School Boards, and £32 higher than the average of Board Schools throughout the country, and J633 higher than the average of other schools. Mrs. Chapman's salary was £26 higher than the average in Elementary Schools, not quite so much as the average of London, and £18 more than the average of other Board Schools. Mr. Frederick Cooke's was also higher than the average and in addition they gave them one half of the grant to the pupil teachers, and he did not think that was done throughout the coun- try, and that should be taken into account. What be said was they could not afford to pay more. They must take the average attendance into account in paying salaries, and the average attendance at Mr. W. Cooke's school was about 103, so they paid him 30s. a head. Mr. Cooke was an excellent master, and might be worth more, but with a small and decreasing school he (Mr. Williams) objected to this proposed increase. He should propose that the question be postponed until after the inspection, when they would see the results. He thought that the onus rested upon the Chairman to prove that the increase was necessary. He had given the Chairman proof that they were paying higher salaries than the average throughout the Kingdom, and it was for the Chairman to prove the contrary. The CHAIRMAN—The grant and fees collected are more than the salary, so that it does not matter so much to the ratepayers. Mr. C. O. RAY thought they ought to take the question on the ground of the efficiency of the schools. The CHAIRMAN said he went on the ground of efficiency, and maintained that the schools were far above tha average of the kingdom on the percentage of passes. The VICE-CHAIRMAN urged that the Board were bound by their promises to increase Mr. W. Cooke's and Mr. F. Cooke's salaries; and that Mrs. Chapman well de- served all the encouragement they could give her though he deprecated going too far in the way of increasing salaries. Mr. FORD supported Mr. Williams, and said he was surprised the discussion had been brought on that evening and at that late hour. The CHAIRMAN said he did notdispute Mr. Williams's figures, but he maintained that the schools were far above the average. There were many teachers getting their £ 300 a year, and the Inspector's report and the Blue Book showed that the Newtown Board Schools ranked far above the average. They would not burden the ratepayers, but pay out of the increase of grants. The average salaries were no criterion at all. Mr. WILLIAMS-OUr schools are small compared with some schools where there are 500 scholars, and I think the question of efficiency is only one factor to be taken into account, and that we should take the average of salaries in schools. Tbe CHAIRMAN—We are above the average, and,'there- fore, our salaries should be above the average. Mr. RICHARD LLOYD said Mr. Williams should have taken schools in towns like Newtow* and made a com- parison, and he would then have found that they had never been paying more than they ought to pay. They should give their children a good education, and pay for it. If they found their schools steadily increasing they ought steadily to increase the salaries of their teachers, and if they did not do it they were not doing justice towards the teachers. Mr. FORD said he could not see that the case had been made out. It was the lamest case he had ever heard in his life. He never heard such a thing in his life. The amendment was then put to the meeting. Ford and Mr. Williams only voted for it the other fare members voted for the motion, which was accordingly d iS1.L^1kve notics tt.t ho would move the Clerk's salary be increased £10. This concluded the business.

BETTWS iMvL whi dfrf -a. M«oh 22- Th. decwd bM O,. „f a^hnnlmsLster m the village for a penoa of ntty- jive years, with the exception of one year, whieh he spent at Tregynon in the same capacity. He was winniiur theplKand during the French w» £ of this century, was a member of the Xooai corps commanded by Captain Colley.