The Cardiff Times

PONTYPRiDD AND SUNDAY CLOSING. A public meeting was held at Penuel Chapel, "ontypridd, on Tuesday evening, for the purpose °f passing resolutions upon the operation of the •bove act. The Rev. E. W. Robert?, D.D., pre- yed, and the following were amongst those PYesent --Tiie Revs. W. Lewis, pastor of Penuel; Davies, J. Davies,Taehirion Edmund Davies, Morris, Sardis J. Pugh, P. David, J, Rees, W. Parry, J. Richards, Tonypandy Josiah Roberts, Rhydyfelen W. 3f. Jones, Mr J. J. Griffiths, Penyfraig Mr Robert Thomas, solici- tor. The attendance of the public was not large. After singing and prayer, The CHAIRMAN, in opening the proceedings, ttad a letter from Mr D. Russell, who said he ivould much have liked to be Dreient to show his sympathy with the hevs. W. J. Morris and J. Pugb, bet unfortunately he was confined to the bouse with a severe bronchial attack. The first thing to be considered, he went on, was the corres- Sndence which had passed between Mr Pugh, Mr Morris, and a local solicitor in respect to » step Which the former had taken some time ago. The Correspondence had been handed to him after he Came into the chapel, and he now asked whether they wished it to be read. The meeting having signified their desire to hear the correspondence, The Rev. J. PUGH, who was received with Applause, read letters which had passed between Messrs Morgan and Rhys and himself after "hich the Rev. W. A. Morris read letters which he had received from, and written to, the solicitors toamed. The Chairman then called upon The Rev W. PAKBT, moved the first reso- lution as follows:— That this meeting expresses its entire approval of the course recently taken by the Rev J. Pugh and the .r.e,. W. T. Morris in connection with the operation of the Sunday-closing Act in Pontypridd, and desires to l'ecQrd its great satisfaction with their firm resolution, Unflinching and manly conrage, in face of the late threatened legal prosecution by the Pontypridd Magistral es. Mr WILLIAM JOSES, who seconded the resolu- tion, expresed his admiration at the manner in ^hich Messrs Pugh and Morris had met their opponents. He hoped that from this time forward tompprance men would come more tothe front. If they would do so, and he ready to advocate their Principles, magistrates would be more careful of their duties than they had been in the past. Whatever might be the outcome of that meeting, Mr Ilugh and Mr Morris might rest assured that they would find hundreds ready to back them up. After Mr DANIEL WILLIAMS had supported the resolution in Welsh, it was put to the meeting and carried unanimously. The Rev. W. LEWIS (Penuel) moved, in Welsh, the second resolution That this meeting, while expressing its satisfaction at rbe wproved state nf things in the town of Ponty- pridd since the attention of the authorities has been caLed to the gross violation of the provisions of the -Still, ial*-Cl,,si!ig Act in the locali y, is convinced that tauch yec remains to be done, and therefore sincerely hopes that they w.ll spare no effort to further exercise the power vested in them to secure for the iuhaoitants »f the town and district the full oenefit of the said act In common with their countrymen elsewhere. -'I r JOHN THOMAS seconded the resolution, also 111 Welsh. Tiie resolution was passed, and Tue Rev. W. THOMAS (Hafod) proposed the following resolution :— That this meet:ng strongly recommends the forma- tion of a vigilance committee, in order to assist m carrying out wuh greater efficiency the provisions of the Sunday Closing Act in the town 3nd district of Pontypridd. The Rev. W. F. JONES seconded the resolution, tnd it was carried, as well as a vote of thanks ro the Chairman for presiding, proposed by the Rev. Mr PCGH, and seconded by the Kev. J. DAVIES tTaebirion), I

STABBED IN A STRUGGLE. At Ystrad police-court, on Monday—before Messrs I. Williams and J. Davies Sarah Jane Griffiths was charged with wounding Richard Davies with a knife. Prosecutor was a pedler, and lived at Sandy Bank, Heolfach. He co. habited with prisoner. Last Wednesday night, between nine and ten o'clock, be went home and bad a quarrel with prisoner, in the course of which be caught hold of her around her waist, from which dangled a pair of scissors. I11 tuft •truggle they both fell on the floor. Then he felt a pain in his heart, and upon examination found bis shirt blood-stained.—Replying to the bench, prosectiior now said that he did not think prisoner stabbed him, but she said after the struggle, Serve you right," or some- thing like this.—Sarah Ann Butler, with whom the parties lodged, said that she heard prisoner say that she was sorry she had pot finished prosecutor, and that if she had had a knife she would have stuck him in the heart with it." Prisoner walked about the bouse like a mad woman, and went towards prosecutor-, and tried to stab him with a knife. She also tried to stab witness. P.C. Lewis said that when he arrested prLoner she said, I was bound to do Bomething as he had me by the throat upstairs, and nearly choked me." She was then under the influence of drink. The scissors were found on her. Dr. Charles Parry (Heolfach) said that when he saw prosecutor he was in bed. There was a small wound on his breast between the fourth and fifth rib. It was nearly an inch deep. A small artery had been cut. At first witness feared internal bleeding would set in, and prosecutor was sent to Pontypridd Union hospital, Pri- ioner, addressing the bench, now said, NVe were both in drink; we had been drinking since seven s'clock in the morning." The bench sent prisonev lor trial at the quarter sessions.

LADDERS. — Ladders for builders, painters, I plastei-e rs, farmers, private use, &c., all sizes, at Cottrell's old-estabibhfd Manufactory, Barr's-street Bristol. 12691 No BREAKFAST, NO MAN," is an old saying hut those who cannot make a hearty mornitigmeal will find Cadfeury's Cocoa a pure, retmed beverage— somfortins;, exhilarating, and sustaining. Beware of Imitations. 11141 -FL.OKLI.TNJC FOB THK TEETH AND BKEATK.— ¡ A few drops of the liquid lloriline," sprinkled on a wet, tooth-brush, produces a pleasant lather, which thoroughly cleanses the teeth from all parasites or im purities, hardens the gums, prevents.tartar, stops de ray, gives to the teeth a peculiar pearly whiteness, and ftdelishciul fragrance to the breath. It removes all unpleasant odour arising from decayed teeth or tobacco Ioke. The Fragrant Floriiine," being composed in I part of hosfcj aiid stveet herbs, is delicious to the taste, ftnathe greatest toilet Úi3cûv:r:: o. £ the age. Price 2s 0, vt all Chemists and Perfumers. Wholesale wot < Faxringiton-road, London 1313

ON THE TIN-PLATE TRADE. In the industrial history of South Wales there are few more noteworthy features than the development of the tin-plate trade. For a decade the manutacture of tin-plates has been pushing its way silently out withal rapidly into the forefront of our industries. Many South Walians have only just awakened to a consciousness of the magnitude of the tin-plate trade, and they survey the young industrial giant with something of that bewilderment and awe which the unexpected apparition of a colossal genii inspired in the halcyon days of Haroun al Rasehid. That the manufacture of tin-plates has become one 01 our staple trades is evident, for the tact that it gives employment to between 12,000 and 15,000 persons, and that the aggregate production last year represented a value of nearly £ 6,000,000. The up growth of this industry into importance has exerted a beneficent influence in the southern half of the principality. It has re- lieved the density of the labour market, and has been a potent factor in that diffusion of comfort, that elevation of the standard of living which has been so notable a characteristic of the working classes of South Wales during the last fifteen years. The industry partakes, to some extent, of the character of a monopoly, as it is practically, notto say exclusively, confined to South VVaies. At the .same time it would be unwise to calculate upon the continuance of immunity from foreign competition. Vigorous efforts have from time to time been made to invade the precincts of this monopoly, and it would seem that these efforts are about to be rewarded with success. Mr J. H. Rogers, managing partner in the iirtn of Messrs Morewood and Co., LJanelly-a gentle- man than whom noone is better qualified to speak authoritatively on the subject-has recently given I expression to the belief that the apprehension of foreign competition is not fanciful. Speaking at Llaneily, he is reported to have sa*d Hitherto we have had the trade entirely in our Hitherto we have had the trade entirely in our own hands. There are signs that we are not going to be permitted to do so much longer. I believe it to be a fact that machinery lor the manu- facture of tin-plates in Spain is now being made in this town (Llanelly). Few of us are dis- posed to associate with the Spaniard those virtues without which industrial success is im- possible." Only a few months ago this gentleman was approached by an Italian with a view to estab- lishing a company for making tin plates m Italy* ) But handicapped in a variety 01 ways as M INCU Italy and Spain, it would be the merest pessimism to conjure up visions of a time when they can hope to compete with us with the remotest pro- spect of success. Far more serious is the possi- bility-or shall we say, the probibility-of competition from the United States. It would seem that by far the greater portion of tm plates are exported to America. The total exports from this country last year were 6,943,500 boxes, of which the United States took the enormous proportion of 5,450,000, or nearly 4-5ths. What, inquired Mr Rogers, would Le result if I America made her own tin piates" It would mean theutter collapse of the trade in South Wales. "People think," he added, that America will not for many years, never, pernaps, makes her own tm plates, and that she will have plenty of demand for her steel and iron for the purposes of other manufactures, which would pay better. Tin, however, has been found in Iowa, and large capital is being expended, with the object of working it on an extensive scale. Speaking to an American gentleman tne other day as to the prospects of competition in our trade, he assured me that we were nearer such a contingency than we have ever been before." It is impossible not to see the force of these observations. The idea of transatlantic competition is not a visionary one but with judicious management on the part of manufacturers, and a true appreciation of the principles of political economy on the part of workmen, we shall probably be able to hold our own with the Americans even in the American market. The tin-plate strike at Pontymister Tin-plate Works, Risca, terminated on Saturday, and work was resumed on Mondaymornicg after a deadlock of four months' duration.

THE COLLIERS' WAGES COM- MITTEE. A meeting of the sliding-scale joint committee was held at the Angel Hotel, Cardiff, on Tuesday. Sir W. T. Lewis occupied the chair, md the otaer representatives of the owners present were Messrs Edward Jones, C. B. Holland, Archibald Hood, E, P. Martin, and W. GaBcoigne Dalziel (secre- tary). The men were represented by Messrs W. Abraham, M.P. (vice-chairman), John Jenkins, Isaac Evans, John Morgan, Phillip Jones, J. Simmonds, and Lewis Miles (secretary). Several matters of a private nature having been dis- cussed, the meeting proceeded to the consideration of a suggestion thrown out by the vice-chairman to the effect that the joint committee should draw up an address for presentation to her Majesty the Queen, congratulating her on the attainment of the jubilee year of her re;lgii. The suggestion was approved of, and it was resolved to put it into effect.-At the annual meeting of the Mon- mouthsbireand South Wales Coalowners' Associa- tion, held at the Angel Hotel, Cardiff,on Tuesday, Mr Edward Martin presiding, Sir Wm. Thomas Lewis was elected chairman of the association for the ensuing year, and Mr Colquhoun, of Tredegar, vice-chairman for the same period. The tonnages for which the members stand insured for 1887-8 wera considered, when it was found that for the ensuing year the 55 associated firms represented a quantity of 12,653,412 tons. Proposals for the introduction into tiie association of the important undertakings of the Nantmelyu, the International, and the Glyn Colliery Com- panies, and aiso the collieries managed by the executors of the late Mr Beddoe, were accepted. The other business was of no public interest. —The annual meeting of the Cardiff district branch of the association was held subsequently, presided over by Mr Heroert Kiikbouse. At this meeting Mr William Thomas (Brynawel) and Mr £ M. Hann (Aberaman) were unani- mously elected chairman and vice-chairman re- spectively for the enfuing year.

IllEGAL DISTRAI T AT CADOXTON. At the Cardiff County-court on Tuesday — before Judge Owan—Edward May, a small shop keeper, of Cadoxton, sued John S. Bomaab, pawnbroker, of Penarth, for JB50 for illegal distraiot. Mr A. J. David, barrister (instructed by Mr G. David), appeared for the plaintiff Mr T. H. Belcher for the defendant.— The plaintiff stated that on the 10th Feb. last be rented fiom defendant a shop at Cadoxton at a rent of 7s per week. He did not live at the shop, but resided in Bear-street, Cadoxton. Having a fortnight previously told defendant that ha was going to move from Cadoxton on the 10th Febru- ary, a carrier was taking his furniture in a van to Penartb, where be intended to live when H WT- afc the instance of the plaintiff and removed to the pre- mises of Mr Bradley, auctioneer, where it was sold, but bought in on witness's behalf He admitted that at the time of the seizure he owed defendant Jb6 odd, rent for the shop. The furniture se zed had never been in the shop and he had never removed auytbing from' the shop. In cross examination, the plaintiff admitted that there was an execution due against him at the time he removed the furniture.—James May, son of the plaintiff, corroborated, and said the whole of the goods were taken from the private house and not the shop, as did also Alfred Payne, the driver of the carrier's van. The defenaant was next called, and declared that he had seen some of the articles seized in the shop. —Cross-examined, defendant admitted that he could only speak to a scale as having been taken from the shop. William Bradley, auctioneer, who sold the goods that had been seized, said the sale had been well advertised.and the art clea realised good prices. The ap- I praisement by the sheriff's officer was JE12, and they realised £ 13 18s lOd. — Mr Belcher admitted the illegal seizure, but con- tended that the fair value was realised at the sale, I and. that that value was the full amount of damages.—The learned judge said he considered that the price realised at, the sale was a fair value for the goods seized. The only other question was as to the damage the plaintiff had sustained by the distraint, which was entirely illegal. He would give judgment tor 230, which he considered an ample sum to cover anything.

BRAVERY AWAHDS AT NEWPORT. Afc, Newport Tcwn-hall, on Tuesday, prior to t bUsiness of the monthly meeting of the council, the Mayor made presenta- ™ra-Xety afc sea t0 Mr M. H. Eills P- H. Leach (mate), and Albert Cor- rnt p r>n^ f the steamer Oipulet, of Liverpool. S,?^ «Wa8in the North Atlantic on a voyage from Swam for Philadelphia on the 29th £ pr ,8 a;m> ^e crew sighted the French brig Sainto Anne, of Cette, in a dis- masted state, flying signals of distress. The steamer at oce bore down on the wreck. It was found tnat the main mast and foretop were gone, and ohe boats stove in. The Capulet's life boat was lowered, and a volunteer crew, con- sisting of the chief mate and seven seamen, put off to the brig, which was sinking. Owing to the heavy sea running at the time, caused by a south- west gale, great difficulty was experienced in getting off the crew ot nine men; but after three 6 hours' effort, they were all rescued although as the lifeboat wis hoisted up in the davits, it was also stove in. The crew Were in very exhausted condition owing to the exposure, but receiving every kindness from their rescuers they quickly recovered, and were landed at Phila- delphia. The French Governmeut, in recognition of these sei vices, awarded the master a binocular glass, a silver medal of the first class to the mate, aud silver medals of the second class to the life- boat crew-A. Corden, R. Teesdale, 0. Jones, James J. Laugiilin, W. Chambers, W. Cregle, and W. Norris. The master, mate, and Corden attended, and the Mayor. addressing the recipients, eulogised the bravery of British seamen, who were, he was ttroud to remember, always ready to risk their lives to save those of men of other nationalities. (Hear, hear.) Alderman Jacob added some remarks, the presentations were then made, and all three recipients expressed their thanks.— Mr T. Porteous, superintendent of the local mer- cantile marine, expressed the thanks of the Board of Trade to the mayor, and the proceedings ended.

TRUSS.—Merrjtks Patent Suspension; no steel springs; no hard pads Pamphlet, with testimonials post free.—Keevil, Chemist, Clifton, Bristol. 11112 SCALES, COFFEJC MILLS, CAXISTEES, GICOOICKS and confectioners' fittings of every description. A large stock of second-hand, goods on sale. Parnall and Sous, complete shop fittora. Narrow Wiue-rtreet, Bristul. „ 12501 i

FALL INTO A CELLAR AT CARDIFF. £15 Damages. At the Cardiff County-court on Tuesday — before Judge Owen—Mary Gould, wife of a labourer living at 4, Havelock-street, Upper Grange, sued Messrs Thomas Evans and Co., grocers, of Bute-road, Cardiff, for JB50 damages for injuries sustained by her in falling down a cellar on defendant's premises, the ap of which was left open. Mr A. J. David, barrister, (instructed by Mr G. David) appeared for the plaintiff; Mr Arthur Lewis, barrister, (instructed by Messrs Morgan'and Scott) for defendants. Plaintiff, who seemed still suffering from the injuries she sustained, was given a seat in the witness-box, stated that on the 26th January last she went into defendant's shop to purchase some bacon. After she bad been engaged at the counter about five minutes she turned round to leave, and after advancing about a step fell down a trap-door which had been left open, but which had not been observed by her. In her descent she fell against some barrels or something of that kind, and hurt herself very much. She crept up on her bands and knees, and went into a draper's shop next door, where she fainted. She was then taken to Dr Mullins, under whose care she had been ever since. She had suffered a great deal of pain from the injuries, and bad been unable to follow her usual work.—Cross-examined, she denied that she had been engaged at the wash- tub since the accident. None of the plaintiff's assistants in the shop warned her'of the cellar flap.—Dr Mullins said after the accident he examined plaintiff at her home. She was suffer- ing severely from shock, and there Was an abrasion and a cut on the legs. He examined her again on the following day, and found bruises on bOtb hips and also on the legs. Her sides were also hurt. She was subsequently confined to her bed for a week. Her previous health had not been good,* and she suffered from an ulcer on one of the legs. She had almost recovered from the effects of the accident, but owing to her previous condition she was in a weak state. For the defence, John Lock, assistant in defendant's shop, who served the plaintiff with the bacon, said the only other customer in the shop at the time was a little boy. Plaintiff had been warned of the trap-door on coming to the counter. After the accident be asked her whether she had not heard one of the assistants say to her, "Please hiind the trap," but she said she had not.—John Davies, another assistant,' said that seeing the plaintiff standing near the trap after she entered the shop, he warned her about it, and she said," All right."—The learned Judge, however, held that the trap-door should have been protected in some way, and that proper warning was not given. He gave judgment for the plain- tiff for £15 and costs.

ALLEGED BACING SWINDLE AT COWBRIDGE. 1' At the Cowbridge police-court, on Tuesday— before Mr J S. Gibbon (chairman), Colonel Tyler, and Mr R. J. Bassett-Alfmi Beake, of 16, Caroline-street, Cardiff, shoemaker and Charles Lake Rico, otherwise S. F. Randell, of 16, balis- •bucv-road, Cardiff, plumber. were summoned by Oscir Hurford and James George, stewards of the Cowbridge Race Committee, for obtaining B15 bv false pretences.—Mr McLachlan (from the office of Mr H. Cousins, Cardiff) appeared for the prosecution, and Mr G. David defended.-Oscar Hnrford deposed that he was financial secretary and trustee to the Cowbridge Races, held on 31st Vi™ 1P,% The usual advertisements and pos- ters were issued. One of the latter (produced) showed the conditions of the races. He prepared a book shewing the various races with the entries. One of HIP r'-ces advertised was as follows The HuvrERS' FIAT RACE of 20 sovs winner 15 soV seco H 5 for bona tide hunters, being the pro- pertv of eentlemen residing in the county of Glamor- Ean?and which have been fairly 12st 7ib winners once 71b extra:, twK:e l21b half-bred horses allowed 71b entrance, to the fund. The entry produced was signed by S. F. Randell. It was the entry of a mare named Lady Bella in the said race. The mare won the race. Witness afterwards received an objection from Mr T. Thomas, the owner of the horse that ran second. Inconsequence of that objection, a certificate of the mare having hunted with a pack of hounds was asked for. One was even- tually produced, signed by Mr H, Lewis. Greenmeadow, to the effect that the mare had been hunted with the Pentyrch nounds during 1885-86. In consequence of that he sent a. cheque to Randell. From a communication reo ceived later, he stopped paymentofthecheque. The cheque was subsequently paid to the holder (a man named Newman) after proceedings had been taken in the matter.-John George corro- borated this evidebca.-Mr Henry Lewis, of Greenmeadow, said when he gave the cert^ncate produced, he was under the mi press: oni that was another animal. He had never seen the mare named Lady Bella out with the Pentyrch Hounds in. the season 1885-86.-Johu Manes, a groom, having given evidence, the bench ad- journed the case for a week.

NEATH TOWN COUNCIL The usual monthly meeting of the Neath Town Council was held at the Guildhall on Monday afternoon. The Mayor (Alderman Rowland) pre- sided, and there were also present the ex-Mayor (Councillor T. Phillips), Alderman Charles, and Councillors R. Bartlett, J. Davies, D. Davies, John Rees, J. B. Davies, and John'Arnold.—The Surveyor (Mr D. M. Jenkins) reported that Messrs Thomas and Cox had completed their contract for the ventilation of the Town-hall, and their account (£27 10s) was presented and passed. —In accordance with notice, Mr Edward Davies moved: "That cattle market bye-law No 8, pro- hibiting sales by auction, be altered by adding the words 'except cattle and live stock, which paaybe offered for sale by auction after one o'clock p. m. on market and fair daysrand at any time on otherdays. Mr J. B. Davies said he would second the motion it the mover would substitute two o'clock for one, —Mr John Kees thought it was a stupid thing to make a resolution at one meeting d rescind it at another. In his opinion the bye-law should remain as it was.—The motion, upon being put to the m&eting, was carried, Mr Rees dissenting, —A deputation of townsmen waited upon the council, and presented a memorial, signed by over 300 burgesses, asking the council to institute two flannel fairs a year in the town. It was suggested that the first should be held in October next. The memorialists were of opinion that it would be a great boon to the working class, who at present had to incur great expense in going to Llangyfelach. They also thought it would be a great benefit to the town.— Mr W. H. Hunkin and Mr John vans (two-'of the deputation) spoke strongly in favour of the proposal, stating that it would undoubtedly prove of great advantage to the towiI, In reply to questions by the mayor and others, the deputation said the fairs were certain to be well patronised, and that Tuesdav would be the most convenient day for holding the same.—Alderman Charles said that the general market would be fai prefer- able to the cattle roarkst, and suggested that the fairs should be held a short time, before those at Llangyfelach.—The Mayor informed the deputa- tion that the matter would be considered at the next meeting, when no doubt they might expect opposition on the part of the flannel manufac- turers in the town.—The matter was ordered to be placed on the agenda. for the next meeting.

DEATH FROM BURNS AT CANTON. At the Cattle Market Hotel, Canton, Car- diff on Monday afternoon, Mr E. B. Reece, borough coroner, held an inquest touching the death of Ellen Moore, the infant daughter of Wm. Moore, labourer, residing at 45, Halkett-street, Canton. Julia Moore, mother of deceased, stated that between 10 and 11 p.m. on the 26th ult., she went to bed taking a child, who had only recently been born, with her. There was a lire in the room, and on a. piece of lath protruding from the bed was an unlighted candle. Witness fell asleep, but was suddenly roused by finding the bed clothes in a blaze. She called for assistance, and her cries attracted the attention of a Mr Thompson, who lives opposite. The latter put out the fire, but not before the deceased bad been badly burned about the face and head. She believed the fire must have been caused by her little boy, who slept in the room, getting up and lighting the candle. The fire-grate was three yards away from the bed. Dr. Evans attended the injured child, but, notwithstanding the precautions taken it died on Saturday evening. William Thompson, marine store dealer, Halkett-street, corroborated the statement of the previous witness as to his coming to her assistance and stamping out the fire. The lad was in a sheet of flame, and Mrs Moore seemed to be quite overcome by the smoke. The little boy who was sup- posed to have lighted the candle was lying in another bed, and he also appeared half-suffocated. No other evidence being forthcoming the jury returned a verdict of Accidental death," the coroner remarking that it was providential that Mr Thompson had come so opportunely on the scene. But for him Mrs Moore and her other child might have also lost their lives.

TRUSTEE SA VINGB BANKS. The Press Association understands that the conference between Mr George .HowelJ, M.P., and certain members of the Governmeut on the subject of trustee savings banks wilIprobabij take place next week. The meeting will be at tended by tbe Fir.,t Lord of the Treasury, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir Rivers Wilson, the Registrar of Friendly Societies, and either ie Postmaster-General or the Receiver and Ac- countant-General. Mr Howell has prepared and ™^riTdJt?.these Bremen a memorandum, iu n en fie defines three points on which Govern- £ necessary to Protect depositors and taxpayers. Flrsts that trustee savings banks be prohibited from advertising themselves as Go- vernment security'■ 0r "National aecurity banks. Second, the trustees shall be made re- sponslble. m fact as well as in name, for the fnT ? Ji entrusted to their officials. Third, that the interest allowed to trustee banks should not exceed the sum legitimately accruing from their investments, and that the present annual grants from the national exchequer be discontinued.

TOWLE'S PENNYROYAL AND STEEL PILLS lolt FEMALES quickly correct a.U irregularities, and relieve the distressing symptoms so prevalent with the* sex, -i>oxes Is lid and 2s 9<i, of all Chemists. Sent anywhere for 15 or 34 stamps by the Uncoln and Midland Counties Drug Co., Lincoln,-BzwAaii OF IMITATIONS. a

Musical and Eisteddfod. Notes. J3y Maelgwyn. A startling piece of information has reached me from Carnarvonshire—a piece of information which will be received with dismay throughout Walest The famous Penrhyn Quarries Choral Union has been broken up At present the in- formation which I have received is not as complete as I should like, but, nevertheless, so far as it goes, it tends to prove that the North Wales people-like ourselves—rarely manage to carry on the work of a choir smoothly for any length of time. The first great disaster which brought about the dissolution of this hitherto invincible body of singers was the resignation of the talented conductor, Dr. Roland Rogers, of Bangor Cathedral. I am told that the learned doctor has several very good reasons for resigning, anyone of which would be sufficient to justify the course he has taken in the eyes of tbe public. Two of these reasons at least are known to me. The first- is that for some time past the attendance of members has gradually dwindled, and the only reason for this seems to be the augmentation of the choir by a section from Llanberis. It will be remembered that shortly before Christmas last the choir prevailed upon the conductor to undertake the duty of taking the choir to compete in the great choral competition at the London National Eisteddfod. Hundreds of willing bands volunteered to help him, and a section was promised from Llanberis. This section was formed, and duly joined the ranks of the victorious Bethesda choristers. So far as I can learn, this innovation gave offence to some of the old members, whose support became lukewarm, and they fell off one by one. A concert was about to be given by the choir, and rehearsals were held. One evening, however, a number of tbe choir formed themselves into a party," and actually sang at another concert some of the music which the choir was then rehearsing for their own con- cert. This was the last straw which broke the camel's back, and when the next rehearsal took place, Dr Rogers announced his intention of resigning his post. The choir was thereupon dis- solved. Since then several influential persons in the district have attempted to revive the choir, and the result of their labours will be known in a few days. But most people think that tbe choir will not be revived, and that the halcyon days of this splendid body of singers are gone for ever. This week I have received several pieces of music. I have beard it stated on gcod authority that the popular song-writer, Milton Wellings, is a Welshman at all events, bis real name is Llewelyn. Perhaps some of your readers can give me a little information on the subject. What I have now to notice is a couple of songs by Mr Welliugs, which the Messrs Metzler and Co., of Great Marlborough-street, London, W., have sent me. The first piece is entitled The Story of a Song," the pathetic words of which are by Mary Mark Lemon. It is very easy, and would suit a male or femaAe singer. Be Mine Again (words by G. Clifton Bing- ham) is of the same tender class of composition with which Mr Wellings has familiarised us. In commemoration of the Queen's Jubilee the same publishers have issued Awake 0 Happy Nation," by Munro Coward. Both the words and music breathe a nation's thanks to the Almighty for having preserved our Queen so long. The melody is tuneful and easy, and there can be no doubt that the song will become popular, because it contains all the features which ensure popularity. In addition to this the song has been arranged aa a four-part song, and the music has also been set for military, brass, and orchestral bands. In the "dance line" I have received the "Sleeping Beauty Waltz," by the well-known waltz-writer, P. Bucalossi. All things considered, this waltz is one of the best that has been issued this season. Let it be once heard and its sweet melody will make it a favourite everywhere, whilst in addition to the music, the front page of the copy con tains a coloured illustration of a bewitchingly handsome maiden asleep amongst flowers. From the London Music Publishing Company (54, Great Marlborough-street, W.) I have received some good things. "Down Channel" (in D only), by Claude Ridley, is a dashing and inspiring nautical song for a bass. It is in every way as vigorous as the "Old Brigade," and wili doubtless become quite as popular. To Welsh men in search of a good bass song I cannot do better than recommend "Down Channel." Quite of another kind is "Some Other Time," the beautiful words of which are by H. S. D'Arcy Jaxone, and the equally beautiful music by Miss Emma St. John. This is a love song of no ordinary kind, and although it is perhaps difficult to sing at first sight, it will well repay the singer for any trouble she may bestow upon it. The change of key for the refrain produces a splen did effect, and the refrain itself is very taking." A most captivating waltz is "Mine Alone," by Theo. Bonheur. It has ready become very popular in England, and is sure to become a favourite in Wales. It is the easiest composition I have ever seen, but this in no way detracts from its beauty. The Squirrel Polka," by C. Deacon, has plenty of "go in it, and oubt toJind its way into ball programmes.

ABERDARE TRAINING SCHOOL AGAIN, The Committees investigations. At the annual meeting of the Merthyr Board of Guardians, under the presidency of Mr R. H. Rhys, Mr D. P. Davies, Aberdare, said by way of explanation be called attention tiiat day week to an error in the printed account of the Abeidare Training School of £60, The books were not at hand then, and an explanation culd not be given. But the committee met on Wednesday, and it was found that the amount was credited in error, and it was by a singular coincidence that it was in the tailoring account. It had no connection with that part of the accouuts. But there was another matter. At the close of the committee certain names were given in as witnesses with the instruc- tion that the clerk should see the pereons without notice. But the very same evening the superin- tendent of the Aberdare Train ng School took train to Merthyr and saw a witnes8.es.-n answer to Mr T. Phillips, Mr F. JaiMea, clerK, said he did not know that Mr Wiliiains was responsible for the error in the mauil'er of entering the accounts, which had passed the•_ dtioitor. The error was corrected in the, tprifcted statements.—Mr Birchain, poor-law inspector Then there ia no imputation of fr^dp. Clerk Not the slightest. It ii ?Pe„0 V^°se errors that will occur occasionally, Mr'Kic^fiaras, Aberdare, said he also made a statement that Mr Williams must have had excellent testimonials before be could have received his recent appoint- ment at the Cowley School. He thought the chairman said in reply to him that he did not give a testimonial since at least two or three years ago to Mr Williams. He found, however, on very good authority that he given him a testimonial as lateiy as February 1st this year.—The Ohamnan said tie was not in the habit of tellmt untruths. He bad no hesitation in saying that Tie had not given a testimonial to Mr Williams for two or three years, and he then gave biin a very good one. Whoever said he had done so toid a deliberate and wilful falsehood.—Several members thought this was sufficient, and Mr Richards, as a matter of justice to himself, then read a reply which he had received from the clerk of the Oxford in- corporation to the effect that Mr aud Williams, who had been elected superintendent and matron of the Cowley School, had produced copies of a testimonial, the originals of which they promised to send, from Mr R. H. Rhys, dated February 1,1887.— Mr Bircham said it was only just to the superin- tendent of the schools tha't the matter of the alleged irregularities should be cleared op as soon as possible, and he did hope and truiJt that as so much time had eiapsed, the committee to which it had been referred would lose no more time in coming to a decision as to what course they would take. The Local Government Board could not institute an inquiry until specific charges had been made.—The Chairman said the committee met on the previous Wednesday. They went through the books and documents, and he thought Mr D. P. Davies came to the conclusion that there might be a serious charge of using leather that belonged to the board for the purpose of making private shoes.—The matter shortly afterwards droppod.

THE BAYONET IN IRELAND. On Tuesday, the town of Yougbal was in a state of siege, the people being in possession and the police powerless in face of the opposition shown to tha execution of warrants issued by the bankruptcy court. The windows of the police barracks have been broken,and the house of the bailiff who served the notice on the parish priest attacked with stones. Business was suspended. A large force of police arrived by rail, and were met by several thousand people and bands. In the centre of the town the crowd sang God save Irelaud," and stones were thrown. The police charged with fix-ed bayonets, driving the people back, but the latter rallied, and were addressed by some Nationalists. The police again charged them. A man named Hanley received a bayonet thrust, and is reported to be dymg. Portions of broken bayonets were picked up. At a late hour priests were endeavouring to induce the people to withdraw from the streets. It was tound that bars of iron had been placed to obstruct the train by which the Court messenger was expected, but he did not arrive. The police and military are kept under arms.

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T\U* A T» „ LONDON, THURSDAY NIGHT. DEAR PINAFORES, I promised last week to tell THE you about the dresses worn on DRAWING- the occasion of the first of the ROOM. Jubilee Drawing-rooms. They were, almost without exception, very beautiful, and the display of flowers some. thin quite extraordinary. Some people were saying in the Mall, when seeing such a crowd of carriages waiting for the palace gates to be opened, IES carriages might have a a EO owera among themselves to while away the weary time of waiting. Many bad to sit in their carriages more than two hours; and al- though the sun shone out brilliantly, the wind was very cold, but the d6ulantes and their chaperons kept up bravely, as they might have a chance of being in time to have the honour of kissing her Majesty's band, It is well known that the Queen cannot remain standing for a long time, so, omy those ladies who are among the first arrivals can hope to see her Majesty in person. The Queen looked very bright and well pleased as she stood to receive the first of the jubilee homages from her loving subjects. She was surrounded by her children and grand 7 OR SIX of the latter were near the doer O e presence chamber, where the gentlemen ushers spread the trains of the ladie3 with their long white wands, just at the moment they enter the gallery leading to the royal presence. Amid the group of royal grand children stood the nurse of Prince Alexander of Battenberg, dressed en- tirely in white, as is the custom with these royal MOB ers y proxy. THE person to whom the care ouri MENT of the royal children is entrusted has every article of her toilette fresh every day, and has to observe the strictest medical and PRINPFLM T,U T AND RESU^AFCI°NS, The youug son of MNTHO • 6A R'?\SEEMA TO have inherited his r s amia « disposition, for he behaved in a most exemplary manner. The Princess of Wales Q HE!S<FK0NU ^AUGHTER to be presented to the • likf* in WL'T .S ^"NEESSES °f Wales were dressed IN ? TU^, trimmed with lilies of the valley, and wore trains of white striped silk They stood near the QUEEN ON THE ROYAL DAJS< The Princess of Wales wore a silver grey tulle B^KTERE' A G?AT PROFUSI°n °F bead em- TU"E petticoat. Conspicuous tTd Id n °hb6r r°yaltiea ^e young widowed Duchess of J Albany, dressed entirely IU OLDICK) with LONE HLAFT _» » white one. mstead of the usual X ^NE most remarkable CIDRT R,RTFLK T'3E C0URT dresses was worn by COURT DRESS, the Countess of Lovelace; it was IM** T T-U • A PERTECT feproduction of a court- dress of the reign of Louis XVI. Tbe petticoat •A 68 A 6 K*UEsatin,caught up and puffed ENPOMER aoout the waist, and trimmed with fine R IS aca an ostrich plumes. The train was ma o a awo tolour brocade, showing Rural bonquets IQ th. brocaded deaigi; ,T „„ lined Lhioughout with pink ,M, bad „ lbiok rouleau of pink bordprmr..1. ■ J "UERING THE TRAIN TBE BODICE WAS A REPRODUCTION OF TH» T U A LDE STYLE OF MANY WORN BY MARIE ANTOINETTE, WITH J J ON LQNG POINTS AND A DRAPERY OF LACE ON THE FRONT OF T-HA W J- MU T „ C 01 ULE BODICE. THE PREVAIL- .NGSYEO ROSSING THE HAIR IS IN A SOMEWHAT POINTED ,B.P,ION, |„ TOP TLL, HEAD IT. OECOMING FASHION, BUT N £ T FEULTS very well for the dis- p ay of court pl„mra, „ /o> Chamoerlain. commands sets forth that the regulation feathers—1,0 > '• e*» "Hiee for married laaies, and two foi the unmarripH J 1 rriea—must be placed so that they can be distinctly seen J 3A A person standing in front of the wearer ot the plumes. Tbe very pretty fashion of having posies of FLOWEN in the hand instead of the enormous cart-wheel bouquet seems to be gaming GROUND THE .< IES » WERE more numerous than ever TI F .I* F* R* I he number of cubu- tantes at tbih farst DRAWINJR.R™™ ""S-room of the season was almost unpreceden ed, hav.ng surpassed anything in the recollection of the court officials and the MUSTER OT OLD DOWAGERS N 4. J J. UNUSUALLY GREAT, OWING NO DOUBT TO THE DESIRE TO BE AMONG THOSE TAVOURE, WITH THE ROYAL COMUIAND FCQ BA FC AT SOME OF THE SPECIAL COURTS AND JUBILEE RECEU- ,ONS WHICH THE QUEEN I8 T0HOLD LADY IS NOT EXPECTED TO "1. J ATTEND MORE THAN ONE drawing-room out of THE four held each year only the wives of Cabinet Ministers and Forei^ °,f MtTvh C CDEY aave to m ike official presentations of the U J NRers who desire to be presented at the ENGLISH Court RTATT? AithougA there were so many CONOICRT* _P,ESEU Ations made at ths first CONCERTS. Drawing-room, all who were so L F'^E^6NTED may not receive tbe much coveted mv.tat.ons to the State balls and concerts held at Buckingham Palace. It is al ready announced that the Queen will attend the concert on the twenty.second of June. She has not been present at any OF TU T V concerts for the last twenty FIT LL the ladies who were HN in th* n T 1 ^RAWING-room may not be in the.Court circle, yET the fact of having been presented at the Court 0f St. James confers MA^Y privileges and a lady RESIdent in foreign countries may be of good 80CIAL position, yet, if U°N°UR OF with the Court circle cannot be presented in the U,ual AT.A F0RE'*C\ CONRT unless she has been tive H US, PRFSENTEDTT0 °UR Q,IEEFI- It IS impera- tive that the lany, when mak.ng application to be presented at a foreign Court, must give the date of her presentation at the Court of St. James, and albo the name of the lady who presented her ?! .ISIS VERIFIED'A»<i IT IS ascertained a IQ a V6 name has not been cancelled, she may be presented, and have the privilege of entree to the Court circle and society. IT has happened, though very rarely, that a. lady's presentation at court has been cancelled, and not many years ago a duchess brought down a good deal of social « IUM ON LE,^SF Y 'LAPING presented one of these ostracised ladies, the wife of A MODERN million- aire who had A bar SINISTER on her escutcheon. But the poor duchess knew nothing of it, and was only asked by a mutual friend to present this young and cbarming lady at the drawing-room, There was a good display of NEw SPRING spring costumes among the wait- ASHIONS. ing crowd in the park on the first Thursday in March, and one could form form a good idea of the prevailing modes and future fashions. As yet, the cloth and at or-made dresses are far the most nume- rous, but some pretty new fabrics are seen which will be well worn when the season is more advanced. The check dresses are seen in every IN cf fabric. All the new bonnets for the coming season have strings; many are made up on transparent foundations, which can be had in every variety of colouring. Lace is also much K brim and strings of velvet. Owing to, the hair being worn BO much on the top of the head, A new kind of diadem bonnet has been in- vented by a Paris milliner; they are very narrow and of the slightest consistency. When placed on the hair they form a very narrow, close out. line, with a high centre. Some ladies are wearing these smart diadem bonnets for the theatre; they are made in all sorts of colours to match the even ing dresses. There is yet another new style of bonnet, called the Virot" bonnet, in honour of the milliner who invented it. Itisa comparatively large bonnet, though quite short behind, and is Dlade of black straw, which is all pinched up in front into large curves over the face, with just a few loops of velvet inside; the crown is of crimson velvet with a drooping black feather over it. A very original bonnet which I have seen in black is shaped just like a cock's comb; the high part was formed of a quantity of light black lace and osprey feathers, all plaoed upright, while the out- line of the bonnet was formed by four chains of very large jet beads, which were all knotted in the middle of the front. This mixture of very light black lace and very large jet beads seems to be a favourite one. Another way of trimming IS to have high points of lace coming up from behind and nodding over the flowers. There seems to be no end to THE the new inventions of the present PHONOPHOBE time. We have scarcely become familiar with the telephonic messages from one part of a town to the other when we learn that a telephone despatch has been established between Paris and Brussels. It it now possible to speak to the friend you may have loft io Faria IN the moruir4 .ttr you arrival in Brussels, and tell tbat you left a book or shawl in your room, and you can hear his or her voice in the spoken reply. The day before the telephone was opened to the public, the Queen of the Belgians bad a wire communicating with the Opera House, and listened to the music of a whole act performed before an audience in Paris, while she remained in her private apartments in the I Palace at Brussels. And now we learn of a new invention in telegraphy, which makes it possible j to transmit a message over the heads of the ordinary operators, who can continue to forward and receive messages in the ordinary course of I postal telegraph despatches, while by the applica- tion of the new invention another message can be sent by the same wires at the same time, without in the least interfering with the others in transit. This new instrument is callbd a Pbonophore, and can be attached to an ordinary telegraph line. It was tried successfully between L ndonand Folke- stone a few days ago, and the most singular part of the discovery is that when the line was discon- nected at either end, so that there was no closed circuit and ordinary telegraphic messages were impossible, the Phenophore worked as succees- fully as ever. The concert season has THE already begun in London, and CONCERT we are promised an endless SEASON. succession of musio treats, as well as an early seasou of Italian Opera. Two very successful concerts were given by the children's orchestra. Mr Percy Armytage conducted, and Mr Stedman's choir boys formed the chorus. The song, "A Little Mountain Lad," was charmingiy sung by a very youthfuf vocalist, and the little people acquitted tbem- selves remarkably well. Prince and Princess Henry of Battenberg Were amour the audience on one of the evenings, The pupils of the Guildhall School of Music are rapidly progressing, and have now started a series of Monday pops" of their own. Their first concert had an admirably varied programme, and closed with three movements from Beethoven's Septette. Several competitions by the students were given, and "The Wanderer's Night Song," by one of the young lady pupils, deserves a word of praise. Mr Weist Hill, the principal, is inde- fatigable in his endeavours to advance the musical education of young London. As we have been reading and hearing a good deal about the Italian peasantry lately, I am sending you one of their cookery receipts to-day. Polenta, made of Indian corn meal, enters largejy into the dietary of the peasantry. ITALIAN Take two sveet capsicums COOKKBY. (peperone in Italian) preserved in vinegar, a clove of garlic, a parsley root, a few sprigs of marjoram, and a pinch of saffron. Soak a piece of bread in some stock, add pepper and salt, and thoroughly pound the whole in a mortar, adding some more stock then make it hot over the fire, and pour it over hot boiled potatoes, cut in slices. Yours ever, LOTTIE.

(From the Queen,") NEW COSTUME. The materials are dark green cashmere and cloth with blue and red velvet applique*. Tbe tunic is van:iyked at the edge, and ornamented with appliques of the two velvets. Folds cross the bodice and terminate as a tablier. The left side of the bodice is ornamented with velvet appliques,

A GIRL'S COSTUME. Skirt in green velvet, spotted with red chenille, Jiickat bodice to correspond. The tunic and lull I plastron are red vigogne. The bodice takes the form of a pointed yoke and Swiss belt.

FASHION JOTTINGS. All the bonnets in preparation for the coming season have strings. The tianspareut founda- tions, made with drawings of point d'esprit on wire, are still much adopted, and supplied in many varieties of colouring. Lace is also used in the same manner, with brim and strings supplied in velvet. Pinked-out silk is likewise in demand for rosettes and ruches, and trimming of this nature has the advantage of usefulness, and of incurring no risk to its good looks from a little damp. Small baskets filled with flowers are occasionally placed on the side of a bonnet. The crowns of toques still shew a tendency to the jelly-bag form. One in scatlet of this nature bad sequins all round it, and a brim of black Astrakan. Another of much originality seamed due to the fleece of a lamb, and carried out the idea by having woollen tails pendant from it. Many of the foundations of the new spring bon nets are finely drawn ctfipe de Chine, which, with the wire used to shape them, is made in much variety of colouring. The ribbons in readiness for the favours to be worn on the jubilee day are shown with fancy edges in red, white, and royal btue. The date is surmounted by the portrait of the Queen when in her teens, the arms of England in appropriate colouring, and the crown. There is appeariug a fabric called Genoa plush, of which the pile is so short as to be rather sug- gestive of velvet, but velvet of that peculiar thick and close make to which the City of Palaces lends its name. This plush is being largely adopted for the new demi-saison mantles; it is black as jet, richer and Landsomer in appearance thau ordinary velvet.

Two travellers were robbed in a wood and tied to trees. Ooe of them in despair exclaimed, "Oh, I am undone." Are you ?" said the other joy- tuily. Then I wish you would ubdo me. CHILDISH PHILOSOPHY. You shouldn't act in such a childish manner," said a mother in a chiding tone of voice to her little daughter. Ytu will iioon be a young lady, you know." If that's so, ma," replied the little tot rather sceptic- ally, don t you think it is about time my bustle waa beginning to grow ? His NAmic WAS MENTIONED. Candidate for place: Well, you say my name was mentioned in connection with the positIon 211 Politician: Ob, yes, your name was mentioned." Oandidate for place; How did they seem to feel about it?" Polttictan "They said you coufcta'timveit under WV gQt.tio",

COLUMN FOR BOYS AND GIRLS. By Maggie Symington. Between the dark and the daylight, When the night is beginning to lower, Comes a pause in the day's occupation That is known as tbe Children's Hour. Longfellow. Before beginning to chat to you this week I must just tell you that upon seeiDgmy last week's letter in proof. I was shocked to find that, owing to a slip of my pen, or a printer's error, two mis- takes bad been made and for fear my corrections should not have reached the editor in time, I will just say over again here that the dromedaries I saw bad only one hump, and the alpaca only one fleece. I think some of you are fond of parrots as pets. I never have bad any groat affection for these very noisy birds, and, although I went into The Parrot House at the Katura Artis, I came out as soon as possi- ble. Such a screaming and chattering as was going on there! You might have thought there was a general assembly ot all the Parliaments of all the world. I had no time to make any especial acquaintances amongst them, although there were many I should have done well to know-bird from South America, Australia, New Zealand, India, brazil, Java. California, ltc. I did just introduce myself to a "ruidkuif," or red-crested cockatoo, from Ceram, who was so excited by my temerity that he swung himself round and round by bis claws from his perch, and screamed as though be thought I meant to murder him, and a solemn meditative cockatoo from Australia with yellow feathers and a broad blue rim round bis eyes, called in Dutch Blauwoog. He seemed to me to be muttering to himself in the most benevo- lent manner. "Jut listen to that fellow I call him a disgrace to the place." Ha was speaking to Dutch, of course, but that will do for a trans- lation. Parrots are placed in the very forefront of the family of birds on account of their general cleverness and ability to talk, but I have no doubt that if we understood the subject better, we should find that those who say less know quite as much but it is difficult to know what is in a bird, ur a person, if they have little power to express themselves. Not long ago there was a parrot show held in the North of England, and prizes were awarded to the owners whose birds made the most sensible remarks. After several bad exhibited their prowess in this way, the cover was removed from tbe cage of a certain grey parrot, who instantly exclaimed, on seeing the company around him, By Jove what a lot of parrots This gained him the prize at once. In centre cages were some curious pepervogels from Brazil, and greenbeaks from Guinea, with shrill, loud voices that made me put my bands to my ears. eo to the singing birds," I said to myself, "if equally noisy they will surely be more musical." "Ch-r-r-r, go-u-d r-r-iddance," screamed a harsh-voiced little paroquet from Brazil. So I left this proud and noisy lot, screeching at eash other from behind their respective wires, like a charming company of viragos. The Singing Birds were hard at work singing tut their supper, which stood there in full view, and it must have been not a little trying to them to see it standing there and not be able to reach it. It consisted of chopped lettuce and small pails full of seed. The great number of birds from ail parts of the world bewildered me, and to attempt to tell you all about one-half of ttiem would fill several books. { There was one strange-looking bird from India that attracted my attention in particular. I can only give you his Latin name, for I do not know whether he bas an English one-Gracula Reli- giosa. This tells you that he is something of a saint among birds. He is very solemnly clothed in shining iridescent, black plumage, with bright yellow on his bead, and a deep orange beak. He is absurdly clerical-looking, and he was talking soberly to himself in a deep sepulchral voice but all at once be changed his note to one so high and shrill that it raug through me, and sent me hastily forwards to study some dear little vinks, from Africa, Java, and Australia. The sweetest little things you ever saw, d<»ve-coloured mouse-coloured, some with breasts of pale- blue, and others of rosy-pink. And the rice I birds I I always love them, do not you? With their snowy-white feathers and pink beaks. It is a long, long way in reality from the bird that soars and sings at the gate of heaven, to the reptile that .drags its repulsive way through the dust of the earth at the Nitum, Artis, The Reptile House is near to that of the singingr birds, and only a step^or two takes you from one to the other, 'lauie^nakes, aud black suak«s, and boa constric- I tors, "ud the huge python ot Java, with many other horrible creatures—some of them such for- miiiable io.ikiug fedows—were all there, lying j curled up in their cages. All the cages have aiass M'Jus, HI> that one may go quite close and gaze with fascinated eyes on these deadly creatures, without fear that tney will suddenly spring their rattles and dart out their forked tongues. The first feeling one has in looking at a boa con- strictor is4 I think, disappointment in its Size, after having read so much about toeir swallowing goats and sheep — and I have even heard an ox mentioned in con- nection (though perhaps this was what the Ameri- cans call" drawmg the long bow "I—but still one wants them to be as thick round as a go'»d-sized barrel, and these fellows were only about six inches thick, and from twelve to fifteen feet long. Of course all the stories I had heard from personal friends about snake experiences came into my mind as I waiked from cage to cage. People living in lSuak. countries often have visitors whose company they wouid ratber do without. A huge boa constrictor once made its way into the house ot a lady whom I knew a few years ago, aud whose home was in India, and they engaged a native snake-charmer to entice it forth, A gentleman visitor at the house of the siime lady once fell asleep on the verandah, with his chair tilted backwards, and suddenly ) awoke to find a deadiy cotra-ime of the most venomous of all serpnts-twined abous the front I legs of his chair. He had the great presence of mind and command over his own nerves to sit perfectly stIll until someone came near, when he quietly drew their attention to his predicament. Help was procured, and the snake was killed". Had he moved so much as a muscle and startled the snake, escape would hate been impossible; so you see how desirable it is to learu to control our own feelings, for we never know when we may jieed such power of self-control. A dear old friend who is my god-mother, in her young davs was the second lady to attempt to cross the Rocky Mountains. For six months she was in the saddie day after day, sleeping at night in a tent. Her husband was an officer in the army, and she was going with him to Mexico. One morning when she rose from her bed, a huge rattlesnake crawled out from amongst the blan- kets. How would you like such a bedfellow? I She quickly gave the alarm, and the snake was killed. But perhaps I The Most Thrilling Snake Story I have ever heard is about an Indian snake dance. It is practiced by a tribe of Indians in Arizona every two years, and is a sort of incantation, or prayer for rain. A traveller who once witnessed described it as a wild, weird sight that made one with delicate nerves feel uncomfortable, to say the least of it." Tne origin of the Moquis Indians dates far back, and for hundreds of years they have changed very little in their customs and I habits. Their villages are all built on high table- lands, high above the valleys, from which tbey are reached by narrow footpaths cut ia the rock. The dance takes place at sunset, and the Indians who take part in it paint their bodies with a preparation that counteracts the poison of the snake bites. The snakes used are rattlesnake-. Nearly a hundred Indians take part in it, and they are naked save for a short reddish tunic which reaches from the waist to the knee. A I bower of cotton-wood branches is built, and in this the snakes are put in three large bags. The dance begins b) fifteen Indians, with rattle. of ory skin over a gouro, marching round the square and shaking their rattles in front of the snake bower. Then thuy form a line and begin the monotonous dance and song, while hfty-sev?n more Moquis march into view. These are tbe snake dancers. Instead of rattles they have little wands made of eag<es' feathers, which make a hissing noise like serpents as they are waved through the air. The men look wild, and their faces are blackened. They all form in two lines before the snake bower, and an old man chants a prayer, then all rush into the bower, and each seizes a biasing, squirm- ing, biting snake, which be places between bis teeth. When full forty men bad each his snake in this way, and began marching round the square, the scene became intensely hideous. By the side of each dancsr walked an attendant who tickled the snake's head with his wand of eagle's feathers. One man got his cheek bitten and another his hand, while often a snake would coil itself about the body of his tormentor and had to be unwound by force. Most of the spectators were on the roofs of the low stone houses, or they would have had a I lively time, too for now and then a shake would escape and go squirming away among the specta- 1 tors. For half-an-hour this horrible dance con- I feinted, whila the fifteen Induns who had first L' ■■ I- "• -UJilL marched into the square kept up their weird one and rattie. The man with the snakes grew mor and more excited, until at last, perspiring, mad almost, they burled the snakes together in a common pile in the middle of the square, where they formed a hideous, squirming mass. Then, at a given signal, each dancer seized a reptile once more and leaped down the narrow path to the valley, dropping the snakes as they ran. By this t:me the sun had set, and so the dance ended. J e Dutch friend who was with me grudged all the time I spent in these houses and elsewhere until I had seen Betsy. Indeed I heard so much of Betsy, who seems to be quite the belle of the pardeus, that at last my curiosity was excited, and I longed to make her acquaint- ance. But who and what Betsy was I must wait till next week to tell you, because I have received the promts d copy of The Amateur Science Magazine, and some of you, I know, will be disappointed if I do not tell you all about it at once. It is written in a neat round hand by the boy editor, on two sheets of ruled papr, and the copy kindly sent to me is No. 2 of Vol. IL It opens well with Chapter VI. of a serial by the editor, The Ad ventures of Mans. Jacques," after the style of Robinson Crusoe and The Swiss Family Robinson then follows a list of fossils found in the neighbourhood, a weather prophecy, and an extract from the World at Home about the mammoth trees of California, some and an extract from the World at Home about the mammoth trees of California, some local information, and then an original Chat I with Our Readers," by Uncle Ned, a portion of whic.'j I am going to give you that you may judge for yourselves :— h w'mci,er s°metimes what those Romans would think of us if they could come back to have alook at the land they had conquered, Fancy one of the old fellows coming back to have a laugh at us I wonder what be would say to the steam-roller, that hideous-looking, ineffectual machine which leaves our roads a mass of grit in dry weather, and a series of miniature pools in I wet I wonuer what be would think of our I telephones, our teleeraphs, our halfpenny papers, our science classes, our buard schools, and Salvation Armies Well, I don't know what he wou.d think, but I believe it wouid be something 1 ke this :—These nineteenth centnry fMks are living too fast; they do not give them- selves time to do anything properly. They need a reminder that they have to live, and life is not worrh living if we cannot live our whole life- mental, moral, and pnysieal." Bravo, Uncle Ned Answers to corresoondents, very spiritedly given come next, and Notes, one of which is to the following effect :-It is proposed to commence field work in geoiogy next month. First excursion on April 3. Friends will please meet at junction of L. Ruad, &c.,2p.m. prompt." On the whoie the little paper is capitally edited and spiritedly written, and I wish many more boys in other towns would imitate the example of this boy editor. Acrostic Prize Award. The solution to the fourt, and last, Acrostic of the set is as follows -Sunciav-Ni(,uday: S-a-M (Weller), U-mb-O, N-u-N, i)-avi-D, A-ureli-A, Y-y Answered by Violet. Markham 8, Ko-Ko 6, Walter Scott 7, Linnet 8, Jackdaw 8, Widft- Awake., 4, Gloxinia 8, Constance Butterfielri 6 Arthur Squire 7, Faithful 7, Helen Pickering 8, Daisy 8, Beryl (who says she haa to have help) 8, bsasie Linnell 8, Exceisior 8, Louisa Bennett 7, Ethel M. Whitehead 8, Pupsy 8. Jim Crow 6 onarley F. 7, Effie and Jack 9. Additional answers to No. 3 Acrostic have reached me I from-Jackdaw 10, Excelsior 9, Beryl 3, and He en Pickering 4. Upon examination I find that five of the com- petitors have soived the four acrostics, with every light, quite correctly, therefore I should again have a difficulty in awarding the prize only that one of the tive is a year and a half younger than any of the others. I shall award the first prize to him Pupsy (Bertram Danford). and send a small Dook to each of the other four Jackdaw (Edward Linnell,). Faithful (Florence Eland), Daisy (Constance K Jenkins), and Ethel M. whitehead. Five oth^r competitors deserve great praise, having failed only in one or two lights Constance Butterfield, Vioiet Mark- ham, Excelsior, Bessie Linnell. and Linnet. Others, too, have cone wtdl, for many of the I acrostic lights were most difficult. I need not mention names, as you have had them, with the number of marks gained by each from week to week. I hope that Pupsy, when he writes to me in acknowledgment of his pr¡zp, will tell me a little about the trouble he has taken to find all the answers, for I think he must be both clever and persevering. r Iorr'Q8t tfae Patieuce of the members of the H.S.L. until next week. AUXT MAGGIE. Addresa all communications to- AUNT MAGGIE (Symington), Hu sranton, &.8.0,

SOME PAGES FROM A DIARY. Friday evening, December 23,1870. 96th day of the Siege. A COLD, bright, clear day. Nu military move- in ent&, and the great sortie has proved a grand fizzle, resulting in notDing but loss to the French. One of the greatest generals has been kiiled. I understand their whole losses will amount to 1,500 men, besides the vast number who have been put hors de combat by the excessive cold. The situation is becoming daily much more grave in Paris; the suffering intense, and augmenting daily. Clubs beg;nninl- to agitate hunger and cold are doing their work. From the misery I heard of yesterday. I begin to think it impossible for the city to hold out to the 1st of February as I have predicted. They are killing off the horses very fast. I heard that the omnibuses will stop running next week. Very few cabs in the street at present, and they will soon disappear. In passing along the Champs Eivsee- at noon the other day I could not count half a dozen vehicles all the way from the Are de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. Without food, without carriages, without lighted streets, there is any- thing but a pleasant prospect ahead. There is a certain discouragement evidently creeping all through Paris, and the dreary days and weeks run rin. In the beginning no man was wild enough to imagine that the siege would last until Christmas. Christmas, Sunday, December 25, 1870. 98b day oi the Siege. Never has a sadder Christmas dawned on any city. Cold, hunger, agony, grief, and despair sit enthroned at any habitation in Paris. It is the I coldest day of the season, and the fuel is very short; and the Government has had to take hold of the fuel question, and the magnificent shade rees that have for ages adorned the avenues of this city are likely to go in th" vain struggle to save France. So says the Ofici&l Journal of this morning. The sufferings of the past week exceed by far anything we have seen. There is scarcely any meat but horsemeat, and the Government is now rationing. It carries out its work with im- partiality. The omnibus-horse, the cab-horse, the work-horse, and the fancy horse all o alike in the mournful procession to the butcher shops-the magnificent blooded steed of the Rothschilds by the side of the old ping of the cabman. Fresh b- ef, mutton, pork are now out of the question. A little poultry yet remains at fabulous prices. In -walkin through the Rue St. Lazare I saw a middling-siz^d goose and chicken for sale in a shop-window, and I had the curiosity to step in and inquire the price irnsh man than was). The price of the goose was$25 and the e. hi "ken$7. Monday, December 26, 1870. 99ch day of the Siege. Quite a little dinner of ten covers yesterday eveaing at seven o'clock at my house at No 75. I could not afford to let Christmas go entirely un- recognised. The cold was intense, but I managed to ret the petit salon and the talit a mamger q uite comfortable by the time tiie guests arrived. Here is the bill of fare for the 99th day of the siege :— 1. Oyster Soup. 2. Sardines with Lemons. 3. Corn Baef with Tomatoes and Cranberries. 4. Preserved Green Corn. 5. Roast Chicken. 6. Green Peas. 7. Salad. 8. Dessert—Pumpkin Pie and Cheese. Macaroon C,lkes, Nusra C.'ierrie*, Strawberries, Chocolates, Plums, and Apricots, Cafe no r. The cold is not as great as yesterday. The papers this mornmg speak of the awful sufferings of the troops. Niainv ba,e frozen to death. I take it that all military movements are at an end for the present. The papers say bad fortune pur- sues the French everywhere. \Ve are now get- ting long accounts from the German papers of the fighting on the Loire, and fearful work it must have been and yet obe Prussians go every- where, but they purchase their successes at a dear price. There is now high talk in the olsbs. This last terrible defeat has produced inteuse feeling. Trochu is denounced as a traitor and an embecile. They say be is staying out at one of the forts and don't care about coming back into the city. He cannot fail more than once more without going te the wall. Never in the history of the world has an army of half a million men cut such an ignoble figure. It should not be said that the J' soldiers are not brave, for they are. It is the want of a leader that has paralysed France lnr fourteen mortal weeks.—From The. Sitge of Parts, by E. B. Washburne, in "$cMaWv Afagttstac,"

V THE WEEK'S MARKETS CORJt, CARDIFF, Saturday.- English and foreign wheat was held for more money, the market closing strong with an upward tendency. Flour finner, present rates leaving no profit to makers. Mo. ze dull and Is per qr cheaper. Bans firm. Otb T articles unchanged. CARMARTHEN, Saturday.—(William Pugii's Keport,)- The SUPPlY of ail kinds of grain at our market to-day wa small, and sold at the following prices —wheat, from 3bs to AOs: bariey, 28s to 30, ows- white. 18s to 20s; black ditto, 16* to l&s. GLOUCESTER, Saturday.—Very emali supply of Eng- lish wheai, ana prices rather higher Foreign ia better demand, but no dearer. Grind ng: barley and maize, 3d to fed lower. Oats unchanged in value. Weather foggy. NEWPORT, WedneødaY-Only a smali amount business was done at the market to-day- Wheat was quoted at from bd to 9d advance on the week, and buyers held off at these prices. Other articles un- changed. CATTLE. BRIDGEND. Monday.—The second monthly market was held to-day, and proved quite as successful as the first, and the sales on tne w ti de were satisfactory. There -was a large fttendance both of r. and buyers. Among the butchers and dealers present were Messr^ Elias Jones, Parnell. Tucker, Nicholls, and ilees (Cardiff), Howells and Young (Rhonada), Jones (Aberavon). Trick 'Neath). Reycock (Aberavon), F oe. gard, J. Bryant, etc. Best beef.made bd per ib., and tnution, 9d per lb. There were several large privaoe saies, and Air William Thorne disposed of an attractive lot of sheep and cattle the aggregate Drice of the whole b ing about £ 1,100. The markets committee offered at this market two prices (1st, £ 3; 2nd, £ l, to the bona tide tenant farmer who WGUKI exhibit and sell at this market the e-eatest value in stock. Mr Kees Thomas (tiorerboii) and Mr J. B. Waynan acted as stewards. Mr John Williams (Merthvimawr) secured first prize, with a a private sale of B120 wurth. Mr Williams iL&niow) got the second, EkU5 188 31 worth of his stock having b en disposed of at Mr Thome's auction. USK, Monday. -The usual monthly market was held to-day. It was fairly supplied with stock, anti the traie done was considered brisk as compared with previous makebs. There was a p entiful supply of pigs of all sorts, but sheep were rather scarce. Prices ruled as f,,Ii,,w ;-Beef. 5ri to bd per lb veal, 7 to 8d; mutton, ewe, 6d to 7d; wether, 7d 8:1d; pork. 9s ód per score bacon, 70s od to 8n. Pigs sold well: strung stores, 40s to 60, each thrBe montur', 25a to 351 each; weaners, 18s to 23s. iiONDois1, NAG-iiay.-Be&st trade very slow an vari- able, with every prospect of poor tin sh. Our top quotation of 4s 4a per 8 pnunds is quite ex- ceptional, plenty of Drime quality being sOld at 4s to 4s 2d. British arrivals )o Scotch 7U0 Irish; 9;)0 Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex; and 1, 50 midland, home, and western counties. The sheep trade is dull, but prices as a rule are maintained; clearance expected. Calves in limited demand Cia»uje small pigs r-ady sale. Milch cows, £ 12 to Ex each. Beef. 3s Od to 4s 4d mutton, 3s 1 d to 5s lOd veal, is 6d to 58 6d nork. 2s oct to 4s 8d per 81h. Beasts, 3,600 sheep, 11,690 caives, 10C; pigs 20. Including foreign—beasts. 3.0; sheep, 10 calves, 10. NELSOS, Tuesday.-To-da.y the March annual cattle fair was held at Nelson, aid was very well attended. A great many bead of cattle were brought, and p ices were higher and more firm. Price, ruted as follows :— Turee-ytsa^-uld steers, Bll to CIS and ±.15 r two-veari old steers, £ ? to B9 barreners, t9 to £ 1 oc ws"«ith calf. £ 12 to £ 15 heifers. £ 6 to £ 8. Messrs Jones. Bros., J. 11 oor, and McTurk were the chief buyers of cattle. There were n" horses and only a few Plp. the latter selling at from 25 to 3(h and 35s eaca. LLANLALACK, Tuesday.—Tne annual spring cattle fair was held on Tuesday. The stock for sale was not so large as usual, but of excellent qual tv. A number of buyers were in attendance, and a clearance was effected at auvanced prices. COWBRIDGE, Tuesday.—The market to4ay WAS th nly attended. Beef sold at 5 te 6d per lb; mutton, do to 9,ii pork, 95 Od to lOd per score. Taere were no cows in the market. NEWPORT Weduesda-y.-The supply in all depart- ments at the market to-lay was shorter than usual. The attendance was tair, but trade somewhat s ow and several lots rema ned on hand. The prices realised were :-Beet, superior quality, 5id to Sid secondary sorts, 4:1d to 5d; mutton, wethers, 4d to 9d ewes, 7d and veai, bd to 7.d. per lb. Pip- porkers sold at from 9s to (to bd per score baconers, 8s bd per score. PROVISIONS. MONMOUTH, Saturday.—The weekly market held to-day was but a small one. The prices were is follow --Fresh butter. Is 3d to Is bd oer lb. Hea eggs, 16 to 18 for Is. Home-made lard, 7Ad to 8d Per lb. Dressed poultry—small tow s, 3 9j totI 3d oer couple large do, 5s Oil to us 6d per ccuple, abou 8d pH lb. Live poultry-fowls, 3s od to 4s bd per co ,.e gu hea fowis, 5s 01 to 6s 0,1 per cou 1" F rL-i t, foreigu grapes. Is per lb; rhubarb. 2d per bundle; dessert apples, lOd to Is per gallon. Vegetable-es, kale, 8d per dish hroceoii heads, 3d o 6Ll each; leeks, Id ;o 2B per bunch Brussels sprouts, bd to 8d per gallo.i *avoy cai>bages, 9d t.. Is per dozen cook- ing onions, 8d per gall n celery, ] (j to 2d per st,eic early ca jbage plants, 9d to 1- per 100 pickling d." id per score. Game—hares, 4s to 5s 6d eacn rfcboits, 10s to 12s per dozen wh lesale, Is 2d to Is 31 otaoea r-tail. Fish—Severn salmon. Is 8d to Is 10.1 per lb. Butchers' meat (prime joints only quoted I-b..ef. 8cI per Ib: mutton, Bd per lb veal, 7d to 9J per Ib pork, 6d to 7d per lb. BUTTER. CARMARTHEN, LSatur,i.y. (William Pugh's Repofrt.1— The e was a small upp.y of new butter at th ma teet to-day, the prices quoted being from Is 14 tu 1, 2d per Ib old butter sot at from Is J. in Is Id per lr,, Fresh market pound butter sold at from Is 3d to 16 4d per lb. CHEESE. CARMARTHEN, Saturday. -(William Pugb's Hopmt.)-- There was a fair supply of cheese at the market to-da.y, which sold at previous qu .tations, thr price paid being from 20s to 22. per cwt. according to quality. WOOL. BRISTOL. Wednesday.-Trie Bristol wool fair was opened to-cia), in ttie G >rn Exchange, -tn l theT- wi- a veT) large attendance from tbe North and Mid nd counti- a and other pa.r.s o' the country. The extra large xttendance was acciun ed for in some measure from the fact of prices having been ruling hiirit, and that iutetoding buyer, have held back unto the Kristol meeting, which is a late tair, in tue expectation rates, being a littie eas.er. Woo: has been exuee tin iy ■ ■ear throughout the country lately, and he markets ia the Midland counties iiave been very quiet. J'he prIce. asiced yesterday averageu s ightl> inoe tuan those quoted at B atiford and Halifax and ritner more uiaa ooe average ^u unity of wool > as offered. Fine samples so,(i at from 10 o to lid, and str, tig from ^4 to 1lL Down fleeces were scarce, and not many worw ottered, and were dear and did not sell well in c >nse- queuce of the high pi i" asked. in the coarser sorts more business was do e, and there were more nquiriea. In picked "kin woois there were rataer free i .qu.riec at is to Is l and this was almost the only instance were a slight indication of any Hardening in pri a was manifest. S "lIe best D >wus, in exceptional msta.>ceK, fetcued from lid to llid. LEATHER. BRISTOL. Wednesday.—Taere was a very larga attendance at the Bristol lea her fair, vest rday, of those engaged in the leather trade, ootb of buyers and sellers, but not a larze business was reported, although the market showed a very hopefui fine nJ. "price# all roUBo innicated a distinctly tinner TENANCY, wuile not point.ng to any immediate advance. There was very little est of Fiiglanti itiatber .,fferina, tanners in the district of heavy sole leather being short of .HI\C. and in ne fice of the pre-ent state of the h de market, uot at all anx ous 0 book forward even at present quota, tiouc. Foreign offai met wi&ii a good many inqu rie-- and any desirable pa.Ce8 were ciea eu out dot current rates. Useful p ircels of dressing hioes and œ:f oJtiQá m,ved off, but without change in value, and on toe whole it ininht be Aid that -,ompara ively small trains actions charact nsed the ousiness of the fair. COALS. LONDON. Wednesday -I be house coal sea borne market was steady, at 1-ist pr ces. Hettona, lh Tees, 17s; Lamoton, 16s od Lyons, ana A ear 15" per ;oa. .,h ps arrived, 19; soil, 12; gas, 6 ships u oft. Fa. Wind, n rth-west. METAUS. NEFPOILT, Wednesday.—Pig-iron was doll and at the decline at the Kxcnange to-dav—a result ÙU8 to the activity of G.asgow speculators .n endeavouring te realise at a profit. The ore m-trke nowever, rem ins I firm. and it was felt that prices must revive as they would not admit of further reductions. Blooms and steel bars were not inquired for, suop ies ii-ng obtained under old contracts. 1 n-plates were ga u low, on the week P-twood remained tirm it 16-i although a fair number of cargoes wtj; e reported. Coal continues in 2"01(1 demand, and price, hirti gorte up "II the month to the extent of 2J p r ton. Freight* ars e siei owing tothe supply of steam tonnage being fu4 equal to the demand. HLDE, SKIN, AND FAT. BRISTOL AND WESTERN COUNTIES, Saturday -PricAs quoted as follows :—tildes Spanisti.-d to —d 931be ainoi upwards, 3id t.& -(t, 831bs to 921bs, Sid to d; Mlbs to 821bs, 6id to -d, bsibs to 721 bs, 3kd to d; 54ibs to o2Jbs. 3a,1 to ù 531bs and under, 5¡d to —u. Cows o31b» and above, to—d; liglit, SJL Bulls; heavy cute, 3. a light anu irregular, Jad to —d Calf skins: 171 bs anu upwards, 4jd 121 bs to lolbs, 6d 9lbs to lllbs, 6d; under 9los, 4â<i; cut and irregular, 4d chance, —d per lb. Horse hides, Us 0d to 17s Od 1st kips, 3xd 2nd kips, 2*d per lb. Kat: t mutton, 24d; beef lid rough. Id. Wtiois-D, 2s lOd C, 4s 3d B, as 6d A, 7s 3d X, 9s Od. Forward prices to Tnursday:—Wools, U. 2", iOd C, 46 3a; K. os bd A, 7s la X, 9s 2a. Fat, lli, làd. 28d. Best beef, 2id.

Svieide *f a Solicitor.—Mr A. Lukfll, of Exmouui, went tur a walk on Friday, ar- ranging with his wife to meet bim and acoom pauy bim part of the way on bis return. It came on foggy, and be did not reappear that night. On Saturday he was found dead in a J wood, banging, and medical opinion, is that he bad 1 taken poison. JHe bad purchased an ounce of chloroform before starting on fridsy.

pUBYO B ENEF ARESS. S. A. ALLEN bas justly eainteA this title, and thmtsaadt we this day rejoieing over a tne bead of hair produced by Unequalled preparation for > storing, invigorating, and beaa tifying the Hair. A'HOBIB KIC019 HALF A CENTVKi; jyTIS S. 4. ALLEn WORLD 8 HAm RESTORER IS PERFECTION I For RESTORING "'4Y. WHITS, ec FADED HAIR to Its youthful COLOUR GLOSS, and BEAU rY. It renewa itn life, streneth, and growth. Dandruff quickly removed. A match iees Hair Dreaain>» Its perfume rich a: rare. BAP'"Y DAY. There II earn*. thing of regret and glooms m the first appearance of rrav baira. Mrs. a. A. ALLBV's WOILLWS HAIR RESTORE* happily affords a safe and sure meaus for restoring theic again to the freshness ana beauts ef yoiitb, ignis