The Cardiff Times

INTEMPERANCE COKBD.—A wealthy American lady, whose only son was for years a slave to intemperance, after seeking in vain for a cure, and trying all known remedies, at last found a simple means that cured and saved him from a drunkard's grave. Any one suffering or desiring to help others in this worthy cause, by sending a self-addrecsed stamped envelope to Mr James Holland, 25, Hart-atreet, High Holborn, Londoa, will receive this informafroa ofratge. Mention fluff paper.

BUFFALO BILL, THE HERO OF THE WILD WEST. BUNS TIt. AUTHENTIC STORT OF THI ADVKNTORM AND ESCAPES of THE HOiST. HviLLIAM F. CODY. J I" —— CHAPTER IV.—THK BORDERRCfFtANS.—M&KtNO FUSE WITH PAOPKBTY IN THE FRKS STATS, SYNOPSIS'OF: PREVIOUS CHAPTERS. CHAPTER I (4 BOYISH EXPLOIT) gives particulars as to the birth and parentage of the hero of the story. It depicts some of his deeds of boyish heroism, con- spicuous among which was an incident which occurred when Bill was on y nine years of ago. In company with a schoohrtate of equally tender years, young Cody on one occasion was obliged to shelter from a thunderstorm in. an out-of-the-way log-cabin which bore the reputation of being haunted by the spirits of a. settler and his! family who had been cruelly and mysteriously murdered some years pre- vious. Scarcely had the lads found tbis shelter when they Were* alarmed at the approach of tour horsemen, whom; hey soon recognised as among the mo-t feared border ruffians who infested that region. Hidinfthemsetvesin the loft, the lads, with fear and trembliac,watched the desperadoes dismount- ing and entering the cabin by the window. Ihe con- versation of the ruffians soon betrayed two important secrets; first, that their leader had murdered the settler and hi- family who bad formerly occupied the cabin; and seeqtid, that they were now preparing a raid upon Bill's father's bouse, and intended murdering the whole family. This revelation oniy -ave the lad additional courage, and he hastily directed his young companion to make: his way secretly, yet rapidly, to warn tbe settlers,whUe he, youn^Bili, remained alone to prevent the escape of the ruffians. The lad succeeded in descending the roof to the ground unperceived, and leaping upon the back of one of the strangers' horses, lode away at breakneck speed. Through a trapdoor in the floor of the loft Bid now watched the move- ments of the ruffians below, and when they prepared to depart called out that he would shoot the first who stirred, Tne leader of the party placed his hand on his revolver,ibut the )ad was too quick for him, and shot him dead in his tracks. The others, appalled, stood irresolute. Bill, favoured by the gloom of the loft, remained hidden, nothing but the threatening projecting barrel of his revolver cover,ng them being visible. He thus held them at bay until his father ar- rived with help, and the three were taken prisoners and lynched. CHAPTER II.—JUVENILE DUEL.—Shortly after this episode, the family moved further west. Settling near Fort Leavenworth, they made the acquaintance of the Vennor family, who occupied a neighbouring farm. Bill Cody soon sLowed signs of calf love for Miss Nannie Vennor, the farmers handsome daughter, but found a dangerous rival in Mr Hugh Hall, a fast" young man from the city By a fortun te chance, Bill overheard a conversation between Mr Hugh Hall and a confederate, from which be gathered that Miss Nannie Vennor was heiress tocomi enble property that Hall knew this and purposely withheld the knowledge from her and her father that hemight the more easily win ber and secure her tortun*. The plot was made all the more odious from the fact.that Hall had a wife still living, from whom be was now in hiding. After the departure of the confederate, young Bill faced Hail, and charged him with his treachery. He ordered the villain to march before him to Venror Farm that hb might there be shown in his true colours. Pretending to obey. Hail suddenly whipped out his pistol and shot point blank at the lad, the bullet burying itself in the trunk of a tree close to Bill's bead. Bill's repiy shot broke Hall's right arm, but he, be ng double handed, seized his fallen pistol with his left band, and another couple of shots were exchanged, with the result that Bil, narrowly escaping, shot the traitor dead. The lad then hastened off to Vennor and disclosed everything, receiving many marks of rratitude. CHAPTKR ill—THB CA>TURE OF BUCK STALLION.— The next chapter in young Bill's history is a most stirring one. A drove of horses for the cavalry, bought in Texas, where they had been roaming wild on the plains like the herds under the famous White Steed of Gabriel Ferry and Mayne Reid, had broken away in, a mass, or stampeded," as the American-English of the technical Spanish terlll mrds it, The main body were soon far away, but a few stragglers remained in the neighbourhood of the fort, wtier* Billy had skill enough to catch them, although His own pony. Rascal, of runa- way memory, was not tbelltetestof quadrupeck. Foreach (f the recaptured animah the youth received a Govern- ment grant of 10 dollars Th,s roused his desire to increase his captures. In this he was handicapped by the want of a good borst, his own pony being quite unequal to the task. Itere was, however, a sergeant possessed of a remarkably fleet steed. Bill offered all he possessed in exchange for this animal, but his offer W\i! rejected. Finally he arranged a shooting wager, in which he staked his little all against the coveted steed. Coming off victorious in this trial, he was now the happy owner of one of the fleetest animals in tie district. He found his new steed, too, to be faster and firmer-bottomed than any of the strays, vitb the exception, perhaps, of the chief, a large, gaunt stud or stallion, which was very fast. The settlers and people at the fort bad asserted that it was a wfcked beast, not one of the Government purchases, but the property of a horse thief who had been shot dead on its back one night. They called the horse "Satan," a name which augured inuch viciousness and wiliness. Following bis eject with caution and determination, by a mixture of skill and luck he succeeded in capturing the renowned xtallion, and after a severe struggle mastered him and br.ke him in to his purposes. This notable steed, Satan, was destined to fgure prominently in the lad's subsequent history. CHAPTER IV.—BOBDIB RUFFIANS.—Bill's father having removed into Kansas identified himself with the party of freedom, who held the doctrine that any slave entering Kansas became a free and independent citizen. The slaveholders and their partisans, who went under the name of The Border Ruffians," deter- mined to be revenged upon him. Bill, happening one day to overhear an arrangement for making an attack upon his father, who was sentenced to death by the villains, and seeing no other means of warning his parent, dashed away on his black horse through the mustering murderers. Though hotly pursued he managed to escape, and by the superior speed of his horde he reached home in time to enable his fatter to escape. The lad was. however, caught, and ftverely beaten, the leader of the marauders, Jake JTKudlas. taking away his favourite horse, Satan. Later, by a mixtuie of daring and strategy, he succeeded in recovering his valuable steed. CHAPTER V.—SCHOOL ADVENTURES.-As he was yet only in his twelfth year, he wary sent to school. Here he quarrelled with a rival much older than him- self, and was publicly whipped by the master tor doing so. This led to a iighc between him and his rival Gobel, as a result of which Bill found it to his advan- tage to join a waggon train going west, here he served an apprenticeship which snoaequentlv proved valuable. CHAPTER Vl.-A BORDER RAID A TERRIBLE POSI- TION.—After a number of a<'ventures, in which he en- countered and assisted in overcoming the Indians, he one day found himself in a situation or terrible danger. He was on the point of being overtaken on the prairie by a rush of buffaloes. Mounting a solitary tree to escape being trampled to death nnder their ho fs, be saw that the buffaloes were pursued by a band of Indians, by whom he would cert&inly be captured if be remained where he was. CHAPTER VIL-A. REMARKABLE HIDE—THX CHURCH MILITANT. Bill, preferring to trust himself to buffaloes than to the scarcely less wild and certainly more savage In- P»ns« dropped from the tree on to the back of one of the largest bulls in the herd, and was by him carried off to safety, the daring rider this earning his title of Buffalo Bill. Shortly after this incident the camp was o-m 1 by party of Mormons, one of whom claimed BtlVs horse, Satan. A duel was fought, in which the Mormon was wounded in the leg. The others, still re- fusing to give up the horse, Bil, under pretence of bidding his steed good-bye, sudCenly leaped upon his back, and rode triumphantly away. escaping the bal- lets sent after him by the infuriated Mormons. CHAPTER VIII.—SATAN'S USEFUL END. With two companions Bill was soon after attacked on the prairie by a band of threescore Indians. The tnree whites, having no other cover than a slight de. pression in the earth, had to shoot their own horses to anord them a barricade against the attack of the Indians Bill's grief at the loIIJ of his horse was naturally great, but it was tbe oily chance of saving his own life. After a terrible fight the party was res- cued by another troop of white' CMAPTKR IX.—ALONE IN THt WILDERNESS. *ith a companion, Bill went trapping Into the Sioux territory, rfere, in the iepth of winter, he oroke his leg, and bis companiou left him in a small ™ i 7- oat for the fort, a hundred mues aistant, to get oxen and a sUd e to carry Bill WK-I ,of their trapping expedition away. !e J ^ls helpless condition Jill is still farther perplexed by seeing a band of Iidians approaching, in whom he recognises Sioux 011 tba war-path. CHAPTKR X.—AT THS MKMT OF THK SJOUX- TH* DUEL FOB THE GOLD MWK—FIRST EXPBBI- tNON AS A OUtDJt—THX JUQTSOADE VSVglLSO. signs of friendship and amity to tbe watchful and suspicious Indians. After a moment's ponsnfttttfctt, half their body advanced towards the cabin; leaving the others wary as ever to. patch against any possible surprise. To his satisfaction* Cody recognised the chief as the noted "Rain.m-the Face." He had seen him at Fort Laramie, where, althodRh he had played some boyish pranks with the dignified old fellow -Indiana being obtnse to the chaff beloved by the Anglo-Saxon race alone—bo had pacified him by presenting him, with a scoping knife. He saw it at his girdleLnow,where it had not probably been idle if acy wickedness were going on around the wearer. They questioned ibe prisons and as his life waa forfeit as an], intruder's, the council which was held ever blnfc seemed rather a waste of words. Bnt old begged bis life under the humiliating plea be was only a boy—and a very playful one, bwn—andese* the blow of a warrior's mace hatchet. Those who had been thirsting for ff^blood consented to see the matter in that lighL jbut robbld bim of nearly everything in tbe dugout. The snow came dpwa upon the place, fortu- nately helping to Jc&p it wann. for the boy's fire had been pat oati- and he b*d much difficulty in making it up AMNKand keeping off the wolves with the single revdhfer which was left him. H 1 In another mMb. however, Harrington arrived. He had valorously made the doable Journey, and bra^g^t an ox team and aorple provisions. As be had only straggled throngb the snow with utocb hardship, they had to be reconciled to remaining there until the thaw. When it came, the wamoo, not sledge, witb which Harmgtcu had foteflsbtodly provided himself was loaded up with the furs, on which the wounded youth was pillowed tenderly. In ten or twelve days they reached the farm where their "outfit bad been furnished, and where it now was paid for in furs (such is the trustfulness and helpfulness on the border). Thence to Junction City, where the rest was disposed ot. Cody went to his home, crippled for the time being, it is true, but having over a hundred dollars cash as his share to gladden the paternal borne, from which it lifted a mortgage. All hurts to bordermen are kill or cure. With a rapidity which sufferers in city hospitals never know, the broken limb mended, and the crutches cast away. Cody was a whole man again, and, with his tireless activity, looked about for something to be at. The Pike's Peak gold fever was raging (1859, &c.). He went to the mines and took a claim, but was much put upon by bullies because he was the youngest man in camp. Gold digging is going to the dogs sinfce milksops and babbies are taking to it," said the grumblers, for even in so busy and hard-working a place as a gold mining camp there are soreheaded bears. As Billy had made friends, the first serious move against him resulted in a metO, after which several funerals took place. To increase the unfounded enmity against the boy miner, and give it such basis as envy would rate enough, he found a vein, struck it rich," I as the saying goes. One morning his rich claim," of which the fame bad spread, was jumped "-two men bad literally jumped into his pit, and be found them there when he came. They disputed his claim—swore they had once staked it off, and had returned in time not to be deprived of their pre-emption, and ordered the owner to git out and git away." Cody's friends met, and, deciding that the intruders mast be ousted by main force as they bad ejected bim, accompanied him back to the place to see fair play. The occupiers were recognized as loafers who had, admittedly, roamed about the camp some months, but never had done any digging there or elsewhere, unless, peradventure, to bury their dead." The judgment was: M Now, you must git out.' But up came others of the ruffians' kidney, who opposed Billy and the honest miners. To prevent a general battle, Cody suggested that the fighting should be confined to him and his adversaries originally concerned. He would meet one after the other m revolver fight. This proposition was accepted. The arrangement was, to place the men back to back, but twenty paces apart; they to turn and fire at the word. Although there was an attempt to help the ruffian in giving the signal unfairly, Billy's shot went off a little more quickly, and his man fell, shot in the heart. His companion was stopped in his career by being arrested as an escaped prison bird by a Government detective, and so ended the quarrel over the Boy's Claim. But the blood spilt seemed to have spoiled the luck, for the gold ceased to show. Billy sold out and went bome. When emigrants arrive by railway at the confines of civilization, and the untilled country extends before them, illimitable were it not for the Rooky Mountains in the remote distance, their heart fails them in seeing the gigantic difficulty of the way to their New Eden with much cumbersome impedimenta and totally unen- lightened ignorance of the means to advance a mile. Besides the dangers from Indiana and robbers of their own colour, dangers large enough already in their minds fed by preposterous fiction, those Europeans who are practical farmers are perplexed mortally by the question of bow to water the draught beasts and shelter themselves each night, saying nothing of the fresh meat supply. On the frontier, therefore, at the jumping off place," the point whence one takes the I portentous dive into the Vast Unknown Region, a swarm of guides abounds. Theatrically dressed, all their weapons, silver buttons, spurs, gold- mounted whips, and the like, almost as abnor- ] mally large as property articles in pantomimes, the greater number seem burlesques on the I Roaring Ralph Stackpoles of the minor stage and penny novelettes. These are generally arrant 1 humbugs, who scarcely know a big born from a buffalo, or a mirage from a lake, and they are ( more likely to keep off an Indian squaw's track 1 than invite her lord and master to single combat I over the right of way. There is another kind, usually old men, quiet, with that reserve foroe" supposed to be the ] characteristic of the modern fine gentleman, who make engagements with the honest intention of fulfilling them to the letter. They are veteran hunters and trappers who have been on every j acre of ground they propose to lead the caravan through they will die in the defence of their charges like a dog, not even caring if their memory is cherished by one of the strangers whose lives they will have saved. The clear, noble, straightforward nature of Natty Bamppo dwells in them. Buffalo Billy bad determined to become such a guide as these, and as a 'prentice hand he offered himself in Leavenworth City. The very position was tendered to him by a train captain. This man's party, consisting of thirty families, had been delayed by the previously engaged guide falling ill. Another was taken in his place, but the master wanted to make assurance doubly sure by having an assistant guide. He liked the youth, although his juvenility was against him, .and from sound recommendation engaged him. On the morning when the wheeled fleet sailed westward, Bill Cody and his superior in guiding met for the first time. Neither liked the other, and the captain ot gaides remarked disparagingly at the presentation of bis associate: Reckon he won't amount to much ten mile out on the prairie." Cody said nothing, but studied tbis sneering gentleman narrowly. He gave the name of Roy Velvet, palpably a purser's name," but that is nothing on the border, where nicknames often eclipse the ones given by godfathers. He was good-looking, but seemed the victim of fast living. Ht dressed foppishly for prairie Work, and showed as much extravagance as regards small arms as an Albanian. He rode a superb bay mare. For a time all went well. The guide seemed to know bis craft; but after a bout of stormy weather, there were such blunders as the camp being set where Water was not obtainable, a dry camp, the track became bad for wheels, Indian were allowed to surprise them, aad so on, until the old hands muttered that Mr Velvet had lost the way. At last the country became almost impossible to traverse, and a large body of I Indiana were their constant esoort. To make matters more alarming at this 11 junotnre, Assistant Guide Cody had left the 4 train overnight. It is not very unusfial for a i guide to leave camp, if all is going on well, in order to scout on ahead, but he should give notice of the intelligence to his chief, at all events. He had taken great care to do aothing of the sort, for his suspicions of the guides' treachery bad hourly increased. 4 On the previous night, noticing him surrep- 4 titiously leave the encampment, he had followed I him with the utmost stealth. Velvet went to a I rendezvous too well chosen to allow the watcher I to approach within earshot, but he could see that I his superior confabulated with a figure in Indian war paint and feathers. When tbe conference was finished and the two plotters parte'* with a cordial shake bands not much in harmony with the courtesy of Mr Lo the poor Indian," Bill followed the plumed chief. He bad to ride hard over the prairie to do it, and tbat a night chase of a redskin on a dark horse is a fair test of man- I hunter's craft the reader may be assured. On I overtaking bim, an exchange of shots was immediate, the psendo Indian fell fatally wounded and Cody's horse was killed. On investigation, tbe confederate of Mr Roy Velvet was found to be a redwashed white man. Furthermore, the I victor recognised bim as a former settler in tbe "eigbbouroocitf of tbe Cody farm, who had gone wwnwr through drink. 111 order to Induce, Cody to execute some little requests, he revealed r a staggering story of Mr Velvet's real standing I and intentions. c •Velvet was by a wider known name one Red ?? •aptain-general of balf.breeds, renegade whi^M aad loas Indians expelled from i their tribes. All these bad spirits he joined at need to the highwaymen who infested mail coach routes and emigrant trails, under the title of 44 road agents," and to Indian bands. The white men commonly disguised themselves as Indians in their ventures in a force upon waggon trains. Velvet, therefore, was the very man most wanted by government detectives, since he had not forborne stopping army service trains, and by state officers of justice for his destruction of whole parties of emigrants. On the next night Velvet had plotted to have the party under his charge attacked in camp, and everybody murdered. Taking the dead outlaw's horse, Cody hastened to the camp in which Velvet had lodgad his trustful dupes. Billy marched straight upon him and held him under fire whilst he was secured. If not so secured, he would have shot him at the instant to prevent any possibility of the wily wretch's escape. When he was bound, the young man related his discovery to Capt. Denham; in fifteen minutes the trial was over, and Reid the Renegade hanged up prominently, so that his allies might see that the king-pin had dropped out of the infernal machination. The attack took place, but the forewarned emigrants repelled it; Ixi sure enough, on searching the dead, several white men were found under the Indian colours. The new chief guide, Cody, had the fortune to carry the train clean through. He would have been made sheriff of the new settlement if be had; accepted office, but he was content with thanks and full pay, and returned home with a govern. ment train. CHAPTER XI.—THE PONY RXPRESS SLAmll THE SLAYER "—QUICK WORK—HOT WORK- THE CLAUDE DUVAL OF THE WkgT-SAVING THE OOACH-LIGHTNING DRIVING. "The Pony Express" was an « institution of the Mid United States which served its purpose and then so quickly vanished that its title hard.y oalls up more than the vaguest of memories. When California was peopled mainly by men from the Eastern seaboard cities, the means of their receiving home news and sending money to their families was a desideratum above ordinary pecuniary consideration. The mail route by steamship from New York to the Isthmus of Panama, crossed by mules before the railway was made, and thence to San Francisco through the Pacific, had no rival but the overland mail. This went from the Western cities such as St, Louis or St. Joseph over the prairie, desert, and mountains to the mining cities, mere camps and groups of sheds, of the Golden btate. Passengers were carried in stage coaches specially constructed for roads which no European would have classed among highways' aud these coaches carried mails as well as treasure' But merchants and private individuals, with intelligence of importance to transmit, paid an extra fee m order to have their letters go bv Pony Express." 1 The letters were written on the finest of bank post, "onion peel paper," and were carried by riders, from point to point relayed, across the uninhabited region. They went regularly, not. withstanding the weather; yet it is weather with such variations and such intensity that a meteorological bureau refuses the evidence of those who have experienced it. At Fort Benton Montana, 60 degrees below zero has bean recorded -Arctic winter, indeed-and in the Arid Belt the bsat and dryness would parch a water melon into a pea in an hour's exposure. Then there are rain and hailstorms and snowfalls, all prodigious phenomena of nature; landslides which leave a mountain bereft of a third of its altitude, sand- storms of a peculiarly cutting kind, which wear IL 11 \l> i.) I i. i i i away granite and basalt into honeycombed fretwork. The prairie fires break out spontane- ously, as well as when accidentally started by emigrants who throw down pipelights in at five hundred acre square of tinder-like grass with the heedlessness of a city dweller in a paved street, or designedly by the savages to destroy budding fruit trees and ensure young grass for the game. And rattlesnakes that leap on horses and bite the "der f and insects that settle on him so that he enters the post-house like an apiarian on whom tbe bees have swarmed. However, men were eager to do this, and the Express Company did not accept every applicant for office. Buffalo Bill had found neither schooling nor farming to his t iste, and after a trip to Atchison an assistant to Wild Bill, who ran a supply train from Leavenworth for the Overland Stage Company to the place before named, he volun- teered as a pony express rider. The waggon train contractor, Russell, gave him a letter of introduction to the notorious Alf. Slade, the overseer and stage coach agent for the Julosberg and Rocky Ridge Division of the mail line. His headquarters were forty miles out west from Fort Laramie, at Horseshoe, where Buffalo Billy found him and presented the letter. Slade was a panther in human shape, who had killed a dozen men or so in rough and tumble fights, most of these encounters with firearms depending for success, bear in mind, on the excellence and conditions of weapons and the extreme celerity in bringing them to bear on the enemy, A man not killed cutrifcht was popularly warranted in cherishing the vendetta, so that a mortal aim was generally taken or the fallen man would be finished on the spot. Otherwise a blundering murderer would soon have several recovered foes uniting to take his life. Slade was reckoned a very daring fellow, yet he died like a coward. But there is no consistency in the conduct of these Western desperadoes: they are capable of meannesses which are too despicable to reoord, and yet, at an emergency, have sbone out like heroes—as witness the rough and tough Bitter Root Bill," who fought the great fire which nearly destroyed the mining town, Old Helena City, Montana, twenty years ago. He stood on a steaming roof, under which provisions and powder, without which tne ruined miners would have been defenceless in the winter, keeping the blankets, which carpetted the roof, wet with water passed up by a chain of men, his form shrouded in smoke, and every now and then disappearing in a sheet of flame. They are of the Rob Roy type, too good for banningj and not good enough to be unreservedly blessed. Siade examined the volunteer critically, deemed him too young for the work which wore our great grown men rapidly, but finally took him on. since his "record" as "Buffalo Billy was already current on the frontier. Next day Billy was given a seventy mile trail, from Red Buttes on the North Platte River to Three Crossings on the Sweet Water, a very long track, but the young rider did not cavil. Before long, he came through on time so certainly that his reputation began to expand in this new line. All the rider was asked to do was to come through on time: it he delivered his mail bag safely, it Was little moment if he had bullets and arrows in bim, or if tbe horse be rode in was not tbe company's on which he had left the last station. More than one Eastern merchant has commented upon his advice from a San Francisco correspondent being contained in an envelope cleft through cleanly or red-stained, and has irritably condemned the company whose employee bad dirty fingers and sharp thumb-nails it was the stab of a bowie knife, and the red rust was blood-drop from a postboy's heart, that is all. One day when Billy stopped at the station to hand over his mail to the next man, he found him dead, killed in some private affair, and he volunteered to ride out his run-only five-and- eighty miles in addition to his accomplished seventy-five J Moreover, be got in ahead of the scheduled time, and, thereupon, turning back reached Red Buttes in due time. A ride without test of three hundred and twenty odd miles, at an average of 8f teen miles an houri The company awarded him a purse of gold for this feat, and he was esteemed the Boss," or foremost of their ridets, a high recompense in fame after onlv a few moøtbe. riding. The Indians, in their ideas about their property in bltdtinjt grounds, particularly detest • through routes of the white monvg communication. The telegraph and railway follow the waggon roads and express messengers' tracks, and all conduce to preventing the great periodical migrations of game north and south. Henoe the pony express service was always menaced by them, no matter what their tribe, and often were its riders attacked. They had little chance of escape except by running the gauntlet, as the Indians rarely fall on a fleet rider except when they can surround him with an overwhelming force. A party of them had stormed a mail station and murdered the postmaster. They went into ambuscade at a little distance by Horse Creek, Thanks to a mir-tcle, Bil^Dody rode through them almost before he knew be was wayla d, and !• little feared their chase until he observed that 'iT0 ° t'lem Wefe gaining on him, and dropping the others. A pony express rider is dressed as compactly as possible, and has nothing to divest himself of to lessen weight, so that all the young man could do was to use whip and spur on his horse. But the two reds bad large horses such as are called "Americans in contradistinction to the under- sized native mustangs or ponies. Bill's situation was indeed critical. His horse had already become shaky with hard riding, and it was evident that it must soon succumb. Both his pursuers were well mounted, and their horses apparently fresh, so that overtaking Bill on his failing beast was only a question of a few minutes. He gaz*d eagerly around in search of some kind of "cover"—something that would give him a chance in a fight with his enemies. But there was nothing of the kind in sight. (To be continued.) +_+.

MR JOHN MORTLEY AT IPSWICH. Mr Chamberiain Whipped, On Saturday mght Mr John Morley delivered his presidential address to the members of the Ipswich Reform Ulub. Tbe meeting was held in the Public-hall, and there was a large attendance of members and others, including a number of ladies. Mr N. Catchpole, chairman of the Liberal Association, occupied the chair. Mr MORLKY, who, on rising, was received with prolonged cheers, observed that for his part he could not see the proofs of Radical influence in Tory councils. If Radical Unionists hau assisted the Liberals in providiug a wider character to the boasted Local Government Bill, he would have believed in their professions, but this had not been done. Of course, it was said that if the Conservatives became reactionary, then the luftuence would ue felt. There was a nervous quivering now and again agitating the tail of the noble animal, wh.ch would warn the Conservative party of the mighty wrath that was latent. It the Tories were to bring back the rack or the stake, or the slave trade, or abolish trial by jury in England, then they would see what they would see. What were they to tlunk of Mr Chamber- laiu ? They all had thought that in him they had a man who meant every word he said. Now, the Gladstonians had been compared to the Girondists. Well, a Girondist was a man who went up and down the country saying eloquent things about natural rights, about peopie who did not "toil or spm," about" raUtlOm and then, when a few Irish peasants took the lesson to heart, the Girondist was the kind of man who turned round aad said they were anarchists and robbers. (Cheers and laughter.) The Girondist was the sort of man who, in 1881, would have said at Birmingham, if he had not had bis head cut off oarlier—(laughter)—he would have said, I hate coercion and then, in 1888, he would have gone to Nottingham and said, "Coercion only means that men must obey the law." (Renewed laughter.) Mr Chamberlain, however, weut further. He said that Mr Glad. stone, L"rd Spencer, all of them, condemned the Government because they wanted its place. Hitherto in English controversies sordid imputa- tions of that kind had been left to men a great deal below Mr Chamberlain in public esteem. If that sort of accusation came of consorting with gentlemen, then he thought their friend (Mr chamberlain) would have done better to keep to vulgarians. The worst of it was that Mr Cham. beriain knew better. He was with three or four others at a certain Round Table. (Laughter.) Were they place-hunters then ? Mr Chamberlain knew better. Even of him (the speaker) he knew better. (Cheers.) What did they thiuk of the .J*" Mr Parnell that he bad received £ 4-0,000? What did they think of tbe generous remark that the Irish members Were only patriots because they were very well paid? What did they think of the savoury phrase that the Irish was a kept party—(cries of Jcdas!")—made by the statesman who first co-operated with an Irish party, and who now said that he wanted to make Ireland as loyal as Scotland ? Would any English- man begin making Scotland loyal by telling her people that they were a kept party, and nationally corrupt! About this time another speech was made by a man who had just been released from what he considered to be an unjust imprisonment, and who had suffered from A great wrong. Did he some out and say biting things of England? (Cries of "Noi") Mr Dillon's speech was a speech which even Conservatives would read with admiration and respect. Mr Dillon admitted that eight years ago be hated England, but tbat now he no longer hated Eug. land. (Cheers.) That speech and the speech of Mr Davitt marked a great victory for Irishmen and a great victory for English Liberals, because they might be sure that if Mr Dillon had under- gone this change, hundreds of thousands of his countrymen all over the world had done the same. He only hoped that the Irish would not lose patience. He admitted that the trial was very great, but if they would continue to be patient their patience would be rewarded. He believed tbat if Mr Chamberlain would make three speeches a week all over the country such as that which he delivered at Nottingham, then the Gladstonian Liberals Would sweep the country. (Loud cheers.) Mr Chamberlain was very indignant with the GIadstonian Liberals because they would not produce a bill with clauses ready drawn for the better government of Iteland. He knew what their policy was very well. He knew at the Round Table—(cheers and laughter)—he knew that in those days they were in sight of one another. Besides, all the world knew what their policy was. It was that laws for Ireland and the. government of Ireland should be conducted by men like Mr Dillon, who believed in their country and loved their countrymen, and not by men like Mr Chamberlain.wbo despised their countrymen. The Gladstonian position was clear. They uaw that Ireland was in a position of great misery and distraction. They could not regenerate Ireland with their own bands they must call in Irish- men to regenerate her. The misery of Ireland had come home to the hearts of the people of England and Scotland they saw ic all; the scales bad fallen from their eyes they saw the oppression that had made that desolate island what it was. And if he knew his countrymen, they were resolved to make one dead lift effort to give to Irishmen an opportunity of doing the best they could for theit own land. (Prolonged cheering.)

THE. NA TIONAL LEAGUE CONVENTION. Home Rulers at Birmingham. On Saturday the delegates of the Irish National League of Great Britain held their annual con- vention in Birmingham. The business meeting in the Town Hall was first held, at which nearly four hundred delegates were present, and the following members of the Irish party -Messrs T. P. O'Connor (president of the League), J. G. Biggar, T. D. Sullivan, J. Nolan, Conway, J. Foley, and J. F. X. O'Brien. Mr O'CONNOR, in opening the meeting, said the National League, instead of becoming less power- ful, was growing day by day. There was a time when the fate of English political parties had a very little influence on the national cause of Ireland, nor had either of these parties any real influence in Irish affairs until quite recently. Ireland bad grave cause for complaint against both English parties, both of which had passed measures of coercion but since the great Liberal party had taken up the cause of Ireland tbey watched the course of English politics with deep interest. The Irishmen in England, through the organisation of the League, had become a power in English politics, and had made that power felt at the elections. The annual report of the executive shewed that whereas in 1883 there were only 52 branches of the league, ttiere were now 595, with a memhar. ship of over 32,000. The report referred wit-H gratification to the work that had b en achieved all round, and to the attitude tow*rH» T»;„u polities of Mr Gladstone, ffr O'fwL re-elected president, and Manchester K/,83 tbe next meeting. Mr Bigg*Z' «« ss; TSLng^r?°w«; Mr BIGGAR a180 denied that th. Irish party was a kept party. A number of resolutions demanding Home Rule Government » rt0mn,.ng the Pol»cy of the present Gladstone ailiU^ aPPlauding the conduct of Mr the meeting auPP°fters, were submitted to aiaam. en • an^ carried with enthu- j —

THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA. Sensational Statements. < On Monday last a despatoh, signed iirastus Wiman, was handed in at the offices e Toronto newspapers. A request was subsequently made tbat it should be suppressed, and tbis was complied with by all the journals except the Empire, which published tbedocu. ment, commenting severely at the same time on the conspiracy against Canadian interests which it j appeared to disclose. The message, which is ) dated New York, September 29, says information bad just reached him (Mr Wiman) from Washiug- j toa ™ that the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs had, during the past few days, been discussing the question of inviting the Dor-inion of Canada to join the United States. So far bad matters progressed that it was nat at all unlikely that a < resolution would be reported for the concurrent action of both Houses, declaring it to be the duty of the President to open negotiations with Great Britain. The United States would assume < the entire debt of the Dominion. )

UNA MONTGOMERY. By MAJOR E. ROWLAND JONES (AMERICAN CONSUL AT CARDIFF), Author of Four Years in the Army of the Potomac, Heroes of Industry. Life and Speeches of Joseph Covxn, Z-c., Jce. "Her existence makes the world rich."—BMisftSOS. SYNOPSIS OF PREVIOUS CHAPTERS. CHAPTER I.—The story opens with a touching domes- tic scene. Mrs Montgomery, whose husband is expected home with his regiment from the Crimea, receives Tisit from Mr-; Dauntless, who informs her that the ship in which Colonel Montgomery was to sail had reached Plymouth. At the same moment a beautiful child of nine years, Una Montgomery, the heroine of he story, runs up to her mother with a letter from husband and father announcing hi-, intended arrival home that day. Mrs Dauntless think« it right he -houldhare a public reception on his return from the w*rs and a." once left to make the uecessary arrangements. Accordingly, when Colonel Montgomery alights at the station he is surprised to dnd the whole officialdom of Moorlands ranged to welcome him. Chapter II.—Husband and wife talk over the events "f the past, and, among ot er items, she informs him that during his absence his friend Vicar Powell had been dismissed the Church for gross drun<nness. Later in the evening the late vicar calls, and the friends discuss their respective changes of fortune. The party is shortly after increased by the arrival of Captain Fielding, who would have cut Powell were it not that Colonel Montgomery forces him to greet the disgraced vicar. Powell soon passed into a state of maudlin drunkenness, and has to be taken home in a cab. his friend Montgomery bewailing the sad f.te of one who had been his beau ideal of a perfect man, physically nd mentally without a rival. CHAPTER III. There are moments of mingled sorrow and tenderness which hallow the caresaes of affection. WASHIHGTOH IBYIMO. CAN/F find him anywhere, moth- er," said a manly little fellow, about thirteen years of age, to a woman bent over her sew- ing by a dismal lamp-light, ns he entered a small room in Park-lane. I peeped in at the Royal, the Exchange, and the Swan," he continued and I inquired at Mr Hardie and Dr. Lovedale's, but be was not at any of them places." Why did you not run over to Esmond, my boy ? Colonel Montgomery came home this morning, and it would be just like your father to call upon him, especially if he bad taken a glass or two." said the mother, plying away at her aeedle without once looking up. She was a very fair woman, with thick wavy suborn hair, and a face of the Roman east. It was the type of face to be admired by high-class men, such as Morgan Powell in hit prime, who did not fall in love with the orthodox pretty face that ordinary men run after. The little fellow hesitated in his answer, and looked confused. I was ashamed to go, mother," be said at last. Mrs Powell taught her children to call their parents "father" and "mother." She deplored what she characterised as the mincing effeminate words of modern society, such as papa and mama." The boy walked over to a green bag that bung behind the door and took from it a book, and joined his mother at the little table, and commenced to read. And you were ashamed to go to Esmond?" said the mother, after a pause. Why, my son ?" He turned over the leaves of his book very rapidly, but made no answer. Mrs Powell looked across the table at him, and noticed the blush on the child's white cheek. She laid aside her work and said, 11 Charley, come here to me." He obeyed and hugged and kissed his mother, and knelt by ber side, leaning on her lap, and looking intently into her deep meilow eyes. She smoothed back his long, almost white, wavy hair, and said: "You are only thirteen years of age, and yet you are ashamed of your father." "But I would go anywhere excepting to Esmond,' interposed little Charley, in self- defence. And you would not go there because of Una Charley, your father and grandfathers, through generations, have been slaves to drink. Some medical men declare that this unnatural craving for alcohol is hereditary. You still have my faee and complexion, but day by day you grow more and more like your father. You have his walk and movement; his eyes from the first-eyes that brought envy upon your poor mother from those who pity her now, my boy, because he looked with love upon me as Gladys Penrhyn. You will grow up to be like your father—like the Powells. You and Una Montgomery have always had childish love for one another; but you will soon be a man, and will forget, mnst forget your boyish attachment." "Why, mother?" asked Charley, looking through half-frightened eyes into his mother's thoughtful earnest face. Because you are Morgan Powell's son, and likely to inherit his qualities. Your father was once one of the finest athletes in England. Daring two years he was stroke oar of Oxford against Cambridge; he won the diamond seulls he was a great cricketer and swimmer. While at Oxford he won more scholarships than would pay his fees, and the keep of an ordinary man besides. He was strong and healthy of fine presence and address. He was an excellent student, and possessed a very retentive memory. He was a man of almost unequalled eloquence, and burning ambition. He got this important vicarage in a single bound- bishoprics were in his immediate future. And be loved your mother, aold you, my son, and your little sister that's dead, with the ardour of his great manhood. He was once the boast and pride of IvODSide-its disgrace now. He bas abandoned ibe star of his ambition, and sacrificed Ms loved ones, you and me, to the scoff and scorn of a cruet world. The best efforts that my nature is capable of—and my prayers and supplications to your lather, and the Father of the poor and deserted ones—have been exerted to save him from bis anrse, but I am afraid be is lost. If the doctors are right, you, too, my son, shall have a career similar to your father's. Would you expect Colonel Montgomery to sacrifice his Una, his little treasure, to the lot of poverty and disgrace that mine has been ?" M Oh, no I" said the little fellow* shaking his bead. Do you know why out old friends have deserted aø, every one?-why our furniture* out family plate, and relics have been disposed. to keep bread in tMe house and a fire on our little hearth ? -why I Was fiaally driven to bell what would keep as alive from my step-brother, who inherited my father and Mother's property?* "Yes, mother," answered the tbiJd. sadly, but without a tear. Yoa know that I afci ashamed to walk the streets that you, my son, are ashamed to go to Esmond, all though your father's drunkenness?" "Yes, I know it," replied the boy, atiU looking steadfastly into his mother's face. Cfcariey," she continued, I an still young. A few years more and you will be a man: a brother and a son to me. The awful possibility that your future life will verify the prediotious of the doctors haunte me every hour; it is more than I can bear. My son. I know you would not break yoor marker's heart." My good, kind, noble mother; no no 1 I would not do that answered the boy, the tears a* last streaming down his manly little faee. "Then promise me, my boy, my only hope on earth, that you will never toneb a single drop of intoxicating drink vehilis you live." "Inromieeit.mothef: I never wifrf I had taken Ui3 vow before you asked if, itt my heart," mid htU* Charley Powell, i» a fibrtn, deliberate voice. And in a silent prayer the mother thanked God fea Mr obikfa caaoire; and the asked Him, 1rbo I* had suffered her husband to go astray, to keep her boy in the path that leads to a higher, nobler life. Charley rose to his feet, and was locked in his mother's embrace, while the great bell in St. Peter's steeple, in deep melancholy tones, tolled the midnight hour. After a short pause Charley spoke. The sports of our school come off next week," said be. The boy observed that his mother looked mor&cheerful than usual. A brighter light shone through her hazel eyes than had been seen there for years. "Well ?" she said in answer. I should like to compete if I only had the entrance fee and a pair of running shoes." "We must try and procure them tor you, my son. But listen a conveyance has stopped at the door." Charley ran out, followed by bis mother. It was Mr Powell coming home from Esmond. He had fallen asleep in the cab; but after considerable difficulty they managed to get him mtothe bon.,e. Charley took off his father's boots; and together they undressed him and put him to bed. He was crying drunk," aad filled with refaorse. He sobbed about the disgrace into which he had brought his noble wife and only son, and the different circumstances they might have been in. But they had heard these things, oh f how many times before, and had grown indifferent to them, alas Before daylight Powell began to call aloud- Gladys, where am I?" His wife at once lighted the lamp and went to his bed-side. You are at home in your own bed, Morgan. Can I do anything for you, my dear I" Those hideous faces are after me again," be said, reaching out his trembling hand to her. "Those awful noises are again in my ears. Do you not hear anything unusual, Gladys ?" he asked, while the perspiration jrtood out in large drops upon his forehead. "Nothing," she answered, "but the wind. Shall I give you the sleeping draught, dearf" Oh yes, my poor wife; but don't leave me, don't leave me, please." She gave him the draught, and sat by bis bed- side, still holding his hand, until he became calm again. Daylight appeared, and the oft-repeated experience was gone through. She implored him to remain in bed and try to get better—sober, once more. But no be declared he could not: that to remain indoors would drive him mad. His will power, his self-control, was all gone; and he dressed hurriedly and rushed out into the streets. An hour later and Mrs Powell went about her morning's work, prepared the simple—often scanty—breakfast, which sbe and her ehild ate I together in sadneaa and silence. Then Charley I took his green bag from behind the door, and kissed his mother, and marched off to Dr E wing's school. This was the round of every-day life in the little house in Park-lane. For, aa Frank Keenly said at the club, Mr Powell was a man of regular habits—he was always drunk The loungers at the club bad laughed a great deal over Frank's apt remark. It was such a capital joke, don't you know. CHAPTER IV. The youth who hopes th' Oiympic prize to gain, Ãll arts mast try, and every toil sustain. HOIUCE. Captain Fielding always took lunch at the club, about one o'clock in the day, where he met Frank Keenly and "all the fellows." They generally talked over their last night's experiences, the latest scandal, the quality of Foggin's wine- which was good, and accounted for the success of his dinner parties-and of Howard's, which was beastly." Howard told me," said Frank to a few friends one day, that he did not propose to set hit best wines and favourite cigars before a pack of fools who came simply to devour them, and who did not know vintage wine from the last dregs of the press, nor a fine Havana from a German cigar. The best of everything b3 kept for his best friends, who came to a family dinner, or looked in during the evening for a smoke and a chat." "That's why you look in at Howard's during the evening, by jove," was Fielding's response. But Frank did not pursue the subject further. His conscience upbraided him for having revealed a secret. Keenly was like a sponge he absorbed everything, but gave nothing out unless he was well squeezed. When Frank bad finished bia steak and stout, he rose from the table and said Come with me to the Ewing's School Cricket Grounds, and 111 show you some capital races, I have promised the old Doctor to act as starter; the sports commence at two o'clock, and it's already within a quatter of the time." I don't mind," answered Captain Fielding. "I have nothing to do till evening, when I promised to go to Esmond. Children's party- awful bore." "Iam going too-just to please Mont. We must get him down to the club for a game some night this week. You bring him down, Fielding; he thinks a great deal of you." Ah good idea," said the Captain. Frank generally knew his men, and understood his tools. They strolled leisurely over to the sports; it was only a few minutes' walk. The day was clear and sunny, and the grounds were in good condition. A great many ladies and gentlemen, friends of the scholars entered for the sports, had already arrived. More were still coming. The ladies, dressed in summer attire, formed a circle round the enclosed ground. Here and there within the ropes some of the boys, in their pretty costumes of pink and White, with bine satin skull-caps, stood talking with sisters or mothers or friends. Mr and Mrs Dauntless were there, prepared to witness their son Horace win half the races. Colonel Mont- gomery, his wife, and daughter had also come to see the sports and at the request of Dr Ewing, the Colonel had consented to give away the prizes. There was a large gathering—a very pretty, and apparently a very happy throng. 01 Horace is going to win this race," she said excitedly to her friends. "I hope so," replied the Colonel, since you are interested in it." The race was a handicap. Where's your maiform 1" said Frank Keenly to a little fellow who stood at the two yards start. The boy wore threadbare tweed trousers, a white cotton shirt, and was bareheaded. "I haven't got one," he replied, not a little ashamed of having to make the confession. M Then stand off You cannot run without it, under the rules." Dr Ewiag came up at this juncture, exclaiming. It's all right, Mr Keenly." He wbwpered something to the starter; and Charley Powell, with tears swimming in bis fine blue eyes, returned to hit mark. Are you ready V cried the atM-Mr. At tb8 question, Otoatley slightly bent his right knee, while his left arm and elenebed fist were extended upwards. He looked straight into Keenly's eyes. Crack 1 went the pistol shot, and tbe boys were away. Charley and Horace DmratlesS, a dark, handsome boy, started even ueek and neck they sped afeng, followed by the less fleet competitors, while the spectators who knew them cbeered lustily, and oried. "Horace wins t" "Charley wins V Hurrah!" "Charley walks in V Horace—'rah—wins 1ft The specta- tors were divided in opinion as to who bad gained the slight advantage. Mrs Dauntless said that Horace woa by a loot Una thought Charley was ahead all the time. The Colonel pronounced it a dead heat. The judge so decided, and atmouncwi that both boys shorld run in "the &a<i The seeond and third beats were won by Baa Howard and Bob Edmonds. A sack raee, which created great mirth, came off *jext. ihe four boys wBo were to run in the nnal heat dia not participate in this comic exhibition-they were bostoaading their strength for their own strqggie. HoVaee Daontlsas had been well rubbed, *w9 was walking up and down tbe track sucking an agono into which a thimbleful of brandy bad been poured. „ Frank Keenly says that the race wffl be between Heraee and young Powell agaifc this time," said Mrs Dauntless confidentially to the Montgomeries, and that Horace will win baeaus8 'whitehead,'as Frank calls the other boy, looks half starved. Charming fellow that Frank. 11 More's the pity that Charley should bd half starved," said the Coloael, Iooltiftg away. He baa a great deal of bis father in bran too jaucks I'm afraid." But the bell had rung, and the boys were a £ »in at their stations-Sam Howard, scratch Horace and Charley two yards, and Bob Edmonds seven yards start. Charley called the attention of the stMtM to Beot'a pwitiwi. 3e in rigfct it* of me," said the boy, and probably won't let me I pass." Probably be bantred. Run your race and don't growl," replied Mr Keenly. Crack went the pistol before young Powell was quite ready. Edmunds inclined immediately towards the ropes. Charley forged ahead like an arrow, and tried to pass him, but they came in collision and both fell. "They have robbed your little friend of his race, my pet," said Colonel Montgomery, speaking to his child, and kissing her, as Horace ran in an easy winner. Didn't I tell you?" said Mrs Dauntless, leaning along the ropes towards the Colonel, 3*7 you did, Horace won by arrangement," said Montgomery laughing; but boys will be boys." "All right, Bob," said Powell, after springing to his feet. "You did that first-rate." And he trotted away to the tent. What do you mean V asked the other angrily. But Charley took no further notice. Frank Keenly was an admirable manager of sports; he kept the performances up to their appointed time. No sooner was the walking match over than the hurdle race was com- menced. The latter was soon followed by the 440 yards handicap race. Frank beckoned Mr Cudwell (a well-dressed man who passed for a gentleman, and I ved nobody knew bow) to him. Go over to that group of Dauntless and his friends, and chaff them into a bet," said he, in undertones. Back young Powell for 'a pony.' But let me speak to Mrs D. first." I All right." "Yourson is certain to win this race," said Keenly to Horace's proud mother. Mr Dauntless, tall, thin, and anxious-looking—a martyr to the occasion—stroking bis long grey beard, was the centre of the group. He was silent. His wife did all the talking. He overheard Frank, however, and very naturally agreed with him. Mr Keenly retires to place his men. Mr Cadwell advances U Good morning. Capital sport." "Yes. Good morning." Your son can't run any, can he ? Too fa!, eb But he can, though he has already won a race, and will win this one again," rejoined Mrs Dauntless, not a little annoyed at the. tone of Mr Cad well's remarks. Very well just for a lark, I'll take any of the boys, and back him to beat your son, for a pony.' That young fellow in the tweeds will do for me-anybody. Ha f ha I tell you Horace is fat and lazy you feed him far too well." George, do ycu bear Mr Cadwell ?" Yes, my dear yes." Well, are you going to allow him to talk like that in my presence ?" No, my dear. I take your bet, Mr Cadwell. sir; I take your bet, sir." Mr Cadwell took off his bat, and the starter knew that the bet was on. "Keep your own side, Master Edmonds," said Keenly. "That game won't do again, sir and if you attempt it I'll disqualify you, and order a race over." Charley and Horace knew that it was their race, and they cast sharp glances at one another.. Keenly held the pistol over his head this time and having asked the usual cautionary question, he sent them on their journey with a capital start. The favourites showed to the front directly, Edmonds falling back before fifty yards were covered. Horace held a slight lead the first time round, but with his best pfforts he could not get clear of his rival. Howard was gaining ground but Edmonds was out of the race. They finished the second lap with Horace running well and leading by a yard Powell second, just a shade in advance of Howard. They had now only fifty yards to the finish. The crowd began to cheer. "Horace wins Howard wins When suddenly Charley, who was evidently the best general, put on his ntmo'tt efforts, forged to the front, and won cleverly by four feet. Bravo, Charley!" said Colonel Montgomery, coming up to the winner and shaking his hand. "How is your mother, my boy! She ought to be here to see you win the race." She is not here, sir but she is quite well, thank you," .answered Charley, who was still breathing hard after his run. Get some of the boys to give you a good rub down, and then put your coat on,' said the Colonel. "Thank you, sir." And the little fellow walked away. Una ran after him and called Charley f" He stopped and turned round. Why do you refuse to come to my party to n'gbtl" she asked, in tones of reproach and with pleading looks. He had declined the invitation received a few days previously in a polite little note, without assign- ing the cause. Charley had outgrown his wardrobe. I should like to come very much, but I can't, Una." "You could if you tried," said the little beauty. Aren't you going to be friends with me any more ?" she asked. I should like to; but-but supposing your papa wouldn't like it ?" Oh, Charley I'm ashamed of you for making such a silly excuse. Will you come to-night if he'll «sk you ?" Yes that is, if mother will let me." Then you'll come over this way after you get yonr coat, won't yon ?" "Yes, I'll come, U ua." I'm so glad you've beaten Horace, and won the silver cup." So am I and mother will be glad too—don't you think so ?" "I'm sure she will; it's perfectly splendid." "Florence," said the Colonel, touching his wife, "look at the little ones. He is jast a head taller than Una; and what a handsome little couple they make." Poor Charley Had I known that be hadn't a uniform I would have had one made for him myself," rejoined Mrs Montgomery. The little fellow is too proud for that,Florence. You don't know the Powells as well as I do. They are a generous, clever, proud race. They outstrip all competitors conquer all enemies—but one. Aud that one lays them at everybody's feet. Drink is their curse; it's in the family." Una had returned to ber parents. "Papa please, will you ask Charley Powell to come to my party ? He says he will come if you ask him," she said. Certainly I will, my darling, as soon as I see him." And Una jumped with joy at her father's answer. Mrs Dauntless was very much mortified by the defeat of her son; nor was her husband particu- larly pleased over the loss of his £ 2b. Horace was in the high leap, but did not expect to win, therefore bis parents decided to beat a retreat Ta, ta," said Mrs Dauntless, waving her hand from a distance at the Mcntgomeries. "I have a few calls to make; au revoir see you to-night." Not such a bad day's aport," said Mr Daunt- less to his wife as they hastened towards the gate. Only JB25 out of pocket, and a large business neglected for a whole day. It's really too bad. Are there sporta anywhere to-morrow tbat ve could go to ? I should like to bet on somebody el&e's son next, and perhaps get my money back." George, what are you talking about ? Hare you no more spirit left in you than would nermit a fellow like that Cadwell ta laugh at your'son n the face of a large group of friends ? I had rather do with one servant lees than submit to such humiliation." Noasense, my dear. The humiliation ie in having anything to do with the Cadwell trbe. Pack of swindlers. Shouldn't like to say too much for your favourite, the charming Frank Keenly. What do these fellows do? Where do they get their money ? We know where they got JB25, at all events." thl. George, it's very wrong of you to talk like tbat. You know that Frank is a highly respect- able, honourable man. I've heard you say so yourself." "Which do you take back, Georve t waatyoo said then or now ?" I "Take your choice, my dear." Danntless's carriage was waiting just outside the grounds. Mrs Dauntless entered and was driven to a four o'clock," while her husband walked off to his office to write some letters. Charley Powell redeemed his promise to Una by returning to her after procuring his coat and cap. Now then, papa, please, here's Charley," said the little girl. Won't you come to Una's party to-night, Charley? We shall be very glad to see you. Bring your mother, too, my boy. By the way, tell her that Mr Adamson has promised me to give your father some editorial work on the Mutengtr. How is your father to-day r He is better to-day. Colonel. I'll deliver your kind message to mother, sir; but I don't think she'll come. She never goes anywhere excepting to church occasionally. "Bat you are coming, my boyt" Thank you. yes, if mother will allow me," returned Charley, while thoughts that the clothes be then wore must serve him at the party also1 filled his little heart with misery in advance. Tbe qnartette—the Colonel and his wife lead- ing, followed by Charley and Una—strolled over the grounds until the bell rang tor the last feat on the prograaHM. I am is the bigh leap," said Charley. IJ I'n hold your things," cried Una. "Do let me; perhaps it will bring- you good luck." Young Powell felt ratber proud of being under tbe immediate notice of Colonel Montgomery at this time. It was generally conceded by the school that be would win the high leap. Obaclejp shared i the opirion. There were only three entriefl-Howard, Daunt- less, and Powell. But the contest was soon finished by Charley showing extraordinary jumping powers. He shot through the air like a bird, and won easily. Isn't be a wonderful boy, papa ? said Una, with the boy's coat and cap in her arms, and looking proudly into her father's kindly eyes. Yes, my darling, be is a wonderful boy." Colonel Montgomery distributed the prizes in neat little Ipeaches and after the boys had given hearty cheers for the Colonel, Dr Ewing, and Mr Keenly, the day's proceedings were closed. Young Powell had the president's large silver cup—the prize of the day—and a handsome gold locket to carry home in triumph to his mother, in return for the new running shoes and the entrance fees. She held him long in fand embrace she was prouder than ever of him now. His simple fare—we shall not recount it—awaited him, and was partaken with a relish. Mrs Dauntless can pass me on the streets without even a nod of recognition. You, in return, can pass her proud Horace in the race. Well done, my son," said Mrs Powell, with the sweets of victory peeping through her eyes. Colonel Montgomery says that he has pro- cured an engagement for father as one of the editors of the Messenger," said the boy. I have promised him that I would go to Una's party to- night, if you'll let me; and be told me to say tbat he hoped you would come also." God bless Colonel Montgomery for it. Though he has but one hand. be holds it out to his old friends in adversity. And he noticed you a great deal ? Spoke to you in the grounds ? Why, yea I was with the Montgomeries nearly the whole time. He saw me do my high leap. I never jumped aoweU before. I cleared the rail at four feet six inches, beating Horace by nearly a foot." And after a short pause the boy added, Una was there and saw it too." "Yes; well, yon may go. Charley. And say to the Colonel and Mrs Montgomery that I am deeply gratified by their great kindness. Tell them that your father is much better. He has been asleep nearly the whole day. He told me a short time ago, when I gave him some broth, that though he had lived a drunkard, be meant to die a sober man. He spoke with so much kindness of you and me, Charley—like bis former self, before the drink mastered him-but that was before you were old enough to rememher. His legs are swollen very much, and he finds great difficulty in breathing. I called in Dr Lovedale, and he told me to give him a little weak brandy and water occasionally. Charley," said Mra Powell, looking at her son, after a short pause, they will have cake and spiced wine, and a claret cup, at Una's party." Yes, mother, I know," was all the answer he made; but she understood him. (To be continued.)

GLAMORGAN COUNTf GOVERN- MENT. Meeting of County Magistrates. Last Friday, at the Town-hall, Cardiff, the adjourned midsummer quarter sessions of Glamorganshire were held, the principal object of the gathering being to consider a report of the committee appointed to consider any objections that might be made to the scheme of the division of the county under the Local Government Act. Mr J. T. D. Llewelyn, chairman of quarter sessions, presided, and the other magistrates present were Mr Arthur J Williams, M P, Mr 0 H Jones, the Rev C R Knight, Major-General Lee, Mr Ll Dillwyn, M P, Mr Wm Llewellyn, Judge Gwilym Williams, MrJ Ignatius Williams, Mr M B Williams, Captain F R Crawshay, Mr C P Davies, Mr E Price, Colonel Woods, Mr John Llewellyn, Mr John Davies, Bryn. fedwern. Rev D W Williams, Colonel Tyler, Mr John Jones, Mr D A Thomas, M.P., Dr Leigh, and Mr J S Corbett. Mr T M Fraaklen, clerk of the peace, was also present. The following is the text of the principal portion of the report:— It was reported that the Local Government Board had expressed their willingness to allow a double election at Penarth, but required that in this and in ;tny similar instances a division "f the district without reference to existing lists of voters should first be made by th- court, which would come into effect next year. The Penarth Local Bnard has been requested to suggest the most convenient division. Objections to the proposed scheme were received from Abe dare, Ystra-lyfodwg, Pontypri'id, Maesteg, and Barry and Cadoxtou Loeal Board II, which applied for an additional councillor or councillors, and from Brid^ud Local Bowl and Rural Sanitary Authority, and from the Corporation of Cowbridge, which desired ,.st;parat'on °* Bridgend from Cowbridge, and tha addition to each of a part of the rural district adjoining. The Clerk of the Ystradyfodwg Locil Roard attended and explained that his Board thought that on the basis of they were entitled to twelve councillors. the Clerk of the Pontypridd Local Board informed the committee that his district was now rapidly '.n population, containing already over 17.000 inhabitants, and that an application to the Lo< al Government Board to extend the district was now in progress, which would greatly increase the population. The Mayor of Cowbridge attended, and described the district which he desired to be added to the to form an electoral division The committee recommends that subject to the con- sent of the Local Government Board, which is neces- sary, the request of the Cowbridge and Bridgend Boards be cornpl ed with. Having carefully considered the other objections, the committee is of opinion that it is not practicable, having due regard to the directions of the Act, to comply with the requests made for additional repre- sentation, without creating anomalies greater than are presented by the scheme that has been circulated. If the districts were now to be formed by the court, it would be a comparatively simple task to make them approximately equal in population. But the act requires that the electoral divisions shall either consist of exist- ing sanitary districts, or be combinations or divisions of the same. There is a considerable number of such dstrictll with a population much under the average or standard number which should be represented by a councillor, but too large to be combined with another district. The assi¡{1lment of & councillor to each of these necessarily make the representation of the remaining districts less full than an equal proportion would seem to require. Such districts are Margam(5,70-i), Britonferry (6.061), Bridgend (4.800), and Barry (6,612). Similarly where the population of a district has seemed to demand two councillors, the population represented by each of such councillors has thereby been reduced much below the average, with the same effect upon the larger districts. Instances of this are Garw and Ogmore (11,000, with two councillors), Panarth (11,500, with two councillors), and the Parish of Llangiwg (9,110, with two coun. cillors). A suggestion has been made, and was considered by the committee, to take one councillor from the four proposed to be given to the Bridgtmd and Cowbridge iiural Sanitary District, which has a population of about 21,000, and give him to one of the large districts that appears under represented. Tbe effect would be to give a councillor to each 7,COO inhabitants in the most extensive area in the county (containing one inhabitant to four acres). This the committee thinks would not be a compliance with the direction of the Act to have regard to area, the average population to a councillor throughout the whole county being about 6,700. The aoparent over-representation of this dis- trict will, however, be reduced, if the committee's proposal to add the borough of Cowbridge to it is adopted. Then followed a list of the electoral divisions now proposed by the committee, with suggested namee. The Cardiff Rural Sanitary Authority, population 17,968, and that portion of the Newport Rural Sanitary Authority enclosed in the district, with a population 552, were proposed to he divided as follows:- Kibbor Division—The parishes of Llanfedw, Rbydygwem, Rudry, Van, Lisvane, Llanedryn, Liitnishen. Radyr, and Whitchurch. Llandaff Division-The parishes of Llandaff, St Fagans, Llanillterne, and Pentyrch. Dinas Powis Division—The parishes of Pteerstone-super-Eiy, St Brides-super-Ely, Micbaelston super Ely. Caerau, Leckwith, MichaeUton Ie Pit, St Andrew's, Sully, Lavernock, Wenvoe, St Lythan's, Highlight, Penosark, Porthkerry, Llancarfan, Llanrithan, Llantritbyd, Bonvilston, St Nicholas, St George's, Pendoylan, and Welsh St Donats. The CHAIRMAN, in moving the adoption of the report, stated it was practically identical with that presented by the committee at tbe last meeting of the court. Meanwhile, however, the committee had met a number of representatives from the districts affected, and tbe committee had considered all the objections and considerations brought forward by this committee. Consequently some slight alterations were made in the scheme. He remarked that tbe whole population of the county, exclusive of Cardiff, Swansea, and Neath and Aberavon, which are counties in themselves, amounted to about 420,000 electors. When 63 councillors bad been divided amongst these, it would be found tbat it represented about 6,600 voters to each councillor. Mr PKNRICI seconded tbe resolution. The Rev C. R. Knight moved an amendment to the report as fellows "Tbat tbe conrt petition tbe Local Government Board to enlarge the representation of this county by allowing an additional number of councillors to the rural districts." He pointed ont that other counties had one councillor to each 2,000 of the population, whilst in Glamorgan the ratio was one to each 6,600. This, he held, was not at all a fair or satisfactory arrangement, as tbe preponderance of councillors in the populous dis- tricts of the towns was more than four to one as compared with the rural districts. Colonel FRANKLIN seconded the amendment, which was lost by a large majority. The court then discussed details as to names, and instructed the committee to make representa- tions to the Local Government Board on tbe subject,

THE BEAUTY SHOW AT SPA. The jurors of tbe beauty show have awarded the fitst prize of 5,000 francs to MdUe. 3orthe Soudaret, aged 18, of Guadaloapr, and the second prise of 2,000 francs to Mdlle, Angels Del Rosa, aged 15, of Osborne.

Lewis's Odontic for Toothache gives instant relief. | WEDDING, KEBPD, AND EHGAOKHBNT RINGS, ) m great variety at Tainsh Bros., b. High-street, Gardff. TOBACCONISTS Commencing.—H«w to open Euneratirely from any amount, however small or e, send for Illustrated Catalogue, post free.—Lesser inlander, 3, Hound*ditch. London. (Wholesale.) 1 13468 I Towti'a PBNNYBOTAL AND STEEL PtLLS for ) FEMALES quickly correct all irregularities, and relieve the distressing symptoms so prevalent with the sex. Boxes Is lid and 2s 9d, of all Chemists. Sent anywhere j for 16 or 34 stamps by the Lincoln and Midland Counties Drag Co.,Lincoln.Bewve of imitate.4fcMR8 (

-J ON THE VERY BRINK, Say, Hal, let's go and see them dynamiting the ice." Where is it, and what's dynamiting, any way 1" Why, over there behind the railway bridge they're blowing up the ice with dynamite. Kind of powder, you know, only ten times worse, father says. Must be fun to see it going off. Come along. A lot of the fellows have gone over alrrfady." All right, Ned. Just hold on until I put my books in the house, and then I'm with you. And the school-books having been disposed of, the two boys hurried away to the railway bridge. The Rideau river had risen, overflowed its banks, and invaded the village of New Edinburgh. Running streams too deep to cross except in boats bad taken the place of the streets; instead of yards the people looked out upon muddy ponds in whose swirling waters chips, logs, boxes and barrels floated about and only tbe buildings stood above the water; all else in that neigh- bourhood was submerged, and Hal Roberts, who, in company with the "Bodleys" had just been doing Venice, thought that all New Edinburgh needed was half a dozen gondolas and a new D >ge's palace to be a little Venice on her own account. To Hal and Ned the flood seemed fine fun, es- pecially since from their homes being on the high ground they were not made uncomfortable by it, and they watched its progress with great inter- est. For a whole week the water had been steadily rising as the hilt spring sunshine blazed away at the immense snow drifts which lay along the river banks. Had it not been for the ice the water would have run off all right enough, and gone roaring and splashing over the Rideau FaUa into the broad Ottawa. But the ice was so thick and sohd that it melted stowiy, and the river-bed being full of it the water was cruite dammed up, and could not get away. At last some bright person had thought of blowing up this ice barrier with dynamite, and eager to try anything the poor flooded folk had jumped at the idea, and were putting it into execution. A number of men were at work when breath" less with running Hal and Ned appeared upon the scene and this was the way they went about it. With long sharp crow-bars they drilled a deep hole into the ice-floe some distance from the edge, the dynamite cartridge was slipped cautiously in with the detonator and fuse attached, and then every- body having made off to a safe distance, the charge was exploded, a dull heavy concussion filled the air, the ice sprang high out of the water aad fell back in fragments, and great cracks showed themselves in the once solid ice field. After that the man had only to push and pry a little in order to send huge pieces off into the current that was rushing fiercely down irs confined passage, where they were borne rapidly along until they leaped over the falls into the Ottawa below. Intent and excited the two boys watched the work for some time, crowding in close "bed the holes were being driven, taking a last peep at the cartridge, that looked so innocent bat could do so much damage, as the man slipped it care- fully into its place, then soampering off to a safe distance on the warning being given, and shout- ing with delight when the explosion took place. and the ice splintered up into fragments with a rattling crash. Then as the great j <gged oakes were detached from the main body, and sent sailing away, the boys would follow them down a piece, each selecting one and playing at racing with it until it was time to get back for the next explosion. Hal was so delighted with the proceedings that he could have watched them the whole after; afternoon but Ned soon began to tire, and to c** about for some variation in their Now there was not a more rash, headstrong boy. the whole village than Ned Armstrong. No 0' ringleader in feats of daring or mischief needed when he made one of the crowd, and tn' afternoon as he watched the big ice-cakes floatiOe oh f so smoothly and swiftly dowu the current 1 flashed into his mind—how jolly it would be have a ride on one of tbem What a splendid raft i would make In view of the danger any ordinary boy would not have entetained the idea for » moment. It was nothing short of madness. Ned was not an ordinary boy. "Sou ,c0. hardly have offended bim more than by hinttofj" that he was. To be out of the ordinary pride and delight. f Say, Hal 1" he burst out go it. The best fun you ever had in your hfe 1 "What is it 1" answered Hal, eagerly. "Why, to have a ride on one of those cakes. It'll be a first class circus." "Chut! Ned. You wouldn't dare try that. "Just wouldn't!! Come along. Well stand on that point until a big one comes by, and then jump on. We can jump off again when we lake. you know. So saying Ned Armstrong ran out to a point where the current turned the corner, as it w«r?» and tho cakes in paasinGr rubbed close so that there was no difficuly in getting on board one of them. "Now then. Hal," cried Ned. "We'll eaab jump on one, and have a race in dead earnest. We can jump off, you know, before we come to the road-bridge." d "No, no, Ned; It's too dangerous forged Hal, now realizing the folly of the thing. Let 8 go back." „ "Tut man, you're afraid; yot/ve got ao piack, retorted Ned. I've plenty of pluck, Ned. You needn't rJ that. But I'm not going to make a foO myself," returned Hal, warmly. A a II Who's a fool? Come along—if you're*W™ coward ?" cried Ned, growing .angry too. n I won't, Ned, and you shan't either »* TT„J help it." And suiting his action to his WOtd a* caught hold of Ned's arm. "Jest you take your hands of me, softy- d off I You can go home to your mother," 8I?eer?0 Ned, and breaking away from bis companion h sprang out upon a large cake, which jast rubbed against the point, and went careering down the current, exclaiming boastfully: Hb" is this for fun 1" Completely taken aback at Ned's sudden action Hal stood motionless for a moment, RazllIg upon his playmate speeding along to what he felt sure was certain death. Then, full of fear, he ran afar tbe ine after him calling out: "Ned! Ned J jump off! Youll go over toe falls I" But Ned's only answer was to take off his bat and swing it round his head with a shout: Hurrah for the ice-ahip J" What a time we ate having I" Under the dark arch of the railway bridge, and out upon the other tide of the ioe-cake with its foolish freight rushed rapidly, its pace increas- ing every minute. Soon it reached the broad expanse between the railway and tha road brdges, and Hal, who was doing hi8 best to ke«P up, noted with increased alarm that it kept ont in the middle of the current so that iK> was impossible for Ned to jump off, try as bard he might. All at once, Ned apparently noticed this too, and began to show signs of alarm, running from side to side of the swaying ice-raft, and anxiously measuring the distance between it and the border-ice. J nst beside the rovi bridge there was an eddy where the water curled about the shore abutment. If tbe ice-cake only got into that eddy its passenger would be all safe. Ned's danger had now become known, and the shore was lined with people watching his perilous voyage, and shouting to him all sorts of advice. One man, instead of wasting time in giving ad vice, procured a long rope, and going out to the extreme edge of the stationary ice flung it towards Ned. who grasped frantically at it, but it fell short, and tbmu w,e?t.°" 'ts Way more rapidly than ever. Tho road-bridsfe drew near, but tbe ice-cake still kept well out in the centre of the current, ana there seemed small chance of its getting into the eaay. Frantic with fear, Ned Armstrong sei«ed his hat, and using it as a paddle made desperate efforts to guide his clumsy craft towards this only haven of safety. But be might all well have tried to send it back against the resistless current. The ponderous ice-block utterly refused to be guided. It went steadfastly on its way, dipping and raising as the hitherto smooth surface of the water broke np into turbulent whirls with the near approach of the falls, whose sullen roar already began to make itself distinctly heard. In another minute the road-bridge would be reached, and, realising that it was the last chance, the man who had the rope ran with all his might towards the span under which tne cake must pass, in order to try another fling. Had be only been a few seconds sooner he might have succeeded. But he was just that much too late, and again the rope fell short, although Ned nearly tumbled off the ice in hIs eager endeavour to secure it. A shoot of horror went up from the people who lined tbe river banks and crowded the bridge, gaging helplessly at the unhappy lad sweeping so swiftly on. Between the bridge and the falls there now only remained an open space, scarce more than a hundred yards in length, in which the waters, as if rebelling against the leap before tbem, broke forth into angry foam-crested waves in whoae midst the low-lying ice-raft was tossed and tnmbled about so tbat the boy upon it had bard work to keep ereet. Half paralyzed with terror, be stood there in the sight of hundreds of his Fellow-creatures, not one of whom could interpose between him and death—a sight to wring the stoutest heart. One instant more and he had taken the awful plunge. But stay A shout goes up from tbe agonised spectators. Who is it that comes springing with tremendous strides across the frail-looking struc- ture which spans the river at the very edge of the falla-the "stop-log bridge they call it, because in summer time when the river is low it dams up the water so that the mill wheels may be well supplied. In freshet time the farioueawotleo stream rises to a few feet from tbe top, and it is »long the narrow footway that a man, who is at once recognised as Big Alec," the stalwart fore- mam of the mill, i* now geen rushing along. The ice-eake dashes swiftly towards the "stop-log," but Big Alec" is quicker. He reaches the spot right under which the cake must pass in its headlong rush, he flings himself face downward on the beams, he leans far over his long, sinewy arms stretched to their utmost length. And straight toward him oom^s the ice-cake. He shouts fiercely. Ned, • loolcing up, gees him. Ha understands. He turns to face him, and, just as the shadow of the bridge m Vpon 'ce» 'ie Puts all his strength into one "'Id leap towards the outstretched arms—he does not miss them—be is caught fast in their iron —and for one awful moment be sways above the raging torrent; the spectators hold their breath in sickening apprehension; then with a ?igantic effort Big Alec" swings the boy clear aP upon the bridge, and stands besides him trembling in every nerve and musole, while a ihout that rivals the roar of the falls goes up from the overjoyed onlookers. One of the first to be at Ned Armstrong's side Was Hal Roberts, the tears of joy streaming down iiis cheeks as he threw his arms around his play- mate who had thus been saved on tho very brink. —■ » —

Lewis's Odontic forTiothache. Sold everywhere TENNIS AND ATHLETIC SPORT PRIZES in great, rariety at Jttu«b Scoa. 5, Hi^treet Cariifl. 9980 '<*