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NATIONAL EISTEDDVOD PRIZE…
NATIONAL EISTEDDVOD PRIZE STORY. FOR FREEDOM, OR Owen Glendower's Re- bellion. BY T. EVAN JACOB. (Author of The Life and Times of Bislwp Morgan, &.C., SYXOPSIS OF PREVIOUS CHAPTERS. CHAPTER I -L.un BERTHA'S Vow AND SONG. —One autumn afteraccm towards the closo of the 14th cemury n, pair of lovers waited along the banks of the Dovev. Lady Jbertaa, sole surviving child and heiress of Earl Cerdic, and a lady oi sur- passing beautv, had for her companion Harry iPrys, son anci ieir of Sir Thomas Prys, of Plas Coch, in Montgomeryshire. Bertha, thongh the daughter of a Saxon noble, had inherited through her mother a passionate attachment for \» ales and the Welsh, and deplores tlie enslaved condi- Hot of the Kymry. Ha.rry, though himself a Welshman, had given his country's cause but little thought until h:s patriotism was hred by Bertha's burning words. Under the inspira- tion of her enthusiasm he pledges his sword to the task of freeing Kymru from the axon yoke, a decision which is only strengthened when his lady love sir.'»s for him a song especially composed for the occasion, and in which she declared Her patriot heart had vowed that she Would only wed in Kymru free. CHAPTSB II. SCENES AT GLYNDWFRDWY.—The scene changes to Glyndwfrdwy, the stronghold of the WelshVnieftam. The quarrel between Owen Glendower and Lord Grey of R.uthm as to Hie lordship of Croesau is recited. Owen returns from a worss than useless journey to Loudon, where his appaal for justice had been met with insult, and be had been loaded with contumely for his nationality. His wife n-es him So yield the land to Lord Grey, while daughter Katrine charges him to tightmanfuliy lor his rights. While the discussion is still pro- seed in1* a messenger arrives with the news that Lord (xrey is marching with a strong torce to attack him. Glendower escapes with a couple of attendants and aeeks safety in a hasty flight. Lord Grey on arriving at the castle finds none out the ladies with a few ordinary attendants. After a sharp passage of arms between the Norman toble and the Kymnc maiden, Lord Grey, fearing Glendower might be stealing a march upon him, beats a hasty retreat to strengthen the defences of Ruthin Castle. CHAPTER III.—THE PIIGRIMS OF COMMERCE. On the morrow a great fair would be held at Ruthin. People who came from afar to this Catherine found it convenient to arrive the day oefure at some place, where their commodities trd stock would be safe for the night, and whence it would be easy to walk or ride in the morning to the place where they intended to offer for sale those commodities and that stock. Hospitality being a distinguishing trait of the Kymric j character, the of commerce found ready and cordial welcome wherever they sought for it. Nobles and peasants vied with each other in looking after their visitors' comfort. And if the rich would on these occasions provide more Sumptuous repasts for their guests than were within the reach of tne poor, they could not exceed the warmth and cordiality of the reception which the latter everywhere accorded to those who did not disdain (and what man worthy the Ban* could disdain ?) » bowl of porridge and a "rust of bread seasoned with a warm heart s anfsigned welcome. The times being dangerous, and the rights of property even between Welshman and Welshman being but feebly regarded, while between Saxon and Welshman they were practically ignored altogether, it follows that the pilgrims of com- merce made for such halting-places as offered, from their situation, the beet protection for them- selves and their property. Such places would naturally be found on the heights and the moun- tain fastnesses of the country. Brynkyff was such a halting-p3aee. It was situated about midway between Llanrwst and Ruthin, a situation which rendered it convenient for the farmers and dealers of Caraarvonshire and the Isle of Anglesey. It was so placed at the top of a gorge that the traveller could not suspect its presence until he saw the buildings. The house was a square, one storey high the walls were made of clay; it was thatched with straw. Holes in the wall served for winds, which in fine weather were open to the breeze and the sunshine in cold and stormy weather they were stuffed with straw, which rendered the place as dark KS a cavern. The chimney was a huge pyramid of wattles covered with clay it tapered from the top. widening as it descended at the bottom it embraced the area of what, in those times, would be considered a very large room. Underneath this pyramid, on the bare floor, the fire was kindled. Here of a winter evening bards and harpists and raconteurs reigned supreme. The owner of this palace (smile not, gentle reader !) was Gryffudd ap Dafydd, who was ■perhaps the scion of some royal tribe, as he certainly was a Welsh gentleman of considorable wealth and influence. He was a friend and admirer of Sir Owen Vaughan, and exceedingly obnoxious to Lord Grey, because in the war of robbery and pillage which had for years been waging between Grey and his retainers on the one hand, and Gryffudd and his retainers on the other, the balance, up to date, was in the latter's favour. Wales had often produced patriots abler and more capable than Gryffudd ap Dafydd, cf BrynkyrF, but more genuine, loyal, and dis- interested, never. His leading characteristic was an unappeasable hatred of all Saxons, and everything Saxon. And this unappeasable hatred was balanced by a boundless love of all Kymry and everything Kymric. At Brynkyff old Kymric customs, which had, for the most part, grown obsolete in the palaces of gentlemen of Gryffudd's rank, were observed with that tenacious conservatism which is an insepar- able part of the Kymric character, and which is the essence of the Kymric spirit. Crowds of people and droves of cattle had already arrived, and people and cattle were still pouring in in crowds and droves. Handicrafts- men and small manufacturers trudged up or down the hills to Brynkyff, where all were wel- come. Enclosed spaces on the table-land were assigned to the cattle. The manufactures were safely deposited in an outbuilding. The people enjoyed the freedom of the house. They could go in and our, when they pleased, and call for food and drink as if they were at hurne. All appeared happy, none happier than the hospitable gentle- man who dispensed his hospitality with such a lavish hand. In the afternoon there arrived two very re- markable persons, who, like the others, were bound for Ruthin Fair. One of them was a powerfully- built thick-set man, with thick clustering ringlets his jet-black hair reaching down to his shoulders of bonnet stuck waggishly on one side of his head his faced eovered with jet-black hair, covered to such an extent that nothing of it was visible save the forehead, the nose which bore the marks of hand-to-hand conflicts, and two catlike blue eyes which, from under a beetling crag of black eye- brows, glanced at everything that came anywhere within their visual angle. His dress was that of a gentleman. On his sandals a silver buckle by his side dangled a dagger. This man was the celebrated Rhys Ddu. Where he lived, nobody could tell, and few would dare to ask Rhys a question on that subject. But he was a cattle dealer well-known to every landlord and farmer, Kymric and Saxon, both in Wales and in the borders. It was suspected that Rhys came by his enormous number of horses and other cattle in a less honest way than he got rid of them. However mysterious his method of pro- curing cattle, there was no doubt that he was immensely rich and, though his dwelling-plaoe was unknown, it wao a fact that Rhys was a Kvmro of the Kymry. The other man was of a tall, commanding stature, reputed to be the best are her of his generation, and the only layman in the British Islands who clean shaved his face. His hair also was (,11t short. The slightly aquiline nose, the half-poutingclosely-pressedlips, tbeknittedbrows, and the disdainful expression of the face, afford to the reader an adequate picture of this taci- turn, scheming, unscrupulous man—a picture of an ancient Roman walking in the flesh on the lcountains of Arfon in the fourteenth century. Such was Howel Sele; a man of undoubted capacity and talents, of wealth and influence, but of an envious disposition, disdaining any place but the first, blinded by selfishness and vanity to the superior genius of others; he may come to griff in these throne-shaking times. Gryffudd ap Dafydd personally greeted these two remarkable men, and took them into what was perhaps the only apartment in the house of which the privacy had not been invaded by the crowds of guests. While these gentlemen were partaking of refreshments a servant of Gryffudd's announced the arrival of a messenger from Lord Grey. The servant was ordered to bring in the messenger, who delivered a letter from his master to th" master of Brynkyff, who, after perusing the letter, bade the messenger wait and enjoy him- self ■< aere and how he pleased. He (Gryffudd ap Dafydd) would write his reply to Lord Grey. The quarrel between Grytfudd and Lord Grey, »= has been already related, was of long standing. Wrongs had, doubtless, been suffered, and injuries committed by both mrties. Now Lord Grey complained that Grytfudd, or Gryffudd's men, had quite recently, a day or two ago in fact, walked or ridden off with a eoupte of horses rom Ruthin Park. His lordship despatched this messenger to demand restitution, and to I threaten Gryffudd, in case of non-compliance on his part, with all the power of fire and sword which was at his lordship's command. It was to this- letter that Gryffudd sat down there and then to compose a suitable reply. While the master of Brynkyff and his two principal guests were thus engaged, the noise of a. great commotion reached their ears. Rhys Ddu hurried out to inquire into the cause thereof. He soon discovered that the whatever it was, had been kindled by the bards, who were even then delivering their wild raphsodies among the people. On a closer examination he found that the matters, which tipped the poets' tongues with fire, were Grey's treachery and Sir Owen Vaughan's alleged treason, which consisted of the fact that the latter had neglected to obey the King's summons, which commanded him te repair, with his armed retainers, to Chester by a certain day and assist the King in his Scottish expedition. Now, this summons was given to Lord Grey to deliver to Sir Owen, but the former, coveting his neighbour's lands, de- layed the delivery until obedience on the part of the latter was no longer possible- As a matter of fact, Lord Grey was the traitor;. but treason, like other crimes, is often shifted from the guilty to the innocent, who are made to suffer for that which they never committed, nor ever dreamed of committing. Rhys Ddu was delighted what he heard, and shouted at the top of his voice the one word, Pendragon, the effect of which on those who heard it was electric. Amidst the cheering and enthusiasm which followed, he returned to the palace and told Gryffudd and Hywel tho news which heard. The effect of the communi- eation on the one was very different to what it was on the other. Gryffydd, having finished his letter, read its contents to his two friends. In it he denied that it was his intention to bum and kill men and horses belonging to any of the King's liegemen, or that he and his were such fools as to commit high treason ho reproached his lordship for trusting to false messengers, and twitted him with his confession "that thy men stole our horses out of our own park, and thou received them. We hope," added the master of Brynkyff ironically, that thou and thine shall have that ye have deserved." The rhyming genius of his country caught the spirit of the writer as he com- posed the concluding lines of this remarkable letter. We hope," he said, We shall do thee ayrivv thing. A rope, a ladder, and a ring, v High on gallows for to hing, And this shall be your ending: And He that made thee be there to helping; And we, on our behalf, shall be well willing, For this letter is knowledging." "Capital. Gryffudd," said Rhys Ddu. "By Mary and Beuno, Gryff, thou'rt become a poet." "Words and ink and paper wasted," was all the comment that the taciturn Hywel made on his friend's composition. The letter having been sealed, and delivered into the hands of Lord Grey's messenger, Gryffudd orders his eldest son Rhodri to be sent for. In the meanwhile he and his two friends, over a horn of mead, discuss the situation. I rejoice a.t the prospect of a fray," said Rhys Ddu. In which you are likely to make your profit," observed Hywel. And you no loss," retorted that gentleman. It is an opportunity," said the master of Brynkyff, such as we have not had for a hun- dred years, and may not have the like of it for another hundred." What ?' asked Hywel. To drive off the Saxons," answered Gryffudd, from the face of this land, and to preserve this corner of the world for the Welsh language, for the Welsh language only." Mary's blessing on thy heart, Gyto!" ex- claimed the cattle-dealer, "I hope I shall have the pleasure of silencing a few Saxon tongues." And." said Hywel sneering, "of drive away a few Saxon beeves." "I am ready for either part," answered Rbys, as I am prepared, in this contest, for death or victory." Bravo, Rhys exclaimed Gryffudd. At this point Gryffudd's son enters in obedience to orders. Rhodri, my lad," said the father to this sturdy man of thirty, "Rhodri, my lad, go and order my tenants to repair, armed, to Brynkyff this evening. Take some of those bards with you offer, and give, them on their return any amount of beer, wine, and mead. They will do their work well, for, lazy, good-for-nothings though they be, they are unrivalled in the art of mustering troops. Away, lad, and God speed thee Rhodri promptly vanished. Friend Gryffudd," said Hywel, "be not rash." I am not rash," returned Ap Dafydd, I am at all times ready to fight the Saxons. That's what I was born for." Meddle not in the affairs of others," retorted the oracle. To defend a Kymro against Saxon villains is every Kymro's affair," said Gryffudd. "You will only spread the contest, which might be localised, observed HyweL "The very thing I want to do," returned Gryffudd. "Fight for Glyndwfrdwy Proud of the honour." Take the rod out of Grey's hands, to put it into Owen's!" Happy, if I can accomplish the change." "You will regret it." "Nor yon nor I can tell," You'll find Glyndwfrdwy a greater oppressor than Grey." "He'll be a Kymro." A scurvy lawyer. I hate the whole tribe." Hate whom and what you please. But do not slander Glyndwfrdwy in my hearing. I owe him allegiance, to which, please God and Mary, I shall be true." Why," asked Rhys Ddu, "should one Kymro slander another, when the country is overrun with Saxon rogues and robbers, lawyers and liars ? If anybody's tongue is laden with venom, let him spit it in the eyes of these cursed aliens. If any- body has a sure bow, Jet him fill up the measure of patriotic iniquity by sending an arrow into their hearts, which are blacker than sin and more hateful than hell. Now's the time for union and forbearance." "Thou speakesfc well and wisely, Rhys," observed the host, "now is the time, seeing that we are likely to have a leader such as Kymru never had before." "In whose cause," said Hywel, "I would not spend one aspen arrow." And I would my life readily," said Ap Dafydd. "Under whom could you serve ?" asked Rhys, gazing at Hywol with those catlike eyes of his. "Under no living Kymro," was the emphatic answer. Be thou our leader, then," said Rhys, still fixing his gaze on Hywel, we'll follow you loyally, so but you lead us straight to the enemy." There is no need of fighting a.t all," returned the great archer. I tell thee what," said Rhys, whose fixed gaze was making the object on which it was fixed feel uncomfortable, I tell thee what, Hywel Sele, thou was sent into the world on purpose to show that the Kymry are Kymry stilL" What dost thou mean, man V asked Hywel excitedly. Hast ever seen egg without meat!" answered he of the catlike eyes, rain that didn't wet ? fire that didn't burn ? sea water that wasn't brackish ?" What of that J" asked the archer in astonish- ment. Hast ever seen or heard of Kymru without a Hywel Sele in it?" answered Rhys raising his voice. Must I endure this?" exclaimed Hywel indig- nantly. Without a traitor in it ?" said Rhys, as though he were pushing the words syllable by syllable, and slowly, and with an apparently great effort, through his teeth. The tone of his voice and the manner of his utterance were expressive of immeasureable disdain. God and Mary and Beuno curse me!" cried the exasperated Hywel, "if I submit to such slanders from such a man." And he placed his hand on the hilt of his sword. Come on," cned Rhys drawing a dagger from its scabbard, Come on he said, not shrinking from the unequal contest. At this moment Sir Owen Vaughan entered, after a long and weary ride ovar the mountains which separated Glyndwfrdwy from Brynkyff. "Friends he said quietly, when he saw what was performing, those are dangerous weapons to play with, and I trust that you are not engaged in nothing mere serious." "Sheath your swords, gentlemen," cried Gryffudd. I adjure you not to violate the laws of hospitality, that which no Kymro ever did." This appeal was instantly responded to, and the two combatants resumed their seats, Hywel scowling as was his habit, and Rbys displaying a most unusual kind and degree of animcsity-mosil unusual with that merry, buoyant character. Order having been restored it required but few words from Gryffudd ap Dafydd to supplement what Glyndwfrdwy already knew, and a sentence from the former in explanation of what was hitherto dark to the former, beiore the party was enabled to take in the entire situation. Sir Owen referred to the difficulty which a Kymro, if he was possessed of anything worth robbing, had in living peacefully among his own people, which difficulty was confidently assigned by Rhys Ddu to the existence of those damned Saxon spies who swarmed in the land. Traitor exclaimed Sir Owen sadly, why, treason is abhorrent to my mind." "I would be one now," said the master of Brynkyff, a real, live traitor." "I am one already," said Rhys Dda. "And hast been for many years," added Hywel. "Hywel," exclaimed Rhys, "I thank thee for giving me that title of honour." "Come, come," said Sir Owen, do not let us quarrel here. I am exceedingly glad to meet my friend Hywel after so many years. Give me your hand, Sele." "Never gave it to a lawyer," was the curt return of that gentleman. Give it to a homeless wanderer, then," said Sir Owen. To a persecuted patriot," added Gryffudd. Persecuted by those infernal Saxons," cried Rhys. "Rather," said Hywel, rising. I will retire lest Glyndwfrdwy's cunning tongue draw me also into treason." You wrong me, friend Hywel, by that obser- vation," said the Knight, U I neither am, and I do not intend to be, a traitor. Pray, friend Hywel, do not regard your own fancies as facts." "I hope that my fancies may never become facts," said Sele, who, bestowing an awkward look on Rhys Ddu, left the room, and departed from Brynkyff. "Had I my will," muttered Rhys, "thou would'st never live to see that very likely event." "Have a c*re of that wild tongue of thine, Rhys," said Sir Owen, else it will lead tbee into mischief." If often has. Sir Owes," returned BhJs. c If out of which, however, I have generally been able to rescue myself, either by it, or by this —here he drew his dagger—" both of which are at your service." "Poor Hywel! said Sir Owen pensively," he and I were rivals for the hand of the lady who is now my wife. He has never forgiven me my triumph. Knowing as I do what he lost by my success, I am not disposed to quarrel with him. But I am not without hope that time will soften him." Nothing," said Rhys, but your, or his, death will put an end to his rancour. When a youth, he quarrelled with his beard, because bav- ing been caught once in an apartment where he should not be, solely by reason of the length of that facial ornament of his, he lost no time in cutting it off,and became the only lay shaveling in the world." Don't thou provoke him said Glyndwfr- dwy, You would forgive anybody, Sir Owen ex- claimed Gryffudd. Tis more pleasant than killing," answered the Knight, and let me assure you, Gyto, 'tis much more serviceable also." Forgive who can," muttered Rhys, forgive I can't, nor wont neither." But what was the next step to be taken ? That was the question. Sir Owen Vaughan unfolded his plan, going through it in detail, fixing the time and place of the rendezvous, allocating to each subordinate his share in the execution of it, and suggesting a signal at the sound of which the work to be done, was to be done, and done quickly. Gryffudd and Rhys listened with increasing astonishment as limb after limb wa.s added to the body, and as the voice of eloquence clothed the bare skeleton with flesh and blood. The plan was perfect, and they were lost in wonder at its perfection, as they saw it working before their eyes, from its com- mencement to its completion. In their admira- tion they compared it to a spider's web. or the comb of the working bee. Proud of kindred with a great mind, Rhys Ddu shouted at the top of his voice the word Pendragon, which he had that day already flung out among the guests wildly surging with patriotic enthusiasm, and which same word Sir Owen had chosen for his signal. Pendragon!' shouted Rhys Ddu, until the rafters shook, and the people in and out of doors caught up the word and shouted 'Pendragon As the execution of this beautiful scheme of revenge on Lord Grey would necessitate the departure of Sir Owen and Rhys Ddu that even- ing, it was necessary to have the evening meal ready a little earlier than usual, because it was deemed expedient that the Knight of Glyndwfr- dwy should be present at the banquet. In the age of Glyndwfrdwy the people of Wales of all ranks took only two meals a day, breakfast and dinner or supper. After the morning meal the men went out to work while it was day the gentlemen to hunt the toilers to perform the labours of their several avocations; while the women devoted themselves to domestic work indoors, spinning, weaving, embroider- ing, and entertaining guests who might call in the absence of the land- lord, or master of the house. And charming in- deed these entertainments were. Ruddy, rounded arms pleased the eye, as the fair enter- tainer swept the harp-strings with her deft fingers, while sweet voices enchanted the hearer's souL Who, in such society, could feel languor, or clamour for dinner? Dinner being ready, Gryffadd ap Dafydd and his guests adjourned to the great hall, where the viands were waiting them. It was a long room, having at one end a dais, on which was a table reserved for the master of the house, his family, and his principal guests. There were no chairs, but forms which extended on all sides of the table, on which were laid ample stores of venison, beef, mutton, fowls, and fish on dishes of porce- lain. The plates were of the same material. By the side of each plate was a cake of oatmeal on which were placed cheese and butter. A variety of vegetables were placed between dishes of meat. Wine and mead and beer foamed in large silver bowls, while on each guest's right hand was a silver-mounted horn. All the dishes were brought in at once. There were no waiters about the room, nor were there any knives and forks to be seen, the meat being carried into the mouth by mea.ns of those instruments with which kind nature has furnished prince and peasant. This table was laid across the room, so that those who sat on the side nearest the table be- low had their backs turned towards those who were seated around the latter, while those who sat on the side remote from that table had their faces turned in the same direction. This was the side of honour, on which, sandwiched between Ap Dafydd and his wife, sat Glyndwfrdwy, the observed of all observers. In the body of the hall was a long table, which extended from the dais the entire length of the room. Around this were seated Ap Dafydd's tenants and retainers, and as many of the others as could find accommodation thereat. It was laden with the same viands as the upper table, only that the dishes were of wood for the most part, though some of them consisted of grass and reeds, relics these of the days of old, or, to speak more correctly, the customs of ancient times, preserved unbroken through the ages, as Gryffudd ap Dafydd loved to preserve them. Ample justice was done to the dinner at both tables, and daggers made enormous holes in the joints. Wine and mead and beer disappeared in gallons,especially at thelower table, while tboseat the upper table were more temperate. Glyndwdfrwy touched none of the intoxicating liquor, or seldom did. The centre of attraction, and the theme of conversation as he was to the guests, he bore him- self as though he had been sent to that hall to make all feel comfortable and happy. Now lending his ear to Gryffudd and Rhys, now enter- taining Gryffudd's wife and daughters with that charming tongue of his, which could dress even a thrice-told tale in the garb of novelty, he, at the same time. was intently engaged in gauging the feelings of the meeting. Tho talk was loud and unrestrained. His keen ear caught up its every syllable, and his eagle eye had read tho hearts of most of those who were present through their faces. He had no reason to be dissatisfied with what he heard and saw. » The time for departing drawinFr near, he rose in his place and, after the deafening cheers had subsided, addressed a few words to those before him. Having eulogised them on their appearance and sturdy strength, he made some general remarks on the situation, and concluded by expressing a hope that he would have their assistance to teach a proud Saxon nobleman that a Kymro is not to be robbed with impunity. The long-continued cheers which followed theconclusion of his speech, the flashing daggers, the gesticulating enthusiasm of the people, at once placed that matter beyond doubt. During this acclamation and applause, he and Rhys Ddu, accompanied for some distance by Gryffudd and Rhodri, departed, meeting, in every room, people eating and drinking, to whom the sight of him was a signal for renewed cheers. Out of doors the same scenes. On the green- sward scores of people were eating and drinking, the large majority of them barefooted, but all of them strong and sinewy to a man, and all of them ready to die for Glyndwfrdwy. "Well, Gyto," said Rhys, when the latter was returning, "see that you bring my cattle to the fair betimes in the morning." "I'll see to that, Rhys," replied that gentle- man. "Thou may'st sleep easy for that matter." And if," added Rhys, "thou coms't across any strays on the read to-morrow, annex them to my drove, and I shall sleep the easier for that sorvice." "Fie, Rhys exclaimed Gryffudd," to think of such things at this time of all times." "Know'st not the adage about the leopard, Gyto ?" said the Knight, waggishly. Aye, good my liege," returned the cattle dealer. Rhys Ddu will never change his spots so long as Saxon robbeis supply him with the wherewithal to preserve their colour." After this pleasant banter the party separated, Sir Owen and Rhys wending their way over the mountains Corwenwards to perform their part in the preliminaries of the beautiful scheme of revenge, Gryffudd and Rhodri returning to Bryn- kyff, where great enthusiasm continued to pre- vail. Here the Saxophobia of the party was fed by a croudher, who, to the shrill accompaniment of his instrument, sang the patriotic songs of his country there it was kindled into white heat by rival bards who strove to outbid each other iu measureless abuse and profane denunciation of the enemy everywhere it was well nourished by copious draughts of beer, wine, and mead. At length the people retired to rest. In Bryn- kyff there were two dormitories, one for the men and one for the women, both furnished alike. Alongside of three walls of the room were strewn thick layers of reeds, which were covered with a thick, coarse cloth called frieze. On this bed the sleepers lay in their clothes, blankets and counter- panes being unknown in that age. At one end of the room there burned a large fire all the livelong night. If a sleeper should awake untimely, and feel cold, he would leave his bed and approach the fire. there to warm his shivering frame. But this dormitory could not accommodate a tenth, or even a twentieth, part of the concourse cf people which had flocked to Brynkyff on this memorable occasion, on which the pilgrims of commerce, who had live or dead stock to sell, were swelled by the pilgrims of war who bad blood and lives to sell or buy. Not a few found make-shift beds, without even the luxury of reeds and friezes, in the outhouses, while the large majority, wrapping themselves in their freize mantles, if they were fortunate enough to possess such articles, laid them down «n ^reen grass of the mountain, where bare- footed and barelegged, under the canopy of God's heaven and His eternal fires, they slept, the sleep of robust and vigorous health. CHAPTER IV.-LORD REGINALD GREY AT HOME. Lord Reginald Grey, of Rutbin, was a fair I Saxon similar, we conceive, in respect of personal beauty to those fair Anglian slaves whom a complimenting or astute Vicar of Christ declared to be denizens of that city wherein angels dwell. Falr haired and complexioned; blue-eyed; of proud, not to say, arrogant carriage; expert in all martial and manly exercises; good natural abilities compensating for neglect of education esteemed by bis King, favoured of ladies; a gallant courtier and a capable diplomatist, such was Reginald Grey on the amiable side of his character, to which, however, there was a side the reverse of amiable. He was impregnated with the domineering haughtiness of his race. and, like his compatriots at all times and in all places, he hungered for land. If a garrison placed in a hostile country be efficient in proportion to the intensity of hatred which the commandant of it feels for the people whom it is his mission to overawe, Ruthin Castle ought to be extremely efficient, for Grey despised the Welsh as a barbarous nation, and regarded the land, the cattle, the daughters of the Welshman as the heaven-ordained prey of him and his Saxons. Strange to say, though he despised, he also hated the people among whom his lot was cast. Stranger still, though he des- pised and hated them, he did not to appre- ewte tlieix power as foes. That contempt and 1 disparagement of the enemy, that insolent bluster which talks of three Frenchmen walking on a pair of English legs—contempt and insolence which are innate in the English, and have cost them so dearly in the course of their splendid history—were in Lord Grey of Ruthin not eradicated indeed, but tempered and sobered down by bitter experience, of which his lordship had not yet seen the end. Having missed Sir Owen at Glyndwfrdwy, Lord Grey hastened back to his castle lest, during his absence, the Welsh should attack and capture that frowning, impregnable, stronghold. Ruthin Castle was a formidable fortress, strong by art, stronger by nature. Built on the eternal granite, it bid fair to endure as long as its foundations. Having all the latest improvements known to the engineers of the age, it seemed capable of repelling any attack which man could possibly make against it. All this notwithstanding, Lord Grey feared for the safety of his castellated residence, feared lest it might be successfully assaulted by those whom his peers in Parliament assembled bad been pleased, with Saxon urbanity, to call barefooted rogues. Arrived at Ruthin, Lord Grey was glad to see the family flag floating proudly in the breeze from the great tower of his castle. Having entered his stronghold, he was met by the messenger whom he had dispatched to Brynkyff, and who had returned a short time before his master. Gryffudd ap Dafydd's letter exas- perated his lordship almost to madness. There was scarcely a word of contempt and abuse known in the vocabulary of the age which Lord Grey did not hurl against the master of Brynkyff. He cursed his hated foe in two languages, and if he had know another, he would have been glad of that extra channel wherein to lot off the super- fluous steam of his enormous wrath. Not that his lordship was much hurt by the tone of the letter in question, but the idea that a member of the barefooted race of rogues should have the presumptuous effrontery to address such imperti- nence to him, a noble representative of sandaled Saxondom, was intolerable, and occasioned that terrible explosion of temper, the like of which his lordship's secretary had never beard from his master before, and he inwardly prayed that he should never be a witness of a repetition of it. The messenger, however, knew his master's temper better than the secretary, and he pro- ceeded to relate what he had seen and heard at the robber stronghold—the gathering multitudes, the mustering of Ap Dafydd's retainers, the songs of the singers, the fiery apostrophes of the bards, and the presence of Rhys Ddu, who went about sowing seeds of rebellion amongst the mob, and which, as soon as they dropped from his lips, bore fruit in the wildest enthusiasm it had ever been the messenger's good, or bad, fortune to behold. Long ere the messenger concluded his narrative, I ord Grey had recovered his senses and calm composure. At once he took in the situation, dic- tated to his secretary letters to the Lords Marchers who were in danger, and might be in a position to send assistance to him in his straits, and with his own hand wrcte a long letter to the king, to whom he freely communicated his sense of the danger to which the King's servants in North Wales were exposed. He pointed out how few of the castles in the district could be relied upon to withstand any vigorous siege, not only because they were undermanned, but because, in most of them, the large majority of the garrison, weak as it was, consisted of Welsh- men. He did not conceal his opinion that the Welsh troubles threatened to be serious, and urgently, but without fear, asked for prompt reinforcements. In the meantime, he promised the King, with that modesty of expression which is so charming a trait in the best specimens of English character, that he would do all that a loyal subject could do. Messengers were, at once, dispatched with these letters to the Lords Marchers and to the King. After the performance of that duty, Lord Grey, accompanied by his officers, proceeded to set his house in order, to examine and repair the weak parts of the Castle, and to supply it with pro- visions adequate to the sustenance of a long siege. In the evening, his lordship felt at ease, felt a soldier's pride in the splendid fortress which had been entrusted to his keeping, and flattered him- self that, whenever or however Sir Owen Vaughan and his Welsh should' come to the attack, he ,would be able to give them such a reception as Saxon soldiers were famous for according to those who approached their Castle walls, or, in equal numbers, met them in the open field. As he sipped his wine, his blue eyes glowed at the prospect of a fight. An important visitor called at the Castle. It was none other than Hywel Sele, who was received by Lord Grey with extravagant kind- ness. But there was nothing insincere in the reception, for Hywel's aid would be worth an army, if only the Lord of Ruthin could attach that renowned archer to his side. Hywel knew the mountain tracks, along which an army could reach the nests of the robbers, which were perched here and there on heights inaccessible to the stranger, because he was ignorant of the secret paths. Even that very night, with Hywel for a guide, Lord Grey might take Brynkyff by surprise, capture the nucleus of Sir Owen's army, and thereby stamp out the rebellion ere it had time to gather into a head. Grey related to his visitor the news which he bad heard from Brynkyff. Sele listened to the narrative with all the interest of ignorence, but when he was invited to join in pursuit of Sir Owen Vaughan, be replied, The game is not worth so many dogs." I thought you would like to share the spoils," said Grey. There will be a vast pile to distri- bute soon." "Compromise matters," said Hywel, laconi- cally. What compromise is possible with rogues and thieves ?" Such as will enable both sides to rogue and thieve without bloodshed." You are merry, Hywel. r faith, I like your nimble wit. Come, help me to cabch Glyn. dwfrdwy. I meddle not in personal quarrels." "And do you call catching traitors, at the King's command, a personal quarrel ? Traitors are often made through the greed of those who wish to profit from the treason." .Ul-,on my word, Hywel," exclaimed Lord Grey, "you Welsh people are an ungrateful lot." Ungrateful, my Lord 1" said Hywel. Where do your sons obtain their education ? asked the Lord of Ruthin, and answered himself, In Eugland." "Because," said Hywel, "you Saxons de- stroyed our colleges, carried away our professors, and appropriated their revenues." My good fiiend," returned his lordship, com- placently, I can't bother my head with ancient history." U The Kymry do, and are dissatisfied." "If it is as you say," said Grey gaily, "I suppose we robbed you for your benefit." "The bully's arsrument," returned Hywel, sarcastically. Come, Hywel," said Lord Grey, do you blame me for what occurred before I was born ?" Far from it. It's more than enough for most of us to answer for own acts." "True, my dear friend; and have not the Kings of England opened for your sons a wider field of action than they possessed before they became incorporated with us ?" And curtailed our liberty," was Hywel's curt reply. re "Prate not about liberty," exclaimed Lord Grey, the highest liberty consists in obeying the King. Look again at us. the few English lords, who are exiled among these wild mountains to preserve order. Do you not think that we ought to obtain more support from the natives than we do ?" "Return to your own people, and put an end to your unpleasant exile." I And leave the rogues and thieves to poll and pill honest folk!" exclaimed Lord Grey, in- dignantly. How, my lord, did your ancestor come by the lands which you own here ?" asked HyweL A reward for service done," answered his lordship. To reward him somebody was robbed, eh?" I continued Sele. Some traitor or other, I dare say," was Grey's jaunty reply. A native, my lord," observed the Celt. All the natives are thieves and traitors," re- turned the Saxon. "I thank your lordship for your high opinion of me." said Hywel, sneering. You are too sensitive, Hywel. Of course, I only apply that description to those who are disloyal. You are honest and loyal, and that the King knows well Come, friend Hywel, drink, and scowl not so." You put too little butter on your salt to suit a Kymro's palate." "And do not you put an amount of liberty in your remarks that would irritate most Saxons, eh ?" A Kymro always speaks freely." "Be a little freer still, dear friend, and tell me where am I likely to find Sir Owen Vaughan," said Lord Grey. coaxmgly. Be on your guard was Hywel's mysterious answer. Ah, Hywel, my friend," said his lordship, "join me in this affair with your invincible archers." 'Tis no affair of mine." "Name thy terms, man," said Grey, warmly. Choose thee any portions of Owen's lands, and thou shalt have them for thy reward." "Though a Kymro," answered Hywel, "I hunger for no man's lands." The campaign will be brief and bloodless," said the Saxon peer, who added, these traitors and rogues are as cowardly as they are insolent." Don't holloa before you are out of the wood." "Do you think these Welsh rebels will fight trained soldiers, eh?" "Their fathers fought well at Crecy and Poictiers," replied the Celt scornfully. None better. But, then, you will persist in misunderstanding me. Of course there are brave men among the Welsh." After this complimentary confession on his 4y part, Lord Grey expected to see his visitor prostrate himself at his feet, invoke Godb. blessing on his head and_heart, and offer him the assistance of Arfon's invincible archers. "As there are cowards among the Saxons," scowled Hywel in reply to his loidship's compli- ment. Aye, thousands of the most arrant cowards that ever handled sword or pike," returned Lord Grey, whose good humour was apparently inexhaustible, and more irritating, it seems, to his visitor than if he had exploded into a storm of invective and abuse against all that Hywel loved and adored. "Be on your guard, my lord," said Hywel rising. Do not go, Hywel," said Lord Grey, -undly, stay with me for night. There's a fair at Ruthin to-morrow, ad you now. Do not go." Good-night, my lord. Remember my I warning," said Hywel, who left the castle a biting, scowling, mysterious man on whom the jiortov locked and bolted the gatea as delighted AS I if he had put bars and bolts between himself and the devil. After the Welsh archer's departure, the English Peer paced the apartment pensively. His secretary was in the same room, but his lordship did not appear to be consoious of that gentleman^ presence. Of that Hywel Sele," said Lord Grey solilo- quising, "I can make nothing. Humour him, he grows cross thwart him, he grows crosser. I cannot persuade him to walk with me up hill, nor down b 11, nor on level ground. A most mysterious man—he is inscrutable," "And most insolent, my lord." said the secretary. 11 What are you there, Claude asked his lordship. And have heard all the impertinences and in. solences of that wild Welsh goat, whose throat I every moment expected to see you cut with your sword." As he spoke these words the secretary raised himself up to his full heroic altitude. "I am not a butcher, man," returned the Peer. Why, then, did your lordship order me to cut his insolent weasand?" asked the secretary, swelling with intrepidity and devotion. Art thou waxen so brave, my knight of the quill ?" said Lord Grey, bantering. And should like to crack that rogue's brain-pan." 0 Have a care, Sir Claude de Plume," returned bis lordship, "and do not irritate Hywel Sele, a most dangerous man, whose arrow shot invariably spells death." My lord," said Sir Claude, approaching his master, and conveying his sentiments to the great lord in a confidential whisper, "my lord, Hywel is not Pone too far to be overtaken. Let me pursue him. If you will give me permission, I flatter myself that you will net be annoyed by that knave's tongue never more." "And I am certain," returned Lord Grey, e; that, if I gave you the permission you desire, I should never more enjoy the advantage of your goose quill. Nay, my boy, it must not be so. I am prepared to put up with a vast deal more of what you call impertinences and insolences, so but I can secure the assistance of Hywel Sele and his archers, who are really a fine, reliable, body of men. "But, my lord," said the secretary, "you will have needs to pay him for his service. You offered him the choicest bits of Sir Qwen Vaughan's lands. God and St. George curse that arrant traitor!" "Amen!" cried Lord Grey, devoutly crossing himself as he prayed. Then casting alook on the serious countenance of his secretary, his lordship burst out into a loud fit of laughter which, for some time, he was quite unable to control. Having, at length, recovered his usual gravity of countenance he addressed Sir Claude ae Plume in these words :— How unsophisticated thou art this evening, my knight of the letters! Drink, man, to get rid of that melancholy look of thine Dost hear, Sirrah I will not have in my service nor in my castle no Sir Tristrans, nor no knights of the sorrowful countenance. Drink, I say. Dost think that I will let Hywel Sele have those bits of the traitor's lands which he may choose as a recompense for services to be performed ? He will do very well as a cats-paw he will not dis- credit one as a comrade on the battle-field, but he is not a fit person to share with me the spoils of traitors, he," exclaimed his lordship, and the proud lips curled with disdain, "he a Welsh rogue and thief with me an English soldier and nobleman Sir Claude was satisfied, quaffed a horn of wine, laid aside his rueful mien, and looked brisk and lively at the prospect; of one day having the exquisite pleasure of slitting Hywel Sele's weasand. This matter having been arranged to the secre- tary's entire satisfaction, Lord Grey endeavoured to ascertain what were the motives which had prompted Hywel's visit to the castle. He thought long over the subject, but, for all his thinking, he could go no further than this, namely, that be had not ascertained his visitor's motives, what- ever they were. And just as this failure pained him, inasmuch as it reflected unfavourably on his diplomatic abilities, by which he set great store, so the unfathomable mystery of the character with whom he had to deal, protected him against the haunting ghosts of humiliating reflections, and and enabled him to lay flattering unction to his diplomatic soul, because where he had be baffled, no living man could succeed. Hywel's warning, however, was not forgotten, had, indeed, been already anticipated. And Lord Grey congratulated himself that Ruthin fair, which was kept as a general holiday in Denbigh- shire and the neighbouring counties, afforded him a respite, a kind of truce before the outbreak of hostilities. During this interval of peace his lordship confidently expected help from the Lords of Powis and Denbigh, as well as from his gracious Majesty King Henry. This aid arrived, and the truce lapsed, he had no doubt but what the campaign would be brief, bloodless, and rich in spoils. ( To be continued. )
THE WELSH LIQUOR VETO BILL.…
THE WELSH LIQUOR VETO BILL. At a public meeting held in connection with the annual conference of the South Wales and Monmouthshire Temperance Association at Llan. dilo last week, Mr Wu. BINGHAM, London (deputation from the United Kingdom Alliance), said, that the object of the Association he represented was the entire suppression of the liquor traffic. Dwelling upon the division on Mr Bowen Rowlands's Direct Veto Bill, tba speaker said it was very gratifying to find that 24 Welsh members voted in its favour, and not one against. The Liberals, too. "had gallantly assisted them, whilst, to their everlasting credit be it said, the Liberal Unionists had recorded their votes in its favour. (Cheers.) Only one English Liberal voted against it, and he was a brewer. (Laughter.) He should not be at all sorry to see him leaving the Liberal party altogether. (Cheers.) One hundred and sixty Conservatives had voted against it. (Shame.) Having dwelt upon the ravages which were being made in the country by the drink traffic, Mr Bingham ex- pressed a belief that the Temperance party had little to hops for from the magistrates, but they should trust to their own power to get deliverance from the appaling curse. (Hear, hear.) It would, however, not be an easy task—the struggle would demand all their power, firmness, and decision. (Cheers.) Resolutions had been passed at that day's conferences which clearly indicated the existence of deep dissatisfaction on the part of tho Temperance party because of the action of some of the Welsh members in connection with temperance measures for Wales-members who had expressed themselves in favour of local option, and yet availed themselves of their pro- fession to appeal to magistrates to grant new licences, which would do so much harm in their beloved country. {" Shame," and applause.) Ho trusted the day of deliverance would soon come to Wales, and the success of her sons and daughters would mean the abridgment of the time over which the struggle would be carried on in England, for he really believed that when the Welsh people would get the much-needed measure they were struggling for. the English people would also have it soon after. (Hear, hear.)
ALLEGED FALSE PRETENCES AT…
ALLEGED FALSE PRETENCES AT ORICKHOWELL. At the CrickhoweU Police-court, yesterday- before Messrs R. T. Woodman and E. B. Evans I-Thomas Hunter (senr.), alias John Webb and J. Carpenter, was charged on remand with obtaining flannel, value £ 15 15s, by false pre- tences, from John Powell, woollen manufacturer, Llangattock, in November, 1889. Prisoner had only been arrested about a week ago by P.C. Jarrett on his release fro!n Knutsford prison.- Prosecutor stated that in October, 1889, he executed an order for flannel for prisoner, who remitted a cheque for its value. He sub- sequently had another order from him, which he exec: ted, '3U'! 'he goods were never paid for.. wade application for payment several times, but his last letter was returned by the post-office authorities endorsed House linocou d Alfred Leach, inspector, Pie 7- (^Division, Metroi>olitan Police, gave evidence to having seen prisoner on tne 16th November, 1889, when he was detained on another charge at King's-cross Police-station. Witness searched his house, and there found three pieces of flannel, which prosecutor identified as part of that which he despatched. Prisoner at that time made a statement to the effect that his name was John Webb, and that up to date of apprehension he had been trading under the name of Thomas Hunter, senr., woollen merchant, at 64, Hanover- street, Portsea. He brought the goods seized by witness to London to realize money to pay out- standing acoounts.PrisonBr was committed for trial to the next Quarter Sessions at Brecon in October.
PLUCKY CAPTURE OF -A BURGLAR.
PLUCKY CAPTURE OF A BURGLAR. At Lambeth police-court, Arthur Taylor (24) was charged with burglary at the King's Arms Tavern, Lower Kennington-lane.—Between two and three o'clock on Saturday morning, Mr Edward Henry Lewis, the landlord, was aroused by a strange noise at the back of the premises, followed by the breaking of glass. He went downstairs, and found a fanlight at the back of the saloon bar had been forced open, and the glass broken. He kept watch for a few moments, and then called in Police-owgeant Mobsby (12 L) and Constable Barnes (152 L). They made an examination, and ultimately Barnes with the aid of the sergeant mounted a side building. Barnes there found the prisoner crouched down in the gutter. Upon seeing the constable prisoner j umped up and ran along the roof some twenty yards, and then jumped upon an outhouse, and from there to the garden. Barnes followed, and a chase took place, some dozen garden walls being crossed. In getting over one wall upon which there was glass Barnes cut his right wrist severley. He, however, continued the pursuit, and ultimately got hold of the prisoner. He struggled violently and de- clared that he would not be taken. The officer, owing to the injury to his right hand, finding he was unable to hold the prisoner, drew his staff with his left and struck the prisoner, who still continued to resist. Ultimately, with the assia- .tance of Sergeant Mobsby, the prisoner was secured and taken to the station. When charged he made no reply.—The prisoner, who now de- clined anything in defence, was committed. to take bis trial at the Central Criminal Court.
ABERDARE LIBERAL CLUB.'- -
ABERDARE LIBERAL CLUB. Two hundred and fifty members of the Aber- dare Liberal Club left on Monday by special train for Llanwera by the invitation of Mr D. A. Thomas, M.P., president of the club. The weather was desightful. A four hours' stay was made at Newport, the party visiting the; doekq, Stow- hUl, ana other places of interest.
EXPERIENCES OF A DETECTIVE.…
EXPERIENCES OF A DETECTIVE. BY JAMES M'GOVAN, Author of "Brought to Bay," "Hunted Down," Strange Clues," "Traced and Tracked," "Solved Mysteries," &0. THE CHANGED DIAMONDS. When the following case was before me it never struck me that it was to prove one of a long chain ?l cr"?e? which were to puzzle, not me alone, but the whole detective force in Scotland. Others may have preceded it, but I give this first, as in this case my suspicion was first roused that there was someone about the city profiting by crime, yet far above the reach of the police. It may seem to some incredible, but it is a solemn fact that there are among us hundreds who consider themselues good and virtuous citizens, yet who, if the danger of detection and punishment were absolutely removed, would become criminals on the instant. Their motto is, get money, honestly or dishonestly, but safely. In their supreme ignorance they look upon the law and the police as the only punisbers, entirely overlooking the inexorable retribution on their own beings, the constant wearing of conscience, and the incessant fear of detection. The lady who had lost the diamonds came to the Central in a cab, on a Thursday evening in December, looking rather annoyed and a little excited, yet not so concerned as people generally are when they have lost about £1,000 worth of jewellery. Her annoyance, indeed, appeared to be more because she could not attend the assem- bly that night than at the mysterious disappear- ance of her diamonds, yet her husband was only a successful Queen-street lawyer. Mrs Raymond was a great beauty, and had brought her husband some £10,000, but I knew her by reputation to be exceedingly extravagant, so from the first I listened to her strange story with suspicion. "I laid out the diamonds on my dressing table —a necklace, earrings, and a bracelet, and then went into the next room for a moment. When I got back the window was open, and the cold air rushing in, and I thought at first the maid had been in, though she was in the room above put- ting some lace on my dress," she began, with wonderful exactness. "I went to the window and closed it with a bang, for I was angry, and then I missed my diamonds. They were all gone, and I screamed out and brought the whole house about me. I sent for my hus- band, but he was not in his office, and the police- man we called in advised me to come here with- out waiting." It was not this strange story, but the lady's manner, which made me sit thinking and study- ing her face. She seemed to be watching me furtively, as if expecting me to ask her some disagreeable questions. I took down a description of the jewels and then said- What is the value of the lot ?" The simple question seemed to startle her slighely, for she flushed a little under my eye, and hurriedly answered- They belonged to Mr Raymond's mother, and they cost above £ 900." I did not like the answer or the tone in which it was uttered, or the falling eye of the speaker, and said rather sharply- Is your room on the ground floor V' No, the flat above." Then how do you suppose the diamonds were taken?" I cannot tell. No one could have gone into that room by the door without me seeing or hear- ing them, for they would have had to pass through the room in which I stood. The thief must have got in by the window." "Howso? climbed up No, I don't think he could have climbed up, for the wall is perfectly smooth. He must have had a ladder." She had been out of the room only for two minutes, so I promptly decided that the ladder theory must go, more especially as the house was a fashionable one out at Coates Cres. cent. Then, according to her own statement, no one could have climbed the wall of smooth dressed stone, so the inevitable conclusion was that the diamonds, if stolen at all, had been taken from inside. The coolness of the lady had a deal to do with this conclusion of mine, which proved to be a mistaken one. A great man has said that a woman will sell her soul for diamonds, yet here was one taking the loss of hers as calmly as if she had just dropped a fourpenny piece. I may be frank—I fully believed that Mrs Raymond had ouietly stolen her own diamonds, otherwise sold fiern topny some pressing debt, and that the whole story of the robbery and the open window was a fabrication. She was a woman of keen in- stincts, and evidently read my thoughts, and hated me heartily for them, but, of course, that did not disturb me. I was convinced that she had concealed part of the history, and quickly determined to lay that mystery bare. Accord- ingly, with the greatest politeness, I got per- mission to accompany her back to her home, and by au hour's searching investigation made it clear that neither Mrs Raymond nor any one in the house could possibly have made away with the missing diamonds. The maid declared most emphatically that she saw the diamonds taken from the safe and laid on her mistress's dressing table before she herself went upstairs to sew lace on the dress which Mrs Raymond was to wear, and as that dress was the one in which the lady had come to the Central, and the whole house bad been searched during her absence, it was pretty clear that the diamonds could not have been concealed by her. The next morning I returned to the house, and carefully examined the wall between the bedroom window and the ground, and then read clearly the acquittal of the lady. A cast-iron pipe ran from the ground up to the side of the window, and at two different places on the smooth stone I discovered two fresh scratches, such as might be made by the slip of a tacketed boot. The thief had run up that pipe hand over hand, with monkey-like swiftness, and had probably come upon the plant unexpectedly, or he would have removed his boots. By step- ding across the street and standing upon the copestone of the garden railing, I found that I could see any person standing near the window of that bedroom, and my idea waa that the thief, after long prewling, bad so sighted the jewels and swiftly resolved to possess them. When a robbery of this kind is attempted it is generally after every arrangement has been com- pleted for the fencing of the rare prize, so I felt sure that the diamonds would never again be seen in a recognisable form. Even then I pictured them broken up and scattered by the reset, and already speeding by post to different parts of the country, where dealers of easy principles eagerly awaited their arrival; and had the case been an ordinary one I have no doubt but that would have been their fate, but it was not. One or two men likely to have done the work I did shadow most persistently, but I failed to spot the right on", simply because he had got into a dispute with his wife and had been sent to gaol for seven days to cool his temper. On the very day that sentence expired I got by post the following astounding letter:— "The robbery of diamond jewellery from Mrs Raymond's house in Coates-crescent was done by a man named Jim Page, who had stalked it for three weeks and arranged to sell it to me for 9100. It was in my possession half an hour after it was taken, and I foolishly passed on the money to the thief with- out closely looking at the gems. Next morning I was petrified to discover that before sending the stuff to me he had changed every diamond for a false one, and that for what I had given £100 I couldnotgetES. Page had got drnnk and kicked up a row, and been taken to the cells, so I bad no chance of redress from him. You will find the diamonds at the back of the right hand side of the grate in his house in Carrubber's Close. Don't go till after ten o'clock, as I understand he cannot be out of jail till then. His wife has been drinking all the time he has been in jail, so the placing of the false diamonds was easy. They are all you need for a conviotion, and all I need for a revenge. "NEMO." The letter was written in a bold, business hand, and was evidently the work of a man of educa- tion, with brain and energy far above those of the ordinary reset. From the first I believed it genuine; the diction was so clear, the cold- blooded plot so horribly frank, and the confidence in security so amazing that no doubt ever crossed my mind. The moment I read the message I sent M'Sweeny down to watch the stair in Carrubber's Close, while I went over to the Carlton Jail to see Jim Page set free. He saw me at the gate, and gave me a wink of recognition, and was evidently in high spirits, and as far from dreading arrest as I was. He turned along Waterloo-place and up the North Bridge, but with that restlessness peculiar to his class looked round more than once, and noticed with some surprise that I was followinghim. At t'1e High- street he slactamed his pace somewhat, just below the well, to let me go past, but, as I did not, he concluded to go on, and turned down the Close as far as the stair, with me close at his heels. "Want anything with me?" be suddenly asked, as I stepped in after him. Only to have a look through your place," I cheerily answered. Ob, yon're welcome to that," be said, with .the most perfect confidence, I'll stake my liberty ion all you'll find there." His confidence probably arose from the fact that he had left his wife with plenty of money, and, that being so, she was not likely to have got into trouble during his absence. The thought of trouble in connection with tile diamonds never crossed his mind. Inside the den was a drunken woman snoring heavily. Page scowled atjber and remarked, "I might have guessed that-Jfid then wanJi mantelpiece, took down a pipe and a mateh, and sat down to smoke in evident enjoyment. Even the appearance of M'Sweeny in the doorway and another man outside did not bring a shade of concern to his face. The fire was out, and the hearth littered with ashes, so, not hking to dirty myself, I said to him- "I want to see behind this grate-would you lift it out?" He stared, but slowly rose, still smoking to make up for lost time, and obeyed. The grate was not heavy, and as he lifted it out, a small parcel, done up in a piece of newspaper, and lying on the stone behind the right side, caught my eye. I snatched it up and opened the paper, when a mass of glittering gems shone forth in the wintry sun- light. I suppose I gave some kind of exclama- tion of surprise or pleasure, but no one noticed it. Every eye was on Page's petrified face. Astonish- ment would be a mild word with which to describe his expression-he seemed to be stricken speechless, and even rubbed his eves violently, as if not sure that he was not dreaming. "I—I can swear I never put them there," he at last stammered, in a tone which carried conviction with it. I merely snapped the handcuffs on his wrists, and then closely examined the jewels. They were all there, exactly as described to me by Mrs Raymond except that the gems were certainly false stones. Page was evidently waxing furious, for his face grew crimson, and the eye he fixed on me was full of wrath and suspicion. "I see it now," he cried in deadly hatred. I've heard often that you're a devil, but now I know it. You've got hold of them diamonds and planted them there to get me into trouble, and now you'll swear I took them, and send me up for a couple o' years maybe. Do you expect to thrive after that ? Do you think I won't kill you when I get out ? If I did a trick like that I should deserve to be killed, I quietly observed. "I never saw these diamonds until this moment." The simple statement appeared to carry the usual weight with it, for my "bairns" have learned to rely on my word, but his vehemence did not subside. It's a plant! he cried with extraordinary exoitement. If I stood on the brink of my own grave with only a minute to live I'd swear by all that's holy that these things have been planted there to get me into trouble. "I believe you're right," I said, with a tantaliz- ing coolness. "And you can prove it? you can prove me innocent and get me off ?" ne added with great eagerness. "Oh no; I can't prove you innocent, for you know very well you're not," I added with a grin, Let's see the soles of your boots." He turned one up, and I found, as I had ex, pected, that they were studded with tackets, not very closely set. You see," I coolly continued, as he dropped the foot to the ground, "you scored the wall of that house in Coates-crescent with these tackets in clambering up by the pipe, and I ean fit the scores to the nails as soon as you are locked up as easily as I could fit the neck of a whisky bottle into youi wife's mouth." He sat down with the breath completely knocked out of him, staring at me, with a species of awe, evidently inclined to believe me in league with the devil. The allusion to his wife seemed to puzzle him most, for after a moment he said— She couldn't have blabbed, for I never tell her anything." Cautious man! how wicked of you not to trust your dear wife I gayly returned. "How can you thrive. Now look here, Jim, I have not a grain of sympathy for you and not the least wish to help you, but I'm inclined to make a bargain with you and give you a chance to slip out of this mess, just to serve my own ends, you see ?" Oh, yes; I believe that," he bitterly answered, Well, go ahead." You went to a fence with these gems and got 2100, but first you thought you would play a nice little trick on him, and you turned them over to a skilled hand and changed the diamonds for false ones." "It's a lie an infernal lie!" he shouted, com- pletely thrown off his guard by his own rage and indignation. "I went straight-oh, I forgot— 'I am not such a fool as you think," he abruptly added, pulline himself up. "I never saw these things till tbi3 minute." "very well; stick to that story if you please and suffer for it," I calmly answered, motioning to M'Sweeney to take him away while I turned to wake the drunk woman. He hesitated, and thought, and fidgeted, while I was thus engaged, and finally said- Was it a fence that put. them there for you to find ?" "That's what I want to prove," I answered. I believe it was, and that they were put there in revenge for the trick of changing the stones." He sat and swore in a low gabble to himself for some moments, and evidently longing for some one to tear at, but presently said- And you give me your word that you can get me off ?" I think I can that's all." All right, that's good enough for me. Well, the diamonds was never changed at alL They went to the fence straight from the place where they were took. It was all over in half an hour, that's the trnth. It's the fence has made the mis- take. Look at them yourself and you'll find they're real diamonds." "I'm not a great judge." I said, after a second close scrutiny of the stones, "but it seems to me they're false." Then the fence has changed them since he got them," promptly returned Page. He oould easily do that, for he's had them more than a week." "What good would that do? Why should he want revenge on you ?" I curiously returned. I don't know. I never did him any harm that I knows of, but then how can I tell, for nobody knows who he is. Nobody ever saw him, or ever will see him. He's invisible, and always will be invisible fact, they call him 'The Invisible. "Pob, that's nothing. You tell mo whore he lives, and I'll soon make him visible," I con- fidently returned. "I can't. Nobody knows where he lives," excitedly answered Page, Well, tell me where you left the things." I can't. Only one man knows where they're left, and he says if it got known both he and the man that betrayed him would have a knife stick- ing in their hearts before morning though they were in the strongest jail that man can make. That's all I know or want to know. I'm not to break that oath-I tell you I daren't I daren't," and the big drops of sweat oozing from his temples showed how thoroughly terrorised he was. "Don't be a fool, Page," I angrily returned, taking the reset's letter from my pocket and hold- ing it up for his inspection." Look at that writing and tell me if you know it. Yes I've seen it before," he reluctantly answered with a shudder. "Well, Nemo means 'no name.' The man must have a name. What is it ?" "I don't know! s'elp me, don't know!" he. groaned in reply. Then I'm sorry for you, for you'll be lagged as sure as you sit there," I firmly answered. "You said you'd get me out of the mess," he feverishly answered. You gave me your word." "I said I thought I could now I know I can't, for the price was the discovery of that invisible fence. If you help me to take him you would be taken as witness for the crown." Then I'm done sold to the police for noth- ing he groaned, clenching his hands. "If I could only find out 'The Invisible.' I'd run a knife into him though I was to die the next minute. I'll do it yet! oath or no oath, I'll get at him ?" "That shouldn't be difficult if he treated all his clients asscurvily." I remarked encouragingly. He'll soon have the best of enemies," But he doesn't," he quickly answered; there must have been some mistake, or he never would have turned on me-for he's always sure and honest and safe. They say he's in a good position. and that his nearest friends don't know he's on this line." I wanted to know more, but if Pagereally knew more he chose to keep it for his own use, and relapsed into dogged silence. The woman seemed to understand nothing, and looked so stupid with drink that the planting of the jewels must have been an easy task. About £ 60 was found by us in different parts of the house, but it was all in gold, and so offered no clue to any bank. We took the pair up to the Central, where they were examined and locked up, and then I put the changed diamonds into my pocket and went over to Queen- street to the chambers of Mr Raymond, and electrified him with the agreeable news that the jewels were traced. He was a fine-looking man of 55, with one of the sharpest pair of eyes I ever saw in a human head, and the moment I had spoken, he said— "But there is something more? What is wrong ?" "You're quick enough for a detective," I answered a little enviously. "Yes, there is a slight hitch. Would you know your own dia- monds again ?" Would I know my own watch ?-of course I'll know them." Well, are these the diamonds 1" I asked, with a face of cast iron. He took them in his hands, smiled out in recognition, then started slightly, looked closer into the stones, changing their posi- tion in the light, and then turned to me in doubt. Yes, I could almost swear they're mine; but are the diamonds the same ? Are they real ?" That is exactly what I wish to know. Are you not a judge ?" "I used to think I was, but frankly I am puzzled. I have seen these diamonds for the best part of my life, yet I never before thought they looked so like paste. You have an opinion of your own, I see-what is it ? I'd rather not say just now. Is there no way of testing the matter ? My wife ought to know, for she is very sharp at detecting false diamonds when they are worn by others. Can you spare time to go West with me in a cab ? I suggested that a Princes street jeweller's would be better and nearer, but Mr Raymond evaded the proposal, and we drove to Ooates- crescent together. Mrs Raymond was not visible for a full half hour, but when she did appear, and I held up the diamonds, she gave a childish cry of delight, and eagerly clasped the gems in her hand and kissed them. She was only about half the age of her husband, and very pretty, but so thickly painted that I wondered the crust did nob scale off. "The diamonds, I suppose,-are all right? I inquiringly remarked. "Oh, yes, there can be no doubt about that," "she hurriedly returned. How very skilful of you to get them so soon. Really, you must be one of the most wonderful men in existence," and In with this palpable flattery she was turning away to drop them into a jewel case when I quietly but firmly interposed. Excuse ms, but they must remain in the hands of the authorities till the thief is tried," I said, as I restored them to my pooket. And, besides. I am not quite aatjmad that the stones are real, and we shall probably call in an expert to decide." "Oh, don't do that, I pray," cried Mrs Ray. mond, in ill-concerned alarm. I am quite satisfied." But I am not," sternly observed her husband, who had been keenly watching the shifting expres- sions of her face for some moments, and I shall go direct with Mr M'Govan to the best dealer in Princes-street to make sure." The lady begged and entreated, and even shed tears, but her husband answered her roughly and sternly, and finally left her in her passion, and re-entered the cab with me. "I'm afraid the diamonds have been changed," he significantly remarked to me. His face had grown stern and ashy in hue, and I saw that he was powerfully moved, and mercifully made no reply. We got out at one of the largest jewellers's shops in the city, and were attended by the principal, who knew me well. The first glance at the stones was enough. He smiled out, and I saw the word paste in his face before it rose to his lips, "Only one man in the city, and indeed in Scot- land, supplies these stones," he remarked as he handed them back, and getting the address we drove to the place, where we not only found abundant evidence that the stones had been changed there, but the actual note sent with them by Mrs Raymond, when they were changed, and her receipt for 2500 in payment for the real stones. Her plea was that she needed the money to settle some bills which she did not care to show to her husband, but it was her last deception towards him. He told me after they had agreed to a separation that she had squandered 215,000 in seven years, and nearly ruined him and that the happiest day of his life was when he was freed from her. A few weeks later Page and his wife were tried for the robbery, when she was acquitted, and he, pleading guilty, received a sentence of two years' imprisonment. I had solemnly promised Mr Raymond to keep the secret of the changing of the diamonds during his life, so Page went to prison in ignorance of the facts, and burning for revenge; and, in that connection, I shall have to notice him again. NEXT W T C C v M'SWEENY AND THE FALSE b TELEGRAM. TEMPERANCE PROGRESS IN SOUTH WALES. The following is the report presented at the annual meetings of the South Wales and Mon- mouthshire Temperance Association at Llandilo last week In presenting an exhaustive but interesting review of the work of the past year, the Secre- tary said that the importance of recent develop- ments on the side of temperance was not to be measured so much by the immediate benefits realised as by the greater advantages rendered possible and even probable in the near future. Some of the most stubborn obstructions had already been removed the way for reforms of a most thorough character was opening up steadily, whilst activity in opposition to the liquor traffic increased daily, extended into fresh areas, assumed novel forms, and promised to become truly national at no distant date. On all hands there were many indications of preparations being made for the coming battle; licensed victuallers and brewers on tne one hand, and temperance reformers on the other, assumed the attitude of contending armies bent on fighting to the bitter end. The magistrates for the present acted as middle-men and played the part of buffers, but the result of the battle must depend upon the attitude of the public generally. In recent encounters the public had fraternized with the temperance party rather than with the publicans, hence the success of modern legislation curtailing the dimensions of the liquor traffic, and the thorough rout of two ignominious compen- sation schemes. (Applause.) The greatest event of the year was, beyond doubt, the second reading on the 18th March of the Liquor Traffic Local Veto Bill (Wales). For 40 years leading temperance reformers had advocated the prohibition of the common sale of drink by the popular vote in each localitY1 and it was for this purpose, indeed, that the United Kingdom Alliance was instituted in 1883, the Permissive Bill introduced by Sir (then Mr) Wilfrid Lawson being put forward as a machinery to promote such end. The Welsh Veto Bill, introduced by Mr Bowen Rowlands, was partly identical with the Permissive Bill. The carrying of the Welsh Veto Bill last March was the greatest movement forward ever made by the prohibition party, and although Wales deserved to take the lead, yet she could never have marched on to the citadel of the enemy had not England,Scotland, and Ireland followed bravely in the rear. The division list showed 187 in its favour (including 24 Welsh members, not one recording a vote against it), and 180 against. The report then described the action of the association in promoting the Local Veto Bill, and, anticipating discussion in Parliament, a letter was published by the secretary in the South Wales Daily News and the Alliance News setting forth the objects of the bill. The report then proceeded to dwell with the Irish Saturday Evening and Sun- day Closing Bill introduced by Mr Lea, providing that Sunday closing should be made permanent, and not dependent on a vote of the House year after yoar, which was carried in the House by a majority of 154. The granting of occasional licences in some places of public amusement seemed to be a source of considerable annoyance und mischief, in connootion with which Dr Morgan, J.P., of Pontypridd, had rendered him- self notorious. Tho Rev W. J. Morris, becoming aware of the conduct of the doctor, hurried alone before the Pontypridd bench, his Honour Judge Gwilym Williams and the Stipendiary regratting the course adopted by him, and declared it to be contrary to the custom and intention of the Legislature, though not contrary to the letter of the statute. Dr Morgan repeated the act, against which the temperance friends protested before the bench, whilst the Newport Conference on July 2nd strongly condemned his action, Mr Alfred Thomas, M.P., also very properly calling the attention of the Home Sectretary to the matter. Off wine and spirit licences, commonly called grocer's licences, was universally severely condemned constant com- plaints were received against these licences, whilst urgent appeals for action had recently been received from tne temperance friends at Tredegar, and from Mr Councillor William Williams, J.P., Worcester Works, Morriston. The formation of four temperance unions in four different counties in one year was a great advance, and promised well for the future :—The Mid-Rhondda and the Towy Vale (Whitland) Unions were doing good work, whilst the Rhondda Valleys Anti-Licence League had rendered yeoman service in checking the liquor flood which threatened the Rhonddas with an alcoholic deluge. (Applause.) The decision of the Lords on magisterial discretion in the case of Sharpe v. Wakefield was then dwelt upon. Already this decision, which was to the euecb that the justices at the annual general licensing sessions "had the same absolute right to f[rant or refuse renewals as they had to grant new iccnces," told an interesting tale in licensing sessions, magistrates in many instances being bold enough to apply the pruning knife to not a few of the rotten branches. (Hear, hear.) RETURNS OF PLEBISCITES. The report concluded by giving a return of plebiscites which had been taken in South Wales from January to September, which showed a considerable majority in favour of the following questions:—(1) Are you in favour of giving rate- payers the power of deciding by direct veto the number of licences to be granted within their district ? (2) Are you in favour of the prohibition of all licences for the common sale of intoxica- ting liquors? Plebiscites were taken in 34 places, and the percentage of the voting was as follows Question 1 Yes. No. Neutral. 81-7 9.7 5-5 Questions. 707 19-0 10"2 The result was received with applause. The CHAIRMAN said that this was the most encouraging report which had ever been pre- sented to the Association, and that it promised well for the future. (Hear, hear.) Mr H. PHILLIPS, J.P., Newport, in moving the adoption of the report, referred to the wonderful and satisfactory work which had been done in Wales during the year just closed. Their agent (Rev Morris Morgan) had laboured indefatigably during the year, having addressed no less than 254 public meetings (at which 883 pledges were taken) and also 52 plebiscite committees. (Hear, hear.) Rev JOHN PUGH, Cardiff, seconded.
. WELSH OR ENGLISH P
WELSH OR ENGLISH P At the annual meetings of the South Wales Temperance Association, held at Llandilo last week, the greater portion of the pro- ceedings had been conduoted in the vernacular, and the Chairman asked one speaker to make his remarks In English. This, however, was not done, the rev. gentleman saying that he would curtail his remarks so that even the English friends could understand him.—The Rev D. B. Jones, Llandilo, rose and warmly said that it was very unfair to those unacquainted with Welsh that the speakers should go on in Welsh. Only one gentleman had been asked by the chairman to speak in Welsh, but even he had refused. That, he thought, was ungentlemanly. (Cries of --Sliame.")-The Chairman promptly observed that the last gentleman had not spoken for him (the speaker). He did not call a man ungentlemanly for a man to speak in his ow n language. (Cheers.) As he had said many times before, it would be to the interests of young Welshmen to speak in and cultivate the English language-(hear, hear)—but they should also try to please others as well as themselves. (Hear.)—Amongthe speakers who followed was Mr BINGHAM, London, who advised Welshmen to cling to their grand language; it was no 'trivial thing to try and get a nation with a history like theirs to give up their language, because in doing so they would bo giving up all the associations connected with it. If they gave up their language and started the English, they would be giving up half of the noblest traditions of their national life. (Hear, hear.)
!SHOT BY HIS FATHER,
SHOT BY HIS FATHER, William Garrett, an old man. shot his son during a quarrel, at Holloway on Saturday. The bullet entered the lungs. The old man, when taken to the Caledonian- road Station, said they quarrelled, and his son Knockod him down. For a number of years, lie said, he had had a great deal to put up with, and the provocation and violence used towards him in tho present instanoe were more than he could bear, and he rushed upstairs, seized a revol- ver, and fired m a rage.
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■■ == WltDDFNO KKBPEB, AJIP ENGAGEMENT RINGS Great Variety atTainsh Brps., 5, High-street, Cardiff.
FACT AND FANCY. . -——'——(
FACT AND FANCY. -——'—— ( in Unequal Proportions. A western politician bears the name of CJ0*? mire. He likes to have people pitch into hUll. "Make yourself at home," said the Thanks; I will," he replied, fcuruicg 0 the gas. AN iNsut/r.—Waiter (deferentially): sir ? Fuddled Actor (ferociously): No, ing man First Hod Carrier: What did the WjSrf diligate fine ye for, Mike ? Seoond ditto comin' down th' ladder two rounds at a time. A SURE SIGN.—"Is Von Sohleira a gro writer ?" He must be. His publishers getting out an expurgated edition of his wotf* I fear that I am taking cold," said Fan°^ man as he picked up a cake of ice, and looked to see if the crowd saw the point to w remark. AT RETAIL.—" Ink is cheap." I don't about that. I left a pen full on the back of once that cost me two thousand five huad1^ dollars." FOR INSTANCE.—Editor The only way to ø; ceed in the newspaper business is to give people what they want. Friend Have yutt « a ten-dollar bill you can let me have? THE FIRST AND MOST IMPORTANT.— Author Can you tell me how to become a poet ? Editor Ob, yes. The very first thing fat you to do is to die. All the good ones are 40;1 THK WORK WAS PERFORMED.—Mr WildvvcJll You surely do not mean to say you're Why, you don't drop your h's !—Mr Tewksw1* Podd No; me valet attends to that for me* THE ONLY WAY TO GILT THzm.-Gothamit* Why do you take your lasso into the resta with you! Westerner I want to C/IoptUJ'O waiter. A NATURAL CoNszquENoz. -Tremurer of 10 road The reoeipts are growing to be wx&zL President: Yes we must have a receives^ pointed. OPPOSING OPINIONS.—Mrs Scripture The Jt'i Mr Glimmer hides his light under a bushed » think. Miss Vinny Garrish How wasteful' pint would "more than hide it. WILLING To Do His BKST.—" Johnny," the pretty teacher, what is a kiss ?" I exactly put it in words," returned the boy j if yer really wanter to know, I can show yer.' Larinks: Why, you used to singa little whjjj you were a young fellow, Tom. Have you 1°^ your voioe ?-Far.inlcs: No, but I'ye found aø1 senses. I've got an immense attraction for next et son." said a theatrical manager. "Name it' Ten Nights in a Bar-Room,' to be played bY real Knights of Labour." She: Now I want to wear the engagement at the next hop. Please be sure to get it on —He: Oh, they have already told me they wow* let me have it on time. A CURE FOR VANITY.—"It is an odd thillf; Jones is such a modest man that I never saw look in the glass; and yet he wears tho loud1?, kind of neckties." He doesn't dare to loot,1 the glass, my boy. His wife buys his neckties. Never pronounce brooch brooch"; IØ broach." Never say "breaches when you 111" breeches. When you mean breaches, "breeches," and when you mean breeches, "britchez." 'g New York people are claiming that their city it so dirty that it is not fit to live in. And r: most of them would applaud the man who said. would rather be a lamp-post in New York to" mayor of Chicago. When a man makes a large fortune, what do people say ?" asked the teacher. That h« fortunate," replied the bright boy. "That'srifjj*^ Now, when a man fails in business, what do t" say?" "That he didn't advertise." Auctioneer (at sale of household goods): G men, it's a shame to start a portable bath-tub this at half-a-dollar.. It's just as good as &01 Prospective Purchaser Looks as if it had in use a long time. Owner (righteously iP"1*, nant): I give you my word, sir, it has never used at all. Mother (writing to her son whais with regiment in India): "You will be glad to Ic^JJ that I have insured my life.' Son (who lately been converted by the Salvation Arw'J replying: It may be all very well, mother insure your life, but I should recommend yoO at once insure your soul." i' Useful things to know about Steam is the title of a book just published. One of jj most useful things to know about a steam boils^ » the exact minute it is going to burst, so tb^ person may get out of the way a few before the explosion takes place; but thia iti'cr mation doesn t appear in the book. A German composer was conducting one of overtures. As the horns played too loud he them to play more softly; and more softly played each time. At the fourth repetition, a knowing wink to each other, they put thjS instruments to their lips, but did not blow a The conductor nodded approvingly, Very indeed. Now, one shade softer and you'll havei1, A young lover up in Northern Wisconsin against his sweetheart's big dog one evening week when he went to call on her. Ha tore from the dog and ran into a reporter who was ing. The reporter thought he was a sand-baSS^ and knocked him down. A policeman saw fighting and took them both to jail. The coU* of true love never did run smooth. A Brooklyn woman who had a man brought i to court for stealing some of her rings was < £ > fronted by the arrested man boldly and asked him if she did not give him the rings. He she did and then the woman quiokly grabbed J1' by the hair and before anybody could 6top pulled it till the man yelled for help. The iu £ ^j dismissed the case on the belief that the wdDa^, was revenged, the three rings being valued at 11 A Florence man who was afraid of crawled into a hollow log as a place of during a thunderstorm the other day. thundei rolled and the rain poured dowutia torrents, and the old log began co swell up the poor fellow was wedged in so tight tha^- could not get out. All his past sins passing before him. Suddenly he remembered hadn't paid his subscription to the Mining and he felt so small that he was able to right out. Old Hutch is crazy," said people to another sorrowfully a few weeks ago when he acting in an eccentric manner. The old man ø not take the trouble to answer the qu^^M orally, but he commenced to scheme, and chief results were one of the most turbulent j known in the history of the Chicago 11 Trade, wheat at a dollar a bushel and "'J~ « Hutch on top with a profit of 3600,000. Benjamin Peters Hutchinson goes crazy a#*1> the bears that inhabit the woods of the market will crawl into their holes and pul' £ holes in after them. The question now What will the old man do next t" A freshman in a college in the city waa an* to mail a letter. Having been told to drop the red box at the corner, he hurried out 0 Vj building and ran down the street. He saw a dJi box, but could find no opening in which to l:'tJ his letter. He searched for any possible direct' on the box, and notioed, in large letters, twice." He rang twice and waited to see would happen, expecting a door to fly open w „ which he could drop the letter. Suddenly j, open buggy dashed up, and a man in blue form jumped out. •* Where is it ?' he Here it is, thank you," said the freshn* "please mail it at once.' The fire-cap^r^ looked al^fhe letter and then at the retreat' g student's figure. Then he dropped the letter j the box across the street, reported the alarm and went back to the station. .-Jj, If all mankind, minus one, were of ene op^r^ and only one person were of the contrary opfc'flfl mankind would be no more justified in silenc^ that one person than he, if he had the would be justified in silencing mankind. an opinion a personal possession, of no .9 except to the owner if to be obstructed enjoyment of it were simply a private injury^ would make some difference whether the in^^ were inflicted on a few or on many. Bat peculiar evil of silencing the expression opinion is that it is robbing the human posterity as well as the existing generation, th^ who dissent from the opinion still more than who held it. If the opinion is right they deprived of the opportunity of exchanging e for truth if wrong, they lose, what is alniost. great a benefit, the clearer perception and live tl» impression of truth, produoed by collision error. —-——— -jj THE PRINCE OF WALES AS A CARPENTER- the right of the entrance to the Queen's grounds at Osborne House stands the tool-house, built (as a slip of wood in the handwriting records) by the Prince of Wales the Duke of Edinburgh in 1857. It is still in sPl vn did preservation, for the late Prince Co""<), always taught his children to do things tve ( Judging from the large tool-house, the Prince.# Wales and the Duke of Edinburgh mean adepts at carpentering, the boarding of sides being Aibstantially put together, »nd »g. gables of the roof mortised in true form > .i,* quently when the Prince of Wales visits gardens, he looks critically round this shtd to that the joinings are secure. It is kept exactly g it was when the Princes and tho princesses young, the barrows and garden tools being in i f excellent state of preservation. Eah cbild J,t ø perfect set of tools, with a barrow and and the Queen had a special waggon for in which the children often drew her about.. initials of oacli of the Royal children .ire p»'n'gfi on the back of the implements with the exci^ of those of Princess Beatrico and the Duke Albany, who were then very young, and hwi gl I put up with a toy horse aud cart loud. very barrow.