The Cardiff Times

FARM AND GARDEN. Artificial Manures. Salt is sometimes asserted not to be a manure, but it is a valuable dressing on inland farms. It has some action as an insecticide, and it assists to stiffen the straw of cereals hence itM often used with nitrate of soda in similar orjfctherlarger quantities. To mangolds salt is a necessity, and from three to five cwt are commonly used two cwt may be sown with the seed, the remainder afterwards with the nitrate of soda. Lime is not, strictly speaking, plant food. but it corrects acidity and sets free dormant matter. For ordinary pm poses two to tour tons per acre may be used. Lime is the one specific remedy for finger-and-toe and anbury, and for this purpose five to eight tons per acre should be applied as long before sowing as possible. Gas lime posaesses in a minor degree the properties of time. but has other properties inimical to plant and insect life. On this account it is the one specific for wireworm, to destroy "V-^eh from six to twelve tons per acre may be Ubed. No crop I can, however, be gtown for four or five months afterwards, or even six months in the case of the larger dressing. Vegetable Garden* Trenching up land and throwing the surface up rough does tend to enrich and improve its texture. It is perfectly true that some soils which have been au'umn trenched are wetter in spring than land which has remamed untouched all the winter; but this only proves that such land would be better with a few drains cut through it. If all heavy land resting on clay was drained from 3 feet to 3 feet deep. the drains to be 18 feet apart, and the land broken up deeply, it would I not again become water-logged. This water- logged condition of land after autumn digging is due mainly to the breaking up by the spade of the natural water-courses caused by the sun's warmth in summer. The worms also help in the I drainage of damp land. Drains in heavy land always pay for their cost where fruit trees and vegetables are grown, and sunh work may be done now. See that potato pits are sufficiently ¡ covered with earth or litter, or both. It is a good plan when frost sets in to place a few inches of longish litter over the soil. Protect celery in II some way. A good plan is to nail 11-inch boards together so as to form a V.shaped trough, which I when inverted over the rows of celery will effectually shelter them. They are easily placed on and taken off, and may be used to shelter other things, such as early potatoes, French beans, &c., in spring. If kept tarred they will last many years. If the frost oontinues long some litter may be required in addition. Bedding Plants. It is beit if a house can be given up to these, especially if large quantities are required to be worked up in spring. Just at piesent all they need is safety from frost. By-and-bye, when the 1 days begin to lengthen, classification will take place, and those from which cuttings are required will be moved to a house or VIt re-a little more warmth can be given to cause yaox-shoots to break out, these young shoots makiitR the best cuttings. Any scarce plant may be Ebpt growing all the winter, and cuttings taken from it at intervals where heat enough for rooting them is kept up; but the general stock should be<kept quiet for the present. Bedding-plants other than Calceolarias are sometimes wintered withjbt artificial heat; but it is a very risky business, and fails oftener than it succeeds. It easy enough to koep out frost; but tbe worst efcemy is damjK whentheplants are covered up for,voeks at a time. Ferns under Glass. Gold and silver ferns will requkk a warm house now; ~$5 degrees will not lie too high to have them in good condition. They are sometimes tried in a lower temperature, but the fronds damp at the ends, and the plants are seldom in a pre- sentable condition. Do not overwater anything now, and less humidity will be required in the atmosphere, though this, to a certain extent, will depend upon the condition of the hot-water pipes One the greatest mistakes in heating stoves and Warm ferneries lies in putting in too few pipes, ae t&en they have to be maclo very hot to keep up the temperature. Window Gardening, I The parlour palm or aspidistra is one of the" most useful plants now, especially m the town house. Keep the roots just mOls and the leaves wiped over occasionally, and the plants will present a clean, bright, and effective appearance. Roman Hyacinths will keep in good condition a long time in a moderate temperature with the roots fairly moist. Cyclamens will do well with the same treatment -Gardening Illustrated.

SPIRITUAL PRESSURE IN WALES. The charges of spiritual intimidation which have resulted in the unseating of members for North and South Meath recall a memorable in- cident in the electoral campaign in Montgomery- shire in the autumn of 1885. During the height of the contest a Diocesan Conference was held at Welshpool—one of the chief towns of the county —under the presidency of the late Bishop of St. Asaph, Dr Hughes. The Political Committee, in their report presented to and adopted by the Conference declared that "Churchmen should lay aside, as far as possible, their political lay aside, as far as possible, their political leanings, and decline to support candi- dates, whether Liberal or Conservative, who refused to maintain the sacred rights of the Church, and who would not promise to restst the confiscation of endowments piven for the public worship of Almighty God." The Bishop, in his inaugural address to the Conference, de- clared that Welsh Nonconformists.. "if allowed to carry out the object they professed to have, would actually be guilty of robbing God," and that "the robbery of God which was then con- templated was the greatest sin they could possibly conceive." He at the same time exhorted the clergy and laity of the diocese to "do their utmost to prevent such a calamity as this." Mr Stuart Rendel, in a vigorous protest addressed to the Bishop of St Asaph, wrote:—Against such formidable interference by a spiritual peer with the freedom of election I conceive it is even more incumbent on me to protest than it would have been had your Lordship been only a lay peer owing great estates in the con- stituency. Your Lordship exercises the awful trust of conferring upon your clergy the power to remit and to retain all sins. From this tremendous height of authority von soleninly ex hort men, every one of whom lias" the deepest material and worldly interest in this question, everyone of whom can claim to retain or remit sin, to 'clearly and distinctly spread the truth, and distinctly understand that the robbery of God '-i.e., the disestablishment of the Church of England in Wales—'which was now contem- plated was the greatest sin they could possibly conceive.' Your clergy are bound to spiritual ftbetlieacij tu your Lordship. They axercise not only p(?CSQlial,)wHujenoe as resident gentry over voters around them, but by the doctrine of the Church they wield also a distinct power over the eternal .consciences of tho whole people wno are by law under their spiritual guidance. The whole of this influence- temporal and spiritual—your lordship now most t, solemnly exhorts them to do their utmost to throw into the present Parliamentary contest against the Liberal cause and candidate. I must, my lord, with becoming deference, but also with due courage, emphatically pretest against your lordship's action. I mubt reserve to myself and to tho Liberals of this county all my rights as candidate and all their rights as Liberals in this present contest, and I must point out that, in my humble judgment, the step taken by your lordship is, in view of the circumstances, and in conse- quence of the grave effect upon the political course of Liberal Churchmen, which I have already experienced, near to the verge of that spiritual intimidation from which this constituency is by law entitled to be protected."—Manchester gtordian.

Andrew Fletcher, ef Saltoun. in a letrer te the Marquis of Montrose, wrote I knew a. very wise man that believed that if a man were permitted te make all the ballads he need net care who sheaM make the laws ef the nation."

A Child That's Still. If my child were but different," The mother said, and sighed. Ah me! Come to this house across the street— A child that's different you shall see. She is so faulty, noisy, rude Not like the children—well, I mean The sweet ideal darlings that In dreams and books I've Often seen. "A moment she is good—an hour Perhaps—What did you say to me ? A different child across the street ? Not one that's still. That cannot b9." Yes, still and oh, so very good That white rosebud below her face, She is so still, for hours and hours Has nestled in that very place. The soft and dainty dress she wears, She's worn ('tis true) a day and night; And yet she is so very good- orderly and spotless white. She has not spoken in that time— Unless to angels, it may be, And they will bear with her, no doobt; They know she's but a child, OI1 see. You guess my leaning. Ah, that gush Of loving tears—that sudden thrill— Means that you pray your naughty child May never be as good and stlll- Means that you love her as she is And when she's careless, rude, and wild, You'll hold her closer, lest sometime She may be like that other child. —Mrs M. F. BUTTS.

A WIDE-SWEEPING PRAYER. We pray that all mankind make one brotherhood, And love and serve each other that all wars And feuds die out of nations whether those Whom the sun's hot light darkens, or ourselves Whom he treats fairly, or the northern tribes Whom ceaseless snows and starry winters blench Savage or civilised, let every race, Red, black, or white, oJivp, or tawny-skinned. Settle in peace and swell the gathering hosts Of the great Prince of Peace. Oh may the hour Soon come when all false gods, false creeds, false prophets, Allowed in Thy good purpose for a time, Demolished, the great world shall be at last God's mercy-seat, the heritage of a pure Humanity made divine, and the possession Of the spirit of comfort and wisdom, shaH all be One land. one home, one friend, one faith, one law Its ruler God, its practice righteousness, Its life peace. For the one true faith we pray; There is but one in heaven, and there shall be But one on earth, the same which is in heaven. Prophecy is more true than history. Grant us our prayer, wo pray Lord in the name And for the sake of universal man, Who Thee, like Saviour as Creator, holds Over all worlds one Holy Spirit—God. Amen 1 —PHILIP JAMES BAILEY.

SOME ENGLISH HUNTING SONGS A song which is very popular in the West of England runs as follows There's no pleasure can compare Wi' the hunting o' the hare. In the morning, in the morning, In fine and pleasant weather. Chorus. With our hosses and our bounds We will scamp it o'er the grounds, And sing traro, huzza And sing traro, huzza And sing traro, brave boys, we will foller. And when poor puss arise, Then away from us stub flies; And we'll gives her, bajrs, well gives her Our thundering and lfbud holler. Chorus. With our hosses, &c. And when poor puss is killed, retire from the field, < And we'll count, boys, and we'll count On the same good run to-morrer. Chorus. With our bpsesi &o. T -Ahput the year 1751 tbw^ was first prfftied in The Musical Misceliady a version bribe old song A Begging We Will Go." A Bowling We Will Go," A Fishing," "A Hawking" were all adaptations of the original but none of them had more than a merely ephemeral existence. It was left for the song of the chase, A Hunting We Will Go," to prove the truth of tho survival of the fittest. It is still popular with spurtsmen, and so much have the inspiriting words identified themselves with the time that now tt is only known by the latter title. In The Musical -Miscellany it was known as "The Stag Chase. Of the twenty-nine verses twelve are without much interest, smco they are only descriptions of the dogs and a catalogue of their names. A HUNTING WE WILL GO. I am a jolly huntsman, My voice is shrill and clear, Well known to drive the stag, And the drooping dogs to cheer. Chorus-And a hunting we will gl.1 will go, will go. And a hunting we will go. I leave my bed betimes, Before the morning's grey Let loose my dogs and mount my horse, And halloo Come away etc. Several good examples of hunting songs may be gleaned from a perusal of the song-lore of Derbyshire, The first which I quote, Squire Fox Chase," relates to the old Derby- shire family of Vernon, once of Haddon Hall, but for several generations of Sudbury Hall, in the sarr," county. This family is now represented by the Right Hon. Lord Vernon, whose seat is Sudbury Hall. Squire Vernon of the ballad was George Vernon, an ancestor of Lord Vernon, and was, like his namesake and ancestor of old, George Vernon of Haddon (father of tho cele- brated Dorothy Vernon), who acquired and deserved the name of the King of tho. Peak," remarkably fond of hunting, and kept a, capital pack of hounds. Come, gentlemen sportsmen, where'er you be, All you that love hunting, draw near unto me The chase is now ended, vou've heard Reynard's fall, So here's a health to Squire Vernon of Sidburv Hall. Another Derbyshire favourite is the Trusley Hunting Song." A third is "Squire Frith's Hunting Song," which is of the good old sort, relating to a celebrated run near Chaprl-en-le- Frith, in the High Peak. We must now speak of Cumberland, and, with that fair county, of gallant John Peel, the king of huntsmen, and cf John Woodcock Graves's ever-popular song, rc D'ye ken John Peel wi' his coat so grey ? •. If, reader, you have ever heard the masterpiece among hunting lyrics, sung with all the nerve and vigour of English sportsmen over the hills and dales of Cumberland, you will appre- ciate to tho full the genius—for it was nothing 1MB-which dictated it. John Graves was a man cf no worldly wisdom; in him the extremes of manly strength and childish simplicity met. He was honest and out- spoken, and doubtless no onj was more surprised than he himself when the song which ho had penned one snowy evening in the snug parlour, at Caldbeck. among his native mountains, became so popular that no one could walk through the streets of Carlisle without hear- ing it sung or whistled. Even in the military camps at the siege of Lucknow it was one of the favourites. There is not one atom of affectation about the song, not one line of kid-glove, phraseology or rose-water sentiment; from first to last the language is that of the true Cumbrian sportsman, and not of the fashionable fox-hunter. Graves was almost as good a sportsman as Peel himself, and, therefore, the song is full of sympathy with the locale, the master, and the pack. Yes, I ken John Peel and Ruby too, Ranter, and Royal, and Bellman as true From the drag to the chase, from the chase to the view, From the view to the death in the morning. Some people consider that Old Towler is the best hunting song in existence others give the palm to Tom Moody," or to A Southerly Wind and a Cloudy Sky." I think they all lack the energy and strength of D'ye ken John Peel ?" Then here's to John Peel with my heart and soul, Come fill, till to him another strong For we'd follow John Feci tbro' fair or thro' foul, While we're waked by his horn in the morning. -PM Red. and Gun Christmas Number.

SMALT, CAPITALISTS Jould write for Pamphlets (copyright-entered a* "tationers' Hall) explaining H. B. SMITH'S SYSTEM OF MAKING PROFITS IN STOCKS AND SHARES. and upwards without further risk repeatedly doubled, average duration of transactions three ?ays. The best evidence of popularity afld success the crowds of clients which throng bis offices. Shocks selected and accounts managed, if desired, "eekly investment list showing lists of profits during previous week. The Court J°unyal The throngof operators dealing with ™ £ r Smith is quite astounding." Parc'rs) testimonials, press opinions, post free. 14764 H. B. SMITH, STOCKBROKER, ^SIZE^ANE^QUEENVICTORU^ Londoll,

i 9*1 twww* ttsmtmuKf PVBNISHXNG BifOASUSB&merT M/^ tN THE WORL&. yW 7i, n, i TSTASLISHBIy A. y/s, 77, AND 7F' /CNea' Tottenhaw I.ONDO* Cftrpsts avis no Frea^ I wV/ Conrt-rd.) Charge, and when nrepaiiaMI Carriage Paid to any Ragwa. Station in England Wales. ,J_PGCTATGG_CATALOGPE PM FNA 4100

WORKMEN'S TOPICS. BY MABON, M.P. FEDERATION V. 8L1DING.SOIE. ¡tIs Can Wages be Maintained by Paraly^S Trade P ;e(. The Federation and the! Supposed Remedy. ) ria Its Danger to South Wales. K:O. Is the paralysation of trade a probable !or reductions in wages in the coal trade ? I 0, tte the conditions of trade in the various tl- SeIde of the United Kingdom the same ? crits ihe so-called remedy capable of general sil a'" ^neous application 1 pj Before we begin to form theories on indusljif qUestions we ought to clearly comprehend Ji eonditionf; which govern trade of every kinc-tll ^ery place. And when these are understtf^ ^ey must not be lost sight of. All subsidi.()0 qUetions must revolve around them and bitb 80nstant reference to them. A doctor canter" Inscribe for a patient with any chance of sucofA Unless he pays attention to the laws, physic* Cental, and moral, that govern human life. So Inore can a farmer till his ground with fny prospect of a good crop unless lie worlP In harmony with nature. The primary conditio)8 Of a problem must be taken into account in itS Solution. Doctrinaires sometimes forget these, but the practical man never does. He refers ef:'ry question to them and generally finds that they settle, at once and for ever, one-half of the Puzzles which are propounded to him. The leaders of the Miners: Federation of Great Britain in the United Kingdom attest that the federation has the power to paralyse trade, and that the application of that power is now the Quickest and the safest remedy to the ups and downs of the coal trade, and is the only feasible Nan of creating and maintaining steadiness in tates of wages. For the sake of argument, let us suppose that the miners of Great Britain, are able to curtail production, and, to, in conse- quence, artificially raise, or to prevent a *a|l in, wages. In 1890, in round figures, the production of coal amounted to 181,000.000 tons. Hence a n ontli's supply would average about 14,000,000. Suppose the stoppage affected that amount, it would reduce the year's supply to 167,000,000 tons. The first effect of tho non- kppiy of that quantity of coal would be generally 1611cl greatly to diminish consumption. The coal trains would not be required. The railway com- njes would run fewer goods trains. The pas- trains would be reduced in numbers. Every householder would reduce the number of his fires-the iron and steel works, yea, all manu' factories by that time would have to stop work. the stocks accumulated in railway yards, at gas 1 orks, in manufactories, and in private cellars -^ould have to be drawn upon. When the period secession would be over many of the econo- mies would be still practised, whilst the supply ^ould come in more freely from men who would ^tucally desire to recover the loss of wages they had incurred and by then experienced. It was an.lv fair to assume thaC the consumers would Endeavour to reootip themselves for the higher trices by strict economies, both iu the household in the manufactories, and at least for a time I the supply demanded would be restricted, or if ontinuedat its high point prices would fall, and 1n. the end the workmen would suffer in the Ilurnbc-rs employed and ultimately in the wages earned. Two things would be certain—that the eolintry generally would be poorer if the miners .ever take such a holiday, and that the causes hich affect the condition of wages, in spite of the Association, would, and very soon, be in opera- tion as they were previously. The reasons for the low prices of coals are not tar to seek. They are so widespread D13d general that no effort of such a spas- modic character can influence them materially. ^he iron manufacturers in Scotland and the *orth cannot produce their iron at the present Market price. Unless the price of coal comes ^°wn lower than it is at present furnaces will be hlown out, ironworks laid in, and more coal thrown on the market. The constant increase in the annual quantity of coal worked, the reports Itotn the Continent, the traffic returns of the railway companies, the returns of trades unions, \nd especially the Board of Trade Return?, all Mainly indicate the reasons of a decline in the Mce of coal, which all of us so much deplore. -A-nd such a remedy as that proposed by the federation; we are sorely afraid, would, instead t)f bringing increased prosperity and happiness, tdd to the troubles which at the present threaten labour and capital in the coal trade. Are the conditions of trado throughout the United Kingdom the same, so as to justify all districts therein applying the stoppage simultaneously 1 We think not. Hence OUr disapproval of the proposition as one that ould unequally affect this district, and would, 1,1 consequence, seriously prejudice its future sition and relation with the steam coal trade of the world. Let us suppose, again, that tho Miners of the United Kingdom would be found foolish enough to put in force this mad proposi- tion of our Midland friends. How would it affect ^outh Wales as compared with themselves ? Ninety per cent, of the trade of the Midland tountiee is an inland manufacturing trade, while 90 per cent. of the South Wales large coal trade is a and foreign trade. If the collieries in the Midland Counties stopped for a fortnight or a fciontb, when they restarted again all the demand that would be for coal would come back to them, for no outsiders could ever compete with them in their own markets. Not so with South Wales. these collieries were stopped for the same period, we should find that our trade could and Would be supplanted by other resources, and we could never regain the same without underselling 1 tho new suppliers of the coal, which naturally Ittid consequently would reduce the wages of the Workmen. Moreover, if ever we should put into force such an experiment, we would find to our sorrow that such a course would drive some of our best customers into developing their own re- Sources,and thus seriously affecting the demand for our produce. Try it as we may, it must and il1 recoil upon our own bead here In a degree ^comparable with any, and 0.14 districts depend- ing upon inland trade. The conditions of trade, therefore, not being the same all over the country, the proposed spo*rmsdic remedy is-zot capable et Seneral and simultaneous application. The first condition which the coal industry- he staple industry of South Wales-demandi;, in Irder that it may live and grow with freedom- freedom to spring where it likes, to flow where it likes, and to alter its course as it likes. If you taeddle with it you will most likely kill it alto- iether. Its past history is full of examples. Give t perfect freedom and it will spring into vigour lgain. Tho effect of artificial obstacles has 8 always been to check its fl(,w, to reduce its rolum9. if not ultimately to dry up its source. freedom then must be allowed to this industry. lnd if so, the study of the natural laws which Will govern its course becomes all the more im- portant. It will be much better for us to learn 'horoughly the principles that govern trade, to Itndy their action, to regulate our course by thetn, Lud to moderate our expectations, and even our desires, within reasonable limits, than to be ever- 44tingly kicking against the pricks. Two suggestions occur to us at the present foment. They are not new, but being founded lpon experience, they cannot be too often The first is-let new markets be opened, l&d produce as regular as you can. Good trade lepends upon a large and wide demand,and upon egularity of supply. Every new market that can 10 opened, and the more regular and constant the Upply, operate directly to improve trade.

1 A-T Homx. She (hmtiugly): The fire i& going I «it._He Well, I hope it will bring aome coal )ftk'with it.

TTMIRTTD THE EMPEROR'S HORSE.—Prinoe Bia mSk told a story of the battlefield of Komg- watT The old emperor—then the king of Prus- wa-had exposed himself and his staff to the enemv's fire and would not bear of retreating to a safe distance. At last Prince Bismarck rode up tThim saving, As responsible minister I must insist on your majesty's retreat to a safe distance. would be of no use to us." The king saw the Force of this and slowly retieated, but m his «eal returned again and again to the front. 'Wfien I noticed it," Prince Bismarck went on, I only rose in my Saddle and looked at him. He under- ^d perfectly, and called out rather angrily Yes. I air coming But we did not get on fast enough, and at last I rode up to the king, took my foot out of the right stirrup and secretly gave his horse an energetic kick. Such a thing had never before happened to the fat mare, but the move was successful, for she set off in a ÛDè waiter."

I WLLtiM ULLANINUti. I By Lloffwr. Reforming the Eisteddfod. The celebrated conference on Eisteddfodic reform which has been carried on for seven or eight weeks in the Genedl is now drawing to a close. This week the chief speaker is the cultured poet, "Elis Wyn o Wyrfal" Canon Ellis Roberts, the editor of the Haul. From an ex- perience ranging over 18 years as adjudicator in our National Eisteddfod, he draws the conclusion that there is safety in three adjudicators. He is in favour of awarding the chair alternately for the AuniZtud the Pryddest but not of giving the competitors the option of using either of these in the chair competition in the same year. He believes in free metre the alliterative jingle will do very well in a stage of training. The Eistedd- fod ought to move on with the times; and, adds he, the most learned scholars of our colleges are certainly worthy of attention."—"Cynonfardd" advocates English (as well'as Welsh) recitations in our National Eisteddfodau on three grounds :— "(a) It would afford enjoyment to thousands of Eisteddfodwyr who do not understand Welsh; (b) ability to recite in English would be a means of culture to the competitors; (c) before a perfect knowledge of one's own language is obtained a knowledge of other languages is essential." Sir Edward Reed. The Genedl believes Sir Edward's manifesto had an importance more than its substance warranted. After reading his first letter we thought that his object was to pave the way to the enemy's camp. But in his second letter (to the Times) he denies this with righteous indignation. The great point in his first letter is that Great Britain is against giving Home Rule to Ireland, and but for the Irish members, says he, the majority would be against Home Rule. But this is a clever falsehood. Is not Great Britain composed of three countries, England, Scotland, and Wales-? And of these three England only is against Home Rule for Ireland. In Parliament there are thus three nations against one on the question. It is true that tho English out- number ths three other natians together; but this is an international question, and ought not to bo judged by counting heads in Parliament, but according to the majority of the nations who are represented there." The Golcuad compli- ments the South Wales Daily News on its attitude in the crisis. The South Wales Daily News spoke clearly and unequivocally, and showed how illogical Sir Edward's letter was throughout." The f .ondon correspondent of the Baner, writing on Monday night, said: Judging from his later letters the member for Cardiff is beginning to feel that he has committed a mistake. It is generally admitted that his first pronouncement was full of that characteristic ability which pertains to Sir Edward Reed." The Tyst very sourly condemns Sir Edward, obviously misunderstanding his in. tention and his manifesto, which it describes as a long and bombastic letter." The Montgomery Petition. The proceedings in the Montgomery petition trial excited extraordinary interest in North Wales and all the North Wales papers described them at unusual length. The Baner this week devotes a leading article to the subject. "Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones has retained bis seat. Wore he in his place, we feel pretty certain vobich path would commend itself to us as the one wo ought to follow viz., after winning the scat under the circumstances described in the pro- ceedings at Montgomery, to resign our seat, seek re-election, and fight the contest in a manner which would give no cause of complaint to the most exacting Liberal. We are very glad to find that Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones personally was exonerated from all blame in the unanimous opinion of the two judges. But nobody is more keenly alive to the i fact that be only escaped by, the skin of his teeth than Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones himself. We are quite certain at any rate that. Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones has learnt a lesson durinsr tho recent investiga- tion, a lesson which will be effectual enough to teach him to be particularly careful who his agents will be in future elections."—The Goleuad says that "the provision of the law is that when juries or judges disagree, the prisoner gets the benefit of the doubt, and is given his freedom. So that the member for the Montgomery Boroughs had a very narrow ebcape.The Genedl, in its leading article, treats of the subject of Election Petitions" in general; and the Herald Cymraeg is at one with the Baner and the Goleuad in re- garding the disagreem ent of the judgea as a con- demnation of the tactics adopted in the Mont- gomery Boroughs by the Conservatives, while the Tyst accuses Baron Pollock of partiality. Jottings. The Genedl and the Cymro have special Christ- mas stories by well-known Welsh writers.-The Baner and the Goleuad devote leading articles to the Week of Prayer," which is to be held in the first week of the New Year.—The Goleuad publishes a two-column summary of Mr T. Darlington's lecture on Bilingualism," given before the Manchester Welsh National Society, and nearly all the other papers refer to it.—The Genedl publishes a report 01 an interview with Principal Edwards, of Bala. in which the popular principal explains his position with regard to the Bala Heresy," as it is entitled in the Genedl,

STRENGTH OF THE BRITISH ARMY. The most recent returns of the British regular army at home and abroad show that at the close of the year the strength is considerably increased. The increase since the end of 1891 amounts to about 6,300, there being now 217,900 officers and men on the rolls to compare with 211,600 a year ago. The full establishment of the regular forces is reckoned -216,400, so that for the time the strength is greater than the establishment, and also greater than the actual numbersin any recent years; The cavalry are reckoned at 20,000, the artillery^- horsf, fields mountain, and garrison—at 36,500, the engineers at 7,500, the foot guards and infantry of the line at 141,500, tha Army Service Corps at 3,500, the Medical Staff Corps at 2,500, and the ordnance, store, and armourers' corps at 1,200, the remainder of the enrolled regular troops consisting of the West India, Maltese, and other corps raised locally, for service in the Crown colonies, and including this year the lately raised Hong Kong regiment., x., v

REWARD OF MERIT. THE DEACON Do you know what happens to boys who tell lies ? SHALL YOUTB: Yessir. They gits oB most times if they tells good ones. II.

The Big Sister's Intended Johnny, why do you hang around here so much 1-Johnny I s waiting to hear urn jeweller whithle. Papa, thaid he'd have to wbithle for hitn pay for thithta s 'gagement wing. PUGILISTIO ITEM'—" I should think the police would not have any trouble in arresting the pugilists at a prize fight."—' Why, what makes you Bthink so r'—" Beoauw, you s«ef they we already rojwdin.

ramamentary History of Carmarthenshire. LBY W. R. WILLIAMS, SOLICITOR, TALYBONT.] 1874.—John Jones and Lord Emlyn were re- turned after a contest, which closed :—Lord Emlyn, 3,389; John Jones, 3,261 W. R. H. Powell, of Ma^sgwynne, 2,799; E. J. Sartoris, 2,331. Frederick Archibald Vaughan (Campbell), Lord Viscount Emlyn of Golden Grove, J.P. and D.L., and county councillor for County of Carmarthen, and chairman of its quarter sessions since 188—, D.L. for Inverness-shire, an Ecclesi- astical Commissioner for England and Wales since April, 1880, a Honorary Commissioner in Lunacy since May, 1886, is the eldest son and heir apparent of that fine old nobleman the Earl of Cawdor was born Feb., 1847, educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxon, and married, Sept., 1868, Edith Georgiana, eldest daughter of Chris- topher and Lady Caroline Tumor, of Stoke Roelford, County of Lincoln, and grand- daughter of the ninth Earl of Winchelsea. Lord Emlyn was appointed captain m the Royal Carmarthenshire Artillery Militia at the age of 20. In May, 1867, passed the School I of Instruction for Officers, received the honorary rank of major, and became full major 1891, and in September, 1892, was made heut.-colonel, com- manding the regiment which is now styled the 3rd Brigade Welsh Division Royal Artillery (Militia). His lordship, who is the only Campbell who has sat for this county, though his father long represented County of Pembroke, was member 1874-85, when he was the unsuccessful candidate for the Weston Division. At the General Election of July, 1892, he contested the Southern Division of Manchester against the late member, the eminent chemist Sir Henry Roscoe, and was only defeated by a small majority. 1880.—Viscount Emlyn and Walter Rice Howeil Powell, of Maeegvvynne. There was a contest in this year, and Mr John Jones, of Blainos, was defeated, the numbers being— Powell, 4,101; Ernlyn, 3,030; Jones, 2,712. Mr Powell was the eldest son of W. R. H. Powell, of Maesgwynne, born 1819, matriculated at Christ Church, Uxon., married (1) 1840, Emily Anne, seoond daughter of Henry Skrme, of Stubbing, Berks., and (2) 1851, Catharine Anne, second daughter of Grismond Philipps, of Cwmgwilly, was a J.P., county Cardigan; J.P. and D.L., counties Pembroke and Carmarthen, of whicti latter county he served as High Sheriff, contested Carmarthenshire in 1874, wueu he was defeated, but represented it 1880-5, and the Western Division in 1885 till hisiieatu, 1890. 1885, Dec. The Reform Act, which came into operation at this date, divided Carmarthenshire into two divisions, each returning one member. EASTERN DIVISION. 1885, Dec. David Pugh, of Mauoravan, who bad formeriy sat tor the county, 1857-68. He now defeated Sir Marteine Otven Mowbray Lloyd, Bart., of Bronwydd, by 4,457 to 2,112, and, being re-elected without opposition, eat tor the division till his death at the age of 84 in 1890. 1890. Abel Thomas, vice Pugh, deceased. This well-known barrister on the South Wales Cir- cuit, who was recently created a Queen Counsel learned in the was returned without opposi- tion at this date, but at the ensuing General Elec- tion, July, 1892, be was opposed, with the result that the poll closed—Abel Tuomas, 4,338 j Capt. Thomas Davies, 1,223. Mr Abel Tiiouias is the second son of Taeophilus Evau Tuomas, J.P., of Trehate, eo. Pemb., was born February, 1848, entered himself a student of the Middie Tomple January, 1870, and was called to the Bar January, 1873, took the degree of B.A. London University 1870, and married May, 1875, Bessie, youngest daughter of S. Polah, of London (Western Divi- sion). WESTERN DIVISION. 1885, Dec.-—W. R. H. Povveli, of Maesgwynn, defeating Lord Emlyn by 4,566 to 2,940. He was again returned July, 1686, when he defeated Sir James Clarke Lawrence, Bart, (Lord Mayor of London 1663 9, M.P. for Lambeth 1865 and 1868.85). by 4,181 votes to 1,916. Mr Powell died 1899, when he wa succeeded by John Lloyd Morgan, J.P., Co. Carmarthen, barrister-at-law, and a member of the South Wales Circuit, who defeated Hugh Henry John Fortescue Williams- Drummond (brother to Sir James Hambyn WiUiams-Drummond, Bart., of Edwinsford), by a majority of 1,72'. Mr Lloyd Morgan was returned unopposed in July, 1892. He was born 1861, the youngest son- of RevMf Morgan j pro- fessor of thfeology at Carmarthen Presbyterian College, became a student of the Inner Temple June, 1881, and was called to the Bar May, 1883. He graduated B, A. Trinity Hall, Camb., 1884. In conclusion, it may be pointed out that the registered number of electors forCarmarthenshire was 4,272 in 1858, and 7,629 in 1875. In 1886 the Eastern Division had 8,669 voters, and the Western Division 9,969, which m 1892 bad become 9,136 and 9,262 respectively.

THE BURIAL PLACE OF AN ENGLISH TRIBUNE. On Saturday, the 30th day in the wayward month of March in the year of our Lord 1889 -a Saturday as weary and dreary as any dead-and- gone March ever produced—wtire laid to rest the mortal remains of a man who was conspicuous among his fehows as a dauntless reformer, an orator of tremendous power, and a man in whom were blended vigorous force of character and ths purest simplicity of heart '5^' man John Bright—a man whose life had bean spent in the unpensioned service of his country a man who had led the forlorn hopa of many—seemingly—Quixotic assaults upon tim., honoured, yet baneful institutions, and led his forces to victory a man whose thunders of elo- quence had often made the halls of Westminster resound as he stood boldly forth as the champion cf the oppressed and the denouncer of the oppres- sor, and a man who had the supreme happiness— a happiness which falls to the lot of very few statesmen—of living to see many of the measures, the advocacy of which had called down upon him the rancour, scorn, and contempt of his political opponents, writ in the statute book of England. This man, npon whose coffin was placed the immortelle wreath of his Sovereign, was not put to rest in the venerable sanctuary in which repose so many of the tired-out giants who helped to make the history of our country an immortal volume, but within the narrow boundaries of an urban cemetery in a busy Lancashire town. The burial placrt at Rochdale is as unfortunate as any cemetery prepared for worn-out men and women within the limits of this sea-giit island, but its very simplicity stamps it as a proper place of sepulture for astern old Puritan and standing in the plank-covered cemetery on that dismal Satur- day in March, one might readily have imagined that in the little meeting house were gathered together all the great spirits of the Cromwellian epoch to witness the obsequies of the one who in- herited all their robust and commanding virtues and none of their miserable failings. ~> As our greatest historian has remarked of Warren Hastings that It only ono cemetery was worthy to contain his remains," so the same might be remarked with greater justice of hnn who sleeps the sleep of the majority in the busy manufactur- ing town of his native county. amid the ceaseless roar of its many mills. Both were victors but the victories of Hastings Were won amid the of wå1- trtil"sttliêst;{of .r óbu Bright were achieved on the more glorious battle- Th,eevi* th# imiUawaiRcnid Va6es of distant chines the otner won freedom, wilhout the taint of bloodshed, for the toiling millions of these islands. The victories of peace are indeed more glorious than those of war and tho man who achieved the liberties cf his fellow-countrymen with no sharper weapon than an eloquent tongue is more likely to be re- membered in unborn generations as a true defender of the kingdom than he who addod far- stretching provinces to the dominion of the Crown by the aid cf the sword and the point of the bayonet. The world in its ageing grows wiser, and when it is a little wiser, war will require no apprentices. John Bright won many victories, and made his oountry stand forth pre-eminently among the nations for progress and freedom but there came John Bright won many victories, and made his country stand forth pre-eminently among the nations for progress and freedom but there came no time for him to be arraigned in sight and hear- ing of the peers of the realm-amongst whom he • had no peers. x To all generations of Englishmen the primitive burial ground in the Lancashire town will be hallowed soil, for in it reposes the dust of one who combined in himself the eloquence of a Quin. tillian, tbe freedom-love cf a Brutus, and the indomitable courage cf a Cromwell. JAMES ROSS.

HARD ON PICKPOCKETS. —A. Have you ever ] noticed how few pickpockets are arrested in winter?—B. Well, there is nothing strange i about that. Their season does notopen until May ] In America the weather is so cold people don't i take their hands out of their pockets before May. ? FOOLED TOO OFTEN.—Robinson (very late at 1 night): Hello. Brown, aren't you out late ?— Brown Yee, I've been working over my books at i the office, and I'm afraid to meet my wife.— Doesn't Mrs Brown like to have you work at the 1 office so late She doesn't mind that, but she i "believ. I've been there."

A ROMANOE IN HIGH LIFE. The marriage of tha Duke cf Sutherland, who now is engagd in litigation with th j Dowager Duchess, was quite a romance in it-i way. it ycung officer ia tho Guards, and very far from oeing well off, th< thea Marquis of Stafford went to dine with She Earl of Rosslyn. It was noticed it the last moment that tht-i company numbered L3, :0, for fear of causing any uneasiness, u, pretty ittk girl in o. whit. muslin frock nd a pink sash kitli a hunch of riblxns tying up bar bonny iro%vn hair, was called in from tho schoolroom to lr«ak this evil sptll. It was love at first sight, the Mat-quid of Stafford waited till she was ja-otvn i., but before she was out or presented -jarried her. She xa now crtc, cf tbo youngeas and rairestof cur duchcsses, and it 13 fzpwted. will r*vjT°» as a hostess, all the fcnMt glories of Stslfcrd Houeo eext seaeoc.

IMPRESSIONS OF PRINCE BISMARCK. A Berlin correspondent telegraphs — The Christmas number of Schorers Familienblatt con. tains a very interesting article on the late Lotliar Buchar's Impressions of Prince Bismarck," whom he served so long and so faithfully both in the Foreign Office and at Fnedrichsruhe. Accord- ing to Buchar, Bismarck did his greatest work before '66, not after it. The prince's chief fault in his eyes was his incapacity, which grew from year to year, to form proper judgment of those persons with whom he came into direct contact, an inca- pacity which Buobar went so far as to call moral shortsightedness.

A man in Montezuma, Ga., has had his arm dislocated at the shoulder twenty times, and his leg dislocated at the thigh eight times. He most be the man who originated the expression. "1 feel all broke up."

J ECHOES FROM THE CALENDAR. JANUARY. 1. SUNDAY.—New Year's Day. Goronwy Owen born, 1722. 2. MO', DAY. -Theatre Panic, Bristol, 1870. 3. TUESDAY.—Gretna Green Marriage abolished, 1857. 4. WED,,EsDAY.- Archbishop Usher born, 1580. CAs- well Mutiny, 1876. 5. THURSDAY.—Old Christmas Day. 6. FRIDAY —Kpiphanv. Twelfth Night. 7. SATURDAY.—Peter* Williams born, 1722. Long Frost commenced, 1851.t The Long Frost. The following description is given ot the extremely cold winter of 1607-8 in Howe's con- tinuation of Stow :—" The 8th of December began a hard frost, and ei ntmued until the 15th of the same, and then thawed and the 22nd of Decem- ber it began again to freeze violently, so as divers persons went half-way over the Thames upon the ice; and the 30th of December, at every ebb, many people went quite over the Thames in divers places, and so continued from that day until the 3rd of January. From January lC?iv to 15th, the ice became firm, and men, women, and children went boldly upon it; some shot at prickes, others bowled and danced, and many set up booths, and standing upon the ice as fruit- sellers, victuallers, that sold beer and wine, shoe- makers, and a barber's tent; the ice lasting until Feb. 2nd. There is a very rare tract, describing this frost, mentioned by Gough, in his 'British Topography,' which has a woodcut representation of it, with London Br'dge in the distance. It is entitled Cold doings in London, except it be at the lottery. Burned at Sea. The fate of the s.s. Amazon was thought to justify the superstition among seamen that to sail on a Friday was unlucky. This magnificent vessel was built for the West India mail service, and 'eft Southampton on her first voyage on Fri- day, the 2nd of January, 1852. The following Sunday morning, when about 110 miles N.S.W. of Scilly, she was discovered to be on fire. All efforts to save her proved fruitless, and she was completely destroyed. Out of 161 persons on board 102 persons must have perished by fire or drowning. Those saved were picked up in three separate boats by different ships. Twenty-one were saved by the lifeboat belonging to the Amazon 25 more were carried into Brest harbour by a Dutch vessel passing by; and 13 others were picked up in the Bay of Biscay, also by a Dutch galliot. The catastrophe is ascribed to the spontaneous ignition cf combustible matter placed near the engine-room. Among those lost was Eliot Warburton, the Irish writer, and author of that fine work ot travel, "The I Crescent and the Cross." Loss of Calais. I When I am dead Calais will be found written on my heart." These words were reputed to have been uttered by Queen Mary while bewail- ing the loss of that valuable town in 1558, the news of which is said to have hastened her death. Calais was taken by Edward III. in 1347, and thus, after remaining an English posses- sion for over 200 years, its loss was severely felt. The war with France occurred quite contrary to the marriage treaty between Philip and Mary, as one of the articles provided that England should not interfere in the hostili- ties between Spain and France. However, eventually the Queen yielded to her husband's persuasions, and the war commenced well with an English victory at St. Quentin. As a result of this the Duke of Guise was recalled from Italy with bis army. Disregarding the unfavourable season of the year he determined to attempt the taking of Calais. Calais was in that age deemed an impregnable fortress. It was surrounded by marshes, which during the winter were i,nBi £ t§to$3r except cuter a dyke glzrded- I by two castles, &t. Agatha and Newnam bridge. Oa account of this additional strength the English Government reduced the garrison in the winter. Bent upon risking his design, the Duke of Guise hastened to assemble all the troops available, and, with a huge army, marched upon Calais. While the soldiers assaulted St. Agatha, thaiJTrench fleet made an attack by sea on the fortiifcations. St. Agatha soon yielded, and the gatrrisbtt-retreating tojNfwnanibridge, the siege of that place was inwaidTately- undertaken. Lor-d-Wentwortb, the governor of Calais, now; recognising the danger of his position, determined to d«itre his forces within Calais. • So the castle of Newnam-bridge was forsaken. Thus the Duke of Guise held Calais blockaded by sea and land. His batteries were placed against the castle itself, where he made a large breach and having drained the fosse, an assault was made, which gained for the French a lodgment in the castle. Unable to overcome this advantage, Lord Wentworth was obliged to capitulate. then the Duke of Guise acquired possession of a place which no former King of France, even dur- ing the distractions of the civil war between the houses of York and Lancaster, had ever ventured to attack.

DEATH OF A SURVIVOR OF THE RETREAT FROM MOSCOW. There passed away on December 21st in this town (says the Rector of Downham Market, Suffolk, in a letter to the Times) a survivor of the retreat from Moscow. The story of Emmanuel Gauiinara, as it used to be told by himself, is briefly as followsHe was born at Genoa, and, having lost his parents, was taken into the home of his uncle. When about nine years old, in consequence of some harsh words used by his uncle, he ran away, and, after hiding for a few days on the outskirts of the town, went on board a frigate which had just been built at Genoa, and was taken to Tculon and entered the navy. After serving for four years he deserted and returned to Genoa, where he was kept in concealment by a sister. Tiring of this sort of life, he volunteered as a substitute for the son of a mar- quis, and the regiment to which he was attached formed part of the Grand Army which Napoloon led against Russia. He reached Borodino, and was there when news was brought of the burning of Moscow, and tho order was given to retreat. He survived the horrors of that terrible march but having seen enough of active service, he availed himself of the first, .opportunity cf Army, and he was net one of those who joined- Napoleon on his.retum from Elba. After some years' interval he began travelling as courier, and having spent eighteen months in Scotland with one family he made up his mind neYt-r to come to this country again. He was, however, persuaded by Mr Mason, of Neeton, in this county, to return on a short visit, but it proved to be a long one; for, marrying a Norfolk woman, he settled down and never left England again. Even after living 70 years in this country he spoke with a strong foreign accent, and it was wonderful to see how his face lighted up when any one spoke to him of Napoleon. To the end he ret^jn^d his faculties, and though during the last fewjoonfin's his strength has been failing he was aETemTuTy last to go to the poll and record his vote. i-'K JHUP

A CERTAIN REMEDY. MRS GOOSEBERRY De chile done gone an' swollered 'r bottle 'r ink. DR. GIGLAMPS (newly graduated): Ink-plain ordinary ink? Humph! This is easy. Oxalic acid will removo ink immediately. I'll write you a prescription for it. I

A VIBTCK OF NECESSITY—Mother: I see you have beenplaying with that little girl next door again. Have vou and she mads it up ?—Small Daughter: Norm, bat we haven't anything else to play with.

The Household. Make the Old People Happy. I really believe mother, that you enjoy house cleaning," said a married daughter, at home on a visit to her mother, and now that I come to think of it, you seemed not to enjoy your last visit to me at all. I wonder if it was because you had nothing to do," Unconsciously the speaker had struck the grot* truth. Fifty years ago, even more than now, people led busy fives. Consequently, after a long life filled with Meinl deeds, one cannot sit down with folded hands «t>d be bapoy. A great-aunt, nearly seventy years old, iMfc te bright and spry as a girl, I might almost way, once camera visit me. I had only seen the dear old lady once or twice, and was prepared to try to make her visit very luxurious and pleasant indeed. I always placed her in the easiest chair, and showed her every attention that one would be inclined to pay to age, in the way of wait- ing on her, bringing her footstool, shawl, etc.. but, somehow, she did not seem very happy. She was restless, and talked of bringior.g her visit to a close long before the appointed time. I begged her to tell me the cause, letting her know that I had noticed her disquietude, when the dear aid lady frankly said "You make life too easy for me. It does not seem natural. I have not spent so idle a time in 60 years, and, to tell the truth, nieoe, I hope never to spend such, another. If you had only something for me to do Of course, I know there is not much that old people like me can do. I could knit, but your children do not wear knitted stockings." Can you cut and sew carpet rags ?" said I. So I hunted up all the old clothes in the house, and the rug which covers our dining. room floor is made from the rags cut and sewed by great-aunt Rachel. When the old people come to visit ns let us tti&ke them happy, and compliment them by giving them something light and pleasant to do. There are few people so unfortunately constituted that idleness is not a source of unhappiness to them. My nearest neighbour at a pleasant country spot, where I spent one summer, was a lady of about sixty, worth many thousands, but I never saw her idle. She was always sewing, knitting, reading, or doing some beautiful fancy work. Her embroidery was a model for younger people. The grandpas who are handy with tools will delight in mending furniture and repairing locks. Perhaps some of the mammas-in-law and papas-in-law way be a little difficult to get along with, but they will harmonise with their sur- roundings far better if they are busy. Hints. ^TITTLfi"OR TEAS PATIES.—Queen cakes i/2 lb. of flour, lb. of butter, lb. of finely powdered suarar, 4 eggs, lb. of currants, drops of essence of lemon, baking-powder. halfViP ™a|: PanE, which must only be 20 drops of essence of lemon, baking-powder. Bake in small patty pans, which must only be halt filled. Shrewsbury or coffee cakes 10 oz. of flour, 1Iz lb. of butter, 6 oz. of finely powdered sugar, 1 eg, half-teaspoonful of ground cinna- mon and baking powder roll out thin and cut into shapes. Gingersnaps 1% lbs. of flour, /t lb. of butter, 1 lb. of treacle, 1 lb. of sugar, a teaspoonful of ground ginger, th« same quantity divided between cloves and cinnamon, baking powder; roll out thing, and cut into shapes? Currant tea cakes 2 lb. of flour, 6 oz. of sugar, ¡ 6 oz. bntter, and l4 lb. currants, baking powder. Rice cakes: I lb. of flotir, lb. of ground rice, °*, "?!» 10, W. 1 lb- 01 sugar (powdered), and X lb. of butter. ° 4 ^>0LISH A PIANO.—To polish a piano, saturate a piece of chamois skin in sweet oil, and apply faithfully to every part. Then, with a dry m, rub well, renewing the pieces as thev become greased with tbe oil. It will require one hour, or even longer, ot constant rubbing one hour, or even longer, of constant rubbing to give it the gloss desired. For walnut fur- niture take three parts of linseed oil to one part of spirits of turpentine. Put on with a woolien cloth, and when dry, rub with a similar cloth. The polish not only covers the disfigured surface, but restores the wood to its original I colour, and leaves a lustre upon the surface. THE SMELL ULOM COOKING VEGETABLES.—To 2.void the disagreeable odour which too often I "Its th.. house when cabbage or other- green I egetiables are boding, follow these simpk- direc- I h'T £ abba** in » when you have boiled it five minutes in the first pot of water, lift it out, drain for a few ec-couds, and place carefully in a second pot. which you must have full of tast-boihng water. Empty the first -way, and boil your cabbage tUl tender in

To be introduced to a Good Book is to make a friendship." January Issues. The question of what to buy ?" for Christmas has already been asked, but the still further question of what magazine shall I subscribe for sti11 to raany un- For the ladies, young and old, no better magazine can be had than "Sylvia's Journal." in its new style and under a new editor it is one of the best of the sixpenny monthlies, the paper, print, and illustrations being really excellent. The January part commences a new volume, and a beautiful plate in sepia and tints is given as a supplement. Two other coloured plates are stitched in the magazine, which is a delightful repository of gooci, fiction, and helpful and in- structive articles on dress, music, books, fashions, and the thousand and one things which go to. wards making life brighter and happier. In these days of education, there is no one surely who has not felt a desire to know and be possessed of the history of his own country and that of other nations. To those who desire -a really good, cheap, full, and well illustrated History of England we would say subscribe to ] Messrs Ward, Lock's "Imperial History of Eng- land," part 2 of which" is issued this month. A really excellent description of the great events and nations of the world will be found in their "Illustrated History of the World," which, though issued at a cheap rate, is really a work of artistic printing and fine engravings. The text 1 is full and accurate, and part 3 opens with the ( story of the Grecian World, told in a fascinating style. v Several new illustrated editions of the 1 Waverley imvel^ ire being issued, but the cheapest aiM-fiSest edition we have yet seen is_ the Selected Edition nf Messrs Ward, Lock, and" 1^ Co. The size of the page is a royal octavo with wide and ample margins, the type is large and 1 clear, the paper is of a fine smooth texture and a rich tone. while the numerous engravings in the text, full page drawings, and the head and tail 1 pieces have been executed specially for this i edition. No other edition contains half so many illustrations. Tne manner of issue, in shilling < monthly parts, places this magnificent edition of < the Waverley novels within the reach of the 3 poorest book-lover. The concluding part of Peveril of the Peak" is just issued, and the 1 Ut,xt part vUl «pe{L with The Pirate." { Other serials issued by Messrs ard, Lock, < Bowdon, and Co. are Haydn's Dictionary of i I Dates," Part 3 of the new edition, brought down to the autumn of 1892 '"The World's Religions," Part 11 Complete Workb of Shakespeare," Part 2, a really cheap and good edition, with introductions, notes, and illustrations to each play; The Christian's Golden Treasury," t Part 2; "Every Man His Own Mechanic," a Part 3; Ward and Lock's Industrioal In- c structor," Part 38 "Amateur Work," Part H of II the new re-issue, commencing a new volume—an f indispensable work for amateur workmen in every ] branch of art and industry. The following three [ works are concluded this month Gibbon's t Roman Empire," D'Aubigneti History of the N Reformation," and "Our National Cathedrals." ( The Leisure Hour," for January, is one of a the best issues of this popular monthly that we I have seen for some time. The Hon. Roden Noel t contributes a poem on The Songs of Tennyson," i and there is a very readable article—a capital i illustration—on "Whittier, the Quaker Poet." b "The Way of the World at Sea. and "The I People at Sea," are good reading. a "Sunday at Home," the inseparable oompanioti i of "Leisure Hour," is replete with fiction and j e articles for Sunday reading, all well illustrated. ( Other -issues of the Religious Tract Society s include a penny biography of George Herbert, g Light in the Home and Tract Magazine s "Friend^ Greetings," "Our Little Dots'" t Child's Companion, and "The Cottager and 3 Artisan," all full of bright interesting reading 1 imdgood illustration* c

Frenchmen are investors in the saviogii books to the extent of £ 150,000,000. The Goldsmiths' Company have given M to the Church Army Social Scheme. The Archdeacon of Taunton, still a bard- worker, has entered on his 88th year. The Irish Distressed Ladies' Fund has received a further anonymous donation of £100. The East African Protectorate costs Germany an annual outlay of more than 2,500,000 marks (2125,000) A sum of 200,000f. is to be expended by the Municipality of Brussels in reconstructing the Palais de Bourse. There is no truth in the report published by some newspapers that the Shah of Persia is ilL His Majesty is quite well. X. Anton Rubinstein, to all intents, has now retired from public life as a pianist, and is devoW ing his time to composition. Electricity is being applied to the drying of tea in Ceylon, the process having proved to be more economical than the old method. The Bishop of St. Asaph has received into the Church of England the Rev James Waring, formerly a Roman Catholic priest. The Turkish Government will shortly ask con- tractors to tender for the construction of a bridg* 400 metres long across the Euphrates. A train on the Vistula Railway, Russia, hu been attacked by brigands between Kowal and Ivangorod. Their plunder amounted to 30,000 roubles. The wreck of the Benvenue, off Sandgate, hae now been completely broken up, so that there is a depth of not less than 24ft. over any part of bet at low water. The Queen's New Year's gifts will be presented to the poor of Windsor, Holy Trinity, and Clewer on the 31st inst., in consequence of New YearV Day falling on Sunday. Mr Walter Gil bey, who was seized with serious illness on the same day that his brother. Mr Henry Parry Gilbey, died suddenly, is now much improved in health. The 247th anniversary of Nonconformity tit the city of Canterbury has just been celebrated at the local Congregational Church, which was formed in 1645 with nine members. The weather has been intensely cold in some parts of America. The thermometer was or Thursday 20 degrees below zero in many placet throughout Oregon and Washington. Another American girl is to marry a British Peer. Lord Craven is engaged to Miss Bradley- Martin, one of a family which has become well- known in England during last year. Miss Hilda Abinger, the handsome young lady who plays the part of the French milliner ir Trooper CUiirette, is a sister of Mr Bernard Abrahams, the well-known solicitor. George Bubear, who is matched to row Hosmer, the American, on the Thames on the 30th January, forJS400, and the Sportsman Challenge Cup, left Sandgate on Saturday, preparatory to going into training at Putney. M. Guy de Msrapassaut has been awarded by the Societe des Gens de Lettres the prize of 3,000fes., founded by the will of the late M. Ciiaucbard. Of the other prize-winners, M. Clovis Hugues is the beat known in this country. At the Conference of Head oa Ffiday, it was resolved, on the ro". W<fildon, erf Harrow, that n," st^r.af jii^lhili *tfwun«r and English ) 1 ment than they' HOW tcSeive from tbepublie schools." We hear that Sir William Mackinnon requested Dr. Moffatt to accompany Six-Gerald Portal to Uganda. Dr. Moffatt, who is a son of the famous missionary, has been for some timeia the employof. the Imperial British East Africa- Company. V For d^bfttaqtea the approved ball gown is a white satin, and certainly its rich shimmering folds are oatcul-oted tOteT off a slim girlish figure. The favourite style is still the Empire with » wide sash, sometimes reaching almost to the bertbe.. -• The additions to the Zoological Society's Gardens during the past week include a red and yellow macaw from Central America, presented by the Rev T. N. Talfourd Major two gold pheasants, from China; an Alpine chough, European, purchased. The demand for deaconesses in the Wesleyaa churches has greatly increased. A correspondent says that 12 are now wanted, but Dr. Stephen- son and those associated with him tind that, while many offer their services, candidates with the necessary qualifications are comparative few in number. Miss Thomas, daughter of Mr Gwilym Thomas, of Ynyshir, is one of the most promising students at the Royal Academy of Music. ,She was selected by Dr Mackenzie to sing at the orchestral concert of the Academy on the 20th, and scored a great success. She is to appear in Cardiff on the 7th January at the Park Hal!. The largest Baptist Church in the world is that of the Metropolitan Tabernacle. Its returns for this year give a membership of 5,328. There aro 23 mission stations in connection with it supplied by 130 lay preachers and others. In the 27 Sunday and Ragged Schools there are 8,001 children, with 592 teachers. A curious incident has occurred at Errol. A telephone wire had been broken or fused by ightmng, and on an employee seeking to repair the break, he found, it is stated, on one of the white insulators, a picture of the roof of a neighbouring house. The picture had-probsbly been flashed on the porcelain by the lightning. Recently in the Fujaro M. Davenav detailed Me financial results of Zola's literary labours iunng the last 20 years. Serial rights, he estimated, returned £ 12,000, book sales £ 32 000 reprints and rights of translation £ 8,000, dram*! tised versions £ 12,000, and magazine articles and lewspaper work another £15,000 or £ 16,000. LaWrt6' who keeps a sweetstuff shop td the Mmories, London, was fined 60s and ooste it the City Summons-court on Saturday for sril ag "Halfpenny dips," with prizes from a arthmg to fourpence. Upon examining the envelopes the police found that two out of 48 ware of the value of a farthing, and only one of ourpence. The production of refined sugar in Russia -urmg the season 1891-2 amounted to 232,795 or 4.2 per cent. more than :n the preceding aCtUal of th* toas> ne&r}y iO per cent, in excess of ast season The increase in both figures is er- Of the additional' ttt W k°Peks per Which is leviable from tha jegmning of the 1892-3 season.

A SATURDAY SERMON. For every man feels instinctively that all the >e.-iutifu sentiments in the world weigh less than single lovely action and that while tendernea. >f feeling and susceptibility to gererous emotions kre accidents of temperament, goodness is an ichievement of the will and quality of the life Tine words, says one homely old proverb, butter io parsnips; and if the question be how to render hose v^etables palatable, an once of hutZ vould be worth more than all the orations of Cicero. The only conclusive evidence of a man's incerity is that he give himself for a prinoii ^ords, money, all things else are comp^ lvely easy to give away but when a man oakes a gift of his daily life and practice t is plain that the truth, whatever ,t las taken possession of him. From that sincerS us words gain the force and pertinency of ■nd his money is no longer the pale drudge 'twist □an and man, but, by a beaut,ful m3 «wh,le bore the image and superscription of ./aBsar, seems now to br the image and SUWB- cnption of God. It iTthus that there i!T. renius for goodness, for magnanimity, for self, acrifice, as well as for creative art; and it jJ bus that by a more refined sort of Platonism tha nfinite Beauty dwellsan and shapes to iu omm ikeness the soul whith gives it body and fe. lividuahty. J. R. Low^