The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

CITY POLICE COURT. + "WEDNESDAY.—Before the Mayor (Mr. B. C. Roberts), Messrs. Win. Brown, R. Jackson, and R. L. Barker. A WOMAN'S QUARREL.—Ann Barnett was •charged with assaulting Ann Cooper, at Boughton, on the previous Wednesday. The complainant stated that defendant struck her with a knife and smacked her face, but as it was evidently a weak case the Bench dismissed it on payment of costs. •John Connah, Boughton, was charged with threatening Barnett, and, being found guilty, was bound over in the sum of X5 and a surety of a similar amount to keep the peace for six months, and to pay the costs, or go to Saol for seven days. THURSDAY. Before Messrs. William Brown, R. L. Barker, and R. Jackson. A SUSPICIOUS VISITOR.-James Smith was charged in custody 'that he, being a sus- pected person, did frequent Foregate-street with intent to commit a felony.'—P.O. John Wynne said that at 12.30 that morning defendant was frequenting Foregate-street. Witness watched him for some time, noticing that he was dodging behind the pillars. When spoken to the man said he had a right to go where he liked. He gave no clear account of himself.—Prisoner, who denied the charge, said he intended leaving the town that day for Newcastle.—The Chairman: The sooner you go the better. FRIDAY.—Before Messrs. William Brown and R. L. Barker. THE CURSE OF DRINK PLEDGE SIGNED IN COURT.-Alice Moscroft summoned her husband, Henry Moscroft, for assaulting and beating her on the 17th inst.—Complainant, on entering the box, informed the Bench that as defendant had promised to behave better in the future she did not wish to press the case against him. He was only -abusive when in drink, but at other times he behaved well to her.—The Magistrates' Clerk (to defendant): Are you going so sign the pledge ? — Defendant (after some hesitation) Yes, 1 will.—The Clerk: Well, you will have to sign that pledge before you leave the court. The man did so, and the case was not pro- ceeded with. SMART PUNISHMENT FOR A LOAFER.—Frank Norcroft, a youth of no fixed occupation, re- siding at 9, Claremont-walk, was charged with ;assaulting, on the 10th inst., John Smith Thomas, a licensed porter in the city. Defendant, who did not answer to the summons, was Arrested on a warrant.—Prosecutor stated that on the day in question he was unloading some goods from his handcart at the station, when the prisoner interfered, doing mischief with the cart. Prosecutor remonstrated, whereupon the youth struck him on the face.-The Bench sentenced prisoner to a fortnight's imprisonment with hard labour, the chairman remarking that idle fellows of prisoner's type, who stood loafing about the public thoroughfares would get full justice meted out to them in that court. MONDAY.—Before Mr. Charles Brown and Dr. Stolterfpth. SATURDAY NIGHT'S EXCESS.—Alice Burns, a young woman living at Christleton, was fined lus. and costs for being drunk and disorderly in Hffnah on Saturday night.—John Henshall Trinity-street, for a similar offence in and same time- was fined 5s. zsgs&szj&t „rha A DRUNKEN DRIVER. — Richard Denson t £ e of' IaS f 1?S- aDd Cost8' or an alterna- drunk in kD dayS* imprisonment, for being «"°sk„;nsixrf s i,otse ana tbe FI)LSGF^ £ FUL ScENE IN A COCOA HOUSE.— Edward Moran and William Moran, brothers, were charged in eustody with being drunk and disorderly in Foregate-street on Saturday night, and John Moran, cousin of these men, was charged with resisting a policeman discharging his duty. The three prisoners live in Parry's Entry.-P.C. Wakelyn deposed to seeing the brothers fighting, and the other prisoner urging them on. They had previously been abusing a man in a public-house in a shame- ful manner. When witness proceeded to arrest the two fighters, the other man interfered, and look hold of witness. He also appealed to the g0 for him"' Witness arrested all the men, who were very drunk and extremely violent Way to the station.—Wm. Thompson, a A. ma^> stated that he was sitting at a o-rnTi111 Mr. Shepherd's cocoa house drinking ome lemonade, when one of the prisoners walked 5° hl™ and deliberately knocked him on the kicked him on the head. Another man then came up, and kicked him on the other side of the head. The injuries caused were very serious. He did not know the prisoners, ^nd had never spoken to them.—Mr. Morris, keeper of the Roodee, deposed to being called upon by the policeman to assist in arresting the three prisoners. They were very rough when being taken.-Mr. Shepherd, landlord of dav House, Foregate-street, said on Satur- g j he Pris°ners called at the inThe 3? S°r b6?5- had *°t been m the place more than three minutes when one c* them attacked m a savage manner a young man who was sitting in the same room. The other prisoner also abused the man. Prisoners were not customers of his.-The Bench fined S&SSS. coat8-« »

GREEK GIPSIES IN CHESHIRE. « EXTRAORDINARY PROCEEDINGS. a "and of Greek gipsies (writes a corre- h.as during the past week been creating considerable sensation in Stockport and other parts of Cheshire. They arrived in the former town on Sunday week and encamped on some waste land. They carried their own tents, and their extraordinary appearance created a great amount of excitement. They could not speak English, but by some means or other they were supplied with cards upon which was written in English a statement to the effect that they were refugees from the late Greek war, and were in a destitute state. They so played upon the sym- pathies of the Stockport people that they col- lected large sums of money. The police authorities atepped in, and ordered them to move on. They did so and proceeded to Macclesfield, where they encamped on some waste land. They were equally successful in obtaining funds here, but a dispute arose in the camp as to the division of the spoils, and this almost led to an open war- fare. Eventually the band divided into two sections, one proceeding towards Congleton on Wednesday night, where they created great commotion. The other returned to Stockport, and presented themselves at the workhouse for admission there. They were in possession of considerable sums of money, and the workhouse master refused to admit them. The nomads were taken to the railway station and despatched by train to another part of Cheshire, where they are now pursuing their wandering life. The tribe is a large one and is composed of men, women, and children, several of the latter having been born under canvas at Stockport 4Lnd Macclesfield.

ADVICE TO MOTHERS !-Are you broken in your rest by a sick child suffering with the pain of cutting teeth ? Go at once to a chemis and get a ?TB8- WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SYRUP, t? ?8ed, °ver 50 years by millions of mothers for their children while teething, with perfect success. it is pleasant to taste produces natural, quiet sleep by relieving the child from pain, and the little cherub awakes 41 as bright as a button." It soothes the child, it softens the gums, allays all pain, relieves wind, regulates the bowels, and is the best known remedy for dysentery and diarrhoea, whether arising from teething or other causes. Sold by Chemists everywhere at Is. Hd. per bottle. WELSH TEMPERANCE EXAMINATIONS.—The results of the examinations held in connection with the Gwynedd (North Wales) Temperance Association have just been issued. The follow- ing is a list of the successful candidates in order of merit:—Senior Class-History of the Temperance Revival: 1, Morris Thomas, Taly- |^rn 2, Robert Williams, Penygroes; 3, Robert ^arry, Holywell. Intermediate Class—Tem- perance, Socially and Politically: 1, Lewis Jones, *>rynteg, Dolgelly; 2, William Williams, Plas Newydd, Dolgelly; 3, Gwilym A. Richards, Meyrick House, Dolgelly 4, William Roberts, SprIngfield, Dolgelly; 5, Haydn Parry, Holy- well. Junior Class: 1, Anne E. Williams, Mold; Morgan Evans, Mold 3, Isaac Evans, Mold; Robert Goodwin, Mold; 5, Peter Williams, ^old; 6, Gertrude Lloyd, Lees wood; 7, Laura :illiams, Leeswood; 8, Ellen M. Hughes, folywell; 9, James Rodgers, Mold. The j^inere, were the Rev. Daniel Rowlands, M A £ °r> 'or the Senior Class, Miss Ellis, Clan'' of Manchester, for the Intermediate T„8' an<lDr. Rowlands, Llanaelhaiarn, for the dnnior Class.

LOCAL FLOWER SHOWS. -6. ST. OSWALD'S, CHESTER. The annual flower show of the parish of St. Oswald's, was held on Wednesday, at Abbot's Grange, Liverpool road, and was, speaking generally, equal to, if not in advance of, its two predecessors. The entries were more numerous than previously, the vegetables were altogether finer than at the last show, and the collections were exceptionally good. Cabbages and cauliflowers gave much satisfaction, both being excellent samples, considering how unfavour- able the season has been. Carrots were also fair specimens. The great scarcity of fruit was noticeable, and of the little shewn the quality was not good. The wild flowers made a pretty show. Apples were of average quality, but the intense heat has much interfered with their growth. This was also the case with pears, but there was fair competition in this class. Beautiful collections of plants and flowers, for exhibition only, were sent by the Duke of Westminster, Messrs. Dicksons, Messrs. McHattie, Mrs. Hudson, and Mrs. Potts. The judges of the produce were Messrs. G. P. Miln, and T. Weaver, while Miss Payne judged the wild flowers. Late in the afternoon the prizes were dis- tributed by Mr. G. A. Dickson, who said he had been told that the society was progressing wonderfully, and that the present show was much ahead of the previous ones. This was very satisfactory, and he was pleased to note the excellent quality of the exhibits, especially in the vegetables. They should recognise that those exhibits should represent as far as possible the general craps of the garden, not that everything should be grown simply for the sake of taking a prize. He thought the prizes that day had been fairly won. The success of the show was due in the first place to the active lead of the vicar—(applause), and next the committee, with Mr. Jeffery as secretary, all of whom were untiring in their work in connection with the show. Although the attendance during the afternoon was not good, large num- bers arrived in the evening for dancing, when the ground was illuminated by three large Wells lights, kindly lent by Mess. Turner and Co., Queen's Ferry, and under the superintend- ance of Mr. John Day. The depot band of the Cheshire Regiment was present, and there were other amusements on the ground. The follow- ing was the prize list:— COTTAGERS. Six spring onions: 1, Robert Whipp; 2, C. Hughes 3, F. J. Wheeler. Autumn onions 1, C. Hughes; 2, J. Woods; 3, J. Wilkinson. Turnips (white): 1, J. Wilkinson; 2, T. Fisher; 3, D. Manley. Carrots :1, D. Manley 2, R. Whipp 3, E. Warburton. White kidney potatoes 1, R. Whipp; 2, D. Manley; 3, J. Downward. White round potatoes: 1,E. Warburton; 2, J. Wilkinson; 3, R. Whipp White cabbage 1, J. Wilkinson 2, J. Brown; 3, J. Woods. Red cabbage: 1, J. Woods 2, T. Fisher 3, R. Whipp. Beetroot: 1, E. Warburton 2, E. Bennett; h c, J. Wilkinson. Cauliflowers: 1, D. Manley 2, C. Hughes 3, E. Bennett. Peas 1, D. Manley 2, E. Warburton 3, T. Fisher. Broad beans 1, E. Bennett; 2, T. Fisher 3, J. Woods. French beans 1, E. War- burton; 2, F. Merrett; 3, E. Bennett; h c, J. Wilkinson. Scarlet runners 1, Mrs. E. Hughes; 2, E. Warburton; 3, R. Whipp. Collection of vegetables 1, R. Whipp 2, E. Warburton 3, J. Wilkinson. Red celery 1, F. J. Wheeler 2, F. Merrett; 3, E. Bennett. Vegetable marrows 1, F. J. Wheeler; 2, T. Fisher; c, J. Wilkinson. Leeks: 1, F. J. Wheeler; 2, E. Warburton. Eschalots: 1, J. Brown; 2, D. Manley; h c, J. Woods. Asters: 1, J. Brown; 2, E. Bennett; 3, R. Whipp. Stocks: 1, R. Whipp 2, E. Bennett; 3, J. Brown. Pansies 1, R. Whipp 2, J. Brown 3, E. Bennett. Window plants 1, R. Whipp 2, Mrs. E. Hughes. AMATEURS. Collection of vegetables 1, G. H. Jones 2, J. Wilkinson; 3, F. J. Wheeler. Collection of potatoes: 1, J. Wilkinson; 2, G. H. James 3, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Cucumbers: 1, R. Whipp; 2, F. J. Wheeler. Tomatoes 1, G. H. James. Vegetable marrows 1, F. J. Wheeler; 2, J. Wilkinson. Red celery: 1, J. Brown; 2 E. Bennett; 3, F. J. Wheeler. Rhubarb: 1, J. Brown; 2, G H. James; h c, J. Woods. Parsley V wWliku^on: 2' the Rev- E. C. Lowndes; h e, J. Woods Dessert apples 1,G. H. James. Kitchen 1- J- Wilkinson 2, E. Bennett; 3, F. J Wheeler; he, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Dessertplums- 2, J. Woods. Dessert pears: 1, F. J. Wheeler- 2 G. H. James 3, J. Wilkinson. Plants in bloom: 1, J. Dutton 2, G. H. James. Collection of cut flowers: 1, J. Brown; 2, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Double dahlias: 1, J. Brown; 2, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Gladioli: 1, J. Dutton; 2, G H James. Stocks 1, G. H. James 2, the' Rev. E! C. Lowndes. Asters 1, J. Brown the Rev. E. C. Lowndes; 3, G. H. James. Carnations 1, G. H. James; 2, E. Bennett; 3, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Sweet peas 1, J. Woods 2, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes. Hardy annuals 1, the Rev. E. C. Lowndes; 2, J. Woods 3, J. Brown. SECTION 3 (OPEN CLASS). Zonal geraniums: 1, F. Richmond; 2, B. C. Roberts. Stove or greenhouse plants: 1, B. C. Roberts; 2, Judge Wynne Ffoulkes. Begonias 1, Miss Humberston; 2, Judge Ffoulkes. Roses: 1 nf w?° 8 2i ^iss Humberston. Collection 2 1°^ bl°oma: h Miss Humberston; Ffoulkes. Carnrftions and mpotaan • 1 fT kers^on 2 Miss E. F. Shand. Grapes I. r. Richmond. Collection of fruit: 1 F Rich- mond 2, Miss Humberston. SPECIAL PRIZES. Table decorations 1 (presented by the Misses Kelsall), Mrs. Pnngle; 2 (presented by Captain i!i. S. Meredith), Miss C. Tomlin; v h c, ivfiaa E. F. Shand. Sunflowers (prizes presented by Mrs. Eaton): 1, J. Wilkinson; 2, Dr. Bridge. Bouquet of wild flowers (prizes by the Misses Payne): 1, R. Todd; 2, Pollie McNeil; h c, Alexander McLean. Mr. Baker's prizes for allotment holders—Col- lection of vegetables 1, G. H. James; 2, E. Bennett. Heaviest vegetable marrow 1, F. J. Wheeler. BUNBURY. The Bunbury flower show held on Wednesday was a decided success. Notwithstanding the counteracting influences of the long drought, the exhibits were greatly superior to those of previous years as regards quality, and the fact that the number of entries this year totalled up to about one thousand shews the rapid progress made by the society since its inception three years ago, and proves how fully warranted was the opinion expressed at that time by the promoters that Bunbury was specially suitable for a horticultural society. To the following gentlemen is due the credit of bringing the exhibition to so high a state of perfection :— Mr. R. Brocklebank, president; the Rev. W. A. Edwards, vice-president; Mr. W. Woolley, treasurer; Mr. R. T. Mathews, hon. secretary. Committee: Messrs. S. Trickett, Neal, R. 'Vickers, W. Cartmale, J. Jackson, C. Vickers, Morton, G. W. Hewitt, P. Elson, Parker, and T. S. Nield. The gentlemen's gardeners' class shewed a great improvement on pre- vious years, special praise being accorded the group of plants from Mrs. Blain's (May held), and Mrs. Aspinall's (Fox- daley. A first-class certificate of merit was awarded to Mr. R. Vicker's pretty cottage garden design (not for competition). The table decorations were very good indeed. The cottagers were strong, particularly in potatoes, onions, carrots and peas; apples, both dessert and culinary, being very good. The following acted as judges:-MessrB. Pierce and Breen, flowers, vegetable, &c.; Mr. Roberts, honey; Mr. and Mrs. Parton, Weston Hall, butter and eggs. An interesting feature in connection with the show was the cheese exhibition, the prizes being subscribed by members of the Cheshire Hunt. There were 25 entries. For this branch the committee comprised :-Messrs. S. Challinor, G. Dutton, T. S. Nield, and T. Rutter. Messrs. J. Cookson (Bunbury) and F. Bebbington (Manchester) acted as judges. A programme of sports was well contested. The Bunbury Brass Band was in attendance and played for dancing. Unfortunately the showery weather prevented a large number of visitors from attending. Miss Jones, Fir Bank, kindly handed the prizes to the recipients. The list of prize winners is attached:— GENTLEMEN'S GARDENERS. Stove plants (in bloom) 1, Captain Feather. stonhaugh. St.)ve plants (foliage) 1, Mr. Charles Thelfall 2, Mr. J. G. Houghton. Green- house plants (in bloom): 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank 2, Mr. C. Thelfall. Greenhouse plants (foliage): 1. Mr. R. Brocklebank 2, Mr. C. Threlfall; 3, Mr. J. G. Houghton. Specimen plant: 1, Mr. C. Threl- fall; 2, Mr. J. G. Houghton. Begonias (Tuberous- rooted) 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Ferns (exotic): 1, Mr. J. G. Houghton; 2, Captain Featherston- haugh; 3, Mrs. Blain. Coleus 1, Mr. C. Threlfall; 2, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Geraniums: 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Table plants Mr. J. G. Houghton; 2, Mr. C. Threlfall. Button holes: 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank 2, Mrs. Blain. Carnations 1,Mr. R. Brocklebank. Roses: 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Black grapes 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank; 2, Mr. J. G. Houghton. White grapes 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Tomatoes: 1, Mr. J. G. Houghton; 2, Mr. R. Brocklebank. Collection of hardy fruit: 1, Mr. R. Brocklebank. AMATEURS. PLANTS.—Greenhouse plants 1, G. W. Hewitt. One specimen greenhouse plant: 1, G. W. Hewitt. Fuchsias and geraniums: 1, G. W. Hewitt. Begonias: 1, G. W. Hewitt. British hardy ferns and two greenhouse ferns 1, G. W. Hewitt. FLOWBRS.-Hybridroses: 1, G. F. Dutton. A sters: 1, J.Kemp 2, T. Windsor. Dahlias (decorative): 1, J. Cadman; 2, J. Kemp. Double dahlias (show): 1, J. Cadman. Cactus dahlias 1, J. Cadman; 2, G. F. Dutton. Pompon dahlias: 1, J. Cadman Carnations: 1, W. C. Dodd; 2, J. Cadman. African marigolds 1, G. W. Hewitt; 2, T. Windsor. Open to ladies only-Table decoration: 1, Miss Brookshaw; 2, T. Grocott; 3, L. Mottram. FRUIT.—Dessert apples: 1, Mrs. Hopley; 2, Mrs. Hinde. Kitchen apples: 1, A. Sheen 2, G Watson. Pears 1, A. Sheen 2. P. Reade. Plums: 1, J Hopley; 2, W. Large. Gooseberries: 1, H. Woodward; 2, G. W. Hewitt. Black and red currants: 1, G W Hewitt. VEGETABLES.—Cucumbers: 1, S. Burrows; 2, J. Cadman. Tomatoes: 1, S. Burrows. White and coloured kidney potatoes 1, P. Reade 2, G. Watson. White and coloured round potatoes 1, G. Watson; 2, P. Reade. Varieties of potatoes 1, P. Reade 2, C. Hitchen. Runner beans 1, S. Burrows; 2, S. Peet. Dwarf beans: 1, Miss Brookshaw; 2, J. Cadman. Broad beans: 1, G. Watson; 2, J. Cadman. Peas: 1, G. Watson; 2, Miss Brookshaw. Autumn onions: 1, Miss Brook- shaw 2, P. Reade. Spring onions 1, S. Burrows 2, G. Watson. Eschalots (large varieties): 1, P. iieade 2, G. Watson. Escalots (small varieties): 1, J. Woodward. Cabbages (not ox) 1, Cadman; 2, J. Woodward. Cauliflowers: 1, Miss Brook- shaw 2, P. Reade. Red cabbages 1, J. Cadman; 2, W. Couzens. Beetroot 1, S. Burrows; 2, A. Sheen. White celery: 1, P. Reade. Red celery: 1, P. Reade. Vegetable marrows 1, W. Couzens; 2, G. W. Hewitt. Carrots: 1, G. Watson; 2, S. Burrows. Table turnips: 1, P. Reade; 2, J. Cadman. Lettuce: 2, H. Woodward. Parsnips: 1, S. Burrows; 2, P. Reade. Rhubarb: 1, J. Hough; 2, W. Couzens. Collection of herbs: 1, W. Couzens 2, G. W. Hewitt. Parsley: 1, T. Windsor 2, Mrs. Hinde. COTTAGERS. PLANTS Window plants (not fuchsia or geranium): 1, A. Prince; 2, William Parker. Specimen window plant (geranium) 1, A. Prince 2, William Parker. Specimen window plant (fuchsia): 1, W. Brooks 2, J. Morrey. Specimen window plant: 1, W. Parker; 2, H. Hinde. CUT FLOWERS.—Hybrid roses: 1, J. Wrench; 2, W. Parker. Asters 1, J. Wrench; 2, Mrs. Frodsham. Stocks: 1, T. Welch; 2, A. Prince. Dahlias (decorative): 1, J. Sheen. Double dahlias (show): 1, H. Jackson 2, J. Sheen. Cactus dahlias: 1, H. Jackson; 2, J. Sheen. Pompon dahlias 1, R. Vickers; 2, W. Parker. African marigolds 1, J. Wrench; 2, H. Jackson. Carna- tions 1, H. Jackson; 2, W. Parker. Collection of annuals: 1, W. Parker; 2, H Jackson. Hand bouquet (out-of-door flowers): 1, E. Spencer; 2, A. Prince. Bouquet wild flowers (for children under 14): 1, E. Sinclair; 2, E. Prince. Collection of wild flowers (for children under 14): 1, E. Sin- clair; 2, W. Prince. FRUIT.—Dessert apples 1, J. Sinclair; 2, J. Sheen. Kitchen apples: 1, J. Thompson 2, W. Edge. Pears: 1, A. Prince; 2, J. Sinclair. Plums 1, E. Spencer; 2, H. Jackson. Goose- berries 1, J. Wrench; 2, J. Sheen. Black and red currants 1, J. Morrey; 2, H. Jackson. Col- lection of hardy fruit: 1, E. Spencer,; 2, J. Wrench. VEGETABLES.—Cucumbers: 1, T. Woodall; 2, A. Prince. Kidney potatoes (white and coloured): 1, J. Wrench; 2, W. Parker. Round potatoes (white and coloured): 1, W. Parker; 2, J. Wrench. Potatoes: 1, J. Sinclair; 2, T. Latham. Broad beans: 1, T. Welch; 2, J. Wrench. Runner beans 1, W. Parker 2, A. Prince. Dwarf beans: 1, H. Hockenhull 2, J. Guest. Peas: 1, T. Welch; 2, J. Sinclair. Spring onions: 1, W. Parker; 2, J. Dykes. Autumn onions 1, W. Edge; 2, W. Parker. Carrots: 1, J. Sheen; 2, J. Dykes. White celery: 1, W. Parker; 2, J. Wrench. Red celery: 1, W. Parker; 2, T. Woodall. Vegetable marrows 1, C. Ashley; 2, J. Wrench. Eschalots (large varieties): 1, W. Stockton; 2, T. Welch. Eschalots (small varieties): 1, F. Vickers; 2, W. Stockton. Red cabbages 1, T. Woodall; 2, E. Spencer. Cabbages (not ox): 1, E. Spencer; 2, J. Thompson. Beetroot (long) 1, E. Spencer; 2, T. Welch. Savoys 1, E. Spencer 2, J. Guest. Cauliflowers: 1, J. Wrench; 2, J. Sinclair. Table turnips: 1, J. Sinclair; 2, A. Prince. Lettuce: 1, T. Welch; 2, A. Prince. Parsnips: 1, J. Guest; 2, W. Parker. Rhubarb: 1, A. Prince; 2, J. Mottram. Parsley: 1, J. Sinclair; 2, J. Wrench. Leeks: 1, J. Wrench. Collection of herbs 1, A. Prince; 2, J. Morrey. BUTTER.-For cottagers keeping only one cow, best lib. of butter: 1, Mrs. Ashley; 2. Mrs. Couzens; 3, Mr. J. Pownall. For cottagers keep- ing two cows, 21bs.of butter 1, Mrs. Simpson 2, Miss N. Lovekin; 3, G. Harding. Best 41bs. of butter, slightly salted (open class): 1, Mrs. J. Stokes; 2, Mrs. P. Reade; 3, Miss E. France. DRESSED FOWLS AND EGGS.—Fowls (dressed): 1, Mrs. Hodkinson 2, P. Reade. Ducks (dressed): 1, W. Couzens; 2, Mrs. Parker. White eggs 1, Mrs. Stockton; 2, Mrs: Clutton. Brown eggs: 1 Mrs. M. Vickers 2, G. Dutton. SPECIAL PRIZES. Best and neatest cottager's garden: 1, Joseph Guest; 2, Henry Jackson; 3, Thos. Guest. Best collection of vegetables: 1, J. Wrench; 2, T. Woodall and A. Prince 3, W. Parker. SPECIAL PRIZE SUBSCRIPTIONS GIVEN BY THE CHESHIRE HUNT. Best three cheese (coloured): First prize, 93; second prize, X2; third prize, £1: 1, Mr. Cooper (Ridley); 2, Mr. Simcock (Alpraham); 3, Mr. T. Guest (Spurstow). Best three cheese (white): First prize, X3; second prize, X2; third prize, JE1: 1, Mr. E. Langley (Ridley); 2, Mr. J. T. Wilson (Beeston) 3, Mr. E. Willis (Ridley.) HONEY. Best two shallow bars: 1, W. Parker; 2, J. Kemp; 3, T. Vickers. Best six bottles: 1, W. Parker; 2, C. Willis; 3, J. Kemp. PROGRAMME OF SPORTS. 100 yards handicap, boys under 15 1, J. Guest; 2, W. Lloyd 3, T. Edge. Three-legged race, 100 yards: 1, J. Guest and J. Large; 2, W. Bainbridge and H. Guest. 100 yards handicap: 1, W. Grocott; 2, H. Guest; 3, R. Lewis. Egg and spoon race for ladies 1, Mrs. J. Guest. Mile race 1, Bainbridge; 2, Lewis; 3, W. Grocott. Slow bicycle race for men, 50 yards: 1, W. Holland; 2, T. Kinsey. Bicycle race for men, one mile: 1, T. Kinsey; 2, H. Parker. Slow bicycle race for ladies, 50 yards: 1, MiflS M. Matthews. Tug of war, 10 a side T. Rutter's team won, Messrs. S. Cawley and S. Challinor acted as judges, Mr. T. Rutter as starter, and the committee as handicappers. HESWALL. The annual fruit and flower show in connec- tion with Heswall and district took place on Saturday in the grounds attached to Roscote, kindly lent by the president and chairman (Mr. T. Brocklebank). The show appears to grow in popularity year by year, the beautiful sur- roundings amid which it takes place also serving to attract numbers of visitors. The honorary officials were as follow iB :-Patrons: Messrs. W. Bromley Davenport, M.P., Leadley Brown, Charles Maclver, B.A., Colonel Cotton- Jodrell, M.P., the Rev. T. H. May, M.A., Mrs. Thedore Rathbone, Captain Meadows Frost, Messrs. F. Batters, J. G. Churton, J. Cooper, W. H. Jones, J. Larden Bromfield, C. F. Hutton. Committee: Messrs. Henry Bower, Edward Griffiths, George Talbot, S. Ellis, J. Tarbuck, Edward Broster, E. Ellis, H. Holford, J. Pullen, F. Mousley, T. Jackson, Baxter Smallwood, S. Ring, W. Lawton, J. Lightfoot, H. Swift, J. Caldow, T. Barlow, J. Cooper, J. Kitchen, D. Sillitoe, J. Patterson, T. Roberts, and W. Crellin. Mr. J. W. Shaw (hon. sec.) again rendered invaluable service, assisted by Messrs. J. Pennington, W. Ledsom, and G. Hollowood, and Mr. F. Batters acted as hon. treasurer. The show was in many respects a great improvement on its predecessors, but the wet evening interfered sadly with the comfort of the visitors. Mrs. T. Brocklebank, who dis- tributed the prizes at 6.30, made an interesting address, in which she referred to the many advantages attending the cultivation of the products of the field and garden, and compli- mented the committee and officials on the success which had attended their labours.—Mr. J. W. Shaw appropriately replied. Special prizes were given by Messrs. F. Batters, S. Ring, Brownlie, J. Kitchen, H. Swift, D. Sillitoe, T. Barlow, the Rev. T. H. May (rector), E. Griffith, J. Pennington, T. Montgomery, and S. Johnson (Heswall Nursery). The judges were Mr. A. Jamieson, Hermitage, Neston; and Mr. Playfair, Spital Hall. Results:— CLASS A.—COTTAGERS ONLY. Two cucumbers: 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, J. Caldow. Two cauliflowers: 1, H. Rutter; 2, W. Owens. Two vegetable marrows: 1, H. Rutter- 2, W. Crellen; 3, T. Smallwood. Two heads of celery 1, J. Evans; 2, B. Rutter; 3, T. Caldow. Eight white round potatoes 1, H. Rutter; 2, W. Owens; 3, T. Rutter. Eight coloured round potatoes 1, J. Caldow 2, J. Peers; 3, H. Rutter. Eight white kidney potatoes 1, J. Caldow 2, W. Owens; 3, H. Rutter. Eight coloured kidney potatoes 1, J. Caldow; 2, W. Owens; 3, H. Rutter. Eight onions 1, J. Peers; 2, W. Owens; 3, T. Roberts. Eight shallots: 1, J. Caldow; 2, W. Owens; J. Peers. Twelve pods scarlet runners 1, T.B.Smallwood; 2, J. Caldow; 3, H.Rutter. Twelve pods peas 1, J. Hughes; 2,J.Caldow; 3, H. Rutter. Twelve pods French beans 1, T. Rutter 2, T. B. Smallwood; 3, J. Peers. Twelve pods broad beans: 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, H. Rutter. Two green cabbages; 1, J. Rutter; 2, H. Rutter; 3, W. Owen. Six carrots: 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, J. Peers 3, W. Owen. Six carrots 1, T. B. Small- wood; 2, J. Peers 3, W. Owen. Collection of table fruit 1, T. B. Smallwood. Collection of culinary fruit: 1. T. B. Smallwood. Collection of vegetables 1, T. Roberts; 2, J. Peers; 3, H. Rutter. Fern in pot: 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, H. Rutter. Geranium or pelargonium: 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, H. Rutter. Fuchsia: 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, H. Rutter; 3, T. Roberts. Gladioli (three spikes): 1. H. Rutter 2, T. Roberts 3, T. B. Smallwood. Four cut dahlias 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, T. Rntter; 3, H. Rutter. Four cut asters: 1, H. Rutter; 2, J. Caldow; 3, T. B. Smallwood. Four spikes of stock 1. T. Rutter: 2, T. B. Smallwood 3, H. Rutter. Three cut roses: 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, H. Rutter. Collection of cut flowers: 1, W. Crellen 2, H. Rutter; 3, T. B. Smallwood. Hand bouquet: 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, J. Caldow. Window plant in pot: 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, H. Rutter 3, J Evans. Best kept cottage garden 1, T. B. Small- wood 2, J. Caldow 3, T. Rutter. CLASS B. (Farmers, tradesmen, market gardeners or amateurs.) Two heads of celery: 1, W. Hough; 2, J. Evans; 3, J. Caldow. Twelve white round potatoes: 1, J. Totty; 2, W. Hough; 3, J. Caldow. Twelve coloured round potatoes: 1, W. Hough; 2, J. Caldow. Twelve white kidney potatoes: 1, W. Hough 2, J. Caldow. Twelve coloured kidney potatoes: 1, J. Totty; 2, J. Caldow. Twelve onions 1, H. Rutter; 2, W. Broster; 3, W. Hough. Two green cabbages 1, J. Totty. A collection of three plants in pots: 1, T. B. Smallwood. CLASS C (OPEN CLASSES). Two bunches of grapes: T. Brocklebank. Six dessert apples 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, L. Brown; 3, E. Ellis. Six cooking apples 1, E. Ellis 2, T. B. Smallwood; 3, E. Griffiths. Six dessert pears 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone; 2, L. Brown; 3, C. MacIver. Six plums, dark or light: 1, E. Griffiths; 2, Mrs. T. Rathbone. Six sticks of rhubarb: 1, T. Brocklebank 2, C. MacIver; 3, H. Ratter. Two cucumbers 1, J. Talbot; 2, C. Maclver 3, E. Ellis. Two cauliflowers 1, C. Maclver 2, W. Hough. Two vegetable marrows T. Brockle- bank 2, Mrs. T. Rathbone; 3, R. Brancker. Twelve shallots 1, T. Brocklebank; 2, L. Brown; 3, J. Caldow. Twelve pods of scarlet runners 1, R. Brancker; 2, T. Brocklebank; 3, C. Maclver. Twenty-four pods of peas 1, T. Brocklebank; 2, Mrs. T. Rathbone; 3, L. Brown. Twenty-four pods of French beans 1, T. Brocklebank 2, J. G. Churton 2, E. Ellis. Twelve pods of broad beans 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone; 2, L. Brown;3, T. Brocklebank. Two roots of parsley 1, H. Rutter 2, C. Maclver 3, T. Rutter. Eight tomatoes 1, W. H. Newbrook 2, T. Brocklebank; 3, T. Talbot. Three heads of celery 1, L. Brown 3, E. Ellis 3. Mrs. T. Rathbone. Two green cabbages 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone 2, T. Brockle- bank 3, C. Maclver. Two red cabbages 1, T. Brocklebank 2, Mrs. T. Rathbone 3. C. Maclver. Six carrots 1, L. Brown 2, T. Brocklebank 3, R. Brancker. Six parsnips 1, W. Broster 2, L. Brown 3. T. Brockle- bank. Six turnips 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone 2, C. Maclver 3. J. G. Churton. Six swedes: 1, E. Griffiths 2, W. Hough; 3, G. Totty. Six mangold wurzels (long): 1, W. Lawton; 2, J. Totty. Six mangold wurzols (Globe): 1, W. Lawton; 2, W. Hough. Six beetroot: 1, H. Rutter 2, W. Broster 3, T. Rathbone. Twelve onions (autumn or spring): 1, L. Brown; 2, T. Brocklebank 3, E. Ellis. Six leeks 1, E. Ellis 2, U. MacIver; 3, T. Brocklebank. Collection of potatoes 1. C. Maclver; 2, T. Brocklebank; 3, L. Brown. Collection of table fruit: 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone. Collection of culinary fruit: 1, Mrs. T. Rathbone; 2, Mr. T. Brockle- bank. Collection of Vegetables: 1, L. Brown 2, C. MacIver; 3, Mrs. T. Brocklebank. Six roses (six varieties): 1, J. G. Churton; 2, C. MacIver; 3, T. Brocklebank. Collection of cut flowers: 1, C. Maclver; 2, E. Ellis; 3, T. Brocklebank. Collection of everlasting flowers: 1, C. MacIver; 2, L. Brown; 3, J. Evans. Six hollyhocks 1, T. Brocklebank; 2, C. Maclver; 3, Mrs. T. Rathbone. Wild flowers (adalts): 1, W. Howard, jun.; 2, Miss J. E. Hollowood. Wild flowers (children) •. 1, Miss Nellie Caldow. Collection of three plants (foliage): 1, T. Brocklebank; 2, Mrs. T. Rathbone. Collection of three plants in bloom 1, E. Ellis; 2, T. Brocklebank; 3, Mrs. T Rathbone. Six dahlias (double) 1, C. Maclver 2, E. Ellis; 3, T. Brocklebank Six dahlias (cactus): 1, E. Ellis; 2, C. MacIver; 3, T. Brocklebank. Hand bouquet: 1, T. Brockle- bank; 2, C. MacIver. Three ferns (pots six inches): 1, L. Brown; 2, H. Henbrook; 3, T. Brocklebank. One greenhouse fern: 1, T. Brocklebank; 2, E. Ellis; 3, L. Brown. Hen's eggs (six white) 1, T. B. Smallwood; 2, W. Hough; 3, T. Roberts. Hen's eggs (six coloured): 1, Mrs. H. Rutter; 2, T. B. Smallwood; 3. R. Brancker. Collection of wild flowers (children under fifteen): 1, Miss A. A. Hollowood; 2, Edward Caldow; 3, Miss S. Shakeshaft. Cottager who competes in the garden prize and has the best show of hollyhocks: T. B. Smallwood. Carnations (cottagers only): 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, H. Rutter; 3, J. Caldow. Window fuchsia (cottagers only): 1, J. Jones. Six pansies (cottagers only) 1, T. Smallwood; 2, J. Caldow; 3, H. Rutter. Six hollyhocks 1, T. B. Smallwood 2, W. Howard 3, J. Caldow. Collections of flowers and foliage in garden (cottagers): 1, T. B. Small- wood 2, J. Caldow; 3, W. Howard. Collection of vegetables, while growing (cottagers).- 1, J. Caldow; 2, J. B. Smallwood; 3, T. Rutter. Greatest number of prizes gained by farm labourer H. Rutter. To the farm labourer who comes second with number of prizes: W. Owens. For gentleman's gardener who gains most points (silver medal): W. G. Hollowood. For the farmer who wins greatest number of prizes W. Hough. Best collection of vegetables in show J. Tarbuck. W ILL ASTON. The annual exhibition of flowers, fruit, and vegetables, in connection with the Willaston and Wistaston Floral and,Horticultural Society took place on Saturday in Willaston Park, being opened by Mr. James Bailey, of Willaston Hall. For butter, the prize-takers included Mr. P. Reade, of Swanley Mrs. France, of Spurstow, near Tarporley; Jessie Dean and S. Bebbington, of Acton; while prizes for cheese were awarded to Mr. T. Bostock (Willaston) and Mr. B. Boston (Stapley). Mr. H. J. Hobson, of Stapley, won two prizes for col- lections of farm produce. Prizes for the best vegetable gardens were won by Messrs. F. Grocott, J. Harding, J. Newton, and T. Meakin. For groups of plants Messrs. J. Proffitt (of Stapley) and W. Pollet (of Nantwich) were the principal prize-takers, and for stove and greenhouse plants the same gentlemen. For collections of fruit, Mr. W. Nicholson, of Ape- dale, Newcastle, was first, and for 12 varieties of vegetables, Mr. S. Burrows, of Burland.

PRIMROSE LEAGUE FETE AT GRESFORD. On Friday afternoon, a fête, under the auspices of the Primrose League, was held at Gresford Vale. In the afternoon sports were held, and in the evening Sir ROBERT E. EGERTON, K.C.S.I., who was at one time Governor of the Punjaub, and Mr. H. St. John Raikes, addressed the gathering. Sir Robert, referring to the troubles on the North-west frontier of India, said he did not think there was any very great cause for alarm. The tribes there were all of a somewhat quarrelsome character. They appeared and disappeared as enemies periodically. One day there were in arms against England, and the next day they enlisted in our army, and were trained to defend our interests. Their hatred of England was of a very uncertain, fluctuating kind. When they had nothing to do, no little quarrels between themselves to attend to, they thought it rather good form to make themselves disagreeable to England thinking perhaps it might not be unprofitable to them to make themselves thus obnoxious in the hope that they would be bought off, and so secure some substantial advantage. There was no coherence among them, and although there were reports of disturbances all along the border, there was nothing to be alarmed at, for they were local disturbances, and not part of a general outbreak. In fact, he had no doubt that they would very shortly hear of these unruly tribes being completely pacified, and order thoroughly restored all along the North-west frontier. (Applause.) As to what had taken place in Bombay, he was not in a position to speak with the same authority, but he believed that the disturbances there were mere passing ebullitions, and that the measures which had been taken to check the seditious writings of certain people on the theme would have the desired effect. (Applause.) He thought that these people who endeavoured to stir up trouble were quite unable to appreciate the condition under which the people of India lived at the present day, as compared with remoter times; and that their attempts to make people dissatisfied with British rule must prove abortive. Besides, the number of people who read these seditious writings was very limited. The newspaper in which these writings appeared were not, as in England, widely cir- culated, and generally read, but were, on the contrary, scarcely circulated at all, and were read by a very small proportion of the vast population of India. (Applause.) Mr. RAIKES, alluding to the last session of Parliament, said it had not been a sensational one, but the Government had gone in for domestic legislation, and done what they could to benefit the workingmen and women-the poorer classes generally of this country. Even Mr. Asquith had admitted that in passing the Workmen's Compensation Bill, the Government bad created a greater and more peaceful revolu- tion in industrial affairs than even the Liberals in the plenitude of their power, and when they had the country at their back were able to do. (Applause.) Respecting the situation in Turkey and Greece, he said they could all rest perfectly satisfied that Lord Salisbury would uphold the honour of England, of which they were all so proud.

During gunnery practice at Nisch, in Servia, a shell exploded, killing six men and injuring four others. «

The Editor is not responsible for the opinions of his correspondents. All letters must be authenticated by the sender's name and address, not necessarily for publication. 'J' 'r.r,

LEST WE FORGET.' Sir,—The Jubilee, with all its pomp and circumstance, has, with wonderful rapidity, passed into history, and one feels inclined to begin to think, perhaps with mingled feelings, of the next, the happening of which is a real possibility within ten years. I venture to think that the note of solemn warning which Mr. Rudyard Kipling has sounded in the following lines (which appeared in the Times of July 17th) is worthy of being treasured up in our national memory—' lest we forget.' I do not think they have been much copied into local papers, hence I venture to ask your kind insertion of them in your paper. One shrinks from the thought of the idolatry which has marked the celebrations of the Jubilee, and the ominous clouds gathering in India, accentuate Mr. Kipling's words. Is it not strange that it should have been left to a novelist, not usually given to religious writing, to send out this reminder—' Lest we forget ?'-Yours faithfully, MEMINI. Chester, August 18th, 1897. RECESSIONAL. God of our fathers, known of old- Lord of our far-flung battle-line— Beneath Whose awful Hand we hold Dominion over palm and pine— Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! The tumult and the shouting dies- The captains and the kings depart- Still stands Thine ancient Sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart. Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! Far-called, our navies melt away- On dune and headland sinks the fire- Lo, all our pomp of yesterday Is one with Ninevah and Tyre Judge of the Nations, spare us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! If, drunk with sight of power, we loose Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe- Such boastings as the Gentiles use Or lesser breeds without the Law- Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget! For heathen heart that puts her trust In reeking tube and iron shard All valiant dust that builds on dust, And guarding calls not Thee to guard- For frantic boast and foolish word, Thy Mercy on Thy People, Lord! Amen. RUDYARD KIPLING. The Times, July 17th, 1897.

THE 'PALM' TREE. Sir,—Some of your numerous readers-and among those who peruse the very old- established successor to and continuation of Adams's Weekly Courant there must be not a few who are interested in matters antiquarian —will doubtless be able to inform me whether, in any parts of Cheshire, Shropshire, or the English-speaking portions of Denbighshire and Montgomery, the Common Yew (Taxus baccata) is, or (so far as can be ascertained) ever has been, known as the Palm' tree. In Kent and Surrey it was so called until comparatively recent times, and, as a contributor to the great English Dialect Dictionary (University Press, Oxford) I am anxious to ascertain if this nomenclature obtains elsewhere, the more especially in the locality above-mentioned. And for this reason:—the 'palm' tree is to be, seen very generally along all the Pilgrim's' or' Palmer's' ways in the South of England; and since, in mediaeval days, Irish pilgrims to the shrine of our Kentish St. Thomas of Canter- bury seem to have sailed up the estuary of the Dee, landed at Chester, and proceeded London- wards along the ancient Watling Street, it becomes matter of antiquarian and linguistic interest to know if the old name has survived in the north-west as well as in the south-east of England. The yew seems to have been, par excellence, the favourite tree of those who made pilgrimage to Canterbury; a branch of it, a Canterbury brooch' and a Thomas's watter-bottle' were, indeed, the three marks of having made pilgrimage to Beckett's shrine, and it is small wonder that the tree dear to the palmer became known as the p-alm tree along many of the routes he took. The very old folk, in remote districts hereabout, still keep the name, while more than one Kentish inn known as the Palm Tree' has (or had) a Yew' for its sign. Is it also retained in any districts in the counties I have mentioned above ? I have been told so, and if, through your columns, you will allow me to ask for information in proof or disproof of the usage, you will, I am sure, render a favour not only to myself but to our Editor (the Deputy-Professor of Compara- tive Philology at Oxford) and to students of English local linguistics and dialect generally. As a purely antiquarian question, too, the query is not without interest.—I am, sir, your obedient servant, ALFRED MooRB. B.A. Eythorne, Kent, August 20th, 1897. —

FINDING WATER BY DIVINATION. Sir,—Belief in the divining rod seems to be a superstition which dies hard. May I venture to ask believers two questions P 1. When and how did the rod lose the power it formerly had of discovering murdererso stolen goods and their stealers, hidden treasures, and the lost boundaries of estates? Its use in some of these researches was older than its use in finding water, which is known to date from A.D. 1630, though the divining rod was famous at a much earlier date. Was its power lost little by little like that of the oracle of Delphi, of which Cicero tells us that it gradually waned as men became less credulous, until at last it was quite effete ? Or did it depart suddenly, as the spirits did half a century ago from the legs of tables, when Faraday demonstrated how the tables were turned ? 2. If the combination between the twig and its holder produces divining power, why does not that power operate as well when the diviner is blindfolded as when he has his eyes open ? To test this, let the diviner search a given area, and indicate the spots where water may be found, then let him be effectually blindfolded, and all possibility of collusion being excluded, let him be led by an impartial guide over the same area by a different route, but crossing the spots where the rod dipped in the first search. When this test has been applied, the rod has never told a consistent story. But, they say, facts support the diviner, for water is often found where the rod dips. Of course it is, and often it is not, at least within the promised depth; but there are few spots, except in primary rock, where water will not be found if a well is sunk deep enough. However, that a diviner will find it better than an experienced local well-sinker I do not believe. The successes of the diviner are advertised and proclaimed, but not his failures. I add an extract from a review written forty-three years ago, ascribed at the time to the late Sir Henry Holland, physician to the Queen, who had made a special study of the action of the mind in causing un- consciously the exertion of muscular force.— Your obedient servant, C. WOLLBY DODII Edge Hall, Malpas, August 20th, 1897. Extract from Quarterly Review, vol. 93 (A.D. 1853), p. 544 The motions of the rod are facts, explain them how we will, and notwithstanding that there may have been much intentional deception, yet the phenomena have presented themselves so frequently, when the rod was in the hands of individuals whose good faith could not be doubted, that we cannot set them down as being always, or even generally, no better than conjuring tricks. The 'expectant attention of the performer was long since recog- nised as the cause of the movements by M. Chevreul, who many years since made a most valuable series of experiments. Even Dr. Mayo, with all his predilection for Odylic agency was constrained to admit that when his performer knew which way he expected the fork to move the results were conformable but that when the man was left in ignorance, or was blindfolded, they were vague and contradictory. All our enquiries have led us to one conclusion: that where every kind of suggestion has been rigidly excluded, the failure has been complete, and that the instances of success are to be accounted for (where no fraud was practised) by guesses on the part of the per- formers themselves, or by the unintentional promptings they have received from the bystanders who are in the secret. See also a treatise de la baguette divinatoire,' &c., by M. Chevreul, published by Bachelier, Paris, 1854.

LANCASHIRE'S ENCROACHMENT. Sir,—I congratulate the writer of the able article in to-day's Chester Courant, on the subject of these Fisheries extending their influences and absorbing the River Dee Fishery, and so taking the means of earning a livelihood from our fishermen, who it is stated number 300, which I think is under the mark. I also give the copy of a letter I have received from the Lancashire Board, objecting to my having a seat as River Dee representative on their Board, where I have always expressed my opinion fully, and tried in every way to get them into line with the prosperity I assisted in inaugurating in British Columbia in fishery matters. I did not succeed, however, and I look on their desire to come up the river Dee and extend over the Welsh ground, as a matter of bluff, to cover up their failures and let them have some more money to spend. I hope this objection will cause attention to the two letters you did me the honour to publish wherein I shewed their failings, and also my opposition to the money of the tax-payers being laid out in expensive committees to London with the superintendent, who now charges his expenses separate from the others, the high salaries and expenses of the steam yacht, which has been mostly employed, according to the record, outside the Lancashire jurisdiction, and in making trips to the side of the Isle of Mau facing Ireland. I did my duty to the best of my ability; I strongly objected to their coming into the district of the River Dee from New Brighton to Meliden. We get no protection, and our salmon are taken by those who pay no licence, to the detriment of those who pay. But this belongs to your own Board, and is no business of mine, not being myself this year on the Board. I suppose out of compliment to me for having been on their Board, some papers are sent me as they will be passed at their quarterly meeting at Preston, on the 23rd August. The second paragraph refers to the resolution passed by the Lancashire County Council, and, therefore, it will be for the County Councils of Cheshire and Wales with their members of Parliament to take action to prevent this great injustice from being done, and I would like those interested to refer to my two letters in your valuable paper. Action has to be taken by Chester and Wales, and, as I have stated, let Lancashire shew she has improved the condition of the fisheries and fishermen, and let her officials get to practical work. A regular reconstruction is wanted, and if the present officials are insufficient, appoint those who will do their duty in a practical manner, and try to take example from the River Dee Board. I see in the Lancashire report of the Finance Committee I forward, the London trips, with their champagne feed, cost £5116s. 2d., and the repair account steam yacht £282 3s. 4d.; but, of course, her running expenses will appear hereafter. Then there is the increase of superintendents' and other salaries. All this money I advocated being spent upon hatcheries and improvements to benefit the fishermen, and so improve the fish supply, instead of having to depend on Holland, Norway, and other places to supply our own market. A searching inquiry by the Board of Trade about the Lancashire Sea Fisheries, their proceedings, and how they have spent their money the last three years, and what good has been the result to the Lancashire fisheries, and how much the supply has increased and fish marketed; so that taxpayers benefited would be desirable. I shall, of course, enter a written protest against any action that may be taken against the River Dee when they are not represented at the meeting at Preston on Monday, the 23rd. I forward a slip cut from the new Westminster paper on the results of the salmon hatchery on the Frazer River. It will be interesting to our fishermen, shewing that the fish are being taken outside the river, and that they are Buffering from the traps at Point Roberts, where the fish come round like our men from Lancashire, sea fishermen, who pay no licences. All the fishermen are grateful to Mr. Sconce for his work against the Chester sewage, and now we want him to look into the catching of salmon outside and give his practical ideas on the subject.—Yours, &c., H. HOLBROOK. 18th August, 1897. [COPY.] LANCASHIRE SEA FISHERIES. Preston, 11th August, 1897. Sir,—I am in receipt of your letter of yesterday's date, and regret the spirit in which it is written. Personally, of course, I can have no objection to your continuing a member of the Joint Committee. My only reason for calling attention to the matter was that under the Act of Parliament as I read it, the Dee Board Conservators have no power to appoint as their representative on this Joint Committee any person who is not a member of their Board, and I should have thought that with the experience you have obtained in public work in Canada and other places, you would have admitted I was right in drawing the attention of the legal adviser of the Dee Board to the anomaly which has arisen. Therefore, I thought it might place you in a false position if any objec- tion was made, and I was asked to give my opinion, and did so without previously having given you and Mr. Jolliffe due notice.—Yours Ac., J. P. MUSPRATT. The Hon. H. Holbrook, Parkgate, Chester. [The letter complained of was in answer to Mr. Muspratt's first letter commenting on my letter in the Chester Courant, and telling me I was not a member of the Board. I thought I had replied in a gentlemanly manner, and I did so as well as I was able, and am sorry a different construction was placed on it.—H. H.] (Enclosure.) THE BIQ RUN OF SALMON HAS FAIRLY COM- MENCED—CANNERIES SWAMPED WITH FISH. (From Daily Columbian, July 26.) As anticipated by those interested, the big run of sockeye salmon fairly commenced last night. Hundreds of citizens gathered along the water front to watch the fishermen throw out their nets, as soon as the signal at six o'clock should proclaim the end of the weekly close season, As by far the larger number of boats are engaged in fishing at the mouth of the main channel, at Steveston, that place was also visited by many, including hundreds of people who came around from Vancouver on the steamers Comax, Rainbow, and Burt, specially chartered for the occasion, while another steamer brought a crowd of excursionists from Nanaimo. Others were there, also, from this city. having gone down on the steamer Edgar, on their bicycles, or in carriages. The sightseers were not dis- appointed for the fleet of fishing boats is larger this year than ever before, and the estuary of the Fraser was dotted with boats and steamers in great variety, as far as the eye could reach. All day long salmon had been seen jumping, and, with some good catches on Friday night, the fishermen were eager to get their nets in the water. So eager, in fact, that one or two of them threw out ahead of time. Their example was at once followed by others, and in five minutes every net was in the water, fully 20 minutes before the legal time, everywhere from above this city to beyond the lighthouse at the sandheads. It was not long before the nets were drawn, and in hundreds of cases, in order to save the nets, this had to be hurriedly done, and the salmon taken out leisurely on shore. It was impossible to strike an average, but most of the boats landed from 200 to 400 from the first drift, many in subsequent drifts bringing their total catch for the night up to about 1,000 fish. As a natural consequence the canneries are busy hives of industry to-day. Many are over- stocked with fish, and several are already offering bnt six cents per fish, as compared with 10 cents, paid all last week. NOTES. The traps at Point Roberts and on San Juan Island were full to overflowing with salmon on Saturday. Scowload after scowload were brought over to the different canneries, in quantities rang- ing from 5,000 to 10,000, while several steamers also brought cargoes of 15,000 and 20,000 to some of the larger canneries. In spite of this, the traps were again full on Sunday morning, the estimate being at least 150,000. These were freely offered at one ct. each, but, as the big run was expected, most of the canneries would not buy, even at that price. It was impossible to strike an average of the catch to-day. The individual catch of most of the boats at Steveston was nearly 600, and that of the boats opposite this city probably from 400 to 600.

THE ANNEXATION OF THE DEE. Sir,—I observe an advertisement in the Cheshire papers to the effect that the Sea Fisheries Committee of Lancashire is about to apply to the Board of Trade for powers to con- trol the Sea Fisheries within the estuary of the Dee. I was present, as representative of the Dee Fishery Board, at the meeting at Chester at which the scheme of a Western Sea Fisheries Committee' was discussed, and the Chairman of that meeting, who was, I understand, Chair- man of the Lancashire County Council, gave a most distinct assurance to the meeting that no invasion of the Dee estuary was contemplated on the part of Lancashire. On the strength of this assurance, some who had opposed the scheme withdrew, much to my regret, their opposition to it. I understood that it was on this condition that the Cheshire County Council agreed to contribute to the costs.—Your obedient servant, CHARLES WOLLEY DOD. Edge Hall, Malpas.

— NATIONAL FEDERATION OF SUB- POSTMASTERS. Sir,—A deputation from Manchester waited upon several sub-postmasters in Chester and district on Monday, and were very well received. They spoke of the grievances under which sub-postmasters labour in regard to the remu- neration for their long hours and heavy responsibility. One gentleman had been on the deputation to London to the conference with the Postmaster-General and Mr. Hanbury, Secretary to the Treasury. They learned that in several instances in Chester it had been difficult to get tradespeople to take on the post-office. There are very few who do not soon regret having their business deteriorated through the exacting duties of the port. The salary ranges from Id. to 2d. per hour, and this has to re- munerate for the constant anxiety and care of stock and cash, for even if the sub-postmaster goes away for a few days* holiday he is still held responsible, and must make good all losses. Any sub-postmaster or mistress who wishes can join the association.—Yours, &c., WILLIAM COVENTRY. Post Office, Watergate-street.

CHESTER FOOTBALL CLUB. Sir,—Do the new committee intend to kill football entirely in Chester ? They seem to be going the right way about it, and it is shrewdly suspected in many quarters that they are being led by the nose by one member of the committee for reasons of his own. It is hoped that they will pause, alter their programme, or senior football will be lost. CHESTER WORKINGMAN. Sir,—The action of the members present officials in trust reminds one of the quotation commencing with Put a beggar on horseback,' and it is only friendly to remind them that a bouncing policy of bluff is doomed from its start. There are other clubs in the city who have paid their way, and no doubt would be glad of the advice and assistance which Chester seems to be flying in the face of, and thus junior football (which one member of the committee seems anxious about) would be benefited. Should they continue their wild career, there probably will be a more upright organisation than they propose, and one which will command support and respect, and might be a serious opponent in the future.—Yours truly, A LOOKER-ON. Sir,—May I convey the following through the medium of your paper ? To the Chester Football Committee. Gentle- men,—Your last batch is no improvement on the previous; cannot masticate it. Make haste while the oven is hot, try again on different principles and with different principals.—Yours truly, A FOOTBALL BAKES.

♦ — MARFORD HILL AS A RACING TRACK. Sir,—I think the above subject has fre- quently appeared in local papers. I think the Police Committee should take the matter in hand, and place notice boards at the top of the hill to warn random riders. What are the village officers doing that they cannot catch one scorcher' in twelve months ? It is well known that they are not so fully occupied but they may pay a little attention to this particular spot for the safety of those who contribute towards keeping them. I should think it would be something for them pour passer le temps, and they would be able to relieve the ratepayers by getting a few brought before the magistrates. I do not know, Mr. Editor, whether you frequent this spot much, but if you did, it would astonish you as to the manner some travel down this hill. In every county we see the police taking matters in hand. It cannot be that country officers are too much engaged in other duties. It is all nonsense to say the police cannot catch them. How do Prescot officers manage to do it ? The fact is no attempt is made, neither will there until a few more have been knocked down. Two officers in plain clothes could do it, one stationed a certain distance, and when he sees one coming let him signal the other with his whistle. But it appears cyclists have the free run of this hill, and its popularity as a racing track is now well-known. Perhaps the Police Committee could borrow one of Prescot's smart officers just to put our local police in the way to catch a 'scorcher.' Prescot, it appears, enjoys the privilege and reputation of bringing reckless riders to book, and we know well we have had in this district as smart officers as Prescot, but, alas, they have left and they well deserved the promotion. We have in the district, I think, members of the Joint Police Committee, and I trust this will meet the eye of one of them, but a wag has said nothing will be done until one of them is knocked down.—Yours, &c., PRO BONO PUBLICO. Gresford, August 21st, 1897. [Our correspondent has evidently overlooked the recent High Court decision, which debars policemen from arresting cyclists in the manner he suggests. The Prescot case was brought under a local Police Act.-ED. C.C.J