The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

DUKE OF WESTMINSTER ON ARCHITECTURE. 0 The Duke of Westminster presided over the annual meeting of the subscribers to the Royal Architectural Museum and Westminster School of Art, Tufton-street, London, on Friday. In returning thanks for his re-election to the presidency his Grace made a speech on modern styles in metropolitan buildings. He feared London was being spoiled by a jumble of archi- tectuml fashions due, perhaps, to the modern tendency to eclecticism. He had not been guiltless in this respect, but, according to his lights, he had endeavoured to retain something of the grand old style in some of the houses he had caused to be built for himself. It was true that London smoke ruined everything, but even this did not justify the use of cement, which was now too frequently employed, and which, of all architectural abominations, was the worst.

WILL OF THE LATE ALDERMAN T. Q. ROBERTS. 0 Probate was granted on May 9th, 1898, of the will and a codicil of the late Alderman Thomas Quellyn Roberts, wine and spirit merchant, Chester, and hotel keeper and wina and spirit merchant, Llandudno. The amount of the real and personal estate is 930,094. By his will, dated February 3rd, 1891, the testator appointed his wife, Martha Roberts, and his sons, John Sheriff Roberts, Quellyn Roberts, and Ambrose Oakes Roberts to be his executors, and he appointed his three sons to be his trustees. He bequeathed his dwelling-house, 86 Watergate Flags, and the household effects to his wife, during her lifetime or so long as she remained his widow, and he ordered his trustees, during the life of his wife or so long as she remained his widow, to pay to her an annuity of L300, and to each of his three daughters, so long as they remained unmarried, an annuity of X50. He directed that after the death or second marriage of his wife his trustees should raise and retain for each of his three daughters £ 4,000. He also directed that his trustees should stand possessed of his resid- uary real and personal estate in trust for his three sons as tenants in common,in equal shares. By a codicil dated May 28, 1894, the testator revoked the appointment of his son, Quellyn Roberts, as an executor and trustee, and appointed in his place Henry J. Birch, of the Friars, Chester. He also revoked the direction that his trustees should stand possessed of his residuary real and personal estate in trust for his three sons, and directed that they should pay C5,000 to his son, Quellyn Roberts, for his own use absolutely, and that they should stand possessed of the residue of his estate in trust as to foar sevenths for his son John Sheriff Roberts, and the remaining three sevenths for his son Ambrose Oakes Roberts.

DEATH OF MR. FREDERICK POTTS. 0 We regret to record the death, on Sunday, of Mr. Fredk. Potts, of Horsley Hall, Greaford. Mr. Potts, who was nearly eighty years of age, having been born in 1819, was a son of the late Mr. Henry Potts, of Watergate House, Chester, and of Glan-yr-afon, Denbighshire. He was trained as a solicitor, and was a member of the firm of Messrs. Potts and Brown, and later on of that of Messrs. Potts and Roberts, of Northgate-street (now Potts, Potts, and Gardner), having, however, retired into private life some years ago. Mr. Potts took a great interest in all antiquarian subjects, and was the possessor of a large and varied collection of curiosities. He was much esteemed by a wide circle of friends, many of whom have now passed away, and his genial disposition made him popular with all classes. In his younger days Mr. Potts was an enthusiastic oarsman. He was a life member of the Royal Chester Rowing Club, and some forty years ago he made a name for himself as a sculler. He was probably one of the oldest directors of the Chester United Gas Company, and he was also a director of the Isle of Man Mining Co. A Conservative, he never took an active part in the political arena. The funeral took place at Chester Cemetery on Thurs- day, a choral service, conducted by the Revs. F. James (Rossett) and L. Garnett (Christleton), being first held at Rossett Church. Among the mourners and friends were Mrs. Potts (widow), the Rev. F. A. Potts (son), Messrs. Reginald Potts, A. E. Potts, Hubert Potts, and Alexander Potts, (nephews); Mrs. Reginald Potts, the Rev. L. Garnett, Dr. Manisty, Mr. Alan Garnett, the Rev. C. Hylton Stewart, Dr. Dobie, Mrs. Granger, Mrs. Rolt, Messrs. R. L. Barker, F. H. Barker, W. Rogers, F. N. Garnett, R. L. Garnett, H. Y. Barker, Alfred Barker, and E. Dixon; Mr. John Gamon (chairman), Sir Thos. Frost, Mr. J. Hobday, and Mr. J. Pye (secretary), representing the Chester United Gas Company Mr. F. A. Pierson and Mr. F. Barnett, from Messrs. Potts' office; Messrs. D. A. V. Colt Williams, Frank Roberts, A. R. Fluitt, R. T. Wickham, H. Enfield Taylor, A. W. Butt, Taylor-Harrison, G. H. Rogerson, H. S. Whalley, J. Snelson, and A. W. Butt, with Messrs. R. Pod- more, F. Roberts, T. Fox, Bellis, Bowker, Lance- lotte, Brookfield, and r. Bellis tenants. Letters of apology for absence were received from Mr. W. Trevor Parkins, Captain Garnett, Miss Potts, Mr. T. H. Dixon, Mr. Jas. Jones, Mrs. Arthur Potts, and Mr. E. Gardner. The coffin was of polished oak, brass mounted, the engraved inscription being "(Frederick Potts, born 4 July, 1819, died 5 June, 1898." The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. Smith and Sons, Eastgate-row, Chester.

LICENSING PROSECUTION AT CHESTER. 4 SAUGHALL PUBLICAN FINED. NOVEL DEFENCE. At Chester County Police Court, on Satur- day, before Messrs. John Thompson and other magistrates Martha Bromley, licensee of the Egerton Arms, Little Saughall, was charged with selling whisky and opening the premises during prohibited hours. Mr. E. S. Giles appeared for I the prosecution, and Mr. E. Brassey defended.— Mr. Giles stated that on the morning of Sunday, May 29th, Acting-Sergeant Stubbs and P.C. A. Wright secreted themselves in a barn on the opposite side of the road, and about 70 yards distant from the Egerton Arms. Shortly after eight o'clock they saw a man named Wm. Edwards receive a bottle from Mrs. Bromley, who took something from Edwards in exchange Acting-Sergeant Stubbs, stationed at Backford, stated that Wright and he hid themselves in rhomas Whalley's granary at half-past four in the mornin g. At twenty past eight Edwards went to the taproom window of the Egerton Arms and then rapped at tne rronli aoor wicn a SUCK, I ne door was opened and someone put a hand through and took a bottle from Edwards. A minute or two afterwards Mrs. Bromley came from the back of the house, produced a bottle from under- neath her apron and gave it to Edwards who took it with his left hand and in return gave her something with his right. Edwards came away in the direction of the granary and met witness. They found a bottle of whisky on him and took him back to the Egerton Arms. Mrs. Bromley denied having served Edwards with anything that morning, but said he had had six pennyworth of whisky the night before.—P.C. A. Wright gave similar evidence.—For the defence Mr. Brassey first of all contended that the officers had no right to search Edwards as they had done on the morning in question. Edwards was a man who kept a few cows, and it was his practice after taking those animals out in the morning to knock Mrs. Bromley up on his way back. This he did on the morning stated, but Mrs. Bromley was already up, and went round to the gate to say Good morning' to him. Edwards had been served with the whisky found on him the previous night. It was ridiculous to expect a transac- tion like this, and when the bottle was only about as long as a penknife, to be seen from a distance of 74 yards.— Mrs. Bromley, the defendant, said that Edwards knocked at the door as usual. She was at the back of the house attending to the pigs, and her son went to the door. He informed her that she was wanted, and she went round to the back gate and said Good morning' to him. She did not give him anything at all, and did not reach the gate by about a yard. Edwards was afterwards brought back by the officers.—Mr. Giles: Was it the same bottle as that you served him with on the Saturday night.—Wit- ness I expect so.—Mr. Giles i I want to know. Witness: Yes, it was the same.—George Bromley, son of defendant said he opened the door to Edwards, who said Oh; you are up," and was walking away.—After a short retire- ment of the Bench, Mr. John Thompson said the magistrates had been hesitating how to deal with this case. That the law had been broken there was no doubt, and they inflicted a fine of x,5 and costs for selling. They would go no further at present. The case of opening during prohibited hours was withdrawn. WHERE WAS HIS SOVEREIGN. William Edwards, was now charged with aiding and abetting the defendant in the last case.—Stubbs, after describing how he found the whisky on defendant, said that when he served the summons defendant said, When you snatched that bottle out of my pocket you must have snatched a sovereign out. I had one in the same pocket, and I have not been able to find it since." (Laughter.)—Defendant, who also stated he got the whisky the previous night, was fined 10s. and costs.

'LAWLESSNESS' IN THE CHURCH. SPEECH BY BISHOP JAYNE. In the Upper House of York Convocation on Wednesday the question of the increasing lawlessness' in the Church was introduced by the Bishop of Liverpool, who moved a resolution declaring that in the opinion of the House the increase of lawlessness on the part of many of the clergy in the conduct of divine worship in the introduction of unauthorised services and practices, especially in the celebration of the Holy Communion, and the growing dissatisfac- tion of the laity in consequence of such law- lessness, demand the special attention of the Bishops;" and therefore that the clergy should be called upon to remember the solemn declara- tions, subscriptions, and oaths made and taken by them at their ordination, and in par- ticular their legal and moral obligation to use the form prescribed in the Book of Common Prayer, and none other, except so far as should be ordered by lawful authority. The resolution was seconded by the Bishop of Manchester. The Bishop of Wake- field moved as an amendment-" That in the opinion of this House there is a serious danger at the present time of wide divergence in the liturgical practice, owing to the introduction on the part of some of the clergy of services and ceremonies unauthorised by lawful authority and alien to the principles of the Church of England, and especially owing to the alteration, by way of omission or addition, of the order for the administration of the Holy Communion, and that these preachers need some restraint and guidance, due regard being had under the authority of the ordinary, to modern needs and reasonable liberty, which has always obtained in the Church of England." The Bishop of Chester seconded the amend- ment of the Bishop of Wakefield, though he ventured to doubt whether the time really called for a resolution of any kind from that House. The Bishop of Sodor and Man had spoken of a crisis, but the Church had been in a crisis as long as they had known it, and while they had what was undoubtedly a very anxious condition of things, it was not so supremely anxious as to call for a resolution from the bishops. He seconded the amendment because it shewed more clearly that it was intended to be fair all round. The Bishop of Sodor and Man had tried to deliver a kind of allocution to the bishops calling upon them to abandon what he termed their policy of masterly inactivity. The greater part of the work done by the bishops, and the most effective part, was what could not and ought not to appear on the surface. How was it possible for the laity to know of their advice and instructions to the clergy ? All that underground work had been going on, and the fact that it had not been more effective was very largely due-no doubt to other causes as well-to the fact that the bishops were handicapped because they had been clearly associated with a policy of prose- cution on ritual grounds-a policy which, to their great satisfaction, they had heard the Bishop of Liverpool so fully disclaim that morning. If he might walk at a great distance in the footsteps of the Bishop of Sodor and Man and address an allocution to the bishops, he would suggest that they should keep their heads and not be stirred up and thrown into a state of excitement by what was undoubtedly a crisis, but not a par- ticularly acute crisis. He thought the Bishop of Sodor and Man had exaggerated the amount of lawlessness in his speech. For instance, he understood the Bishop to speak of things as lawless which had been sanctioned by Archbishop Benson's judgment, and upheld by the Privy Council. The Bishop of Sodor and Man: I did not. The Bishop of Chester: I thought that you mentioned altar lights as lawlessness. The Bishop of Sodor and Man: If lighted during service. The Bishop of Chester: During service ? It is a little difficult to go into details, but I don't think that would be contrary to the judgment, would it ? Proceeding, the Bishop of Chester said he was not prepared to allow that the use of vestments, though in many cases inexpedient, was lawlessness. He mentioned those as instances of things which the Bishop of Sodor .and Man had included as lawless which some of them-certainly he himself-would not be pre- pared to admit as lawless, although in many cases he should strongly advise a clergyman that they were not expedient. He did not think they as Bishops were called upon to deal with their clergy in a drastic and wholesale way. It should be remembered, too, that this lawless- ness was largely due to lay, as well as clerical, influence. They should not speak of the public as if they were of one mind on the matter. The amendment was carried.

MR. YERBURGH AT THE PRESS DINNER. ♦ TRIBUTE TO MR. GLADSTONE. The 35th anniversary dinner of the News- paper Press Fund was held at the Hotel Metropole, London, on May 21st. Sir Henry Irving presided, and was supported by a distinguished company, including Sir W. H. Russell, Earl Egerton of Tatton, Mr. R. A. Yerburgh, M.P., &c. Mr. Jii. 1. COOKE (editor of the Daily News) gave 4 The Houses of Parliament,' coupled with the names of Earl Egerton and Mr. Yerburgh. In reply Mr. YERBURGH said: When I had a request, which, while it, I must confess, caused me great nervousness, led me to think that an undue honour had been conferred upon me, that I should respond for the House of Commons, I cast about in my mind to discover some reason why this honour of being thus selected had been conferred upon me; and, after some thought, I came to the conclusion that it was because I belonged to that, I fear, not useful body to the Press, but still that very hard-working body of members who undoubtedly assist the services of the country I mean the silent members. It has occurred to me that this selection was perhaps connected with a deep-laid conspiracy on the part of the Press to draw out silent members, and induce them to break through their reticence, and so afford some material to them upon which they could found, it might be, some amusing remarks. (Laughter.) Carrying out that thought, I might imagine the object, or part of it, at any rate, was to enable some rising member of the profession- to borrow Sir Henry Irving's words-to flesh his maiden pen, though I could not believe any such gentleman present could have the sinister design of luring me to become in a not distant future like some hon. friends of mine, a constant terror to the Government. (Laugh- ter.) There is one point which has been missed by the proposer of this toast, so far as it is connected with the House of Commons; and it is this-and I do not know that it has ever been remarked upon before—that in one respect the House of Commons enjoys an inestimable advantage over the Press. As Sir Henry Irving has told us, the Press has taken the place of the alehemist and the astrologer, but the House of Commons discharges an even more important function, because no sooner does a member of the ordinary community become a member of Parliament, no matter what may be his age, no matter if his glass tells him that his hair is grey, his face a playground for wrinkles, no matter if his expansive figure forbids a tight frock coat, directly he enters Parliament he becomes a young man and, though old enough to be a father, or even it may be a grandfather, still he is dubbed a young member. His bosom friend of equal years outside the House may be regarded as tottering upon the brink of the grave, he may be spoken of in such terms as Poor old So-and-So, he is fast breaking up.' But our member of Parliament, with conscious pride, suns himself in his perpetual youth, and thanks his stars that he is a member of the House. (Laughter.) The proposer of the toast said he had concluded that I was connected with it, because possibly I had furnished the Press with some material for some independent criticism on the action of the Government. (Laughter.) Allow me to say one word upon that point. It appears to me that there is a real danger that the House of Commons may become a mere registering body; that is to say, members of the House, without being paid as delegates, may get into the position of the schoolboys described by the poet in the words- The busy whisper circling round Conveyed the dismal tidings that he frowned. And so members, afraid of offending the Ministry they support, no matter what measures come before the House, or what proposals may be made, might think their duty forbade them to indulge in criticism. So far, at any rate, as members of the Far East group are concerned, I think they have shewn that they value country above party, and that in the action they have from time to time taken in the House of Commons, they have conferred something of service on the country at large. (Cheers.) There is one fact, and a serious one, which ought to be noted: it is that the deliberations of the House of Commons are being choked by a sort of weed which is growing up in the shape of unlimited talking, and which is seriously disabling the capabilities of the House. (Hear, hear.) And I am bound to say that for this state of affairs the Press is largely responsible. (Hear, hear.) Sir Henry Irving has told us that to his honourable and distinguished profession the Press has applied a wholesome discipline. (Hear, hear.) I wish the Press would apply that wholesome discipline to members of Parliament. (Hear, hear.) They spoil us: they put us in the papers, they write Mems. about Members.' I felt that my noble friend had a real grievance, and I quite expected that he would have demanded from the proposer of the toast that he should in his next issue insert 'Pars. about Peers.' (Laughter.) But we of the Commons feel and acknowledge that you spoil us; and we have ever held before us the prospect that, if we only rise in our place and address a searching question to the Govern- ment, or if by chance we are so fortunate as to speak against the Ministry, we may have the unspeakable felicity of being embalmed by the artistic pen of such an eminent caricaturist as Mr. Gould. (Cheers and laughter.) What I, therefore, ask is that the Press should not spoil us any longer, but should ignore our speeches as far as possible; and then I am sure the business of the House would progress much better than it does at present. As a member of the House of Commons I do not think I ought to sit down before I refer, very shortly indeed-because I have no title to speak beyond a brief limit as a very humble private member —to the proceedings on Thursday last. I can speak, in reference to that most remarkable occasion, as one that has had and has enjoyed the happiness and distinguished privilege of hearing Mr. Gladstone speak from his place. I (Hear, hear.) I would heartily re-echo-and I know I give voice to what is in the hearts of all the members of the party with whom 1 act-the feeling that our country has suffered the loss of a priceless possession in the passing away of one who, above all things, was a man. (Hear, hear.) It is admitted, and universally admitted, that in Mr. Gladstone the country possessed one who stood in the very highest ranks of those who have striven and wrought, who have spent themselves and been spent in the service of their country. (Hear, hear.) The significant stillness, the reverential silence that marked the proceedings of the House of Commons on Thursday last—(hear, hear)—the murmurs of heartfelt appreciation that followed the speeches that were delivered on Friday—(hear, hear)- were evidence enough, if any evidence were needed, of the strong hold the great genius and the lofty character of Mr. Gladstone had laid upon every school of political opinion. (Hear, hear.) It is not for me to speak of his great qualities. They are known, and they have been spoken of by those who were so well acquainted with him; but I might be permitted to say there is one thing in his life that has struck me beyond everything else it is that he combined with singular kindliness of character, and with the greatest consideration for those who were beneath him in place and intellect, the most wonderful courage-a courage that never knew fear-and an iron resolution, an unflinching tenacity. And more than this his life was one that all through its course was distinguished by the greatest sym- pathy for the sick and suffering. Though we have lost Mr. Gladstone himself, though he has passed away, his country if far richer bv the memory he has bequeathed her of a blameless life and of a lofty career than if she had been made mistress of all the priceless treasures in the bowels of the earth. (Cheers.) I hope, I trust, indeed I am confident, that his name will live long indissolubly linked with the great qualities that distinguished him to animate, to encourage, to fortify the youthful manhood of this country to follow in the steps of one who served her so long, so faithfully, and so well. (Loud cheers.)

The Beeston Cycle Company, Limited, of Coventry, is well to the front in the manu- facture of speed cycles. To take one instance only, Mr. D. Nicholson, at Huntingdon, on Whit Monday, was second in the one mile scratch race, and he also rode his Beeston home second in the three mile scratch race. At Dersingham, near King's Lynn, on Whit Tuesday, he was first in the three mile scratch race. On the following Thursday, at Wymond- ham, Norfolk, he won the two mile handicap, and only failed to win the mile through a fall in the final round. There is no doubt that this old-established firm, who have, and are still turning out most successful racing machines, can always be relied upon to make a reliable roadster or any other grade of cycle. I

CHESTER INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL. ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting in connection with the Chester Certified Industrial School was held in the Town Hall on Thursday, Mr. W. H. Churton presiding over a small attendance, which in- cluded the Rev. Frank Edwards, and Messrs. John Thompson, S. Smith (town clerk), Felix Thomas (ex-superintendent of the school),and E. H. Thomas (superintendent). Mr. Churton in opening the meeting said he wished to acknowledge the compliment of being made president of this most valuable institution, an institution which not only he, but his relations had been con- nected with for many years. He was glad to say they were in perfectly safe hands. He remembered the time when this meeting used to be one of the features of the city, and recollected very distinctly a splendid gathering, at which Canon Kingsley was present and gave a most excellent address on behalf of the school. Now they had got on so extremely prosperously and with so little friction that people did not find much interest in attending the meetings. He rather regretted this, and would like more of the people who were interested in the institu- tion to be present. Everybody but the hon. secretaries seemed to be thanked in the report, owing no doubt to the fact that the secretaries had drawn it out, and he, therefore, took this opportunity of thanking them for their excellent services. It was only right to mention that the committee had met with a difficulty on an important subject. Ever since the school at Boughton had been established the school had been a mixed one, taking in boys and girls. The Home Office, however, had been for many years at their doors warning them that the time was coming when they would look with disfavour upon the mixing of boys and girls in one school, and they were about to request the elimination of either one sex or the other from the school. The com- mittee had never had any difficulty from the mixture of the boys and girls in the school, and had found the girls a valuable aid as servants, a large expenditure being saved in this way. They, however, had now to submit to the inevit- able. There were only four schools of the kind in the kingdom containing boys and girls, viz; Chester, Birkenhead, Newcastle and Gateshead. Birkenhead had had notice that they would forfeit their grant unless either the boys or the girls were taken away. Chester's turn came next. It had been decided to hold a con- ference of the County Council and the borough councils of Cheshire to devise a method for establishing a school for girls only. The Govern- ment would only allow 60 girls in one school, and it was the impression that one of this kind in Cheshire would be quite enough for the purpose. The girls in the Boughton School were not so numerous as in times past, and he did not expect much difficulty when they only had boys there. It had been found that boys did much menial work, and were none the worse for it. Thus they did not anticipate a large expendi- ture for servants. So far as the funds of the institution were concerned, there had been a slight diminution in their balance. They started the year with a balance in hand of R167 16s. 7d., which made up the total receipts to £ 2,926 12s. lid., and at the end of the year there was a balance of 2146 15s. 8d. He was glad that the subscriptions had not much diminished, and was glad to notice the excellent way in which Mr. Thomas and his sister had conducted the school. He had particular opportunities of observing the deep interest they took in the working of the institution. Mr. S. SMITH (hon. secretary) then read the annual report, in which the committee had the satisfaction to record another year of quiet, steady, and satisfactory work. They commenced the year with 105 children, during the year 14 were admitted, 17 had left for work, &c., and they were left at the end of the year with 102 on the rolls. The decrease in numbers latterly was accounted for by reason that the committee had been compelled to recognise the persistent disfavour with which mixed schools were regarded by the advisers of the Home Office. It had therefore been deemed prudent not to admit girls except from our own city and county, the committee being under agreement with the authorities of both in consideration of grants made by them. It was presumably owing to the Boughton School's good record that the closing of the institution to one sex had been postponed. A conference had been arranged by the managers with the Birkenhead managers, Mr. John Thompson representing the committee. It was then thought that one school for girls would be quite sufficient for the wants of Cheshire and its county boroughs. There was already a certified school in Stockport for 60 girls, but unfortunately it was closed against the Church of England. By the co-operation ot 1ine oouncus or Chester, Cheshire, Birken- head, and Stockport, and the managers and friends of the Chester and Birkenhead Schools, it ought not to be a difficult matter to provide for the establishment and maintenance of a certified school for 60 girls, undenominational, as was their own school, and open for the reception of girls from any part of the county, including the county boroughs. A conference with that object had been proposed, and the committee had nominated the president (Mr. W. H. Churton), Sir Horatio Lloyd, and the hou. secretary (Mr. S. Smith) to represent them at the conference. It was confidently hoped that the society would support their action, and, if found necessary or desirable, to make a substantial grant from their invested funds in aid of the common object, the com- mittee of course being relieved from any obligations to receive at Boughton girls from either the city or county of Chester. Reverting to more directly home topics they were glad to be able to state that I- tne health of the children had been generally good throughout the year. Their best thanks were due to the honorary surgeon (Mr. A. Hamilton) for his care and attention whenever his services had been required. During the years 1894-5-6 85 children (58 boys and 27 girls) left the school, of whom 74 were known to be doing well and bearing good characters. Five could not be found, and four had been convicted. On the whole this was a sufficient reply to those who contended that these institutions were now needless. At Bishop Graham's School H.M. Inspector said-If This school continues excel- lent,' the same award being given at the drawing examination. On closing school for Whitsuntide ten medals were given as special prizes to those children who had made the full number of attendances, while 44 other children gained book prizes for good work and very regular attendance. Speaking generally the committee tendered their warmest thanks to the many donors, to the Sheriff of Chester (Mr. J. W. Huke) for an excellent Christmas dinner generously given to the children of both schools, to Mr. Barton for the interest taken in the Boughton boys' gardens and the prizes for the best; and to the president (Mr. Churton) for his continued and valued service in the Sunday school &c.— The chairman moved the adoption of the report and accounts.—This was seconded by the Rev. F. Edwards, and carried.—Mr. Churton was re-elected president, and the vice- presidents were also re-elected, as also were the committee, with the addition of the Mayor (Mr. J. Gooddie Holmes) and Messrs. T. G. Frost, T. J. Smith, and J. H. Dickson.—In moving the re-election of the honorary surgeon Mr. S. Smith referred with regret to the loss of Mr. H. Churton, who bad been honorary surgeon with Dr. Hamilton. Mr. JOHN THOMPSON proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman. He said the Churton family had been at the head of the institution at the beginning and ever since, and he hoped for a great many years longer. Referring to the girls' industrial school at Stockport Mr. Thompson stated that last month the County Council made a grant of R600 to the society at Stockport, even though it was pointed out that no children of the Church of England be admitted there. The question would be raised again when the County Council was approached for help in the building of the new school, but he thought they would be wanting in loyalty to their own Church-he spoke as belonging to the Church of England-if they did not take care that children belonging to that Church were admitted into such institutions as these. The question would have to be raised again, but it did not affect the county very much, only about nine girls belonging to Cheshire being in its industrial schools, including four at Chester. He hoped they would make an effort to get people to take a greater interest in this society and its meetings. They used to have large meetings, but of late years the members present could be counted on the fingers.-Mr. S. Smith seconded the motion, and the vote was heartily accorded.—Mr. Churton suitably replied.

ANOTHER TOWN HALL FIRE. « IS IT FATE? Though it was known in certain circles that last month another fire was discovered in the Town Hall, the fact had not become a matter of common knowledge. The attention of the Town Hall Committee has been drawn to the occurrence by Alderman Geo. A. Dickson, Chair- man of the Watch Committee, who wrote as follows on May 19th to the Mayor:- The bearer, Mr. Shone, superintendent engineer of the Fire Brigade, just reports to me that Lindsay, the Town Hall keeper, drew his attention last evening, between 6.30 and 7 o'clock, to a fire burning on the floor of the Council Chamber, evidently owing to the work- men's carelessness. The fire was promptly put out by Shone and Lindsay, other- wise, it is quite probable the whole structure would have been burnt down. Perhaps you will, in your capacity as Mayor, and Chair- man of the Town Hall Committee, now be good enough to take very serious notice of this very great carelessness." The Town Hall Keeper's Report was also read to the committee, and it was resolved That the attention of Mr. Free- man be called to the subject, and enquiry made as to what action he has taken, or intends taking in reference to it, as the committee consider it too serious a matter to be overlooked, and also requesting his assurance that measures have been taken to insure against the recurrence of fire while the works are proceeding."

MUSIC AT THE CATHEDRAL. 0 A VISITOR'S COMPLAINT. A correspondent who signs himself Musicus" writes to the Liverpool Daily Post; Being in Chester last week, and having heard so much of the excellent singing of the Cathedral choir, I determined on Whit Monday afternoon to go and judge for myself; but, alas J I had reckoned without my host, for it appears that here the organ is not intended or supposed to accompany the voices, as is generally the case in places where choirs do sing; but, strange to relate, the organ was accompanied by the choir, and very closely too, judging from the little singing I did hear. I again visited the Cathedral on the following Thursday morning, and heard an exact repetition of the above. I do not know who was responsible for the playing on these two occasions, but it certainly would not be a bad idea if the authorities dispensed with the services of the choristers at such times, and so serve a double purpose by giving them a well-earned rest, and have an organ recital pure and simple. Certainly one could not hear anything but the overwhelming tones of the huge instrument from the beginning of the service, including even the responses, until the end. I must, however, say that the singing of Stainer's Sevenfold Amen' more than repaid me for my visit, but I am bound to confess that the choir did not in this accompany the organ, but sang alone."

SANITATION IN THE HAWARDEN UNION. « IMPORTANT DRAINAGE SCHEME. For some time past the absence of adequate drainage arrangements in that portion of the Hawarden Union in the neighbourhood of Sandycroft and Queen's Ferry has been a source of real danger to the health of the inhabitants. Houses are being rapidly erected in the district, despite the fact that there is no proper drainage system, and this has tended to increase the anxiety of the Hawarden Rural District Council, who have had many difficul- ties to contend with in the matter. It has now, however, been decided to carry out an important scheme. At Friday's meeting of the District Council, the nuisance inspector (Mr. Barratt) submitted a scheme for the drainage of Aston, which prac- tically lies between Hawarden and Sandycroft. The scheme includes the adoption of the Dibdin Tank system, which has been tried with success in Wirral and other parts of the country, and the estimated cost is X150. —Mr. E. S. Taylor expressed the opinion that if the Council decided to proceed with the work it would be one of the best things ever done in the Union.—The Chairman (Mr. W. Fryer) said, as he had always contended, these town- ships ought to be formed into contributory places. It was not fair that land should bear the expense of the drainage of these houses.— Mr. Taylor, while agreeing with Mr. Fryer, pointed out the importance of not wasting time. Already they had had one case of typhoid fever. He expressed the opinion that the scheme would be of great benefit to the farmers, as the water, when it passed out of the tanks, would be fit for the cattle to drink. He agreed, however, with the chairman, and went so far as to believe that a great many houses in the neighbourhood ought not to have been built at all.—The report was adopted, and it was decided on the proposition of Mr. John Jones (Sandycroft) to form Aston and Shotton, Saltney West and Saltney East into contribu- tory townships.

PRIMROSE FETE AT ASHTON HAYES. + Splendid weather, of which we have of late been despairing, pretty surroundings, and a simple programme of country sports rendered the fete at Ashton Hayes on Wednesday quite enjoyable. The event was in connection with the Watling-street Habitation of the Primrose League, a branch that embraces Delamere, Mouldsworth, Barrow, Ta.rvin, and the district generally. During the early part of the after- noon the attendance was but small, but towards tea time people rolled up in larger numbers, and the park, an ideal one for the purposes of the fete, assumed a gayer aspect. The sports in the afternoon were conducted in a miniature valley at the bottom of the ridge, upon which were the dancing and refreshment tents, and the spectators enjoyed the various contests from under the cool of shady trees on the side of the declivity. The gardens at the hall were open for inspec- tion, and many availed themselves of the privilege of seeing them. Taken altogether appearances seemed to justify the more frequent holding of a similar fete by the habitation. Hitherto the fete has only been held inter- mittently and is not an annual event. Miss Norah Lyle Smyth, hon. sec., carried out arrangements ably and efficiently, and the com- mittee, consisting of Messrs. H. Hewitt (chair- man), W. E. Lea, Walter Harrison, S. Dean, H. Burgess, J. Mort, and R. Bull, are to be con- gratulated on the result of their efforts. The results of the I sports were as follows :— 1UU yards boys race (under 14): l, U. Hawkins 2, R. Turner; 3, J. Chesterton. Girls' race (under 14): 1, Alice Gerrard; 2, Lilly Eaton. High jump (under 14): 1, Shallcross; 2, Turner; 3, H. Lewis. Quarter-mile race (under 16): 1, E. Jones; 2, C. Hawkins; 3, S. Schofield. Long jump (under 16): 1, Schofield; 2, Shallcross; 3, Lewis. Sack race (under 16): 1, T. Owen; 2, Chesterson; 3, Schofield. Quarter-mile race (under 16) 1, E. Jones; 2, Lewis; 3, Shallcross. 100 yards, for men (local): 1, W. Mayers; 2, H. Turner; 3, S. Nixon. 120 yards (open) 1, T. Fleming; 2, F. Dean; 3, F. Shallcross. High jump (local) 1,;T. Lewis 2, Turner; 3, Harrison. Quarter-mile (local): 1, G. Greenway; 2, T. Lewis; 3. Turner. High jump (open) 1, F. Dean 2, T. Lewis. Sack race (open): 1, Owen; 2, Harrison; 3, Shallcross. Quarter-mile (open): 1, T. Fleming; 2, F. Dean; 3, E. Jones. Long jump (local) 1, Shallcross 2, T. Lewis; 3, Turner. Potato race: 1, Harrison; 2, E. Jones; 3, A. Shallcross. Half-mile (open): 1, F. Dean; 2, T. Fleming; 3, T. Lewis. Half-mile (local) 1, S. Lewis; 2, E. Jones; 3, G. Greenway. Long jump (open): 1, F. Dean; 2, T. Lewis; 3, Shallcross. Tug-of-war: Winners, R. Jones' team. Judges, H. Hewitt, W. Lea, W. Harrison. Starter, S. Dean. Handicappers, Messrs. Bull and Mort.

FOR ACHES AND PAINS RUB IN ELLIMAN'S For Rhoumatism, Lumbago, ELLIMAN'S Sprains, Bruises, Fresh Cuts, ELLIMAN'S Sore Throat from Cold, ELLIMAN'S Cold at the Chest, ELLIMAN'S Neuralgia from Cold, ELLIMAN'S Chilblains before broken, RUB IN ELLIMAN'S. RUB IN ELLIMAN'S. ELLIMAN'S Corns when Painful, ELLIMAN'S Cramp, Stiffness, ELLIMAN'S Soreness of the Limbs after ELLIMAN'S Cycling, Football, Rowing, &c. Bottles 8 £ d., Is. ild., 2s. 9d., 4s. Prepared by Elliman, Sons & Co., Slough, Eng.

CITY POLICE COURT. ♦ THURSDAY.—Before the Mayor (Mr. J. Gooddie Holmes), and Messrs. G. Dutton and J. R. Thomson. SHE USED THE ROLLING-PIN.—A domestic article known as the rolling-pin is popularly supposed to be used by ladies for flattening pastry and refractory husbands. So far back as January 28th Maria Leach, of Davies' Court, used it on Jane Farrell, a neighbour, with the result that the latter had to go to the Infirmary and have her head stitched up. A warrant was issued, and Leach was apprehended by Detective Crewe on Wednesday, a fact which seemed to agitate Farrell, who wished to forgive' her erstwhile assailant, and followed her to the Police Station. Here her conduct was so noisy that she was locked up on a charge of being drunk and disorderly. She was now fined 5s. and costs, or seven days. Leach, whose record was a bad one, was sent to prison for a month. FRIDAY.—Before the Mayor and Mr. G. Dutton. A CHILD AND ITS ALLEGED BAD SURROUND- INGS. Miss Wright, lady-superintendent of the Chester Rescue Home, applied to the magistrates to make an order for Maria Johnson, aged 11, the daughter of Elizabeth Johnson, a widow, now residing in the Work- house, to be sent to a home near Leeds.— Elizabeth Johnson, the child's mother, stated in reply to the Chief Constable that her husband died on March 30th. He was a pensioner from the 22nd Regiment. She had worked at the King's School for two years, and she lived formerly at Folliott's Court. She left there because she could not pay the rent, her husband having died before he drew his pension. From Folliott's Court she went to Owen's-court, Duke-street, but her landlord, Mr. Snelson, got a warrant at the County Court and turned her out, on the ground that she kept a bad house. Witness, however, denied that she ever kept a bad house in her life, or that anything improper had occurred in her house. She made an application to the Board of Guardians for relief after her husband died and left her with five children, and she was offered an order to go into the house. The Guardians would not give her out-door relief because Mr. Harrop said she kept a boarding- house. The little girl, the subject of the present application, had been at the Rescue Home.—Mr. Fenwick You knew the character of the people taken there, and you allowed the little girl to go there ?—Witness replied that the girl was fond of Miss Wright, and wanted to go there. Witness could not write, but she had put her hand to a document per- mitting the child to go to a home in Yorkshire. The Workhouse master read it to her, but she did not understand it. She would rather the magistrates sent the child to the Boughton School than to Yorkshire, because then she would be able to see the child. A Mrs. Bimson, the wife of a man at Saltney, had stayed with witness in Owen's-court for about four days, but she did not bring any men with her. Witness could not get her out. A girl named Annie Beech had also stayed with wit- ness, but she did not know anything wrong about her.—Miss Wright stated that the child when at her mother's house had associated with bad characters. The only object of the present application was to remove the child from her old associations. Of course it was much more expensive taking her to Yorkshire. —The deputy clerk (Mr. Davison) did not see why they should send the child to Leeds, as it would encumber another county with expense. The Chief Constable said he thought the mother's feelings ought to be considered in the matter.—The Bench decided to send the child to the Boughton Industrial School.—Mr. Fenwick said he should like to know who wrote the document to which the woman put her mark.—Miss Wright: I did. ALLEGED THEFT OF £ 15.—Thomas White Moore, who the Chief Constable stated had surrendered on a charge of stealing X15 at Liverpool, was handed over to Detective McConkie, of Liverpool. It was understood that the man had received the money to pay wages and had decamped with it. AN OLD MAN AND His CLOCK DISGRACEFUL DISCLOSURES.—Annie Hallowes and Mary Ann Bradshaw were charged with stealing a clock, valued at 10s., the property of John Shepherd, jobbing gardener, Cement-place. It appeared that Hallowes had been living for some time on terms of intimacy with prosecutor, and that on the previous day she took the clock in question from his house and gave it to Bradshaw to sell.—In reply to the Chief Constable prosecutor said he did not think Hallowes took the clock in mistake, thinking that it belonged to her as well as to him. He admitted that a girl named Minnie Jones had been convicted from his house. Minnie Jones was a lodger, and paid her way. A Mrs. Mary Layden deposed to buy- ing the clock for 3s. from Bradshaw.— Bradshaw said she thought Hallowes was in the position of prosecutor's wife, and could do what she liked with his furniture. Both women were sentenced to seven days' hard labour.—Prose- cuter was informed that he could get his clock on refunding 3s. to Mrs. Layden, the deputy clerk adding that the Bench thought he was very much to blame. MONDAY.—Before Messrs. H. T. Brown, and J. M. Frost. "GOING MAD WITH IMPRISONMENT."—Eliza- beth Bimson, a middle-aged woman, was charged with being disorderly at the Cross, shortly after six o'clock on Friday night. P.C. John Wynne proved the case. On Saturday morning, when the prisoner ought to have been brought before the magistrates, it was found she had torn up all her clothing in the cells, and the police had to provide her with a dress to appear in.—The Chief Constable stated that the prisoner had been before the bench thirty-three times. She was sent to prison on the llth May for a month for a similar offence. She had a letter in her possession addressed to some clergyman.—Prisoner said she had been suffering with her head, and the doctor said it was a shame to keep sending her back to prison. She was going mad with so much imprisonment. She had been in Macclesfield Asylum this year, and only came out of prison on Friday last. She had no home to go to.—The magistrates re- manded her for a day in order that the police doctor might examine her. A SUSPICIOUS CHARACTER: FOUND IN A SCHOOLYARD.-Richard Dobbins, a young man well-known to the police, was charged with being found in an enclosed yard in George- street, in the occupation of the Diocesan School Trustees, for an unlawful purpose. He was found at a quarter-past eleven on Saturday night lying on an ashpit wall in the school- yard. Two or three persons had seen him climb over the outer wall eight feet high, and communicated with the police. When an officer went up to him, the prisoner pretended to be asleep. He could give no explanation of his presence. Prisoner said be had been with a militiaman, and got drunk. He was making the best of his way home, but fell asleep. When he awakened the following morn- ing he did not remember what he was charged with. (Laughter.) The Chief Constable stated that the prisoner was charged in June 1892, with stealing L4 5s., and was discharged. In September, 1894, he was convicted of receiv- ing a watch, knowing it to have been stolen, and in July, 1897, he was again before the bench on a similar charge to the present one, but was discharged.—The magistrates now sent him to gaol for seven days with hard labour. ALLEGED MURDEROUS ASSAULT ON A WOMAN. —Samuel Jackson, tailor, of no fixed residence, was accused of assaulting and beating Mary Smith. P.C. Tutty deposed that at 12-30 that morning, when at the Watergate, he heard- a woman screaming from the direction of Kitchen- street. He met a girl coming to look for a policeman, and found the woman Smith insen- sible. Prisoner was running away. Witness pursued him and caught him near the Gasworks Gate. Asked why he had assaulted the woman, prisoner said he did not kick her. Witness brought him to the Town Hall, and then went back to Kitchen-street, where he found the woman had been attended to by by-standers. She had then recovered consciousness, and said she had been kicked in the chest. He took her to the Infirmary, where she was detained, and as yet was unable to appear.— On the applica- tion of the Chief Constable, a day's remand was granted. SCENE IN LOWER BRIDGE-STREET.—Margaret Bolland, belonging to Wrexham, appeared on a charge of being drunk and disorderly. She was found by P.C. Betts in the middle of a crowd in Lower Bridge-street at ten o'clock on Sunday night. The people thought she was in a fit, but she suddenly kicked out and struck violently at the by-standers, hitting a baby in a woman's arms. She was drunk, and her language was of an obscene character.— Prisoner, who declared that she had been knocked senseless by her husband, was fined 10s. and costs, with the option of seven days.

SHEPHERDS' ANNIVERSARY AT HESWALL. herds; The 37th anniversary of the AS120tv Glory Lodge (Heswall), L.O.A.S., Unity, was held on Tuesday, the weatne o0gsr everything that could be desired. ja8» sion forme up at the lodge room, Sando yjjjg Heswall, at 9.30 a.m., each member Cgea(jed his crook gaily decorated with ribbons, by the Heswall Brass Band and the agflgl banner the members proceeded on thei round, calling upon the following &eI*\ W; Messrs. C. F. Hutton (Barwen ^odg/' Downham (Pensby Lodge), G. P- (Barnston-road), W. Brierley (Barnston W. Robb (Border Lodge), R. Brancker j Side), C. Maclver (Beechfield), T. BrocKAe^ J.P. (Rosecote), and thence to chur°b> divine service was held, and a sermon Pr by the rector, the Rev. T. H. May- service the members proceeded to the (where they were photographed on the and then called upon Messrs. Wils<?n-qi, Cottage), W. Laird (Delavor House)> jfel)' Jones (Brackenwood), J. H. Brown R. T. Tidswell (Bank House), and qft0do11 Frost (Hill House). Dinner at the Arms followed, about 150 members sittiDp gjj# The juvenile members of the lodge with the adult members, and while were having dinner the juveniles were r themselves with an excellent tea in a *\cnpi0 close by. At the dinner the chair was gjgO' by Mr. R. T. Tidswell, and there Fro present Dr. Blunden, Messrs. Meadows yw W. H. Jones, Masters W. Ledso I A. ty r (treasurer to the lodge), R. Peters (seCftbs0,l<Ji &c. After dinner letters of apology t°r, 1 were read from Dr. Smythe £ (0? officer to the lodge), Colonel ■rf0s £ t' j Jodrell, M.P., the Rev. T. H. M13,Y) flat, T. Brocklebank, J.P., W. Laird, C. ^.0( jjw Nicholson, Leadley Brown, Leonard D°!D tf W. Wilson. The loyal toast was Pr0P^jU# the Chairman, and received with flew honours. The toast of The Bishop an of the Diocese' followed, and was resp0 by the Vicar's Warden (Mr. W. H. i tfi next toast was that of 'The Navy, Ar:r;: Volunteers,' proposed by the C So and acknowledged by Mr. Meadows The health of the 'Medical Officer of the was proposed by Mr. Masters, and in the^^ of Dr. Smythe, Dr. Blunden, the officer, responded. them for over 28 years as medical officer ^et assured them it gave him very great pa*0, his long connection with them; in only after very long and serious c°nSl?i.aii^ < that he felt compelled to do so. He c them for their kind support and sf ^i% shewn towards him in his long conneC » them and repeated that it cost him a £ reod-l>f0j to come among them that day to say &a He had ridden over their hills for 30 f ^$ had seen the strong men grow wea £ young ones grow old, and it was D8,1t.js great grief and sorrow for him to sever nections with them. (Applause.) The » jeer leave-taking of Dr. Blunden lo^f?^ impression upen the old members of *>J, The band immediately struck up -A-0. joW Syne,' and afterwards played For be good fellow.' The toast of 'Shepherd jjji* Lodge of the L.O.A.S.' was proposed by man, who complimented them on thelf position. Mr. W. Ledsom (treasurer) regP pf0* and remarked that the Order ^or^0 gressing very satisfactorily. at large had a membership as Ordinary members 115,409, honorary v1 5,256, or a total membership of 120,6 juvenile members numbered 33,775, 1Xl t I grand total of 150,440. During the P:t1' 9$. 12,997 members had entered the s°c,1aSt 1,107 had died. The total receipts for lf t were 9168,435 3s. 5d. The payments gfifrfyA- ness, death, benevolence, &c., were Is. Id., making a gain on the year o pr* 2s. 4d. Their district lodge of Bobillo' roty- 690 ordinary members and 70 0f members, a total for the five lodg6' 0 U members and 124 juveniles. Forty* 8 members had entered during the y081' males had died. The district 1 odg0 gs■ December 31 last amounted to £ 5,° ) and the juvenile funds to £ 325 19s- j of £ 6,155 7s. 9d. They had paid for and members' wives, funerals nearer home, their own lodge at 133- Ajj paid out since last anniversary X203 sick claims. This was a larger a0l?t had ever been paid out before, but 1 ,jib f gratifying token that when the required help it had been afforded the had paid to the district funeral fund *• and for medical aid £ 31 12s., and since last year £ 157 0s.8d. The lodged? invested as follows: Liverpool Dock TrO^Ljpe*^ mortgage £ 1,214, bank £ 170, lodgf^g. "ji £ 28, and in hand £ 33, or a total of gain from July 1st last was £ 152 9s. 0" was a very good year's work. Duriug to /lid six females died and five males belong r^j g lodge. Among the latter were members who formed the lodge 37 3 ,g M when it was inaugurated at the Gle £ e and he (Mr. Ledsom) was the only <jf of the 13 members initiated at that t" ti0o Ledsom afterwards referred to the female lodges and to old age pension3/ y elusion, he gave the list of sn^scTlF0\\o^eti■ ceived for that day, which were as Mr. T. Brocklebank, £2 2s.; Mr. C. V, T, ø- £ 1 Is.; Mr. R. Tidswell, £ 2 2s.; the » May, £ 1 Is. Mr. W. Laird, £ 1 Is-; ulg.; Jones, £ 1 Is.; Mr. W. Brierley, 0- Meadows Frost, £ 1 Is.; Mr. J. H. Mr. C. T. Hutton, £ 1 Is.; Mr. H- v° {1 £ 1 Is. Mr. J. B. Ditchford, Bromfield, £ 1 Is. Mr. W. Wilson, Bromley, 5s. The healths of the ftJ1d p- Subscribers, the Chairman, the 'rjflg jjfJj Host and Hostess brought the f?a io$0 close. Dancing and other amusemen till dark. J#

It is officially confirmed tj?at Sir Macdonald, the British Ambassador has concuded an agreement with tn Government for an extension of the 0 of Hong Kong, ineluding Kowloon. ment, which was signed on Wednes»a^y-p^ cedes on lease to Great Britain for years an area of territory of some 20 miles, including Mirs Bay and Deep miles, including Mirs Bay and Deep o

mew THE SECRET OF ITS SUCCESS.. There is no doubt that we live worry and excitement, and as the st tog existence is anything but conducive ePJ. digestion or an appetite that can thing, the palate of the average individual has to be tickled and & ?ed of variety of ways, We are often the evil effects of an ov,er-indulgc-,n ,Crs, fot r: coffee, not to mention intoxicating ^10 many people are bewildered what re0*vjj) £ a beverage, which shall be at 0I?ce, «0$ the taste, and supply the desirea -pp and stimulating qualities. I'11'3 *ijts 0 has been freely drawn to the felt ( Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa, as supplying in this direction. It is not simply :vgre^ a preparation of two or three 0^^fr-nvig°r*ggfl* which give it great nutritive and 1 pie* jit- qualities. It is, therefore, not mere i beverage, but a food and a tonic m Its success has certainly been pbejj 0 ^0 that is perhaps the best warranty „ made on its behalf, that Vi^' ^be refreshing properties of fine tea, ment of the best cocoas, a tonic » tive force possessed by neither, an in all cases where tea and coffee are 1\> jjjed Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa is nei .a food nor a mere thirst assuager. It ftJ1d o* same time that it is a .kevera,idjDg answers a double purpose in the d reD(?tf the human constitution, and niu ^gjjy jg highly serviceable to everybody, eajj0us iCe&' workers in mills and shops of g0 e .^0 among whom tea has hitherto _adv0,1lA 0 sively drunk; while it has the ^\r. eeted apparently of being easily /"fLrnach-, c**} agreeing with the most dehca*0 jg. Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa, 6d„ ?d. a nrccef be obtained from all Themis > r>uBhi^jji% Stores, or from 60, 61 and o ^$gejj London, E.C. As a test of its me ,Jl be j,eJ» sample tin of Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa *^1 free on application to any ao jejide writing (a postcard will do), name the Chester Courant.