South Wales Daily News

CHOLERA ON THE CONTINENT I FIVE FATAL CASES. MAASTRICHT, Thursday.—Six fresh cases oi ¡ cholera. and five deaths occurred here yesterday. bring up the total number of cases to 26, of which 13 ended fatally. -Re?tter. VIENNA, Thursday.—An official announcement has been made that from April 7th to the end of 'july 687 persons have been attacked by cholera in Galicia. In 325 cases death supervened.— Central News. ,y

DYNAMITE OUTRAGE IN GERMANY. WIESBADEN, Thursday.—The liheinislhe Kurier announced that a dynamite outrage was com- mitted last night at Lorch, a village in the vicinity of this place. Certain individuals lowered a pot containing dynamite through an opening into the cellar of a house there, and having ignited a fuse attached to the pot, de- camped. The damage done by the explosion which resulted was slight.—Rtuter.

ILL-TREATMENT OF A BRITISH CAPTAIN, MADRID, Thursday,—A few days ago the British barque Mayer Gomerato (?) made for Mellilla under stress of weather. A native vessel approached her, and 20 members of the Riff tribe after firing at the British vessel boarded her and compelled the crew to lower the sails. They then assaulted the captain, ill-treated the crew, and pillaged the ship. The British flag was torn down. rent, and spat upon. They then threatened to carry off the captain, but finally contenttct themselves by again assaulting him and the crew. In consequence ot this outrage the Spanish cruisers, Reina, Mercedes,and Alfonso XII., now at Malaga, were ordered to prepare immediately to sail to Melilla.-antral News.

ANOTHER CONSPIRACY iN S BRAZIL. NEW YORK, Thursday.—Telegrams from Rio de Janeiro report the discovery of a widespread conspiracy to abduct and murder President Mordes, the successor of President Piexto. A general rising appears to be imminent throughout Brazil.-Ccntral News.

ATTEMPT TO BLOW UP A MAGAZINE. DIABOLICAL PLOT AT GOSPORT. A Portsmouth evening paper says :—Great ex- citement was caused at Gosport on Thursday by a report that a plot has been discovered to blow the powder magazines at Priddy's Hard. Rumour says matches were discovered on a rail- way line, and had a passing truck ignited them terrible consequences might have ensued. The introduction of matches is strictly prohibited. The officials are making a close inquiry.

THEFT FROM THE SPEAKER'S RESIDENCE. SENTENCE ON THE CULPRIT. The Speaker and his son, Mr Maurice B. Peel, attended before Mr De Rutzen with respect to the theft of a cheque by Albert Edward Rich, ^a young man employed as hull porter at Mr Peel's official residence. Prisoner, who was also charged I with forging an endorsement, on the cheque, stole the draft from Mr M. B. Peel's pocket, and obtained cash for its value, J35, from a carman to one of the Speuker's tradesmen. He said the Speaker had left the cheque on his table, and told him to get change for it. The Speaker said he had no desire to press the charge, and he hoped the court would adopt the most lenient possible course. Mr De Rutzen said the prisoner might consider himself fortunate in not being sent for trial for forgery. He could not pass a less sentence than three months' hard labour.

TELEGRAPH COMMUNICATION INTERRUPTED. The comparative dearth of details as to the engagement between the Chinese and Japanese troops is explained, says the Daily Telegraph, by the interruption of telegraphic communica- tion. Early m June the English journals published in Japan contained complaints aa to the delays which took place in the transmission of messages from Seoul to Yokohama and other points. Ordinarily a few hours are sufficient for the purpose, but of late as many as from forty to fifty are said to have passed, before a telegram from Corea has been received at Tokio.

THE REPORTED ARREST OF JABEZ BALFOUR. AUTHORITIES WITHOUT INFOR. MATION. The Press Association is informed that at neither the Foreign Office nor at. Scotland Yard has any information been received of the capture or surrender of Jabez Balfour, and the statement published that Balfour is on board a British gunboat is discredited. The facts of the case are as follows :-A secret understanding exists between this country and Argentina that should Balfour escape through any loophole in the extradition treaty other means will be taken to band the fugitive over to the British authorities, and Inspector Ton- bridge remains at Buenos Ayres to bring him to England. Balfour's departure for England is now only a question of time, and no fear is en- tertained lest he may elude justice. Inspector Tonbridge, who was instructed to telegraph any matter of importance, has not sent a word to Eng- land regarding Balfour's reported capture. A QUESTION IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS. In the House of Commons on Thursday Mr Stuart Wortley asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it was true that Jabez Balfour was on his way to this country. Sir Edward Grey No, sir, we have not received any confirmation of the report or any information ou the subject. THE CONVICTS NEWMAN AND WRIGHT. The Press Association says that the Liberator convicts, Newman and Wright, still remain at Wormwood Scrubs, and will do so for the pre- sent, which is an indication that the authorities have not yet given up hope of capturing Jabez Balfour. Newman and Wright are em. ployed in outdoor work, and seem to have settled down quite contentedly. They are in perfect health and much sunburnt. Wright ni particular appears quite happy. Hobbs is still at Dover and is much better, the change of air having been very beneficial. It may be taken for granted that so long as these convicts remain in their present prisons the authorities entertain hopes, if they are not already certain, that Balfour will be brought back, as they should have been re- moved to the convict establishments to which they have been told off a long time ago. ARRESTED BY A RUSE. The Central News says :—Jabes Balfour was secured by a ruse. He protested strongly, but no appeal can avail him. He is safe on board a British gunboat, and carefully guarded. THE TRUE STORY OF THE CAPTURE. Jabez Balfour's capture was not, as stated by a news agency, brought about by any ruse. As we announced some days ago (says the Pall Mall Gazette), the Argentine Government had agreed to expel him from the country. He was, as a British subject, simply put on board a British ship lying in the harbour, where, of course, Inspector Tonbridge arrested him on the English warrant, which runs on a British ship throughout the world. It is probable that the immediate action of the Argentine Government was due to the special information we published, because had Jabez Balfour become aware of his danger from the secret understanding with our Foreign Office, he would have crossed the borders of Argentina and fled to the United States or elsewhere. ANOTHER CONTRADICTION OF THE REPORT. The Central News says the reported surrender of Jabez Balfaur is not confirmed. The officials at Buenos Ayres emphatically deny the statement that he has been placed on board a British gun- boat. [FROM THE "DAILY NEWS."] If it be true that Jabez Balfour is no longer a free man in Argentina, but is in the safe custody of Inspector Tonbndge under the British flag, thousands of people will to-day congratulate the Government on the sucoess of their persistent efforts to recall a voluntary exile home. It is a long time since Mr Spencer Balfour enjoyed his native air, or saw the faces of familiar friends. His reluctance to aid the Government in their desire to restore those privileges to him has prejudiced him more than any comment that can now be made upon his reported arrest and approaching trial. But we are well content to refrain from comment now that he is coming home, even compulsorily, to answer the accusa- tions from which he fled. Odd stories have come home from time to time of colossal schemes de- vised by Mr Balfour in ,his calm retreat for the benefit of the multitudes who have been ruined by the failure of the Liberator group of companies. These, so.far, have only added wrong to wrong and cruelty to cruelty for, though none of them have been realised, some of them, it appears, have been believed, and only the other day our readers were informed that the flow of charity, on which so many of the ruined families have been dependent, had been perceptiby checked by these tales of expiation and refunding. It isastonish- inp how credible any story can become if it serves as an excuse for buttoning up pockets. Mr Balfour's schemes will be better explained by word of mouth, but in the meantime the fountain of liberality may as well go on flowing into the Liberator Fund. The official liquidator might receive valuable assistance from Mr Balfour in further unravelling the mysterious affairs of companies in which so many millions of money have beensunk. The best reparation, in fact, which Mr Balfour could have made was to surrender himself, and as he could not see his way to do that voluntarily it is gratifying to find that the Government has been able to make him.

EISTEDDFOD AT LLAN- DYSSIL. A grand eisteddfcd was held in a capacious marquee on Thursday at Llandyssil, Cardigan- shire. There were about 5,000 people present. The presidents were Mr C. Lloyd, Waunifor, and the Rev. T. James, M.A., Llandyssil. The adjudicators were — Music, Mr John Thomas, Llanwrtyd and Mr Dyfed Lewys, London preliminary test, Rev. W. J. Da vies, Llandyssil and Mr Rowlands, Morriston poetry and prose-Rev. Gurnos Jones and D. Adams, B.A., Bethesda; prose, Mr J. Gwenogfryn Evans drawing, Mrs R. M. Davies, Post-office, Llandyssul hand- writing, Mr E. Jones, Tyssul Castle oak chair, Mr Davies, architect, Penrlnwllan investiture bags, Mrs Evans Mrs Evans, Porth and Mrs Jones, Tyssul Castle. The Rev. E. Gurnos Jones acted as conductor. The following competi- tions took place:—Investiture bag—winner. Miss Thomas Goodwick, Fishguard. Translation of Longfellow's Psalm of Life," T. J. Thomas, U.C.W., Aberystwyth. Pianoforte solo, R. T. Rees, Swansea. E-say on the" Best method of disposing of £ 100 towards improving Llandyssil," first,Drwygiwr. Children's choirs, first, Newcastle Emlyn Juvenile Choir. Song to the Oak Tree -iiinner, D. Chedydd Jones, Gwernogan. Baritone solo," Y Teithwir ai gi," J. Brenin Jones. Tregaron. Welsh recitation, Achubwch fy Blentyu," Miss Mary Jones, Gelhawr, Llandyssil". Elegy to the late John Rees, Pantyrhedyn, Watkin Hughes, Bwrynog. Impromptu speech, James Jones, Peniancych. "Song to the Post- man," Mr J. Brynuch Davies. Llanfyrnach. Best englynion to Afon Teify, L. R. Davies, Station- road, Brynaman. Collection of six action songs, Joseph E. Jones, Maesygroes, Llanrwst. Casgliad o eirtau sathredig, Rev. J. E. Davies. CHIEF CHORAL COMPETITION. The following six choirs competed on the test pieces, "Hallelujah to the Father (Beethoven) and Yr Haf (Gwilym Gwen t)-Neweastle Emlyn, Llanpumpsaint, Lampeter, Newquay, Carmarthen United, aud Llandyssil. Newquay (conductor, Mr E. Ivor Davies, Cross Inn Board School) was declared the best, thereby winning £50. Llandyssul was second in the com- petition. Essay on The History of Llandyssil Parish" —first, Rev. W. J. Davies, Unitarian minister, Llandyssil. Elegy to the late Rees Thomas prize, silver crown nnd B2 2s-first, J. Brynach Davies, Llanfyrnach. Mixed party on the test piece-Excelsior Emlyn Party. Drawing cup and saucer-D. L. Thomas. Drawing duck- David Jones. Drawing schoolboy-G. a. Jones. Bast oak chair—J. Isaac Thomas, Llandyssil. Contralto solo, Onid oes Balm yn Gilead"- first, Miss Jones. Salutation of eight choirs on the test piece, Clychau Aberdyfi," arranged by Emlyn Evans. The prize was divided between Cardigan and Newcastle Emlyn. Jones, Genlan- felan, won on the handwriting. The prize for the tenor solo of J. Rwyn Cotio" was divided between John Jones and Richard Thomas. Ap Tonaw, Llansamlet, won the chair, poem on "Cymeriad." The duett, "Y Ddau Wladgarwr," was won by Gwilym Evan-3, Tregaron, and Brennig Jones. Mary Beynon, Pantygau, won the recitation of E. Allen Poe's "The Bells." J. D. Evans, New York, won on the best translation of Y Fodrwy Briodasol" into English. D. W, Thomas, B.A., Brynhawk, Llandoenog, won the essay on • patriotism. JLrie concesc iu MO IJUUI te&ce, "Good Night, Beloved," was won by Miss James, Gowerton, Swansea, and party. The one on the trio, Deffro etto enith fwyn (G. Gwent), was won by Miss James, Swansea, and party. Two male voice parties competed in Adolphe Adam's "Anvil Chorus," viz., the Cardigan male voice party and theCymmrodorion party, led by J- D. lhomas, Swansea. The latter were declared victors. In the soprano solo, Yr esgid ar y iraeth Miss Mary Evans, Scythlyn, Pencader, was the winner. In the evening a grand concert took place, when Miss May John, R.A.M. (soprano), Miss Bessie Evans, R.A.M. (contralto), Mr Dyfed Lewys, R.A M Mr Evan Evans (Morriston), the Misses Close and Thomas (Llandyssil), etc., took part. Mr Luther Owen (LlaneUy) and Mr D, Jones (Llandyssil) acted as accompanists in the eisteddfod and concert.

The great pitch lake of Trinidad covers ninety- nine acres, and contaius millions of tons of so-called pitch. rhis is in reality a mixture of asphalte and oil, which is continually oozing cut through cracks and crevices beneath the pressure of the strata of rock abova-

STRIKE AT THE OCEAN COLLIERIES TWO HUNDRED MEN OUT OF WORK. The miners employed in the Bwllfa Collierj (Ocean), Ton, Ystrad, brought out their tools OD Wednesday in consequence of a dispute about the list of prices to be paid for working the seam which was struck about 12 months ago. Th(- men had been paid a day wage up to the end 6 last month, when the month's notices expired.

COLLIERY DISPUTE AT BLAENAVON. Considerable dissatisfaction has been prevailing for some time among certain sections of the Blaenavon Colliery employees, and a rupture hat on more than one occasion become imminent On Wednesday, however, the colliers and hanlien engaged at Kay's Slope refused to prolong opera tions under the existing conditions. The collier: complain of an attempt on the part of tht management to withhold payment on certain yardages worked and a lack of constant employment; while the hauliers, who were allowed an extra day (seven turns for six workedi for working in damp places, complain of having the day withdrawn.—A general meeting of th< whole of the colliers engaged under the company was held on Wednesday evening, at the White Horse Assembly-rooms, to consider the grievance? complained of. The meeting was adjourned to Thursday morning, when work was entirell suspended. It was decided to send a represents tive deputation from the gathering to wait upon the colliery manager (Mr T. Williams) ano lay the facts before him. They were received courteously, and a promise made to visit the workings affected, in order, if possible, to reo adjust the grievances. This decision was con- veyed to the men at an adjourned meeting in the afternoon, when it was decided, pending the promise made, to resume operations all roand this (Friday) morning.

MENERS' MEETING AT ABERAMAN. On Tuesday evening a general meeting of th( Forchaman, Treaman, and Aberama.n Powelf Duffryn Colliery workmen was held to consider several important questions. Mr Philip D. Rees, late member of the sliding-scale committee, pre, sided, and Mr Henry Davies, organising secretary, was in attendance. Resolutions were carried requesting the Home Secretary to institute a -a* ioquiry respecting the cause of the Albion Colliery explosion also urging him to appoint a number of practical miners as sub-inspectors of the South Wales coal-field and protesting against the last award of the sliding-scale committee.

STRIKE AT MAERDY COLLIERY. The hauliers of No. 2 pit. belonging to the Maerdy Colliery Company, struck work on Wed nesday morning in consequence of the action of a deputy-master haulier in dismissing a haulier for, as they consider, no just cause. They informed the management that unless this person was removed to some other district in the pit they would cease work. As a result all the hauliers and colliers, numbering something like 700, oeased work on Wednesday morning. Mr W. Thomas (Brvnawel) visited the works, but no decision was arrived at. The management say that the men must return to work before they will consider tbt. grievance.

SHOCKING DEATH OF A CARDIFF ENGINEER. On Thursday afternoon the Yarmouth coronet held an inquest on the body of William Mayo, 33, of Cardiff, chief engineer of the steamer Wans Fell, belonging to Spillers and Bakers, of Cardiff, who was crushed to death in the machinery of the steamer on Wednesday night. The Wans Fell came to Yarmouth on Tuesday with flour, and was leaving the harbour for Cardiff. Mayo stopped -one engine to pick a piece of pipe out of the aft-crank pin, and wbile stooping the shaft, weighing two tons, came down, breaking his neck and crushing in the skull, death being instantaneous. A verdict ot "Aceidentat death was returned. Mayo leaves a widow and child. The steamer is bringing thp body home to Cardiff.

COLLIERS' WAGES IN STAF- FORDSHIRE. THREATENED REDUCTION. The colliery owners connected with the South Staffordshire coal trade wages board have put forward a claim for a 10 per cent. reduction in wages. The ironworks and manufacturing coal district of South Staffordshire is not affiliated with the National Federation, but the Vpagei board assert that they have followed the National Federation lead, and have given the men a 40 pot cent. advance since 1888, hence the necessity for the present reduction. A meeting of the miners and owners' representatives has been called to consider the notice.

THE TIN-PLATE TRADE. THE PROPOSED GREAT STRIKE. In Swansea tin-plate circles the suggestion thai there should be a strike at all the works owned by the members of the employers' association it regarded as only a threat for the present, for times are now so bad that the employers would as soon close their works as keep them going. But there is some fear that when an improvement takes place the men may take steps to retaliate ou the employers, and it is with this view that the men are just now husbanding their resource as much as possible.

BRITANNIA V. VIGILANT. THE RACE AT SWANSEA. LETTER FROM THE GERMAN EMBASSY. The Niavor of Swansea on Thursday morning received the followiug letter from the Germati Embassy:— German Embassy, 9, Carlton House-terrace, London, S.W., August 1st, 1894. Sir,—Referring to your letter of the 31st ult. addressed to his Excellency Count Hitzfeld, I have the honour to inform yoti that a rft. port will be made of your request to bi, Majesty the Emperor after the Imperial yacht's* arrival at Cowes. I should be very much obliged to you for letting me know at your earliest convenience what date has been, or may be, fixed for the race, and which of the tirst-class yachts except the Britannii and Vigilant will be present. Thanking yt>u most sincerely for your promise that a hearty welcome » awaiting his Majesty's yacht Meteor, I have the honoui to remain, K. GCLICH, Captain, T.G.N. Navy, Naval and Militax; Attache to the German Embassy, To his Worshipful the Mayor of Swansea.

ACTION OF THE CORINTHIAN SAILING CLUB. At a meeting of the Corinthian Sailing Club, held on Wednesday evening, the action of Mi Moffat, the commodore, in resigning the secretary- ship of the Swansea regatta because the club bad been ignored, was unanimously approved of.

CARDIFF HORTTCULTDRAL 6001ETY. -lbe sixth annual show will be held on August 15th and 16th. Entries close August 7th.—For schedules and entry forms aoplv to H. Gillett. 66. Woodville-road. Cardiff

I LONDON LETTER, 1 -+- [*"ROjI 0 K iONDOX CORRESPONDENT.] [SMCCIALLY WIRED.] LONDON, Thursday Night. THE NEW ABSEN'TEKS. #erUri"n^ cluestion time this afternoon there the (*a r,uillber of Conservatives present on PPosition benches, and there was also b ery sprinkling of Liberal Unionists, very fair sprinkling of Liberal Unionists, h,j, as soon as the House went into com- th 66 °n ^le -Evi°ted Tenants Bill most of 6tti departed, MrGoschen, who had been lng as leader of the Opposition in the i 86006 °f Mr Balfour, being the first to r Ve. the chamber. Sir Richard Webster plained about ten minutes on the front and then he too disappeared beyond e glass doors that open into the Lobby. A. e.w of the rank and file, like Mr Hanbury, fj1 "^kert Rollit;, Mr Ernest Tritton, Mr arry Foster, and Sir Richard Temple ilngered yet awhile, but with the exception Sir Albert Rollit they at length followed ",ie example set them by their leaders. A NEW-BORN REFORMER. Mr Hanbury, however, did not leave until ^eW taken part in a very pretty little jfmedy. According to Clause 4 of the Bill, _e arbitrators are empowered to make a to tenants who are restored to their '"Mings towards erecting a house, and Mr sj &I1cy proposed that after house they insert the words or office, or in ^,Wlllg crops in or slocking the holding. insert the words or office, or in ^,Wlllg crops in or slocking the holding. *'lr John Morley ;>dmifted there was a great to be said in favour of the proposal, but Uot see ;iccep[ jt. Mr Sexton William Redmond both expressed 'ell cieel) regret at this decision, and Sir t ert Rollit appealed to the Government '¡\ re,il(e the Bill, if it was to pass, as ective as possible. He supported the but little importance was 'ached to this waving of the olive branch the part of Sir Albert, as he is one of ft°$e members of the House who are |°ttiewhat prone to playing the role of a ^■ciliator, both in season and out of season. j*16 member for Preston occupies a very ~lff«n'ent position, and the effect was most j^^al when he rose and begged the Government to accept the amend- :nent of the Irish members, as it a8 only fair that the clause should be j^snded in the direction proposed. The r18'' cheered tumultuously as Mr Hanbury i on to say that though he was not a supporter of the measure, he did not t° see the Government stand by an '^gical position. If it was right to rebuild hou<5e it was also right that assistance !\°Uld be given to re-stock farms. Con- lderii)g that Mr Hanbury placed auiend- ^ents to (he Bill on the paper by the score, 18 Hew-born affection for the Irish cause ivas provocative of great laughter. Mr I 4orley proved equal to the occasion, and t lc* that after the expression of opinion all parts of the House he would con- t*er whether he could not incorporate the lt4clidtnpiit in a iiiodifel form into the Bill jl1 the Report Stage. Mr Hanbury having Acceded in winning this concession from e Government on behalf of the Irish Ambers, walked out of the House amid ten era I cheers. He did not speak again in debate, which was brought to a con- Usion shortly after six o'clock. AN OPEN ARBITRATION COURT. The Bill was reported to the House amid .out! cheers from the Liberal and Irish Ambers, but not until Mr Courtney had an appeal that the arbitration court ?j?°uld be held in public, a suggestion which *r Morley promised to favourably consider. MR J. W. MA OUTRE. Mr J. W. Macluie was present in the I-obby to-day for the first time since the Incident which resulted in the fracture of ,is collar bone. He was warmly congratu- lated by members ct all parties on his ^covery. THE NEW ICONOCLAST. t am informed that negotiations are being ^ried on with the Unionists leaders, ^rouali Mr Courtney, with the view of Educing Lord Salisbury and the Duke af Devonshire not to reject the Evicted Tenants' Bill on the second ding, but to return it to the nu -,Ouse of Commons with amendments they think fit to insert. The idea is that if v measure is transferred into a purely s.'Uiitary measure the Government will be .j^Posed to give it a trial, and I understand if it came to deciding between such a and no Bill, the Irish members would cept the former if an understanding were given by Mr Smith Barry that landlords intended to deal fairly it. The great obstacle to a possible j^tlenient, on these lines is Mr Chamber- ln) who, to use an expressive phrase of of his own friends, is fairly on the war- mth. He will not have peace at any price, as he is the arbiter ot the situation, ."ere is little hope of the Bill being saved any form. MORE GRUMBLING. It is no secret that the Irish member!? e Very much annoyed at the part Sir Wm. rcourt ha.s played in the proceedings his week. One of their leaders informed 11)6 to-night that, speaking from a long Experience of Parliamentary life, he was Positive that if Mr Gladstone had been Q.dillg the House he would have saved the Ration after Mr Courtney's speech. I Q.\?e cood reason to believe that that ^Pinion is also shared by more than one of William Harcourt's most influential lleagues. Ministers were surprised at the tone he adopted in moving his guillotine Solution, and the speech he made in re- sponse to the appeals for an amicable element for the sake of Ireland no less an for the honour of the House of Com- 2f°is, created great consternation on the treasury Bench. There has been some Wain speaking in private concerning the *°tion of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. ORDER OF BUSINESS. -After the Evicted Tenants' Bill was dis- ced of in Committee to-night the Building ) thCleties Bill was taken in hand. To-morrow e Equalisation of Rates Bill will be the arder of the day, and a lengthy discussion is j^icipated on an amendment moved by Mr "^iinber that the expenditure upon sanitary ?r°r_ks, and not population, should be the "j*8*8 of the new rating scheme. On Mon- the report stage of the Evicted Quants Bill will be taken, and on Tuesday *e -ire to have the third reading. The "atter will lead to a full-dress debate, and will be publicly made by the Zionist leaders which will, for weal or woe, ff^le the fate of the Bill in the other "GO BANG." The successful musical piece, Go Bang, playing at the Trafalgar Theatre, its 150th performance on Wednesday \ght, when sundry alterations and additions be made. Go Bang continues to attract I.*10'1 large audiences that there seems "-tie chance of its successor being required 11 this side of Christmas. MR HUGH PRICE HUGHES. The Rev. Hugh Price Hughes is much hocked at the idea of a layman ever °Cupyjng tj,e chair of the Wesleyan inference. No other construction can be j^eed on his words—that those who •^it no distinction between a minister a layman, and would like J? see a layman in the chair of t e conference, will support Mr Perks ° the bitter end in his opposition to the chairmen scheme. Mr Hughes ^ghs to scorn those who are opposed to C CIllen being admitted to the representative Inference. Now it will be the turn of Mr v ei'ks to laugh at Mr Hughes for objecting b ? layman aspiring to the presidential 11 By the way, it is significant that the Weekly is of opinion, that if the 'Plated chairmen scheme had been carried j.e victory would have been pregnant with 8&8ter for Methodism. A NOTED VISITOR. j. When the President of the Orange Free jq^^Mr Reitz, has concluded his visit to the ejI&nds he will come over and spend time in London before returning to £ OVvn country. It is on the cards that, h the precedent of conferring knight- be imperial predecessor, Lord Rose- ho advise the Queen to confera similar Cuu°Ur on Mr Reitz, who is a man of i>oi>Urei an<^a strange contrast to his neigh- rj. r» Mr Krugei\ the President of the A^nsvaal Republic.

An j8 lnvitation to become a disguised nobleman jB'jen to a younp gentleman of good social jj)aji"'ou in the Times. He is to join a gentle- ail<^ three ladies in an open-air concert tour .a-slde,resort! all the capital required being » Ihbll voice and a lamk.

MURDER OF PRESIDENT CARNOT. TRIAL OF CASERIO. PRISONER AVOWS HIS GUILT. LYONS, Thursday.—The trial of Caserio Santo for the murder of President Carnot commenced to-day at half-past nine. Ac half-past four this morning he was conveyed from prison to the court-house in the prison van, escorted by a platoon of gendarmes with drawn swords. The court was strictly guarded. A cordon of infantry was drawn round the building, and at every exi t were placed pohce and agents de la surete. The proceedings commenced with the reading of the indictment. Councillor Breuillac presided, Maitre Fochier acting as public prosecutor, whilst M. Dubrenil defended the prisoner. Some sensation was caused in court when it became known that threatening letters bad been received by the President, by the prefect of Lyons, and by the jury. No arrests have been made. The most interesting feature in the trial was the examination of the accused. He fully admitted the murder, declar- ing himself wholly responsible for the act, and declined to shelter himself under any plea of irresponsibility for his actions. The court ad- journed for an hour; after which the evidence of M. Borins Mayer, the Prefect of Lyons, was heard. Thirty witnesses in all gave « vidence. It was expected that the verdict would be given to- night. Contrary to expectation, however, when the case for the prosecution was closed the court rose, adjourning till to-morrow morning at nine o'clock.—Central News.

GREAT FIRES IN CHICAGO. HALF A MILE OF BUILDINGS BURNED. CHICAGO, Thursday.—A great fire broke out hero last night, and spread with marvellous rapidity. The outbreak was first noted at a lumber stores in the centre of the city. An electric car warehouse, a large building devoted to the production of stoves, and 13 other large factories have been destroyed. Half a square mile has been devastated. It is the largest fire that has taken place in this city since the great conflagration of 1372. One man was killed in attempting to escape, and many firemen and several spectators have been burned seriously. Seven have been removed to th9 hospital. The damage is estimated at three million dollars.— Central News. CHICAGO, Thursday.—A destructive fire occured here last night at the lumber yards bounded by the Blue Island-avenue, Lincoln-street, Ash- land-avenue, and the river. The flames spread rapidly, and were not subdued until the stacks covering 40 acres were destroyed. The loss exceeds one million five hundred thousand dollars. Oneman was killed and several others injured. — Reuter. _—————————

TO-DA VS WEATHER 4.30 A.M. TO-DAY S FORECAST FOR ENGLAND, S.W., AND SOUTH WALES. North-westerly winds, backing to westerly or south-westerly; changeable showery. G E N F R A L. -Unsettled showery weather seems likely to continue in most places, with lower tem- perature. Conti

GENERAL FORECASTS. The following forecasts werepreparea last night a the Meteorological OfC-o at eignt o'clock :— DISTRICTS— a a Li j -NT 1 Northerly winds, moderate 0. Scotland, W. I fair generally, but local 1. ocotland, showers. 1. ocotland, showers. „ i w p I Westerly or north-westerly England,-N.it*. I winds, moderate; cool 3. Lngland, J changeable; some showers. 4. Mid. Countie- Westerly winds, fresh; cool; 5' -kns. '3. (l«on.. changeable; some showers. and Channel.. J 6, Scot] and, W. 7, Engl. N. W., J-Samo as 2 and 3. &NorthWales J A North-westerly winds, back- 5. Ireland, N ing later to westerly or 18. Ireland, S. j south-westerly change- J able; showery.

It is quite evident (says a writer in the Daily Telegraph) that birds are now becoming aware of the protection afforded them by the Legislature, and are less afraid of, the haunts of man than formerly.

THE WAR IN THE COREA WITHDRAWAL OF JAPANESE FROM SEOUL. DECLARATIONS MADE ON BOTH SIDES. 2,000 JAPANESE KILLED, THE SINKING OF THE KOW SHING DESCRIBED. ATTITUDE OF RUSSIA. BRITISH SUBJECTS PRO- TECTED. THE RIVAL NAVIES. SHANGHAI, Thursday.—The Japanese losses in the fighting at Yashan were 1,500 killed.— Central News.

THE NEWS CONFIRMED. The Press Association is officially informed upon the highest authority that on the occasion of the attack by Japanese troops upon the Chinese at Yachen on the 27th and 28thof July the Japanese were repulsed with a loss of over 2,000 men. It is understood that China has accepted the chal- lenge received from Japan, and has notified the same from Pekin to all foreign nations. A despatch from Shanghai states that the North China Daily News confirms the reported fighting at Yashan. The Japanese opened the attack on the 26th, and the fighting continued throughout the 27tb. The Japanese, it says, brought up every available man to the battle, Seoul being almost denuded of troops. It confirms the report that the Japanese were defeated with heavy loss. It is known that European officers are with the Chinese forces at Yashan. The Chinese are hurrying reinforcements to the scene of action. Nine Chinese vessels, three being warships, sailed east from Chefoo on Monday. The transports were packed with troops.

REPORTED WITHDRAWAL OF THE JAPANESE PROM SEOUL, The following appears in the second edition of the Times SHANGHAI, Thursday.—According to authentic reports received from foreign official sources at Seoul, the Chinese General Yeh last Sunday defeated the Japanese forces near Asan. the Japanese have withdrawn from Seoul. An army of Chinese troops, 20,000 strong, has crossed the Corean frontier from Wanchura. CHINESE MINISTER LEAVES TOKIO. YOKOHAMA, Wednesday. —The Chinese Minister at Tokio has demanded his passports, and will leave for China on the 3rd inst.Renter. EUROPEAN SURVIVORS OF THE I KOW SHING. Reuter's Agency received from the Indo-China I' Steam Navigation Company, the owners of the Kow Shmg, which,was sunk on July 25th by the Japanese man-of-war Naniwa, the following telegram, dated Shanghai, August 2nd :—" Kow Shing officers: Galsworthy, Tamplin, Welch, Wake; eugineers, Gordon, Halley, Primrose passengers, Hannecken and two Germans, names unknown. Hannecken saved. Galsworthy and Tamplin reported saved. Authentic report from Hannecken expected August 4th, when details will be sent." HOW THE VESSEL WAS SUNK. STATEMENTS BY THE CAPTAIN AND CHIEF OFFICER. TOKIo, Thursday.—TheJapanse Government have received the signed affidavits of the captain and chief officer of the Kow.,Shing, the British vessel sunk by the Naniwa off Yasan. Then- summary is as follows — The Kow Shing, chartered by the Chinese Government, left Taku on the 23rd July with 1,100 Chinese soldiers on board, bound for Yasan for the purpose of land- ing troops there. The Naniwa signalled her to stop. The Kow Shing obeyed and, as the Naniwa was going away, signalled, Am I to proceed 1" The Naniwa answered, "Heave to, or take the consequences." This signal, however, was not meant for her, but for the Chinese man of war flying the Japanese flag and the white Sag. The Naniwa sent an officer to the Kow Shing to see the ship's papers, and among other questions asked if she would follow the Naniwa. The captain answered, "We are in your power." Then the officer returned, but a boat was again sent upon the request to communicate personally, and the captain told hiiu that Chinese generals would not allow him to follow. The Japanese officer, after listening to all that he had to say, returned to the Naniwa, which then signalled to the captain to quit the ship immediately, but the captain signalled that he was not allowed to leave. Then the Naniwa hoisted a red flag at the fore masthead and once more hoisted the signal to quit the ship immediately. The captain.warned the engineers and other foreigners to be on deck. After a while the Naniwa discharged a torpedo and fired. The captain of the Kow Shing, with several others, then jumped overboard, and while in the water the Chinese soldiers on board the Kow Shing kept firing at the captain and others, and eventually he was pickedup by a boat of the Naniwa and taken on board, where every kindness was shown to him and to the chief officer, who was also picked up. The captain says that while on board the Kow Shing his life was threatened by the Chinese generals when he attempted to follow the Naniwa or to leave the ship. The chief officer adds that the second visit of the officer was in order to transfer the Europeans on board of the man. of-war before the firing began, but these good intentions were frustrated by the Chinese.— Renter. ANOTHER ACCOUNT OF THE AFFAIR. A correspondent at Chefoo telegraphs certain details of the sinking of the Kow Shing. On the refusal of the officers to quit the ship, he says, the Naniwa's answer to this signal was to immediately fire a torpedo and two broadsides with all its guns, including two 25-ton and four 10-ton guns. The greatest excitement prevailed on board the Kow Shing. The Chinese troops endeavoured to return the fire with their field guns—a battery of artillery being on board. A torpedo, however, struck the coal-bunkers, causing the boiler to explode, bm, the Kow Shing not sinking, the Chinese troops continued to return the Japanese fire with their rifles and small guns. After fifteen discharges from the ten.ton guns of the Naniwa, the Kov. Shing sank by its stern, with the British flag still flying. The Naniwa continued to fire from its machine guns and lowered its boats, which rowed around, killing the Chinese troops struggling for their lives in the water. The Japanese made the most strenuous attempt to destroy all the survivors and witnesses of their action. Major von Henneken reported the whole affair to the British Consul at Chemulpo, extolling the magnificent conduct of the Chinese troops, who perished fighting to the last. NEWS NOT CREDITED AT THE JAPANESE LEGATION. On Thursday the officials at the Japanese Legation were astounded at the atrocity which ¡ hasbeen attributed to the Japanese warahip. The point out that no indication of such an occurrence was conveyed to them in the official report from Tokio, and that many of those rescued were picked up by Japanese boat?, which goes to dis- prove the assertion that they were engaged in shooting down the drowning victims. The officers of the Naniwa will be called upon to furnish an official report, and pending this the Legation is anxious that judgment should be held in suspense. Naturally the officials at the Legation are not inclined to credit the report. THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT DETERMINED. ROME, Thursday.—A despatch received here from Hokio states that the Japanese Government decline to entertain any proposal not based upon the acceptance by China of ail that Japan has done in Corea.—Renter. ACTIVITY AT THE RIVAL LEGATIONS. The Press Association says there was again a good deal of activity at both the the Chinese and Japanese Legations in London on Wednesday, and the officials were kept busy in receiving callers. At the Chinese Legation telegrams arrived at frequent intervals all through the night. CHINESE AMBASSADOR AND THE QUEEN. The new Chinese Minister to Great Britain and France will proceed from London to Osborne on Thursday to present his credentials to the Queen. WHAT IS CONTRABAND OF WAR 1 The Press Association learns that on Friday Mr Gourley, M.P., intends to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in the House of Commons whether, seeing that war has been declared between China and Japan) neutral vessels will be interrupted in their trade between these two countries; if so, what time will ba granted for sailing to and from belligerent oorts: within what distance from British, Indian, and Colonial ports and harbours capture and seizure by either of the belligerent powers will be considered legal and if it is in. tended to define for the guidance of British merchants and shipowners what merchan- dise is to be considered as contraband of war, thus avoiding as far as possible complications similar to those which arose during the American Civil War; further, to inquire if coal conveyed to non. blockaded ports will be legal traffic. PROTECTION OF BRITISH SUBJECTS. The Press Association adds that up to this evening no report of further fighting between China and Japan had been transmitted by our representatives at the seat of operations to this country. Lord Kimberley has completed the steps necessary to warn British subjects abroad as to dangers involved in the outbreak of hostilities, and has also arranged to protect, by the presence of a British fleet in China waters. British sub- jects and British interests. The Bluejackets landed at Seoul for the protection of the British Consulate there will be re-inforced. ATTITUDE OF RUSSIA. ST. PETERSBURG, Thursday.—It is stated in well-informed quarters that Russia, sincerely de- siring a prompt settlement of the conflict between China and Japan, is firmly resolved to act in complete accord with Great Britain with a view to diplomatic action for the settlement of the present difficulty. Should, nevertheless, the united efforts of the two Powers prove unsuccess- ful Russia would be equally determined never to allow any Power to take even partial possession of Corea. —Renter. DESPATCHES RECEIVED AT THE FOREIGN OFFICE. NEWS OF THE FIGHTING CONFIRMED. The Press Association states that important telegrams were received at the Foreign Office late on Thursday evening from Pekin confirming the report that there had been serious fighting in Corea between Japanese and Chinese troops. A copy of the message was sent at once by Lord Kimberley to Lord Rosebery, who is remaining in town during the crisis. Lord Kimberley has demanded a strict inquiry into the Kow Shing massacre, and has demanded that the British Consul shall be present at the couct-martial on the commander of the Japanese gunboat which destroyed her. THE GRAVE CHARGES AGAINST THE I JAPANESE. The Central News says The chief interest in ¡ the war between Cliina and Japan on Thursday centred in the charges of savage butchery I' made against the Japanese on the occasion ot the sinking the Kow Shing. Further explanations have been asked from I Japan, and an indignant denial may be expected, but the result of the court of inquiry at Tientsin, and the sworn testimony of the Europeans who were saved, is awaited with much eagerness. If the evidence of unbiassed witnesses supports these allegations, it will go far to shake belief in Japan's newly-found civilisation, and alienate much of the sympathy that has been felt for her in some quarters. ONE RESULT OF THE DECLARATION OF WAR. I At the Chinese Legation the scene on Thursday has been reposeful compared with the bustling activity which has prevailed during the past few I weeks. The builders of warships and torpsdo boats and the manufacturers of arms and ammunition have fully realised that the declaration of war I has put an end to their opportumties, and the Legation officials have had time for rest and reflection. It bad been mtended that the Chinese Minister should be presented to her Majesty at Osborne on Thursday, but this ceremony has been postponed until to-day (Friday). Sir Halliday Macartney will accom- pany bim. JAPANESE DEFEAT CONFIRMED. An official telegram received in London from China confirms the Japanese defeat at Yashan, and places their losses at 2,000. THE ADVANCE OF CHINESE TROOPS. No official intimation of a Chinese army of 20,000 men having crossed the Corean frontier from Manchuria has been received, but the move- ment was expected and the news is not doubted. This corps is composed of the best troops in China, men of magnificent physique and tolerably well armed. At the Foreign Office the authori- ties have been much engaged with the routine details inseparable from a declaration of war. No news was communicated. PROBABLE EFFECT ON HONG KONG'S TRADE. A high authority on the Government side of the Hoase of Commons states that the war will inevitably have a marked oudden effect upon the prosperity of Hong Kong. This is the nearest and the largest neutral port to the nations affected by the cam- paign, and to it all the trade ot that remote region of the East will be for the present diverted. Hong Kong will necessarily become the depot-for almost everything, and should the Chinese ports be blockaded by Japanese, Hong Kong may, and must inevitably become the centre of a fleet of blockade runners. The possibilities of a war between two such Powers as China and Japan caunot be subjected to a time limit, and the longer it lasts the greater will be the gain of the great British colony in the China Sea. MR CURZON, M.P.. AND THE WAR. A representative of Reuter's Agency has had an interview with Mr G. N. Curzon, M.P., on the subject of the war between China and Japan. Mr Curzon said It is really absurd that China and Japan should embark upon a costly and protracted and ruinous struggle in Corea, when the upshot, whoever may be the winner, will probably only be the restoration, with certain modifications, of the status quo. If reforms in Corea are only the pretext, and not the cause, and if Japan is resolved upon a fight outrance with her great rival China, two contingencies require to be faced. The first is an arduous and prolonged struggle, opening, perhaps, with easy successes for Japan, but not likely to be terminated with- out counter-reverses and an immense strain upon her resources at a time when she should be bent upon internal construction rather than exterior destruction. The second is the likelihood that other Powers will become involved. The very conditions that render Japan apprehensive of a Russian descent upon Corea and of Russian ports open all the year round and facing her own coasts make it unlikely that Russia would tolerate the neighbourhood in Corea of a young and impetuous and aggressive Power possessing great confidence in its military and naval resources and flushed with recent success. The result of an extended struggle might therefore be to drive China into the arms of Russia, who would have much to gain by such au arrangement, and to confronb Japan with an alliance that she would then regret to have provoked. From either point of view, there- have provoked. From either point of view, there- fore, whether the object of Japan be the substitu- tion of Japanese for Chinese influence under the guise of reform in Corea or the wider humiliation of China herself, war is hardly likely to repay its cost to Japan. China for her part, though she feels herself the aggrieved party, and though she is prevented by national pride from relinquishing her suzerainty over Corea, which is far less tech- nical and more practical than moat persons imagine, can hardly desire a war in which if successful she would merely vindicate the position in Corea which she already holds. whilst if beaten she would suffer an irreparable blow to her national prestige. If, however, it is to be not a Corean but a general war with Japan, we may be certain that she will put forward every effort to beat an antagonist who has been the aggressor, and whom she both despises and dis- likes. It is an interesting fact that the Viceroy, Li Hung Chang, who directs the foreign policy of China, and Count Ito, the Japanese Premier, are old acquaintances and even friends. The former is the shrewdest of living Chinese states- men, and the latter has earned a great reputation for moderation and common sense. The severity of the winter in Corea and the fact that the ports on the west coast are commonly frozen may dissuade both parties from a protracted conflict. I hope therefore that, although all the omens are unfavourable, the struggle may not be carried on to the bitter end.

THE CHINESE AND JAPANESE NAVIES. A COMPARATIVE STATEMENT. Mr Scott Keltie, ih "The Statesman's Year Book for 1894," drew up a careful tabular com- parison of the navies of the world upon a uniform system of classification. The following figures, therefore, show "t merely the respective numbers of the Chinese and Japanese navies, but their actual comparative fighting strength at the beginning of the war — China. Japan. Battleships, 1st Class 1 Battleships, 2nd Class 1 Port Defence vessels (armoured). 9 — Cruisers, 1st Class 3 5 Cruisers, 2nd Class 9 Cruisers, 3rd Class 47 22 Torpedo Craft. 1st Class 2 1 Torpedo Craft, 2nd Class 26 40 Torpedo Craft, 3rd Class 13 — Totals.Ill 77 i THE MERCHANT MARINES. It may be of interest to append the following mparison of the merchant navies of the belli- gerents. That of China is very small, but quite recently the Chinese Government have begun to subsidise native shipping enterprises, and it is as well in a sense that the Chinese mercantile development has been a little tardy, since the Japanese would have probably swept the Celestial bottoms from the high seas. The comparison is as follows Country. Steamers. Tonnage. Sailing. Tonnage. rapan 1*6 75,459 98 25,602 China 34 29,169 fHE JAPANESE FLEET IN COREAN WATERS. The Daily Telegraph on this subject says:- even before there had been any intimation that conBict was impending between the two great rivals of the Orient, the navy of Dai Nippon was substantially represented in the waters that lap the coast of Chosen. Indeed, we aremformed by advices from Yokohama that early in June Japan had no less than ten members of her fleet on the Corean station. The names of these are the Matsu- shima (flagship), Yoshino, Yamato, Musashi, Takao, Chiyoda, Tsukushi, Akagi, Chokai, and Yae- yama. Later, for transport purposes, there were requisitioned 14 merchant ships—ten of these from the great native mail line, the Nippon Yusen Kaisha, and the remaining four from two other companies. In recent telegrams mention has further been made of the Takachiho, Akitsusbima, and the Hiye, which, with the Naniwa, also stated to have participated in the naval contest, gives Japan, at the lowest estimate, a fleet of 14 warshi lB. The details of this fairly imposing squadron are as follows AKAGI.-This steel-hulled craft is of native construction, having been built at Onobama in 1887, and has a tonnage of 615. She carries one 9'75in. Krupp, one4"7in. ditto, and two machine guns, and her speed is 12 knots. AKI'l'SVSHIMA.-Of 3,150 tonnage, this vessel was also constructed in Japan, and is one of the most recent additions to the navy, having been launched at Yokosuku, the great naval depot, only two years ago. Her armament consists of one 12'4in. Ktupp, twelve 4'7in, quick-firers, and six machine guns. She has a protected deck, her hull is of steel, and her speed is given at 19 knots. Calyol)A.-This is an armoured cruiser (steel with a displacement of 2,450 tons; bas 4in.) armour on the belt, and lin. deck plating. Her armament is ten 4'7in. quick-firers, fourteen 4'7in. ditto, and threej.machinafguns. She waslannched at Glasgow in 1889, and has a speed of 19 knots. CHAKol.-Built at the capital, Tokoi, in 1887, this gun vessel, of 615 tons, has steel hull, with armament as follows:-One 8in. Krupp, one 4 7iu. ditto, aud two machine guns. Her rate of speed is 10 knots. HIYB.—Built at Milford Haven. Has a speed of about 13 knots, and has an armour-belt four inches thick. She is a composite corvette of 2,154 tons, has nine guns, and is described as a training ship. MATsuSHIMA.-Launched on the Seine in 1890. Her deck is 2in- protected, and the displace- ment is 4,277 tons. Steel hulled, with 12in. armour on barbette forward, she carries one 12'4in. Canet, eleven 4'7in. ditto, 5 6-pounder quick-tiring guns, eleven 3-pounder Hotchkiss, and s:x machine guns. Speed, 17 5 knots, MOSASHJ.—This is a composite vessel of home construction (1886). Details: 1,476 tons; two 60in. Krupps, five 4'7in. ditto; two machine guns speed, 13'5 knots. NANIWA.—Her deck protection is 3in. and 2in. tonnage, 3,650; and the hull of steel. Two lOin. 28-ton Armstrongs, six 6m. 5-ton Krupps, two quick-firers, and 10 machine guns constitute her armanent. She was built at Walker, on the Tyne, in 1885, and is returned at 18'72 knots. TAKACHIHO.—Walker, on the Tyne. ia. 1385. was the place of construction. The tonnage of this vessel is 3,650, her deck protection is 3in. and 2in., with steel hull, and her implements of combat are two 10-in. 28-ton Armstrongs,six 6-in. 5-ton ditto, two quick-firers, and ten machine guns. Speed, 18'72, TAKAO.—Constructed in Japan, this cruiser is of 1,760 tonnage, with steel and wood hull, has four 6,111. quick-firers, and one 4.in. ditto. Her date of launching is variously given as 1888 and 1885, and her steaming power at 15 knots. TSUKusHt.A cruiser built at Walker, on the Tyne, in 1882. Her tonnage i« 1,500, and has a steel hull, Her armament is two lOin. 25-ton (Armstrong), four 4in. ditto, and four machine guns. Speed, 17 knots. Y AEYA:&IA.-Of 1,600 tonnage, this steel cruiser, built at Yokosuka in 1889, has three 4*7in. and six machine guns. Her steaming ability is stated at 20 knots. YAMATO.—In common with the Tsukushi, Yaeyama, and Yoshino, this vessel is a training ship for cadets. She was built in Japan (1885), has a tonnage of 1,476, with hull of steel, and has aboard two 7in Kcupp3, five 4-7in., and eight machine guns. Her steaming capacity is 13-5 knots. YOSHINO.—4% in and l%in are the degrees of her deck protection. The other particulars -wte-: Tonnage, 4,150; hull of steel four 6in. quick- firers, eight 4-7 in. ditto, 22 3-pounder ditto. She was launched at Armstrong's in 1892, and is credited with the high speed of 23'03 knots, and only recently left the Tyne for Japan. This vessel," says Sir Edward Reed, may be regarded as one of the three or four fastest steam cruisers in the world."

THE NAVAL MANOEUVRES. COMMENCEMENT OF HOSTILITIES. A telegram from Kilrush at seven o'clock on Thursday evening, stated that war had been declared. Rear Admiral Drummond's fleet had weighed anchor and were steaming out of the Shannon. The weather was very tine, and the departure of the squadron was witnessed by a large number of people.

COLLISION ON THE HIGH- LAND RAILWAY. ONE MAN KILLED THREE INJURED. On Thursday afternoon a passenger train from Perth to Inverness ran into a goods train at Newtonmore, a station on the Highland Railway midway between Perth and Inverness. Consider- able damage was done to rolling stock. A coachman in charge of some horses was killed, and three piassengers were injured. Special staffs have been despatched from Inverness to the scene.

SHOCKING DEATH OF A CLERGYMAN. Early on Thursday there was found on the railway between Finchley and Highgate the body of a man whose dress seemed to indicate that he was a clergyman holding a high position in the Church. The body was much lacerated, and it is thought that deceased deliberately committed suicide or was walking along the line and was knocked down by a passing train. The deceased possessed jewellery but practically no money. He had a ticket from Portsmouth to London dated Wednesday.

MURDER AND SUICIDE. At Edenfield, Lancashire, on Thursday, the dead bodies of the young wife of a police- constable and her 12 months old baby girl were found in a brook. The woman appeared on Wednesday night to have been in her usual health, but it is believed to be a case of murder and suicide.

SCOTCH MINERS' STRIKE. A Glasgow telegram says Rumours were rife on Wednesday that the Scottish Miners' Feder- ation were prepared to accept a compromise in the shape of a partial settlement. On Thursday was officially denied, and two of the men's leaders who gave currency to the statement were denounced as traitors.

ATTEMPTED SUICIDE AT BOURNE- MOUTH. Edith Walsh, a young lady aged 26. belonging to Bournemouth, was remanded at Worthing on lhursday charged with attempting to drown her- self In. tIJfiI sea.

I. AND Pony RAOES, August H<4i<lay.—Peuydaneu Park. Merthyr. >a Handicaps, Pony Race, pony W.1? Entries close August 4th.—For Thomas, Plymouth Arms Inn, Merthjrr. 6ll»

TORY SULKING CONTINUED. LEADERS RETIRED TO THEIR TENTS. GETTING ON FAMOUSLY WITHOUT THEM. BILL THROUGH COMMITTEE. HOUSE OF LORDS—THURSDAY. The Lord Chancellor took his seat on the wool- sack at a quarter past four o'clock. Lord Coleridge (the Hon. Bernard Coleridge) took the oath and subscribed the roll on succes- sion to the title. The report of amendments to the Chimney Sweepers Bill was received. The British Museum (the Purchase of Land) Bill passed through Committee. The House adjourned at 25 minutes to five.

HOUSE OF COMMONS. -THuRsiDAY. The Speaker took the chair at 3.5. Notice had been given of 48 questions. There was a small tt endance at the commencement of business, only half-a-dozen members of the Opposition having by then put in an appearance. THE FEE GRANT. Mr ACLAND, in answer to Mr McCartney, said there had been no change in the practice in regard to the times of paying the fee grants to voluntary schools since it was instituted, and no change had occurred under the present Government. SCOTCH LOCAL GOVERNMENT BILL. Sir GEO. TREVELYAN, in answer to Mr Ren- shaw, said the Government amendments to this Bill would be circulated on Saturday. The CHANCEIXOR of the EXCHEQUER, in reply to Mr Hozier, said it was hoped that the House would by Tuesday next have finished the Evicted Tenants' Bill and the committee stage of the Equalization of Rates Bill, The Local Govern- ment (Scotland) Bill would then be taken. FLOATING DERELICTS. The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE, 111 reply to Mr Macdona, said he believed the Departmental Committee ap- pointed to take evidence as to floating derelicts had finished their investigations, but they had not yet drawn up a report. He would press for the presentation of the report before the close of the Session. THE BEHRING SEA ARBITRATION. Mr CREMER asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he was now in a position to present a return of the total cost to this country of the Behring Sea arbitration. Sir EDWARD GREY said certain particulars from Canada were yet to be received. Directly the accounts were completed, a return of the total cost would be made. CHINA AND JAPAN. Replying to questions from Sir Ellis Ashmead- Bartlett and Mr Webster in reference to the hostilities between China and Japan, Sir EDWARD GREY said War has been de- clared. We have received no information as to military or naval operations except as to the encounter in which the transport Kow Chung was sunk. The Kow Chung is a British vessel be- longing to the Indo-China Steam Navigation Company, chartered by the Chinese for the con- veyance of troops. The hon. member (Mr Webster) has no doubt observed that the accounts of what has taken place are most conflicting, and till the facts are placed beyond dispute I cannot make a statement as to compensation. The Japanese Government have, however, informed us spontaneously that they are ready to make further reparation if it is found that their officers were in the wrong, (Hear.) JABEZ. Mr STUART WORTLEY asked whether it was true, as stated in to-day's newspapers, that Jabez Balfour was being brought to this country ? Sir E. GREY We have received no confirma- tion of the report, and have no information wibh regard to it. EVICTED TENANTS BILL. The House then WlIt into Committee on the Evicted Tenants (Ireland) Arbitration Bill. The Conservative and Liberal Unionist benches were again generally vacant, but Mr Hanbury, Sir A. Rollit, and one or two other gentlemen oocupied seats on the former, while Mr Courtney and Mr T. W. Russell were in their places on the latter. On Clause 4, Mr CLANCY proposed to inserb words giving the arbitrators power to award a grant to the evicted tenants in respect to sowing crops in or re-stocking the holding. Mr J. MORLEY could not accept the amend- ment. After some observations from Mr HEALT, Mr SEXTON said that two thousand of the evicted tenants might not be able to sow or stock their farms. Ho thought that jB20,000 might well be appropriated in giving them assistance in this matter. Mr J. MORLEY said that he did not see his way to charge any. payments of kind upon the, funds available for the purposes of the Bill. Mr-HEALY supported the amendment. Sir A. ROLLIT urged the Government to take this one more step in addition to those which they were about to adopt for the purpose of assist- ing the evicted tenants. lie might say that he fully shared the opinions of the hon. member for Bodmin (Mr Courtney), and still ventured to hope that a compromise might be arrived at on the subject of this Bill, ,in which case the powers which it was proposed to confer upon the arbitrators would be very valuable. MrW. REDMOND could not see why the as- sistance to be given to the evicted tenants should be confined to the rebuilding or repairing of the dwelling-house. Mr HANBURY, whose rising was received with ironical cheers by the Irish members, said that if this amendment was pressed to a division he should support it. (Hear, hear.) After some observations from Mr HEALY and Mr SEXTON, Mr MOJLEY said Eil"t after the expression of opinion which had come from different quarters of the House, he would undertake to reconsider this matter before the report. (Hear, hear.) The amendment was then withdrawn. Mr CLANOY then proposed to omit the words limiting to B50 grants which arbitrators may make for repairing and building a house, and to insert other words authorising them to grant such sum as they may deem fit." Mr MOnLEY opposed the amendment, insisting that as the sum available for the purposes of the Act was limited, it was clearly necessary to impose a limit upon the amount of the grants which may be made by the arbitrators. After some discussion the committee divided, when there were For the amendment 54 Against. 104 Majority 50 The amendment was therefore negatived. Clause 4 was then agreed to and added to th Bill, is was also clause 5. On clause 6-appoinument, constitution, and payment of arbitrators—Mr MORLEY proposed to insert the names of the proposed arbitrators, Mr White, Q.C., Mr G. Fothergill, solicitor, and Mr Green. In reply to Mr HEALY, Mr J. MORLEY said th:.t the arbitrators would have ample power to make rules for the regulation of the proceedings I before them. The insertion of the names of the arbitrators was then agreed to. I After some conversation on points of detail, Mr COURTNEY, who was received with cheers by the Irish members, asked whether the Chief Secre- tary had considered the suggestion which he threw out on a former occasion that the sittings of the arbitrators might b,, held in private ? He must say that he did not thmk this would be desirable. Mr J. MORLEY said that he had consulted several gentlemen in Dublin whose opinions on this subject were entitled to weight, and they unanimously held the view that it would be better that the sittings of the arbitrators should be held in private, as was generally the case with arbitra- tion courts. However, the arbitrators would have power to hold their sittings either in public or in private as they thought best. After a general discussion on the subject, Mr J. MORLKY said that he would reconsider the matter before the report. The clause was then agreed to and added to tiae Bill. Clauses 7 and 8 were agreed to. Several other clauses were discussed. Then, at ten minutes past six o'clock, the Bill as amended was, amidst loud Nationalist cheers, ordered to be reported to the House. The report stage was fixed for Monday. THE BUILDING SOCIETIES ACT. The House then considered the Building Societies Act (No. 3) Bill, as amended by the Staudmg Committee. At midnight the debate was adjourned. The House adjourned at 20 minutes past 12 o'clock.

THE PEERS AND EVICTED TENANTS BILL. PREPARING FOR DESTRUCTION. The Press Association learns that Lord Salisbury on Thursday issued through the Whips' Office an urgent summons to the Conservative peers to be in attendance at the House of Lords on the second reading of the Evicted Tenants Bill. The Duke of Devonshire has also sent a similar request to the Liberal Unionist peers. A division is to be taken on the second reading.

The King of Corea is a mere puppet in the hands of his Queen, a strong-minded woman, whose relations and adherents fill almost every appointment. The Queen only tolerates one wife-tbat is hersell.1,

SHOCKING ACCIDENT AT BLAENAVON STEEL WORKS. TWO MEN BADLY HURT. On Thursday morning two of the employees in the Bessemer department of the Blaenavon Steel Works were seriously burnt by the partial over- turning of the convertor. A quantity of molten metal fell upon them, and their injuries were of a most acute character. They were conveyed with all promptitude to the hospital, where they received immediate medical attendance. Their names tare J. Hadley and Bliss Edwards, and both are married men. At the time of writing they lie in a most precarious condition.