South Wales Daily News

WALES IN LONDON. -*• [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.J LONDON, Tuesday. PBOFE3SOR JOHN RHYS ON FOLKLORE. Professor John Rhys, principal of Jesus College, Oxford, delivered an interesting address on Tuesday night before a. largely-attended meeting of the Grosvenor Crescent Club, pro- moted by the Women's Institute, in the develop- ment of which Mrs Wynford Philipps, Mrs Brynmor Jones, Miss E. P. Hughes, Mrs Viriamu Jones, and other ladies connected with Wales are actively engaged. Principal Rhys began by noticing the attitude of the Cymry of the nine- teenth century towards folklore. He distinguished two classes of people in this regard. And first he spoke severely of those who appeared to regret the ebb of the tide of ancient beliefs—those, in fact, who pretend that men and women must have been ever so much more interesting when they believed in the fairies. This class of people rave, he said, against Sunday schools and all other schools for having undermined the ancient superstitions of the peasantry. It all comes, they say, from over educating the lower classes. He was quite ready to admit that one might occasionally wish that servant maids still believed that they might. get presents from the fairies for being neat and tidy and that if on the contrary they were sluts, they would be pinched black and blue during their sleep by the little folk. There might be some utility he thought in 1 that sort of belief. But if you take an impartial view of the mental surroundings, so to say, amid which this state of mind was possible, no sane man could say that the superstitions of our ancestors conduced on the whole to make them happy. Fancy a state of mind in which this sort of thing was possible—a member of the family was absent, let us say, from home an hour or two later than usual, and the whole family was thrown into perturbation because it was imagined that he had strayed on fairy ground, and had been spirited away to the land of fairy twilight, whence he might never return, or at any rate only to visit his home years or, maybe, ages afterwards, a.nd then only to collapse into a heap of dust just as he found that nobody expected him, that nobody knew him, or had even heard of him, except some decrepid old man who had heard a vague story of his inexplicable dis- appearance. Then, also, he might have called- attention to the terrors of magic but he would not dilate on that, as he wished to come to the second class of people, whose attitude towards folklore he wanted to discuss, namely, those who would have nothing to do with the collecting of folklore. The aver- sion of some of these ho traced to their regarding folklore as unbiblical and mis- chievous. To them he would say that they might rest easy in their minds since nearly everything that is harmful in superstition of the kind ceased in Wales to be a living force regulating one's conduct, or where this was not quite the case it was rapidly becoming so. The attitude in any case was about as unreasonable as if historians were to be boycotted because they had sometimes to study dark intrigues and to describe cruel wars. Perhaps, however, a much larger class objected to the idea of studying or collecting folklore because they regarded the whole thing as too trivial and frivolous to demand the attention of any serious man, nothing in fact less than a. deplorable waste of time. Some of this class of people assumed this attitude of mind towards folklore because they chose to forget what a reality their superstitions were to those who believed them, and how in any case it con- stitutes an integral part of the history of our ancestors. But they had the. excuse that no doubt ma,uy of the tales collected by the folk. lorist look iso silly; but thai is not the right way to look at them, but as early and infantile attempts of the race to think out the relation of things and the routine of nature. It was, he said, very difficult to think one's self back into the simple and primitive ways of thought which folklore brings to light. Then there was the difficulty of interpreting them, but one had to trust to the anthropologist, who, when he found an unintelligible institution or superstition which among us has no longer any meaning, casts about him until he found it as a part of a system among savage races, where its meaning was easy to comprehend. In this way the student was gradually reducing the number of his difficulties; but even where he had not yet succeeded there was no reason to suppose that any piece of folklore which looked strange and enigmatic had no meaning. The moial of all this was that the first desideratum is to have all our superstitions placed on record from every por4 of the country. Then- one has to await their interpretation as the study progresses. Already a great deal had been done, as was proved by the existence of such a book as Mr Hartland's Science of Fairy Tales." Such was in outline what the lecturer had to say, but at almost every step he illustrated his remarks by pieces of folklore in point: many of them were very curious and interesting and all redolent of the soil in which they had grown. I understand that the extracts were mostly from the materials of a volume promised the public some 15 years ago, and devoted to the Celtic folklore chiefly of WaJes and Monmouthshire, which may shortly be expected to appear.

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llfrtbs, Carriages, attii Bratlja. Notices of Births, Marriages, and Death*, Is each, if not exceeding SO icords, and M for each extra 10 tvordtt. BIRTH. DAvigs.-On the 23rd inst., at Somerset Hotel, Aber tinery, the wife of Mr E. M. Davies, of a daughter, x DEATH. PjsycrE.—October 24th, at 6, Pearl-place, Roath, Cardiff, Tydvil Olwen, loving daughter of Tegfryn and Naomi Pryce, aged 14 months' 924

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WEDNESDAY. OCTOBER 26, 1898. a FRANCE AND THE FRENCH: A MINISTERIAL CRISIS. OuR neighbours across the English Channel > are a strange and ever-recurring puzzle— the Parisian type of Frenchman more eøpeciaily-to the calmer and less impul- sive race or races which inhabit Great Britain. They appear to us to act first and to reason about it afterwards, in matters ,vonce=iu,g the. stabihty and eveirtfcxe r life of the French nation. The Paris Chamber assembled yesterday after the re- cess amid extraordinary scenes of Parisian excitement. What the excitement was all about the man in the street scarcely knew. All that he did know was that he should very much like to heave half a brick across the Channel against Great Britain if he could do it with safety to his own skin. The uneasy thought of reprisals, and very severe reprisals, troubled him much, and he contented himself with shout- ing anti-British declamation and let the half brick lie. But the remarkable precautions taken by the French Government to pre- serve order indicated something more than anti-British feeling—a feeling of grave disquiet, if not of dismay. Cavalry, infantry, and police in large numbers guarded all the approaches to the Chamber, and no one was permitted to pass the bridges leading to the House- without a card. The excitement in the streets and the nearer approaches to the Chamber was immense, and betrayed a. con- dition of seething unrest in the capital which seems to be more ominous to continuous domestic than to international peace. More than one report from Paris states that the crowds in the streets were far more excited about the DREYFUS case than by the present complications with Great Britain, and the cries of Down with the Jews," Down with BRISSON," were incessant. M. PAUL DEROULEDK, a prominent leader in the DREYFUS agita- tion, received a most flattering ovation from the crowd, as did other members of the same party, and it was M. DEKODLEDE'S speech in the Chamber in favour of peace which aroused the French Minister of War to a white heat of anger and led to his sudden and unexpected resignation. M. DEROULEDE declared that it was absolutely necessary for the Ministry to put a stop to the unhappy differences which existed, whereupon the Minister of War, General CHAUODJE, suddenly rose and protested that M. DEKOULEDE had insulted him. He vehemently affirmed that M.v DEROULBDE and his friends were evidently anxious to take upon themselves the responsibilities of Government, and that he, the Minister of War, would at once resign his portfolio. Amid general expressions of excitement and astonishment General CHAUOINE abruptly quitted the Chamber." Meanwhile the dense crowds in the streets leading to the Chamber betrayed signs of growing disorder, but were kept at bay by the strong force of Police and Mounted Gendarmes. At length they became so turbulent that the cavalry rode against them and forced them back into the side streets. No serious breach of the peace, however, seems to have occurred save a savage attack by M. GUERIN, the President of the Anti-Semitic League, and his friends, upon the Commissioner of Police, whom they assaulted with leaded sticks. Twenty of these anti-Dreyfusites were arrested, amongst them being he anti-Semitic leader. M. GUERIN, himself. There is no disguising the fact that the French Govern- ment and France herself are stand- ing over a volcano which at any moment might belch forth its fires. It was a Frenchman who said, It is the unexpected which happens," and it happens in France more frequently than in any other civilised State. These fires were sup- pressed yesterday by force, but how long can they be kept under ? It is the mili- tarism of France which caused the DREYFUS case with all its black reeord of shame and humiliation to France. It is the same militarism which produced and is intensifying the present aicute strain in the relations between Great Britain and France on the Fashoda ques- tion, and until France frees herself the curse of militarism, and places the military in absolute subordina- tion to the Civil Power these constant squabbles, struggles, uprisings, and humiliations to France will continue. In the French Chamber yesterday, amid scenes of great excitement and confusion, M. RIBOT proposed a resolution emphasising the supremacy of the Civil Power over the Military Power, which our report states was carried by 539 votes against 2. This seems to be incredible in the present state of feeling in the Chamber and in France generally, but these are the figures in the report. M. BRISSON, the Prime Minister, announced that the resignation of the War Minister would be accepted, but on a hostile vote the whole BRISSON Cabinet subsequently resigned, and a Ministerial crisis therefore prevails in France. The Chamber then adjourned until November 4th, next Friday week. How will this French crisis end ? The most expert of political Seers would hesitate to forecast the future in Fra-nce for a day, much less for a week. The DBEYFUS case produced the excitement and confusion and the Ministerial resignations yesterday, but we cannot shut our eyes to the fact that the resignation of M. BRISSON might produce increased tension in the existing strain between this country and France.

WELSH INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION. SEVERAL weeks ago we published in these columns some articles in earnest support of the Welsh Industries Association, and of the establishment of a Central Depot in London for the sale of Welsh products. All arrangements have now been finally completed for commencing business, and the London Depot was formally opened by the Ducboss of WELLINGTON on Saturday last. It is obvious that the continued success of the London stores will depend not only mainly but solely upon the constant and energetic supply of products by the County Industries Associations, and by the District and local branches throughout the Principality. Welsh goods cannot, of course, be sold at the London Depot unless they are supplied in ample quantities from Wales. But it is not only m London and throughout England that there is considerable demand for various articles of Welsh industry, the demand exists in Wales itself, and to a wider extent, perhaps, than the active and public spirited promoters and supporters of the Welsh Industries Association have yet imagined. The demand is extensive and widespread, but the supply has been unhappily limited from the lack of stimulus in the localities, and of method and of cheap means of transit from the pro- ducer to the purchaser. It is satisfactory, therefore, to find that Carmarthenshire is taking a forward, and we believe the initial, step amongst the Welsh Counties to bring the question of promoting and stimulating Welsh Home industries before the notice of West Wales. An important Exhibition of Welsh prodncts will be held, in connection with the Welsh Industries Association, on Thursday, the 3rd of November—to-morrow week—under very • distinguished patronage, and Lord ABBR- DARB will preside at the public meeting. The prodncts for this Exhibition of Welsh industries will consist of such handicrafts as spun yarns, knitting, weav- ing, quilting, smocking, and every kind of needlework, crochet lace, embroidery, basket making, wood carving, turned ? wooden articles, pottery and china making, and all other kinds of hand industry suit- able, for sale. There was a time, and not. .far remote either wfcen Wsst Wstfes was noted for its excellent yarns, hose and flannels, and the latter especially fetehed a high price in the market. These were once profitable industries which largely augmented" the narrow things of home," but it is regrettable to say they have widely decayed, and are dying in most of the localities where they once flourished, and are dead in the rest. Great credit is therefore due, and grati- tude. too, from the small Welsh farmers and peasants, to those public-spirited and generously-minded ladies and gentlemen through whose energetic efforts the Welsh Industries Association has been founded, and who with considerable self-denial are working to foster Welsh home industries and Welsh thrift. For many years the Sorvth Wales Daily Netcs has sedulously striven to impress upon the farmers—the smaller farmers more especially—and the peasantry of South Wales the great pecu- niary advantage to themselves, during this long dearth of their great agricultural indus- try, of turning their attention to dairy produce and to the proper feeding and fattening of poultry and the sale of eggs. One of the objections brought against our own contention has been that there is, in the majority of cases, no suit- able market near to the producer's home for the profitable sale of poultry and eggs. Such an objection will be of no force in connection with the Welsh Industries Association, because the Association proposes to establish branches in all suitable Welsh districts, and to open up markets for the existing Welsh industries and the development of new ones." Here then is the opportunity which Welsh home industries so much need provided for them if Welsh men and women will only utilise that opportunity for their own personal and family good and for the good of Wales as well. The Exhibition in Carmarthen next week deserves the instant and hearty support of every well-wisher of the Principality in West Wales, and that support will be best and most successfully given by sending exhibits of our home industries on view or for sale, and by personal attendance at the Exhibition to- morrow week. There will be Certificates of merit given to the successful exhibitors at Carmarthen, and these Certificates will entitle the holders to exhibit at the National Eisteddfod to be held in Cardiff next year, and to compete for 26 prizes amounting in the aggregate to nearly £60 which will be given by the Welsh Industries Association. In an Ex- hibition of the best yarns, stockings, flannels, and weaving products of all kinds Welsh men and women seem to possess special qualifications for success. Here is the chance which the small farmers and peasants of Wales have long waited for will they not seize it ?

SOUTH WALES NOTES. SWANSEA'S MAYORALTY SETTLED AT LAST. It is satisfactory to learn that Swansea's mayoralty for the ensuing year is settled at last, that the Council have unanimously made an excellent choice, and that their last choice has decided to accept the honour. Councillor Martin should make a model chief magistrate. He is an old and tried public man—on the School Board, the Council. and the Harbour Trust—and on all these public bodies he has taken a leading part as an advanced man of progress. Swansea owes .much to his devotion to her interests, and she might have owed much more to him if she would. The great desire of the Council in making their selection was to have a man of progress succeed a man of progress in the office of chief magistrate, for if ever a town required men of progress at her head it is Swansea. In Mr Martin tha Council have secured all they can desire, and we con- gratulate the town at large on the choice.

GLADSTONE LIBERAL MEMORIAL. THE SCULPTOR SELECTED. A meeting of the Executrve Committee of the Gladstone Liberal Memorial Fund was held on Tuesday at the offices of the National Liberal Federation, Lord Tweedmouth presiding. The principal business was to receive the report of the sub-committee entrusted with the duty of recommending the name of the sculptor to whom the commission for executing the status of Mr Gladstone, to be placed m the Houses of Paria- ment, should bb given. The Executive Committee decided to entrust the work to Mr F. W. Pomeroy. Mr Pomeroy is best known by his Barns com- memorative statue unveiled at Paislcy two years ago by Lord Rosebery. The design for a com- memorative certificate, which it is proposed to give to every subscriber to the fund, has been entrusted to Mr Linley Sambourne. The secretaries' report dealing with their work since the opening of the memorial fund mentions that nearly 4,000 subscription collecting books have been applied for by Liberal associations and clubs of the United Kingdom, who are co- oparating with the Central Committee in collect- ing subscriptions for the memorial fund.

CARDIFF FREE LIBRARIES. COST OF A YEAR'S WORK. A PENNY RATE INSUFFICIENT. A financial statement which the Cardiff librarian (Mr Ballinger) made to the Cardiff Free Libraries Committea at a meeting held under the chairmanship of Councillor E. Thomas on Tues- day evening shows plainly enough that the big work which tbe committee are endeavouring to carry out cannot be done on a penny rate. There is still due from the borough treasurer on account of the last rate £1,282 98 3d. There were other items of income due to the committee amonting to £[9. Against this there were liabilitiesof 10s 6d, leaving a debit balance of £1,08516<; 3d. The year commenced with a debit balance so that this year, in spite of every economy, they had exceeded their rocome by £600. The moral of the statement was, Mr Ballinger said, that they could not go on with a penny rate. A letter was read from Mr E. W. Sbackell stating it was not his intention to accept re-election as chairman of the committee, and he suggested that as the committee was becoming such an important one the chairman should be the Mayor for the time being or a member of the Council. The Rev. W. E. Winks, Councillors E. Thomas and Lloyd Meyrick, and Professor Powel were ap- pointed to act with the committee selected by the School Board to deal with the new school libraries which are to be established by the School Board in conjunction with the Free Libraries Committee. Mr Ballinger stated that the second account of the Public Libraries Journal showed a profit of .£80. (Hear, hear.) The Chair- man congratulated the librarian, and moved that a record of their appreciation should be made. ThiB the Rev. W. E. Winks seconded. It was, he said, a most creditable production. It was of the greatest benefit to the Library, and he was sure they all appreciated Mr Ballinger's work. Mr Ballinger was thanked, and the resolution directed to be entered in the minutes.

SWANSEA STREETS. PROPOSED WIDENING. At a meeting of the Works Committee of the Swansea Corporation on Tuesday, Alderman Mayne presiding, a letter was read from Messrs Davies and Ingram, solicitors, asking on behalf of clients interested in property in Caer-street which will have to be demolished when the Cor- poration widen the street whether the matter of widening is likely to be taken up by the Corporation within the next few months. They understood that the con- i tribution of £4,000 by Mr Ben Evans and Sir John Llewelyn towards the expense would have to be takc-u advantage of shortly or be lost, and they desired to know how this is, and if the Corporation would approach their clhnt with a view of negotiating for the acquisition of the old Clifton Inn. It was decided to refer the matter to the surveyor aud the town clerk. With respect 1 to the widening of Castle-street, Mr Lloyd Davies offered his property for £3,500. A reply that the price was too high was scut. At a meeting of the Streets Committee on Tuesday, Colonel Pike presiding, a discussion arose as to the wages bill, which was eEMO for the week. Mr W. Watkins said for anyone to men- tion the word economy in the Council was like holding up a red rag to a bull. There had been no attempt to promote economy since he had bean on the Council, and he was still at a loss to know why the expenditure was continually creeping up. He beheved that if a serious attempt were made by the officials a great amount of money could be saved. It was decided to refer to a sub-committee consideration of what streets should be repaired.

A Tin JMPH of the Tea Blending Art—Phillips's Is 6d Tea. Have you tried it? It is distinctly superior to the so-called" finest MR E. W Haaram<j's new story, "At Large is now appearing in the "Cardiff Times and Bomb, Wales Weekly News." Two other-seriate, comnjatot

LONDON LETTER. ? LONDON, Tuesday Night. DESPERATE CRISIS IN FRANCE. To-night's nevs from Paris indicates that Frenchmen are still thinking more of their domestic troubles than of the Fashoda dispute. It has been repeatedly suggested that the un- yielding attitude of M. Delcasse in his discussion with Lord Salisbury arose from the anxiety of the Brisson Ministry to divert attention from the Dreyfus affair. Whether that be so or not, it is evident that Fashoda has not yet usurped the place of Ca.pta.in Dreyfus in the popular interest. General Chanoine's dramatic resigna- tion this afternoon has proved to be the pre lude probably to a complete resignation of the Cabinet, if not to the collapse of the Ministry altogether. In either event changes are likely to take place which may have an important bearing on the position of affairs on the Nile. The outlook, of course, is rendered doubly uncertain by the instability of the French Government, and it is impossible to avoid the reflection that, in a crisis like that with which Ministers are now brought face to face, they may feel tempted to create a diversion by assuming a more defiant tone towards England. The situation is so desperate that no remedy would seem to be too extreme. THE CRISIS WITH FRANCE. Different minds have beer affected in differenti ways by the latest development of the Fashoda controversy. In some quarters the outlook is regarded with the gravest apprehension. Accord- ing to the pessimistic view diplomacy has reached a. deadlock from which it can only be relieved by war. On the other hand there are many people ■ who believe that the crisis has passed its acutost stage, and that with the aid of a little tactful assistance on the part of the British Government France may find a way before long to withdraw from her present untenable position. From the diplomatic correspondence there would seem to be no insuperable obstacle to a settlement of the dispute. The French are obviously alive to the absurdity as well as the discomforts of Major Marchand's position at Fashoda, where in the self- elected capacity of host he is being fed, clothed, and protected by those whom he regards as his guests. Such a situation presents features not likely to be missed by a people with so keen a sense of the ridiculous as that which characterises our neighbours. They have already in theory abandoned their claim to Fashoda. All they want is a plausible pretext for the removal of both their' flag and its adventurous guardian. The majority of people will be greatly surprised if under such circumstances diplomacy ha.s to confess itself baffled. LORD SALISBURY'S DESPATCHES. Mingled with the relief so ingeniously ex- pressed by the Unionist Press to-day at Lord Salisbury's vindication of his consistency, one finds many exclamations of' amazement over the discrepancies in the two State reports of Baron De Courcel's interview with the Prime Minister. Lord Salisbury's account is the livelier reading of the two. He evidently finds the French Ambassador a somewhat trying visitor. After the polite but unmistakable hint contained in the amusing despatch to Sir E. Monson, it is probable that Baron De Courcel will be more sparing of his rhetoric in future conversations with the British Foreign Secretary. On the other hand he may regard his prolixity as a useful diplomatic instrument. It seems at all events to have drawn from Lord Salisbury the plaintive request tha.t his Excellency should put his views in writing—a desire that Baron De Courcel straightway construed into a formal invitation of proposals which should form the basis of negotiations. The fact is that Lord Salisbury's sarcasms are a little too fine at times. In this instance they have actually led to a mis- understanding on an international scale, which will probably be still further complicated when Baron De Courcel brings out his rejoinder. IN THE EVENT OF HOSTILITIES. Should the worst come to the worst the general impression is that the British Government will wait for France to take the offensive. Action must be resorted to sooner or later to put an eud to the absurd state of affairs at Fashoda. If the French Government refuse to order Major Mar- chand's withdrawal the Anglo-Egyptian garrison will probably receive instructions to stop sup- plies and to keep the French force in a, state of isolation. The Sirdar has already taken a pre- liminary step in this direction by informing Major Marchand that the territory on which he is a trespasser is under military occupation. Any effort to relieve the expedition by sending up a force from the west under French command would' inevitably "lead to a collision, and that collision would be the prologue to a war in Europe. Hostilities of course might be precipi- tated by an admission on the part of France that Marchand's expedition was deliberately designed in defiance of Sir Edward Grey's declaration. Hitherto however M. Delcasse has safeguarded himself against such an interpretation of the episode. His policy has been; aa it continues to be, a policy of negotiation pure and simple. He does not want war, and to no man probably would the surprise and the shock be greater, even in view of the ominous preparations now in progress on both sides of the Channel, if war were actually to ensue. THE SIRDAR'S TACT. Diplomacy owes a debt to the Sirdar for the fine chivalry with which he reciprocated Major Marchand's expressions of welcome in the name of France." Lord Kitchener's tribute to the bravery and courteous demeanour of the explorer will be keenly appreciated by the latter's country- men, and ought to do a great deal to soften the asperities of the diplomatic controversy. More- over, the incident has tended to raise Lord Kitchener in popular esteem at home. Major Marchand's indomitable resource is ungrudgingly admitted by everyone, and people here indeed are rather proud of the perfect consideration with which he has been treated by the British repre- sentatives. It is the existence of this feeling which accounts for the objection generally taken to Sir John Tenniel's last cartoon. Not many years ago such a picture would have been in com- plete harmony with popular sentiment. But John Bull is less intolerant than he used to be, and in these days he prefers the generous and dignified methods of Lord Kitchener. FRENCH RULE IN SIAM. From a report just furnished to the Foreign i Office by Mr Consul Beckett it would appear that French rule in the hill districts of Siim is not altogether popular with a certain class of the natives. The immigration of Khamus into the adjacent provinces has been constant during the year, the reason of the movement being that in French territory they have to pay a poll tax of 88 per head, while their services are continually re- quired for road-making and other public works, and they find the greatest difficnlty in earning a livelihood. The French authori- ties, it is stated, contemplate the intro- duction of measures for their more effectual supervision-a. step which will be wel- comed by a large teak trading company and other large employers of labour. The most im- portant change in Siamese habits or fashions —which has been brought about by the King's recent visit to England and other European countries—appears to be in the adoption of leather shoes by many of the people. The imports under this head have increased enormously since his Majesty's return. THE HALLE CONCERTS. In his recent controversy with the directors of the Halle concerts, Mr Frederic Cowen made the somewhat bitter suggestion that it was a misfortune for a musician who had to make his living in England to be born an Englishman. There are exceptions to the rule. In London there are even some musical societies which limit their concerts to the performance native compositions. From the programme of the British Chamber Music Concerts for the coming season I learn that the series will consist entirely of works by British composers, some of whose names are by no moans familiar to the public. The society fulfils a useful purpose in presenting such works under condi- tions which are bound to encourage andsprea.d the fame of native talent. The test of nationality, however, is apparently not applied to the instru- mentalists.

INDIAN HEROES' FUND. SUBSCRIPTION FROM THE QUEEN. The sum of £262 10s has been paid to Henry S. King and Co., of Pall Mall, as the subscription of her Majesty the Queen to the Indian Heroes' Fund.

The Clntrch of England edition of the new Bristol Psalter, Service, and Anthem Boole," edited by Dr. Charles W. Pearce, will be pub- lished daring the present month. Novello-and Co* Ltd.. axe the London publishers, andJ\fr

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF WALES. NEW BUILDINGS AT ABERYSTWYTH SIR WILLIAM HARCOURT'S VISIT. OUTLINE OF THE PROCEEDINGS. Sir William Harcourt, Bart., will this (Wednes- day) afternoon formally open at Aberystwyth the new central block of the College buildings, towards the erection of which he, when Chancellor of the Exchequer, approved a grant of £10,000 conditionally upon another .£5,000 being raised voluntarily within a few mouths. How well that condition was fulfilled is now a matter of history. Sir William will be welcomed to-day by a large and representative body of Welsh educationalists from all parts of the Principality. The Court of Governors meet at mid-day, and subsequently will entertain the distinguished visitor at luuchcon in the Market Hall Assembly-rooms. After the luncheon at 3.30 a procession, to be marshalled by the chief constable, will be formed to the College. Graduates taking part in the procession will appear in academic dress. At the door of the new building the president (IJord Rendel) will present Sir William Harcourt with a handsome silver gilt key. Six William will then declare the building open and the procession will proceed. lover the new building and pass on to the Royal Pier Pavilion, where a meeting, presided over by' Lord Rendel. will be addressed by Sir William Harcourt and other gentlemen. In the evening at 7.30 the Rev. H. Montaeu Butler, D.D., master of Trinity College, Cambridge, will deliver the inaugural lecture of the College session. It was intended that this lecture should be delivered in the College Hall, but as the number of students ha.s now reached 408 the authorities have decided that the lecture shall be delivered in the Pavilion so as to enable the large number of guests wbo are desirous of hearing Dr. Butler to be present. On Thursday the University Court will pay its third visit to Aberystwyth. The second visit was for the purpose of installing H.R.H. the Prince of Wales as Chancellor of the University, and the ceremony will ever remain memorable not onlv because H.R.H. was installed Chancellor, but also because the venerable TV. E. Gladstone, who has since passed over to the majority, was admitted to the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws of the-CDiversity of Wales. The function on this occasion will also be invested with excep- tional interest, for at the meeting of the congrega- tion in the afternoon at 3 o'clock the Rev. T. C. Edwards, M.A.. D.D., Bala, who for so many years was principal of the University College of Wales; and to whom the College is so largely in- debted for the firm hold which it has obtained on the affections of the Welsh people, will be ad- mitted to the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity of the University of Wales. At the same time about forty students from the three consti- tuent colleges will be admitted to the decrees of B.A. or B.Sc.

UNFIT FOR HUMAN FOOD. TREDEGAR BUTCHERS FINED. Messrs James Nelson and Sons, Ltd., butchers, 1 Cardiff, were charged at Tredegar Police Court on Tuesday (before Messrs E. Phillips and T. P. Pugh) with exposing meat unfit for hnman food for sale on October 18th at Tredegar. Mr J. A. Shepard,°Tredegar, prosecuted on behalf ofsthe Tredegar Urban District Councilrwbile Mr Yorath, Cardiff, who represented defendants, acknow- ledged the offence, and accepted responsibility. Mr W. C. Widdowson, inspector of nuisances, and his assistant saw exposed for sale in the window two large pieces of meat, and pronounced them unfit for human food. There was more meat in the window, bat it was all right. On the chopping block were found several choppings. r and a breast of mutton in bad condition. The wholc of the meat condemned amounted to 921bs. beef and lOjlbs. mutton.—Henry Smith, the' manager, said he was very sorry, a.nd that it was the first time the firm had been charged with exposing unfit meat.—Dr. G. A. Browne, medical officer, said the meat was in an advanced state of decomposition, and utterly unfit for food.—Tho Bench, taking into consideration the admission of defendants, imposed a. penalty of £10 and caste.

LOCAL RAILWAY PRO- JECTS. THE NEW BILLS. OLD CONTESTS REVIVED. FRESH DEVELOPMENTS. We are within a. month of the time for publica- tion of Parliamentary notices concerning the private Bills of next Session, and all the indica- tions are that the proceedings next year will be f the usual exciting and interesting character. The old contestants will meet again, but under the new conditions created by the enactments of last Session. The directors of the Taff Vale Railway met yesterday, bat nothing of their deliberations has been allowed to become known, though it is well understood that the Windsor Dock scheme will once again be pushed forward energetically. Rhymney directors are appaxently very quiet, but it would not do to assume that this quietness will continue, for Rhymney can be used very effectively as a weapon both of ofience and defence, though the board may not of their own motion make any attack. The more interesting feature ot the new schemes will be the endeavour of the Bute interest to obtain independent access to the traffic of the Monmouthshire Valleys, which now comes —so far as it is obtained—via the Great Western line ttf Cardiff. The project hinted at is the con- struction of a. line from the authorised Roath branch of the company north-eastward through Machen to a point below the Sirhowy Vale, so that all the Monmouth valleys may be tapped. Obviously such a scheme would be intended to -anticipate-any effort by Barry Company to revive the Rhymney Company'sold project of tunnelling through Bedwas Mountain to a place near Nine Mile Point; and if such be the intention of Bany, a very pretty triangular duel may be looked for—Barry and Bute competing for powers to make new lines, while the Great Western Com- "pany fights both in order to retain its present hold on traffic, to accommodate which it has doubled the number of its lines between Newport and Cardiff. The former town has, of course, a special concern in any fresh attempt to draw away traffic which naturally would appear destined for shipment on the Usk. As to its canal railway project, twice rejected by Parliamentary Committees, the Cardiff Rail- way Company—to give Bote its newer title- are credited with an intention to make important modification. Next Session Parliament will be asked to authorise transformation into a railway of the canal above Pontypridd not below. The case of existing canal traffic between Pontypridd and Cardiff is held to be too strong to resist; but it is hoped to show that the canal is practically valueless above that town; and it is in this amended form that the Bill will be drafted. It will be remembered that the company have already obtained powers to make a new railway from Cardiff to Pontypridd.

CARDIFF MUSEUM. THE PYKE THOMPSON COLLECTION.^ A CHAT WITH MR WARD. Mr Ward, tne popular curator of the Cardiff Museum, is a busy man, but on Tuesday after- noon a representative of this journal was enabled to have a brief chat with him about the splendid gift of pictures and porcelain which the executors of the late Mr Pyke Thompson have just handed over to the Cardiff Museum. Mr Ward is quite enthusiastic upon the matter. "What is known as the Pyke Thompson col- lection," he said has been for some time in the Museam-at least a good deal of it—but it was, of course, only loaned at first, and it has only now been handed over to the town by Mr Charles Thompson and Mr Herbert Thompson, the execu- tors of the late Mr Pyke Thompson Does the gift represent the whole of the pic- tures which were loaned to the Museum ?" Not exactly," said Mr Ward. There have been some pictures taken out and others added. The whole matter has been in the hands of Mr F. Wedmore, the well-known art critic, and the advice of Mr Rossetti (brother of the poet and artist), Mr T. H. Thomas, and Mr Fardo, the late postmaster of Cardiff, who has a good know- ledge of art matters, and who years ago rendered material assistance in the formation of the public picture gallery at Wolverhampton. For the past eight or nine months this work of selec- tion has been going on, and the end of it has been that some pictures have been taken away and some have been added. The great aim has been not to run the risk of lurong a, single I-doubtful specimen in the Museum, DO that every-, thing should be above suspicion." What do you consider the main features of the collection ?" Well, to speak first of the water-colours, which number between eighty and ninety, they have been selected with the idea not of forming what is generally known as a popular picture gallery so much as with the desire of forming a representative series to illustrate the origin and growth of the British water-colour art during the past centary. The collection, though a very tine one, is not regarded as quite complete. There are certain gaps which we shall from time to time hope to fill in, but still it is a grand nucleus. For example, it contains two very line early Turners, but we have no example of the great painter's later style." As to the oil paintings ?" There are not so many of these, but there are some very fine works, notably a very pleasing example of George Romney, entitled Italian Women Washing Linen,' and works by James Holland, Falconer, Poole, and David Cox. Con- temporary work isrepresented by J. J. Shannon, Wyke, Bayliss, and Parker Hagarty. But come upstairs and have a look round." We mounted the staircase and entered tha gallery, which has for some weeks past been closed. It presented the appearance of a place closed for alterations and repairs. High in n. niche at the end of the room was Turner's. Ewenny Priory skied for once above the turmoil caused by the transition which was taking place in the gallery. Hard by was a fine example of Paul Landby, the first English artist to practice in aqua-tint. On the floor leaning against the wall, as far below the line as J.M.W. was above it, were several David Oox's breezy canvasses cheek by jowl with work by Cotman, Thomas, and Hearne. Copley Fielding, Bonington, Muller, and Gastineau were all represented. Near by in a secluded corner was a beautiful example of Samnel Prout's, full of what John Ruskin has termed his vitality of architecture." Many other beautiful works were there, too numerous to mention. We hope to be quite straight and ready for the public in another ten days," said Mr Ward. I ought to tell you that the whole collection is being put into first-class order at the expense of Mr Charles and Mr Herbert Thompson, who are having many of the pictures re-framed." About the prints, Mr Ward ?" Oh, yes. Of course, the most valuable collection are the 18 examples of Turner's Liber Studiorum, and of these the four impressions of The Peat Bog' are of especial interest as showing the evolution of the print from the pure etching, the engraver's proof, and the subsequent < states.' Then, too, there are some Bartolozzi's, and half a dozen examples of the eccentric French etcher Meryon, while Whistler is represented by a char- acteristic little print. Then, too, there are examples of Aldegrever and Rembrandt and others." Any special features about the china ?" There are some beautiful examples of Swan- sea and Nantgarw among f others. I should like specially to refer to three delicate oriform vaaes decorated with gold a.nd wild flowers which gives a good idea of the very finest work turned out from the Swansea works." And is the whole of this collection given unconditionally ?" I asked. Well," replied Mr Ward, a pretty broad hint is dropped by the executors in their letter, which contains the following extract whi^h has not yet been published :—' In our opinion it can- not be long before those who control the affairs of one of the most progressive communities in the kingdom will also throw open the doors of their gallery and museum at suitable hours each Sun* day to a throng of people whose appreciation of their contents will grow continually. If the change cannot be brought about in the imme- diate future the opening of the new gallery about to be built in the Cathays Park would seem to present a good occasion for taking the new de- parture, but whether the public boon be delayed for a few years or whether it be brought about more immediately, it is the hope and belief that it is within measurable distance that has encour- aged us to make over for the acceptance of the committee this collection without attempting to "attach any conditions thereto which the com- mittee itself may not after full deliberation spontaneously adopt.' -+-

LOCAL COMMISSIONS. The London Gazette of Tuesday night contains the following:— WAR OFFICE, Oct. 25. ARMY PAY DEPARTMENT.—The undermentioned officer to be paymaster: Lieutenant A. T. Jjean, Royal Welsh Fusiliers; dated 21st January last. The undermentioned officer is granted honoxary rank at captain whilst serving in the Army Pasy Department: Lieut. A. J. Lean, Royal Welsh Fasiliers dated 21st January last. MILITIA ENGINEERS.—Royal Monmouthshire— The undermentioned gentlemen to be second .lieutenants Willoughoy Arthur Kennard and Henry Lewis; dated 26th inst. MILITIA lNFANTRy.-3rd Battalion South Walesr, Borderers—Captain and Honorary Major C. S. D. O. Oldham to be major; dated 7th inst. Captain George Turner retired pay, late 1st Battalion, to be captain; dated 7th inst. Lieutenant J. M. Gibson-Watt to be captain dated 8th inst. The undermentioned second lientenants to be lieutenants: W. J. H. Haghes,. J. Wheen, R. G. Coles, H. O. L. Lloyd datea 8th inst. Voi>UNTKEB RIFLES. — 1st (Pembrokeshire). ^Battalion Welsh Regimellt-Arthur Langford, Tregoning, gentleman, to be second 1ieùoJ:Um1>. < J.;J

NEWPORT WORKHOUSE. THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD INQUIRY. Mr F. T. Bircham, Local Government inspec- tor, resumed the official inquiry at the Newport Workhouse on Tuesday into the allegations which had been made by Mr W. Evans, chairman of the Workhouse Visiting Committee, as to the management of the Workhouse Infirmary. Mr L. H. Hornby, solicitor, appeared for Mr Evans and Mr Lyndon Moore, solicitor, repre- sented Dr. Maeormack. Captain Davies, the master of the Workhouse, was recalled, and said that he found that he had made a mistake in saying that June 2nd was the date upon which David Hughes was sent back to the Infirmary. The correct date was May 28th. The mistake arose through the memor- andum, which he had made in pencil, becoming partly obliterated, and then he marked over the entry in ink, and entered the wrong date. The Clerk to the Guardians stated that he had found a minute of the Visiting Committee in February, 1896, authorising the purchase of a galvanic battery at a cost not exceeding £10. It was pointed out that the total cost of the apparatus was over £14. The complaints as to Dr. Macormack not having visited the Infirmary on certain dates was then gone into. Mr Evans stated that he found by the porter's book that on July 30th and August 1st neither the Workhouse medical officer nor his deputy attended the Infirmary, but another doctor paid one visit on each 01 those days, and the duration of the visits was five minutes each. On the book being produced it was found that the dates were July 51st and August 1st. On August 12th or 13th the Master reported to him that a medical man had not visited the Infirmary, and that Dr. Macormack and his deputy were both away from Newport. Witness referred him to the chairman of the board. In answer to Mr Moore, Mr Evans stated that he did make inquiries as to whether Dr. Macor- mack had made arrangements for the work of the Infirmary whilst he was away. He thought that if the doctor who attended on July 31st and August 1st had considered it necessary he would have stayed at the Infirmary for a longer period than five minutes. Captain Davies stated that no medical man visited the house from 2.30 p.m. on Thursday, August 11th, until 12.50 p.m. on Saturday, August 13th. The Workhouse doctor not having visited the house on Friday he made inquiries and found that he was away from home. He then inquired for the official deputy, Dr. Gratte, who he found was on his holidays, and Dr. Jenninga stated that be was acting for him and offered to attend the Workhouse. Witness consulted with Col. Lyne, and then called Dr. Jennings in. In answer to Mr Moore witness said that he did not ask the superintendent nurse whether any ar- rangements had been made for attendance at the Infirmary. He telephoned to Dr. Macormack's house because he had eight persons in the re- ceiving ward, three of whom had been there since Thursday. He telephoned to Dr. Macormack on Saturday morning. Dr. Macormack stated that on Saturday after- noon, July 30th, he went away from Newport, and returned on the Monday, and before going away he asked Dr. Williams to attend the In- firmary, which he did, and performed the duties to the satisfaction of the head nurse. He was away from Newport on August 12th, but he in- formed another medical man, who had formerly done his work, of his intention to be away. He also left an intimation with the head nurse, with whom he communicated by telephoneon the 12th. Hs did not inform the master, as he considered that it was a matter of courtesy whether he did so or not. Mr Bircham said that the master ought always to be informed when the medical officer intended to be absent for a day, as the master was responsible for the attendance of a 'medical man if it was necessary. He knew that there was a good deal of friction between differ- ent departments at Workhouses. Witness, in answer to Mr Bircham, said that he did not inform the official deputy of his intention to be absent on the latter dates, because he found that other medical men did not like to be troubled too often. The next item proceeded with was a complaint made by Annie James, the Workhouse cook, with regard to the disposal* of the chicken which had been supplied for the Infirmary patients. It was stated that this matter had been inquired into by a small committee, and that it was considered that there was nothing m the charge, and no action was taken upon it. Mr Hornby said that it had been agreed on the previous evening that the charge should not be proceeded with. Mr Evans was asked to state that he agreed with the committee that there was nothing in the complaint, but he could not do that, and the in- vestigation was proceeded with. The cook was called, and stated that in July last she was ordered by Nurse Treasure to pre- pare a fowl for the doctor's lunch, such fowl hav- ing been ordered for the Infirmary. Witness took the fowl; when cooked, into the head nurse's room, where the table had been laid for one. The doctor was in the room. The remains of the fowl were used to make soup for the patients. On two days in August she also cooked fowls for the doc- tor's lunch, and she had cooked fowls and fish for the doctor's luncheon on maay other osca- sions. The doctor took lunch at the Infirm- ary about twice a week, sometimes oftener. Nurse Treasure stated that she had never given orders for poultry to be prepared for the doctor's lunch, and the cook had not taken fowl into her room upon any occasion. Witness served the poultry for the patients in the kitchen herself, The doc- tor only took a little at the Infirmary occasionally and then he partook of the lunch which was pre- pared for the nurses. Soup had never been made for the inmates from the remains of poultry if it had been she would have known, as she served out the soup. The only other food which had been put for the doctor was samples which was put out for his inspection. The cook had been rude and impertinent to witness. Nurse Gough also denied that any poultry had been cooked for the doctor, and said that the cook had been impertinent to Nurse Treasure in her presence. The Master stated that on July 14th the cook complained to him that a fowl had been cooked for the doctor's luncheon, and said that Nurse Treasure had asked what she had had, and when told that there was a cold fowl had said that she must send out for another, and an order was sent to witness, and another fowl was sent, which the cook prepared and set for the doctor's lunch. The forter's book showed that the doctor visited the nfirmary three times that day, and that he was there from 1.10 p.m. until 2 p.m., and the cook said that the lunch was provided at 1.30. Wit- ness had told the committee, which previously inquired into the matter, that complaints had been made as to the cook having been impertin- ent to the head nurse. Dr. Macormack emphatically denied that he had ever taken any fowl or fish which was in- tended for the patients, or that fowl or fish had been cooked at the Infirmary for him. He had speken to the cook about the complaint from the nurse, and had also complained to the master about her conduct towards the nurse. With reference to the allegation that Dr. Macormack had employed an electrician named Burke to do electrical workat his house during the time he was an inmate at the Infirmary, Mr Bircham pointed out that the matter had already been dealt with by the Board of Guardians. Dr. Macormack now stated that Burke was taken to his house principally to prepare some electrical ap- pliances which were to be fixed at the Infirmary, and that whilst there be also did some work for him. The inquiry was then closed. Mr Bircham will make his report to the Local Government Board, who will in turn communi- cate with the Newport Board of Guardians.

LATE DE WI WYN 0' ESYLLT. MEMORIAL AT DINAS POWIS. The monument which has been raised to the memory of the late bard, Dewi Wyn 0' Esyllt, of Pontypridd, will be unveiled on Wednesday, November 3rd, in Dinas Powis Churchyard, where the remains of the deceased bard and members of his family were interred. The unveiling ceremony will be performed about two o'clock by his Honour Judge Gwilym Williams, and it is hoped that the bardic fraternity will be largely represented, and that the occasion will be made worthy of the memory of the departed Welshman. A cordial invitation is given to bards and litterateurs to attend. Subscriptions to- wards the memorial were received from various parts of the Principality, and the stone, which is of solid granite, bears an appropriate verse or toddaid," composed by Brynfab. Among those who took an active part in raising the memorial were Messrs Gwyngyll Hughes, Tafonwy Mills, Joseph David, and John Phillips, Pontypridd and among the staunchest supporters of the movement were Caradog, Superintendent Jones, and Mr D. Leyshon, Pontypridd, who are now also amongst the dead.

OPENING OF MACHYNLLETH COUNTY SCHOOL. The formal opening of Machynlleth County School took place on Tuesday amid general rejoicings. The proceedings opened with an out- side demonstration, a procession forming near the railway station, headed by Mr A. C. Hum- phreys-Owen, M,P., Colonel E. Pryce Jones, M.P., the Rev. Josiah Jones, members of the Local Governing Body, members of the Urban Council, the scholars of the County School, and others. The weather was fine, and the streets were lined with spectators. In the absence of Lord Rendel, who was unable to be present, but who forwarded a cheque for JE50, the school was formally opened by Mr David Jones, one of the oldest and most respected residents of the town. This was followed by a gathering indoors, at which speeches were delivered by Mr A. C. Hnmphreys-Owen, M.P., Colonel E. Pryce Jones, M.P., Principal Roberts, and others. bubscrip. tions amounting to £100 were paid In, and the schools were opened practically clear of debt,

BURGLARS AT BARRY. FOURTH CASE WITHIN A WEEK. The fourth case of housebreaking within a week has been reported to the police at Barry as having occurred on the premises of Mr W. Spickett, baker and confectioner, Barry-road, Cadoxton, some time on Monday or in the early hours of Tuesday morfaing. It appears that an en- trance was gained by means of a small window at t the back of the premises, and the thieves pro-1 ceeding to the shop in the front the till was robbed of its contents-about Ss-and then de- parted seemingly satisfied, as none of the confec-» tions were touched.

HAVE You TmEJt PHILLIPS'S Is 6D TEA ? It is a Tdmnph of the Tea Blending Art, and ifr dlgttnctly JI,1e,

WELSH GOSSIP. The subject of the chief essay at the Milwaukee (U.S.) Eisteddfod is The Standard of Welsh Literature as compared with the Literature of the Age." Nonconformity is making headway in Holywell. Last week memorial stones of a. new Calvinistic Methodist Chapel were laid by Mr J. Herbert Lewis, M.P., and Mr Sam. Smith, M.P. A memorial service to the late Marquis of Anglesey was held on Sunday in Llanedwen Church, in the yard of which the remains of the deceased nobleman were laid to rest last week. There has not been a single endorsement of a public-house licence in Merionethshire for 15 years, and during the whole of the last three months not a single case of Sunday drunkenness was reported. At the last meeting of the Carnarvon County Governing Body a sum of £150 was voted for the purpose of holding Welsh lectures in geology in the quarry districts of Bethesda, Llanberis. and Nantlle. The moderator of the Calvinistic Methodist Assembly (the Rev. Evan Jones, Carnarvon) has been selected to deliver a special Welsh sermon at the annual meetings of the National Council of the Evangelical Free Churches of England and Wales, to be held at Liverpool in March. It was to the memory of the father of the late Marquis that the Bardd Cocos sang the cele- brated lay, beginning ;— Ardalydd Mon oedd enwog ddyn Bu'n ymladd a Bonaparte ei hun With ymladd a Boni fe gollodd ei glun Pecollsai y llall fe fuasai hab un Constable W. H. Alexander, the Welsh Inter- national forward, has had varied experiences of this world's hospitality of late. A leaf from his diary of last week would read as follows Friday—was banquetted at Ferndale Saturday —won the match for Llwynypia at Aberavon; Sunday—got a severe bashing" by a. drunken collier at Whitchurch. A man Was supposed to be present at a case-of arbitration lately in South Wales, he being an important witness. When he was called on to give his evidence another person stepped up, and said, He cannot come, sir he has gone away." Gone away," said the arbitrator, to where ?" Indeed, sir," said the man, I can't say. I would not like to say—for he is dead." The Marseillaise Hymn," which is about the only melody in which the French people can give adequate expression to their patriotism, has been immensely popular in Wales. In small eistedd- fodan in West Wales it was for many years the piece par excellence for the chief choral contest. It was sung to Welsh words, which pre- served in a remarkable degree the ardently patrio- tic sentiments expressed in the French version. The Welsh word diod," which properly a beverage of any kind, has more than one pro- vincial signification. In some parts of Wales the word means water, in other parts it always means beer. A story is told of an ardent temperance re- former, hailing from that part of the country where diod means water, going into a strange neighbourhood for the purpose of lecturing. Feel. ing when seated in his lodgings somewhat thirsty he asked for diod." It took quite a long time in coming, and when it came it was foaming ale and not the product of the crystal spring. Cwm Elan, the site of the Birmingham Water Works, was once the residence of Shelley, who, after his expulsion from Oxford and his elope- ment, came to this sequestered spot to live. Of this glen he wrote" This is most divine scenery, exceedingly grand; rocks piled on each other to enormous heights, rivers formed into cataracts by their projections, and valleys clothed with woods present an appearance of enchantment." Nature is here," he wrote again, marked with the most impressive characters of loveliness and grandeur." Dr. Zimmer has just concluded a. series of arti- cles in the Preussische Jahrbucher on the Celtic revival in Great Britain and Ireland. He refers in graceful terms to Daniel Owen as a depicter of character, and compares him with Dickens. 00 the general question of Welsh literature, Pro- fessor Zimmer dismisses the bardic productions as of little value, but considers WuMs "rfeh to hymns and lyrical poetry, and especially strong in theological works. In fact, he says that the lyrics of the past 150 years in themselves would repay him for the trouble of learning Welsh. It is not generally known that Southey, the author of Madoc, was educated by a Welshman named William Williams. Dr. Dowden, in his Life of Southey," says, Under the care of this kindly, irascible, bewigged old Welshman Southey remained during four years. Williams was not a model schoolmaster, but he was a. mun of character and of a certain humorous originality. In two things he believed with all the energy of his nature—in his own spelling book printed foi his own school, and in the Church Catechism. The credit however is due to Williams of having discovered in his favourite pupil a writer of EDg- lish prose." Sir John Stainer, the professor of music at Oxford, is the composer of the tune in thia month's Cymru'r Plant. The editor of the music for this little magazine (Mr L. J. Roberts, M.A., Rhyl), explains in a footnote that the distin- guished Oxford musician writes to say that he will be delighted to think that this little tune will be sung by the sweet voices of Welsh children." Sir John Stainer, in addition to his M.A. and Mus. Doc., is a Pencerdd, having been made Pencerdd y Cyssegr" at the Carnarvon National Eisteddfod in 1886. The words of thf tuue are a translation by Penar."

THE WRECK OF THE ASTHMA. THE SCANT COURTESY OF THE FRENCHMAN CONFIRMED. Several members of the crew of the 8.S. Astrasa. Newport laden, which was in collision with the French passenger steamer Oasis, in the Gulf oi Lyons, during a fog at midnight on the 7th inst, and sank soon afterwards, belong to the port oi Newport, and on Tuesday reached Newport from Plymouth, where they were landed. They con- firm the assertions male as to the scant kindness meted out to them during the two days they were on board the Oasis, and say they found theii posi- tion all the more degrading as there were nearly 200 passengers on board. Mr Samuel James, third enginear on the ill-fated steamer, in an interview, says their ship heeled over, and quickly sank. At the time of the collision he was in the engine- room, and consequently had very little clothes on. The crew were compelled to get on board the other ship as best they could, and whilst they were there they wrere treated mre like dogs than anything else. No clothing of any sort was given them, although many were but very scantily covered, and so felt the effects of the colci very severely. Food was almost thrown at them, and it was of the worst description. They were compelled to live on deck and sleep on the bare boards. The captain—Captain Sergeant—was treated the same aa the rest of the crew, DO dis- tinction being made in any way. They were all heartily glad, a.fter;two days of this treatment, to be put ashore at Port veudis. The French steamer was bound for Oram, The Newport members of the Astraea, besides Mr James, are T. J. Titman, 17, Marion-street W111. Hughes, Tillery Wharf-road T. Condon, 18, St. Michael- street and H. Lawaon, £ 6, Frederick street, Newport. The Astrsea belonged to West Hartle- pool.

FURTHER ADVANCES IN IRON. GOOD PRICES, mi?01 J^f^verJla,tnpton correspondent writes The continued advance in pig iron, copper, and *^■1.1 occasioning tho announcement of turtner advance8 in hardwares. Builders'castings ana other ironfoundry goods have advanced a second 5 per cent., making 10 per cent. altogether. superior galvanised hollowares the gross discounts are reduced 2% per cent., the new rates becoming 37 per cent. Small chain for ships' tackle manufacture increased from 42s per ewt. to 46a. Brass sheets and wire have established au aggregate advance of id per lb.

A QUEEN'S BAD BARGAIN. At Devonport on Tuesday a naval Conrt Martial assembled for the trial of William Hill, an able seaman, of the Renard, tender to the Colosam. Prisoner was charged with disobedience of lawful command, breaking away from an escort, and striking Petty Officer Riddiford. Prisoner was reported for creating a disturbance, and refused to fall in on the quarter deck. He subsequently struck Riddiford in the face. He pleaded drunkenness, and was sentenced to 18 months' hard labour and dismissed the Navy

PmmM s Is 6D TEA is a Triumph of the Tea Blending Art. It is distinctly superior to the so-called finest teas. Have you tried it ? PaxLL-rps AND Co., TEA SPECIALISTS, sell a tea aii Is 4d per lb. which they guarantee to be superior in all respects to that sold at" present-giving shops up to 2s Gd per lb. Buy Alb. of Phillips's ls4d and compare it with "present-givingtea." It will at least be in- structive, and will open your eyes as to how "the thing is done." There is really no MnlíerJ about tk, ,aU.M