South Wales Daily News

J v BOERS NEAR NATAL. SIGHTING ON THE BORDER. (Central News Telegram.) DURBAN, Wednesday Night. 3 f-o, from Dundee states that the Natal A.da«P*tobfrom thQ town for the par- Volunteer. ^ith the Utrecht column in Nitons fighting on the border.

I BOBEKTS'S RETURN. KITCHENER TO COMMAND. (Central News Telegram.) JOHANNESBURG. Wednesday, I) lareported here that Lord Roberts leaw for home on the 29th inst. Lord Kitchener then assumes chief command. The Central News says :-The Government ban allow Lord Roberts to return from month. Tbis decision has on the strength of his Lordship's been made nditjon 0f the Boer Army and report as to th t Should unexpected the situation m gen^ developments of in.Chief will continue interval ^Tn jl all danger is over. The in South Africa Cape will be left to date of departure from the Lord Roberts to fix npou.

KOMATI POORT. boeb PREPARATIONS. (Beater'8 Telegram-) r owBNZO MARQCJBZ, l'bnrsday. l.O»liNi £ <u the hills over- The Boers have TomB aud 10 six- tasking Komati Maxims. They are pounders, P°^g^ng ■' General Penar and 3,000 strong. in command. The British General Coetze are 10 00 .re eectea dailY. « elpec'ea „„ < CAPE TOWN, Thursday. » AOrtesnondent says there are :SSS'»"

GEN. BUNDLE INJURED. (Central News TelegramJ that Geoeral Bundle has been It |g reported t He ig abl0) however, to S^ouf his miliary duties with his usual activity-

NATAL AND SETTLEMENT. (Beater's Telegram.) DURBAN, Wednesday. The Joint Vigilant Oommi^ of elected M- Lf"Xa« Srmari^burg, as Srr^rro W-* .represent Satel's interests ia the settlement.

DECEIVED BURGHERS. TRANSVAAL CONCESSIONS COMMISSION. (" Times" Telegram.) CAPE TOWN, Thursday, m «Dvn.al Concessions Commission begins Th6 hra on October lat. The sittings at Ha sitting oa Ootober 10th. Pretoria wil of the Argus at Delagoa A oorrespoo burghers there are demanding Bay says that their paper money. Tie payment in cas QOt there on official buai- offioials say {eeUog prevails. BBMU THEDONDEE REBELS. (Oencral News Tele.) DURBAN. Wednesday. • i artar of the Dundee rebels, VermaaJc, the JtSlCS' imprisonnoent ],» been sentenced to three 6aed wr)T?RS DISSATISFIED. (Xbrougn pBET0BIA Wednesday. The New Zealand troops are dissatisfied with o< n of them could by rems.ining obtain good positions, (Thl00g PST0R^, Wednesday. • u J been issued here and at Proclsmai-cns have o Roberts authoris- Johannesburg by order erf over on behalf jaR tbe director of rW,way theproperty, control, of the Imperial Governmen Netherlands management, and documents ot Railway. -Jf1!II .1.

BALKNCB; Cr LWs M",is PigRFECT adjustzneiat Vr SFS^SSS^HIS It youdo notpoBses ajjd NataEe'a bert«» tb#fc it through sf?«ALTED MTT.TC. THE reason w, be ^jdttlon is often therMnttw^w our disorganifff delicious ,P«P^f it is unsuitable diet, assimilable form. nourishment in a p feut itVemoTes the conaejJ"^11^ nourishment in a p feut itVemoTes the conaejJ"^11^ not only good t<ooa, impaired digestion ot Ua food. wore. What it does tor toe hel»n« it to PC'S tbe child. ^sobox adult it does also lor j babyhood, pi • P?5blim of matouteitwn6mand u lor free s^^Bwitnrp^SWinftEec H° 62I

MR KRUGER'S LATEST HOPES TO MEET THE QUEEN. (Central News Telagram.) CAPE TOWN, Thursday. despatch froam L)elagoiL Bay g&Vo th&A Lorenzo Marques is crowded with Boer refugees, who are leaving tLinp place at Riots among the Boers are Komati Foort. Komati Poort. England, and a witib the QueoD.

HIS LAST SERMON. Mnlsnrnit the "Standard's" WnngaJ?™aysMr Kruger*s flight was corresposident sa^^ qq gaaday pre. kept ^departure, and attributed the loss of IhTcountry to the prevalence of impure religion. Mr Kruger is in good health. A GREAT ATTRACTION. Kruger is a great attraction at Reuben Point. He smokes on the Governor's stoep before ad- miring crowds. The refugees strongly condemn Kruger's flight.—Central News.

THE DUTCH OFFER TO KRUGER. BRITISH NON-INTERFERENCE. The Hague, Thuradeky.-In to-day's sitting of the First Chamber of States General daring the debate upon the Address, in reply to the speech from the Throne, M. Fransen de Putte inter- pellated the Government upon Policy m con- nection with the Transvaal and Ctana. The Minister for Foreign Affa^n, refernng_to the expulsion of employees on the Netherlands Rail- way said that compensation could be asked if there was ground for it. The Netherlands Government had investigated the matter, and would inform the British Government that it would demand compensation. As regards the offer of a war vessel to Mr Kruger, the Govern- ment had taken that step on learning that Mr Kruger wished to come to Europe for the benefit of bis health. When the offer was made the Netherlands Government informed the London Cabinet, which expressed its thanks for the in- formation, and declared that it bad nO intentbn of interfering with Mr Krnger'a projected joarney. ,-Renter.. (Central News Telegram.) CAPE TOWN, Thursday Morning. Mr Kruger has accepted an offer mads to him by the Netherlands of a Dutch warship in which to proceed to Europe. TAKING CARE OF HIMSELF. LORENZO MARQUEZ, Wednesday. According to the Daily Mail" Lorenzo Marquez correspondent Mr Kruger bas deposited the valne of £ 1,500,000 sterling in the local bank, and at least 30 erstwhile important officials are smug and prosperously contented here. Meanwhile, Transvaal women and children widows and orphans, absolutely destitute, have been left to starve in the streets, and not even a pretence of helping them is made by the Trans vaalers. Sympathetic British have unostenta- tiously supplied them with temporary assistance in individual oases, but they are left by their own people to starve and die.

DE WET REDrVIVUS. IN ORANGE RIVER COLONY. A SMALL FOLLOWING. (Press Association Special Telegram.) JOHANNESBURG, Wednesday. General Hart evacuated Potchefstroom on Sunday morning. Most of the British residenta of the town have arrived here, as well as the Boei prisoners from the district. A Potchefstroom resident, with whom I have had an interview, states that General De Wet arrived at Potchefstroom en roote for the Orange River Colony three weeks ago with a following of only eight men. He was welcomed with delight by the Dutch inhabitants and was photographed. He said he was pleased to see such art Afrikander spirit among them. Next morning he addressed them from the front of the Conrt House. He exhorted them to beep up their confidence and not to believo half they heard about Datch losses They would continue fighting, he said, though only ten men were left, and he would be one ot them. It was, he said, impossible to know whom to ttOBt, and he mis- trusted his own coat. Speaking of the oath of neutrality, General Do Wet said the Transvaal Government bad issued a proclamation freeing them from responsibility, and they must come forward willingly, and not wait to be commandeered. He gave aU praise to Lollis Botha for his successes. General De Wet left the same afternoon, and reioined hia men, who were supposed to number 200.

THE FINAL ROUT. GUERILLA WARFARE. Two thousand Boers, with Maxima and pom. poms and two heavy guns (says the Standard Nelspruit correspondeutl, have gone to Hector Spluit. Botha and Viljoen have accompanied them. Trains are now taking the foreigners to Delftgloa Bay. There are two breaks in the line before Kaapmuidenis reached. Six hundred Boers are on the Macmao road in the direction of Pilgrim's Rest, and it is reported that they have destroyed their Long To.ns lest they should fall into our hands. Mr Steyn is impressing yoang and well- mounted Boers for the purpose of continuing a guerilla war in the sonth.

SLUMP IN TIN. The slump in tin caused some excitement at Birmingham Metal Market on Thursday. Ingot tia feU to X29 for deliveries in the month, and EZ less for deliveries in throe months repre- sents a faJI of SS on the week, Ell,"on a month, and over iE20, compared with the maximum prices early in the year. The fall is a boon to Birminghu,m manufacturers.

TO DAY'S tfOKBOAS* pol; BNGLJLXD, S.W.. AND 60 UTB WALKS. Issued at a eelock, 1-b night South-westerly winds, moderate or fresh fair at first, but Borne rain later. Warnings.—The south cone is up iu 0,6, ana part of 1 and 9.

GENERAL FORECASTS. The following forecasts were issued by the Meteorological Office at 8 o'clock last niotht:- DISTRICTS— Westerly to soutn-weswriy A rx j -vr winds, increasing in force; 0. Beet lane, W. fftir Rt some ram later. 1. Bootiand, Sarue as a 2. En«}lIoni, N.E.. ame as 3. Eugland,E. 4. fttid Counties.. Sontb-westerly Winds, light 5. E»g- S. (Lon. j" or moderate; fair generally, and Channel).) South-westerly winds, fresh 6. ScotlandW.■ or strong oloudy some rain. 6. Seat] &nil, w- or. strong oloudy Home ) rain. 7 England, N.W.) South-westerly winds, freBh- & North Wales. J ening clondy some ram. j o «*r ) South-westerly winds, modc- S, England, S. TV • I rate or fresh fair *t> first, & South Wales,, j SOBae rain later. Southerly and sonth-westerly 9 Ireland N winds,increasing in foroe; V! Ireland, S cloudy, unsettled; some rain. 9 Ireland N winds,, ineresiqiag in foroe; 11 n. Ireland, S cloudy, unsettled; some rain. Aberystwyth, Thursday Evening. Bare- meter, 30-350, gte-iy. maximum thermometer in skaie, 63*4. Wind, S.W. Amount of s««hine registered by Jordan's recorder fwr the 24 hours preceding 6 0 p.m. 8 hours 30 mmotes. Fine Ly. Moderate south-westerly breezes. After- noon cooler, with overcast sky at times.

is alkali used to darken corou^ „ CoCQa i8ln the eye). requires no addition ot itself a 'Q°^(,dbuATis absolutely pure drugs whatever at all time&and in oft¡eorthei>80ke ofbe only in Packets and Tins. MI40 U13c

,{ THE CLUMSY PLOT. OFFICIAL STATEMENT. The following telegram bas been received from Pield-Marahal Lord Roberts by the Secretary of State for War Briefly the facte of the Johan- nesburg plot are as follows. The police and the Military Governor received information that on the 14th July, the anniversary of the taking of the Baetille, an attempt would be made to over- power the garrison and murder the British officers. A race meeting was to tak* place on that day, and it was assumed that a large propor- tion of officers would attend it unarmed. Bolder spirits among the plotters were to go to tbe races armed and murder the '1' officers, while an c.-teasibly French National gathering was to be a rallying point for the low class, who were to murder all the police and then take possession of the Govern- ment offices. A Boer commando at Zwartskop, to the north of the town, was in direct communica- tion with the plotters. By the 13th of July tbe police were in possession of sufficient evidence to justify numerous arrests, which were accordingly carried out daring the night of the 13th and 14tb. At noon on the 14th July the Consuls of Germany, France, Sweden, and America —of whch nations some subjects had been wrested— met the Commissioner of Police and discussed the question. Eaoh Consul con- cerned was furnished with a statement of the facts of the case. The interview passed off most satisfactorily, and the Consuls expressed entire concurrence with the action taken, and promised to render every assistance. Between 400 and 500 arrests were made, but of these 75 were subse- qently released on being vouched for by their respective Consuls. I at once gave orders for the deportation of all such foreigners as had bean arreBted in connection with the plot for whose behaviour theConsnl of their country would no vouch. The prompt meaaures taken have met with the approval of the people of all nationalities resi- diug at Johannesburg, and this approval has been expressed openly, and in some cases officially. I received the Military Governor's report on the subject on the 19th of July, r.nd on 22nd July transmitted a copy to the High Commissioner.. A copy will be for- warded to you by overland mail. ) With the exception of the above and employees of I the Netherlands Hailway Company who refused to work for ue. and who have been proved to have taken an active part in the war againut us, very few foreigners have been deported from South Africa. I have called for complete lists, which 7/511 be sent to you as econ as possible.

HOSPITAL COMMISSION. MORE STARTLING DISCLOSURES. (Press Association Spec al Telegram.) PIETERMARITZBURG, Wednesday. The Hospital Commisaion sat this morning in the Premier's office hero. The Commission took evidence at the various places in Natal on ita way from the Transvaal, and heard many individual complaints regarding the condition of the hospitals. In many cases the abuses complained of were shown to be doe to unavoidable causes. Tbe first witness to-day was Mr Bale, Attorney- General of Natal and chairman of the Associa- tion for the Relief of Sick and Wounded. He stated that he had visited almost all the hos- pitals, and that he had noticed nothing which could form the subject of complaiat. He bad heard in regard to Fort Napier Hospital at Pietermaritzbarg that that building WOB an unsuitable place for the accommodation of the sick and wounded, as it waa infested with bngas which caused the patients much paia. The asso- ciations viaited by witness supplied the miUtary hospital* with necessaries, including brandy and. clothing. Witness admitted there was too mueb red tape. Sir William Stokes told him that too much attention was paid to organisation. Dr. Max Bledeo, formerly civil surgeon in Port Napier College Hospital, said that the barracks in Fort Napier weie full of nests. These insects were found under the patients' splints. They tried several things to get rid of them, but only one room was cleansed, and that was by burning it down and rebuilding it. Some men suffered terribly through the bugs. One enteric patient in delirium ran away, Baying he could not stand the bugs. Dr. Blieden also declared that there was an insufficiency of fresh milk and a chronic deficiency of clean linen. The condition of the ward was sometimes scandalous. Orderlies were too few in number, and the work was so organised as to make it laborious. Witness gave instances of what he described as ridiculous red-tapism which prevailed. The operating theatre was badly equipped. Col. Stoneraan, chief audit officer to the Natal Field Force, who was on Sir George White's stafi daring the eiege of Ladysmitb, mentioned com- plaints which had been made in the hos- pital there. He conducted an inqairy during December, and found that there was deficiency in bedsteads, bedding, and utensils. This WM remedied as soon as possible. Subsequently Sir George White did everything possible in the cir. cumstances. The delay in obtaining stores was due to unwieldy methods of official procedure. Owing to the fanity construction of the ditches round the tents the water entered the latter. Comforts intended for the patients were Btolen and two warrant officers were now in prison for this crime. Colonel Stoneman handed in his official reports in reference to Intombi Hospital. Mr Douglas de Fenzi, clerk to the Legislative Council, and secretary to the Siok and Wounded Relief Association, gave evidence regarding the niggardly management of the hospital nurainR. Sister Whiteman and Bishop Baynes testified ta th" satisfactory management of tbe College Hospital. Private Feinside, Bethune s Mounted Infantry, stated that he suffered from dysentery for six weeks owing to improper treatment. He bad been in eeven hospitals and attended by 14 different doctors. Col. Johnatone,P.M.O.,Pietermar>tzburg, corrc borated the evidence regarding tbe bugs, but stated that no other suitable buildings were available. He admitted that the supply at milk was insufficient, but denied that patients bad to lie on dirty linen. The orderlies were over- worked, and some of them got drunk occasionally. Witness experienced no difficulty in getting necessaries for hospitals. This concluded the evidenoa. The Commission leftsubseqtfently for Dnvbatt. -11.

WAR ITEMS. A POOR WIDOWS PLIGHT. Particulars are just tc band of the pathetic case of an old Northamptonshire widow who gave her four 80nB to the Amy. Tbia poor woman, named Uuderhill, living at Woodford, has been left in dire straits by the death of all her sons while serving with the colours, and has finally baen compelled to seek parochial relief. The local guardians have, the Regiment under- stands,made her a small allowance,but aurely the mother of four warriors who died for the honour of tho flag will not be permitted to die of want, and finally be laid to rest in a pauper's grave. MAN OR OFFICER ? The following from the front has the merit of being authentic, says the Cape Titnes :— Shockingly wounded Devon is brought from the firing line to the field hospital during the battle.—Charge Nurse to Stretcher-bearer Is he a man or an officer '-Stretcher-bearer Well, mum, 'e ain't got no hinaide. We've kerned 'im seven miles and let drop twice, and 'e never squeaked, so if 'e a bloorain' man, I'm sngared if I ever see one I

COLLIERY ACCIDENTS. EXPLOSION IN BOHEMIA. GREAT LOSS OF LIFE. Dux, Thursday.—While operations for extin- Kuisbiisg a fire were proceeding yesterday in tbe Frisehgleuck Mine, belonging to the Bruex Col- liery Company, an explosion occurred, causing great loss of life. So far 35 dead bodies have been recovered, while 13 men have been severely and two slightly injured. Twenty-three miners sue. ceeded in escaping. Five are still miesing.— Renter. RUN OVER BY TRAMS. The death of a hitcher employed in the OdD Slip Colliery, near Port Talbot, through being rnn over by some tr&triH, formed the subject of an inquiry on Thursday by Mr E. Bernard Reece, the Cardiff onronar. Deceased—-Thomas John, aged 22, living at Ke&fig Hill-was riding down the No. 2 drift with six loaded trams on Tuesday afternoon. The wheels went over the left thigh, oausing a very lacerated wounù. A water tank I standing at the sido of the line only stood clew of "the paeeiog trauia by six inches. Ttle injured man was oonveyed to Cardiff Infirmary, whore be arrived in a state of collapae. An operation was oonøidered imperative, and John died two hours afterwards. One ■jfitoesa said deceased told him ho knocked hia knee against the water tank. Hitebers WUKO forbidden to ride on this drift. A verdict of Accidental death was returned. Mr Lewis, one of her 'Majesty's inspectors of mine*, attended the inquiry.

AUSTRALIA AND THE VISIT OF THE DUKE OF YORK. Melbourne, Thoraday.-The Victorian Parlia- ment has adopted an address to the yoee expressing gratification and thankin ber Majesty ana tbe Pake and Duchess of York for such a distinguished mark of Royal favour a* that con- ferred on the Colonies by tbe visit of their Royal Highnesses- The Governors of the different Colonies have also cabled thanking tbe Queen. Renter.

News, Fashion, Science, Health, Gardening Music, Welsh Fcrfk-Lorc, Serial Kctmr Himwur, Gossip, Uoaeehold Affaixss, Short Compete Stowa^ Welsh Poefey are found in the "CardSto^to»a«ro South Wales Weekly .Newe.' the biggest ami ortgnte st Pen y Weeldy Newspaper xmbliBbea.,

RUSSIA CHECKMATED. GERMAN NOTE APPROVED. BOXERS' FATE. EXTERMINATION ORDERED. The Kaiser's clear Note, calling for reprisals, has quite eclipsed the Czar's shadowy scheme. Other Powers are now claiming credit for having all along held similar ideas. In Paris the Circular is called "energetic and wise," and in Vienna it meets with warm approval." It is agreed that in principle the German Note cannot but be approved by all the Powers. The danger lies in its realisation, Whether Germany will persist in the en- forcement of its sweeping demands remains to be seen. In the meantime a sensational story, comes from the Washington correspondent of the Morning Post." The reason for the change in the attitude of the United States towards Russia is said to be a diplomatic conflict between Lord Salisbury and the Emperor Nicholas. The Prime Minister, so it is reported, succeeded in sub- mitting to the United States proof positive that Russia's motives were selfish, seeking Manchuria as a reward for befriending China. The cordial relations between the United States and Great Britain have J accordingly been restored. I Renter s understands that it has been found inexpedient for the Powers- to adopt the Russian proposal of withdrawing from Peking, as, according to trustworthy in- formation, the Boxers were prepared, had the proposal been carried out, to come down again into Peking and the surround- ing neighbourhood. The whole task of defeating them must then have been begufl afresh.

FLIGHT OF BOXERS. HEADQUARTERS OCCUPIED. The Secretary of State for India has received the following telegram, dated Tientsin, 12th September, :— Occupied (?) headquarters of Boxers at Teiliu, 26 miles from Tientsin, on the morning of the 10th September, with the following force :—1,500 (?) British, 400 Japanese, 200 Russians, 200 Americans, 1,000 Italians, without opposition. Enemy fled to Sheng Fang. Teiliu • was destroyed, but the large neighbouring city of Chinghai spared on condition that Mr Green, mission- ary, two ladies, and two children, known to be hiding in Hsinan-Hsien, be brought in safety to Tientsin. Mandarin accepted condition. Sheng jFang, 30 miles, is the last Boxers' stronghold near Tientsin.

SIR O. MACDONALD'S HEALTH. EXCHANGE OF LEGATIONS. The Foreign Office has issued the following: Sir Claude Macdoaald's health having suffered from the prolonged strain of Chinese afinirs since 1896, arraogements^had been made in April last. atjhia request, for his transfer to Tokio, which is & less exhausting appointment, The change was necessarily delayed by the siege of the Legations a.t Peking, but it is now held to be desirable on medical grounds alone that Sir C. Macdcnald should come away on leave, and Sir Ernest Satow has been instructed to undertake the care of the Peking Legation, if such shall etill be the wish of Sir C. Macdonald.

PEITANG FORTS ATTACKED. (Renter's Telegram.) TAKU, Thursday. The Allies attacked the Peitang forts at day- break to-day. Heavy cannonading is proceeding. (Central News Telegram.) ROME, Thursday Evening. Admiral Candiani telegraphs from Taku that the allied troops will renew the attack upon the Pie Tang forts as soon as reinforcements arrive. The latter are expected to reach the scene of action this evening.

EXTERMINATION. EDICT AGAIN ST THE BOXERS The Press Association understands that the Chinese Minister in London, Sir Chi Chen Lofengloh, has been informed by a telegram from China that an Imperial Edict has been issued to exterminate the Boxers. (Press Association Foreign Special.) PEKING, September 12tb. A German column under General Von Hoepf- ner was joined at Luikoncha by a. squadron of Bengal Lancers, and attacked the walled city of Lianghsion at 9 o'clock yesterday morning. The town was foil of boxers and Chinese Imperial txoopa. After the German artillery had shelled the town the gates were blown up and the troops rushed in. Sharp fighting eemned in the streets. No quarter was given, and 500 Chinese were killed. Tbe column returned to Peking after having buried the town. Only one casualty is reported.

BRITISH FLAG FIRST. (Through Lallan's Agency.) PEKING, Sept. 13. Fmther particulars obtained of the capture of iLtang-Haiang give the British the credit of climbing the walls and planting there the first flag 10 minutes ahead of tbe Germans. The British force consisted of 50 men, with a Maxim gun, under Captain Grilfiu, while the Germans numbered 1,700 men, commanded by General Von Hoepfner. During the fighting in tbe streets of the town Captain Griffin was attacked by six Chinese, and was gallantly rescued by Bugler Ali Sher Khan, who killed two of his assailants. British accounts place the Chinese loss at 200 killed.

WINTER IN PEKING. (Press Association Foreign Special.) PEKING, September 14th. General Chaffee has stated he would prefer to use tents for winter camps rather than unsani- tary buildings. There are indications that some of the Allies will winter at Peking. The German force is the largest, and will probably be dis- tribnted amoag the surrounding cities so ns to relieve the strain. The Japanese will withdraw moat of their force to Nagasaki, bat 2,000 Russians will remain here. A joint expedition, to consist of British, Germans, and French, has been planned for the purpose of controlling tbe country. The Empress-Dowager is willing to return to Peking if protection is given. The generate and Ministers however are unwilling to assume such a. responsibility. Small bands of Boxers are re- ported to be m the neighbourhood. Mr Conger says that Peking must be occupied by the foreign troops nntil some settlement has been effected, otherwise all the valae of the ex- pedition of the Allies would be lost. General Chaffee has issued orders prohibiting ooting and f jragiog on the part of the Ameriean roopa. General Chaffee also directs that every aeility is to be giren to the Chinese who are desirous of reopening their shops, and that every- thing taken must be paid for.

RUSSIANS WITHDRAWING. (Renter's Telegram.) PEKING, Sept. 12. Rusaion tvofrps have commenced to withdraw gradually from Peking.

AMERICA CAUTIOUS. (Renter's Telegram.) NEW YORK, Thursday. Tbe Herald'd correspondent at Washing- ton states that Runtua consents to retain a detachment at Peking, and that the United Statpa will comply with Plraee Ghrng's I reqnest that the United States Government should instruct Mr Conger to open negotiations at once. Washington, Thursday.—Although the draft of the United States reply to the German Note has been prepared, it is considered that there is no occasion to precipitate matters, and it will not be forwarded nntil after the meeting of the Cabinet to-morrow. It is believed that instead of being an unconditional acceptance or rejection of the proposal, the Note will be rather contro- versial, and framed with a view to develop the feeling of the other Powers.

THE CHINESE PLOT. (Through Loffan's Agency.) PEKING. Sept. 7. A Chinese official has stated that Prince Tuan and Tung Kah-Fuh-Siang had arranged a plot to massacre the entire diplomatic cores on June 20th, but their scheme was frustrated.

CHINESE FICTION. (Press Association Foreign Special.) HONG KONG, Wednesday. Since the suppression of the Canton newspaper anonymous leaflets have been freely circulated containing reports of Chinese victories and stat- ing that Peking is holding oat, that the Powers are seeking peace at any price, that China is dictating terms and demanding the withdrawal of all foreigners, the restoration of all alienated territory, and the payment of a large indemnity. The leaflets are believed to be tbe work of litterati and are intended to create anti-foreign feeling among the populace. The Viceroy is powerless to suppress the leaflets, which are more harmful in effect than the uewapapars owing to their wider circulation.

CHINESE OFFICIALS ANXIOUS. (Renter's Telegram.) WASHINGTON, Thursday. The Chinese officials are making urgent re- quests that speeiat credentials may be cabled to Mr Conger, or that some other person may be immediately designated, in order that negotia- tions may begin at once. Wu Tine Fang also presented an appeal from the Vieerjy of Wn Chang and Nanking, who ask that no more troops may be landed in their territory, as they fear tbe exciting effect of their presence upon the Chinese. They are willing to guarantee peace and protection to foreigneu if foreign troops are thas excluded.

SEYMOUR ON TOUR. (Central News Telegram.) SHANGHAI, Wednesday Night. Admiral Seymoar on the Alacrity left to-day for Wei-hai- Wei and Taka. The British Con- suI says the Admiral is going to make a. tour of inspection. The native papers to-day report that Liu Kun Yi and Chang Chitung have now been appointed Peace Commissioners.

ALLIES' INDEMNITY. The total indemnity which the Allies will claim is astimatad at Vienna, says the Daily Mail correspondent, at between 60 and 80 million pounds sterling.

FIGHTING IN THE PHILIPPINES. GALLANTRY OF U.S. TROOPS. HARASSING TACTICS. ^Through Laffan's Agency.) MANILA, Wednesday. Iu an engagement with 1,000 rebels near Siailoan, in the province of LaRuna, detachments of the 15th and 37th Regiments lOJt 12 men killed, 26 wounded, and five missing. The rebels were armed with rifles. The United States troops fought gallantly, their positions compelling them to wade in the water to their waists. Captain Mitchell and Lieutenant Cooper were among the killed. For several days there bas been in- creased activity in the neighbourhood of Manila, the rebels constantly harassing and attacking the American outposts a.nd garrisons, especially those on the lake shore and along the railroad. The Americans have suffered fourteen casaftlties in these attacks.

SPURGEON'S TABERNACLE. REOPENING CONTINUED. The second day's proceedings on Tharsdav in connection with the reopening oi the Metro. politan Tabernacle possessed an additional feature of interest from the fact that it was the 44th birthday of the pastor, Mr Thomas Spurgeon, and the afternoon was set apart for a reception by tbe pastor and his wife, when gifts were made to the pastor a birthday fnnd for the support of the work connected with the Taber- nacle and its institutions. Among tliese is the Pastors' College, wbioh since the commencament ho8 educated 1,000 ministers and has now about 60 students the Stockwel! Orphanage, which is supporting and educating 500 children a Col- portage Association, 23 missions, and 25 Sabbath schools, containing 8,681 scholars. In the morning there was again a devotional meeting, which was presided over by the Rev. F. B. Meyer, and was largely attended. The Chairman snggefited that they should send a tele- gram to Mrs C. H. Spurgeon in reply to the message of congratulation which came from her on Wednesday. He said she was very weak and low, and be thought nothing would be more likely to act as a cordial to her than to have a telegram of loving sympathy and cordhl affection from that audience. He asked the audience to signify their assent, which they did by uprising. The telegram, which was prepared by the Rev. J. W. Ewing, ran thus :—" Meeting in renewed Taber- nacle gives thanks for message, and Bends affec- tionate greeting of tender sympathy, while earnestly commending you to the Grace of All Consolation." Pastor Thomas Spnrgeon said he waa glad that the meeting bad sent the message. It is all sunshine with ns here cn this occasion," said Mr Spurgeon, "and we oan spare a little, and if we can send a rav or two across the dividing miles to Westwoods Hill it will be well for her and for us." Mr Spurgeon next explained that he had received a message from his mother that morning conveying birthday congratulations to their pastor. This announcement was received with chsera. Mr Spurgeon added that his mother had enclosed double the amount of her usual subscription to the Birthday Fund, and he trusted that they would follow her example. He thanked them for the message they bad sent. The Chairman then rose and said: "The next thing for ns all to do is to wish Mr Thomas Spur- geon I Mllny happy returns of his birthday.' (Cheers.) It will be a little unconventional, but I will ask everybody to rieo and do so." The whole audience rose, and in unison said Many happy returns of the day." Mr Spurgeon (rising amid cheers): Thank yon, and if I may be also a little unconventional I will say, the same to yon, and many of them.' (Laughter and cheers.) Then came an address from the Chairman. Throughout the entire Metropolis, he said, there was one feeling of thankfulness that the time of stress was over, and that they were launched on the new tide of success in all the work connected with their organisation. During the winter they were likely to witness the grandest work that the Free Churches bad peer, when they would all be united in an evangelistic mission of tUB greatest importance. They rejoiced that the Tabernacle was likely now to take its part in that mission. What perhaps atrock thoughtful men moat on entering that Tabernacle was the absence of altar, priesthood, or anything .that might savour of the Sacramentariau. They had no altar be- cause Calvary was sufficient; they needed no priest there because their priest stood at the right hand of God He concluded by expressing, in the words slightly varied, of Scripture, this appropriate with, Peace be within these walls and prosperity withia this palace." (Cheers.) The Rev. J. W. Ewing, one of the pastors who had been traiued in the Pastors' College, in- formed the audience that the people of his church in Rye-lane bad passed a resolution heartily con- gratulating the pastor and members of the Taber- nacle on the completion of the bnilding, and praying for blessings on their work. Thete had also come to him as secretary of the conference of the Pastors' College a message from the members of the college scattered throughout Europe, Asia, America, Australia, and Now Zealand addressed to the ptr: The Lord bless thee and keep thee tbe Lord make His face to shine npon thee; the Lord lift up His countenance -upon tliee, and give thee peace." That, he said, waa the birthday greeting of the Pastors' College con- ference to its beloved and honoured president. (Cheers.) In the course of farther observations the speaker said there were those WhO thought, religion must depend upon State-aid support, but tbe Metropolitan Tabernacle had been re-opeaed and waa supported without any aid from the rates or any grant from Parliament. (Cbeera.1 A collection in aid of the Pastors College followed. After a few words from the lis v. T. Greenwood Mr Ira D. Sackay was called upon to give one of bis songs. Mr Sankey, advancing to the front of tbe rostrum, asked permission to relate an anaodote in reference to the late Mr Spurgeon. Passing through London on one occa- sion he paid a visit to the Tabernacle and took a seat in the body. Mr Spurgeon espied him, and after the service sent for him into the vestry and informed him he was going to preach a sermon on a Bill before Parliament in relation to the Array, and addbd, I want yon to coma and sing 4 old the (Laughter.) He (Mr Sankey) objeaied that he had no instrument with wiiich to accompany himself. Never mindt' said Mr Spurgeon, we will get aJI the instruments yon want." Accordingly be attended, and sang, Oh, my comrades, see the signal waving in the iiky." Mr Spurgeon afterwards said, Now, my dear Sankey, I am 1 sore our roof will stay on after tbat." (Laughter.) Mr Sankey then sang I am a pilgrim and a stranger I can tarry but a nu-ht." "('v¡'w.wv.ft'-

C. BRANI>AUBB Yz OO. Gi/culju'-Polfited Pens neither scratch nor spurt, the points being rounded C. BRANI>AUBB ISC Co.'U Gi/culju'-Polfited Pens neither scratch nor spurt, the points being rounded by a new process. Assorted Sample Box for seven gtivmpfr ^he Works, Blriniuglmn. 1132

MANIFESTOES BY MINISTERS. OPPOSITION SLANDERED. MR CHAMBERLAIN'S APPEAL. A STAND ON THE WAR POLICY. MR BALFOUR'S CLAIMS. ANOTHER MILITANT ADDRESS. The following is Mr Chamberlain's addle" to the electors of the West Division of the city of Birmingham Gentlemen,—On the invitation of the Unionist Committee of the division I once more ask yon for the renewal of the confldeuee and support which on five previous occasions have returned ma as yonr representative in the House of Commons. The issue which, in common with the rest of the electors of the United Kingdom, yoa will be called upon to decide is the most important pre- sented to the people of this country during the present generation. We have reached the final stage in a great war which has involved a heavy sacrifice of life I' and treasure, but has been made illustrious by the heroism of the Imperial forces and the patriotism of all classes of the people of the United Kingdom, and has also enlisted for the first time in the history of the Empire the enthu- siastic support of our kinsmen in all the self- governing colonies. You are now aeked to say whether this war was jast and inevitable or whether it was only another iustance of the policy of greed and oppression of which our enemies accuse us. Above all, you are asked to decide whether the glorious valour of our soldiers, the ungrudging support of our fellow-subjects in all parts of the world; and the sacrifices which we and they have sustained are now to be thrown away, or whether the objects with which the war was undertaken are to be fully secured. The Government of this country derives its strength and influence from the people. Those who wish ill to Britain, whether in South Africa or nearer home, have been encouraged by the hope of reaction in popular opinion which would wea.ken the handsJof the Executive and snatch from us even at the list moment the ftuits of victory, t have confidence that our eountrymen will disappoint these expectations, aud with no uncertain voice will justify the efforts which we have made to maintain the supremacy of the Qaeen in South Africa and to protect British sabject3 from intolerable insult and oppression. "Our opponenti assert that we deliberately pro- voked war, for which we made no preparation. The first statement is untrue, and the second is greatly exaggerated. The war was forced npon us by the sudden invasion and occupation of her Majesty's territories by the armed forces of the two Uepnblics at;* time when negotiations for a peaceful settlement was still proceeding. These negotiations were conducted on oar part from first to lost in a spirit of the greatest moderation, and it is admitted even by the best friends of the Boers that a reasonable concession to our just dema-nds would have been for the benefit of the* South African Republic, and would have secured it independence and preserved peace, but that Pie-ideat Kroger and the cortapt oligarchy which followed his lead were detDrmined to con- cede nothing, but to maintain at all hazards the monopoly of power which they had abused for their own advantage, but to the injury of the great majority of the population who had been invited into the Transvaal on the faith of a solemn promise of equal rights and privileges. The Orange Free State entered into the contest without the pretence of a grievance of their own, and in spite of the declaration of President Steyn that they woulri in no case be the aggressor, It is true, then, in a certain limited sense, that we were unprepared for an attack for which there was no just or reasonable pretext. It is also true that, foreseeing as we did the serious nature of such a contest, we desired to avoid it by all means short of a betrayal of oar fellow-subjects and a surrender of the rights of the Qneeu, and that accordingly we refrained ms long as possible from a demonstration of military force which would have certainly precipitated the conflict. But we did, nevertheless, mise the garrison in South Africa from 3>000, at which it was left by our predecessors, to 22,000, at which it stood in the first week of the war—a force which we were advised by the highest authorities in this country and in Soath Africa would be sufficient to main- tain the strategic poinis until an army equal to offensive operations could arrive in South Africa. This advice was justified in the resalt, and the saocessfnl defence of Ladysmith, Kimberley, and Mafeking has confirmed the confidence which was placed in the conrage and resource of the troops who thus withstood the brant of the enemy's attack. The subseqaent operations of the war have involved the despatch of more than 200,000 men with artillery and supplies, and this great foree, many times larger than has ever left these shores before, or has even been sent abroad by any other country with a similar object, has been transported withont the loss of a single life over 6,000 miles of sea. It has been required not only to beat the enemy iu tbe field but also to maintain the communications of the army over more than 1,500 miles in a country peculiarly adapted to sarprises, every inch of which is known to the brave and active men who have resisted our advance. Under the skilful leadership of Lord Roberts all difficulties have been over- come, and the Governments of the two Republics have now paid the penalty of their insolent aggression and have ceased to exist. It is the policy of the present Government which you are asked to approve that these sepa- rate and independent Governments, which have been a constant menace to her Majesty's snpre- macy in Soath Africa, shoald never again be re- stored, bat that after a period of administrations, backed by military force, the length of which will depend on she readiness with which the Boer populations accept the British flag, the people of the two States shall be received into the Empire on the footing of self-governing Colonies, in which position they will enjoy more liberty than they ever did before, and an equality of rights and privileges which they have persistently denied to the British in their midst. 11 The fcucceos of this policy, which bas been approved by all tho eelf-goveraing colonies• that have taken part in;the war, depends upon its con- tinuity. Any weakening of the Government, any sign of change in the resolution of tbe people, will be the signal for intrigues which muat delay and which may defeat it. 41 It is on these groand, and in what I believe to be the vital interests of this cocntry and of the whole British Empire, that I ask you now to ap- prove the policy tbat the Government has pursued and to strengthen oar -h&ndB in tbe effort to secart^a final and satisfactory settlement in this work. work. We have had neither sympathy nor support from the great majority of the Parliamentary Opposition which now claims to represent the Liberal party, and it is clear, from the speeches and votes of many of those who are influential among them, that they would, if they had tue opportunity, reverse, or at least alter, the policy which has secured the enthusiastic »p»tov»l of our kinsinen in all ports of the world. The latest informatiori shows that it is on the expectation of such a chance that Mr Kruger and his supporters have relied. It is for you to show that thoy have been misled and mistaben. A,uo,tiker question requires immediate cou- sideration as a result of the war which, while it has shown the enormous rbaonrcos of the country has nevertheless disclosed faults in our military system which urgently call for review and reform. Sneh a reorganisation as modern conditions appear to have rendered necessary can only be successfully undertaken by a Government strongly supported by public opinion and by a Parliament with a cloar mandate from the con- stitneneies. These are the great issues of the present election which overshadow all others, but I am confident yoa will remember in connection with them the general character of the foreign and colonial policy of the Unionist Government. Ae Unionists we bttva defeated the policy of dis- integration which would have weakened the citadel of the Empire and made as the langhing- stock of the civilised world, and we have realised as uever before the unity of the British race, and have restored the pride and confidence of our colonies in the leadership of the mother land. If we had nothing else to appeal to than tbe higher sense which we have helped to create of the mutual obligations of the different ports of her Maiesty's dominions to one another, I should ofi these grounds aek hopefully for the support of all who care for the present greatness of their country, and wbo look forward with confident anticipation to the future development of the Empire.. But in thus dealing with great questions of external policy we have not neglected the claims of domestic legislation and the great workof -social reform wt-ip,h it, hRS faeoi a specral object of the Unionist party to promote. We have placed upon the Statute Book during the last five years a number of Acts dealing with education, local government, artisan dwellings, compensation for accidents, the protection of workmen in mines and factories, the safety of railway servantsj aud many others, which contrast favourably with the absolutely barren efforts of our predecessors, and which have contributed to the happiness and weJl-beiug of the masses, while they have been accompanied by an exceptional development of trade and an unparalleled general prosperity, 11 Gentlemen, the record of the Government is before you. I submit it with confidence to your judgment, and I hope that yon may be induced once more to send me to Parliament as a repre- sentative of the city whose welfare has been one of the greatest objects of my life. H I am, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, J. CHAMBERLAIN."

MR A. J. BALFOUR'S ADDRESS. THE PROBLEM AWAITING SOLUTION. Mr Balfour has issued the following addres to the electors of East Manchester :— 10, Downing street, Whitehall, S.W., 20th Sept., 1900. "Gentlemen,-When in 1895 I last had the honour of soliciting your -nffragea I was address- ing an audience who had freeh within recollec- tion the legislative schemes of the Home Rale Government which had jast been defeated in the House of Commons. The judgment you then posted upon those schemes was decisive. Yon were asked whether yoa desired Home Rale for Ireland, Disestablishment for Wales, the de- struction of the Honse of Lords. You declared that you would have none of them. These questions, among others, are now again to be put to you. and I doubt not that you will return to them the same uncompromising reply. In placa of these revolting projects you were promised, if a Unionist Government were re- turned to office, a sober course of social reform, a firm Government, and an Imperial policy, and the record of the last five years is there to show that these undertakings have been amply ful- filled. I do not believe that in the history of this country any Parliament has more successfully carried out the policy or more adequately falfilled the hopes of those who returned the majority to power, the long list of useful measures which have been added to the Statute Book, the firm vindication of Anglo Egyptian rights in the Valley of the Nile, the strengthening of the bonds uniting different portions ?f the Empire, the increaBe in its naval and military defences are among the evidences which may be adduced to show the success with which both the foreign and domestic interests of the conntry have been par- sued by the present Administration, and if in one case those interests could not be protected at a less cost than that of war, at least; we may reflect with satisfaction that the war was not of our seeking, and that having been forced upon us it has served to show the world how great are the moral as well &8 the material resources which this Empire wields in time of national emergency. This survey of tho past contains the best of all guarantees as to the character of the policy which the Unionist Government, if it retains the confidence of the Sovereign and of the country, may be trusted to pursue in the future. Here, therefore, in ordinary "timea I might bting this address to a close bnt the times are not ordinary, nor is the problem awaiting solu- tion in the recently-annexed South African terri- tories to be ranked among the ordinary difficul- ties from which an Empire like onrs can never long be free, and with which statesmen on either side of politics may be equally qualified to deal, for theso difficulties, serious under any circnm- stances, will prove insuperable if the portion of the South African population hostile to this country is persuaded that it has opposed to it only divided councils and an ambiguous policy. The possible advent to power of the Home Rule party was one of jts chief supports dnring the war. On the possible advent of a Home Rule Govern- ment to power it bases the hope that the war now happily drawing to a close shall be fruitless to its victors. The lesson which has been indel- ibly impressed on the South African mind by that portion of our dealings with the Trans- vaal which so inglorioasly ended at Majuba is that from a Radioal Administration neither firmness of purpose nor consistency of policy need be anticipated in the face of Boer persistence, nor is there anything in the recent history of the Opposition likely to modify tiiis view. Individattl members of it have, indeed, expressed opinions on the war with which all Unionists would agree but among its leaders there is ilO symptom of that unity wliiclVcan alone can give strength in council, and among its fol- lowers every shade of doctrine seems represented —from an orient and resolute pittciotbni to some- thing not very easy to distinguish from treaaon- able sympathy with the enemy. It is not to a party HO led and so composed that we can look for any consistent, effort to grapple with one of the most difficult questions which Brtitish Rtatsinanship has ever had to' faee, and every citizen therefore who desires that the blood which men of oar race from every quarter of the world have so freely shed in defence of the Empire shall not have been shod in vain, is bound to dismiss all sm&lirc iseues, and resolve that so far as in him lies there shall be no break in the continuity of our national policy, no diminution in the strength of the Parlia- mentary forces by which that policy can alone be successfully maintained. This, then, gentlemen, seema to me the essen- tial question on which you have got to decide. Other subjects no doubt there are of first-rate importance which at the present moment engage public attention. Snch, for example, as the development of eventsi in the Far East and Army organisation, bnt it is not on matters like these, however interesting, that the verdict of the country can depend for the general pricciplea which should guide onr policy in China afford little matter for dispute, and no satisfactory attempt to utilise the leseiona of the war can be made until the return to this country of Lord Roberts and the gallant troops under his com- mand. Their capacity and courage have added lustre to our military history, their victories have removed a standing monaco to the peace and security of the Empire. They have shown us how excellent is the military material which we have at our command, and perhaps not the least of their services will consist ia showing us by their experience how best that material may be tamed to account. In the confident hope that the electors of East Manchester will continue to grant me that confidence which they have never yet withheld, I beg to remain yoar obedient servant, U (signed) ARTHUR JAMES BALFOUR."

MR WYNDHAM'S ADDRESS. Mr George Wyndham, Under-Secretary of War, in bis election address says :—The unpro- voked invasion of her Majesty's South African dominion by the armies of the two Boer Repub- lics served to demonstrate the unity of the Empire by the unsolicited proffers of assistance which it evoked from the other dependencies of the Crown. It is for you to uy whether the task undertaken in South Africa is to be completed without doubt or hesitation by those who have laboured on it with complete unanimity of purpoie, or whether it is to be transferred to others.

MOVEMENTS OF MINISTERS. MR WYNDHAM TO VISIT CARDIFF. Work is progressing rapidly in all the political camps. No step will be left unturned in the effort to perfect the macbinary of the various organisations. Mr Chamberlain did not visit the Colonial Office on Thursday morning, and he left London during the day for Highbury, Birmingham. Mr Chamberlain has arranged to address an open-tir meeting at Birminglmm on Saturday.

THE LIBERAL LEADERS. On Wednesday night Sir Henry Campbell- Bamnerman will address the electors of Stirling. Lord Kimberley will address a meeting at Saffron Walden on Monday instead of on Thurs- day, as previously intended. Sir Edward Grey, Bart., will address a meeting at Berwick on Wednesday evening,

THE CANDIDATES. MR CLIFFORD CORY ADOPTED AT TONBRIDGE. Mr Clifford Cory, of Cardiff, has boen adopted by the Protestant Electoral Roll to contest Ton- bridge Division against Mr A. G. Boscawen mainly on the Charch and Temperauce ques- tions. CARDIFF SOLICITOR FOR BATH. The Liberal of Bath will ran Mr A. C. Mor- ton, formerly LiberaJ member for Peterborough, and Mr Donald Maclean, solicitor, of London and Cazdiff, PA Liberal candidates for Bati2 in opposition to the present Unionist members, Col. Wyndham Murray and Mr E. R. Wodetiouse. MR BIRRELL'S CONCLUSION. Mr Augustine Birrell (Liberal) in bit addreas to the electors of North East Manchester, issaed on Thursday, makes tho following reference to the war I deplore it; I abhor it, and fear its conse- qnencem will involve UB in great expense and con- stant difficulty for many a. day to come. I de. test the new diplomacy of Mr Chamberlain and know very well that there were powerful and un. sorapnlous men. both in England and in Africa who wanted war, who worked for war, who would have been bitterly disappointed had war been avoided, bat I adhere to the opinion I have Q. pressed in the Honse of CommonB that the chief blame of the war rests upon the beadti of the two ex-Presidents of the now annexedRepublics.With the Orai^e Free State we batl no qaartol, whilst had Mr Kroger boen an honest ruler of his people anxious to keep bi-i pledged word, he could have I secured for them and generations to come their united independence, as guaranteed by the con- ventions. He wanted more thtl.n thip, and fired I the first shot in the war, which onee beenn had to be fought ont. I have no fault to find with iannexmtion, All are agreed there must be dis- armament, and if so the independence of the two Republics were restored it would be bat a sham. Conventions are proved failures. We must there- fore fly the Union Jack over these huge terri- tories." RETIREMENT OF MR JUSTIN MCCARTHY. Thursday's Freeman's Jouraal" says :—Mr Justin McCarthy, member for North Longford, is retiring from Pttriiamentarv life owing to ill- health. It has been practically decided that Mr Thos. Hewett will stand as the Unionist candidate for Launceston, Cornwall, in opposition to Mr Fletcher Moulton. Col. Dake left London on Thursday in order to be formally adopted as the Unionist candi- date for Stirling Burghs in opposition to Sir Henry Campbell-Basnerman. Mr Newdigate, the standing Conservative mem- ber, is at present the only candidate in the Nan- aatan Division of Warwickshire. The four members for County Antrim iu the late Parliament having again consented to stand will be retarned unopposed. On Wednesday night the Marquis of Hamilton was unanimously selected by the Londonderry Unionist Association to oppose Count Moore. Mr John Atkinson, Irish Attorney-General, having intimated his intention of seeking re-elec- tion for North Derry, will probably not meet with any opposition. Sir Thomas Lea. bas written a leading consti- tnent that be will not seek re-election for Soath Derry. The London correspondent of the Irish Times says :-Immediate action is about to be taken by those in authority to put an eud to the deadlock in the Unionist ranks in Sonth Dublin Division, and to a certain extent restore political quiet. At a meeting of the Executive of the Middles- brough Unionist Association on Thursday CoL Sadler was recommended to the party to contest the borough. The Executive Council of the Skipton Division Con jervative Association on Thursday again selec- ted Mr Walter Morrison, the present member, as their candidate. Mr Morrison ip prepared to accept the invitation. The Liberal candidate it Mr F. Whitley Thomson, of Halifax. In consequence of the state of his health Aid. William Smith, of Preston, has been anable to iiccede to the request of the Liberals in the North Lonsdale Division to stand in opposition to Mr Cavendish, the sitting Conservative member. Sir Thomas Lea, Bart., M.P., is "t Kidier- minstar suffering from an attack of pnenmonim. His health has been tmpatired for some little time and he is counselled not to offer himself for 1:0- election for Londonderry South. FOREST OF DEAN. The nomination will be on Thursday, 4th October, and the poUing (if any) on tbe 10th October.

INTERESTING DIS- CLOSURES. CHAMBERLAIN FAMILY AS ADMIRALTY CONTRACTORS. The Morning Leader" on Tuesday made some sensational revelations regardiug Mr Chamberlain's family as Admiralty contractors." Everyone is acquainted with Mr Chamberlain's famous declaration in August last that he had no interest, direct or indirect, in Kynochs, or in any other firm manufacturing war material. Our contemporary," remarks the 11 Daily Chronicle," claims to have unearthed an instance where Mr Joseph Chamberlain's wife, aon3, and daughters all held shares in a firm of Admiralty con- tractors called Hoskins and Son but knowing the Colonial Secretary a alimness as we do, we doubt whether he would commi; such a vulgar error as to state the thing that is not on a point that conld so easily be disproved. One point we notice is that the share list on which our contem- porary relies is dated 13th April, and Mr Cham- berlain's disclaimer was the on 8th August. Has it been ascertained whether the firm of Hoskins and Son changed hands or not in the intervening four months t In any case, an explanation of some kind is obviously required from Mr Cham- berlain, and the electors of the country wiil h \uit it with interest." LITERARY M.P.'S. The next Parliament is natlikelyto laek a fairly strong literary contingent. Mr Morley and Mr Brycto may be looked upon as fixtures as, on the other side, may Mr Lucky. Mr George Wyndham seems likely to be unopposed a.t Dover. But in him the writor seems likely to be lost in the politician. The day may come, boweveE, when he will have to turn his hand to the compo- sition of Queen's Speeches. Novelists are rather strangely wanting in a House that offered Minis- terial careers to Balwer and to Disraeli. But Mr Compton Rickett has written anonymously an excellent romance and Mr Gilbert Packer, if he is successful at the polls, has some fine prece- dents before him. Mr Harry last, if he re-entera Parliamentary life, will represent not only Ber- mondsey, but the lively traditions of literary journalism.-London Daily Chronicle."

COURT AND PERSONAL. BALMORAL. Thursday. The Qaeen yesterday inspected a detachment of troops recently returned from West Africa. The Queen went oat this morning accompanied by PrioceBs Henry of Prussia and Princess Margaret of Coun&,n.c-ht. In the afternoon her Majesty drove out accom- panied by the Duchess of York. Princess Henry of Batteuberg drove to Bal. Iater wi h Prince Alexander of Battenberg, on hit return to Wellington College. The Earl of Hopetouo, Lord Chamberlain, has arrived at the Castle. Mr CboMe, the American Ambassador, who If staying at St. Moritz, will visit Ober-Ammerg&v on the 30th inst,, and is expected to retarn to London early next month. Mrs Joseph Chamberlain I^ft Victoria foe Aix-les-Baius. The Colcnial Secretary wofc present on the platform, and subsequently drove ts the Colonial Office. Duke Charles Edward, with his mother, the Dachess of Albany, will arrive at Schloss Rein- hardsbrnnn on the 27th inst., and remain there until the middle of next month. Lord Rosebery has agreed to take the chair at the lecture, under the auspices of the Edinburgh Philosophical Institution, to be given by Mr Winston Churchill on the 6th November. Tbe visit of Cardinal Vaugban to Derwent Hall, Sheffield, the seat of Lord and Lady Edmand Talbot, will be brought to a close oa Saturday week, when his eminence returns ta London in restored health to resume his episcopal duties. A marriage has been arranged, and will take place in November, between Captain Alvin C. Corry, R.N., only son of the late Rear-Admiral Armar L. Corry, and Catherine Florence, second daughter of Mr J. Gwynne James, of Aylstone Hill, Hereford. The marriage arranged between Mr Joseph Lewis Hampton, Survey Department, Govern- ment Service, Ceylon, eldest son of the late Mr John Lewis Hampton, of Dimbullo, Ceylon, and grandeou of the late Colonel Joseph Hampton Hampton, of the 50th Regiment, and of Bodior, Anglesey,, and Emily Hill, only daughter of th« late Kev. Thomas Gardiner, of Old Aberdeen, N.B., will take place in Colombo on the 31st 01 October. A district conrt martial will assemble at Newport. Mori., at 11 a.m. on Saturday for the l>nrpost o, l trying Driver W. McFaddeu, H.F.A. President, Major A. J. Wilson, R.JN.R. Regiment. In his report upon the accident at Sutton Bridge Station, on the Midland and Great Norttiern Railway, on July 13, when a train collided with the Sutton buffer stops, General Hutchinson says the collision was entirely due to a mistake on the part of the driver. The prize of 15 guineas offered by the Caneet Society, through the liberality of Miss Scott, for the best original essay on the present state of cancer science, has been awarded to Mr Alex Frassr, M.D., of Queen's Park, Manchester, th< adjudicator being Mr George Brown, M.R/J.S^ member of the Medical Council.

THE LABOUR QUESTION. GREAT EASTERN RAILWAY DISPUTE Mr Unwin, secretary of the delegates of the several grades of employees of the Great Eastern Railway, who recently waited on the directors tel. represent in what respects improvement of the conditions of service was desired, has sent to the company a reply to the circular of the directors. He points out the details in which the proflareci concessions of the directors are inadequate," and others in which fniier explanation wonld be welcome, and concludes, The men feel that on the whole they have not been so fairly dealt with as they should have been, and sincerely hope that the directors will again inqairo into the matter. mentioned, and give a further reply to them, and so hasten the time when the conditions (of amicable working) mentioned in the las" paragraph of the directors' circular shall havt returned." HAMBURG DOCK STRIKE ENDBD. Hamburg, Thursday.—The dockers' strike, whieb bulasted 87 days, bas come to an end The men will resume work on Saturday on thw old term&-CAnaml News.

PLAGUE AT GLASGOW. ,'J TWO MORE CASES. There are two new cases of bubonic plttgae at Glavowon Thursday, a mother and daughter iron Tardeeton, a mile away from where the ontbreo > started, having been attacked. It oan be prov ec that they have been in contact with plague caeer. 4-

LATBST NEWS FROM iin TJUKBVAAI A Gentle man travelling in Bechuanaland eo route for IW* wayowrites:— I have been very bad withfearhr a 1 took two doses at Monday stixver PiDs, MM! amaUzight a-gsiu.' — Soi^ in boxes, Is. Is 6d, and 4s 64, nee by post-— ».hormst High-Street. UZ; j 4