The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

PROGRESSING. The last fortnight of intermittent rain and fine weather, and more especially the last week, has brought about a wonderful improvement in the aspect of agricultural affairs, doing much to bring into line many matters which a few weeks since were most indifferent for the season. The soil has received a good soaking, and though we could even da with more, a spell of sunshine would now be most acceptable. Crops of every description are greatly changed for the better, and on some good soils give promise of being equal to any during the last seven years, grass included. Still, the cold seems to linger, and the winds, which have alternated considerably between north and south by way of east, have been such as to make one glance wistfully of an evening towards the fireless grate, which universal custom orders shall obtain when May is out. In spite of this, however, the country is looking at its best for the "leafy month" is posi- tively charming, and if we are in for a "dripping June," which we are told puts all things in tune," there will probably be little to complain of as the season advances. Not the least marked feature in the improvement is the supply of garden produce now coming into the markets. All sorts of green- stuffs together with the new crop of potatoes are plentiful and reasonable in price, the chief regrett- able item from the housewife's point of view being the dearness of meat, which, though a shade easier, is still above normal quotations. It is sincerely to be hoped that we have now progressed too far along the road of summer weather to have our hopes dashed, as has been unfortunately too frequently the case in the past, when what was written represented a different state of affairs when in print it reached the reader. According to reports from various districts there seems to be a prospect of fair crops of the later sorts of apples and pears, and the smaller kinds of fruit but the outlook for plums, damsons, and other stone fruit, is represented as likely to be microscopic. Strawberries having been kept in check in the early stages of growth, and being now well mulched with the rains, have a better chance, and given fine weather, will no doubt turn out well. The cheese markets in the past week presented variable features. From London we learn that the trade was decidedly 'peaceful,' and buyers were disinclined to do more than fill present require- ments; while officially it was reported that Eng- lish produce was quiet without special feature. At Liverpool the demand was good, all lots being cleared on arrival, and were mostly of the new make. New Cheshires hold their own, inciting ready sales at 62s. to 68s. for finest, fine 55s. to 59s., medium and lower 53s. to 50s. Canadians, of which there is only a very limited supply of old, especially of coloured, commands the full values of 60s. to 61s., white 50s. to 58s.; new is selling at 53s. to 54s., white 52s. to 55s., good valne 50s. to 53s. LANCASHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. RECORD ENTRY OF CHEESE. The Lancashire Agricultural Society has been -making strenuous efforts of late years to promote the making of long-keeping cheese within its district, and, it is stated, is meeting with great success in its endeavours. At a recent com- mittee meeting, the Secretary reported that he had received the largest entry of cheese in the history of the society. Mr. Windham E. Hale, Mr. Philip Park, and the secretary have commenced their tour throughout Lancashire to inspect and seal these cheeses, which will have to be kept until the Guild Show in September, and then exhibited for the prizes. The number of cheeses to bo sealed is 480, and six days have been allocated for the work, the distance which the stewards will travel visiting the farms being up- wards of 350 miles. FARMERS' WEATHER FORECASTS. A most important item which has been con- siderably over-looked by agriculturists, is the sup- p.y of weather forecasts by the Meteorological Office (63, Victoria-street, S.W., London), which is prepared, as in previous years, to supply them daily to those desirous of receiving such informa- tion, for the bare cost of the telegram, and if the address exceeds three words, a halfpenny extra for every additional word. The forecasts are so worded that the cost of each message is 6d. for any one district, including the address. The special harvest forecasts are prepared at 3.30 p.m. daily from June 1st to September 30th (except Sundays), and are applicable to the twenty-four hours from midnight following the time of issue. This special service is arranged for consecutive telegrams only, and is in addition to the ordinary service of daily forecasts prepared at the office at 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. The arrangement is a sp!endid one in its way, but, unfortunately, it is super- seded in a great measure by the daily newspapers, scarcely any one of which is without its weather forecast. THE COLORADO BEETLE. The importation of foreign produce into this country has been responsible for many evils and vexations to which farmers, as well as others, are subject. To name these would be aaay, but they must be obvious to any intelligent mind. Cattle plague, foot-and-mouth disease, and a few others are amyng the more prominent of our afflictions for a number of years; but it is not til! within the laat year or two that the Colorado beet!o has put in an appearance, and was thought to have been stamped out. The Board of Agriculture, however, give notice that the pest has again made its ap- poarance at Tilbury. Potato-growers are requested to carefully examine their plants, and to send to the Board without delay for identification -speci- mens of any insects suspected to be the Colorado beetle. The Board will supply copies of a leaflet, with a ooloured illustration of the beetle, post free and free of charge to all applicants. Letters or Dackets containing-specimens, and applications for leaflets should be addressed to the Secretary, Board of Agriculture, 4, Whitehall-place, London, S.W., and need not be stamped. FARM SERVANTS' HIRINGS. A goodly number of hiring fairs for agricultural servants have been held recently, and, according to several reports to hand, it appears that, in the Northern counties at least, there is a considerable variation as to the supply of servants of both sexes and the terms on which engagements have been concluded. There has been no scarcity of majv servants, but rather an over-plus. On the other hand, woman-servants will not now hire to do out- door work, not even the feeding of oalves and pigs. The rate of wages demanded for the half- year to Martinmas, twenty-five weeks, inoluding board and lodging on the farm, is about as fol- lows:—Head men, 919 to £ 20; first-class. j316 to £ 18; seoond-class, 914 to £ 15; boys and youths £ 5 to 212; dairymaids, 214 to £ 15; first-class women, B12 to £13; seoond-olass, £10 to £ 11; girls, 26 to 29. I MOTORS FOR MARKETING. As we have before pointed out in this column, the capabilities of the motor-oars as modea of con- veyance and traotion are almost without limit, and their extended use is but a question of time. As suoh in oross-country districts they are bound to become before long formidable rivals and com- petitors to the railway oompanies, in their high rates of freightage, if not as passenger convey- ances and as the motive power of agricultural implements, their use opens up splendid chances to constructors who have the courage and enter- prize to launoh out in such a line of business. The motor-car is already being turned to practioal use by Kentish fruit growers, and one large firm, au- cording to the "Mark Lane Express," has recently taken to despatching daily to the London markets a vehicle capable of drawing a load of five tons. This wagon successfully negotiates a journey of forty miles each day, and certainly ought to open up a new era in road locomotion, and to solve many of the problems, whioh are now demanding attention, as to the vast possibilities of road loco- motion and the transportation of heavy loads over considerable distances at regular interva's. A PLETHORA OF WASPS. Notwithstanding the recenb cold and unpro- pitious season, which has been orediied with being considerably destructive to insect life, great com- plaints are heard of from many districts of the prevalence of Queen wasps. In consequence, vigorous campaigns have been opened against them, and prices put on their heads as destroyers of fruit. At one ptacfc. in Cambridgeshire the chil- dren are paid a halfpenny each for queen wasps, with the result that three hundred dead queens were recently handed in. At the smallest com- putation, it is stated, this represents 300,000 wasps in embryo. The fruit growers' associations of the country should take the hint, and encourage such a proceeding by making small presents to those who bring in the largest number in a dis- trict in a given period.

SHROPSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SHOW LOCAL AWARDS.—At the Shropshire and West Midland Agricultural Show, on Thursday, Earl Egerton of Tatton was awarded the reserve prize in the open class for mare or geldings foaled in 1900 (shire horses). In the pig department. Messrs. Dodd and Sons, Chester, were awarded three second prizes and two reserves, while Mr. J. Jefferson, Peel Hall, secured two firsts, one second and a re- serve. Mrs. George Robinson, Nantwich, took a first in one of the butter classes. In the cheese section, Mr. Joseph Jones, Dodleston, took first and special in the open class for four cheese ex- ceeding 501b. each, while Mr. George H. Mullock, Pulford, took the reserve in the open class for four Cheshire cheese not exceeding 501b. each.

VlMnU Security la | A f- &w the tootikbrub every mornine CARTER WITTLE I pills SE S0Z0D0NT H Will Sweeten the Breath all day, and make all the difference be- tween— Absolutely cure Sick Head- iwth ind Bad Teeth. SanddTB.now Teeth. Indigestion, Furred Tongue. Pretty Teeth and Ugly Teeth. They Touch the Liver Compile in Toilf* <>=e. wit*

INTERESTING WEDDINGS. 0 CAPTAIN RAMSDEN AND MISS COTTON- JODRELL. The following is a complete list of wedding presents, supplementary to the brief report which appeared in our last issue:— FROM BRIDEGROOM TO BRIDE. Diamond heart, emerald, pearl and diamond chain bracelet, ruby, pearl and diamond brooch, emerald and diamond ring, diamond and pearl pendant, paste and enamelled buttons. FROM BRIDE TO BRIDEGROOM. Sleeve-links, diamond and pearl pin, gold signet ring, dressing case. FROM BRIDE'S PARENTS. To Bride: diamond and ruby necklace, sable fur cape, old Limerick lace scarf, moleskin fur coat, glass and ormolu chande, ;ler. ? To Bridegroom: Ralli cart and horse. BRIDESMAIDS TO BRIDE. Diamond marquise bracelet. FROM BRIDEGROOM'S FATHER. To bride: Diamond bracelet. To Bridegroom: Cheque. FROM RELATIVES. Bride's sister, ruby and diamond ring; Captaiu and Lady Maud Ramsden, Major Ramsden, R.H.A., and Mr. J. V. Ramsden, diamond and peridean pendant; Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Ramsden, sofa and six Chippendale chairs; Major Ramsden, fishing rod and reel; Miss Selina Ramsden, silver coffee pot, cheque and chair, enamelled pendant; Colonel and Mrs. W. Ramsden, set of silver and enamelled dessert knives; Colonel W. Ramsden, cheque; Miss Ramsden, cheque and writing table; Captain and Lady Maud Ramsden, inlaid satin-wood card tables Mr. J. V. Ramsden, lamp; Sir John and Laay Gwendoline Ramsden, cheque; Master Charles and Miss Cynthia Rams- den, umbrella; Mrs. Cotton, cheque; Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Coleridge, cheques; Mr. Tomkinson, cheque; Canon and Mrs. Atkinson, silver entree dishes; General and Mrs. Thackwell, diamond and sapphire ring; Mr. and Mrs. Rennell Cole- ridge, tea service; Miss Maud Coleridge, arm- chair; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Walrond, diamond brooch; Mrs. Hatchard, silver centre dish; Mrs. Mainwaring, silver sugar sifter; the Hon. Mrs. Meynell Ingram, pair of silver candlesticks; Miss Meynell Ingram, candlesticks; Lord and Lady Muncaster, gilt ray clock; Mrs. Owen, work screen; Mrs. Oliver, silver ulver and hand mir- ror; the Misses Thackwell, china vase; Mrs. Bar- ton, oheque; Mr. Geo. Hiltyard and Mr. Noel Atkinson, two silver toast racks; Mr. and Mrs. James Tomkinson, a fitted writing table; Colonel and Mrs. Henry Tomkinson, two old silver fruit baskets; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tomkinson, silver box; Mr. Henry Tollemache, M.P., silver gilt fitted dressing case; Miss Alice Tollemache, tor- toiseshell and silver tray. PRESENTATIONS. Officers R.H. and R. F. Artillery, Woolwich, silver column lamp Officers 18th Brigade Division R.F. Artillery, silver teapot; Officers (past and present) 2nd Cheshire Royal Engineers Railway .Volunteers, silver salver; Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales Farmers' Supply Association, case of table silver; ditto manager's staff, silver waiter; Tenants on the Whaley Bridge, New- town, Taxal and Fernilee estates, silver tea tray, salvers and sauce boats; Tenants of Reaseheath and Nuneaton estates, silver tea kettle; Em- ployes, Indoor and Outdoor Servants, Willinghurst estate, silver milk jug; Indoor and Outdoor Ser- vants at Reaseheath, silver urn; Associates and Members of the Nantwich Habitation of the Prim- rose League, silver tea service; Majnbers and Associates of the Girls' Friendly Society, Nant- wich branch, silver photograph frame; Teachers and Children of Worleston School, large china Oriental bowl on mahogany stand. GENERAL PRESENTS. Katharine Duchess of Westminster, fan; Duchess of Buckingham and Chandos and Earl Egerton of Tatton, Italian mosaic photo frame; Marquis and Marchioness of Cholmondeley and Lady Lettice Cholmondeley, set of four Chippen- dale tables; Amy Lady Coleridge, gold and tur- quoise chatelaine; Countess of Cromarty, silver bonbonniere; Earl and Countess of Crewe, jewelled hatpins; Lady Grizel Cochrane, silver calendar; Dowager Marchioness Conyngham, sil- ver cigarette box; Lady Blanche Conyngham, silver cigarette box; Earl and Countess Cadogan, pair silver candlesticks; Lord and Lady Delamere, fitted note-book; Lady Duncannon, silver (and case watch; Henrietta the Hon. Lady Grey- Egerton, silver cup; Sir Philip and Lady Grey- Egerton, lace fan; the Earl of Enniskillen, silver and leather photo frame; Lady Violet Finch, sil- ver mirror; Right Hon. George Wyndham and Countess Grosvenor, enamel pendant; Lady Greenall, silver and tortoiseshell letter clip; Hon. Jamea and Lady Mary Hozier, silver butter dish; Lady Beatrix Taylour, tortoiseshell umbrella handle Lord and Lady Arthur Hill, spangled fan Dowager Marchioness of Headfort, coral hatpins; Lady Hothfield and Miss Tufton, hatpins; Lord and Lady Inverclyde, silver inkpot and clock; Countess of Kintore, silver mirror; Sir Chandos and Lady Leigh, china flower pot; Right Hon. Walter and Lady Doreen Long, silver penholder and pencil; Lady Constance Leslie, gold and crystal penholder; Lady Milbanke, diamond pin; Lady Maxwell, two wine decanters; Lord and Lady Newton, Dresden china, candelabra; Lady Muriel Parsons, Sheraton bweau; Lady Alexander Paget and the Misses Page., silver dessert knives and forks; Countess of Rosse, silver drinking cups; Lady Victoria Rowe, fitted book case; Baron and Baroness Von Schroder, large silver mirror; Right Hon. Arthur and Mrs. Smith Barry, enamel and pearl brooch; Countess of Sel- kirk, Dresden china coffee service; Countess of Shaftesbury, enamel brooch; the Duchess of Sutherland, lamp shade; Lord and Lady W. Sey- mour, silver dish; Marchioness of Tweeddale, 'white sapphire and enamel head ornament; Hon. Sir Raymond Tvrwhitt Wilson, two silver candle lamps; Mr. and "Lady Muriel Worthington, crystal and gold paper knife; Lady and Miss Warrington, silver inkstand; Mr. and Lady Clementine Waring, Louis XV. secretaire; Lady Westmoreland, shoot- ing stick; Lady Meyrick, silver aneroid; Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson, silver piano jewel case; Mr. and Mrs. Edward Alderton, writing pad; Mrs. Aitken, paste photo frame; Mr. Jno. Acton (Nantwich), painting of favourite hunter, "Cigarette" Capt. and Mrs. Aldridge, R.H.A., silver-mounted bottles; Mrs. Arbuthnot, mantel mirror; Mr. and Lady Florence Astley, silver flower vase; Mr. and Mrs. Bayliss (Nantwich), silver teaspoons; Captain and Mrs. Bagot, riding stick; Sir Delves and Lady Broughton, cheque; Sir Thomas and 14ady Boughey, black, bear fur rug; Mr. Barrett at (Nantwich), two fire screens; Miss Buhler, "War Impressions," by Mortimer Mempes; Mr. Arthur Brocklehurst (Nantwich), scent bottle; Mrs. Beillery Smith, case of dessert knives; Miss Bar- ton, writing book; Mrs. and Miss Bayley, book; Mrs. H. Bowles, water-colour picture; Mr. Bax- Ironside, four silver vases; Mr. and Mrs. Bently (Nantwicb), gilt "piano" box; Canon Blackburne, silver clock; Mr. Ireland Blackburne, lucky charm Mr. Murray Bagshawe, turquoise hatpins; Mr. Lawrence Brodrick, china snuff box; Mr. and Mrs. Cosmo Bonsor, jewelled enamel pendant and chain; Hon. Mr. and Mrs. Ben Bathurst, silver travelling clock; Captain H. Beaumont, old Eng- lish glass decanters and liqueur glasses, with inlaid wood tray; Sir Ralph and Lady Blois, flower stand; Mr. H. J. H. Barton, Stapleton Park, Pontefract; Colonel and Mrs. C. Bingham, silver snuff box; Colonel Barton, R.H.A., silver fruit dish; Colonel and Mrs. Julian Byng, six silver menu holders; Major and Mrs. Courage, two sil- ver sauceboats; Captain and Mrs. Briscoe, Nankin vase; Hon. Arthur Brodrick, claret jug; Coonel the Hon. and Mrs. Stapleton Cotton, silver tea caddy; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Corbet, tortoiseshell tray; Lady Chetwode, enamel and paste buckle; Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Cook (Wellington-road, Nantwich), scent bottle; Colonel the Hon. C. Crichton, driving, riding and hunting whip; Mr. Maurice Conwy, tray; Mr. Reginald and the Hon. Mrs. Corbet, china tea set; Captain Collins, enamel and silver photo frame; Mr. J. Spencer Churchill, cigarette box; Miss Cotton, silver tea caddy; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Clapcott, amethyst hatpins; Mr. Cyril Coleridge, thermometer; Mrs. St. John Charlton, panel of old ]^lss Charlton, old Dresden cup; Mr. Stap eton Cotton, nouveau art charm; Mr. and Mrs. Clifford, silver scent bottle; Miss Caltons, silver tea caddy; the Rev. Stapleton Cotton, Prayer-book; Major and Mrs. Philip Chetwode, electric clock; Mr. and Lady Constance Combe, silver entree dish; Mrs. Combe, china vase; Mr. and Mrs. R. Crawshay, silver fish knife; Captain and Mrs. J. Combe, silver sugar sifter; Mr. and Mrs. J. Cator, silver champagne bottle holder; Major and Mrs. Courage, two sauceboats; Major Courage, R.H.A., gold knife; Sir F. and Lady Gertrude Actley Corbet, silver mustard pot; Hon. Colonel and Mrs. Denison, silver travelling clock; Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Darby, snuff box; Miss Muriel Darby, blotting book; Colonel and Mrs. Henry Denison, silver tea caddy; Misses Drummond, walking- stick; Mrs. Ethelstone, telegram case; Captain and Mrs. F. Fetherstonhaugh, Sheraton collar- ette; Commander Edward Fitzherbert, pair silver candlesticks the Misses Fergusson, pearl and tur- quoise brooch; Hon. Ethel Fraser, two "Nouveau Art" hatpins; Mrs. Franklin, twelve hand-painted d'oylevs; Miss Stella Faudel Phillips, china flower pot; Lady Faudel Phillips, four silver salt cel- lars; Colonel F. Fitzherbert, D.S.O., enamel and paste buttons Mr. Herbert Fetherstonhaugh, pair of silver muffineers; Miss Grimshaw and Hon. Mrs. Preston, ormolu inkstand and clock; Miss Agnes Garrett, brass candle sconce; Miss Armyne Gordon, silver box; Mr. and Mrs. Gu>bs, china writing table set; Colonel and Mrs. Gore, silver bread basket; Mrs. John Gordon, silver quaffing cup; Captain and Mrs. Greer, silver ink- stand Miss Mary Hill, enamel brooch Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hambro, china flower pot, Mr. and Mrs. A. N. Hornby, four silver toast racks; Mrs. Knollys, liqueur glasses; Colonel Hurst, sugar tongs; Mrs. Jno. Hughes. pictures; Hon. Arthur Hill Trevor, diamond and opal ring; Miss Amy Harding, card table; Mr. Chas. Hoare, large white ostrich feather fan; Miss Aileen Hervey Bathurst, stationery case; Miss Gwladys Howard, ribbon worked cushion cover; Colonel and Mrs. Howard, mahogany dumb waiter; Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Houghton, four old silver salt cellars; Mr. Geo. Hartopp, en tout cas; Mr. and Mrs. Hoffmony Goldsmid, hatpins; Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hill. Wedgwood jar; Sir Wm. and Lady Houidsworth, silver papor cutter; lira. Hermerl, silver-topped tin bottle; Miss Vio Hermon, silver penholder; Mr. and Mrs. James Heath, set of silver liqueur glasses; Colonel John Hunt, old silver sugar tongs; Mr. and Mrs. P. A. Hankey, umbrella; Mr. and Mrs. Mowbray Howard, silver watch; Captain Hankey, R.H.A., four silver salt cellars; Colonel and Mrs. Jee, photograph frame; Mr. Wm. Jameson, fan; Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, enamel necklace Mr. and Mrs. Jones, silver sugar spoon; Sir H. and Lady Jekyll, walking-stick; Captain Kearsley, Wedgwood dessert set; Captain Auberon Kennard, enamel buckle and buttons; Major and Mrs. Kearsicy, amethyst pendant; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Knowies, old silver bread basket; Miss Maud Kearsley, ribbon worked sachet; Misses Nora and Doreen Kearsley, old silver sugar bowl; Colonel and Mrs. Hogan Kennard, mahog- any newspaper stand; Sir John and Lady Kenna- way, white china flower pot; Mr. Graham Kirk- linton, Chelsea china figure; Mr. Trehawk Keke- wich, mahogany revolving book case; Mrs. Percy Laming, green leather jewel box; Mrs. and Miss Lyon, fan; Miss Rose Lynton, embroidered box; Mr. and Miss Lovatt, blue china tea service; Hon. Sybil Legh, old ribbon worked fire screen; Miss Evelyn Leith, ormolu photograph frame; Mr. and Mrs. Egerton Leigh, old silver sugar bowl; Mr. Lamb, driving whip; Captain and Mrs. Berke.ey Lovett, gold case of scent bottles; Mrs. and Miss Lomas, two old pewter plates; Mrs. and L Miss Langford Brooke, silver bonbonniere Miss Agnes Little, silver photo frame; Mr. Harry Lane, pair silver sugar sifters; Mrs. Livingstone Lear- mouth and Mr. Livingstone Learmouth, ham- mered silver bowl; Captain and Mrs. J. L. Lear- mouth, book stand, fitted; Mr. Edward Mattie, two-handled silver cup; Miss Rachel Meyrick, blotting book; Colonel and Mrs. Meyrick, travel- ling card table; Dr. and Mrs. Munroe, silver Watteau jewel box; Mr. and Mrs. Henry Martin, pair of silver candlesticks; Mr. Massey, piece of Oriental china; the Misses Massey, silver bridge box; Captain Mansfield Clark, silver pocket knife Lieut. O. Mahions, R.N., six Chinese silver liqueur cups; Mrs. T. Matheson, Stamford leather card case; Hon. Lady and Miss Murray, mahogany chair; Mr. Luxmore Marshall, silver Watteau box; Mr. and Mrs. Moreton, china figures; Hon. and Miss A. Mulhoiland, silver cup; Mrs. S. More O'Ferrall, hammered silver cigarette case; Mr. and Mrs. Nicoll, pair silver candlesticks; Miss Nicoll, book; Mr. and Lady Annabel O'Neill, leather "dinner party" plan; Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Pilkington, pair of glass and silver scent bottles; Mrs. John Palin, pair of Cloisonne vases; Mr. Perrin, case of silver coffee spoons; General and Hon. Mrs. Peters, silver travelling clock; Hon. and Mrs. Pennington, silver sugar sifter; Captain Parsons, R.F.A., gold pencil; Mrs. Standish Roche, silver punch ladle; Mr. and Mrs. Troughton Roberts, pair of silver-mounted menus Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Van Raalte, pair of silver gilt candlesticks; Mr. and Mrs. Rennell, silver mirror; Mr. Rawle, silver vases; Mr. Christopher Roundell, silver cream jug; Mr. and Mrs. Rad- cliffe, pair Dresden china flower pots; Miss Rams- den, writing case; Colonel and Mrs. Ramsden, silver aneroid; Mr. and Mrs. Rochford, siiver ash tray; Captain P. Radcliffe, R.F.A., walking-stick; Mr. P. Ralli, silver egg stand; Mr. and Mrs. H. Ricardo, old silver snuff box; Mr. Ralph 3neyd, turquoise and white sapphire crescent brooch; Mr. and Mrs. W. Von Schroder, silver lamp: Mr. and Mrs. F. Siltzer, umbrella; Mrs. Swabey, ormolu inkstand; Mrs. F. Smith, bedroom slip- pers; Captain Geoffrey Shakerley, 60th Rifles, silver bridge box Mrs. Saxby, silver bon-bon dish Captain the Hon. G. Skeffington Smyth, D.S.O., gold-mounted umbrelia Mrs. Severn, gold pencil case; Mr. and Mrs. Streatfield, silver bowl; Mr. Edmund Taylor, silver hot water pot; Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Toier, cheque Mrs. Tilrey, old silver tea strainer and old glass decanters Mr. and Mrs. Threlfall, silver sugar castor; Miss Alice Vaughan- Lee, mahogany lamp pöst; Miss Van Wart, leather-bound books; Mrs. Arthur Vickers (Nant- wich), cushion; General Albert Williams, silver teiegraph form case; Miss Emily Walsh, silver watch case; Mrs. William Watson, turquoise and gold chatelaine; Frau Webber, silver pot; Mrs. Welch (Nantwich), carriage rug; Major and Mrs. Cecil Wrav, Thackeray's works; Mr. and Hon. Mrs. D. West, umbrella; Mrs. A. Wynne Corrie, silver cream jug; Colonel and Mrs. Wilkinson, Macterbinch's Vie de I' Abeville; Captain White, R.H.A., silver box the Misses Webb, silver cigar- ette case; Miss F. Wynne, old silver cream jug; Major Hon. and Mrs. Stuart Wortley, inkstand; Colonel Wing, R.H.A., diamond pin; Mr. R. W. Webb, four muffineers; Mr. and Mrs. W. Hall Walker, silver candlesticks; the Misses Yates, ivory and silver paper cutter; Colonel and Mrs. Yorke, four salt cellars. WOOD-BECKETT. A wedding at Higher Bebington Parish Church on Wednesday has been the event of the week in that neighbourhood. The great interest centred in the marriage is not surprising, for the bride- groom was the Rev. Alan Philip Wood, curate of Bebington Parish Church, and the bride Miss Ethel F. Beckett, eldest daughter of Mr. Middle- ton Beckett, of Windcote, Spital. Canon Feilden officiated, in the presence of a large congregation of friends. The duties of best man were discharged by the Rev. Brisooe Owen, while the bridesmaids were Miss Mabel Beckett (sister of the bride), Miss Maud Beckett (cousin of the bride), Miss Violet Wickham (cousin of the bridegroom), and Miss E. Barnes. The bride was given away by her father. She was attired in a dress of white satin, trimmed with old lace. and a Court train, with true lovers' knots on the corner, and wore a wreath of orange blossoms. The bridesmaids were gowned in white silk voile applique, trimmed with lace, silk cord and blue sashes, with hats to match. After the ceremony, a reception was held at The Windcote. Messrs. Bolland and Sons, of Chester, had charge of the arrangements for the refresh- ment buffet, which was in a marquee in the grounds. They also supplied the cake, which was & particularly fine work of art. The Liverpool Police Band played selections during the recep- tion. The presents numbered about 200.

HESWALL SHEPHERDS' ANNI- VERSARY. On Tuesday the 41st anniversary of the Heswall Friendly Society and Glory Lodge (No. 987) was colebrated. The members met at the lodge at nine o'clock, and at half-past nine proceeded to maroh with their banner around the district. On the way they called at the residences of Messrs. Hopkinson, Tapscott, Edmunds, G. D. Lockett, G. Robb, Dobie, Richard Brancker, Chtrles Maclver, Thomas Brocklebank, Bromfield, W. B. Jones, John Henry Brown, R. T. Tidsffell, Ledley Brown and Meadows Frost; Miss HOVlll- ham, and the Rev. T. H. May, who preacned a sermon in the church tp members. The pro- cession returned to the Sandon Arms, Heswall Hills, shortly after two o'clock, and, under the presidency of the Rev. T. H. May, sat down to dinner in a large marquee. Letters of apology were read from the follow- ing, who enclosed donations:—Messrs. Thomas Brocklebank, JB2 2s.; Joseph Hoult, M.P., £1 Is.; W. H. Lever, JE1 Is.; Tidswell, JBI Is.; Meadows Frost, J61 Is.; Robert Brown, £ 1 Is.; and from Messrs. Dobie, Lockett, Ledley Brown, and William Wilson. The usual loyal toasts having been disposed of, Mr. W. H. Jones proposed The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese and the Ministers of all Denominations," and said he was sure they were all much indebted to the ministers of that parish. The Rev. Mr. Tansley, in responding, thanked the members of the lodge for giving him the opportunity of being present that day. He had derived a considerable amount of pleasure from the function last year, and felt sure that the en- joyment would be repeated. The Rector submitted "The Navy, Army, and Auxiliary Forces." He was sure that all the world were rejoicing in the message of peace which they had received on Sunday night. He thought they were greatly indebted to those forces for the manner in which they had fought their battles during the present war. They had to be represented, and he thought that nothing was more fitting and right than that they should be defended by such men as they had in the village of Heswall. (Loud applause.) He hoped that the two opposing forces would be like the boys at school who, after fighting, shook hands and became stronger friends than over. He coupled with the toast the names of Major Shaw and Sergeant Caldow. Major Shaw, in responding, said that our fore- fathers had won and maintained all their pos- sessions at the edge of the sword, and we would have to continue to maintain them at the edge of the sword. Our Army was a small one, but it was all pluck, and not the least plucky of those who had gone out to South Africa were those who had gone from Heswall and who were doing credit to their King and country, their parents, and to that old parish of theirs. (Applause.) Sergeant Caldow also responded. The Chairman submitted The Heswall Friendly Society, Shepherd's Glory Lodge," and said it was an excellent thing to make provision for sickness and for those whom they would leave behind them after death. He advised the members to bring to bear upon the absorbing question of provision for old age that practical knowledge and experience which they derived from their membership. He was sure that they were among those best fitted to solve any problems of the nature indicated, and it was for them to decide what could be done and what could not. Mr. W. Ledsom, in responding, said their district of the Order comprised five lodges, with a membership of 707, and it had paid last year J6578 19s. in benefits, this being equal to an average of eight days' sickness per member; they had paid for funerals during the year J6172, and the total funds of the lodges and district were £7,006 15s. 5d., nearly an average of £10 per member. The lodge membership was 260, the total funds of the lodge being £ 3,615 lis. 7d. For the year they had gained 2135 15s., as and to that old parish of theirs. (Applause.) A vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the proceedings. Dancing followed.

IT IS DELICIOUS & REFRESHING AND IT PURIFIES THE BLOOD.

NESTON LADIES' CLUB. The annual festival in connection with this society, phich was established so far back as 1814, and is believed to be the oldest institution of the kind in the world, took place on Thursday. The floral fete is one of the most popular in Wirral, and is attended by thousands of visitors. Thurs- day was no exception, all the principal thorough- fares being thronged with spectators while the carnival was in progress. The procession formed as usual at the National Schools in Liverpool- road, the band of the Buckley Engineers leading the way. Next came the silk banner of the society, borne by two members of the 1st V.B.C.R. in uniform, and the gorgeous floral emblem of the lady patroness was borne by a youth in advance of the honorary members. The latter were led by the Rev. Canon Turner (trustee) in full canonicals, accompanied by Miss E. Roberts, hon. stewardess and hon. treasurer. Among the hon. members and officials were Drs. John B. Yeoman and Lewis Grant (medical officers), Miss Mary Lyon (hon. stewardess), Miss E. C. Turner, Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Price, Mrs. Pemberton, Mrs. Barrett, Mrs. Yeoman, Mrs. Stone, Mrs. F. W. Jones, and Miss Hurle. The benefit members were led by the benefit stewardesses, Miss E. Webb, Miss Youds, Mrs. W. Pritohard, and Miss Henderson. The mem- bers, both honorary and benefit, carried white wands surmounted by lovely bouquets of flowers, and the spectacle was a striking one. Proceeding down High-street, the procession entered the parish church by the south-west door, the organist meanwhile playing the National Anthem. The service included the hymns 0 God, our Help" and the Old Hundredth. The special lesson was read by the vicar's warden (Mr. R. L- Price), and the vicar preached from St. Paul's Epistle to the Corinthians iii., 17-"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." On leaving the building the procession reformed in Church-lane, and returned via Parkgate-road to the Cross, where space had been reserved by the police. Here a large circle was formed, and the band occupying the centre, played selections con- cluding with the National Anthem. On returning to the schools for tea, the business meeting was held, and the secretary presented the balance sheet from which it appeared that the capital of the club is £ 1,G69, and that £ 38 10s. had been paid in old age pensions, k35 5s. for sickness, JE12 for deaths, the profit on the year's working being over C35. The amount received from benefit members was JE66 and from honorary members JE11. The nett proceeds of last year's festival were £ 17. Mrs. Elizabeth Norman, of Raby-road, was elected to fill the vacancy on the list of old age pensioners. A vote of thanks was passed to the vicar for his sermon and to the committees. An adjournment was afterwards made to the green for dancing, despite several showers. The gate money was over £20. The arrangements were in the capable hands of Miss Webb. Mrs Catherine Norman, Church-lane, has been a member for 73 years. This is believed to be a record.

SHEPHERDS' ANNIVERSARY AT ROSSETT. 0 The annual festival of the Pride of Rossett Lodge of the Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds (Hawarden District) was held on Wednesday in favourable weather. The members met at their headquarters, the National Sohools, wearing their regalias and carrying crooks prettily decorated with flowers. They formed. into pro- cession, and, headed by two members dressed in character as shepherd and shepherdess, the juvenile members of the lodge, many of whom were drawn upon a wagon gaily decorated with flowers, the large banner of the lodge, and the Rhostyllen Silver Band, conducted by Bandmaster Griffith Williams, paid several calls. After visiting the residences of Mr. J. W. Summers, Mr. G. R. Sandbach, Mr. A. H. Stokes-Roberts, Mr. Thorley Sykes, Mr. W. Joliffe, Mr. J. Cawley, and the Vicarage, they attended divine service at Rossett Churcn, where an appropriate I sermon was preached by the Vicar (the Rev. Frank James), who took his text from Proverbs xiv., 34-"Righteousness exalteth a nation." After the service the members visited Mr. J. T. Binning, of Rossett Hall, and Miss H. Boydell, of Alyn Cottage. They afterwards sat down to dinner in the Schoolroom, under the presidency of the vicar (the Rev. Frank James), who was supported by Mr. J. Cawley, Mr. W. P. Wilkes, Mr. G. Cromar, C.C., Bro. Huxley, D.C.I., Bro. D. Roberts, P.M., and Bro. S. Chaloner, P.M.— The Chairman proposed "The King," remarking that when they pledged it last year a dark cloud was hanging over the nation, which, happily, had now been removed. (Applause.)—Mr. Wilkes pro- posed "The Bishop, Clergy, and Ministers ot all Denominations," and expressed appreciation of their services rendered. He concluded by ex- pressing regret at the enforced absence of the Rev. W. O. Williams, who he was pleased to hear had greatly benefited by the change abroad. He ooupled with the toast the name of the vicar. —The Vicar thanked the members for the warmth with which they had received the toast. The Bishop, as they all knew, was exceedingly active and hardworking, and deserved all their support. He joined with Mr. Wilkes in regretting the absence of the Presbyterian minister (Mr. Williams), but was pleased to hear that he was much improved in health. He concluded by pro- posing The Success of the Hawarden District of the Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds," ooupling with it the name of Bro. Huxley, C.S.— Mr. Huxley, in responding, congratulated the members upon the success of their lodge, which he considered full of promise. The juvenile membership and the honorary members were satisfactory, and the amount of their subscriptions was much above the average. The Hawarden District was the largest in Wales, and stood forth in the whole United Kingdom. (Hear, hear.) He submitted figures shewing the great growth of the Order since it was founded in 1826.NLIr. Cawley, in happy terms, gave "Success to the Pride of Rossett Lodge," laying special stress upon the desirability of strengthening the lodge by the juvenile branch, which was the future hope of the sooiety.—Mr. Cromar, whose name was coupled with the toast, in responding, spoke of the heavy liabilities they had met during the year in sick and funeral expenses, which, together with the large sums paid out during the past five years, had told considerably upon their funds. They had been seriously handicapped through taking in a large number of middle-aged men when they opened the lodge. Now, however, they were composed largely of young men, with a strong juvenile branch, They were greatly indebted to the honorary members for their sub- scriptions, which were of great service to them. He hoped that the prize offered by the Order to the member who introduced the largest number of new members during the year would fall to & member of the Rossett Lodge, and that they would all endeavour to gain the prize. (Hear, hear.) He concluded by urging the members to attend th« lodge meetings as often as possible.— Bro. Woollam proposed "The Health of the Honorary Members," coupling with it the name of Mr. Cawley.—The toast was heartily drunk, and Mr. Cawley, in responding, alluded to the object of the lodge, which was self-help. Speak- ing as one who had been a member of a local Board of Guardians for a number of years, he assured them that applicants for relief who were members of societies such as theirs were always favourably received, as they knew in giving relief they were only helping those who en- deavoured to support themselves. (Applause.)— A pleasing ceremony then took plaoo, Bro. S. Chaloner, on behalf of the members, presenting Bro. Woollam with a certificate of merit, beauti- fully illuminated and framed, in recognition of services rendered by him as chairman of the lodge.—Bro. Woollam suitably thanked the mem- bers for their kindness.—Mr. Lewis was thanked for the use of his field, and the concluding toast, "The President," was proposed in felicitous terrm by Bro. Ackerley.-no Chairman, in re- sponding, expressed the pleasure which he always found in attending their annual gatherings.—In the evening large numbers assembled on the green, where dancing was enjoyed.

CHAMBERLAIN ON THE WAR. Mr. Chamberlain on Friday formally opened the Colonial Troops' Club in Dover-street, Piccadilly founded for the use of the Colonial soldiers staying in London during tho Coronation festivities. The right hon. gentleman recognised in the club a N-ery remarkable testimony to the new spirit now con- trolling our relations with the Colonies. Those coming there would represent the resources and military forces of the Empire-resources patriotically placed at our disposal in the great war from which we had at last happily emerged with results which had justified the sacrifices made. Mr. Brodrick also spoke and, referring to the peace demonstra. tions of the last few days, said that it would remain for the country to shew on the return of the troops how highly regarded their services had been. Replying to a vote of thanks, Mr. Chamberlain remarked that in a position of great anxiety he had been encouraged by the feeling that the Govern- ment had the confidence of the Colonies and th& Empire.

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