The Abergavenny Mail

 if. -u_-  ITI» INDIA & CHINA TEA Co. ) 1 Grocers and Provisien Dealers, and Wine and Spirit Merchants. I I LOCAL BRANCHMARKET PLACE, LEDBURY. B FIRE 1 I E I R E ,CATTLE MARKET, LEDBURY. 3 p.m. sharp on Tuesday, Feb. 24th. A Demonstration of Fire Extinguishing Will be given by MINIM AX, Ltd. (Represented by Mr. HAROLD GOODYEAR). A Shed containing Wood and Highly Combustible Materials will be used to demonstrate the wonderful MINIMAX APPLIANCE. F. C. SWIFT & Co., Sole Agents.

fARM LABOURERS DEATH AT 1 MIMSLEY. ,Found Drowned in Pridowood Pool. I OnWednesday last at the Parish Hall, .Ashperton, an inquest was held on the body of John Mitchell, who was found drowned in a pool at Pridewood, Aehperton, on Monday morning. Deceased was a Canadian by birth, and he came over to this country many yeats ago as a bootmaker and farm labourer. Mr T Hutchinson (Coroner), conducted the enquiry, and the Rev A H Knapp was appointed foreman over the following jury Messrs E Pritchett, J Townsend, W IE Byde, T Da vies, E Boaz, F Cowell, J Workman, A Cheshire, H Baggott, F Pratt, and E Ward. The first witness called upon was Mrs Mary Boyle, widow, of Trumpet Cottage, who identified the body as that of Mitchell, also of the Trumpet Cottage. Proceeding, she said he -was a farm labourer, believed to be about 50 yards of age. He had lost his wife just before Christmas last, and she came as his housekeeper. Deceased had no relations in this country and he was of Canadian birth. She last saw him .alive at about 16.30 on Sunday night. He went oat of the cottage and said he would not be < more than half-an-hour and she asked him where he was going. He told her that he was going to see the boss." He was cheerful and appeared in good health. He felt very upset about the loss of his wife. Deceased told witness that if he kept on brooding he would be where his wife was. He had told her he was going to see his boss "—meaning probably Mr Guy Pritchett. He left in tho direction of where his body was found. Witness waited up for him till 2 Oclook in the morning. Walter Hands, of the White House, Aylton, said that on Sunday he met the dooeàsed at the Oak Inn, Munsiey, .at quarter to nine, and be left at half-past nine, accompanied by witness, who went with hiat;a part. of the way home. Deceased told him he was going to Pride wood. He appeared sober and in his usual health and witness left him at the turning to go up to Pridewood. George Grant, who lives at Pridewood, said he saw deceased in the hopyard, when he said he di4 not feol very well. He also said that he would not be very long before he was lying beside .-his late wife. He appeared a little depressed. Both witness and deceased had been working together for years, and it seemed to witness that since his wife's death deceased's mind had been affected. Richard Grant, grooni and gardener, in the employ of 1Ilr Guy Pritchett, said that on Mon- day last be was going to feed the fowls, when ho saw a hat lyang near the pool and on the side of the pool he saw the body. He informed the police at once. William Joseph Griffin, police constable, stationed at Pistley, said that on Monday last from information received, he went with Grant to Pridewood pool, and there he found the body ot the deceased. He was lying on his back in about 18 inches of water, and he pulled the body out to the bpaak. The pool was cleaned out two years ago. Mr Pritchett: The water is about four feet deep. Continuing, P.O. Griffin said he traced the deceased's footprints round the buildings at Pridewood and up to the pool. It was a dark night and there was footpath about 15 yards from the pool, with which he was well acquainted The Coroaer said the pool was 30 yards wide, and the body was found on the opposite side. Rev Knapp; Was bis face in the water ? P.C. Griffin; The end of his nose was just above the water. The Coroner: He didn't call at Pridewood, but the pool is in the direction of his home. P.C. Griffin- I applied artificial respiration to some extent, but without success. la summing up the Coroner, said that it seemed to him that nobody had heard Mitchell say anything about doing away with himself. He evidently started with the intention of see- ing Mr Guy Pritchett, but he could not have called there. The Police Officer had traeed his footprints behind the building up to the pool, which was about 2 feet deep. It was a dark night and he might have stepped over the bank and pitched forward and been drowned. But then they had got to remember that there was

FIRE EXTINGUISHING DEMONSTRATION.—On Tuesday next at 3 p.m. a demonstration of fire extinguishing will be given in the Ledbury Cattle Market by Minimax Ltd (represented by Mr Harold Goodyear). A abed containing wood and highly combustible materials will be used to demonstrate the effectiveness of this wonder- full appliance. Messrs F C Swift and Co, Homend, Ledbury, are the sole local agents. J. W. STEPHENS, collector of FINE, ANTIQUE FURNITURE, China, Plate, etc, —26, Church Street, Hereford Near Cathedral Worth Porch).

I NATIONAL FARMERS' UNION. I Annual Dinner of the Ledbury Branch. Last (Thursday) night the fourth annual dinner of the Ledbury Branch of the South Herefordshire Farmers' Union, which is affiliated with the National Farmers' Union, was held at the Feathers Hotel Assembly Room, Ledbury, and was largely attended, the most representative company yet assembled under the auspices of the Branch gathering together. Mr John Parry (chairman of the Branch) presided, and was supported by Mr Rowland Hunt, M.P. for the Ludlow Division of Shropshire, Mr P W Bicknell, Captain E W Caddick, the Rev F A Reiss (Rector of Don- nington), the Rev H Morton Niblett (Rector of Redmarley), the Rev Cecil L Money-Kyrle (Vicar of Much Marcle), Alderman T Preece, Mr A Roger Rowden, Mr Launcelot J C Riley, Mr Hugh Croft, and Mr Penry Lloyd. Mr R W Hamar and Mr A G Bunn (Vice-Chairmen of the Ledbury Branch) were vice-chairmen, and amongst the large company present were Messrs Henry Weston, C.C., J P Griffiths (organising secretary), Mr E B Thompson (local hon. secretary), C T Smith, C H Bastow, Philip Taylor, F W Taylor, J E Craddock, T A Pedlingham, H E Hanson, A Innes, W Alford, J Cowell, F Cowell, H Cowell, W Strange, S Bennion, T George, M C Cowie, R Hickman, A Fowler, H B Walker, J J S Powell, F Powell, W Drew, G M Morgan, G Cobb, G Watkins, T C Bosley, F Bosley, J Bosley, G H Stallard, H Pedlingham, H J Connop, W Wall, J Payne, W Preece, T Calder, F Wargent, E Ward, H B Churchill, E Godsall, H Garrood, J Parry, junr., S Bradburn, A J Hopkins, A Matthews, F Butler, H J Redman, J H Walker, J J Tilley, Val Palmer, R F Stuart, T Palmer, J T Rogers, J F Pudge, E T Lane, W S Lane, H 15 Lane, G W Firkins, Dean Dent, C Davis (Bromyard), E Norman Pritchett, J D Hartland, C Smith (Vineyard), J Beaumont, J W Wilkes, S Sted- man, J Smith (Bosbury), W Box, W Innes, F J K Fowler, J Slater, G R Serpell, T Powell, J Prosser, J Faulks, E A Tayson, J Powell. W Retteridge, E W Reed, W G Withani, R A Paul, E E Bill, W Brookes, H Bill, A J Chadd, W Stephens, F J V Hamilton, J Dawe, A W Hatton, T H Powell, A J Newman (Worces- ter), J G Essex, M J P Shufflebotham, and W H Birchley (Bromyard). An excellent repast was served by the Host and Hostess (Mr and Mrs T Howell), to which full justice was done. I THE TOAST LIST. I The Chairman gave the toast of The King," which was loyally honoured. The Chairman announced apologies for non- attendance from Sir George Bullough, M. F. H., Captain P A Clive, M.P., Mr W A H Martin, Mr C W Bell, Mr J Riley, Rev A E Green- Price, Rev F W Carnegy, Mr Pearce Ellis, Mr W L Pritchett, and Mr J Wilfred Hewitt. Mr Henry Garrood in a humorous speech, submitted the toast of The Bishop, Clergy and Ministers of all Denominations," coupled with the names of the Rev F A Reiss and the Rev C L Money-Kyrle. (Applause.) The Rev F A Reiss responded in his usual' breezy, happy style, and the Rev C L Money- Kyrle, in his reply, made reference to the recent educational difficulty and said that farmers said the question of rates and advancing of salaries were going to make rates almost a prohibitive price. He advised them to see that the educa- tion given in country districts was fitted for those who in the future had to work on the soil. Don't let that point escape them. They should see that the children in the country districts received an education consonant with their environment, and fit them for their future upon the soil, or if they went abroad to the colonies they would be fitted to take their part in this great Empire. He felt strongly that every school should have attached to it a school garden. If that was done whatever they paid they would feel that they had got full value for their money. (Loud applause.) I SUCCESS TO AGRICULTURE. I Mr Rowland Hunt, M.P., submitted the toast, "Success to Agriculture." His speech was principally devoted to opposing what he termed the Edinburgh compromise, in reference to the Tariff Reform movement. He asked them as members of the Farmers' Union to make it clear to the Unionist Party that unless the full programme of Tariff Reform was adhered to that they would take no part in the next General Election. He felt that in this country they were relyiag too much on manu- factures, and both political parties in the State had in the past paid too little attention to agriculture, surely the greatest industry in the world. They should insist that agriculture should be given its fair benefit. (Applause.) He admitted he was at variance with the leaders of his own party on the Tariff question. All they asked for was fair play. All they asked was that the outsider should pay an import duty ecjual in proportion to what the home producer had to pay in his rates and taxes. (Applause.) It had been said that the condition of things to- day was due to landlordism. The reason for the elump in land in the eighties was not that the farmers were not the excellent fellows they had always been, but because they had not a fair chance. Foreign produces came in untaxed and even Mr Lloyd George admitted that the British railway companies gave a preference in rates to foreign produce over home produce. (" Shame.") It was time the farmers put their foot down. They must make it clear that they would be no party to any change in the tariff policy by which agriculture was not going to be treated similarly to the manufacturers. Manu- facturers were going to be helped and farmers not at all. Wages in the towns would go up, and wages in the country would go up, and farmers would receive no benefit. The Insur- ance Act wanted overhauling and amending, and he suggested that out of the proceeds of the tariff on foreign produce they would be able to pay the full insurance of the workers. When ths fiscal system was altered farmers should insist for the benefit of the race and nation and Empire that the great industry of agriculture should have fair play. (Applause.) A working woman was taxed 75 per cent. on her food, and the rich woman got her J3100 dress from Paris without being taxed. The workingmen's tobacco was taxed 600 per cent., bnt the rich man's motor came in for nothing. (Load laughter.) Mr Hunt was loudly ap- plauded on resuming his seat. Mr P W Bicknell, of the Worcestershire Union, in reply, said that what they required to do was to talk agricultural politics, and leave Home Rule and Welsh Disestablishment and subjects like that severely alone. It behoved the Farmers' Union to be careful how it walked, as when they went to see Mr Lloyd George or Mr Bonar Law they must be quite certain what they wanted, as these men would pick holes in them very quickly. There was the subject of security of tenure, one which they must be very careful about. There were improvements on a farm which were protected to the farmer, but there were other improvements which it was impossible to get compensation for. Then there was the question of disturbance. It was a distinct loss of pounds, shillings, and pence to a farmer to have to leave a farm on which he has been for years so that he knows how to get the best out of the farm, and how many years would it take to get to know his new farm and get the best out of it ? Mr Bonar Law looked at him when he mentioned that to him the other day. He could not see it, and that was what they had to drum into these men. He dealt with the policy of Unionist land purchase, and said the scheme was useless if they had to buy more than they wanted. (Applause.) As regards Mr Lloyd George and security of tenure, he considered it was much fairer. With the rest of the Liberal programme as regards the agricultural labourer, there was no farmer but what had a regard for a good man, and they would like to see them earning more than they did earn. (Hear, hear.) Farming was not a sweated industry, and they were not keeping girls at work all night making shirts at a penny a dozen to sell at 7s 6d each. (Hear, hear.) The farmer merely got what he earned. He admitted there were men earning what appeared a most miserable wage, but these were cases in which a man was employed by a farmer because a he could put him on. There was no other industry which could do that. These were the men these politicians got hold of, and madé a party cry of. What was wanted was education so as to enable them to earn more money. That was the proper way to tackle this subject. They did not want this tomfoolery of the minimum wage. The half-holiday would hit the small dairy farmer exceedingly hardly. Then there was the question of tied houses. He did not think it possible to free them. Suppose the houses were not in the hands of the farmer. He could not sack a bad man because if he did he had nowhere to put another one. On the other hand a man could leave him and stick in the house and he could not have another man on the job. They could not do without these houses, and they must have them. If they could not house the men on the land how were they to work it ? He considered the Board of Agriculture was a disgrace to the country, and told a story of a visit he paid to the Board's offices, which convulsed his audience with laughter, during which Mr Bicknell resumed his seat. (Applause.) Mr Penry Lloyd, in a powerful speech, proposed the Navy, Army and Resarve Forces," and appealed to farmers to see that their sons and their labourers' sons joined the Reserve Forces. He coupled with the toast the name of Captain E W Caddick, who briefly responded, in which he made a reference to the forthcoming army manoeuvres which are to take place partly in the district during the present year. A compulsory system of recruiting for the Territorial Force would cost more than under the voluntary system, so it behoved them to see that recruiting was carried on. (Applause.) THE FARMERS' UNION. Mr A Roger Rowden submitted the toast The National Farmers' Union and the Ledbury Branch," and said as regards security of tenure there was no doubt it Was required in the case of bad landlords. As regards their Union it had become an important body, and he did not think they would go far wrong with the present leadets they had. He thought farmers would be wise to see that the best men got a good wage and thus keep them on the land. He believed the question of labour would not be solved by legal enactment, and he believed in free bargaining between employer and employed. He did not much believe in men coming from the towns back to the land. (Hear, hear.) As regards housing accommodation if they were going to keep good labourers they must give them a good house. (Applause.) The State before everybody should provide cottages for their servants, and so should railway companies. Let these people provide cottages for their servants and there would then be plenty of cottages for the labourers. This was one of the subjects the Farmers' Union could well tackle. He coupled with the toast the name of Alderman T Preece. (Applause.) Alderman Preece, who is President of the South Herefordshire Union, in reply, said the Union started from very small beginnings, but the movement had grown wonderfully, and all the branches were progressing. He hoped the Union would continue to progress, as it was only through the Union that farmers could give expression to their vtews. Both political parties were tumbling over each other in their anxiety to do something; for the farmers. He hoped it was not a case of "save us from our friends (iiuahter)-but the Union must keep both political parties to their promises. He thought it was unfair that the land should bear such a great share of the expense of main roads and education, which should be national matters. Farmers must consider seriously whether they were going to reap some benefit from Tariff Reform, and it was no use to them if they were going to have to pay a higher price for what they bought and receive no benefit in return. As regards the teachers' strike in the county he did not want to oppress the teachers in any way. He wished to pay them fairly and well. The case of the teachers seems to be put forward more than the case of the rate- payers. (Applause.) The case of the rate- payers seemed to be ignored altogether, but he was one of those who claimed that the teacher should not have so much better conditions or a higher salary than many of the ratepayers. He was sorry to see managers of schools, and the majority of them clergymen, who did not consider their poor parishioners who had to^truggle to make the rates, and place the schoolmasters in a better position than the ratepayers. He thought the County Education Committee had met the teachers honourably, and he was sorry to see so many gentlemen come forward advocating the cause of the teachers and forgetting the rate- payers. (Applause.) Musical honours were accorded Mr Preece at the conclusion of his speech. Other toasts were "The Chairman," given by Mr J H Walker, with musical honours, and responded to by that worthy The Visitors," given by Mr Henry Weston, and responded to by Mr Shufflebotham (Bromyard) The Vice- Chairmen of the Ledbury Branch," given by Mr T A Pedlingham, and responded to by Mr R W Hamar and Mr A G Bunn "The Town and Trade of Ledbury," by Mr W S Lane, and responded to by Mr C H Bastow The Press," given by Mr J E Craddock and coupled with the name of Mr W S Bowes, of ithe Ledbury Reporter and The Hon Secretary," proposed by Mr j] T Lane, and responded to by Mr E B Thompson. During the evening an excellent programme of harmony was submitted, songs being contri- buted by Messrs W G Witham, E W Reed, W J Teague, Chas Davies (Bromyard), and Mr Nor- mam Pritchett gave recitations. Mr W G Davis was an efficient accompanist.

DYMOCK. I 10s. REWARD.—The above amount will be paid to any person proving relationship between the family of Samuel Jones, for three generations butchers at Dymock, and the family of Thomas Cox Dawe, late of Miteheldean. It is thought that some 100 to 120 years ago Thomas Cox Dawe's Grandfather married a daughter of Samuel Jones, butcher, of Dymock, who died about 1820.—Any person able to give any reliable information on the subject are requested to communicate with R & C B Masefield, Solicitors, Ledbury. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. A Committee meeting was held on Saturday, at the Beauchamp Arms, Dymock, Mr Chew presiding. The Secretary, in his report, stated that though the last show was a record respecting the gate and exhibits, yet the balance-sheet showed a small deficit, this being due to the increased ex- penditure, which was jB20 in excess of that of the previous show held in 1911. Mention was also made of the excellence of the table decora- tions in the new class for schoolgirls, and of the improved accommodation for sports, etc., through the kindness of Mr T E Jones in lending his large field. A hearty vote of thanks to the Secretary (Mr Griffiths) for his report, and for his services to the show generally was passed, and he was unanimously re-elected. Mr Guy Smith was re-elected as secretary of sports, as also was the General Committee. It was decided to hold the show on August 27 this year, Mr Joues again kindly placing his field at the disposal of the Committee. AGRICULTURAL CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY.—The amnual general meeting of the Agricultural Co- operative Society was held at the Beauchamp Arms on Saturday. Mr J H Walker presided, and the Secretary, Mr T J Poiner, in his report, stated that the Society was still progressing quietly, the annual turnover now being £1,006, an increase of three pounds on the previous year. He regretted, however, that the work had become more than he could deal with, and asked to be allowed to resign. This announce- ment was received with expressions of great regret, Messrs Chew and Stelfox speaking in the highest terms of Mr Poiner's work, and asking him to continue as secretary. Mr Poiner definitely declined, and Mr J H Cowles was elected in his stead, Mr Poiner consenting to be president of the Society. The old Committee was re-elected en bloc, with the addition of Mr Cowie. On the motion of Mr Stelfox, a move- ment was set on foot with the object of pro- viding a suitable recognition of the services of Mr Poiner to the Society during his three years of office.

1/8 sent to the Reporter Office, Ledbury, will ensure a copy ef this paper being sent post fiee every Friday evening for a quarter (la weeb).

MINSTRELSY AT THE ROYAL HALL, LEDBURY. I Local 11 Sunf lrwors 11 Performances. On Monday uig], t, at the Royal Hall, Led- bury, the first of a series of three performances was given by the "Sunflower" Minstrels, a local troupe of amr. ".mrs, with the object of raising a fund for prir. s for the students at the Ledbury Evening Schools. The troupe was organised by Mr H B Whyld, who officiated as hon. secretary, with Mr F A Hobro as musical director. The troupe had been practising for some months in preparation for the event, and had got together an excellent programme, which, though rather lengthy on the first night, proved very enjoyable and varied, including one or two items which were quite a novelty for a local programme. When the curtain went up on Monday night the members of the troupe were revealed in their positions hiding their faces behind copies of the front page of the Reporter. Prior to this the orchestra had given the audience a taste of their powers in the overture "The Teddy Bear's Picnic." The opening chorus by the troupe was The Fresh'niug Breeze," in which was shown that whatever else happened the audience were certain of hearing some good chorus singing, and this was a striking feature throughout the whole of the first part of the programme. Ted Reed, surely one of the most versatile of our local amateurs, was responsible for the comic song, "There's no place like London," which was given with verve and vigour. D 0 Evans contributed the ever popular, "I'll take you home, Kathleen," in which he received splendid assistance from the chorus, and Tommy Lane, one of the best of our local comedians, had a topical song "That Happy Land," in which such local subjects as the proposed swimming bath, gas and electric light were smartly worked in, and the vocalist received a good round of applause for his effort. "Red Wing," another popular song, was well rendered by W J Teague, and again the chorus put in some good work. Reg Paul gave a comic number When I got up this morning," which proved very acceptable, but the best number of the first half we thought to be My heart is with you to-night," by R J Carless, who proved in fine voice. The chorus was a bit snatchy in this number for a wonder, but soon picked up, and there was an unmis- takable encore. Victor Gabb also received a re- call for the rag-time song On the Mississipi," as also did G Palmer for the character song "The girls all dote on a military man." Harry Barnard's comic song Tow the row row" was a rollicking number which went well, and the finale was a plantation scene, "Good-night," in which the solo was taken by Amyere A Stubbs, who is the possessor of a very pleasing tenor voice. The jokes were too long, and were more in the nature of dialogues, which had the effect of dragging out the first half too long. Excellent work was done by the tambos and bones, and H B Whyld was a smart interlocutor. The orchestra did splendid work, and the chorus has already been referred to. Part II opened with a selection by the orchestra Smiles, then Kisses," which was followed by a sketch in which H B Whyld, E W Reed and Victor Gabb took part, E W Reed being very good in this and being well backed up by his two coadjutors. "Charcoal and Chatter," a series of lightning sketches entitled Life's Little Worries," by Harry Barnard, revealed this versatile member of the troupe in a new form of entertainment, and his sketches were exceedingly clever, and received the full measure of approbation from the audience. The closing number was a side-splitting farce, brought up-to-date, Wax-ination Gratis," in which eight members of the troupe appeared. Tommy Lane had the bulk of the work to do, and did it well, and received splendid support from the rest of the cast. The members of the troupe were as follows :— Interlocutor, H B Whyld bones, Tommy Lane, Reg Paul, Jack Bache tambos, Victor Gabb, Ted Reed, Harry Barnard chorus-trebles, Sidney Price, Albert Smart; alto, J H Floyd tenors, R G Carless, Amyere A Stubbs, and G Palmer bass, J W Teague and D 0 Evans. The orchestra was as follows :—Musical Director, F A Hobro (at the piano); first violin, R Summers second violins, H Alleyne, R Preece cornet, C W Jessett; 'cello, W Roberts flute, E J Allen double bass, H Down drums, L Harrington. The programme was as follows :— Part I. Overture, "The Teddy Bear's Picnic," the Orchestra. Opening chorus, "The Fresh'ning Breeze," the Troupe. Comic song, There's no place like London," Teddy Reed. Song, "I'll take you home, Kathleen," D 0 Evans. Comic song, "That Happy Land," Tommy Lane. Song, "Red Wing," W J Teague. Comic song, When I got up this morning," Reg Paul. Song, "My heart is with you to-night," R J Carless. Comic song, On the Mississippi," Victor Gabb. Character song, "The girls all dote on a Military Man," G Palmer. Comic song, Tow the row row," Harry Barnard Finale, Plantation Scene Good-Night," Solo by Amyere A Stubbs. Part II. Selection, "Smiles, then Kisses," The Orchestra. Sketch, "Indeed to Goodness!" (A Welsh railway station scene). Characters :—Porter, Joyd Large, Reddy Teed Welshman, Malwyn Llewellyn, Warry Hyhld; Lady Llanvihangel, Miss Victoria. Charcoal and Chatter," a series of lightning sketches entitled Life's Little Worries," given by Barry Harnard. Side-splitting sketch, brought up-to-date, entitled" Wax-ination Gratis." Characters:— Signor Frangipani (proprietor of waxworks), "Here's a pretty go," E W Reed; Bob (his assistant, who knows a thing or three), T Lane Deaf Joe (who saw it outside), R Paul Long Jim (" That's my hat"), R J Carless Mr Hannibal Washington (very fond of wax), H B Whyld Mr Greenacre Greeneye (the green- eyed monster's victim-" Ha ha "), J Bache Mrs Greeneye (his wife-" such a nice little thing "), V Gabb; Bullseye (the Cute Tec., How shall I nab my man "), J W Teague. TUESDAY'S PERFORMANCE. I The hall was packed on Tuesday night with a most appreciative audiebce, and the whole per- formance went with a swing from beginning to end. The programme, or, shall we say, the jokes,, had been judiciously cut,and new jokes of a short, crisp character introduced which made the first half much more attractive. The troupe gave of their best and received cordial approba- tion from their audience. The second half, too, went much better, the sketch Indeed to Good- ness," and Charcoal and Chatter" being undoubtedly the hits of the evening. Altogether the show went well, and was far in advance of Monday's, which, after all, was more in the nature of a dress rehearsal. WEDNESDAY'S PERFORMANCE. I The final performance was given to a large attendance on Wednesday evening. Those who have had the pleasure of witnessing the enter- tainment will agree that the producer and artistes are worthy of every compliment for the very able manner in which the show has been presented to the public. The opening chorus The Freshning Breeze," was delightfully rendered by the troupe. The comedy part of the programme was most capably sustained by the bones and tambos, who contributed some very humorous songs. J W Teague and Amyere A Stubbs Bang two pretty numbers, Red- wing" and "Good-night" respectively in a well-balanced manner. Mr H B Whyld's part as interlocutor was also ably executed. Harry Barnard's series of lightning sketches were given with full eclat. The two sketches, "Indeed to Goodness" and "Wax-ination Gratis, were provocative of much mirth. The orchestra, under the control of the musical director, acquitted themselves admirably. A hearty reception was accorded the artistes as the curtain was rung down. Generally speaking the performance hardly reached the high standard of Tuesday. It should be mentioned that all the practices have been held in the New Inn Hotel Assembly Room, by kind permission of Mr E W Palmer.

ENAMELWARE I Examine the Articles now in our windows, I and you can judge that we carry a large stock of all the articles in request, and in most of them we can offer you the choice of many sizes. The Quality is The Best." I The Prices are Moderate. j ——————— j- WE DO NOT purchase any "Seconds" quality, j but a number of pieces get chipped whilst [ in stock, and these are Reduced to Half- j price, and in some cases less than that. | 4 C? 60]'QeHiU& ??. j Q ? Tl^ r<^LEDBU*RY^ o The Cross. LE DBU-RYe?,

COL WALL NEWS. Mr Albert G Allen, of Crescent-road, Colwall, writes to state that he was not the prosecutor in the cycle lamp theft case at Ledbury Police Court last week, as stated in our report. He merely identified the lamp which was stolen, and was a police witness. HILL INSTITUTE. A lecture, illustrated by limelight view s, on "Pasteur and his discoveries," will be given in the Hill Institute Club, Upper Colwall, by Mr W Wickham, on Thursday next at 8 p.m. SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT. The Wesleyan Sunday School held its winter treat in the schoolroom on Thursday week. The children were entertained to tea at 4.30. Afterwards a very enjoyable evening was spent. The children had been carefully trained, and rendered, with great credit, solos, chourses, action songs, and recitations. At the conclusion the prizes were distributed by Mrs Rogers, with a few encouraging remarks. ENTERTAINMENT. I Through the efforts of the energetic committee of the Hill Institute, another of those popular entertainments took place in the Institute on Monday night, and as usual proved a most successful affair, a large and appreciative audience beiag present, over which the Rev Johnson presided. One of the chief efforts of the Com- mittee appears to be to get a variation for their patrons and several new features were introduced on Monday night, and were thoroughly appre- ciated by all present. The Colwall Brass Band, under the direction of Mr F W Hayes, very kindly gave their services, and rendered two selections. The humorous element was supplied by Mr A Caiger, of Malvern, and his variety songs and clever impersonations kept the audience in a continual roar of laughter. The latter part of the programme consisted of a sketch, entitled "Box and Cox," the characters being :—Miss Kimble as Mrs Bouncer, Mr C Norman as Mr Cox, Mr R James as Mr Box. This proved a most laughable sketch, and the performers are to be congratulated on their excellent efforts, which received hearty applause at the close. At the conclusion of the programme the Rev W Johnson moved a hearty vote of thanks to the performers for their kindness in coming there that evening to entertain them, and they were especially pleased for the assistance Lieut. Green had given them, in carrying out the duties of accompanist. The programme was as follows :-March, Marching Home," Colwall Brass Band; song, The Valley of Laughter," Miss Jessie Wickham song, The Irish Immigrant," Mr F W Hayes song, The Curate and the Maiden" (encored), Miss L Kimble humorous song, The other depart- ment Please" (encored), Mr A Caiger song, Long live the King," Mr H Webb recitation, Miss Kimble; song, The Death of Nelson," Mr H Webb song, Come back to Erin," Mr F W Hayes; song, Miss Wickham song, The Appetite" (encored), Mr A Caiger; selection, "Dreaming, Col wall Brass Band; sketch, Box and Cox." Characters :—Mrs Bouncer, Miss L Kimble; Mr Cox, Mr C Norman Mr Box, Mr R James. CONCERT. I On Thursday evening, at the Temperance Hall, a concert was given in aid of the funds of the Cricket Club. It was ap unqualified success. Notwithstanding a stormy night, the attendance was satisfactory, and Mr and Mrs B L Mitford as organisersdeserve warm commendation. To them and to the performers, Mr Orr-Ewing (Captain of the Club) moved a vote of thanks. Encores were numerous. The instrumental quartet by Mrs Mitford (first violin), Miss M Empson, Upper Colwall (second), Miss Bird, Hereford ('cello), and Miss E Bull, Hereford (pianist), were given in a skilful and refined manner. Mrs Mitford in her violin solos, and Miss Bird in her 'cello solos, were most success- ful. The lady vocalists, Miss Dixey (Malvern), who possesses a rich and well-trained soprano voice, and Miss Cecilia Innis (Birmingham), a .fine contralto, were deservedly encored. Miss Bird (Hereford) proved to be a capable singer as well as a cellist of distinction. Mr Orr- Ewing, ever a favourite, sang in rousing fashion What of the Bow ?" and was no less success- ful with his encore of the charming A Little Irish Girl." The pianists were Miss M Empson, Miss Bull (Hereford), and Miss Holmes (Malvern). The programme was Quartet, Gavotte (Elvey), Miss E Hall, Mrs Mitford, Miss M Empson, Miss Bird song, Rose in the Bud," Miss Dixey 'cello solo, Largo (Handel), Miss Bird, encored; songs, (a) "A Song of Autumn (Elgar), (b) The Wanderer (Schubert), encore, "My Dear Soul," Miss Cecilia Innis; song, "What of the Bow?" (encore, A Little Irish Girl") Mr Orr Ewing trio, "Gipsy Rondo" (Haydn), Miss E Bull, Mrs Mitford, Miss Bird song, I Cannot Help Loving Thee (encore, Cabbage Roses ") Miss Bird quartette, "Suite" (Handel), Miss E Bull, Mrs Mitford, Miss M Empson, Miss Bird (encored); song, "My Ships I (Barrett) (encore, Caller Herrin "), Miss Cecilia Innis violin solos, (a) Salut D'Amour (Elgar), (b) Minuet" Pugnani (Kreisler) (encore, Scotch Reels "), Mrs Mitford song, "The Little grey Home (encore, If I Built a World for You," Miss Dixey; song, "Song of May" (encore, Song of Sleep "), Mr Orr Ewing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. AN APPEAL. To the Editor. Sir,—Will you kindly allow me a little space in your paper to make an appeal on behalf of a Herefordshire man who lives in this place, and who at the present time is in very straitened circumstances. The maa's name is Walter Rowley Palmer. He is, I understand, very well known in your town and county, through the work he did to establish a Labourer's Union. The man's health is now poor, and his family of six children, all 8f them very young, and his wife, a very delicate person, are all ill and ia need. Whatever opinion you and your readers may hold of Palmer's politics and economics, not to mention his agitations, he must have struck every one as a man of rare courage and conscience, and as such, worthy of admiration. If there are any friends or foes who would like, or would be so kind as to help him in his low state, will they send their donations, either through me, or directly to Ikirn ? His present address is 35, Conway-road, Cwmpark, Treorchy, Glam. I am, sir, ycurs sincerely, (oigned) KM. V T ERIC DAVIES. Richmond House, Stuart Street, Treorchy.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. LEDBURY. Saturday, Feb 21—The Kennels, Rt 11 Monday, Feb 23-Beaucliamp Arms, Dymock, at 11 Wednesday, Feb 25—Ockle Street Station, at 11-30 Friday, Feb 27-Stannton Swan, at 11 Saturday, Feb 2-Eastnor Village, at 11 NORTH LEDBURY. Tuesday, Feb 24-Ridgeway Cross, at 11. Friday, Feb 27-Yearsett Bridge, at 11 LEDBURY BEAGLE-HARRIERS. (Weather permitting). Thursday, Feb 26—Petty France Cross Roads, at 11. M.R.

BOUQUETS. WREATHS. CROSSES. Harps, Anchors, Sprays, or any other design made up by expert hands with the choieest Flowers in season, at reasonable prices. Carefully packed and sent to any part of the British Isles at short notice. VIOLETS A SPECIALITY. I have 4,000 plants of Double and Single to pick from, from now till April. Also a splendid lot of Chrysanthemums and other Flowers. Boxes of Cut Flowars Sent post free for Is 6d, 2s 6d, and upwards. Fruit Trees, Roses, Shrubs, Herbaceous Plants, Alpine Plants, and Spring Bedding Plants, at reasonable prices. Silver Sand, Peat, Loam, Charcoal, Mats, and all requisites for the garden supplied at cut prices. New Gardens laid out, old ones renovated. Tennis Courts, Croquet Lawns. Bowling Greens, and Cricket Grounds. A trial order solicited. Satisfaction Guaranteed. W. BUNN, Nurseryman, OOLWALL. I I DAVID SMITH & SON Monumental Soulptors, LEDBURY. MONUMENTS, TOMBS, HEAD- STONES and CROSSES of every description, in Marble, Granite and Stone, fixed in any part of the kingdom. OLD MONUMENTS RENOVATED. Designs and Estimates sent free application.

JSlrtbs, flDarriages, and Deatbs. DEATHS. PHILLIPS—February 12, at Ledbnry Union, Laara Phillips, late of Wellington Heath, aged 71 years. COTTERELL-February 16, at Wellington Heath, William Cotterell, aged 80 years. LEWIS-Februoxy 16, at Ash grove, West 11801.. vern, Delilah Lewis, aged 73 years. GURNEY,—February 18, at 24, Church-street, Ledbury, Violet Annie, the dearly beloved child of Edward &nd Jane Guruey, aged 14 months.

ARTHUR J. VIRGO, MONUMENTAL WORKS, Oathedral Olose, Herofortf Memorials in Marble, Granite or Stone. Designs Furnished. Brick Vaults & Stem Gxwrea Country Work a Speciality. Ti* Oldut Busin** in Htryw*.

no mud or anything to retain there. He thought that a man of his age would have been able to have got out if he had fallen in. If jury were not satisfied that he went with the intention of drowning himself in the pool, they might return a verdict of accidental death. If they were not satisfied with the evidence they could bring in a verdict of found drowned. He did not think there was the slightest suspicion of foul play. They must also bear in mind the fact that in consequence of his wife's death deceased had lost his mental balance. The jury then retired and on their return the foreman said that they unanimously agreed that the deceased had accidentally came by his death.