County Observer and Monmouthshire Central Advertiser Abergavenny and Raglan Herald Usk and Pontypool Messenger and Chepstow Argus

URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING. The usual monthly meeting of the above Council was held at the Town Hall, Pontypool, on Wednesday afternoon. Br. Essex presiding. There were also present:—Messrs L. E. Webb, T. Williams, W. H. Hughes, W. H. Pitten, D. Reirl, E. B. Ford, j. Mopelsy, F. Probyn, J. Walker, H. H. Haden (clerk), J. Powell (surveyor and inspector), and E. Jones (collector). MINUTES. I The minutes of the last meeting having been sead and confirmed, the general business of the Oouncil was proceeded with. FINANCE COMMITTEE. I The Clerk read the report of the above Committee, which stated that the balance in hand last meeting amounted to £ 162 15s. 5d. received since—county authority, £ 80 2s. lid. rate and tolls, X423 15s. 10d.total, £ 508 18s. 9d.; bills that day, 1917 th. 3d. leaving balances on loan account, 17;0 lIs. 7d.; general account, X443 8s. 4d.—total, £ 1,213 19s. lid. Attention was also drawn to the fact that e distress warrants levied at the last meeting in several cases for the non-payment of the October rate bad not yet been enforced. The report was adopted by the Council, and the Collector instructed to proceed with the above- mentioned rate cases. MARKET COMMITTEE. The report of this Committee having been read, considerable discussion ensued. Mr. Hughes objecte I to the fact that stall- holders in the market held the erroneous idea that they were entitled to transfer their stalls to others without the intervention of the Council. It was the Council's business tilt grant tenancy, and stall- holders should be notified to that effect. The Chairman said the matter had been gone into and investigated. Mr. Hughes, referring to the report, said there was a man introduced by the out-going tenant. He did not know what bargain had been made between them When the out-going tenant wanted to give up his stall he should have given notice to the Council. The Market's Committee report, after some further discussion, was ultimately adopted. SANITARY COMMITTBB. i This report was also read, and the various items contained therein discussed. It was stated that several persons had not carried out the orders of the Surveyor, and that the Committee recommended that final notices he served on such persons, after which, if they did not carry out the orders, the Surveyor would do it for them, charging the costs to the defaulters. Mr. Moseley (sitting), asked if the Councillors implicated had carried out their orders ? Mr. Pitten suggested that the last-named councillor should get., on his feet when addressing the meeting. Thij report was then adopted. CATTLB MARKET WORKS COMMITTEE. I This report, which was read by the Clerk, stated that the Committee recommended that the present framing and corrogated sheets be removed, and that 10ft. sheets, with proper framing be substituted. The smaller sheets are to be used elsewhere. The Chairman said he might say that the market was practically finished, as there only remained a few little things to be done. Mr. Hughes asked if he was right in considering the construction of urinals, etc., extra. A reply was given ia the affirmative, and it was stated that the extra works would be placed on the east side of the bank, so as to have plenty of W Considerable discussion was indulged in, on the necessity of pulling down the 6ft., and erecting a -10ft. fence, and several members tried to elicit from whom the contractor took his orders, but were not successful. Mr. Hughes proposed that steps be at once taken to formulate bye-laws and scale of charges for the use of the market. He did not think the charge should be loft to the discretion of the Collector, for whenever he made a bargain some one found fault wilh it, and perhaps he was the principal offender. If there was a scale of charges it would be much more satisfactory. This proposition was considered to be a good one, and ultimately carried. I THE TIP. A letter was read from Mr. Paton, stating the terms on which he would let the ash tip. It was estimated that from X130 to X150 would have to be spent to lay the ground out, etc., as suggested in the letter, whilst the lease only ran for 10 years. Mr. Hughes thought that if Mr. Paton was approached, he would let the ground for J68 a year, for the place was only a bog, and would not bring in a single solitary sovereign a year, were it not for the fact that the Council required it. They, in time, would make it good land. It was ultimately resolved that the matter be referred to a committee of three, consisting of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Mr. Ford, to investigate the matter, and report to the Council at the next meeting. SURVEYOR'S RBFORT. The above report stated that among other things a new water cart and horse brush were required, and that the sewer had been opened at several places. Mr. Pitten protested that the cart and brush were absolutely necessary, and also stated that thev were allowed for in the estimates. The Chairman stated there was very little money in hand, and he was afraid some of the things in the estimate would have to wait. Several other items of the report having been discussed, the Surveyor's report was adopted, on the proposition of the Chairman. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. I Dr. Mason, medical officer, reported as follows During the month of May there were 6 deaths and 19 births, the death-rate being 11'4, and the birth-rate 36-1 per 1,000 per annum respectively. There was one death from membranous croup, the remainder were from general diseases. There was one uncertified death. Since my last monthly report six notifications of infectious disease have been received, viz., diphtheria, 4; membranous croup, 1 and typhoid fever, I. Two of the diphtheretic cases occurred in the same house, one proving fatal. I am inclined to consider the drainage at fault, but have not been able to verify my suspicions at present, as the house is not accessible yet. In one case in George-street the w.c. accommodation in the house was found to be anything but sanitary, and in the fourth case some doubt exists as to the origin of the attack. In each and every case investigations have been made and precautions taken to prevent the disease spreading. With respect to the case of typhoid, fever, a considerable amount of sanitary defects existed in and about the house, which have been taken in hand vigorously and remedied. In such intensely hot weather as has prevailed during the month, most weak points in sanitation will become manifest. The amount of general sickness existing in the district during the past six weeks has been above the average for the time of the year. The variable atmospheric conditions has had a deal to do with it, and it behoves all housekeepers to take a special interest "in domestic sanitations; and to see that all drains are regularly flushed, and to report any defect to the Inspector of Nuisances. The Chairman said it was absolutely necessary that every w.c. should be properly flushed, and water should be laid on in every case without exceptions. The report was adopted. SCAVENGING. The question of scavenging was then brought up, and it was asserted that the refuse was not taken up in some parts of the town for days. The Surveyor reported that this was not lately. He was aware that such was the case at one time, but he considered there had been an improvement of late. CONGRATULATION. The Chairman said it gave him much pleasure to see Mr. Walker take his seat as a councillor that day, and offered him his congratulation. Mr. Hughes also stated that the councillors were very glad to see Mr. Walker again he was sure he would be a great acquisition in evaiy way.

BIOGRAPHY OF A PROMINENT TOWNSMAN. Mr. George Newth of the "Sir Garnet Wolaeley Hotel, Pontypool, Monmouthshire, who has recently vacated the office of president. of the Ponty- pool and District Licensed Victuallers and Beer- house Keepers Association, is a native of Gloucester, and entered the service of the Great Western Railway Company, at Neath, retiring with the rank of Inspector. His first connection with the trade in South Wales was at Neath, subsequently removing to the "Bruce" Hotel, at Aberdare, where he carried on business for about six years. Mr. Newth went to Pontypool about 22 years ago, and successfully conducted business for about eight years at the Globe" Hotel, subsequently re- moving to the King's Head Hotel, which he soon afterwards renamed the" Sir Garnet Wolse- ley" where he still remains, having introduced an aerated water manufactory in connection herewith. He joined the Pontypool Association on its forma- tion some years ago. Mr. Newth took a very I active interest in the local Volunteer Fire Brigade, of which he is Lieutenant. He also joined the 4th V.B.S.W. Borderers, and became Sergeant in the oorps, and for 13 years acted as canteen steward. He Inlds the Volunteer medal and also a medal for services ia connection with the Volunteer Fire Brigade. Mr. Newth has been for the past 24 years, and is still, closely connected with the lodge of the R.A.O.B. Last year he was elected a member of the Pontypool Urban District Council. He is much respected and widely known in trade circles through- out Monmouthshire and South Wales, and through his genial and kindly disposition has gained many friends.-Tlte Licensing World and Licensed Trade Review. I NEW GYMNASIUM AND SWIMMING BATH. On Thursday afternoon, a large number of visitors met at the West Monmouthshire School, to witness the formal opening of a finely equipped Gymnasium and a Swimming Bath, about 45ft. long, in con- nection with the School. This was inaugurated by the carrying through of a programme by the boys, to Mr. Meadows' inspiriting accompaniment on the piano, of Bar Bell, Dumb Bell, and Club exercises, in which the whole school took part. High Jumping and iexercises on the Parallel Bars, and Vaulting Horse, followed by a Water Polo Match, were the next items, and in all the boys acquitted themselves well, especially in the Water Polo. The Club (Solo exhibition, and Swimming and Diving of the Teacher, Instructor E. Foremen, elicited loud applause. At the close Mr. J. H. Priestley, Head Master, announced that next year, Five Courts would be built, and he hoped that ground would be levelled for cricket. Then the equipments on the Athletic side, would be fairly complete. Colonel Hair, on behalf of the visitors, thanked Mr. Priestley for the treat he had afforded them, and Mr. Priestley, in responding, expressed his thanks to the visitors for their attendance. Amongst those present, were:-Colonel and Mrs. Hair, Mrs. Mulligan, Mrs. Prieslley, Mr. John Daniel, Mr. D. Jones (Pontymoile), Mr. and Mrs. D. Jones (Belle Vue), Mr. and Mrs. T. Watkins, and Mr. Percy Watkins, Mr. and Mrs. Hiley (Usk), Mr. and Mrs. David Lewis, Rev. Joshua, and Mrs. Evans, Rev. H. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. James, &c. Several of those present partook of tea in the I large dining-room of the school. I

r SKENFRITH. I SCHOOL BOARD.—Mr. E. Prosser presided over the meeting held on Friday in last week. The Clerk reported a balance at the bank of X153 12s 6d of which about X80 would have to be drawn for bills. There was, however, an outstanding contri- bution due from Skenfritb.-A committee consisting of the Chairman, Miss Edith Jackson, Dr. Leighton, and Mr. W. H. S Whitney were appointed to meet and draw up a report on the existing salaries paid to the assistant teachers at the four schools.—Calls at 3d in the £ were isiiuei.-Miss M. A. Watkins, assistant mistress at Grosmont school, tendered her resignation unless her salary were increased.— Various other items were also dealt with. ~.=:

Markets. I MONMOUTH, CATTLE, Monday.—There was a very short supply of beef. Sheep and cattle fairly numerous. Pigs in good supply, with quiet trade. All the choice fat beasts were purchased privately by local butchers and dealers. Quotations:— Prime quality beef, 6d to 6|d veal, 7d to 7fd wether mutton, 7d to 7^d ewe ditto, 5|d to 6^d lamb, 7-d to Sid per lb; pork, 8s to 9s; bacon, 7s to 7s 6d per score. The following prices were realised under the hammer of Messrs. Nelmes and Poole, Monmouth and Newnham, and Messrs. Dampier and Wigmore, Ross and Monmouth. Fat calves, 49s to 83s wethers, 37s to 48s ewes, 28s to 44s 6d; couples, 35a to 67s lambs, 17s to 26s 6d. NEWPORT, CATTLE, Wednesday.—Usual supply of stock. Quotations :-Best beef, 61d seconds, 5fd to 63; best wether mutton, nd to 7fd lamb, 8d to 8id; veal 7d to 8d porker pigs 9" 3d to 9s 6d. 4: NEWPORT, CHEESE, Wednesday.—Fair supply and good attandance. Prices have advanced several shillings. Quotations: -Caerphillies, 40s to 44s; Fancy dairies, 45s to 46s; doubles 44s to 48s; truckles, 50s to 52s. NEWPORT, UORN, Wednesday.—Good trade. Wheat and flour easy at last week's prices. Barley Is a quarter dearer. Oats unchanged at last week's rates. Flat maize firm at last week's prices small ditto fully 6d dearer on the week. Bran (occa- sionally) 2s 6d per ton. Sharps fully 2s 6d per ton, and firm at that price.

Moiunoutlishire'Quartcr Sessions. The Midsummer Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the County of Monmouth was held at the Sessions House, Usk, on Wednes- day, before S. C. Bosanquet, Esq. (chairman), Sir H. M. Jackson, Bart. (vice-chairman), Gen. Gillespie, Col. Hair, Col. Mansel, H. Hum- phreys, Esq., J. O. Marsh, Esq., W. Llewellin, Esq., Geo. Dewdney, Esq., R. Laybourne, Esq., and H. Hey wood, Esq. I THE GRAND JURY. The following gentlemen were sworn on the grand jury :—Arthur Lee Pope (Caerlcon), foreman Alfred Henry Bailey, James Break- well, Griffiths Davies, William Evans, John Ferny though, G. H. Fothergill, Edward G. Gabb, Arthur Green, William Harris, William Hughes (Monmouth), William Hughes (Rhym- ney), Arthur Thos. Wm. James, Francis James, Evan Jones, Thomas Jones, William Lawrence, L. Lewis, F. G. Lovell, W. Rees, J. Rosser, and William B. Seymour. CHAIRMAN'S ADDRESS. I The Chairman, in addressing the Grand Jury, said the calendar was somewhat larger than they had had to deal with at the last few sessions, but it was about the average. He thought none of the cases need give much trouble. After instructing the jury in the usual method of procedure, the Chairman re- capitulated the various cases, referring to the charge of intimidation against Charles Jones as a rather unusual one. The charge, he said, was that Jones followed complainant about during the Newport building industry strike, and so intimi- dated him, in order to prevent him doing his work. He thought in this case the jury would experience no difficulty in finding sufficient evidence to send the prisoner for trial. NEW PRISON REGULATIONS. I The Chairman read a circular from the Secretary of State for the Home Department concerning the new prison regulations, which he explained provided for the separation and better treatment of prisoners who were not of a criminal class. I CONDOLENCES. I THE LATE DUKE OF BEAUFORT. I The Chairman, referring to the death of the late Duke of Beaufort, said the county had sus- tained a severe loss in the death of the Lord Lieutenant, who held that post for 32 years. He moved a vote of condolence and sympathy with the Duchess of Beaufort and family. The great interest, he said, the late nobleman took in all the affairs of"tlie county was so well- known that there was no need for him to men- tion it. Sir H. M. Jackson seconded, and suggested that in consideration of the late Duke's great services to the county, a memento, in the shape of a portrait of his Grace, should be hung on the walls of the court, if a copy could be ob- tained, to remind them of him in years to come. THE LATE MR. DANIELLS. I The Chairman also expressed regret at the very sad and unexpected death of the late Mr. N. Daniells, barrister, who, he said, had earned the respect of the court by the gentlemanly way in which he conducted his business. Mr. Marchant, as leader of the bar, paid a similar tribute to the deceased barrister's memory. COAL STRIKE SEQUEL. I An application for special costs in the case of the Bedwellty Union versus the Ebbw Vale Co. for payment of rates levied for the purpose of relieving the distress caused by the coal strike, was not allowed. AN APPOINTMENT. I Sir H. M. Jackson proposed, and it was de- cided to appoint Mr. S. C. Bosanquet as the justice of the peace representing the Quarter Sessions and the Standing Joint Committee of the County Council, in place of the late Duke of Beaufort. TRIALS OF PRISONERS. I FIRST COURT.—Before the Chairman (S. C. BOSANQUET, Esq,), and other Magistrates. THE RAGLAN CASE. I Arthur Jenkins, 20, labourer, pleaded guilty to the charge of breaking into and entering the dwelling-house of William Hobbs, of Raglan, and stealing X2 10s. Mr. S. C. R. Busanquet addressed the Bench in mitigation of punishment, saying that the prosecutor did not wish to press the case. The Chairman, addressing prisoner, said the Court were disposed to deal leniently with him, and he would be bound over to come up for judgment if called upon. INTIMIDATION—HEAVY FINE. I Charles Jones, plasterer, aged 45, of Newport, was indicted that he did, on the 20th April, 1899, at the County Borough of Newport, with a view to compel one John Bayliss to abstain from doing an act which he had a legal right to do, viz., to work for one Dyson Parfitt as a plasterer, unlawfully, wrongfully, and without legal authority persistently follow the said John Bayliss from place to place." There was also a second count in respect of the following day. A good deal of interest was taken in the case, a large number of men connected with the building trades at Newport having come by brake for the hearing. Prisoner pleaded not guilty to both counts. Mr. Corner appeared for the prosecution, and Mr. Lloyd Morgan, M.P., and Mr. Marchant represented the prisoner. In opening the case for the prosecution, Mr. Corner said the offence with which the defendant was charged was one which, if permitted to go unchecked, would strike at the root of law, order, and liberty. They had all heard of trades unions, .1 1 .1 11 I- and tney Knew tnai tney uvea in a tree country where, generally speaking, they could do as they liked, so long as they behaved themselves, and recognised the rights of their fellows. In 1875, Parliament came to the rescue of people who were interfered with by trade unionists or others, by enacting a law which made it a criminal offence to interfere with or molest any person wishing to follow his employment. Some time ago, the plasterers of the country were locked out, because the employers could not tolerate the unreasonable behaviour of the men. This affected, amongst others, Mr. Dyson Parfitt, of Newport, a contractor, who had some important works on hand. There was considerable delay in getting on with the work, and at length Mr. Parfitt engaged three non-union plasterers from another part of the country. On the first day these men were employed, the Newport Workhouse-whiah Mr. Parfitt was re-building—was picketted by no fewer than 32 plasterers, who wouldn't work themselves, and wanted to stop others from working. Wheu the non-union men left their work at the Workhouse on the 20th April, it was evident that they were to be subjected to interference by the men picketed, who were led by the defendant, Jones. The defendant had been a policeman, and had been pensioned. He appeared to live on his pension and what he got out of the working men, by stirring up strife between masters and men. When the Baylisses (the non-union men) left their work, they were followed by a crowd of about 150 people, led by the defendant. They were shouted and jeered at, and the men were naturally alarmed. They werb afraid to go to work, and Mr. Parfitt had to consult the police so that the men might work unmolested. On the 21st, the same thing happened again. Mr. Corner quoted the Act of Parliament, and impressed on the jury that if they were satisfied that the defendant had persistently followed the men they must find him guilty. John Bayliss, of Gloucestershire, said that he was a non-unionist slater and plasterer. On April 9th he arranged to go to Newport to work for Mr. Parfitt, and on the 19th went there with his two brothers. On the following morning he and his brothers went to the Workhouse at six o'clock to commence work, and they duly left in the evening. When they left they were accom- panied by some of Mr. Parfitt's staff and two policemen. Outside the works witness saw Jones, with a stick in his hand, and several men in groups. They all feil in behind witness and his companions, and marched behind him. Witness thought there were fifty men behind him at that time, but the crowd accumulated until they had 200 close behind them. Witness heard Black- legs" called, and someone said, "Rush them." Witness was frightened at the number of men following him. He thought 200 to 250 men followed him to his lodgings at Bailey-street. Next morning witness had to wait for his employer to go to work. A number of men were standing near the house while he left. Amongst them were the prisoner, and other Trades Unionists, altogether about 200 in number. In the afternoon witness went to the office of Mr. Lyndon Moore, solicitor. Newport, and after he had left a crowd followed him to his lodgings, Jones was again present, walking in front. The crowd was shouting Hurrah and calling names. Witness eventually left his employment, but not because his wife feared violence to him. He had since been working in Worcester. Joseph Dysim Parfitt, contractor for the building of the new Workhouse at Newport, deposed that for some time past there had been disputes between the builders and plasterers. The contract was a big one, the price being £ 30,000. In consequence of the plasterers refusing to work, he engaged the Baylisses to do the plastering. On the first evening, after John Bayliss left work, witness accompanied him, with his manager and clerk, two constables, and another official. Jones was outside in the road, together with a crowd of men. Bayliss proceeded to his lodgings, followed by a crowd of 200. including the prisoner. When they got to Bayliss's lodgings the crowd surged around the door. On the following day witness went with John Bayliss to Mr. Moore's office. There was a crowd outside with Jones in the centre. Bayliss wanted to go back into the office, but witness eventually proceeded with him to his lodgings, the crowd numbering two or three hundred. There were shouts of "Blacklegs," "Robbers," "Go back to Gloucester," &c. Witness spoke to Jones, asking him why he persistently followed him, and Jones replied he was not. "Well, then," said witness, "you're following someone with me," to which Jones made answer, I- What's that to do with you, you've not bought the street," and made a remark that he would make things hot for witness if he endeavoured to get municipal honours. The jury returned a verdict of guilty, with a recommendation to leniency on account of good character. Sentence was deferred, as there was a question as to the costs of the prosecution, which could not be paid out of the county funds. Subsequently, the Court fined defendant £20, each side to pay its own costs. SHOP-BREAKING AT ABERGAVENNY. George Brown, 23, clerk, was indicted for breaking into the shop of Jones Bros., Aber- gavenny, on the 23rd April last, and stealing therefrom iOlbs. of pork, and 71bs. of mutton. Prisoner was sentenced to six weeks imprisonment with hard labour. Robert Green, 24, engine cleaner, was also indicted in connection with the above, but the jury found no true bill. A PONTIFOOL CASE. Florence Lewis, 21, a servant, was charged with obtaining by false pretences from Margaret Cormack, of Pontypool, on the 16th May, one suit of clothes, value 27s., the property of Donald Cormack. A sentence of one month's imprisonment with hard labour was passed. ) A CASE FIWM AKEltSYCHAN. Joseph Lewis, 21, collier, was indicted for maliciously iuflictmg grievous bodily harm upon George Cox, in the parish of Abersychan, on the 22nd May last, and acquitted. LICENCE I-IOLDElt'S APPEAL. An appeal was heard against the conviction of Thomas John Davies, landlord of the Mechauics' Arms Beerhouse, Newport, by the borough magistrates on April 17th for selling, beer to a drunken person. Mr. Corner (instructed by fr. A. A. Newman, town-clerk of Newport), appeared on behalf of the police, and Mr. Lloyd Morgan, M.P., and Mr. Marchant (instructed by Mr. J. C. Llewellin) appeared for the appellant. Testimony tending to show that Ryan was only served with hop bitters was given, but the Court upheld the conviction. SECOND COURT.-Before Sir H. M. JACKSON, and other Magistrates. NEWPORT WOUNDING CASE. Cornelius Denning, or Deneen, scaffolder, of Newport, who was indicted for assaulting his wife by wounding her in the abdomen with a knife, pleaded guilty to a common assault. Taking into consideration the provocation prisoner had received, the Bench considered a senrence of seven days' imprisonment sufficient. FOUND NOT GUILTY. James Prosser, 29, collier, Abercarn, was under an indictment of obtaining by false pretences the sums of 8s. and X3 12s. from the New Era Assurance Corporation (Limited), for which he acted as local agent, but he was found not guilty by the jury. DISCHARGED. Joseph Harvey, 35, labourer, answered an indictment of assaulting Florence Mabel Penhorwood, of Usk, a child of eight or nine. A verdict of Not proven was returned, and prisoner was discharged. This concluded the business.

1 Severn Tunnel Fatality. Dr. Grace, the coroner for South Gloucestershire, held an inquest at the King's Arms, Redwick, on Friday, respecting the death of Thomas Pullin and Robert Barber, two platelayers, who were killed in the Severn Tunnel, on Thursday, June 22nd. David England, of Pilning, labourer in the Severn runnel, said on Thursday afternoon he was working with Pullin on the up road. Barber crossed to the up line to avoid the Bristol down train. Witness heard the approach of the up train, and warned his mates, who appeared to take no notice. The tuunel at the time was full of smoke. Nearly forty trains passed through the tunnel in the eight hours. He heard the driver sound his whistle. They could cot hear the approaching traiu from South Wales ou account of the passing down train.' George Foster, of Redwick, Gloucestershire, said they generally could tell when a train was coming by the current of air. Manholes to holdftwo men were placed along the side of the tunnel at short distances, but if they could not reach them they stood in the six-foot way or lay down in the four- foot way. A verdict of Accidental death was returned, the jury adding that they did not attach biame to anybody. A. vote of sympathy with the relatives was passed, and a subscription started for the widows and orphans.

Parliamentary. RAGLAN CASTLE AND TINTERN ABBEY. In the House of Commons, on Tuesday, Sir M. Hicks-Beach (Chancellor of the Exchequer) said the Government were negotiating with the Duke of Beaufort for the purchase of Raglan Castle and Tintern Abbey. The object was to make a profitable investment. The properties were in the near neighbourhood of the Monmouth Crown estates.

When asking for Cocoa, insist on having CADBURY'S —sold only in Packets and Tins—as other Cocoas are often substituted for the sake of extra profit.

I CURRENT TOPICS. J FRENCH MINISTRIES, The average duration of French Ministries is about nine months, and no one looks for anything but a stop gap arrangement un:il the Dreyfus affair is out of the way. Few leading politicians care to hold office while that terrible nightmare hnags over France, and the one great aim and object of Ministerial manoeuvring is to be in the Government next year, during the time of the great Exhibition It is really extraordinary how the Dreyfus scandal has, for the past two years or more, cast its paralysing influence over the leading politicians and public men in France. Fortunately, M. Delcasse who had charge of the Foreign Office during the time of the Fashoda crisis, still retains his post. While everything else is at sixes and sevens, this is some guarantee of continuity in French foreign policy. It gives some idea of the actual unreadiness of France for war last autumn to find that the Fashod t crisis cost her 22,500,000 most of which was expended upon the Navy and coast defences. In consequence of this large outlay, there are to be no French naval manoeuvres this year. The Army also, is probably in anything but the efficient state it is popularly supposed to be. It could hardly be otherwise, seeing that its chiefs are so mixed up in plots and villanies, such as we are only accustomed to look for in the Oriental depravity of Eastern dynasties. THE SHAMROCK." I Sir Thomas Liptou's naw racing yacht, the Shamrock," which is to compete for the America Cup, is to leave for New York at the beginning of August. Sbe is built partly of bronze, and partly of aluminium, and her length over all is about 125 feet. There are to be a series of five races at New York, the winner of three being the victor of the contest, According to present arrangements, the first race is to take place on October 3rd, though the date may be altered if the Shamrock is detained by adverse weather. The New York Yacht Club have courteously met Sir Thomas Lipton n othe subject of shifting marks, and since the unfortuuate Uunraven incident the rules have been modified, and now require that destructive load-line marks are to be put at each end of the boat. Special care is also to be taken to avoid any repetition of the misunderstanding with regard to mark-boats, and better arrangements are to be made for keeping the course clear. The crowding of excursion bants, and small craft has always been a trouble in recent years, and the course will ba kept clear by special Aet of Congress, which provides Government boats for this purpose. The prospects seem favourable for the success of the Shamrock, and it may be hoped that Sir Thomas Lipton will succeed in bringing back the Cup which has so long remained on the other side as a souvenir of American prowess in the building and handliug uf yachts. DANGERS TO BATHERS. Now that the drowning season is coming on, reckless bathers should beware of its many warnings. Cycliets have recently been urging the necessity for placing caution boards at the top of steep hills, but there is really quite as much need for public notices of dangerous coast currents, at many of the summer seaside resorts. In the one case the danger is obvious, but in the other it is unseen and often unheeded. In this way good swimmers are frequently swept out to sea before they realise their peril. At some of the popular holiday resorts warning boards are exhibited where required, but there are many places where the visitor is left to take his chance of being carried away beyond his strength by the" backwash" or undertow," as some special forms of current are named. Those who do not swim, do not venture, and the many fatal accidents to those who do, show that the accomplishment is not always an advantase but every bather, and especially good swimmers should beware of dmgerous currents, which are the cause of so many fatalities round our coasts, during the holiday season. WEST AFRICAN LIQUOR TRAFFIC. 1 The Brussels Conference on the West African liquor traffic has resolved to increase the duties upon alcohol imported into Equatorial Africa. The Conference is the sequel of one held in 1889-90. whsn a minimum duty of one shilling per gallon was agreed to. It is now proposed to raise this to three shillings. As is well-known, the eheap alcoholic spirits sent out are rapidly becoming the curse of Africa, and it is urged that the only effective way of dealing with the evil on the West Coast would be to prohibit its export there altogether. The mere raising of the duty will not, it is feared, do much to stop the supply, and the natives having acquired the taste for drink, are now learning how to manufacture it from the banana, and other products. According to Bishop Tugwell the evil is not confined to the natives, as he alleges that seventy-five per cent of the deaths among the white population on the West Coast of Africa are due to strong drink. The regulation thing in the old days used to be a bottle a day, but the West Africans now think better of themselves, and they brought a serious charge against the Bishop for libelliug the whole West Coast of Africa, by referring to its drunken habits. Bishop Tugwell has lately been on a visit to this country-out on bail-but it now appears that the case, with its burlesque charge against him, has collapsed. L.C.C. AND THE SP ARROWS. An appeal has been made to the London County Council to assist in a war of extermination against the sparrows. It is complained that they thrive and multiply by swarms in the towns, and resort to the country where they do serious injury to the crops. It is in the populous centres, whsre it is suggested their nests should be rooted out and destroyed. The task would be no easy one, but it would probably be the only way of effectually put- ting them down. The old stagers know too much to be easily caught or trapped, as, trained to all sorts of dangers, no bird keeps his weather eye more carefully open. The charges brought against the sparrows are many and serious, and all authorities- including the well-known Miss Ormerod—join in condemning them to death. They are equally a pest to the gardener, the market gardener, and the farmer, and it is supposed they must be Radicals in politic?, owing to their special destructiveness among the primroses. The sparrow, it seems, can comfortably swallow its own bulk in corn during the day, and it is not only what it eats, but what it wastes. As to being of any possible use, the sparrows do little or nothing in the way of catching insects, and they drive off other birds which would be of far more use in this respect. They are not even scavengers, but purely and simply pugnacious and greedy little thieves. There are many who would say a good word for the sparrow, but this does not alter the verdict which calls in all seriousness for a crusade of destruction against our familiar little birds. MR. TESLA TRIES TO SIGNAL TO MARS. The question whether the planet Mars is inha- bited is one that nobody as yet can answer, though the weight of scientific opinion is decidedly against it. Mr. Tesla, the famous electrician, is, however, busy making enquiries, and we ought soon to be in communication with the Martians, if any such people really exist. He has set up his laboratory on the top of Pike's Peak in Colorado, and is busy flashing signals into space, in the hope that they may possibly attract attention on the other planet. The learned world in America does not seem to be very hopeful of results. At the same time Mr. Tesla is not neglecting our nearer interests in terrestrial affairs, and he is still predicting the most marvellous developments of the electric current in future. Not only are we to have wireless telegraphy over any distance on the earth, but he says it will be possible to project currents of enormous power over long distances, which, as is so often suggested, may be used not only to destroy fleets and armies, but also for the more useful purposes of industry and commerce. TO SMOKERS. A new terror has been propounded for smokers. Dr. J. H. Thomson in his address before the Lancashire and Cheshire branch of the British Medical Association the other day, showed the distinct presence of carbonic oxide gas in tobacco smoke, and when inhaled it had the same injurious effect on the system as choke damp in collieries. Another theorist whose views are expounded in the H Contemporary Review," explains that the delicate flavour of the supposed finest brands of tobacco is not due to the quality of fthe leaf, but to the bacteria which swarm upon it. A German bacte- riologist was the first to make the discovery. Afterwards he artificially cultivated the best West Indian bacteria, and introduced them into common German tobacco, when, it is said, connoisettrs could not distinguish it from the fioest foreign tobicco* It only remains to be seen whether the bacteria will take kindly to the cabbage plant, or the still more abundant foliage of the trees. Then tobacco might be dispensed with. Tbe smoker will grow his own microbes, in his b%ck garden, and then the Chancellor of the Exchequer might whistla for his ten millions or more, which he looks for from the tobacco duty.

'.1 Resignation of Sir W. T. Lewis. n Sir William Thomas Lewis has written to Mr. W. Gascoyne Dalziel, secretary of the Monmouthshire and South Wales Coalowners' Association, resigning his position as chairman of the sliding-scale committee, and expressing a desire to withdraw altogether from the association. The letter was read to the members at their meeting on Monday, and was received with amazement. There wag a unanimous desire on the part of the members present that he should be asked to re-consider his decision, and a resolution was passed instructing Mr. Dalziel to write to him to that effect. It is only a few weeks ago that the Coal- owners' Association expressed their appreciation of Sir W. T. Lewis's services by presenting him with an address in which they bore testimony to the service he had rendered by introducing into the district the principle of the sliding-scale for regulating wages. This system was the means of averting any serious stoppage of work for 23 years—a period quite unexampled in any other industry in the kingdom. For twenty years feir W llllam has acted as- chairman of the joint- committee of employers and workmen, and throughout, according to the address, he has always had the confidence, approval, and support of his colleagues. .1 v*5

I The Trans i aal The Press Association telegraphed on Thursday evening:—A rumour was current in the Parlia- mentary lobbies on Thursday evening that Sir Alfred Milner is likely to resign his position as High Commissioner for South Africa unless the British Government back up the line he has taken with regard to the grievances of the Uitlandere in the Transvaal.

THE STUDY OF FLOWERS. CHAPTER XXII, THE WHITE THORN (Crataegus Omycautha.) Class. Icosandria Order, Pentagynia. Few of our native shrubs present a more beautiful appear- ance than the Hawthorn in full bloom. Its opening buds are hailed under the name of May, and They are the bright remembrances of youth, They waft us back, with their bland 'odorous breath, The joyous hours thas only young life knows, Ere we have leanit that this fair earth hides graves, The May blossom awakens pleasing recollec- tions of youth. It is the sweetest blossom of the loveliest month, its profusion and fragrance lay claim to our regard. It reminds us of the days when we led a rural life and often sauntered beneath its shade to learn our lessons. The shrub is the emblem of hope, which Like the glimmering tapers' light, Adorns and cheers the way And still, as darker grows the night, Emits a brighter ray." When. we look upon it let it teach us a useful lesson. If our spirits are cast down by the loss of worldly wealth, if we grieve for the absence of a dear friend—if we are in despair through being deprived of the pleasures of this life—if we endure sorrows for the bereavements of those nearest and dearest to us, let us assure ourselves that it will be but for a season, and hope that the loss we have sustained may be exchanged for spiritual riches and happiness, and that we meet those valued frieuds in the mansions of peace where grief is never known, then let us Hope on, Hope ever Dark o'er us now the clouds of grief are brooding, Hoarsely the streamlets murmur at our feet, Bright birds of song, our eager grasp eluding, Far from our tree of love and life retreat. But oh not yet, my gentle friend, shall leave u? The fervent hope of sunshine and of joy And whatever of wrong may come to grieve us Let there be one thing grief cannot destroy, Hope on, Hope ever In some rural parts of our country, a high pole is fixed in the gound, and decorated with Hawthorn and other blossoms on the First of May, and the day is spent in out-door enjoyment. The youths and maidens cover themselves with boughs of hawthorn and dance around the pole. In former times May was universally kept, and the streets of our large cities were dressed gaily with the branches of the Hawthorn. Stowe says Cro wds of youths and maidens went out of the town into the sweet meadows and green woods, there to rejoice their spirits with the beauty and savour of sweet flowers, and with the harmony of birds, praising God after their kind." J.H.C, aCH

Shipment of Rails from Newport for the Cape. Dr. Ratherfoord Harris's promise to the people of Newport a few months ago has already borne fruit. On Wednesday, the steamer Eskdale, of Messrs^ Houlder Brothers' line, left Newport for Beira with a cargo of 3,500 tons of steel rails, destined to be used in the construction of the Cape to Cairo rail- way. The raiis were manufactured by the Ebbw Vale Co. A second aDd a third cargo will shortly follow we understand. These facts speaii foi^them- selves to the working men of Newport, ana show the sterling worth of the doctor as a candidate for the Monmouth Boroughs, and the value of an Imperialistic policy. It was through the good offices of Dr. Harris that the orders for both manu- facture and shipment came into Monmouthshire.

The Sfax Sighted. A Reuter's telegram from Brest on Thursday says :-It is reported this afternoon that the Sfax has been sighted cruising off Ushant, and evidently awaitiug orders relative to the lauding of her prisoner. Everything here tends to con- firm the belief that the arrival of the Sfax is im- minent.

Eppss COCOA ESSENCE.—A THIN COCOA-The choicest roasted nibs of tha natural Cocoa, on '3eiI^S subjected to powerful hydraulic pressure, give rorttt their excess of oil, leaving for use a finel flavoured powder -a product which, when prepared with boiling water, has the consistence of tea, of which it is now with many, beLleficially taking the plc,e. Is active principle being a gentle nerve stimulant, supplies the needed energy without unduly ^citing the system. Sold only in labelled tins. U unable to obtain it of your tradesman, a tin will bs sent post free 'for nine stamps.—James Epps and Ltd Homcsopathics- Chemists, London. ¡

Mr. Richards (the master), reported as follows :— Numbe" of inmates at the last meeting of the Board, 182; admitted, 8 discharged, 6: remain- ing, 184-men, 78; women, 62; children, 44. Number of inmates on the corresponding period of last year, 212 decrease, 28. Number of vagrants relieved in the Casual Wards during the past fortnight, 48—men, 44; women, 4 decrease, 21. Number of childreu in the Cottage Homes, 36— girls, 20; boys, 16. It was resolved on the recommendation of the Finance Committee to increase Nurse Anderson's salary by X6, so as to make it JE37 10s. including allowances. The seal of the Board was ordered to be attached to the contract pigned by the contractor for tlirt Workhouse alterations, and a resolution was passed on ths motion of Mr. Ford, to borrow a sum not exceeding .6448, required for additional expenditure in connection with the Workhouse alterations.