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

FIELD AND FARM. 1 (From" The Agi ictdtural Gazette.") HAYMAKING iiu (observe8 Prof. John Wrightson) proceeded fcriskly, and it is seldom that it has been carried on with less interruption. A week has served to cut and secure some fair crops, which would have been havy but for cold nights and drying east winds. Labour "as n economised by the small amount required. the quality of the crop is good, but there will be fewer ricks than there were last year. I see a good many mowers and hoers at work in the fields, showing that the exodus from the country to the town is not quite complete. I also meet a great many carters under 50 yars of age, which shows that the race is not likely to become extinct yet. Anyone who reads the letters on the subject of the scarcity of labour will naturally try the matter from his own stand- point. The Commissioner who writes for the Morning Post has visited Hampshire, and reported a dearth of labour but this is not true of the whole county. I have experienced no difficulty as yet in finding men, and as for boys they are fairly plentiful. Pn my own pay-sheet of 29 people there are only pree over 50 years of age, and fully half are boys If from 16 to 21. Wages have risen slighly, chiefly in prices given for piecework Hoeing mangel three times, 18s. per acre; hoeing turnips and swedes twice, 10s. od.; shearing sheep, 4s. per score. The best rcen are generally found on the best managed farms. If such a good farm is visited it will be found to hold a few good men. There will be a capable fore- man, and capable carters, shepherd, and herdsman. scarcely go on in its present efficient condition if one was absent. One of the most striking facts in connection with good farming is the im- portance of good men. I do not believe any man could farm well without them. It would bo im- possible to manage a flock of sheep successfully without an able shepherd. The same is true of a dairy, of poultry, or pigs. Constant and intelligent interest is absolutely necessary. It i. the same in the stable, for horses cannot be properly turned out, nor can land be properly tilled without able and in- telligent carters. It is to be feared that in many districts there is a dearth of labour; but it would probably be found that wherever there is a good flock or a good herd, Or wherever land is still well cultivated, good men are to be found. Good men have probably always been scarce, for according to the old saying, good folk are scarce in all walks of life. Men must be satisfied with their wages and work, but we are far from the time in which these conditions cannot be satisfied in the country. I should be sorry if these remarks appear to be erroneous to any reader, for I firmly believe in their truth. Having resided on many farms during the past 40 years, I can say that on all of them there were men whom it was a pleasure to talk to, and from whom even the learned might learn something. Neither does experience teach me that the boys who take to work on the land are inferior to others. I have several bright, clever boys, and do not find that I muse But up with boys who are inferior, either mentally or physically. The exodus from country to town has always gone on, and will continue. If a boy can better himself by going into a town no one can complain, but there will always be a certain number who drift, or are attracted, with farming work, and find suitable employment. TURNIP NOTES. Many systems of re sowing turnips may be explained, all of which have advantages, but much, of course (remarks Mr. J. P. F. Bell), depends on the local circumstances of particular places. Gener- ally speaking, drills should be harrowed down as level as possible without, of course, disturbing the farmyard manure where it has been applied. When land is in a foul condition this is positively necessary in order to clean it, because, by the failure of the fifst sowing, the weeds thrive and grow apatne. Pro- bably the best all-round system where land is foul is to harrow the drills down with a drill harrow, then run a chain harrow over them, which enhances the mould, and finally run them up with a double plough. When the land is clean, and the natural sap exists in the drills, however, a better plan is simply to go over them with a drill harrow, then sow, and roll with a light level roller. In this way immediate germination is more certain, as the seed is placed in the fine, moist soil in the centre of the drills instead of amongst the dry, and sometimes rough, earth thrown up to the top by double plough. Thelevel roller is preferable to the drill roller, as the former only compresses the portion of the drills where the seed is placed. Kellers should be constructed so that by shifting the shafts one foot to the near side, three drills can be taken at one turn, which saves labour and time. Land should always be worked in fit condition, and ) turnips will grow better during the attacks of fly. Nitrogenous manure, to the extent of at least lewt. per acre should be applied to hasten the develop- ment of the plants at this critical period. First- sown swedes should be sown pretty thickly, say 61b. per acre, and it is a good plan to mix lib. of white seed along with it. Turnips are preferred to swedes by the fly, and whilst the attack is being waged on the former, the latter grow into the broad leaf, at which stffge they are practically safe. Of course in a favourable season thick sowing is a disadvan- tage; still, all things considered, it is generally worth risking. A good plan is to sow the seed twice, half the quantity each time. In this way the drills are more firmly compressed, and a better mould established for the seed. In Scotland the damage of By are tremendous, and large areas of swedes have been re-sown, so that, considering the lateness of the season, the present prospects of the turnip crop are by no means encouraging. DAIRY CO-OPERATION. I I believe (writes Mr. Primrose McConnell) that eombination among dairy farmers not only will do, but has done, a very great deal in the matter of rais- ing the price of milk. The Eastern Counties Dairy Farmers'Association has been in existence now for some seven or eight years, and the outcome of this organi- sation has been to raise the price of milk to the members at least 10 per cent. if we add the fall which we have prevented to the rise which we have actually obtained; at least it is so in my case. Further, be it noted that this has been obtained in the poorest district of London-the East- end-where milk is retailed at a consider- ably lower rate than in the West end. This Trades Unionism has, indeed, been so successful that some of us are doing our beat to ex- tend it all round, and the Central Association of Dairy Farmers-of which I was recently aecretary pro tern.—has made this its chief object. We begin to see daylight in the matter, but I am net going to give" the show away any further at this stage. The following figures, however, will open the eyfes of some readers, as they opened mine when I first heard of them. The farmers who supply the West-end of London with milk get the smallest price going in the trade. I know of some myself who have had to ac- cept Is. per barn in summer and Is. 5d. in winter, and pay the carriage up to London out of this. This milk is retailed at 4d. per quart in the aristocratic parts of London; in other words, the milk dealer has a margin of 130 per cent. to cover the cost of distribution, plus profit, in the above case. If there is some milk jretailed at 3d. there is also some retailed at 5d. per quart, and anyway there is at least a margin of 100 per cent. between the price to the farmer and the price to the consumer. We dairy farmers are asking for a rise of, say. 10 per cent., and I think the above figures justify onr request, and that, further, there is no need (and this i8 a notable point) te raise theprice to the consumer. Fourpence a quart is a price the public are willing to pay* »n(i '8 amply sufficient to afford a considerable rise to the farmer. If anyone doubts these figures he will find proof ready to hand in any of the morning papers ra the list of milk businesses to sell. In one list before me as I write—issued this week-the prices asked average per barn gallon on the daily sale. This, of course, includes the plant, but the plant of a milk- shop is not very extensive-a counter, a few pans, and, say, a couple of milk prams-so that, probably, at least four-fifths of the money is simply for good- will." Again, the special commissioner of the Morning Post states that he knows of a case where an income of C600 per annb I--a is earned clear by retailing 70 barns dafly. The farmer who kept the 70 cows which pro- duced this milk did not earn £-600, and he had infi-, nitely more worry and trouble and risk than the re- tailer, and a much larger investment of capital. It is a fact, in short, that a milkshop is more pro- fitable than a beershop, and sells at a higher rate tfewj brewers pay for their tied hooaee." Without asking the public to pay any more for their milk, we are justified in asking for a rise in the orice to the farmer; we have obtained it in some cases, and ihe machinery is being hammered into shape to procare it in others, in a wider circle. We need this rise in price, for it is becoming more and more difficult to handle a dairy. Men refuse to do Sunday work at any price; they can get plenty of work in towns or with bu;lders as grand hodmen at a higher wage than farming will bear, while they have the Saturday afternoons and Sundays off. Unfortunately, the cows must be milked all the same, but higher wages will not tempt any young fellow to become a cowman nowadays. I know of one farmer having 200 cows who has had to reduce the number to 40 another with 100 cows who has given them up altogether, and wholly and solely on account of the labour trouble. Things will no doubt right them- selves in time somehow, but the immediate prospect is fewer cows with a scarcity of milk, and a higher price to those who keep on.

I A QUEER CONSULATE. Senor Antonio Smith, Spanish Consular Agent at Hookport, U.S.A., found himself in a singular diplo- matic position at the commencement of the recent Hispano-American trouble. He had just been notified by his Consul General that, relations with the United States being terminated, he was to turn over the archives to the care of the local Consular Agent of France, close his office and depart. This may not appear difficult, in view of the fact that Hookport was but a small place of two or three thousand inhabitants, so much fallen away from its earlier brisk trade with the West Indies that neither the Spanish or French agent receives a call for official services half a dozen times in a year. So that for the little town one man, and he Anthony Smith, sufficed for both of the foreign consulates. His fellow-towns- men had also obtained for him the position of post- master. He was also, incidentally, district clerk to a famous notary public of his State. This composite responsibility was taken seriously by Senor Antonio, M. Antoine, or plain Anthony Smith. Having much imagination, and quiet and limited surroundings, he magnified his offices like a chameleon, he took colour from the circumstances of the moment, however often and suddenly they might change. Smith was really an Englishman, who had spent years in business in Cuba and Martinique, and had been drafted to Hookport, where he had settled down. In a room adjoining the postoffice stood two roll- top desks, precisely alike, occupying the two front windows. Above one of these desks was draped the flag of Spain; the tricolor of France overhung the other. The archives were few, but arranged with an eye t6 effect, and tied with many yards of red tape the consular seals were also in evidence. In the windows above respectively hung the neatly framed painted signs: CONSULAR AGENCY OF SPAIN, ANTONIO SMITH," and CONSULAR AGENCY OF FRANCE, ANTOINE SMITH." And the same men who were hnil-fellows-well-met with Tony Smith in the postoffice were gravely cour- teous with Senor Antonio, or politely festive to Mon- sieur Antoine at the Consulates. At 10.45 on an April morning, the postmaster of Hookport, having opened the mail-bag, perceived among its contents a large official envelope bearing the seal of the Spanish Consul General and addressed to Senor Antonio Smith. Recent developments in regard to the political situation had prepared him for an international crisis. He turned red, then 'pale; but he placed the packet in its appropriate box, and went on distribut- ing the letters and handing out newspapers to the applicants outside the delivery window. When the rush was over, and only a few straggling individuals came in to inquire for letters, Mr. Smith called Foote, his assistant, and himself passed into the office of the consulates. Thence, a moment later, he came out, and, pre- senting himself at a small window, asked cautiously: Senor Assistant Postmaster, is there anything for the consular agency of Spain ?" Yes Senor," and Johnny Foote proffered the official document, which Senor Antonio took with a lofty expression of thanks. Johnny Foote, it may briefly be said, was a freckled towheaded youth, who adored his employer as the triple extract of all that there is of heroic and romantic, a bigger man than any to be found in history or in novels. It is true that the elaborate in- ternational parts which the official felt himself obliged to play seemed to Johnny a game. But it was a good game, indeed, Johnny judged; and in his awkward way the boy imitated and seconded his chief as best he could. Senor Antonio carried away the document, retired to the desk of the Spanish consulate, opened the envelope, and read his instructions with an air of ever-increasing gloom. Then he shouted Ola Juan 1" The useful Johnny instantly appeared. Yes, Senor." As clerk of the consulate agency of Spain you are now to learn that diplomatic relations between our government and that of the United States are terminated." The paper said so this morning," interrupted Johnny Foote." We have not known it officially until this mo- ment," corrected Antonio, and Johnny stood re- buked. In accordance with instructions from my Consul General," continued Antonio, I am about to con- fide the archives to my honourable colleague, the Consular Agent of France, Juan. It is your duty to carry them to him, and to safeguard them, if need be, with your life." With this, Senor Antonio piled up the packets of papers upon the willing arms of his assistant, crown- ing the heap with the metal stamp of the consulate. Johnry set out with a measured step toward the other side of the room. It had been the intention of M. Antoine to be seated at his desk, ready to receive the messenger, whose errand,his diplomatic sense must have foreseen. But, unluckily, Senor Antonio, in throwing away some useless papers, let fall into the Spanish waste basket a pair of scissors which, before relations with the United States had become strained, he had borrowed from the postoffice. In search for the scissors two or three minutes were lost, so that when M. Antoine entered the office of the French consulate the messenger was awaiting him. Good morning, Senor Juan," said the official with a fine unconsciousness of any crisis in affairs. The messenger, who did not know what he ought to say, answored simply: "Good morning, monsieur," and deposited the archives upon the desk of the friendly power. M. Antoine viewed the papers with an air of sudden concern. Does this mean, Senor Juan, that Spain has severed her relations with the United States?" I should say so, monsieur," responded Johnny Foote. The French Consular Agent wrote a receipt for the archives, rose to his feet and, handing the paper to the Spanish messenger, spread his hands elo- quently above the paper of his new trust. I beg you, Senor Juan, to convey this receipt to Don Antonio, assuring him that Spanish honour is safe with France, whose humble representative I have the happiness to be, and also present to him my personal condolences, with the assurances of my highest esteem." This time, on his way between the two consular agencies, Johnny Foote delayed to exchange signals with a friend under a back window, who wanted him to come out later to join in some sport. So that when he reached the Spanish desk Senor Antonio was sitting there in an attitude of noble grief, with an effect of hating remained immovable for several hours. Johnny delivered the receipt, and stated that M. Antoine is going to pitch into anybody that tries to lay hands on the Spanish things and he is awfully sorry for you, senor, and thinks just as much of you as though you were not down on your luck. And so do I, by Jingo added the boy loyally. Don Antonio silently arose from his chair then, mounting it, he took down the Spanish flag, which he carefully folded and laid upon the desk; then, having removed the sign from the window, he placed it with the flag. He closed and locked the desk. His career as a Spanish diplomat was at an end. He crossed the room and set to work to find places for archives intrusted to the guardianship of France. Johnny Foote, emboldened by the more cheerful looks of his superior, came to the side of the desk and stood fidgeting from one leg to the other. M. Antoine smiled at him. My dear Jean (for Johnny was now attached to the French consulate), what can I do for you ?" "If you don't want me, monsieur, I should like to go out a little while with the boys." U Ah I" murmured M. Antoine. "Without doubt. Go, my brave boy On the square-hewed timber near the edge of the wharf sat a row of ancient mariners, talking as they had talked for the last twenty years. They were thoroughly acquainted with one another's ideas, but certain subjects seemed to be made to be rolled over and over again in their mouths along with their tobacco. When other topics failed the peculiarities of Tony Smith were a continual resource, and just now the political crisis, instead of overshadowing his personality, seemed to bring it more strongly to light. I expect," observed one of the elders, that there ain't nobody in this country as much interested in the war as Tony Smith is." Well, you know, there's three of him, to view it from all aides," said another. Queer acting ain't he? Wasn't no mental afflic- tions in his family, was th1"e ?" ventured a straneer, iTskipper, in for repairs to his schooner. He was promptly disciplined. No, sir," responded the captain, who had spoken first. Good blood on both sides of the house. Anthony Smith is a likely "young man, excellent in every respect. Anything you observe that looks sing'lar in him is due to his stay in West Injys. Manners and customs is different there from ours, of course, and Tony stayed long enough to soak 'em into his natur' The other old men nodded their adhesion to this diagnosis. At that moment somebody saw a vessel rounding the point. By a well-known feature of its rigging it was made out to be the Miranda, Captain Soper, of Hookport, master and owner, on its return from Matanzas, where it had gone four months earlier with a load of timber and salted fish. Its captain, when on shore, was one of the chorus of elders who sat on the wharf to prophesy, and he had been much missed. His wife had accompanied him on the voyage, and her return with an assorted cargo of news was eagerly awaited by the ladies of the place. A topic of conversation was not easily let drop by the sages. First man that Captain Soper will want to see is Tony Smith," remarked one. Nobody doubted it. Then the chorus took to professional appreciations of the course of the schooner. The old captains stood in line on the wharf to welcome their crony and his wife. But everybody was surprised to see a third person with the excellent couple, a walking bundle of wraps that still was re- cognisable as a young girl. From under a "pumpkin hood" and above a worsted muffler gleamed a pair of magnificient southern eyes. A Cuban girl! Our young friend, Miss Manuelita Garcia, of Matanzas," Mrs. Soper told the captains. The stay-at-home mariners now enjoyed the glory of informing Captain Soper that while he was on the sea, war had been practically declared. It's a mercy that we hadn't been overhauled for a prize, and I feel thankful," declared the good man. Now, I must see the Spanish Consul at once," he contined, for I've got a letter for him from an old friend in Matanzas." By this time the boys had left off playing and come down to the wharf. Johnny Foote, as ex-clerk of the consular agency of Spain, spoke to Captain Soper: Spanish Consul's gone away, sir. But he has left his papers with the French Consul, and you can see him. He is there. And the postmaster, too, sir," Johnny added, as an afterthought. Eh ?" said Captain Soper, for the moment puzzled. Tony Smith is there all right," exclaimed one of the mariners. Oh, yes, of course. My dear, you see about getting the things on to some kind of a lighter and steer for your sister Byram's. I will run on ahead to see Tony, and you can overhaul me at the post- office." The postmaster sat on the steps of the office alone and in deep thought; when he saw someone coming near, he threw a small object neatly behind some stones—perhaps forgetting who he was just then. Mr. Smith had been wooing peace of mind with one of the cigarettes of the departed Senor Antonio. He arose ouickly. Glad to see you, Captain Soper. Welcome home again, sir!" he hailed, heartily. But over the fine careless rapture of the meeting was cast a shade of melancholy when the captain, without ceremony, handed a letter to the post- master, who at once saw the handwriting of a Cuban friend. From your old master, Don Serafino Garcia," said the captain, cheerfully. Good many years since he saw you, but he remembers you well, Tony. His wife has been dead for some time, and he was terrible put out to know what to do with his little gifl. You remember Manuelita, I daresay. She must hive been a mite of a little tot, at the time that you were in Matanzas. She ain't !Put sixteen now. Well, m'wife just took to that sweet, pretty creature, and we've brought her home with us to stay for a time, at any rate till the troubles in Cuba are over. The way Senor Garcia talked about you! Tony, I thought he desired that you might take it into your head to marry her. Well, this letter will speak for him, and I must go along now, for here are my women folks." They made a picture as the ox cart came up the street, the two "women seated among a heap of sea- chests, bundles, and a queer, foreign-looking small black trunk. The boys had resolved themselves into a guard of honour. Johnny Foote bore the ox-goad, and gee'd in a friendly fashion at the big, lumbering animals. Heave to, there!" shouted Captain Soper and the team was halted. Here's Tony Smith, my dear," said the Captain. Miss Garcia, Mr. Smith." One-blue mitten, so spacious that it had an appear- ance of emptiness, was pulled off by some force con- cealed in its mate. and a slender little creamy hand was timidly extended toward Tony. As he took her slight fingers she lifted her black-fringed eyelids and shot a soft, brilliant glance straight into his eyes, and down into the heart of Anthony Smith, of M. Antoine, even so far as the heart of Senor Antonio, late con- sular agent of Spain. That glance was a formidable projectile. The ox team started again on its way, Captain Soper walking behind. You be sure and come up'to see us in the evening, Tony," Mrs. Soper called out to him. Thank you, ma'am I will with pleasure if I can. But this is my busy day," he replied, vaguely. He watched the group until it turned the corner toward Byram's house. Then he thought of Don Serafino Garcia's letter, and went into the post office to read it. But it was addressed to Senor Antonio Smith, con- sular agent of Spain. The postmaster sighed. Not for me," he judged. Then he had the right idea. That letter must be consigned to the French consular agent." He looked round for a messenger, but Johnny by this time was probably helping to unload the ox team, so that Mr. Smith was obliged to carry the letter in person. He laid it upon the desk of the'French consulate; then seated himself and opened the envelope. Don Serafino Garcia wrote thus My very dear and esteemed friend Smith." That's me—any one of me," noted M. Antoine, with satisfaction. "I am committing no indiscretion. The letter is not of a personal nature." But as he continued to read, the loyal diplomat, he began to have his scruples. After some generalities concerning the state of the island and of business he saw these phrases with increasing alarm: To you, most excellent friend, I wish to recom- mend my only daughter, Manuelita, the eye of my soul. To a father be it permitted that he speak plainly—if your heart, Clear-Don Antonio—" Clap went the palm of M. Antoine over the ensu- ing words, that he might not behold them. "This is too personal by half," he declared. "I have no right to learn the private affairs of my Spanish ex-colleague. That, indeed would be indiscreet!" and he gave a very Gallic laugh and shrug. But Postmaster Anthony Smith had heard what Captain Soper had said about Don Serafino Garcia's hopes, and M. Antoine had not been able to ignore the overtures to Senor Antonio. There could be no doubt, the question must be settled then and there whether Mrs. Soper's invita- tion be accepted or not. Because it was certain that a few more glances from those glorious eyes of Manuelita would conquer the whole triple alliance of Smith. M. Antoine sat immersed in thought. Finally he came to a diplomatic conclusion to this effect: Senor Antonio, Consulate Agent of Spain, has departed officially he no longer exists; he is defunct. His affairs are, by instructions from his government, committed to the care of the French Consulate. Now in this time of crisis could a Spanish official wed a Cuban woman ? That is the ultimatum in the case of Don Antonio. While I-M. Antoine, French- Consulate Agent, am bound by international honour to remain strictly neutral, a state of mind quite in- compatible with the lively affections which should be the basis of marriage. "So I am out of it, too. But my opinion in this critical case would be that the postmaster, Mr. Anthony Smith, may, individually and officially, with great propriety, contract a matrimonial alliance with the daughter of Don Serafino Garcia of Matan- eas, his old friend and employer." Outside the consular window could be seen the boys returning from escort duty. Mr. Smith ran to the door of the postoffice. "Johnny I" he called to his factotum, you run back and tell Mrs. Soper that I shall have the pleasure of calling on the ladies this evening.'

I S AD END OF A GARRISON DOG. The Gibraltar Official Gazette announces the death of Smiler," the well-known guard-room dog of the rock fortress, He was a great favourite of the infantry brigade at Gibraltar. The other morning he met the Manchester Regiment on the North Front, and was in his usual cheerful spirits. Having attended the parade, he marched away with the Catalan Bay detachment. When nearing the bar- racks he slipped on a rock, fell down the slope, and broke his leg so badly that he had to be killed. He was a good little dog, who had attached himself to the guard-rooms qn the frontier, and was an extra sentry in every way, always awake, took the greatest interest in the field officer, whoever he might be, and was a regular pet amongst officers and men alike on guard.

REINFORCEMENTS FOR SOUTH AFRICA. In view of the statements published, some of them of the most extravagant character, as to the Govern- ment's intentions respecting the augmentation of British forces into South Africa, it is interesting to learn on authority that, whatever may be the ultimate demand for increased military establishments at the Cape, the present intention is to make but a very modest increase. The Governmenthas decided to send out four companies and a few drafts to increase the efficiency of the South African forces. Two com- panies of Royal Engineers will shortly leave for the Cape and will be taken from Chatham for the pur- pose, while the remaining two companies called for will be Army Service Corps men. The latter would in the ordinary way be taken from Aldershot, but ip view of the approaching manoeuvres it is probable that. they will be made up of small drafts from other districts. It is definitely intimated that these addi- tions to the South African forces are not in any way consequent upon the present situation between this country and the Transvaal. Even when at full war strength, four companies would represent only 400 men, and the other small drafts referred to are quite inconsiderable. Stores and ammunition also are being sent out, but only on similarly modest lines for the present.

IT is difficult to account for the origin of a great many phrases in current use," remarked McSwilligen, or even to see their relevancy." Yes," replied Squildig.' Now, there's that expression, on its last legs,' meaning something about to end. Its jpprop iateness is very doubtful. For instance, a kangaroo is nearly always on its legs, but where can you find a more striking'example of vitality ?" BLANK That's a nice little safe, old man; I suppose you and your wife keep your valuables there, and you each have a key?" Dash No there you are out of it. Only I have the key, and my wife does not even know the combination." Blank: "You must, indeed, have something very valuable in it. What is it? Now, own up." Dash Oh, just those things a man is obliged to keep from his wife—my collar-studs, ties, and shoe-laces are all there for if they weren't she would always be wearing them." IT is a very remarkable fact how certain districts produce a constant supply of first-rate professional cricketers. Every cricketer has heard of Lascelles Hall, the famous village near Huddersffeld, which produced such players as the Lockwoods, Bates, the Thewlises, and Allan Hill. The town of Nottingham g raised and reared Daft, Shrewsbury, Gunn, Scotton, and Selby-five of the greatest cricketers that ever lived. Then there are several villages and small towns close to Nottingham where cricketers appear indigenous to the soil, just as primroses are in certain localities. Sutton-in-Ashfield, for example, was the infant home of Morley, Shaw, Barnes, and Brigga. Thames Ditton, too, and Mitcham have always been fauious for the cricketing abilities of the natives.

A NEGLECTED EMPEROR. aome surprise has been occasioned by the position assigned to the bust of the late Emperor Frederic in the Berlin Arsenal. It is not placed, says the Standard's Berlin correspondent, in the Circular Hall, among the statues of the other Prussian Sovereigns, but at the side, in the hall dedicated to the Marshals. Separated from the statue of the Emperor William by that of Prince Bismarck, it stands next to Count Moltke, and opposite the Red Prince Frederick Charles. The inscription merely says: Frederic William, Crown Prince of Prussia, General Field Marshal, born 1831, died 1888." There is no ostensible reason for the bust being placed in the background, as there is ample space in the Hohenzollern Hall for several more statues of Prus- sian rulers, all of whom are included, from the Great Elector down to William I. On the latest anniversary of the late Emperor's death, this, the only monument existing to his memory in Berlin,, re- mained unadorned by wreaths or flowers.

AN AMERICAN WEAKNESS. In his latest report the United States Consul- General at Birmingham says that while American manufacturers are the best in the world, they are- the poorest traders. That this is so, he says, is im- pressed upon him day after day in his correspon- dence: with United] States merchants and manufac- turers, and, again, by observations in the way they are handling the export trade. Complaints of the character cited are not new, but just how to remedy the situation is a matter that has- been productive of much discussion; and, while Mr. Halstead does not provide the antidote* he suggests and predicts that if a small portion of the vast sum of money in the United States now seeking investments could be employed in some form of export scheme to handle American goods his countrymen would soon be able to record a greater export of American goods than of the raw products of the soil, though to-day they are boasting of an ex- cess of manufactured exports over the manufactured imports.

THE POSITION IN THE SOUDAN. According to information up to the middle of May. brought to the military posts on the White Nile andi telegraphed to Cairo, the Khalifa was then still in South Kordofan, not far from Lake Shirkeleh, whence he has been raiding the inhabitants in all directions for food supplies. The Khalifa's camp is about 140 miles west of the nearest point on the White Nile,. and thus about 170 miles from the British post at Duem, which is garrisoned by an Egyptian Battalion and some. Artillery and a Camel Corps. The Khalifa's parties have frequently raided the villages on the- White Nile, and have even ventured within a day's- march of the post at Duem. DIFFICULTIES OF DEFENCE. In fact, the villagers all along the Western bank ot the White Nile between Duem and Kaka, near Fashoda, have no security for life and property, in spite of the fact that gunboats are continually patrol- ling this section of the River. This can easily be ex- plained when it is stated that the White Nile above- Khartoum does not flow in a single channel, but meanders over a wide space of country, and fre- quently in perhaps as many as three or four channels,, so that the extreme banks of the river are frequently eight miles apart. Now that the river is low these. channels flow between mud banks and sudd islands, and it is impossible for a gunboat to see the villages,, which are often some distance inland. In conse- quence of this it is not possible to protect the in- habitants of the Western bank effectually so long a* the Khalifa and his raiding parties are in possession of Kordofan. The inhabitants have in consequence been warned to migrate aeross to the Eastern bank of the White Nile, and the Sirdar's officers have placed boat facilities at their disposal for this purpose. Con- siderable numbers of the population have- thus been transferred to the right bank, but the result has. been by no means satisfactory on account of the lack of food on the Eastern bank. For this reason a great number are still obliged to remain in their old homes, where they, at any rate, have a certain amount of grain buried in the desert in places known only to themselves. TRZ KHALIFA'S FORCES. According to latest advices the Khalifa has with him some 3000 fighting men, but the amount of ammunition in his possession is problematical. Of these men th& detachment under a certain well- known Baggara emir was never in the Battle of Omdurman. This detachment must have been sent away with a view to forming the nucleus of a new force before Omdurman was reached by the Sirdar. Besides this detachment those who escaped from the Battle of Rosaries at Christmas last and made their way across the Blue and White. Niles under the Emir Ahmed Fedil are also with the Khalifa under that chief. It is also quite possible that the dervish force under the Emir Arabi Wad Dafalla, which is known to have evacuated Bor, has joined the Khalifa. The rumours which have appeared in the Press to the effect that some understanding still exists between Menelik and the Khalifa are, according to Reuter's Agency, quite devoid of foundation. The forces thus detailed are believed to be the maximum which the Khalifa has at his disposal. THB BRITISH TROOPS. Meanwhile the troops available at Omdurman and at Duem consist of eight squadrons of cavalry, five batteries of artillery, eight battalions of infantry, and five companies of the Camel Corps-something over 10,000 men. These are, of course, additional to the garrisons left on the Blue Nile, in the Eastern Soudan, and the Fashoda district. Owing to the difficulty of transport a campaign in Southern Kordofan will require very many more camels in proportion to the force engaged than has hitherto been found necessary in operation on the River Nile. Everything will have to be carried from the river bank over a desert country on camel back. It is regarded as inadvisable to start an expedition until the rains are well over. Until then heavily- laden camels would move with great difficulty over the country which was recently so carefully recon- noitred by Colonel Kitchener. The rainy season is usually over at the end of September, so that A move is hardly practicable until Ootober. It is unlikely that any British troops will be employed in this operation. The base of supply will he at some point on the White Nile beyond Duem, from which place the column would strike, carrying its food supplies with it.

ANTARCTIC EXPLORATION. We understand (says the Daily Telegraph) that the project for a British exploring expedition to the Antarctic regions is about to enter on a phase of • vital importance to its future success. Mr. Balfour has consented to receive a deputation at the Foreign Office to hear the views of influential men of science and high naval authorities in regard to the aims of such an expedition, and, further, he will be asked to propose to her Majesty's Govern- ment a Parliamentary grant-in-aid of the expanses of the projected undertaking. This, then, is the present position of the question of Antarctic explora- tion, and when it is remembered that the Joint Ant- arctic Committee have only the sum of £ 40,000 in hand, whereas the lowest estimate of a three-years' expedition is fully £ 100,000, it will be realised how- much depends upon the reception accorded to the deputation by the First Lord of the Treasury.

GARDENING GOSSIP. (From The Gardener.") BEGONIAS. Either the double or single Tuberous Begonias are useful for flower beds. The plants ought now to be placed out, enriching the soil previously with decom- posed manure, as Begonias are gross feeders. Turn out the plants carefully from pots or lift them with balls of soil from boxes. Fibrous-rooted Begonias are smaller-flowered than the tuberous varieties, but planted in beds they are charming and floriferous. Plants from seed sown in January will bloom the same year. Crimson Gem, with bronzy foliage, is one of the best. Snowflake is a white variety. CANNAS I are imposing plants with large, fine foliage. They are useful for grouping in the centre of beds. Fine spikes of flowers are produced at the end of summer and autumn. Good plants from pots ought to be planted now. The soil should be made rich. MYOSOTIS. I Seed may be sown now in the open ground. If I sown thinly there is seldom need to shift before placing the plants in the positions where they are wanted to flower. I ZINNIAS. I These half-hardy annuals make excellent beds. Planting out should not be longer delayed, lifting with soil attached to the roots. Zinnias like a sunny position and good soil. I PANSIRS AND VIOLAS. I A sowing may be made on a sheltered border where the soil can be kept moist. Shade from the sun until germination commences. The soil must be made fine on the surface, and the seed scattered liberally but thinly, so that the plants may grow sturdily. Where crowded, however, the seedlings may be pricked out to strengthen, planting finally in autumn. PRIMULAS. I Seedlings still in pans and boxes ought to be pricked out singly or potted juto,sm,all ppts. Those that have previously been tj^ated may be ready for a further shift. From pans or boxes transfer to small pots, and give a shift into larger pots those in small sizes requiring more root room. CHBY SANTHEMUM3. I Pot finally in 8-, 9-, and 10-inch pots. Use a good and liberal compost, making it firm round the roots. Stand the pots closely together on a hard bottom. Svringe well every day to promote growth. I ROSES. I Plants having a plentiful supply of buds may have some of the weakest removed if fine flowers are required. Cleanse the foliage by syringing. A mulching will benefit the roots by retaining moisture. CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. I Light green stakes should be placed to these as the flowering stems are thrown up. Bundling a number together is not the best method, but several stems mav be secured to one stake without crowding. I TOBACCO. I The sweet-scented Tobacco (Nicotiana affinis) is a desirable plant in a mixed border. It affords a delicious perfume in the evening, at which time the blooms are bright and fresh, although they look shabby in the daytime. Plaoe several plants together in moderately rich soil. PTRICTHRUMS. I Large roots having a number of flower stems ought to have some support to prevent them falling about. Cut off decaying flowers to give the plants a neat ap- pearance. I FERNS. I Pot on Ferns in the greenhouse or stove. Shade I and moisture are required, hence Ferns succeed best when standing on a moisture-retaining bottom. I SYRINGING AND SPONGUFU. All the inhabitants of the stov, with the exception of the Ferns, delight in copious syringings, which should therefore be given regularly morning and afternoon. At intervals when time can be spared, the sponge should be kept going. Insect pests may be thus be kept down, and the breathing pores of the leaves freed from dust and dirt. ASPARAGUS. I Asparagus should be cut sparingly now, and cutting should soon cease altogether. Give liquid manure to the beds, adding a little salt, or sprinkling it on the beds to be washed in. BEANS. I A last sowing may be made of Dwarf French Beans and Scarlet Runners. The latter are the most important as they come in for a late crop, thus pro- longing the season if earlv frosts do not crippls them. Turnips may be sown freely now on well-prepared ground. Draw drills, and before sowing use a little superphosphate or other artificial manure to hasten growth and prevent attacks of the turnip fly. CAULIFLOWERS. I Plant in good, rich soil, and afford liquid manure for establishing them. Examine the plants as plant- ing proceeds, so that by no mischance may blind plants be placed out. These are known by having ne leading erowth. H ENDIVE. A sowing may be made of a green curled variety in tich soil. Sow in drills lin. deep and 8in. or 9in. apart. Thin out the seedlings early. LETTUCES. Cabbage and Cos Lettuces should be sown in drills where the plants can stand. ONIONS. Finally thin spring-sown Onions, Hoe between the rows to keep the soil clean. Give dustings of soot in showery weather. CARROTS. The final thinning may be carried out. After- wards hoe the soil, and dust with soot or artificial manure for promoting growth. manure for promoting growth. PARSNIPS. Thin out the plants to the final distance-Ift. I apart will give room for the production of good roots. Mulch with short grass. BEET. The seedlings ought not to be allowed to become crowded before thinning. Keep a loose surface with the hoe. PLANTING OUT WINTER GREENS. Every opportunity should be taken to plant out a good stock of winter Greens as ground falls vacant. Plant in showery weather, but it is not necessary to wait for rain. Plant out whenever possible, and water. BAD CABBAGB. I To have Red Cabbage above the average in size and weight plenty of support must be given to the plants. They will take any amount of liquid manure, and the soil around them ought to be mulched. SOWING SEEDS IN HOT WEATHER. In hot, dry weather before sowing small seeds well moisten the ground. If sowing in drills, water should be poured along the latter. Fine, dry soil covered over the seed prevents rapid evaporation of moisture. STRAWBERRIES. Plants in bearing require a clean bed for the truit to rest upon. If a manurial mulching has not been applied a layer of clean straw must be given. Thin out small or deformed fruits. Give liquid manure where possible, or water in a dressing of artificial manure. Superfluous runners must be cut off, espe- cially from the youngest plants established this soring. Net over ripening fruit. I RED AND WHITE CURRANTS. I Shortening the summer shoots may gtill be carried out. Leave three pairs of good leaves. The leading growths should remain at fulHeogth until the winter pruning.

SOMETHING LIKE A RECORD. Charles Murphy, a Brooklyn bicyclist, the other day rode a mile, paced by a locomotive, in Imin. 5sec., thus breaking the record. The scene of Mr. Murphy's astonishing bicycle performance of a mile in 65sec. was on the" most level five miles of the Long Island railway track. He rode between the outer rails alongside the locomotive, on planks 50in. wide, across which the mile finish was painted. The only aid to his speed was a wind shield, consisting of boards built out 6ft. from the roof and sides of the car. His bicycle was of ordinary make, weighing 21lbs. and geared to 112. His wheel did not swerve 5in. until he commenced slowing up at the end of the mile. Then the wind-shield on the train-car outdistanced him, and the terrific onward suction of the wind made his wheel wobble so violently that he narrowly escaped a frightful fall. It was impossible to stop, and he was flying to the end of the track-planking 8 y with fearful swiftness. But just there he managed to jump free from^his machine, and alighted uninjured. He was found gasping and perspiring, with his pulse at 90. It soon, however, returned to normal. It was his life's ambition to do a mile a minute. He admitted that he felt nervous and frightened at the start, for he realised that collision with the wind- shield meant a shocking death.

THE RESEARCH STUDENTSHIPS. The London School of Economics and Political Science offers this year three studentships for the en- couragement of research. One of £100 a year for two years, and two of JE50 a year, one of which is open to women only. Ths examination will be held on July 18 and 19.

THE first ounce of liquid air produced by Professor Dewar cost something like 600 guineas. A pint has since ;been obtained for 100 guineas. Mr. C. E. Tripler, of New York, has inventedi method of get- ting it at about lOd. per gallon, and with his plant can make 50gal. a day. He has magnificent anticipa- tions as to the future use of liquid air. He argues that if a small engine can be operated by its aid, larger ones can be worked in the same manner. Plant for the production of air in the liquid form will supersede the use of boilers in engines, and coal, wood, and water, will be required no longer. Atlantic liners will at once be relieved of the enormous weight represented by these items, and the space devoted to coal-bunkers will be very profitably utilized in other ways. Factories all the world over, it is said, will be run by air instead of by steam, and this source of energy can be drawn from 11 atoM which is inex,, haustible.