Cheshire Observer

THE WAY OUT. WHAT TO DO WHEN FOOD DON'T I AGREE. When food don't agree sensible folks make a change. Where all others fail Grape-Nuts, being pre- digested and all nourishment, succeeds, usually from the first trial. A lady says: "My baby, nineteen; months old, had never seen a well day in her life. She had suffered from indigestion from the time of her birth and it seemed impossible to find any food to agree with her. She could keep almost nothing on her stomach and her bowels were in such a constipated condition she suffered a great deal. It was then that I tried Grape-Nuts for her, steeping it thoroughly and straining it, putting a small portion in each feeding and it worked like a charm. She began to improve immediately and gained half a pound the first week. "Baby got her indigestion from me. for my digestive organs have always been weak. I rely on Grape-Nuts for most of my food, for there are times when I can eat nothing else at all but Grape- Nuts. I am steadily improving and know it will entirely cure me in time. I never had that tired feeling' any more. I eat Grape-Nuts and I feel its effects in improved mental strength very forci- bly." Name given by Grape-Nuts Co.. 66, Shoe- lane, London, E.C. Look in each packet for a copy of the famous little book, "The Road to Wellville."

A LADY CYCLIST KILLED.—Shortly after eleven o'clock on Saturday morning a shocking cycling fatality occurred at Putney. Mrs. Georgina Mary Crossley-Bridgett, of Briar Ings, Wood- borough-road. Putney, was riding a bicycle along Richmond-road, when, in turning into Quill-lane her machine side-slipped, and she fell with her head under the wheel of a builder's cart belonging to Mr. Bingham, of New King's-road, Fulham. Dr. Williams, of Dryburgh-road, was at once sum- moned, and pronounced life to be extinct, death, no doubt, having been instantaneous. The unfortunate lady was 39 years of age. The body was removed to the mortuary to await an inquest. LIFEBOAT RESCUE AT HOYLAKE.—Early on Sunday morning, the Hoylake lifeboat was sum- moned to the assistance of a small sailing yacht named The Shrimp, which, with a crew of four, left the Mersey on Saturday afternoon, but, owing to the rough weather, could not make her moorings in the lake at Hoylake. The yacht, which was behind the bank opposite Great Meols, was soon reached, and while the crew were being taken off, the New Brighton steam lifeboat Queen, which received the message nearly an hour later than the Hoylake men, arrived on the scene. A Hoylake crew was put on s t o n board the yacht, which was taken in tow by the steam lifeboat to New Brighton. The rescued yachtsmen were landed at Hoylake. HIGHER EDUCATION AT CREWE.—Mr. H. Ward, one of H.M. School Inspectors, has' suggested to the Crewe Education Committee the desirability of taking advantage of the site already selected for one of the schools off Earl-street, and that they should place upon it. besides the ordinary elementary school contemplated,, a department in wln-ah special provision should be made for children beyond Standard VI. The suggestion is that boys and girl.- of all the schools in the borough who pass Standard VI. should be drafted into this higher elementary school. There separate departments would be provided for boys and girls, with a different curriculum for each sex for the boys to fit them for a future career; for the girls to give them a good training in domestic subjects, i

EASTERTIDE. I THE CATHEDRAL. I TOO Easter Day services at the Cathedral were of the usual bright character, and were attended by large congregations. At 7.45 in the morning there was a Litany aad Holy Communion service. At 10.30 the ordinary Sunday morning service was followed by a choral celebration of the Holy Com- munion. The Dean preached, and the service was taken by the Canon in residence (Archdeacon Gore), the Precentor (the Rev. H. H. Wright), and the minor canons. At the service in the after- noon the anthems "Behold I shew" and tcWorthy is the Lamb" were rendered by the choir. A quarter of an hour before the commencement of the evening service there was not a vacant chair in the vast nave, and every chair brought from other parts of the church was quickly occupied, and several people had to leave, as accommodation could not- be found for them. An eloquent ser- mon was preached by the Bishop, and a hearty service concluded with a splendid rendering of the "Hallelujah Chorus." The tasteful decorations were carried out by the following:—The Misses Darby and the Misses Hopwood (tbs screen), the Misses Gore (the pulpit and lectern), and Mrs. and the Misses Cummings and Mrs. Wright (the altar). At all the churches and chapels in the city the services wete of a bright character, and were at- tended by good congregations. ST. MARK'S, SALTNEY. I Bright services, large congregations, ana tne church itself tastefully decorated, may be fairly taken as descriptive of Easter Day at St. Mark's. There were celebrations of Holy Communion at 7 a.m., 8 a.m., and at the morning service, the number of Communicants at 8 a.m. being con- siderably larger than in previous years at that service. At the morning service the anthem, Now is Christ Risen" (Allen), was brightly rendered, while the Easter hymns were heartily sung by the congregation. The following kindly undertook the work of decorating the Church :—Mrs. Hindhaugh, Miss Stormont, Mrs. Welsby, the Misses Smyth, Clough, Duke, Sheriff Roberts, Dimond- Hogg, Welsby, D. and W. Clough, Ellis, Trow, Kirkby, Wright, Davies. C. and F. Ellis, D. Roberts, Messrs. Lyon, Roberts, Whiteley, &c. The offertories, except at 3 p.m., were an Easter offering to the Vicar. At Saltney Ferry the 10 a.m. service was fairly well attended, but there was a larger attendance at 6-30 p.m. It must be remembered, of course. that the duties of railway employes not infrequently prevent their attendance at a morning service. The singing was bright and hearty, and the offertories were for the curates' fund. BANK HOLIDAY. I Perhaps the most satisfactory thing about Easter Monday is that we cannot prefer any charge of mismanagement against the Clerk of the Weather. j The conditions were congenial enough to permit of free outdoor enjoyment, and the visitors to Chester disported themselves with the utmost appreciation of a bright, fine day, which would have been perfect save for a somewhat trouble- '? some wind. Chester's reputation for orderliness on holidays was well maintained; it was gratifying to find on the following morning that the Police Court proceedings revealed only two instances of j misbehaviour. The magistrates had to deal with only two cases of drunkenness, and in one of these the defendant was not of Chester. The river was not too tempting, owing to a boisterous and some- what cold wind and a high tide, but steamer and rowing boat proprietors were extensively patron- ised in the afternoon. The continuance of the Volunteer manoeuvres, and the departure in the morning of the 1st Liverpool Cadet Battalion, who had paid their usual Eastertide visit, lent a military aspect to the holiday. The Eisteddfod claimed a very considerable share of the visitors, and altogether the first Bank Holiday, of the year must be recorded a very pleasurable one. RAILWAY TRAFFIC. Though a busy time was experienced at both railway stations, there was undoubtedly a falling off as compared with other years. The feature of one traffic at the General fetation was the large number of people going away for the week-end. This was particularly heavy on Thursday, especially on the North Wales Coast trains. Good Friday was comparatively light, while on Bank Holiday, though tho station presented a crowded appearance, there was a falling off in the number of travellers. Monday's traffic at the Northgate Station was about the same as usual. Six special trains were run for Manchester alone, carrying over 1,000 passengers, in addition to a great num- ber on the Wrexham and Seacombe lines. On Good Friday a falling off was noticeable, and again Manchester supplied the bulk of the visitors, two special trains arriving with 700 employes of the carting agents of the Manchester Corporation. There were also a large number of week-end excursions. THE CROWN EISTEDDFOD. The Crown Eisteddfod has become in four years a popular feature of Eastertide at Chester, and deservedly so. The eisteddfod is the most homely and democratic university, where graduate many of our successful choirs and concert artists. Much might be written on the educative worth, artistic influence, and even international usefulness of such institutions, but we have a long and interesting programme to treat. Dr. Roland Rogers once more filled the onerous office of musical adjudicator, and his decisions met with general approval. His critical observations possessed an instructive value, and were in every case carefully followed and, no doubt, duly noted by future aspirants to honours. The Rev. J. Wesley Hughes, of Holywell, was the con- ductor, and discharged his duties admirably. Most of the competitions were keen, and the performances were characterised by a general excellence which told of diligent and sympathetic study and practice. The chief choral competition, that for male voices, aroused the greatest interest, and was a capital entertainment in itself. Five professional artists had been engaged, and each delighted an intelligent and music-loving audience. The afternoon president was the High Sheriff of Flintshire (Mr. Horace Mayhew), who was ac- oompanied by Mrs. Mayhew. In a brief intro- ductory speech, Mr. Mayhew said there was no more soothing or refining thing than the art of music; it greatly helped them in their pleasures, while in times of sorrow it had a soothing influ- ence. He was sure there was no country where the art of music was more thoroughly cultivated and appreciated than in the gallant little country of Wales. (Applause.) As representing one county of that country he was pleased to have the honour of presiding over the gathering, and he was sure they had a pleasant afternoon's enjoy- ment awaiting them. Preliminary tests in the solos and recitation competitions had been held in the morning, the most meritorious of the competitors being selected for appearance and final decision in open meeting. The first item down for decision in the afternoon was the pianoforte solo competition, in which candidates for honours were required to be under 16 years of age. The piece was Pas des Amphores" (C. Chaminade). Four competitors appeared on the stage. Dr. Roland Rogers ex- pressed the pleasure it gave him to once more fulfil the duties of musical adjudicator at Chester. It was his third Easter Monday spent in that Hall, and he did not know that there had been any serious grumbling about his awards. (Hear, hear.) He hoped the excellent programme they had entered upon would be as successfully carried out as it was last year. Then, he thought, the committee would have full cause to congratulate themselves on the receipts and the music. Pro- ceeding to make his first adjudioation of the after- noon, he said he had been asked to select a piece for the children's pianoforte solo competition. He had considered that children approaching sixteen years of age ought to be able to develop something like emotional power, and' had selected a piece requiring nimble and delicate touch, and also one that appealed to the intellectual powers. He had been sadly disappointed with the competition. Of the twelve he had heard in the morning not half had gained half the maximum points. None of the four who had appeared that afternoon was up to the standard he should like to have seen. Per- haps he had overestimated their powers and chosen a piece a little too difficult. He awarded the prize to Ethel (Ethel Chapman, of Stretford, Manchester), who had kept good time, with accent a little bit too strong and expression fair. She had the good sense to keep herself under control. Stanley was inaccurate in touch, and his expres- I sion just a little meohanical. Adriel had a nice touch but persisted in playing quavers as semi- quavers. Glazebrook played a number of false notes. Dr. J. Roberts (ex-Mayor of Chester) and tho Rev. D. Hughes (pastor of the Grosvenor Park Baptist Church, Chester) adjudicated on the Welsh recitation, the piece being Llewelyn Ein Llyw Olaf." Out of sixteen entries, Madge, Ap Herwyn and Eiralys appeared for final decision. The Rev. D. Hughes said Dr. Roberts and he had no hesi- tation in awarding the prize to Ap Herwyn (David Saul Owen, Colwyn Bay), who, it was announced, has on two occasions been a winner at the National Eisteddfod of Wales. His two rivals for the honour on Monday afternoon were girls. For the tenor solo prize there were thirty-seven entries, Maldwyn, Music us, and T. M. being the aspirants selected for final appearance. Dr. Roland Rogers explained that the competitors were allowed to choose any song they liked, and it was very probable that nine out of ten of the com- petitors had prepared the same song for other com- petitions. He was told that in the preliminary test three songs were sung. and he was not sur- prised to hear that the singing throughout was exceedingly good. Maldwyn, who sang My hope is in the Everlasting," made too much of the gradations of tone. The production of the tone was throaty and too thick. It was, however, a very devotional rendering. Musicus's pronounce- ment was at times very commonplace. His in- tonation, except in one instance, was good. In the recitative "Deeper and deeper still" he took some liberties. The air "Waft her angels" was certainly very good. T. M. gave a good display of vocalism, but there was a disposition to force his voice. He gave the prize to Musicus. (Ap- plause.) The winner proved to be Mr. John Watkin Hughes, or Rhosllanerchrugog. Mrs. E. Gratton Lloyd and Mrs. Dr. Williams had judged the table centre (art sewing) compe- tition, and their decision was now announced by the conductor. Of six entries one stood out dis- tinctly above the rest, and to this the prize was awarded on account of the fineness of the work, the excellent shading and general beauty of the design. The prize-winner proved to be Miss Annie Williams, Watergate-street, Chester. The same ladies he.d also adjudicated in the tea cosy compe- tition. There were only two exhibits, and the prize was easily won by M. J. O. (Mrs. M. J. Owen, Tya Broch, Treffriw). The soprano solo prize attracted ten entries, Minnie Bullock and Merch Megan being the only two selected to sing before the audience. The song was "Hay- making, in E (A. Needham). Dr. Rogers said it was a song of regret. The first-named had some kind of idea, but it was not so refined an idea as the second, nor did she give successful rendering. Merch Megan was an easy winner. This was Miss Nellie Lewis, of Bootle, whose voice is of remark- able, purity. The chief feature of the eisteddfod was the choral contest for male voices, for choirs not under 40 in number. A prize of JB20, with a silver crown for the conductor, formed a substantial inducement for ambitious choirs, and there were nine entries. The audience had an opportunity of judging the respective merits of six of these. The competitive piece was "The Britons" (Prothero). Dr. Rogers, in announcing his decision, said that remembering the keen competition last year, he had carefully studied his copy and noted the places where the choirs were likely to come to grief. The Manchester Orpheus Society had won the prize last year and the year before, and grand singers they were Ho was rather glad they we,ro not present on this occasion, because he thought when a prize was won twice by a choir it was just as well that that choir should retire. (Hear, hear.) There were one or two difficult chords, and he otme to the conclusion that not on? of the choirs would sing them in tune; but each choir had sung them in tune—(hear, hear)—and little places where ho thought there would no mistakes there had b2cn mistakes. Of the Wigan Harmonic Choir tho opening of the basses was good, but the emphasis was just a little bit too much marked. The solo was a little tremulous. They were a very bril- liant lot of singers and gave a good performance. The Warrington Apollo Choir made several little faults in the light and shade. The basses were sharp on B flat on several occasions. The Southport Vocal Union's performance was. gener- ally speaking, very fine. The last chorus was taken a little bit. too fast. The Moelwyn Choir sung in Welsh, and the soft and liquid tone gave at once another colouring to the music. They. however, had not the brilliancy of tone and attack as those choirs which preceded them had. At one place they got badly out of tune. Generally speaking, the rendering was poetic and liquid, but had not that sharpness and brilliancy in the diffi- cult parts that he had heard from some > others. Of the Penmaenmawr competitors he said their expression was mechanical and intonation sharp. The basses were out of tune in two places. The Wedgwood (Crewe) basses. too, were sometimes out of tune. This choir gave a fair rendering, but there wore no striking features He awarded the following marks out of a nossible sixty: —Wigan Harmonic (conductor Mr. R. A. Moss, A.R.C O ), 55; Warrington Apollo (Mr. H. Berry), <7; South- port Vocal Union (Mr. J. Chas. Clark. F.R.C.O., LRAM.), ■ Moelwyn (Mr. J. G. Thomas, P.T.S.C.), 45; Penmaenmawr (Mr. H. C. Jones). 40; Wedgwood, Crewe (Mr. G. Timms). 40. The prize therefore went to the I Southport Choir, and the announcement was j received with great cheers. A very pleasing contest was that tor juvenile I choirs, the prize being six guineas, and a silver- mounted baton for the conductor. It was a con- dition that the choirs should not be under 30 in number. In "Go, Springtime, go" we h&d a pretty and effective test piece. which was rendered bv four of the five choirs entered, namely—Rhos Bethlehem Juvenile Choir (conductor, Mr. Jacob Edwards), Winsford Children's Choir (Mr. Holford). Jerusalem Juvenile Choir, Rhos (Mr. Joseph Dodd), Ffynnongroew Juvenile Choir (Mr. Thos. Jones).—The Adjudicator said the children sang so extremely well that ho was wondering whether they could not have lessons in voice pro- duction—whether they should not be shown diagrams illustrating how sound was produced and how to breathe. He also suggested that parents should buy their children violins, piccolos, and such instruments, and let them form the basis of instrumental music in Wales. (Hear, hear.) Three of the choirs seemed to have quite a refined. pretty sort of tone that was not usually met with in Board schools. He then criticised the choirs separately, and announced Ffynnongroew the winners. Any tediousness which might have been felt in the progress of the competitions was rc- lieved by the contributions of Mr. Hirwen Jones (tenor), of London and provincial concerts, and Mr. T. Armon Jones (baritone1. medallist of the Royal College of Music. The former sang Alannah and the latter The Cavalier's Song." Both are vocalists of the front rank, and each was rewarded by the heartiest applause. Mr. Mayhew j was heartily thanked for presiding, on the motion of the Rev. D. Gwynfryn Jones (in the absence of Mr. Yerburgh, M.P., through illness), seconded by Mr. Griffiths. EVENING MEETING. The Mayor of Chester (Mr. R. Lamb) Plesided: over (he evening entertainment, and was accom- panied by the Mayoress and supported by Dr. Roberts (ox-Mayor), the Rev. J. Wesley Hughes (the conductor), and others. His Worship opened the proceedings with a few happy remarks, in the course of which he wished the Eisteddfod every success. The adjudication of the baritone solo competition was then proceeded with. The test piece was Lead Kindly Light," to a setting by Dr. R Rogers. Of seventeen who had entered, T. G., Alun and Manod were the only three to finally appear before the adjudicator. Dr. Rogers said ho was sorry ho could not give the prize to Alun, because he was persistently sharp. T. G.'s voice was thin and wanting in dramatic power, and he was obliged to give the prize to Manod, despite faulty pronunciation, because his voicp was good, and he sang in perfect tuno throughout. Manod gave the name of Mr. Tom Goodwin, Bryn Teg, Wrexham. Tho Southport Vocal Union Male Prize Choir, who had during the afternoon won the chief choral competition, sang the test piece The Britons," and, in our opinion, excelled even their successful performance of the afternoon. The audience shewed their keen appreciation in an enthusiastic way. The choir also pleasingly rendered "It is O! to be a wild wind" and j Feasting I watch," both by Dr. Elga. After- wards the Mayoress performed the picturesque crowning ceremony. Mr. J. Chas. Clark knelt to receive the honour, which tho Mayoress bestowed amid a scene of remarkable enthusiasm. The choral competition for mixed voices (not fewer than 35) brought three choirs out of five entered on to the platform. The prize was £10 10s., with a solid silver cup for the conductor, and the test piece was We never will bow down (Handel). The first to sing were Bucknall and District Choir (conductor, Mr. Carl Oliver), and they were followed by the Wedgwood Choir, Crewe (Mr. G. Timms), and the Broughton and District Excelsior Choir (Mr. J. Arthur Griffiths). Dr. j Rogers said there was a traditional way of singing i Handel music. It should be the solid, broad style of singing and nothing more. After commenting on the difference between altos of Handel's time and altos of to-day, he said the altos of two of the choirs practically put everyone else out. Par- ticularising, he said of Bucknall and District Choir's singing that the first part was rather tame, but was exact in tune. They were thin in tone. The altos were nearly a quarter of a tone sharp and very thin to the end from Wo worship God." They made everyone sharp to the end. The Wedgwood Choir were fuller and broader in every way. Theirs was good, straightforward Handelian singing, bold and well in tunc. One passage was, however, a little faulty. In tho Broughton Choir the altos were always disposed to get sharp, and the soprano3 forced their voices. He had no hesitation in awarding the prize to the Wedgwood Choir. The Mayor, in presenting the prize, re- marked on the fact that the Wedgwood Choir were a Cheshire Choir, and also mentioned that this was the third succcssive year they had carried off chid honours in this event. That the award was popular there was no mistaking, for the announce- ment of the adjudicator's verdict was received with deafening cheers. Loiigfellow's Evangeline was the piece for the English recitation, and it was recited by Mr. Kingston Jones (Colwyn Bay) and Mr. David Saul Owen (Colwyn Bay). The latter won the prize for the Welsh recitation in the afternoon, but was unhappy in this narrative, and the prize was given by the Rev. D. Gwynfryn Jones and the Rev. D. Hughes to Mr. Kingston Jones, who secured 94 points to 85. Mrs. Kerry, S. B. L. and Nil Desperandum sang "O! for a burst of spring" in the soprano solo competition, and honours were divided between Miss Sarah Blodwyn Jones (Liverpool) and Miss Marion Lee (Llanrwst). A competitor who achieved a vocal success in the afternoon, Miss Nellie Hughes (Bootle), now captured the award for pianoforte playing. Talented professional artists contributed the re- mainder of the programme, and their etortc, were of the highest artistic merit. Miss GIeeson-WThite, A.R.C.M., described as a dramatic soprano, dis- played a rich, full voice in "0 Divine Redeemer." which she treated exquisitely. There was really no time for encores, but the audience were in- sistent, and she gratified their wishes with "Sweet Lavender," which was another treat. Miss A. Backsheen Wood was the solo violinist, and she played Finale (Mendelssohn) in quite brilliant style, and pleased with an encore. Later she skil- fully and sympathetically treated Hungarian Melodies" (Bela). Miss Gleeson-White's next number was "Vilanelle," in which her expression was perfect. A charming item was Brvnian A»r Fy Ngwlad" (T. Vincent Davies), by Mr. T. Armon Jones, who replied to an encore with another Welsh song. He afterwards sang "Lead Kindly Light" (D. Pughe-Evans), with violin obligato by Miss Edith Whitney, tastefully played. I Then followed a duet, "Cnu Notte a Venezia (Lucantoni). by Miss Gleeson-White and Mr. Hirwen Jones. artisticallv treated by both. Finally, "The Mariners" (Randegger) was given as a trio by Miss Gleeson- White, Mr. Hirwen Jones and Mr. Armon Jones. The blending of these cultured voices was most effective. A vote (,f thanks to the Mayor, proposed bv the conductor and seconded by the Rev. D. Hughes, followed by the singing of the first- verse of the National Anthem by Miss Gleeson-White, concluded another successful Crown Eisteddfod. It remains for us to say that Messrs. Joseph Benn, C. E. Lewis and S. T. Matthews, the hon. secretaries, admirably carried out the arrangements. I THE DISTRICT. I TARVIN. The festal day was celebrated at St. Andrew's Church by the holding of special services through- out the day. There was a first celebration of the Holy Communion at 7 a.m., followed by a second celebration at 8 o'clock. At 10.30 morning prayers were said, with a third celebration; there were many communicants at each service. In the afternoon a special children's service was held, and the usual evening service was held at 6.30. The vicar (the Rev. T J. Evans) officiated throughout the day. At the even, D'?' ?,ervice tile throughout the day. At the cv^,n° ssrvlC Jw choir, under the leadership of Mr. Wukcs (choirmaster) gave a capital rendering Oi the anthem King of Kings (Caleb Simper). Mrs. Wilkes presided at the organ. The offertories of the day were presented to the vicar. FARNDON. I beldom have there been fewer visitors during the Easter holiday season, the reason, no doubt, being the very uncertain state of the weather. It is also remarkable that there is no sign of damson blossoms probably this is one of Nature's wise discretions from which we shall largely benefit later on, when the cold winds have passed away and the blossom opens out under congenial warmth. On Good Friday there were three ser- vices held in the parish church, which were well attended. The rector conducted four cervices on Easter Sunday, when the conjugations were unusuaWy large. On Monday the usual sports I were hold, and afforded much interest and amuse- I ment to the spee tators. SHOCKLACH. I On Easter Sunday the church was tastefully decorated with primroses, daffodils, etc. The services wore bright and joyful, and were very well attended. There Vere two celebrations of the Holy Eucharist, at 8.15 a.m. and after morning prayer. At the early celebration there were 16 and at the latter 56 present. PULFORD. I The parish church on Thursday evening was filled to hear Stainer's Crucifixion" sung by an augmented choir. Mr. A. H. Robinson presided at the organ. The principal soloists were tho rector (the Rev. H. S. Branscombe), bass, and Mr. R. Jones, tenor. The voices of Miss Ravenscroft and Mr. R. Huxley (alto) beautifully blended in the quartette. On Good Friday the three hours' service was conducted by the Rev. L. M. Farrall, of Holy Trinity Church, Chester. The collections were devoted to the Chester Rescue Home. On Easter Day there was Holy Communion at seven and eight o'clock and at noon, the number of communicants being 75. The anthem at matins. 10.30 a.m., was They have taken away my Lord." The Te Deum was sung in F, and the sermon was preached by the rector. At evensong there was a good attendance. The church was tastefully adorned with flowers by Mrs. Okell, Miss Smith (The Nest), Miss Partington, Miss Parker and Miss Svmes. NORLEY. I The Lenten services closed with encouraging attendances on Good Friday at 8 a.m., 10.30 a.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The vicar gave a short address on the first three Words from the Cross" after morning prayer, and on the last four utterances of tho Crucified Lord from 2 to 3 p.m. On Saturday the church was prettily decorated by Mrs. Bell, Mrs. Irven, Miss Arundel, Miss Bell, Mrs. Nunn and the vicar. Easter Sunday was joyously observed, and opened with Holy Communion at 7.45 a.m., when a goodly number of communicants were present. At morning prayer and the choral Communion which followed a large congregation was present. The number of communicants was above the usually good average of this parish- between 60 and 70. A carol service was held in the afternoon, and at evensong thero was a still larger attendance. The Rev. C. R. Nunn preached at all services, and at night, after the prayers, Tissot's beautiful illustrations of the Passion of T i ssot's beaut?4 our Lord were thrown on the screen by Mr. Frank Bell. Tho slides had miscarried on Good Friday. Everything was most reverently done. The service closed with the singing of the hymn On the Resurrection morning and the Benediction. The otfertories will amount to £10. The special music sung during the day included Berkeley's Te Deum, Banks's Communion service, Dr. Bridge s anthem, "When our soul fainted," etc., Mark's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, and tho vicar's music to the Story of the Cross," and, with Mr. Summers at the organ, all was admirably rendered by the choir. NANTWICH. I Boisterous weather somewhat marred the holi- days at Nantwich this Eastertide. This season there were several events which made matters livelier than has been the case in former years. On Good Friday the new Congregational Sunday Schools, which have been erected at a cost of £ 1,800, were opened by Dr. R. T. Turner. The Clarion Cycling Club made Nantwich their rendezvous this year. About 800 members visited the town and engaged in a round of festivities which concluded on Monday morning. On Easter Sunday the parish church was beautifully decorated bv the following:—The rector and Mrs. Downes, the altar and altar rails; Miss Kate Hill, the out- side of tho altar rails and chancel; Mrs. Elliott and Mrs. Lapage, the chancel wall; the Misses Walley and Miss Boughey, the stone pulpit; Mrs. Stevenson, Mrs. Mathews and Miss Faulkener, the clergy desks and choir stalls; Mrs. Downes, the oak pulpit; the Misses Brown, of Brookbank and Ashfield, and Mrs. R. Edleston, the font; the Misses Sandford and Miss Houghton. the south transept screen. A profusion of choice plants was lent by iNIr. G. F. Brown and Mr. Downes. There were early celebrations of Holy Communion on Easter Sunday morning and at midday, and there were large congregations. The Easter offertories at Nantwich are given to the rector in lieu of Easter dues, and the amount contributed this year was LBO. NORTHOP. A capital rendering of Gounod's "Redemption" was given in the Parish Church on Good Friday evening by the Northop Choral Society, conducted by Mr. C. Lewis Jones. Mr. H. R. Thomas took the bass solos, Mr. C. P. Lloyd the tenor, and the Misses Lilian Astbury and P. Taylor, the soprano, and they were greatly admired. The performance was preceded by the hymn, When I survey the wondrous cross," and a short service, intoned by the Rev. W. Aaron Davies. and terminated with the singing of the hymn "Lead, kindly light," and the pronouncement of the Benediction by the Vicar, the Rev. Clement Davies. The church was well tilled, and a good collection was taken. There were three celebrations of the holy communion at the Parish Church on Easter Day, when about 140 com- municated. The morning and evening services, which were fully choral, were well attended. The anthem, Barnby's Break forth into joy," was sung in tine style by the choir. HELSBY. Services were held in the Parish Church on Good Friday morning and evening, the Rev. E. W. Evans (vicari officiating. Following the latter a lantern service was held in the new hall, at which there was a large attendance. The pictures, which illustrated Christ's life during Holy Week, were described by the Vicar, the lantern being manipu- lated by Mr. E. A. Bayles. For the Easter Day services the church was beautifully decorated with plants and lfowers by lady members of the congre- gation. Holy Communion was celebrated at seven o'clock, eight o'clock. and at the morning service, the early services being largely attended. The Rev. E. W. Evans (vicar) preached to large congre- gations at both the morning and evening, services. At each service the choir gave an excellent render- ing of the anthem "King of Kings" (Caleb Simper), in which the solos were taken by Archie i Thomas, Mr. R. W. Hill presiding at the organ. The collections, which were to augment the Vicar's 1stipend, amounted to S30 17s. 9. TARPORLEY. There are few places where Good Friday is better observed than in Tarporley. The occasion is looked upon by the majority, as it ought to be, as a holy day and not as a holiday. There were the usual services in the Parish Church. The three hours' devotion was taken by the Rev. Canon Fletcher, vicar of Wrexham, and his addresses on the Last seven words from the Cross were most helpful and instructive. The church was nearly full throughout the whole three hours. After evensong a lantern service was held in the Town Hall. Mr. Grocott exhibited a large number of limelight views repre- senting scenes from the life and work of our Lord, the Rev. W. O. Hughes describing each scene, The hall was crowded with an attentive audience. On Easter Day the Parish Church looked beautiful, the decorations béing marked by much taste. The three celebrations of the Holy Eucharist were very well attended, and at matins and evensong the church was quite crowded The choir rendered the anthem, Christ is risen" (K V. Hall), as well as the other musical parts of the service, in excellent manner. The vestry meeting was held on Monday, when the usual business was gone through. The retiring sidesmen were elected churchwardens and the ratiring churchwardens were elected sidesmen for the coming year. FRODSHAM. Eastertide in this neighbourhood has passed off in much the same fashion as in previous years. On Good Friday the weather was bitterly cold, end the trippers were very few and far between. Cycles, motor-cars and all kinds of vehicles were also very scarce. On Easter Monday the weather was again boisterous, and, the wind and dust made matters extremely unpleasant for pedes- trians and cyclists, the latter being greatly in evi- dence. The number of visitors was considerably less than in previous years. The Frodsham Asso- ciation Football team had a match at home. On Good Friday morning, the usual service was held in the parish church, the Rev. T. V. Gamier preaching. In the afternoon a. two-hours' service was conducted by the Rev. Paige-Cox, vicar of Rock Ferry, in the Iron Church. A series of addresses was given on "The Seven Last Words." In the evenill; another service was held in t, same church. The offertories were in aid of the Chester Diocesan House of Mercy. On Easter Sunday, early celebration took place at the Parish and Iron Churches, these being 93 communicants at tho parish church. The Vicar (the Rev. H. B. Blogg) preached at the parish church. The usual Eastertide hymns were heartily sung. The anthem "Christ is risen," by V. Roberts, was capitally rendered by the choir. Settings of the Te Deum, Nunc Dimittis and Kyrie by the organist (Mr. C. H. Hibbertt. L.L.C.M.) were taken. The church | was beautifully decorated with daffodils, Lenten liiies and evergreen. The Easter offering to the Vicar amounted to J627 17s. 6d. The &3rvice at the Iron Church on Sunday evening was well ren- dered. Mr. T. Youd took tho solo in the anthem. Mr. H. Tiley officiated at the organ. PLEMSTALL. I Considering the isolated position of St. Peter's, j Plemstall, excellent congregations attended the j beautifully quaint church on Easter Sunday. At the early celebration of Holy Communion there | were 31 communicants, and the number was exactly the same at the celebration after the morn- ing service. The service was of a bright and hearty description. The choir sang an anthem { with much feeling, Mr. C. Wright playing the organ. The lessons were read by Mr. Eric Dick- son, and the vicar (the Rev. W. S. Johns) | preached. At the evening service tho preacher was the Rev. A. E. Farrar, chaplain of Upton Asylum. The altar rails were tastefully decorated with flowers. I U- BICKLEY. At St. Wenefredes Church on (jrood Friday afternoon, after the Litany, the sacred cantata "Penitence, Pardon and Peace" (Maunder) was sung. The soprano solos were given by Mrs. and Miss Charlton, and the baritone by Mr. Charles Hopley, the hymnal portions being heartily joined in by the congregation. A short addrest3 was delivered by the vicar. On Easter Sunday the services were as follows:—Celebration of Holy Communion at nine, and evensong at half-past six. The evening service was fully attended. The music was rendered by all augmented choir, the following ladies taking parts :—Mrs. Charlton, Miss Charlton, Miss Copeman, Miss Agnes Hopley, and Miss Alice Hopley. After the bles.sing the sacred solo "Behold I tell you a mystery" was sung by Mr. Charles Hopley (the organist ot the church), and the chorus "Worthy is the Lamb" by the choir. Mr. H. Roberts (the former organist) presided at the organ. The whole of the music was under the superintendence of Mr. George Hopley, choir- master. The service was conducted by the Vicar, the special preacher being the Rev. the Hon. A. R. Parker, M.A., late vector of Malpas. The church was tastefully decorated with arum lillies, narcissi, white eamelias, frec;r.ia.s, &c., by members of the congregation, among whom were the Marchioness of Cholmondeley, Mrs. Charlton, Miss Charlton. Miss Vanda Charlton, Miss Wilson, Miss M. WUson, Miss Elder, &c. TATTENHALL. I Tho parish church was beautifully decorated for Easter Sunday. The services were of a bright nature. The anthem Far be sorrow, tears and sighing" was well rendered by the choir. The collections during the day were given to the rector, and amounted to £ 2117s. 7d. MANLEY, I On Easter Sunday services were held in the schoolroom. The morning service was conducted by the Rev. T. V. Gamier, and the evening service by the Rev. H. H. M. Lefroy. curate of Helsby. The anthem taken at both services was Far be sorrow, tears, and sighing," by the Rev. E. Vine Hall, and was sung with much taste. CHOLMONDELEY. Divine service was held and the Holy Communion celebrated in Cholmondeley Chapel on Easter morn- ing, the preacher being the Rev. E. F. Gorst, chaplain to the Marquis of Cholmondeley. MALPAS. On Sunday the parish church was tastefully decorated. At the three celebrations of Holy Communion there were numerous communicants. The preacher during the day was the Rev. R. A. Thomas, vice-principal of the Chester Training College for Teachers. The services both morning and evening were of a bright and congregational character. The offertories amounted to kll 16s. 5d. During the past two Easters the offertories have been given to the incumbent. This year the Rev. L. Armitstead intimated that he could not take offertories himself under the present circum- stances of the incumbency, and the money will accordingly be gi ven to the Diocesan Clergy Sustentation Fund. HAWARDEN. The services at the parish church were well attended during Holy Week. Special addresses were given by the Rev. E. H. Holden (sub-warden of St. Deiniol's Library) on Palm Sunday and the threefollowing evenings, the rector giving an address on Preparation for Easter Communion" on the Thursday evening. On Good Friday services were held at 7.30 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 to 3 and at 7 p.m. The preacher at 10 a.m. was the Rev. C. A. Allen, who delivered a striking sermon on the text Behold th3 Man." The three hours' devotion was conducted by tho rector, whose earnest addresses were attentively followed by a largo con- grcga.tion. The Rev. Alfred Abel preached at evensong. The church was splendidly decorated for the Easter festival, and large congregations were present throughout the day. There were four celebrations of the Holy Gommunion, at 6, 7, 8 and 11 a.m., the 8 o'clock celebration being fully choral, with proceaiion. The rector was the celebrant, and Merbecke's music was sung. At evensong the church was crowded, and the con- gregation joined most neartiiy m tne Easter hymns The choir sang the Hallelujah Chorus" from the "Messiah" as the anthem, Mr. R. W. Pringle being at the organ. The Rector preached at both the 11 a.m. and the 6.30 services. In view of this being the last Easter festival in which the rector will participate, as rector, the com- municants wero all presented by him with a memorial card, inscribed In memory of Good Friday and Easter, 1904." ROSSETT. I There were the usual special services at the I parish church on Good Friday. The preacher in the morning was the Rev. E. A. Fishbourne (vicar of Gresford) and in the evening the vicar of the parish. On Eastor Day there were celebrations of Holy Communion, which were largely attended. The vicar officiated at morning and evening prayer, and preached at both services. Mr. Alfred Prince presided at the organ. The anthem sung in the morning was Christ is Risen," and in the evening "King of Kings," which were both effectively rendered. The floral decorations were executed by Mrs. James (Vicarage), Mrs. Cooke (Alyndene), Miss Sandbach, Miss H. Boydell, Miss Woollam, Mrs. Alfred Prince. Miss M. Jones, etc. GRESFORD. Thera were the usual special services at All Saints' Church on Good Friday. The three hours' service was conducted by the Rev. Frank James, vicar of Roivett. The services on Easter Sunday were attended by large congregations. There was Holy Communion at 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. (choral), and at the close of matins at 11 o'clock, the total number of communicants being 253. The pro- cessional hymn at morning prayer was" Light's glittering morn bedecks the sky." The prayers were intoned by the Rev. R. J. Barker Owen. while the lessons were read by Dr. Mules and the sermon preached by the vicar (the Rev. E. A. Fishbourne). The anthem morning and evening was Wesley's "Blessed be the God and Father." The soloists were Mr. J. H. Mason and Masters J. Roberts and Molesdalo Williams. The col- lections were devoted to the St. Asaph Clergy Sustentation Fund. WITH THE EASTER FLOWERS. Those who can carry their rccsllections back as far as Easter, 1903, will recall the summer-like, perfect day Good Friday was; how lilacs wers in bloom, plum and pear, that apple blossoms were unfolding, and that a rhododendron even was in full show in the Grosvenor Park. Then the weather broko up before the week went by, and all the too-early blossoms were covered with snow on the morning of Easter Monday. Up to the end of summer, as a whole, we had no settled weafTier, no early potatoes, no plums, no pears, and no apples! Although ten days earlier-for Good .Friday fell this year on tho 1st instead of on the 10th of April, as in 1903-it is pleasant to see reason for hope that the farmer and the fruit- giower will, in tho coming season, gather crops to their abundant profit and not to their loss. Everything seems, this year, to be a month later, and the fruit blossoms are just where they ought to be-well in tho bud. May no hoar frost whiten th- Roodeo on midsummer day, as it did last June Those who are fond of floral effect must be con- tent so far with only a few spring flowers. The snowdrops are gone, but there are still a few cro- cuses loft, and daffodils, wallflowers, primroses and scilla are all bearing witness to the truth of the story of a joyful resurrection.. The long, pendent branches of Forsythia fortunei—from China and Japan—are already thickly studded with yellow blossoms on the canal bank by King Charles's Tower, the coltsfoot and dandelion are opening everywhere, while windflowers or wood anemones and celandine (the latter the true butter- cup of childhood) are to be seen on sunny banks and places in woods.

I THE EDUCATION ACT. g I WELSH MISREPRESENTATIONS. The Rev. J. P. Lewis, M.A., the Vicar of Conway, contributes to the current number of the Conway Parish Magazine" an article entitled "Has Wales Condemned the Education Act?" in which ho states that in the light of the credence given to some extraordinary misstatements, Wales I cannot truly be said to have condemned the Educa- tion Act, so much as the caricature of the Act presented to tho ratepayers from pulpit, press, and platform. I Ratepayers have been told, and have therefore believed, (1) That the Act gave facilities for teaching Roman I Catholic doctrines in Church schools! I (2) That the Act gave no control to the public over Voluntary schools! (3) That tho Act compelled Nonconformists to pay rates to support teaching obnoxious to Nonconformists (4) That the Act increased the power of the Church and clergy over the schools (5) That the Act, if carried out. would add enormously to the rates, whilst the policy of tho Welsh County Councils in destroying the Voluntary schools and making all schools provideki by the rates, would save the rates! (6) That the Act forced on children a Catechism that did not teach the Ten Commandments, but taught that Nonconformists were heretics (7) That the Act imposes new religious tests on teachers! (8) That the Act required that the whole cost of the Voluntary schools should be thrown on the rates and taxes (9) That the Act specially favours the Church schools! This is the caricature of the Act winch has been industriously put before the people. These assertions have been repeated again and again. and they have therefore naturally roused the in- dignation of a generous and justice-loving people. In every county tho ratepayers have returned a majority in the sincere belief that the above state- ments are gathered from clauses in the Act. whereas not a single line within the four corners of the Act can be quoted in support of one of these extraordinary inventions. We do not envy the victory gained nor grudge the satisfaction of those who have won by misrepresentation. Theirs, indeed, is a greater victory and a deeper satis- faction who know that they have done their best to place the true facts of the case before their fellow-countrymen.

SPRING CLEANING. -+- AN ARTICLE FOR WOMEN READERS. I The Spring cleaning of the house is important, but the Spring -cleaning of the system is more so. How is it that when Spring approaches you find yourself feeling weary after a little exertion, in- capable of rousing yourself to continued effort, with frequent headache, bilious feelings, erup- tions, pimples, and other traces of blood impurity, and now and again, perhaps, a touch of indiges- tion? It is because your body needs its Spring cleaning. Just as the Spring sunshine, creeping into your home, shews the need of Spring clean- ing, so Spring temperature and conditions affect your body, which has become more or less run down during the Winter. For the "Spring cleaning" of the body there is nothing to equal Chas. Forae s bile beans. They remove all the symptoms named above. Nasty pimples and blotches broke out on my fae and body," says Miss A. H. Gould, of Spencer-road, Stoke Newington. At the same time I always felt tired, and had no energy; couldn't rouse my- self, and from the moment 1 got up in the morning until night I felt that I cared for nothing but to lie down in bed again. I had severe headaches and occasional sickness. I went to a doctor, who gave me three or four bottles of medicine. After I had taken these I was not a. bit better. Reading about bile beans in the newspapers, and finding- they had cured so many people who complained in the samei way as I did, I gave tbeni a trial. Bile beans made an astonishing- difference in me. After I had taken a few boxes there wasn't the slightest trace of any of my old ailments left. My skin became clear and free from the pimples, my headache went, sickness ceased, and I was, as I am, now well and hearty. Not only arc bile beans more valuable as a Spring medicine than any other obtainable, but they are also more economic. In the case of most of the old-fashioned remedies three, four, or even six, must be taken at a time. With bile beans one bean is one dose. Chemists and medicine vendors everywhere stock bile beans, but in purchasing beware of substitutes.

GOOD FRIDAY. I Gloomy overnight forecasts and early morning anticipations as to the weather were, happily, at I some variance with the metowrolwgical conditions J actually experienced locally on Good Friday. j It was somewhat cold, and it was cer- j tainly windy, but it was fine, and that was something to be devoutly thankful for in these days. There were impressive services in most of the churches and chapels in the city, and the attendances were quite up to the average. There were numerous services at the Cathedral, including one of three hours' duration, 12 o'clock to 3 o'clock, when the preacher was the Rev. C. M. Blagden, M.A. Chester received its accustomed share of pleasure seeking visitors, who came by excur- sion train, motor car, and cycle. The boating season opened as usual, and animated scenes were witnessed in the neighbourbood of the Dee Steam- boat Company's stage, and right along the Groves. [ For the small boats it was not an ideal day. Accord- ing to the calendar there was a 21ft. tide, which, backed up by a strong wind, attained quite another foot in height, and rendered boating down stream not only arduous, but somewhat dangerous. Nevertheless there was not a single mishap, which is a most gratifying circumstance. The Volunteer manoeuvres were a feature of the day locally. The operations extended over a large district, aud the evening saw soldiers awheel pouring into the city to billet for the night. Indeed, Chester seemed ali ve with the khaki clad visitors. Out towards Tarvin one might have seen several parties bearing signs of unmistakable fatigue. Some had been punished severely by the strong wind against which they had been obliged to ride for many miles. One poor fellow of the 4th Cheshire, bailing from Hyde, completely collapsed at Vicar's Cross. Two of his comrades did their best to cheer and help him on to Chester, but it was at last realised that it was necessary he should rest. One of his companions, a private of the 6th Lancashire, was told off to seek the hospitality of some house. The other, himself worn out, was doing his best to struggle along, almost carrying the worn-out Volunteer, when a civilian took the latter on his back and carried him to Chesnut Villa, Tarvin-road, when the much-needed refreshment and rest were offered and gratefully accepted. The other Volunteers then proceeded to Chester, return- ing later for their unfortunate companion. I FOOTBALL. I CHESTER v. WREXHAM. I Good Friday's attraction from a local football point of view was the Combination match between Chester and Wrexham, and such was the interest in the encounter that no fewer than 3,500 people were admitted to the ground. Both teams were well represented, but the game was marred by a gale blowing down the field. Wrexham won the toss and elected to take advantage of the wind. The first half was tame and- rather uninteresting. The visitors pressed continuously, save for occa- sional raids by the city forwards. The wind fre- quently carried the ball out and gave little assist- ance to either team, and made accurate shooting very difficult. The Chester defence proved quite equal to the attack, and although Coventry was called upon to clear a few puzzling curling shots, no score took place before the interval. The second half was of a much more eccoiting description. A sensational opening wa.s made by tho WeJshmen, who now faced the wind. Pount- ney, in attempting to clear, ran up among his j own forwards, and before he could get back again Gordon obtained possession and scored ea.sity. The game became much faster, the visitors forcing the pace considerably. Chester made re- peated attempts to draw level, and several excit- ing scrimmages aroundl the Wrexham goal took place. After about 20 minuted play Delaney went in the centre and T. Lipsham on the outside right, while shortly afterwards Hall and Bather changed places for a little while. The first of those changes ought to have been made at the commencement of the seoond half, as the wind gave greater force to shots from the right and made them more dan- gerous. The effect of the alteration was quickly made apparent, Lipsham twice having hard lines with strong long shots,and soon afterwards Thomas had to save again from the same player. Pount- ney sent the ball down on the left, and two splen- did centres by J. Lipsham were thrown away. Another rush was made, and an exciting scrim- mage ended in J. Lipsham tipping the ball into the net, thus equalising. Straight from the kick-off Wrexham made a sudden dash, and B. Davies was pulled up only in the nick of time. T. Lipsham raced away and planted the ball in front of the visitors' goal, but Thomas cleared in brilliant style. In the last few minutes the home side made desperate efforts to obtain a lead, but although they frequently had the ball in a favourable posi- tion Thomas was able to avert further disaster, and the game ended in a draw of one goal each. The game was very even, and there was not much difference between the teams. Chester appeared to be the better eleven, and the splen- did play of the visitors' goalkeeper (Thomas) alone prevented them from scoring. The result, oonsider- ing that the wind prevented a real test of prowess, is a fairly accurate representation of the play.

I HORSE PARADE AT CHESTER. The Chester Farmers' Club's annual entire horse- parade was held in the Grosvenor Paddock on Saturday afternoon, when a representative attend- ance of local farmers and horse-breeders found much to admire. Among those present were the Hon. Cecil T. Parker, Mr. J. W. Ken worthy. Mr. J. W. Macfie, and Mr. Alfred S. Gaskell (presi- dent). The entries were two more in each section than at last year's parade, numbering ten in light horses and eleven in the heavy horses. As io quality, although some few stood out, there was not a poor horse shown. The light horses were the first to occupy the enclosure, and an excellent company they were. No. 1 on the list was the Duke of Westminster's Just Cause, a beautiful chestnut thoroughbred. 5yrs., 16 hands, with bone and substance. Just Cause is one of the best bred horses in England, being by Bestman (by Melton) out of Farewell (winner of the One Thousand Guineas), by Doncaster out of Lily Agnes (dam of Ormonde). He looked particularly fit and well, and showed himself a nice, easy mover. His Grace also exhibited in this section Lord Langton, a pony stallion, seven years old. a liOIl of Langton Duke, grandson of Garton Duke of Connaught, and great grandson of Connaught. Lord Langton is a dark bay, standing 14 hands, a fine all-round mover with great dash and perfect temper. He is a nicely turned pony. Mr. James Storrar, M.R.C.V.S. (Chester), was represented by Sea Fly it irouirc and Crusader (hackney). Sea Fly is by Seamour out of Tibbie. Foaled in 1895, he is a rich chestnut, about 16 hands high with beautiful symmetry. He showed great supple- ness in the hocks. Crusader is a chestnut, 15.2 hands, by Rufus out of Camilla, foaled in 1889. His successes in tho ring include the following: 2nd Royal Agricultural Society, Windsor. 1890; 2nd in London, 1st and champion i'rescot, 1st Maccles- field, and 2nd Birkenhead, 1898; 1st Flint and Denbigh, and 1st Cheshire Show. 1899. Mr. Arthur H. Baird (Guilden Sutton). Model George (by Winnal out of Berkeley Poll), a very nice ponv for those who wish to breed little ones. Sir Nigil, 4yrs., by Sir Horace—Brunette, was the exhibit of Mr. Fred W. Blain, The Cottage, Bunbury. This is a very useful pony, and was shown 111 capital condition, though on this occasion it hardlv did itself justice. Mr. J. W. Macfie had entered Rowton Cannylegs and Rowton Don. but. only the former put in an appearance. Rowton Cannylegs is a three-year-old, very "green" and unschooled, but looked like making a good riding ponv. as we understand ho is. He is a grandson of Miss Ross's great prize-winner. Rowton Blackthorn, which was the champion harness horse at the Royal Show last year. Mr. Joseph Taylor, Stud Farm, Upton, Birkenhead, entered Rosaroyd, a likely-looking hackney bv Champion Rosador— Diddie. Mr. M. Kennedy's (Chester) Salt Rock shewed well. He is bv Rock Salt, and was bred by the late Mr. Paul, of Barrow. The sire, Rock Salt, was sold to Mr. Kennedy to go to America, for 400 guineas. The pick of the heavy horses were perhaps Phenomenon III. (the property of the Duke of Westminster), Delamere Surprise (Mr. Kenworthy's), and Hendre Heirloom (hired by the vVirral Farmers' Club). The good qualities of Phenomenon Ill. and Delamere Surprise are well known. The former was hired for last season by the Chester Farmers' Club, and was on Saturday looking remarkably well. Delamere Surprise was a classy horse, a London winner, and is very much fancied in this district. Hendre Heirloom is own brother to the Chester Farmers' Club's late horse, Hendre Baronet, which did much good in the district. He is on a slightly bigger scale than Hendre Baronet, and it would take a very smart critic to find the slightest fault ill him. His Grace the Duke of Westminster was also represented in this section by Eaton Prince, of much promise. Mr. Charles Bell's (Norley) Intako Advance, a five-year-old, by Harold out of Diamond, is a horse which has won considerable money in different parts of the country in good company. He is a big, weighty horse, with good pasterns and feet. Baldock Conqueror, the pro- perty of Mr. Kenworthv, is a four-year-old. by Blythwood Conqueror—Baldock Bonny Princess. He is bred on very good lines, and it was pre- dicted on Saturday that he would develop into a big, useful horse of the right type. Delamere Warrior, also from the Castle Hill Stud, is of a lighter make. He is another classy horse, and should suit mares for breeding geldings of the light lurry type which are in great demand at the present day. He was one of the best goers in Saturday's company. Mr. George Ingman. Bryn Offa, Mold, sent his Blue Boy. 4 years, by Watnall I Chancellor-Blue Bell. He is not so big as tho-e previously mentioned, but is built on very good shire lines, and is admirably suited for the horses of the district in Wales, in which he is travelling. Erddig Baronet, 5y ,-s.. a. son of Hendre Baronet out of Tatton Rubicon, was the representative of Mr. H. E. Parry, Manor House, Wrexham. This horse shewed very much improvement on what he was twelve months ago. He is growing the right way. Mr. G. 1-1. Smith's (lrby Mill Hill. Birkenhead) Pioneer IX.. and Mr. R. A. Aldred's (Manor Farm, Thiugwall) Tom Spring were two other useful horses exhibited. Altogether the parade was one on which the club may be congratu- lated. The Committee were Messrs. M. Kennedv, T. J. Dutton and R, S. Linnell, the latter of whom is acting as secretary pro tern. The stewards were Messrs. A. S. Gaskell, P. Allen, R. Parry and R. E. Evans.

CHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY.-The- follow- ing books have been presented to the Public Library:—Naumann's "History of Music, 5 vols., with numerous illustrations (presented by Mr. E. S. Giles., Old Bank Buildings), placed in the infer- ence library; Eddv's "Science and Healtli" (pre- sented by Mrs. John Newall, City Walls); Fryer, A. C.. "Aidan, the Apostle of England" (presented by tho author. Bristol). (A portion of the above appeared in our last Saturday Evening Edition).

HA WARDEN GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Hawarden Board' of Guardians was held on Thursday at Broughton Workhouse, Mr. W. Fryer presiding. The re- lieving officer (Mr. G. Jones) mentioned 81 pathetic circumstance in connection with the death of an old Queen's Ferry worthy named John Jones. The relieving officer during deceased's last illness visited him on Friday, March 25th. anti deceased told him to get ready to admit him to the Workhouse on the following Tuesday. At one o'clock on Tuesday deceased died. PRESENTATION TO MR. URWIN. At tho end of tho meeting of the Guardians an interesting presentation took place to Mr. Richard Urwin, assistant clerk, on the occasion of his de- parture to take up a similar appointment a Bucklow. The ceremony was performed by Mr. Newton (surveyor to tho Rural District Council) on behalf of the officers of the Union and the District Council. Bo said that as that was probably the last meeting at which Mr. Urwm would bo present, ho had been asked to make the presenta- tion. Mr. Urwin had been there 4g years, and the officers ventured to think that he had done his levei best to do his duty, and, although they were "ony that he was leaving, they congratulated him on his important appointment. Tho presentation took tho form of a silver cigarette case, inscribed: Presented to Mr. Richard Urwin by the officials of the Hawarden Union and Rural District Council. March 31st, 1904 some law books, and a set of gold sleeve-links. He hoped Mr. Urwin. would meet with friends as warmhearted in his new sphere of work as those he was leaving behind. He ventured to predict that Mr. Urwin would have a very bright and prosperous career. (Applause.) Mr. Urwin, in thanking tho officials, said he could assuro them that it had been a great pleasure to him to have been thero for the last four and a half years. It was with sincere regret that he was leaving, but he had had the offer of a good ap- pointment. and ho felt lie must accept it. He was sorry to leave the officials with whom he had had such good association. They had always been most anxious to assist him. Ho thanked them all most heartily for tho presentation. (Applause. ) Ho did not expect to receive anywhere greater kindness and courtesy than he had received inm the officers of tho Guardians and the Council.

COUNTY POLICE COURT. SATURDAY.—Before Mr. Horace D. Trelawny (chairman), Mr. B. C. Roberts, Mr. John Thomp- son, Mr. R. T. Richardson, Colonel Evans- Lloyd, Mr. W. Williams and Mr. E. Dean. FOOTPATH CYCLING-narry Lee, insur- ance agent, Gladstone-road. Chester, was fined 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs for riding a bicycle along the footpath. Tarvin-road, Great Boughton, on the 19th March. A SON'S DISGRACE.—David Hopley was sum- moned by his father. Wm. Hopley, Little Saughall, for assault.—Mr. Hopley. senr., told the court that on the 21st March he had just had his tea. when his son David camo in drunk. Defendant picked up a poker and began knocking the things about before the fire. He struck witness acros-1; the shoulders with the poker. Witness and his other son managed to take the poker off defendant, and witness was going to fetch the police when be- met a Mr. Warrington, of Little Saughall. who went for the local officer. The oiffcer came, and a large crowd of people gathered about the house- Witness further informed the court that his son seldom did any work, and he had to keep him con- tinually. He asked the magistrates to order him to keep away from the house. He had been good father to him, and why he should "carry on" like that he did not know.—Joseph Hopiey. a son of the last witness, gave corroborative evi- dence as to the assault—The Chairman said the magistrates thought defendant's conduct disgrace- ful, and they sent him to prison for one calendar month with hard labour. A MOTORIST'S OFFENCE—The next case was a summons against Wm. Dodd, Edgevrcrth, Bebington, motorist, for riding his motor-cycle along the footpath of the Tarvin-road, in the town- ship of Christloton, on the 15th March.—Mr. Anthony Dodd, brother of Mr. Wm. Dodd, ap- peared.—-Supt. Hicks said the case had been re- ported by the County Council surveyor and a read- surveyor to Colonel Hamersley, Chief Constable, who had instructed him (Supt. Hicks) to take the proceedings.—W. Walker, roadman, said he waS working on the Tarvin-road near Cotton-lane-end, by Stamford Bridge, when he saw a motor-cycle coming along the footpath. Witness raised h:S spade as a signal for him to stop, but he did not do so until he came up to witness, and then he refused his name, and witness took the letter and number of the car.—The question now arose as toO whether Mr. Anthony Dodd could ask questions of witness, and it then transpired that it was he (Mr. Anthony Dodd) who was riding the cycle- Mr. Anthony Dodd explained that the bicycle was registered in his brother's name, but be longed to both of them—The Magistrates' Ciet-k You are the real defendant, then?—Mr. Anthony Dodd: Yes.—The summons was then amended, Mr. Anthony Dodd, who was thus made the de- fondant, readily assenting.—Mr. Dodd explained that when asked for his name he told the rodmaD to take his letter and number. He was then uudet the impression that the cycle had been registered ¡ in his name, and ho thought the giving of the number was the same thing as giving his name. The Magistrates' Clerk explained that the prose' cution was under the Highways and not the Motor-car Act.—Mr. B. C. Roberts: This is actly similar to the ease we have just Magistrates' Clerk: Yes.—Defendant ga. i- dence, stating that he encountered a horse and tra.p or cart which were being overtaken by another conveyance. He sounded his honi when he came to pass, and was obliged to go on the I footpath as there was very little room. At that point it was the beginning of the footpath. After the recent frost the footpath was in a fearful state, and offered no temptation to him. lIe acknowledged that he ought to have stopped and kept off the footpath, but. anyone who rode motor-cycle knew that they did not like to stop- He rode on the footpath about 100 or 150 yards- The loadmaii put a shovel across his path, and h*1 stopped and told him to take his number. FIe knew he was legally wrong to have gone on the path. -Fint.d 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs. POLICEMAN S ESCAPE.Thomas Geo. Lea. the Golden Groves Inn. Burton, Rossett. W8 summoned for driving a horse and trap without a light at Pulford on the 19th March—C'onstab!^ Braeegirdle said if he had not stepped out of the way defendant would have driven over him — Defendant: I did not know it was an officer-Nlr. John Thompson: You would not have driven over anyone, would you? (Laughter.)—Defend- ant No.—Defendant gave evidence and produced a carriage lamp. in which a piece of brown paper was stuck in place of the front glass. He ex- phuincd that at a Chester hostelry where he had put up some one had backed another trap into hi and broken the lamp.—Superintendent: That lanip is for the near side and not the off side, where it should be?—Defendant: Yes. but it was on the off sl(i,A witness for defendant said the lamp was lighted several times on the journey.—Fined 5s. and costs.

ALLEG ED BICYCLE THEFT AT CHESTER- -At the City Police Court, on Saturday. before Dr. Stolterfoth. Mr. J. G. Frost and Mr- F. E. Roberts, Michael McCormack. a man of tho tramp type, pleaded guilty to stealing a bicycle, value JE15. tho property of Dr. Archer, on Thurs' day.—The Chief Con?tablo informed the mag'? tratcs that at prisoner entered a tobac?ollit'" shop in Frg3.ttl- htr?ot and a?kcd for a mght s lodging, which ?'' r?fu-?'d. On leaving the premises he stole twO pictures and ran away. About twelve was seen wheeling a bicycle near the EastgatC, where he asked a man for a pipe of tobacco- oticillg the bicycle in prisoner's possession, the man stopped him and communicated with I)r-O Archer, who afterwards identified the bicycle aS his own, and prisoner was given into Evidence bearing out the Chief Constable's state ment was given by Arthur Edge, Casfcie-sfrect? whom prisoner asked for a pipe of tobacco.- Thp Chief Constable applied for a remand, as pri-o;i,'r had refused to give an account of himse)f. Prisoner was therefore remanded. (The above articles appeared in onr last Saturday Evening Edition.)

A POSITIVE CURE FOR CORPULEXC# A SPANISH COUNT REDUCES HIS VlIGlrf 34LB. IN 22 DAYS. Any remedy that can be suggested as a cure 01" alleviation for stoutness will be heartily welcomed- There has recently been issued a well -,A,l,i t tc" book, tho author of which seems to know what lIS is talking about. It is entitled "Corpulency, sfjV the Cure" (256 pages), and is a cheap issue I0!11 twopence), published by Mr. F. C. Russell, 0 Woburn House, Store-street. Bcdford-sqnate London, W.C. It appears that Mr. Russell hit submitted all kinds of pioofs to the English Pre* The editor of the "Tablet," the Catholic orga>j' writes "Mr. Russell does not give us the slJgllte- loophole for a doubt as to the value of his c tir" for in the most straightforward and matter-of-faC manner he submitted some hundreds of orginj 'j and unsolicited testimonial letters for our per1!t and offered us plenty more if required. To P, him to make his remedy known, we think e cannot do better than publish quotations froJ1¡¡ some of the letters submitted. The first one- it marchioness, writes from Madrid—'My s0 I Count has reduced his weight in tweny-t:( r days 16 kilos, i.e.. 341b. Another writes—'So (six weeks from the commencement of fo!;c^ your system) I have lost fully two stone in weight*, The next (a lady) writes—'I am just half the A fourth-I find it is successful in my case. 0 have lost 81b. in weight since I commenced (t^L0 weeks).' Another writes—'A reduction of 18!b- a month is a great success.' A lady from Boui.? mouth writes—'I feel much better, have less (lif?- culty in breathing, and can walk about.' A&s'? a lady says—'It reduced me considerably, not 01\' in body, but all over.' The author is very p05^ five. He says—"Step on a weighing machine °j Monday morning and again on Tuesday. ail. guarantee that you have lost 21b. in without the slightest harm, and vaat imprGvciuJ'. in health through ridding the system of tinlccit"Y accumulations.

Charles Samuel Dyer. an eX-Roldíer. wa.aha?? C h .ir l e,  llill 1 at Birmingham, on Tuesday, for the murdc| e Martha Eliza Simpson, with whom he lived. ??' parties had been dnnkin? and Dyer cut .'iJ woman's throat because he found she had ??.?jJ? the company of another man. The d?f(?n(-,e at the trial was that Dyer was soddened by dri»,