Cheshire Observer

[ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.] FASHION AND THINGS FEMININE. BY MISS IDA MELLER. A SUGGESTION FOR A VELVETEEN DRESS The velvet dess, we are told by authorities, is to be a pronounced feature of winter fashions, and ahe-ady the promise is giving faith of ful- filment through the medium of autumn gowns of velvet and velveteen. The prohibitive price of a really good velvet renders velveteen by far the more popular of the two fabrics, and this is pleasing both to those with long puises, whose aim is to adopt what are termed "exclusive" modes, and to those who are- obliged to study economy and find that velveteen is quite as fa-shionable as the more costly material. The improvements in tho latter-day velveteens have given an immense fillip to the trade, and elevated to a place of much importance ip fashion's cata- logue the volvatcen blouse- and costume. A day diess of black velveteen, lately made, has a short, full skirt, big sleeves puffed to the elbows, with frills of velvet falling over others of lace, and a draped todiee, cut open in front to shew a deep, pointed vest of soft. cream-coloured Indian muslin, inlet- with ivory lacv. This is one of those useful, smart-looking dresses that can bo worn out of doors, with a fur stole or pelerine, or indoors. Round the waist, I should add, is a swathed belt cf black kid, with gilt buckles and buttons, and iho skirt has three horizontal folds of velvet be- low the knees. A HIGH-NECK EVENING BODICE. I Tile high-neck evening bodice has long been a threat, but now it is a fact, and has probably come to stay, for tbe convenience, of the mode warrants a hearty welcome being accorded to this latest of fashions. Until recently the woman who appeared in the stalls of a theatre at an evening performance in a high-neck bodice was regarded a3 outside the pale of the fashionable, and her ticket, it would probably be assumed, was a com- plimentary one. Now, any such impues^ion docs not by any means attach itself as a matter of course to the wearer ot a high-neck evening bodice. We owe much to Americans for intio- duo'iig the custom heie and making it possible for the woman who, for one reason or another, prefers to be covered up to the throat, to oiothe herseif in the way that pieases her best when she sallies forth to evening entertainments and take? her place in a stall or private box. Even those who do not profess to dress ultra-smartly, or extravagantly, havo regard for the etiquette of drc-ss; and many won-, "cn of the middle- classes who have not, at the time, had' an evening dress e-qual to the occasion, have preferred to go in the cheaper parts of the house, where they could war {¡;oir high-nec-ked blouses, rather than in the stalls, where a decolletage was peremptory. FURS AND LACE. I Thi) thiow-over sto'e is on the wane, but never- til.(,Iess wt?, have not yet seen the last of it. The newer fur fashions incline to neatness, and the caielessly-worn marabout stole, slipping off the shouideis, is practically it thing of tho past. Furs are likely to bo worn in a mora practical way during tho coining winter than has been adopted during tho last year or two, the neat little tic of squirrel or other fairly flat fur, the Prussian collar of caracul, an rtole-peler ric worn closed promising to be a vogue. Decorative touches are g iven to the new stoles and collars by the addition of flounces of laoe. which widen the wraps and add considerably to their beauty. A square col- lar of imitation sable, flounced with coffee tinted lace, is a. charming little wrap of the moment; and a stole of much beauty is composed cf soft bawn fur with a second width of fur over the shoulders and across the back, this extra piece having a flounce of punched lace, six or seven inch* deep, which continues its career along the outer edges of the stole-ends. The mixing of laoe, tinted to art "old" tone, with fur of any descrip- tion, is a successful ettle. touch tliat costs l'ttie and has an immense influence for good. Fur capcs, c:J.SCaQ,2d down the front edges with lace, and fur coats with jabots of lace peeping f ro-r between the reveis, are lovely wraps for the win- ter. Some of the cheapest fur coats tie of imi- tation caracul. They make a wonderful show for the price of two or three guineas each, and stand any amount of hard wear and bad weather. .1 SPOILT CHILDREN. I Iho spoilt chikf should be pitioa rather than soo.dc.d. The fault Leg at the dcor of the parent, relative, or nurse, as the case may be, who spoils. But it is the child who has to bear the brunt of the m-stake later on, and whom the world looks to as responsible for the character of selfishness that is probab'y developed through an overdose or spoiling. Someone has said, vciy truly, that it is the parent who needs training rather than the ch ld. for it iz. -exampla that to a great extent forms a ch ld's character. To hold the whip-ha.nd one dav and be weakly lenient the next is the worst treatment for the young. Out of silver weariness many mothers say "Yes" when they should say "No." and then when the child, not unnaturally, takes advantage on another occa- sion, no oxcuso is made for the faudt, which is really due to the parent's weakness. A LEMON BATH. I Thc-oo is use for everything, and no need for waste; yet many things that might serve highiy usoful purpoKs a.re thrown away and their value ignored. Take the case of a lemon, for instance When squeezed free of the juice, the rind and what lemVns of the pulp are usually discarded, and their virtue, such as it is. goes into the dust- bin. A squeczc-d lomnn ha; yot mucb worth in it, for toilet purposes. The two cut halves thrown into a bath or toi'et basin filled with hot water emit a delicious perfume, soften the water and act a-3 a tonic to the skin. They should be pressed aza:nst the bath or basin untii the rind is quite soft, and all remaining juice extracted, and left in the water as long as it is usei It is an excellent p'an to take up one, of the cut halves and rub it over tho face several time-, and then rub the fingers and nails on the remaining prnp. A CHOCOLATE FRUIT PUDDING. I ,A pleasant change from tire usual apple pud- ding is pixjvided by the following recipe, choco- late ooing added to the apples: -Stew half-a-dozen fair-sized appic-s with sugar to sweeten them, and about one ounce of butter, until they are quite soft, then beat them to a pulp and arrange them at the bottom of a buttcned pie dish. Weigh two ounces of good! chocolate, boil it in half-a-pi^t of new milk, and. when quite soft, work it into the milk until all lumps are gone, and boil the mixture for five minutes. Beat up two eggs very stinly and pour thorn into the chooolate-milk, mixing thoroughly, and fiaallly pouring the liquid over the apples. Place tho pudding in a fairly hot oven, and bake it for about ten mi nutes. Serve it hot. or cold, with sifted sugar on the top.

FOR OUR FAIR READEEG. ABOUT Wo-v-N- The Empress of Ri,La spends no less tnan £ 2.000 yearly on soaps, and to-Jet waters, ordered almost .cirely from Pans. press of Germany is passionately fond Of Tht e kinds of lfowers, but for some time has f->oured orchids, of which she possesses a great variety. Lady Ilaldon d ge d i: ] ,.e Lady HaJdon has publicly acknowledged the great benc6t? ehe has derived from Dr. Williams' pink pills for pale people. My heart became seriously affected." isaid her ladyship. "Symptoms of advanced ariannia .showed, wit-h most acute indi- gestion. Food caused me such misery that I practically starved myself. My whole system was deranged, and I could not sleep. I gave a trial to Dr. Williams' pink pills, and within three days was astonished at the marvellous improvement. Very soon I was delighted to find my complaint had vanished. My general health was cuch that I had not enjoved for many year- Madame Nellie Cope, the gifted soprano, has now cvo many pupils for ringing that she seldom accepts other engagements. She orice had other reasons for her refusals. For year," she states. "I suffered so from excessive weakness and anaemia that any -exertion Wa6 impossible. I had fearful headaches, feelings of sickness, and often gasped for breath. But a nurse advised me to caKe Dr. Williams' pink pills, and I can truthfully say these pills make new, rich blood. I have no head- aches now; and to all aiuemie girl I would say. Dr. Will I'arns' pink pills are the only perfect medicine I know." Madame Nellie Cope's address is 11, Cricketfield-road, Clapton, *• Not only for women, but for men a lso, are Dr. Williams' pink pills valuable. his hi>s been proved by countless instances of cures published in the newspapers. These pills have cured anesmia, indigestion, palpitations, consumption, eczema and skin drder", neuralgia, St. Vitus' dance, rheuma- tism. sciatica, paralysis, locomotor ataxy, and ladies' ailments. But only the genuine pills cure —those labelled in full, Dr. Williams' pink pills for pale people." Substitutes are rwcless; in case of doubt send direct, to Dr. Willitnurs' medicine co.. Holborn-viaduct, London, enclosing two shillings and ninepence for one box, or thirteen end nine for six boxes.

HATCHET FOR SHROPSHIRE MOORS,— Sidelights were thrown on ancient eust-oms on Friday at the Royal Courts of Justice, London, whenithe City of London Solicitor performed -the ceremony of cutting tfasrgots and counting: nails on bebalfof the city. The King's Remembrancer was PregODt to see that hisJMajestv was not defrauded of wood or nail. For seven centuries this ceremony of paymg cent for the Crown lands has been per- formed. In one case, the rent is for the moors in the county of Salop, and for it two small faggots of wood, a billhook, and a hatchet tnutst be rendered.

CATARRHAL BEONCHITIS. NEARLY CHOKJJD. SUFFERED YEARS. CURED BY VENO'S LIGHTNING COUGH CURE. Mrs. E. WOOD, 75, Bold Street, Northwood, Hanley, Staffs, writes, June Scd, 1905:—"I con- sumed six bottles of VXSO'8 LCGHTNING COUGH CURE, and can truthfully testify to the marvellous .eure of my cfuse. The doctors pronounced it catarrhal bronchitis I was confined to bed, and thought every minute I would choke with the accumulation of phlegm in the head and throat. I could not breathe through my nose I was gradually getting worse. The doctors did me nogood. I had frequently read of your LIGHTNING CoocH CURE, and was advised to try it; every bottle made an improvement. Considering that I had been bad for years, off and on, the cure was a miracle. Ask for VENO'S LIGHTNING COUGH CURB at Chemists, Is. lid., aDd 2s. I iSold every- where. 1

ATHLETIC NEWS. FOOTBALL NOTES. RESULTS. ENGLISH CUP. Chirk 2. Chester 0. CHESHIRE AMATEUR CUP. Y.M.C.A. 1, Tarpo-rloy 0. CHESTER SENIOR CUP. Helsby Reserve 3, Little Sutton 1. Saltney C. W. 5, Hooie 2. Connah's Quay T. 6, Old St. Mary's 0. Handbridge 4, Rossctt 0. FLINTSHIRE CHARITY CUP. Hawarden Bridge 2, Sandycrclt 1. OTHER MATCHES. Mold Victoria 4, Astoii Ilall 1. Frodsham 5, Widnes 0. Brook Hirst 3, Cambrian Rovers 0. Helsby B.C. 3, Runcorn Combination 2. For change of performance the Chester team can beat any variety hall company, as witness their record for October. The first Saturday they beat Northorn Nomads, and succumbed to Tran- more the following wevk. On October 21st they beat Rhyl by 8—0, and were beaten last Saturday by Chirk by 2-0. Of recent years the club have built up a very fair reputation for consistency, and this makes thoir present form all the moic inexplicable. On Sept. 9th, at home, they beat Chirk by 9-0, while at Chirk on Saturday they lost. With Wrexham, out of the reckoning, Chester were fairly confident of the championship of tho Combination; but it is clear that unless a considerable improvement takeis plaoe the cham- pionship will be further off than ever. The reason for the city team's visit to Chirk was tho second qualifying round of the English cup competition. For financial reasons, the Chester committee endeavoured to get Chirk to eomo to Whipcord-lane. For the sake of a win the colliery men took the nsk of an unprofitable, "gate," against a guaranteo by Chester against any loss. Tho city s chances of success were very appreciably diminished by tiro exclusion of the two new men, Jackson and Cooper, who were not eligible to play, and the absence of Evans. The team, who, by the way, did not expect to win, were arranged as follows:—Coventry, Hughes and Rainford; Lloyd, R. Jones and Galley; T. Lip- sham, Delaney, J. Jones, Matthews and J. Lip- sham. Chester commenced with the wind in their favour. The lespective custodians were eaiiy called upon. Povey responding to a huge kick by Hughes, S. Roberts followed with a ground shot which was kicked clear by Coventry. From a corner for Chester, T. Lipsham. shot. In strongly. Play opened out for a time. A long drive by H. Jones placed J. Lipsham in possession, and. he effected a capital centie, from which Delaney headed the ball over the crossbar. Ctrirk got away by the aid of some smart passing, and Har- ris experienced hard lines. The Welsh forwar ds vigoiously tested the Chester defence, with the result, that S. Williams, having cleverly eluded the | tackLmg of Hughos, opened Clnxk's account with a wc-li-iuex'ited point J. Lipsham made the running for Chester, but just as ho was getting well into position he was pounced upon by Povey, and the ball travelled to rnidfield. Neither side made much headway for some time. T. L'psham broke away and got well placed, when he erratically drove the ball out of play. A fruitless coiner for the visitors led to Smith changing the venue at a smart pace. Fiom thia to tho interval tlw Welshmen more thaa hdd their own. Shoitl y from the restarting the Cestrians became dangerous, a splendid shot fram the centre being only foiled from its passage into the. goal by S. Robeits heading the ball into touch. From tho corner that followed, Povey cleared, and Srth got ciear away with-only Coventry to beat, but the Cestriau had little trouble in clearing. Following some exciting and fast play in the open, a. long shot by Negtis led to a laid on the visitors charge, with the result that Harris banged the ball into tho net. Coventiy was thrown, and while on tho ground ho received a k: "k in the stoarich. Tho goal was not allowed for obstruc- tion. Thl) visiting halves forcing the play, their for- wards for a time made many attempts to get through, to no available puipo&e. The game again opened out. and tho pace slackened for a time. By the aid of Lipsham and Delaney, Chester be- came the aggressois, and Povey repeatedly dis- tinguished himself. The Welshmen played up strongly, A sniart movement by Wynn led to the venue being changed; and following a lively melee in the visitors' quarters Harris now scored. Nothing daunted, the Cestr-ians time after time rsnowed their efforts to imptove their position, but were successfuliy met by the home halves. The result was a win for Chirk by 2-0. Chirk turned out a much stronger team than that they sent to Chester, and on tho play deserved to win. Tlif, Cestrians did not play up to form. It could not be expected of the forwards that they should do well under the circumstances, and the several changes in their positions only made their disorganisaÜon worse. Deepite this, the colliers' defence had many anxious moments, and had to work hard to circumvent the efforts of their visitors. At Whipcord-lane, on Saturday, the Y M,C.A. onteitamed Taroorl«->y for the replay of their Cheshiro Amateur Cup tie, which at Tarporiey resulted in a draw of three goals. There was a more handful of spectators, and the ganw was un- intoresting. All through there was litt.e to chooso between tho teams. In the first half par- ticularly Tarporiey were rather more dangeious at goal, but the energy of Chestcrs kept them at bay. In the second half there weie some exciting brushes between the home forwards and the Tar- tKirley defence, and when the game was drawing to a close, Sullivan, at oentie, scored beautifully. Au even game ended in a win for the Y.M.C.A. by one goal to nil. Hoole entertained Saltney on Saturday in the second round of the Chester Senior Cup in fine weather. Great interest was taken in the meet- ing of these old an d keen rivals. Saltney won, the toss and White Louse started for Hoole. Both teams went away in a businesslike manner, and each gcal was rapidly visited. Saltm -y made a dangerous move on the left Davies putting wide. From the al-klck Haole got down, Saltney's left half being penalised- Jones pla-ced the hall well, and Scott running in put Hoole one up, Lawrence having no chance of saving. After this mope energy was put into Saltney's play, the halves giving the home forward s little chance of making headway. Roberts gave Davies a nice pass, the latter putting in a grand shot, which Pope just touched but could not stop from enter- ing the net. Five minutes later the same player raced, for the ball, and, getting it a yard off the goal-line plaoed iit in the net -vith lightning force. It was a good goal and from a v-ry diffioult angle. From the centre Soott got away on the Hoole left and gave Lawrence one which he kicked away. The home side kept Sa.ltney on the defensive for a. while, but, with the exception of Soott, the forwards were not playing a good game. Roberts relieved the pressure by putting Dodd in posses- sion. The latter passed out to Wrilliams, who put yards wide. Even play was the order until ha'i- t'me, the game for the last quarter of an hour being very fast. With the breeze and hill in Hoole's favour for the second port.on it was thought that the "axles" of the "carriages" wou!d break up, but they did not. Saltney went straight away to the home goal, S. Benin,ion giving Pope a handful which he got away in masterly fashion. The visitors' halves were playing a sound game, Dob- son especially shewing good form in his new posi- tion. When the Hoole forwards did make any headway they were quickly put to the right-about by Lloyd and Conroy. eitibba, t. ie home right half, repeatedly gave his side away by his ques- tionable tactics. From midfield Dodit obtained possession, and, running right through, beat. Pope from twenty-five yards range. Hoole tried hard to get through after this, but bad shooting mar- red their efforts, Randies especially missing what I seemed to be easy chances. Some sbrong exchanges were made between Clubbe and Davies an Saltney were awarded a penalty kick, from which Sam Bennion con- verted. Hoole forwards combined well, and were busy in Saltney territory for a while. Success at last camp from a,long pass by Gillam. White- houae, being quite unmarked, beat Lawrence from close range. Midfield play followed iinti'i Dodd fastened on the sphere, and putting in a long- shot hit the upright, the ball coming out to Williams who gave Pope no chance of saving. Shortly after this another penalty came Saltney way, for foul play by Pope against Davies. Pope made amends by saving the kick in his best style. The first half was pleasant to watch, each side putting in good work. In the second half Hooio did not seem to stand the strain so well as the visitors. Scott, Hibbert and A. Pope were the pick of the home lot. Handbridge St. Mary's journeyed to Ross?tt to play the second round of the Chester Senior Cup on Saturday. Warren kicked off for St. Mary's a.tjd Banks put in a good run and centre, off wlrch Hibbert fotmd- a corner. Scott handled and W arren soored from the penalty. Spencer gave ?0 Ba.nks, who crossed, &nd Hibbert shook the riggr-g lo Bankws, ith a good a hot. Play from now until the interval was of a. give-and-take c haracter, Ros9ett playing the kick and rush game. When the interval arrived St. Mary's led by one goal to nil. Soon after the kick-off in the second half Wartn had a good run and beat the backs. When he had scored he collided with Roberts, the goalkeeper, and had his knee badly twwed. This calamity left the beoam to fight the re roam- ing portion of the second half with ten men. St. Mary s seemed to play up with niorre deter- mination, and Banks scored with a good shot. St. Mary". from now until the finish played Rossott in their own territory, and Hibbert scoredi a beautiful goal from a good centre by Blake, the game ending in a win for St. Mary's by four goals to nil. Cambrian Rovers had Brooke Hirst as visitors on Saturday. The Rovers started against a strong wind, and were quickly on the defensive. Brooke Hirst had most of the play in the first half, and at half-time led by four goals to nil. In the second half, with the wind at their backs, the Rovers soon had the visitors penned in their own quarters, and a shot from Forster cannoned off the full-back into the net Two more goals were added. Brooko Hirst retired winners by four goals to three. Connah's Quay Twenty had Chester Old St. Mary s as their opponents on Saturday in the I seoond round, of the Chester and District Chal- lenge Cup. Chester started against the incline, but WOlO early forced back by H. Green, and Roberts took play in front of the visitors' citadol &nd centred. but Dandy missed badly when wdl p? c?ed. Aided by a strong breeze, the "Reds continued to bombard the Cestnans' g"l, but Speed cleverly saved hard drives by H. Groen and Roberts. Lumberg put Blueher in posses- sion, who raced along the right wing, and on being tackled brought the ball back and scored an exceedingly pretty goal. Through the smart- ness of Delaney, play veered around Peers'9 ciiarge. Play was soon taken back again, and Bloomer crashed in a rasping shot, which beat Speed all the way. Lumberg netted the ball, but the. whistle had previously gone for offside-. A fiercc onslaught was made on the visitors goal, during which a Chester player handled within the dreaded area, and Hugh Roberts only ju&t managed to convert the resultant penalty kick. Speed touched the leather, but failed to stop its couise. The Cestrians cbuld not get going against the strong wind and the Quay's stiong half-back line. At the interval the homg, side were leading by three goals to nil. Upon the resumption the visitors got going in a determined fashion, but were repulsed. Blucher ffot going nicely, but Bloomer shot just outside. Chester now took up the running in fine style, but their forwards were very weak. Noggins neatly set the left wing going, and, with a lovoly shot, Dandy scored the fourth goal. The game was now very dull and uninteresting, the visitors not putting the slightest energy into their play. Dandy forced play on the home left, and a corner resulted, which was nicely placed by Roberts, and during a scrimmage Bloomer scored a some- what: easy goal. Play was stopped for a few min- utes owing to Roberts having swallowed some grass, from which he suffered much pain, but he soon resumed after being attended to by Mr. Parry Roberts. From the "throw-up" play was carried in front of Speed's charge, and after a cloarance. Bloomer score d a grand goal from twenty yards' range, the point having been ob- tained just on time. The game exided in favour of the Twenties by six goals to nil. Tho Helsby ground! was occupied on Saturday by the local reserves, who met Little Sutton in tho second round of thei Chester and District Cup competition. Starting with the wind in their favour, the visitors were the firet to become dangerous, but bad marksmanship neutralised their efforts. The home eleven were little 'bettor in this respect, several good chances being thrown awly by poor shooting. The game was not of a veiy exhilarating character. Assisted by the wind, the visitors had somewhat the best of mattøn, but Jonas was not seriously troubled, the backs defending well. Eventually, from a well-dir-cebed attack, the visitors got through, and Fabby beat Jones. The game was fairly even tip to half-time, when the score stood 1-0 in Little Sutton's favour. On the resumption, Helsby, who had the wind in their favour, at once became aggressive, a.;ic! Fields had! several shots to negotiate. An attack by the visitors having been staved off, both Cooko and L. Fletcher had ineffectual shies at the Little Sutton citadel. In another rush away by the visitors, Jones liad to run out and clear, but Helsby returned to the attack, and Fields saved Bmartiv from Jones, a fruitless oorner following. Tiie home team's porsatency was at length re- warded. as Cooko found the net with a shot which gave Fields no chance, thus putting the toams on equal terms. Not. long afterwards Griffiths worked his way into position, and with a capital effort notched Helsby's second goal. Griffiths eventually beat Fields- with an excellent i\ht. lb!sby gained a number of corners in quick succession, but Fidlds and his colleagues del elided finely, and although the piessure was m!jr.ain2d JJ to the close, no further scoring took place, Helsby retiring winners- by throe to one. Helsby Bible Class visited Runcorn, where they met Runcorn Combination, beating thcrn by threo to two after an evenly-contested game. The evor-viictorious Fiodsham premier football organisation, were again at home on Saturday, fcftor a few weeks' absence, receiving as visitors on the athletic ground W idnes J unioTs, one of the best teams -in tho "idnes J uriior League Both sides wore representative, albeit for Frod- sham Warburton kept, goal vice Spencer. The home side started with a. strong wind against them, The game ruled very oven, with plenty of desultory midfield p!ay, for a considerable time. Frodsha-m were the first to get going- in anything like combined form, and Sutton, on the left wing, gaining possession, raced away; and overcoming <11 ODpositon gained the initial comer, from which H. Ki nsey had no difficulty in. drawing fiist blood for h s sido with a short, low shot, which completely beat the somewhat diminutive visiting goalkeeper. Frodsham again attacked strongly, and corners, which proved abortive, were very frequent. The chemical lad3 now woke up, and with a charac- teristic rush certainly looked like scoring, but Kinsey cleared finely. Sutton had another good run, which, however, was quite nullified by his unwillingness to part with the ball until too late.. Widncs made matters warm at tho other end, where they only missed scoring by inehes on more than one occasion. Calve ley put in sonio good play, which culminated in his giving Kinsey another chance, the latter player sreoring his second goal in clever fashion. HI41f-<tim()1 arrived with the home contingent two to the good. Resuming with the wind in their favour, Frod- sham shewed up bettor than at any period of the gem e,, and it was easily apparent that the lack cf staying powois on the part of visitors from the chemical town was once more being exemplified in this match, as the Widnes men from this point wqre a hopelessly beaten team. The home for- wards were now much in evidence, and a fine passing movement all along tho line resulted in Oates scoring from short range in the corner of the net. A severe bombardment of the visitors' citadel took place, which eventually succumbed, after fine defence on the part of the two backs. H Kinsey scoring his third goal with a beauty, making the fourth in the game. Widnes mado one more spasmodic effort, and had distinct hard r:nc-9, their first and only comer being gained. From the- tentr-e a score seemed imminent, the baU bobbing t.anialisingly near the goal re- peatedly. Warburton bringing off some very effec- tive saves. This was the chemical lads' final effort, as after pretty passing Oatcs soared tho fifth and last goal of the match with a beautiful dropping shot Hawarden Bridge had Sandycroft as their oppon- ents on Saturday in a re-played tie of the first round of the Flintshire Charity Cup. When these teams met at Sandycroft. on the previous Saturday an interesting game ended in a draw of two goals each. Since last season Sandycroft have con- tÙt"rabJy st,rengthe,nc-d their team by the inclusion of several old Shotton second eleven players of last season. The prospects of a strong team have- been in doubt for some time past, in fact it was rumoured that they were going- to withdraw from the league. However, the old football veteran (R. J. Williams) has energetically take-n the matter in hand, and there is now no doubt but what ho will get tL team together which will do credit to the place. It would be most unfortunate for the football public of Shotton if they had no team, for many an exciting struggle has been witnessed on the Hawarden View enclosure, and it is to !o hoped chat tho public have not seen the last of them. The home, eleven won the toss, and set their opponents to play with the wind against them The home forwards at once pressed, but Haswoli was not inconvenienced. From a sudden break- away on the visitors' right, Cameron let in who opened the scoring after ten minutes' play. The visitors continued to have the bu'k ct the play, but by the alertness of Williams and Hewitt they were prevented from troubling Dodd. The Bridge now had a turn at pressure, and a corner was forced off Collins, which Griffiths and Dar- lington eventually cleared. G. Whit-taker pltul the ball well in fiont of the visitors' goal, and after Has well had repelled several shots, Garratt eventually put the ball in the net out of his reach. The interval arrived with the score at one goal each. Upon resuming Sandycroft forwards combined prettily, Collins and Baird especially playing a fine game, but they were met by a fine defence in Cameion and Hewitt. The game proved to be of a very even nature, and at times exciting. Buck- ley Davies took up the running and carried the bell the whole length of the field, and passed over to G. Whittaker, who slammed the- bail past Has- well at lightning speed. Although the visitors played up pluckily, they were kept well in hand, Garratt especially proving a veritable stumbling block to them. A pleasant and interesting game ended in favour of the Bridge by two goa.,g to one. Mold Victoria entertainro Aston Hall on Satur- day in the first division of the Flintshire League, before a satisfactory attendance. Aston Hall opened with the wind in their favour. The visi- tors were first to break away, and a cross shot from the left looked' ominous. R. Davies and Blackwell then rushed away, and a long distance pass from the latter to Williams gave that player a chance, but he shot a trifle wide. Frank Wil- liams made tracks for the opposite goal. Ho parted opportunely to Tom Davies, who scored with a lightning shot. For some time thereafter play was confined to the- Victoria half, and the Aston Hall left tosted Blackledge with a high shot, which the custodian negotiated in fine style. The visitors came again, and the same player dashed off. h:6 final effort, a swift daisy-Cutter, be in a: altogether too much for Blacklcdge Anon the Victorians were found busily engaged at the other end. Some capital centres were placed across the goalmouth by Williams and Blackwell, but the ascendency of the home team was tem- porarily suspended when R. Davies mulled a glori- ous chance by shooting yards over the, crossbar. The Aston forwards made off, and after dhbblips between the backs their centre-forward was f=. m?ide the penalty line. Darbyshire took the kick. but. his shot, sailed harmlessly "across the bar," Blackwell then got away on the home right and shot across the goal. In his efforts to save, Parry, the visitors' back, handled, anoi the referee awarded a penalty. The home captain took the kick, but he shot straight at, the goal- keeper, who savedi at tho expense of a fruitless corner. At the interval the teams stood one all. On restarting, the Victoria quickly pressed, Pete Davies experiencing hard lines with a bril- liant effort; which clean nonplussed! the Aston custodian, but just missed the upright. The home side were now having practically all the play. Tom Daviee gave his side the lead with a long shot, Pete Davies adding another shortly afterwards. The home team then worked up the field. Tom Davies then got possession and drove in with groat force, the goalkeeper making a fruitless effort. to repel the shot. Later on the visitors came with a dangerous rush straight to their opponents' goal. Amid much excitement Jones, the defending back, missed his kick, and tho home custodian had to run out in order to clear. The game throughout proved interesting, and the final result of four goals to one in favour of the Victoria was fairly representative of the play. Much regret is expressed in local football cir- cles at Mold because of the death on Monday, after a short illness, of young Phil Jones. Jones, who was only eighteen years of age, was a centre- forward of great promise. He played with the Aiyn Wanderers, and was also a member of the Broughton United team. Phil was an interesting personality. All the fervour he could command was expended on the game while play wis in pro- gress. but in ordinary life lie was gentle and lC- tiring- FIXTURES. The following fixtures will be played on the I ground of the first-named to-day (Saturday). WIRRAL LEAGUE. West Kirby v. Saltney C.W. CHESHIRE AMATEUR CUP. Handbridge v. Neston CHESTER AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. The Depot v. Connah's Quay Twenty Saltney C. W. v. Little Sutton Ltttle Sutton R. v. Chester Albion Handbridge R. v. Sealand Albion Victoria, Athletio v. Inc-e Mold Junction v. Kaleyards COMBINATION. RESULTS UP TO DATE. f—Goals—i P. W. L. D. F. A. Pts. Whitchurch 8 5 1 2 .24 6 .12 Nantwich 8 6 2 0 .20 .15 .12 Crewe Alexandra 9 5 3 1 .20 .11 .11 Tranmere. 7 5 2 0 .13 .12 .10 Chester 7 4 2 1 25 7. 9 Druids 7 4 2 1 .13 8 9 Oswestry 8 4 4 0 .19 .15 8 GIossop. 8 4 4 0. 9 11 8 Port Sunlight. 8 2 4 2 .12 .20 6 Birkenhead 6 2 3 1 6 .10 5 Broul-lhton 6 1 3 2.10 12 4 Bangor. 6 1 3. 2 7 .16 4 Chirk G 1 3 2. 8 .21 4 Rhyl 5 1 3 1 7 .15 3 Middlewioh. 9 1 7 1 .14 .32 3 CHESTER & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE. I DIVISION II. RESULTS UP TO DATE. rGoals P. W. L. D. P. A. Pts. Kaleyards Works A.C. 8. 7. 0. 1.45.13.15 Mold Junction 7. 6. 1. 0.32.14.12 Chester Albion 6. 4.. 0 2.25.10.10 Sealand Albion 6. 5. 1. 0.20.10.10 Great Western Locos 7. 3. 3. 1.19.16. 7 Y.M.a.A.d. (i. 3. 3. 0.13.18. 6 Handbridge S. Mary's 4. 1.. 3. 0. 6.12. 2 St. Werburgh's G. 1. 5.. 0 11 31 2 Ince 4. 0. 4. 0. 4.16.0 Little Sutton Victoria Athletic 4. 0. 4. 0. 3.17. 0

CHESTER WHIST LEAGUE. I HANDBRIDGE v. ST. WERBURGH'S.— Played at H:tndbrldge. Seut-e:- HANDUKIDGK. ST. WERBURGH'S. J.Bucklev ") „ H.Lloyd .oo" }21 G. Garratt j" 0 J. P. Caflagher I H. Hand \91 E. Evans \1ft J. Ronson J x J as. Butler E. Palin i 0. T. Luddeu 1-17 G. Gerrard D. Ludden J R. Griee Jas. Beatty 110 T. Pate j-1 T. Feeney j L. Whipp 1 r T. Dolan 121 J. Pi-itchard J 0 Jno. Beatty j G. Jonas j 91 J. Ulunan ) 9 G. Gcuo;h J. Murphy J 97 83 Majority for Handbridge, 9. OLD ST. MARY'S INSTITUTE v. CHURCH CLUB.—Played at Old St. Mary's Institute. Score OLD ST. MARY'S. CHURCH CLUB. J. Potts 01 S. Hooley ) A. KiHick.? B. Adams.J R. H. Snelson ?? E. Dutton 1 „ E. T?y)or .J ? J. AUshorn J A..Tones „ S. Webster J. Jones J ? W. Youd J. Underhill \„n M. Mead 1 „. H. Dempsey. T. Dempsey S. Catherall ) 91 E. Rowlands 19 J. Moulton ? W. Thomas I J. Sconce U „ E. Brad ford 01 T. E. Hughes .J ? W. McCartney  102 97 Majority for Old St. Mary's, 5. ST. BARNABAS v. HANDBRIDGE.-Played at St. Barnabas. Score :— ST. BARNABAS. HANDBRIDGE. W Barton "<0' ) J. Pritchard ) R. Mason fw L. WhIPP. f? S. G. Mason. ?? E. Palin 01 W. Tullock .? ? G. Gerrard ;? W. O. France ) T. Pate 1 G.Lee f R. Grice J 21 T. P. TuShingham '}21 J. Buckley 1 G. W. Ellis G. Garratt j 8 E. F. Howell 121 J. Spencer 1 2 Jno. Savage f A. Spencer W. Lythgoe 1 G. Gough \oi J. Taylor j? G.Jonas  91 94 Majority for Handbridge, 3. CHESTER WHIST LEAGUE. RESULTS UP TO DATE. Played. Won. L't. D'n. For. Agst. Pts. St. Francis's 3. 3. 0. 0. 354. 281. G St. Werburgh's 3 2. 1. 0. 320. 272. 4 Handbridge 4. 2. 2. 0. 362. 431. 4 St. Michael's 1. 1. 0 0. 119. 74. 2 Old St. Mary's 1. I. 0.. 0. 102. 97. 2 Campbell Mem. Hall 3 1. 2 0. 331. 316 2 St. Barnabas's 1. 0. 1. 0. 91. 94. 0 Old St. Mary's C.C. 2.. 0. 2.. 0. 171. 221. 0 Ches. Fire Brigade. 2.. 0 2.. 0 170. 234. 0

CHESHIRE'S NEW ZEALAND MATCH. I —The Cheshire fixture with New Zealand is for December 9. Already there has been an extra- ordinary demand for reserved seats, and the prospect of there being a larger gate than the Birkenhead Park ground could aecom modate led the Cheshire Committee to consider the advisability of trans- ferring the game to the roomier football ground at New Brighton Tower. But an examination of that ground showed that it was not suited to the Rugby Union game-the dangers are, in fact, so real that the Cheshire Committee will not take the risk of asking the players to go there. The match, there- fore, will have to be played at Birkenhead Park after all. Tickets will be sold to the extent of that ground's limited accommodation, and it seems likely that these will be bought so quickly that there will be no need for money-takers at the gates.

————————— BABY'S GOOD DAYS. AFTER A DOSE OF PEPTOLAXA. "ONE of Baby's good days" ■■■RIFFFCKUS means your child is thriving <N?? ?? and free from juvenile disorders. J   Peptolaxa brings all good days into a child's life, for this de- ;< J lightful preparation for little ?S  VV  a ones dispels consti- rpSffloI/ //|K pation and stomach \??\ disorders, reduces V"?'?  ? n feverishness, stays | charrhœa, and re- /l CT vi' ^eves teething trou- ?? ?T  Mes like magic. No rf\\ ?cxy? other medicine acts  so promptly or ?? gently. Pepto- laxa is the right medicine for tender infants and growing children," states Mrs Bannister, 11, Hartington-road, Spital, Cbesterfield. "My little girl, Maud, 4 years, is now so bright and lively after a course of Peptolaxa. She had always been delicate, thin, with feeble appetite in fact, I felt anxious, because she made no progress. Since I gave her Peptolaxa she has quite changed. Her appetite is healthy, she has put 011 flesh, sleeps comfortably, and her bowels which used to be very constipated, are now in perfect order. Peptolaxa has dispelled small ailments in my other children also. peptolaxa N- FOR BABES ABVD CHILDREN reeulates the lives of little ones and dispels con- stipation, diarrhoea, indigestion and feverishness. A smile in every dose; teething without tears. Free sample from Dr. Williams' Medicine Co., Holborn-viaduct, London. Sold (Is. ld.) at all branches of Boot's, Cash Chemists, and C. Sangster, Chemist, Town Hall-square.

DEATH OF MR. S. SANDBACH PARKER.— The death occurred on Monday under painfully sudden circumstances of Mr. S. Sandbach Parker, one of the best- known men in the commercial life of Liverpool. Until recently Mr. Sandbach Parker occupied Caldy Manor, West Kirby, but for some time he had resided at Aston Hall, near Oswestry. He was a member for 45 vears of the firm of Messrs. Sandbach, Tinne and Co., shipping merchants, Bank Chambers, Cook-street, a promi- nent Demerara and West Indian firm. of which his father, Mr. Charles Stuart Parker, was one of the founders. On Monday morning Mr. Sandbach Parker was apparently in his usual health. Ac- companied by one of his eone, he left Oswestry for Ruabon for the purpose of having a day's shooting. His son left him at Ruabon Station and journeyed on to LiverpooL and in the afternoon was shocked to hear of his death. It appears that the party were prooeeding to take up their positions at the shooting brook for the first drive, and Mr. Parker had just remarked to his loader what a beautiful morning it was, when he fell to the ground. On being examined he was found to be dead. Dr. J. C. Davies ,of Rhos, saw the body later, and thought death had been due to heart disease. FOOTBALL.—Many a goal is missed by reason of faulty Boots. Hewitt's Boots are faultless. Try a pair, and raise your average.—HEWITT, Abbey Gatewayi

FREEMASONRY. GRAND R.A. CHAPTER OF CHESHIRE. On Saturday the annual meeting of the Provin- cial Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Freemasons of Cheshire was held at the Assembly Rooms, Hotel Victoria, New Brighton. The Hon. Alan de Tatton Egerton, M.P.. Prov. G. Superintendent, presided, and was supported by Companions Lilley Ellis, P.G. Standard Bearer of England, Nash, P.G.H., P. Lockwood, P.G.J., R. Newhouse, P.D.G.S.B. (England), secretary, F. Broadsniith, P.P.G.H., and other leading members of the Order, the number of companions present totalling about one hundred and fifty. Every Chapter in the Province answered to the roll-call. The P.G. Treasurer (Companion G. H. Richards) presented the financial statement, which shewed a substantial balance in hClnd, and which, was adopted on the motion of Companion Lockwood, seconded by Companion R. Williams. The report of the General Purposes Committee stated that the Order was making steady progress in the Province, and that the individual Chapters were generally in an efficient condition. In his address the Prov. G. Superintendent ex- pressed his gratification at the growth of the Order in Cheshire. On the motion of Companion Robinson (Liscard), seconded by Companion J. Boughey (New Brighton), Companion J. H. Benyon. Z, of the Richard New- house Chapter, No. 2,433, New Brighton, waa elected Prov. G. Treasurer. The Prov. G. Officers for the ensuing year were appointed and invested as follows Companions Robinson, No. '2,0.77, Liscard, H. J. Clarke, No. 477, Birkenhead, J. R. Newhouse, No. 1,045, Altrincham, S.E. G. Landells Bruce, No. 2,433, S.N. J. H. Benyon. Treas. J. Boughey, No. 2.433, P.S. J. Simpson. No. 2,132. Egreruont, 1st Asst.S F. Owen, Birkenhead, 2nd Asst.S. Matthew Agar, No. 941, Knutsford, Registrar; T. Pierpoint. No. 2,132, Sd.B. J. Westwood, No. 295, Macclesfield, E. Davies, No. 477, and W. Sykes, No. 320, Hol- lingworth, Std. Bearers; Ronald Williams, No. 6G5. Oxton, D.C. J. Laurisch, No. 428, Sale, D.D.C. W. Bouchier, No. 1,045, Asst. D C. W. Mortimore, No. 1,045. Asst. D.C. C. Shaw, No. 428. Organist; G. W. Podmore, No. 1,045, Assistant S.E. S. Thompson, Janitor On the motion of Companion Lilley Ellis, seconded by Companion G. Ivesou (Macclesfield), it was iesolved that 25 guineas be given from the P.G. Chapter Funds in aid of the Cheshire Masonic Educational Fund and Masonic Benevolent Institu- tion. An invitation was tendered to hold the next annual meeting at Sale, and the Prov. G. Chapter was then closed.

LIBERALS AND LABOUR. In tho current number of the Outlook" Mr. Kcir Hardie, M.P., draws a lively pioture of the troubles awaiting a Liberal Government on its accession to office. Sections of the party demand precedence, each for its own pet project—educa- tion, disestablishment, temperance, and the reo-t- while the Irish party remain unreconciled. But the new factor will bo tho Labour party, probably thirty strong, pledged "to force social and indus- trial legislation to the front and keep it there." The very reason for its existence is to insist upon tho intervention of tho State to protect the individual against evils which he finds himself unable to cope with single-handed. The rehabilita- tion of the law for the protection of trades union funds, the insistence upon the responsibility of the State to put employment within the reach of every applicant the provision of rate. provided meals for under-fed school-children, the extension of the franchise to women, the use of State funds and credit in acquiring land and erecting suitable dwellings by the public authorities, the care of the aged poor apart from the degrading influence of pauperism, these and kindred questions will form the battle-cries with which the Labour party will seek to rally the working-class electors under its banners. There are, it seems to me, but two ways of preventing its succeeding in its object— eitiier that it should be outbid by one or other of the orthodox parties, or that these should combino and support each other in resisting its demand. The latter stage is not likely to be reached in the coming Pariament, and the former is impossible. A much more likely development is that the Socialist Radicals, the Nationalists and the Labour folk will be driven into each other's arms and come to understanding whereby they will be able to act together as a fighting force. Sooner or later some such development is, as I view the "situation, inevitable, and should the next Government turn out to bo as impotent as was that of 1892-95, it might oomo with surprising suddenness, and its coming would be a complete revolution in politics.

TO MOTHERS, Mra. Winslaw's Soothing Syrup has been used over fifty year3 by millions o. mothers far their children while teething, with perfect success. It will relieve tha poor sufferer immediately. It is pleasant to taste; it produces natural quiet sleep, by relieving tho child from pain, and the little cherub wakes up "as bright as a button." Of all chemists. 111. LJd. tier bottle BISHOP ON EVOLUTION.—Speaking at Farnham on "Evolution," the Bishop of Win- chester said some good servants of the Faith de- sired to leave that subject entirely on one side because thry were afraid of it. Yet the teaching of evolution was given by God himself to strengthen them against the tumults of modern thought. After all, there was an abundance of intellectual strength on the side of the simple Christian faith. Everybody knows that EPPS'S COCOA Is an admirable food, the nicest and most nutritious beverage for the breakfast table. It is made in a moment with boiling water or milk, and its sustaining qualities are EPPSS COCOA Invaluable to all.

[PUBLISHED BY SPECIAL AERANGEMENT.] A SEALED BOOK. I BY ALICE LIVINGSTONE, Author of "The Silence of Maurice Armitage," "A Man's Angel," etc. CHAPTER IX. I GERALD DARKE FOLLOWS THE CLL E. I Before returning from town to \V roadieourj, Tollemache had accomplished tho errand on which ha had sent her, and eamcd the promised twenty pounds. She had: called a.t 22a, King stroot, and discovered that Notman, Evelyn Montauits for- mer maid, actually lived there, talcing in lodgers. Notman herself had come into the room where Tollemacho had been shewn m to wait. Slio had seemed surprised, almost s-ts.rt'.ed. to see tho house- keeper from Wiendlebury Towers. ButtJ¡.sûffed h.,i d as qui?ckly as it carne. ot-aian liad kad gone as qUH;kly aa it came. NcHna.n had been civil and agreeable, had askod after Lord Wrcndiebury, and had appeared anxious to know how Mrs Tollemacho had learned her address. To this question Tollemacho had replied that she ■was not quite, sum who had told her. It might have been somebody in the village at Wrencile- tjury, or possibly it might ha-ve, been Miss Mon- t-auit. who had come down several months ago wirJl her father to spend an afternoon with poor Lord Wrendlebury. Couid it have been that? Tollemache meditated a!oud. No doubt Miss ToUt,ma,,Iie mc d d 1NO &ubt Montault knew Kotman's address, and still oom- municated with her sometimes? This Not mart admitted to be true. She even --confided to Tollemacho that it was throug-h Miss Montault's geneiosity that she had bo:1 a able to take the house in King-street, in which she, was ■doing' exceedingly well. All her rooms were let at present, and, indeed, wove seldom empty. At th;s point Tollemache had thought she saw her way to gaining the piece of information which she had been specially employed to glean. With an air of friendly interest she inquired about the lodgers. What sort of people were they? The diawing-room. floor was the most important, of Tour^e. Now. what kind of tenants, for instance, had Potman for h-r drawing-room? At th:s question something of the woman's first. embarrassment came back, though she was evi- dently making an effort to keep it down. She said quickly that there was a lady who kept on the drawing-room floor as a permanency, though she lived mostly in the country, and came seldom to King-street. She was a good tenant, and paid well, though she was much away, which, of course, saved trouble. "Is that the lady who is a relation of yours?" inquired Tollemache, watching Notman's face. "ew, whatever made you think of that?" -ejaculated the latter. "I must have heard it, when I heard about you having this place," returned the housekeeper, placidly. "Let ma sec, was tho name Marie- Marie Notman, or .something of that sort?" Flushed and flurried, the ex-lady's maid re- turned that the naric was correct, but that, as this cii--tast relative ha-d come up in tbe world, she did not care to ha.ve the relationship talked about. "I thought I romemberedi hearing you say ones trt, you had no -re',Lt'vr--s?" sa.*d To-iLeraache. "Oh, but this is so distant, it would not have occurred to me to speak of it," Notman replied. "3e.s;d-es, it is only by marriage." After this, she had rushed hastily into descrip- tions of her other tenants, and Tollemache wa3 of ■opinion that it would be unwise to force her back to the subject. All this information she had faith- fully conveyed to Gerald Darke. and ho was more puzzled than before. Evelyn Montault's coldness, not on:y to him, but to other men, some of whom, were the most elig-ible in Europe, seemed unnatural to Gerald, as if there must be some strange seorot behind it. She had not- been a cold girl, but sweet, im- pulsive. and warm-hearted. Her beauty had not waned as she grew older. Indeed, she was now the glorious, perfoct flower promised by the bud, whoso loveliest petals had been foided when he knew and coveted her firet. Shf was more admired, more sought after now, than she had been eighteen years ago. There was DO ether woman in England so beautiful, so de- sirsd; and she had refused every one She went out much iii society, because it pleased Sir Campbell that she should do so; but ■sh e appeared 60 indifferent to ail that gave lesser beauties pleasure that she had be-en given the name of the "Snow Queen." If there were some secret reason for this in- difference of hers, Gerald Darke wished to know it. He did not agree with those who believed that the pretty romance of having lost her hand- some young lover when she was eighteen WM •enough to account for the change in her. Girls of eighteen forgot. She had lived the best years of her life since then. Sometimes Gerald had fancied that Evelyn must have met and loved some other man since Roy's death—some man whom it was impossible for her to marry, owing to circumstances which were for him to discover. If there were a. secret of this kind, which Evelyn hid from tho world, and, if Gerald Darke could seize upon it. he would have her in his power, and bo able to make his own terms. Those terms would be a marriage with him as the price of his silemoo. These ideas had hovered vaguely in hrs mind for year's, like pale moths that flit through the night; but since his visit to Sir CampLeid Montault's house In Berkeley Square, after leaving Lady Mellish's ball, he feit that he was on the point of I catching one of theso moths by its fluttering wings and p-oreing its body" with a sharp pin. The thought that he was so near-sucoess, yet so I madtfcniagly remote, tortured him. He was con- stantly trying- to see where the connection came in between certain facts and certain events which hinted atr something strange and hidden. If he couid only link them together, he said to himself, the secret would be his—for ho was almost sure now there was really a secret. There had been Sir Campbell Montault's agita- tion and h's feeble excuses. There had been the torn and crumpled telegram on the hearth in Evelyn's boudoir; there had been the Stoko Men- don address of the sender; the fact that the tele- gram was not for Evelyn herself, but one Mrs. Mane Notma.n, of a houao in King-sti<oet; lost of all, there had been Notman'e evident embarrass- ment at seeing the housekeeper from Wrendie- bury Towers, and her reluctance to answer ques- tions oonoc-rning her supposed relative, who some- times occupied the drawing-room floor. His first plan was to watch Evelyn herself, and *ee whether she went to King-street; though, if she had. it would have proved Little, since Notman had been a valued maid, in whom she still took an interest. But then, Gerald reflected, ho might discover that she met there tl, mvst,-ridus man for whoso sake she had forgotten the long-dead Roy In that case he would be able to follow the mrui and learn all details conccrning him. But several days had passed, and Evelyn appar- ently led the life of other popular beauties. Gerald lunched in Berkeley Square on trie Mon- day after his brief "duty visit" to his uncle at tho Towers, and found her the same coldly gracious, fpiendtdly beautiful woman whom bo had left a year ago. He mentioned hi? call on Saturday night, and trusted that she was quite rec<)veiq from her headache, his eyes upon her as he spoke, but she neither flinched nor changed colour. He contrived to draw the conversation to past years, Wld asked her what had became of that "nice creature, Notman. whom ho remembered so well as her maid. Without so much as the flicker of an eyelash, Evelyn answered that Notman had now set up successfully as a lodging-house keeper. Evidently that fact was no secret from Sir Campbell. Gerald had then inquired whether thc-re, were rooms in tlie house wlii, I would suit him, as he was tired of hotel life, and was waiting for chambers in the Albany, which he could not have until the spring. But Evelyn had only laughed, and replied that poor Notman's house was not half grand enough for him. It was quite middle-class, though good of its kind. And, besides, she believed thehon I rooms were taken permanently by 4ow, of Notraxn's. a defiant sparkle There was, or Gerald inir Evelyn said this and in her glorious in spite of her, evengel uliy ivnio a. lodger in Notman's house. he won id vVeio simple enough, and unless be jJ S'sw-ed upon the truth in some easier fashion, Æ would certain;v adopt this plan and wait de- velopments therefore it was lucky that Seaiorth was out of the way Meanwhile though, he actually hung a.bout in Berkeley Square after dark, on nights when he had no excuse- to be near Evelyn, to spy upon her movements. The only reward he had, however, was to see her go out. looking radraat, and ac- companied by her father. It was after three nights of this discouraging dr-tective work that he c-alic-d to mind one fact which he had temporarily lost sight of in the press of other things; the fact that a groom once in his employ had. come from Stoke Mendon, the plaoe whence the mysterious tslegrara had been cent to "Mrs. Marie Notman." Gerald remembered the connection, between Wade, the discharged groom, and Stoke Mendon, because the man had professed to have been trained at same celebrated racing stables not many miles from, that village, otherwise unknown, to fame. He did not know what ha.d become of Wade now, ibut it could do no harm to write, addr-e-ssing him at Stoke Mendon. Finally he did concoct a letter, but being a cautious man, he desired that the name of Gerald Darke, tho ex-Viceroy of India, ahouid not be mixed in any shadv affair which might end in blackmailing, if tho man wre reYenful or bl..k.ill.g, if ti-?o man were revengeful or He therefore vre?e briefly, in the third person, to sav that if Wade wished to hear .=t?* ?i?o11 his advantage, he might apply to Mr. George Den- ham, Vine-street Post-office. This letter was posted and the next day, Wtien Danke sent a district jajessenger to inquire, thecpo was an answer. Ben Wade wrote from Stoke Mendon, to say that be was staying with his! mother, and "out of a job." He could call on Mr. Benham at any tvimei, provided that he could be sure that it would be made worth his while. With chiii communication still unanswered, Darke visited a famous costumier, and bought all the materials for disguise, which his experi- ence in amateur theatricals in former days had taught him how to assume without help from a professional. He gave his valet two days' holiday, and (keep- ing on his rooms at the hotel) west out, in the .dusk of approaching evening, dressed like a grey- haired schoolmaster. In his hand be carried a ■email bag, and taking a cab he drove to 22a, King-street. If 00 could get nothing there he intended to try for rooms in the neighbourhood; but he was fortunate. The maid who came to the door was "not sure, ar-d would call the mistress." Notman, sum- moned by her servant, looked at the caller with- out a gleam of She bad on l K ?t W l waid, a bed-sitting room at the too of the noyse, but if the gentlemen wore & bacinelpjr perhaps be might pat up with it, Gerald replied that it would suit him very j weii, and gave his name as Mr. George Denham. Ke- engaged the room for a week, paying In ad- vance, as he had no luggage but a handbag. Having arranged this matter, he wrote to Ben Wade, enclosing half a five-pound note, and say- ing that the other half would be presented when it was applied for in person. He made an appointment for Wade to call 33 early as possible next- day; and it was when the latter had arrived, and reached a somewhat in- teresting point in the conversation, that the un- suspecting Notman knocked at the door with a letter just brought by the postman for jur. Denham. Gerald knew instantly that this letter could only be from Tollemache, for expecting to hear news of lmportanle-he had wired her: "Address for next few days, George Denham, 22a, King- street, Baker-street." ) Excuse me for a moment," be said politely to Wade; "I must glance at this before going on anv further." What he read astonished and d-sconoc-rted him; for it was a letter written by Tollemache directly after Grace Aylmer's appearance at Wrendlebury Towers; and the news was made more strange, the whole mysterious affair more complicated, be- cause Wade had just mentioned the name of Ayina?r at Stoke Mendon. Gerald had catechised him as to the gentle- folk at Stoke Mendon, promising to pay well for information which he wanted, he casually ex- plained, for a legal case. Wade's eyes had flashed curiously when Gerald had shewn sudden interest in the description of the beaut-ful, unknown lady who occasionally visited at the vicarage at Stoke Mendon; and Gerald, noting the flash, had instantly veiled his emotion. He gave Wade not only the missing half of the bank-note, but a couple of sovereigns as well, which he called a retaining fee; and Wade wil- lingly agreed to remain at Stoke Mendon for the present. He was unobtrusively to watch the vicarage, and when the lady arrived he was to telegraph to Mr. Denham at Vine-street Post Office. hen Ben Wade had gone, and Gerald was alone, he read the letter from Tollemache care- fully for the second time. She. was right, he said to himself, it would be getter to go to the Towers, a.nd judge for himself of this Miss Aylmer's Like- ness to the dead Royal Atherton, and the danger of her presence in Lord Wrendlebury's house. Then, if the woman had not exaggerated, not only must he find cut all about the girl, but- ir. some way she must be got rid of. Grace had net seen such beautiful rooms as those that were given to her at Wrendlebuiry Tcwers. Brcught up as she had been at the simple little country vicarage, to live in such a magnificent house, surrounded by wonderful garcieris and acres upon acres of park, seemed like someth-ng in a dream. Always she had the feeling that she would wake up and find herself .&,t hoir4 again. She would have preferred unpacking for her- aeif, but a maid tapped at the dior, and said that it would now be part of her duty to wait upon Miss Aylmer. Timidly Grace questioned the young woman. Oould she tell her whet-her she was to dine in her own sitting-room, or would she be obliged to go downstairs? "I was to say to ycu, miss," replied the maid, "that his lordship asks you to dne with him and Mr. Seaforth." The girl had read in story-books abbout people who dined from gold plate, but she had never ex- pected to be one of them. Nevertheless, she was rather surprised at herself, to find that she was not in the least overawed at the grandeur of the vast dining-roomi and ttro glittering magnifi- oenoe of the table. After the first moment of surprised admiration, she felt curiously at home, as if, :n some other state of existence, all these splendid surroundings had been happily familiar to her. The girl wished more than ever that she had with her one of the pretty wh.te dn-sses which her father loved to have her wear; a, d she fancied that Lord Wrendlebury's half-blind eyes peered from under their heavy brows dis- approv.ngly at her high, dark frock. After dinner, he asked if she were too tired to play far him; and when she answered that she was not tired at all, he proposed to Seaforth that they should follow M;ss Aylmer at once to the music-room, where he had ordered lights and fire At ten o'clock she was thanked with real gratitude, and told that she must now go to rest; she would never be required later. Grace supposed that this meant that Lord Wrendk:bury was weary, and would himself re- tire to h 9 own rooms, but he went no ar,, h ierr than the study, leaning on Seaforth's arm. Once there, the secretary was asked to touch the bsll and then was practically dismissed. As he bade the ex-Premier Rood-night, a footma,n an«wen?d the bell and Seaforth heard Lord Wrendlebury give orders for the housekeeper to be sent to him. -n Tollemache came gladly, hoping that Lord Wrendlebury would now let drop something of interest concerning the mysterious g rl for whom the habits of years were being upset. "Have you seen the young musician, Miss Aylmer? was the first question, asked abruptly. when she had presented herself; and a gleam of satisfaction at this opening shot from Tolle- mache's black eyes. Yes. your lordship," she answered. "I knocked at M S3 Ayimer's dcor, to inquire, just before she went down to dinner, whether she had everything in her now rooms that she could wish for, as it was your order that she should be made comfortable in every way." Ah: ejaculated Lord Wrendlebury. "I sent for you. ToUema?be, to give you a somewhat curr. !ou9 commiMion. My eyes do not serve me well of late, as you know; but I am not. blind yet, and I can see that Miss Aylmer did not wear a dinnior-dress suitable to a young girl of h:-r age. I dislike dark colours. I wish every- th:ng- to be I-ght and bright about me." "The thing I have been thinking of I cannot manage myself, but I want it done, and I want it done well. It is my wish that Miss Aylmer should be provided with such a wardrobe as a young lady should have for a country house. You have seen her; you have a quick eye, and can judge her figure well enough to go to some good place in London and order half a dczen frocks for her, such as can be bought ready made, and altered to fit if necessary. "Let several be white, or of light colour, and four or five must be evening dresses, with every- thing nooeseary to match. Go up to town by a morning train, get these things as best vou can, sparing no expense, buv a handsome travelling box to put them in. bring all back with you in the afternoon, and have the box with Miss Ayl- mer'a na.me and the initial 'G' painted upon it, taken to her bedroom. "There it must stand when she goes up. after an hour of music with me at tea-time the key in the lock and everything ready, so that she may choose out a dress for dinner. Nothing must be said to her. I want her to have a surprise; and she is not to be told to whom she owes it." "Very good, your lordship," said Tollemache, with outwac-d calmness. "Here is a cheque written out by Mr. Seaforth, and signed by me, for a hundred and fifty pounds," said Lord Wrendlebury. "I daresay the things will cost that, and I had not as much ready morpey in the house this evening. Now, that is all. Please gend me my man." Tollemache's lips became a thin line as &he murmured a submissive answer, and, taking the cheque, moved softly from the room. One who had loved or really pitied Lord Wren- dlebury, wculd have seen something strangely pathetic in the lonely old man's thought for le young girl who had won him through prof J ?' ness to his dead son. But the pa.? ? situation was lost upon Toi?mac? '"? soon?ted danger to all her cherish? ???. Persona l, she had no If r- -raId P?ke, despite the fact that the ova Q.:t ..2.n ? tIle:r veins; but fact that the. sa.man ;;uoe5s for her, and always 8UCce8 for hIm n: ..a'd begun to make common had, -re-y t'  not want money for herself. All her ?.?ition was for Hugh Sea?orth, to whom she was—only the housekeeper at Wrendlebury Towers. To her he was everything; but her love brought little peace or sweetness into her troubled Inc. i* or his sake she acknowledged fiercely to her own heart there was eothing- she would not do. S'he had sinned for him already, bayond t-rcd s pardon, she believed, and so had become hard and callous to all that did not concern Hugh. Sometimes sh e thought that, to save him from poverty or sorrow, she would commit even more heinous crimes. "After all, Gerald Darke wa* right," she said to herself, as she left Lord Wrendkgury's study. "The old man is in his dotage. He thinks now th-at he is interested in the girl because she is like his son but for all her innocent ways and her sweet voice, and her childish face, there can be no doubt that she is an adventuress. By thia time she must have seen her power over the foolish old man; she will use it to the full, and presently she will have only to lift her fingier to become the second Lady Wrendlebury. "ThQn some mad will may be drawn up at once, and good-bye for ever to Gerald Darke's chances. Inheriting the estates that go with "the title, without his lordship's private fortune, would do him almost more harm than goad, and he would certainly not be able to "keep hiss promise to me. That means that Hugh would have nothing. I will not bear it! There must be some way out!" She dare not call on "Mr. George Denham," living at 22a, King-street, lest Notman, already anxious, should' suspect a plot of some sort, but she sent a note by messenger 60 that address, which arrived not long after her first letter, posted at Wrendlebury late in the afternoon of the day before. This second comnmnicatiom sug- gested Gerald's coming to meet her at a restaur- ant in e Strand, where it would be safe to have a talk. He answered the note in person, and Tollemache was able to put him in possession of all the new deve lopments. "I hard a presentiment that this foolish adver- tisement of my uncle'-s would breed mischief," he said. "But who oot&d have guessed that it would be fulfilled so SOOL 1 Soplething ought to be done to stop the misciiief from growing, or it will presently be too late." "Something must be done;" echoed the woman. "You have thought-what it should be?" He wished her to be the one t& make suggestions; then she would be more thanever in his power, in oaae of trouble. "We might begin by trying-" Tollemache bent forward and lowered her voioe- No one was near, but for such a suggestion as here a whisper would be safest, in a desert. (To be continued.)

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