Cheshire Observer

[PUBLISHED BY SPECIAL A="r.EMENT.] A SEALED BOOK. BY I ALICE LIVINGSTONE, Author of "The Silence of Maurice Armitage," "A Man's Angel," etc. CHAPTER XVI. HER WITS FOR A WEAPON. It was a surprise to find the gate not only un- locked, but standing ajar. Gerald was so certain that a mystery was concealed in the vicarage—a mystery which would set all London agog if it were but suspected-that he wondered more pre- cautions were not taken. He walked up the path, and glanced at his surroundings curiously. Gerald knocked at the front door. He had but a moment to wait, before an elderly woman ap- peared. She wore the dark dress, the spotless white apron and cap of a servant, but she had a fine, intelligent face, and it struck Gerald instantly that she was of a class superior to her position. She gazed at him questioningly, and he spoke with quick decision. ''I am a London doctor," he said. and have come down to see Mr. Avlmer." So saying, he kept a keen eye on the woman. If she made objections to admitting him, he would insist, saying that he had been asked to pay this visit by one of the vicar's parishioners, and had come at great personal inconvenience, there- fore he must insist upon seeing some member of the family. But instead of objecting, the elderly servant caught at his words with delight. Oh. air. I am glad indeed that you have come,' she exclaimed, Mrs. Aylmer has been expecting you every minute; I will tell her at once that you are here, if you will walk into the drawmg- room." Gerald did so, well pleased with the success of his inspiration, though there was an element of danger in the situation suggested by the woman's words. Mre. Aylmer was expecting a London doctor at any moment. Evidently she had sent for one, and his arrival was now due. If the real doctor should happen to appear in the midst of his own conversation with Mrs. Aylmer, the position would be delicate in the extreme, and it would need all Gerald Darke finesse to escape from it with his identih unsllBDectcd. The servant shut the door of the drawing-room, and he was free to occupy the time of waiting as he chose. He did not sit down, but wandered about the room examining everything with ex- treme curiosity. The day was seasonably cold, but there was no fire in the grate. He took this to indicate poverty. Still, it was a pleasant room. and shewed the cultivated taste of a woman in its simple but charming decoration. On the mantel were deveral photographs, in silver and olive-wood frames. Gerald applied himself to an eager in- spection. The first he took up brought back some vague memory, which he could not fix. It represented an old man, in clerical dress—an old man with a splendid head, a mouth sweet, yet singularly firm, and the eyes of a saint. "By Jove!" Gerald said to himself after a doubtful moment, isn't this the man who per- suaded Roy that his vocation was the Church ? I can't recall his name at the moment, but he was a celebrity at Oxford. Surely it is the same face I saw in Roy's room once—only older by many years. Other faces on the mantel were strange to him but a photograph, unframed. had fallen behind another, and was lying face downward. Gerald picked it up, and in spite of his habitual caution. gave a cry of astonishment. The picture had been taken by an amateur, and was roughly mounted on cardboard, without the name of the photograuher. A man and a girl stood together on the vicarage porch by which Gerald Darke had entered a few minutes ago. The man, who was dre, a as a clergyman, had his hand on the girl's shoulder. As to her identity there was no doubt. The lovely smile, the halo of sunnv hair, the large sweet eyes, were those of Grace Aylmer, the young "resident musician" at Wrendlebury Towers. But the man It was at sight of his face, so like the girl's, and still more like another face unseen for many years-, that Gerald exclaimed. "Roy Atherton!" he gasped. At the same instant the door opened. Gerald heard the sound, and turned quickly; but he was I too late. He saw a hand on the door-a woman's hand white and beautiful, with a thick, plain gold ring on the wedding finger. Then before he could ta-ke two steps across the floor, it was gone, and the door closed sharply. Gerald strode to it and flung it wide open, but no one was to be seen in the hail. Opposite was another door. He sprang to it across the passage, to find himself on the threshold of a study, plainly furnished, its walls lin-cd with many books. No one was there. Gerald Darke's brain buzzed with the two strange discoveries he had made, but the sight of the photograph had overwhelmed him. He anathematised himself for clumsiness in exclaim- ing his surprise aloud. If he had been silent, in another instant the owner of that white hand would have pushed the door open and entered— whoever she was, they two would have been face to face. Instead she had heard him gasp out Roy's name; she had seen him at the mantelpiece, with the photograph in his hand: and though he stood with his back to the door, face and figure were reflected in the quaint, convex mirror over the mantel No doubt she had seen him holding the photograph, and had been able to reoogniæ which one had aroused his emotion. Leaving bus gold matchbox on the study table, he went back to the drawing-room, and waited for a few moment. hoping that someone would i come. But he was left alone; and finally, deter- mined not to be thwarted again on the threshold of success, he rang the belL. After a short delay, the woman who had admitted him to the honrfe I appeared. My time is very limited," he said. Have you let Mrs. Aylmer know that the doctor from London is here?" Yes, sir; she will come as soon as possible," returned the servant. She spoke quietly, yet Gerald detected a difference in her manner. It was impossible, he thought, that she or anyone else in this house could guess his identity; but there was suspicion in her eyes. The ladv of the white hand which had appeared and vanished had evidently hurried to thi., woman and told her that the visitor was not to be trusted. Probably they already suspected that he was not the doctor from London. He wished that he knew upon what plan of action they had decided, for there was a look of some settled resolve in the old ser- vant's eyes. I thought that Mrs. Ayimer was coming in a moment ago." he said. "The door opened but no one was there, and I stepped out into the hall and into a room opposite in search of her. as I am in haste to do what I came to do and get back to town." "I will tell my mistress, sir." replied the woman, with a stolid air, particularly irritating to Gerald. There was nothing for it but to allow her to go. Five minutes passed, which he profited by in secreting the photograph. He had much food for thought, but he could think afterwards; and now each minute which passed was his enemy. "I see her game," he said to himself at last. She can't know who I am, but she thinks I am a spy who has got into the house under false pre- tenoes. She does not want to try and turn me out, as that might be dangerous; but she hopes that at any moment the real doctor may come, in which case I would be proved a fraud. She would have a man to help her, and an excuse for getting rid of me." This reasoning brought Gerald Darke to his feet. The plan which he suspected was a clever one, and might. easily proceed unless he acted at once. He would not. wait to fall into the trap. III see her face and 'his' at any cost," he re- solved, and went once more into the hall. At the back, where the passage widened into a hall, was the stairway. Boldly he ran up, two steps at a time. Near the top was a door, outside which stood a small table with several bottles and glasses upon it. No need to hesitate now. That table, with its contents, betrayed the room of the invalid. Gerald opened the door, found himself in a kind of ante-chamber, and was on the point of going on into the lighted room beyond—where a quick glance shewed him the footboard of a bed—when a woman came swiftly out, shut the door between, and stood before it. There was a twilight in the ante-room, but there was light enough to see that the woman was tall and slender, with fair hair parted and looped over the ears. What is your business here?" she asked with a strong French accent, in a voice which trembled. "I am the doctor from London," Gerald an- swered, coming closer as he spoke, and almost peering into the woman's face, which was turned away from such light as the one ivy-draped window gave at this sunset hour. The brows were as blonde as the hair, the eyes looked out from behind glasses, the dress was a plain, black one, such as Evelyn Montault would never wear; yet, despite all these differences, despite the curtain of wintry twilight which closed round her. this woman who stood barring Justin Aylmer's door was like Evelyn Montault, might be Evelyn Montault wearing a disguise. What is your name?" inquired the voice with the French accent. "I am Dr. Horace Ellison," replied Gerald, hastily adopting the name of a Harley Street practitioner well known in London. It was not Dr. Ellison for whom we sent." I did not tell your servant who sent for me," Gerald said. "As a matter of fact, it is one of Mr. Aylmer's rich parishioners who pays my fee, and does not wish his name mentioned. I have been engaged to come here, and I must insist on seeing the patient." You &Il not see him," said the fair-foamed woman. "You are not the doctor we want. We will have nothing to do with you." Madame, I must ask that you let me pass," exclaimed Gerald, carefully disguising his own voioe. "I have my duty to do, and I must do it. It is evident that you understand nothing of the etiquette of my profession, or you would not seek to hinder me." "I am Mr. Aylmer's wife." said the woman, and I have the right to protect him from an impostor." You, who, to judge from your accent, are a Frenchwoman, tell me that you are the wife of this English clergyman? I find that difficult to believe, madam. You have some object in deceiving me." And I find it difficult to believe that you are a doctor." If I were not, why should I be here?" You know best. I only know that you shall not see my husband." Have you then some secret to conceal in this house, that you are afraid to have him seen?" "I am not afraid; but I am determined." You had better change your mind. Do you know, madam, that, in spite of some changes in your appearance, you are strangely like a lady prominent in London society? Such a resem- blance, if talked about, might create gossip, which would be unpleasant for that lady and for I you. I advise you not to be too obstinate, for 1 both our sakes." You are insolent! Leave the room, or I willi call for help!" There is no one to help you exwpt that old woman downstairs. Now I am gong into that room. Stand out of the way, if you don't wish me to treat you roughly!" The woman's answer was to stretch out her arms across the closed door. Gerald sprang at her, bent on tearing away what he believed to be a disguise, and then penetrating into the room where lay the man of the photograph. Both, it seemed, were in his power. Neither would guess the identity of their enemy, and Gerald Darke could hint afterwards to Evelyn Montault of his secret knowledge. His hand was on the woman's slender wrist, in its tight black sleeve, when the door leading in from the corridor was flung violently open. Oh. madam, thank Heaven! thcpolice have come at last!" gasped the old servmt as she entered. Through the deepening dusk thd,.Ieyes behind the glasses looked 'him in the face, I sent my servant for the police," she said, in a voioe that shook slightly. "she has told them that we had reason to believe that the man who wounded my husband was lurking near the house. One cry from either of us will call two policemen to this room. You wilr-be arrested. Whether or not you are ready to do this, you yourself can judge. If you will go away quietly, however, my servant will see that you pass out of the house without being seen. Now, choose!" A flame of savage anger ran through Gerald Darke's veins. He was not ready yet to have his identity known. If he were arrested, his disguise would be discovered You will regret this treatment of a London doctor, madam." he said. But you give me no choice. Since I am not to see the patient I will leave your house." Ten minutes later Darke was on his way to the railway station. In the train, alone in a first-class compartment. Gerald took the photograph of the vicar and the girl from his pocket. How like the faces were and what a strange resemblance the man's had to the dead Roy Atherton! Could it be possible, Gerald asked himself, that after all Roy had not died? The thought struck him like an electric shock. The man who had schemed so long saw the I whole fabric of his plan crumbling, like a beautiful palace undermined by an earthquake. Roy alive; Evelyn Montault secretly his wife; the girl Graoe, their child, ingratiating herself with Lord Wrendlebury's fortune. Gerald D.rk. all Inst: EnOn, title, the woman he loved—the wonderful woman wK'' had fought him to-day, armed only with hei £ frits. For a few moments of agony J; covered his face with his hands, thinking intently. Then he said aloud: If it's true, all three shall pay me-- and pay in different ways. The girl shall be my I' weapon!" (To be continued.)

DESTROYERS IN COLLISION.-Escorted by the Scout patrol, the destroyers Blackwater and Leopard arrived at Devenport on Saturday night from Portland, both partially disabled. The de- stroyer flotilla, under Rear-Admiral Winsloe, had been carrying out night exercises in the Channel, and the Blackwater and* Wolf were taking i;p their moorings in Portland Harbour when they collided. The Wolf had several plates started, while the Blackwater had her steering gear damaged. The damage to both vessels was tem- porarily repaired, but as it was considered unsafe for the, Blackwater to take part in the night manoeuvres which have been arranged for the flotilla to-night, it was decided to send her back to Devenport. The vessel can only use a few degrees of helm. The Leopard was carrying out target practice in the Channel, when the rod of the starboard engine air-pump broke. The damage could have been repaired on board if the vessel had carried the spare parts, but as it was dangerous to use the engine she was sent back dangerous to us,- thte he en fatrol and B l ackwater, to Devenport with the Patrol and Blackwater, accomplishing the journey with her port engine. The best place in Chester for Fancy Boxes, filled with Chocolate, is R. Davies and Co., 26, Bridge- street, Chester.

[ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.] FASHION AND THINGS FEMININE. By MISS IDA MELLER. I A FRENCH CORSELET DRESS. I Fashion-makers remain faithful to the straight fronted effect, though the dip-in waist is suggested now and then in association with tight-fitting tailor-maid coats. The Empire coat, however, now so fashionable, favours the straight front, which allies itself graciously to corselet skirts, the long, simple lines of which are most becoming to the figure. I have lately seen three or four French dresses made en corselet, and the beauty and simplicity of their cut distinguished them from a crowd of more elaborate modes. One of the frooks represents a corselet skirt of rose-pink cloth and a b-oust-, of white muslin and lace. The skirt is held up with cloth braces and is beautifully (teamed, the trimming, such as it jis, being coil- fined to the lower part, where a fold of cloth and a few little tabs of rose-coloured velvet studded with cloth buttons relieve the otherwise simple character of the robe. Very pretty is the blouse, with its short, rucked sleeves of muslin and lace and straps of lace insertion frilled with narrow Valenciennes laoe. Three straps in all trim the front of the blouse, one running down the centre and the others resolving themselves into backgrounds for the cloth braces, the little frills of lace asserting themselves on either side of the cloth. There is a smart, pretty dress for afternoon "At Homes" or friendly visits. Ac- companied by a deep cape of rose-pink cloth, trimmed with strappings it would be a charming toilette for concerts and matinees. I AN EVENING CLOAK. Those who cater for the world of dress have naturally anticipated the need for something pretty and warm in the way of evening wraps for Christmas and New Year parties, and have prepared cloaks and coats of cloth in all the most fashionable evening shades, together with cash- mere capes, bordered with white fur and lined with quilted silk that are the most becoming things for girls. Cloth is the material employed more than any other for coats and wraps both for day and evening wear, and this, when of a thick quality, is unlined and the edges are left raw. The cloth evening cloak I have in mind is raw-edged and has rounded corners, triple,raw- edged i capes, and a collar of embroidered cloth overlaid with velvet, the small velvet collar being I a fashionable feature of the new evening mantles. The original of the cloth illustrated is in biscuit- coloured cloth, with tarnished gold and silver embroidery on the collar and above it a facing of orchid-mauve volvet, the ornaments down the front consisting of mauve velvet buttons with mauve tassels. The new rose-pink is a colour used a good deal in the production of evening mantles of cloth and silk, several of these, recently made, beng planned on Empire line?. A three-quarter Empire coat of rose-pink glace silk is run at the waist on three or four thick cord,, and the corded effect is repeated on the sleeves; while a simple, full coat of rose-coloured cloth is provided with a collar of pale brown fur and haa a few folds of its own material towards the hem and again on the sleeves, which are very full. A HANDSOME VELVET COAT. A velvet coat and cloth skirt constitute the; amart costume for out-of-doors, unless velvet is replaced by fur. Very pretty are the mole-brown j costumes with cloth skirts, short velvet coat., and stoles and muffs of moleskin. A velvet coat, if well out, always looks smart and dressy, and more than repays in beauty for the original out- lay. One of the latest editions of the velvet coat is a handsome French model with a deep basque, united to the bodice of the coat at the back and parting from it in front to shew a vision of a lace blouse beneath. The basque could be cut in one with the bodice at the back, or be united to it by means of a waistband of velvet. this being stitched to the bodice as well as to the basque. Again, it would .1>c easy to arrange for the basque to be entirely separate and detachable, so that the coat could be worn short or long. The triple spade- front is an attractive feature of the design, and the buttons might be of cloth to match the skirt, of velvet or of carved leather, like those so much worn on motor-coats. Leaf-brown velvet would be very effectvo for the coat, with buttons of a rather lighter shade. The skirt, of leaf-brown cloth worn with it, should be smartly strapped or finished with folds, about a couple of inches deep and proceeding from the hem midway to the knees, or scarcely so far. The plastron front continues to rank high in fashion's regard, and tailors are making some very smart winter skirts with simulated plastron effects, arrived at by cur- tailing the folds running round the skirt and leaving plain spaces in the centre-front. A serviceable tailor-made skirt of dull green frieze is arranged with an even series of folds from the hem to the knees—which is a very neat, becoming style. WOOLLEN UNDERWEAR. Happily the improvements in woollen under- wear are such as to remove the old-time objection that a woollen material next to the skin chafes and cannot be borne by a very tender skin. The best woollens are fine and exquisitely soft and take up no more room than linen. Stockinette is a comfortable, warm material for cycling knickers, and these are rendered still warmer by detachable linings of flannelette. It is very useful to keep by one a sleeveless bodice of soft flannel, to wear under blouses in place of the usual cache- corset of fine linen. A couple of such under- bodices are advisable, one being high to the neck the other low, the latter adapting itself to the slip- blouse with transparent yoke. Nothing destroys more completely the absolute success of a dainty lace or net yoke than the vision of pearl buttons ,from beneath and woollen un derwear, and such carelessness in dress as to admit of this eyesore is, unfortunately, very often allowed. Both for the sake of warmth and the preservation of a thin material it is a good plan to line a skirt of merveilleux, or some such soft silk, with flannel- ette, which enriches the appearance of the stuff by giving it substantial support. A comfortable, useful thing to have by one for winter wear i? a Spencer of knitted wool for slipping on under coats that are not. very thick. The comfort of such a garment is great. and the Spencer keeps the arms delightfully warm as well as protecting the back and chest. The fashionable woollen petticoat for evening wear is of white embroidered flannel beautified with flounces of washing lace of a silky kind. WHITE HANDS. I A correspondent asks me to repeat a recipe for whitening the hands that I gave in these columns some time ago, but I regret. that I cannot trace it. Perhaps the following hints will serve equally well. The use of a little fine siliceous sand, or powdered pumice-stone, mixed with the toilet soap as it is used, will help to whiten the hands, and the application, at night, of a few drops of almond oil or olive oil, well rubbed in, will make them soft. Sand balls are made by adding to melted soap, or white soft soap, about, half its weight of fine siliceous sand or powdered pumice- stone and a little sweet oil. Almond balls and camphor balls are also splendid for the hands, For the former take 2ozs. of spermaceti; 4ozs. of white wax, and half a pint of oil of almonds. Melt them together in a glazed earthenware pipkin or enamelled iron saucepan, by gentle heat of a "bain Marie" or water-bath, and when the mix- ture has cooled a little, add 1 drachm of essential oil of almonds, and li drachms of expressed oil of mace. Stir the mixture till it begins to cool, then pour it into slightly warmed moulds—egg- cups or ounce gallipots will serve. For camphor balls take 2ozs. each of spermaceti and white wax, z pint of almond or olive oil, and melt them I together by gentle heat; then add loz. of camphor cut small, stir till it is dissolved, and when the mixture cools pour it into moulds or form it into balls. Of course the ingredients in both recipes can be lessened so long as the proportions arc maintained. The addition of sand to soap-balls greatly helpg to clean the skin and thus make the hands white as well as soften them. TURKEY CUTLETS. How to use up tne cold turkey is a question answered in the word "cutlets." Here is a recipe worth following. Chop up the remains of turkey rather coarsely, removing all gristle and skin. Mix with the meat some minced parsley and onion, flavour with a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Melt one ounce of butter, and stir into this a tablespoonful of flour, a gill of milk, and half a gill of cream. Add a well-beaten egg, and put the turkey-meat into a saucepan with the mixture. Blend all together and then turn out the contents of the saucepan on to a dish. When cold, shape the mixture into cutlets and fry them a nice light brown in boiling j fat. Have ready a pyramid of hot mashed pota- toes, or macaroni and tomatoes, and arrange the cutlets on a hot dish round the pyramid. j SAUSAGE MEAT. The following is a recipe that may be useful in 1 many homes at this season. It tells how to pre- pare sausage meat. Take 31b?. of meat, freed j from akin and with fat nearly equal to the lean;. I 6oz. of bread crumbs, two eggs, one dessertspoon- ful of finely chopped ,age, half a saltspoonful of cayenne pepper, and one dessertspoonful of salt. Mix all thoroughly together. ICED ORANGE CAKE. I Take the yolk of one egg and the whole of another egg. beat them well together with 6oz. of castor sugar. Add the juice of two oranges. the grated rind of one. ilb. of flour (beating well all the time), and while beating add a heaped tablespoonful of baking powder. Bake the mix- ture in two sandwich tins, or on two plates, in a nice hot oven. For the icing, take 41b. of icing sugar, the white of one egg and the juice of one orange, beaten well together. Put part of the icing between the two layers of cake, and the remainder on the top.

HOW TO ESCAPE A "BLACKBOXING I DAY." I It has been said that there is a nightmare in every plum in a Xmas pudding. a bilious attack in every mince-pie, liver trouble in the roast turkey and goose, and sick headaches in roast beef and rich pastry. Probably so. if you have not got the habit of a bile bean after dinner." The stomach being an organ of delicate human tissue, and not a "cast-iron arrangement," rebels against the strain of heavy feeding and the irregu- larities of the holiday season. Sick headaches, dizziness, specks before the eyes. coated tongues, bilious attacks, insomnia, palpitation, and vomiting are the penalties of rich and pooi'.alike. The best cure is bile beans, because theJjtive the liver and stomach just that natural assisfiupoe which these organs need to-day, without the griping or purging following doses of old-fashioned remedies. Bile beans are composed of certain valuable herbal ex- tracts, which have the power of doing tired Nature's work. They strengthen the digestive organs, create a healthy appetite, remove all discomfort after feeding, and. moreover, make the rich food we take do ns good instead of harm.

I CHESTER WHIST LEAGUE. I HANDBRIDGE v. ST, MICHAEL'S.-Played at Handbridge. Score :— HANDBRIDGE. ST. MICHAEL'S. H. Hand Thurman Jackson .) 21 J. Hayes J c P. Wansell f J. Buckley ) Q G. Jones .1 91 G. A. Jones f G. Gerrard 120 Rev. F. E. Hicks \01 E. Palin fM A. C. HtlesDanes. J J. Pritchard 119 A. Dutton 1 01 L. Whipp. f w H. Bennett f R. Grice .F. Dutton }21 R. G r i c e ) ? T. Pate f 0 J.Jones J G. Gough "11rt G. A]Jn ??, G. Jonas A.Swift f 74 126 Majority for St. Michael's, 52. ST. MICHAEL'S v. OLD ST. MARY'S INSTITUTE.—Played at St. Michael's Hall. Score:— ST. MICHAEL'S. OLD ST. MARY'S Rev. F. E. Hicks .I  S. Cutherall \01 A. C. Hiles Davies.. ? J. Moulton G.Jones \91 J. UnderhiII. \1Q A Jones H. E. Dempsey J H' Bennett 1m R. H. Snelson. I16 Nrajor Chase E. Taylor J. Jones i91 W. Hornby .1.. 7 F. Dutton H. V. Hudson j Thurman J 121 H. V. Hudson Thurman Jacksun i 20 A. Killick. ) 21 W. F. Wansell A. E. Bayliss .f A. Swift .? J. Sconce .)  G. Allen ? ? T. E. Hughes f 9Q 105 92 Maiority for St. Michael's, 13. OLD ST. MARY'S INSTITUTE v. FIRE BRIGADE.—Played at Old St. Mary's Institute. Score:— OLD ST. MARY'S. FIRE BRIGADE. S. Catherall 1 91 S. J ones 9ft J. Moulton f T. DentIth J W. Hornby 1 ? J. Harrison  H. V. Hudson. J. Le?therb?rrow J J. Sconce \91 J. C..b. 13 T. E. Hughes 12' T. H u.t. R. H. Snelson \91 R. Evans /\114/4 E. Taylor ? W. Staton  A. E. Bayliss E. Jones Î 18 JET. Smaile's T. Smathers f A. Jones \91 E. Williams J. Jones J? J. Davies 126 91 Majority for Old St. Mary's, 35. ST. BARNABAS v. CAMPBELL MEMORIAL HALL.—Played at St. Barnabas. Score :— ST. BARNABAS. CAMPBELL. J.E. Barton I™. R. Page.. \91 W. Whetnall fM J. Rast)o ,m .121 W. Lythgoe 1 o G. Johns.  J. Savage 3 T. Hopwood. J T. P. Tushingham \91 W. F. Cooper  W. Ellis 121 W. Mercer J" G. Lee 121 P. Lythgoe \J1144 G. Lee .i 121 G. Jones E. F. Howell G. Jones W. O. France ) B. J. Alblas ) 21 R. Mason t H. Thomason f S. G. Mason K T. Huxley \91 J. Dutton J W, Bellamy.J 87 112 Majority for Campbell 25. ST. WERBURGH'S v. FIRE BRIGADE.— Played at St. Werburgh's. Score: ST. WERBURGH'S. FIRE BRIGADE. Jas. Beatty. \91 ,J. Hunt.  H. Lloyd J. Harrison I T. Feeney. llO Edw. Evans J" J. Coombs J J. Clunan )21 R. Evans ?« J. Butler f W. Staton. f T. DoIan ?i J. Davies 1 Jno.Beatty I E. Williams I T. Ludden. 191 E.Jones  D. Ludden J J. Smathera.J? J. Murphy ?? J. C. NobIet. ) J. P. Gallagher J ? A. Elson f 126 69 Majority for St. Werburgh's, 57. CHESTER WHIST LEAGUE. RESULTS UP TO DATE. Played. Won. L't. D'n. For. Asst. Pts. St. Werburgh's 8. 6. 2. 0. 865. 714.12 Campbell Mem. Hall 7 5. 2., 0. 797. 669..10, St. Francis's 6. 5. 1. 0. 662. 580,10 St. Michael's 7. 4. 3. 0 765. 650. 8 Old St. Mary's C.C. 7. 4. 3. 0. 700. 728. 8 St. Barnabas's 7. 3. 4. 0. 709. 706. 6 Old St. Mary's 1. 3. 4.. 0. 706. 717. 6 Handbrldge. 8. 2. 6. 0. 716. 885. 4 Ches. Fire Brigade. 9. 1 8. 0 763.1034. 2

? Ccc?f ?/br??) ??c C*? //?rcn?P'??? !? Cheapest, Purest* A PILOT TO HEALTH. A beverage that imparts mental and bodily vigour, and is comparatively easy of digestion, may be described as a pilot to health." Such a beverage is Cadbury's cocoa. It is staying and bracing," and as it stands by you longer than any other beverage-it is a good emergency meal." Cadbury's cocoa contains in a remarkable degree those natural elements of sustenance which give the system endurance and hardihood, and impart good health and bodily vigour. Cocoa is strongest when pure. Cadbury's is the Standard of highest purity," vide the Lancet. Cadbury's cocoa is therefore strongest. It makes the most dainty and digestible beverage, and is the nicest cocoa,"

T. G. BURKELL'S FOR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS SEE WINDOWS. SEE WINDOWS. T. G. BURRELL, 55, FOREGATE STREET, CHESTER.  PIANOSO PIANOLAS 4 E. DALE, 51, BRIDGE STREET ROW. 51. SOLE AGENT FOR STEINWAY, BLUTHNER, CHAPPELL, WALDEMAR, GORS & KALLMANN. ALSO FOR THE PIANOLA, AERIOLA. AGENIP FOR BROADWOOD. BRINSMEAD, COLLARD. &C. DALE'S SHERATON MODEL. A Splendid New Model for Season. Rosewood or Walnut, choice design, ivory keys, double sconces, brass pin plate, full trichord, check action. Warranted 15 years. £25 OR 17/6 MONTHLY. SEASON 1905. EDWIN LLOYD, CENTRAL SUPPLY STORES, 13, BRIDGE STREET, CHESTER. Is now receiving DAILY SUPPLIES of the CELEBRATED SCOTCH HADDOCK, Aberdeen Haddock, Loch Fyne Kippers, Ham Cured Herrings, PALETHORPE'S SAUSAGE. FRESH CREAM. COUNTRY BUTTER AND EGGS. THE FINFSTI SHOW OF FRUIT IN CHESTER. ALL ORDERS THANKFULLY RECEIVED, PERSONALLY SUPERINTENDED, AND DELIVERED PROMPT. TELEPHONE 251. WHITBREAD'S CELEBRATED LONDON STOUT 2/6 per doz. large bottles EXTRA STOUT 3/- ditto (RECOMMENDED FOB INVALIDS). INDIA PALE ALE 2/6 ditto SPECIAL ALE 3/- ditto A G E N T:- W. J. CHESTER, "CROSS FOXES." BOUGHTON" CHESTER. Orders by Post will receive Prompt Attention. Van Deliveries Daily in Chester and District. SUPPLIED IN ANY QUANTITY FROM ONE DOZEN UPWARDS. TELEPHONE 0621. THE NESTON & PARKGATE HYGIENIC LAUNDRY & CLEANING JjL COMPANY. LIMITED. LACNDBYMEN, DYERS, AND FRENCH ClEANEBS. SHIRTS AND COLLARS A SPECIALITY. Special Prices quoted for Hotels, Restaurants, and Institutions. All classes of DYEING & FRENCH CLEANING done on the most improved principles. GENTS & LADIES' CLOTHES A SPECIALITY. Our Vans Collect and Deliver Free in Birkenhead and District, West Kirby and Hoylake, Hooton and Bromborough, Little Sutton. & Chester & District. PRICE LISTS SENT ON APPLICATION. WORKS: NESTON, CHESHIRE. RECEIVING OFFICE Tneatre Buildings, City Road, Chester. TELEPHONE No. 141. EDGAR DUTTON & SONS, Complete Funeral Furnishers AND CARRIAGE PROPRIETORS, 30, Frodsham-street, Chester. E. D. & SONS, having the Largest Stock of Belgian Horses, Superior Glass and Closed Hearses, Private Broughams and Coaches are prepared to Supply Funerals cheaper than any jther shop in the City. E. D. & SONS take the ENTIRE MANAGE- MENT OF FUNERALS in Town or Country with due regard to economy and taste. Infant's Funeral, with a Pair Horse Coach, Coffin and Grave, from 24s. To the Poor or Benevolent, a good Coffin, Schillibeer and Grave complete, 38a. SoLi: AGENTS FOB PATENT METALLIC COFFINS. (The trade supplied). Superior WEDDING CARRIAGES for hire, kept only for Weddings, at moderate charges. PRIVATS ADDRICSSSS: 12, UNION WALK, adjoining Stables; and WELLFIELD HOUSE, NEWTON, EADE'S PILLS. I EADE'S TRILLS. All who suffer from Gout or fj t_ Rheumatism should imme EADE'S 1 HILLS, diately have recourse to E ADES = PiLLs. Hundreds of EADE'S "M1ILLS. Testimonials have been re- cei ved from &U sorts and EADE'S UILLS. conditions of men testifying fJ L to the wonderful power these Pills have in giving relief in the very worst cases. These Pills are purely vegetable and perfectly safe in their action. INSTANTLY RELIEVE AND RAPIDLY CURB THE WORST FORM OF GOCT, RHEUMATISM, RHEOVATIO GoUT, PAINS IN THE HEAD, FACE, AND LIMBS, And have the largest recommendation ever given any patent medicine of its class. £'1 OUT SHE DISCARDED HER If CRUTCHES I ) w|-» TlfTtVTUT'MVf AA TiiTOSJM L 59, Mount-street, North wood, ?,- r ? El"ley. Staffs, Jan. 6, 1905. J-U Dear Sir,—I feel it my duty d OUT to send my best thanks to yon, ??r as your Pills h=.,x t w FAJBLA?SM. wonderful cure. My wife suf. fored from Rheumatism for a /-NJ r\UT long time, and could get no g?? ??(?TjTT A. relief. She was a patient at the RTT., mau North Staffordshire Innrmary, JHSE&UMA. TISM. but got worse and could not walk without crutches. I heard GOUT. about your Pills from a friend, and bought a email bottle, with ■ B Upu&ptUtMm AA rlTlTS<4\af l. ezeehe"t results. After t?e second dose she discarded her ?-? crutches, and was completely ?_ < OM. cured in a wask. After spend. ing pounds your Pills cured her 9U?MAMBL at a coat of ?a. 3d. I ahau t?. recommemd your Pills to every. -1 nTTm one I know, and you can make G OUT. the best use of this as a VJI testimonial if it plesa" you to X> HEUMATISM. do so.-Youw truly. Bk, GEORGE WRIGHT. EAI)L?"g GOUT & RHEUMATIC PILLS Are Sold by all Chemists, is Bottles, lilt and 2/9; or sent pœO free for Postai Order by the Pro- prietor, GEOBGE EADE, 232. Goawell-road, E.C. Ask for and be sore you obtain EwE's Goer AND RHSCXATIO PILLS. EADE'S PILLS. I XMAS PRESENTS. C. D. JONES Has a Choice & well-selected Stock suitable for Christmas and New Year's Gifts. SEE OUR RANGE OF CHILDREN'S FROCKS, PINAFORES, OVERALLS, SILK SMOCKS, MILLINEKY & COSTUMES LADIES' UMBRELLAS, GLOVES, FURS, FANCY HANDKERCHIEFS, AND MUSLIN APRONS IN GREAT VARIETY. A SMART ASSORTMENT OF LADIES' FANCY LACE CAPS. TRY OUR ABSOLUTELY Unbreakable Corset, 3/11 per pair. THE BABY LINEN STORES, 53, FOREGATE STREET. CHESTER. ELECTRIC LIGHTING. 1 J ESTIMATES FREE. REPAIRS PROMPTLY ATTENDED TO. All makes of LAMPS kept in stock, including "Sunbeam," "Ediswan," "Nernst," &c., &c. NOTE ADDRESS- F. J. JONES & SON. 134, FOREGATE ST., CHESTER. Tel. 180, 180A HAIR COMBINGS MAm: UP, 2/- PER oz. COVERLETTE I TAILS OF 1 FROM HAIR FRAMES, PURE V ?, From 8/6 each. HAIR, 1 5/6 T. SEALES BROWN, 3. LEECE-ST. (CAB STATION). LIVERPOOL. JOSEPH ORME, SLATER AND PLASTERER, GENERAL PROPERTY REPAIRER, CANAL STREET, CHESTER. (RESIDENCE: 2, KING STREET.) All Orders punctually attended to. Estimates given. CANADA-FREE GRANTS OF LAND. The ALLAN LINE being under contract with the Government of Canada for conveyance of mails, anyone writing to the Company at 19, James- street, Liverpool, or 103, Leadenb all-street, London, will obtain revised handbook, maps, and latest general information free of cost. TEL. 84 & 84A. Proprietor: G. BARNES. pITY MEWS & CARRIAGE WORKS. t The above Firm are now in a position to cater for FUNERALS throughout in the most modem style, having aug- mented their stock with Superior Rubber-tyred Funeral Cars, Rubber-tyred Broughams, and Black Belgian Horses also WEDDING CARRIAGES, Brakes, 'Buses, Char-a-Bancs, Landaus, Dog- carta, &c. COACH BUILDING in all its branches. MOTOR REPAIRS neatly and promptly axecuted. NOTE THE ADDRESS CITY ROAD, CHESTER. RATS. RATS. RATS. MR. G. H. CARLETON, Chemist. Dunluce Street. Larne, reports: w This morning a customer of mine got the full of a =ad bag of dead rats, after using ODINE. Rat Poison. RATS LIKE IT, EAT IT, & DIE. PRICE—6d., Is., 2s., 3s., 5ø.; Pott 2d. JùauT. Chemist, Perth. ÙJrr8 & Hopley, Chemists, Chester,

WHAT "THE WORLD" SAYS I In Parliamentary circles the most dangerous rocks ahead of the new Ministry are considered to be the certain hostility of Sir Charles Dilke and the appointment to the Cabinet of Mr. Burns. It is regarded as certain by one who has been for some years behind the scones in the House of Commons that a formidable Radical "cave" will have been formed before the first session of the new Parliament has lasted a month, supposing that the result of the election justifies Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman in meetmg the new House of Commons. There are already signs that the Labour party will interfere seriously with Ministerial candidates in many constituencies. Lord and Lady Dudley had a very cordial "send-off" from Dublin on Wednesday, when they took their official leave of Ireland. At noon a number of farewell addresses were presented to I their Excellencies in the Privy Council Chamber at Dublin Castle, two special deputations—from the Royal Irish Industries Association, and the Lady Dudley District Nursing Association, both composed ohiefly of ladies—presenting addresses to the Vicereine, who replied on her own behalf. A farewell reception was afterwards held by their Excellencies in the Throne Room, which was very largely attended. Lord Dudley was wearing the star of the Order of St. Patrick and the Royal Victorian Order; Lady Dudley looked very charm- ing in a gown of white cloth, with large white beaver hat and white furs.

I VICTIM OF COINCIDENCE. I ROGUE TRAPPED AT BIRKENHEAD. I After a fortnight of ingenious fraud, George Evans, a young man, evidently in delicate health, became the victim of a coincidence and fell into the hands of the police. He was brought before the Birkenhead magistrates on Monday morning, and was sent back to twelve months' imprison- ment. The evidence shewed how easy it is to deceive those who are kindly disposed. Evens fleeced a number of the best-known residents of Birken- head with a plaus.ble manner and a. cash-book with this inscription on the oover:St. James's Sunday School.-We are trying to make this Sun- day school more attractive, and to put it on a firmer financial basis. For this purpose wo are holding a public tea and prize distribution on Wednesday, January 5, 1906. We give all cur friends a cordial welcome to attend. As the expense of the hare been vefry great, the secretary, Mr. John E. Wilson (the bearer}, will be pleased to receive and acknowledge any con- tributions friends feel disposed to make.—(Signed) John R. Guy, Vioar." With bhlis document, Evans called upon Mr. Arthur St. George, of 6, Devonshire-place, and asked him to preside at the prize distribution. Mr. St. George declined on the ground that it was not in his line, but he subscribed ls., veiling his identity under the nom- de-charite "A.B." Later he called on Mrs. Maw, of 52, Shrewsbury- road. Mrs. Maw refused to deliver the prizes, but she gave Is. to the school fund as "A Friend. Mr. Adam West Watson, of Wellington-road, also received a visit from Evans, and was asked if Mr. West Watson could preside at the prize delivery. Influenza prevented that, and no sub- scriptions passed. Mr. Joseph Welsh, of The Hollics, Rock Ferry, when he received Evans, was told a slightly different story. On that occasion the collector represented that he was working on behalf of the Hamilfon-squaro Congregational Sunday School, which was also to be "placed on a firmer finan- c:al basis." Result, 3s. for the cause. Saturday night brought the turn in the tide of Evans's luck. He called on Mr. Charles Gabs- house, at Westwood, Noctorum, and sent in to Mr. Gatehouse word that he wanted to ask him to take the chair at a meeting in connection with St James's Sunday School. Unfortunately for Evans, the Rev. J. R. Guy happened to be con- versing with Mr. Gatehouse at the time. Evans was shewn into the room, and there he described to the two deeply-interested gentlemen the bene- volent object he had in hand. He produced his book, in which, among others, were seen the names of Mrs. J. M. Laird and Mrs. J. W. P. Laird. When he was told that the rev. gentle- man to whom he was explaining his work was Mrr. Guy himself, whose i signature he had mis- used, Evans gave in submissively, and was quietly taken into custody. On Monday morning, it appeared that only a fortnight ago he had completed twelve months' imprisonment at Walton for similar frauds—the Wesleyans being "worked" on that occasion. His defence was that he took to fraud as "the only way." He was too weak to work; of his last twer-,e months in gaol he had spent half in hospital. Three months' imprisonment on each of the four charges was the sentence passed.

THE LIVER AND STOMACH. I FACTS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW. I Tho liver and stomach work harmoniously to- gether, to change the food we eat into blood, bone and tissuo. The stomach supplies the gastrio juice which digests the albuminous part of our food, and the bile from the liver completes the process of digestion by acting on the oils and fats. Too digested food is then ready for con- version into pure, rich blood. When, however, the stomach and liver are out of order, there is not enough gastric juice and bile formed to com- pletely digest the food and form new blood, and the undigested food wearies and irritates the deli- cate mechanism, and clogs the bowels. Doan's Dinner Pills stimulate the flow of gastric juice and bile, thus directly aiding digestion and help- ing in the making of new, life-giving blood. This medicine should be used by all who have suah symptonas of liver and stomach complaints as these: Feeling of fulness, drowsiness and heaviness after meals; stomach pains; yellowness of the whites of the eyes heartburn; indigestion; spots before the eyes; constipa/tion; vomiting; change- able appetite; melaincholy feelings; difficulty in breathing; tight feeling across the chest; head- aohe; bad taste in the mouth. Doan's Dinner Pills are reliable, and they will cure all stomach, liver and bowel troubles. This medicine may be had of all chemists and stores, or direct from the Fo.ster-McCloilan Co., 8, Wells-street, Oxford- street, London, W. Price Is. lid. a box, or 6 boxes for 6s. (Doan's Dinner Pills, remember!)

ATHLETIC NEWS. FOOTBALL NOTES. RESULTS. COMBINATION. Chester 8, Midd'lewich 0 CHESTER JUNIOR CUP. Soaland Athletic 4, Queen-street 1 WIRRAL SENIOR CUP. Saltuey 0, Birkenhead 0 FLINTSHIRE CUP, Haward-eii Bridge 2, Sandyoroft 2 OTHER MATCHES. Frodsiham 3, Warrington Secondary School 1 Balmoral 3. Holsbv 2 Shotton Swifts 8, Queen's Ferry 1 Chester will undertake few easier tasks this season than their match on Saturday, at Whipcord- lane, against Middlewich, under Combination aus- pices. At present the Mid-Cheshire club are under & cloud, and it is to be hoped their prospects will soon brighten. Further changes were mado in tho home team. Delaney was absent owing to ill-health, but the committee succeeded in unearth- ing a valuable substitute in Harry Jones, of Chester Albion. Matthews, who acted as lines- man. was not quito fit, and J. P. Edwards was put in at the last moment. Tho state of tho game is indicated by the fact that Coventry was not oalled upon to clear until late in the second ha.lf. Frequently he occupied a position of "splendid isolation," as the sole occupant of one-half of the field, and might have gone home without endangering the result of tho match. Edwards, who is a half-back player, ought not to have been put on the outside right. The inevitable result was that all the play was from the left wing. At the end of four minutes H. Jones finished an attack by this wing with a goal. Jackson, Lipsham and Jones banged in successive shots as fast as the goalkeeper (Usher) could stop the ball. A fine centre from. Lipsham was stopped by Usher, and the ball glanced past him to H. Jones, who again scored. Almost immediately play became exciting in the Middlewich goalmouth. The backs attempted to block a forward rush, and something like a Rugby "scrum" took place. The ball eventually came out to H. Jones, who put on his third goal. A little later threo successive corners were taken by Lipsham, H. Jones finally heading over. Another corner was forced on too same side, and Jackson headed into tho net. Another goal to Harry Jones was disallowed for an infringement of the offside rule. Middlewich made a dash and were pullod up by the- backs. Evans sent the ball down. and J. Jones put across to Jackson, who again beat Usher. Chester led at the interval by five goals to nil. Save the,, the scoring was not so heavy, the second half was the. same as the first half. A splendid effort wa-s mado by Lipsham, who shot into the goal, H. Jones kicking the ball after it' was over tho lino. Two corners were cleared with difficulty. J. Jonts, who previously had put the ball on top of tho crossbar from the corner flag, ran through and added to the total. A penalty kick was awarded to tho Cestriaois, but Cooper shot over tho hoarding. After another bombard- ment Ii. Jones scoied, tho final reading be,ing- Chester eight goals, Middlewiph nil. Harry Jones, who scored' four goals, made an j exoolleut impression, and it -behoves the committee j to look aftor him. Provided he does not expect to scare four goals ;;n every match, he should make a useful centre. He has considerable woight, and is not sparing to his wing's, and keeps well to tho front ready to receive a centre, while he nefver forgets which end of the field the goal lies. The Chester team were quite up to form, and gavo promiso of a successful holiday seal30n. Soaland Athletic had Queen-street Athletic has visitors on Saturday on the Roodee for the first round of the Junior Cup. Both teams were evenly matohed. Queen-street with a slight wind 1 in their favour made tracks to the home goal, but Hughes kicked clear, and th'3 Sealand for- wards forced a corner, which was nicely placed j by W. Allen, but it came to nothing. AfœT i about ten minutes' midfield play Sealand got going, and a nicely-plaoed kick by Newns beat the visitors' custodian. After a scrimmage in goal, Green a.dd2d a second for Sealand. Taylor got away and scored a simple goal for Queen- street. Half-time arrived with Sealand leading by two goals to one. I From the* restart Queen-street pressed and were awarded a penalty, but tho ball was kicked high over tho bar. Sealand pulled, up again and caused Hague some trouble. Green added a third for Sealand. Both teams played hard, Sea- land having the best of matters. About two minutes from time Woodward scored again, and Se-aland won by four goals to one. On Saturday Saltney met Birkenhead on the RockV: 11M enclosure in the third round of tho Wirral Senior Cup, before a, poor gate.. The! homo teajn won the toss and kicked down the slope. They immediately pressed, and MeAdan shot wide. Lloyd and Smith kept the home for- wards out under severe pressure. A free kick close in was cleared, and Davies got well up the field, but was robbed. Dobson put in a, long sliot, but was wide. From the goal kick Forshaw obtained and put in a grand centre, but the home forwaids were slow, and Lloyd easily cleared. Immediately Ðodd got away on the visitors' right and gave. Kecley a rare handful. FOJEha.w had plenty of work oiL tho home right, and from a centre by him Reid gave Thorley a hot shot to deal with. Saltney put more ating into their work, and after a neat movement by Dobson, G. | Benniou "had hard lines, Keelev throwing him- -alf- full-longttt at the ball and conceding a cor- j ner. which was got away. The visitors from that timo had qui te as much of the game as the home team, and at half-time there was no score. With the hill, Saltney opened at a fast pace, and the home defence had all their work cut out to keep thorn at bay. Dodd' and S. Bennion com- bincd well. and the latter put in a terrific shot, which was luckily stopped by Ellis when Keeley w?s beaten. Forshaw forced a corner, from which Thorley saved'. Another followed, but Smith kicked clear, and G. Bennion, racing down, had only KeeJey in front, when he stumbled, Russell running across and clearing. Saltney drd all the pressing, and it was rare for the home side to get over tho half-way line. S. Bennion put past Keeley, but Dodd had touched the ball in its flight in an offside position The visitors' halves, gave tho homo forwards little chance of making headway, and it was only the aiertness of Keeley that saved the situation time after time. Full time arrived with a clean sheet. .Mr. Taylor oidered an extra half-hour. Salt- ney still kicked with the hill, and immediately pressed, but could not get past the deferice. From a clearance by Russell, Forshaw, being unmasked, went right away and gave Thorley a swift, shot. He throw away, but Reid met the ball and drove, it hard into the net. This was hard lineSl for the I visitors, who up to then had had all the. play in tho extra time. Darkness came on after nine minutes' play, and the game had to be aban- doned with the home club leading by a goal. Saltney did very well against their more ex- perienoo-i opponents, and on the run of the. play ought to have had a comfortable lead when the final whistle blew. It. is expected that the match will be replayed at Saltney. Birkenhead were considerably surprised, and Saltney are to be congratulated on the plucky game they put up. The Helsby seniors journeyed io Liverpool on Saturday, where they met Balmoral under the auspices of the 1. Zingari Leagu?, and a.fter a gamo in which they had the best of the play, but tho worst of luck, had to retire defeated by three goals to two. Ill-luck seems to be dogging the footsteps of the team at present. It is to be hoped it will speedily depairt, as they have several stiff cup ties coming on, and any further loss of points in the I. Zingari League matches will seriously endanger their chances of again win- ning the championship. They meet Hoole Rovers in the Cheshire Amateur Cup competi- tion on Saturday, and although it will doubtless be a rare tussle if Heisby will only play up to their true form they ought to have no difficulty in sfcuring the verdict. The Frodsham premier eleven kept up their victorious- record on Saturday by vanquishing the Warrington Secondary School Brigade on the Athletic Ground by three goals to one. There wa.s a modelrate attendance, the match being under the category of "friendlies." The visitors were the first to attack, their forwards being particularly smart, and scoring the initial goal after five minutes' play. Rousing themselves Frodsham quickly asselrted their superiority with fine combined play. Sutton had hard lines with a fine run down the wing, being knocked off the ball when within an ace of scoring. Comes was greatly in evidence at half, and after cleverly robbing an opposing forward careered trickily past all opposition and equalised with a beautiful low shot in the corner of the net. Warrington now took up the run- ning and caused the home defence much uneasi- ness in a strenuous bombardment out of which Spencer, in goal, emerged with flying colours. Tall kicking by the respective backs was followed by the home quintette gaining possession, and after clever passing all along the line H. Kinsey gave his side the lead with a swift shot. Desul- tory midfield play took place up to half-time. Resuming, the visitors, as in the first half, were the first to shew anything like cohesion, their attacking line on several occasions initiat- ing movements which would inevitably have proved successful !had .not the. ihomis defence shewn themselves reliable. The home contingent were now playing a great game, and appeared possessed with an excellent idea as to the exact locality of the gioal. Time after time thley swarmed round the Warrington citadel, the ball bobbing about in a tantalising manner, and the goal appearing to have a dhanned existence. Finally Warburton placed his side two ahead with a nice shot at short range. The game ended with Frodsham swarming round' the visi- tors' goal, the score being 3-1 in their favour. Hawa,rdCl1 Bridge had' Sandycroft as their op- ponents on Saturday in the second round of the Flintshire Challenge Cup. Both clubs were well represented, and the game was evenly contested throughout. The. visitors were the first to at- tack, and Dodd was called upon early to clear. The home backs put their forwards in possession, and Pierce raced along the wing, and Dutton brought off a grand save. The visitors attacked in a determined manner, and from a free, kIick against Stacey they opened their score. They came again, but Griffiths checked their career when Darlington looked all over a scorer. Tho Bridge had attacked, and Sutton was very lucky in saving a good shot. by Hayes, while a moment later he had to clear from Williams. Bovan, Mousdale and Morris transferred play to the other end, and had not Dodd been on his best behaviour further disaster would have happened. The play of the Bridge at this point seemed very loose. Instead of playing on their opponents' back division more, they apparently gave them ample time to clear, and several good chances were lost. At the interval Sandycroft led by one goal to nil. The visitors opened the second half in the same determined manner, and the home goal had many narrow shaves. The home side put more method into their play, and the visitors' goal came in for a severe bombardment, but Dutton was equal to the occasion, and brought off some mag- nificent clearances. The Bridge were not to bo denied, and Dutton was well beaten by a shot from Harold Davies. This was the commence- ment of some exciting play, and the ball was car- ried from end to end' with great rapidity. From a free kick Davies put the home team ahead. Tha visitors never lost an opportunity of having a try for goal. After the Bridge forwards had tested Dutton, Darlington raced away, evaded the home backs, and scored at close range. Both teams now tried hard for the winning poi, t, but it was not forthcoming, and' an exciting game ended in a draw of two goals each. Shotton Swifts, after a long series of away matches, entertained Queen's Ferry at home on Saturday. The visitors at onoo forced play, but Peters cleared, and the Ferry were soon on the defensive. Hill, aided by Smallman, got along the wing rapidly, centred perfectly, but Griffiths was lacking in agility, and the effort went point- loss. Again came the home side., and after a series of shots the Ferry custodian was beaten by Nock close in. The visitors got away on the left, and Hughes centred well, but Sheargold cleared easily. Dawson and Norbury placed well forward to Griffiths, but he dallied when well placed, with the result that he was robbed each pl.aoed. The home eleven maintained the pressure, and after a brilliant individual run Hill scored a pretty goal. The visitors were no match for their more scientific opponents, who time after time tested the Ferry custodian. The Swifts came again, and from a centre by Hill, Nock scored a simple goal. The Swifts were for a brief period put on the defensive, but no further scoring I accrued before the interval, when Shotton were leading by three clear goa!s. Upon the resumption tho visitors put up a plucky fight, but wero repulsed by the homo rear division, and their quintette worked away in promising fashion, but only succeeded in forcing an abortive cornor. Through slackness on the part of the broth-eys Cat-herall, Nock scored a fourth goal. Further points accrued through Dawson and Nock. The visitors now had a look in, and with Sheargold out of goal, Roberts regis- tered the visitors' first goal. The Swifts forced about half-a-dozen corners, but they were cleared Peters and Hill again scored, and the visitors wero beaten by eight goals to one. A meeting of the commission, consisting of Messrs. E. T. Hallmark, G. S N. Hull and J. P. Crooke, appointed by the Cheshire Football Association, was held at Chester on Wednesday night, to investigate a charge of "poaching" mado by Tarporloy and the Chester Y.M.C.A. against. Saltricy Carriage Works. After a lengthy hearing it was resolved that T. Dulson (secretary) and C. Davies (a player) of the Saltney club. be severely cautioned for their conduct, and that the Wirral League registration forms, signed, be can- celled. and that Saltney be ordered to pay the costs of the commission. The Chester Sriror Cup final tie between Salt- ney and Handbridge. which was to have been played to-day (Saturday) at Whpcord-Ianc, has l o^n postponed owing to the Chester ground being engaged. FIXTURES. I ill be played on the I The following fixtuTC9 will be played on the I ground of the Crst-namcd to-day (Saturday). HOLIDAY FIXTURES. | SATURDAY. COMBINATION. ] Birkenhead v. Chester j CHESHIRE AMATEUR CUP. Chester v. Sandbach Ramblers | Hoolo v. Heisby Old Xavorians v. Eileemere Port CHESTER AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. Helsby v. Rossett Y.M.C.A. v. Little Sutton Y.M.C.A. v. G. W. Locos. Handbridge v. Mold Junction Little Sutton v. Sealand Albion Trinity United r. St. Wcrburgh's CHRISTMAS DAY. COMBINATION. ) Chcstor v. Glossop CHESTER AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. Trinity United v. Chester AlUoti, Kaleyards Works v. Handbridge FRIENDL Y. i Saltney v. Wrexham Crescent BANK HOLIDAY. COMBINATION. Chester v. Crowe Alexandra CHESTER AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. j Handbridge v. Saltney Little Sutton v. Ellesmere Port Seala-nd Albion v. Chester Albion ) Y.M.C.A. v. Victoria Athletic Inoe v. Kaleyards Works G.W. Locos. v. Trinity United ) COMBINATION. RESULTS UP TO DATE. I /—GoaLs—\ P. W. L. D. F. A. Pts. Nantwich.14 9 5 0 .29 .30 .18 Whitchurch .13 7 3 3 39 ..14 .17 Crewe Alexandral6 8 7 1 .31 .19 .17 Chester.11 7 2 2 .38 8 .16 Tranmere.12 7 3 2 .23 .18 .16 Druids .13 6 4 3 .27 .15 .15 Brouhton .12 6 4 2 .25 .22 .14 Glossop .12. 6 5 1 .16 .17 .13 Port Sunlight.13 5 5 3 .26 .27 .13 Oswestry 11 5 6 0 .22 .19 .10 Chirk .10 2 4 4 .19 .30 8 Birkenbead. 8 3 4 1 9 .13 7 Bangor .11 2 6 3 .13 .33 7 Rhyl 11 2 7 2 .26 .33 6 Middlewich.13 1 ..11 1 .18 .62 3 CHESTER & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE. DIVISION I. RESULTS UP TO DATE. f—Goals—\ P. W. L. D. F. A. Pts. Connah's Quay 20 7 5 1 1 .47 .14 .11 Hoole 6 4 0 2 .30 6 .10 5 2 0 .21 .11 .10 Ellesmere Port V. 7 5 2 0 .18 .13 .10 Little Sutton 9 3 4 2 .18 .16 8 Rossett .10 2 7 1 9 .44 5 Saltney. 6 0 2 4 .11 .23 4 Old St. Mary's 7 1 4 2 .10 25 4 Y.M.C.A. 4 1 2 1 9 .14 3 Helsby Reserve. 5 1 3 1 4 .11 3 WALES v. NEW ZEALAND. This important match was played on the Car- Cardiff Olub ground on Saturday, when tho Welshmen won by a try to nothing.

BILLIARDS AND WHIST. J The appended matches were played in the I Sergeants' Mess at Chester Castle on Friday, between teams of the Sergeants and Handbridge Friendly Institute:— BILLIARDS. HANDBRIDGE. SERG RANTS. J. Speakman 71 Q.M.S. F. Belshaw.100 J. Harrison 99 C.S. H. Pallett 100 B. Dryland 79 C.S. H. Cox .100 W. H. Walters.100 Sergt. G. Mills. 60 W. Barton loo Sergt. S. G. Pace 76 P. Pate 51 C.-Sergt, R. J. Drakel00 P. Pate 51 C.-Ser,t. R. J. DrakelOO 500 53& Majority for Sergeants, 33. WHIST. HANDBRIDGE. SERGEANTS. Hayes ) 9 C.S. Piiiiecr I21 Hand j Sergt. Pace J Harrison | QMS. Belshaw } 21 Broadhurst u C.S. Rowbottom Garratt. )-14 Sergt. Belshaw. 121 Buckley J Sergt. Wticock. J Wa.IteM. '121 Sergt. Tomkins "20 &err?rd. J ? aer?t. Usher. J ? Palin 191 <2.8. Drae II I Spencer. j  ? Sergt.hUs J Gough. ( 91 Ser?t. Divldion 4 Whipp J Sergt. Sernberg J Grice .) j" 91 C.S. Green ),. Pate C.S. Sproule .? 124 HI Majority for Handbndge, 13.

ç:7: l.¡, 7.j:a¡¡s i i. ?'? It ? W?U f ?'—' worth the j j trouble to keep I j the cruet sup- plied with good Mustard. I It is evidence of good household management. A well replenished mustard pot is the hall-mark of the cruet. It means satisfaction at the table. It puts an edge on the appetite, tickles the palate, and makes digestion easier. The housewife who likes to see the family or her guests "enjoy the I meal" should always see that the I mustard pot is right. ColmiDfS D. S. F. The Perfect Condiment. Re. &aa —————mmmmmmmmmmmmmmrnrn