Cheshire Observer

OUR NEW STORY, "A DEAD CERTAINTY," A Romance of Chester Cup, COMMENCES IN THIS ISSUE OF THE "OBSERVER." A CLEVER PLOT. 0 PLENTY OF INCIDENT. THRILLING DESCRIPTIONS. We beg to announce that we have secured the rights of Publication of a Capital NEW STORY from the pen of a successful writer, Mr. NAT GOULD, Author of The Gentleman Rider," The Pace that Kills," Racecourse and Battlefield," The Dark Horse," The Double Event," &c. OUR NEW STORY FROM HIS PEN IS ENTITLED "Å DEAD CERTAINTY," And the Opening Chapters appear in the Present Issue of the "OBSERVER." MR. NAT GOULD. Mr. Nat Gould has won a solid reputation as a writer of healthy, vigorous sporting novels, dealing chiefly with racing and racing circles. His stories are characterised by insight into both the better and the seamier aspects of sport; and while depicting the genuine love of animals which in itself ennobles mankind, he shews not less clearly the evils which follow in the train of sport's debasement. To the author the stable calls up much that is best in his hero's nature, and the race is the culminating point of much loving care and patient training. But he knows also how to pourtray attractive characters for the delight of the reader, who follows their fortunes with deep interest and sympathy. A DEAD CERTAINTY." The story opens in North Wales and cul. minates in some exciting incidents of the Cup race on the Chester Roodee. There is a strong love element throughout the whole of the tale, which is written in a pleasantly 1 attractive style. READ "A DEAD CERTAINTY," By NAT GOULD. 'The Opening Chapters appear in This Issue of the OBSERVER." ASK FOR "ROM OLA," Cream of Old Scotch Whiskies. PROPRIETOR: GEORGE BARLOW, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT, THE OLD VAULTS, BRIDGE STREET, CHESTER. PRESCRIPTIONS PERSONALLY DISPENSED ANY TIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT. DARK ROOM. FREE USE TO AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHERS. CASH STORE PRICES FOR CASH. Gr. H. Moss CHEMIST, OS5" 6 BROOK STREET THE NESTON & PARKGATE HYGIENIC LAUNDRY & CLEANING JLL COMPANY, LIMITED. LAUNDEYMEN, DYERS & FRENCH CLEANERS. SHIRTS AND COLLARS A SPECIALITY. Speoial Prices quoted for Hotels, Restaurants, and Institutions. All classes of DYEING & FRENCH CLEANING done on the most improved principles. GENT'S AND LADIES' CLOTHS A SPECIALITY. Our "Vans Collect and Deliver Free in Birkenhead and District. West Kirby and Hov lake, Hooton and Brom- borough, Little-Sutton, and Chester and District. PJUOE LISTS SElifT ON APPLICATION. WORKS: NESTON, CHESHIRE. RECEIVING OFFICE: 8, CATHEDRAL CHAMBERS, CHESTER. WHY DRINK POOR TEA? There Are people who have been buying poor Tea for so many years that they are satisfied with it, and do not care for anything better. Those who know good Tea when they drink it, and are not satisfied with anything but that which is GOOD, will be interested in our MAYPOLE BLENDS. We are making a speoial study of Tea, and purchase only what is the BEST IN THE MARKET. The prices are no higher than what you pay for poor Teas. Try our fine delicately- flavoured "MAYPOLE" TEAS ;I,F YOU WANT ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION. THE VERY BEST ONLY Is. 6D. JPER iLB. WHY PAY MORE ? Reliable Blends at 1/4 & 1/2 PER POUND. Wfi shall be pleased to serve you. We know you will be impressed with the reason- ableness of cur prices, and delighted with the quality of our Te. you eannot help it. MAYPOLE DAIRY CO., LIMITED, 8, WATERGATE STREET, CHESTER.! BRANCHES EVERYWHERE. REAL OLD SILKSTONE COAL. BROWN ASH, HOT, CLEAN, DURABLE. BENJAMIN JONES, COAL AND COKE MERCHANT. NORTHGATE STATION, CHESTER. Prices OB application. No canvassers. 8139 I DAVID L. HEWITT, BOOT MANUFACTURER, NORTHGATE-ST., CHESTER. We have a reputation of 50 years' standing for MAKING and SELLING RELIABLE BOOTS. For the last 50 years our Boots have been at the front for quality. This year OUR BOOTS ARE AT THE FRONT IN SOUTH AFRICA, And are upholding their old reputation for durability, as shewn by the following letter :— Dear Sir,—Permit me to compliment you on the Boots you made for the 2nd Cheshire Special Service Co., of which I was a member. Those you supplied to me were excellent; they stood the test of very heavy marching admirably, and up to the time I was invalided at Bloemfontein the Boots gave every i;atisfa-etion-I send you mine to see for your- self. I have since heard from my comrades, and the Boots are well spoken of. Yours truly, N. H." CHRISTMAS SEASON. GEORGE DAY & (JO., CIGAR AND CIGARETTE MANUFACTURERS, EASTGATE-STREET, CHESTER, Are Shewing a fine Display of HIGH-CLASS PRESENTATION GOODS, SUITABLE FOR SMOKERS. SPECIAL—GEORGE DAY & COMPANY, being manufacturers, are in a position to supply Parcels of CIGARS at the Lowest Prices, ready packed for delivery to all parta of the World. Christmas Season,

TO ADVERTISERS. Advertisements intended to appear in the CHESHIRE OBSERVER must reach the OBSERVER Office, not later than 12 o'clock (noon) each Friday. Under no circumstances whatever can we insert in the First Edition Advertisements received after that hour. 0

I TO THE RATEPAYERS. The new arrival in Chester, after being agreeably impressed with the general attrac- tiveness of the place, is usually disagreeably struck with the discovery that the three lead- ing public services, gas, water, and trams, are in the hands of private enterprise. This fact has been a standing reproach in the city for a long period. The Corporation, thanks to the foresight of Mr. B. C. Roberts and certain other prudent Town Councillors, a few years ago determined to keep the new illuminant, the electric light, in the Council's own control, and with the most gratifying results, so far as the public purse is concerned. The time has now arrived when the city has the opportunity of buying out the effete Tramways Company and of managing the concern on en- lightened, modern principles. The ratepayers are at this moment being invited to vote for or against this broad scheme. What are they actually doing ? Nothing of the sort. So far as their published utterances and speeches shew the working of their minds, the opponents of the Trams Bill are evading the main issue, and are concentrating their whole attention upon quite a minor detail, in the form of the particular kind of traction proposed to be adopted. Time and again we have reiterated, as have the Corporation sponsors of the measure, that the Council are wedded to no particular mode of traction or even of convey- ances. They are, under the provisions of their Bill, to adopt electric cars, motor cars, or omnibuses. The crucial point is whether they shall be permitted to take under their wing this important public service, for the good of the public, or whether, in the event of the defeat of the Bill at the hands of the ratepayers, they will be reluctantly obliged to lease the under- taking once more to a private individual or company to be run for private profit or loss. Any body of business men who would under- take such a business is not likely to accept terms that would spell loss, so that the rate- payers may rest assured that if they kill the Bill, they will in future have to pay more for their tram or 'bus rides than they would under Corporation auspices. The most uncompro- mising enemies of the Bill are practically agreed that the present condition of affairs is intolerable, and not a few of them advise a good, cheap omnibus service until motor cars attain perfection. Why not. therefore, vote for the Bill, and let their voices be afterwards strongly heard when the question of traction comes to be decided ? We can assure these gentlemen that during the pro- gress of the present agitation the teeling has been growing daily in favour of such a modus vivendi. The opposition to the Bill is not a dislike to see the Corporation take over the the Tramways Company's concern, but is simply an aversion to electric cars in the narrow, anti- quated streets of Chester. The resolution which was carried at the Boughton meeting shews plainly that the adversaries of the measure are actuated solely by a feeling of hostility to electric cars, and we feel sure they will regret as much as anybody if the poll goes against the Bill, and has the result of put- ting back the clock by once more placing the trams in the hands of a private firm or a company.

UNITED AUSTRALIA. I ? I The first and most striking landmark in the new century has been the inauguration, on New Year's Day, of the newly-made Common- wealth of Australia, an event which was celebrated with a pomp and magnificence in keeping with the historic occasion. The cere- mony of swearing in Lord Hopetoun as Governor-General was accompanied by signal manifestations of popular rejoicings through- out all the Colonies in that quarter of the globe. The whole city of Sydney, which had the honour of being the theatre of action, was superbly decorated, while a gigantic procession two miles long passed through the streets. The composition of the procession was in itself a lesson in Imperial unity, the picked troops representing Imperial, Indian, and Colonial Armies making a brave show, and eliciting from the immense throng of spectators demonstra- tions of admiration and affection. The lavish decorations in and around the city spoke of the divers rich industries with which our Australasian Colonies have for so long been identified, the mines, the wool and wheat- growing industries, commerce and shipping. One of the happiest accompaniments of the rejoicings took the form of floral arches erected by the French and American citizens of Sydney, and bearing the cordial greetings France's Welcome to Australian Federation and The United States of America greets United Australia." The formal portion of the pro- ceedings having been duly completed, two messages were read from Mr. Chamberlain, who as Colonial Secretary will long be remembered for the honourable and onerous part he has borne in the consummation of the wish for the federation of the Colonies. The first message came from the Queen, and expressed the earnest wish that, under divine Providence, the inauguration of the Common- wealth might ensure the increased prosperity and well-being of her Majesty's loyal and devoted subjects in Australia. The wish of the Sovereign awoke a cordial echo in the hearts of all present, for the attachment of her Majesty's Colonial subjects to the throne has ever been one of their strongest characteristics. If proof were required, the South African war has I furnished it in abundance. The second greeting to the new Commonwealth was from the British Government, who welcomed the Common- wealth of Australia to her place among the nations united under her Majesty's sovereignty and confidently anticipated for the new federation a future of ever- increasing prosperity and influence." The message concluded with the conviction that the federation would prove a further step in the direction of the permanent unity of the British Empire, and that the wider powers and responsibilities henceforth secured to Australia would give fresh opportunity for the display of that generous loyalty and that devotion to the throne and Empire which have always characterised the past actions of its several States. New Zealand, it is true, has not yet seen its way to join the great federation, but its absorption in the Commonwealth is, we believe, only a question of time. The presence at the State Banquet at Sydney of Mr. Seddon, the Premier of New Zealand, was an auspicious augury, and in acknowledging the sentiment that New Zealand would soon see its way clear to join the federation he spoke as if the holding 1 aloof was only of a temporary nature.

LOCAL AND GENERAL NOTES. I Mr. Robert Yerburgh, M.P., is staying at the Grosvenor Hotel, Chester. On Thursday evening the hon. member attended a concert at the Music Hall in aid of the club for the Temperance League of St. Werburgh's Mission, and last (Friday) evening he was present at the annual dinner of the Chester and North Wales Commercial Travellers' Association. An impression seems to prevail that it is neces- sary for two-thirds of the ratepayers to vote in support of the Tramways Bill before the Corpora- tion can proceed with it. This, however, is not correct. All that is required is that a majority of the ratepayers should vote in favour of the scheme. That this result will be attained there can be little doubt. The anti-municipalisation party are, we hear, very dis- appointed with their meeting in Boughton on Thursday evening. The chairman declared the resolution opposing the scheme carried, but the opinion was very generally expressed that it was defeated. Mr. T. G. Burrell, of Foregate-street, writes, although somewhat late in the day, to ventilate the opinion of a friend of his, an expert, upon the tramways project of the Corporation. The expert believes that the scheme in its present form will never pay, but that, if the existing Saltney route were preserved, and a circular route, embracing the Bache, Upton and Hoole, were adopted, with a fast, cheap service, the result would be a pecuniary success. The line advocated would be from the Market Square, up Liverpool-road, past the Bache to Upton Mill, across to Newton and Hoole, then back along the Hoole-road and up Brook-street to the Market. A correspondent, who is a shareholder in the Tramways Company, draws our attention to the remarkable apathy manifested locally in days gone by towards contributing to the success of the undertaking. He informs us that out of the complete list of shareholders in the concern there are only some half-dozen persons who reside in the city. The others come from all parts of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, including Liverpool, Southampton, Woking, Oldham, Manchester, Southport, London, Bristol, Hants, Shanklin. Winchester, Leicester, Dublin, Notts, Edinburgh, Stafford, Tyrone, Maidenhead, Armagh, Preston, Surrey, Kenil- worth, Aberdeen, Sti. Leonard's, Salisbury, Glasgow, Cork, Brighton, Cumberland, York- shire, Lancaster, Norwich, Dewsbury, Exeter, Holmforth, Barnstaple, Bucks, Mausfield, Leeds, Bedford, Pontefract, Bjauinaria, Burnley, &c. It was a happy augury that at the first Chester Quarter Sessions for the century there were no prisoners for trial. The Recorder was able to recall the day when the number of prisoners for trial at the Sessions was 27, and when such a thing as a maiden session was never heard of. Happily, now-a-days, the Sheriff frequently has the pleasure of presenting white gloves on this occasion, and the city is to be congratulated on the fact. At the beginjAg of this week Mr. Thomas Cartledge, for more than 28 years chief clerk at the Leeds Post-office, entered upon his new duties as Postmaster of Chester in succession to Mr. Caswall, who recently retired after filling the post for 23 years. It is interesting to learn that the troops sent to Worcester in South Africa during the Africander Congress included the Cheshire Yeomanry. Corroboration of the many state- ments that have been made concerning Boer disbelief of the English is furnished by the letter from an officer of the 21st Company, which we reproduce elsewhere. The only step the authorities took to counteract the lies of the speakers at the Boer Congress was to issue a memorandum containing an accurate account of all events of importance touching the pre. sent condition of affairs in South Africa, and this, we are told, the Dutch received with absolute incredulity." It is discouraging to hear from the same officer that the feeling in Cape Colony is such that the Dutch, if they only had leaders, would rise almost to a man." An old Cestrian, who has been visiting his native place, takes a very doleful view of recent improvements in the city. Writing to a London contemporary he says Not content with pulling down and rebuilding some of the oldest parts of the quaint rows, with com- pletely spoiling Northgate Row, and allowing the bridge carrying the wall over the Eastgate to be disfigured by a clock in commemoration of the Diamond Jubilee, the Corporation are alter- ing the famous Walls to admit of a carriage way. The celebrated Dee Mills are doomed and will be taken down, and further havoc will be wrought by the introduction of electric trams." Fancy anyone regretting the prospect of the disappearance of the Dee Mills! An amusing race was witnessed at Tattenhall Road on Thursday afternoon. Things are rather quiet just now in the agricultural world, and recently two farmers resolved for a wager that they would run against one another. One, who hails from Bunbury, is distinctly a heavy weight, and it looked odds on his opponent. The latter, however, has more skill at cheese-making than running, and he was hopelessly beaten on a course of a hundred yards. The winner had also been challenged by another farmer, whom it would not be incorrect to style a light-weight, but the latter, evidently deeming discretion the better part of valour, took good care to keep out of the way. The dawn of the new century recalls to mind the fact that our two local centenarians have at- tained the extremely rare distinction of having lived in three centuries. We refer to Mr. Charles Richards, the wonderful old man of Worthenbury, whose record in years is "102 not out," and Mrs. Mary Stewart, who is passing her declining years very comfortably in the Chester Workhouse. Born in the eighteenth and having lived throughout the nineteenth, the two have entered the twentieth century. The span of their lives covers the most remarkable period in the history of the world- remarkable in that its story reads like a fairy tale of science and invention. The nineteenth century with its marvellous record has slipped laway, and a new era in the world's history has begun. When the clock struck the hour which signalised the departure of the old century we were stirred to consider the rapid flight of time and when a moment later bells, which in some.form of usage have linked all past ages, pealed forth a welcome to the new, we vainly tried to read the story of years that lie before us. In another page we record Chester's unique celebration, which took the form of a united religious service, marked by much impressiveness. The Market Square has witnessed many scenes, but that on which the curtain of the old century was rung down and that of the new century lifted was of a character which will linger long in the minds of those who took part in it. The central figure was the Mayor in his picturesque robes of office, standing on the top of the Town Hall steps. On his right side was the .Lord Bishop, and on his left his Chaplain. The civic sword and mace-bearers occupied corner posts, and clustering round his Worship wereprominent Nonconformist ministers,leading citizens, officials, and others. They looked down upon a vast throng, which filled the well- lit square from end to end, and represented all denominations. The proceedings were not less impressive than the scene. Hymns were sung with fervour, and prayers were repeated with becoming reverence. The strains of the National Anthem had scarcely died away when the clock struck the hour, and the crowd turned to each other with Now Year greetings upon their lips. The momentous turning-point of time had come and gone, and the muttitude of citizens turned homewards.

MAIDEN SESSIONS AT CHESTER. PRESENTATION OF WHITE GLOVES. There were no prisoners for trial at Chester Quarter Sessions on Thursday, and the happy circumstance was the occasion for much congratu- lation. The Recorder (his Honour Sir Horatio Lloyd) presided, and he was supported on the Bench by the Mayor (Colonel H. T. Brown) and the Sheriff (Mr. Edgar Dutton). The Recorder, in his charge to the grand jury, of which Mr. A. S. Jack was foreman, was glad to say that the new year of the new century had opened very auspiciously so far as their duties there were concerned. The particulars which the Chief Constable had given him concerning the state of crime in the city during the last quarter, and at the present moment, indicated a very decided improvement on the state of things which had existed in former years. He could only hope that it might continue. In nearly all the various branches of offences there had been a diminution as compared with the average for the previous five years. In his early days such a thing as a maiden sessions was never heard of. He could remember 22 prisoners there for trial, and in other cases 15 and 17, and so on. but now, he was happy to say, it was not an infrequent circum- stance to find the state of things they had that day-not a single prisoner for trial. That was a very creditable state of things for a city with a population like that of Chester, and a city which, during the execution of large works, was subject to the immigration of those whose antecedents they did not know. He congratulated the grand jury and the city generally on the state of things, and sincerely hoped it might long obtain. The Foreman of the Grand Jury, on behalf of his fellows, wished the Recorder a very happy new year. That was the first Quarter Sessions that century, and they hoped his Honour would be long spared to occupy the position of Recorder. The Recorder: Thank you, Mr. Foreman and gentlemen. I am very much obliged to you for your personal wishes, and I can only say the Bench generally reciprocate those wishes and wish each of you heartily a very happy new year. The Sheriff then presented the Recorder and Mayor with white gloves, and expressed the hope that a similarly happy state of things might con- tinue throughout his term of office. O.

TRADES EXHIBITION AT I CHESTER. An important trades and domestic exhibition, organised by a syndicate of leading manufac- turing firms of the kingdom, was opened in the Drill Hall, Chester, on Tuesday afternoon. This exhibition, which will remain open until Friday, the 11th inst., is larger and more attractive than any similar entertainment that has visited Chester. The exhibition held in this city some fifteen months ago under the auspices of this syndicate, and which attracted such large crowds to the Drill Hall, was, though exceedingly attractive, not so comprehensive as that on the present occasion, which is the original touring exhibition. Spacious and admirably adapted for the purpose of an ex- hibition as the Drill Hall is, its accommodation has been found to be very insufficient. Numerous local tradespeople who sought stands in the building have, unfortunately, been unable to ac- quire them for that reason, and had more space been available the exhibition would no doubt have assumed considerably larger proportions. These exhibitions, though quite latter-day in- stitutions, are not new to Chester, and consider- ing the extremely useful purpose they serve, not only as interesting social functions, but in bring- ing manufacturers and their customers into close contact, and imparting valuable instruction to housewives, it is not surprising that they are deservingly popular. The object of this exhi- bition is not gate or door-money, for it is free to the public, but to bring prominently and prac- tically before the public important food materials and preparations, domestic, sanitary, labour- saving and scientific appliances and inventions for the advancement of domestic economy, and of useful trade and other appliances for commercial purposes. Since its opening the exhibition has been visited by large numbers of people, and the inconveniently crowded state of the hall each evening prompts a regret that its dimensions are not larger. The visitor finds a bewildering display of exhibits by many of the principal manufacturing firms in almost every branch of trade. In the food de- partments opportunity is given of sampling the various commodities free of charge. Several ex- cellent auxiliary attractions are provided in exhi- bitions of the Rontgen X Rays, the latest cinematograph, up-to-date cookery lectures and practical demonstrations given twice daily by Mrs. Gillingham Page (medallist and ifrst-class diplomee), practical laundry demonstrations, scientific hand reading by Madame Gertrude, &c. An object of special attraction to the fair sex will be a special lecture and demonstration on Tuesday afternoon next on the "Toilet and Culture of the Hair," by Miss Greenlaw (ladies' court hair dresser, South Kensington). Enjoyable promen- ade concerts are given twice daily by the talented "Bijou" ladies' orchestra, under the direction of Mdlle. Clarissa Matthews. One of the most con- spicuous attractions of the show is an exhibition of a wonderful working model shewing the work and everyday life in South African gold fields. In extent the gold field is about the size of an average drawing-room, and a more elaborate mechanical model it would be almost impossible to conceive. Large numbers of moving figures are seen at work extracting the gold from the clay, sand. and gravel; cars are seen bringing out gold quartz for the tunnels used for the purpose of opening up new gold mines, a water wheel furnishing power to keep the mine clear of water, the hydraulic used for washing away the river banks and the sides of the "mountains" and other accurately re-produced! details in gold mining too numerous to mention. One of the most important features of the ex- hibition is undoubtedly the large stand at the extreme end of the hall, occupied by those well- known gas stove manufacturers, Messrs. John Wright and Co., Ltd., Birmingham, where the latest patterns of gas cooking stoves are to be seen. Economy is one of the chief of the numerous advantages of the gas range. It has been shewn that the cost of fuel (at the minimum rate) for a servicable coal range is twice that of a gas range, but with coal at its present price the need of gas cooking and heating appliances is obviously of the most pressing character. The merits of Messrs. Wright's "Eureka" cookers, of which there is a grand display, have been universally recognised, and their use has been generally adopted in hospitals and other public institutions, in hotels, clubs, colleges, large business establish- ments, &c. By the latest development effected by Messrs. Wright in gas cookers all the advantages of loose burners are obtained without any of the disadvantages, and their system will probably revolutionise the trade. The Chester Gas Com- pany have on view a large and varied collection of gas fittings, and the hall is brilliantly illumin- ated by their improved incandescent burners. Arranged in the centre of the hall is an imposing exhibit by Messrs. Dale, of Bridge-street Row, Chester. On this stand is a splendid variety of high-class musical instruments, including piano- fortes, organs and several novelties including the phoneon (an attractive instrument to all lovers of music), the phonograph and the gramaphone. The most interesting feature of Messrs. Dale's ex- hibition, however, will be on view in the course of a day or two, in the form of the pianola, an instrument by means of which it is fQr the first time possible to play a piano with a mechanically supplied technique, and at the same time with so much personality of expression that the perfor- mance is not to be distinguished from that of the unassisted human fingers. The pianola is operated by means of pedals, stops, the tempo-regulator pneumatic action, and perforated roll music. The instrument, which renders even the most delicate and intricate passages with a high degree of brilliancy, acts automatically upon the piano as the pianola is acted upon by the performer. It is not attached to the piano except as it is so placed that its "fingers" will strike the keys of that in- strument, and when not in use it can be removed to another part of the room, leaving the piano to be played in the ordinary way if desired. The pianola, though of very recent invention, has al- ready won favour among all sections of the music- loving public, and has been endorsed by the lead- ing representatives of every branch of music. FATHER'S DEATH CURES DUMBNESS.—An extraordinary sequel to the Winsford gale fatality was brought to light on Saturday night. George Bratt, the Winsford coachman who was killed by a tree blown down during the gale, had a daughter who had been partially dumb for three years, as the result of a severe attack of influenza. On the receipt of the news of her father's terrible death, the woman, whose name is Mrs. Carden, spoke, and is now able to converse freely. The case is attracting much interest in local medical circles. THE MARY KINGSLEY MEMORIAL. The Duke of Northumberland has consented to preside at a public meeting which will be held in Liverpool early during the present month, in furtherance of the movement to erect a hospital in memory of the late Miss Mary Kingsley. The Mary Kingsley Hospital will also provide for the treatment of cases of malarial fever among the white population settled on the West Coast. The hospital is to be erected in Liverpool, in con- junction with the School for Tropical Diseases. About C20,000 is required to carry out the scheme. QUEEN-STREET P.S.A.—The last meeting of the century was held on Sunday, when the chair was occupied by Mr. Marriott, who advo- cated the claims of the P.S.A. rontine Society, which had disbursed R127 in sick pay during the year. Mr. Andrew Storrar delivered an address on Thoughts suggested by the advent of the new Century." Messrs. G. B. Griffith and G. H. Brown also took part, and Miss Maogio Dickson sang with taste A Winter Story and Hosannah in Excelsis."

I THE TRAMS. I IMPORTANT CORRESPONDENCE. I Evidence of the deep interest which is taken in the tramways question by the ratepayers is furnished by the large number of letters we have received on the subject. Among them are the following I TO THE EDITOR. I Sir,—As I have no other means of answering a letter I have received from A Citizen," ad- vocating the Birmingham system of Cable Traras, I desire to say that I fear the writer cannot have received the official circular of the 27th ultimo, otherwise he would have seen that the Bill will authorise that system, or any other which may after mature consideration when the powers to be obtained come to be exercised be determined on, and does not com- mit the Council or the city to electric traction, or the overhead system which A Citizen so strongly deprecates. I cannot undertake to answer letters in the newspapers, but I feel called upon to refer to one signed "A Ratepayer," as it charges me with "misleading." Such a charge should not be made, even by a ratepayer, against a respon- sible official merely discharging his duty without good grounds. The grounds assigned are—(a) that the Council have got their Provisional Order for enlargement of their electrical plant. No such Provisional Order has been got. If the recent sanction to borrow for the electric station exten- sion be referred to, it would have been applied for irrespective of any question of tramway traction, but the scheme for the extension, wisely I think, took into account that possibly in the, future demand might arise for energy for tramway traction, (b) Mr. Lowe's speech in the Council. I need not say that the speech of a single member of the Council cannot be con- sidered to express the intention or policy of the Council, unless effect be given to it by a resolu- tion passed.—I am, yours truly, SAM. SMITH, Town Clerk. Town Hall, Chester. 3rd Jan., 1901. Sir,— £ 150,000! is the modest application of the Corporation for tramways. Add to this L20,000 for baths and £60,000 for the new sewerage scheme (estimated at £48,000, but will cost far more) and you have £ 230,000 new loans to add to Chester's existing debt of about £ 240,000. Let the ratepayers think carefully what all this means. For the Corporation to say they are not going to spend the money on tramways "all at once" is begging the question, for they know very well that Parliament will compel the execution of the works within three to five years at the outside. Yet there are members of the Council (who obviously are not familiar with the detail of their subject) saying "Never mind the cost; get the trams and increase the trade of Chester." Now what on earth in the shape of "trade" or "manu- facture" could any man start in Chester? One would imagine to hear these geniuses talk that Chester was a manufacturing or industrial centre, which it isn't—and never will be. No argument has yet been adduced to refute the able and clear statements of Mr. Storr and the other gentleman who spoke against the folly of trams in a place like Chester. They are a nuisance at the present time, and, except Bridge- street and City-road, there are no streets adapted for trams. As to the opinions of speculative builders who want trams brought up to their property so as to increase its value, and the clap- trap arguments that we must provide for the everlasting British workman" (a gentleman upon whom you may safely rely to take particularly good care of himself, this sort of thing is not worth notice. Trams will never pay in Chester if mechanical power is used. To compare Chester with the large manufacturing towns or seaports with ever-changing population is absurd. As to the visitors to Chester, all the conveyance they want is from the station to the Cross, and for the residents (pending light motor cars) well-equipped modern buses, run regularly at reasonable fares, would meet all requirements for both visitors and residents; for Chester is but a country market town, practically becoming a suburb of Liverpool, whither a serious portion of Chester's retail trade has flown (thanks to Wednesday closing). Much is made in one of the newspapers that the Tram- way Company have been paying dividends for the last three years (a refreshing novelty for the shareholders), but if the accounts are examined it will be found that the trams per se are a loss, and the profits are earned from the buses, the enormous pic-nic parties using wagonettes, and the Sunday and other large excursion parties (Eaton, Hawarden. etc.) which the company have of late encouraged and developed. Probably from apathy or ignorance of the true position of affairs, the Poll may be in favour of the scheme. In that event the city will have a largely increased debt and consequently a serious increase in the rates to meet these new liabilities. What a blessing it is we can fall on the Race Company to come and help us a little out of their profits, which would have belonged to the city but for the sanctimonious hypocrisy of the then Council, which was too shocked at the idea of taking over the management of the Races, but not ashamed to receive its full pound of flesh out of the ill-gotten gains" (as some of the Council called them) of the Race Company!— Yours, &c., Yours, &c., FINANCIER." "The Laurels," Parry's-entry, 3rd Jan, 1901. Sir,—Much has been said and written upon this subject, but. has the essential point been adequately considered, namely, Are such tram- ways needed ? May i venture a few remarks, having some small interest, also experience of other populous places ? To commence, to make tramways financially successful there must be the necessary traffic, is tnere such ? I gravely doubt it. Chester is what most people uesciioo as a residential city. There is no trade of magnitude, nor any large businesses employing many hands" in or near the city. it atten- tion is drawn to large towns where tramways run successfully, it will be found that there is a necessity for rapid transit over given areas, and consequently traffic is created. There may be a certain amount ot traffic to and from the General Station, but it is very doubtful it it is sufficient to warrant electric cars, or, indeed, would pay the working cost. Turning to other parts of the city, the traffic of toot passengers is even less. Au occasional passenger ib no use; you require a constant stream ot pedes- trian traffic, which can be encouraged and tempted into the tramcars, because that traffic primarily finds time to be of importance. It is scarcely a truism to say that except perhaps tor an hour or two in the morn- ing, and the same time at night) there are any sufficient number of people who require to be conveyed at electric tramcar speed. If tnere was any certainty of a regular average daily traffic, then the case would be altered. It is said that the electric cars in Liverpool are accountable ter about ten casualties a month. The danger, too, of overhead wires, in narrow streets is considerable. Motor cars are also named as an alternative. It is to be hoped this torm of traction will not be lightly accepted. The vibration is very great, the noise and smell are serious draw- backs to those living on the line of route. The breakdowns of these are numerous and, if the roads are greasy, often the wneels do not bite," and the car "skids," which puts it practically out of steering control. The present tramcar system could be better managed by a rapid and more frequent service at intermediate penny fares. The other parts of the city find the existing service of omni- buses answer, and this service as necessity requires is capable of improvement. Omnibuses have this advantage that they can be turned out of the way in narrow streets. Tramcars cannot. Do the ratepayers really believe the proposed scheme of electric cars will cost less than £ 200,000 P Is there the traffic or payable demand ? Respice finem.-I am, sir, your obedient servant, X. 2nd January, 1901. Sir,—At the eleventh hour the official circular on the tramway scheme is issued, from which it is evident that the question of motor cars has not been entertained by the Council. The thoughtful public believe that in a few years hence motor traction will supersede horse traction, and we can all see for ourselves at the present time that their speed and simplicity of manipula- tion are beyond doubt. The Council ask us to vote on the issue—whether we shall have trams or nothing. I say if we can be provided with a service of cars without rails, without wires, equally quick, equally safe, and at fares as moderate, and at a capital outlay of one-third of what electric trams would cost, it is their clear duty to do so. But no; they have simply pooh- poohed the above suggestion, for we have no evidence that any official enquiry has been made into it. It is true the Bill embraces all kinds of traction, known and unknown, but its advocates tell us that is simply to anticipate contingencies, and they go on preaching electric trams, and nothing but electric trams. I do not blame the Council for taking over the present tram concern, which is little better than a nuisance. I admire the electric tram service of Liverpool, Dublin and other places; but we need rot jump from our I present miserable and inefficient service to one so elaborate and costly that there is no proba- bility of its paying its own way. It is all very well for the Council to try to snatch a victory at the poll by telling us that if defeated they will be in a difficulty, or, as the circular says in an anomalous position." That can easily be remedied. Let them come before us with a better digested scheme, and it will be seen that the ratepayers are not only willing but anxious that the Corpora- tion should municipalise the street cars. There should be no mistake about this. The Corpora- tion will be severely censured if they allow another private company to step in. It must certainly be a municipal concern, but at the same time I for one object to "Hobson's choice."— Yours obediently, PROGRESS. Sir,—A consideration of the small cutting which I enclose, taken from a paper a day or two ago, may possibly be of interest to such of your readers as may be thinking of voting in favour of this scheme. I wonder whether the Town Council have taken into their consideration the amount which the city will have to pay to the families of those who may be killed on the line? It will be seen that in Berlin alone in the last month no fewer than five persons have been killed by the electric trams there.— Yours faithfully, VERB SAP. Chester, 4th January, 1901. [Copy.] A GENERAL RUN OVER. I Lieut.-General Von Pachhammer was run over and killed on Monday evening by an electric-tram in front of his house in one of the Berlin suburbs. He was born in Meisse, and was aged fifty-six. He had served in the artillery, and lived at Breslau until two years ago, when he was placed on the Reserve, and went to Berlin. He leaves a widow, two daughters, and a son, who is in the navy, and has just returned from China. This was the fifth death in Berlin last month from tram- way accidents. Sir,—Before the Poll now proceeding finally closes, may I ask the favour of some space in your columns to review somewhat briefly the letters that have appeared in your last issues, also the observations made in the Council Chamber upon the vexed question of the "to be" or "not to be of electric tramways? In all the statements made not one single ray of light is shed upon the important point as to whether the tramways as I intended to be carried out will pay their working expenses, to say nothing of providing for the heavy annual charges for redemption of the loan. Of course Mr. Crowder, who dates from Hoole, and his "colleague" signing himself a "Working Man are very anxious to have up-to-date tram- ways, but then they view the question from quite a different standpoint. They live beyond the municipal boundary, and so escape the city rates. If the inhabitants of Hoole are so anxious to participate in the conveniences of the city, why do they so resolutely stand aloof and oppose all overtures to be incorporated with us? With regard to the proceedings at the last Council meeting, and the observations made by the Mayor, it is evident that the misapprehen- sion to which he referred was the natural outcome of the policy pursued at the ratepayers' meeting. Had the adjournment of the meeting been con- ceded, and the explanatory circular just issued by Order of the Committee" been forthcoming sooner, there would have been more chance of the question being rightly understood by the ratepayers." But to secure this desirable end it is obvious that the Mayor and Town Clerk should agree upon the vital question of the financial position of the Company whose lines have been acquired at the extravagant figure of £ 18,000. In his speech to the councillors the Mayor stated that the undertaking had not been a commercial success, and there was not much en- couragement for any independent company carrying on their business on commercial lines." Now in the statement issued by Order of the Committee" the Town Clerk states "it should not be overlooked that the Tramway Company have been paying increasing dividends; in 1896 and 1897 4 per cent.; in 1898 a fraction under 5 per cent.; and in 1899 6 per cent.; besides build- ing up a reserve and contingency fund." Here we have two statements made by our highest authorities absolutely at variance with one another. Which is correct? Is this the way to remove misapprehension? Again, it is urged in the circular "that the Act when obtained will confer wide powers, but will not commit or pledge the Council to exercise them. But the Mayor in his speech says "that if the Corporation, having taken over the tram- ways, intended to work them as a success, they must in time be prepared to extend the area of the tramway system." Here again there is room for misapprehension. Put shortly, and accepting the Mayor's views as being correct, the existing tramways are not a commercial success, and if the Corporation intend to work them as a suooess they must extend the area of the system. Hence the Bill. But what about all the cautious reserva- tions that the powers will not be exercised ? I fear I cannot trespass on your space to go fully into the other statements made in the circular, also to remark upon the utter absence of any trustworthy estimate of expenditure or earnings. One or two things, however, are certain. If the powers sought by the Bill are exercised, and they must be exercised within seven years or they lapse, the expenditure con- templated will be £150,000 and any further sum the Board of Trade may sanction." As the cost of obtaining the Act is not included, and no limit is placed upon the further sum the Board of Trade may sanction the ratepayers will indeed be fortunate if they escape with an annual charge of 28,000 for paying off the loans. As to whether the trams will pay their working expenses we have no information given, only more or less hopeful expressions by individual councillors. An estimate has been made, but not made public, because the average number to be carried by every car running at any given moment is so high that about one-fourth of the entire population of the city must travel by the cars every day to cover the working expenses alone. In conclusion, I would again urge the rate- payers to consider well this most important question before putting "Yes" or "No" to the voting papers, but In any case to vote. F. STORR. 19, The Groves, Chester. Sir,—Allow me to remind the ratepayers who have not yet filled up their voting papers that every town in England, small or large, that pos- sesses electric trams has proved them a grand financial success; that electric trams have been the making of many towns; that if we do not give the Corporation power to work the tramways themselves the damage done this week will not be recouped under 20 years, if ever, owing to the progress of other towns; that the odds are 500 to 1 against the trams ever being taken to Hoole until that district is part of Chester; that the City Council will not have to seek powers to extend the tramways to Handbridge, Newtown, Garden-lane or other parts that are at present within the city boundary; that the extensive powers sought at present are to save legal cost in the near future; that Hoole, Newton, and other outer districts will continue to fight against joining the city unless trams are provided.—Yours RATEPAYER. Sir,—To me there seems to be considerable opposition to the projected tram improvement. Many who have been grumbling for years past at the wretched tram accommodation now seem to hesitate in accepting the new service, which would have the following advantages, viz., travelling in less than one-fourth of the time in superior cars at a reduced fare; the profits de- rived would assist in the reduction of general district rates. Now some may think that reduced fares and a better class of cars with a more fre- quent service would entail a loss, but it is not so inasmuch as the patronage would be greater, and instead of empty cars full ones would be run. Now in Blackpool, where the penny stage is adopted, they were able to relieve the taxes to the tune of £1,000 last year. In Liverpool, when the Corporation took over the trams, the fares were reduced, a uniform was provided for all em- ployes, and an all-round increase of pay, with the result that now the profits are far in excess of what they ever were before. In regard to the extensions, the Corporation will only proceed with them in the districts where there is a prospect of a good return for the out- lay, so that the outside estimated capital of £130,000 as sought by the proposed Bill in Parlia- ment may only be partly used. Saltney, Jan. 3, JAMES KNIGHT. 1 Saltney, Jan. 3, 1901.

CAROLS AT ST. OSWALD'S CHURCH.—At Sun- day evening's service at this church the following pleasing selection of carols was ren- dered with good expression :—" While shepherds watched (solo, Mr. Peters Jones), In the fields with their flocks abiding (solo, Master Horace Brittain), The First Noel," "Nazareth" (solo, Mr. Peters Jones), and Cradled all lowly." LEGAL.—Messrs. Herbert Lewis and Davies, solicitors, Central Buildings, North John-street, Liverpool, have admitted into partnership Mr. John Griffiths, of Chester, who served his articles with them and, since his admission as a solicitor, has remained with them as managing clerk. Simultaneously with the admission of Mr. Griffiths into the firm, which dates from Tuesday next, they will open a branch office at Chester. MR. TENNYSON SMITH'S VISIT TO SALTNEY. —The visit by Mr. Tennyson Smith, the well- known temperance advocate, to Saltney, has been eagerly anticipated by the temperance people of the district. The campaign will open on Saturday, January 5th, with a demonstration of temperance societies, including Sons of Temperance, Good Templars, Bands of Hope, &c., which will be headed by the Tranmere Gleam Good Templar Prize Silver Band. They will assemble at Saltney Station to meet the lecturer on bis arrival. A parade of the principal streets will then be made, after which a reception meeting for the committee and workers is to be held in Curzon-street Chapel at 6.30. Addresses of welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Tennyson Smith will then be given. The Revs. W. S. Hackftt. M. A. Collins, B.A., J. A. Cheeseman, W. Jones, and others are announced to be present. A public meeting is to be held at 730 in the Lecture Hall, Saltney. Other meetings have been arranged. Further par- ticulars will be f imd in our advertising ■ columns.

LIGHTING-UP TABLE. All cycles and other vahicles in the Chester district must be lighted up as stated in the following table;— P.M. Saturday, January 5 5.5 Sunday, January 6 5.6 Monday, January 7 5.7 Tuesday, January 3 58 Wednesday, January 9 5.9 Thursday, January 10 5.11 Friday, 5.12 ♦——■—■—-

CHESTER CATHEDRAL. SERVICE LIST FOR WEEK COMMENCING JAN. 5. SATURDAY, JANUARY &TB.—Morning. 8.0: Matins. 10 16; Service, Hopkins in F; anthem, Blessing and glory" (Boyeel. Evening, 4.15: Service, Hopkins in F anthem, Blessed be the Lord God" (Bennett). SUNDAY, JANUARY tiTB (Festival of i--piphany).-Morn- ing, 8.0: Litany and Holy Communion. (Collection for Oxford Mission to Calcutta.) 10.3u Processional bymn, 76; Service, Harwood in A flat; introit; anthem. L,, I star-led chiefs (Crotch); choral celebration, Harwood in A flat; preacher, the Lord Bishop. Evening, 3.30: Processional hymn, 79; Service, Harwood in A flat; anthem, I desired wisdom (atainer) hymn 80. 6.3 Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis to Chants; pro- cessional hymn, 219; hymns 77, 48b, 308; preacher, the Rev. T. F. Hebson, M.A. MONDAY, JANUARY 7TH.—Morning, 8.0 Matins. 10.15 Service in Monotone. Evening, 1.15 Service, Kent in D anthem, "Let us now go" (Hopkins). TUESDAY, JANUARY Siu.-Morming, 8.0: Matins. 10.15 Service, Kempton in B flat: anthem, Cry aloud" (Croft). Evening, 4.15: Service, Kempton in B flat; antheir, "When Jesns, our Lord" (Mendelssohn). WEDNESDAY, JAKUART 9TH.—Morning, 8.0: Matins. 10.15: The Litany; hymn 8. Evening, 4.i5 Service, Prout in D; anthem, "Drop down, ye heavens" (Barn by). THURSDAY, JANUARY A'OTE.-Morning, 8.0: Holy Com. munion. 10.15: Service, Beay in F anthem, From the rising" (Ouseley). Evening, 4.15: Service, Reay in F; anthem, •' Lo star-led chiefs (Crotch). FRIDAY, JANUARY IITE.-hlorning, E.O Matins. 10.15: The Litany hymn 43. Evening, 4.15: Service, Wesley in F; anthem, O gladsome light" (Sullivan).

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES,& DKATHS. BIRTHS, MARRIAGES, and DEATHS are charged at the rate of 20 words for Is. (prepaid). If not prepaid, the charge will be 2s. 6d. The announcement must be authenticated by the Signature and Address ot the Sender. BIRTH. CONWAY—January 1, at is2, Claughton Firs, Oxton, the wife of B. A. Conway, of a son. MARRIAGES. DONKIN—HKNSHAW—December 29, at St. Oswald's Church, Chester, by the Kev. Ernest C. Lowndes, Collingwood Foster Lindsay, engineer, R.M.S. Prince George, youngest eon of the late W. Donkin, of Durham, to Blanche Ethel, yoncgest daughter of Thomas Henshaw, The Hollies, Chester. KELLIE—HAMLKY—January S, at St. Mary's Parish Church. Chester, by the Bev. H. Grantham, rector, assisted by the Kev. Prebendary Bellamy, Kenneth Harrison Alloa, third son of the late George Kellie, Esq., of Maida Vale, London, and of Shanklin, 1. ot W., to Constance, second daught r of tjamuel Hamley, Esq., of Curzon Park, Chester. DEATHS. FLETCHER-January 3, at Upton View, Hoole, Eliza Anne, the dearly-loved wife of James F. Fieocher, aged 47 years. NORBURy-December 31. 1900, at his residence, Northgate Lodge, in this city, Thomas Norbury, aed 6* years. RIGBT-December 27, 190u, at Chester Infirmary, John, the beloved husband of Eliza Bigby, of 4, Cornwall- street, aged 40 years. RaiMER-January 1, 1961, at his residence, 10, Garden- lane, Chester, Thomas klimmer, aged 74 years. INMEMOBIAM. BIRD-In loving memory of my dear husband, Joseph bird, who departed this life on the 6th January, 1893. [Thy will be done.] KILLlcK-ln loving remembrance of our dear father, George Killick, who died December 24th, 1»96. In the grey of the morning God's message came, And quietly relieved our dear father from pain A father more kind no one ever knew, Our tears start afresh in remembrance of you. MiLLs-In loving memory of Jemima Miles, who passed away December IS. 1895. Also my dear husbana. Charles B. Miles, who passed away January 4, 1899. [So He giveth His beloved sleep ] MOTTERSHUD-In loving memory of my dear husband, John W. Mottershead, who fell asleep in Jesus January 3rd, 1893. rfaithful unto death.] WILLIUIS-ID affectionate remembrance of our dear brother, Edward Williams, 69, North gate-street, who died January 3rd, 1900. It's just a year since last we parted On this earth to meet no more But in heaven we hope to meet you On that bright and glorious shore. (W. and M. S.)

lifEMO&IALS. 1'.1.. AT ALL PRICES, IN MARBLE, GRANITE, STONE & ALABASTKIT On View, and to Order. W. HASWELL & SOX. MASONS, KALEYARDS, OHKsrEa Estimates end Designs Pree on Telephone No. 161A. TIME TRIES ALL. For over 50 years Hewitt's Boots have stood the test of time, and are still unsurpaRsed and unequalled. Abbey Gateway aad next to Music Hall.