Cheshire Observer

WHITCHURCH SESSIONS. I EXCITING INCIDENT. I At Whitchurch Petty Sessions, to-ciay, an extraordinary scene of excitement was caused. Tie windows command a view of the canal, &nd while the business of the oourt was pro- ceeding the magistrates' clerk hurriedly an- nounced that a child was in the canal. People crowded to tho windows and watched the ohild rescued by a man who happened to be near. Charlos Kelley, Whilchuroh, was sentenced to one month for ste.aling aix eggs at Whit- pliuroh market. «

SPRING CLEANING. I -1 ——— T (Contributed.) I I As a bachelor, what am I to understand from those wOfch? Is it that our vatinte-d oleauliness means that houses aaxs to bo turned upside down and cleaned onoe a year? If so, the conclusion I ooma to is that wo as a nation must be a dirty lot, and our houses filtliy to a degree until the eo-cailed spring cleaning oomce round. I also notioo whon I bake my frugal mid-day meal at a restaurant that tho tables at this season are somewhat crowded by citizens whose presenca is unusual at other tinEs. and that their faces betray exptoMions of suppressed emotion, which, I am now convinced, arises from the fact that, liko the poor tramp3, they have no home to go to; they talk to one another in mysterious whisper3; those who are strong-mindod enough aftor lunch retire into the emoko-ioom and pass the remainder of their mid-day halt with a pipe, and cheer up under the inilue.noo of on,) or two small Scotches. This may ho a pleasant change. I can't say. Possibly they don't do this at hom. and tlbe temporary freedom of action appears to be enjoyed. Others who are possibly teetotal or Jess courageous pay t.ljeir bill and disappear with the air of injured mar- tyrs. As a marriageable man I have pondered tiio whole question in my liead, and laid the matter before my friend "Mao," who has been married two years. This is his eeeond spring oksaning, and lie intends to apply for a divorce on the giounds of incompatibility of tomper. For days lie and his "better half" have scarcely ispoloon. 1 he stair and house ca; pets, rugs, etc., have been all hauled out. not by degrees, m he explained to me, but. all at once. When night came and ho returned to the discomforts of hin home--curtains all down, carpets all up, an unpleasant if healthy odour of soft soap and carbolic (the tea tasted of tlio latter), the sweep had Idt sonio soot about, which had got on the drawing-room oarpefc (soi ious row here). As bed time drew noar, tho carpet less floors, the cur- tainloss windows, the wife's t-ortit-,ci-Liid filthy face of Mary Jane, the slavey, and tha whole concontraied discomfort of the situation climaxed and led to the situa- tion upon which "Mae" was determined. Mat- ters I learn since have been squared on the un- dorgtauding that suoh a situation is never to occur again. Tho house is to be cleaned by a slower and mow gradual process, ensuring a clean house all the year round, and not requir- ing the temporary banishment of toile- husband. Tho words "wpring cleaning" aro to bo ox- punged fiom domestic matters. "Mao" tells mo he i3 now a, happy man. I think I will ask him and his wife !o my wedding.

WESLEYAN SYNOD.—At th* meetings on Wednesday of tho North Waka (No. 1 District) Synod of the Webh Wosleyans at Llangollen, Mr. Joseph Benn, of Chester, was appointed ono of tho lay represen t .at ivea to the York Con- ference. The most important business was tho o'eetion of a chairman to succecd the. Rev. F-dw. Humphreys, who, on th0 previous day, iati- mated his intention to eoek permission to become a supernumerary. The meeting was unanimous in electing the Rev. Richard Lloyd-Jones, of Oakfield-road, Liverpool. CHESTER RACES.—For ohoioe York, Cumberland M.,d Irish ITam,, of superior quality, try Thompson, Son and Clemence, Provision Merchants, 10, Northgato street, Enstgate-otreet, uid branches.

SHROPSHIRE ELECTION. I rr,bo pollitig in the Newport Division of Shrop- shire, to fill a vacancy caused by the doatii of Col. Kenyoui-Slau*:y, took pc on Thursday, tho oandidatse being Mr. lkJviilo Stanier (U.) ,.). 'rl- rc.,? a t wm do- and Mr. F. Neihou (R.). Tlio result was de- clared at Shrewsbury yesterday (Friday) as follawit: I STANIER (U.) 5,328 NEILSON (11..) 4,377 Majority 951 The Unionists have scored a splendid victory, their majority being increased by 7h5. At Whitohurch, the largest polling thstnot in tlio division, tlio poll luas certainly been a re- cord one. A hugo ciowd lias blockcd the street cutside tho polling booth. Both factions cheered lustily as the Rs-ctor, who is 91, and has boCll Iloctor of Whitohurch well over 60 years, strode up to record his vote. Both candidates met with a. good reception. Mr. Stonier stood talk- ing eeveoaul minutes with Mr. W. H. Smith, Mr. Neilson's chief supporter, and Mr. Stanier whon leaving called for "cheers for Mr. Smrhh," who raturned tho compliment., and both were cheered Instil v. THE NEW MEMBER. Mr. UovLllo istanior iz btte4 by une training i of his whole Life as the member for such an igricultural rioristituency as Newport. He com- pleted his Wlucation at the Royal Agricultural CJoUege at Cireiiceeter, where he took the dip- loma of the college, M.R.A.E., and five certi- ficates of merit, besides gaining- two silver medals for farm vaJuation. To this (raining Mr. Stanier added three years' experience of agriculture on Lord Dudley's estate at Witley, Worocstci-shire. Afterwards he went on a long foreign tour, partly for agricultural experience and partly for sport. In South Africa he took charge of a La.rgo stock farm, sheep and cattle, in Natal. From South Afrioa he went Lo Tas- mania, thenoo to Adelaide, where he worked DO the vineyards on Mr. R. Cholmondeloy s es- tate. Later he paid a visit to the interior, hay- ing a taste of the life in the bush. He also made an extended tour in India, and on sett- ling down in England, devoted himself to the serious practice of agriculture. He took the Hillhampton Farm, near Whitley, where for the years ha was a successful breeder of Shrop- shire sheep ?;nd Horeford cattle, winning prizes at many sJsttvs. Leaving Worcestershire, Mr. Stanier liv a.t Ash Oourt, Hodnct, where he managed o estates of hit; father, of Sir Thomas Merrick, and of some other Land- owners. Oil his father's death, he came into possession of the Peplow and other estates, and took up his residence at Peplow Hall. Mr. Stanier has also been an active member of the Shropshire County Council, and is on the com- mission of the peace for the county. The following message from Mr. Balfour was reoeived by MT. Stanier at the Central Con- servative Crnmiltee Rooms on Wednesday evening :1 wifdi you every succesi in your fight, and I am confident that the whole party will give you ungrudging support. These who havo hitherto doubtod the value of our fiscal policy must now be converted to its wisdom, for although the Radicals have promised old- age pensions only the Unionist policy can pro- vide for their payment.—Arthur Jag. Balfour."

SALE AT FLINT.On Monday and Tues- day last Mr. T. 3. Adams, auctioneer, Mold, held a dispersal aale of the huge stock-in-trade, machinery, plant, etc., of the late Mr. Lloyd, guilder and morchant, Flint, a very old-estab- lished business, combining a most varied stock of all kinds of valuable timber in standards, baul ks, mouldings, and all kinds of manufac- tured goods, bricks, elates, drain pipes, chim- ney pots, Yorkshire and other stones, marble grates and ranges, sanitary goods, paints, oils, plumbers' requirements, ajid cabinot makers', builders' and undertakers' ironmongery in great variety, contents of smithy, offices, etc. Tho aale excited great interest, and although tho weather waa unfavourable, crowds attended on both days, and the sale proved highly satis- factory. Meet of the timber was sold at above BOfi^rice, and the engine sold for JE54, mortar mill £20, saw bench 1;21. Over 1,500 lots potoed through tha auctioneer's hands in two days, and he was complimented at the close apon his expeditious manner and splendid idealisation. <3IBSTER ?ACES.-For choice York,  F or c'o i oe ork. Oamberhmd and Irieh Hams, of E 'up?'i'?r quality, try Thompson, Son and CJcmcnoœ, riwi^oi 10, NorLhgDte,,stieet, YeatfLfce-elreet, wad fwaaohm

I SAUGHALL. ALLEGED THEFT OF FLEECES.— At an occasional county police- court, lield at Mr. W. H. Churton's office, Chaster, on Thursday morn- ing, befoie Mr. It. Wallace, two men of the tramping class named Alfred Jones and Henry James, wero chaigtd with stealing three fleeces of wool and two sacks, the property of Mr. Wm. Vernon, a.t Shotwiek, on May 14. P.C. Nicho's said ho saw prisoners on Parkgatfl-road ibcar SaughaM at five o'clock that, morning. Jones was eariying a bag, anc! witness asked what ho had in the bag. At firs1 Jones said he had somo rags, but afterwards said the bag con- tained tdiree fteecss and two mcks, which he hoad pioh-d up on a tip at Liverpool. He then said he got thom from a tip at Birkenhead, and later confessed to liaving t-akon them from Mr. Vernon's premises. The oonstablo said Mr. Vernon had been shearing the sheep on Wed- nesday, and out of twenty lfoeoca put away only seventeen remained. They wero worth 18a— Both men wero remanded until to-day (Satur- day), whon they will corne. before the Chester Castla bench.

HIS MAJESTY AND CHESTER RACE3.— Prime Old Cheshire Cheese, largest and -choiRt selection in the country, including tha Gold Medal Dairy, as suppfiied to His Majesty tho King, now on sale at Measra. Th-xtp-n, Son and Clemenoo, Cheesefactors, 10, North- gate-atreet (John Griffith), East gate-street, 16, Forojats street, and branches.

ROiTAL VISITS. I X T I IN BYE-GONE DAYS. I FORMER ROYAL VISITS. I The following ia a chronological list of Royal visits to Chester from 635 A.D. to the present time, reproduced from the "Courant" of October 23rd, 1832, and October 6th, 1852, and brought up to date:- 635. Cadwal, the son of Cad wan, was crowned Kin,g of Britain in the city of Chester; he reigned sixty-one years. 839.—Ethelwolf was orowned here "in the most royal manner." 895.—Alfred the Great, it is to be presumed, waa here in this year, the Danes being driven from the city by him after being "constrained to eat up horses." 908.-It is more than probable that Queen Ethelfleda was here in this year, and gave her instructions upon the repair and exten- sion of the City Walls. 973.-King Edgar was here, and was rowed from his Palace to St. John's in his barge upon the Dee by eight tributary kings. 1066.-Hamid, affeer the Battle of Hastings, which happened on the 14th of October in this year, is said to have taken up his abode in an anchorite's cell in this city, where, it is traditionally alleged, he spent the remain- der of his days. 1069.—William the Conqueror was here. 1110.—Henry the First at Chester. 1156.—Henry the Second passed through this city with his army on their way to Wales. 1157.—Henry the Second at Chester with his army on his march for the conquest of Wales, and encamped at Saltney. 1159.-Henry the Second had an interview here with King Malcolm of Scotland, who made a considerable cession of territory to the English Monarch on the occasion, 1211.—King John was at Chester. 1256.—Prince Edward was here. He stayed three days, and received the homage of the Cheshire and Welsh nobility. 1257.—Henry III. summoned his nobility to attend him with their va.a.o.als at Chester. 1276.Edward 1. waa here on his way against Llewellyn Prince of Wales. 1277.— Edward I. again here on his way to Rhudllan, and he ordered that all in Cheshire who could spend £ 20 a year should be made Knights! 1282.—Edward 1. again here, remained from the 6th June to the 4th July. 1283.-Edw.ard and his Queen here, they heard mass in the Cathedral and presented the monks with an altar-cloth upon the occasion. 1284.—Edward I. again here four days in Sep- tember. 1294.—Edward I. pagsed through Chester to quell Madoo's rebellion. 1300.-Edward of Carnarvon, the first Prince of Wales, received the homage of the Welah to >he sovereignty of England in the Oastle of this city. 1312.-King Edward II. came to Chester to meet his favourite, Piers Gaveston, on his ro- turn from baniahment to Ireland. 1353.-Edward the Black Prince appeared here at the head of an armed force, to protect the Justices, who were obstructed in the per- formance of their duties, on account of the dearneas of provisions. 1394.-Rictiard II. oame here on his way to Ireland. 1397.-Itichard II. visited Chester. 1399.-Richard II. brought here a prisoner from Flint Castle. 1455.—Margaret, Queen of Henry VI., visited Chester "upon progreese with many lordes and ladyes, and was most graciously received by the Maior and citizens." 1459.-Henry VI. with the Queen and her son Edward paid a visit to this city, and ae a tribute of reepect to thooe gentlemen of the county who were attached to her cause, she presented them with small silver swans. 1475.—Edward, Prince of Wales, son of Edward IV., being only four years old, was brought here and conveyed to the Castle in great pomp, for the gratification of the citizens. 1493.-Heni-y Vit. and his Queen oame here. 1494.-Henry VII. at Chester and Hawarden Castle for the amusement of stag-hunting. 1498.-Priiice Arthur, eldest son of Henry VII., visited this city by desire of his father. In his presence was performed at the Abbey Gate, the "Assumption of our Ladye." The Prince made the Mayor, Richard Good man, an Foquire. His Royal Highness came on the 4th of August, and left on the 19th of September. 1616.-James 1. here. He was received with the greatest magnificence. The Mayor, Ed- ward Button, presented his Majesty with a double-gilt silver oup, in which were 100 jacobins of gold. Mr. Button declined the honour of knighthood. 1617.—J?mea I. visited Chester, with gr&at pomp "heard an anthem sung at tit .gr,,t dral," and dined at a "sumptuous banquet prepared by the citizens, t.he order of Knight- hood being offered to the Mayor, but was re- fused by tho same." 1642.—Charles 1st entered Chester, Wrexham, and Shrewsbury in state. 1649.—Charles 1st beheld the disastrous Battle of Rowton Moor from the Walls of Chester, and fled into North Wales. 1687.—James II. hold a court at Shrewsbury, viaited Chester, and afterwards went to "heal and dine" at Holywell. 1690.-Williani III. arrived at Chester on his way to Ireland, and attended service at the Cathedral. 1819.—Prince Leopold, afterwards King of Belgium, visited Chester and North Wales. 1832.-The Princess Victoria (afterwards Queen of England) visited Shrewsbury and North Wales, and returned home by way of Chester, where she opened the Grosvenor Bridge amid general rejoicings and every possible demon- stration of loyalty. 1852.—Queen Victoria, the Prince Consort, and or.her members of the Royal Family, passed through Chester from Balmoral to Windsor in October. 1859.—Queen Victoria visit od Chester and North Wales. 18,39.-Tlio present King- (then Prince of Wales) opened the Town Hall. 1875.-The Duke of Clarence and Avorxlale and the Duke of York visited Chester. 1880.—The Prince of Wales atterwiod the funeral of Constance, the first Duchess of Westminster. 1886.-The Prince of Wales, with the young Prinocs, stayed at Eaton on the occasion of his opening of the Mersey Tunnel. 1893.—The Prince of Wales attended the Royal Agricultural Show at, Chester. 897.-The Prinoo and Princoss of Wales and the Princess Victoria stayed at Eaton and paid a brief visit to Chester. 1898.—H.R.H. the Duke of Cambridge at- tended Chester Races. 1899.—The Prince of Wales, as the guest of Col. and Mrs. Cornwalliis-Waat at Ruthin Castle, attended the Races. 1900.—Queen Victoria passed through Chester at the close of her Irieh tour. 1903.-The present Prince and Prinoeaa of Wales stayed at Eaton, and the Prince at- tended the Races on the last day. 1905.—The Crown Prince of Sweden and Prin- oess Margaret of Connatight stayed at Saigh- ton Grange on their honeymoon in June, and paid a short visit to Chester. 1905.-H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught paid a flying visit here in August. 1907.—The King of Spain was the guest of the Duke of Westminster in December, and came into Chester on one day.

SMALL HOLDINGS OFFICfAL.-Th-e Small Holdings and Allotments Act Committee, J undor the Denbighshire County Council, mot. at Donbigh on Wedneedlay to appoint an officer to administer the Aot.. There weno 98 appli- cants, and four were interviewed by tlte commit- tor". Eventually Mr. R. Herbert Williams, son of Mr. Honry Williams, Plas-y-Ward, Ruthin (a member of tho County Council) was ap- pointed. The salary is J6130 peL" annum, with travelling expenses. HIS MA JESTY AND CHESTER RACES.- Primo Old Cheshire Cheese, largest and choicest selection in the country, including the Gold Medal Dairy, as supplliied to His Majesty the King, now on sale at Meesrs. Thompson, Roon and Clemence, Cheesecaetors, 10, NortJi- gate-shreet (John Griffith), Eastgate-stmet, 16, Foreijatersvo 3t, and branches.

UNIONISM AT WREXHAM. I OPENING OF A NEW CLUB. I The mombora of the Wrexham Conservative and Unionist Workingmen's Association have long been cramped for room in their club premises, owing to their rapidly and greatly increasing numbers. Negotiations were accord- ingly entered into for acquiring certain adjoin- ing premises, and these being satisfactorily completed, the new roorno were opened on Wed- nesday night, the ceremony being performed by Mr. Alfred Amhworth, of Hor.siey Hall, in the preeenoe of a large company, including Mr. Charles Murless, chairman of the Unionist Thousand, Dr. Edward Jones, chairman of the Working-men's Association, and other repre- sentative Conservatives. Among several letters of apology was one from Mr. William Ormeby Goro, tlio Union'st candidate for the Denbigh Boroughs, who stated that he was buey Moisting Mr. Stanier in Shropshire, and wished every prosperity to the '\Y orking-m-en'it Association and Club. Dr. Edward Jones, in the course of a brief history of the Association and Club. said there were now 800 members, rtad he should liko to see that number incroased during the next twolvo months to 1,800. lIe hoped that they would be able to look back upon that night as a glorious epoch in the Conservative history of Wroxham. (Applau.se.) Mr. Ash worth, in drclaring !Jw new premises opened, said eluba had been greatly misrepre- sented and misunderstood. Instead of being mere drinking shops, as so many declared, he considered they were a most valuable aid to the education of the people. (Applause.) He was prowl to think that from suoh small beginnings they had so noble a club in Wrexham, supported entirely by the workingmon themselves, and he heartily wished them still further sucoesa If ever they wanted any aas-stanoe that he was able to give they should have it (Loud applause.) After votes of thanks to Mr. Ash worth and Dr. Edward Jones, a smoking concert took place.

THE NOTED FIRM FOR WEDDING B11- .4v- BUTT & CO. (LTD.) ag GUINEA GOLD WEDDING Rlri A Handsome Present with each. From 15/- upwards. Private  32, EASTGATE ROW AND STR??

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES & DEÅTSS. BIRTHS, MARRIAGES &nJ DEAT???. charged at the rate of 20 words for 1«- fP?'? If not prepaid the charge will be 2e. announcement must be authenticated 1 Signature and Address of the Sondsr- BIRTHS. I'Å HIGGINS-On the 9th May, at The Manor. LCr, Chester, the wife of F. K. ilingina, of a dall¡;h 1f¡Je POOLE-On the 12th May, at Woore, Salop, tbe Harry Poole, of a daughter. DEATHS. II (M GILLAM-On the 7th May, at Upton. Eli beloved wife of John Uillaoi, Interred at trpw on 11 th inst. ^>V INGLIS— On the 14th May, at 1, Mark Vill*9' aged tMe, Ann, widow of tbo late Leslie Ivg l, yeara. IN MEMOIUAM. itl,oll HK.GINSOX—In loving memory 01 .?me* iTlJi £ !i* lato of 15. Brook-street, who died May 9th. ,I Cu'W (Frt)m wife a" fall.ily? JOHNS—In loving memory' of Willialn 11 S Johns, ALA., priest, late Rector of plem?"' ?;)'? who fell ..leev May 13ih, IX 7. & L P. SOf\9- (His tovin? wife ? ,}90"?". PKICK—In loving: memory of my dear ?ra° oharl?s Price, who died May 16th, 1803. YOU ¡' Uone from amongst us, Oh, how we miss 100 Loving you dearly, thy memory we'll keep i Never till life end 8haH we forget thee, Dear to our hearts is the place where you 9Jp, (Nellie Moore, l?on?-iane. Upton, chiot STEWARDSON-IN lo??ing memory of my d? 01004 Jane SCew?rd?n, who died May 10th, 1903- Three years have gone yet still I miss her, Friends may think the wound has healed- Hut they Little know the ansruish, ) That is in my heart couccated. tVit? ??° h?  WILLIAMS-In )oyin? memory of my dear blib.wA WtUiamWitiiatM.whodtedatBiruunttha'?' ?t? 1906. Never forgotten. (0. K. Williams, 21, Albion-screet, rbe ^L

MEMOEIA^ IN MARBLIS, GUANITE, STONE SI CniTKClI JiRAJitfi ESTAHUSUBO 1771. W. HASWELL & 80S, KALE, YARDS, E d .h' Enbirnukes a.-»J Designsfrs« on TKLKI-HONE No. 161A.  MEMORIALS ? ??? -U- MAKBLB AKH STONE. $46 MEMORIAL TABFETS t? MAUBLK, D??'' ?Ot All &6 iowMS prices at .f?)!? T. LUNT'S MONUMENTAL ,0 VICTORIA ROAD, CIIEST] ILSto Inscriptions Engraved in Granite, Marh»° BS1T1MATK8 ASI) 1)&SfGlfi Fa

LATJSisT MAtiKKty & fo;- (Sea atatp rage 5.) 11 .? LIVERPOOL CORN, FRIDA??? market citing steady after a modcr??.?  about Tuesday's currencies. FJour, Illliet at unchanged prioœ. Maizo in "?"Pjv?t? mand; old mixed American, 5e. lidr(.IO;C,,J?4o 5a. 10d.; now, 5& lO?d.; Plata, (,cII;J 56. 9d.; OdCS6a, 5a. 8d. to 5s. 9d- P?r Bearts and barley quiet and steady- I oats firm and the turn dc?rar. CHESTER CATTLE THUBS?i-.? i?'?* this fair there was a good show of ???? ?*'i? Mumerous attendance of buyers. B"?"'p? opening of the market Wt? br?k. and ?? 3??? of a good finish, Later, hc),;e, theouv slackened and trade became quicker. ? t;e??'' of lots remained uDwld, and no dotlbt 00 would have been disposed of had -10,l,rs t?o willing to accept slightly reduced P* .?f- ?j?f'' the whole prices wore well maintaio?, i miich cows, 917 to E22 calves 915 -to I ?h t?rrena, £W to 213; heifers, 99 to £ 6 to EIO.  li, ?

CHESTER RAC&I;' C, Cumberland an4 Irish Hams, quality, try Thompson, Son and Provision Merchants, 10, Northsruee iv, Ka?t?atp-?trcet, and bi?anobes CHESTER'S OLDEST CITI? r/T<J-'??' regret to announce that 1\1rg. MarY 1t..(¡" relict of Mr. John Burgeaa. died li. street, Chester, yesterday (FridAy '??"? the advanced age of !14 years. De ¡e had bcpn a widow 40 years, !es?'e?s ?0 B tiona. and was the oldest citizen of ?" '??))? HOOm NUISANCES.-At an oounty polios courts }d at Mr. ? ?.? ton's ofHc<o on Wednesday, bcfo!? ??0!' It.- lace, Ja.mœ Adams %nd Stcpli<-tl ,wlor 9?'nt?nce<t to fourteen days for bleel' t1% 01it HOO'JO. P.C. Whitby proved the- << io Hoo')o. P.C'. Whitby pi-ovcJ the ??"?'" was a.bo j?n.t to swl for 14 <.?ys fO' IIooo-ro:u. oCC¡¡Ø'('bll(' IN BACHELOR'S LANE.— At »fr 0. J ft county poHce conrt; Im?ld at :1\1r. ''t' tC ? {ê;J ton's office on Thursda.y morning, ?' ? Il0i,r WaJi?oo, a man named FtfLnk Burn?' abode, waa ahtu-?d with being  (j, j Boughton on t.ho previous night. ington said ho found the nn i>r ??'' Gieab ]3otighton- ??t,t' B?h?or's-iajia. G?&t Honght<7"????,,)b' asked if he was on the road ? \?d? j  Questioned by tho cHMer. prisoner,ip> ling atatomcnts, and witness loc.jØi ateoJ' to P.S. Jackaon said he had b<?n "T?'' j' ri,he tt?)? for a l'cmand until Saturday. wearing o'oihc.s bcknging to 0,0 titJI Union, and 4ad been convicted 30 ? ll<l The remand was Granted. -0 ;\M.tf. NATURAL 8G1 ]NCESOCŒT.J ?6e!ll ,r J ?" wl- On Saturday the first of aserioe^J  rambka for junior members a? ??er?. ? natural hia?ry was oonducted by t;h?ej 1 afrK  '?  H. Fish, B.A., B.Sc., Mr. R. New: to SJ(1rt.lt. and tho curator (Mr. A. Ne,vv4oaj).to ;30- ;h? The m?mbcra (23 in number) m?t '? tb<' ?if? ?tc at 2 p.m. Having P'-<xx?< ø¡".¡ø,1 tion of ?u?'n?H. ?voral of the 5"?" ?f?Cf".???" wero oboorvcd. the Whitethroat 0{ were o b served, the Whi throat ?'  abundant. Their audible ?nd ??"{ ?'' Pg?g? j attracted con,?'gir!rabk? atf?en('Oyl st, It  life-cycle of the mosquito were described, and m&ny inhpr?t?S? pt?'?;? onlLedeJ. Among the Iatter n?y ?' the early orchia. wood Y?'?" ?:? rart1);1-l1m .1'7 J.J.' jt I" HIS MAJESTY AND CHE8Tl"}i3rgø:t1}!:1 Prime Old Cheshire Che«o, ohoioŒt ?lectijn in the oou'V'1" j^ia^T -fig Gold M?al Dairy, as aupp<"?J the King. now on isate at N.f_qgrs, 10. g?n and Ci??en?. c.'heE'sefaOt¡;3t('.st. ?to street (John Gri<Rth). ??- ?t'  Foregate-etreet, and branches^ Fore?a.te?trf?t:, an J  ??h'? f of tlte ¡f Printed and published for and on behf Of i?ito?;11 and North W?tns Newspaper Oon'P??"??''???'' JAMES ALBERT BTRCLIAFF,?AT the h er$. OtHcR. a. Bridge-stre", in the Oity # May VI. 1908, Jj

THE ARMY. I (See also page 5.) TERRITORIAL ROYAL MEDICAL CORPS.—Headquarters, St. Michael's Hall, Chester. Orders by Lieut.-Colotel G. W. Side- botham, V.D., for the week ending May 23rd, 1908. 1. Parade on Monday at St). Michael's Hall, at 7 p.m.. for stretcher and wagon drill, lec- ture. 2. Parade on Wednesday, at 7 p.m., for company drill, etc., by the commanding officer. The whole company are requested to attend. 3. Parade on Friday at 7 p.m for drill and lecture. Dress, drill order on all parades. 4. Orderly N.C. officer for the week, Corporal S. Stendall.— (Signed) G. W. Sidebotham, Lieut.-Colonel, V.D., W.B.M.B.F. Ambulance., R.A.M. Corps.

THE KING'S VISIT. (Soo also page 9.) I — t VISIT TO HAWARDEN. I MEMORABLE SCENES. I THE GREAT STATESMAN. I KING'S TOUCHING TRIBUTE. I Yesterday (Friday) morning the King paid a visit to Hawarden that will always be remem- bered by the residents in the famous village. The whole district observed the day as a fes- tival, and thousands of people journeyed to Hawarden to pay their tributes of loyalty and affeotion to their monarch. The King's kindly act in paying his homage at the shrine of the great statesman touched the hearts of all in t,he neighbourhood where the name of Glad- stone is revered, and intensified their respect towards their Sovereign. There was no laok of decoration. The prin- cipal village street looked its gayest under a multitude of flags of all sizes, chapes and colours. The flag of St. George was flown from the tower of the parish church, and the beau- tifully-toned bells rang out their gladsome message over the hills. The weather alone was not in keepin.g with the happy day. In the morning there was a heavy shower, but it gradually brightened, and the sun made a be- lated none the lesa appreciated appearance simultaneously with that of the King. Few people came out from Chester, but nearly the whole countryside was out to see the King. The railway arrangements for dealing with the thousands of travellers were amazing. Although the platform and the gangway at Shotton station were blooked an empty train was kept standing, awaiting the arrival of the Seaoombe train, although in the interval it might have gone to Hawarden and back with the largest proporticn of the waiting passen- gers. At Hawarden station although there are three exits only two were ueed, and the pa6- sengers passed out. singly. By e: oven o'olock the Royal route was thickly lined with people, many wearing favours of the national colours. The police arrangements were under the personal superintendence' of Major Webber (Chief Constable of i iintshire), who had tho assistance of the Deputy Chief Con- stable (Supt. Ivor Davies), Supt. Jonss, and a staff of fiftv constables. Shortly after 11.30 alL traffic- was stopped and barriers were thrown across tho Chester, Wrexham, Mold, Holywell and Queen's Ferry-roads. The most pleasing feature of the arrangements was the consideration given to tho school children, some two thousand1 of whom were drawn up on the Royal route in tlio park. Tha schools repre- sented included Hawainiea County School, the Hawarden elementary schools, and the Buckley, Shotton, Penvmynydd, Broughtou, Ewloe and Sandycroft schools. The children were in charge of their teachers, and lined up from the Glynno Arms gate to the Oast-le, being joined by a large number of their paretics. Tho mem- bers of tho Hawarden Parish Council, including the veteran chairman (Mr. Thomas Wright), were drawn up outside the library gate, to- gether with several members of the Hawarden Board of Guardians and Rural District Council. His Majesty left Eaton in a mocor-car, being accompanied by the Duke and Duche.ss of Westun iustei'. In two otter oars followed LIK- oqttoreip-s (Sir Alexander Davidson and Col. the Hon. H. Legge; and the Countess of Essex. The visitors also included the Hon. Mr3. Cpcil T. Parker aaid Miss CoweLl Stepney. His Majesty drove through tho Bel grave and Broughton drives, and at tlio Broughton Lodge, about five miles from Chester, he entered Hawarden Park, which was looking beautifully fresh after tho rain. After passing the famous Castle, his Majesty rocei vcd a great ovation from hundreds of young throats, and a myriad handkerchiefs fluttered their salutations. The King appeared to be delighted wioh tho demon- stration by his youthful subjects, and smilingly uwukj repeated acknowledgements. Turning mbo tho \iUage at tiio fountain, his Majesty was again olioored until ho readied the St. Deiniot's Library. A few w-ore privileged with admission to the lawn in front of the building, but otherwise tiw Pwval vi-tt was kept quite private. Punctually according to tho arrangements, the Duke hanck-d fiii Nlajesty out of the car at a quaiter to twelve. The trustees, who were wait- ing to receive his Majesty, wero the Rerv. Canon IL Drew (chairman), the Countess Grosvenor, Mr. Henry and the Hon. Mrs. Gladstone, Mrs. Drew, Mr. W. G. C. Gladstone, and Mr. C. B. Toller. There were also present the Warden (the Rev. Canon Gilbert Joycc) and the Sub- warden (tho Rev. S. Liberty). After inspecting the library, the King visited the cliuroh and signed tho visitors' books at Ixjth places. In the church his Majesty par- ticularly inspected the memorial tomb with rie- cumbont effigies of Mr. and Mra. Gladstone, the I work of Sir W. B. Richmond, and he also took special notice of tho Burne-Jouea west-end win- dow, which was put up as a memorial to Mr. and Mm. Gladstone in their lifo-time. The King expressed great gratification with what lie saw both. in tha library and tlwoti-tiroh, and spoko in high praise of Sir Wilnttn Rich- mond's work. He said he thought the. likeness of M. Gladstone was particularly good. His Majesty was also graciousJy pleased to say it had been a great pleasure to him to pay that visit. He had always had a great personal re- gard for :\1. Gladstone apart from his admir- arion of his wonderful powers. Regarding the I Library, his Majesty expressed the opinion that, it ought to bo better known so as to be made full use of Tho King was interested in Mcil1g some of his own letters to Mr. Gladstone now stored in the III Lill tit-ietit room. Before leaving lie signed his autograph for Mrs. Drew, the Hon. Mrs. Henry Gladstone, and Miss Dorothy Drew. His Majesty left the village by way of the main stret, and was heartily cheered. FORMER VISIT TO HAWARDEN. I the King has visited historic Hawarden on a previous occasion. On May 10th, 1897, when as Prince of Wales his Royal Highness was staying at Eaton as the guest of the Duke of Westminster, along with the Prlnco,.zi of Wales and Princess Victoria, a call was mada by the Royal party on Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone at Hawarden CflritI-e. The children and old women were drawn up in front of Mrs. Gladstone's Home, and ranged in front of tho Castle entrance was a guard of honour of the 2nd V.B.R.W.F. With this oxoeption, no formality was observed, tho vilit being entirely of a private character. The meeting of tho Royal visitors with the venerable statesman and Mrs. Gladstone was of an extremely cordial character, and tho whole party wero photo- graphed in the Golden Wedding porch. The Royai viftitOM afterwards left for Sandycroft station, where they caught a special train for ota.t.lort, where they cali,,h t a ;;pec La [ train for I ST. DEINIOL'S LIBRARY. St. Deiniol's Library and Residence ia a striking edifice. It occupies an imposing posi- tion on high ground, with the ancient church in the background, and overlooks the pretiv valley and sands of the Dee. The library was founded and en-clowed by Mr. Gladstone "for t-lie promo- tion of religion and sound learning." and affords readers, clerical and Lay, excellent oppor- tunities of restful study. The library contains 40.000 volumes. The committee formed for the purpose of raising a national memorial of Mr. Gladstone voted £ 10,000 for the erection of the building. On October 5th, 1399, the founda- tion stone was laid by the late Duke of Westminster, and it bears the following in- scription In this building, erected to his memory by a grateful nation, is pi-eaervetl the library of William Ewart Gladstone, who, emi- nent no less as theologian than statesman, established this foundation for the advancement of Divine learning. This stono was laid in the presence of the Lord Bishep of the Diooeso by the Duke of Westminster. K.G., Oct. 5tJI, 1899. G. C. Joyce, Warden." It i" deBig-ned in Gothic stylo, with mullioned windows, and the interior consists of two ¡,,1¡-gO room-ono for "Divinity" and tho other "Humanity"'—-witJi galleries round supported by pillars, and open timbered roofs. The woodwork is all oak. On the 14tli of October, 1902, the library was formally opened by Lord Sponocr. Roughly speaking, £ 60.000 has been devoted to the scheme— £ 40,000 by Mr. Gladstone himself, £ 10,000 by tho nation for; housing the books, and the remainder by his aoaa and daughters for homing tlio men, the latter constituting their joint memorial to their father. Tho group of buildings was completed by the family of Mr. Gladstone by the erection of a permanent reeidenoQ for wardens and students. The whole of the furnishing of the ha-tel was carried out by Mr. J. W. Henderson, of 35, Bridge-street Row, Chester, DEPARTURE FROM CHESTER I The King doparted from Chester Station at 1.38 in the afternoon, driving through crowded streels in the Duke's open landau. Accompany- ing the King in the carriage were the Duke and Duchess of Westminster. Hie Majesty was cheered continually through the streets. KING AND THE INFIRMARY. I Great efforts were made to got the King to pay a visit to the Chester Infirmary and inspect the wards, but as his Majesty's visit was of purely a privafco character he was unable to aoocpt the invitation. The chairman of the Infirmary Board (Cot. Evans-Lloyd) wrote to Col. Wilford N. LLoyd, and mentioned how it would gratify th? Board, as well as the1 medi- cal and nursing staff and patients, if the King would graciously visit tho Infirmary. 4o fol- lowing telegram was received from Cal. Wil- I ford LLoyd: "His Majesty wry much regrets he will be unable to visit the Infirmary." WELCOME BELLS. I On Tuesday evening eight members, of the Chester Diocesan Guild of Change Ringers rang Parker's 12-part peal of grandsire triples, con- sisting of 5,040 obanges, in three hours, at. St. Mary's Church (within the Walls), to welcome his Majesty the King on his arrival at Chester. The. ringers of the Chester branch of the above ohuroh weiie as follow: William 1<letcher, treble; Goorgo Jones, 2; E. Harrison, 3; Robt. Spiffing, 4; Austin Gregory, 5; James Wright, 6; James Morgan, 7; Joseph Griffith, tenor.

I UNWELCOME VISITORS. I I (Se-o alao page 9-1 I I YESTERDAY (FRIDAY). I Another body of prisoners beforle tho court yesterday (Friday), the magistrates on I the bench being the Mayor, Col. Evans-Lloyd, Dr. Hamilton, Messrs. R. Lamb, F. Skipwith, I W. Vernon and Andrew Storrar. FIGHTING WITH A REVOLVER. I Two Italian organ-grinders, named Angelo Morgiotto and Pietro (Jastagno, of 5, Clare- imont- walk, woro charged witih a breach of tho pOOJOO in Foi-ogate-strcefc.—P.S. Isaao Jones stated that lato on Thuieday nighot prisoners wero fighting at the end of Love-stroet. One was brandishing a revolver, arid on examining the weapon bo found that five of the six cham- ooril were loaded, three cartridges having bien struck by the hammer. People who were, stand- ing atotmd said bho man had also a kiiife. Prisoners wore bound over in tltc sum of E5 to koep tlio peace, with tho alloruative of 14 da-vs imprisonment. ALLEGED ATTEMPTED BURGLARY. John iuroor, who gave an address at wuxi- bridge, was oharged with attempted burglary at the housa of Mr. N. A. E. Way, Liverpool- i,o,A,-Tho Chief Constable said tJiat shortly before one o' olock that morning tlio noise of breaking glass was heard at the house, and in oanacquenoo of a telephone message rcoeivod at tho polioe station, the housa was surrounded. Prisoner was found coming away, too window oatoh of tlio kitchen having been brokon.—P.C. Dawsom said he inet the prisoner corning down too drive, and whon taken into custody he said that if ho had got into tho houso 00 had in- tended to make a good job of it.-On the ap- plication of the Chiof Constable, prisoner was i oman tied.

CHESTER RACES. I (See also page 10.) I ———— 6 ——— THURSDAY. I From start to finish the Chester meeting has been an unqualified success. Hia Majesty agiain honoured the proceedings with bis pre- sence, receiving another hearty ovation when he drove up in company with the Duko and Duchess of Westminster just before one o'clock. Naturally the attendance did not compare with thø Cup Day; atill there was a largo muster when a start was made with the Wynn Two- Year-Old Selling Plate. The favourite was found in Duke's Sister, tho property of a lady, but the winner proved to be Bootlo's Baby, owned by Mr. John Porter. She is by Ocean Wave—Liverpool Lass, and at the subsequent auction did the owner of the second and the fund a good turn, Mr. O. F. Elsey going to 310 guineas to get her, the entered selling price being only 1;50. Thanks to the judicious riding of little Wooton, the favourite in the Combermere Handicap, Bredenhill, won cleverly, and this led to the Great Cheshire Handicap. Larig and Dundreary were the absentees, the last- named having run in the previous race, and in view of the fact that Billy the Verger ought to have taken the Victoria Cup at Hurst Park last Saturday he was made a good favourite. 119 won by a neck from Duke of Sparta, but Soxby, who is riding exceptionally well this year, had a bit up his sleeve. The son of Avington is indeed an all-round performer, in- heriting the speed of his sire, and he can also stay. Tom Wedgwood was not suited by the course, and instead of being in front, as he has been repeatedly, now for a change brought up the rear. Morena as a two-year-old was re- ported to be better than Vamose, but he is evidently not so good as thought- Anyhow, in the ancient Dee Stakes, this being the 96th anniversary, the Duke of Westminster's colt was made favourite, but Abbot's Abode, the property of Mr. F. Alexander, won cleverly in the hands of Ilalsey. Click Clack scored on Tuesday, and in the hands of little Mason he again won, this time in the Earl of Chester's Welter Handicap and in a good betting race the Ormonde Two-Year-Old PL-tto fell to the favourite, Drcski, who after winning at Komp- ton was bought in for 620 guineas. Details — WYNN TWO-YRS-OLD SELLING PLATE of 20Qsov.— Five furlongs. 8 11 Mr. J. Porters BOOTLE'S BABY W. Higga 1 8 11 Mr. C. F. Elsey'a Mias Rapid E. Wheatley 2 8 11 Lord Lonsdale's Hackler's Bloom R. Crisp 3 8 6 Mr. R. B. Dobell's Dick Turpin S. Jones 0 8 11 Lord II. de Wal(-Iell,ti Macclesfield C. Trigg 0 8 6 Mm. E. Benwick's Duke's Sister J. Hughes 0 Winner trained by Moreton. Betting: 7 to 4 agst Duko's Si6ter, 9 to 4 Bootlo's Baby, 11 to 2 Hackler's Bloom, and 10 to 1 any other.—Dick Turpin got badly off, and Bootle's Baby, drawing out from Miss Rapid and Duke's Sister, made all the run- ning, and won easily by four lengths; two lengths separated second and third. Duke's Sister was fourth, and Diok Turpin last. The winner was sold to Mr. C. F. Ebey for 310gs. COMBERMERE HANDICAP of 300sov.— Seven furlongs. 8 0 Mr. J. Tennent's BREDENHILL, ayrs .F. Wooton 1 7 11 Mr. F. Gretton's Gera, 3yrs.W. Higgs 2 7 3 Mr. P. Nelke's Tartollar, 3yrs..F. Fox 3 8 12 Mr. Johnston's Dundreary, 5yrs. H. Stokes 0 8 0 Lord II. de Walden's Grey Man, 4yrs C. Trigg 0 7 3 Lord Elloomero's Maryport, 3yrs. Walter Griggs 0 Winner trained by Wright. I Betting: 100 to 30 agst Bredenhill, 4 to 1 each Dundreary and Grey Man, 9 to 2 Gem, 5 to 1 Maryport, and 10 to 1 Tartolla.r.- Mary-port made the running from Grey Man, Gera, and Dundreary, with llroo-enhill last, to the Grosvenor Bridge turn, when Brodenhill improved his position, and, assuming the lead in the straight, won easily by a length and a half; three-parts of a length separated second and third. Dundreary was fourth and Grey Man last. GREAT CHESHIRE HANDICAP STAKES of  500sov.—One mile and 120 yards. I 8 2 Mr. R. Dobell's BILLY THE VER- GER, 4yrs .W, Saxby 1 8 6 Mr. Mandaras's Duko of Sparta, 4yrs. Wal. Griggs 2 8 6 Mr. J. Barrow's Gallinago, 6yrs. W, Higgs 3 9 1 Mr. D. R. Browning's Tom Wedg- wood, 4jn-8 Stokes 0 9 8 Mr. P. Nelke's Snatch, 5yrs.L. Lyno 0 8 5 Mr. Christie's Son of tho Marsh, 4yrs W. Ilalsey 0 8 6 Mr. W. Bass's Sella, 5yr» C. Trigg 0 8 3 Sir R. Jardine's Cornfield, 4yra Wm. Griggs 0 7 10 Capt. R. M. Grigg's Salford, 6yrs. F. Greening 0 Winner trained by Rooney. Betting: 7 to 4 agst Billy the Verger, 4 to 1 Duke of Sparta, 6 to 1 each Tom Wedgwood and Snatoh, 7 to 1 Gallinago, 8 to 1 Cornfield, and 100 to 8 any ot-lier.-Billy the Verger made play from Duke of Sparta, Salford, Gallinago, Snatch, and Tom Wedgwood, with Sella last, until turning out of the straight, when Salford and Duke of Sparta became the joint leaders. with Billy the Verger, Tom Wedgwood, Corn- .,woo d Corn- field, and Gallinago next. Going along the Dee side Duke of Sparta drew to the front., fol- lowed by Billy the Verger, and the latter, get- ting the beet of t.ho race close home, won by a neck; a length and a half separated second and third, Salford WM fourth, Cornfield fifth, Snatch sixth. Son of the Marsh next, and Tom Wedgwood last. NINETY-SIXTH YEAR OF THE DEE STAKES of 500sov.—About one mile and a half. 8 7 Mr. F. Alexander's ABBOT'S ABODE Ilalsey 1 9 0 Mr. C. T. Pulley's Eaton Lad Will. Griggs 2 9 6 Mr. W. H. Walker's Pom L. Hewitt 31 8 7 Mr. W. Baas's c by Persimmon—Snow- flake Trigg 0 8 7 Mr. D. J. Jardine's The Negus I J. Pricstman 0 3 7 Duke of Westminster's Morena W. Higgs 0 (Winner trained by Braime.) I Betting: 5 to 4 agst Morena, 9 to 4 Abbot's Abodo. 8 to 1 Eaton I?ad and SandHakc colt, and 10 to 1 each Pom and The N<*gu?. Eaton LOO WM foHowed by The N CguB, MoMnA and Abbot's Abode, with '?andflake colt next, to tLo Dcesido, where Morena hecame second and Abbot's Abode third. Wit-en fairly in tho line for home Morena and Abbot's Abode closed with Eaton Lad, and Abbot's Abode, shortly after- wards assuming the command, won by a length; the same distance separated second and third. Morena was fourth, and The Negus tailed off last. EARL OF CHESTER'S WELTER HANDI- CAP PLATE of 200aov.-Six ftirionas. 8 0 Mr. J. J. Cowap's CLICK CLACK, 3yra. Fred Mason 1 8 5 Mr. J. T. Whipp's Saucy John. 3yra C. Ringst-ead 2 8 13 IJOrd Sefton's James, 5yrs W. Higga 3 9 2 Mr. J. East's Laila, 5yr» J. East 0 8 13 Lord Lonsdale's The Prodigal Son, 4yrs. A. Sharpies 0 8 12 Mr. H. W. Sadler's Baliymac, 4yre. W. Halsey 0 8 8 Sir J. Thursby's Hat Trick, 3yrg L. Hewitt 0 8 2 Mr. R. C. Wood's Bellator, 6yi6 Winbush 0 (Winner trained by Owner.) I Betting: 3 to 1 each agst Laila and James, 5 to 1 Saucy John, 6 to 1 Hat Trick, 8 to 1 The Prodigal Son, and 10 to 1 Click Clack or any other. Saucy John made the running- from James, Click Clack, The Prodigal Son and Laila, with Bellator last, to the distance, where Click Clack challenged Saucy John and won by a neck iJhroo lengths separated second and third Laila was fourth, Hat Trick fifth,, Ballymac I, next, and Bellator last. ORMONDE TWO-YEAR-OLD PLATE of 2O0SOV.— Four furlongs. 8 7 Capt P. Herbert's DROSKI.C. Trigg 1 8 4 Sir R, Jardine's f b Mehon-bAronew La Fleche .Wm. Grigga 2 8 10 Mr. W. Gordon Canning's Foxcote W. Higga 3 8 10 Mr. J. L. Dugdale's Lady Syme L. Hewitt 0 8 7 Mr. J. Tennent's Birch Sprig.. W. Saxby 0, 8 7 Mr. J. Vpton's Moth-er-in-Law. I H. Stokes 0 (Winner trained by Board»ley.) Betting: 2 to 1 agst Droski, 9 to 4 liaroness La Flecho filly, 4 to 1 Foxcote, and 8 to 1 any other. Baroness La Fleche filly made play from Droski and Foxcote, with Mother-in-Law last. Close home Droski closed with the leader, and won a good raoe by a head; three lengths separated aeciond and third. Mother-in-Law was fourth, and Birch Sprig last. ATTENDANCE AND RECEIPTS. NEW RECORD. The attendance and receipts constitutes a record on all three days, the attraction of the King's presence accounting for much of the increased crowds. The figures, with a comparison with last vear. are as follow Ttie,day. -Attendance, 1907, 8,813 1908, 0 625 receipts, 1907, 94,228. 12s. 1908, £ 4,562. 14s. 6d. Wed nesday.-Attendance, 1907, 49,985; 1908, 58,383 receipts, T907, £ 0,342. 15s. Gd. 1908, £ 6,987. 14. 6d. Thursday.—Attendance, 1907, 14,971; 1908, 17,489 receipts, 1907, 9 L, 1133. 4s. 1908, El, 989. 4a. 6d. Total attendance, 1907, 73,607 1908, S6,497. Total receipts, 1907, £ 12,304. lis. Gd,; 1908, £ 13,529. 1;)s, 6d. The following shews the total receipts and attendances for the preceding five years;- Attendances. Receipts. 1903 55,288 £ 11.421 1904 61,405 £ 12,100 1905 69,425 £11,977 1906 .66.230. £ll,271 1907 73,345 £12,279 The previous record for attendance was in 1899, when the King was here as Prince of Wales. The figures were then 74.394. The previous record for receipts was 1;12,880 taken in 1901.

I ELLESMERE PORT & Willfil3le I (See also page ll.-)- n1eet. I NEW LICENCE REFUSED.-?, ? ing of the Cheshire Licensing C?onfiri'O to Committee, held on Thursday at ??" ??f application for a licence in respect of t,1"9 ;n,ts low Cottage, Ellesmere Port, was '?-'?. WHITBY NEW CHURCH.—On T"e^$ meeting was held in the Whitby tJj« Rev. H. J. Dawson presiding. ThSe ??? ??<?- of the provision of the new church jS^ cussed, and a strong building comm he$ formed. A further meeting will be ?' ill W the question of plam, expez? otc-> ?? t? dealt with. wJ' BOWLH\G.-On Mon?y the fins'to A. place at the Sportsman's Arms Hotel 9 n? ?. i <  the Rrst handicap of tho swoorl The -e"6 were a set of woods presented by the pr? ?t, Mr. H. Pri-, and a bowlers' bag, 9'oil Mr. W\ Ptatt. vice-presi d ent. The Mr. W. Platt, vice-president. The se i- rœultoo as follow: C. Price, jim.. 15, ? !r. -Y 14. J. Bond 15, J. Dunn 8. In the .1 ?r. C, Price won by 15 to 12.

I QUEEN'S FERRY. I (See also page 11.) I UUMPETiXiVE M cfiIvi Ij\U. —On Wednes- day a successful competitive gathering in con- nection with the Band of Hope, was held in the Primitive Methodist chapel. Mr. R. T. Evans (headmaster of the Council Schools) occupied the chair, and there was a splendid audience present. Mr. J. Atkinson iSaridyeroft) dill- charged the duties of adjudicator, and all arrangements had been made by Mr. T. J. Pierce. Very keen competition for the several prizes was shewn, and tho following were the Biicoessful competitOrs: --Tempetanoo recita- tion 1st pri^o, Sarah Lockley: 2nd prize, J. T. Jones. Dialogue 1st prize. Mies R. Parry and party 2nd prize, Miss it Pierce and party. Reading 1st prize, Miss R. Parry; 2nd prize, Mies Ethel Pierce. Solo: 1st prize, Mies Lily Patten; 2nd prize. Miss R. Parry. Whistling solo: 1st prize, J. Foulkcs; 2nd prize, T. Wainwriglit. Impromptu speech on "Women" lat, B. Evan.3; 2nd, T. Strc-fford. Solo for girls under seven years: 1st, Mary A. Jones; 2nd, Doris Aldridge. Recitation (open) for boys and girls under ten years: 1st, Emily Patten 2nd. Phyllis Jones. Recitation (opon) for lwl-s and girls over ten years: 1st, Miss F. Stot.t; 2nd, Miss Ethel Pieroc.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. (See also page 3.) A TEMPERANCE SLANDERS ON THE TRADE. Sir,—I now have pleasure in handing you copy of Mr. Green's version of tho above, and you wiU agreo with me that his straightforward and inan-ly reply shews what a marc's nest Mr. Walker and his friends discovered.-Youra faith- fully, FRED. T. HOLLAND, Secretary. The Chester Licensed Victuallers' Protective and Benevolent Association. Lord Raglan Inn, Frodsham-street, Chester, 15th May, 1908. (Copy.) (Copy.) | Lavendish Stores, 407, Green Lanes, Harringay, London, N. My Dear Sir,—I am obliged for the trouble you havo taken in sending copies of the "Cheshire Observer." Five hundred such oarcle as mentioned were printed and sent out round my immediate neighbourhood, but no card has ever been displayed in my window, or, to my knowledge, in any one eWs. Now let me explain. I am aa zealous in my efforts against this iniquitous Bill aa ever mortal man oould be. I thought to do more than any other man, by advertising the petition in conjunction with an advertisement of stout, but the wicked imputa- tion that it was ever in my mind that the two would bo so connected as to suggest bribery is infamous, and the man is not yet born who can say he received a bottle of stout as a reward for his signature. He is a clever man who never made a mistake! I made a mistake! It was an indiscretion, and nothing more. Further than that, not one single signature has been sent from my premises to the House of Commons, for. having seen the mistake, I imme- diately closed the petition, and it is in my pos- session, where it will 6t.ay. Lf there ia any further explanation I can give you, please let me know, and I will write von again.—Yours faithfully, HARRY GREEN.