South Wales Echo

South Wales Notes. MINERS' WANTS. I TO stumbling -40CIC whicn the Irish ques- I tion ev6r forms is constantly receiving fresh illustration. The. absolute inability of Parliament to grapple with many much- needed reforms has long since passed into a proverb, and where we shall find ourselves eventually passeth the understanding of man. If there is one subject more than another which has deep interest for thousands of people in South Wales, it is that of mining legislation. Yesterday a deputation waited upon Mr Childers with regard to the amend- ment of the Act of 1872, and there was something actually touching in the tone he adopted when he declared he was anxious to pass as soon as possible the bill he would have to introduce." Before the Irish Juggernaut other questions go down in numbers, and all the life is crushed out of them beneath its ponderous and exacting wheels, There is not a grievance of recent growth which has not suffered in consequence, and when redress is to come, who shall attempt to say 1 There is not a miner in South Wales who trill not read with regret the account of the deputation to Mr Childers not on account of the proceedings themselves, but of the apparently dim and distant future in which practical legislation is likely to take piaoe. .:1 UNEMPLOYED KOWDIES. THE men who are organising big mobs and leading them up and down the streets of big towns, and inducing them to frighten the respectable members of the community, are doing more harm than good for the really deserving workmen. The recent scenes in London, Birmingham, and other large towns, have now been copied in Manchester, where it would seem that a very considerable alarm was created by ctwdfc1 who went out to break windows and put their hands to lpicking and stealing," if the chance cropped up. There is all the difference in the world between demonstration and rowdyism. If there are hundreds of unemployed in a town, there is nothing wrong in their meet- ing and protesting against their being allowed to starve. But such de- monstrations lose all their force the foment those who join in them show their brutal instincts and degenerate into the hired ruffian. This was clearly illustrated recently ia Cardiff by the unem- ployed seamen. I know for a fact that the quiet and orderly character of their two meetings gained for the men much more sympathy and wrought much more good than any amount of noisy ruffianism could have done. At the same time when men are orderly under such circumstances, it behoves every one te bear in mind the real deserts of such conduct, the exceptional temptations which have to be withstood, and to recognise them in that practically charitable manner which alone can be of service in reducing the distress. THE BFTECTS OF THE RIFLEMAN EXPLOSION. I AM glad to see that some desire is being ¡ shown to provide for the necessities of those who have been bereaved by the boiler explosion on board the tug Rifleman. There is some talk about promoting the generous instincts of the public by means of entertainments. I am not altogether in favour of such means of getting to- gether funds. If people cannot be charitable without getting something in return for it, then by all means give I them theatre and concert tickets. But I prefer", to think that there is & charity in Caitiff which in such a cause is above these considerations. I would not attempt to depreciate the offers of those who have H volunteered their services," as to sing or act so as to draw money from sluggard philanthropists. It is very kind and disinterested of them but I hope that all those who intend to contribute to the fund will not wait for the entertainments, but will give their mites, and look upon the theatre and the concert-hall as an extra indulgence in the luxury of charity. At' -amy rate, and by any means, I hope the fund will swell quickly. MATTERS OF IMPORTANCE TO SWANSEA I PSOPIB. THE discussions which took place at yester- day's meeting of the Swansea Chamber of Commerce were of an exceptionally impor- tant character, and if they have the practical effect desired, it will be a good thing for the port. The necessity of ixnproving the facili- ties for loading and unloading vessels in the North Dock have been before the bodies (' eoncgrned for years, and it is a scandal 4 that nothing has yet been done. The im- portance of obtaining the necessary authp- Wty for making Swansea a port for the portance of obtaining the necessary authp. Wty for making Swansea a port for the t £ ii)porrai«on of foreign cattle has alreauy It with in uotes; and it is now I :1. Juu' i seems a prospect ot' Mr Hopkin's suggestion being speedily realised. But perhaps the question of most importance at the present moment is that which Mr Rocke was, by the rules of the chamber, unfortu- nately prevented from bringing to an issue. Just now there is a chance—perhaps a re- mote one-of Swansea being placed on the main line, and if the inhabitants are true to their own interests they will move heaven and earth with the object of obtaining so valuable an advantage. Few towns are so fortunate as to have two Great Western directors living in their midst, and Swansea people should now take full advantage of this fortunate position. I should remind them that there is not a moment to lose, for in a day or two a contract may be accepted for the reconstruction of the Landore Bridge, and, as Councillor Rocke says, once this is done, Swansea will for ever be regarded as "Swansea, near Landore." VICE IN SWANSEA." UNDER this startling heading a correspond- ent sends me a violent outburst against the condition of affairs in Swansea generally. He, in fact, goes so far as to relieve himself by calling Swansea "the counterpart of Modern Babylon," and this seems to give him very considerable relief. His ire has been particularly excited by the fact that he recently saw a man selling a pamphlet, and he says that the man was doing a roaring trade. It adds that "the contents of the pamphlet were of the most loathsome and indecent description, calculated to excite and injure the mind." I presume by this that he bought one and read it. He calls the sale of this kind of thing a "curse to the country generally," and asks whether the Government can't interfere, and so on for a few more pages. If the thing was indecent—and he apparently knows all about it-the police should have interfered, and the man been stopped. But because one rascal makes a dirty living in such a way, there is no reason to blackguard the whole town. Some people, however, who begin to sling ink, just sling it round without caring where it goes or what kind of marks it makes. My correspondent—who takes the appropriate name of Black Eacle "-seems to be about one of these. SWANSEA ILLUSTRATED. I HAVE often wondered that more attention has not been given to South Wales by the illustrated papers. There are plenty of scenes in all parts which are well worth reproduction, and plenty of scenes which, when illustrated, hundreds of people would like to have as mementoes. I am very glad to hear therefore that the pro- prietors of one of the chief illustrated papers, the Pictorial World, intend to de- vote a considerable amount of space and illustrations to South Wales in the future. They have made a good beginning. The unveiling of the statue of Sir Hussey Vivian forms the occasion of a number of illustrations; and these cover the ceremony itself, and many spots of interest in the town and district. I like to give a word of praise when deserved, and I can certainly say, that the views—including Swansea Pier, Park Wern, the Castle, Singleton Abbey, Craig-y-Nos, some of the town buildings, and a bird's-eye view of the harbour-are extremely good. Of the por- traits of Sir Hussey himself, Lord Aberdare, and the Mayor, Mr W. J. liees, I can most truthfully say I have never seen better in an illustrated paper. There is also a description of the town, written by Mr R. Capper. The number will be of excep- tional interest to the Swansea folk.

THE PREMIER AND THE WELSH M.P.'S. Mabon's Present from Mrs. Gladstone. Our special correspondent in London writes The Welsh members of Parliament had quite a field day on Wednesday night, when emancipation from political strife in the House allowed them to meet at the mansion of Mr Stuart Rendel, M.P., 4, Whitehall Gardens. Mr Rendel happens to be a wealthy man, and his town residence—which, by the way, was at one time occupied by Sir Robert Peel-is furnished on a scale of exceptional magnificence. Nearly all the Welsh members of Parliament were present at dinner, and there was a great crush at Mrs Rendel's At home," which was held afterwards. Mr and Mrs Gladstone were prominent amongst the ladies and gentlemen present, and the Premier was in frequent conversation with the representatives of the principality. Upon Mr William Abraham (Mabon) arriving, and being presented to Mrs Rendel, that lady re- marked, Oh, I have a present for you from Mrs Gladstone, and thereupon she handed to the chosen of the Rhondda Valley an elaborate specimen of an artificial leek. The stem of this national emblem is composed of silver wire, artistically interwoven, whilst the leaves of the trophy are represented by strips of bright green ribbon. Mrs Rendel herself fastened the ltek in Mr Abtaham's coat. Later on, Mr Glad- stone expressed a desire to bear Mr Abraham sing in 'Yelsh-:Mabon's Welsh songs are all the rage up here-and he readily complied, giving two songs, one of which was, "The Land of my Fathers." At the conclusion of this Mr Gladstone left. The proceedings were kept up till a late hour; at mid-night, guests were still arriving.

INDISPOSITION OF LADY BUTE. Owing to the indisposition of the Marchioness of Bute, the marquis delayed his departure from home on Thursday till it was too late to call him before a committee of the House of Lords for the purpose of giving evidence on the Bute Transfer Bill. It is understood that Lady Bute's indisposition is not of a serious nature.

BARRY AND CADOXTON GAS AND WATER BilL. This bill was to have come before a committee of the House of Lords on Thursday, but the opposition of the Cardiff Corporation being with- drawn, the measure was sent before Lord Redes- dale, chairman of committees. A-

SUICIDE AT THE CARDIFF DOCKS. Mr E. B. Reece (coroner) held an inquest at the Town-hall, Cardiff, on Wednesday evening, on the body of Jean Baptiste Francois Journes, master of the French barque Gabrielle, of Agde. from St. Nazaire, now lying in the West Dock, who committed suicide by shootins him- self on Tuesday morning.—Jean Brisson, who gave his evidence in French, deposed that he was mate of the Gabrielle. The captain joined the barque at St. Nazaire 17 days ago. He appeared to be in low spirits since he arrived at Cardiff. The reason for this was the expense that attended the repairing of the vessel, which struck against the quay wall as it was coming into the dock, and was considerably damaged thereby. Witness saw deceased last alive at 5 o'clock on Tuesday morning. He was then in his cabin, and witness spoke to him. He did not hear a snot. The cabin boy was sent as usual at six o'clock to take him his eoffee, but on entering the cabin saw him lying dressed on the floor. He ran for the mate. On entering witness saw the pistol near him, and blood all over the floor. He immediately sent on shore for a doctor. Deceased was a married man, with several children. His family lived cloae to Marseilles.—The Interpreter stated that he had frequently seen the deceased. On one occasion he found him crying like a child on account of the damage to his vessel. This did not really, however, amount to more than JB5 5s. Deceased told him he had purchased a new revolver for 15s.-P.C. Williams, a dock constable, deposed that at six o'clock on the day in question he saw deceased in his cabin with a pistol shot in his head. He was not dead then, but died before the doctor oarrived.-Dr Rees stated that the wound was self-inflicted, and that deceased, beyond all doubt, died from it.—The jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of temporary in- sanity." —

THE STEAMSHIP COLLISION AT CARDIFF. On Thursday the steamship International, of Newcastle, damaged by collision with the Rhyl s.8 of Cardiff, on the previous evening, under circurastanoes already reported, was placed on the stocks in the Mountstuart Graving Dock for repairs.

"VmDINm" is cfiftlkin cure iot Ooms beware of imitations. MdHe. Marie; Muller, Amsfcer dam, writes" I bought a bottle of your genuine Vividine' some six months ago m Pans, wtoch cured tne, and a* lam a pvi^cjpldancer.youiBOwmyfeet are my living. The bottle I bought didthe: you recommended it, but I bought anther on<e aftei- wards which was .forced, and no good. As„i want a bottle of yenuinc for a friend of ifline, who is nearly mad with pain, will you plaa.se send me one auwet Sold only in bottles at Is, by post Is 2d, J Munday. Chemist i Cardiff. and all Chemists. woe UNFAILING BEMEDY FOR BEADACHESf KENRICK'S VEGETABLE PILLS. FOR INDIGESTION. «i4>y.«n Chemists, &c., hi 7*1, and 2s get boxe RI-iViUE OF IMITATIONS.

| The Ministerial Crisis. » INTERVIEW BETWEEN MR, CHAMBERLAIN AND LORD R. CHURCHILL. I [PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.] I LONDON, Thursday Evening, The feeling in political circles was in a state of extreme tension this evening. It was generally believed that the negotiations between Mr Glad- stone and Mr Chamberlain and Mr Trevelvan bad, to all intents and purposes, failed in their object, and amongst Liberals the result of the rupture was discussed with much anxiety. We are mformed that no progress whatever has been made towards an arrangement. Several communications have passed between the Premier and his two colleagues, but neither of the parties has yet been induced to alter his decision. Mr Chamberlain was closeted for some time to- day with Lord Randolph Churchill. This inter- view was much commented on. After leaving the President of the Local Government Board, Lord Randolph Churchill remained in the lobby some minutes in conversation with Mr Majoribanks, one of the Liberal whips. Mr Chamberlain subsequently had a consultation in his private room with Mr J. Powell Williams and Mr William Kenrick, members for the Southern and Northern Divisions of Birmingham. When these gentlemen left he was joined by Mr Jesse Collings, accompanied by whom be left the House. The opinion gains ground that in the event of Mr Chamberlain leaving the Cabinet he will have a considerable following from amongst Liberal members below the gangway. Up to the present nothing has transpired to confirm the rumour that Sir William Harcourt is unable to subscribe to Mr Gladstone's plans. On the contrary, it is stated that the Chancellor of the Exchequer is one of the Ministers who, during the last forty-eight hours, have personally interposed in order to try and effect a com- promise.* MIDNIGHT. Mr Chamberlain remains immovable. His objection to Mr Gladstone's land purchase pro- posals is, we believe, such as will be removed only by the abandonment of the scheme, a course which the Premier has, so far, shown no disposi- tion to adopt. It is not expected that the President of the Local Government Board will finally sever his connection with the Ministry until after the next Cabinet Council, the date of which has not been fixed, but unless Mr Glad- stone should give way at the last moment, Mr Chamberlain's secession is probably a question of a few days unly. Hopes are still entertained of a compromise being effected in the case of Mr Trevelyan. There is, however, good reason to belie-r. tbat the Scotch Secretary is now practically in accord with Mr Chamberlain, and will adhere I to the position he has taken up. I ] CENTRAL SEWS TELEGKAM. 1 I LONDON, Thursday. Mr Chamberlain met Lord Randolph Churchill in one of the conference rooms of the House of Commons, and remained in conversation with the noble lord for nearly three-quarters of an hour. This incident caused something approaching to excitement in the lobbies, a feeling which was not allayed when it became known that his lord- ship went straight from his conference with Mr r Chamberlain to Sir Michael Hicks-Beach, with whom he engaged in earnest conversation for a considerable time. During the evening Mr Chamberlain chatted with a number of his personal and political friends, including Mr Jesse Collings, bnt he bad no personal communication with Mr Gladstone throughout the day. We have high' authority for stating that the political situation has in no wise changed sines yesterday. LATEE. We have received from an official source the following statement of the political situation It is maintained by Mr Chamberlain's friends that Mr Gladstone's proposals would involve so complete a separation of the two countries as to make it impossible that the English people would join in any guarantee to the landlords, and unless some mode can be discovered that will avert this complete separation, and make payment to the landlords much more moderate than at present proposed, Mr Chamberlain Cannot continue to act with the present Cabinet. On Mr Gladstone's part it is denied that the proposal which will be put before Parliament will involve separa- tion, and it is contended that the circum- stances under which tha landlords will be guaranteed willlewe the English people prac- tically without risk." MR CHAMBERLAIN'S ALTERNATIVE PROPOSALS. The London correspondent of the Liverpool Mercury telegraphs Mr Chamberlain's policy is not merely negative. He has alternative pro- posals. Heis infavour both of a large land scheme and of organised local self-government for Ire- land. What he declines to do is to risk so many millions of British money with an Irish legisla- ture. He is in favour of administrative Home Rule, not an Irish legislature. Under his scheme, if the imperial parse bought the land of Ireland, England wonld be the mortgagee in possession the peasants would not be- come practically their own judges of the expediency of paying the land tax. The Imperial Parliament, and not the Irish Parlia- ment, would be responsible for the revenue. Further details will be given when Mr Chamber- lain makes his attack upon Mr Gladstone's plans. Mr Chamberlain's attitude towards the Govern- ment will be that of open hostility. He will do everything he can to justify himself in the eyes of the House of Commons and in the eyes ot the country, and he will pursue his policy with vigour. This is understood now by the purely Gladstonian Liberals, and they are very furious with the membsr for West Birmingham, whom they describe as destroying Mr Gladstone's career." The London cortespolldent of the Leeds Mercury telegraphs :-t-" I have reason to believe that Mr ChamberlainV tion to Mr Gladstone's scheme is not based merely on the enormous bum which it proposes to add to the National Debt, but on the fact that the execution of the scheme is to be transferred to Irish authority. He would not oppose a scheme of appropriation earned out undbr the control of the Imperial Parliament but he is strongly opposed to the buying out of the landlords on the credit of the Imperial Ex- chequer, and the handing over of the control of the security—that is to say, the land-toan Irish Parliament." t RADICAL OBJECTIONS. Mr Labouchere, M.P., writes: Many Radicals, who are opposed to our incurring lia- bilies in order to put money into the pockets of Irish landlords, are prepared to vote for Mr Gladstone's Land Purchase scheme rather than imperil by their opposition his general settlement of the Irish difficulty. They would, however, greatly prefer that Home Rule for Ireland should not be weighted with a heavy monetary obligation undertaken. by the taxpayers of the United Kingdom," OTHER SECESSIONS PROBABLE. I The London correspondent of the Leeds Mer- cury writes" I hear that when the secessions from the Government take place they will not be confined to Mr Chamberlain and Mr Trevelyan. Several of the minor members of the Government will disappear also. Mr Heneage, Lord Ken- mare, Lord Cork, and several other members of the Government will also resign. It is rumoured that Mr Gladstone will have at least six or seven places to dispose of, and the hopes of those office- seekers who were disappointed at the formation of the Government will begin to revive."

FUNERAL OF GENERAL SOMERSET, C.B. The remains of the late General E. A. Somer- set were interred at the parish of Mitcheltroy, near Monmouth, on Thursday afternoon. The funeral procession left Troy House about half- past one o'clock, the carriages being numerous. The tradesmen of Monmouth attended in large numbers. Mrs Somerset, with her six daughters, the Marquis of Worcester, Lord Raglan, the Hon. and Mrs Raglan Somerset, the Hon. Richard Somerset (brother of Lord Raglan), Major and Mrs Knyvett Leighton, Mr and Mrs Tudway, Mr Griffin, the Rev. Harding, and a multitude of others were present. The officiating clergy were the Hon. and Rev T. Lascelles, rector of Goldsworthy, and the Rev. H. Bedwell, rector of Mitcheltroy. The grave was a simple earth one, lined with moss and flowers, and tm, coffin was of plain oak with brass mountings.

I LLANDOVERY SCHOOL. Mr Robert Edward Leigh, of Llandovery School, has succeeded in obtaining an exhibition of JB30 at Jesus College/Oxford. I

I I • SKAWEKDLUNGLII?E.—The great cure forCoughs, Broncbiti*, and Consumption. Price, 2s 9d; cost free, 3s. British agents, Sangerand Sons, 489, Oxford-st., London. TUE VERY BEST. I I have examined the Pills known as KKRNICK'S VEGETABLE PILLS, I certify their composition to ba purely ve'etable, I have aisc tried their efleet, aud consider tkem ens of the best Aperient Pills for consti oased habits that I Know of (SiK'i xt), JCI1N UALBIBNIi M A M.D 165 ) iJY :1.1" Chemist*, in 7itl.ls 34d 2. c: h<?*>

HOUSE OF LORDS.—THURSDAY. The Lord Chancellor took his seat on the wool- sack at a quartor-pnist four o'clock. THE LUNACY ACTS. On the motion for going into committes on the Lunacy Acts Amendment Bill, The Earl of SELBORNE said he was alarmed at the danger of the proposal gradually to extin- guish private asylums, and while admitting that the risk of patients being kept too long in con- finement, because their detention served the pecuniary interests of other persons, justified legislation with the view of preventing such abuses, he shared the opinion of the late Lord Shaftesbury, that it would be undesirable to prohibit licensed houses altogether. The 26th clause of the bill proposed that no one should be received in any house except lunatics so found by inquisition. That would cut off at once the powers of persons to place their afflicted relatives where they would receive the best possible care and attention. Against that clause he had ventured to remon- strate, and he hoped it would not be persevered with. (Hear, hear.) It should be borne in mind that large sums of money had been invested in private asylums, in the reasonable expectation that, if properly conducted, they would be allowed to continue, and if Parliament thought it right to put ftn end to them compensation ought, to be granted. The LORD CHANCELLOR had not received any complaint from the general public of the proposed extinction of private asylums the complaints had come exclusively from the proprietors of houses of that character. He could not admit a claim to vested interests in the goodwill of a lunatic asylum on behalf of the proprietor and his heirs for ever, but he suggested for considera- tion whether the difficulty that had been raised in that respect might not be got over by giving power to continue to transferees, for a certain number of years, those asylums in which money had been invested. As regarded private patients, he should be quite willing to allow them to be detained as private patients not only when so found by inquisition, but by order of a judge in chambers. (Hear, hear.) Lord ASHBOURNE questioned the reasonableness of enacting that the poor and heavily burdened taxpayer of tho country should provide homes and asylums for these who were well able to provide them for themselves, and hoped if the bill passed that the Irish Government would bring in a bill to extend to Ireland those clauses which were suitable to that country. The LORD CHANCELLOR had consulted the law officers, and they did not think it would be practicable to extend the bill to Ireland. The House then went into committee on the bill, and on the fourth clause relating to urgency orders, The Earl of MILLTOWN proposed to amend the 2nd rule section, which provided that no persons should be received under an urgency order, unless the medical practitioner who signed the certificate had personally examined the patient not more than three clear days previously to the reception of such person. He considered the time too long, and moved the substitution of 24 hours. The LORD CHANCELLOR was willing to make it two days instead of three, and the Earl of Mill- town assenting, the alteration waB made. The LORD CHANCELLOR moved the insertion of a new section for the protection of those who honestly and with reasonable care gave certiti- e.Ues of lunacy. The Earl of SELBORNE expressed approval, aud the section was inserted. All the clauses relating to idiotcy were, on the motion of the LORD CHANCELLOR, omitted, it being his intention to introduce a bill dealing with that subject separately. The remaining clauses having been gone through, progress was reported. Their Lordships adjourned at ten minutes to eight o'clock.

HOUSE OF COMMONS.—THURSDAY. I The Speaker tcok the chair at four. 1 THE CHURCH CP SCOTLAND DIVISION. Sir KOBERT ANSTRUTHES and Mr PRESTON BRUCE, tellers for the ayes in the division on the Church of Scotland Bill on Wednesday, attended at the table, and explained that they had erroneously returned the number as 177 instead of 179. SUNDAY CLOSING IN CORNWALL. r.ir UONTBEARE gave notice tor ivxonaay to ask I leave to introduce a bill for the closing of public- houses on Sunday in Cornwall. I THE USE OF NATIONAL SCHOOLS FOE POLITICAL I MEETINGS. Sir LYON PI.AYFAIR, in reply to Mr Herbert Gardner, explained that the Education Depart- ment had no power to compel the' managers of schools in receipt of parliamentary grants to piace their schoolroom at the disposal of a parlia- mentary candidate for political meetings. That was a matter for the discretion of managers, provided they did not violate the section ot the Corrupt Practices Act applicable to the case. Mr HERBERT GARDNER then gave notice that on the education estimates he should move that taking into consideration the large increase in the nnmber of rural voters, the desirability of having the views of parliamentary candidates fully discussed, nnd the difficulty in some parts- of the country of finding buildings for the purpose, the House is of opinion that the right should be secured to Parliamentary candidates of holding meeting in any school receiving a parliamentary grant. (Hear, hear.) THE HEROINE OF THE COLUMBINE. Mr BRYCE, in reply to Mr Uyall, said her Majesty Minister for Sweden and Norway had been instructed to express her Majesty's gratitute for the services humanely rendered to Elizabeth Mouat, and the Board of Trade had been con- sulted as to what steps could be taken to reward these services either by an acknowledgment in the shape of some benefit of a permanent nature to the community of Lepsoe, or by gifts to those concerned in the rescue. (Hear, hear.) THE REPORT OF THE ROYAL LIVER SOCIETY. I Mr H. J< OWLEK, in answer to Mr Mutton, said I that the report of Mr Lyulph Stanley on the Royal Liver Friendly Society would be laid on the table to-morrow (Friday) or Monday. I COMPULSORY VACCINATION. Mr CHAMBERLAIN, in reply to Mr Thomas Robinson, said that ha could not undertake to bring in a bill to repeal the compulsory clauses of the Vaccination Act. There was on the paper a notice of motion with regard to vaccination, and in connection with this the whole question might be discussed. DAY OF HUMILIATION. Mr GLADSTONE, in reply to Mr Johnston, said there was no doubt much distress in the country, which was greatly to be lamented, but the appointment of days of humiliation and prayer must necessarily be a, rare occurrence, and separated by long intervals, otherwise they would lose part of their character. The Government did not think the present distress presented those particular characteristics which called for a day of humiliation and prayer. THE NAVY ESTIMATES. The House having gone into committee of supply on the Navy estimates, Mr HIBBERT rose amid Ministerial cheers to move the vote for £ 2,920,900 for the wages of seamen and marines. He stated that the total amount of the estimates was £ 12,993,000, which shewed an increase of L606,000 on the estimates of last year. This total was higher than in any past year since the Crimean War, and the heaviness of the amount was due to the large liabilities involved in carry- ing out the shipbuilding programmes of Lord Northbrook and the late First Lord of the Admi- ralty. The present estimates were, moreover, one and a half million in excess of the estimates of the last Liberal Government. At the present time there were in progress 123 different ships. The -dockyard vote this yfear for labour was £ 692,900, against £ 605.000 last year, but the contract vote for Imchineryiof new ships was £1,173,000, against one and a half million in the previous year. With regard to ironclad ships, the Admiralty were of opinion that there was no reason, after the large ironclads now in progress were completed, for going to so large an expenditure in future. Their attention, they considered, ought to be turned to what ought to be the type of vessel for the future. (Hear, hear.) Next year, when they had got rid of their present liabilities, the Board of Ad- miralty would have at least a million of money to spend in new vessels, and he thought, there- fore, they were justified in asking for time to consider what the vessels of the future ought to be. Among the ships now in progress were the Nile and the Trafalgar, which were ordered by Lord Northbrook, and were the most important vessels ever placed on the stocks by an English Government. They were the two largest iron- clads ever commenced, with the exception of four belonging to the Italian Navy. Each of them was to be 345 feet in length, 73 feat in breadth, with a displacement of 11,900 tom, and ah indicated horse-power of 12,000. The estimated speed of each vessel was sixteen and a half knots. Each was to have an armoured citadal of 109 feet in length, with a turret containing two 68-ton breccb-loading guns. Above the citadal there would be a central battery, lightly armoured, containing eight five-inch breech-loading guns, and on the spar-deck, covering the battery, there would be a number ot machine guns. The turret guns would be loaded, and the turrets would revolve by hydraulic power, and each ship, besides, would have a torpedo armament. The cost of each ship would be £ 919,000, the estimate for the hull being £ 686,000, th6 propelling machinery 297,000, the guu mountings 279,000, and the guns £ 56,340. Comparing these sums with the cost of previously built iron- clads, he stated that the Inflexible cost -13809,000, and the Benbow and Renown £ 789,000 each. It had been held as necessary that England, if she desired to be as strong in her naval power as any other country, must go to this expenditure, but he thought he might say that the Nile and Trafalgar would probably be the last large ironclads, at any rate of their par- ticular type, that would ever be built either by this country or any other. (Hear, hear.) With regard to the development of our torpedo flotilla, that was a matter which had received great atten- tion, and he was glad to say that several of the torpedo vessels in progress were rapidly approach- ing completion. There had been 40 of these vessels ordered out of the vote of credit. These, of course, could not be regarded as regular sea- I going vessels, because it would be a cruelty to keep the crews for any length of time confined on board craft of that description. The Admiralty were not desirouc of deciding on the construction of any further torpedo vessels until they bad had an opportunity of ascertaining which was tha best type of vessels, and what would be the smallest cost at which it could SM produced. With regard to torpedoes, the v had 541 in readiness. Two- I huntn eu fifty per annum were being made at Woolwich, and an additional number elsewhere, so that ov the t!'nri of the year they hoped they would cnly be three or four hundred short of the total number required. It was not very easy to get these modern accessories of naval warfare, and as the Governmont were anxious if possible, to obtain what they wanted in this country they would bs glad to do business with such English finns as would make the torpedoes needed for the naval service. In addition to the torpedo boats making for the British Navy, 32 such vessels had been sent to different colonial stations. The House would be glad to learn that owing to the arrangements that had besn made, the armaments of the ships in buildinsr would be carried out with much greater expedition than heretofore. It had been too frequently tho case that ships had been kept waiting for their arma- ments, but this would not be the case in future. In 1880 there was not a single breach-loading gun available for the vessels then constructed in 1885 them were no 84 or 64-ton guns in readiness but in March, 1887, there would be thrpe of the former and 14 of the latter. In July, 1835, there were only 11 43-ton guns ready, but in July, 1887, there would be 17 and in regard to the six-inch guns, while there were only 230 ready in July. 1885, there would be 468 completed in March, 1887. In addition to this, provision would be made for the armament of six ships of the Narcissus type. In conclusion, the right hon. gentlerran congratulated the House on the condition of the navy, and the power he believed it would be able to maintain for the retention of British supremacy at sea. Lord G. HAMILTON expressed a general approval of the course taken by the present '.o.'rd of Admiralty in continuing the policy of their predecessors, especially as to the provision they had made for controlling the naval expendi- ure, and for exercising improved supervision in the dockyards. Hir T. BRASSEY recommended the formation of a powerful reserve squadron of fast cruisers, and that a certain number of ships should be kept in reserve of a class capable of being efficiently handled under sail. Mr HIBBERT, replying to the remarks of various speakers, defended the policy pursued by the Ad- miralty, and referring to the question raised as to the promotion of the warrant officers, promised that it would have the full consideration of the First Lord. As to the stokers and artificers on board the steam vessels, they would, he stated, in future undergo the train- ing that had been suggested. Mr BRADLAUGH congratulated the committee on the decrease of half a million in the navy estimates, consequent on the recent change of Government. The vote was then agreed to, as also was a vote of -P96,1,400 for victuals and clothing of seamen I and marines. Mr H. H. FOWLER moved a vote of £ 3,400.000 on account of the civil service and revenue esti- mates. After some discussioii^thc vote was put and agreed to. Two other votes having been takers progress I was reported and the House resumed. THE ROYAL PARKS. The vote for the Royal and Metropolitan parks, which was curtailed when last before the House, was then recommitted, the House, on the motion of Mr H. H. FOWLER, going into com- mittee for that purpose. Mr H. H. FOWLER then moved that in addition to the sum of £ 221,600 for the Royal and Metro- politan parks, the sum of L50,405 be granted for the same purpose. Mr H. H. FOWLER, in reply to Mr Labouchere, explained that a bill was in preparation for transferring the maintenance of the Metropolitan parks to the Metropolitan Board. (Hear, hear.) Mr LABOUCHERE, who complained of the salaries given to the bailiff, ranger, and deputy- ranger, and keepers of Richmond-park for ser- vices more in, connection with game preservation than with the public enjoyment of the park, moved the reduction of the vote by £ 2,150. Mr H. H. FOWLER explained the mode in which the appointments bad been made, stating that the ranger fed all the pheasants in the park, and the bailiff's salary was fixed at its present rate on the renunciation of his army pay and pension. After some discussion, in which Mr Bradlaugh, Mr A. O'Connor, Mr Moulton, and Sir R. Fowler took part, the committee divided, and the amendment was negatived by 141 against 65. The vote was then agreed to. THE COMPENSATION FOR DAMAGES BILL. On the motion for goinsr into committee on the Compensation for Damages Bill, Sir R. PEEL asked for an assurance from the Government that the present bill should be made applicable to the whole metropolis, and not for the^West End alone, and that a further bill should be brought in applying the principle of the present measure to the whole country. Mr CHILDERS stated that a general bill was in course of preparation, but as the present bill was urgent he could not ask the House to delay it until the general measure-which requited more consideration—could be brought in. Mr BAGGALAY protested against the ratepayers i of South London being taxed for daipages done on the other side of the river. The debate was continued by Mr Carvell Williams, Sir J. Ramsden, Mr L. Cohen, Gen. Fraser, and the Attorney-General, and the House having gone into committee, progress was immediately reported. MISCELLANEOUS. The Marriages Validity Bill passed through committee, and the bill was read a third time. The Consolidated Fund (No. 1) Bill was read a second time. Leave was given to Mr Stansfield to bring in a bill to repeal the Contagious Diseases Acts of 1866 to 1869, and to Mr Spencer to bring in a bill to enable the Postmaster-General to acquire land in Birmingham for the public service. The House adjourned at a quarter to three o'clock.

PROCEDURE IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS. The Government Re- commendations. The Press Association says:—Tho committee on Procedure met on Thursday and, having chosen the Marquis of Hartington as their chair- man, adjourned until Monday next. The follow- ing recommendations as to the alterations in the rules of procedure of the House were laid before the committee by the Govormnent I.-That every public bill, not being ways and means bill, after second reading, unless the House shall otherwise order, and such portions of esti- mates as the House may direct, shall be referred to a standing committee, notices of amendment to any bill or vote on estimates so committed being referred to such committee. Standing committees shall be constituted at the commence- ment of the session by the committee of selection, who shall divide Jthe whole House into a certain number of such committees (say five), fifteen members heing a quorum. 2.-That unless the House otherwise order, the House shall meet every Monday, Tuesday, Thurs- day, and Friday at two, and sit till half-past twelve at night, unless previously adjourned. That at seven o'clock tho Speaker or chairman shall leave the chair until nine o'clock. 3.—At half-past six at morning sittings, at midnight at evening sittings on Mondays, Tues- days, Thursdays, and Fridays, and at half-past five on Wednesdays, the business then under consideration shall stand adjourned until the next sitting after those hours no other opposed business shall be taken. 4.-Wiien the business of the standing com- mittee shall require it, the House may order, on the motion of "a minister, that on Thursdays and Fridays, until otherwise ordered, morning sittings shall be appropriated to the business of the stand- ing committees, the House on such days meeting for oldinary business at nine o'clock. 5.-Bills from a standing committee, without amendment, to be put down for third leading;, but if amended, to be put down for consideration 1 as amended. I. Further sections propose tbat on days on wmcn Government business has priority, tha Govern- men may arrange such business in such order as they may think tit that notice of any question to Ministers or other members shall be given in writing only, and that no question shall be put at the commencement of public business without notice, except a question of immediate urgency, for which permission of the Speaker has been obtained. No motion for adjournment shall be made before orders of the day or notices of motion have been entered upon, except by general consent of the House,- and that motion have been entered upon, except by general consent of the House,- and that with reference to divisions the Speaker or chair- man may, at his discretion, take a vote bv calling upon the members who support and who chal- lenge bis decision successively to rise ir^heir places." The following note is added :—" Recommen- dations will be offered to the committee as to the form of the Address in answer to the gracious Speech from the Throne, and as to the adjourn- ment of the House in the summer with a view to an autumn session, which do not seem matters proper for the standing orders."

I CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. Votes of Welsh Members. I Appended are the votes of the Welsh members I i.l 1 I |]S I ABRAHAM, W.—Bhondda Division —j J — ALLKN, H. G.—Pembroke and Haverfordwest.. —| BLAKE, T.—Forest of Dean CARBCTT, E. H.—Monmouth District DAVIES, D.—Cardiganshire DAVIES, R,—Anglesea DAVIES, W.— Pembrokeshire 1 DILLWYN, L. LL.— Swansea Town JAMES, (J. H.—Merthyr Tydfil.. •• •••••: DILLWYN, L. LL.— Swansea Town 1 JAMES, (J. H.—Merthyr Tydfil.. •• •••••: JENKINS, sh-j. J.—Carmartheii District JONES-l'ARitY, I„— Carnarvon BorougHs JONES, PRYCK—Montgomery District l SMi. C^outb Monmouthshire.. T- POWELL,' W. R. H.-West Carmarthenshire 1 PRICE I P —North Monmouthshire — 1 — PUGHD.'—Bast Carmarthen 1 — BA UKONE \V.—North Carnarvonshire (Arvon) 1 SEEofsfr B. J.-Cardiff Boroughs l RENDEL, s.—Montgomeryshire I RICHARD, H.-Merthyr Tydfil 1 ROBERTS, J.—South Carnarvonshire — ] — ROBERTS, J.—Flint Boroughs — l — ROBERTSON, H.—Merionethshire — 1 — •SMITH, S.—Flintshire I •TAUMTT, C. R. M.—Miii-Oiamorasuishiri.? 1 THOMAS, A.—East Glamoi u-c• • — 1 — VIVIAN, Sir H. IL—Swan. L i>. — 1 — WALSH, Hon. H. A.—Radnm-:•;••• 1 WARMIXGTON, C. M.—West — 1 WEST, Col. W. C.—West Denbish->tnre — 1 — WILLIAMS, A. J.—South Glamorganshire— „ — 1 — Yl.O, F. A.—Guwev (Glamorganshire) — 1 — Total 2 2510 Has not yet taken his seat.

The Proposed Transfer of the Bute Docks. i THE BILL BEFORE THE LORDS' COMMITTEE. L P, Y OOR uK BErOliTES.j HOUSE OF LORDS, Thursday. Quite an unexpected progress has been made to-day with the group of Welsh Bills in Parlia- ment. The first measure on the ii;t-tho Cadoxton and Barry Gas and Water Biil-was not even mentioned, the promoters having made such arrangements with the Cardiff Corporation as to bring about a withdrawal of the opposition of that body. Thus the bill simply had to go before Lord liedesdale as an unopposed measure. The business opened about an hour and a quarter after the appointed time, with a consideration of the bill promoted by Lord Bute, with the object of transferring the Cardiff Docks to a joint stock company, and before the expiration of many hours the preamble had been passed. The nature of this measure, however, must not be misunder- stood, it is simply an enabling bill. There must be two or more parties to an agreement, and it re- mains to be seen, should the bill pass a committee of the other House, what attitude the commercial interests of Cardiff will assume. Any responsive overture will necessitate further appeals to the legislature, and then will come the time for the Barry Dock Company to make their voice heard. The committee, with the exception of Lord De Ros, are quite new to the South Wales railway and dock legislation of recent years, but apparently the noble lords have heard a good deal about Cardiff and all its works, judging from the half-humorous and partly rueful observations which were occasionally made respecting the probable duration of the bills. The list includes the Barry Dock and Railway Bill, which seems to frighten some of their lordships, to whom Barry appears quite a Mte noir. Lord Wilton is ill already, but whether the indisposition of his lordship is to be attributed to this cause no one knows. As a matter of fact, the whole of this group of bills is not likely to be out of hand by the Thursday of next week. Lord Bute was to have given evidence to-day on behalf of the measure he is promoting, but his lordship did not arrive till too late, tiu indisposi- tion of the marchioness bemg the cause of his absence. Entering the room through the door sacred to the use of pears of i/ie realm, Lord Bute —whose bronzed countenance seemed to suggest a recent sojourn on sunny shores—shook hands warmly with the chairman and with Lord De Ros, with wliom he entered into conversation. Some of the clauses of the Bute Transfer Bill were settled others will be discussed to-morrow (Friday). Amongst those in the committee-room to-day were the Marquis of Bute, the Hon. Dudley Ryder, Mr William Abraham, the Mayer of Cardiff (Dr. Jones), Mr Daniel Jones, Mr Wheatley (town clerk of Cardiff), Mr M Conno- chie, Sir William Lewis, ML-Ludlow (secretary of the Rhondda and Swansea Bay liailway), Mr J?j R. Thompson, Mr Ferrier, &c. REPORT OF THE PROCEEDINGS. A bill, promoted by the Marquis of Bute for tha transier of the Bute Docks, Cardiff, to; a public company, came before a committee of the House of Lords to-day. Lord Bathurst pre- sided, and the other members of the committee present were Lord De Ros, Lord Dormer, and Lord Haldon. The following counsel appeared for the pro- moters:—Mr Pember, Q.C., Mr Bidder, Q.C., Mr Michaal, Q.C.; and Mr G. A. R. Fitzgerald. The following are the opposing interest and the counsel appearing for them:—Great Western Railway Company—Mr Saunders, Q.C., Mr Pembroke Stephens, Q.C., and Mr Erskine Pollock. The Taff Vale Railway Company Mr Littler, Q.C., and Mr Saunders, Q.C. The Barry Dock Railway Company Mr Jeune. The Rhymney Railway Company Mr Bompas, Q.C., and Mr Jeuue. 011 the Chairman taking his seat, he intimated that one member of the committee (Lord Wilton) was absent owing to indisposition. A messenger of the House of Lords, he added, had been des- patched to Lord Redesdale (chairman of com- mittees) with the view to the appointment of another pesr to act in the place of Lord Wilton. He thought, therefore, the committee had better adjourn for half an hour. Mr PEMBEK Will your lordships adjourn till twelve? The CHAIRMAN Well, we have a lot of work before us. Mr PEMBEK Not so verv much, I hope. The CHAIRMAN These Cardiff bills, you know, have a considerable reputation. (Laughter.) After the lapse cf about an hour, Lord Wilton put in an appearance, but he remained only a few minutes, intimating that he would read the notes of evidence afterwards. Mr PEMBER then proceeded to open the case for the promoters. The bill was entitled An Act to incorporate the Bute Docks Company," and the object of it was to transfer to the company so in- corporated the Bute Docks undertaking. He must say at once that Lord Bute hoped thereby 'to throw off some, at all events, of the burden of personal responsibility which had really grown too heavy for one man to bear. As he dared say the committee knew, Cardiff, in the hands of the late Lord Bute, his son, and their advisers and trustees, had grown till it was now a port of the very first magnitude. To show that, he thought he might sayla little more than this. The export and import trade of Great Britain, though the facts were not absolutelystated in statistical reports, was about 70 or 75miliions of tons and to this London and Liverpool each contributed 25 millions, whilst out of the remaining 25 millions, Cardiff did a trade which he should rather under- state than overstate at 10 millions. So their lordships would see what a very large share of the general traffic of the kingdom was really done at Cardiff, and what an enormous affair the dock undertaking there was. The late Lord Bute was no doubt a very courageous and far-seeing man but he thought that his lordship's foresight and couirage did not contemplate that the Bute Docks would become so vast asat present. Andhethought it was no reflection upon the present Lord Bute that when the necessity for the enlargement of the Cardiff Docks was pointed out to him he had shrunk from the vast increase of responsibility urged upon him. He had, however, undertaken it step by step, although reluctantly but the moment had now come when Lord Bute thought that he was justified—indeed, compelled—to ask Parliament to allow him, in some measure, at all events, to relieve himself of the responsibility of the docks. Lord Bute saw-and those who sur rounded him and advised him saw-not only the enormous burden of the present undertaking, but the certainty of a still greater burden in connec- tion with the docks. The mineral growth of Glamorganshire,with its steam coal, was practical- ly inexhaustible, and the characteristics of Cardiff ly inexhaustible, and the characteristics of Cardiff made it the natural place of export for the minerals. There might be a passing depression at the present moment, but that did not alter the truth of the general proposition. And the port which had to accommodate the distribution of the traffic must grow with the growth of the traffic. Whatever might have been Lord Bute's action in the past, it was too much to expect one man- whatever might be his resources or courage-to indefinitely carry on such an undertaking as the Bute Docks. If the undertaking should become -as it would become-a joint stock company, Lord Bute's position would be very different. To begin with, the management would be off his shoulders—so far as he did manage the docks. That was to say, there would be no necessity to consult him upon matters of importance, which bad been an inconvenience in times past, and must be so in the future if the docks remained in the hands of Lord Bute in the future. Take one instance :—Two or three years ago there were very great delays in consulting Lord Bute at the time of the Barry Dock Biil being promoted, Lord Bute being at Athens. That was merely one illustration out of 20 or 30 which could be given of the extreme inconvenience of so vast a trade as this being at the mercy of the habits, the health, or the whereabouts of any particular in- dividual. It was impossible to suppose that Lord Bute would stay all his life in England or South 'Wales to manage the Bute Docks, When this bill was passed, if it should receive their lordships' sanction, like all other commercial concerns, the docks would advance with the times, money would be borrowed from the public for different matters, and the undertaking would proceed upon the same footing as similar concerns all over the kingdom. That being the case, he thought it must be patent to everyone that, while the comfort and freedom obtained by Lord Bute would be undoubted, the general advantage of the change to the public would not be by any means small. It was not well in these days that so great an industry as that of the Cardiff Docks -the great outlet for South Wales steam- coal-fhould be at tne mercy of the will, the attitude, it might be the caprice of a single individual. Lord Bute and his father had been both most admirable gentlemen—and he was bound to say the same for both the past and present trustees— but what guarantee had Glamorganshire that future Lords Bute would be of the same charac- ter as the present^ nobleman ? What guarantee was there tbat such trustees as those af the past would be found in the future ? Passing on, the learned counsel reviewed the dock history of Cardiff from tne time of the accession of the present Marquis of Bute to the title and estates, n and after alluding to various portions of the bill, went on to say that the real cause of the opposition to it was Clause 49, which provided that if, during the session of 1887, the Great Western, the Rbymney, and the Taff Rail- way Companies, and theCorporation of Cardiff, jor any three of these bodies, should be empowered by Parliament respectively to acquire an interest in the docks undertaking, and should agrefe as to the expediency of eo doing, they might by joint written notice, served within three months, l require the Marquis of Bute to sell at par. The number of ordinary shares in the company which they desired, provided that t'1a Marquis should not be compelled to sell to anyone less -titan 1,000 shares, or to all more tbana.OUU sbares. Clause 50 depended upon clause 49. In parting with his docks, Lord Bute desired to conciliate every interest which by any stress of imagination might require conciliation. Lord Bute had also to remember that the bill J of last year, proposing to dispose of the to the Taff Jlailwav Cumoar,.r. I had provoked a very considerable amount jealousy and opposition, it being said that tm undertaking ought not to pass into the hands 01 any one of the competitors for the trade at Caj^ ditf. The committee decided that if thst bu> 'were passed the Barry Dock Company mus; 'Were passed the Barry Dock Company mus; aV( running p>owers over the Taff YaJ.e liue, and up^ that the bill was dropped. Tbat being so, he Pember) had urged that- in any biil which Pr0* vided for the transfer of Lord Bute's interest, that nobleman should, as it were, put the cards on the table and say, "Now, there it is—y^nl have ail declared that you have a great interest in ttiesa docks. You iiave ail been very jealous of me, particularly on one occasion when there was an M I attempt totransferthedockstooneof your number. H I should be very glad to see you ail here aiiti V therefore I will bind myself—if Parliament ailowt II me to get rid of my burden, and puts me in th< position of being: a very large shareholder—I will bind myself to give you all a chance of getting < share in the management of this concern." Cor- sequently clause 49 was inserted in the bill. but, unfortunately, that clause, instead of being, as it was hoped, a boon to all the companies named, had proved a bone of contention, and none ol them could make up their minds to see any of the others with a share in these docks. Lord Bute was not wedded to the clause, for it conferred no benefit upon him. He had no particular affection for any one of these companies, and no particular dislike for any one. If the companies would be more satisfied if the clause were removed, then it mierht be expunged. The Chairman It will allow them to hava aa interest in the docks to the extent of £ 500,000. Mr Pember Yes, and they don't want it. The Chairman And each of them to appoint a director ? Mr Pember said that was so, but if the railway companies did not want the clause, he did not. Lord Redesdale and the Local Government Board had objected to the Corporation ot Cardiff spending their money in purchasing any shares in the company, and therefore he (Mr Pember) did not suppose thot the committee would keep the Corporation of Cardiff in the clause. That being so one of the constituents was gone and if the other companies wished it, the other clause could go.. He objected to the locus standi of the Barry Dock Company. All this bill did was to bind Lord Bute not to say" no" to a par- liamentary demand upon the part of the Taff Vale and other companies, but it .did not give the Taff any power. When the Taff Vale Railway Company came and asked for power, then would be the time for tiie Barry Dock Company to come and object. But there was not the slightest taint of amalgamation about this bill. The Barry Company had mistaken their day the time for them to come to Parliament would ba when the railway companies sought to obtain that share in the Bute Docks which Lord Bute now wished to pledge himself not to refuse. Mr Jeune :replied that it was the opposition of the Barry Company last year to the Bute Taff Amalgamation Bill which induced the committee to arrive at a decision which resulted in the with. drawal of that measure. The bill this year was practically the same in so far as the Barry Com- pany were concerned as that of last year. The Barry Company were wholly dependent for their access to the coalfields upon the Taff Vale Com- pany— The Chairman; They are trying to remedy that this session. Mr Jeune: Possibly they may do so later. The Chairman: It is a pleasure to come. Mr J eUlle said that that was a matter for the future. The present proposal was just half the proposal of last year. If the clause referred to were passed as it stood, although there must be an application to Parliament next year, the matter would be practically decided. ¡The Chairman (after consulting with the other noble lords): The committee are of opinion that your arguments had better be postponed till next year. Wo will not hear the Barry Dock case now. After some other discussion, Mr Saunders said that the Taff Vale Railway Company and the Great Western Railway Com- pany were of opinion that clause 49 should go. Mr Pember Very well, then; I will draw my pen through 49 and 50. The Hon. Dudley Ryder, one of the trustees of the Marquis of Bute, was sworn, and said it would be ooth to the interest of the public and Lord Bute that the bill should pass, the present dock undertaking being so large, whilst they must look forward to an extension of it. Mr Fitzgerald said they had hoped to call Lord Bute into the witness chair, but he was not in attendance. That was the case for the bill. The Hon Dudley Ryder remarked, in explana- tion of the absence of the Marquis of Bute, that Lady Bute was unwell. Mr Saunders said that neither the Taff Vala Railway Company, nor the Great Western now appeared against the preamble and Mr Jeune said be did not intend to oppose the preamble. The preamble was passed. Upon clauses being gone into, Mr Littler asked to b? allowed to introduce a clause freeing the Taff Vale Railway Company from any obligation to charge particular rates, so that they might be better able to compete with the Barry Company. The clause was not allowed. Mr Littler then applied for a special clause for the Taff Vale Company, securing to them what ■ o termed the most favoured nation treat- mJl1 t, Mr Bidder replied that the Taff Vale Company ought to be content with the general saving clause in the bill. Mr Littler returned that the Taff Vale Com- pany were afraid that exceptional facilities would be granted to the Rhymney and other companies, and as the Taff were carriers of four-fifths of the traffic, he thought he was right in his applicrtion. The chairman said the committee were of opinion that they ought not to allow special privileges to be granted to particular railway companies by dock companies. The committee then adjourned. The consideration of clauses will be resumed to-morrow (Friday.) THE RHYMNEY RAILWAY BILL. In the committee, of which Lord Bathurst is chairman, Mr Jeune on Thursday mentioned this bill, which seeks for power to make a new line to the Monmouthshire Valleys from Cardiff. He mentioned that a meeting of the shareholders would be held upon the subject to-day (Friday), and therefore asked the committee to say that they would not take the bill this week. It vw decided not to consider it before Tuesday

THE SWANSEA ROYAL FRIENDLY SOCIETY. Meeting of Superintendents at Merthyr. On Thursday evening, a meeting of the super- intendents, agents, and collectors of the Swansea Royal, hailing from Aberdare, Merthyr, Ebbw Vale, Rhondda, and other districts, was held at the assembly-room of the Bush Hotel, Merthyr, under the presidency of Mr W. A. Bowser, manager of the London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow Assurance Company. Among those present were Dr. Hunter, chairman of the Swansea Royal j Mr Slee, the secretary Mr Trot, Mr Watkins, district manager of the London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow Company.—The Chairman explained that a provisional agreement had been entered into whereby his company would take over all the business of the Swansea Royal, and pay 20a ill the JS. (Hear, hear.) At one time the com- pany thought they would have io reduce the endowment contracts, but on going into the figures they came to the conclusion that they might take over the whole thing as it stood. Any. thing short of that would not have given satis- faction to the members. He described the financial condition of the company, and referred to the increase which had taken place from yeat to year since 1883 in its income prerilums.-Di Hunter, in the course of his speech, asseverated that he and Mr Slee had done all they could to improve the status of the society, and to reduce expenses, and during the last six months the society had really been conducted by them. There were certain things which did not come to his knowledge until recently, but they would have been more successful if they had not been hampered with what went on outside.—On the proposition of Mr Williams (Pontypridd), seconded by Mr Davies (Ebbw Vale), it was resolved unanimously, "That this meeting of superintendents and agents cordially approve the proposal to transfer the business of the Swansea Royal Society to the London, LdinOurgh and Glasgow Assurance Company; Limited, and I urges the members to agree to the same." It was explained that the agents would have to call on the members for their assent to the transfer durinsr the week. I MEETING AT NEATH. Another meeting m connection with the society was held at Robinson's Assembly-rooms, Neath; on Wednesday evening, and was well attended. Several speeches, condemnatory of the course taken by the officers, were delivered, and it was resolved to take the steps necessary for a Govern. ment inquiry. Conncillor J. B. Davies prelude;

I LOCAL PATENT CASE. A cuse, in which James Woodley, a mechanic of Cardiff, opposed the application of Danis Jones, builder, also of Cardiff, for letters patent for improvements in lock-stitch sewing machines, came before the Comptroller-General of Patents on Wednesday. The applicant, Daniel Jones, was represented by Mr W. Lloyd Wise, patent agent, of Lincoln's Inn Fields, instructed by Mr N. Watts, patent age at, of Cardiff and Bristol. The opponent, James Woodley, was represented by Mr T. Aston, Q.C., instructed by Mr W. A. Barlow, patent agent, of St. Paul's Churchyard. —The opposition was based on the ground that the invention sought to be patented by Jones was derived from the opponent Woodley and fur- ther, that the said invention bad been antici- pated in certain specifications quoted in the notice of opposition.—The case had been partly heard. Counsel for Woodley consented to an order in favour of Jones proceeding with his patent, such order to be without prejudice to the opponent should he appcal.

SELLING OFF at 12. red centi peruction previous to takirs: stock.-Ben wellty House, Crockherbtown GENTS WATERTIGHT BOOTS, from lis 6d to 30s at Bedwollty House, Crochherbtown, Cardiff. GREAT DESTRUCTION OF HUMAN LIFE caused by Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, and Consumption nifty be prevented by taking the great remedy, Sea Weed Lung bife Price, 2s 3d post free, 3s. British aseuts, hunger and Sons, 489, Oxford-street, London 682e IT YOCR CHILD III If so, try Williams Pontardawe, Worm Lozenges, which hav8 been in use oTer 20 years, and eclipsed all other remedies. Sold by most chemists at 9id, l3id, and 2s 9d. Prepared from the original recipe ouly by J. Davies, Chemist, 35, Higb-stro.it, Swansea. I".to lvzougst are 4greeabio .41&1 iMtitain* nothing :.1tlln L\" UI