Evening Express

WRECKS AND LIFEBOATS A document full of human interest is I the Wreck Chart of the British Isles issued from year to year by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. The latest of these charts is now before us, and includes, of course, the whole of the British Isles. Wrecks are indicated by black dots, and lifeboats by red. It is satisfactory to see that the Bristol Channel has few black dots compared with the extent of its commerce, and especially considering the sad array off the North- east Coast, at the mouth of the Thames, up the Clyde way, and off Yarmouth. In saying this we are maaking no reflection on these districts, but simply congratu- lating ourselves that the Bristol Channel pays no heavier tribute to Neptune than is indicated on the chart. We may hope for a time when science will still further diminish the number of the dots shown in this chart round the coast of the United Kingdom. During the last fifty years over 30,000 poor folk have perished round our coasts. But for the lifeboat service the figures would be far larger, for during the same period the number of lives saved by its means exceeded the number of fatalities just given. A noble work like this should be very near the heart of all who, like so many of the people of South Wales, are more or less concerned with shipping.

I Local death-rates still rule high. Last week Newport had 17, Cardiff 18, Rhondda 20, Swansea 22, and Merthyr 39, so that Merthyr is within a fraction as bad as it was three weeks ago. It is curious that I it should have just twice the death-rate I of the Rhondda.

It is said that the Great Western are determined to improve upon even their present records. For instance, they contemplate running their Cornishman right away without a break from Padding- ton to Plymouth. If this is carried out J it will be a magnificent performance, and by 40 miles the longest non-stop Tun in the world.

Everyone has beard of the lawyer's bill which contained this historic item, To getting up in the night and thinking of your case, 6s. 8d." But this is far surpassed by a labourer at Long Aston, who was given some work by the local i guardians, and whose bill-a very detailed one—contained the item, To picking up tools, Is. 6d." Scandalous to relate, the I guardians struck this out of the account.

Jonathan Davies, of Trealaw, was in a I playful mood. He struck a constable in the jaw, cutting his lip and loosening his teeth. Then he knocked the policeman I down and kicked him several times. He I also jumped on the constable's helmet and smashed it. For all this gaiety Davies was ordered to pay jE4 4s. 6d., including the cost of the helmet. We suppose that had it not been for the helmet he would have been discharged with a caution.

Now that Councillor F. J. Beavan has been decorated by the Mikado he must really live up to his new embellishment by posing u a la Japonnaise." For instance, he might very well take some exercises in the "jin-jitsu," or whatever the system of wrestling is called, and these might possibly be of service to him in some of his tussles on the borough council or the board of guardians. Anyway, long may he live to bear the Order of the Sacred I Treasure.

Mainly About People. Congratulations to Sir Edmund Barton, K.C., first Prime Minister of the Australian Commonwealth, who is 55 years old. The cos- mopolitan fame of Sir Edmund Barton waa achieved in connection with the struggle to establish the Federation of the seven Colonies in the Australian Commonwealth. He it was who returned from England with the famous Common wealth Bill, signed by Queen Vic- toria, In the course of his last great elec- tioneering fight, the result of which was pra.cticaJ.ly to decide whether or not New i South Wales should join; the Commonwealth, Sir Edmund Barton met with great opposi- tion. His enemies were not too particular in their methods, and one day Sir Edmund's friends met and talked over a scheme of re- taliation, by which the opposition should be fought with their own unfair weapons. Sir Edmund Barton listened patiently as the plan of campaign was unfolded to him. tlemen," was his reply, aa he rose to go, "if I cannot win clean-handed I prefer to lose." He will always be remembered in Australia by that sentence. Mr. A. E. W. Mason has stepped into the political arena as a candidate for Coventry. If he makes his reputation as a Parlia- mentarian as quickly as he made his name as a novelist, Mr. Mason may soon be a Cabinet Minister. He had only been writing a. couple of years I before his Countship of Morris Buckler" appeared, and won for him a reputation at once. Hie first book was A Romance of Westdale," which had an adventurous early history. The publishers to whom it had been sent dissolved partner- ship while the author was mountaineering in the Tyrol. Then they lost the manuscript; but just aa he was about to write it all over again it was discovered and promptly accepted. Mr Mason is an old scholar at Dulwich and Trinity College, Oxford, where he took double honours in4bthe Classical Schools, played football and cricket, wsw only prevented by schools from rowing for his college, and acted ;;1M3 secretary to the Oxford Union. Sir J. Whittaker Ellia, whose friends are congratulating him upon the seventy-fifth anniversary of hia birthda.y, was Lord Mayor of London nearly a score years ago, and first Matyor of Richmond after that. lIe used to enjoy considerable celebrity as a host. and at his Richmond house one might meet Royalty, statesmen, travellers, and the leading men of art and letters. bne might really fancy oneself at Hyderabad," once said Lady Jersey as the gfrests sat out after dinner watching the illumination of the gardens and river beyond. "Ah! so zis eez your leedle oon? He look to be similar to you." Yes, I believe he is very much like me." "Tot you call a sheep off the cold block- head, eez eet nod?" Mr. Jerome K. Jerome has been mentioned as a Parliamentary candidate. Like Mr. Mason and Mr. H. G. Welllr-wlwge remarkable letter to Mr. Masterman during the recent DuJwioh fight will be remembered—he is a Liberal. It ie not generally known, we believe, that "Paul Kelver," Mr. Jerome K. Jerome's most seriuug--and to a large tstout autobio- gràPlrical-wurk, was written about thirteen years before it appeared ia print. It went the round of the publishers in vain before the author had made his nurne as a humorist. Now, he has readers all over the world, and numbens axaong his literary souvenirs a. round' robin Christmas card which he once received from Russia. aLP/e we soatstistM ttwen to writing novel*, 9 but at present the tendency seems (says the "Hour Glass") to be for novelists to become M.P.'s. At all events, we have several of them coming forward as candidates, and Sir Gilbert Parker, of course, has been the Conservative member for Gravesend since 1900. Sir Conan Doyle, who has accepted the invitation to contest the Border Burghs at the General Election, would add considerably to the lite- rary strength of the House, and the Border I Burghs, by sending a novelist of his reputa- tion there. would at the same time be paying a graceful tribute to the memory of Sir Walter Scott. It is about seventeen years since Sir'Conan Doyle's first book was published, but he wa43 known for his fiction, long before that. He made his debut as a story-teller while at school. On a wet half holiday," be writes, in describing hia earliest experiences of this ) kind, I have been elevated on to a desk, and, with an audience of little boys, all squatting on the floor with their china upon their hands, I have talked myself husky over the mis- fortunes of my heroes. Week in and week out those unhappy men have battled and striven and groaned for the amusement of the little circle. I was bribed with pastry to continue these efforts, and I remember that I always stipulated for tarts down and strict business, which shows that I was born to be a member of the Authors' Society. Sometimes, too, I would cut dead in the very thrill of a crisis, and could only be set going by apples. When I had got aa far as with his left hand in her gloesy locks he was waving the blood-stained knife above her head, when or Slowly, slowly, the door turned upon its hinges, :? I with eyes which were dilated with horror the wicked marquis saw- I knew that I had my audience in my power." Sir Conan Doyle's apprenticeship to liter a- j ture was a long and trying one. Ten years' j hard work, during which he also practised as a doctor in Southsea, brought him an average of less than fifty pounds a year. Only a man who has tried it can understand, what it means to combine these two professions of medicine and letters. "How often have I rejoiced," writes the author, "to find a. clear morning before me, and settled down to my task, or, rather, dashed ferociously at it, as knowing how precious were those hours of quiet! Then to me enter my housekeeper, with tidings of dismay. Mrs. Thurston's little boy wants to see you, doctor.' Show him in,' say I, striving to fix my scene in my mind, that I may splice it when this trouble ie over. 'Well, my boy?' 'Please, doctor, mother wants to know if she is to add water to that medicine.' Certainly, certainly.' Not that it matters in the least, but it is well to answer with j decision. Exit the little boy, and the splice is about half accomplished when he suddenly bursts into the room again. Please, doctor, when I got back mother had taken the medicine without the water.' 'Tut! tut' I answer. 'It really does not matter in the least.' The youth withdraws with a suspicious glance, and one more paragraph has been written when the husband puts in an appearance. There seems to have been some misunder- standing about that medicine,' he remarks coldly. Not at all,' I say, it really didn't matter.' Well, then, why did you tell the boy that it should be taken with water?' And then I tried to disentangle the business, and the husband shakes his head gloomily at me. 'She feels very queer,' says he; 'we should all be easier in our minds if you came and looked at her.' So I leave my heroine in the four-foot way with an express thundering towards her, and trudge sadly off with the feeling that another morning has been wasted and another seam left visible to the critic's eye in my unhappy novel." Tommy: Grandpa, what's the difference between you and a rooster?" Grandpa (bald-headed): I'll give it up. Tommy A rooster has a comb, and you don't need any!

"EVENING EXPRESS" WAR NEWS. The proprietors of the "Western Man and Evening Express have made arrangements for securing the latest and fullest Intelligence from the Far East. We shall be represented in Japan, Russia, China, and Korea by over sixty correspondents, and our special services of war telegrams will Include the followinir:- The "Times" Special War Service, Morning Post" Special War Service, Reuter's Special War Service, Press Association Special War Service Central News Special War Service, Exchange Telegraph Company's Special War Service. The special correspondents, cover. Ins every spot where flffhtlnc Is likely to occur, are men of graat experience, lncludlnff:- E. F. KNIGHT (" Morning; Post"), H. J. WHIQHAM (11 Mornlnsr Post tt),

MORRI-STON WOMAN'S DEATH At an inquest at Morriston on Wednesday on the body of Sarah Davies, a married woman, it transpired that she expired suddenly whilst sitting up on Monday night. Her husband, who had been drinking, slept heavily, and knew nothing of the death of his wife until the following morning, a niece, who was sitting up with her aunt, Jailing to wake him, whilst it was not until some hours lalter that some neighbours were called in. Mr. Leeder remarked that the witness's conduct had been very peculiar in going to sleep again after she had made the discovery, whereupon she said that she was stupifled and frightened. The Coroner in summing up remarked upon the peculiar action of the niece in not calling in a doctor when she first found that her aunt was dead, even though she failed to wake the husband, who was in a. state of intoxication. A verdict of "Death from natural causes" was returned.

THE FORTHOOMING ROYAL WEDDING All the members of the English Royal Family will be present at the marriage of Princess Alice of Albany at Windsor on Feb- ruary 10, with the exception of the Duke of Cambridge, who will be in the South of France, and Princess Henry of Battenberg, who is abroad. The foreign Royal guests bidden to the ceremony are the King and Queen of Wurttemberg, the Queen-Mother of the Netherlands, the Prince and Princess of Waldeck-Pyrmont, with Princess Helena, the Prince and Princess Friedrich of Wied (son- in-law and daughter of the King of Wurttem- berg), and the Prince and Princess of Ben- theim-Weinfii-th. The arrangements are now in eourse of completion by the Household departments concerned, and it is expected that they will be very much on the lines of those which existed at the wedding at Wind- sor of Prince and Princess Aribert of Anhalt.

ALARM I NG ACCIDENT AT TIRPHIL The families residing in two semi-detached houses at Sevastopol, near Tirpbil, were startled in the early hours of Wednesday morning by the bursting of doors at the back of the houses. On an examination, it was found that an embankment bad given way, and large quantities of earth and streams of water rushed through the buildings, rendering them well-nigh untenable.

MR. BRACE AT LLANISHEN Mr. W. Brace, the LiberaJ and Labour can- didate ttor South Glamorgan, addressed a well-attended meeting at Llanishen on Wed- nesday night. It had been expected that there would be some opposition, but Mr. Braoe, who talked un general politics, was given a lair hearing, and the proceedings were quite orderly.

CWMAVON STEELWORKS IDLE As a rasul/t of the "dumping" of steel bars into South Wales the Express 5tealworks have now been idle for some weeks. Rumours that they have been acquired by Messrs. Baldwins (Limited) have not as yet been conAtme4.

TARIFFS & TINPLATESj THE HOME SECRETARY AT SWANSEA. Speaking at Swansea. yesterday Mr. Akers- Douglas, the Home Secretary, declared that we had been affected most injuriously in nearly every trade by hostile tariffs. Take, for instance, the tin-plate trade. Owing to the M'Kinley and Dingley Tariffs the tin-plate industry in America had since 1891 attained a most vigorous existence, and more than fifty tin-plate mills had been established there, giving employment to thousands of Americans, and their volume of exports was increasing every year. He waB given to under- stand from the returns that he had received that many of the Welsh works had been closed, and free sites and free bounties had been offered Welsh makers to go to America and teach their trade there. He knew it was argued that they had obtained fresh markets, but they could not ignore the fact that under fair tariff conditions they could have retained a quantity of the American trade as well. That was an example of the effect of foreign tariffs upon one of our leading industries, and another disastrous point was that it had shown other countries how to wrest an industry from this country. He hoped that that example would not be followed in regard to other trades on which the British workman depended, (Cheers.) What he had said of the local tin-platT ?tt-z-.) held good of other industriee-the woollen, the worsted, and the silk. Dumping." Then in the matter of dumpilg." the British workman paid the piper; tint there were whole-hearted dumpers" and half-hearted "dumpers." (Laughter.) The half-hearted "dumper," like Mr. Asquith—(laughter)—said, in effect, I don't like dumping at all, but, never mind, it cannot lt." (Laughter.) The effect, however, wae. while it lasted, to ruin the manufacturer and to displace the labourer, and in the matter of the shipping trade we would have to watch jealously the growth of the subsidy and bounty system, or it might oust our flag from any trade which it now possessed. We wanted greater power to negotiate with foreign countries, but he did not think anyone in this country wanted to tax raw material. The Government told them that they did not intend to tax raw material, and that they had no desire to tax food in such a way as would increase in the aggregate the cost of living, to the working man. Incidentally, he always wondered at the ivea of the Free Fooder that we did not pay taxes upon food. On the contrary, we did pay taxes on food, and if, without increasing in the aggregate the cost of living to the working man, we could conclude a satisfactory tariff by shift- ing the burden from one class of food to another, he did not see why it should not be done. (Hear, hear.) But he did not believe that the country would give the Government a mandate to increase in the aggregate the cost of food to the working classes of this country. We must obtain markets in our Colonies rather than see tariffs with foreign Powers grow up. To attain the new propo- sals it was essential that the ConserN-ative and Unionist party should be supported. They were unanimous on the first part of the programme. Mr. Chamberlain's Ideal. The second part of the programme desired by Mr. Chamberlain—(cheers)—was difficult of realisation at once, but he (Mr. Akers- Douglas) felt convinced himself that the country would give in the first instance the mandate which was asked for. (Loud shouting of No," and Yes.") He felt convinced that the country would do so, notwithstanding that slight interrup- tion—(laughter)—and that could only lead in the future to closer commercial connections and relations with our great Colonies. (Cheers.) If the country gave the mandate for which the Government asked they would be con- tinuing in power a party whose main object would be to maintain the traditions of the Empire—(" Hear, hear," and a Voice; "Chinese labour")-and to promote legislation for the social benefit of the working classes of this country. (Cheers.)

CARDIFF LICENSES. Committee of Justices. As reported in the later editions of yester- day's Evening Express The meeting of Cardiff magistrates for the election of a. licensing committee was held yesterday afternoon, when the mayor presided. It was decided that his worship should be one of the members of the com- mittee, as was usual on such occasions. Then it was proposed that the committee should be selected by ballot, and this having been carried, the result was that the following justices, in addition to the mayor, were appointed:-Dr. W. Taylor, 19 votes; Mr. J. Herbert Cory, 19; Mr. T. 'Andrews, 17; Mr. E. W. Shaokell, 16; Mr. W. T. Symonds, 16; and Mr. Henry White, 14. The non-elected mem- bers polled as follow:—Alderman E. Thomas (ex-mayor), 7; Alderman D. Jones, 6; Mr. F. J. Beavan, 6; Mr. Lewis Williams, 5; Mr. R. Bird, 5; Mr. T. Hurry Riches, 4; Mr. J. B. Ferrier, 4; Alderman E. Beavan, 2; Mr. S. Robinson, 2; Mr. T. H. Stephens, Alderman Trounce, Mr. Louis Samuel, Mr. W. S. Crossman, and Mr. Morgan Morgan, 1 each. The proceedings, as usual, were private, and in contrast with those of last year they latest about twenty minutes. The Mayor, who presided, explained the object of the meeting, and. it was proposed that the votes should be taken by ballot. Considering that there were about 30 present the result is remarkable. So far as we know there is not a teetotaller on the committee, but it does not follow from that fact that the licensing business of the town will be con- ducted in a less efficient manner. Dr. Taylor, Mr. J. Herbert Cory, and, in fact, all the members of the committee know the require- ments of a metropolis like Cardiff, but their duties apply only to the granting of new licences, the full bench having power to say whether old houses shall be abolished. THE NEWPORT COMMITTEE. At a meeting of Newport borough magis- trates on Wednesday the licensing committee of last year was re-appointed to sit at the Brewster-seesions on February 4 to hear the applications for new licences. The committee consists of Mr. A. J. Stevens, Alderman J. Moses, Alderman D. A. Vaughan, Mr. C. D. Phillips, Alderman T. Goldsworthy, Alderman A. B. Bear, and Alderman M. Mordey,

SHIPOWNES' COMBINATION. A meeting of the committee elected at the international conference of sailing ship- owners in Paris (in December last) was held on Wednesday at the offices of the Chamber of Shipping, London. There were present:- Representing Great Britain, Mr. J. A. Rox- burgh (chairman), Mr. R. V. Leyland, Mr. J. Herron, Colonel Gsorge Milne, and Mr. A. Weir; representing France, M. L'Guengnier, M. Guillen (in the unavoidable absenee of M. Pergeline), and M. E. Sa.lles; representing Germany, Herren F. Loesener Sloman. F. W. Dahlstrom, and E. W. Aetjen. Mr. C. H. Pollak attended aa honorary secretary. The delegates from the various countries reported that the support so far accorded to the scheme had been very encouraging, the French and German delegates having already obtained owners' signatures for more than the 75 per cent, required to make the Union operative. The British delegates reported that, although a very large propor- tion had already signed, owing to the short- ness of time and the great number of owners that had to be seen they were not yet in a position to say that the requisite percentage of owners had actually signed, but there was every prospect of the required number com- ing in. Another gratifying result of the movement! was, it was stated, that Norwegian and Dutoh owners were desirous of joining the Union. The committee adjourned to give time for the necessary British signatures to be obtained. The meeting throughout was of a I most harmonious character, and those present expressed their unanimous conviction that by the next meeting the Union would be brought into active cperation.

BIRMINGHAM LICENSING COMMITTEE The Birmingham city justices met on Wed- nesday to appoint a licensing committee of seven justices, and there was a crowded attendance in view of the recent declaration by Mr. Arthur Chamberlain's friends. Twelve justices were nominated, and among the successful seven were Mr. Chance, the recently-appointed deputy-chairman, and several others not previously on the licensing committee. Mr.. Arthur Chamber- lain was not elected, at his request. The voting cards signed by the magistrates were ordered to be sealed, in view of a possible scrutiny as to the validity of the irotes exer- cised.

TRADE OF NEWPORT CHAMBER DISCUSSES THE COAL TAX. Both the monthly and the annual meetings of the Newport Chamber of Commerce were held on Wednesday afternoon at the board- room of the Newport Harbour Commission, Dock-street, the president (Mr. F. P. Robjent) in the chair. A Telegraphic Concession With reference to the matter brought forward at the last meeting by Mr. W. E. Heard as to the necessity of the affix "Mon." being added to Newport in addresses of foreign telegrams, with the entailed expense, the Secretary (Mr. S. D. Williams) had com- municated with the Telegraphic Conference, and read the following reply from the General Post Office, dated January 18:—"In reply to your letter of the 6th inst. regard- ing the question of the sufficiency of 'Newport' as an address for foreign telegrams, I am directed by the Postmaster-General to acquaint you, for the information of the Newport Chamber of Commerce, that under the present regulations relating to foreign telegrams the indication 'Monmouthshire' must be added, at the cost of the sender, to distinguish Newport in Monmouthshire from the numerous other towns of the same name which appear in the international list of telegraph offices, but under the regulations as revised by the International Telegraph Conference recently held in London, which will take effect from July 1 next, all offices will be entered in the international list under a recognised designation which will include such names of counties or countries as it may be found necessary to add, and this designation, if used in the form in which it appears in the list, will be charged for as a single word, without regard to the number of words of which it may be composed." (Hear, hear.) Demurrage on Wagons Mr. W. E. Heard brought to the notice of the chamber the question of demurrage on railway wagons. A claim for demurrage was made by the Great Western Railway Com- pany on Midland and other foreign wagons after allowing only three days for clearance. The demurrage ciiiim was 3s. per wagon per day and Is. per tarpaulin. What was wanted was a longer time for clearance. The Hall line of steamers had written on the question, and pointed out that at Liverpool traders were flowed a fortnight for clearance. They thought Newport was seriously handicapped in this matter. Mr. Heard thought they could not expect to get as long a term as fourteen days from the Great Western Rail- way Company. They might, however, ask to get an extension of time to seven days. Mr. B. Willasns said he thought it would be found that there was demurrage charged on all foreign wagons after three days on an lines by a regulation of the Clearing House. Home wagons would have a longer time. Mr. Heard asked that the master should be referred to the council of the chamber to see what could be done, and thia was agreed to. I The Coal Tax I The Secretary read a couple of letters from the secretary to the Cardiff Chamber of Com- merce with reference to the proposed deputa- tion to the Chancellor of the Exchequer re the coa-l-tax. The President reminded the chamber that it was bound by the resolution passed in 1901 approving of the coal-tax. io would, there- fore, not be possible for the Newport Cham- ber to take part in a deputation asking for the abolition of the tax unless some member gave notice to rescind that resolution and, adopt something different. Mr. W. L. Goldsworthy: Is that resolution still binding upon us2 The President: Well, seeing that we approved of the coal-tax by that resolution, we cannot very well now ask for its aboli- tion. But, as I say, it is open to any member to give notice of a motion to rescind. Mr. Goldsworthy said they had now the experience of the tax. It might not have affected Newport very much, but some of the neighbouring ports had been seriously affected. Swansea especially had been affected, and it was deplorable to see col- lieries stopped, as the small coal question was one whioh affected Swansea, very much. He thought if they could support their neigh- bours they ought to do so. Mr Heard remarked that when the re90lu-1 tion of 1901 was passed there was a good deal of acrimonious discumion. But, instead of Newport suffering as Swansea had, New- port had, if not exactly benefited, certainly seen a considerable increase of trade. All the small coal, or nearly all, was used in the works of the town and district. He thought they had better leave well alone. Mr. Goldsworthy gave notice to bring the question up at the next meeting and move a resolution. Mr. W. J. Orders said he would second it. Mr. Heard asked what the increase in coal shipments at Newport was last year as com- pared with 1902. The Secretary said tbe increase coastwise was 55,567 tons, foreign 187,172 tons, and bunkers 120,422 tons. Mr. Hoard: Then the coal-tax does not seem to have affected Newport very much. The Annual Meeting The annual meeting of the chamber was afterwards held, but before the president vaca,ted the chair Mr. Heybyrne drew atten- tion to the fact disclosed in the statement of accounts that Mr. Robjent had made a contribution of Ill 5s. 6d. to make both ends of the account meet. He had great pleasure in moving a vote of thanks to Mr. Robjent for his killdne88 in this respect. Mr. W. E. Heard had much pleasure in seconding, and the motion was cordially agreed to. Mr. W. L. Goldsworthy then proposed the re-election of Mr. F. P. Robjent as president, and personally heartily thanked him for his services during the preceding year. Mr. W. E. Heard seconded, and Mr. Hey- byrne supported. The motion having been agreed to by acclamation, Mr, Robjent, on resuming his place in the .presidential chair, heartily thanked the chamber for his re-election and the members who had spoken so well of his services. He assured the chamber that every- thing which would conduce to the benefit of the town and port would receive at his hands the greatest care and attention. He thought a chamber of commeroe was to a trading community what Trades Unions were to the working men. What had struck him of late with reference to the town and port were Newport's great natural advantages. No town in the kingdom had, he thought, such natural advantages as Newport possessed. But there had been a good deal of apathy on the part of the public men of the town in the past. (Hear, hear.) Some of them talked a good deal of what ought to be done, but did not do anything to help on what they advocated. No doubt, the men of Newport twenty years ago allowed the place to get behind the times, but no one could help seeing that there was a better spirit abroad to-day. (Hear, hear.) Be was an optimist. The docks company were, he thought, in eaiaiest in the extension scheme which they had formulated, and he looked forward to the time when the railway com- panies which served the town would give very much better accommodation. (Hear, hear.) A vote of thanks, on the motion of the Mayor, having been accorded to the retiring I vice-presidents, Mr. C. W. Earle Marsh and Mr. John Macaulay were appointed the new vice-presidents for 1904. Mr. S. D. Williams was heartily thanked for his services as secretary, and again appointed..

FIRE IN A SHIP'S HOLD James King, engine-fitter, and Alexander Fraser. apprentice plumber, both of Leith, were burned to death at Leith on Wednesday afternoon on board the stoaroer Thames, trading between London and Grangemouth. The men were at work in the hold when a jar of naphtha, which was being lowered into the hold, became upset, and, becoming ignited from a lighted lamp, found its way to King and Fraser, who were burned to death before they could be rescued.

DEATH OF TWO PLATELAYERS At Nelson, Lanes., on Wednesday two plate- layers who were working on the main line were knocked down by a. passenger train from Manchester. They were killed instantly, their bodies being shockingly mangled. It is thought tha-t the steam from a. shunting engine on a siding near by prevented the men from seeing the approaching train. The men were Thomas Guest (married with two chil- dren) and John Stephenson (unmarried).

TYLORSTOWN EXPLOSION FUND The accounts submitted to the eighth annual meeting of the executive committee of the Tylorstowu, Explosion Trust Fund at the Board Schools, Tylorstown, on Wednesday night (Mr. D. Fanwick presiding), showed that the sum given in relief during the year was L189 19s. The number of dependents on the fund was now 49, the number relieved when the fund wao originated being 102. Mr. Fearwick and Mr. D. Smith were re-elseied chairman and vice-dhair- man respectively.

IN SEARCH OF GOLDI THE MASSACRE OF A BRITISH EXPEDITION, Reuter's representative has had a very interesting interview with Major Powell-Cot- ton, who is the last traveller to have reached England from the Turkana country, where there seems little room for doubt that a British expedition with at least four white men has been annihilated. "Although no confirmation has yet been received," he said, "of the disaster to a British expedition, from what I know of the country and of the circumstances of the case it seems pretty certain that the Commissioner would not have sent the news home unless he had grave fears that the report would prove to be true. If this turns out to be the case it will almost certainly mean that in addition to the four white men not fewer than 150 British subjects, Swahili porters, servants, and armed natives will have either been out up or taken into slavery. A very serious side of the question is the fact that this war- like and hostile tribe will have become possessed of a considerable number of modern magazine and breech-loading arms, and plenty of ammunition. "The gold in quest of which the ill-fated expedition was going was originally reported by a Baluchi trader in 1902, and was stated to be in the region to the west of Rudolf, that is to say, the Turkana country. If, as stated, the expedition left Nairobi in October the prospectors should have reached the district in December. After Nairobi the travellers would not necessarily touch any other Government station, and hence the absence of news until the receipt of this report, which was most probably brought back to the British official at Lake Baringo through friendly Suk, who are in close rela- tionship with the Turkank, amd occupy the intervening country. After leaving Nairobi the expedition, under ordinary circumstances, would not meet with any opposition until it reached the northern portion of the Suk country, whose inhabitants are noted for their treachery. They would then enter the country of the powerful and warlike Turkana, the most savage race in the Protectorate, who have only been seen by some seven or eight white men, and over whom there has never been any attempts at administration. Their ooantry stretches from the western shore of Lake Rudolf for a distance of a hundred males. The district is continually subjected to raids on the part of Abyssiniam bonds, who systematically oppress the natives and do not hesitate to rob, murder, and take British subjects prisoners whenever oppor- tunity offers. This, for various reasons, the Administration hais been powerless to stop.

THE COMING SESSION. Conference of Leaders- We understand that the leading occupants of the Front Opposition Bench =bth Houses of Parliament have met this week in private consultation with regard to their plan of campaign for the coming session. These deliberations were, of course, private, but it is stated that an understanding was unanimously arrived at respecting the course tp be followed by the official Liberals when Parliament re-assembles. Some of those most qualified to speak with authority decline to attach any value to current rumours that anything in the nature of an alliance or coalition is being arranged between the Duke of Devonshire or other leading Free Trade Unionists and the Liberal leaders. It is pointed out in reply to this suggestion that the Liberal leaders hold that his grace shares the responsibility of the Government for all that was done by the Ministry prior to his resignation, that he was a party to the conduct of the war, and that he was, moreover, the author or sponsor of the Education Bill. Among the amendments to the Address in reply to the King's Speech which receive the assent of the Opposition leaders are one on the subject of the war, to be moved by Mr. Robeson, K.C. (Liberal Imperialist), and! another on the Education Act, which will, probably, be moved by Mr. LloydyQeorge. The terms of these amendments will, probably, not be drafted until after the King's Speech is read, especially in view of the fact that the Government are considered likely to announce a measure for some administrative amendments in the Education Act. It is not expected that the Duke of Devon- shire and his Unionist supporters will vote for the amendment on this subject or on the management of the war, but it is probable that they will combine with the Liberals in supporting a further amendment, which may be entrusted to Mr. John Morley, in defence of Free Trade principles. One of the earliest and most important debates and divisions of the session will take place upon this subject.

THE HARWICH MINE' DISASTER Identification of the 43 bodies removed from the Harwich Mine is only possible by means of the weighing tags which the men take on entering the mine. The rescuers have now reached the northern portion of the pit, which they also found full of bodies. These ere not so badly burned and mangled as tht others, and recognition was possible in some cases. The air in the shaft is now so hot that it is feared that the mine is on fire, which, if true, is likely to interfere with the search. The bodies as they are brought out are placed two together in shells and consigned to a neighbouring schoolhouse, which has been con- verted into a temporary morque. Here the relatives of the missing men have been filing all day past the tiers on which the dead are exposed. Nearly all the dead were found with their hands spread out over their faces, show- ing that they foresaw their fate. Many of the bodies are headless, some stripped naked and charred, and others disembowelled, the mutila- tions testifying in the most terrible manner to the violence of the explosion. Among the dead was found the body of a stranger, whose presence is a mystery. It is thought that he was a visitor, and. being possibly unaware of the danger of igniting firedamp, lit a match, and thus caused the explosion.—Renter.

MISHAP TO AN EXPRESS On Wednesday afternoon the Torquay and Plymouth corridor express, which leaves! Exeter at 12.5 p.m., and runs to Paddington without stopping, had a narrow escape from being wrecked. While running down Wel- lington Bank, just after leaving Whitehall Tunnel, an exceptionally fast piece of line, both outside coupling-Toda connecting the driving wheels snapped off, with the result that the cab of the engine was wrecked, and the fireman waa badly cut about the head, face, and neck. The driver was not badly hurt. and was able to pull the express up at Wellington Station. A pilot-engine took the train to Taunton, where a fresh engine was requisitioned.

DANGEROUS DERELICT Captain Smailes, of the steamship Hiaael- dene, and Captain Symons, of the steamship Hawthorn, reported at Cardiff on Wednesday having fallen in with a water-logged derelict three-masted schooner, Emilija., of Riga, in the Bay of Biscay, on January 25. The Hazel- done paeaad the derelict about eight a.m., and the Hawthorn about ten a.m. There was no one on board. The Hawthorn sailed round the vessel, but it was found impossible to take her in tow or destroy lier. The vessel, which was in lat. 46.15 N. and long. 8.4 W., and drifting N.E., was right in the track of navigation, and extremely dangeroas.

I WOMAN SENTENCED TO DEATH At Lancaster Assizes on Wednesday Mary Ann Boyle (26), wife of a rivetter; was indicted for the wilful ratrder of her illegitima.te son, John Jamee Cleaver, by drowning. The evi- dence showed that the prisoner, who bad a drunken husband and mother in law, attempted to drown herself with the child, but changed her mind. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and strongty recommended her to mercy. Mr. Justice Jeff sentenced prisoner to death, bnt before doing so promised to forward the jury's rftomuwada- tion to the Home SecretMy.

WASTING TIME JUDGE AND SOUTH WALES ASSIZES. The winter assizes for the county of Brecon were opened on Wednesday at the Share- hall, Brecon, before Mr. Justice Walton. There was only one case for trial. The follow- ing were sworn on the grand jury:—Mr. William de Winton (foreman), Major the Hon. J. H. Russell Bailey, Mr. John Hotohkis, Major H. R. Jones Williams, Messrs. Morgan Thomas, Owen Price, Ernest Benthall, Lewis Williams, Brychan Jeffreys, Walter Evans, Thomas Price Thomas, Reea Powell, H. E. Bradley, Charles W. Best, Robert M'Turk, William Perrott, David Jones, James Morgan, Thomas Jones (Talybont), Guy Dobell, and David Powell. His Lordship, in charging the grand jury, said he was glad to say that the business with which they had to deal was very light. He was glad to say that his experience had been much the same at the other assize towns on that circuit. He had now been to three of the counties—Pembroke, Cardigan, and Carmarthen—and up to the present time he had tried only two prisoners. Coming to Brecon, he found one more prisoner, which made five altogether. From Brecon he would go to Presteign, where there was no business at all, either criminal or civil. No doubt the counties which were included in the first part of the South Wales Circuit vtere inhabited mostly by people engaged in agri- cultural pursuits, but, still, there was a con- siderable element in the population of people engaged in industrial pursuits. The total population was not very large, but, still, being somewhere about 360,000 for the four counties, hi) was bound to &ay that it was gratifying that in this very con- sidera-ble population his Majesty's judge should have only five criminal cases to dal with. But there was another question which these figures suggested. When he went to Presteign—because, although there was to business there, he must go there-he would have been occupied away from his work in London for about twenty days, and judges were very much wanted in London. Although he, personally, would be opposed to miy change in the assize system which would entirely take away the assizes from any county town, he thought it deserving of con- sideration whether or not something might be done to avoid a great waste of judicial time and of the time of jurors, whu Alad to attend assizes whether there was any busi. ness to be done or not. At Presteign, n all probability, there would be a, hundred jury- men in attendance, who would know quite well that there was nothing for tt em to do. It was worthy of consideration, he thought, whether something could not be done to prevent this waste of time when in any county there was no work for judge and jurymen to do. It was a somewhat urgent question, because it was very often found that, in consequence of the absence of so many judges on circuit, work in London cime absolutely to a standstill, and the parties in actions in the lists there were put to very serious inconvenience, and great delay was occasioned. He did not see how that could be avoided unless the judicial strength was increased or an arrangement made by which the time of judges on circuit could be saved. He again said, however, that it was not desirable to take away the assizes from any county town. The grand jury, having retired, submitted the following presentment:- That in the opinion of this grand jury it is desirable that some alteration should be made in order to save the time of judges and jurors when there is no business to be transacted at the various assizes; but that it is undesirable that the assizes should be moved from the present assize towns. His Lordship: I will take care that it is forwarded to the proper quarter, and, if I may say so, I entirely agree with it. THE TRECASTLE CASE. Thomas Evans, 49, collier, was found "Not guilty" on a, charge of killing and slay- ing Ivor Lloyd, at Trecastle, on January 5. The whole of the evidence (which has pre- viously appeared) was given. The point put before the jury was whether the prisoner did more than wae really neces- sary to defend himself against the attack made upon him by the deceased man. I The Hon. Herbert Bailey appeared for the I prosecution, and Mr. Ivor Bowen defended. I HIGH-SHERIFF'S LUNCHEON. When the court adjourned at mid-day the High-sheriff (Mr. William D. Davies, Cwm- wyøg) entertained the grand jury, members of the Bar, county officials, and others to a luncheon at the Oeustle Hotel. In the absence of the foreman of the, grand jury, the health of the high-sheriff wae proposed by Major H. R. Jones Williams, who aJluded to Mr. Davies's many good qualities, his generosity, and his hospitality during his year of office. The toast was heartily received The toast of "The Members of the Bar," proposed by the High- sheriff, was responded to in a remarkably witty speech by Mr. Ivor Bowen, who criticised the presentment made by the grand jury to Mr. Justice Walton. The South Wales Circuit was the oldest in the kingdom, and he hoped the county would not forego any of its privi- leges. He believed that periodical visits of a judge and the members of the Bar, even although there was no crime, had a beneficial effect on the morals of the county. The toast of "The Under-sheriff" (Mr. D. T. Jeffreys) was submitted by the Mayor of Brecon (Mr. 0. W. Best) and duly honoured.

"DUMPING" IN WALES I Alleged Excessive Drinking by Colliers. Sir A. Pendarves Vivian presided on Wed- nesday at the dinner of Truro (OornwaJl) Agricultural Exchange. Replying to the toast of his health he made passing reference to his Paxliamentary career, and said that politics were simpler then than now. (Laughter.) At present they had to keep their eyes and ears open, and see what they were doing, or they might have to start from a fresh point altogether. They heard a great deal about tariff refonn and fiscal policy and "dumping," and so on. All he said was this: There was a great deal in it, and a great deal which necessitated an inquiry, and an inquiry they must have. They heard a lot about "dumping"; he went to Wales occasionally to look after some works there, and he saw the results of dumping." He could not keep his eyes open and not see what was happening. (Hear, hear.) He saw some works standing still in consequence of foreign com- petition, and he saw by that morning's paper that the American Steel Trust had come to an understanding with the Welsh tin-plate workers that they would supply them with I steel bars at less. price than the steetworkers in Wales could make them. For the present, it might be all very well for the tin-plate workers, but the time might come when the American and German steelworks might have the supply of all the steelworks in this country, and then what was to prevent them putting such a price on their steel bars a-a to make it difficult for the tin-plate workers to go on? (Hear, hear.) He did not say that would happen, but these were things which ought to be considered. He was told that the steelworks could not go on because the price of coal waa too high. And why was the price of coal too high? The question was whether the wages paid for cutting coal was not more than the trade would carry. He was always struck, on going to Wales, with the amount of drinking amongst the colliers. If they had good wages to enable them to make 6s., 7s., or 8s. a day for six days a week they would not drink so much. A great many who now worked only five days made their 10s. a day, and drank the other two days. That might or might not be so, but all those questions should be considered by those who were now in political life. He was anxious to see the report of Mr. Chamberlain's Commis- sion as to what really was the state of things in this country. (Hear, hear.)

THE MOTORING THE LOOP ACCIDENT i ■ Mdlle. Mina Alix had a relapse on Wedues- day morning, and. as the result cf a consulta- tion at the hospital at Madrid, the operation of trepanning was decided to be necessary. The operation, which was subsequently per- formed in the presence of Prince Ferdinand and the American Consul, was completely successful, and the patient was reported to be much better on Wednesday evening.-Central News.

RHYMNEY RAILWAY. j The vacancy on the board of the Rhymney Railway Company caused by the death of Dr. Franklen Evans has been filled by the elec- tion of Mr. H. George White, of Melkeham. Mr. White is a lane shareholder, and will be remembered as one of the gentlemen who led the opposition to the proposed amalgamation with the Cardiff Z&Uwq.

IDANGERS OF DOCKS. QUESTION OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR FENCING The inquiry instituted by the Home Office with reference to the new docks regulations was continued at the Caxton-hall, London, on Wednesday by Mr. Chester Jones. Counsel and the interests represented were the same as on Tuesday. Mr. Ernaut, one of the Home Office Inspec- tors, was again under cross-examination by Mr. C. A. Russell, K.C. (Railway Companies' Association). He thought, he said, that the rules would not unduly hamper work at the docks. In answer to a number of questiijns as to the meaning of the words shall be allowed," which occurred several times in the regulations, Mr. Ernaut replied that the object of the regulations was to get at the person really responsible in case of accident. By Mr. B. Franc ig-Williams: The figures given in his report as to the num- ber of men employed at Cardiff, Penarth, and Barry were from the census returns; but the figures that he had given in his evidence as to the per- centage of accidents to men employed did not apply to the South Wales docks. There was no desire, he thought, to impede traffic by the regulations., He was quite aware that in docks where large quantities of coal were shipped everything depended upon quick despatch. He thought that fencing at such docks would not be an obstruction, especially where the fences were automatic. Referring in detail to some of the rules, Mr. B. Francis- Williams asked what was meant by the words "on other dangerous parts," and whether the result would not be to make a dock-owner responsible for whatever might happen. An accident might happen at a, place that no one would ever regard as dangerous. Would the responsibility be thrown upon the dock-owner? —Not entirely. Is it the desire of the framers of this rule to throw upon the dock-owner the responsi- bility of picking out dangerous places?—Well, not entirely. What is the qualification?—The dock-owner i is in a position to judge. He is on the spot. Do you desire to throw upon him the respon- sibility?—Yes, if it is a dangerous part. But am I right in thinking that you want to put upon the dock-owner the responsibility? —In a general case. A general case! Do you think that Í6 fair to the dock-owner?—Yes. Mr. B. Francis-Williams; Then he win not be safe unless he fences the whole of the edge of the dock. Upon the question of how rails should be laid at the docks, upon which the rules con- tained some instructions, Mr. B. Francis- Williams asked, Have you had any experience in the working of these docks?—More or less limited. Mr. B. Francis-Williams: More, I suppose. And if people who have had more experience than you say this method of laying the lines is dangerous, would you say they are wrong? —No, of course not. In further cross-examination Mr. Erna,ut agreed that the rules should apply only to persons employed upon the work in the docks. Mr. John Sankey, for the Barry Railway and Dock Company, also cross-examined witness at some length, primarily upon the statistics given in the evidence, and in previously pub- lished returns. Witness admitted there was nothing in the rules to distinguish between a dock-owner and a ship-owner. In cases where a ship had an appropriated right to a berth the shipowner would be the occupier within the meaning of the rule. Mr. Sankey: By what right would the ship- owner have to put up fences at the dock's side?-I suppose as occupier. Mr. Sankey: But he would have no right to do so. Do you suggest that while a dock- owner is loading a ship he is for the time the occupier of the ship?—I do not suggest at all; it is a question of fact. Mr. Sankey said that there were 127 miles of rails at the Barry docks. How much did the witness say of that should be regarded as being at the edge? To this witness replied that all within 4ft. or 6ft. of the edge of the dock would come within the rule. He admitted that some of the rules placed in the section primarily referring to the dock-owner might be trans- ferred to the section applying to shipowners. Mr. Beasley, general manager of the Taff Vale Railway and the Penarth Dock Com- pany, also put several questions upon details of the regulations. Mr. Batten, of the Sharpness Docks Company, in the course of examination regarding the regulations relating to canals said that he had not much experience as to inland navigation, but the rules applied only to wharves on canals, and not to the canals. In the course of his examination Mr. Batten remarked that the wharves on canals might be dangerous to the homeward-bound agricul- tural labourer after a fair, but not to ordinary people. The inquiry was again adjourned.

CARDIFF FESTIVAL. The committee of the Cardiff Triennial Musical Festival commissioned Mr. Harry Evans, Dowlais, to write a short work for the Festival to be held in September. Mr. Evans, who was given a free hand in the selection of a subject, chose "The Victory of Garmon," and the work has been duly accepted by the committee for inclusion in the Festival pro- gramme, Dr. F. H. Cowen, the appointed oon- ductor of the Festival, to whom it was first submitted, having set his seal on the composi- tion and reported upon it in favourable terms as being of a high standard and worthy of the occasion. The work is based on the tradition that about A.D. 420 a great battle took place near Mold between the Picte and the native Britons, who had newly embraced the Christian faith. Garmon and Bleddyn led the native army to a hollow near what is still called Maes Garmon" (" Gannon's Field "), after the eaintly commander in that celebrated conflict. Garmon charged his men to shout AllelniM" after him as they would suddenly rise out of the hollow. It was Easter Week, and the River Alun was in flood. The enemy, panic-stricken by the sudden appear- ance and great shottf, fled in confusion, many being drowned in the river. In 1739 a column was erected to mark the spot where St. Gar- mon was supposed to have stood. The battle is known to this day as the "Hallelujah" battle. The lyrics are from the pen of the Rev. H. Elfet Lewis. The music is for baritone solo, chorup, male, and S.A.T.B., and full orchestra, and will occupy about twenty minutes in performance. It is essentially' dramatic and full of colour, and the epilogue is a ohorus of thanksgiving sung on Easter Day.

K<DDERM!N8TER MURDER KJDDERMINSTER MURDER At Kidderminster on Wednesday George Fisher, described aa a tramp. was committed for trial charged. with the murder of a woman named Ma.ry Swinbourne on October 24. Prisoner was on January 2 committed on a charge of vagrancy to Lincoln Goal, and there he was found attempting to swallow a leaf of a note-book on which was written, I murdered Mary Swinbourne. Murder will out." Prisoner now said that he could j prove he was at South Moulton at the time.

LETTER-SORTING ON STEAMERS The White Star liner Oceanic, which sailed on Wednesday for New York, is the first of the Liverpool Atlantic liners to be fitted with a sea. post-office, allowing the mails to be sorted during the voyage. The officials carried a.re from the American Post Office. Other mail steamers of the White Star Line will be similarly fitted. The new arrangement is made at the request of the American postal authorities.

THE INVASION OF- TIBET Sir Henry Ootton, speaking at the Westminster Palace Hotel, London, on Wednesday, con- demned the sending of a British expedition into Tibet as a constitutional irregularity. With regard to the allegation that the Tibetans had broken the provisions of the 1690 convention between England and China respecting Tibet, he declared he could not discover the faintest vestige of a breach which I woujd warrant the expedition. He hoped that members of Parliament would fearlessly con- dema the im?eton 0 met.

SHOWELL'S BREWERY TWO DIRECTORS CHARGED WITH FHAUD, As reported in later editions of yesterday's Evening Express," Charles Showell, late chairman and manag- ing director of Showell's Brewery Com- pany (Limited), and Frederick Richards, late manager and director of the company, were jointly charged at Birmingham Police-court on Wednesday (before the stipendiary magis- trate) with fraud on the shareholders by falsi- fication of the company's accounts. The charges were laid under the Larceny Acts and the Companies' Acts, and the offences were charged against the defendants as directors. Mr. Charles Mathews and Mr. Parfitt appeared to prosecute on behalf of the committee of investigation appointed to inquire into the affairs of the company. Mr. Vachell appeared for Showell, and Mr. M'Oardie for Richards. The charges laid were that the defendants con- spired to induce trusted servants of the com- pany to alter the stock sheets and stock books of the company, so as to make it appear that there was Y,4,000 more hops, 92,500 more malt, zCl,600 more sugar, £ 10,000 more ale and porter, and zC9,000 more maltings than were actually in stock. These inflations amounted toE27,000, and the total wiped out the net profit of L17,000 shown in the balance-sheet, and created a defi- ciency of over £ 9,000. Mr. Mathews said the corroborative evidence of the story which would be told by the ser- vants of the company was abundant and con- clusive, and included a document in the writ- ing of the two defendants which showed that in the accounts for 1902 the values of stocjt were inflated to the extent of about £1,000 on ale and porter, C2,000 on malt, V,000 on hope, 11,500 on sugar, and JS7,000 on the outside maltings. There was, moreover, a confession by Richards that he had instructions from Showell to confess to the solicitor to the com- mittee of investigation that the stocks had been overvalued. Subsequently he said he had made this confession. Mr. Phillips, chief clerk to Mr. Ludlow, the brewer, would also prove that both Showell and Richards gave instructions to alter the figures, and that Showell told him, when he expressed alarm at the proposals, "You need not look alarmed as if the world was coming to an end. If the worst comes to the worst, I am responsible for the alteration." Mr. Ludlow was asked to sign the altered figures in previous years, and had refused. Both the defendants were also connected with Orosswells Cardiff Brewery, but had resigned their positions in connec- tion with that company. Evidence was then called to show that the defendants had, jointly or separately, in- structed the ledger clerks in various depart- ments to make the alterations in the stock books which were alleged, and that there were also inflations of the accounts for 1901, 1900, and 1899. Mr. Phillips, chief ledger clerk in the brewery department, stated that he had made a num. ber of additions to the value of stock at the instance of Showell. who told him not to be afraid, as he was not asking him to do any- thing wrong, and added that he was quite justified in making the additions, as the con- tingency fund would cover all. Richards later said in reference to the additions, "I have done it before; I suppose I must do it now." The case was adjourned till Monday at noon. The defendant Showell was a member of the Worcester County Council and Oldbury District Council, chairman of the committee of the School of Brewing in connection with the University of Birmingham, and chair- man of the brewers' committee on the sur. render of licences scheme Showell succeeded his father, Mr. Walter Showell, founder of the brewery, in 1896, as ohairman of the com- pany and managing director, at a salary of .E3,000 a year, and Richards had a salary of zEl,000 a year, in addition to his directors' fees.

AMATEUR THEATRICALS AT "CARDIFF A very successful rehearsal of "The Mikado" by the Cardiff Amateur Operatic Society was held on Wednesday night. The chorus and principals went through their part with vigour and precision. When it is considered that the company has yet three weeks in which to prepare augurs well for a brilliant performance. The chorus is large and power- ful, and the principals are all that can be desired. The booking at the Theatre Royal this week has been exceedingly brisk, a feature pleasing to everyone who is in sympathy with so deserving an institution as the Cardiff Infirmary, of which the performance is in aid. This is the third year of the society, and the present performance promises to eclipse all previous efforts.

MAGISTRATES AND SHOPKEEPERS At Pontypridd Police-court on Wednesday a oharge of stealing five shirts, valued at 9s. 7d.. was preferred against John Sweeny, a labourer, of no fixed abode.—The evidence was that the shirts were hanging outside the shop of Ebenezer Hughes, in Taff-street, Pontypridd. on Saturday, the 23rd inst., at nine o'clock, and were missed half an hour later. The prisoner afterwards sold two of the shirts for a shilling each. When charged the prisoner said, "I don't know what a man may do when he is drnnk.The Bench expressed the opinion that the custom of hanging goods out- side shops was a great temptation to people, and should not be encouraged.—The prisoner was sentenced to a month's hard labour.

ABERTILLERY WOMAN'S DECEIT At Abertillery Police-court on Wednesday Kate Morgan, Abertillery, pleaded guilty to stealing a deposit-book, value 6d., the pro- perty of Jane Teague.—Mr. T. G. Powell, Bryn- mawr, who prosecuted, said that the book contained an account for money which had been invested for the benefit of Mrs. Teague's daughter. Prisoner, who called at Teague's house to buy milk, stole the book and went to the Co-operative Society's stores and drew out the E8 16s. 5d. standing to its credit. The money had been recovered by the police. In order that prisoner might be tried at that court, they had reduced the charge to merely the stealing of the book.-Defendant waa fined Y,3 and 15 53. costs, and an order was made for the stolen money to be restored.

CARDIFF TRAMWAYMEN'S DINNER The eeoond contingent of Cardiff tram- way employes spent a most pleasurable even- ing at Andrews'-hall, St. Mary-street, on Wednesday night, when they eat down to an excellent dinner.—Mr. Arthur Ellis (the chief of the department) was again in the chair.- Mr. F. J. Beavan proposed "The Corporation Tramways."—Councillor J. W. Courtis, in responding, congratulated Councillor Beavan upon the great honour the Japanese Govern- ment bad just conferred upon him. (Applause.) —The schemes for aiding the infirmary and kindred institutions and for the establish- ment of a workmen's provident fund werv approved of.

I REPAIR OF SEVERN SEA WALLS The quarterly meeting of the Monmouth. shire Commissioners of Sewers was held at the King's Head Hotel, Newport, Sir Arthur Mackworth ptesiding. The sarveyors to the board reported that good progress was being made with the work of repairing the great damage done to the Severn sea vialls by the storm in September lstst. The masonry work had, however, been delayed by the wet weather. The cost of the work of renewal was estimated at £ 7,500.

MOUNTAIN ASH FOOTBALLER'S CHILD At Abercynon Police-court on Wednesday a paternity order for payment of 3s. 6d. per week waa made against W. T. Osborne, who formerly figured in the Mountain Ash and Welsh football teams. The applicant wa.( Mary Oriele. Osborne went to Haddeimftel4 some time ago to join the Northern Union.

LATE MR. JOHN JACKSON, NEWPORT The funeral of the late Mr. John JackBon, of Llangoroe Villa, Serpentine-road, Newport, took place at the Rhymney Cemetery, on Wednesday. The popularity of the deceased and his family was exhibited by the large con- course of gentlemen present at the funeral, and the large number of wreaths, crosses, flowers, Ac., which covered the coffin.

GOLF THE BAR GOLFING SOCIBTY. The first general meeting of the Bar Golfing Society took place in the Middle Temple Lecture-room, London, on Wednesday. Mr. R. A. WCall. K.O., presided over a large attendance.—The provisional committee sub. mitted the various rules, &c.. which were adopted after some slight alterations.—Mr. M'Cali was elected captain and chairman, Messrs. Mansfield Hunter and D. H. Leese hon. joint secretaries, and Mr. Alan MTher- aon hon. treasurer., The following form the oommittee: -Messrs. M'Oall, K.C., Alan MPherson, E. G. Rand, C. C. Scott, an4 Xmtague Shearman, AA