Marriages

CAVERS--IRWIN -- On New Year's Day, at St. Andrew's Church, Upper Norwood, by the father of the bride, assisted by the Rev. J. M. Witherow, M.A., Alfred Sutherland Cavers, Second-Lieutenant 2nd Lovat's Scouts, to Elinor, daughter of the Rev. C. H. Irwin, D.D., and Mrs. Irwin, Upper Norwood, Londpn, S.E.

M'ADOO--WALKER -- Dec. 29, at St. Paul's Church, Dublin, by Rev. E. J. Young, B.D., Thomas Edward M'Adoo, M.A., Bellevue, Queenstown, to Eva Maria Walker, Derryballagh, Co. Monaghan.

STUART--DIXON -- Dec. 29, 1915, at the Crecent Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by Rev. Samuel Lindsay, B.A., Rev. Samuel D. Stuart, Sixmilecross, to Emily, third daughter of William Dixon, Sixmilecross.

Deaths

VANCE -- Dec. 31, 1915, at his residence, Gransha Manse, Comber, Co. Down, Rev. Isaac Vance, D.D., in his eighty-second year. Interred in family burying-ground, Gransha, on 3rd January 1916.

BARRY -- Jan. 4, at Copney, Moy, Thomas Barry (late Gardener to J. B. Houston, Esq., D.L., Orangefield).

BELL -- Dec. 29, at Victoria Villa, Downpatrick, John, eldest son of John W. Bell, Solicitor.

BELL -- Dec. 31, at Ballyshanaghill, Lake View, Crumlin, Mary Ann Bell.

BERRY -- Dec. 31, at Lurgan, Mary, relict of the late Rev. Mark Berry.

BOYLE -- Dec. 30, at 18, Evelyn Gardens, Cavehill Road, Mary Anne, widow of the late Rev. James Boyle, Bushmills.

CAHOON -- Jan. 2, at The Manse, Lisburn, Letitia, Daughter of the late Richard Cahoon, Ballylesson.

COCHRAN -- Jan. 4, at Sunnyside, Raglan Road, Bangor, Jane, widow of the late James Cochrane.

CORDNER -- Dec. 30, Mary J. daughter of James Cordner, Bannside.

COULTER -- Jan. 2, at Knockramer, Lurgan, Margaret, widow of the late Joseph Coulter, Legacurry, Lurgan.

DAVISON -- Dec. 31, at Ballynease House, Portglenone, Mary Jane Johnston, widow of the late William Davison, in her 95th year.

DOHERTY -- Jan. 4, at 14, Brookhill Avenue, Belfast, Isabella Trelford, wife of the late Hugh Doherty.

DUGAN -- Dec. 31, at Ballymaleddy, Comber, James Dugan.

EMERSON-DORAN -- Jan. 1, at Purdysburn Hospital, William Kerr, of Inveresk, Strandtown, son of J. C. Emerson-Doran.

FRAZER -- Jan. 2, at Main Street, Crumlin, James, husband of Martha Frazer.

FULTON -- Jan. 5, at Drumsallagh, Samuel [Fulton, son] of the late Samuel Fulton.

GAMBLE -- Jan. 5, at 129, Belmont Road, Belfast, Sarah, widow of the late H. S. Gamble.

HANNA -- Dec. 31, at Limevale Cottage, Ballyauglis, Lisburn, Catherine, relict of the late William Hanna.

KERR -- January 4, at 31, Cyprus Gardens, Bloomfield, Belfast, Sarah, wife of Hugh Kerr.

LAIRD -- Jan. 2, at 195, Lisburn Road, Belfast, Elizabeth, widow of the late John Laird.

LAVERY -- Jan. 3, Kilvergan, Lurgan, John [husband of] Margaret Lavery, aged 83 years

LEMON -- Jan. 3, at 14, Wilmot Terrace, Lisburn Road, Belfast, Jane, wife of William Lemon.

LOGAN -- Dec. 30, at 23, Market Place, Lisburn, Eliza, wife of Paul Logan.

LYLE -- Dec. 30, at Mount Allison, Craigarogan, [Jenny], widow of the late William Lyle.

MILLIGAN -- Jan. 3, at Priory Park, Holywood, Robert Milligan.

MORROW -- Jan. 1, at Ballyhomra, Lisburn, Eliza Morrow.

M'CAUGHEN -- Jan. 3, Joseph M'Caughen, Windmill Hill, Carrickfergus.

M'CRACKEN -- Jan. 4, at 31, Kirkliston Drive, Belfast, Elizabeth, wife of William James M'Cracken.

O'HARA -- Jan. 4, at Royal Victoria Hospital, Charles O'Hara, late of Clady, Dunadry.

OWENS -- Jan. 3, at Warrenpoint, Samuel, son of the late Francis Owens, of Tannybrake, Ballymena.

PATTERSON -- At 69, Botanic Avenue, Theodosia Patterson, late of Killyleagh, Co. Down.

PORTER -- Jan. 4, at 27, Mountjoy Square, Dublin, James Archer Porter, only son of the late Robert Porter, Killen, Fortwilliam Park, Belfast.

POWER -- Dec. 30, 1915, at Bridge Street, Banbridge, Minnie, the dearly-beloved wife of George F. Power.

ROBINSON -- Jan. 2, at Forteden, Ballygomartin Road, Belfast, Mary, wife of Samuel J. Robinson.

SHERRARD -- Jan. 1, 1916, at her parents' residence, 41, Hallville Road, Mossley Hill Liverpool, Ellen Downes (Nellie), aged 14½ years, the affectionate daughter of Stanley M. and Elizabeth J. Sherrard, and grand-daughter of the late Captain Downes, of Belfast and Liverpool.

STEEL -- Jan. 3, at Dunolly, Cavehill Road, David Steel, late Manager Messrs. Walker & Hall, Royal Avenue, Belfast.

STEWART -- Jan. 1, at 59, Norwood Street, Belfast, W. J. Stewart, 9late of Newtownards).

WHAN -- Jan. 4, at the Smiley Cottage Hospital, Larne, Mary Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Whan.

WILSON -- Jan. 1, at 28, Hatfield Street, Robert, eldest son of the late James Wilson, [Ballydugan], Gilford.

Clippings

As Thomas Devlin, a young farmer, of Annaghmore, was cutting a piece of iron on Wednesday, the iron rebounded, and struck him on the right eye, destroying it. He was sent to the Eye Hospital, Belfast.

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GALLANT BELFAST OFFICER

Awarded Military Cross.

The Military Cross has been awarded to Second-Lieutenant John Ferguson Stevenson, 9th (Service) Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (West Belfast Volunteers), for an act of gallantry while on patrol duty on the night of 23rd-24th December. This officer is the second son of the late Mr. Samuel B. Stevenson, of Messrs. Cullen, Allen, & Co., Ltd., and of Mrs. Stevenson, Glencregagh, Belfast. He was educated at Methodist College, and before the war was engaged with the firm with which his father was prominently identified for many years. He obtained his commission on 28th January last, and received his training in the 17th (Reserve) Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, then commanded by Colonel R. H. Wallace, C.B. He was posted to the West Belfast Battalion on 11th May. Second-Lieutenant Stevenson, who is twenty-six years of age, was married on 1st June last to Cis, youngest daughter of Mr. William Macausland, Cherryvale, Ravenhill Road, Belfast, and that lady resides at Auburn Villas, Ormeau Road. He has been the recipient of congratulations from his brigadier-general and brother officers in the West Belfast Battalion, and the news of the honour that has been conferred upon him will be received with great pleasure by his many friends in Belfast.

Second-Lieutenant Stevenson is the second officer of the Ulster Division to be awarded the Military Cross. It may he recalled that the first recipient of this coveted distinction was Second-Lieutenant H. de la M. Harpur, 15th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (North Belfast Volunteers), who was granted the decoration for conspicuous gallantry near Beaumont Hamel on 21st November.

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A sensation was caused last week in the Forkhill district by the discovery of a young man named Alexander Vise, twenty-two years, of Forkhill, lying dead in a field. Vise, who was engaged in munition work in England, was home for Christmas on a visit to his father, a large farmer in the district. When found he had a gun lying beside him fully loaded. It was surmised that while rabbit-shooting he suddenly expired. At an inquest a verdict of accidental death was returned.

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THE PASSING OF A BRITISH SOLDIER ON NEW YEAR'S EVE.

It was the List night of the Old Year, and, as the young soldier crept from his hiding-place into the cold, starlit night, he shivered. He took a look at the old house which had been wrecked by an enemy's shell, and which had afforded a good shelter to him in spite of its ruined state. He had been shot in the shoulder, and his head was bandaged where a piece of shrapnel had struck him. His comrades were not anywhere to be seen; possibly they had advanced on the retreating enemy, and now were engaged in fighting elsewhere. They had forgotten him -- surely not forgotten him, but had thought him missing and a prisoner when he lay hidden unconscious in the ruins. He slowly made his way through what remained of streets and houses, as he felt weak and faint through loss of blood. He could not tell how far he had walked, but suddenly he turned into a little village, and a stream of light flooded the pavement as he mounted the broad steps of a little church. He found a seat at the back of the building, and silently he stole into the corner of the pew and leant his weary head against the wall. The choir of boys and girls looked healthy and happy as they sang in the French language praises to their Heavenly Father. The soldier could not make out the words, but he was content to listen to the voices singing praise. The white-headed old minister rose and prayed for the soldiers in battle and for those who were wounded and dying, and for his country that it might be delivered from the foe; but still the soldier, though he understood not the words, knew that the minister prayed for him and such as he. Again the voices sang, but to the soldier they became fainter and fainter as he fell asleep. He dreamt that he walked in a narrow pathway leading upwards, and that he came to the brink of a river and saw the pearly gates of heaven open; and not the voices of the choir, but the angels sang the same sweet praises to their King. He stood within the gates, for he had slept his last sleep and had passed into the land of life. The bells rang out to welcome the New Year, but the young British soldier had gone to spend the New Year in heaven.

E. W.

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BEQUESTS TO PRESBYTERIAN CHARITIES.

Miss Sarah Allison, of Ramelton, County Donegal, who died on the 3rd September last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £2,291 18s 11d, of which £323 15s is in England. Probate of her will, dated 9th April, 1914, has been granted to Rev. Alfred Torrens and Mr. Matthew Corry, J.P., both of Ramelton. The testatrix left, in addition to a number of personal bequests, £200 to the Irish Mission, £200 to the Home Mission, £200 to the Foreign Mission, £200 to the Jewish Mission, £200 to the Continental Mission, £100 to the Orphan Society, £100 to Dr. Barnardo's Homes -- all in connection with the Presbyterian Church, and the residue of her estate to Scots Presbyterian Church, Ramelton.

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DEATH OF WELL-KNOWN DONEGAL FREEMASON.

The death of Mr. James King, Glensmoyle, County Donegal, removes one of the oldest members of the Masonic Order in the North of Ireland. The deceased, who had reached the patriarchal age of ninety-four years, was a prominent farmer on the Erne estate, near Lifford. He was for many yearn a member of Strabane Board of Guardians, and took a deep interest in sport and in the agricultural shows held at Ballindrait on Lord Erne's estate. For over sixty years he was closely identified with the Masonic Order, being a Past Master of Harmony Lodge, Lifford. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a staunch Unionist. The funeral was large and representative.

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DEATH OF MISS M. I. CORDNER, DERRYALL, PORTADOWN.

The congregation of Bellville has sustained a sever loss in the death of Miss Gardner, Derryall, Portadown. Deceased was in her usual health until the beginning of the Christmas week, when she contracted a chill, and was laid aside with what appeared to be a sharp attack of influenza. Pneumonia, however, supervened in a few days, and in spite of all that medical skill and capable nursing could do she passed away peacefully on the 30th ult. Her early death is deeply lamented, and she will long be missed by sorrowing friends. Miss Cordner took a warm and a practical interest in all departments of religious work not only in that of her own congregation, where she was most faithful and devoted in her attendance, but in that of the Church in the wider sense, and in the more distant fields of labour. Her last illness was borne with characteristic fortitude and patience. The funeral, which was largely attended, took place on New Year's Day. The chief mourners were -- Mr. James Cordner (father), Mr. W. I. Cordner (Waterford), Mr. Thos. Cordner (Portadown), Rev. Joseph Cordner, B.D. (Drumbo); Mr. Cassells Cordner, B.A., Assembly's College; and Lieut. James Cordner, R.I.R. (brothers), and with them and with all the sorrowing friends the deepest sympathy is felt. The services at the house and in the church were conducted by Rev. James Whiteside, B.A., Bellville. The remains were laid to lest in the family burying-ground in connection with the congregation.

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MEMORIAL TO LATE REV. DR M'ILVEEN

The two-stained glass windows erected in the Crescent Presbyterian Church to the memory of the late Rev. Dr. M'Ilveen (one put in by the congregation and the other presented by Mrs. M'Ilveen) will be unveiled on Sabbath morning next at 11-30 o'clock, when the sermon will be preached by the Moderator of the General Assembly (Right Rev. Professor Hamill, D.D.). The preacher at the evening service will be the Rev. Wm. Colquhoun, and at both diets of worship special collections will be made in aid of the church funds. A cordial invitation is extended to the friends of the late Dr. M'Ilveen to be present at the unveiling ceremony.

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DEATH OF DR. B. WILLIAMSON, S.F.T.C.D.

The death has occurred at his residence in Dublin of Dr. Benjamin Williamson, Senior Fellow of Trinity College. The deceased had been connected with the college for nearly sixty years, and for some time held the position of Vice-Provost. The deceased, who was born in Cork in 1827, was educated at Kilkenny College and Trinity College, Dublin. He became a Fellow of Trinity in 1852, and was appointed Professor of Natural Philosophy in 1884 and Senior Fellow in 1897. The deceased married Agnes, daughter of the late Rev. W. Wright, vicar of Sebston, Nottingham, and she died in 1899. Dr. Williamson's publications included "Treatise on the Differential Calculus," 1872; "Integral Calculus," 1874; "Dynamics" (in conjunction with Professor Tarleton), 1884; and "Mathematical Theory of Stress and Strain," 1893.

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TRIBUTE TO U.V.F. HOSPITAL.

Mr. R. Dawson Bates, honorary secretary U.V.F. Hospital, has received the following letter from the father of one of the wounded soldiers who have been treated in the institution -- Allow me to express my gratitude to you and the staff of the U.V.F. for your kind treatment of my son, Sapper W. Davies, 82098, R.E., during his stay at your institution. I received the calendar all right, and I wrote to Walter and told him. I have just received a letter from him, in which he asks me to forward you a sovereign on his behalf. I take line opportunity of doing so, and honestly wish we could do more. I once asked him what kind of treatment he got in the U.V.F. Hospital while he was there. His answer was -- "Well, dad, if ever I have the misfortune to be wounded again I hope I shall have the good fortune to be sent to the U.V.F. Hospital, for it would be impossible to get better treatment anywhere." Please give our best respects to all. Again allow us to thank you. I wish you all a happy New Year. -- Yours respectfully, G. B. DAVIES, Green Welb Lane, South Kirkby, near Wakefield. December 30th, 1915.

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LOCAL AND PROVINCIAL

Pork in Monaghan on Monday touched the record price of 80s per cwt. The highest figure during the past twelve months was 78s 6d.

Fever still rages about Castlederg, no fewer than twelve scarlet fever and four typhoid cases being in the Workhouse Fever Hospital at present.

Derry Guardians on Saturday adopted the normal estimate submitted by Mr. A. W. Perry, Clerk. It totalled £9,266, an increase of £1,056 over last year.

The Drumaness Co-Operative Society, at its December meeting, learned with satisfaction that the sales for the last quarter showed an increase of nearly £20 over those of the corresponding quarter last year.

Mr. F. T. Franklin, agent of the Bank of Ireland at Coleraine, has been, appointed inspector of branches, and transferred to Dublin. For over three years Mr. Franklin has been agent in Coleraine, and previously he was chief clerk in Belfast (Donegall Place).

Ballyversal Reservoir, at Coleraine, has now a depth of 3 feet 7 inches of water, while the Ballyrashane Reservoir is overflowing. It is, therefore, unnecessary to curtail the hours of supply to the town.

The Precentorship of Connor, held by the late Canon Cunningham, has been conferred by the Bishop upon Rev. I. P. Barnes, of Ballycastle. Canon Barnes has been incumbent of Ballycastle Church for more than forty years.

Mr. Thomas H. Greene, Warrenpoint (managing director of Matt D'Arcy & Co., Ltd., Newry) was at the Warrenpoint Petty Sessions on Tuesday, sworn in as a Justice of the Peace for County Down, and took his seat on the Bench.

Limavady Guardians' expenditure for the coming year the Clerk (Mr. Samuel H. Crawford) estimates at £4,700, which was an increase of £830 on last year's. That of the Rural Council is £794, being £30 lower than last year. Both estimates were adopted.

The gold medal which was offered by the Warrenpoint Co-Operative Society to children under sixteen years for the best essay on the co-operative movement, has been awarded to Miss Agatha Hourican, daughter of Mr. Michael Hourican, Duke Street, Warrenpoint.

About 75 per cent of the unmarried, eligible young men of the clerical staff of Messrs. Wm. Clark & Sons, Ltd., Upperlands, Co. Derry, have enlisted, the last member to join the army being Mr. Samuel Nelson, Maghera who enlisted at a recruiting meeting in Maghera.

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce have passed a resolution complaining of the short shipment of traffic between Londonderry and Liverpool and Heysham, and have forwarded a copy of it to the Right Hon. Sir J. B. Dougherty, K.C.B., K.C.V.O., M.P. for Londonderry City.

Clones Urban Council at their meeting on Monday night unanimously passed a resolution expressing regret at the departure from the town, of Mr. Jackson, G. Gilmour, late cashier Ulster Bank, and Mr. Thomas Wright, late cashier Northern Bank, both of whom have been transferred on promotion.

The only surcharge incurred by Lurgan Urban Council during the past twenty-five years, the Clerk intimated on Monday, has been wiped out. It was in respect of the purchase of additional land for the park, and was caused by the purchase being made under the Public Parks Act instead of the Local Government Act.

A cake fair and sale of work was held in Lower Ballyboley National School, near Ballyclare, on Tuesday and Wednesday last, the proceeds of which will be handed over to the Soldiers' and Sailors' Help Society. The undertaking was very heartily supported, and a handsome sum has been realised. There were the usual side attractions.

The name of Mr. Nathaniel Taylor, eldest sen of Mr. Robert Taylor, J.P., of Rookvale, near Katesbridge, is not included amongst these of the survivors of the crew of H.M.S. Natal. Mr. Taylor joined the Navy some years ago as an engineer-artificer. He was promoted to a more important post lately, and was on a visit to his parents about five weeks ago.

The death took place suddenly on the evening of the 3rd inst. of Mr. Joshua M'Neice, one of Lurgan's best-known working-men citizens. Mr. M'Neice for many years sat in the labour interest on both the Lurgan Town Council and the Lurgan Board of Guardians. He had five sons, who responded to the call of their country at the outbreak of the war.

From a Red Cross sale organised by Mrs. Browne Lecky, Ecclesville, Fintona, the respectable sum of £37 16s 1d has been realised, whilst Red Cross Flag Day in the same town produced £42 2s 6d. a record which any town of Fintona's size might be proud of. In Carrickmore the local sum raised for the Red Cross from all sources was £27 16s 7d.

At the quarterly meeting of the Committee of Management of Fermanagh Hospital, Dr. L. Kidd, M.D., house surgeon, pointed out how the institution's finances were getting worse. For the year ending 1913 the deficit at the end of the year was £123, and for 1914 that deficit rose to £141, and in 1913 it further rose to £212. So that they went to the bad in the sum of £71 last year.

A motion before Lurgan Guardians on Friday proposing to rescind the resolution which substitutes margarine for butter was defeated by twenty votes to nine. The Master subsequently reported that the infirm men and women and the male infirmary patients had refused to take the margarine on the previous day, and a good quantity of last week's supply was left. No action was taken.

At Monday's meeting of Lurgan Urban Council Dr. Agnew, M.S.O.H., gave an abbreviated summary of his forthcoming annual report, from which it appeared that the number of births during the year was 337, an average of 27.2 per 1,000, and the number of deaths 170, an average of 13.7, this giving a net increase to the population of 167. The death-rate, 13.7, was the lowest they had ever recorded.

At Saturday's meeting of Coleraine Rural Council the Clerk submitted his estimate and demand for the year ending 31st March, 1917. He explained that as Portstewart had, been constituted an urban sanitary area it was not included in the present estimate. The loss to the rural district in consequence of that was barely a farthing in the £1. The estimate for this year was £1,364, as compared with £1,390 last year.

At Monday's meeting of Newry Urban Council a letter was read from the Local Government Board regarding the recent increase in salary granted Mr. Charles Blaney, the Urban Surveyor, of £100 a year, bringing his salary up to £300 per annum. The Board requested the Council to reconsider the matter on the ground of the present need for economy, but the Council unanimously affirmed their previous decision.

At Friday's meeting of the Joint Committee of the Dungannon Urban and Rural Councils, under the presidency of Mr. Alexander Patterson, the Clerk submitted his estimate for the year 1916. The expenditure over income during the past year had been £1,530, and he estimated that a sum of £1,451 would bo required to be raised for the service of the present year. The report was adopted.

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ULSTER SOLDIER KILLED

THE LATE SERGT. M'REYNOLDS

Mr. J. J. M'Reynolds, ex-sergeant R.I.C., 2, Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, has been officially notified that his son Archie, a sergeant in D Company 10th Battalion R.I.R. (South Belfast Volunteers), was killed in action in France on 22nd December. The deceased, who was a grandson of the late Mr. James Carmichael, Sloughmanus, Co. Derry, and of the late Mr. Joseph M'Reynolds, Coagh, Co. Tyrone, was within a month of being twenty-one years of age, was an apprentice clerk in the employment of Messrs. B. Capper & Co., Ltd., Linenhall Street. He took an active part in the Ulster Volunteer Force, and was a company commander in the 1st Battalion East Belfast Regiment (Ballynafeigh and Newtownbreda), being subsequently transferred owing to a change of residence to South Belfast. His death is deeply mourned, and his father and mother have received innumerable letters of sympathy. Lieutenant A. Norman M'Clinton, writing from the front, says -- "Sergeant M'Reynolds was held in deep regard both by his comrades and officers, and as my platoon sergeant I always found him willing and ready to carry out any duty he might be called upon to discharge. He was visiting his sentry groups in the front line, and was between two of them when a chance rifle grenade struck him on the head. He died very shortly afterwards. The company officers join with me in expressing to you and those who knew him our very sincere sympathy."

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NEW YEAR HONOURS.

P.C. FOR BELFAST M.P.

The King's New Year Honour List, issued on Saturday, contained the names of Mr. Robert Thompson, D.L., M.P., chairman of the Belfast Harbour Board, who has had the honour of Privy Councillor conferred upon him. The Right Hon. Robt. Thompson, who is chairman of Messrs. Lindsay, Thompson, & Co., Ltd., Mulhouse Works, Grosvenor Road, and Flax Street, Crumlin Road, flax spinners, linen, thread manufacturers. and power-loom weavers, is a son of the late Mr. Robert Thompson, of Troutbeck House, Ballylesson, Belfast, and has residences at Bertha House, University Road, and Drum House, Dunmurry. He was born at Ballylesson, and received his education at Purdysburn School and afterwards at Wellington Academy, Belfast. He was elected chairman of the Belfast Harbour Board in the year 1907, in succession to the late Sir Daniel Dixon, and has continued to fill that position with conspicuous ability to the present day. As a mark of their appreciation, of his immense services to the community his colleagues on the Board resolved unanimously that the huge new graving dock in the harbour, which had been in commission for four years previously, should be named in his honour, and the naming ceremony was performed in May last by the Lord Lieutenant. On that occasion Mr. Thompson entertained his Excellency and Lady Wimborne, with his brother Commissioners and a large party of guests, to luncheon. Mr. Thompson was elected member of Parliament for North Belfast in January, 1910, in the Unionist interest, defeating the Labour candidate, Mr. Robt. Gageby, J.P., by a margin of 2,324 votes; being returned unopposed at the General Election in December of the same year. The new Privy Councillor is chairman of the Ulster Flax Spinners' Association, an ex-president of the Belfast Chamber of Commerce, a director of the Belfast and County Down Railway Company, a governor of Campbell College, Belfast, and a member of the Advisory Committee to the Board of Trade (Commercial Intelligence Department). He is also a Deputy Lieutenant for the city of Belfast, a Justice of the Peace for County Down, and a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church.

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CHRISTMAS FAIR AT CLOUGH

ON 23rd December a very enjoyable Christmas fair was held at Clough. The church hall was most artistically decorated with flags and garlands of holly, and the stalls were gay with bright-coloured draperies, Chinese lanterns, and dainty and tempting wares. The number of buyers was large and representative of every class in the community, and the officers and men from the camps of Ballykinlar and Newcastle contributed not a little to the happy nature of the function. Amongst those present were -- Mrs. Forde, Seaforde; Mrs. Clarence Craig, Dean Brown, Rev. H, A. and Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Deacon, Miss Gracey, Mr. G. Allen, J.P.; Dr. Cromie, Mr. E. G. Henesey, J.P.; Mr. R. Blackwood, Mr. S. C. N. Lowry, and Rev. J. Daren Davies. The wounded soldiers from Downpatrick Infirmary were hospitably entertained, and each man was the recipient of a suitable gift. The beautiful and well-laden Christmas tree proved a great source of delight to the children, who received their purchases from the hands of a convincing Santa Claus. The stalls were effectively arranged, and managed in a capable fashion by the following:--

Work Stall. -- Mrs. Henesey, Mrs. Megaw, Mrs. J. Allen, Miss Allen. (Dundrum), Miss Liggett, Miss Henesey, Miss Greenham, Misses Maitland, Misses M'Comb, Miss M. Irvine, Miss S. Croskery, Miss Perry, Miss A. Kennedy.

Utility Stall -- Miss Quinn, Mrs. J. Smith, Mrs. Bingham, Miss T. Irvine, Miss E. Kennedy, Miss E. Campbell, Miss L. Campbell, Miss M'Cammon, Miss Alexander.

Refreshment and Cake Stall -- Miss Cromac, Mrs. Scott, Mrs. Summers, Mrs. Bailie, Mrs. W. J. Neill, Mrs. Breidfjord, Misses Scott, Misses Kennedy, Mies R. Wardlow, Miss Heenan, Miss Summers, Miss M'Kinney (Belfast), Miss Irvine, Miss Croskery.

Antique and Curio Stall -- Miss Maude Cromie, Miss Meta Scott, and Captain Jordan.

War Trophies' Exhibition -- Miss E. M'Kinney (Belfast), Mr. H. Jordan, and Captain Smiles.

Jumble Stall -- Miss A. Wardlow and Mr. R. C. Jordan.

Christmas Tree -- Miss M. K. Scott and Dr. H. Reid Sinclair, assisted by Misses E. Bailie, J. Bothwell, M. Hay, M. Connor, and M. Lewis.

Mr. Vincent Murray took charge of the shooting range, which was well patronised, and Mr. James Smith received the entrance money from the numerous visitors.

The organisers of the Christmas fair wish to thank very sincerely all those who, irrespective of creed, contributed to make their efforts such a gratifying success. The proceeds (amounting to almost £150) will go to further the comfort and welfare of our troops.

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DEATH OF MR J. M'CAUGHEN, J.P., CARRICKFERGUS.

The very sudden death of Mr. Joseph M'Caughen, J.P., in Carrickfergus will be heard of with deep regret. The deceased gentleman had been in failing health for some considerable time past, but was able to be about, and was taking a walk about noon on Monday when he suddenly collapsed on the Albert Road. He was carried into an adjoining house, but life was found to be extinct. The late Mr. M'Caughen for many years held a responsible position in the Edenderry Spinning Co., from which he retired some years ago. He lived at Clover Hill, near Carrickfergus, and took a keen interest in the rearing and keeping of cattle on his lands. He was a magistrate for the County Antrim, and seldom missed taking his seat at the usual Courts of Petty Sessions. He was formerly a director of several public companies in Belfast, and held the petitions until failing health obliged him to resign. He had also been several times a member of the committee of the Northern Banking Co., Ltd. He was a Diocesan Synodsman of the parish of St. Nicholas, and a vice-president of the East Antrim Unionist Association. He married a daughter of the late Mr. W. G. Gynne, solicitor, Antrim, by whom he had a large family, but only one, a daughter, survives, and with her and her mother in their sudden bereavement the greatest sympathy is felt.

 

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Deaths

AGNEW -- Jan. 10, at 19, Bandon Street, Belfast, William Agnew.

ALLEN -- Jan. 7, at Seskin, Straid, Geo. Allen.

AULD -- Jan. 9, at Ballymacreely, Killinchy, John Auld, aged 86 years.

BOAL -- Jan. 10, at Knockdonagh, Bessbrook, Margaret, widow of the late Wm. Boal, Lenaderg, Banbridge.

CALDWELL -- Jan. 8, at 150, Lower Broadway, Belfast, Catherine (Katie), wife of Thomas Caldwell.

CARLETON -- Jan. 8, at The Medical Hall, Larne, Aubrey Trevor, aged 8½ months, son of the late Goodwin H. Carleton, M.P.S.L Larne.

CLELAND -- Jan. 8, at Innishargie, Kirkcubbin James Cleland.

COCHRAN -- Jan. 4, at Sunnyside, Raglan Road, Bangor, Jane, widow of the late James Cochran.

COULSON -- Jan. 7, at Belmont, Clones, Samuel, husband of Martha Coulson, aged 74 years.

CRAIG -- Jan. 9, at 118, Dunluce Avenue, Belfast, Catherine, widow of the late Joseph Craig, Hillsborough, County Down.

EVANS -- Jan. 5, at Creagh, Toomebridge, Hannah Evans.

FERGUSON -- Dec. 25, at Dovercourt, Annie, wife of the late R. S. Ferguson, Belfast, and daughter of late R. Jocelyn Crawley.

GEDDIS -- Jan. 11, at Ermington, Marlborough Park, William Geddis.

GLASS -- Jan. 12, at 81, Hillman Street, Belfast, Martha, daughter of the late Captain Archibald Glass.

GRAY -- Dec. 24, at her residence, Bartlett Street, Pittsburg, N.J., Catherine Stott, daughter of the late Rev. Dr. Stott, Finvoy, Co. Donegal, and beloved wife of John, eldest son of the late David Gray, Lakeview, Loughbrickland, Co. Down.

GRAY -- Jan. 8, at Bryandrum, Markethill, Anna, the dearly-loved child of William George and Magorie Gray, aged 9 years.

GUTHRIE -- Jan. 12, at 39, Bellevue Street, Hugh Guthrie, aged 75 years.

IRWIN -- Jan. 7, at Aughnamillan, Crumlin, Mary Matilda Irwin.

KEENAN -- Jan. 10, John Keenan, Cattle Dealer, Aughagaskin, Magherafelt.

LOWRY -- January 7, at Belfast, Charles R. Lowry, aged 68 years.

MACARTNEY -- Jan. 11, Matthew Macartney, Cromkill, Ballymena.

MACAULAY -- Jan. 5, 1916, at 6, Temple Villas, Rathgar, Dublin, Hugh Walker, son of the Rev. J. J. Macaulay, aged 17 months.

MILLER -- Jan. 7, at High Street, Holywood, Mary J., wife of William Miller.

MILLIGAN -- Jan. 11, at Drumarrin, Guildford, Jane, daughter of the late Thomas Milligan.

MOORE -- Jan. 4, in Belfast, Annabella Moore, of 45, Central Avenue, Bangor, widow of late John Moore, Belfast.

MORRISON -- -Jan. 5, at 13, Victoria Road, Bangor, John Morrison.

M'CARRISON -- Jan. 5, at Clonevin Park, Lisburn, Alfred, youngest son of the late Robert M'Carrison.

M'CONNELL -- Jan. 5, at Glenvilla, Ballinderry, Co. Antrim, Martha, widow of the late John M'Connell, The Hill, Lisnastrain, Co. Down.

M'CORMICK -- Jan. 7, at the residence of her brother-in-law, Rev. J. W. Sharpe, The Manse, Moneymore, Isabella Millar, second daughter of the late Mr. Joseph M'Cormick, The Cottage, Cookstown.

M'CORMICK -- Jan. 12, at 97a, Greenwell Street, Newtownards, Martha M'Cormick.

M'LAUGHLIN -- Jan. 10, at 11, Glantane Street, Richard M'Laughlin.

M'ROBERT -- Jan. 6, at Garry, Ballymoney, Helena, widow of the late Hugh R. M'Robert, Ballynahinch.

O'NEILL -- Dec. 12, 1915, at her residence, 226, Stamford Hill Road, Durban, South Africa, Elizabeth, wife of William O'Neill, and daughter of John and Agnes Storey, The Greenhill, Moorfields. Deeply regretted.

PATRICK -- Jan. 6, at 24, Allworthy Avenue, Mary E., sister of the late Dr. Patrick, Carrickfergus, in her 89th year.

PEDEN -- Jan. 7, at his residence, Ivy Cottage, Rickamore, Templepatrick, Andrew Peden, aged 88 years (suddenly).

PORTER -- Jan. 3, at his residence, Moneyslane, Alexander Porter, aged 88 years.

SMYTH -- Jan. 6, 1916, at his residence, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan, Thomas Smyth, aged 78 years.

SMYTH -- Jan. 12, at Fernbank, Ballygomartin Road, Matilda, widow of the late George Smyth.

THOMPSON -- Jan. 9, at 60, Hill Street, Newry, John Thompson, Master Painter & Decorator.

TURNER -- Jan. 9, at Lisadian, Hillsborough, William John Turner.

Killed in Action

EAKIN -- Killed in action, in France, December 22, 1915, H. S. C. (Stuart), younger son of the late Samuel Eakin, M.D., London, and grandson of Samuel Eakin, J.P., Donaghmoyne, Carrickmacross.

MacDERMOTT -- Killed in action, in France, January 8, Sec.-Lieut. R. W. MacDermott, B.A., LL.B., 8th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, second son of Rev. Dr. MacDermott, Belmont, in his 26th year.

In Memoriam

MATHER -- In fond and loving memory of our dear daughter, who died at Dundalk, 12th January, 1908. "Till the day dawn and the shadows flee away." R. and A. MATHER.

Clippings

CHEERFULNESS IN THE TRENCHES

ADDRESS BY REV. WM. CORKEY

On Monday afternoon the usual prayer-meeting was held in the Minor Hall of the Y.M.C.A. Mr. W. H. M'Laughlin, D.L., occupied the chair, and there was a large attendance. After singing the hymn "All hail the power," the Rev. William Maguire offered prayer. A second hymn having been sung, Mr. Wm. Doig led in further prayer, Rev. Dr. Montgomery read the lesson for the day, found in the 33rd Psalm.

Rev. Wm. Corkey was the speaker, and based his address upon the words found in 2nd Timothy ii. 3, "Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." He said there were lessons that they might learn from their brave soldiers now in the fighting line. The word "endure" really meant, according to the Greek translation, "take your share of the hardness." Paul was suffering and a prisoner. Timothy was not so tried, but in writing to him he says that it would be good for him to take his share of the difficulty and trouble in which the Church then was. If Timothy was in an easy place he was to show himself willing to be associated with those who were in difficult places. Mr. J. R. Mott had recently said that one of the effects of the war had been that Christian people were saying that they could not take things easy when others were suffering so much for them. A writer in the "Spectator," referring in an article entitled "Inarticulate Religion" to the men in the trenches, stated that whilst some might be given over to self-indulgence and sin, others were seeking to do the things that pleased the Saviour. The soldiers, he said, were full of cheerfulness, according to letters coming from the front, and that cheerfulness was simply extraordinary when one remembered the difficulties and discomforts of their position. He (the speaker) had two letters from soldiers, mentioning how contagious cheerfulness was amongst the men. They were cheerful, inasmuch, as many of them believed in an over-ruling Providence. One soldier wrote and said that he was in the trenches again, and up to the waste in mud and ice, but added that he was very happy and glad to be doing his hit for his country. As he wrote the letter, he said, the earth was vibrating with the thunder of the heavy shells of the Germans, but even that did not disturb his composure. Professor Cairns had spoken of the "Caves of Winds" at the Niagara, Falls, and said that visitors in the darkness and mist and noise of the place could do nothing but out their hands into the hands of the guide and go forward as he led. Another outcome of the war, he felt, was that suffering at home brought contentment to those in sickness when they thought of what the boys in the trenches were enduring. He had watched a draft going away to France to do their share, and he felt that the hardest task that would confront them would not be the facing of the shells or bullets of the enemy, but the saying good-bye to those at home whom they loved. In a soldiers diary these words were written -- "It is Sabbath morning, and my children are just now going to the Sabbath-school." And there he stopped, for the bugle sounded, and he was called to press forward into the battle at Gallipoli. He need hardly remind them of the generosity of the men the one toward the other; when parcels reached the trenches they were instantly opened and divided all round. Soldier's crawled away, when possible, after being wounded, in order to relieve stretcher-bearers for more urgent duty. It was good to remember also that really spiritual work was going on amongst the men, and it made them glad to think of the devotion of many of their brave soldiers to the Saviour. He (the speaker) read a further letter from a young soldier, who said that he found it a little hard to live the life, which was life indeed, but he thought it would always be hard, and, after all, it was worth while. If the question were asked, "Watchman, what of the night?" the reply must be, "The morning will come." People talk of the mistakes that have been made, and of the sins that are still rampant. A lady said God in the tyranny of His love could not give the country victory with the drink evil and sin still doing their desolating work. Joshua said before his victory, "Up, sanctify yourselves" and God was calling to them that day to sanctify themselves. Give up the evil that was so sad, and victory would soon crown the efforts of the Allies.

Mr. W. Fulton and the Rev. William Witherow led in further supplication.

=========================

ULSTERMAN ORDAINED DEACON.

Captain George A. M'Morran, one of the best known mariners in Chicago and Great Lakes district of the States, was last month elected, ordained, and installed a deacon in the Endeavour Presbyterian Church of Chicago. Captain M'Morran was born on October 11th, 1844. at Morran's Crossroads, Magherascouse, Comber, County Down, being the son of the late Mr. Daniel M'Morran, of that place. He began, the seafaring life by sailing from Belfast in August, 1858, on the brig Arab, being apprenticed in Liverpool, and serving out a full five years. On the first voyage of his apprenticeship he was shipwrecked off the Port of Wilmington, N.C., on December, 1858. Returning to England, he again sailed on the ship Goliath, and the last voyage of his apprenticeship saw the Gulf of St. Lawrence in April, 1863. The Magherascouse boy sailed from then on both English and American ships to almost every port of the world, his last salt-water voyage being as second mate of the barque Josie Mildred, of Bangor, Maine, U.S.A., from Philadelphia to Rotterdam, returning to New York on December, 1869. Coming to Chicago in 1870 ho made that city his hailing port, sailing the Great Lakes of America, his last trip being as master of the schooner Flying Mist in 1882. Previous to 1882 he was master of this schooner W. B. Allen, which foundered in tho memorable North-Eastern snowstorm and gale of April 20, 188. In 1882 he left sailing on the Lakes to take a prominent position with the Western Transit Company being with them ten years. In 1892 he kept the Vessel Owners' Shippers' Office of Chicago, continuing in that capacity for four years. Mayor Washbourne's administration placed the captain in the Harbour Office as Assistant Harbour Master of the port of Chicago. In 1899 he entered the employment of the Anchor Line, holding to-day an important position with that well-known shipping company.

Captain M'Morran lives in his own comfortable and well-appointed residence at 2047, Pensacola Street, Chicago. Two sons -- William, now Y.M.C.A. secretary at North Yakima, Washington, and Francis, living in Kansas City -- and a daughter, Jessie, a teacher in the Chicago Public Schools -- are living. Mrs. M'Morran, the hospitable mother of the home, prior to her marriage, was Miss Jessie Bell, of Hensell, Ontario, Canada. Captain M'Morran has made two trips to Ireland, in 1873 and 1912, and has a sister, Mrs. Isaac Callan, of 34, Woodvale Road, Belfast, and a half-sister, Mrs. John Barry, living on the home farm at Magherascouse. The captain and all the members of his family are staunch Presbyterians. Endeavour Church, which honoured him with officership, is ministered to by the Rev. Archibald R. Wright, eldest son of the Rev. William Wright, D.D., of Newtownards, Co. Down.

=========================

THE HIGH SHRIEVALTY.

A special meeting of the Belfast Corporation was held on Monday in committee in the Council Chamber of the City Hall -- Alderman Dr. James King-Kerr, J.P., presiding over a good attendance.

The first business was to select a gentleman to fill the position of Lord Mayor for the ensuing year, and the recommendation of the General Purposes Committee that Councillor Sir Crawford M'Cullagh, J.P., be chosen was unanimously adopted.

The Lord Mayor cordially thanked the Council for their re-election.

The next business was to nominate three members to fill the office of High Sheriff, and the following were chosen -- Councillor Robert Dunlop, Councillor Robt. Johnson, and Alderman Wm. Tougher.

These decisions are, of course, subject to confirmation at the public meeting of the Corporation on the 25th inst.

=========================

STORAGE OF ULSTER RIFLES.

At Westminster County Court on Tuesday Mr. H. P. Gisborne (solicitor) applied for permission to amend a summons arising out of the late anti-Home Rule demonstration, which culminated in the famous Curragh incident.

He explained that the dispute had reference to the storage of rifles and ammunition to be supplied to the loyalists of Ulster in 1914, just before the outbreak of the war. Originally the summons was issued in the name of the secretary of the British League for the Support of Ulster and the Union, and he now asked for permission to join with that gentleman the names of Lord Willoughby de Broke and Mr. Robert M'Neill, M.P., with whom were associated a number of other members of the union, including Sir E. Carson, Lord Beresford, and the Duke of Bedford. Permission was also asked to increase the amount of the claim, which is for die use and occupation of the premises occupied by the union in Pickering Place, St. James'.

Judge Woodfall granted the application, and also gave leave to the defendant to file a counter-claim.

=========================

REV. DR. MacDERMOTT BEREAVED.

Son Killed in France.

News was received from the War Office on Monday night that Second-Lieutenant R. W. MacDermott, 8th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (East Belfast Volunteers), second son of Rev. Dr. MacDermott, Belmont, was killed in action on 8th January, and sincere sympathy will be felt for the sorrowing relatives in their sad bereavement.

It appears that the gallant young officer was in a reserve trench on the Western front in charge of a large working party, A high explosive shell unexpectedly fell into the trench, killing instantaneously the second-lieutenant and two others, and slightly wounding a fourth. The esteemed Presbyterian chaplain of the battalion, Rev. D. R. Mitchell, Broughshane, and a son of the Rev. D. E. Mitchell, of Crumlin Road Church, Belfast, writes that the interment took place in the corner of a little French orchard, where the mortal remains of many of our gallant lads are already laid, little wooden crosses, with the names inscribed, marking the graves. The comrades of the deceased, with their chaplain, carried out the funeral early last Sabbath morning by candle light, and in the face of the enemy machine-guns, which were firing all the time.

Second-Lieut. MacDermott was educated at Campbell College, Belmont, and at the Queen's University, of Belfast. He was scholar each of the three undergraduate years of the arts course, and graduated with second-class honours in classics. Turning to law, he gained a scholarship each year of the course, and in July, 1914, was awarded the degree of LL.B. with first-class honours, and the Dunbar Barton prize. Meanwhile, he had been attending the King's Inns lectures in Dublin, and would in due course have been called to the Bar in a few months. He had the additional advantage of gaining some practical knowledge of the legal profession in the office of Messrs. C. & J. Black, Donegall Square North. But in the month of August war was declared, and, like so many others of our young men, he elected to enter the Army, for the present crisis, and received a commission in the East Belfast Battalion of the Ulster Division on 27th September, 1914, He had been an Ulster Volunteer since the movement was initiated, and took a steady and hearty interest in that organisation, being a section commander in Mr. E. T. Richardson's company in the 6th Battalion East Belfast Regiment. His elder brother is a lieutenant in the Royal Army Medical Corps.

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DEATH OF MR. THOMAS SMYTH, BALLYJAMESDUFF.

We regret to announce the death of Mr. Thomas Smyth, which occurred on the 6th January at his residence, Ballyjamesduff, County Cavan, in his 78th year. Whilst rejoicing in the prosperity of all Christian denominations, he was a staunch Presbyterian, being for ever a quarter of a century the secretary of the committee of the church the secretary and treasurer of the Stipend and Sustentation Funds, until, through failing health, he was reluctantly compelled to resign these offices. He was a man of sterling principle and kindly disposition. His faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was simple and unchanging, having happy recollections of the Revival of 1859 and those eventful days. He passed away peacefully in the presence of his children repeating triumphantly those immortal words of the Psalmist, "Yea, though I walk through the of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me." He was laid to rest on Saturday last in the family burying-place, having been followed to the grave by the largest concourse of people and vehicles which have been seen in the district for years. The service in the church was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Stuart and at the graveside by the Rev. Dr. MacFarland, who referred feelingly to his many good qualities. He leaves a son -- the Rev. W. Smyth, Mountmellick -- and four daughters, one of whom is married to the Rev. C. H. Hunter, Kirkcubbin, mourning his irreparable loss, but rejoicing in the hope of a glad reunion in the land of Eternal Love.

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DEATH OF DR. SAMUEL GEORGE, TERRYDREMOND.

The last member of the well-known George family, of Terrydremond, Limavady, in the person of Mr. Samuel George, passed away at the age of eighty-four years on Friday morning last. In a little over two years two brothers, two sisters, and one cousin have answered the last call. Deceased, who owned a large amount of property, was a most considerate employer. He was a devoted Presbyterian. His connection with First Limavady Presbyterian Church is well known. When that church was threatened with extinction the George family, with their handsome gift of £1,000, prevented the threat of the General Assembly. But their generosity did not end there. The late Mr. Samuel George presented free for ever the beautiful site, with adjoining grounds for the erection of a manse, and with the building of the latter he liberally assisted.

At a meeting of the session and committee, held on Sabbath afternoon. Rev. William Browne, B.A., presided, and in touching terms referred to the great loss they had sustained through the death of their good friend and member, Mr. Samuel George. Mr. R. A. Thorpe moved a resolution giving expression to their deep sorrow. The resolution was seconded by Mr. A. L. Pollock, supported by Mr. J. C. Allison, and passed in silence.

The funeral of Mr. George took place on Monday to Christ Church Burial-ground, amid scenes of general mourning.

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BEQUESTS TO THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Miss Eliza Jane Hilis, of Tattyreavh North, County Monaghan, who died on 11th September last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £519 13s 4d. Probate of the will has been granted to the Rev. James Hamilton, of Ballybay, minister of Bloomfield Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Robert Spence, Castleblayney, merchant. The testatrix left £100 to the Foreign Mission Fund of the Presbyterian Church, £400 to the Presbyterian Congregation at Bloomfield, and the residue, of the estate to the Jewish, the Home, the Colonial, and the Weak Congregations' Funds of the Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Moses M'Crea Caldwell, farmer of [Gar--ey], County Donegal, who died on the 8th April last, left £10,612 13s 6d, of which he bequeathed £600 to his housekeeper, Isabella Cochrane; £600 to William Dripps, and the remainder of his personal estate in equal shares to the Home Mission, the Sustentation Fund, and the Orphan Society (of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland), and his real estate he left on trust to pay £10 per annum to the minister of Monreagh Presbyterian Church.

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LUNDY DAY AT THE FRONT.

The following letter from a young officer at the front gives an account of the manner in which the 18th December (Lundy Day) was celebrated by some Derrymen and other Ulster boys at the front --

"Yesterday we had tremendous celebrations over the burning of Lundy. We played the Y.C.V.'s at football, and beat them. They think they're 'cock of the walk' in everything, so this made the victory all the more enjoyable. Just afterwards the burning ceremony took place. Two Lundys had been prepared, one large and the other small (some of the inhabitants suggested they were father and son). The father was about eleven foot long, stuffed with straw and rockets put in unexpected places, with large wooden feet and wire knees, head filled with gunpowder and surrounded by a large yellow-brimmed admiral's hat. On his chest was a large placard, with 'Lundy, the Traitor,' on it. The procession, headed by torchlights and the band, marched through the village playing 'No Surrender,' 'Derry Walls,' and 'Boyne Water' (I hope the General did not hear it). Then Lundy was let down on a wire rope from the tree where he had been strung up, and set fire to amid terrific cheering and boohing. He was well soaked with petrol and burnt well. The rockets shot out everyway, and finally his head burst. Every now and then they gave him a shake, and his knees wobbled in a most realistic fashion. Bombs made of jam tins were thrown into the pond just beside him. Those burst, and, of course, broke all the windows of houses round (there will be 'beaucoup de reclamations' tomorrow). The procession then reformed and marched up to the top of the village, where 'Lundy, Junior,' was burnt with like ceremony.

"After dinner a lot of the officers gathered in one of the company's messes to sing and talk. 'No Surrender' was again sung by an officer, who is a very keen Orangeman, and as his voice, like my own, has got a quaver in it, the tremels and pathos instilled into the line 'And Jamsie was dismayed' (the officer's name James), was most affecting. The rule of all such impromptu concerts is that each person present must contribute something, as their singing is generally characterised by more enthusiasm than skill. I was there, so had to do my share. The 'Duke of Plazadore' was well received, but I fairly wakened them up with 'When Britains really ruled the waves.' Wakening up the company takes some doing late on the evening, because those occasions are generally considered the appropriate time to drown all sorrows."

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BANBRIDGE MAN LOST.

Official intimation has been received of the loss of Nathan Taylor, engine-room artificer in the disaster to H.M.S. Natal. The deceased was the eldest son of Mr. Robert Taylor, J.P., Shanrod, Banbridge, and was member of Magherally Presbyterian Church. In a touching reference at Divine service in that church Rev. J. D. Martin, M.A., said the deceased had the qualities which gained and held affection and regard. No more devoted son and brother had gone into the battle line from all the countries. A clean, pure life, a capable career full of promise and hope and a heroic death at his post -- who dare foreshadow for a son a nobler record.

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DEATH OF MR. GEORGE MACNIE, J.P., DUBLIN.

The wide circle of friends and acquaintances of Mr. George Macnie, J.P., of Baymount, Clontarf, Dublin, will regret to learn of his death on Sabbath, at his residence, in his eighty-second year. Deceased filled for many years an important part in Dublin public life. Amongst other prominent positions, he held that of chairman of the Dublin and Glasgow Steampacket Co., and was afterwards director and one of the Irish representatives upon the Board of G. & J. Burns Steam Shipping Co., when the company was taken over by Lord Inverclyde. For many years he was a director of the Association for the Housing of the Very Poor, a company which was a pioneer of its kind, founded by Sir Charles Cameron for the relief of the very needy and deserving. For many years he was an active and useful member of the Dublin Corporation, where his personality and keen business capacity caused him to be chosen as a delegate on most of the important missions of his time in that body. Mr. Macnie was a native of Stirling. He took a large-hearted interest in the affairs of his brother Scotsmen in Ireland, and for years he was chairman and president of St. Andrew's Society. He was a staunch Presbyterian, and supported that body at all times. He was one of those instrumental in establishing the Presbyterian Association, an institution in which, until failing health intervened, he always took a deep interest. He was one of the very few Presbyterians in Dublin who had been a member of old Mary's Abbey, the congregation of which afterwards moved to Rutland Square Church, of which he was an active member and am elder for over forty years.

The Funeral.

The funeral of the late Mr. Macnie took place on Wednesday, the officiating clergymen being the Rev. Dr. Denham Osborne and the Rev. J. L. Morrow, and the chief mourners were George and Captain John Macnie (sons), Wm. Randolf Macnie (grandson). Amongst others present were -- Rev. J. C. Johnston, M.A.; Rev. R. K. Hanna, Sir Joseph M'Grath, John Mooney, C.V.O.; Sir Lambert Ormsby, S. W. Shaddock, J.P.; George Booker, R. W. MacNeice, J. J. Grey, H. P. Gifford, A. Lyon, Geo. Watson, Walter J. Kinnear, J. A. Miller, A. G. Worcester, Wm. Hunter, A. Stanley Johnson, Mus.B.; Wm. Hewat (Thomas Heaton & Co., Ltd.), Charles Gamble, Rev. William Proctor. Jas. Stephen, Gerald R. FitzGerald, solicitor; Prof. J. Bell, LL.D.; Nicholas Proud, Wm. Edie, Alderman Moran, J.P.; and Sr John Irwin, J.P.

At the service at the cemetery Dr. Denham Osborne, in the course of an address, said -- It is no more than fitting when a man of impressive personality and prominence in Christian service and citizenship is called to his rest in God that his friends gathered for the last rites should pause a little and give their tribute to his memory. As regards Mr. Macnie's work in those spheres it is only necessary here to lay a little more emphasis upon its moral effect. None of us who knew our friend's outward appearance ever failed to admire the upright, poise, the air of distinction, the keen yet kindly features. As he was to the outward eye so he was in character and spirit. Honourable in every dealing and relation; endowed with a high ideal which he refused to lower at any call of expediency, he early won, and he retained to the end of his life, the implicit confidence of his fellow-citizens. In his business as much as in his Church relations and his private life, Mr. Macnie was conspicuously the Christian gentleman. As such we may truly say of him, "he wore the white flower of a blameless life." In addition to his public activities Mr. Macnie was in private the most accessible of man to any who needed counsel. In the church life of old Mary's Abbey and in Rutland Square Mr. Macnie was ever willing to accept responsibility and to share all burdens. It is about sixty years since he became a member of the congregation then worshipping in Mary's Abbey. In Rutland Square he was elected to the Congregational Committee in 1869, and was appointed secretary in 1872. Five years afterwards he was ordained to the eldership -- an office he held to the close of his life. Since 1883 he has been a trustee in connection with the church property. At the General Assembly on more than one occasion Mr. Macnie was the representative elder of the congregation. With the exception, of one honoured name, none of the men who were Mr. Mamie's original colleagues in our session are with us now. To the sons and daughter and to the attached sister -- a sister not in law merely, but also in love -- and to all who are sad in the loss we mourn here, we extend our sympathy; and to that uptight spirit now with the Christ he trusted and followed we say, "Adieu, till for us also the day breaks and the shadows flee away."

 

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Birth

ERSKINE -- Jan. 17, at Alt-an-Aros, Londonderry, to Rev. G. D. and Mrs. Erskine, Magheramason -- a daughter.

Marriage

STEVENSON--TOLAND -- Jan. 13, 1916, at Sion Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. C. K. Toland (father of the bride) and the Rev E. Clarke, M.A., Walter Lowther Stevenson, M.B., Strabane, to Mary Webster, eldest daughter of Rev. C. E. Toland, Strabane.

Deaths

LYTLE -- Jan. 19, Ada, eldest daughter of Thomas A. Lytle, Maghera. Funeral at Maghera to-day (Friday), at 12-30.

STEVENSON -- Jan. 18, 1916, at her residence, Linden Cottage, Holestone, Agnes Elizabeth Montgomery, beloved wife of William Stevenson. Interred in Kilbride Burying-ground on 20th January.

ARMSTRONG -- Jan. 12, at 20, St. Jude's Avenue, Belfast, Jane, youngest daughter of the late Wm. Armstrong.

BEATTIE -- Jan 16, at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, Richard, son of Thomas Beattie, Beattie's Quay, Moira.

BELL -- Jan. 14, at Ballydown, Banbridge, Bessie Elma Sterling, daughter of Samuel Bell.

BOYLE -- Jan. 18, at Killbright, Carrowdore, Agnes Jane, wife of Robert Boyle.

BURNS -- Jan. 15, at Moseley, Ardenlee Av., Belfast, Jennie, wife of Jonathan Burns.

CONN -- Jan. 17, at 49, Albertbridge Road, John Conn.

CRAWFORD -- Jan. 19, at Kinedar, 17, Southwell Road, Bangor, Isabella Catherine, daughter of the late Lieutenant Hugh Crawford, of Lakeview, Castledawson, aged 90 years.

FAULKNER -- Jan. 14, at Drumaul, Maria, wife of George Faulkner.

FREW -- Jan. 15, at Church St., Downpatrick, Susan, widow of John Frew.

GALWAY -- Jan. 12, at Ballymiscaw, David Galway, husband of Jane Galway.

GIBSON -- Jan. 12, at 13, Hughenden Avenue, Belfast, Margaret B., relict of the late John Gibson.

HADDEN -- Jan. 15, at Kilkeel, Rev. David Hadden, aged 53 years.

HAMILTON -- Jan. 13, at 16, Alexandra Avenue, James Hamilton (formerly of Dungannon).

HILLOCK -- Jan. 17, at 9, Ainsworth Avenue, Belfast, Anne Hillock, wife of Samuel Hillock, aged 76 years.

HUNTER -- Jan. 17, at Church Lane, Doagh, John Hunter, aged 64 years.

KEITH -- Jan. 17, at Fernhurst, Belmont Road, Belfast, Margaret Louisa, daughter of the late Hutcheson Keith, Builder.

KERNOHAN -- Jan. 18, at Ballymena, William Kernohan, late of Timaru, New Zealand.

KERR -- Jan. 18 at Greengrave, Dundonald, William Kerr, aged 72 years.

LAW -- Jan. 19, at 27, Lawnview Street, Hannah, mother of Hannah Kerr, and widow of the late Thomas Edmund Law.

MILES -- Jan. 15, at the Infirmary, Larne, William Miles, late Gunner, C.B.R.A.

MILLIGAN -- Jan. 13, Charlotte Elizabeth, wife of Seaton Forrest Million, Eastward, Bangor, Co. Down.

MILLS -- Jan. 17, at 95, Chapel Street, Cookstown, Henry Mills.

MOORE -- Jan. 19, at 46, Limestone Road, Belfast, James, husband of Sarah Moore.

M'BIRNIE -- Jan. 11, at his residence, Vallenhook, Co. Armagh, James, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. M'Birnie, of Vallenhook, County Armagh, and Rosconner, County Down.

M'CLELLAND -- Jan. 13, at 7, Cross Street, Larne, James M'Clelland.

M'KEE -- Jan. 16, at Drumawhey, Newtownards, Ann M'Kee.

M'KELVEY -- Jan. 13, at Woodside, Carrowdore Robert John (John), son of Robert John M'Kelvin.

M'NEILL -- Jan. 17, at Bridge End House, Bushmills, James M'Neill.

NEILL -- Jan. 14, at Clough, County Down, Agnes, relict of the late William Neill.

OSBORNE -- Jan. 18, at Milford, Co. Donegal, Catherine, widow of the late John Allen Osborne, M.D.

PATTERSON -- Jan. 14, at Drumacrow, Killykergan, Alfred Stewart, son of Alexander Patterson.

PATTERSON -- Jan. 19, at Brandrum House, Hugh Gill Patterson, J.P.

PEEL -- Jan. 18, at Holymount, Ballinderry, William Peel.

ROBINSON -- Jan. 14, at Island View, Whitehead, Margaret, daughter of the late John, King Robinson, Ranaghan, Randalstown.

RUSSELL -- Jan. 17, at Wallburn Cottage, Antrim, Samuel A. Russell.

RUSSELL -- Jan. 17, at Ardnagale, Downpatrick, William Russell, aged 67 years.

SIMMS -- Jan. 13, at 10, Trevelyan Terrace, Antrim Road, Belfast, Catherine (Kittle) Simms.

STEENSON -- Jan. 16, at Mullaghmore, Dungannon, William Steenson.

WATSON -- Jan. 18, at 112, Irene Terrace, Bangor, Catherine Watson, aged 74 years.

In Memoriam

MARTIN -- In loving memory of our mother, Mary Batten Millar Martin, of Eglintoun, Tayport, Fife, widow of the Rev. James Martin, Belfast, who died at Edinburgh, on the 16th of January, 1908. F.P.H.; J.C.M.

Clippings

DEATH OF RIGHT HON. ARNOLD MORLEY

The "Morning Post" announces the death of the Right Hon. Arnold Morley, which took place in London on Monday. During the stormy times that preceded and followed the introduction of the first Home Rule Bill he was Chief Liberal Whip. He entered the Cabinet as Postmaster-General during the Gladstone-Rosebery Administration of 1892-1895. Deceased first entered the House of Commons in 1830 as one of the members for Nottingham. In 1895 he was defeated by Mr. Edward Bond, and from that time he did not offer himself as Parliamentary candidate. He was the author of several improvements in the postal service.

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DEATH OF MR. S. A. RUSSELL, ANTRIM.

Much regret will be expressed at the sadden death, which took place on Monday evening, of Mr. Samuel A. Russell, Wallburn Cottage, Antrim. Mr. Russell, who was greatly respected by a large circle, was a ruling eider in First Presbyterian Church, Antrim, a member of the Antrim Board of Guardians and Rural District Council, being on several committees of them, and County Antrim Council Committee of Agriculture and Technical Instruction. He was at the inception of the Antrim Agricultural Society, becoming vice-president of this flourishing organisation. The late Mr. Russell was noted for his energy, ability, and success in his undertakings, and was straightforward and upright in his dealings, gaining the highest respect from those he came in contact with. Deep sympathy is extended to his friends by the inhabitants of Antrim district and other areas.

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THE LATE LIEUT. MacDERMOTT.

TOUCHING PULPIT REFERENCES

At the close of Sabbath morning's service in Belmont Presbyterian Church a touching tribute was paid to the memory of Second-Lieutenant R. W. MacDermott, 8th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (East Belfast Volunteers), who was recently killed while serving on the Western front. Deceased was the second of Rev. Dr. MacDermott, minister of the congregation. Rev. James Maconaghie, M.A., of Fortwilliam, who conducted the service, said that the death of Lieutenant MacDermott was one of those deep things in God's providence which they could not understand. He was a young man of great promise, and they all admired the noble spirit of self-sacrifice with which he responded to the call of duty. Now he had laid down his life on the altar of his country in the fight for truth and honour and liberty. The congregation desired to express their warmest sympathy with Dr. MacDermott, Mrs. MacDermott, and the members of their family in the great bereavement which they had suffered, and he had therefore to submit the following resolution -- "We, the members of Belmont congregation, have learned with great sorrow that Lieutenant Robert W. MacDermott, second son of our highly-esteemed minister, was killed in France on the 8th inst., and we desire to take this, the earliest, opportunity of tendering to Dr. and Mrs. MacDermott and their family our heartfelt sympathy in their hour of sore trial. That one so intimately associated with the Manse should, in common with others connected with the congregation, relinquish the prospects of a brilliant professional career when he felt his King and country needed his services was a matter that evoked feelings of pride, and we were watching his military life with no little interest, assured that he would discharge his duties, however onerous, with credit and distinction. We deeply regret that a life so promising should be thus early terminated, but he has died as a true soldier in the performance of his duty for the country he loved, for the King he served, and to protect our lives. We are convinced that he has not died in vain and we are satisfied that the blameless life he lived amongst us will be a stimulus to many to imitate his bright example. We earnestly pray that by Divine grace all in the Manse may be enabled to say with regard to this heavy bereavement, 'The will of the Lord be done,' and we request the clerk of kirk session to send a copy of this resolution to Dr. MacDermott, and also to have it entered on the minutes of the kirk session and committee of the congregation."

The resolution was passed in silence, the congregation standing, and subsequently Chopin's "Funeral March" was effectively played by the organist, Mr. R. H. Hoorobie(?).

At the evening service Rev. Dr. M'Kean, Ballymacarrett, who occupied the pulpit, also referred in feeling terms to the death of Lieutenant MacDermott. He said God in His inscrutable providence had been pleased to remove a loved face from their midst by the hand of death, and he was sure no words of his could adequately express the grief they felt. They would have to pardon the weakness of his wards in speaking of one whom they all knew so well. Let them remember while they reverenced and honoured his memory that the lustre which he had shed around him in the home and in the church was but one feeble ray of the light that was uncreated. All that he had received. If they honoured him it was to adore Christ Who by His grace had made him what he was. They would see his face no more amid these earthly scenes. They dare not venture to say how much he would be missed in the home and in the hearts of those to whom he was so dear but of this they were assured, that Jesus Christ would take upon Himself all relationships which by His providence He had terminated on earth that He might restore them in heaven. They gave their sincerest sympathy to his sorrowing family, and prayed that the God of all comfort and consolation would sustain them.

At the conclusion of the service Beethoven's Funeral March was placed.

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DEATH OF REV. DAVID A. S. HADDEN.

We regret to announce the death of the Rev. David A. S. Hadden, senior minister of Annalong, County Down, who passed away on Saturday at Kilkeel, where he had been residing since his retirement from the active duties of the ministry in 1910. Mr. Hadden had been in very delicate health for a considerable time, and, therefore, while the news of his death will cause profound sorrow among his brethren in the ministry it will not occasion much surprise. The deceased was a native of County Armagh, having been born at Whitecross, where he received his early education with a view to entering the Christian ministry. He afterwards continued his studies with marked success at Magee College, Derry, and the Assembly's College, Belfast. On the completion of his theological studies he was licensed by his Presbytery on the 1st May, 1888, and the following year he received a call from Annalong, in the Newry Presbytery, being ordained to the pastoral oversight of that congregation in July, 1889. He quickly won the esteem and respect of his people, and was greatly beloved by them both as a pastor and a preacher. Soon after his settlement in Annalong he embarked on a scheme for the renovation of the church, and in addition to that he was largely instrumental in having erected a manse and a new school, so that his successor found at his disposal a suite of church buildings second to none in the Assembly. In the work of his Presbytery the deceased took more than a passing interest, and was highly respected by all his co-presbyters. He did not, however, take an active part in the business of the Supreme Court of the Church, although so long as his health allowed he was regular in his attendance at the meetings of the Assembly. In June, 1910, he sought and obtained leave to retire, and on the 5th July of that year he acted on the permission then given, the Rev. Edward Pyper being appointed his assistant and successor. Almost immediately after his retirement Mr. Hadden went to live at Kilkeel, where he spent the remainder of his days. He was only fifty-three years of age, and with the members of his family as well as with his congregation, sincere sympathy will be felt in the great loss they have sustained. It may be mentioned that Mr. Hadden's death is the fourteenth that has occurred in the ranks of the Presbyterian ministry since the meeting of the General Assembly last June.

On Monday the remains of the deceased were interred in the graveyard in connection with the Mourne Presbyterian Church, Kilkeel. Prior to the removal of the remains from the house a service was conducted by the Rev. James Meeke, B.A., and the Rev. Dr. M'Mordie, M.A. The coffin was then borne to its position in, the cortege immediately behind the hearse. The pall-bearers were the deceased's four brothers and members of the Masonic Order. The chief mourners were Messrs. Thomas Hadden, Samuel Hadden, and Marcus Hadden (brothers); Samuel F. Anderson, manager of the Provincial Bank, Kilkeel, and J. B. M'Keown, assistant county surveyor, Kilkeel (brothers-in-law); and Corporal Jack Hadden, Royal Irish Rifles (nephew). Next came the representatives of the Newry Presbytery, the sessions of Annalong, Mourne, and Kilkeel Presbyterian Churches, and then a large body of the general public, which embraced all creeds and classes. The Banbridge Presbytery was represented by the Rev. R. J. Whan, Clare, Tandragee. The ministers of the Church of Ireland at Kilkeel and Annalong were also present. The service in the Mourne Presbyterian Church was conducted by the Rev. Phineas M'Kee, B.A., Newry; Rev. Herbert Martin, B.A., Mourne; and the Rev. Edwin Pyper, B.A., Annalong, and a touching address was delivered by Rev. A. Stevenson, B.A., Warrenpoint. The remains were then conveyed to the grave where the interment took place, the officiating clergymen being the Rev. A. Eadie, B.A., and the Rev. Herbert Martin. B.A. The usual Masonic honours were accorded.

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LOCAL AND PROVINCIAL

By fifteen votes to four Coleraine Guardians on Saturday passed a resolution in favour of the amalgamation of Coleraine, Magherafelt, and Limavady Workhouses.

At the quarterly meeting of the Castlederg Rural Council, Mr. F. J. Lynam, County Surveyor, estimated the expenditure for roads for the coming year as £3,577 10s.

Mr. James Anderson has been appointed to the Commission of the Peace for Londonderry. He is a native of Belfast, and represents the Prudential Assurance Company, Ltd., in the Maiden City.

A concert and variety entertainment under the patronage of Mrs. Leslie was given in Glasslough Schoolhouse on Friday evening in aid of the fund for providing comforts far Irish regiments at the front.

The Local Government Board has sanctioned the Newry Urban Council's proposals to raise the salary of the borough surveyor (Mr. Charles Blaney) from £200 to £300 per annum.

On the 12th inst. a concert organised by the Omagh branch of the Girls' Friendly Society, to assist the fund for prisoners of war of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was held in the Town Hall, Omagh.

On the night of the 14th. inst. the Post Office at Stonebridge, Clones, of which Mrs. Elizabeth Slowey is sub-postmistress, was broken into and a sum of about £11 in Treasury notes bank notes, silver, and postal orders stolen.

An eight-acre farm of land in Ballyoran, near Portadown, owned by Mr. John Mullen, and held subject to the payment of a terminable annuity of £6 0s 4d, has been sold to Mr. Stephen Murphy for £380, with 2½ per cent, auctioneer's commission.

Mr. John Murray, engine-driver, Newcastle, County Down, has retired after fifty-two years' service on the Great Northern Railway. He was engine-driver since 1872, and during later years his duties lay between Newcastle and Belfast.

On Friday Mr. R. M. Liddell, J.P., Banoge House, Donacloney, County Down, was sworn in as High Sheriff of the County of Down, before Mr. Samuel Campbell, solicitor, commissioner; and at the same time Mr. Hugh C. Kelly was sworn in as Under-Sheriff.

The estimated expenditure of Irvinestown Rural Council for next financial year is £310, and for the Guardians £2,000. For the past two years Irvinestown Union has had no poor-rate, having large accumulated funds, and next year a small rate is expected.

In Donaghmore Presbyterian Church, near Newry, on Monday night last, the Rev. John Pollock, of Belfast, delivered an interesting lecture on "The European War, as seen from America." The lecture was illustrated by one hundred slides of American war cartoons.

Lurgan Rural Council on Saturday unanimously refused on application from the Surfacemen and Labourers' Union for an increase of wages and a weekly half-holiday. The wages of the surfacemen, recently raised 1s 6d on account of the war, are now as much as 13s 6d and 14s 6d a week.

Last week Mr. William Byers, J.P., Mill Farm, Markethill, County Armagh, was sworn in as High Sheriff of the County of Armagh, and Mr. Thomas W. Kilpatrick as Sub-Sheriff. Mr. R. M. Matheson, solicitor, 16, Lower Sackville Street, Dublin, has been appointed the Sheriff's returning-officer.

On Sunday John M'Neill, Carndoo, Ballycastle, observed smoke coming from the room occupied by an old-age pensioner named John Scott, who resided alone at same place. He burst open the door and found the room all in flames. Scott was found dead in his bed, having, it is supposed, been suffocated by the smoke.

The opening ceremony of a new Orange Hall in Irvinestown took place on the 13th inst., the ceremony bring performed by Br. E. M. Archdale, D.L., the County Grand Master, before a crowded audience. The hall has been built on a free site given by the W.M. of Irvinestown L.O.L., Br. Major C. C. D'Arcy Irvine, J.P.

On the shore at the Saltpans, Portaferry, on the 10th inst., some boys threw stones at a sea-bird, and a dog that was with them entered the water and started after it. Presently the dog dived, and when it re-appeared it was seen to be straggling with a large fish, which it succeeded in bringing ashore. It was a codfish, and weighed 14lbs.

One of the largest entertainments ever held in Strabane took place in the Pallidrome on the 12th inst. under the auspices of the Strabane Women's War Relief Committee, the object being to raise money for comforts for the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at the front. The large hall, which accommodates over 1,000 was packed, and a handsome sum was realised.

At Monaghan Quarter Sessions on Tuesday -- before his Honour Judge Johnston -- Mr. Wm. H. Swan, Sub-Sheriff, presented his Honour with a pair of white gloves as a token of the absence of any criminal cases from the division. His Honour, in reply, said he was very glad indeed to receive them and to know that it meant that the county was absolutely crimeless.

At the monthly meeting of Lurgan Rural Council -- Mr. W. C. M'Cann presiding -- the Clerk submitted his estimate of the funds required to provide for the year ending 31st March, 1917. The expenditure was estimated at £1,760, and the receipts at £685. Answering a member, the Clerk said the demand last year was £1,210, so that the rate would be reduced by a little over ½d in the £. The estimate was adopted.

When it was reported at the annual meeting of Derry Bridge Commissioners on the 12th inst. that the ferry tolls showed a record of £200, the Mayor stated that the sub-committee believed the increase was due to the city's prosperity, the large amount of separation allowance coming to Derry, and the big number of soldiers stationed at Ebrington Barracks who used the service.

At a meeting of Newry Urban District School Attendance Committee on Tuesday returns were submitted in respect of the various schools in the town for the past year, which showed that the average number on the rolls was 2359.9 -- an increase of 99.9 on 1914; average daily attendance, 1618.1 -- an increase of 2.7; average percentage of attendance, 68.5 -- a decrease of 3.0 per cent.

At the adjourned monthly meeting of Warrenpoint Urban Council on Monday night last deputations consisting of Messrs. T. Pettit, T. S. O'Hara, and P. M'Geough, J.P., representing Warrenpoint, and Messrs. Thos. M'Alinden, John Ryan, and John Magennis, representing the Burren district, appeared before the Council in support of a memorial calling upon the Council to establish a market for general produce and promising the project hearty support.

The growth of newry Y.W.C.A. since its inception three years ago has been such as to render the existing place of meeting inadequate for the requirements of the members, who now total 150. A project is at present on foot for the renting of a commodious house in a central part of the town. Mr. J. N. Richardson and Mrs. Richardson, Bessbrook, have agreed to assist the association in its laudable endeavour by contributing £20 for the first year and £10 a year afterwards.

Asphyxia, the result of falling into a pond accidentally, was the verdict at an inquest on 13th inst. on the body of Samuel Moore, Fardress, found in a pond near his residence the previous day. Sergeant Reilly stated that he was present when the body was taken from the pond. He found two half-pint bottles in the pockets, one being half-full of whisky and the other full of water, but it had also the smell of whisky. There was also a purse containing a £10 note and a £1 note.

A very successful concert and variety entertainment organised by the Rev. A. B. Malone, B.A., rector of Eglish parish, in aid of the Red Cross Society, was given in Aughatarragh National Schoolhouse, Killylea, on the 13th inst. The programme was contributed to by the following -- Rev. W. B. Allman, M.A.; Miss H. Malone, Miss Jessy Stronge, Miss Coote, Miss Joy Stronge, Mr. John Lester(?), Mr. Joseph Loudan, Miss V. Malone, Mr. Sam Edgar, Mrs. Allman, Mr. Thomas Brittain, Miss Browne, Miss Watson, and Miss Henthorn.

On Friday at Londonderry Quarter Sessions -- before his Honour Judge Todd, K.C. -- a probate suit involving a considerable sum of money was brought by Jas. Hasson, executor of Catherine M'Daid, deceased, of Tullygoan, Fincairn, Feeny. The defendant was James M'Devitt, of Drumslieve, one of the next-of-kin, who had entered a caveat against the will, alleging undue influence, and that the will was not executed in accordance with the statute. A settlement having been arrived at, his Honour admitted the will to probate in accordance with the terms of consent.

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QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY.

ROLL OF HONOUR.

The third edition of the Roll of Honour of the Queen's University of Belfast, compiled by the authority of the Senate and corrected to January, 1916, has just been issued in neat form. It contains, as far as it has been possible to ascertain, a complete list of the members of the University staff, graduates, undergraduates, and members of the Officers' Training Corps who have fallen in the war or are at present on active service, indicating their rank and unit. Particulars of war honours won by the staff and students are also incorporated in the Roll, and it is pointed out that those who have been mentioned in despatches or have received the Military Cross have been considerably augmented during the year. Of the former there are some thirty-one, of the latter eight, while some have obtained both honours. The booklet also contains other useful and interesting information relative to the Officers' Training Corps, the Veterans' Volunteer Corps, the Women Students' Red Cross Training Corps, the names of physicians and surgeons in Belfast and other hospitals who have been in attendance on the wounded, members engaged on munition work, &c. In a foreword the Vice-Chancellor refers to the growth of the Roll of Honour from its comparatively small original dimensions of a year ago to the much larger figures of the present issue. Not only had they now to chronicle a greatly-increased list of names of men of their number who had enrolled themselves in the naval and military forces of the Crown or have devoted themselves to the care of the wounded in hospital, but they had to record other developments of a very gratifying character, in various other directions, which had taken place during the year. For example, a large number of the members were now combining hard and valuable work in the manufacture of munitions for the Admiralty and the War Office with the discharge of their usual University duties. One of their professors had for some time been engaged on important war work at the Board of Trade by request of the authorities in London, having obtained leave of absence from the University for this purpose. Another member of their body had been, at the request of the Lord Lieutenant, rendering excellent service as a director of recruiting. Two of their number had left their usual work among them for a time in order to proceed to the East that they might bring into use at the seat of war a new bactericide, from which great and far-reaching results are anticipated, for the introduction of which medical science was indebted to one of them as it was to the other for its extensive attestation already by actual use. Lastly their Red Cross Training Corps, which was not mentioned in previous editions of the roll, had by its increase in numbers and activities given evidence that the women students of the University were no less ardent than the men in this great work of our time.

The booklet contains the following summary of the total number of men supplied to his Majesty's forces through the O.T.C. and other units --

Commissions (524 of these taken through O.T.C.) --
Regular Army and Navy	74
Special Reserve	114
New Armies	466
Territorial Force	28
In the ranks (not commissioned)	63
Trained by officers of O.T.C. in the schools of instruction (nine in all), established in the University grounds at the request of the War Office	422
Enrolled in the University Veterans' Volunteer Corps	253
Engaged in war work at Board of Trade, munitions work at the University, &c.	57

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WORK OF THE O.T.C.

Appeal to Queensmen.

Major Sleeman, formerly adjutant of Queen's University O.T.C., sends from the trenches to the current number of "Q.C.B." a notable appreciation of the work of the O.T.C, in the war. He says -- It is generally acknowledged that without the Officers' Training Corps our new Army could not have been trained, and without this Army our beloved country would now be conquered by the Germans. These are quite incontestable facts, and cannot be too strongly impressed on those who, sitting in safety at home, are naturally unable to realise how near, how very near, we have been to defeat and annihilation. As "second in command" to a fine battalion, almost entirely officered by ex-O.T.C. cadets, I can speak with authority when I say this. Therefore, let the Queen's students of to-day regard its contingent as a memorial to those who helped to build it, in addition to being a means by which they can prepare themselves to serve their country. Had they been privileged, as I was, to see the loving care and self-sacrifice of those I have mentioned I feel sure its splendid traditions would be in safe keeping. We are a long way from victory yet, and the lives of many of us will be required before Germany is conquered. Our enemy is fighting well, marvellously well, and we shall not defeat him except by concentrating all our power and being prepared to make great sacrifices. If the old spirit of Queen's still exists I feel confident that all its manhood and womanhood are concentrated on this great task before us. This is no time for leading normal lives, for following the dictates of our selfish senses, or indulging in trivialities. No man who could spend twenty-four hours in the trenches, and could see the noble deeds, the unselfish heroism, and uncomplaining shattered humanity, could return with any degree of satisfaction to a normal life. As a one-time friend of many at Queen's may I therefore appeal to all to help, directly or indirectly, towards the defeat of our enemy. It is the fighting man alone who will defeat Germany. All the drilling in the world will not pierce her armour unless it brings men into the trenches. For those unfortunates who cannot meet the foe hand to hand there are countless things which can be done at home to assist, but the value of a fighting man out here is 10,000 times that of even a hard "war worker" at home.

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ULSTER ECHOES.

Thursday.

Mr. Redmond objects to compulsory service in Ireland, but he insists upon compulsory expenditure. For years the Government have been scattering money like water among Irish Nationalists in connection with one scheme and another, and when some authority calls a halt there is an outcry. The principal wastage has been in the grants for the teaching of Gaelic, which nobody seems to want except for the money that its teaching brings or for the British separatism the pretence of teaching it -- for that is all it is -- seems to foster. The enthusiastic advocates of Gaelic teaching for its own sake, the poets and the dreamers, have been disgusted by the want of interest that people exhibit on the subject, and even with the high grants the teachers cannot find pupils. But, then, the money for the teaching goes to the right people and the Nationalists, and possibly the bishops, who protest, like the money, however indifferent they may be as to the teaching.

It seems, however, Mr. Redmond and Mr. Devlin have been interviewing the Government on the subject, and Mr. Devlin this morning sends an assurance that the money for the teaching of Gaelic and wasting the time of the students will be forthcoming. When he says it will I am inclined to think it will be, for he is the power behind Mr. Redmond and behind Mr. Birrell, too, and he has only to ask and it shall be given. I have been wondering what he has been doing far some time; whether he was resting or sulking. But he has evidently been keeping an eye on Mr. Birrell, and no doubt it will exercise its magnetic influence on that simulacrum of a Chief Secretary, and even on Mr. Asquith, who probably fears him as much as he fears Mr. Redmond.

It is wonderful how inconsistent these non-compulsionists can be. Sir John Simon introduced an amendment to save his shirking friends, but it included as part of its proposal a principle of compulsion much stronger than, the Bill -- though that would not have been difficult. Mr. Asquith was able to point this out. But Sir John went on his way. The peculiarity of the anti-compulsionists is that every one of them from trades union leaders up or down, or from pandering politicians up or down, have not only sanctioned but demanded compulsion of a ten times more rigid and severe character. But Britishers who prefer fads to fighting and party to patriotism do not mind their own inconsistencies. If they can only put a spoke in the wheel of the fighting forces of the country they are satisfied.

And I am afraid Mr. Asquith is only half-hearted in opposing them. If he is not one with them in indifference to victory in the war he is at one with them in his party interest against compulsion. Public opinion and war necessities have forced him into a measure of compulsion, but he is using all his rhetorical and compromising resources to make it as inoperative as possible. I should like to think otherwise, but the facts are against me. The conscientious objector which he has created would be a good joke if it were not such a good cloak for slackers.

I have a great respect for his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and for General Friend the Commander-in-Chief. I had the honour of meeting and hearing both at the early stage of the new recruiting movement in this country a couple of months ago. I am sure that both are most anxious to secure the largest number of recruits for the Army possible, and anxious to use all means and hold out all inducements to secure them. And I am also sure that both are specially anxious to secure as large a number of Nationalist recruits as possible, and to do their utmost to assist and encourage them. But I must do both justice. Neither wants to consider whether the recruits are Nationalists or Unionists, and the Lord Lieutenant especially is anxious that Ireland should recruit as one and not be separated into provinces. This is not an unnatural feeling in one who occupies the position of his Excellency, who naturally and nationally, as representing the whole country, does not desire provincial or sectional consideration to interpose.

I did hear his Excellency out of his own mouth say that one thousand or eleven hundred recruits per week would meet all the demands for Ireland, and General Friend heard him too, and did not offer any remonstrance. But I will do the General the justice of saying that in conversation his one thought was men, more men, and still more men. He wanted Irishmen to recruit to fill up all the divisions and all the gaps in the divisions. He wanted soldiers, fighting men, and was willing to get them from the North or the South, the East or the West. He would be satisfied when he got them, and when he got them he would be satisfied.

Now, I hope I am not doing any injustice either to his Excellency or General Friend when I say that while there was in their minds the one anxiety to get men, they did not want to alarm the people too much, or make a suggestion that would be impossible of realisation or difficult to realise I am sure both had an idea that when the appeal was made there would be such a response that it would not be a question of how few they could get, but how many, and that the response would go on until in a short time they would be able to cry "hold, enough." I do not suggest that either of them had Mr. Redmond, or the fear of Mr. Redmond, in their mind, but they possibly thought that without alarming the people too much the modest demand would make it easier for both them and Mr. Redmond to carry on the work of recruiting, in which they had all a common and an equal interest.

What, then, was my surprise to hear the other night from the Under-Secretary for War that the War Office did not accept responsibility for his Excellency's figures whether they were his own estimate or that of the Commander-in-Chief. The Under-Secretary assumes that they were the estimate of the Commander-in-Chief, and says that it only applied to infantry, and even then was an under-estimate. This is unfortunate from many points of view, and specially unfortunate for Mr. Redmond. It is his modest habit to claim credit for all the recruiting in Ireland. He said the other day that Lord Kitchener told him he would be satisfied with 5,000 from Ireland -- Lord Kitchener may have written 50,000, and he may have struck off a nought at the end; but he said that instead of 5,000 he had given him 80,000 or 90,000. And there were more to follow. He also assured Parliament and the country the other day that he could keep up his thousand a week, and he was more sure of it, because the Government and authorities had not asked for compulsion. He also claimed, on some authority we presume, that he had given his Excellency almost all the ten thousand he had asked for.

His Excellency's report has been prepared and sent in, and we will probably learn as much from it as the war authorities think it desirable to disclose -- and I am sure they will exercise their usual judgment and fairness in this as In other matters. We shall then know exactly how far Mr. Redmond has fulfilled his pledge, and how many of his Nationalist Volunteers have fallen to his well-directed recruiting bow and arrow. But I hope he will not claim more than have fallen to his own bow. There are others who have joined the Army that could not come within the reach of his bow and arrow, or whom he could not strike, however well directed his aim.

We are willing to accord Mr. Redmond and his friends full credit for what they have done. It may be true they have done wonders from their point of view, past, present, and future. But there are these in Ireland who are not of his household and under his sway, and we want their position to be recognised and their results acknowledged. They do not like to be placed under Mr. Redmond's yoke or cloak in this or any other matter. We should also like to know how many reserves he had in training for his much-lauded divisions, and how many are in connection with his much-despised and erstwhile ridiculed Ulster Division. We think this would be only fair and just and equitable in the light of Mr. Redmond's political use and claim that the gross results of Irish recruiting are the results of his efforts and of the Home Rule Bill.

I regret to notice that Mr. A. Horner, M.P. for South Tyrone, is indisposed at Crewe. He was on his way home from London, but took ill, and had to be removed at Crewe, where he remains under careful medical attention. I am glad to say. his condition has improved, and is improving; but I am afraid it will be some time before he is fit for active duty again. Mr. Horner is a most active and conscientious worker, both professionally and politically, and no doubt the strain has told on him. He had not been very well, but persisted in returning for some public duty at home, with the result stated. His many friends will be glad to learn, however, that he is making satisfactory progress towards recovery. -- "The Man in the Street," in "The Ulster Echo."

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ARMY EXAMINATIONS.

Sandhurst, Nov. 1915. -- Result just announced: 1st Place, Mr. G. L. Holmes, 9,103 marks; 58th, Mr. L. Jones, 6,040 marks, successful from Skerry's College, 143, Royal Avenue, Belfast, and Dublin. The only students sent forward. Previous successes Indian Army Cadets, Sept., 1915 -- 16th, Mr. E. J. Kenny, and February, 1915 -- Mr. C. R. Spear. The only students sent forward.

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EMPTY BAGS.

GROCERS, SHOPKEEPERS, and FARMERS should economise in every way possible at the present time. One of the most simple forms of economy consists in saving all Sugar, Flour, Meal, and such like Bags after they have been emptied. All Bags should be stored carefully, and, after a quantity is accumulated, they should be sent on to J. W. & D. MARTIN, Sack Merchants (Bag Dept.), 130-132, Corporation Street, Belfast ('Phone 343 and 344), who Pay Highest Prices for Bags of every description. This firm has built up a large business in the North of Ireland, and are reputed for the prompt and business-like manner in which they attend to all transactions.

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BALLYMONEY'S PATRIOTISM

£3,500 FOR WAR CHARITIES

We have received the following letter from Mr. James Hanna, Linenhall Street, Ballymoney:-- "As secretary of the Ballymoney Red Cross Auction Sale, I wish to bring before you, for the benefit of your readers, the war spirit that has been shown in this town. I send you a 'Coleraine Chronicle,' in which you will see that the town and district have subscribed a gross amount of £1,666 14s 4d. Already they had subscribed to the Prince of Wales' Fund over £1,000. They have given £400 for the support of thirty Belgian refugees in the district. Four street flag collections realised over £160, while other miscellaneous collections for Red Cross, Belgian, Servian, and other funds make up a grant total of £3,500 given to war charities. In addition, it is well to point out that up to the 1st of January last 280 men out of the urban district only are serving with the colours. As our population is under 3,000, in a purely agricultural district, with no factories of any kind, a proportion of one in ten is much above the average."

We understand that a cheque for £1,561 15s 6d, the net proceeds of the Red Cross Auction Sale, has been received from Mr. Hanna by Mr. F. W. Moneypenny, M.V.O., City Hall, Belfast, for the Countess of Shaftesbury's County Antrim Red Cross Fund.

It is interesting to mention that the auction of over one thousand lots was carried out in one day without the slightest hitch. The movement was inaugurated by the ladies in charge of the St. John Ambulance and Red Cross classes for first aid, and in addition to the sale collections were made in the town and the rural district. The auctioneers were Messrs. A. R. Stirling, S. Killen, J. M. Wreath, T. Lyle, J. P. O'Kane, Alex. Hill, and Jas. Hanna, and the sales were conducted in the markets.

 

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Birth

MACAULAY -- Jan. 24, 1916, at 6, Temple Villas, Rathgar, Dublin, the wife of the Rev. J. J. Macaulay -- a son.

Marriages

ANDERSON--WILSON -- Jan. 22 (by special licence), at Knockbreda Church, by Rev. W. P. Carmody, M.A. (Rector of the Parish), assisted by Rev. J. A. Carey, M.A. (Rector of Whitehouse), Robert N. Anderson, Second-Lieutenant 6th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, third son of the late Alex. Anderson, The Park, Dunmurry, Co. Antrim, to Dorothy Gladys, third daughter of the late Walter Henry Wilson, Belvoir Park, Newtownbreda, Co. Down.

M'CLEAN--M'DERMOTT -- Jan. 25 (by special licence), at the residence of the bride's mother, by the Rev. John Stuart, M.A., LL.D., assisted by the Rev Thomas M'Dermott, B.A. (brother of the bride), the Rev. W. G. Robinson B.A., LL.D., Monreagh, and the Rev. T. M'Dermott, B.A., Rathfriland (cousin of the bride). Rev. John M'Clean, Crossroads, to Agnes, fifth daughter of Mrs. M'Dermott and the late Thomas M'Dermott, Bond's Hill, Londonderry. At home, Crossroads Manse, 30th and 31st March.

PYPER--BELL -- Jan. 19, at the Crescent Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Samuel Lindsay, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Pyper, Irvine, Ayrshire, to Sara, second daughter of the late John Bell and Mrs. Bell, Seafin, Ballyroney, Co. Down.

Deaths

REID -- Jan. 23, 1916, at her residence, Castlenavin, Loughinisland, Eliza, widow of the late Alexander Reid. Interred in the family burying-ground, Seaforde.
Sleep on, deer mother, thy work is o'er,
     Thy willing hands will toil no more;
A faithful mother, true and kind.
     No friend on earth like thee we'll find.
Deeply regretted by her sorrowing family.

ALEXANDER -- Jan. 19, at Mourneview Street, Portadown, Henry Alexander.

BELL -- At Mona Villa, Connsbrook Avenue, Harry Bell.

BELL -- Jan 23, at Maydown, Donegall Park, Belfast, Anna Gillespie, wife of Charles Bell.

BOYD -- At 56, Cromwell Road, Adam, second son of James Boyd, aged 19 years.

CAUL -- Jan. 23, at 79, Denmark Street, Elizabeth, wife of James D. Caul.

CLARKE -- Jan. 25, at the Cottage, Aghalee, William Cecil, infant son of John G. Clarke.

DAY -- Jan. 25, at the Lurgan Hospital, Catherine Day, relict of the late Walter Dunn Day, of Lurgan Golf Club, aged 75 years.

DONALDSON -- Jan. 24, at The Manse, Stewartstown, the Rev. J. A. Donaldson.

GILLESPIE -- Jan. 23, at the Belfast Charitable Institution, W. R. Gillespie, aged 37 years.

HALL -- Jan. 24, at Rowantree, Monaghan, Sarah Frances, wife of James Campbell Hall, M.B., D.L.

HAMILTON -- Jan. 19, at Crievehill, Fivemiletown, John Hamilton, J.P., in his 87th year.

HARWOOD -- Jan. 26, at the Post Office, Waringstown, John, husband of Elizabeth Harwood.

HILL -- Jan. 24, at his father's residence, Joseph St. John, eldest son of Henry J. Hill, Hillhall, Bloomfield, Belfast.

IRWIN -- Jan. 20, at Windsor Hill, Newry, Thomas Irwin.

JACKSON -- Jan. 21, at Brickworks, Edgarstown, Portadown, Stevenson Jackson.

KIRK -- Jan. 21, at Clonavon, Antrim, Edythe Maude, wife of R. J. Kirk.

LESLIE -- Jan. 23, at Eastbourne, Jane Elizabeth Leslie, daughter of the late James Edmund Leslie, D.L., of Leslie Hill, County Antrim.

MAGUINNESS -- Jan. 20, at Nestleton, Knock, John, husband of Amy Maguinness.

M'CLEAN -- Jan. 25, at Aughnahough, Lisburn, Jonathan M'Clean.

M'CLELLAND -- Jan. 20, at Annahugh House, Loughgall, Carmline [Caroline] Jane Kate Peyton M'Clelland, relict of the late Richard M'Clelland.

M'KENNA -- Jan. 21, at his residence, 64, Wellington Park, John, dearly-beloved husband of Mary M'Kenna, in his 80th year.

M'LARNON -- Jan. 21, at Oldpark Road, Belfast, Robert M'Larnon.

PAGE -- Jan. 24, Mary, wife of James Page, 65, Donegall Pass.

REDMOND -- At The Brewery, Richhill, George Walker Redmond.

SHAW -- Jan. 22, at Portmore Street, Portadown, James Shaw, late of Crieve, Fivemiletown.

SMYTH -- Jan. 24, at 7, Regent Street, Newtownards, James Smyth.

SMYTH -- Jan. 24, at Millburn Street, Cookstown, Mary Jane, wife of Samuel Smyth.

WILSON -- Jan. 26, at 3, Chambers Street, Belfast, Ellen, wife of William Wilson.

In Memoriam

MONTGOMERY -- In loving memory of the Rev. Robert Montgomery, the founder of Great Victoria Street Presbyterian Church, Manse, and Schools, and for thirty-seven years the faithful minister of the congregation, who died on January, the 24th, 1897. M. MONTGOMERY.

Killed in Action

ALLEN -- On the 10th January, killed in France, Private David Eric Stanley Allen, 16th Service Battalion Middlesex Regiment (Public Schools), the dearly-loved son of Mr. and Mrs. David Allen, 92, Huron Road, Upper Tooting, London, S.W., aged 18 years.

Clippings

DEATH OF REV. J. B. MEHARRY, D.D.

The death occurred in a nursing home at Brighton on 20th inst. of the Rev. John B. Meharry, D.D., ex-Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in England, who for many years was minister of the Presbyterian Church at Crouch Hill, North London. Dr. Meharry, who for over a quarter of a century was one of the most prominent figures in the Presbyterian world, was educated at Queens Colleges, Belfast and Galway, and at the Assemblys College, Belfast. He took his B.A. degree in 1868, and it was in June, 1870, that he was licensed by the Belfast Presbytery. He laboured in Ulster provincial spheres for many years, his first charge being at Moy, where he was ordained on January 18, 1871, passing thence to Third Armagh, where he was installed on 9th October of the same year. In March, 1875, the late clergyman accepted a call to Newcastle-on-Tyne, where he laboured for thirteen years, his rare pulpit gifts winning him an extended fame. During his years in Newcastle Dr. Meharry was looked upon as the finest preacher in the North of England. London eventually drew the doctor to its confines, and the closing years of his ministry were spent as pastor to the congregation at Crouch Hill, in the north district, his predecessor in that important charge being the late Rev. Dr. A. C. Murphy.... In 1901 the the [de--?--] obtained his degree of D.D. from the Presbyterian Theological Faculty, Ireland. In 1906 he was Moderator of Synod of the Presbyterian Church in England. A few years ago Dr. Meharry retired from the active duties of the ministry, but his services continued to be in great demand in various parts of the country, and wherever he preached he drew crowded congregations. His death is a heavy blow to his Church in England and to the ministry which he adorned.

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DEATH OF REV. J. A. DONALDSON, STEWARTSTOWN.

We deeply regret to announce that death has removed the name of another minister from the roll of the General Assembly of the Irish Presbyterian Church in the person of the Rev. J. A. Donaldson, of First Stewartstown, making in all sixteen deaths in the ranks of the ministry since the meeting of the Assembly in June last. Mr. Donaldson had been in wry delicate health for the past two or three years, and, although everything that medical skill and careful nursing could accomplish was done, even his most intimate friends entertained but little hope of recovery. The end came quietly on Monday at the manse, and the intimation of his death will be learned with sincere sorrow by his wide circle of friends.

The deceased was brought up in the neighbourhood of Newtownhamilton, where he received his early education, and was for a time engaged in business. He subsequently decided to study for the Christian ministry, and with that object in view he entered Magee College, Derry, where he obtained the general certificate in arts from the faculty of that college. He studied theology in the Assembly's College. Belfast, and in December, 1904, he was licensed by the Presbytery of Belfast, under whose care he was during the years he was at college. He had considerable preaching power, and only remained in the list of licentiates for a very short period. He received a hearty call from the vacant congregation of First Stewartstown in succession to the Rev. John Scott, now of Scotland, and on 21st June, 1905, he was ordained to the pastoral oversight of that congregation by the Tyrone Presbytery.

He entered upon his important duties with the earnest desire to make full proof of his ministry, and until health failed him there was no minister in the Irish Presbyterian Church more devoted to his work. He gave the closest attention to his pulpit preparation, while he was indefatigable in his visitation of the sick and dying. He was greatly beloved by his people, who again and again manifested the most practical sympathy with him during his prolonged and trying illness, and thus marked their high appreciation of him as their minister. The deceased is survived by his wife, with whom, as well as with his other friends and the members of his congregation, there will be much sympathy in the loss they have sustained through his death.

THE FUNERAL

The remains of the late Rev. Mr. Donaldson were laid to rest on Wednesday in the burying-ground, which was formerly attached to the Second Presbyterian Church. Before they were removed from the manse a service was conducted by the Rev. R. J. M. Park, M.A., of Moy, who read the Scripture lessons and offered up prayer, and the Rev. Samuel Lindsay, B.A., of the Crescent Church, Belfast, who gave a short address referring to the life and character of the deceased minister, Mr. Lindsay said -- The death of our deported friend brings us face to face with one of the mysteries of the Divine working. To us it is inexplicable that he, after years of laborious training to prepare himself for discharging the duties of the ministry, should be removed when he had reached the fulness of his powers of thought, of speech, and of insight into the spiritual needs of men. This is one of the incidents of life where, as we cannot walk by sight, we must perforce walk by faith. The character of Mr. Donaldson was a somewhat complex one. There were in it elements of an elusive quality hard to define. No one, however, who was familiar with him could fail to recognise that the outstanding features of it ware outspokenness, honesty, sincerity. He was impulsive in temperament, generous in disposition, and affable in manner. When he trusted anyone he did so whole-heartedly, for his was instinctively a fraternal spirit. As a preacher he cultivated high ideals of his pulpit work. He was simply possessed by a passion to excel. On this department of his duties he brought to bear all his powers of thought, as was indicated in the chasteless of his diction, the clearness of his reasoning, and the forcefulness of his delivery. If anything, considering his fund of vitality, he was too eager in his utterances, drawing unduly on his physical and nervous energy. To the office of pastor he gave himself unreservedly. The idea of sparing himself never seemed to enter his mind. He was devoted to the furtherance of the best interests of his people, unwearied in his visitation, sympathetic in dealing with the sick and troubled, and faithful, when occasion arose, in the difficult matter of administering rebuke. Of his own spiritual experiences he spoke with reserve. He did not lay open his inner self to every casual acquaintance. That his life, however, was Christ-centred is proved by the fact that he gave up what promised to be a successful business career in response to what he believed to be the call of God, to enter the ministry. His attitude towards his Maker was ever humble, and his conduct was such as became his profession. His long and painful illness was borne with rare fortitude and resignation. Our sympathy goes out to her who so nobly and faithfully acted the part of a true wife to him, untiring in her ministration to his comfort, and supporting him in his sufferings by her love. He was deeply touched by the kindness and consideration of the members of his congregation, which never wearied during the lengthened period of his sickness. The only reflection that he had was the fear lest he might prove burdensome to them. To their praise it ought to be said that they were staunch to the end. The living voice has been hushed into silence. No more are his clear tones to be heard as he set forth with burning fervour, often rising into true eloquence, the way of life, the love of the Saviour of men, and the joys that await the righteous. Memory, however, will often recall the well-defined features, the earnest demeanour of the man, as from the pulpit he expounded the truth as it is in Christ Jesus. His message will remain with those who waited on his ministry. The remembrance of his brief pastorate will be treasured up in the hearts of those who loved him and I who profited by it.

"Were a star quenched an high, for ages would its light,
Still travelling downward from the sky, shine on our mortal sight.
So when a good man dies, for years beyond our ken
The light he leaves behind him lies upon the paths of men."

The remains were enclosed in a panelled oak casket, with silver mounting, and were borne to their last resting-place by the session and committee of the congregation and by the Presbytery of Tyrone, At the graveside the ministers officiating were the Rev. Geo. Bell Show, B.A., Clagan; the Rev. S. Lindsay, and the Rev. Dr. Logan, of Sandholes.

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THE LATE REV. ROBERT MONTGOMERY

In our obituary column to-day we observe an In Memoriam notice relating to the Rev. Robert Montgomery, of Great Victoria Street, whose memory and work are still remembered by many Presbyterians of the city and in the Church at large. The late Mr. Montgomery did good work in his life, and his family worthily maintain the tradition. Three of his sons are at present at the front in the service of their country -- Captain H. H. Montgomery, Australian Army Medical Corps. transport duty in Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, and Lieutenant Alex. Montgomery, R.A.M.C., British Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, Malta; and Lieutenant E. Montgomery, R.A.M.C., 77th Field Ambulance, British Expeditionary Force, France; while his grandson, Midshipman J. R. C. Montgomery, is serving in H M.S. Thunderer. Another son of the late Mr. Montgomery is minister of the Presbyterian Church, Greenbank, Co. Donegal, in the Derry Presbytery. This in a creditable record of which any manse or family might be proud, and we congratulate Mrs. Montgomery, who is still alive, on the record of her family for country and Church.

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DEATH OF MR. A.L. HORNER, M.P. FOR SOUTH TYRONE.

We regret to announce the death, which occurred on Wednesday evening, of Mr. A. L. Horner, K.C.. M.P., at Crewe Station Hotel. He caught a severe cold on his journey to London to attend to his Parliamentary duties, and on Tuesday, 18th inst., when he decided to return to Ireland, he had in consequence of his illness, which had become worse, to break his journey at Crewe and take to bed. There were periods during the illness when there was hope of a recovery, but it was recognised from the very beginning that his condition was grave, and this was specially noticeable during the past couple of days.

Mr. Andrew Long Horner was a son of Mr. J. H. Horner, of Limavady, County Derry, and was born in 1862. He was educated at Foyle College, Derry, and later at Queen's College, Belfast, where he obtained the B.A. degree; and was called to the Bar at the opening of the Michaelmas Term in 1887. He joined the North-West Circuit, and speedily acquired a lucrative practice. His skill as an advocate won for him at an early stage the recognition of the solicitors' profession, whose members also appreciated very highly his advice on complicated questions of law, and the tact and good judgment with which he conducted the cases committed to his charge. In 1904 he was called to the Inner Bar, and eight years later he was elected a Bencher of the King's Inns. He was also Crown Prosecutor for County Cavan.

Mr. Horner sought Parliamentary honours in 1906, when as a Unionist he opposed Mr. T. W. Russell, Vice-President of the Board of Agriculture, in South Tyrone, but was defeated by a majority of 283 votes in favour of Mr. Russell. At the following election, in January, 1910, Mr. Horner again contested the representation with Mr. Russell, and secured the seat with 3,054 votes, as against 2,770 given, tor Mr. Russell. The contest naturally attracted much attention, and Mr. Horner was warmly congratulated on having converted a defeat of 283 votes in 1906 into a majority on his behalf in 1910 of 284 votes. In the election, which took place in the month of December of the same year Mr. Horner's right to the seat was challenged by Mr. R. N. Boyd, a Liberal. On thus occasion he increased his majority to 300. As an Ulster Unionist Mr. Horner was deeply interested, and took a prominent, past, in the movement of his native province in opposition to Home Rule. He was a member of the Ulster Council, and one of its legal advisers. His voice was heard on many platforms in eloquent protest against any attempt to exclude Ireland from the British Empire, and his pen was frequently used to convey his views on the Ulster movement and the defence of the Empire through the medium of the Press to districts where he could not give expression to them in person . Although he was firm and unchangeable in his political views he was ever tolerant of the opinions of others who represented a different political school of thought, and accordingly he enjoyed a very full measure of popularity, which was not confined to any particular class. Mr. Horner was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church, and took a very active part in the work of Ormond Quay congregation. In 1901 he married Annie M., youngest daughter of the late Mr. John Robb, J.P., Lisnabreeny House, Belfast, by whom he had three children -- two sons and one daughter.

Mr. Horner's death makes a very real gap in the lives of all who had the privilege of his intimate friendship. He was a man of wide reading and of large and varied interests. His disposition was remarkably sweet and cheerful, and his high intellectual powers were accompanied by a rare unselfishness of heart and simplicity of manner. No man was ever more unspoiled by the success which is the result of industry and of uncommon natural gifts.

The interment of the late Mr. Horner will take place in the City Cemetery to-morrow (Saturday). The remains will be brought to Belfast by the train leaving Dublin at 9 a.m., reaching Belfast at about 11-45 a.m.

AN APPRECIATION.

[By "THE MAN IN THE STREET."]

The name of Horner, like the names of Proctor and Lane and Brennan and King, was associated with Limavady, or, as we then rolled the name under our tongues, Newtownlimavady, from my earliest "Derry Standard" days. It is true those who bore them, and whom I knew, have all passed away, but the names of all survive in those who do credit to their ancestors. It was on account of the name he bore I took a very early interest in the career of Mr. Horner, M.P., who has just passed away. While in his earlier years my respect was evoked by the name, in his later years, and by these I mean the years in which he began to gain reputation as a rising barrister, and that he did early in his career -- it was called forth abundantly by his character, worth, and work. I have met him more frequently and enjoyed his intimacy and friendship more closely since be became connected with Belfast by his marriage with a daughter of the late Mr. John Robb. The friendship of old date end increasing associations continued to the last. It seems but yesterday, it was only a little over three weeks ago, that I met him in Belfast. He was then returning from a visit of several days to has constituents, and on his way to England to discharge public duties there. He was then, as usual, bright and cheerful, alluding to his hard work, but not complaining of it; he never complained where duty was concerned. He did seem fatigued, but there was nothing in his appearance or demeanour that suggested the a sad fate that was so soon to overtake him.

His successful career at the Bar and on the North-East circuit led in course of time to political activity. Of old liberal traditions, Mr. Horner took a natural and traditional interest in the Unionist cause, and his ability, eloquence, and earnestness in that cause on many platforms and in many parts of the kingdom led to hie selection to oppose Mr. T. W. Russell when that versatile politician decisively shed has Unionism and came out on the Home Rule side. He was defeated on that occasion, 1906, but in Jan., 1910, when he became better known, and Mr. Russell became better known, he turned a minority of 283 into a majority of 284. At the subsequent election in the December of 1910, Mr. Boyd contested the seat against him, but was beaten by 300 votes. Mr. Horner has since remained in undisputed possession of the seat, gaining in popularity every year by the assiduity with which he devoted himself to the interests of his constituents and to the larger interests of the nation and Empire with which the majority of that constituency are identified.

What shall I say of Mr. Horner and his public life and labours? A most clear, keen, and able lawyer, perfect in has knowledge and expression and all his manners, he enjoyed a large practice at the Bar. But from the moment he assumed public responsibilities he became at once a missionary and a loyal servitor of the Unionist cause. He sacrificed his professional interests to his public duties, and never allowed the temptation of a fee to withdraw him from them. Sir John Lonsdale, the Whip of the Ulster Unionist party, told the London correspondent of the "News-Letter" that "no member of the party worked more energetically or whole-heartedly for the Irish Unionist cause than Mr. Horner." He quoted one instance of Mr. Horner's ready response to a telegram to leave home and business to speak at Wick. I could tell of many instances myself. I met him so often passing through Belfast on his way to or from meetings in England and Scotland that I wondered how his frame or his vocabulary could hold out as it did on the unceasing demands on both. He was always as welcome at public meetings in aid of the cause as he was willing to attend them, and never seemed happier than when he was rendering service, public or personal. He never wearied in public or private well doing. If it could be said of any man that he had worn himself out in the public service it could most truly be said of Mr. Horner, and yet he never either grumbled or gloried. It was his to do his utmost, to respond to every call, to render every service. If ever there was a man who lived up to the principle "Love thyself lest," it was he. Many a time his friends and myself, among them remonstrated with him on the amount of rushing, travelling, and speaking that he imposed on himself. But his unfailing reply was "Someone must do it. Why not I?"

I need not dwell on the extant and variety of his work and energies, on his legal acumen as well as clear, concise, and illuminative eloquence, on his high and honourable character, on the respect and appreciation which his brethren of the Bar and all whom he met in public or in private life regarded him. He was not a man of fads or fancies, of prejudices or antipathies. He was too clear-headed and practical, too broad-minded and large-hearted to be troubled by these things. He was a man full orbed. He saw life clearly, and he saw it whole. He was a man who knew his duty and did it, realised his responsibilities and fulfilled them, loved his fellow-men and his country, and served them loyally and faithfully. He was a man of refinement and culture, as well as a man of practical affairs; a man whose life, private and public, was without reproach; in one simple word, he was a gentleman in the fullest and best sense of the fine old term.

But if Mr. Horner was esteemed and respected in public life, he was beloved in private life. To those who have known him in his domestic life he was a model husband and father, and a model host, always considerate, always cheerful and helpful, always thinking of others rather than himself. In his wife -- now, alas! his widow -- he had a helpmate indeed; a lady as kind-hearted, good-natured, and as thoughtful for others as he was himself. All who, like myself, have enjoyed his hospitality and seen something of his home and family life will agree with me in saying that domestic felicity in all its fulness, in all its courtesy and consideration, and in all its unselfishness, was realised in his household. It is sad to think that his hopes and those of his family have been cut short so tragically; cut off in the prime of his manhood, in the fulness of his power, when life was brightest and ambitions within measurable distance of realisation. But man proposes and God disposes. Mr. Horner has now fallen, but fallen in the service of his country as truly as a soldier on the battlefield. Of him it might without exaggeration be said, for he country he lived and for his country he died.

Sound and strong as Mr. Horner was in has professional and public life, he was also sound and strong as a Presbyterian. He came of a good Presbyterian stock, and he was worthy of the stock from which he had sprung. He was loyal to the Church of his fathers, and took a great interest in its affairs. He was a member of Ormond Quay congregation under the ministry of the Rev. Dr. Prenter and his successor, the Rev. Mr. Gibson, and was greatly interested in the life and work of the congregation and of the Church generally. He took an active part in the establishment of St. Andrew's College in Dublin. He was greatly interested in that, and indeed, in all educational questions, and in serving all the objects that made for the development of secondary and university education.

To his widow and family, and to his other relatives I tender the expression of the most sincere and heartfelt of condolence and sympathy on the bereavement they have sustained by the death of one so dear ti and so much beloved by them all.

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LOCAL WILLS.

Mrs. Sara Coates, of Clonallon, Strandtown, Belfast, who died on the 18th November last, widow of Mr. David Lindsay Coates, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £12,668 14s 8d. Probate of her will, dated 19th November, 1914, has been granted to her sons, Mr. Wm. Fredk. Coates, Glynn Park, Carrickfergus, stockbroker, and Mr. Harold Vivian Edmund Coates, of Clonallon. The bequests are personal.

Mr. John Gardner, of 37, Wellington Park, Belast, retired farmer, who died on 14th Nov. last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £14,033 12s, of which £7,660 10s 8d is in England. Probate of his will dated 16th March, 1910, has been granted to the Rev. Arthur Rose, M.A., 17, Fitzwilliam Avenue, retired Presbyterian minister, and Mr. John Wilgar, Balmoral, bank official. The bequests are personal.

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DEATH OF MR. T. IRWIN, NEWRY.

FIFTY-THREE YEARS AN ELDER

Much regret was felt in Newry and the surrounding district at the death, which occurred on the 20th inst., of Mr. Thos. Irwin, Windsor Hill, Newry, who was about eighty years of age. Mr. Irwin was a member of the firm of Messrs. Martin, Nesbitt, & Irwin, wholesale seed merchants and grocers, Newry, and retired some years ago. He was one of the principal promoters of the Newry, Keady, and Tynan Railway scheme, which was a local bone of contention a dozen years ago. Mr. Irwin spent many anxious years urging on the railway scheme. At one time he got a Government grant of £75,000 for it conditional on the remainder of the cost being raised, but nothing ever came of the matter, and the occurrence of the war made still less rosy the hopes of those who believed in the scheme. Deceased was an elder for over sixty years of Sandys Street Presbyterian Church, in whose affairs he took a great interest. He was a Sabbath-school teacher for many years, and a generous contributor to all the funds of the Church. He also took a great interest in the Foreign and other missions of the Church.

The funeral took place on Saturday, and the large attendance embraced representatives of every section of the community. The members of session of Sandy Street Presbyterian Church marched behind the chief mourners, who were -- Messrs. A. Harper, Divernagh, and W. Stranahan, J.P., Castlewellan (brothers-in-law); George Connor, Dublin (nephew); H. A. Savage, R. N. Savage, W. J. Savage, and G. M. Savage (cousins); Rev. James Mulligan, Jerrettspass; Joseph A. Haire, Loughgilly; James Irwin and D. Irwin, Drumbanagher (relatives). A short service was held in the house prior to the removal of the remains, conducted by the Revs. W. G. Strahan and James Meeke. At the graveside the funeral obsequies were conducted, by the Rev. Wm. M'Mordie, D.D., Kilkeel, and the Rev. W. G. Strahan.

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DEATH OF SiR J. LESLIE, GLASLOUGH

The death, is announced of Sir John Leslie, Bart., of Glaslough House, County Monaghan, which took place on Sabbath at his London residence in his 94th. year. Notwithstanding his great age, Sir John Leslie was a man of remarkable activity, almost up to the end, which came very peacefully. Sir John Leslie was the second and eldest surviving son of the late Colonel Charles Powell Leslie, M.P., J.P., of Glaslough, where he was born on December 16, 1822. After his marriage Sir John led the life of a county gentleman in Monaghan, which county he represented under the old franchise in the Imperial Parliament from 1871 till 1880, when he was defeated. Sir John continued to reside at Glaslough until 1906, when he removed to his London residence in Manchester Square, where he spent the evening of his days. Sir John Leslie was a man of many parts. He was an ideal landlord, beloved by has tenantry in Monaghan, Tyrone, Donegal, and Fermanagh. A keen sportsman, he often entertained distinguished visitors at Glaslough, where the Duke of Connaught, a warm, friend of the new baronet was several times an honoured guest. He was an artist of repute, and for many years an exhibitor at the Royal Academy, Burlington House, and it is interesting to note that one of his powerful works, "Peter Denying Christ," was presented some years ago to the City of Belfast Public Gallery and Museum. An hon. member of the Royal Hibernian Academy, he was widely known in Irish art circles. His artistic gifts were very varied, and the richly decorated ceilings at his Irish home are his personal handiwork.

The successor to the title, which dates from 1876, is Sir John's only son, Colonel John Leslie, formerly of the Grenadier Guards, and Lieutenant-Colonel of the old 6th Royal Irish Fusiliers (Monaghan Militia), and now commanding the 12th (Reserve) Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers at Enniskillen.

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INTERESTING WEDDING AT KNOCKBREDA.

Anderson--Wilson

A very quiet wedding was solemnised (by special licence) on Saturday last in Knockbreda Church, the contracting parties being Second-Lieutenant Robert N. Anderson, 6th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, The Park, Dunmurry, County Antrim, who has just returned from nine months' service at the front, and Miss Dorothy Wilson, third daughter of the late Mr. Walter Henry Wilson, Belvoir Park, Newtownbreda, County Down. The choral service was conducted by Rev. W. P. Carmody, rector of the parish, assisted by Rev. J. A. Carey, rector of Whitehouse, the hymns chosen for the occasion being "Lead us, Heavenly Father, lead us," and "O perfect love." The church was beautifully decorated with harrish and arum lilies, daffodils, palms, and bamboos. Suspended from an arch at the chancel steps there was a golden bell of daffodils. The bride, who was given away by her brother, wore a dress of soft ivory satin charmeuse, trimmed with silver embroidery and sprays of orange blossom, a tulle veil over a wreath of orange blossom, and a diamond and aquamarine necklet, the gift of her mother. She carried a sheaf of lilies, the gift of the bridegroom. The only bridesmaid was Miss Kathleen Wilson, youngest sister of the bride, and the best man was Lieutenant David Anderson, Royal Irish Rifles, brother of the bridegroom. Owing to the war no reception was held.

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LOCAL AND PROVINCIAL

Mr. J. A. Tanner, cashier of the Provincial Bank in Newry, has been promoted to the position of pro-manager in the bank in Coleraine.

The death occurred on Saturday somewhat suddenly of Mr. Alexander Sweeney, chief clerk at the Derry Station of the Midland Railway (N.C.C.).

Clones Guardians having abolished the position of school-teacher in their Workhouse, Miss Eleanor Hull, who had occupied that position, will be granted a superannuation allowance of £26 per annum.

Mrs. Hamilton, wife of Mr. William James Hamilton, farmer, Ballinakillew Mountain, Laghey, County Donegal, who occupied the same bed as her husband, was killed instantly by lightning on Thursday morning.

The Committee of Management of Down District Asylum have approved of the estimate for the financial year ending 31st March, 1917, amounting to £27,373. as compared with £24,926 in the year ending 31st March, 1916.

On the night of the 16th inst. the Post Office at Kilraughts, Ballymoney, owned by Miss Mary O'Neill, was broken into. Over £3 in cash was taken, together with quantities of tobacco, cigarettes, and men's under-clothing.

Mr. Matthew S. Hunter, Turnaface, Moneymore, sold the produce of one bag (14 pecks) of flaxseed in Cookstown Market on Saturday for £131. The yield was over eight stones to the peck, and he received 25s per stone, with a bonus.

At the conclusion of the annual meeting of the Warrenpoint Urban Council on Monday evening a special meeting was held, at which it was decided to adopt the report of a joint committee recommending the opening of a market in the town.

Magherafelt Guardians' demand on the County Council for the ensuing year amounts to £5,974, which exceeds last year's estimate by £523. The estimate of the District Council amounted to £1,440, as against £1,453 last year. The estimates were adopted.

From the data officially collected at the Clubhouse, Newcastle, one learns that during 1915 the rainfall was 47.47 inches, there being 140 days on which .01 or more was recorded. October was the wettest month with 2.65 inches and March the driest with .19.

At a meeting of Clones No. 1 Rural District Council on 20th inst, the Clerk (Mr. Hugh Maguire) submitted the annual estimate, which was the same as that of last year. This is also the case in the estimate for Clones No. 2 Rural District and for the union.

The Executive Committee in connection with the Ballymena Red Cross sale have as a result of their labours secured no less than £2,793 19s 6d of subscriptions from the inhabitants of Ballymena and the rural district, besides a large and varied collection of articles for auctioning.

Mr. J. H. Williams presided at a meeting of the Tyrone Central Teachers' Association on Saturday afternoon, when there was a very large attendance. Mr. George Ramsey, Cookstown, was unanimously nominated for the position of president of the central organisation for the coming year.

Mr. R. H. Carson presided at the Omagh Nursing Society annual meeting on Saturday. The annual report, presented by Mrs. Browne, secretary, stated that in spite of the many demands of war charities the committee was glad to say that last year's deficit of £22 5s 1d had been reduced to £15 7s 5d.

At the annual meeting of Derry City branch of the Orange and Protestant Friendly Society, Mr. Robt. Fergie (branch inspector, headquarters office, Belfast) reported that the benefits for the Derry men's branch up to July, 1915, amounted to £316 4s 0½d, which included seventy maternity claims, representing £105.

On the 20th inst. the members of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Armagh met in Ballybay for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Hall recently opened in that town. The chair was occupied by the R.W.D.P.G.M. (Br. E. J. Richardson), who was supported by the various Provincial Grand Officers.

The quarterly meeting of the Monaghan Teachers' Association was held on Saturday -- Mr. Thomas Hynes, Monaghan (president) occupying the chair. The out-going officers were re-elected as follow -- President, Mr. Thomas Hynes; vice-president, Mr. F. O'Hanlon, Emyvale; secretary, Mr. J. Bradley, Middletown.

At the meeting of Louth County Council on Friday, Mr. B. L. Coleman, J.P., Ballybarrack, was unanimously co-opted a member of the Council in room of the late Mr. J. J. Byrne, J.P. Mr. N. T. Murphy was nominated for the General Council of County Councils, and Mr. James Wynne, J.P., was appointed on the Richmond Asylum Committee.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Campbell Hall, wife of Dr. James Campbell Hall, D.L., which took place on Monday at Rowantree, Monaghan. The late Mrs. Hall ever identified herself prominently with every movement which had for its object the succour of the poor and the afflicted, and by everyone in Monaghan her loss will be very keenly felt.

At the quarterly meeting of the Cookstown Rural Council, the limit of expenditure for the financial year was fixed at £7,542. It was also agreed, on the recommendations of the County Surveyor (Mr. John W. Leebody, B.A., B.E.) that applications for maintenance of roads, &c., be passed for one year only instead of three, as was customary.

A letter was read from the Local Government Board at Tuesday's meeting of the Armagh Board of Guardians to the effect that upon being furnished with particulars as to the make of the motor ambulance which the Guardians proposed to present they would be prepared to give consideration to the application for authority to purchase one without inviting tenders.

Two fine specimens of the men Lurgan is contributing to the British army arrived home on Friday for a few days' leave. These are Riflemen Samuel and William Deeves, sons of ex-Head-Constable Deeves, of Union Street, both of whom relinquished positions in the Inland Revenue Office, London, in order to join the Civil Service Rifles. One stands 6ft. 5½in., and the other 6ft. 4½½in.

A further outrage has been perpetrated at Bryansford, County Down, the windows of the church having been broken on the night of the 21st inst. A series of outrages have recently been committed in the neighbourhood involving claims totalling £1,272 for alleged malicious burnings on the Roden estate. The force attached to the police barracks established in the district has been augmented.

Warrenpoint Co-Operative Society opened its pork market on Thursday by purchasing locally a number of well-graded pigs. Pig-rearing has more or less lapsed in this district, but they trust that the new market will revive the important industry. The Co-Operative Society is pleased to learn that other parties in the town are now supporting the market scheme, and so the project is likely to be a success.

At a meeting of Clones Fever Hospital Committee on the 20th inst, it appeared from the report of the Medical Officer (Dr. William Henry) that epidemics of scarlatina and diphtheria, especially the former, have been rife in the Urban District and the Newbliss portion of the Rural District for a considerable time past, and the ordinary measures adopted with a view to their eradication have so far failed in effecting that

At Cookstown Rural Council on Friday some discussion took place regarding the upkeep of the road leading from Orritor Quarry to Cookstown, it being argued that the Dungannon Council should pay portion of the upkeep of the road. After a prolonged debate the following resolution was passed by eleven votes to four against -- "That we demand from Dungannon Rural District the half of the expense of the upkeep of the Orritor Road."

A public meeting was held in the No. 1 National School, Castlecaulfield, County Tyrone, for the purpose of establishing a branch of the Oo-Operative Society in that district. Mr. Edward Campbell, P.L.G., occupied the chair, and an address on the objects of the Co-Operative movement was delivered by Mr. Palmer, chairman of the Portadown Branch. It was unanimously decided to form a branch for the district, and a large number of those present undertook to become shareholders.

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MR. JOHN M'STAY

Desires to inform the friends and Patients of his Father, the late Mr. Michael M'Stay, that his Dental Practice is being carried on as usual at the same Address, 111, ANTRIM ROAD, BELFAST.

Ballymoney Visited First and Third Thursday Each Month.

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URBAN COUNCILS.

Elections of Chairmen.

Annual meetings of various Urban Councils were held for the purpose of electing officials. In the following summary an asterisk prefixed to the name signifies that that gentleman has been re-elected --

Armagh. -- Chairman, *Mr. Thomas M'Laughlin, J.P.

Ballyclare. -- Chairman, *Dr. H. A. Logan; vice-chairman, *Mr. Samuel Coleman.

Ballymena. -- *Mr. Samuel Hood, J.P. (sixth year in succession}; vice-chairman, *Mrs. L. A. Barr.

Ballymoney. -- Chairman, *Mr. William J. Megaw (for the twenty-ninth successive year); vice-chairman, *Mr. Alexander Donaghy.

Clones. -- Chairman, *Mr. Edward Brady, J.P.; vice-chairman, Mr. Thomas Noble.

Coleraine. -- Chairman, Mr. W. W. Hill; vice-chairman, Mr. Thomas Henry.

Cookstown. -- Chairman, Mr. Saml. M'Kinney; vice-chairman, Mr. Andrew Charles.

Donaghadee. -- Chairman, *Mr. J. Fullerton; vice-chairman, *Mr. Samuel P. Vance.

Downpatrick. -- Chairman, Mr. T. P. M'Clurg; vice-chairman, Mr. John Maguire, J.P.

Dundalk. -- Chairman, *Mr. T. P. M'Cahon, J.P.; vice-chairman, Mr. J. Hamill.

Dungannon. -- Chairman, *The Earl of Ranfurly; vice-chairman, *Mr. T. J. Aiken, J.P.

Gilford. -- Chairman, *Mr. T. C. Rogers, J.P.

Holywood. -- Chairman, Mr. M'Cowatt; vice-chairman, Mr. Fee.

Kingstown. -- Chairman, Mr. Jamas J. Kennedy.

Larne. -- Chairman, *Mr. Saml. M'Meekin; vice-chairman, *Dr. Samuel Hill.

Limavady. -- Chairman, Mr. Robt. Douglas, J.P.

Lisburn. -- Chairman, Mr. Thomas Sinclair; vice-chairman, Mr. James M'Nally.

Lurgan. -- Chairman, Mr. H. G. MacGeagh, D.L.; vice-chairman, Mr. Daniel Pedlow.

Monaghan -- Chairman, *Mr. Thomas Gallagher; vice-chairman, *Mr. Wm. Martin.

Newcastle -- Chairman, *Mr. Edmund Beatty (sixth year in succession); vice-chairman, *Mr. M. King, J.P. (thirteenth year in succession).

Newtownards -- Chairman, Mr. T. R. Lavery, J.P.; vice-chairman, Mr. R. J. Beckett.

Newry. -- Chairman, *Mr. Hugh J. M'Conville, J.P.; vice-chairman, *Mr. Thomas P. Willis.

Omagh. -- Chairman, *Mr. Thomas J. Johnston, J.P. (sixth successive year); vice-chairman, *Mr. Cadden.

Portadown. -- Chairman, *Mr. W. H. Wright; vice-chairman, *Mr. J. C. Fulton.

Portrush. -- Chairman, *Miss Hamilton; vice-chairman, Mr. James W. M'Farlane.

Strabane -- Chairman, Mr. Eugene Conroy, J.P.

Tandragee -- Chairman, *Mr. Thomas Neill; vice-chairman, Mr. Thomas Aster.

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ULSTER AND THE WAR.

Awards for Gallantry.

A supplement to the "London Gazette" published on Monday contained the official announcement of a number of awards for gallantry and devotion to duty in the field. The following are the Ulster recipients --

Second Lieutenant R. W. M'Gonigal, 32nd Trench Mortar Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery, son of the late Mr. David M'Gonigal, solicitor, Belmont, Military Cross; Second-Lieutenant J. F. Stevenson, 9th Battalion (West Belfast) Royal Irish Rifles, son of the late Mr. S. R. Stevenson, Glencregagh, Belfast, Military Cross; Company Sergeant-Major W. D. Magookin, 15th Battalion (North Belfast) Royal Irish Rifles, 28, Newport Street, Distinguished Conduct Medal; and Private J. Donaghey, 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, attached 34th Divisional Signal Company Royal Engineers, son of Mr. Patrick Donaghey, Walker's Square, Derry, Distinguished Conduct Medal.

On the roll of honour in the vestibule of Whitehouse Presbyterian Church there are 105 names, the great majority of which are serving with the Ulster Division. At the morning service on Sabbath the Rev. Dr. Barron announced that intimation had been received from the chaplain of the Division to the effect that two of their members had been wounded -- namely, Riflemen James Dace and James Brennan, both of Erskine's Terrace, Whitehouse. The former had been wounded on the right eye, which was afterwards extracted, and the latter had received a wound in his hand. He expressed sympathy with the men and their relatives. Dr. Barron said he had also received a letter from Lance-Corporal John Jenkins, of the 6th Black Watch, son of Mr. Samuel Jenkins, Greencastle, stating that he had been awarded the Distinguished Conduct medal. They were all delighted to hear the gratifying news. At the evening service further letters were read from men at the front acknowledging the receipt of the Christmas parcels sent by the members of the congregation.

The Special Reserve Long Service and Good Conduct Medal has been awarded to Sergeant T. H. Metcalfe, North Irish Horse, and Private J. Gallagher, 3rd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. The medal for "Meritorious Service" has been awarded to Sergeant-Instructor of Musketry J. Flanagan, late 87th Foot (1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers).

Halifax, N.S., Sunday. -- The steamer Pollentia has foundered off Cape Race. The crew was rescued.

COMMISSIONS IN THE RIFLES.

The following have been gazetted as second-lieutenants on probation in the Royal Irish Rifles. -- S. A. Lynch, H. C. Glendinning, E. D. Walpole, E. A. Moran, J. M'C. Napier, G. N. Hunter, N. C. Graves, C. R. M'Cammond, W. T. Thompson, S. S. M'Dowell, W. Johnston. F. A. Davidson, S. M'Cay, W. A. Hayden, J. W. M'Ghie, A. E. M'Connell, W. R. Bell, W. K. M'Mullen, H. F. Rea, S. J. Downey, W. F. Patton, J. T. Smyth, C. C. Wood, D. W. Fox, A. E. Nichol, J. Niblock, H. E. Rankin, J. W. Milligan, W. C. Atkinson, W. E, Mitchell, R. F. Mackeown, R. F. Patterson, N. S. Townsend, L. M'Master, J. M'Lean, E. L. M'Donald, F. V. M'Donald, F. J. Smissen, T. G. Henderson, D. Lavery, J. M'Henry, R. W. Woods, D. R. Bates, S. Deans, E. E. Craig, G. Y. Hill, J. Laverty, T. Y. K. Mayrs, J. H. M'Caw, W. Pearson, T. Armstrong-Phenix, J. G. Reid, A. R. Wheeler, W. A. Wilson.

Second-Lieut. A. Ernest M'Connell is son of Mr. James M'Connell, J.P., Stranmillis House. He was originally attached to the 6th Manchester Territorial Regiment, and served with the battalions that did such gallant service in Gallipoli after the landing, and earned the highest praise of the general commanding. He was wounded in one of these stern battles -- a bullet in his side -- on the 4th June, and lay thirty hours on the field. He was sent to the hospital at Alexandria, thence after a time to Southampton, and to the Red Cross Hospital in Dublin Castle, and ultimately to Belfast, where the bullet was extracted by Mr. Howard Stevenson, on the 20th October. He rapidly recovered, and resumed duty towards the close of the year, and has now been gazetted a second-lieutenant in the 20th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles, of which Lieut.-Colonel T. V. P. M'Cammon is commanding officer.

Second-Lieutenant C. R. W. M'Cammond is the eldest son of Lieutenant-Colonel W. E. C. M'Cammond, J.P., commanding the Special Reserves of the Royal Irish Rifles at Dublin, and a grandson of the late Sir Wm M'Cammond, J.P., who was several years Lord Mayor of Belfast.

Second-Lieutenants E. L. M'Donald and F. V. D. M'Donald are sons of Mr. J. T. M'Donald, resident secretary of the Scottish Life and Accident Assurance Company, Gleneve, Antrim Road, and grandsons of the late Dean Seaver.

Second-Lieutenant T. G. K. Mayrs is a son of the late Mr. J. C. Mayrs, Royal Avenue. He was educated at the Methodist College and the Queen's University, where he obtained the degrees of M.A. and LL.D. He is a member of the legal profession and is a partner of the firm of Messrs. Smiles & Mayrs, solicitors, Ann Street.

Mr. Charles C. Wood, of 49, Queen Street, Belfast, agent for Messrs. J. H. Wilson & Co., Manchester, has received a commission as second-lieutenant in the 20th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles. He is a son of Mr. Samuel Wood, retail manager of Messrs. Robinson & Cleaver, Ltd.

Mr. Alan S. Gordon, B.L., only son of Mr. John Gordon, K.C., M.P., Attorney-General for Ireland, has joined the A.S.C. (Mechanical Transport). Mr. Gordon is a member of the North-East Bar, and has been counsel to the Attorney-General since the latter's appointment.

The following appears in the Scottish command orders -- "Lieutenant William Meeke, dental officer, is attached for duty to the staff of the A.D. of M.S. Lowland Division area, Bridge of Allan, and his services will be utilised as advisory dental officer in the following districts -- Regular and Special Reserve, New Army, and Territorial Forces in the Countries of Sterling, Dumbarton, Renfrew, Argyle (Clyde Defence area), Bute, Ayr, Lanark, Dumfries, Kirkcudbright, and Wigtown."

Mr. W. Meeke, who went out with the London Scottish in September, 1914, serving as a private, and afterwards as a lance-corporal, is a son of the Rev. James Meeke, B.A., senior minister of Kingsmills, County Armagh, and clerk of the Newry Presbytery.

A DISTINGUISHED FAMILY RECORD

In the recent national emergency few families can show a better record than that of Rev. Joseph M'Kinstry, Randalstown, whose eldest son -- a graduate with honours of the university -- holds a commission in the Wiltshire Regiment; his second son a commission in the Royal Irish Rifles; and his youngest is recommended by his colonel for a commission; whilst a son-in-law, occupying the rank of major, is second in command in one of our principal military centres.

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TARA SURVIVORS

In the Hands of Arabs

The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that a report has been received from Egypt stating that there are ninety-five survivors of H.M.S. Tara at present in the hands of the Senussi, and that they are being well treated. An attempt is being made to send clothing, &c., to them. Hopes are entertained that the names of these survivors will soon be known, when they will be immediately published.

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On Tuesday evening a schoolboy named Alfred Wade, son of Coastguard Wade, Portstewart, met with a rather serious accident while cycling home from the Hon. the Irish Society's School, Coleraine, which he attends. When proceeding down Blindgate Street, losing control of has bicycle, he was thrown to the ground and rendered unconscious.

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A little over three acres of land situated at Loughans, Gilford, at a public auction was sold at the high figure of £250, or approximately £80 per acre. The property is freehold, and after some spirited bidding Mr. James White, Gilford, was declared the purchaser.

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On Monday the death took place at his residence at Belleck, Co. Armagh, of Mr. Andrew Markey. Deceased taught in the Cloghoge National School, near Newry, for the long period of forty years, retiring on pension at the age of sixty-five about twelve years ago. He is survived by a brother and an unmarried sister.

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DEATH OF LIEUTENANT E. WORKMAN.

DIRECTOR OF SHIPBUILDING FIRM.

We regret to state that a telegram has been received in Belfast announcing the death on Wednesday evening, in an hospital in France, of Lieutenant Edward Workman, 5th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (Royal South Downs). The deceased officer was attached to the 2nd Battalion of the Rifles, and was wounded in the head while serving on the Western front. His condition from the first was critical, and septic poisoning intervened. His father and mother, who left Belfast on Saturday night, reached the hospital on Monday, and were in constant attendance on him until the end.

The late Lieutenant Workman was a director of the well-known shipbuilding firm of Messrs. Workman, Clark, & Co., Ltd., of which his father, Councillor Frank Workman, an ex-High Sheriff of Belfast, was one of the founders, and he resided with his parents at The Moat, Strandtown. Prior to the outbreak of war he took an active part in the affairs of the firm with which he was associated, and was held in the highest esteem by all the employees with whom he came in contact. His country's call in the present, great conflict appealed so strongly to his patriotism that he relinquished his duties at the shipbuilding works and joined the Army. He obtained his commission in the Royal South Downs on 15th August, 1914, and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant on 22nd May last. He had been serving at the front for a considerable period, and in the last despatch received from Field-Marshal Viscount French he was recommended for gallant and distinguished service in the field. The news of his death will be received with feelings of profound sorrow by his large circle of friends, and the utmost sympathy will be extended to Councillor and Mrs. Workman on the loss of their only son.

 

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