Marriages

ANDERSON--FERGUSON -- April 23, at First Holywood Presbyterian Church, by Rev. Dr. Wright, Newtownards, Robert Hugh, eldest son of the late Joseph Anderson, and of Mrs. Anderson, Ballyalicock, Newtownards, to Anna Grace, younger daughter of the late David Ferguson and of Mrs. Ferguson, Ballycastle, Mountstewart.

BALL--CAMPBELL -- April 23, at Fitzroy Avenue Presbyterian Church, by Rev. Wm. Colquhoun, B.A., assisted by Rev. Samuel Thompson, M.A., and Rev. George Thompson, D.D., James E. Ball, Albert View, University Street, to Helen Whiteside Campbell, 92, Cromwell Road, daughter of the late James Campbell, Omagh, Co. Tyrone.

GRAHAM--SHARPLEY -- April 23, 1919, at Coventry Road Wesleyan Church, Birmingham, by Rev. A. E. Sharpley, B.A., B.D., assisted by Rev. G. W. Kettleborough, Thompson Graham, of Belfast and Morecambe, to Hannah Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. J. R. Sharpley, Small Heath, Birmingham.

HUNTER--ENGLISH -- April 23, 1919, at Ballydown Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. J. Kyle, B.A., Wm. Jas. Hunter, B.A., son of John Hunter, Waringstown, to Gladys Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas English, Ballylough, Laurencetown.

KING--BELL -- April 19, 1919, at Cliftonville Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. W. Moreland Kennedy, B.A., Ballylinney, assisted by the Rev. Frederick G. Bell, B.A. (brother of the bride) Hugh J., younger son of the late James King and the late Mrs. King, Toomebridge, to Mary, only daughter of W. H. and Mrs. Bell, Atlantic Avenue, Belfast.

LYONS--HAMILTON -- April 22, 1919, at Carrowdore Presbyterian Church, by Rev. Thomas Patterson, B.A., Greyabbey, assisted by Rev. Torrens Boyd, Newtownards, and Rev. J. A. Lyons, B.A., Cullybackey, cousin of bridegroom, John, second son of Josiah Lyons, Ballygan, Ballymoney, to Agnes M., daughter of late Robert and Martha Hamilton, Ballyboley, Co. Down.

Deaths

M'CLELLAND -- April 27, 1919, at his residence, "The Oaks," Tullyraine, Banbridge, Andrew John M'Clelland, in his 90th year. Interred in First Ahoghill Presbyterian Burying-ground on 29th inst.

M'CLURE -- April 22, Eliza Mary, dearly-beloved wife of Thomas M'Clure, Ballynashanagh, Co. Donegal. Interred at Rossnakill Church. Sleep on, beloved, sleep, and take thy rest; We love thee well, but Jesus loves thee best.

BEST -- April 27, 1919, at her residence, Bocombra, Portadown, Margaret, the dearly-beloved wife of James Best, Deeply regretted.

BLACKBURNE -- April 27, at High Street, Carrickfergus, Agnes Graham, eldest daughter of Henry and Agnes Blackburne.

BOYD -- April 29, at South Park Villas, Park Road, Mary Jane, last surviving daughter of the late James Boyd, Ballyutoag.

BROOKE -- April 22, at 17, Clifton Gardens, Folkestone, Edwin Hamilton Brooke, third son of the late Captain G. T. Brooke, Templepatrick, Co. Antrim.

BROWNE -- April 23, at Creevy, Castlederg, Elizabeth, relict of the late John Browne. Aged 88 years.

BUNTING -- April 30, at No. 4, Gainsborough Drive, York Road, Margaret, widow of the late James Bunting, Banoge, Waringstown.

DOUGLASS -- April 29, at Downpatrick, Mary Douglass.

FERRIS -- April 24, at Ferris Bay, Larne Harbour, (of acute pneumonia), W. J. Ferris, Glenone, Earlswood Road, Belfast.

HALE -- April 25, at 20, Cranmore Gardens, Belfast, Matilda, widow of the late John Hale, Ballymena.

HARRISON -- April 25, at the Hospital, Newtownards, John Harrison, Granshaw, Ballygrainey.

HENDERSON -- April 24, at Loy Hill, Cookstown, Ellen, relict of the late John Henderson, Esq., J.P., of Sheerygroom House.

JAMISON -- April 28, at Seacove, The Parade, Donaghadee, Mary Jane Jamison.

JARDIN -- April 19 (after a brief illness), in Armagh, Mary, daughter of the late Robert n Jardin, Sydenham, Belfast.

KING -- April 27, at Bangor, James Gordon, only surviving son of Thomas Quin King, 83, Eglantine Avenue, Belfast.

LAVERY -- April 26, at 42, Little Frances Street, Newtownards, Robert, third son of Hugh Lavery.

LONG -- April 24, at Gransha, Islandmagee, William Long.

LYLE -- April 25, at Toberdoney, William James Lyle, younger surviving son of the late Charles Lyle, Urble.

M'KEE -- April 28, at Hame, Hamilton Road, Bangor, James M'Kee.

M'MURRAY -- April 24, at his father's residence, Sylvan Hill, Lisburn, Robert Cecil (Cecil), much-loved son of W. J. M'Murray.

RITCHIE -- April 26, William Gibson, husband of Susan Ritchie, and youngest son of the late Mr. Henry Douglas Ritchie, Comber.

ROBB -- April 27, at her father's residence, Lisavague, Portadown, Margaret (Maggie), fifth and dearly-beloved daughter of John and Sarah A. Robb.

SMYTH -- April 25, at 66, Palmerston Road, Sydenham, Belfast, Jane, the dearly-beloved wife of John Hyde Smyth (late Downpatrick).

STEWART -- April 29, at Moneydarragh, Annalong (suddenly), Rachel M. eldest daughter of the late James Stewart.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

Dog Catches Huge Pike. -- Whilst walking the shore of Ballyhae Lake, Carrickmacross, Mr. R. Keating observed a monster pike struggling in a shallow pool. Assisted by his dog, which fastened on the fish's head, Mr. Keating brought it ashore, where it was found to weigh 60lbs.

Christian Differences. -- At a prayer meeting in the Mansion House, London, Rev. T. Wilkinson Riddle (Baptist), said, it was time Protestants captured the phrase "The Real Presence" from the Catholics. If they did not believe in Real Presence they had no right at that meeting or to call themselves Christians.

Import of Cereals. -- The Ministry of Food announces that decontrol of cereals, announced by the Royal Commission on Wheat Supplies, appears to have been interpreted in some quarters as entailing revocation of the Grain Prices Order, which fixed maximum prices for home-grown cereals; but it has not been revoked.

Eclipse of the Sun. -- Two British expeditions and one American expedition have set out to observe the total eclipse of the sun on May 19. The former will make observations from Principle, near the West Coast of Africa, and the latter from Cape Palmas, Liberia. Wireless operators are asked to watch for peculiarities in the transmission of signals during the eclipse.

Irish Teachers' Interests. -- At a meeting of the Central Executive Council (Association of Secondary Teachers), held in Dublin, a resolution was passed asking that, in the proposed settlement of Irish Secondary education due regard be had to the security of lay assistant teachers in Catholic schools, and to the maintenance of the protection afforded them by the Birrell Act of 1914.

Vacant Irish Bishopric. -- At a meeting of the Joint Synods of Cashel, Emly, Waterford, and Lismore, Most Rev. Dr. Bernard presiding, with the Lord Chancellor as assessor, it was decided to submit the names of Dean Muller, Waterford, and Archdeacon Burkett, Lismore, to the Bench of Bishops in connection with the appointment of a successor to the Right Rev. Dr. O'Hara, retired.

Belgian King and Queen's Adventure. -- The King and Queen of the Belgians have had an exciting experience during an aerial flight from Cocham to Beckendorf, near Cologne. They are visiting the occupied regions of Germany, and during the passage their aeroplane was caught in a storm at the frontier, and they were forced to alight at different places, but eventually reached Cologne in safety.

Lady's Remarkable Nerve. -- The Albert Medal has been awarded to Miss Alice Batt, V.A.D. On Oct. 1, 1918, a fire broke out in a casualty clearing station, in Belgium. The flames reached the operation theatre, where an abdominal operation was being performed. The lights having gone out, it was continued with an electric torch, and through Miss Batt calmly continuing to assist, the surgeon was able to complete his task.

Prince and Freemasonry. -- The ceremony of the Prince of Wales's initiation into Freemasonry has been fixed for this evening at Prince's Restaurant, London. The lodge which will have the honour of receiving into its membership this distinguished accession to the ranks of Freemasonry is the Household Brigade Lodge, which as its name fairly well indicates, is confined to the Household Cavalry and the Foot Guards.

Soldier's Tragic Death. -- Private Chas. B. Kirk, Somerset Regiment, was killed under melancholy circumstances in Holywood Barracks, Co. Down. The sergeant of the guard, leaving his loaded rifle in a corner of the room, was filling up a form to enable him to visit his wife, whose serious illness had just been announced by telegram, when a bugler picked' up the gun. It went off, shooting Kirk through the back, and he died in a few minutes.

Link with Betsy Gray. -- The death is announced of Mr. James Macartney, builder and contractor, 35, Rossmore Avenue, in his 72nd year. He was second son of the late Mr. Hans Gray Macartney, and was related to the famous Betsy Gray, whose name figures so tragically in the Irish Rebellion, more particularly at the Battle of Ballynahinch. Deceased, who leaves a widow, four sons, and two daughters, was a Unionist in politics and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

British-Irish Aerial Routes. -- It is officially stated that the Government has decided to open up certain trunk aerial routes at once, and that these have been chosen with reference to the situation of existing aerodromes and military commands. The "stations" for the London-Dublin route will be -- Hounslow, Witney, and Castle Bromwich, North Shotwik and Baldonnell; and three for the London-Manchester-Belfast route -- Manywell Heights, Lace Bay and Aldergrove (Antrim).

Naval Chaplains' War Losses. -- In unveiling a memorial to a naval chaplain at Holy Trinity Church, Portsmouth, the Rev. R. G. Sadlier, chaplain of the Royal Naval Barracks, said no branch of the service had suffered more heavily than the chaplains during the war. In the Jutland fight alone the casualties among the chaplains were 59 per cent. higher than among the captains. Six captains went down on their ships and a similar number of chaplains, in addition to the chaplains who fell on the Lion, Barham, and Chester.

Lord Chancellor and Peace. -- The Lord Chancellor, speaking at Birkenhead, when the honorary freedom of the town was conferred upon him, said that while there were at times grave differences of opinion at the Peace Conference, there had, on the whole, been an amazing degree of unanimity. With patience and compromise they hoped the realisation would be attained in the present crisis. The foremost task of statesmanship was to reconcile the different claims so that every class might be afforded the means of a decent happier life.

Scene in a Church. -- The service at Enfield Lock Wesleyan Church was interrupted by an extra-ordinary incident. When the Rev. A. Denman Martin was half-way through his sermon an elderly man, without hat or overcoat, entered the church covered from head to foot with snow. He went straight up to the pulpit, opened the door, and, waving a battered, snow-covered umbrella at the minister, started to harangue him about the Lunacy Acts. Then he lay down in front of the pulpit shouting, "Leave me alone. Let them all come in." Finally he was led to the porch and handed over to the care of the police.

The Poteen Evil. -- Rev. J. O'Daly. C.C., speaking at last mass in Clones, said reduced supplies and increased prices of drink during the war caused temperance organisations to relax their efforts, but another effect of the restrictions was that people commenced to manufacture drink in country places, so that old and young had it within their reach, and men were seen coming into the town mad drunk. The Government appeared to be encouraging it. At any rate they were doing little or nothing to stop it. They were given enough to arrest and imprison for political acts or expressions, but they were doing nothing to enforce the licensing laws.

"Bolshevists in the South of Ireland." -- Mr. Thompson Donald, M.P., addressing electors of Victoria Division, Belfast, said the Ulster members, with the assistance of the Government, hoped to have the schools brought under local control. Home Rule, was not dead. The Bill was on the Statute Book. Men from this country had gone to America, and were using their influence there, with the result that Mr. Lloyd George had consented to give an interview. They in Ulster would have something to say to that, because he could not see any difference between the people they know as Bolshevists in Russia and those who were creating the present situation in the South of Ireland.

Death of Bangor Official. -- By the death of Mr. James M'Kee, rate collector, Bangor, one of the best known men in the Ards Peninsula has passed away. Born in 1844 in Bangor, he went as a young man to Newtownards, where for over thirty years he conducted a successful business. He returned to Bangor, with the object of retiring from business, but, being of a very energetic disposition he soon discovered that retirement did not appeal to his temperament, and so on a vacancy occurring in the Town Hall he applied and secured the appointment, first as town inspector and subsequently as collector of rates. He was a sincere Orangeman, took an active interest in the Good Templars, and was a prominent Mason. The clock tower, which stands on the Esplanade at Banger, was one of his gifts, to his native town.

Ex-Kaiser to be Tried. -- The "Evening Standard" states that it has it on the highest authority that the ex-Kaiser will he brought to trial as one of the instigators of the crimes as dealt with by the Commission for Responsibility of War Crimes. A Washington message says that, according to a United Press message, it is believed Mr. Taft or Mr. Hughes will be among the members of the international tribunal to try the ex-Kaiser, while Mr. Root is also mentioned. Lord Reading is regarded as the most probable British member, and it is considered certain that the trial will be held at Geneva, five judges deciding the general course of procedure previous to the trial. It is stated that the Kaiser will retain several prominent Germans of the old regime as counsel, and Bernstorff is mentioned in this connection.

Belfast M.P.'s and Orangeism. -- Mr. S. M'Guffin, M.P., on his initiation to membership of the Coronation Total Abstinence Orange Lodge, Belfast, said he had always felt that the Order was more a religious than a political one; that the Home Rule question was, in reality, a sectarian one; and that it "was the duty of every true man to connect himself with the one institution which stood between them and the absolute sway of the Catholic Hierarchy." Mr. T. Moles, M.P., assured the company that there were no harder worked men in the House of Commons than the 23 Unionists from Ulster, and stated that that was the last time he would speak to a lodge as a non-member. Introduced as having been a member of the Order for 24 years, Mr. R. J. Lynn, M.P., said that the Ulster Unionist Party in the Commons had shown that they were not afraid to tackle the greatest of their opponents, but the latter had only got a few whiffs of the powder they would get before the session ended.

New Pensions Scheme. -- Sir James Craig, M.P., (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Pensions), in outlining the now scheme for administering pensions in Ireland, said they proposed to have two regional directors, one for Ulster and one for the rest of Ireland, and each regional director would have under him a regional council, the members of which would be the chairman or other deputies from each local war pensions committee, who, by keeping in direct and close touch with the workers, would ensure smooth working and rapidity of action. The director would have a registrar's branch dealing with statistics, staff, and accommodation. There would be also a local organisation branch dealing with the areas of sub-committees and to assist local committees to carry on their work in awards branch by moans of which all awards would be made on the spot, and it would be possible to keep in closer touch with the human element. In addition, there would be a medical branch with a commissioner in charge. It was also proposed to establish an "Officers' Friend" which would know exactly how to put the disabled officer's wife or dependents in the right lines to obtain proper treatment under the Royal warrant.

World's Largest Ship. -- The Imperator, of the Hamburg-Amerika Line, which before the war was the largest steamer in the world, left Hamburg for England, to be surrendered. Her registered tonnage is 50,000 -- nearly 5,000 more than the White Star liner Olympic -- and she has accommodation for 5,000 people, passengers and crew.

Fate of Amir's Assassins. -- A Reuter's message describes a Durbar held at Kebul to decide the fate of persons concerned in the assassination of the late Amir. The discussions finally resulted in the unanimous finding that Nasrullah Khan should be imprisoned for life, and Col. Shah Ali Raza should suffer death. The latter sentence was carried out directly the Durbar concluded.

Wintry Storm's Effects. -- A blizzard, accompanied by snow and intense cold, swept over Ireland. In the Midlands a considerable quantify of timber was blown down, and many cattle are reported missing. The mid-winter weather, practically at the beginning of May, has injured or destroyed many of the early crops, and will cause a set-back likely to result in a diminished harvest.

Shot by Policeman. -- Michael Walsh, a fisherman, was running towards the police barracks of Dungarvan, County Waterford, to secure police help in view of a disturbance which was taking place in a public-house in the vicinity, when he was shot through the neck by a bullet alleged to have been fired by Constable M'Carthy. The constable, it is alleged, fired because he concluded that a raid was being made on the barracks.

German Admiral on British Fleet. -- Vice-Admiral Paul Belincke, of the German Navy, who was in action at the battle of Jutland, in giving his views on Lord Jellicoe's book, "The Grand Fleet," admits that, as a result of the policy which governed the use of the Grand Fleet, British naval power is now stronger than ever it was before, but argues that a more aggressive policy would have given an earlier victory. While praising the handling of the ships during the day at Jutland, he regards the disposition of the British Fleet at night as faulty, since it left it unprepared when collected ready to fight at daybreak.

Funds of Irish Suitors. -- A return of the Accountant-General of the receipts and payments of the Supreme Court in Ireland in respect of funds of suitors, including lunacy accounts in the year to September 30, 1918, shows that the receipts into court were -- Chancery and common law -- £914,972 14s 3d; Land Judges, £123,531 0s 8d; and the payments and transfers out of court were -- Chancery and common law, £904,440 2s 5d, and Land Judges, £120,409 13s 6d. The balance of cash in the name of the Accountant-General was £94,766 8s 9d, and of securities, £5,160,466 16s 1d; cash which the consolidated account is liable to make good, £350,150 14s 6d, and securities do., £130,000.

The Limerick Strike. -- After a fortnight's duration the strike at Limerick as a protest against the military boundaries has collapsed, and work has been generally resumed. Speaking in St. Michael's Roman Catholic Chapel, Rev. W. [--?--] Administrator, said that neither the Lord Bishop of the Diocese nor the clergy were consulted before the strike was declared, and they were totally opposed to its continuance. He hoped the honest working-men of Limerick would in future duly consider any action they were about to take, and be guided only by leaders upon whom they could rely and in whom they could have full confidence, and not allow themselves to be fooled or deceived by anybody whatsoever.

Stipends of Clergymen. -- At the meeting of the General Synod a resolution was adopted, on the motion of Lord Farnham, D.S.O., seconded by Right Hon. Sir W. J. Goulding, that, in view of the present need of the Church of Ireland, a fund be inaugurated to increase the stipends for the next five years, and calling upon the lay members of each diocean council to form diocean collection committees. While consenting to allow an increase of £20 per year to the Catholic chaplain in Newry Workhouse, the Local Government Board refused to sanction proposed increases to Protestant chaplains, having regard to the fewer number of the inmates they minister to. he Guardians have asked them to reconsider the matter.

Ulster M.P.'s Prophecy. -- Under the auspices of the East Down Women's Unionist Association a largely attended meeting was held in the Parochial Hall, Dundrum. Mr. D. D. Reid, M.P. for the division, said Sir Edward Carson had vindicated his policy of seeking to extend to Ireland measures that were regarded as beneficial to Britain. That was illustrated, for example, in the Ministry of Health Bill. Here, certainly, Sir Edward achieved a strategic victory. As regards proportional representation, Mr. Reid emphasised the importance of attention to registration, and in connection with the political future of Ireland his impression was that the intention of the Government was firmly to administer the law, to carry out remedial legislation, and not to attempt revolutionary changes.

Omagh Scenes. -- There were heated scenes at the Omagh Guardians' meeting, when Dr. P. M'Cartan, M.P., the Irish delegate in the United States, who was elected medical officer of the Omagh district, received 40 votes, while Dr. Cunningham received 23 Unionist and 14 Nationalist votes. When Mr. Rafferty (Carrickmore) proposed Dr. M'Cartan, a scene ensued between a guardian and a spectator who was a supporter of Dr. Cunningham. The guardian threatened to throw the interrupter down the stairs. Mr. Lewis said that when. Dr. M'Cartan was appointed before he had not taken up the position. "He was not idle all the same," came a voice. When Mr. M. Gavin, J.P., supported Dr. M'Cartan, a Unionist member said Dr. M'Cartan would run away again. Mr. M'Nulty said if Dr. M'Cartan ran away it was owing to a foreign Government having pursued him out of the country while there were other rebels in the country who had got promotion not only in the English Cabinet, but in Dublin Castle. Mr. Patterson called upon Mr. M'Nulty to sit down, and there was continued disorder and a voice shouted, "Up the rebels." When Dr. M'Cartan was declared elected the Sinn Feiner's cheered for several minutes.

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RANDOM READINGS.

What Rabbits Can Do. -- The rabbit population of an area of 70,000 acres in the Auckland district of New Zealand has been placed at 350,000 as a low estimate. Ten rabbits are assumed to eat and destroy enough pasture to feed one sheep. The pest does not abate, though the rabbits are being slaughtered by millions, their skins and even their meat being exported.

The Maries of France. -- Princess Mary found many of her own name to welcome her in France. In this country Mary is the most common of all Christian names, male or female, being borne by sixty-eight persons out of every 1,000, and in France the number of Maries is very much higher, the name being frequently bestowed on boys as well as girls at baptism.

The First and Last Shot. -- Referring to the report that the last shot was fired by an Australian, says "Clubman" in the "Pall Mall Gazette," Sir Joseph Cook made the interesting statement that probably the first shot in the war was also fired by an Australian. "An hour after the declaration of war," said he, "the first shot was fired in Australia across the bows of a scouting German Steamer, the Pfalz. The ship was captured, and has since carried many thousands of Australian soldiers to the front."

Mr. Lloyd George's Metaphors. -- It is notable as an example of the persistence of early impressions how constantly Mr. Lloyd George draws his metaphors from landscape (says a writer in the "Daily Chronicle"). The years which he spent in country life are always recalled in his speeches; in one of our darkest periods, when Russia began to fail, it was to a thunder-covered sky that he went for an illustration. In his recent speech it was to sunshine that he looked in his ideal of reconstruction, and as a country boy, he must often have seen the phenomenon of the sun shining on one field while another was in shadow which he used in his peroration.

Didn't Want to Dance. -- Two "wild Highland-men," recruits of a famous kilted corps, were visiting an English church for the first time. They had not long been seated when the organist began to play a lively voluntary. This was something quite novel in their church experience, and they listened in open-mouthed astonishment. One of them was shortly roused from his blissful reverie by a gentle tap on the shoulder. Turning round he saw a handsome lady, the owner of the pew, who smiled graciously upon him and wished, of course, to be allowed to pass to her seat. He did not, however, take in the situation, but at once whispered audibly to her, "Na, na, mem, tak' me mate here; he will be a better dancer than me."

Sun Alters Shape of Flowers. -- Curious variations in plant structure and colour from exposure to the sun at different hours of the day have been brought to the notice of the Royal Microscopical Society by Colonel R. E. Rawson, says "Science Siftings." In flowers of the common nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) the low sun of the early morning developed yellow colouring matter, the middle sun brought out the reds, and the highest sun of mid-day stimulated the violets, blues, and purples. The colour of the foliage and lobing of the leaves also changed. The scent of the flowers varied with their colour, and changes in structure could be reproduced at will by exposures to the sun of necessary altitude. Petals were altered in shape, their numbers being increased to six, seven, and eight, instead of the normal five.

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RANDOM READINGS.

What Rabbits Can Do. -- The rabbit population of an area of 70,000 acres in the Auckland district of New Zealand has been placed at 350,000 as a low estimate. Ten rabbits are assumed to eat and destroy enough pasture to feed one sheep. The pest does not abate, though the rabbits are being slaughtered by millions, their skins and even their meat being exported.

The Maries of France. -- Princess Mary found many of her own name to welcome her in France. In this country Mary is the most common of all Christian names, male or female, being borne by sixty-eight persons out of every 1,000, and in France the number of Maries is very much higher, the name being frequently bestowed on boys as well as girls at baptism.

The First and Last Shot. -- Referring to the report that the last shot was fired by an Australian, says "Clubman" in the "Pall Mall Gazette," Sir Joseph Cook made the interesting statement that probably the first shot in the war was also fired by an Australian. "An hour after the declaration of war," said he, "the first shot was fired in Australia across the bows of a scouting German Steamer, the Pfalz. The ship was captured, and has since carried many thousands of Australian soldiers to the front."

Mr. Lloyd George's Metaphors. -- It is notable as an example of the persistence of early impressions how constantly Mr. Lloyd George draws his metaphors from landscape (says a writer in the "Daily Chronicle"). The years which he spent in country life are always recalled in his speeches; in one of our darkest periods, when Russia began to fail, it was to a thunder-covered sky that he went for an illustration. In his recent speech it was to sunshine that he looked in his ideal of reconstruction, and as a country boy, he must often have seen the phenomenon of the sun shining on one field while another was in shadow which he used in his peroration.

Didn't Want to Dance. -- Two "wild Highland-men," recruits of a famous kilted corps, were visiting an English church for the first time. They had not long been seated when the organist began to play a lively voluntary. This was something quite novel in their church experience, and they listened in open-mouthed astonishment. One of them was shortly roused from his blissful reverie by a gentle tap on the shoulder. Turning round he saw a handsome lady, the owner of the pew, who smiled graciously upon him and wished, of course, to be allowed to pass to her seat. He did not, however, take in the situation, but at once whispered audibly to her, "Na, na, mem, tak' me mate here; he will be a better dancer than me."

Sun Alters Shape of Flowers. -- Curious variations in plant structure and colour from exposure to the sun at different hours of the day have been brought to the notice of the Royal Microscopical Society by Colonel R. E. Rawson, says "Science Siftings." In flowers of the common nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) the low sun of the early morning developed yellow colouring matter, the middle sun brought out the reds, and the highest sun of mid-day stimulated the violets, blues, and purples. The colour of the foliage and lobing of the leaves also changed. The scent of the flowers varied with their colour, and changes in structure could be reproduced at will by exposures to the sun of necessary altitude. Petals were altered in shape, their numbers being increased to six, seven, and eight, instead of the normal five.

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BEQUESTS TO PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

Mr. Robert William Corry, J.P., of Benvue, Windsor Park, Belfast, merchant and shipowner, who died on the 3rd January last, by his will left £150 to the Sustentation Fund of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, £200 to the Foreign Mission Fund of the said Church, £100 to the Home Mission Fund of the same Church, £50 to Donegall Road Presbyterian Church, Belfast; £100 to the Home for Destitute Children, Belfast; £250 to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast; £100 to the Society for Orphans of Presbyterian Ministers, £100 to the Presbyterian Orphan Society, £50 to the Irish Mission of the Presbyterian Church, £50 to the Jewish Mission of the said Church, £100 to the Shankill Road Presbyterian Church, and £50 per annum to Sarah Almond, for faithful services.

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ST. ENOCH'S CHURCH.

Death of Miss Mary Browne.

On Sabbath evening last Rev. John Pollock conducted a memorial service in connection with the death of Miss Mary Browne, for many years the principal of St. Enoch's Central Infant School, and superintendent of the Infant Sabbath-school. Preaching from Prov. xxxi. 26, 30, 31, Mr. Pollock said -- Miss Browne was not so well known to the rising generation as to many of middle age in this community. Her principalship of our Central Infant School dates back to 1882, when she came, from Linfield School, where she was appointed by Mr. Hanna in 1868; and she continued in the higher post to which Dr. Hanna appointed her for a full third of century till she reached the age when retiral became Compulsory. To the very last, however, she continued as superintendent of the Infant Sabbath-school, even after she was unable to give personal attendance. An illness that meant continual pain, and frequent agony, could not separate her from her beloved work. Her illness, stretching over a series of years, was indeed most painful. Yet nothing could exceed the Christian resignation and consummate bravery with which she bore her heavy trial. Her strong will, supported by an equally strong faith, sustained her through it all. Her spirit was indeed that of Psalmist, who said, "I shall not die, but live." I have no hesitation in saying that it lengthened her life. She did not even take to her bed till nearly the end. To the very last it might be said of her, as of this good woman of the Book of Proverbs, that she "looked welL to the ways of her household, and ate not the bread of idleness."

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Ulster Minister's Bereavement.

Universal sympathy goes out to the Rev. W. J. Craney, Ballymagrane, in the double bereavement of the past month; his mother died on the 2nd ult., and his father on the 14th ult. Mrs. Craney had been an invalid for the past four years and bore up under her weakness with great fortitude. She was endowed with a very keen intellect, and took a lively interest in everything that pertained to the welfare of the congregation. She exhibited, in a high degree, the graces of the Christian character. She was an ideal wife and mother. Considerateness for others was her outstanding characteristic. Notwithstanding her weakness she was always bright and cheerful. The congregation presented a beautiful wreath in token of their love and esteem. A very wide district mourns her loss.

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DEATH OF MR. JOHN MIDDLETON, DONACLONEY.

Reference to the death of Mr. John Middleton, Donacloney, was made on Sabbath in Waringstown Presbyterian Church by Rev. J. A. Gillespie, who, in the course of his sermon, said -- We shall miss Mr. Middleton in this congregation, and that in itself is saying a good deal. If it was only in the matter of attendances on Divine ordinances, we shall miss him greatly, for he was in his pew Sabbath after Sabbath. Sabbaths that often deterred others brought him. He came not only from a sense of duty, and because he had made a habit of coming, but also because he loved to come. He was equally regular and constant in his attendance in the Sabbath school, of which he was for over thirty years the devoted superintendent. He was fond of little children and young people, and the children and young people were, I think, as fond of him. He had himself a good deal of the child spirit. He was single and pure in heart. He was bright, cheery, optimistic, and it did him good to be in the midst of children, as it did them good to have him in their midst. Of course, he had often to teach as well as superintend. He was a teaching elder as weLl as a ruling elder. And, indeed, his ruling was gently done, for patience and long-suffering were characteristic of him. He was only absent twice from the Communion in twenty years. And I am sure there were good reasons for his absence on those two occasions. Only once was he absent in my time. We shall miss him at the coming Communion. It will be impossible not to be thinking of him. We shall not soon forget his cheery presence and the substantial help he gave at our own and other social meetings. He did much to enliven many a company, for he had the saving sense of humour, a marvellous memory, and rare platform ability. Mr. Middleton was an upright, honest, faithful, devoted man, humble to the last degree, fearing God, loving the Saviour, keeping the Commandments, and testifying, by a consistent walk and conversation, to the truth as he had received it. He was an example to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost had made him an overseer. He exemplified in his life what he believed most firmly in his heart. He did not parade his religion, but neither did he hide it. It was easy to see that he was a good man, and that he believed both in God and in His Son from heaven. To-day we feel lonely without him, and we shall feel, lonely in the coming days. But what of the home which he has left, and what of his partner so suddenly made a widow? What of his sons and daughters, some of them away across the sea? There will be loneliness in their hearts. There will be sorrow. There will he mourning. Surely, our prayers will arise to God, the God of all comfort and peace and consolation, on their behalf.

 

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Roll of Honour -- In Memoriam

WALKER -- In loving memory of Lieutenant Jerome Lennie Walker, 14th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, beloved son of F. M. Walker, of Courtrai, and Helen Lennie, of Cork, killed in action, May 5th, 1916, serving his King and country. "The Last Post."

Marriages

BATTEN--OSBORNE -- March 21, 1919, at St. John, New Brunswick, by the Rev. G. Kuhring, Samuel A. Batten, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Batten, Bangor, Ireland, to Margaret (Daisy) Smyth, fourth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Edens Osborne, of Holywood, Ireland. (From "The Gazette," Montreal, of April 8, 1919.)

DAVID--FEARON -- April 30, 1919, at Sandymount Presbyterian Church, Dublin, by the Rev. J. S. Crockett, B.A., assisted by the Rev. S. Duncan, B.A., Killucan (uncle of the bride), and the Rev. T. S. Killen, B.A., Bailieborough, Engineer Lieutenant G. C. David, R.N., second son of Thomas and Mrs. David, 43, Albany Terrace, Dundee, N.B., to Elsie, elder daughter of the late Robert Fearon, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. -- Merlyn, Sydney Parade, Dublin.

DOHERTY--LILLEY -- April 30, 1919, at Duncairn Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. James Pyper, B.A., James, second son of Mrs. Doherty and the late William Doherty, to Nellie M'Clintock, only daughter of John Lilley.

FERRIE--CORKEY -- April 29, at the Macfarlane Memorial Church, Kalimpong, Bengal, India, by the Rev. J. A. Graham, D.D., C.I.E., and the Rev. W. S. Sutherland, D.D., Wm. W. Ferrie, M.A., Scottish Universities Mission, to Ella, second daughter of the late Rev. Joseph Corkey, D.D., LL.D., Glendermott, Ireland. (By cable.)

MORGAN--THOMPSON -- April 25, at Garmany's Grove. Presbyterian Church, by Rev. S. Gault, LL.D., John Morgan, Esq., Markethill, to Mary Clarke Thompson, only daughter of Andrew Thompson, Esq., Altnamackin, Castleblayney.

M'CALISTER--VINT -- April 30, at Leitrim Presbyterian Church, Co. Down, by the Rev. James Hagan (brother-in-law of the bride), William M'Calister, son of Jas. M'Calister, Omerbane, Co. Antrim, to Hanna, youngest daughter of the late William Vint, late of "The Fields," Carnmoney, Belfast.

TAYLOR--M'CULLA -- April 28 (by special licence), at Memel Lodge, Bessbrook, by the Rev. Henry Dinsmore, B.A., Corporal William J. Taylor, Canadian Machine Gun Corps, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Taylor, Derrywilligan, Bessbrook, to Rebecca Gwendoline, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. M'Culla, Bessbrook.

Diamond Wedding

MITCHELL--FINLAY -- May 5, 1859, at May Street Presbyterian Church, by Rev. Henry Cooke, D.D. -- Rev. Wm. Mitchell, M.A., Ballyblack, to Eleanor, daughter of William Finlay, Ballyhalft, Newtownards, [Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell will be at home on Saturday afternoon, May 10, at Riverside, Holywood, from 3 to 5.30].

Deaths

BAIRD -- May 2, 1919, at the County Infirmary, Lifford (following influenza), Samuel Baird, Lystanna, St. Johnston; and was interred at Ballylennon on 5th inst.

GEDDES -- May 4, 1919, at "Enabrook," Ardenlee Avenue, Samuel, the beloved husband of S. M. Geddes. Interred in Newtownbreda.

ALLEN -- May 2, at Nursing Home, Ryhope Village, near Sunderland, Robert, eldest and dearly-beloved son of the late Robert Allen, of Collon, Drogheda, and formerly Station-master, Midland Railway (N.C.C.), Antrim Station.

CHARLTQN -- April 27, at Carrigans, Emyvale, Co. Monaghan, John Charlton, formerly of Tully, Emyvale. JEAN CHARLTON.

DICK -- May 4 (suddenly), at Ambrose Villas, Sydenham, Elizabeth, relict of the late Robt. Dick, and daughter of the late Joseph Craig, Bottom Cottage, Ballymena.

FINCH -- May 4, at the Thompson Memorial Home, Lisburn, Ruth Finch, late of Dromore.

GRAHAM -- May 4, John Graham, of Tamicoia, Washington, U.S.A., at the residence of Robert Hutchinson, Edentrillick, Dromore (brother-in-law).

HOUSTON -- May 3, 1919 (suddenly), at 18, Albert Street, Bangor, Anna, beloved wife of Robert Houston.

NEELY -- May 2, at Cherry Hill House, Tobermore, Co. Derry, James Neely.

PEPPER -- May 3, 1919, at Thompson Memorial Home, Lisburn, Robert Forsythe Pepper, of Portrush.

SHAW -- May 4, at his residence, Pine Lodge, Strandtown, Thomas Shaw, J.P., in his 85th year.

STEWART -- May 5, at his residence, Rademon, Crossgar, John Stewart.

WELCH -- May 5, at 47, Holborn Avenue, Bangor, James M. Welch.

In Memoriam

KERR -- In loving memory of my mother, Letitia Kerr, who entered into rest, May 5, 1918, and was interred in the family burying-ground, Corglass, Bailieborough. "Till the day break." M. FERGUSON. Huntly, Ballymoney.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

M.P. Asked to Resign. -- Newcastle-under-Lyne Liberal Council have protested against the action of Colonel Wedgwood, M.P. for the division, in joining the Independent Labour Party, and have requested him to resign the seat.

Czechoslovak Minister Killed. -- A Pressburg telegram says that an aeroplane in which the Czecho-Slovak War Minister (M. Stefanik) was travelling, accompanied by two Italian officers, crashed near Wajnor, and all the occupants were killed.

Hindenburg Retiring. -- Hinderburg has informed the Imperial President that when the preliminary peace has been concluded he desires to retire, and Herr Ebert, in assenting to the request, expresses to the Field-Marshal the undying thanks of the German people for his services.

San Salvador Earthquake. -- A message received from San Salvador states that 75 people were killed and more that 500 injured in an earthquake which occurred there on April 28. Extensive damage was also done to the city of San Salvador and adjacent towns.

Demobilised Padres. -- The number of army chaplains demobilised since the armistice is as follows -- Church of England, 820; Roman Catholic, 198; Presbyterian, 112; Wesleyan Methodist, 62; United Board (Congregational, Baptist, and United Methodist), 85; other denominations, 11: total, 1,289.

Venue of Meeting. -- At a meeting of the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, held in Clifton Street Orange Hall, it was decided to accept the invitation of Br. Gilbert Harkness to hold this year's Orange demonstration at Ballymenoch. The demonstration will be held in the same field occupied in 1910.

Home of the League of Nations. -- Bells will be rung in Geneva to announce to the public the news that Geneva has been chosen by the Peace Conference as the permanent seat of the League of Nations. The delegates to the League will meet in the Alabama Hall the Hotel de Ville, pending the construction of the buildings that have been planned on the right bank of the lake.

Government and Workers. -- A letter from the Prime Minister, giving the Government's decisions with regard to several questions of great importance to Labour, was read at a meeting of the Provisional Joint Committee of the Industrial Council in London. Without committing himself to every detail, Mr. Lloyd George stated that he fully accepted in principle the recommendations as to the fixing of maximum hours and minimum rates of wages.

Prince and Freemasonry. -- The Prince of Wales has been initiated into the mysteries and privileges of Freemasonry, part of the initiation ceremony being performed by the Duke of Connaught. This re-establishes in the direct line connection between the Crown and the craft, which was broken on the death of King Edward. The Prince said, on returning from France, he found his engagements too numerous to cover, but was determined nothing should prevent him becoming a Freemason.

Belfast Officer's Appointment. -- Captain J. W. Storey, M.B.E., Belfast, has been appointed secretary of the District Selection Committee for Ulster in connection with of the Appointments Department of the Ministry of Labour. This committee and its Provincial Interviewing Boards and Special Boards deals with the training grants for ex-officers and men of similar educational status. Following his appointment, Captain Storey has resigned the secretaryship of the Church of Ireland Young Men's Society.

Proclaimed Meeting Broken Up. -- Mr. Lawrence Ginnell, M.P., for Westmeath, attempted to address a proclaimed meeting in Athlone, which was broken up by a military charge, in which the people were driven to take protection in the adjoining Roman Catholic church. Mr. Ginnell in a state of intense excitement denounced what her described as British Prussianism, and insisted on his right to address his constituency. He made other effective attempts to speak at other parts of the town. Some injuries were received by civilians.

Railway Buffets. -- The Lady Mayoress (Mrs. J. C. White) presided at a well-attended meeting of the buffets representatives in the Parlour, City Hall, when it was decided to close the sailors' and soldiers' buffets at the three railway stations (County Down, Great Northern, and Midland) on 30th June. These buffets have accomplished a really excellent work, and were much requested to convey the grateful thanks of the several committees in charge to the railway companies for their valuable assistance.

Indian Sentences. -- Further sentences in connection with disturbances in India are reported by the Viceroy. At Lahore three persons were sentenced to three years' imprisonment for stoning the police; nine were sentenced to seven years and one to three years for being in possession of property looted from the National Bank at Amritzar, and in other cases 10 men were sentenced to seven years' imprisonment. It appears that the rural population have taken little part in the disturbances, except along the railway lines in some places, and returning emigrants appear to have held aloof.

Labour, Trade, and Peace. -- Sir R. Horne, speaking at the American Luncheon Club, said Britain had got a far bigger effort than America to make in effecting the transition from war to peace. Experience in Britain during the war was that the trade union element was the most steady of all elements in the Labour world. He alluded with enthusiasm to the Labour Bureau to be established by the Peace Conference. With the relaxation of restrictions, trade was beginning to flow in its normal channels, and the Budget gave them certainty. If they obtained peace soon he had confidence that the spirit of enterprise Would again reanimate the country.

Lord Reading on Great Events. -- Lord Reading, at a farewell dinner given to him in New York by the Pilgrims' Club, said great events were happening. The re-opening of intercourse between Germany and the Allies was about to take place. This means but little, but it is significant that the great nations who have been waging war are striving to make the peace a permanent one. He was convinced that the harmony existing between America and Great Britain was never stronger than to-day. The King, in reply to a message of affection and respect from the Pilgrims, cabled that he looked forward not only to the assurance of a lasting peace, but to the enduring and steadfast, brotherhood of the two great English-speaking nations.

Not So Much Shell Shock. -- "The term shell shock," says "Popular Science," "has misled many persons to believe that it is due to the profound impression or shock produced on the nervous system by the detonations of high explosives. No doubt there are cases of actual brain or nerve injury due to concussion of the air accompanying shell explosions, but these mechanical causes are a great deal less frequently responsible for war neuroses than the mental effects of general war strain. It is remarkable that these war neuroses, common as they are among privates and officers alike, are seldom found in men who have been actually wounded. Perhaps this seeming anomaly is due to the actual wound shock off-setting the mental impression affecting the controlling nerve centre in such cases."

Death of Mr. James M'Clure -- The announcement of the death of this well-known citizen, which took place, following an attack of pneumonia, will be received with regret. Born at Ballylesson, he came to Belfast about half-a-century ago, and served his apprenticeship with Messrs. Brown, Reid, & Co. Subsequently he became connected with the wholesale drapery and linen establishment of Messrs. Miller, Boyd, & Reid. On the death of Mr. Andrew Melville, of the firm of Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd., whose daughter he had married, Mr. M'Clure was appointed manager of the concern, and filled the portion for many years with tact and ability. Though he never took an active part in politics, he was always a staunch Unionist. He is survived by two daughters and two sons, one of whom is serving in France.

Belfast Electricity Finances. -- Belfast City Council have decided to apply to the Local Government Board for sanction to a loan of £630,000 for 30 years, for the proposed new electric power station. The original estimate prepared by Sir John Snell was £310,000. Subsequently the estimates were revised, the new figure being £420,000. The lowest tender received for the foundations was £117,000, and as a result a further estimate was prepared which put the cost of buildings at £216,000 instead of £48,000, and the total cost of the scheme was raised to £628,000. At the meeting of the City Council a motion that counsel's opinion be taken with a view to terminating the agreement between Sir J. Snell and the Corporation was defeated by 13 votes to 8. Alderman Sir J. Johnston, moving the application for the loan, said they should go on with the station. They had promised to supply current and were committed to the contracts.

Queen's University Memorial. -- A meeting of students was held in the Examination Hall to consider a scheme to obtain money from the students towards the raising of a memorial to those Queensmen who have fallen in the war. Colonel T. Sinclair, C.B., president of the Services Club, presided. The following resolution was passed -- "It is resolved that we, students of the Queen's University of Belfast, heartily agree with the proposed scheme for the erection of a memorial to those Queensmen who have fallen in the war, and it is our opinion that we should do all in our power to help the Services Club in their effort to raise money for this memorial. And further, we think it behoves each student to co-operate both by contributing and by using his influence over his fellow-students and other likely contributors in raising a sum which will ensure the erection of a memorial worthy of the self-sacrifice and inspiring example of those of our fellow-students who have fallen in the war."

Tribute to Sir J. Johnston. -- The final meeting of the Belfast Food Control Sub-Committee was held in the City Hall pending the dissolution of the central body in Dublin, when it will automatically cease to exist, and no further meeting will take place, except some matter requiring special attention arises. Mr. H. M. Pollock, J.P., said he wished to take the opportunity of expressing on behalf of his colleagues on the committee their hearty appreciation of the work of their chairman, Sir James Johnston. That work had been continuous and arduous during the past two years. When the economic clouds were threatening, and when starvation seemed possible, the services of such committees as that were absolutely necessary. In that work Sir James, both as chairman of that committee, and as Northern representative on the main committee, rendered services that could not be over-estimated. That committee before separating would like to place on record a resolution of indebtedness to their chairman, and he moved accordingly. It was only one of the many great services that Sir James had rendered to the community. (Applause.) Mr. W. J. M'Guffin, in seconding the motion which was passed, stated that Sir James during the committee's existence had never failed in his duty, and had done much for the consumers. (Applause.)

 

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Birth

WEIR -- March 24, at Moukden, Manchuria, to Rev. Andrew and Mrs. Weir, of the Irish Presbyterian Mission, a son.

Deaths

COUSINS -- May 9, at Old Church Lane, Aghalee, Thomas Cousins.

DOUGLAS -- May 7, at Culnagrew, Dungannon, Sarah, widow of the late Samuel Douglas.

EDGAR -- May 5, at Bank of Scotland House, Moffat, Alfred Edgar, elder son of the late Rev. John Edgar, D.D., Belfast.

GREEN -- May 10, at Beachcroft, near Moira, William Kenneth, only and dearly-beloved son of William and Elizabeth Emily Green.

HOPE -- May 11, at Cottonmount, Mallusk, William, the dearly-beloved husband of Mary Hope.

MAXWELL -- May 11, at Inglerea, Antrim, Elizabeth Maxwell, late of Pittsburg, U.S.A.

M'KEE -- May 10, at Blenheim Villas, New Road, Donaghadee, Eleanor M'Kee.

M'KERVILL -- May 11, at Main Street, Ballymoney, Hugh M'Kervill, J.P., U.D.C., aged 73 years.

NELSON -- May 8, at Brooklands, Hillsborough, George Nelson, J.P.

NICHOLSON -- May 9, at Balloo, Antrim, William, the beloved husband of Annie Nicholson.

SCOTT -- May 9, at Ballyrobin, Muckamore, Robert, the beloved husband of M. Scott.

SEMPLE -- May 8, at Kilbride, William Semple.

SLOAN -- March 20, 1919, at his residence, 1,933, Turner Street, Vancouver, B.C., Alexander Sloan, formerly of 5, Duncairn Gardens, Belfast.

WYLIE -- May 9 (suddenly), at his residence, Holywood, Rev. William Wylie, late of Newry.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

A Union of Mistresses. -- An employers' association of mistresses has been formed in Birmingham. The Lady Mayoress was elected the first president. They were faced with a real problem with regard to domestic servants, she said, but it was going to be solved. It was the sacred privilege of house-wives to preserve the traditions' of home life. The formation of an industrial council was suggested.

Bishop's Opinion of Strikes. -- Speaking in Athlone, Most Rev. Dr. Hoare said Ireland was now a temperate country; one of the reasons being the difficulty of getting drink, and another the high prices. Referring to the Labour unrest, he recommended the formation of conciliation boards to adjust the differences existing between employers and workers, as any other course would produce revolution and Socialism.

Churches and Y.M.C.A. -- An appeal for definite co-operation between the Manchester and District Free Church Federation and the Y.M.C.A. movement was made at the annual meeting of the former. Mr. Morley, of the Manchester Y.M.C.A., said the movement now had the good will of the young men of the country to an unprecedented degree. The Y.M.C.A. could not, however, have carried out its war work but for the financial help given by the Churches.

School-Inspector's Sudden Death. -- Mr. James Keith, M.A., T.C.D., senior inspector of national schools, died with tragic suddenness. It appears that he was engaged at his duties in Larne, and was preparing to go on a journey along the Coast Road when he collapsed at the hotel door. He was immediately taken inside, butt expired before medical assistance could be procured. The late Mr. Keith, who resided at Ballymena, was well known in Belfast, and was a son Mr. Richard Keith, Maida Yale, Bangor. He was a Presbyterian in religion.

For Liberty and Justice. -- Sir Douglas Haig, speaking at a luncheon to which he was entertained after receiving the honorary freedom of Cupar, said it was for liberty and justice that we fought against a system of Government which knew no laws higher than its own thirst for world domination. Ours was a freedom which did not depend upon the subjection and ruin of our neighbours any more than it was at variance with an ordered and well-conducted social state. In the coming peace he hoped the opportunity that now was ours would be turned to the best account.

Ballymena Hiring Fair. -- At the half-yearly fair there was a brisk demand for servants of all classes, owing to the fact that labour is so much in arrear at the present time and the season so far advanced, but the response was not equal to the demand, with the result that prices fluctuated very considerably. Good ploughmen changed employers at from £25 to £30 for the half-year, with board and lodgings; general farm servants, £18 to £22 10s; girls for outdoor farm work, £12 10s to £18 10s; young girls, £9 to £11; and girls for general household and domestic purposes, £16 to £18.

Avation Record and Incidents. -- M. Sadi Lecomte, flying in a monoplane at Villa Conblay, rose 8,200 metres in an hour and a half. It is claimed that this beats the record of the Australian aviator Oerlioh in 1914. Two aeroplanes which left Biggins Hill, Kent, reached Madrid, their destination, after flying 900 miles in three stages. Lord Milner, at the age of 65, took his first trip in the air, flying from London to Paris M. Krause Jensen, a Danish airman, flew from Paris to Copenhagen in from eight to nine hours, bringing with him the text of the peace treaty for neutral Governments.

Conduct of the War. -- Nothing of a definite character has yet been announced, but it is rumoured that a Royal Commission is to be set up before very long to inquire into the conduct of the early stages of the war, so far as the British Army is concerned. The Duke of Connaught may be asked to preside over the Commission, but it is improbable that he would accent such an appointment. If such a Commission is set up, its personnel would have to be most carefully chosen, and the difficulty in selecting men free from political or military bias Would be a most serious one to overcome.

Missionary Work and Reconstruction. -- Dr. H. T. Hodgkin, formerly medical missioner in China, addressing the annual meeting of the Irish Laymen's Missionary movement in Dublin, at which Mr. C. Eason, J.P., presided, said the missionary movement had close relation with the great problem of international reconstruction, and they should seek international cooperation in the missionary movement. It might be a difficult point to mention co-operation between the people of Germany and England, but co-operation in the missionary movement might be the very way in which reconciliation might be found.

£2,000,000 for the Church Army. -- Mr. Pike Pease, M.P., presided at Queen's Hall, London, over the annual meeting of the Church Army. General Sir Henry Rawlinson, who was to have taken the chair, wrote stating that the late Fourth Army had benefited greatly from the Church Army, and had appreciated greatly the comforts of their huts. The chairman said the Church Army had kept its flag flying during the war, and although it existed for religious work had accomplished a considerable amount of social work. The support given to the Church Army during the last 15 years had amounted to £2,000,000.

Great Changes Promised. -- With the peace -- but not before -- great changes will take place in the Government of the Empire, says the political correspondent of the "Daily Sketch." Mr. Balfour, who has been a tower of strength at the Peace Conference, will retire from the Foreign Office to be succeeded by Lord Curzon. Mr. Walter Long and Sir Albert Stanley will also probably retire. Sir Auckland Geddes will go back to Toronto, and Lord French and Mr. Ian Macpherson will very likely leave Ireland. General Smuts, who has come over from Paris, to London with Sir Wm. Sutherland, will return to South Africa.

The Zionist Hopes. -- Dr. Weizmann, president of the English Zionist Federation, at the opening of the annual conference, of the federation at London, said he could state, to the best of his knowledge, that there had been no change in the situation of the Zionist movement. He was confident that the statement made by the British Government to the Jewish hopes in Palestine supported by the Allied forces were valid. A resolution was passed, expressing profound indignation at the massacres committed in 110 towns of Poland, and calling upon the Governments assembled at the Peace Conference to take such steps as will prevent the repetition of such inhumanities.

Less "Wee" and More "Free" Liberals. -- Sir Donald Maclean, speaking at Southport, said that Liberalism never really flourished during the war but Liberalism was not no much crushed this time as those things which depended upon Liberalism for their support. One of the things which for the time being they had lost was a free Parliament. That could only be rectified by a new election. There were signs that when that election came there would be a great change. He and his supporters had been called "Wee Frees," but they were becoming less "wee" and more "free" (Laughter.) Next time the deliberate judgment of this time-old politically experienced people would be cast once again on the side of peace, retrenchment, and reform.

Income-Tax on Workers. -- In the House of Commons, Mr. Arnold (Labour) urged that exemption for income tax should be increased from £130 to £250 a year. He pointed out £250 represented only £125 of pre-war values and the rate of income tax was much higher. Mr. Clynes (Labour) said it was unfair, and unreasonable to tax any class whose income afforded only the bare necessities of existence. Mr. Chamberlain said it was impossible to withdraw a tax imposed to meet the costs of the war immediately hostilities cease. If the exemption were raised to £250 the loss would be eight millions, while allowing for the necessary revision of abatements on incomes of over £250 the loss would be 16 to 20 millons. Sir E. Carson said the position of many who were no longer able to work and who were living on a pension of £400 a year was, owing to the enormous income tax and increased cost of living, lamentable. The House declined to grant the exemption suggested.

Death of Ulster Baronet. -- The death occurred at Tangier, Morocco, of Colonel Sir Hervey Juckes Lloyd Bruce, Baronet, Deputy-Lieutenant for Co. Londonderry. Since the beginning of the spring Sir Hervey had suffered from a severe bronchial attack, and, acting on medical advice, he left for Tangier on the 17th April in the hope that the warmer climate would restore him to his former health and vigour. On the death in December, 1907, of his father, the Right Hon. Sir Henry Hervey Bruce, third Baronet, he succeeded to the title which was created in 1804, and to the ownership of Downhill Castle and estate in the County Londonderry. His father was the last M.P. for Coleraine, and served in the Parliament of 1880-85, until the borough was merged in North Derry Parliamentary Division, under the Redistribution of Seats Act. Educated at Eton College, Sir Hervey Bruce was in his 19th year when he entered the Army, joining the Coldstream Guards. He retired with the rank of Colonel in 1878. There are four sons, the heir to the baronetcy being Major Hervey Ronald Bruce, J.P., who was born on the 9th December, 1872.

The P. R. Bill. -- To the Local Government (Ireland) Bill in committee, Major O'Neill proposed an amendment providing that aldermen, town councillors, and commissioners should go out of office in 1925 instead of 1920, as in the Bill. The Attorney-General for Ireland said the proposals of the Bill were essential to proportional representation. The object was to have practically a general election of the town and urban councils next January. He would accept an amendment postponing rural and county council elections to 1920. The amendment was defeated. Mr. MacVeagh moved the deletion of Clause 7, which provides that if a local authority failed to provide statutory duties the L.G.B. might appoint someone to perform the duties. He said if the abominable clause was not dropped the Bill would he fought in the House. Mr. Devlin said Sir E, Carson had denounced the clause, but no doubt he was thinking of the Belfast Corporation. The chairman (Capt. A. Smith) said it did not affect Belfast Corporation. Mr. Devlin -- Yes, it does. The Attorney-General said it did not affect chartered corporations.

More Money for Labour. -- The annual report of the National Amalgamated Union of Labour states that settlements have been arrived at during the past quarter giving an annual increase of nearly £400,000 to 22,000 members.

Churchman's Bequests. -- The late Canon Campbell, St. George's (Anglican) Church, Jerusalem, who was an Ulsterman, left £5,000 for additional clergy for Belfast; a third of the residue or his estate to supplement this, while another third is to go to the Belfast Cathedral Fund.

Limerick Strike Loss. -- The directors of the Limerick Chamber of Commerce estimate that the loss, directly and indirectly, to Limerick, caused by the strike to be £42,000 in wages and £250,000 in loss of turnover, in addition to permanent loss of trade, which cannot be valued in money.

Viceroy's Advisory Committee. -- The Lord Lieutenant's Advisory Committee, which was appointed some time ago for the purpose of advising his Excellency on various matters relating to Irish affairs, has now been dissolved. This intimation has been conveyed to the members of the Committee, with a letter of thanks for their services.

Coleraine Hiring Fair. -- Good ploughmen received for the half year from 28s to 33s per week with free house and fuel; ploughmen, with board and lodgings, £25 to £26; second men, £17 to £22; and lads, £9 to £13; girls for outdoor farmwork, £11 to £13; young girls, £9 to £11; and girls for general household and domestic purposes, £16 to £17.

What will the Earl do? -- At a meeting at Norwich, organised by Comrades of the Great War, the Earl of Leicester, who presided, was challenged by an old soldier who, amid applause, said, "There are orphans and widows of soldiers who died in this war in the workhouse. Your lordship would do a nice act if you would take a half dozen of these little paupers and maintain them.

Projected Farmers' Bank. -- We understand, says "The Times," that leading British agriculturalists, who may be considered to have the confidence of all interested in agriculture, have for some time past been considering the formation of a farmers' bank, and that it has now been decided that such a bank should be formed. One of the largest of the joint stock banks has already promised to assist, and it is hoped that others will follow its lead.

Mr. Asquith and Parliament. -- "The Picquet," writing in the "Sunday Express," says that a well-informed politician tells me that Mr. Asquith may be back in the House of Commons long before most people expect. It will probably be brought about by the resignation of a member and an agreement between the party leaders that the seat shall not be contested. It is well known that Mr. Lloyd George himself would very much like to see the old Liberal Leader back in his place."

Future of the World. -- Lord Reading, who has returned to this country from America, in an interview, referred to his mission in the United States, and said he came back more convinced than ever that the future of the world depended in the main on the relations between ourselves and this United States. Irish agitation had been the main cause of anti-British feeling, but at the same time the vast majority of the American people, by getting to know us better, had a deeper feeling for the British than ever before.

Tardree Farmers' Association. -- The annual meeting of the Tardree Farmers' Association was held in Tardree N.S., Mr. Hugh Minford (president of the Antrim Farmers' Association) presiding. Mr. Robert Murdock was elected president, Mr. Thomas Bell, treasurer, and Mr. George Craig secretary. Messrs. Thomas Bell, T. Ramsey, F. M'Cord, R. Murdock, G. Duncan, and William M'Clean were selected as delegates to the Central Council. Addresses were delivered by Messrs. George Barry Millar, Larne, and William Graham, Ballyhill Farmers' Association.

Church and Business. -- A new departure by a religious body in commercial enterprise has been taken by the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Connexion, which has just purchased the business of the Welsh Publishing Company, Carnarvon. The Connexion already owned a weekly newspaper and three monthly magazines, and it now becomes its own printer as well as publisher. This is the first recorded instance of a religious connexion entering a competitive commercial sphere, and strong opposition is threatened at the approaching annual Assembly.

New Irish Bishop. -- Very Rev. Robert Miller, M.A., Dean of Waterford, has been appointed successor to Rt. Rev. Dr. O'Hara, who has retired from the Bishopric of Cashel. The new Bishop graduated B.A. in Trinity College, Dublin, in 1893, and M.A. in 1903. He was appointed Hon. Chaplain to the Lord Lieutenant in 1911, a Commissioner of National Education in 1913, and Dean of Waterford in 1916. He ministered in the diocese of Derry and Raphoe from 1892 t0 1905, and was instituted Rector of Crinken, Bray, in the latter year. He is secretary of the Incorporated Society for the Promotion of Protestant Schools in Ireland.

Limavady Hiring Fair. -- Competent men, capable of all classes of work, ploughing, handling all harvesting machinery, building stacks, &c., secured £25 to £27 10s with board and lodgings for the six months. In a few instances it was reported that £30 was reached with the same benefits. Men engaged at a weekly wage equally competent got 30s to 32s 6d with free house, potato ground, milk, cards stamped free, and other benefits; strong young mem for jobbing, £20 to £22 10s; youths, £16 to £20; boys, £14 to £16 10s; strong women for indoor and outdoor capable of dairy and laundry work, £14 to £18; average domestic, £12 to £15, others, from £10 to £13; small girls, £8 to £10; learners willing to apply themselves to all sorts of female work about a farm, £10 to £14.

Sequel to Belfast Strike. -- Mr. J. Roche, R.M., dismissed at Belfast, a summons brought by Mr. R. Meharey (Porter Bros.) against the Belfast Corporation, for not having supplied him with electricity according, to contract during the strike, holding that the defendants had done all they could in the circumstances. He consented to state a case.

Irish Bacon. -- In the House of Commons, Sir W. Davison asked the Food Controller if he would state under what circumstances the export of bacon from Ireland to Great Britain was still prohibited. Mr. M'Curdy said the export of bacon from Ireland to Great Britain was prohibited except under license issued by the Food Control Committee for ireland. The object of the prohibition was to ensure that sufficient bacon was available for the Irish home trade, and so far as was consistent with that object export licenses were being freely issued.

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

Increased Pay for the Navy. -- The Admiralty announces the following new rates (old rates are in parentheses) of pay, &c., for the Royal Navy and Marines. The total eventual cost of the present decision will be £6,148,000 annually:-- Ordinary seamen, 2s 9d a day (1s 3d), with intervening rates up to chief petty officer, 8s 6d (4s 3d); signal men, 4s 3d (2s 1d); chief yeoman of signals, 9s (4s 11d); telegraphists do.; artificers, 5th class, 6s 6d (4s 3d); chief, 12s 6d (8s. 1d); stokers, 2nd class, 3s 3d (1s 8d); chief do. 9s (4s 3d); mechanics and s. writers, same as artificers. Other skilled branches and coastguards and special and non-continuous service rating also receive substantial increases. Marine L.I. -- Private, 2s 9d (1s 2d), after 1 year 3s 6d, 6 years 4s 6d. R.M.A. -- Gunner -- 2nd class, 3s 6d (1s 4d); 1st class (under 6 months), 4s (1s 7d), after 6 months 4s 6d. Colour-sergeant Maj. Inf., 10s (4s 1d); Artil., 10s (4s 9d). For each good conduct badge 3d instead of 1d a day will be allowed, with maximum of 9d. The new scales of substantive pay will be ante-dated Feb. 1st, non-substantive operate from May 1st. The basic rate for pensions will be 1½d a day for each year of service instead of ½d. The effect of the changes will be roughly to increase average pension from £40 to about £78 a year, and maximum from £64 to about £100, exclusive of old age pension. Other changes include a permanent child's allowance as from Jan. 1st, 1920, of 7s weekly for one child, 12s for 2, 16s for 3, and 4s each additional child.

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COUNTY LIMERICK OUTRAGE.

Two Policemen Killed -- Prisoner Rescued.

A sensational scene occurred at Knocklong, County Limerick, on Tuesday night, when a party of armed men attacked the train passing through at eight o'clock, and rescued a prisoner from an escort of four police, who, it is stated, were fired on, the sergeant in charge and a constable being hit. The escort were bringing a prisoner from Thurles to Cork, and in the excitement he made good his escape. The injured policemen were removed to Kilmallock, the constable dying on arrival. The sergeant was taken to the union hospital, where he succumbed on Wednesday evening. The deceased police-officers are Sergt. Peter Wallace (44), married, and Constable Michael Enright (35) unmarried. No arrests have yet been made, but the police and military the very active pursuing inquiries.

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DEATH OF MR ALFRED EDGAR

We regret to announce the death of Mr. Alfred Edgar, elder son of the late Rev. John Edgar, D.D., Belfast, which took place suddenly at Bank of Scotland House, Moffat. The deceased gentleman, who was over 80 years of age, was identified with the Belfast linen trade more than fifty years ago, and was also in the insurance business. He subsequently went to Italy, and lived for some time in Genoa. On his return home he secured the position of secretary to one of the Land Commissions that sat in different centres for the purpose of fixing fair rents. To all his duties he attended with zeal and ability, and his genial and kindly manner made him extremely popular wherever he went. He was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church, and took a great interest in evangelistic efforts and in all kinds of mission work. For the last few years of his life Mr. Edgar lived in Scotland, first in Edinburgh, and subsequently with his only daughter, who is married to the manager of the Bank of Scotland branch in Moffat. His wife predeceased him some years ago, as did also his sisters, Mrs. Bigger, Derry; Mrs. Sinclair, Hopefield House, stepmother of the late Right Hon. Thomas Sinclair, D.L.; and Mrs. Park, wife of Rev. Dr. Park, minister of Rosemary Street Presbyterian Church. His brother, Mr. John Edgar, resides at 7, College Park East, Belfast.

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DEATH OF MR. ALEX MITCHELL

The death occurred suddenly on Sabbath of Mr. Alexander Mitchell, at his residence, 56, Botanic Avenue, Belfast. The late Mr. Mitchell, who was 68 years of age, spent the greater part of his life in Belfast, where he built up the extensive shop-fitting business whose centre is at the North Street establishment, and with which are associated branches how in various parts of the country. The late Mr. Mitchell was a Unionist in his views, but did not take any active part in politics. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, belonging to the congregation of Fisherwick. In their sudden bereavement deep sympathy will be extended to the sorrowing widow of the deceased and his only son, Mr. William Mitchell, who is the esteemed choirmaster of Rosemary Street Presbyterian Church (Rev. Dr. Park's).

The funeral of the deceased took place to the City Cemetery on Tuesday afternoon. The chief mourners were Mr. William Mitchell (son), Mr. John Mitchell (brother), Messrs. James and George Titterington (brother-in-law), John Mitchell and Robert W. and Wm. Moore (nephews). Short services were conducted by the Rev. Dr. Park at the home and Rev. W. J. P. Waddell at the graveside. Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd., had charge of the funeral arrangements

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The diamond wedding of the Rev. William Mitchell, M.A., senior minister of Ballyblack congregation, and Mrs. Mitchell, who were married on 6th May, 1859, was reached on Monday, 5th inst. On Saturday, 10th inst., the ninety-first anniversary of Mr. Mitchell's birthday (which was also on Saturday), Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell were at home to their friends at Riverside, Holywood.

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MR. W. J. CHAPMAN'S NEW DENTAL SURGERY

Mr. W. J. Chapman, the well-known dentist, who has, with the assistance of his two brothers, carried on a most successful surgery at Castlereagh Street, has removed to more central premises at 89, Great Victoria Street. The new establishment, which has been admirably equipped with all the most modern appliances necessary for the success of high-class dentistry, will be found to be very convenient for the ever-increasing clientele of this celebrated firm. All the work is done under the personal supervision of the Messrs. Chapman, and this is a guarantee that the utmost satisfaction is given. The charges are at reasonable rates, and the courtesy and skilfulness and attention of the staff are proverbial.

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At a certain church it is the custom of the clergyman to kiss the bride after the ceremony. A young woman who was about to be married did not relish the prospect and instructed her prospective husband to tell the clergyman that she did not wish him to kiss her. The young man obeyed her instructions. "Well, Harry," said the young woman, when he appeared, "did you tell the minister that I did not wish him to kiss me?" "Yes." "And what did he say?" "He said that, in that case, he would charge only half the usual fee."

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DEATH OF MR. SAMUEL GEDDES

Amid many manifestations of sorrow and respect, the remains of Mr. Samuel Geddes was laid to rest in Newtownbreda Cemetery last week. The large and representative attendance at the funeral bore striking testimony to the high esteem in which the deceased was held by those associated with him in his lifetime both in business and church life. Mr. Geddes was brought to a knowledge of the Saviour in early life, and from the time of his conversion evinced the deepest interest in all that pertained to the spiritual welfare of his fellowmen at home and in other lands. He was formerly a member of Bessbrook Presbyterian Church of which congregation he was secretary, until his transfer to the head office in Belfast of Messrs. J. N. Richardson, Son, & Owden, Ltd., in whose employment he remained from boyhood until his death. He was also engaged in Y.M.C.A. and other branches of Christian work in Bessbrook. Upon his leaving there he received a presentation address from the congregation as a token of their esteem. After coming to reside in Belfast, he worshipped in Ravenhill Road Presbyterian Church, and performed the duties of secretary for many years with conspicuous zeal and ability. He was an elder of the congregation, and secretary of the Ravenhill branch, of the National Health Insurance Society, in connection with which his services were highly appreciated. Being an enthusiastic supporter of the Belfast City Mission, he acted as treasurer in connection with the work of the mission carried on in Boyd Endowment School, Ravenhill Road, and taught a large class of young women with marked success. Much sympathy is felt for Mrs. Geddes in her sad bereavement.

 

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Birth

BREAKEY -- May 17, at Lisdrum House, Newry, to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Breakey -- a daughter.

Deaths

MILLIKIN -- May 17, at his residence, Ballyminstra, Groomsport, Co. Down, Edward William, the dearly-loved son of Grace C. and the late William John Millikin, Lisnabreeny. Interred at Knockbracken, on the 19th inst.

ROULSTON -- May 20, 1919, at her residence, Laurence Hill, Londonderry, Rebecca Jane Roulston, third daughter of the late John Roulston, of Londonderry. Funeral private. No flowers, by request.

ARMSTRONG -- May 17, at Orchard Hill, Drumanocken, Hillsborough, Miriam Elizabeth, wife of John S. Armstrong, late of New South Wales.

BELL -- May 18, at her residence, Kaltariff, Rathfriland, Sara Jane, widow of the late Robert Bell.
   Only a step removed,
      And that step -- into bliss!
   Our own, our dearly loved,
      Whom here on earth we miss.
   Only a step removed!
      We soon again shall meet
   Our own, our dearly loved,
      Around the Saviour's feet.

BERESFORD-BERESFORD -- May 16, 1919, at Craig Dhu Varren, Portrush, Major-General John Beresford-Beresford, in his 91st year.

CHERRY -- May 18, at 79, Bow Street, Lisburn, James, dearly-beloved husband of ---- Cherry.

CORRIGAN -- May 15, 1919, at Tamnamore Old House, Moy, Co. Tyrone, Alicia Margaret, youngest daughter of the late Samuel Corrigan, Derryscollop House, Co. Armagh.

DEBOYS -- At Kingsmoss, Mary S. G., daughter of Robert James and Agnes Deboys.

GRAHAM -- May 17, at his residence, Drumlough, Hillsborough, Richard Graham.

GREEN -- May 16, at Aghalee, Emma, dearly-beloved wife of Samuel Green.

HUNTER -- May 15, at Inch Bonny, Manse Road, Bangor, Adam Hunter, aged 82 years.

HUTCHESON -- May 20, at 4, Florence Place, Elizabeth, the beloved wife of John Hutcheson.

MEEKE -- May 18, at Red Gables, Eastleigh Drive, Violet Hilda, dearly-beloved daughter of Mrs. D. J. Phenix and the late Dr. R. J. Meeke, H.M.S. Niger Coast Protectorate, West Africa.

MORROW -- May 20, 1919, at his residence, Rockville, Ballyjamesduff, John Morrow, J.P, aged 85 years.

M'GOOKIN -- May 17, 1919, at his father's residence, Headwood, Ballynure, Joseph Knox M'Gookin.

NIBLOCK -- May 13, at Little Rath, Trim, Co. Meath, Jack, only and dearly-loved son of John Niblock, Bank House, Garvagh, Co. Derry.

PALMER -- May 16, at Lower Maze, Hillsborough, John Woolley, dearly-beloved husband of Lucy Palmer.

PURDON -- May 18, at Bank House, Randalstown, Thomas ??ury Purdon.

ROBINSON -- May 18, at 64, Dufferin Avenue, Bangor, Margaret Anna, widow of the late Isiah Robinson, formerly of Rossmore Avenue, Belfast.

RUTLEDGE -- May 18, at Highgate Manor, Newtownbutler, Ann Balfour, relict of the late David Rutledge.

SKILLEN -- May 16, at 5, Shore Street, Holywood, James Harkness, second and dearly-beloved son of William and Mary Skillen.

SULLIVAN -- May 15, at the residence of her brother-in-law (John Wright, 15, Shore Street, Holywood), Margaret Sullivan (nee Spence) daughter of the late William Spence, Knocknagoney, Holywood, aged 77 years.

TODD -- May 18 (suddenly), at his brother's residence, James STreet, Cookstown, George Todd.

WALLACE -- May 18, at Hillhead, Ballymather, Margaret, the dearly-beloved wife of William Wallace.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK IN BRIEF.

Honour for Mr. T. P. Gill. -- A Reuter's telegram from Paris states that the Academy of Agriculture has elected as its Foreign Correspondent in the Section of Agriculture Mr. T. P. Gill, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture in Ireland.

Struggling Along on £10,000. -- The Bishop of London stated that out of his £10,000 a year £6,500 went in taxes, rates and insurance. Me had decided to let London House, and would have to try and keep the garden, Fulham Palace, a motor, and len set

Bachelor Tax a Failure. -- After vainly trying to collect a tax of $29,000 due from bachelors who are liable to the impost, Montreal has decided to forego this form of taxation, finding that the cost of collecting is more than the receipts. Out of the total due, only $11,072 were paid into the city.

Technical Institute. -- Professor John Earls, B.A., as vice-principal of the Technical Institute for some time, has been recommended by the Library and Technical Committee of the Belfast Corporation for appointment to the vacant principalship, in succession to the late Captain F.C. Forth.

British Cruiser Mined. -- The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that H.M.S. Curacoa struck mine while operating in the Baltic. There were no casualties, and the ship only received slight damage. The cruiser Curacoa was the flagship of Rear-Admiral Sir Reginald Tyrwhitt, when he relinquished the Harwich command, a week or two ago.

Housing of Pigs and Miners. -- Commenting on the number of miners families who lived in one-roomed houses at the Coal Commission, Mr. Hodge reminded Sir A. Nimmo, who admitted that the condition was most deplorable, that in pig styes, even 30 years ago, there was a cot for the pig to sleep in and space set apart for it to feed in.

War Pensioners in Australia. -- At the end of June, 1918, there were 104,259 war pensioners in the Commonwealth. The incapacitated soldiers drawing pensions numbered 39,809, dependants of deceased soldiers 33,760, dependants of incapacitated soldiers 10,664. Victoria's quota of pensioners was 34,341, New South Wales 33,835, Queensland 11,655, South Australia 10,119, Western Australia 9,836, Tasmania 1,453. Up to June 30, 1918, the war pension expenditure had been £2,772,210.

Treasury and Irish Education. -- Mr. Samuels, Parliament, told Sir Whitla, who asked whether it was intended to make good the deficiency of £19,400 which Ireland had incurred in the past year in relation to the Equivalent Grant for education, that the Chief Secretary was in communication with the Treasury, that the Equivalent Grant for education must be regarded for Irish education as a whole, and that the whole subject was being considered by the Irish Government.

Asquith and the Coalition. -- Speaking at Newcastle-on-Tyne, Mr. Asquith said the House of Commons was no longer representative of deliberate judgment of the people. A real opposition was the essence of parliamentary life, and it was coming into being. Every bye-election promised to add to its ranks. The House of Commons had become a top-heavy and unworkable machine, and Coalition was unsuitable to the constructive tasks of peace. It would be a mistake for young Liberals to throw in their lot with the Labour party.

Late Mr. C. Kirkwood. -- The funeral took place from 10, Elmwood Avenue, to the City Cemetery, of Mr. Clyde Kirkwood, formerly a well-known figure in the commercial life of Belfast, whose death has been so deeply regretted by his large circle of friends. The chief mourners were Messrs. Clyde and John Kirkwood (sons), Mrs. James M. Cahoon (daughter), Mrs. John Kirkwood (daughter-in-law), and James M. Cahoon (son-in-law). Rev. Dr. Mr. Irwin officiated at the graveside. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mesers. Melville & Co., Ltd.

Christian Endeavour. -- A meeting of the Irish C.E. Convention Committee was held in Donegall Square Methodist School. Arrangements were considered in connection with the fourteenth annual Irish C.E. Convention, to be held early next winter in Belfast. Several prominent British Endeavourers have been secured as speakers, and great things are anticipated. A circular letter is to be forwarded to all Irish C.E. societies, urging Endeavourers to engage in the ministry of intercession preparatory to the Convention meetings. The Rev. John Pollock presided.

Prayers for the Dead. -- Mr. J. Leech, K.C., presiding at a meeting of the Protestant Church Union in Dublin, said their Church to-day would be flooded with prayers for the dead but for the action of the Union, and some recent litigation was a fight between the Bishops and the General Synod as to which was to be the governing body of the Church. Mr. R. R. Neill, Cork, said it was sad to think that actually some of their Bishops were involved in the attempt, and some of the clergymen gladly followed their lead. In England many of the churches now were as Roman as Rome itself.

Court Official's Death. -- A large circle of friends will regret to hear of the death of Mr. Richard S. Grainger, official assignee of the Belfast Bankruptcy Court, which occurred at has residence, 12, Kansas Avenue. In the discharge of his duties Mr. Grainger displayed marked tact and ability. He had thorough knowledge of bankruptcy procedure, and was very conscientious and painstaking in the administration of the estates with which he had to deal on behalf of the Court. A devotee of golf, he was a past captain and a former treasurer of the Fortwilliam Club. He was also member of the Masonic Order.

Carson and a Lasting Peace. -- Presiding at Kew at a meeting addressed by Mr. Clynes, M.P., on the League of Nations, Sir Edward Carson said without lasting and enduring peace we could not construct the great social fabric which had been so torn asunder by devastating war. Therefore, we all rejoiced that one of the first terms of the peace treaty was the covenant of the League of Nations. If the League of Nations secured its object it would be the greatest attainment of the war we had just waged. God grant that the League of Nations might grow in strength and power and secure for us the everlasting blessings of peace.

Belfast Officer Promoted. -- Mr. Robert Dunlop, senior District Inspector of the Royal Irish Constabulary in Belfast, has been promoted to the rank of County Inspector and transferred to County Carlow. In 1893 he was appointed a third class District Inspector, and served successfully in Strabane and Downpatrick. He was transferred to Belfast about fourteen years ago, first taking charge of the Mountpottinger district, and then of the Central district, with headquarters in Musgrave Street. In 1912 he we made chief of the detective staff. At Trinity College Mr. Dunlop had a notable career, taking with honours the B.A. and LL.B. degrees.

Federal Home Rule. -- Mr. Churchill, addressing the Dundee Liberal Association, said that he was in favour of Scottish, Irish, and Welsh Home Rule. The more the conception of Federal Home Rule was examined, the more it was seen to be the best way out of the difficulties with which we had been surrounded. If we were to make our national life as full and effective as it ought to be, we would have to consider schemes of devolution of business which concerned great parts of the country. He had every reason to belive that the views that he had expressed were held in common, not only by Liberal members of the Government, but by many Conservatives, with whom they were glad to be working in so much amity and concord.

An Ulster V.C. -- I is officially announced that His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the late Second-Lieut, Edmund de Wind, 15th Batt. Royal Irish Rifles. The deceased officer was the youngest son of the late Mr. A. H. De Wind, a well-known civil engineer in Belfast, and of Mrs. De Wind, Kinvara, Comber. He was born on 11 December, 1883, and entered Campbell Collage, Belfast, in 1886, remaining at that school for four and a half years. He subsequently joined the staff of the Cavan branch of the Bank of Ireland. On 1st November, 1911, he went to the Bank of Commerce, Edmonton, where he enlisted in 1915. This is the ninth Victoria Cross awarded to the Ulster Division.

Vicar's Balance-Sheet. -- The vicar of a large industrial parish in North Worcestershire who is a rural dean has issued a balance-sheet showing that his living comes to less than £3 a week.

Millions for U.S. Red Cross. -- The American Red Cross reports to Secretary of War Baker that for the year ending June 30, 1918, it appropriated £21,400,000 to carry on its work, of which £11.800,000 was expended abroad.

Flight to Australia. -- A prize of £10,000 is being offered by the Federal Government to the first pilot of Australian nationality arriving from Great Britain before midnight, December 31, 1920, within 720 consecutive hours from starting.

Eggs from the Air. -- Eddie Stinson, while flying 700ft high at speed of 70 miles an hour, dropped a crate of eggs without smashing any, states a U.S. wireless message from Atlantic City. The eggs were tossed over to test a new cycle of parachute.

Flying Mishap to King Albert. -- While King Albert was flying from Folkestone to Dartmouth to visit his son his Majesty's boat developed engine trouble 6 miles off Dartmouth and had to descend, and the King was transferred to another boat and continued the journey.

Lighthouse Raided. -- A party of masked men entered Mine Head lighthouse, on the Waterford coast, and, presenting revolvers at the head of the lighthouse keeper and his goD, searched the lighthouse for arms. They took away some arms. No arrests have been made.

The Oldest Oddfellow. -- Born in 1837, and married in 1859, Mr. William Sanderson, of 32, Macaulay and Street, Grimsby, who, with his wife, celebrated their diamond wedding at the week-end, is probably the oldest Oddfellow in the country, for he joined the order in his youth.

U.S.A. Credits. -- The United States Treasury announces new credits -- one in favour of Great Britain for £16,000,000, making the total credits for Britain £863,200,000; and another of £278,000 for Belgium, making Belgium's total credits £68,100,000, and the total of the credits to all the Allies £1,874.040,000.

Prince to Visit Canada. -- The Prince of Wales is to visit Canada in August to open the new Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. The Prince, at a dinner given by the Canada Club in London to General A. Currie, paid a tribute to the deeds of the Canadians, and said he was looking forward to seing many old friends on his visit.

Indian Campaigner's Death. -- The death has occurred of Major-General John Beresford-Beresford (31), at his residence, Craig Dhu, Varren House, Portrush. He served in the second Punjab campaign, and on the Punjab frontier during the Mutiny, afterwards acting as British Resident in Cashmere for two years.

Wagoner's £100 a Year. -- As much as £100 was asked as a yearly reward for wagoners living out -- treble the pre-war figure -- at Nottingham annual hirings. There was no feverish anxiety on the part of servants, male and female, to secure contracts. The majority were engaged at £56, second men £45 to £50, and lads asked £30, living in.

Half a Million Pounds Fire. -- Messrs. Campbell's dyeworks at Perth were totally destroyed by fire. The damage is estimated at fully half a million pounds. The fire originated in the finishing department, and spread with such rapidity that within two hours the great range of buildings was roaring furnace. Hundreds of persons will be thrown idle as a result of the fire.

Cost of the War. -- Mr. Chamberlain, answering Mr. Lambert in the Commons, said that the net cost of the war to the Exchequer up to the end of March last, excluding the normal peace expenditure and debts due from Allies and dominions in respect loans, was £6,700,000,000. This amount was exclusive of liabilities in respect of the war which would accrue after March 31st.

Clergy's Claim for Minimum. -- "They are paying labourers at the cathedral £4 a week now, but they are not paying their clergy anything like that sum," said the Archdeacon of Dorset (the Ven. C. L. Dundas) at his annual visitation in Wimborne. "The Church as a whole," he added, "must recognise that the clergyman must have a minimum standard of pay, just as much as a mason's labourer."

Allies' Struggle for Trade in Germany. -- Our Allies, says the special correspondent of the Press Association in Cologne, have secured considerable start in trade over Great Britain since the occupied territory was thrown open, and about £333,000,000 worth have already fallen France and Belgium. Seventy British firms in Cologne have organised the British Chamber of Commerce in Cologne.

Women Magistrates. -- The second reading of Lord Beauchamp's Bill for the creation of women J.P.'S as agreed to in the House of Lords, the Lord Chancellor saying that in view of utterances by members of the Government, they could not refuse assent, but warning those interested that women must not expect once a large addition to the benches. Lord Crewe expressed gratification at the Government attitude.

Labour and Military Service. -- A great labour and trade unionist demonstration on Southsea Common condemned the Government for extending the Military Service Acts and violating pledges that the Allies' victory would end militarism, and called for the immediate withdrawal of the Military Service Acts and the Allied troops from Eastern and Central Europe, where, they alleged, the Allies were trying to suppress the democratic revolution.

Night Work Indispensable. -- Mr. Hugh McMilian, Chairman of the Belfast Bakers' Association, and Managing Director of the Bloomfield Bakery, Ltd., Belfast, appeared before the Government Committee sitting in London to inquire into the subject of night baking. With the full authority of the bakers of Belfast, he said, he gave their opinion on the matter. After careful consideration, the master bakers of Belfast had decided, and no other conclusion could be arrived at, that it was impossible to dispense with night work, at any rate, for the present, as the difficulties were insuperable.

Enmity to Returning Soldiers. -- The Lord Lieutenant, Lord French, speaking at a meeting of the committee of the Soldiers Central Club in Dublin, said in every quarter of the Empire the care of soldiers returning from the war, whether wounded, on leave, or discharged, must ever be one of their chief concerns. It filled him with sorrow and regret to be obliged to emphasise the fact that in Ireland, and especially in Dublin, animosity increasing of a small portion of the community towards any returned soldier laid an additional burden upon all the loyal population in counteracting this sinister and unworthy influence. He insisted that this was a matter into which politics should not enter at all.

Irish Judiciary. -- Concerning reports that Mr. Denis Henry, the present Solicitor-General for Ireland, is likely to succeed to the vacancy on the Irish Judicial Bench caused by the retirement of Mr. Justice Madden, it should be noted that the appointment is open to the Attorney-General if he likes to accept it. Mr. Samuels is not very keen in he matter. He has taken an important hand in the reconstructive Irish legislation now before Parliament, and would doubtless like to through. In connection with a possible vacancy in the Solicitor-Generalship the name of Mr. Serjeant Matheson, Mr. Serjeant Sullivan, Mr. Henry Hanna, and Mr. D. H. Wilson, M.P., for West Down, are mentioned.

 

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Roll of Honour

HALL -- March 30, at Red Deer, Canada (of influenza), Thomas A. Hall, Chief Petty Officer R.N.C.V.R., beloved husband of Gladys C. Hall, and elder son of Alexander Hall, Drumeague, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan.

Killed in Action

BRIDGETT -- Previously reported missing, now officially believed killed at Gaudach, near Metz, on 13th September, 1918, 2nd Lieut. Claude Bridgett, R.A.F., youngest son of the late William Beddome Bridgett, and dearly loved step-son of Mrs. Bridgett, 12, Briar Walk, Putney, London, in his 19th year.

Birth

HARSHAW -- May 10, at Ballinafern, to Mr. and Mrs. John W. Harshaw -- a daughter.

Marriage

LYLE--HOYTE -- April 15, 1919, in Ahmedabad, by the Rev. G. P. Taylor, D.D., assisted by the Rev. R. Boyd, the Rev. John M. Lyle (Irish Presbyterian Mission), third surviving son of the late Rev. T. and Mrs. Lyle, Dublin, to Florence Rudd, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Hoyte, Nottingham.

Deaths

SHANNON -- May 26, 1919, at her residence, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Sarah A. Shannon, widow of the late John Shannon. Interred at Ervey Presbyterian Church, on Thursday, 29th inst.

BARR -- May 26 (suddenly), at Tandragee, Samuel J. Barr.

BROWN -- May 21, at Tullycavey, Greyabbey, Thomas Brown.

BROWN -- May 23, at Broad Street, Magherafelt, Georgina Greenfield Brown.

CLARK -- May 24, at her son's residence, Donegore, Elizabeth Clark, relict of the late Alexander Clark, of Ballyno.

COUSINS -- May 23, at Crumlin, Mary Louisa (Lucy), youngest surviving daughter of the late Henry Cousins.

DIVER -- May 22, at 57, Holborn Avenue, Bangor, Andrew Diver.

FERGUSON -- May 27, at her father's residence, Ballyregan, Margaret Isabella Ferguson.

HEDLEY -- May 23, the result of an accident, at Lower Mary Street, Newtownards, Elfie, dearly-loved daughter of John and Annie Hedley, aged 4 years.

KING -- May 23, at Gloonan, Ahoghill, Jane King.

MILLIKEN -- May 25, 1919, (suddenly, of pneumonia), at Royal Victoria Hospital, Susan W. Milliken, second and much-loved daughter of John Milliken, Ravara, Ballygowan.

M'CULLOUGH -- May 13, in a hospital, Chicago, U.S.A. (after a serious operation), Charles Edward, third son of Henry Irwin M'Cullough, 24, Cromwell Road, Belfast.

M'FALL -- May 24, at Magherintendry, Bushmills, Elizabeth Nevin, beloved wife of John M'Fall.

M'KIBBIN -- May 27, at Greengraves, Newtownards, Alexander M'Kibbin, aged 78 years.

RESIDE -- May 23, at Carnlough, James, beloved husband of Martha Reside.

RUTLEDGE -- May 13, at Rawal Pindi, India, Olive, the beloved wife of Lieut. L. H. N. Rutledge, 1/8th Gurkhas, Indian Army, and loved daughter of Brandram and Grace Boileau, Bruton, Somerset, late of Holywood, Co. Down.

SMITH -- May 23, Daisy Hill Villa, Newry, Thomas Smith, Daisy Hill Nurseries, aged 78 years.

TEMPLETON -- May 24, at Mountain View, Portadown, Mary E., eldest and dearly-beloved daughter of William and the late Mrs. Templeton.

Deaths pg 5

MILLIKEN -- May 25, 1919 (suddenly), at Royal Victoria Hospital (of pneumonia), Susan W. Milliken, second and much-loved daughter of John and the late Agnes C. Milliken, Ravara. Interred in the family burying-ground, Second Saintfield. Deeply regretted. JOHN MILLIKEN.

BOUCHER -- May 26, at her mother's residence, Marienne Killen, wife of Maxwell Stuart Boucher, and only daughter of the late Robert A. Simms, Ballymena, and of Mrs. Simms, Carleton House, Malone Road.

In Memoriam

ROBINSON -- In ever-loving remembrance of our dearly loved daughter, Lizzie I. Robinson, who was taken home on 31st May, 1915, and interred in Killinchy Old Meeting House Green. "Until He comes." JOHN and LETITIA ROBINSON. Ballymacashen, Killinchy.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

Chaplains' Salaries Increased. -- At Ballymena Board of Guardians, Mr. Alexander Cowan, J.P., presiding, orders were received from the Local Government Board sanctioning an increase of £10 per annum to the three chaplains of the Workhouse.

Candidates for Provostship. -- Mr. A. Samuels, K.C., Attorney-General, and the Professor of Mathematics at the University are mentioned as candidates for the Provostship of Trinity College, says the Parliamentary correspondent of the "Daily Chronicle."

Skeletons Unearthed. -- Labourers working at Clonminch, Westmeath, have unearthed in a plantation three skeletons. One of the skeletons is that of a big-built person, over 6 feet in height. The remains are supposed to be associated with some tragedy, of past years, as they were evidently hastily buried.

New Board of Trade Chief. -- As anticipated, Sir Auckland Geddes has been appointed successor to Sir Albert Stanley, who resigned from the Board of Trade Presidency on account of ill-health. In accepting the resignation, the Premier paid tribute to Sir Albert's wisdom, tact, and energy.

National School Inspectors. -- Mr. J. Yates, M.A., District Inspector of National Schools, has been appointed senior inspector in room of the late Mr. J. Keith, and Mr. W. Kyle, B.A., junior inspector in succession to Mr. W. Pedlow, who will retire on June 30.

Food Control. -- The "Pall Mall Gazette" understands that the Government have decided to resume control of all imports of bacon, cheese, and margarine. This has been rendered necessary by the soaring prices of these commodities and the necessity for guarding against a serious shortage.

Londonderry Lady's Death. -- The death has taken place at Willmount, Edenbank, Derry, of Mrs. Mina Hill Stuart, widow of the late Mr. D. B. Stuart, retired bank manager, and daughter of the late Sir Robert Boag, onetime Lord Mayor of Belfast. Mr. Stuart died only a couple of months ago.

Derry Licentiate for Queensland. -- Mr. Samuel Watson, B.A., a licentiate of the Derry Presbytery, has been appointed to missionary service in Queensland. Mr. Watson, who acted as pastor of First Ray Presbyterian Church, Manorcunningham, County Donegal, during the absence of Rev. Dr. M'Kee on active service, will be ordained shortly.

Department and Pig Industry. -- Mr. H. T. Barrie, replying to Capt. Redmond in Parliament, with regard to the decline in the number of pigs in Ireland, says it is not apparent in what respects a special grant could assist the industry. The Department had made representations with a view to a large import of maize into Ireland for pig-feeding.

Reformed Church Licentiate. -- At an adjourned meeting of the Northern Presbytery held in Ballymoney, Mr. Thomas Hanna, B.A., Corkey, Cloughmills, a student under the care of the Presbytery, was licensed to preach the gospel, after delivering the necessary trials and handing in the required certificates. Mr. Hanna belongs to the Kilraughts congregation.

Tandragee Merchant's Death. -- The death took place suddenly of Mr. S. J. Barr, merchant, Market Street, Tandragee. The late Mr. Barr was a prominent member of the Tandragee Presbyterian Church, being one of the ruling elders, besides being superintendent of the Sabbath-School for a long number of years. He represented the Tandragee Urban District on the Banbridge Board of Guardians for the past ten years.

Disastrous Explosion. -- The Polish National Committee in Paris announces that an explosion which occurred at Orlowrazy, in Teschen, Selesia, resulted in the death of nearly 300 people, nearly all the victims being Poles. In view of the suspicious character of the circumstances in which the explosion occurred, the Polish Diet has demanded that a commission of inquiry should be sent to Teschen, and has assigned 200,000 kroner for the immediate needs of the families of the victims.

Old Age Pension Reforms. -- The Chancellor of the Exchequer has appointed a committee to report on the suggested reforms with regard to old age pensions, arising out of the increased cost of living. The London Committee proposes that the age be lowered from 70 to 65, and that a person with private means up to £32 should receive 10s a week, and that pensions should be payable to persons with an income of not more than £75 8s. per annum.

Boy Scouts' Record. -- Rev. A. Gibson, M.C., Lurgan (late Chaplain to the Forces), in giving a brief history of the 2nd Lurgan Boy Scouts Troop, states -- Since its inception the Troop has won over 500 badges, and amongst these are 18 King's Scouts, the most coveted of all badges, and the ne plus ultra of Scoutdom. At the Belfast rally some years ago the boys were specially complimented by the Chief Scout, Sir R. Baden Powell.

Australian Wheat Shipments. -- Big shipments of wheat are in process of being despatched from Western Australia and other States of the Commonwealth to Great Britain, India, and certain neutral countries. During last month alone the Imperial Government directed to Australia upwards of 30 large cargo steamships with a total capacity of 200,000 tons, for the purpose of transporting shipments of Australian wheat already purchased by the British Government.

Food Prices may Go Up. -- In view of the facts that food prices on the Continent are generally higher than in Great Britain, and that there is a prospect of a great demand for supplies by enemy countries on the raising of the blockade, "The Times" mentions that, pending consideration of the matter by the Cabinet, the removal of foodstuffs control will not proceed so rapidly as has been the case during the last few months. There is, accordingly, growing concern about the prospect of dearer food later in the year.

Death of Prominent Nurseryman. -- The death occurred at Newry, of Mr. Thomas Smith, the prominent nurseryman, in his 78th year. Mr. Smith, who was a native of Birmingham, came to Ireland in the seventies, founded the Daisy Hill Nursery in Newry in 1887, and gradually established a most successful business. The nurseries were visited by the Horticultural Trades Association of Great Britain and Ireland in 1909. Deceased was a member of St. Mary's Parish Church. He leaves two sons and six daughters.

Coal to be Scarcer. -- Sir R. Horne stated in Parliament that the estimated reduction in the coal output due to the reduction of working hours was 10%, and a modification in the quantity for household consumption would have to be made accordingly. The Government could not guarantee that there would not be an increase in price, but would do their best to see that there was no increase. He told Mr. Billing that if the coal exports ceased there would be something worse than a shortage of coal.

Volume of Oratory. -- The Speaker (Mr. J. W. Lowther), who was the principal guest at the annual dinner of the Parliamentary Press Gallery, in responding to the toast of his health, said it was 36 years since he first entered Parliament, and 14 years since he succeeded to the Speakership. He would seen as retiring from the office of Speaker, and had recently made a calculation as to the number of speeches he had heard in that time. His estimate worked out at no fewer than 36,840. He thought it a marvel that he had survived such a volume of oratory.

Salaries of Organists and Choirmasters. -- The committee of the Ulster Society of Organists and Choirmasters have decided to send to all the churches at which members of their organisation officiate a circular drawing attention to the question of the salaries paid, and requesting sympathetic consideration of the matter. It is pointed out that salaries in other walks of life have been substantially increased owing to the enhanced cost of living, and the committee express the hope that the church authorities will see their way to increase the remuneration of organists and choirmasters in proportion. The society has a membership of 65.

Sheriffs in Ireland. -- The Viceregal Committee of Inquiry into the appointment and duties of sheriffs and under-sheriffs in Ireland recommend that in future under-sheriffs should be appointed by the Lord Lieutenant, and that the High Sheriff should be definitely relieved of all functions and responsibilities but those connected with the reception of judges. They also recommend that no one should be eligible for appointment as under-sheriff except the following:-- Existing Under-Sheriffs; a barrister or solicitor of 5 years' standing; a person who has managed the office of an Under-Sheriff or practised as Chief Clerk or assistant to the Under-Sheriff for at least 5 years.

Belfast M.P. and Vivisection. -- The debate in the House of Commons on the Dogs Protection Bill was chiefly notable for a speech by Sir William Whitla, member for Queen's University, Belfast. He strongly repudiated the suggestion that dogs suffered from cruelty at the hands of medical investigators, and declared that on the other hand thousands of human lives had been saved as a result of their discoveries. He expressed the belief that in the future we should be able to combat tuberculosis. Britain, as a result of the Anti-Vivisection Act, he declared, is now in the position of the last nation in the van of progress in regard to the relief of human suffering in these great discoveries.

High Sheriff and Sabbath-School Work. -- An interesting ceremony took place in connection with the anniversary services of Duncairn Gardens Methodist Church Sabbath-School, when the High Sheriff (Alderman S. T. Mercier, J.P.) was presented with a certificate in recognition of his long Sabbath-School service. He began the work in 1890 in Duncairn gardens with twelve scholars, and had the able assistance of the late Mrs. Mercier. Before that date, however, the popular superintendent had ten years to his credit in another Sabbath-School, so that when be resigned in 1910 owing to pressure of other duties he had been connected with Sabbath-School work for the long period of thirty years.

London Riot. -- Wild scenes occurred in the vicinity of the Houses of Parliament. Following a meeting of discharged soldiers and sailors, held in Hyde Park, to protest against Government inaction regarding the prevision of employment, a section of the crowd started in procession for Westminster, with the announced intention of making a demonstration in the House of Commons. The demonstrators were held up by the police -- on foot and mounted. In their exasperation the crowd started pelting the police with all kinds of missiles, and eventually baton charges were found necessary. Many persons were injured and a number of arrests were made. Later in the House, the Home Secretary stated that the police acted with the greatest restraint.

Dear Furs Next Winter. -- Prices at the fur sales in London are touching record figures. Silver fox has realised as much as £350 a skin, blue fox has been sold for £150 per skin, fisher for £70, white fox for £18, skunk for £2 10s., and musquash for 15s. per skin.

Ulster Lady's War Experience. -- Miss Mary Cunningham, of Belfast, who is approaching her 80th year, and who endured the terrors of Courtrai during the German occupation of that town, has arrived in Belfast. Her house was damaged by shells, she was once gassed, and she survived winters on the verge of starvation until the town was liberated.

Passengers' Peril on Burning Ship. -- A Baltimore telegram says -- The steamer Virginia, with 156 passengers on board, was destroyed by fire, together with her cargo. All the passengers were saved through the personal courage of Captain Lane and the crew. Many of the rescued, including Captain Land, are in hospital owing to burns. Three of the crew are missing.

Belfast to Folkestone Flight. -- Another non-stop flight from Belfast to Folkestone was made by Mr. C. B. Prodger in a giant Handley-Page Atlantic type aeroplane. The total distance was 520 miles, and was covered in a little over 6 hours. The course was from Belfast, via Carlisle, Harrogate, London, and Folkestone. Breakfast of hot cocoa and sandwiches was served between Carlisle and Harrogate. Five passengers and their luggage were carried.

Thrilling Aerial Acrobatics. -- A Reuter message from Atlantic City says that Lieut. Lockleir, formerly of the U.S. Air Service, demonstrated the possibility of passing from one aeroplane to another while in flight by catching a ladder dangling from the plane passing overhead. Both planes were at an altitude of 2,000 feet. Lieut. Lockleir claims to have previously dropped from a higher to a lower plane in flight, but this is the first time he has mounted to a higher plane.

"Temperance Agitation." -- Mr. Bonar Law informed Mr. Adamson in the Commons that he had made inquiries as to the statement that American temperance advocates and American temperance literature had been prohibited from entering this country on the ground that the British authorities did not desire the presence of temperance agitators, and was informed that the British authorities had made no such representations.

Record Shipping Deal. -- The sale, in New York, to a British syndicate at, approximately, £27,000,000, of the vessels of British companies of the International Mercantile Marine Co., brings to a virtual conclusion one of the greatest shipping transactions in American maritime history. The tonnage is stated at 750,000; and cash and cash assets are stated as worth £12,000,000, so that the actual price for the ships amounts to almost £15,000,000, or £2 per ton.

Liquor Control. -- At Manchester the Liberal Federation defeated by an overwhelming majority a resolution expressing the desirability for the State to assume control of the manufacture and supply of intoxicating liquors, and that such control should be obtained by means of purchase of the interests concerned. The leaders of the opposition argued that the State had power to control and deal with the drink traffic, and it would be wasting millions of money to purchase powers they already possessed.

Land Purchase Statistics. -- Mr. Samuels stated in Parliament that the purchase money, of the land sales completed amounts to £105,481,751, and the purchase money of pending sales still uncompleted to £18,385,071, the latter figure being 17.4% of the total. Advances will be made in pending cases in due priority according as the requirements as to title and other matters are complied with and funds are available. It is hoped that henceforth the rate at which advances can be made will be considerably increased. There had been no delay in the distribution of untenanted lands purchased. The Commissioners had acquired on 7th inst. 316,719 acres of such land, and only 15,722 acres remained undistributed, of which 14,000 acres consist of mountain and plantations.

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RANDOM READINGS.

Meat Marketing in Tibet. -- A man lately back from Tibet tells the story of how he went meat marketing. There was no haggling; the Tibetan never argues nor hurries. Buyer and seller simply gazed at each other in stony silence for ten minutes or so, then a sheep was offered for the equivalent of about sixteenpence! So far good. But payment brought its own problem. The buyer wanted change (roughly eightpence); the seller hadn't it. A long pause for more gazing and more stony silence. Then the Tibetan solved the difficulty by throwing in another sheep!

Distance of Submarine Sight. -- When the submarine was only a Jules Verne dream a popular idea seems to have been that its underwater vision must extend to a considerable distance. Recent definite measurements, however, show, says "Science Siftings," that a foot of clear water cuts off. 27.5 per cent, of the light, and that only about one part of the light in ten million can be transmitted through 50ft. of water. As sea water is probably somewhat less transparent than fresh water, visual powers must obviously be limited to a very few feet.

The Useful Boarder. -- A man visiting a manufacturing centre recently learnt that the daughter of a small shopkeeper with whom he had some dealings was to be married "when they got the boarder," says "A Londoner" in the "Evening Standard." This curious qualification led to investigations, which showed that it is quite a common thing nowadays in this -- and by inference, other -- similar centres for young people anticipating matrimony on limited means to secure a suitable boarder to contribute to the household expenses. The high cost of commodities and the comparative cheapness for catering for one extra person is, of course, the reason; but the matrimonial barque which is dependent upon a boarder seems a dangerous vessel upon which to venture a life's happiness.

New Suits Wanted. -- How are we to clothe our men when they come home from the war? The problem will not be easily solved, for I hear, says a writer in the London "Evening News," that the shortage of wool is becoming greater, and 56 per cent. of the available supplies are still being taken up for Army needs. When they are demobilised our soldiers will want new civilian suits. A great many of them will find their old stocks of clothes unsuitable for wear, and there will be a rush on the tailors. It is probable, however, that thousands will have to keep in khaki for a considerable time.

Finger-Print Expert. -- Have we anybody in this country doing war service similar to that performed by Miss Marie Dahms, a New York girl of 22? She fills one of the most important positions in the Identification Bureau of the Navy. She is a finger print expert, and through her hands pass for classification the prints of every man and officer of the U.S. Navy, Miss Dahms studied finger-prints four two years with the object of taking a position in one of the New York City Magistrate's offices, so that when the war came she was thoroughly equipped for rendering valuable service to her country. The Army as well as the Navy has its finger-print bureau, and every man in the two services had an etched replies of his thumb-print on his identification disc.

 

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