The Witness - Friday, 7 February 1919

Marriage

BOYD--GAMBLE -- On Saturday, January 25, 1919 at St. Columba's (Church of Scotland), Font St., Belgravia, London, by the Rev. Archibald Fleming, D.D., John Boyd, Lieutenant, N.Z.M.C., eldest son of the late James R. Boyd, J.P., and Mrs. Boyd, Geenwood, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, to Jenny, eldest daughter of Thos. W. and Mrs. Gamble, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan.

Deaths

MEHARRY -- Feb. 5, 1919, at 70, Madrid Street, Esther, relict of the late Robert Meharry, and eldest daughter of the late John and Elizabeth Boyce, of Magherascouse, Ballygowan. The remains of my dear mother will be removed to-day (Friday), at two o'clock, for interment in Comber Churchyard. Friends will please accept this intimation. SARAH MEHARRY.

TAIT -- Jan. 25, at Windsor Hill, Newry, Joseph C., beloved husband of Ellen T. Tait. Interred in the family burying-ground at Drumlough. "Gone to be with Christ, which is far better."

BLAND -- Feb. 1, at Tobarcooran, Carnmoney, John Humphrey Bland, aged 90.

CORKEY -- Jan. 22, 1919, at his residence, Ballylane, Glenanne, Alexander Corkey, aged 78 years.

CURRY -- Feb. 3, at Main Street, Ballyclare, Samuel Curry.

WALLACE -- Jan. 30, at 2, Hollybrook Road, Clontarf, Dublin, Rebecca, widow of the late Thomas Wallace, Great Northern Railway (I.).

WEIR -- Feb. 2, at. Ballymacateer, Lurgan, Anne, daughter of the late Charles Weir.

Clippings

DEATH OF MR. GEORGE CUMING, J.P.

The death of Mr. George Cuming, J.P., managing director of Messrs. Harland & Wolff, Ltd., shipbuilders, took place suddenly at his residence Ormiston, Belfast, on Saturday from heart failure. Mr. Cuming, who was 48 years of age, was the only son of the late Mr. George Cuming, of Lannevanknock, Belfast. He was educated at the Belfast Royal Academical Institution, and entered the service of Messrs. Harland Wolff, Ltd., at the early age of 16, being accepted by the late Sir Edward Harland, M.P., as a pupil in the engine works. He was distinguished for his industry and ability and made rapid progress in the works in both the practical and theoretical side of his profession. After he had passed through the engine works, he spent some time in the drawing office of the firm, and his ability came under the personal observation of Lord Pirrie. and he was promoted assistant manager of tne engine works, subsequently being appointed manager of that department. About ten years ago he was made a managing director of the firm. Mr. Cuming was generally recognised as one of the ablest shipbuilders and engineers among the many brilliant men who were associated with the firm of Harland & Wolff and was probably one of the best marine engineers in the United Kingdom. During the war he had charge of the construction for the Navy of various types of marine engines, including the machinery of one of the famous "Hush" boats, which was reputed to be the fastest vessel in the Royal Navy. Mr. Cuming was a justice of the peace for Belfast, and early in the war was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. He was unmarried.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 14 February 1919

Deaths

MINFORD -- Jan. 28, 1919, Margaret, relict of the late William Sam Minford. Interred in Donegore Burying-ground. D. IRWIN.

BELL -- At the residence of her nephew (Harry Bell), Edenfells, Hillsborough, Sarah Jane Bell.

BOYCE -- Feb. 7, at her residence, Corcreevy, Richhill, the widow of the late William Boyce, aged 82 years.

DODDS -- Feb. 6, at Tullybranaghan, Newcastle, James Dodds.

DUNWOODY -- Feb. 6, at Mill Street, Monaghan, Forster Dunwoody, J.P.

FERGUSON -- Feb. 7, at Lake View, Stewartstown, Robert Thomas (Bertie), eldest son of Thomas Ferguson, Albany, Stewartstown.

GIBSON -- Feb. 5, at Bleary, Portadown, James Gibson, in his 83rd year.

GREER -- Jan. 8, at 5,647, Washington Avenue, Philadelphia, U.S.A., Sophia, widow of the late Wm. John Greer, formerly of Coalisland, and daughter of the late James Flack, teacher, Islandmagee and Belfast.

HAGAN -- Feb. 9, at her parents' residence, Dalriada Hill, Greenisland, Mary Agnes (Minnie), the youngest daughter of John and Mary Hagan.

MOORE -- Feb. 8, at his residence, Main Street, Ballyclare, Thomas Moore.

MacCLINTON -- Feb. 2, at Queen's Parade, Bangor, Co. Down, in her 93rd year, Maria, widow of the late William MacClinton, Deputy Inspector-General, R.N.

M'CAW -- Feb. 10, 1919, at Hospital, Newtownards, Joseph M'Caw.

ROSS -- Feb. 9, at Millvale, Ballyclare, William A. Ross.

SINCLAIR -- Feb. 10, at Bushmills, James Sinclair, late Principal of Bushmills Boys' School.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

Surplus of 1918 Oat Crop. -- It has been arranged between the Department of Agriculture and the Royal Commission on Wheat Supplies that the Wheat Commission will purchase for gradual delivery a further 50 000 tons of feeding oats. This will exhaust the surplus and make a total season's export of about 140,000 tons.

Troopship Aground. -- The U.S troopship Narragansett was stranded in severe weather at Bembridge, Isle of Wight. The men, 1,700, were rescued by destroyers and small craft, but all attempts to refloat the vessel failed. Most of the men were asleep at the time the vessel ran aground. Nothing was lost but a few kits and rifles.

Cannibalism in Turkey. -- According to the special correspondent of the Press Association at Turkey a case of cannibalism took place at Mosul 8 months ago, the victims being 6 small children. The report is confirmed by a photograph showing the execution of the criminals, a man and a woman, in whose house the heads of the children were discovered.

The German Warships. -- The Press Association learns authoritatively that of the U-boats surrendered to Britain 37 have been dispersed as follows:-- To France, 16; to Italy, 10; to Japan, 7; and to the United States, 4. The surrendered German war vessels at Scapa are showing great deterioration as the result of neglect of them by their crews.

Sugar for Domestic Preserving. -- Lord Bledisloe, Director of Sugar Distribution, intimates that no assurance can be given at present that any allotment of sugar for domestic preserving will be made to individual applicants during the coming summer. He, therefore, recommends persons who are accustomed to make their own jam to reserve as much sugar as possible out of their weekly ration.

Big U.S.A. Navy. -- Admiral Mayo, in the U.S.A. House of Representatives, on the eve of the vote on the Naval Bill, urged immediate naval expansion, saying -- "Nothing Congress can do will be in excess of the naval requirements. There was never a time when it was so necessary to be thoroughly prepared. If the war ends with trouble between some of the nations it will be a different ending from any other great war that has ever taken place.

Archbishop and Secret Oaths. -- Archbishop Gilmartin, at the Cathedral, Tuam, said secret societies and the taking of secret oaths were pitfalls at the present day for the youth of the country and he appealed to all the people to avoid such societies as might lead to serious offences against the Ten Commandments. If young men wished to join societies let them join only such as they could join openly, and as did their business openly and above board.

Primary Education Report. -- In the draft report of the committee appointed to inquire into the conditions appertaining to primary education in Ireland, it is proposed that an initial salary of £100 be fixed, going up to £180; special good service to carry with it £230 per annum. For principals there should be a capitation grant of 10s up to an average of 120, and 5s for the principal senior assistant. Where the attendance numbers more than 120, it is proposed that a vice-principal be appointed, There is also a recommendation of a grant in lieu of residence.

A Horrible Massacre. -- A Reval paper contains a description of a horrible massacre committed by the Bolsheviks. People were murdered at Wesenberg of all ages and occupations, after first being compelled to dig their own graves. They were then lined up at the edge and shot down. Dozen of bodies fell into the same grave, which were filled in so perfunctorily that arms and legs protruded. A driver saved himself by jumping down into the grave shortly before the order to fire was given. Several Jews ransomed their lives for sums varying from £250 to £1,500 The vicar of the village was executed.

Entertainment and Epidemics. -- Arising out of the recent influenza epidemic, the Local Government Board have made regulations providing that in the city of Belfast public entertainments shall not be carried on for more than three hours consecutively, or four hours in the case of cinematographs, and that there shall be 10 minutes between two entertainments at one place, and in that interval the place shall be thoroughly ventilated. When a cinema proprietor has been notified that a National school in the district has been temporarily closed owing to influenza, children shall not be admitted to the cinematograph exhibition.

National Teachers' Demands. -- Tyrone Central Teachers' Association instructed delegates representing the C.E.C. and county or local associations at any congress or meeting to withdraw when political or religious subjects came under discussion. Resolutions passed demanding that salaries should begin at £150 and increase to a maximum of £350, those of J.A.M.'s to begin at £70 and increase to £100; that the pension scheme be replaced by English system, with voluntary resignation after 55 years; and that the present war bonus be increased to the same amount as that given to P.O. officials, and payable from the same date.

Irish Centre Party. -- The Provisional General Committee of the Irish Centre Party have appointed Messrs. T. O'Dowd J.P.; W. P. O'Neill, G.E.; and F. P. Griffith, C.E., treasurers; and Lieut. F. J. Welan, central organisation committee; and a propaganda committee is to be under the direction of Mr. J. Dinsmore jun., and Captain Scholefield, while subcommittees have been chosen to suggest action on electoral reform (Professor Oldham and Mr. A. Smith, J.P. directors), public health (Drs. Crofton and Rowlette), judicial reform (Serjeant Sullivan and Mr. W. E. Wylie, K.C.,), and development and transit (Messrs. W. P. O'Neill and E. P. Griffith).

General Townshend Tells of Kut. -- Gen. Townshend, speaking at an entertainment to repatriated men, said that Mr. Candler had written a book in which it was stated that he had miscalculated his provisions at Kut. This was wrong. He had resolved to stand at Kut to save all Mesopotamia, and the Commander-in-Chief promised him help in a month, but failed to send it. He only held out as long as he did by finding hidden grain, which the Arabs disclosed on threat of being shot. It was also false to say he had been well treated in captivity. As a prisoner he worked to upset the Turkish Government although if he had been found out he would have been shot.

Ulster Farmers' Union. -- A representative metting was held in the Lisnadill National School with the object of forming a branch of the Ulster Farmers' Union. Rev. E. A. Foy, rector presided. Mr. D. P. Martin, secretary of the Ulster Farmers' Union, explained why the union had been formed and the work that had been accomplished during the short period of its existence. It was decided to form a branch, and Mr. David Beattie was appointed secretary. The following committee was appointed:-- Messrs. Wm. M'Kinstry, A. Ireland, Geo. Rainey, John Haughey, Thomas G. Johnston, Robert Ireland, John Menary, John Nesbitt, James Starr, A. Boyd, Robert Atkinson, Thomas Gray, and Wm. Frazer. A similar branch was formed at Lisadian, and forty members joined.

Sir H. Plunkett in America. -- Sir H. Plunkett has arrived in New York. Asked if he came to the U.S. to agitate the Irish question, he said he did not think that necessary, as everyone understood the situation now. He was simply going West to study agricultural conditions.

R.D.S. Horse Show. -- Right Hon. Lord Rathdonnell, H.M.L., president, occupied the chair at the meeting of the Royal Dublin Society, when it was resolved that, having regard to the great difficulty in arranging for all shows, they consider it better to retain the usual date for the next horse show -- viz., Aug. 26, 27, 28, and 29.

War Regulations Relaxed. -- The Order requisitioning stocks of raw goatskins and fixing prices has been cancelled. Wool derived from Cape coarse and coloured sheepskins is no longer required for Government purposes, and such wool is freed from control. Dealings in Russian flax and tow are authorised on the same terms as Dutch and other imported flaxes.

The Lusitania Monument. -- The French sculptor, George Dubois, has just finished the model of a monument commemorating the Lusitania. It represents a woman kneeling on a piece of wreckage, and another holding a baby in outstretched arms appealing to invisible rescuers. The monument will be of bronze, 15ft. high, and will be anchored to an enormous float off the Irish coast.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 21 February 1919

Birth

BLAINE -- Feb. 16, 1919, at "Ashvale," Annahilt, Co. Down, to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew T. Blaine -- a son.

Deaths

DORNAN -- Feb. 15, 1919, at his residence, 8, Clonmohr Terrace, Ballymena, William Dornan. Interred in New Cemetery, Ballymena, on 17th inst. Deeply regretted.

REA -- Feb. 18, at 76, University Street, Belfast, Elizabeth, youngest daughter of the late James Rea, Bresagh, Boardmills, Co. Down, aged 71. Funeral private.

ALDERDICE -- Feb. 15, at Clangown, Ward Avenue, Bangor, John Alderdice, late of Newry.

ANGUS -- Feb. 12, at Portavo, Donaghadee, Hugh Angus.

BARBOUR -- Feb. 18, at Ardville, Holywood, Maria, widow of the late James Barbour, aged 75.

BARNES -- Feb. 18, at 35, Railway View Street, Bangor, Elizabeth, widow of the late James Barnes.

BUCHANAN -- Feb. 16, at Rathfriland Street, Banbridge, Joseph, only son of John Buchanan.

ELLIOTT -- Feb. 14, at 1, Olderfleet Terrace, Larne Harbour, Robert Elliott (late of Brown Dodd, Doagh).

FORBES -- Feb. 13 (suddenly, of pneumonia), Rev. T. A. Forbes, M.A., St. John's Presbyterian Church, Hartlepool, Co. Durham.

FORSYTHE -- Feb. 17 (suddenly), at Caldhame, Ballyclare, Agnes, relict of the late Arthur Forsythe.

FRASER -- Feb. 17, at Budore, Margaret, dearly-beloved wife of David Fraser.

HAMILL -- Feb. 17, at College Park, the Rev. Thomas Macafee Hamill, M.A., D.D., Professor of Theology, Assembly's College, Belfast.

HARPER -- Feb. 14, at Armagh Road, Portadown, Frances Isabel, beloved wife of John Harper.

HILLIS -- Feb. 16 at Laurel Glen, Dunmurry, Samuel, the beloved husband of Anna H. Hillis.

MILLIKEN -- Feb. 11, 1919, at Reglan Place, Ballymena, Alexander Milliken, beloved husband of Mary Milliken.

M'CAUL -- Feb. 12, at his residence, 27, Clarendon Street, Londonderry, Dr. George Barton M'Caul, J.P.

M'CORMICK -- Feb. 15, at her father's residence, Oakleigh, Waverley Drive, Ballyholme, Irene, the only and dearly-beloved daughter of Matt and Minnie M'Cormick.

NORRIS -- Feb. 14, at Lisnagault, Coleraine, William John Norris.

STEVENSON -- Feb. 13, at the Manse, Warrenpoint, the Rev. A. Stevenson, B.A., minister of the Warrenpoint Presbyterian Church.

WILSON -- Feb. 15, 1919, at her residence, The Square, Portaferry, Annie, widow of Samuel Wilson.

YOUNG -- Feb. 18, at his residence, Fivemiletown, George Young.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

A Seat for Mr. H. T. Barrie. -- Dr. H. A. Anderson, who has been a member for North Derry pending the conclusion of Mr. H. T. Barrie's tenure of the High Shrievalty, has resigned, and a new writ issued.

Centenarian Would Not Face Camera. -- Margaret Hagan, who died at Ballyclare at the age of 108, would not allow herself to be interviewed or photographed. She is survived by 2 sons, 3 daughters, 52 grand-children, 78 great-grand-children, and 4 great-great-grand-children.

Princess's Wonderful Gowns. -- The snowy bridal gown for Princess Patricia's marriage is a wonderful triumph of the designer's art. Her honeymoon dress of silk stockinette is of a lovely shade of the soft flax-flower associated with St. Patrick, and there is a St. Patrick blue girdle at the waist.

Shorthorn Bulls for Ireland. -- Amongst the purchasers of shorthorn bulls at the Perth sales were Mr. Stevenson, Tyrone, who paid £520; Mr. Hogan, Cookstown, £480; Mr. Bolden, Cootehill, £410. The best of the exhibits were secured for the Argentine and U.S.A. The top price was 4,000 gns.

Irish Labourer's Fortune. -- Philip M'Grath, an Irish labourer, resident for twelve years in Dundee, has become heir to £10,000 through the death in Australia of his brother, the Ven. Archdeacon M'Grath. A brother who went to New York and two sisters would share the fortune if found. They were born in Bellinham, Tipperary.

Renewing the Summer Time Act. -- It is proposed to renew by Order in Council the Summer Time Act this year, Mr. Shortt stated in Parliament, and the duration of the period is under consideration. After the satisfactory experience of its working for the past few years one would think there should be an agreement to make the Act permanent.

From Private to Brigadier. -- At the City of London Board of Guardians, the chairman congratulated Brigadier-General W. H. Ablewhite, the third assistant clerk, on returning to his duties from the war. He entered the Army as a private, and at the time of his demobilisation held the rank of brigadier-general. He had also been awarded the Military Cross.

The Naval and Tonnage Losses. -- The French naval war losses were 110,000 tons, and included 18 cruisers of all types, including auxiliary, 14 torpedo boats, 8 destroyers, 14 submarines, 4 gunboats, 62 motor boats, 1 sloop, 4 scouting boats, and 3 pacers. Other tonnage losses are given as -- British, 555,000; Italian, 76,000; U.S.A., 17,000; German, 350,000; and Austrian, 65,000.

Lord Pirrie and Belfast. -- Lord Pirrie, K.P., has taken over from the representatives of the late Mr. George Cuming his old home at Ormiston, Belfast. Lord and Lady Pirrie gave up Ormiston a few years ago, when his lordship's engagements in London necessitated his residence there, and Ormiston was subsequently acquired by Mr. Cuming, a director of Messrs. Harland & Wolff.

The Church in Wales. -- Notice is given in the "Gazette" that a petition has been presented to his Majesty in Council by the Bishop of St. Asaph and others praying, under the provisions of section 13 of the Welsh Church Act, 1914, for the grant of a charter incorporating the representative body of the Church in Wales; and that his Majesty has referred it to a committee of the Lords of the Council.

Religious Liberty in Hungary. -- At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Free Church Council, a resolution was passed expressing regret that there is grave reason to believe that religious liberty in Hungary is being seriously imperilled, and urging that in any rearrangement of territory sanctioned by the Paris Conference care should be taken for the preservation of full religious liberty for all the populations concerned.

Bomb Thrown into Sinn Fein Hall. -- Consternation was caused in the Sinn Fein Hall, Richmond Street, Derry, when a sausage-shaped bomb was thrown through the window into the building. The missile exploded, and filled the building with noxious fumes. The people in the building rushed to the street, and summoned the Fire Brigade. It was, however, found that the bomb was not dangerous. The missile had a metal casing and weighed about 4lbs. It was handed to the police.

Labour and Dictatorship. -- The House of Commons adopted a series of resolutions allocating the time up to March 31 entirely to Government business, by which date it is hoped the new measure altering procedure may be through. A strong protest was voiced by Mr. Adamson against any attempt to set up a dictatorship, and he mentioned that in the Labour party they had fought an attempted dictatorship successfully with their backs to the wall.

M.P.'S Death. -- The death has occurred in Paris, from pneumonia, of Colonel Sir Mark Styes, M.P. Deceased, who had a special appointment at the War Office, returned from the East about two weeks ago, in good health, and a few days later proceeded to Paris on work in connection with the Peace Conference. Sir Mark, who was the sixth baronet, was born, in 1879, and succeeded his father, Sir Tatton Sykes, in 1913. He served in South Africa in 1902, and was mentioned in despatches.

Irish Fat Stock. -- The Irish Department have received a communication from the Ministry of Food in which occurs the following statement as to the position with regard to insurance:-- "The instructions to the chairmen of the port markets are to the effect that they must refund to the vendor the amount of the cross-Channel insurance premium paid by him on production of the receipt. The Ministry accepts no liability for loss incurred by a vendor through the death of beast or sheep during the cross-Channel passage.

Ballymena Farmers' Association. -- At a special meeting of the council -- Mr. Robert Gregg (president) in the chair -- a resolution regretting "the apathy of the Government in not having fixed guaranteed minimum prices for oats, wheat, barley, hay, and potatoes for the ensuing year," pointing out the patriotic efforts of farmers to increase production, and asking for a "fulfilment of the promises made by a responsible Minister of the Government as to safeguards for agriculture, the key industry of the world," was unanimously passed.

Canadian Statesman's Death. -- Sir Wilfrid Laurier, the famous Canadian statesman, died in his 78th year, at Ottawa, a few hours after a stroke of paralysis. He was dressing for church when he get the attack. A French Canadian Catholic, it was not till he was eighteen that he learned the English language. He was called to the Bar in 1864, edited a paper in 1867, was elected to the Quebec Assembly as a Liberal in 1871, became a member of the Dominion House of Commons in 1874, and, after leading his party, was appointed Prime Minister in 1896.

A Nation of Workers. -- Preaching in Christ Church, Dublin, Right Rev. Dr. Plunket said that before the war work was going out of fashion, everyone's aim and ambition seeming to be to live in idleness. No wonder that in trade and commerce the people of these islands were being beaten by the crafty German and the efficient American. The war had put a fresh value on labour, and now they had again become a nation of workers. In Ireland great tasks were before them, and they should use the knowledge gained in the best service of their country.

Mr. Dillon and "the Old Policy." -- Mr. John Dillon, acknowledging a contribution from Derry U.I.L. to the election fund, regretted that in Derry they had not an opportunity at the election of showing the strength of the supporters of the Irish party. "I feel confident," he added, "that the day is not distant when the country will awaken to the great mistake made by the majority of Nationalists, and will fall back on the old policy." The branch has demanded the return to subscribers of the amount contributed to the Anti-Conscription Fund.

Welsh Home Rule. -- At Cardiff a large and representative conference of delegates from Welsh societies called to consider the setting up of a Welsh Office with a secretary and with the same rights and privileges as Scotland and Ireland, decided against the proposal on the ground that a Welsh Office would hamper Home Rule, which is regarded as the minimum demand of the large majority of the Nationalists. It was agreed to call another conference to which will be invited in addition to the representatives of Welsh societies the chairmen and vice-chairmen of County Borough and District Councils with a view to securing Home Rule.

Expensive Episcopal Residences. -- Speaking at Carlisle, the Bishop of Carlisle said it had been suggested there should be a redistribution of ecclesiastical incomes, and he was inclined to think that there should -- especially of bishops' incomes. He thought it very likely that unless some drastic changes were made he would be the last Bishop of Carlisle who would live at Rose Castle, as it was quite impossible in existing circumstances for a bishop to live there on his official income. He hoped to live there till the end, and he would do it if he possibly could; but there might be a time when he would not be able.

1919 Crain Crop. -- Lieutenant-Colonel Loftus Bryan, chairman of the deputation from the Irish Farmers' Union, has been, in reply to a letter on the subject, informed by Mr. Barrie, Vice-President of the Department, that he is crossing to London with the secretary and Mr. Campbell with reference to the question of guaranteed prices for the 1919 grain crop. Lieutenant-Colonel Loftus Bryan stated in his letter to Mr. Barrie that the promises as to the price and market for the 1919 crop, which were made to English corn-growers had not yet been publicly extended to Ireland. A prominent corn merchant had informed him that the Government profits on Irish oats for the past season were estimated at £200,000.

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THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY'S ROLL OF HONOUR.

The annual meeting of the Presbyterian Historical Society was held in the Church House, the Rev. H. P. Glenn presiding. All present -- The Revs. Dr. Park, Dr. Thompson, Dr. Wright, Professor Davey, D. Stewart, Jas. M'Connell, S. Ferguson, J. B. Woodburn, W. J. Baird, and R. K. Hanna; and Messrs. R. M. Young, A. A. Campbell, and J. W. Kernohan. Rev. Dr. Latimer was unavoidably absent. Dr. Park, in moving the adoption of the annual report and accounts, emphasised the importance of the task devolving on the society, on the conclusion of the war, in helping to place on record the names and services of the gallant men of the Church, and asked all ministers of congregations to co-operate in returning full lists in accordance with directions sent them. The Rev. H. P. Glenn has been appointed Assembly's representative on the Committee of the Imperial War Museum (Religious Section). The council and office-bearers of the society were elected for the ensuing year, and the usual votes of thanks passed. Donations of books and articles were acknowledged from Miss Hay (Belfast); the Knox Club; Rev. Dr. Latimer, A. Gordon, D. Palmer, T. K. Rankin, R. J. Whan, J. Sturrock, and H. P. Glenn; Mrs. W. T. Craig (Belfa^ M5ss J. Craig, Mrs. W. G. Glasgow, Mr. M'Corkell, Dr. Lowe, and Mr. Jas. Carson.

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DEATH OF SIR J. B. JOHNSTON, DERRY

The death occurred in Derry with tragic suddenness of Alderman Sir John B. Johnston, father of Captain Weir Johnston, who contested South Down in the recent election. Alderman Johnston, who was 76 years of age, when at a restaurant awaiting afternoon tea collapsed, and succumbed before medical aid arrived. Deceased was twice Mayor of Derry and once High Sheriff. During the last eighteen months his wife and three sons-in-law died.

There was a large attendance at the funeral on Saturday. The many public bodies and industrial organisations with which the deceased was connected were officially represented. Addressing the large congregation in the Centenary Church, the Moderator of the General Assembly (Right Rev. Dr. M'Granahan), said that the name of Sir John Johnston will long be associated with the life of Derry. He identified himself with its progress, and was never unmindful of its interests. He [--?--] a seat on nearly all their public [--?--] where his business capacity and sound judgement and wide outlook were utilised and appreciated. He was not a little proud of the city and its associations, sparing no effort to uphold its traditions. Whatever made for the moral welfare of the people had his warmest sympathy. Another may take his place in public affairs, but it will not be easy to find a man more diligent, faithful, and conciliatory. During the stress of the last four years Sir John, in common with his wife, was found in the forefront of every movement that was inaugurated for alleviating suffering or encouraging the men who were fighting our battles. Indeed, there were few benevolent causes to which he did not extend his sympathy. None of them who knew him as a friend can ever recall him without happy memories of his unfailing kindness and generous thoughtfulness.

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DEATH OF REV. T. A. FORBES, M.A.

Intelligence has been received of the death of Rev. Thomas Alexander Forbes, M.A., Hartlepool, which occurred as the result of pneumonia. Deceased was educated in Queen's College, Belfast, and Assembly's College, Belfast, and on 1st May, 1894, he was licensed by the Presbytery of Ballymena. Having spent some time as an evangelist, he was ordained on 6th July, 1896, as first minister of the newly-formed, congregation in the Nelson Memorial Church, Belfast. He resigned this charge on 2nd April, 1912, to become the minister of the church of Hartlepool, in the Presbytery of Durham. During his ministry he obtained the arts degree of Trinity College, Dublin, and had made considerable progress towards the B.D. degree of the same University. In both his charges Mr. Forbes laboured zealously, and he holds an honoured place in the remembrance of his brethren and of the congregations to which he ministered.

The funeral took place at Spennymoor, on Monday afternoon. There was a representative attendance of the Presbytery of Durham, of which the deceased was Moderator at the time of his death, and the numerous company which gathered from St. John's Church was evidence of the affectionate esteem with which Mr. Forbes was regarded by his congregation. The Rev. D. E. Omand (Darlington) presided at the service in church, assisted by Revs. J. Millar Craig (St. George's, Sunderland), A. F. Darge (Crook), W. Kennedy Smiley (West Hartlepool), and G. Duncan (Willington). The chief mourners were Mr. and Miss Forbes (Belfast), brother and sister of the deceased, and Mr. John Brown (Belfast). Members of the session and Board of Management of St. John's acted as bearers. Revs. D. E. Omand, W. Kennedy Smiley, and J. N. Reid (Middlesborough) officiated at the graveside. The Rev. J. Millar Craig, B.A., who is an old college and family friend of Mr. Forbes, will conduct a memorial service in St. John's next Sabbath morning.

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DEATH OF DR. M'CAUL, DERRY.

We regret to announce the death ©f Dr. George B. M'Caul, senior magistrate for Derry City, which occurred at his residence, 27, Clarendon Street, Londonderry. A native of Newry, the late Dr. M'Caul, who was over eighty years of age, went to Derry early in life, and after completing his studies became one of the busiest practitioners in the district. He entered the Corporation in 1884, and his services were of great value in connection with the public health of the city. His wife was a daughter of the late Rev. M. Wilson and a sister of the late Professor Law Wilson, Assembly's College, Belfast. One of his sons, Captain G. B. M'Caul, M.B., R.A.M.C., was recently awarded the Military Cross.

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A CARD

Capt. E. R. Kennedy, A.R.I.B.A., M.R.S.I., having been demobilised, has resumed his practice as an Architect and Civil Engineer, and he has entered into a working agreement with Mr. J. S. Munce, B.E., A.M.I.C.E., 86, Scottish Provident Buildings, Belfast.

Tel. No. 3617.

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DEATH OF MR. FORSTER DUNWOODY, J.P., MONAGHAN.

The remains of the late Mr. Forster Dunwoody, J.P., were interred in First Monaghan Presbyterian Churchyard amid striking manifestations of mourning on the part of the inhabitants. For many years Mr. Dunwoody occupied a prominent place in the life of the community, and his death has occasioned deep sorrow and regret. For the last few years his activities had greatly lessened owing to the frailties of age, but he continued to take the greatest interest in public affairs, particularly those relating to the Church to which he was so greatly devoted. His attachment to the Presbyterian Church, and particularly to his own congregation of First Monaghan, was well known, and the tributes paid to his memory, by past and present ministers were in every sense true. The coffin was carried into the church by members of the session and committee, the organist (Miss Brydon) playing a funeral march during its passage up the aisle. Rev. Wm. Armour, B.A., minister of the congregation, conducted the service, and the address was given by Rev. Professor Corkey, Ph.D., Belfast, who, referring to the deceased's work in connection with the church, said -- Deep-hearted and loyal he was to the work of the Lord. Those who heard him every Sabbath morning opening our Sabbath-school, and in his prayers fervently beat his way, as it were, to the Most High, felt that the secret of his life was an intimate faith in God, and a great desire for the welfare of his Church. For years he acted as clerk of session in connection with this church, and in the early days of his office was interested and actively engaged in all the prayer meetings and Sabbath-schools which were carried on throughout the district at that time. He was a patriot whose presence we would hope to be perpetually with us, whose smile and friendship would be ever amongst us. Alas, it is not so. He has gone. He acted as secretary of the committee looking after the foundation and rebuilding of the church, and was interested in every family connected with it. No one could be more assiduous than he. He was also the leader of the Young Men's Bible-class, which was often exacting work for a busy man such as he, but to him it was never a wearisome work.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 28 February 1919

Roll of Honour.

BROWN -- Reported wounded and missing on the 21st March, 1918, now reported as having been killed in action on that date, at Contescourt, France, John Brown, M.C. and Bar, Captain 1st Royal Irish Rifles second son of S. S. Brown, Ailsa Terrace, Strandtown.

Marriage

CUMING--BEGLEY -- Feb. 12, at First Ballybay Presbyterian Church, by Rev. H. A. MacKenzie, B.A., David Robert Cuming, 31st Canadians, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cuming, Drumack House, to Flora M'Clatchie, fourth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Begley, Moninton, Ballybay.

Deaths

CUNNINGHAM -- Feb. 23, Jane, eldest surviving daughter of the late John Cunningham, Beechvale, Pontzpass. Interred on Tuesday in the family burying-ground, Tyrone's Ditches, Poyntzpass.

CUNNINGHAM -- Feb. 21, 1919, at her residence, Summerhill, Ballybofey, County Donegal, Maude, wife of Mr. R. A. Cunningham. Interred in Stranorlar Burying Ground, 24th inst. Golden Wedding celebrated 28th May, 1918. R. A. CUNNINGHAM.

GREY -- February 17 (of pneumonia, following influenza), at The Cottage Hospital, Bebington, Cheshire, Thomas, second son of James Grey, late Principal of Rathmore N. S., Antrim. Interred in New Cemetery, Chester, 21st inst.

BOYD -- Feb. 23, at Knocknagoney, Thomas Boyd.

CAMPBELL -- Feb. 23, at Lorne Villa, Clifton Road, Bangor, Mary Ann, widow of the late Thomas Campbell, and mother of the late Captain Mark Campbell.

FRENCH -- Feb. 22, at Killead, George, the beloved husband of Jane French.

GARDINER -- Feb. 23, at her residence, Killough, Amelia, beloved wife of Edward Gardiner.

GREGG -- Feb. 22, at Downpatrick, Alexander Gregg.

HATTON -- Feb. 23, at Ardtole, Ward Avenue, Bangor, Jane (Jeannie), fourth daughter of the late John and Harrietts Hatton, formerly of Holywood, Co. Down.

HERRON -- Feb 24, at Corry Square Nursing Home, Newry, Rebecca Jane, daughter of the late Dr. William Bell Herron, Dublin.

LAVERTY -- Feb. 24, at Moss View, Poyntzpass, after a short illness, Rev. George Laverty, M.A., Minister of Tyrone's Ditches Secession Church, in his 73rd year. Deeply regretted by his sorrowing Wife and Family.

M'CRUM -- Feb. 24, at Ben Eden Terrace, Greencastle, Jenny, the dearly-beloved wife of John M'Crum, and second daughter of the late Wm. Courtney, Craigarogan.

SHERLOCK -- Feb. 22, at Station Road, Sydenham, David Gibson Sherlock (late 2nd Corporal, 122nd Company Royal Engineers), younger son of James and Rebecca Sherlock.

WOODS -- Feb. 23, at Ballylagan, Isabella, relict of the late Wm. Woods.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

A Guinea a Question. -- Every question put in the House of Commons costs the State a guinea; but Mr. Bonar Law said the putting of them was a valued privilege.

New Irish Knight. -- The King, at Buckingham Palace, conferred a knighthood on Mr. Henry F. Burke, the new Garter King-at-Arms, and invested him with the insignia of his office. He is the son of Sir Bernard Burke, formerly Ulster King-at-Arms.

Irish Convention's Land Scheme. -- The Irish Convention, Mr. Samuels told Captain Redmond in Parliament, agreed as to a scheme of land purchase, but it is not proposed by the Government to introduce legislation on the subject at present.

Chaplains' Department. -- His Majesty the King, in view of the splendid work which has been performed by the Army Chaplains' Department during the recent war, has been graciously pleased to approve of the Department being in future designated the Royal Army Chaplains' Department.

Pensioned Teachers and War Bonus. -- The request of a war bonus for pensioned National teachers was raised in Parliament by Major Kerr-Smiley, and Mr. Samuels said the principle was one of wide application, and it was not practicable to consider separately the claims of any particular class of pensioners.

Contest in North Derry. -- Messrs. H. T. Barrie (Unionist), Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture, and P. M'Gettigan (Sinn Fein) have been nominated for the Parliamentary vacancy in North Derry, the representative of which, Dr. Anderson (U.) resigned. Polling takes place on March 4, and the declaration on March 17th.

Repatriation of Germans. -- The "Daily Express" understands that the Home Office authorities have decided to expel all Germans, without exception, as they are released from the British detention camps. No German waiter will he permitted to remain in England, and this week a large batch of waiters, including many men who served in the leading West End hotels, are being repatriated.

Canadian ex-Moderator Dead. -- Rev. Samuel Lyle, D.D., has died in Canada. He was born at Knockanboy, Antrim, 1841; educated at Coleraine Academy, Magee College, and Glasgow University. In March, 1878, he was installed in Central Presbyterian Church, Hamilton, Canada, where he worked thirty-four years. In 1911 he was Moderator of the Canadian General Assembly. He married a daughter of Mr. J. J. Orr, Dublin.

Death of Coal Controller. -- Sir Guy Calthrop, the Coal Controller, has died from pneumonia, following influenza. He was 48. He was m the service of the L. and N.-W. Railway, and became assistant to the general manager; was superintendent of the Caledonian Railway, 1901, and subsequently general manager. He , became general manager L. and N.W.R. in 1914, - and Coal Controller 1917. In 1918 he was made a baronet.

British Medical Men to Organise -- A meeting of medical men and women in London, called by the Medico Political Union of Great Britain, resolved by 207 votes to 30 that in view of the changes inevitable in the medical services through the Ministry of Health it is essential the profession should be solidly and democratically organised on a trade union basis. An amendment to affiliate with the Labour party and the Trades Congress had only seven supporters.

Reconstruction in Ireland. -- Mr. H. G. Burgess, Shipping Controller and Coal Controller in Ireland, who is also Irish manager for the L. and N.-W. Railway, announces that through Mr. Shortt he had suggested last autumn that a sum of £2,000,000 should be placed at the disposal of the Irish Government for reconstruction and industrial development purposes in Ireland. He now suggested that a Board of three persons, with the Chief Secretary as chairman, should be formed to take up reconstruction work in Ireland.

Death of Co. Down Philanthropist. -- The death has taken place, at the age of 72, of Mr. James Baxter Doake, of Glenlagan, Kinallen, Dromore. In early life the deceased went out to India with his brothers. He returned to Ireland in 1907, and resided in retirement from business since in the family home at Glenlagan. The late Mr. Doake was well known for the generous manner in which he supported objects of a religious and charitable nature, notably to First Dromara Presbyterian Church, the Red Cross, and the Ulster Volunteer Force Hospitals.

Secondary Teachers. -- At the monthly meeting of the Belfast branch of the Secondary Teachers' Association -- Miss E. Davitt, M.A., presiding:-- it was unanimously decided to support the following resolution of the Central Executive Council:-- "That the representatives of the association insist that the report of the Commission should secure to the day secondary teachers of Ireland the guarantee that the total number of duly-qualified lay teachers employed in Irish secondary schools must not be less than one-fortieth of the total number of intermediate pupils attending these schools.

Death of Noted Irishman. -- The death has taken place at his residence, London, of Mr John O'Connor Power. He was M.P. for Mayo from 1874-'85, and was one of the ablest Parliamentary orators of the time. He was a supporter of Parnell and Biggar in the early Land League days, and was one of the Nationalist Party suspended on the occasion of the great scene in the House of Commons in February, 1881, arising out of the arrest of Michael Davitt, until then on ticket-of-leave. His relations with Parnell and the party became strained, and he ceased to represent Mayo in 1885.

The Irish Flax industry. -- The Department, Mr. Donnelly was informed in Parliament, made no special grant for the past two years for the extension of flax cultivation in Ireland; but the grants for the ordinary schemes were in 1917-18 £4,205, and in the current financial year £4,293. In addition £5,576 had been expended ih 1917-18, and £4,066 in the current year, under the Irish Order of 1917. The cost of administration was recoupled by the Ministry of Munitions, which had spent considerable sums in the first two years in controlling and improving scutching, in training apprentice-scutchers, and in buying and importing flaxseed.

Out of Work Grants. -- In connection with the out ot work donations, the following classes of civilians in Ireland will, from Thursday next, be entitled to benefits:-- (a) Workpeople who are injured under the National Insurance (Unemployment) Acts, 1911-1918, and have paid not less than ten contributions since July, 1914. (b) In the case of trades certified by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland as being trades in which there is a substantial amount of unemployment directly caused by the cessation of hostilities, persons of such classes as are specified in the certificates, who were ordinarily employed in those trades during last year.

Irish Scutching Charges. -- Board of Trade powers regulating Irish flax and tow scutching are transferred to the Minister of Munitions, who has issued an Order fixing the charge for flax straw in mills in which it is insured against fire by the proprietors at 4s 10½d per stone, and that for re-scutching tow under similar conditions at 4s per stone. In mills in which material is not so insured the charge for flax will be 4s 6d per stone, and for tow 3s 9d per stone. These charges are to include the cost of all labour from delivery until the material is ready to be taken away, and the charges for insured mills will include cost of insuring material while at the mill.

The Irish Potato Crop Surplus. -- Over 130,000 tons of potatoes have been exported from Ireland since Nov. 1, it was intimated in Parliament, and the whole surplus would be required by the Food Ministry. Growers wishing to dispose of the whole crop at once could do so by selling them for consumption in Ireland, and for this no price had been fixed. Every effort was being made to find markets abroad for the surplus potatoes grown in the United Kingdom, The Controller took delivery from the exporting committee of sound ware potatoes only, and any not falling in that category were refused at the port, and were the property of the merchant who had bought them from the farmer.

The "Flu" Epidemic. -- The greatest precautions are being exercised by Dr. Bailie and the Public Health Department with the object of stamping out influenza. Many families in the city have already been attacked by the disease, and there have been some deaths, but fortunately the outbreak has not become widespread. The death occurred from pneumonia, following influenza, of Mr. J. E Mackenzie, Berlin correspondent of "The Times" from 1906 until the outbreak of the war. Mr. Mackenzie was the son of a Somerset clergyman. In Dublin three members of one family have succumbed to the disease, and in one household in the village of Ysceitnog, Flintshire, the death-roll has reached six.

Co. Antrim Rates. -- At a meeting of the Antrim Co. Council, the secretary stated that the total estimated expenditure was £213,815, to which had to be added a debit balance of £3,300. The estimated receipts, including the agricultural grant, were £57,350. The urban district councils contributed £18,170, and credit balances amounting to £3,100 had been allowed. That made the net amount to be levied £138,495, as against £106,922 for the current year -- an increase of £31,573. The chief item in the increase wag an expenditure of £28,898, and that was almost all caused by roads, the amount for which had been increased by £21,398, principally due to rise in wages to the surfacemen. An increase in the rates all over the county was passed.

Belfast Captain's Fate. -- Captain John Brown, M.C, 1st Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, Who was reported, wounded and missing on 21st March, 1918, is now officially reported to have been killed on the battlefield at Contescourt on that date. This gallant officer was the second son of Mr. Samuel S. Brown. Ailsa Terrace, Strandtown, the Assistant Postmaster of Belfast, and a prominent member of First Ballymacarrett Presbyterian Church. He was wounded in the shoulder at the owning of the Battle of the Somme on 1st July, 1916, and was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry in action upon that occasion. While home on leave in September following he gained the bronze medal of the Royal Humane Society for his bravery in saving a boy from drowning in the River Lagan. On recovering from the effects of his wound he returned to the front, and received a bar to his Military Cross early in 1917.

Queen's University, Belfast. -- At a meeting of the Senate of the Queen's University, Belfast, it was decided that the memorial to the 200 Queen's-men who had lost their lives in the war, should take the form of a stained glass window, a bronze tablet, with their names inscribed thereon, and a commemorative volume giving their biographies and photographs. Professor Colonel Thos. Sinclair, C.B., was appointed Registrar in room of Professor Symington, retired. A letter was read from President Wilson regretting his inability to visit Belfast in the immediate future. It was reported that there are thirty-five students attending the course of agriculture at present being held in the University, and that from every standpoint the lectures have been most successful, the students following the course of instruction with the greatest interest. The Ulster Farmers' Union have offered £20 to be distributed in prizes amongst the students attending the course.

Summer Time. -- The Home Secretary gave notice that summer time will be brought into force this year on the morning of Sunday, 30th March, and will continue until the night of Sunday-Monday, 28th-29th September.

"Times" Editor Resigns. -- Mr. Henry Wickham Steel has been appointed Editor of "The Times" in place of Mr. Geoffrey Dawstan, who has resigned because "Lord Northcliffe was constantly dissatisfied with the policy of 'The Times' on the ground that it differed from his own expression of opinion in other newspapers.

Flight to North Pole. -- Mr. W. K. Vanderbilt has given £2,000 and Mr. C. H. Sabin £1,000 to start a fund of £50,000, which will permit Captain R. Bartlett Roosevelt's Aerial Expedition to fly to the North Pole. Major-General Sykes, British Controller-General of Civil Airmanship, anticipates that "before long" it will be possible to fly to Australia in five or six days.

A Flight of Over 5,000 Miles. -- A British airship has remained in the air for over 101 hours, Lieutenant-Colonel Moore Brabazon stated in the House of Commons, when the Aerial Navigation Bill was read a third time. Assuming an average speed of fifty miles an hour, it must have covered 5,000 miles. There is, he added, less to fear from storms in the air than at sea.

Irish Bishop Resigns. -- The Bench of Bishops have accepted with regret the resignation of Right Rev. H. S. O'Hara, D.D., of the bishopric of the united dioceses of Cashel, Emly, Waterford, and Lismore. The resignation will not take effect till after March 31. Bishop O'Hara was before his election to the episcopate in 1900 Dean of Belfast, and was formerly vicar of Coleraine.

Irish Mineral Resources. -- The early part of next month is to witness the flotation of the first of a group of associated companies which are being formed to carry through an ambitious all-Ireland scheme for the development of Irish mineral resources, says a Dublin correspondent. The total amount of capital required by the group is in the neighbourhood of £4,000,000, and it is stated by the promoters that the whole of this sum is in sight either here or on the other side of the Atlantic. Prominent Irish peers and Irish business men are backing the venture, which aims at purely Irish management and the attraction of the great mass of Irish capital now on deposit in Irish banks. Belfast is playing a leading part in the scheme, and Belfast business men are specially interested in the initial company, which is to undertake the development of the rich lignite deposits on the shores of Lough Neagh.

Master Painters. -- The annual meeting of the Association of Master Painters in Ireland (Belfast centre) was held in the Shaftesbury Restaurant. Mr. John Quigley, who is president of the All Ireland Association, as well as the local one, occupied the chair. There was a good attendance, including Mr. John Reid (perhaps the oldest master painter in Ireland), who was present by special invitation. The following officers were elected for the coming year:-- President, Mr. J. E. Reid; vice-president, Mr. W. M'Kelvey; hon. treasurer, Mr. J. Watterson; hon. secretary, Mr. T. F. Gibson; committee, Messrs. Quigley, McDonald, Jones. M'Ilroy, M. Gibson, F. Loan, J. Crangle, and A. Clenaghan. The members were very kindly entertained to dinner by the outgoing president, Mr. Quigley. During the evening Mr. Quigley was presented with a jewel suitably inscribed in recognition of his services for the past year.

Belfast Rates. -- A special meeting of the Corporation will be held to-day to consider the estimates for the coming year and fix the new scale of rates. It is expected that there will be an increase in the rates of 7d in the £. This is said to be largely due to the requirements of the Improvement Committee in regard to street improvements and maintenance, a work which has fallen behind since the commencement of the war. The poor rate will be 1s 7d in the £. a decrease of one penny in the £.

Lady Cynthia Hamilton Married. -- The Duke of Abercorn's second daughter, Lady Cynthia Hamilton, was married at St. James's, Piccadilly, to Lord Althorp, son and heir of the Earl Spencer. The Duke gave away the bride. Lady Margaret Katherine Hamilton, sister of the bride. Lady Margaret Bingham, Lady Margaret Spencer, Miss Rose Bingham, and Miss Margaret Cesey were bridesmaids. Captain Anthony Spicer was best man, and men of the 1st Life Guards formed a guard of honour.

Great Northern Railway. -- Presiding in Dublin at the annual meeting of the Great Northern Railway Co., Mr. Fane Vernon, chairman, said there had been a decrease by close upon half a million in the number of 2nd and 3rd class passengers carried; probably the increase in fares had had something to do with this. They had, however, carried 720,000 more workmen at very low rates, and the result was an actual net increase of 230,000 passengers, excluding the Government traffic. As regarded other traffic, there had been an increase of 70,766 tons in goods and minerals over, 1917, and of 3,805 waggons in live stock. Expenditure showed, as might be expected, a large increase, due mainly to increased salaries, wages, and war bonuses, and greater cost of coal and all materials. The increase in salaries and wages, with additional war bonuses, was from £365, 800 in 1913 to £814,400 in 1918 -- 128 per cent. They were now paying war bonuses at the rate of £487,000 per annum, or £9,366 per week.

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The death has occurred of Mr. Albert Miles, local superintendent for Dr. Barnardo's work. Before removing to Greenisland, from where he continued his work, he was a member of the committee of St. Enoch's Church and the teacher of a young men's Bible-class.

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ULSTER WAR MEMORIAL.

Suggested Provincial Conference.

The Lord Mayor (Councillor J. C. White), in a letter to the Press advocating the creation of a worthy memorial of the Ulstermen who have fallen in the war, says -- This should be a memorial of all our Ulster soldiers who have fallen, without distinction of class or creed. In the trenches or in the charge Nationalist and Unionist, Catholic and Protestant, showed themselves comrades and brothers. United in battle, they are now united in death, and our sectional controversies should not now be allowed to divide them. They were all Irishmen and Ulstermen, and surely Ulstermen can unite in paying a common honour to those who have dene so much honour to our province. Assuming that these considerations will appeal to many, I venture to invite practical suggestions as to the form which a general Ulster memorial should take. In order to give effect to this object I propose that a conference, which shall be representative of all sections of Ulster opinion, I should be convened, and that it should include the Lord Mayor of Belfast, the Mayor of Londonderry, the chairmen of the county councils and of town commissioners, along with other outstanding and representative men, to consider the best way in which this proposal should be carried out in obedience to a harmonious sense of duty to those who have gone from us. I am aware that many local memorials are contemplated, and local memorials are a natural tribute to those fallen soldiers of separate districts who were more closely linked to us by acquaintance, friendship, or affection. But an Ulster memorial would have weight and impressiveness as expressing the united sentiment of a great population, not in personal grief for irreparable loss, but in a collective pride in the glory of self-sacrifice.

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DEATH OF MRS. W. PERRIE SINCLAIR

The death is announced in her 76th year, at Rivelyn, Prince's Park, Liverpool, of Mrs. Agnes Sinclair, widow of the late Mr. William Pirrie Sinclair, and daughter of the Rev. Hew Crichton, D.D. The deceased was well known in Belfast, her husband at one time having been member of Parliament for County Antrim in the pre-redistribution days. He was a cousin of the late Right Honourable Thomas Sinclair.

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LATE REV. T. A. FORBES, M.A.

Rev. W. J. Baird preached at a memorial service in Nelson Memorial Church to the late Rev. T. A. Forbes, M.A., the first minister of the church, who died recently at Hartlepool. He first dealt with Mr. Forbes task in organising that congregation, and to his success as a minister there for fourteen years (1896-1912). As a pastor Mr. Forbes was an indefatigable visitor among his people, and as a preacher his sermons were always well thought out, expressed in clear and forcible language, and always calculated to impress and edify his hearers. He obtained his degrees with distinction, and was on the way to securing the B.D. degree from Trinity College. It was a fine test of perseverance and of ability that, saddled with the burden of congregational work, he remained the student to the end. Even in his pastime (photography) he showed his ability and powers of application. In every aspect of his life he had taught them lessons, but perhaps the best of all was his loyalty and consideration as a friend and neighbour. He had high ideals of his work, and a keen sense of honour in his relationship to his brethren in the ministry; and personally he (Mr. Baird) felt honoured in being permitted to lay a wreath, poor unworthy offering, on his fresh grave. The Head March in "Saul" brought a very solemn service to a close.

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DEATH OF MR. GEORGE THOMPSON

We regret to announce the death of Mr. George Thompson, son of Mr. John Thompson, of Longfield, Eglinton, Co. Derry, which occurred on Tuesday at the Adelaide Hospital, Dublin, following an attack of influenza. The deceased, who was twenty-one years of age, was a nephew of the Rev. Dr. George Thompson, one of the conveners of the General Assembly's Foreign Mission, and Rev. Samuel Thompson, of Clifton Street Presbyterian Church. He was a most distinguished student of Trinity College, Dublin, in which he was a scholar, and in which he had taken first-class honours in English history and in related subjects, and was hearing the completion of his arts course. Sincere sympathy will be extended to the relatives in the great loss they have sustained. The deceased was held in high esteem by all who knew him, and the large attendance of his fellow-students at the funeral from the hospital to the Great Northern Railway terminus and at the old churchyard at Faughanvale yesterday, where the interment took place, testified in a marked degree to his great popularity.

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BELFAST OFFICER'S HEROISM.

Commander Bryan F. Adams, R.N. (H.M.S. Princess Royal), who commanded "A" Naval Company of the storming force at the attack on Zeebrugge Mole, is the second son of Mr. Geo. Hill Adams, Melbourne, formerly of York Street Flax Spinning Company, Belfast, and nephew of the Misses Adams, Atlantic Avenue, Belfast. He was specially promoted to the rank of commander for his services at Zeebrugge. His brother, Captain George Hill Adams, Australian Artillery, won his M.C. at Messines. A third brother, W. R. L. Adams, is with the Australian Field Ambulance.

Vice-Admiral Sir Roger Keyes, K.C.B., of the Dover Patrol, in his despatch dealing with the Zeebrugge operations, states:-- Lieutenant-Commander Adams, followed by the survivors of "A" and "B" Companies, was the first to land, no enemy being then seen on the Mole. Followed by his men, Mr. Adams went along the parapet to the left (towards the lighthouse extension), where he found a look-out station or control, with a range-finder behind and above it. A bomb was put into this station, which was found clear of men. Near this look-out station an iron ladder led down to the Mole, and three of Mr. Adams' party descended it, and prevented a few of the enemy from reaching the harbour side of the Mole. After capturing the look-out station, Mr. Adams advanced to the eastward about forty yards, where he left his party in position, and himself returned to collect more men. Returning to the look-out station, Mr. Adams found only some wounded, but later collected two Lewis gunners and a small party. The situation now was that Mr. Adams' few men and the two Lewis gunners were beyond the look-out station protected from the machine gun fire from the direction of the Mole Head, but exposed to that from the destroyers alongside the Mole, and the men were being hit apparently by machine guns and pom-poms. About this time the recall was sounded, and Mr. Adams therefore withdrew his men from the parapet, and Mole, collected the wounded, and sent them to the Vindictive. Ha himself went along the parapet in search of Lieutenant-Commander Harrison (fatally injured), but not finding him, returned to assist in the re-embarkation. As originally planned, Mr. Harrison's bluejacket storming parties were to deal with the battery on the Mole head and Mole extension only, but they started 400 yards further from their objectives than was intended with the intervening ground fully exposed to machine-gun fire. Mr. Adams and his men, and later Mr. Harrison, pressed their attack most gallantly, and, though denied a full measure of success, it appears probable their fire prevented the 4.1 inch battery at the Mole head coming into action, as these guns did not open fire at the blockships.

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BELFAST MILITARY WEDDING.

A pretty and very interesting wedding ceremony took place in St. Enoch's Church, Belfast, on Wednesday, when Miss Elsie A. Pollock, only daughter of the Rev. John Pollock and Mrs. Pollock, Glandore Park, Antrim Road, Belfast, married Captain Percival Cheal, R.A.M.C., youngest son of Mr. J. Cheal and Mrs. Cheal, Crawley, Sussex. The bride was given away by Mr. G. M. Legg, J.P., Carrickfergus. Her maid of honour was Miss B. Eileen Collins. Surgeon A. Norman Pollock, R.N., brother of the bride, acted as best man. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. John Pollock and the Right Rev. J. M'Granahan, D.D. (Moderator of the General Assembly), and the 23rd Psalm and wedding hymn, "O, Perfect Love," were very tunefully sung by the choir, conducted by Mr. Wm. Curran. The building was beautifully decorated with palms and ornamental plants by a few of the ladies of the church and the Rev. J. Hutt, B.A., under the supervision of the curator of the Botanic Gardens. The bridal bouquets were sent to the U.V.F. Hospital, where the bride has for some time past been a Sister, and a number of the wounded men from the hospital formed a guard of honour as the bridal party left the church. Subsequently Captain and Mrs. Cheal left for London.

 

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