The Witness - Friday, 1 January, 1875

Births

ARNOLD -- Dec. 29, Clermont, Holywood, the wife of Edgar Arnold, Esq., of a daughter.

ENGLISH -- Dec. 24, at Bellaney, Dromore, County Down, the wife of Mr. Robert English, of a daughter.

Marriages

DOWN--GIFFITH -- Dec. 24, at St. Catherine's Church, High Trammer, by the Rev. M. J. Mortimer, Abraham Brown, to Catherine Maria Griffith, of High Trammer (both formally of Belturbet, Co. Cavan.)

GIBSON--HERBERT -- Dec. 26, at the Cathedral of St. Finn-Barr, Cork, by the Rev. C.S. Bruce, Mr. Alexander Gibson, formerly of Belfast, to Kate, youngest daughter of the late John Herbert, Esq., Cork.

GOTTO--CURRY -- Dec. 30, at Elmwood Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. J. H. Moore, assisted by the Rev. R. Workman, M.A., cousin of the bride, Arthur Charles Gotto, C.E., B.A., second son of Edward Gotto, M.I.C.C., The Logs, Hamstead, London, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Margaret, eldest surviving daughter of in J. P. Corry, M.P., Dunraven, Belfast.

MARTIN--CROCKETT -- At the residence of the bride's father, Drumnashire, by the Rev. John R. M'Cleery, Cootehill, assisted by the Rev. Wm. Thompson, Moneyreagh, Rev. Hugh Irwin, Crossroads, to Sarah, daughter of Alexander Crockett, Esq.

MOORHEAD--SHAW -- Dec. 30, by special license, at the residence of the bride's father, Victoria Road, Holywood, by the Rev. Henry Henderson, assisted by the Rev. W. C. M'Cullagh, and the Rev. Hugh Hanna, George Moorhead, Esq., Belfast, to Elizabeth Getty, eldest daughter of James Shaw, Esq., and grandniece of the late John Getty, Esq., Beechpark, Belfast.

REID--BOYD -- Dec. 25, and the Presbyterian Church, Sandholes, Thomas Reid, Esq., Limerick, to Annie Jane, eldest daughter of William Boyd, Esq., Sandholes.

TENNENT--WRIGHT -- Dec. 24, in Union Road Presbyterian Church, Magherafelt, by the Rev. J. W. Sharpe, Mr. Matthew Tennent, Ballyloughan, Moneymore, to Margaret, daughter of Mr. Alex. Wright, Tulnagee, Moneymore.

Deaths

DONALD -- Dec. 29, at Clifden, County Galway, Margaret, third daughter of the late James Donald, Wesleyan minister, aged 19 years.

DAVIDSON -- Dec. 30, at Dundela, Strandtown, Belfast, the infant daughter of James Davidson, Esq.

FRASER [?] -- Dec. 28, at Templemore Avenue, Belfast, Annie Caroline, youngest daughter of James Fraser [?], C.E.

GRAHAM -- Dec. 25, at Braggett, Donacloney, Mary Anne, relict of the late Moses Graham.

HAMILTON -- Dec. 18, at his late residence in Dun----------, Co. Derry, James Hamilton, aged 60 years.

KIRKPATRICK -- Dec. 29, of bronchitis, after short illness, at Hazelbank, Craigs, Co. Antrim, Catherine Elizabeth, wife of the Rev. George Kirkpatrick, aged 81 years.

MARTIN -- Dec. 29, of scarlatina, at 47, Great Patrick Street, Belfast, William Martin, aged 2 years and 3 months.

REEKIE -- December 25, at his residence, 39, Albert Bridge Road, Mountpottinger, after a lingering illness, Mr. David Reekie, aged 71 years.

Clippings

THE CASTLEWELLAN MURDER.
COMMITTAL OF THE ACCUSED.

A special court of petty sessions was held in the Court-house, Castlewellan, on Saturday, before Samuel Murland, Esq., D.L.; William M'Bride, Esq. J.P.; and C.D. Lloyd, Esq., R.M., for of purpose of further investigating the charge of the murder of Edward M'Kee, at Drumee, on 21st of November, preferred against John Magennis.

Mr. B.N. Johnston, Downpatrick, in the absence of Mr. J. M. Magee, S.C.S., conducted the investigation on the part of the Crown; and Mr. R. J. Crawley represented the accused.

The prisoner, John Magennis, was present in custody. The proceedings were private. It is understood that ten witnesses were examined. The most important evidence given was that a woman named Annie Lennon, who deposed that on Friday been, 21st ult., she went down to the deceased's house to know whether he would churn the next day, as was his custom. When within about twenty yards to the house she saw John Magennis, the prisoner, open the "wicket" leading into the yard, and afterwards enter the house. As far as she could remember that was about twenty minutes past five o'clock in the evening. She felt terror-stricken, and ran up the field stating that she frightened at the appearance of John Magennis. When she got up the hill she stopped, expecting to hear her husband coming forward. Just as she stopped she heard a shout, and after that she thought she heard the sound of a car, and immediately heard another shout, as if some persons were answering a first shout that was given; but she imagined that it was some drunk men that were on the car. The witness was cross-examined by Mr. Crawley, and stated that the prisoner never had assaulted nor offered offence to any member of her family. She admitted that the first day the prisoner was brought up to Castlewellan she went forward to speak to him while he was on the car with the police, and said to him -- "Johnny keep up your heart; you will be up home this day week." She never heard of any reward being offered.

A farmer, residing a few miles from Newcastle, was also examined, and stated that on the Saturday after the murder the prisoner sold him a razor for a penny.

A man named Gribben was also examined, and stated that on the Saturday evening after the murder he met the prisoner in a house near Newcastle. He (witness) asked him how he managed to kill old M'Kee, and Magennis said to him "To hell with you."

In reply to Mr. CRAWLEY, the witness admitted that Magennis looked surprised that he mentioned about the murder.

The evidence having been finished, the CHAIRMAN said the Bench had decided upon returning the prisoner for trial to the next Downpatrick Assizes.

Mr. CRAWLEY said he would reserve his witnesses and the defence of the prisoner until the Assizes.

The prisoner was then formally committed to take his trial at the next County Down Assizes, for the murder Edward M'Kee, at Drumlee, on 21st or 22nd November last.

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THE JOY STREET BURGLARY.

AT the Police Court on to Thursday, before J. C. O'Donnell, Esq., R.M., Alexander Brown was put forward on remand, charged with having been concerned in the above burglary.

Mr. M'Erlean appear for the accused, and Mr. James M'Lean, S.C.S., appeared on behalf the prosecution.

Mr. O'DONNELL inquired if Mr. M'Lean claim had any further evidence to offer.

Mr. M'LEAN said he would apply to have the accused returned for trial at the next the Assizes. If bail was asked for, he intended to offer no objection.

Mr. M'ERLEAN objected to the accused being returned for trial without a prima facie case being made out against him. He had not had time to read the informations over, but was astonished to find that they were concluded. His instructions were that the prisoner had not been near the place at all, and that he in nothing whatever to do with the transaction. He would be able to prove his innocence of the charge against him. He understood from the informations which had been taken, that there was really no legal evidence against prisoner.

Mr. O'DONNELL intimated that he had come to another conclusion.

Mr. M'ERLEAN stated that it was rather awkward for his client that these informations should be sent forward in the present form, without witnesses being examined. If an opportunity, were given to have his witnesses examined, it would be to his advantage.

After some further conversation, Mr. M'ERLEAN applied to have his client admitted to bail.

Mr. O'DONNELL said he would accept bail for his appearance -- himself in some of £20 and two sureties of £10 pounds each.

Mr. M'ERLEAN suggested that the amount of bail was too high, the prisoners character and antecedents not being of the most exemplary description. He would have to remain in prison until the Assizes.

Mr. O'DONNELL replied that if he could not find bail in the amount named, he could apply to have it reduced.

The prisoner inquired if ho could get speaking to his wife.

Mr. O'DONNELL said he could, and inquired is there was anything further he could do for him.

The prisoner explained that he would like to get wearing his own clothes in prison.

Mr. O'DONNELL said he would Speak to the governor of the jail on the matter. If the prisoner smoked tobacco he would also try and get the governors permission to allow him to smoke in prison.

The prisoner was then removed.

Patrick ALEXANDER, was next put forward, charged by Constable King, who stated that he believed he was about to abscond from the town.

Mr. James M'Lean appeared for the prosecution, and the prisoner was undefended.

Mr. M'LEAN stated that in this case he understood that the informations were made in writing that the prisoner was about to abscond, and as he was an important witness for the crime against the parties who were concerned in the burglary in Joy Street, he would wish him to be kept under a rule of bail to appear at the next Assizes.

Mr. M'HENRY (Clerk) read the informations.

Mr. O'DONNELL (addressing the prisoner) -- The constable says you are a witness for the Crown, and that you are about to abscond for the purpose of not giving evidence.

Prisoner -- I have not the slightest intention of a absconding. I got a letter from my mother asking me to go to Dublin, but I refused to leave Belfast, and wrote a letter to her to that effect.

Mr. M'LEAN -- I apply to have the prisoner imprisoned unless he finds bail for his appearance.

Mr. O'DONNELL (to prisoner) -- Have you any witnesses to prove the you are not about to abscond?

Prisoner - I have not, but I will report myself to the police every hour, day or week, whatever way they like.

Mr. O'DONNELL - It is my duty to send you to prison, unless you find bail -- yourself in the sum of £20 and two sureties of £10 each. If there is a difficulty in getting that bail, and if you can get bail in a smaller some it will be reduced to £10, and two sureties of £5 each.

The prisoner was then conducted to the cells.

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BRUTAL MURDER NEAR GARVAGH, COUNTY DERRY.

ON Saturday night, December 26th, a most foul and brutal murder was committed convenient to the Grove, within two and a half miles of Garvagh. It appears that while a respectable farmer, named Church, was sitting in a neighbours house, between six and seven o'clock, enjoying a friendly chat, he is fired at through the window and almost killed on the spot, he having lived only five minutes after receiving the fatal shot. The gun or other weapon was loaded, it appears, was two balls, both taking effect in the centre of his body, between the stomach and chest, both penetrating within an inch of each other. As soon as the rumour reached the town, the Royal Irish Constabulary, with their usual promptitude, preceded to the scene of the outrage, accompanied by Dr. M'Neary. The doctor's services were not required. The unfortunate man was dead long before the message reached town. The police arrested two men the named Gilmor, father and son, on suspicion. Little or no reason is assigned at present for the outrage.

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THE LOSS OF THE COSPATRICK.

THE service on which the Cospatrick was employed was that of conveying assisted passengers to the colony, that the change, to a great extent, of the Colonial Government. It is to be said that, with one lamentable recent exception, these ships have been singularly fortunate. They have landed many hundreds of passengers at the Antipodes with a freedom from disaster that, considering the distance -- more than one half the entire circumference of the globe -- has been really wonderful. The only exception to this favourable rule was the loss on our own shores of the Northfleet. A reference to the latitude and longitude indicated in the telegram -- 37 deg. South and 12 deg. East places the scene of this reported disaster very near; comparatively speaking, to that terrible catastrophe the loss of the Birkenhead, when 438 out of 630 officers, soldiers, sea-men, and boys were lost, and the wonderful display of discipline and heroism was made which forms one of the brightest memories of the British Navy. It is believed, we are informed, that agricultural labourers, with their wives and children, who had left various parts of England in consequence of the recent strike, formed the bulk of the passengers on board the Cospatrick.

Some further particulars have been received relative to the loss of the Cospatrick.

A Telegraph's special telegram from Madeira says Macdonald, the second mate, states that in the course of an hour or two from the first signal the ship was in a mass of flames. A Telegraph's special telegram from Madeira says Macdonald, the second mate, states that in the course of an hour or two from the first signal the ship was in a mass of flames. When completely quitted, the hull still floated, and two boats remained alongside her when she sank. The captain and his wife and the doctor remained till the last moment, then jumped overboard, and were drowned. A scene of indescribable horror followed the rush to the boats, men, women, and children drowning round the burning vessel, with nothing to save them. The two boats were afterwards parted by a gale, and nothing is known of the other yet.

A Daily News' special telegram says: When the boat was picked up there were five survivors on it. Two of these died on board the British Sceptre. The men, when picked up, were at the bottom of the boat, listless or sleeping, and the second officer was awoke by one of the men who was mad biting his heel. It is a matter of doubt who suffered most, those who perished by fire, those who were drowned alongside the burning ship, or those who died of thirst or starvation in the boats.

FURTHER PARTICULARS.

In reference to the total destruction by fire of the immigrant ship Cospatrick, of the Cape of Good Hope, following is a complete list of the crew:-- Chas. Romanie, 1st officer; Henry MacDonalds, 2nd officer, saved; Brusser Jones, 3rd officer; William Symons, boatswain; John Fidler, boatswain; T. Wakefield, steward; A. Bennett, engineer; John Wilkins, cook; F. Belfort, A.B.; F. Turner, A.B.; J. Langdon, A.B.; H. Frank, A.B.; R. Hamilton, A.B.; C. Hancock, C. Baron, G. Mills, T. Cunningham, M. Doagery, M. Demache, J. M'Neill, J. Welsh, J. Albani, H. Ruskin, C. Smith, H. Crompton, A. Nicholls, and T. Lewis; a Dublin butcher, John Smith, sailmaker; Peter Cape, Baker; Thomas Gellon, ordinary seaman; E. Cottes, C. Attrell, W. Rood, J. Lockett, ordinary seaman; W. King, chief engineer; Cook Peter Hopkins, second engineer; Robert Godlinson, engineer; steward, A. F. Burrow, apprentice; Alfred Lopez, cuddy servant; M. J. F. Cadle, doctor; C. Harrison, apprentice; W. A. Lane, apprentice.

Among the Irish immigrants on their way to Auckland, New Zealand, were -- Edward Caroll, 36, Tipperary, labourer; Ann, 35, wife; Johanna, 16; Margaret, 13; Edward, 5; Mary, 8. Charles Dalton, 50, Antrim, railway constable; Ellen, 39, wife; Ellen, 17. James Farrell, 35, Galway, labourer; Bridget, 36, wife; Patrick, 6; Michael, 5; Bridget, 3; John infant. Bartholomew Geary, 34, Cork, labourer; Catherine, 35, wife. Charles Keating, 43, Kerry, labourer; Mary, 35, wife; Thomas, 14; Mary, 2. Patrick Riley, 33, Derry, labourer; Margaret, 28, wife; Mary Ellen, 6; Terrence ,3; Ann, 2; Catherine, infant. Francis Rea, 38, Down, labourer; Mary, 35, wife; William, 18; James, 16; Mary, 14; Frank, 13; Hugh, 10; Daniel, 8; Kitty, 6; Thomas, 3; John, infant. Arthur Campbell, 26, labourer; Emma, 28, wife, William, 11. Robert Fitzgerald, 33, Cork, labourer; Mary Ann, 34, wife; Robert, 4, William, 8; Anne, 6. James Hogan, 28, Queen's County, labourer; Maria, 28, wife; Dennis, 3. John Riley, 42, Dublin, gardener; Grace, 32, wife; Mary, 4; Margaret, 1; Grace, 1. Jerimiah Riordon, 34, Kerry, labourer; Elizabeth, 32 a, wife; Timothy, 14; Mary, 12; Elizabeth,10; Michael, 7; Thomas, 4; Jerry, 1. Joseph Bright, 18, Galway, labourer; Patrick Connell, 19, Kerry, labourer; James Canna, 20, Kerry; James Hutchinson, 22, Armagh; George Gilmore, 21, Armagh; H. Beat, 21, Westmeath; Wm. Harvey, 24, Donegal, and Catherine, 18, wife; M. Kerby, 29, Waterford; Michael O'Quillen, 22, Cavan; Arthur Henderson, 31, Donegal, Jane, 20, wife; William Cousins, 20, Down; Mary, 22, wife; Michael Shea, 23, Kerry; George Jones, 49, Antrim; Bridget, 33, wife; Jeremiah Leachan, 24, Cork; Robert M'Meekham, 26, Antrim; George M'Clure, 24, Antrim; John Murphy, 29, Waterford; John M'Bride, 27, Down; Thomas Prember, 38, Down; Susanna, 26, wife; H. Meek, 25, Down; J. Dockle, 24, Kilkenny; Eliza, 23, wife

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DEATH OF REV. JAMES USSHER, BALLYMONEY

We regret to record the demise of an estimable clergyman of the Presbyterian Church. The melancholy event took place this week. Mr. Ussher had for some time been in failing health, so much so, that recently he asked and obtained leave from the General Assembly to have an assistant and a successor appointed in his congregation, and a few weeks since his wishes in this respect were gratified by the ordination by the Presbytery of Route of a young gentleman of much promise. Mr. Ussher was not a very old man, being only a few years over sixty. He was much respected, and will be long remembered in Ballymoney.

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ANOTHER SHIP ON FIRE

News of another shipping disaster reaches us from Greenock. The ship Tennyson arrived at that port last night, and reports that she shipped at St. Helena a number of the crew of the ship Calcutta, of London, which has abandoned at sea about September 11th, during a voyage from Shields to Aden, with coals. The Calcutta's cargo having taken fire, the crew took to the ship's boats. Two of these boats containing fifteen men were picked up, and the men landed at St. Helena, but the other boat containing the captain and eleven men is missing.

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ANOTHER WREAK - LOSS OF NINETEEN LIVES.

TIDINGS have reached Plymouth of the loss of the steamer Delfina by striking on a sunken rock for on the west coast of South America. Her owner, Mr. Barasarti, was on board, and with five others escaped in the only boat which was usable. Thirty others crowded into the life-boat, when it was found that she was so firmly lashed that she could not been moved. In attempting to loosen her she capsized, all her occupants were thrown into the sea, and the boat fell upon there. A terrible scene ensued. Some of the drowning men regained the sinking steamer, but most were swept away and perished.

The steamer having been run towards the shore, sunk in shallow water, her topmasts remaining visible, and some half-dozen clung to these till day-light, when they were taken off. The chief officer for hours clung to the davit just above water, shouted to those in the rigging above for a rope to be thrown him, but this could not be done, and he was swept off. All the passengers but one were drowned. Most of the engines staff were English.

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THE MURDER NEAR GARVAGH.

A CORRESPONDENT writes :--From inquiries made at the coroner's, Daniel Gaily, Esq., Coleraine, who held the inquest upon the remains of Stephen Church, shot at Grove on Saturday night, I have learned that a most horrible event has been the sequence of the tragedy. The corpse was mutilated shockingly by some animals on Monday night. Church was very unpopular in the district, and disgraceful as it is, I am sorry to say that the murder is regarded with satisfaction rather than otherwise. There is no doubt the crime had its origin in an agrarian dispute, Church having had numerous quarrels with neighbouring tenants.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 8 January, 1875

Births

AIKIN--January 7, at 6, Richmond Square, Belfast, the wife of H. Aikin, of a son.

HENEY--January 1, at Dunadry House, Belfast, the wife of Mr. Wm. Heney, of a son.

KELLY--January 4, at Donaghadee, the wife of Wm. Kelly, of a daughter.

Marriages

ANDERSON--CANTLEY--January 5, at the First Presbyterian Church, Rathfriland, by the Rev. James Wilson, Mr. Thomas Anderson, Banbridge, second son of Mr. William Anderson, Ballyvacknakelly, County Down, to Nannie, second daughter of Mr. Robert Cantley, Aughnavallog, Rathfriland.

BEST--DEANS--Dec. 30, at Soldierstown Church, by the Rev. R. Hill, assisted by Rev. John M'Grorty, Robert Thomas, eldest son of the late Arthur Best, Aghalee, to Frances Maria, second daughter of Alexander Deans, Soldierstown.

PICKEN--CASEMENT--January 4, at York Street Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. Thomas Hamilton, M.A., Samuel, eldest surviving son of the late Andrew Picken, Hazelbank, Randalstown, to Deborah, only surviving daughter of the late Thomas Casement, Dock Street, Belfast.

Deaths

BORROWES--December 21, at Rotherham, England, Hannah, beloved wife of Wm. Borrowes.

LITTLE--January 1, at Foglish, Fivemiletown, Robert Little, son of Veitch Little, aged 13 years.

MOORE--At the Manse, Nun's Island, Galway, on the last day of the old year, Wm. M'Ninch, the dearly loved infant son of the Rev. J. C. Moore, aged 7 months.--"Of such is the kingdom of Heaven."

REA--September 26, at Geelong, Victoria, Australia, Sarah Ann, wife of Hugh Rea, formerly of Antrim, and second daughter of the late Hugh Knowles, of Bottom Cottage, Ballymena, aged 61 years.

Clippings

THE CARNDONAGH MURDER.
EXHUMATION OF THE BODY OF THE DECEASED THOMAS M'LAUGHLIN.

ON Thursday the body of M'Laughlin was exhumed, by order of the Government, with the view of ascertaining more precisely the cause of death. Dr. O'Doherty, of Carndonagh, and Dr. Sproule, of Moville, were present, and a large party of police, under the command of Mr. McDermott, S.l. On examination of the remains, a large fracture of the skull, about two inches and in half in length, was found to exist and to correspond with the cut. On removal of the cap of the skull the medical men discovered a great quantity of clotted blood on the brain, induced by extravasation or effusion, and they pronounce this the cause of death. Their testimony is being reduced to writing before J. M'Sheffrey, Esq., J.P.

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SEVERE WEATHER IN SCOTLAND

THE intense frost which has been experienced last week in Scotland has been keener than for twenty and in some places thirty years. In Melrose, on Tuesday morning, 26 degrees of frost was registered, while in districts a little higher the thermometer stood at Zero. Several deaths have resulted from exposure to the cold, and generally much suffering has been entailed. Great difficulty has been experienced by hill farmers in providing for their sheep, in some instances as much as £10 per day being paid for feeding them on old hay, costing 28 per stone of 22lbs. Along the hedge ways many robins, blackbirds, and other small birds are to be seen, having been killed by the intense cold. Loch Lomond has been frozen over, as well as several large rivers, including the Tay and Tweed.

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PAUPERISM IN IRELAND.

THE returns of the Irish Poor Law Board for the year ending 30th September, are published. The total sum expended was £1,003,513, against £959,736 the previous year, showing an increase of £43,777. This expenditure is only £50,000 less than in 1852, when the paupers numbered 168,821, while now they number only 45,000. The out-door relief during the past year was £93,604: in 1859 it was only £3,249. The cost of in-door maintenance in last year was £438,316, while in 1859 with only 10 per cent. less paupers the cost was £234,202. The cost for medical charities last year was £140,916. In 1859 it was only £99,336. The increase is due chiefly to additions to the salaries of medical officers.

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FATAL ACCIDENT IN MONAGHAN.

About half-past six o'clock on Tuesday evening an accident, ,which resulted fatally, occurred in Hill Street, Monaghan. It appears that the night was very dark, and as an old woman named Mary Connolly was passing a gateway a horse drawing a cart laden wIth tImber, was about entering it, and before she had time to leave the way she was knocked down and the cart passed over her. She died shortly afterwards. An inquest was held on the body yesterday, and an verdict of accidental death returned.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 15 January, 1875

Births

GILLESPIE--January 7, at 71, Cooke's Road, Otto Street, Kennington Park London, the wife of Mr. Thomas Gillespie, of a son.

KISAHAN--January 12, at 11, Merrion Square North, Dublin, the wife of the High Sheriff of County Dublin, of a daughter.

LONG--January 8, at Caufield Place, Newry, the wife of Mr. Robert Long, of a son.

SIMPSON--January 9, at 3, Market Square, Dungannon, the wife of John Simpson, of a son.

THOMPSON--January 10, at Saintfield, the wife of Alfred Thompson, of a daughter.

Marriages

ARLOW--MACKAY--January 5, at the First Presbyterian Church, Scarva Street, Banbridge, by the Rev. John Sinclair Hamilton, assisted by the Rev. John Woods Ballard, Belfast, Edward John, youngest son of Matthew Arlow, Esq., Ligoniel, to Jane, eldest daughter of Joseph Mackay, Esq., Ballymoney House, Banbridge.

CALWELL--PERRY--January 8, at Bangor Road Presbyterian Church, Holywood, by the Rev. Henry Henderson, Mr. Walter Calwell, Ardoyne, Belfast, to Rebecca Busby, second daughter of Mr. James Perry, Cultra, Co. Down.

CHRISTIE--REA--January 12, at Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. William Witherow, assisted by the Rev. J. Beattie, John Christie, Commander of the U.S. ship Volunteer, to Jane, younger daughter of the late Wm. Rea, both of Donaghadee.

SCOTT--CAMMACK--January 13, at May Street Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. S. Lyle, James Scott, to Elizabeth Cammack, both of Belfast.

Deaths

COLTON--January 12, at 30, Carlisle Street, Belfast, Samuel Edgar, youngest son of Mr. John M. Colton, aged 7 years and 3 months.

BOWMAN--January 13 at West Street, Carrickfergus, Samuel B. Bowman, only son of Mr. Johnston Bowman, aged 15 years.

HART--January 13, at his residence, Springville, Belmont, Belfast, Henry Hart, late of Ravarnett House, Lisburn, aged 68 years.

JAMISON--On Sabbath morning, the 10th inst., at the Manse, Newtownhamilton, George Sidney Lloyd, infant son of the Rev. D. Jamison, removed after a brief visit of seven weeks to the Father's House above.

M'WHA--January 9, at 3, Downshire Place, Mountpottinger, Belfast, John M'Wha, aged 59 years.

SCOALES--January 12, at the Manse, Clifton Street, of bronchitis, Martha Scoales, whose faithful service for eighteen years was highly valued and appreciated in the family of the Rev. John Mecredy.

SANDS--January 13, at his residence, 2, Thorndale Terrace, Antrim Road, Belfast, Joseph Sands, aged 64 years.

SHAW--January 13, at his residence, Palmerston Terrace, Sydenham, Belfast, James Shaw, aged 56 years.

WALKER--January 13, at 96, Richmond Terrace, Belfast, Henry Douglas, youngest son of W. R. Walker, aged 8 months.

Clippings

TERRIBLE SUFFERINGS OF A SHIP'S CREW.

RESCUED by the steamer Foochoo, the crew of the schooner Vesper, of Lo?e, landed at Plymouth on Wednesday, after the most severe sufferings, The Vesper encountered the Dec, hurricane in the Bay of Biscay. Twice the vessel was thrown on her beam ends. and righted, but, the cargo shifting, she sprung a leak. Her boats were stove in, the pumps choked, and she was a mere floating wreck. In this position her crew clung to her for three days and nights, seas incessantly breaking over them, without food, water, or fire. When nearly exhausted they were sighted by the Foochoo, the lifeboat of which succeeded with great difficulty in taking them off and landing them at Gibraltar. The Vesper is believed to have foundered soon after her abandonment.

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THE QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY IN IRELAND.

The following candidates have passed the Supplementary First University Examination in Arts: -

Robert Allison, of Queen's College, Belfast; Robert Ambrose, of Queen's College, Cork; J. Lyle Bigger, Queen's College, Belfast; Robt. Blair, of Queen's College, Belfast; Thos. Boyd, of Queen's College, Belfast; Robert Craig, of Queen's College, Belfast; Samuel G. Crawford, of Queen's College, Belfast; O'Byrne Crowe, of Queen's College, Cork; Joseph Fisher, of Queen's College, Galway; Daniel MacAuliffe, of Queen's College, Galway; John M'Cosh, of Queen's College, Belfast; William M'Namara, of Queen's College, Galway; John Ronan, of Queen's College, Cork; Wm. Tait, of Queen's College, Belfast; Jas. F. Williams, of Queen's College, Belfast.

On the same occasion, the following candidates passed the Supplementary First University Examination in Engineering: -

George Myers, of Queen's College, Cork; Christopher F. O'Sullivan, of Queen's College, Cork; John J. O'Sullivan, of Queen's College, Cork; Charles J. L. White, of Queen's College, Cork.

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NEW BARRISTERS.

John Martley, Esq., A.B., University of Dublin, second son of Henry Martley, late of Harcourt Street, in the City of Dublin, one of the judges of Landed Estate's Court, deceased.

William Dillon, Esq., eldest son of John B. Dillon, late of Fitzwilliam Square, in the city Dublin, Esq., M.P. Mr. Dillon obtained the special certificate of honour at the general examination held on 7th, 8th, and 9th December last.

Francis Blackburne Henn, Esq., A.B., University of Dublin, second son of Thomas Rice Henn of Paradise in the county of

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OLD TIMES IN COUNTY ANTRIM.

An historical account of the MacDonnells of Antrim, including notices of some other septs, Irish and Scottish. By Rev. George Hill, editor of the Montgomery manuscripts. Belfast: Archer.

The author of this work truly says, in his preface, that the history of the Antrim MacDonnells "is important, as being bound up with that of a once powerful and widely extended race. It is, perhaps, not less so as preserving an authentic account during many centuries of the territories in which their leading houses were gradually built up, and often suddenly cast down. The records of the Antrim MacDonnells are thus fine to touch the shores of our North Channel with a truly historic light." In truth for many centuries the history of the MacDonnells is the history of the North of Ireland.

The Rev. George Hill brings to bear upon the task of elucidating this history qualifications of the highest order. The success with which he edited the Montgomery Manuscripts some time since proved his competence for such work, so that we are not surprised to find the task which the author set before him when he undertook to narrate the long and eventful history of the Antrim Macdonnells accomplished as probably no other living man could do it. The book is a perfect mine of information, so that the readers only trouble is an embarrass des richesses of the most delightful character. The whole history of the County Antrim has a flood of light cast upon it. Scarcely a town or district in it is unmentioned. Nor is Mr. Hill a Dr. Dryasdust who fills his book with the dry facts of a musty antiquity in a manner which only the archaeologist can appreciate. His pages are instinct with life. As we read, Sorely Boy Macdonnell and Shane O'Neill, the Macquillins and the Macleans, with all the old contests and intrigues of a long buried past, stand before us once more with a graphic in vivid reality, while the old dismantled Castles of Dunluce, and Dunseverick, and Ballyreagh, and the rest which look defiantly down from their rocky seats on the waves which dash against our Antrim shores, again echo to the strains of mirthful music or resound to the noise and tumult of fierce warfare. The fact that Mr. Hill draws his information largely from State papers and other records of the period, makes his tales as thoroughly trustworthy as they are delightful.

We enrich our columns with an extract or two, though extract from this volume can scarce give a better idea of its contents than could a few bricks of the Pyramids. Our author thus describes

THE GLENS OF ANTRIM.

"It is admitted, even by those who have had opportunities of visiting other lands, that the picturesque beauty of this district is, in some respects, unrivalled. Each glen is found to possess its own peculiar charms, whilst throughout all the same leading characteristics are apparent. The principal glens open on a sea at irregular intervals, along the line of coast between the little towns of Glenarm and Ballycastle, and extend inland among the hills in winding courses of several miles. A little stream finds its way down the centre of each valley to the sea, now murmuring between piles of gray rock overhung with hoary trees, and again stealing quietly onward through stretches of corn and meadow-and. The overhanging slopes are generally occupied by small but well-cultivated fields, in almost every variety of shape in size, and fashioned, apparently, more by time and chance, than by any direct agency of human hands. The humble homesteads to which these fields belong are old-fashioned, badly planned and clumsily built, if you will, yet having an air of decent comfort, and even dignity, which modern and more pretentious farmhouses do not often exhibit. From the porches of these quiet habitations, there are magnificent views of the channel, with its rugged, romantic shores; and many a tale of love and war, of peril and shipwreck and enchantment, are familarly rehearsed from generation to generation by the simple inmates."

A little further on we come on the following account of

THE DEATH OF SHANE O'NEILL.

"On the return of the Scots to Cushindun with their valuable cattle spoil, their leader received an invitation from Shane, desiring that he and they should have a friendly meeting, with the view of forming a permanent alliance against the English, their common enemy. This invitation was, no doubt, explained by Sorley to his brother through some medium not mentioned. At all events, it was gladly accepted by the Scots. The meeting was arranged to take place at a short distance from the present village of Cushindun, and the North-Western slope above the bay. Thither went O'Neill at the time appointed, accompanied by the Countess of Argyle, his secretary, and a small troop of fifty horsemen. A sumptuous banquet had been prepared to inaugurate the re-union of the O'Neills and the Macdonnells, Shane and his party regaling themselves no doubt on the beef and mutton that had been taken a day or two before from his own devoted adherents in Clannaboy. When the festivities had been conducted harmoniously for the space of two days, it would appear that one of the Macdonnells, the son of Gillaspick, charged O'Neill's secretary with originating, or at least circulating, a report of a marriage and then said to be in contemplation, between O'Neill and a widow of James Macdonnell, who had died of his wounds in one of O'Neill's dungeons. This report, which had even reached the Government, and was mentioned in a letter from the Irish Deputy to the council in England, the Scots regarded as a foul slander on the lady of their late lamented chief. The secretary, instead of employing the soft word that turneth aside wrath, taunted the Macdonnells as unworthy the honour which they seemed so anxious to repudiate, reminding them at the same time that O'Neill was hereditary Prince of Ulster, and that by his ancient lineage, as well his exalted position, he was fully entitled to match even with their Queen, Mary of Scotland. At this point of the dispute, Shane himself approached, and being, it is said, heated with wine, he foolishly took up his secretary's quarrel, and no doubt spoke his mind freely on the whole subject in hand. It is not improbable that he even accompanied his words by a blow, aimed at the audacious Gillaspick. Where now was Sorley Boy? He was present, and a word from him allayed the wrath of the Macdonnells; but a word was not spoken. On the contrary, some significant look or gesture from him probably sealed Shane's fate, by bringing upon him in quick succession the blows of the Scottish dirks - or 'slaughter knives,' as Campion designates those weapons. Shane was literally hewn to pieces, and his mutilated remains flung into a pit near the place of his assassination."

Here is an old story of

A MARRIAGE IN RATHLIN.

"The marriage of Turlough Luinech O'Neill with Lady Cantire was celebrated in the lovely little island of Rathlin, but unfortunately the notice of this affair in the State Papers is very meagre indeed. Fitzwilliam, writing to Cecil on 12th September, announces that Turlough Luinech 'was fourteen days in the Raghlins, and there concluded his marriage with James M'Donnell's late wife.' Had the bride and groom been a youthful pair we might imagine that the island was selected for the celebration of this event because it's romantic position and surroundings; but as Turlough was a widower, the father of a family, and Lady Cantire the mother of many sons, the choice of Rathlin as their wedding place was probably dictated by some considerations of prudence. But whether or not, there required, no doubt, extensive preparations to be made on the island for the accommodation of such a large and distinguished party as there assembled. It is curious that in the proceeding summer, when the marriage was expected to take place, Terrence Danyell wrote to the Lords Justices, informing them that 'Sorley Boy had passed two nights in the Glynns, cutting wattles to build in the Raghlins." This timber may have been probably intended to repair the old castle, or to build temporary dwellings for the guests. As the ceremony took place in the month of August the island no doubt looked its best, being always more attractive at that season than any other. The fields, then 'fading green and yellow,' contrast most vividly with the blue waters which lie placidly at the base of the weather-beaten cliffs. If the guests felt somewhat imprisoned during their fourteen days of festivity, they must have also felt that never was island-prison more pleasant or attractive. If they occasionally lifted their eyes at all from the wild beauties of the island to look at the Antrim shore, the views East in West were such as they could have hardly ever afterwards forgotten."

We just that these excerpts will so whet the appetite of our readers that they will long to possess this admirable volume for themselves. A better companion for a County Antrim fireside during these long winter nights we cannot imagine.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

BURNT TO DEATH.

Two children, Elizabeth Pearse, aged nine years, and a younger brother Charles Pearse, living in Alma Street, Northgate, near Canterbury, have just expired in the Kent Hospital from the effects of burns. It would appear that the girl was left by the mother nursing her brother in front of the fire. Shortly afterwards loud screams were heard, and a neighbour on entering the place found both the children in flames. The little girl was running about screaming loudly for assistance; the little boy was on the floor. The fire was soon extinguished, but not until both children had been severely burnt. They died a few hours left after each other. From a statement made by the girl before her death, it appeared that while sitting on the floor a cinder fell out and ignited the boy's clothes, and that while she was attempting to give him assistance, her own clothes were set on fire.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

SERIOUS ASSAULT NEAR OMAGH.

On the market night of this town, Owen Kelly, farmer, was attacked by two men at Listen Bridge, one mile from here, and knocked up against the wall, which bears marks of a severe struggle, as blood is scattered about to place. Mr. Clements, a farmer in the neighbourhood, heard the noise, and when he shouted Kelly's assailants ran away. Mr. Clements wanted Kelly, who was bleeding much at the time, to go into his house with him, but this he declined, as he stated he would return to town, and parted with Mr. Clements with that intention. Since then nothing has been heard of him. It is supposed that his assailants returned and attacked him again on this way to Omagh. The constabulary are using every exertion to ensure the apprehension of the offenders.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 22 January, 1875

Births

ADAMS--January 18, at 24, Magdala Street, Belfast, the wife of David Adams, of a daughter.

AGNEW--January 19, at 188, York Street, Belfast, the wife of Daniel Agnew, jun., of a daughter.

BELL--January 17, at Ballygrooly, Moneymore, County Derry, the wife of Mr. lsaac Bell, of a son.

EDMONDS--January 19, at Castlebar, the wife of John Edgar Edmonds, of a son.

Marriages

BEGGS--M'CULLOUGH--January 16, by special licence, at the Parish Church, Holywood, by the Rev. A. J. Ard, J. W. Beggs, Liverpool, to Sarah, only daughter of Mr. John M'Cullough, Rostrevor.

DESPARD--HUNT--January 14, by special licence, at Hampton, by the Rev. Richard Irvine, M.A., William F. Despard, Holywood, to Mary, third daughter of the late Lieut.-Colonel Arthur Hunt, Royal Artillery.

SCOTT--DARRAGH--January 20, at the First Presbyterian Church, Killyleagh, by the Rev. Andrew Breakey, M.A., assisted by the Rev. Henry Osborne, M.A., James M'Conkey, eldest son of John H. Scott, Belfast, to Mary, only daughter of Robert Darragh, Shrigley, Killyleagh.

Deaths

JAMISON--January 19, at 8, Duncairn Terrace, Belfast, Mary Elizabeth, younger daughter of Daniel Jamison, aged 14 years. Her remains will be removed for interment in the Balmoral Cemetery, on Friday morning, at half-past nine o'clock. Friends will please accept this intimation.

ADAIR--January 15, at her father's residence, Martha Ainsworth, youngest daughter of Hugh Adair, Arthur Street, Belfast, aged 13 years.

BATT--January 18, at his residence, St. John's Place, Lame, Samuel Hyde Batt, Esq., aged 57 years.

CAMPBELL--January 19, James Campbell, late of H.M.C.

CULLEN--January 1, at Jersey City Hospital, U.S.A., William Cullen, compositor, late of Belfast, aged 33 years.

CROZIER--January 16, of inflammation of the lungs, at Donegall Pass, Belfast, J. S. Crozier, Esq., aged 59 years.

M'CAUSLAND--January 16, at 62, Denmark Street, Belfast, Susan, youngest daughter of the late Robert M'Causland, aged 10 years .

MILLER--January 16, at 1, Lonsdale Street, Belfast, John Bell, third son of the late Jesse Miller, Templemoyle.

Clippings

THE STORM.
DETENTION OF CROSS-CHANNELL STEAMERS.
[FROM THE ULSTER EHCO OF WEDNESDAY]

LAST night Belfast was visited with a storm of unusual violence. From about eleven o'clock the wind blew with great force, and towards one o'clock this morning it freshened into a perfect hurricane, sweeping chimney-pots and slates off the roofs and carrying them about in all directions, while in many streets signboards and projecting Lamps were blown away. In Corporation Street several chimneys were torn down, carrying portion of the roofing with them, and the occupants of the houses got so alarmed that they were propped to prevent them from falling. A house in Ballymacarrett, where a penny show has been held for some time, came down with a great crash about three o'clock this morning. The lately erected boat-house, beside the Central Railway Bridge, on the banks of the Lagan. was blown down, and a large portion of the timber swept into the sea. A telegraph pole at the Queen's Bridge appeared to be falling, and a party of linesmen were immediately at to work to secure it. The new Methodist Church which is in course of erection at Carlile Circus, was slightly injured, having had a large piece of masonry blown off the top of the building. In the outskirts of the town much damage to house property is done. Several small trees have been uprooted, and fences and palings have been injured severely. The Fleetwood steamer, Thomas Dugdale, arrived at eight o'clock, having experienced most severe weather during the passage. The Dublin steamer, Iron Duke, which left Dublin at nine o'clock last night arrived here shortly after eleven o'clock after a passage of unprecedented severity. The Liverpool and Barrow steamers have not yet come into port, and their arrival is being anxiously waited for by a large crowd of people on the quay.

The tug-steamer Alderman Ridley, reports lying at Bangor Pier till about one o'clock this morning. She was then forced to leave for fear of being dashed to pieces by the violence of the storm. She went out and cast anchor a short distance from the wall. The anchor chain broke, when she had to steam , to Belfast, which, from the violence of the gale, she was scarcely able to reach. When passing the Twin Islands one of the river lighthouses on the South Island was blown away. The tug reached the quay in safety about four o'clock.

FROM THE ULSTER ECHO OF YESTERDAY.

THE damage done to property during the storm of Tuesday night and Wednesday morning is very great. The house of Martin Jaffe, Esq., at Belmont, suffered considerably from the fury of the gale. Between one and two o'clock a chimney was blown down, and carried with it a portion of the roof. A considerable portion of the debris made its way through the third storey, where two nurses and several young children were sleeping, but they were uninjured. A housemaid who slept in the second storey was most miraculously preserved. It appears she was asleep when the chimney was blown down, and the debris had penetrated to her room. Owing to the peculiar situation of the bed the falling timber in no way injured her. Sub-Constable Maren succeeded in scaling the wall of the house, and extricating the housemaid, who was prevented from getting out by being surrounded by the debris. Mr. Jaffe was compelled to remove his family to the villa of another gentleman residing in the vicinity. The Rev. Mr. Killen's church, Antrim Road, had a finial carried away, and two high walls in the same neighbourhood were blown down. The new sales yards of Messrs. Gordon and Colgan in Oxford Street were almost completely demolished. A portion of the gable of Salem Church, York Street, was blown down and fell on the roof of an adjoining house. Innumerable instances of signboards and projecting lamps being blown away are reported, and shutters in many cases blown off.

The shipping casualties must have been numerous, and of those which have been reported we find that the schooner Anne Elizabeth, which left this port on Tuesday for Liverpool, had to run into Carrickfergus for safety. The crew abandoned her, and having broke from her moorings, she was drifting out to sea when found in a sinking condition by the steam-tug Protector, and brought to Belfast. Two other schooners were towed into harbour, both of which were unmasted.

This morning the weather is perfectly calm, and although frost set in last night, there is a slight indication of rain.

CARRICKFERGUS.

The storm was severely felt in this neighbourhood, and is regarded as being the most violent and destructive ever remembered. Great damage was done to all sorts of property, and serious personal injuries have been sustained by the respected wife of the superintendent of Sheilds Institute, which is a large building at the Lower end of the Scotch Quarter. It appears that the gable of the house gave way to the force of the storm, and fell into the apartment where this lady and her daughter were sleeping, completely embedding them. The younger lady succeeded in extricating herself from the debris, but the elderly lady was not rescued from her perilous position for an hour. When she was extricated from the mass of mortar and brickwork that covered her, Dr. Taggart was immediately sent for, and, after a slight delay he attended, and her injuries, which consisted of several cuts and bruises in the head, were dressed. The superintendent and his son, strange to say, escaped unhurt.

The shipping disasters along the coast are numerous. The Clara, of Dublin, 400 tons, was driven on the Carrickfergus bank at low water, and is now completely submerged. A schooner grounded at Whitehead early in the morning, and another vessel belonging to Carrickfergus has disappeared from the roads were she was lying on Tuesday evening, and nothing has since been heard of her.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

THE STREAN WILL CASE.
Dublin, Tuesday.

THE hearing of this case was resumed at ten o'clock on Tuesday morning in the Dublin Probate Court, Mr. Macdonough Q.C., continued his address on behalf of the plaintiff, Mrs. Strean, and throughout boldly challenged the bona fides of Mr. Kelly in his conduct in the matter of the wills, the last of which he declared was a farce and a fraud. Mr. Kelly had robbed the rightful owners of their property, and counsel called upon the jury, in justice to those who were entitled to the testator's bounty, and in vindication of right and justice, to break that will, even though by the verdict the character of an attorney might be sacrificed. There was applause in court at the conclusion of the learned gentleman's speech. The evidence for the defence was then gone into, the first witness being Dr. David Jamison, who had been professional attendant on the deceased. He described him as suffering from inflammation of the liver, produced by drink, and said he was always suffering from drink, and was timid and nervous. He was a stupid man and easy and good natured and peaceable in the hands of those about him. Witness believed that drinking destroyed any intellect the deceased had, and that he was incapable of understanding such a document as the will of 1874. The case had not concluded at the rising of the court.

Dublin, Wednesday.
THE hearing of this case was resumed on Wednesday.

Mr. Peterson, an accountant, was examined as an expert, and gave it as his opinion that the figures representing the alleged original legacy to Mr. Kelly were 200, subsequently altered to 300. The 300 now stood at 3,000.

Mr. Joseph Bradshaw, J.P., deposed that the deceased was nearly always in a dosed state from drink, and was very easily influenced. He told witness on one occasion, when he advised him to go to London on account of a disease he had, that he must get Mr. Kelly's leave or assent. The witness was cross-examined as to his relations with Mr. Kelly, who had filed a bill against him at the suit of his (witness's) brother. He accused Mr. Kelly of making a false representation to his brother, which led to the suit, and said his brother afterwards dismissed him.

Mrs. Elizabeth Strean, wife of Mr. Thomas Strean, was the next witness. Her husband frequently took a "drop," and two months after their marriage he became dull, and was in a fearful condition lest any one should injure him. She gave instances of his conduct in this respect, and said that all through their married life he was the best of husbands. Mr. Kelly was frequently at the house, and gave her husband whiskey in a wine tumbler. Her husband was easily controlled, and any one who got into his ways could make him do as he liked. In 1874 he spoke of Captain Hamilton, of the North Down Rifles, not corning with his wages. Her husband never told her what he was worth, or what he would leave her, but he said he would leave her plenty. The morning that Mr. Andrews and Mr. Downey visited the house, her husband was not well and she advised him to stay in bed, but he said he would have to rise, though he was not able. He got brandy and peppermint that morning. Mr. Kelly went up to her husband's room after Mr. Andrew's came down, and when she afterwards went up, she found that he (her husband) had taken more drink than was right. Her husband seemed much attached to Mr. Armstrong. In cross-examination by Mr. Andrews, witness said her husband was proud of the Strean Church. He appeared to be friendly to Mr. Kelly. On one occasion her husband showed her a large sum of money - she counted £11,000 - and, in reply to her question about who he was gathering it for, he said, "Perhaps it is for you."

 

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The Witness - Friday, 29 January, 1875

Births

ALEXANDER--January 26, at Coolgrove House, Queen's County, the wife of the Rev. John Alexander, of a daughter.

CLEMENTS--January 27, at her father's residence, Pomeroy, the wife of the Rev. W. Clements, Tartaraghan, of a daughter.

DUGMORE--January 21, at the Manor House, Dorchester, Oxon, the Hon. Mrs. Dugmore, of a son.

GAULT--January 31, at Mossley, Belfast, the wife of Mr. Joseph Gault, of a daughter.

STEWART--December 6, 1874, at Duchess Street, Toronto, Canada, the wife of William John Stewart, of a son.

SHEPHERD--Jan. 26, at her father's residence, Stannus Place, Lisburn, the wife of the Rev. William Shepherd, B.A., First Dromara, of a son.

WYLIE--January 18, at 9, Tudor Place, the wife of Mr. A. Wylie, Bible and Colportage Society, of a son.

WEATHERUP--January 26, at Albert Road, Carrickfergus, the wife of Mr. John Weatherup, of a son.

Marriages

BELL--GILMORE--January 26, at May Street Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. J. S. MacIntosh, Henry Arthur H. Bell, only son of the late Mr. Thomas Bell, Lower Ballinderry, to Annie Thompson, only daughter of W. Gilmore, Belfast, and niece of Samuel Thompson, Laurel Vale, Aghalee.

FEE--BROWN--January 21, at Lyle Hill Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. James Black, assisted by the Rev. H. C. Hamilton, Templepatrick, John C. Fee, son of Mr. Robert Fee, Ballyhartfield, Doagh, to Mary Eliza, second daughter of Mr. Robert Brown, Kilgreel, Lyle Hill.

FINLAY--MONTGOMERY--January 26, at the Presbyterian Church, Dundrod, by the Rev. A. C. Canning, James, only son of Robt. Finlay, Killinchy, Co. Down, to Mary Jane, fourth daughter of John Montgomery, Ballydonaghy, Co. Antrim.

LITTLE--THOMPSON--At Christ Church, Rathgar, by the Rev. W. F. Stevenson, A.M., John Pringle Little, Esq., only son of W. LIttle, Esq., of Deerpark Kilkenny, to Alice, second daughter of Edward Thompson, Esq., Hollyville, Terenure.

WILSON--M'GRAND--January 22, at Upper Clenaneese Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. J. L. Scott, assisted by the Rev. JAmes Wilson, Rathfriland, brother of the bridegroom, William, eldest son of JAmes Wilson, Dyan Hill, CAledon, to Margaret, eldest daughter of John M'Grand, Annaghmore, Aughnacloy.

Deaths

AGNEW--January 26, at 18, Mount Street, Mountpottinger, Belfast, Elizabeth, wife of William Henry Agnew, aged 64 years.

BROWN--January 26, at his residence, Queen Street, Lurgan, George Brown, aged 64 years.

KEEGAN--January 15, at Newport, Mayo, Catherine, the truly amiable and beloved wife of the Rev. George S. Keegan, deeply and sincerely regretted by all classes and creeds, aged 31 years.

KEARNEY--January 24, at his father's residence, 16, Joy Street, Belfast, Robert, second son of Mr. John Kearney, aged 7 years.

M'CARTER--November 8, 1874, at Marshalstown, Geelong, Victoria, Australia, Lizzie, the beloved wife of Joseph M'Carter, jun., Esq., formerly of Coleraine.

M'BRIDE--January 27, at his residence, Mosside, Derriaghy, Mr. James M'Bride, aged 79 years.

M'CULLAGH--January 25, at his late residence, 12, Fitzroy Avenue, Belfast, Mr. Wm. M'Cullagh, aged 77 years.

MILLAR--January 25, at his rather's residence, 19, Berlin Street, Belfast, William, eldest son of William Millar.

MOORE--January 26, at his residence, 34, Auburn Street, Belfast, James Moore.

MILLAR--January 26, Jane Reilly, infant child of Henry Millar, Wellwood Place, Mountpottinger, Belfast.

NIXON--January 21, at Newcastle-on-Tyne, England, William, eldest son of Mr. Wm. Nixon, Tollynacree, Co. Down, aged 28 years.

SINCLAIR--January 27, at her residence, 29, Hamilton Street, Belfast, Sarah, relict of the late Mr. Adam Sinclair, Maghera, aged 82 years.

STITT--January 23, at 53, Grosvenor Street, Belfast, James, eldest son of Mr. James Stitt, aged 21 years.

WATSON--January 25, at Victoria Villas, Sydenham, Belfast, Annie, infant daughter of Mr. John Watson.

Clippings

THE STREAN WILL CASE.
Dublin, Thursday.

The hearing of this case was resumed this day. Jane M'Clements, a servant in the employment of the deceased from November, 1873, until July, 1874, deposed -- He was confined to his bed for the most part from Jan. until July. In witness's opinion he was suffering in mind as well as body. Did he get whiskey or brandy from time to time? Oh, yes; he did. He would get about half a glass at a time. He would have that ten or a dozen times a day. I have seen him under the influence of drink frequently in the daytime. I recollect the day the strange gentlemen, Mr. Andrews, came to house. Mr. Strean and I helped to get him up and dress him. I was in the drawing-room immediately after the gentleman came down to dinner. Mr. Strean was rather in a "declining" way on the sofa, with his feet on a little stool. From his appearance I would say he was under the influence of drink. There was a black bottle on the table. From the state in which you saw him do you think he could have got off the sofa and gone to the bottle without help? I think not. During the whole time I was in his employment I had never seen him so drunk. Cross-examined by Mr. Falkiner - I have often talked with him, and sometimes he the sharp and sensible, and sometimes he spoke foolish, as a thought.

Miss Margaret Robinson, niece of the deceased, corroborated the evidence of the last witness as to the state of Mr. Strean on the day the last will was signed. She only remembered him having been so drunk once before.

To Mr. ANDREWS -- I have heard my uncle speak kindly of George Armstrong when drunk, but he did not say much about him when sober. I was at one time fond of Mrs. Kelly, but the friendship ceased after the last will. I had a good opinion of Mr. Kelly also. Mrs. Kelly always advised me not to leave my aunt, for it would be well for me in the end, and I blame myself for taking her advice.

Wm. Gillan, revenue officer at Comber, deposed that the deceased was a silly-minded old man. At the dinner in Comber, addressing witness, he said, "Garibaldi, I don't like this trash, but let us go down to Betty and have a drop off 'auld Commer.'" (Laughter.) He said Dr. Armstrong could make a speech, and that he was his heir at all events. He used to see them at flower shows; and at all these great "blow outs" and dinners they generally booked him in a for a ticket, and he used to like to get the benefit of it. (Laughter.)

Mrs. Eliza Jane Neill, James Robinson, Mrs. E. Nelson, and Mr. John Taylor having been examined, Mr. P. MacIntosh, manager of the Ulster Bank, Newtownards, deposed that Thomas Strean was a man of little intellect, and childish. Had heard him say to Mrs. Strean, "Betty, I will leave you well off," and on another occasion, "Ay, Betty, I have no one but you and I will leave you well off."

Other witnesses having been examined, Mr. Robert Kelly was recalled, and denied some of the allegations made by the witnesses for the defence.

Dublin, Friday.
The Strean all case has now come to a sudden termination,. A verdict has been entered for defendants by consent, the will to be broken, and Mr. Kelly to receive £3,000. Te result of this is that the residue estimated at about £20,000, will now be divided among the relatives by the court. Great excitement in court at the announcement of the verdict.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

BURIAL QUESTION.

A case which came before Mr. Theobald E. Purcell, chairman of the county Limerick, at the Rathkeale Quarter Sessions, and which his worship adjourned to the Limerick Sessions, has just come before the court for judgement. The action was brought by Patrick Power, against Francis Quin, sexton, and the Rev. Samuel Wills, rector of the Parish of Rathkeale, for the recovery of ten shillings burial fees, claimed by the sexton and paid by the plaintiff. The sexton had refused to admit the coffin into the cemetery unless the fees were paid. Ten shillings were paid under protest, and the action had been brought for the recovery of the same. The defendant claimed the money under the charter of the Irish Church representative body, made under powers conferred by the state. The chairman gave judgement in favour of plaintiff, holding that neither the charter now the Act 32 and 33 Vic. applied, inasmuch as Power had vested right in burial in the cemetery.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

WRECK OF THE AURORA -EIGHT LIVES LOST.

The Italian barque Nanta yesterday brought into Falmouth the surviving crew of the barque Aurora, of Poole, 696 tons, Hare, master, which was on her way from Georgia to Liverpool with a cargo of pitch pine. She encountered a series of gales for thirty-six days, and at length became waterlogged on the 12th of January. While the crew were endeavouring to get provisions into the tops the vessel capsized, throwing them all into the sea. Thirteen of the crew got back, but the captain and two men were drowned. Soon after the mast went and the vessel righted. The survivors were now exposed to the continued fury of the gale and without any food or water till the 16th. When the Nanta was sighted she made several attempts to get to the vessel without success, and at length nine men followed the lead of the boatswain and jumped into the sea. Seven of them were picked up, but the mate and a seaman were drowned. There were then three men left on the wreck, and as they could not be induced to jump they were left to their fate. Of the crew of sixteen only eight were saved.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

FATAL ACCIDENT AT COLERAINE.

This morning an accident occurred here, to a young man named James Walker, aged eighteen years, servant to William Black, Cabin Hill, which proved fatal. The deceased was employed carting broken metal to Commons Street, which is being repaired. After disloading one cart he preceded for another, but by some way unexplained the deceased got jammed between the wheels of both carts and was instantaneously crushed to death. An inquest will be held.

 

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