The Witness - Friday, 5 November, 1915

Marriages

BROAD--GORDON -- Oct. 25, at St. Nicholis Church, Winsley, by the Rev. Angel Smith, Albert Henry Dike, second son of the late John Broad, Dane Villa, to Annie Alice, fourth daughter of the late Benjamin Gordon, Ramakett Farm, Caledon, County Tyrone.

BROWN--CAMPBELL -- Oct. 27, 1915, at the First Presbyterian Church, Comber, by the Rev. T. S. Graham, LL.D., assisted by the Rev. T. Boyd, Newtownards, Samuel Preston, third son of Hugh R. Brown, Drumhirk, to Eleanor Elizabeth, second daughter of William Campbell, Ballycreeny, Comber.

Deaths

GOURLEY -- Nov. 3, at 4, The Crescent, Holywood, John Anderson (Ian), only son of Rev. Samuel Gourley, Dungiven, County Derry, aged 9 years. Funeral private.

BEATTIE -- Nov. 2, at Niblock, Susan, wife of William J. Beattie.

BLAIR -- Oct. 27, at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, John H. Blair.

BROWN -- Oct. 31, at Ballymoney, Carrowdore, Joseph Brown.

CAMERON -- Nov. 2, at 27, Greenville Terrace, Bloomfield, William David, husband of Rosana Cameron.

COUSINS -- Oct. 29, at 11, The Mount, Susan, wife of James Cousins.

DICKSON -- Oct. 29, at The Cottage, Sion Mills, Eliza Ann, wife Robert Dickson.

DIXON -- Oct. 31, Wakefield Haughton, second son of the late Wakefield H. Dixon, Dunowen.

DUFF -- Nov. 3, at Ballynabraggett, Lurgan, William John Duff.

GIBSON -- Oct. 30, at Legmurn, Stewartstown, William Alexander Gibson.

GIFFEN -- Oct. 28, at Doagh, Matilda Giffen, relict of the late Samuel Giffen, Carnmoney.

GILLILAND -- Oct. 31, at the Maternity Hospital, Townsend Street, Marcella, wife of Robert Gilliland.

GRAHAM -- Oct. 27, at Kells, Co. Antrim, Jane, widow of the late John Taylor Graham.

HANDFORTH -- Oct. 31, at 463, Ormeau Road, Julia Emma, wife of Thomas Handforth.

HUNTER -- Oct. 31, at 4, Princess Gardens, Belfast, Anna, daughter of the late Wm. Steen Hunter, Deneight House, Lisburn.

JAMISON -- Oct. 28, at the Royal Victoria Hospital, James, son of the late Francis Jamison, Lylehill, Templepatrick.

MOORE -- Oct. 28, at Railway Road, Strabane, Alexander Moore, late Agent, G.N.R., Strabane.

M'CRUDEN -- Nov. 1, at Albert Road, Carrickfergus, Margaret, eldest daughter of the late Robert M'Cruden, of Belfast.

M'DUFF -- Oct. 27, at 1, Hughenden Avenue, James B. M'Duff.

M'KEOWN -- Oct. 28, at Killynure, Alexander M'Keown.

OWENS -- Nov. 2nd, 1915, at her residence, Marlow, Ballymena, Mary Montgomery, beloved wife of Patrick M. Owens.

O'BRIEN -- Oct. 29, Brian O'Brien, M.D., Local Government Inspector, son of the late Charles Murrough O'Brien, Limerick, in his 44th year.

REID -- Oct. 31, at 71, Willowbank Street, Belfast, Joseph Reid, late of Gracehill, Ballymena.

RUSSELL -- Oct. 30, at Hightown, Whitewall, John Russell.

SCOTT -- Nov. 2, at 31, Hartington Street, Belfast, Henry Scott.

WILLIAMSON -- On All Hallows' Eve, at Streatham, London, Mabelle, second daughter of the Rev. W. Williamson, Draperstown, aged 19 years.

WOODMAN -- Nov. 3, at Railway Street, Ballynahinch, George Woodman (late Huntsman of County Down Staghounds).

Clippings

ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION.

During the Season 1914-15 the following Successes were obtained by Pupils of the School:--

INTERMEDIATE EXAMINATIONS (1915).

Medals (for First Places).

Dowswell, A. E. -- Middle Grade -- Physics (Third Year).
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- Latin.
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- English.
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- French.
Walker, R. H. -- Middle Grade -- Greek.
M'Ghee, W. A. -- Junior Grade -- German.
Semple, W. H. -- Junior Grade -- Latin.

Exhibitions.

Bell, James -- Senior Grade -- £30.
Gibson, J. P. -- Senior Grade -- £30.
Allison, V. D. -- Senior Grade -- £20.
Cowser, J. -- Middle Grade- -- £20.
Dowswell, A. E. -- Middle Grade -- £20.
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- £20.
Walker, R. H. -- Middle Grade -- £20.
Megarry, T. -- Middle Grade -- £15.
Beattie, J.- -- Junior Grade -- £15.
M'Kenzie, J. A -- Junior Grade -- £16.
Semple, W. H. -- Junior Grade -- £15.
Black, H. C. -- Junior Grade -- £10.
Sullivan, R. J. -- Junior Grade -- £10.

Special Distinctions.

Gibson, J. P. -- Senior Grade -- 1st place in Group A.
Walker, R. H. -- Middle Grade -- 1st place in Group A.
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- 1st piece in Group B.
Cowser, J. -- Middle Grade -- 2nd place in B.
Beattie, J. -- Junior Grade -- 1st place in Group D.

General Prizes.

Henderson, H. F. -- Senior Grade -- £5.
Sinclair, T. A -- Senior Grade -- £3.
Halliday, F. -- Middle Grade -- £2.
Lee, R. H. H. -- Middle Grade -- £2.
Dowswell, H. C. -- Middle Grade -- £1.
Watkinson, H. S. -- Middle Grade -- £1.
Dowswell, R. -- Junior Grade -- £5.
M'Ghee, W. A. -- Junior Grade -- £3.
Sinclair, B. -- Junior Grade -- £3.
Clarke, H. J. -- Junior Grade -- £2.
Craig, A. J. -- Junior Grade -- £2.
Harding, J. C. -- Junior Grade -- £2.
Johnston. W. -- Junior Grade -- £2.
Davey, T. H. -- Junior Grade -- £1.
Knight, R. G. -- Junior Grade -- £1.
Orr, C. H. -- Junior Grade -- £1.
Smyth, James -- Junior Grade -- £1.

Composition Prizes.

Sinclair, T. A. -- Senior Grade -- French -- £4.
Tate, J. -- Middle Grade -- French -- £3.
Walker, R. H. -- Middle Grade -- French -- £3.
Walker, R. H. -- Middle Grade -- Greek -- £3.
Johnston, W, -- Junior Grade -- English -- £2.
M'Ghee, W. A. -- Junior Grade -- German -- £2.
Semple, W. H. -- Junior Grade -- Latin -- £2.
Sinclair, B. -- Junior Grade -- French -- £2.

Of the above R. H. Walker obtained First Place in Greek; J. Tate equal First in French; and W. Johnston First Place in English.

Burke Memorial Prize.

M'Kenzie, J. A. -- First Prize -- £13 2s 0d.

Nineteen Bays qualified for Exhibitions or Prizes in more than one Group.

QUEEN'S UNIYERSITY, BELFAST. October, 1915.

Foundation Entrance Scholarships of £40 --
H. Harris.
V. D. Allison.
T. J. Hull.

Porter Scholarship -- Entrance: --
H. Harris.

Twenty-eight Boys have passed the Matriculation Examination or its equivalent.

TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN.

Entrance Examination -- A. W. M. S. Mann.

MILITARY COLLEGE, SANDHURST.

Entrance Examination -- C. M. Smith.

BANK SUCCESSES.

Bank of Ireland -- F. W. Morrison.
Belfast Bank -- W. H. M. Greer, R. J. Martin, J. Moore.
Northern Bank -- H. S. Watkinson.

During the Session 1914-15 the following Successes were obtained by former Pupils of the institution.

QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY, BELFAST

DEGREES.

B.A. -- 1st Honours in Classics J. Burrows.
" -- 2nd do. do, E.S. M'Cullagh
" -- 1st do. English M. L. Poston.
" -- 1st do. Mathematics J. P. Martin.
" -- 1st do, Philosophy J. W. Houston.
" -- Pass ... ... ... H. M. Davidson.

B.Sc. -- M. Goldblatt (Second Class Honours in Mathematics and Mathematical Physics). M B., B Ch., B.A.O. -- R. Condy, A. L. M'Creery, T. B. M'Kee, R. H. Wilson.

D.P.H. -- John C. Houston, M.B.

STUDENTSHIPS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND PRIZES.

Faculty of Arts

Studentship in Classics -- J. Burrows -- £80.
Studentship in English -- M. L. Boston -- £80.
Studentship in Philosophy -- J. W. Houston -- £80.
Hutchinson Stewart Scholarship -- M. L. Poston.
Porter Scholarship (Third Year) -- J. Burrows -- awarded a prize of £20.
Second Year Scholarship -- J. A. P. Bill.

Faculty of Science.

Engineering Scholarship -- H. Russell.
Science Scholarship Grant of £25 -- M. Goldblatt.

Faculty of Medicine.

Scholarship -- Second Medical -- G. D. F. M'Fadden -- £30.
Scholarships -- First Medical -- G. D. L. Smyth -- £40; S. Simms -- £17 10s.
Forty-eight Sessional Class Prizes.

TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN.

B.A. -- C. F. M'Caughey.

GLASGOW UNIVERSITY.

B.Sc. -- (Engineering) -- J. R. Beveridge.

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS.

Final Examination -- G. T. Corry, R. G. Henderson, H. Stevenson.

DISTINCTIONS GAINED IN THE WAR.

C.B. -- Col. J. Meek, R.A.M.C.; Col. Sir Almroth E. Wright, R.A.M.C.
C.M.G. -- Colonel H. B. H. Wright (Chief Engineer, Egypt).
Cross of the Legion of Honour -- Lieut.-Col. R. J. Ross.
D.S.O. -- Lieut.-Col. R. J. Ross.
Military Cross -- Capt. W. B. Purdon, R.A.M.C.; Lieut. W. Tyrrell, R.A.M.C.
Corporal T. H. M'Dowell has been promoted 2nd Lieutenant for gallantry in the Field.
Mentioned in Despatches -- Colonel J. Meek, R.A.M.C.; Lieut.-Col. R. J. Ross; Major the Rev. H. C. Meeke, M.A., Army Chaplain; Captain W. B. Purdon, R.A.M.C.; Lieut. W. Tyrrell, R.A.M.C.; Lieut. W. T. M'Curry, R.A.M.C. (killed in action).

MISCELLANEOUS.

Professor Sir Samuel Dill, M.A., Litt.D., LL.D., has been elected a Pro-Chancellor of Queen's University, Belfast.

The London Mathematical Society has presented the De Morgan medal to Sir Joseph Larmor, M.A., F.R.S., in recognition of his researches in Mathematics and Mathematical

The London Mathematical Society has presented the De Morgan medal to Sir Joseph Larmor, M.A., F.R.S., in recognition of his researches in Mathematics and Mathematical Physics.

Mr. George Hoey has received the appointment of Excecutive Engineer, First Sanitary Division, of the United Provinces.

Mr. James Woodside, M.A., has received an appointment in the Public Works Department, India.

Mr. M. L. Poston, B.A., has been appointed Assistant in English Literature at Queen's University, Belfast.

Mr. A. M. Turnbull has passed the Final Examination for Solicitors' Apprentices.

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

SCHOOL EXHIBITION AND PRIZE LIST.

LEAVING SCHOLARSHIPS.

The Sullivan, Drennan, and Tennant Scholarships, held by Boys entering Q.U.B.:--

Sullivan Scholarship -- W. G. Boyd £40 0 0
Brennan Exhibition -- W. G. Boyd £5 0 0
Tennant Exhibition -- G. D. L. Smyth £6 0 0
Porter Exhibitions:--  Literary -- J. P. Gibson £25 0 0
 Scientific -- J. Bell £25 0 0
 V. D. Allison, a Prise £10 0 0
Blain Memorial Scholarship -- J. P. Gibson £10 0 0

JUNIOR SCHOLARSHIPS.

£20 a year, tenable for three years --
Richard Dowswell (third year).
Arthur J. Craig (third year).
Thomas H. Nunan (second year).
Louis Johnston (second year).
Thomas T. S. Hall (first year).
Samuel C. Arnott (first year).

£15 a year, tenable for three years --
William Rutherford (third year).
Ian J. Fraser (third year).
Ian S. Fraser (second year).
Gordon Titterington (first year).
Eric A. Y. MacKeown (first year).

ENTRANCE SCHOOLARSHIPS. (Tenable for two years.)

1st -- Edward A. Armstrong.
2nd -- James R. Milligan.

STEEN PRIZES.

Greek Composition -- E. E. Burnside £1 14 2
Latin Composition -- J. P. Gibson £1 14 2

DODS PRIZES.

French -- J. P. Gibson } equal { £1 13 9
French -- T. A. Sinclair } equal { £1 13 9
German -- V. D. Allison £3 7 6

SAMUEL SINCLAIR MEMORIAL PRIZES.

1st -- J. A. M'Kenzie £4 10 0
2nd -- W. H. Semple £4 10 0

CLASS PRIZES GIVEN BY THE GOVERNORS.

CLASSICAL DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- J. P. Gibson; R. H. Walker, J. Tate, J. Cowser, T. Megarry; W. H. Semple, J. A. M'Kenzie, R. Dowswell, A. J. Craig; J. W. Orr, L. Johnston, J. S. Fraser.

Honorable Mention -- T. A. Sinclair, E. E. Burnside, V. D. Allison, J. Bell, A. J. Gailey; A. E. Dowswell, T. Gilillan, F. Halliday, R. J. Sullivan, W. Rutherford, S. Greenfield, H. C. Black, W. Colquhonn, W. Johnston, A. P. Armstrong, L. G. Warwick, W. Lennon, C. H. Orr, J. Smyth, D. I. Gracey, R. G. Knight, H. H. Stewart, W. R. Clarke, H. G. Calwell; J. Patterson; J. M. Wilson, T. H. Nunan, H. M. Smyth, R. M'Caughey, H. B. Baird, F. Jackson.

MATHEMATICAL DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- J. Bell, H. F. Henderson; A. E. Dowswell, R. H. H. Lee, T. Gilfillan, A M'N. R. M'Bride; J. Wallace; J, A. M'Kenzie, H. C. Black, R. J. Sullivan, J. Beattie, W. A. M'Ghee, R. Dowswell; J. W. Orr, T. H. Nunan, L. Johnston, R. H. Lyster.

Honourable Mention -- T. J. Hull; T. G. W. Sloan, G. A. Dawson; H. S. Watkinson, H. C. Dowswell, J. D. Reynolds, J. H. Duke, J. A. Birkmyre, F. W. Haslett, J. Heron; A. J. Stewart; J. Smyth, A. J. Craig, W. H. Semple, S. Greenfield, B. Sinclair, R. G. Knight, W. Rutherford, H. J. Clarke, A. D. Patton, J. B. White, C. H. Orr, J. Patterson, J. C. Harding, R. Dunwoody; J. M. Wilson, F. Jackson, D. Houston, H. B. Baird, C. S. M'Dowell, I. S. Fraser, S. P. Sloan, J. T. M. Hogg, C. R. T. Scott, S. G. Kennedy, C. D. Hill, B. M'Auley; G. S. Crawford. G. A. Savage, E. C. Tuke, R. J. Cunningham; A. A. MacKenzie; C. C. Faulkner, A. S. Hill.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- J. Bell, J. P. Gibson, V. D. Allison; J. Tate, J. Cowser, R. H. Walker, T. Megarry, A E. Dowswell; J. A. McKenzie, W. Johnston, J. Beattie, W. H. Semple; J. W. Orr, T. H. Nunan, L. Johnston; J. Fullerton.

Honourable Mention -- H. F. Henderson, E. E. Burnside, T. A. Sinclair, A. H. Elliott; A. M'N. R. M'Bride, F. Halliday, H. C. Dowswell, J. A. Birkmyne, L. E. Curran, L. W. Martin, T. Gilfillan, W. B. F. Orr, A. J. Craig, R. Dowswell, H. J. Clarke, B. Sinclair, W. A. M'Ghee, G. H. Orr, A. D. Patton, R. J. Sullivan, L. R. M'Ilveen, H. C. Black, W. M. M'Neill, J. Smyth, W. R. Clarke, R. G. Knight, W. Lennon; I. S. Fraser, T. G. Ward, J. M. Wilson, M. W. Pinkerton, E. R. M'Cluggage, H. M. Smyth, J. A. Reynolds, H. C. Guthrie, J. Hagan, W. J. M'Knight; G. Thompson; C. W. Kidd, R. J. Cunningham, G. A. Savage, J. H. Gailey.

MODERN LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- W. B. White; J. Tate, A M'N. R. M'Bride, J. Cowser, R. H. Walker, A. E. Dowswell, F. Halliday; W. H. Semple, B. Sinclair, J. A. M'Kenzie, W. A. M'Ghee, I. J. Fraser, T. H. Nunan, L. Johnston, I. S. Fraser, G. Titterington, H. B. Baird, J. M. Wilson.

Honourable Mention -- H. Harris; J. Bell, E. E. Burnside, G. A. Dawson, A. H. Elliott, H. F. Henderson; T. Gilfillan, J. Heron, T. Megarry; R. S. Johnston; H. J. Clarke, A. J. Craig, R. Dowswell, W. Johnston, W. M. M'Neill, A. D. Patton, W. Rutherford, R. J. Sullivan; T. H. Davey; J. Smyth; A. H. Cowser, J. Price, A. Robinson; J. W. S. Camlin, R. M'Caughey, J. C. M'Neill, J. W. M'Neill, H. M. Smyth, E. J. Stanfield; J. W. Orr, W. J. MacKnight; R. J. Cunningham, J. Fullerton.

COMMERCIAL AND DRAWING DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- Writing -- H. B. Baird; R. H. Lyster; J. G. Patton; J. M. Wilson.

Honourable Mention -- J. M'Bride, E. H. Elliott, R. H. Durnan, A. D. Patton, J. D. Wallace, J. Cowley; J. P. Henderson, W. H. Hall, H. A. M'Ninch, L. Johnston, J. W. Orr, B. M'Auley, W. J. MacKnight, J. Morrrison, M. W. Pinkerton, T. G. Ward, E. C. Tuke, C. H. Ward.

Prizes -- Drawing -- W. A. M'Ghee; W. M. M'Neill; J. W. Orr; M. W. Pinkerton.

Honourably Mention -- H. C. Black, J. C. Harding, B. Sinclair, J. Beattie, A. D. Patton; A M'N. R. M'Bride, J. M'Bride, N. V. Hume; J. M. M'Kibbin, H. S. Murray; S. S. Cowan, D. Cowan, N. S. Hunter, J. W. J. Greeves, J. Smyth, J. Price; H. B. Baird, H. M. Smyth, J. M. Wilson; J. A. Reynolds, T. G. Ward, W. J. MacKnight; J. P. Hall, J. T. C. Kennedy, C. C. Lynn, A. Trimble, D. M. Bill, H. J. Cully, Joseph M'Dowell, J. P. Henderson; J. Fullerton, E. A. Clarke, R. J. Cunningham, R. B. M'Kibbin.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT.

Prizes -- J. Beil, H. F. Henderson; J. A. Reynolds; A. E. Dowswell; A. M'N. R. M'Bride; J. Beattie, H. J. Clarke, J. A. M'Kenzie, W. H. Semple; J. Smyth, W, A. M'Ghee, J. W. Orr, T. H. Nunan, T. G. Wand.

Honourable Mention -- T. J. Hull, J. W. M'Connell, T. G. W. Sloan; G. L. Broomhead, J. M. Sloane, G. A. Dawson; T. Gilfillan, G. A. Dawson, H. S. Watkinson, W. J. Simpson, J. D. Reynolds, J. H. Duke; A. B. Lavelle, J. A. Birkmyre, J. W. M'Burney, H. C. Black, A. D. Patton, W. M. M'Neill, B. Sinclair, J. C. Harding, S. Greenfield, W. Young, R. J. Sullivan; A. Robinson, R. G. Knight, G. A. E. Roberts, C. H. Orr, J, Moore, C. S. M'Dowell, H. M. Smyth, I. S. Fraser, J. M. Wilson, L. Johnston, J. M'Cullough, M. W. Pinkerton, R. V. Adamson.

MANUAL INSTRUCTION.

Prize -- A. H. Cowser.

GENERAL COMMERCIAL CLASS.

Prize -- J. P. Henderson.

Honourable Mention -- H. J. Cully, R. H. Durnan, E. H. Elliott, D. Ewart, S. C. Ferguson, T. S. Hoy, R. H. Linton, J. M'Bride, Joseph M'Dowell, J. N. F. Phillips, W. J. Strain, A. N. Trimble, W. Wright.

FORM I.

Prizes -- V. K. Harvey, A. A. M'Kenzie.
Honourable Mention -- R. Stanfield, C. C. Faulkner, A. S. Hill.

PRESENTATION CRICKET BATS.

For Best Batting Average -- R. Pedlow.
For Best Bowling Average -- C. K. W. M'Fadden.
For Best Fielding Average -- V. D. Allison.

R. M. JONES. M.A., Principal.

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

DEATH OF MISS HUNTER,

PRINCESS GARDENS SCHOOL.

There will be deep and widespread regret at the death of Miss Anna Hunter, the loved and honoured principal of Princess Gardens School, which occurred on the 1st inst. at her residence, 69, University Street, Belfast, after a brief illness. The late Miss Hunter was a daughter of the late Mr. W. Steen Hunter, of Deneight House, Lisburn, Her mother, who was one of the pioneers of modern education, opened a ladies school in Lisburn in 1865, and transferred six years later to College Square East, Belfast. A year later Mrs. Rothwell's school was amalgamated with it. Mrs. Hunter retired in 1879, and Miss Anna Hunter became sole principal. The school became increasingly successful, and many years ago was transferred to more suitable and extensive premises at Princess Gardens, where it has since continued to flourish. After a few years a gymnasium was built, and later on a second house was entered, while in 1903, to meet the requirements of the Intermediate Board, a large and well-equipped laboratory was added. Pupils were prepared for the College of Preceptors, the Intermediate and other public examinations, and the school won a high position among the educational establishments of the province. Special attention has always been given to music. Miss Hunter was more than a mere teacher. Generations of boarders look back with affection to the lady who with losing care not only superintended their physical and mental development, but nurtured them in spiritual matters, and set before them the ennobling example of a strenuous life attuned to the highest ideals. She was a devoted member of St. Mary Magdalene Church, but her sympathies were not restricted to one denomination. A missionary enthusiast, she was deeply interested in "Our Girls' Missionary Society," which was formed among the pupils of Princess Gardens School, whose annual sale of work has bean the means of materially adding to the funds of many missions. She was also the leader of the Women's Bible-class in connection with her own church. Her brother, Mr. Stewart Hunter, died some years ago, but she is survived by her sisters, one of whom is the widow of the late Mr. W. T. Coates, and the other the wife of Mr. George Payne, of Holywood. We understand that Princess Gardens School will be continued by Miss Hunter's sister and niece on the same lines as the late esteemed principal found so successful

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

THE LATE MR. LYNN'S GENEROUS BEQUESTS.

Mr. W. H. Lynn, who died a few weeks ago, has left practically all his property to local public objects. To the fund for the completion of the Cathedral Church of St. Anne he gives £5,000 stock of the London and North-Western Railway Company. To the Royal Victoria Hospital for the purpose of endowing additional beds he bequeaths £3,000 of Belfast Harbour stock. There is a special bequest of £500 of the same stock to the parish of Fethard, the interest of the sum to be paid to the Sustentation Fund. The residue of his personal estate he leaves to trustees to divide among such local charities of Belfast as they may select, and in such proportions as they may determine.

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

ANTRIM COUNTY COUNCIL SCHOLARSHIPS.

At the quarterly meeting of the Antrim County Council, held on Tuesday in County Courthouse, Crumlin Road -- Mr. J. S. F. M'Cance, J.P., presiding -- the Finance Committee reported that they had received the report of the examiners of the Queen's University regarding the candidates who had applied for County Council scholarships for 1915-16. In their opinion, Mr. John Campbell, Ballycastle, was alone deserving of a scholarship, as the other candidates were not up to standard. They, therefore, recommended that he be awarded a County Council scholarship of £40 a year for three years, but for the first year that only £20 be paid, as he had won an entrance scholarship.

Mr. G. B. Hanna moved a motion referring the report back to the committee, with instructions to reconsider the claims of the other candidates.

Mr. W. A. Bell, J.P., seconded the motion, which was agreed to.

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

The Orange lodges in County Monaghan are about to hold a number of entertainments for the purpose of providing comforts for the men of the Ulster Division. The first of those was held lest week in connection with Mullahara L.O.L. 777, Smithborough, and quite a substantial sum was realised.

 

^ top of page

The Witness - Friday, 12 November, 1915

Birth

HADOW -- Nov. 9, at Seacourt, Bangor, Co. Down, the wife of Douglas S. Hadow, Indian Police, Delhi, of a daughter.

Marriage

HORNE--ORR -- Nov. 10, 1915, at the Saltcoats and Ardrossan Free Church, by the Rev. Samuel Lyle Orr, father of the bride, assisted by the Rev. James D. M'Culloch, Principal of the Free Church College, and the Rev. Robert Moore, Professor in the same College, Alexander Dewar Horne (Horne Engineering Co., Glasgow), to Elisabeth Lyle Orr, Free Church Manse, Saltcoats, Ayrshire.

Deaths

DIAMOND -- Nov. 10, 1915, at his residence, Graham Gardens, Lisburn, Robert Diamond. Funeral to Lisburn Cemetery, to-day (Friday), 12th inst., at 3 o'clock.

DOUGLAS -- Nov. 4, 1915, at the Manse, the Rev. Hans M'Coubrey Douglas, Senior Minister of Woodburn Presbyterian Church, aged 93 years. Interred at Ballylinney, November 8th.

EDGAR -- Nov. 4, 1915, at Lisnaskea, Joseph Edgar, dearly-loved husband of E. M. Edgar, Mount Street, Dromore. Interred in First Dromore Presbyterian Burying-ground.

GILL -- Nov. 3, 1915, at Montreal, Joseph S. Gill, Surgeon, R.M.S. Scandinavian (Allan Line), son of the late Rev. Robert Gill, Ennish House, Castlecaulfield, Co. Tyrone. Interred at Montreal, 5th November, 1915. (By cable.)

MILLIKEN -- Nov. 4, at Ravara, Ballygowan, Agnes C. Stewart, beloved wife of John Milliken. Interred in Second Saintfield Burying-ground, on Saturday, 6th November, 1915. Deeply regretted. "The Lord's my Shepherd."

ALEXANDER -- Nov. 9, at 345, Ormeau Road, Belfast, Margaret, wife of Alexander Alexander.

BEATTY -- Nov. 6, at 18, High Street, Lurgan, Elizabeth, relict of the late Henry Vance Beatty, Corkragh, Co. Fermanagh.

BLACK -- Nov. 10, at Glen Ebor, Strandtown, James Black, Solicitor, eldest eon of the late Sir Samuel Black.

CAUGHEY -- Nov. 5, at 37, Bridge Street, Banbridge, Joseph, husband of Sarah Caughey.

CRAIG -- Nov. 6, Leslie Campbell, son of the late John Craig, 14, Atlantic Avenue, Belfast.

DONNAN -- Nov. b, at Mullaghdubh, Islandmagee, William Donnan.

DOUGLAS -- At Shore Street, Cushendall, Eliza, widow of the late John Douglas.

ENTWISTLE -- Nov. 5, at Muckamore, Thomas Entwistle, aged 84 years.

FAIRFAX -- Oct. 10, 1915, at the French Hospital, New York (of heart failure, resulting from typhoid), Emma Julia Barnett, widow of the late John Dare Fairfax, Tarrytown, New York, and daughter of the late Joseph Maxwell, Hillhead, Katesbridge.

GIBSON -- Nov. 7, at Bonnington, Lansdowne Road, Belfast (suddenly, from pneumonia), Marcus Gibson, beloved husband of G. Grahame Gibson, and only son of the late John Gibson, Belfast.

HALE -- Nov. 7, at Waterloo, Liverpool, John F. D., son of the late John Hale, Ballymena.

HOY -- Nov. 5, 1915, at Port Davey House, Whitehead, Margaret, wife of J. C. Hoy.

HUNTER -- Nov. 4, at Cuppidale, near Ballymoney, Robert Hunter.

JOHNSTON -- Nov. 9, at Banchory, Scotland, John G. (Jack), son of John G. Johnston, Brooklands, Annadale, Belfast.

MULLIGAN -- Nov. 4, at the residence of his son, the Rev. James A. W. Mulligan, Aberdeen, John H. Mulligan, formerly Secretary of Messrs. Young & Anderson, Ltd., Belfast, and last surviving son of the late Robert Mulligan, of Ballynafoy.

M'CLENAGHAN -- Nov. 7, at Beech Lawn, Ballymartin, Thomas, husband of Mary M'Clenaghan.

M'COUBREY -- Nov. 7, at 63, Bridge Street, Lisburn, Elizabeth, wife of John M'Coubrey.

M'CUTCHEON -- Nov. 9, at Longlands, Comber, Anna M'Cutcheon, late of Drumhirk, Newtownards.

MacMULLIN -- Nov. 3, at 31, Sandymount Street, Belfast, Martha, youngest daughter of the late James MacMullin.

M'NEILL -- Nov. 9, 1915, at Merlyn, Malone Road, Belfast, Jane Bell Lochhead, widow of the late William M'Neill, in her 86th year.

WILKIN -- Nov. 9, at The Manse, Ballinglen, Co. Mayo, Rev. James Wilkin, M.A., aged 66 years.

In Memoriam

ADAMS -- In loving memory of Robert Adams, of Craigmore, Co. Armagh, who passed away on 7th Nov. 1909, in his 69th year. Rev. vii. 13-17.

CALDWELL -- In affectionate remembrance of our beloved and devoted husband and father, the Rev. John Caldwell, B.A., B.D., late Minister of the Free High Church, Dumbarton, who entered into rest on the 4th November, 1914, and was interred in the Dumbarton Cemetery.
More homelike seems the vast unknown
     Since they have entered there;
To follow them were not so hard
     Wherever they may fare.
They cannot be where God is not,
     On any sea or shore;
Whate'er betides, Thy love abides.
     Our God, for evermore!
EMMA CALDWELL; CHARLIE MacNEILL CALDWELL.

IRVINE -- In loving memory of my dear husband, Wm. John Irvine, who died at his residence, Primroseville, Bloomfield, Belfast, Nov. 7th, 1914.
     Calm on the bosom of thy God,
          Fair spirit; rest thee now.
     E'en while with ours thy footsteps trod.
          His seal was on thy brow.
     Dust to its narrow house beneath;
          Soul, to its place on high;
     They that have seen thy look in death
          No more need fear to die.
Inserted by his sorrowing wife, MARGARET IRVINE.

Clippings

BATTLE OF LOOS.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE GUARDS.

HOW THE IRISH WENT TO THE ATTACK.

One of the finest performances during the fierce and continuous fighting that followed our initial push at Loos on September 25th, says the special correspondent with the British Headquarters in France in a despatch dated November 2 was the attack by the Guards on Hill 70 and the Puits 14 bis.

The men went into action as if they were an parade. On the 27th the Guards held a stretch of the enemy's first line trench between Loos and Halluch. It was decided that the Second Brigade should attack the chalk pits and the Puits 14 bis, about 500 yards to the south, and that the 3rd Brigade should advance through the village of Loos and assault Hill 70.

Three battalions were engaged in the actual assault of the 2nd Brigade, the 4th being h support. The Irish Guards, on the left, were to attack the pit and wood in which the pit itself is dug, being supported at the northern extremity of the pit by the Coldstream Guards. The Irish gained the nearer side of the edge of the wood with little difficulty. Some of the Irish Guards were then sent to the south-east of the wood to assist the Scots Guards, who had been detailed to take the pits as soon as the wood was in our hands. The remainder of the Irish opened a heavy covering fire with machine guns and rifles to assist the attack on the pits.

HEAVY SHRAPNEL FIRE.

The Guards gained the main road running from Halluch to Loos with little resistance, though heavy shrapnel fire was sustained by the enemy batteries. The men pushed forward on to the "Keep." A terrific machine-gun fire from the strong positions in the Bois Hugo and the Puits caused severe casualties. The colonel of the Scots Guards was wounded. An officer of the Scots Guards put himself at the head of a small party who pushed on to the "Keep" and engaged in fierce hand-to-hand fighting with the enemy, who had many concealed emplacements in the ruined buildings. The fighting now increased in intensity. While the party of Soots Guards were gallantly maintaining an unequal struggle around the "Keep," less than 100 men. of the Grenadiers, under the command of an officer, also reached the "Keep," and actually put a machine gun that was firing from the second floor of a house out of action with a bomb. The two little bands hung on till nearly every man had been wiped out, and then, as the enemy's enfilade fire prevented supports being sent up, their position became untenable. The Coldstreams now held the Chalk Pit, with the Irish Guards on the eastern edge of the wood, while the Scots and Grenadiers were facing the Puits.

IRISH GUARDS CO-OPERATE.

On the following day the Coldstreams attacked, with the Irish Guards co-operating with, covering fire from a wood. In the meantime all the available machine guns were concentrated upon the German emplacements in the Bois Hugo. Despite this precaution, however, leading companies of the attacking party came under tremendous fire from the Bois Hugo, in face of which an advance was well nigh impossible; nevertheless, one party, under an officer, actually reached the Puits. The position, however, could not be maintained. During the day of the 27th the 3rd Brigade was ordered to move forward from its position in the rear of the firing line to Loos, the distance being, roughly, two miles. They swept over the ground apparently indifferent to the hail of shrapnel that greeted their appearance. West of Loos other battalions continued advancing till a slight check was caused by a sudden rain of German shells.

The colonel of the Grenadiers was so severely "gassed" that his second in command had taken over the battalion. The actual assault on the hill was left in the hands of the Welsh Guards and part of a battalion of the Grenadiers.

SEVERE CASUALTIES.

The moment that the troops reached the upper slopes of Hill 70 every available machine gun and rifle was brought to bear upon them, with the result that fairly severe casualties were inflicted. The Scots Guards were sent up to relieve the Welsh. It was obviously impossible to hold the top of the hill as long as the redoubt was in the hands of the enemy. Accordingly the men were, ordered to in almost 100 yards below the crest. A junction was made with the Cavalry Brigade on the right. The Brigade remained thus on the hill till the night of the 29th, when the position was handed over to the 47th London Division. In the meantime, while all this fighting was proceeding on the hill, the two battalions left in the vicinity of the village were being heavily shelled. The men, however, were well disposed and suffered few losses, while their steadiness was admirable. The enemy's batteries kept up, continuous fire all through the night of the 29th.

But in spite of this the relief was so well managed and skilfully carried out that not a man was lost out of the whole Brigade in the course of the operation. Such in general outline is the story of the Guards at the battle of Loos. It was their baptism fire.

Of individual deeds of gallantry it is impossible to speak. There were so many in those crowded hours' of fighting that to mention any one man by name would be unfair to countless others.

THE LONDON IRISH.

The London "Daily Express" publishes a story of the fighting at Loos by one of the 20th London Regiment, who was formerly a member of the "Express" Staff. He writes -- We, the 20th London Regiment, were to follow the London Irish when they had occupied the German first line, and rush on to the second defences. Everybody, around me was trying to look unconcerned, but the twitching of lips and furtive glances at photographs and soiled letters betrayed nerves strung to the highest pitch. Suddenly the bombardment, which had been practically continuous for the past three days, ceased. Then the man next to me broke the silence. "The London Irish are going over," he whispered.

A wild shout -- a real Irish shout -- from hundreds of Irish throats rent the air, and through a periscope I watched a wave of khaki clamber and struggle out of the trench in front, and rush madly towards the German lines. I fully expected to see those little drab figures flounder helplessly on the German barbed wire, to be slaughtered by a merciless machine-gun fire, and my heart stood still. But the khaki line swept on, heedless of the terrible havoc wrought by the German fine, and finally disappeared in the enemy's trench. The Boches' first line was ours. A hoarse cheer arose from our trench, and my platoon officer, smiling happily, lit a cigarette with a steady hand. "It's our turn now," he beamed, "and we've got shrapnel to go through as well as bullets."

After taking the third German line the 20th London captured two guns, which are now on view in London.

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

DEATH OF REV. JAMES WILKIN, M.A.

Rev. James Wilkin, M.A., minister of Ballinglen Presbyterian Church, died on Tuesday at the manse after a short illness. Deceased, who was a brother of Mr. John Wilkin, J.P., Brighton House, Dunmurry, was a native of Caledon. He entered Queen's College, Belfast, in 1866, and held a literary scholarship in each year of his undergraduate course. At the examinations of the Queen's University in Ireland he obtained second-class honours in ancient classics with the B.A. degree in 1869, and in the following year with his M.A. gained first-class honours in the same group. For his theological course he proceeded to the Assembly's College, Belfast, where his name appears among the successful students of his year. In May, 1874, he was licensed by the Presbytery of Armagh, and on the 10th April, 1879, was ordained by the Presbytery of Connaught to the pastorate of Ballinglen congregation, of which he was the third minister, his predecessors having been Rev. Michael Brannigan and William Fearon. For more than thirty-six years he discharged all the duties of his office, ministering with much fidelity and acceptance to a loyal and devoted people, to whom he gave from the 1 pulpit the product of a scholarly, and well-informed mind, and in pastoral visitation the counsel and comfort prompted by a sympathetic disposition. He was a kindly and cultivated gentleman, and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him, and of all sections of the people. A son of deceased, Mr. Cecil Wilkin, on the outbreak of the war, gave up a valuable situation, and now holds commission in the 5th Battalion Royal Irish Regiment.

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

DEATH OF MR. MARCUS GIBSON.

We regret to announce the death of Mr. Marcus Gibson, which occurred on Monday at his residence, Bonnigton, Lansdowne Road.

The deceased, who was the proprietor of the Universal Furnishing Company, and who was highly esteemed in the commercial circles of the city, was born in Belfast in 1860, and baptised by the late Rev. Dr. Cooke in May Street Presbyterian Church, of which he was a member for many years. Educated at the Royal Academical Institution, he served his apprenticeship with Messrs. Patterson, ironmongers, High Street, and subsequently entered into partnership with Mr. Campbell in the wholesale brush trade in North Street. Subsequently the partnership was dissolved and Mr. Gibson commenced a house-furnishing business in the present premises of the Universal Furnishing Company in York Street, where he enjoyed much prosperity. For a number of years he was a member of Duncairn Presbyterian Church, and latterly, of Fortwilliam Presbyterian Church. He was a member of the Citizens Association and a strong Unionist. Much sympathy is extended to his widow in her bereavement.

The funeral of the deceased took place on Tuesday afternoon, the place of interment being the City Cemetery. Before the removal of the remains a service was conducted in the house by Rev. H. Waterworth, M.A., Carnmoney, a school contemporary of the deceased, and Rev. James Maconaghie, M.A., senior minister of Fortwilliam Presbyterian Church, of which the late Mr. Gibson was a member. At the graveside the officiating clergy were Rev. Dr. Prenter (Dublin) and Rev. A. Lyle Harrison, B.A., of Fortwilliam congregation. The chief mourner was Mr. Sheddon, of Edinburgh, a cousin of deceased. There was a large and representative of friends of the deceased.

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

LANCE-CORPORAL ALEC PAUL

Genuine pleasure was felt amongst his numerous friends in Clontarf and the city when it became known that he had received his commission. He has been gazetted to the 6th Royal Dublin Fusiliers. At the outbreak of the war he joined with his brother the "Pals" Battalion in the 7th R.D.F., and has had his baptism of fire at the Dardanelles. It will be remembered that his brother was one of the first killed out of the now celebrated D Company after the landing at Suvla Bay. Lieutenant Paul is son of Mr. Charles J. Paul, Sydenham, [--?--] Road, an elder in Rev. J. L. Morrow's congregation.

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

DEATH OF BELFAST SOLICITOR

We regret to announce the death of Mr. James Black, a member of the firm of Messrs. C. & J. Black, the well-known solicitors of Donegall Sq. North, which occurred on Wednesday at the residence, Glen Ebor, Strandtown. The deceased, who was sixty one years of age, was the eldest son of the late Sir Samuel Black, who for so many years occupied the responsible position of Town Clerk of Belfast. He was educated at the Academical Institution, and afterwards at the Queen's College, and was admitted a solicitor in 1861, since when, with his brother, Mr. Charles Black, he carried on a most successful business. He was held in high esteem by all with whom he came in contact, and the news of his demise will be read with feelings of profound sorrow. In religion he was a Presbyterian, and was a member of Belmont Church.

 

^ top of page

The Witness - Friday, 19 November, 1915

Marriage

M'CLURE--IMPEY -- Sept. 29, at St. John's Church, Roodepoort, Transvaal, William Denham M'Clure, eldest son of Rev. Dr. and Mrs. M'Clure, Capetown, to Urith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Impey, Roodepoort.

Deaths

GREER -- Nov. 2, at Mongnai, Burma, Robert F. Glover, D.C., I.C.S., only son of the late David Greer, "The Rowans," Castlewellan, County Down and of Mrs. Greer, "Brebbny," Victoria Drive, Scotstown, Glasgow. (By cable.)

ANDERSON -- Nov. 11, at 8, Beechfield Street, Belfast, Eliza, widow of the late Sam Anderson, of Australia.

ANDERSON -- Nov. 14, at May Cottage, Brocklamont, Ballymena, Jane, wife of John Anderson.

ATKINSON -- Nov. 12, at Mullertown Home, Maxwell Atkinson, husband of Fanny M. Atkinson, aged 85 years.

BAXTER -- Nov. 12, 1915, at the Manse, the Rev. N. J. Baxter, minister of Gortnessy Presbyterian Church, aged 56 years.

BROOKES -- Nov. 16, at 156, Crumlin Road, Belfast, William, son of Joseph Brookes.

CLARKE -- Nov. 11, at Soldierstown Aghalee, Isabella Douglas, wife of William Clarke.

CRAWFORD -- Nov. 12, at Brunswick, Cavehill Road, John, husband of Jennie Crawford.

CRAWFORD -- Nov. 16, at 32, College Gardens, Belfast, Emily Crawford, aged 83 years.

CUMMINS -- Nov. 15, at Upper Ballinderry, Edward Cummins.

CUNNINGHAM -- Nov. 10, at Main Street, Ballyclare, Mary Cunningham.

CUPPLES -- Nov. 17, at Ballyreagh House, Clough, Ballymena, David Cupples.

DUNCAN -- Nov. 14, at High Street, Comber, Sarah Anne, third daughter of the late Hugh Duncan, Grey Hill, Ballyleghorn.

DUNCAN -- Nov. 16, at Portglenone, Joseph Courtenay Duncan, C.R.S. and Postmaster.

EDGAR -- Nov. 14, at Market Street, Portadown, Mary, wife of James Edgar.

ERSKINE -- Nov. 23, at 42, Botanic Avenue, Belfast, Mary Jane, widow of the late William Erskine.

GARDNER -- Nov. 14, at 37, Wellington Park, Belfast, John Gardner, late of Purdysburn.

GARRETT -- Nov. 13, At Ardlea, Waterloo Gardens, Antrim Road, Agnes Norah, wife of Robert Garrett.

GRAHAM -- Nov. 14, at Flush Hall, Tullyard, Lisburn, Mary, widow of the late Thomas Graham.

HALL -- Nov. 14. at Victoria Place, Ballymena, Catherine, Widow of the late Rev. John Hall, Ballyclare.

HAY -- Non. 14, at Finvoy, Ballymoney, David Hay.

HERON -- Nov. 13, at College Park, Belfast, Margaret, wife of Rev. Professor Heron, D.D.

HILL -- Nov. 10, at Hillhead, Mullaghdoo, Islandmagee, Mary Allen, relict of the late Samuel Hill.

HOWARD -- Nov. 12, at Loy, Cookstown, James Howard.

HUTCHINSON -- Nov. 13, at Straidnahanna, Wm. Hutchinson.

MAHAFFY -- Nov. 11, at Church Place, Lurgan, Mary, wife of John Mahaffy.

MURPHY -- Nov. 14, at Ballymanally Cottage, Donacloney, Elizabeth, widow of the late Robert Murphy.

MACMASTER -- Nov. 3, 1915, at 545, Elm Street, Arlington, N.J., U.S.A., Hamilton Wells Macmaster, late of Belfast, Ireland.

M'MEEKIN -- Nov. 15, William M'Meekin, J.P., 14, Moorefield Road, West Didsbury, aged 67 years.

NEILL -- Nov. 14, at 336, Shankill Road, Belfast, Robert Neill.

ROSSBOTHAM -- Nov. 18, at his late residence, 80, Northumberland Street, Thomas, the dearly-beloved husband of Ellen Rosbotham.

SMYTH -- Nov. 12, Sara Smyth, widow of the late William Smyth, 16, Stranmillis Gardens.

STAFFORD -- Nov. 10, at 3, Ireton Street, Botanic Avenue, Esther D. Stafford.

THOMPSON -- November 15, 1915, William Thompson, late of Ballykelly, Banbridge, and of F. W. Hayes & Co., Seapatrick.

WADDELL -- Nov. 12, at 8, Glynn Road, Larne, William Waddell, Printer, Dunluce Street, husband of Catherine Waddell.

WEIR -- Nov. 12, at 37, High Street, Ballymena, John, son of James Weir, Journalist, in his 17th year.

YOUNG -- Nov. 15, at Sanford, Knutsford Drive, Cliftonville, Edward Lancelot, youngest son of the late Matthew Young (formerly of Enniskillen).

Clippings

DEATH OF MR. R. F. GREER.

We to announce the death of Mr. Robert F. Greer, D.C.I.C.S., only son of the late Mr. David Greer and Mrs. Greer, of The Rowans, Castlewellan. Mr. Greer's career has been a record of brilliant successes. All through his scholastic course he gained first-class distinctions both in the Royal Academical Institution and Queen's College, Belfast, where he finished by taking a classical degree, with the position of first in Ireland. Later he entered the Indian Civil Service, where his rapid advancement to a high and important portion amply fulfilled the promise of his youth. He was an ardent student, but his high qualities were not alone mental, but also physical. He was a thoroughly practical organiser, and a born leader of men. Since its inauguration some years ago, he was one of the most enthusiastic officers of the Rangoon Volunteer Rifle Corps, in which he held a captaincy. Last year he was home on furlough, but unfortunately his leave was curtailed by the outbreak of war, and he was hurriedly recalled to resume his duties in Burmah. Shortly after his return to India he heard of the gallant death of his favourite cousin, young Sergeant Jones, D.C.M., who was killed in action in Ypres. "Don't grieve for him," he wrote "for what nobler death could any man wish to have than the death, of a soldier." He himself was refused permission to volunteer for the front owing to his seniority in his own service, and the responsibility of the position he held there. Mr. Greer's prowess as a big game hunter was well known throughout India, and the many valuable and interesting trophies of the chase which he possessed himself, and also those which he distributed so generously amongst his friends, testify to his skill as a shikarri. Mr. Greer's death will come as a great shock to those who so lately saw him in the full flower and vigour of his manhood. He will be deeply mourned by many friends both at home and abroad for his quiet, unassuming manner endeared him to all who knew him. Much sympathy is felt for his widowed mother and sisters in their great bereavement.

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

DEATH OF REV. N. J. BAXTER, GORTNESSY.

The news of the death of Rev. N. J. Baxter, the esteemed minister of Gortnessy Presbyterian Church, has been received with profound regret. The rev. gentleman towards the end of September had a seizure of paralysis, and in spite of the best medical services his condition last week became hopeless, and he passed peacefully away on Friday. Mr. Baxter, who was a native of the Cookstown district, entered Magee College in 1878. He proved himself a most industrious and brilliant student, gaining valuable scholarships and prizes in each year of his course. Shortly after the completion of his theological studies he was called to the pastoral oversight of the church at Gortnessy, to which, he was destined to devote his entire ministerial life. Few congregations have been better served, Mr. Baxter showed himself ever faithful, devoted, and hard working in the best interests of his flock, in every one of whom he took a kindly interest, which endeared him in the hearts of all in a marked degree. As a preacher he was very effective. His readiness of speech, sound, theological knowledge, and spirit of true Evangelicalism made his pulpit ministrations highly acceptable and productive of much good. His brethren in the Glendermott Presbytery honoured him by appointing him Moderator and also as Clerk, the duties of both positions being discharged with marked ability and painstaking care, Mr. Baxter was greatly interested in music, and he succeeded in establishing and guiding with much success the Glendermott Choral Union, which had for its object the improvement of the praise service in the church. Outside his own Communion Mr. Baxter was widely esteemed. His genial and lovable disposition made him a general favourite, and gained for him the respect of everyone with whom he came in contact. Mr. Baxter married a daughter of the manse, Miss Smith, whose father was the minister of Loughgall Presbyterian Church, and he is survived by this lady and a young family. The utmost sympathy will be felt with the widow and the children. As a loving husband and father, a faithful and capable minister, a loyal comrade and friend, Mr. Baxter has left behind him a record and a memory which will be long cherished by all who were privileged to enjoy his acquaintance.

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

FUNERAL OF LATE REV. JAMES WILKIN.

The funeral of the late Revs. James Wilkin, M.A., took place on Thursday of last week at Ballinglen, County Mayo. For over thirty-six years Mr. Wilkin ministered with conspicuous faithfulness and zeal to the Presbyterian colony in this remote outmost, and the large concourse of people who gathered to pay a last tribute of respect is an indication of the esteem in which he was held by all creeds in the district. After a short service at the manse, conducted by Rev. F. Wilson (Ballina), the remains were removed to the church, where a memorial service was held. Rev. William Armour, B.A., conducted devotional exercises, and an earnest and sympathetic address was delivered by Rev. William Stuart, B.A. The service at the grave was conducted by Rev. Robert Boyle. The chief mourners were Lieutenant Cecil Wilkin and Eugene Wilkin (sons), Mr. John Wilson (brother-in-law), and Messrs. John, Charles, and Peter Robertson (relatives).

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

Mr. Samuel M'Gowan Morrison, second son of Mr. Wm. Morrison, of Elsinore, Bloomfield, and principal of Saunders Street National School, Belfast, has received a commission in the 14th Battalion Cheshire Regiment, Second-Lieutenant Morrison held a position in the head office of the Belfast Banking Company, Ltd. He received his preliminary military training in the O.T.C. of the Belfast University, and has been ordered to go to the military barracks at Holywood for further training before joining his regiment. His elder brother, has been second-lieutenant in the North Staffordshire Regiment for the past six months.

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

DEATH OF MR. ROBERT DIAMOND, LISBURN.

The death of this well-known and respected resident of Lisburn took place on the 10th inst. at his residence, Graham Gardens. He had been suffering for a long time past from a heart affection. Deceased, who was a native of County Down, carried on for many years the joint business of provision merchant and auctioneer, from which he retired a long time ago, and confined his attention to property agent. By his death the Presbyterian Church has lost one of its strongest supporters. He had held office in Drumbo and Hillhall Churches, and was an elder of Sloan Street Church. He frequently took part in Presbytery deliberations, and was a man who had the courage of his convictions. He was twice married, his second wife, who survives him, being a daughter of the late Rev. Alexander Dobbin, Boardmills.

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

GREAT JAMES STREET CHURCH, DERRY.

Members Who Have Died for Their Country.

An impressive memorial service, which was largely attended, was held in Great James Street Presbyterian Church on 7th inst. in connection with the death in the field of battle of Francis Petticrew Blacklay and other members of the congregation who have laid down their lives in defence of the Empire. The officiating ministers were Professor Woodburn, M.A., and Rev. James Thompson, D.D. A praise service appropriate to the occasion was rendered.

Rev. Dr. Thompson preached from Revelations xxii. 3-4, "And His servants shall serve Him; and they shall see His face, and His name shall be in their foreheads." At the close of his exposition the preacher said the crisis through which we were passing is well calculated to make us thoughtful, to banish from us all levity and self-seeking. There is a tremendous waste of human life going on as so many of our young men, the flower of their race, are being cut down that we cannot but be saddened, and the end seems for off yet. This evening we call to remembrance the fate that five of our own young men have already given their lives their country. There is nothing more that they could do, and we cannot withhold a tribute of admiration for the readiness with which they went forth knowing the risks they ran, and the fact that their life meant much for dear ones at home. All honour is their memory! They have earned the glory of dying for the Motherland, and we believe that it is well with them. The last of those who have fallen is a son of one of our elders, a noble and promising young man, bearing the honoured name of Francis Petticrew. Some four years ago he went to Canada, where had good prospects. Feeling it to be his duty he returned to do his bit in the tremendous conflict that is being waged, and now we mourn his untimely death. An hour or two ago I just heard some particulars of the way in which Frank Blacklay met his end. A German battleplane -- one of the newest types was brought down by one of our aeroplanes and it fell within the British lines without receiving much injury. Frank Blacklay was one of those set to guard it while an attempt was made to salve it. He was thus under the enemy's fire, and he and another fell. I have seen a letter which speaks in the highest terms of our young friend's courage and other soldierly qualities. We offer our sincere heartfelt sympathy to the members of family to which he belonged and to all households amongst us which have lost dear ones in defence of their country, and we commend them to God, Who is able to keep them and us from falling and to present us before the presence of His glory faultless.

Before the benediction was pronounced, and while the congregation was standing. Rev. Dr. Thompson read the names of those members of the congregation who have fallen in the war. They are as follow -- William Mitchell, killed at the Dardanelles; Robt. Hutchinson, drowned in H.M.S. Goliath; Frank Galbraith, drowned in the Viknor; William Galbraith, killed in the Dardanelles; Francis Petticrew Blacklay, killed in Belgium; and John Boyd, who died in London from wounds received at the front.

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

LOCAL AND PROVINCIAL

A farm of land in the townland of Leitrim, near Kilkeel, containing 2½ Irish acres, the property of Mr. Jas. Graham, has been sold by public auction to Mr. Patrick Cunningham, of Moyada, for £305.

Word reached Enniskillen on Saturday that on the previous night about 9-30 p.m. Mrs. Sarah Flanagan, of Carngreen, aged seventy, and her niece, Lucy Anne Elliott, aged eighteen, of Rossculton, were drowned in the Lillies River.

On Tuesday the Child Welfare and Food Exhibition visited Newry for a three-day stay, under the auspices of the Women's National Health Association, the Newry Urban Council, and the Newry District Nursing Society.

On Tuesday the Enniskillen Guardians appointed Dr. Michael Lawlor, Ardfirt, County Kerry, as the medical officer of the Ely dispensary district. Dr. Lawlor was the Nationalist candidate, and there was no Unionist candidate.

Armagh Urban Council last week struck a rate of 3s 5¾d in the £ for the half-year.

The cost of temporary nursing for the past year in Dungannon Union having been £133, the Guardians now think it wiser to obtain an extra permanent nurse.

A young man named John M'Laughlin (19), eldest son of Mr. Charles M'Laughlin, Duneane, Toome, has been killed at Longtown, Cumberland, through falling from a bridge a distance of forty feet. Deceased left home about two months ago.

Major the Right Hon. the Earl of Leitrim, his Majesty's Lieutenant for Londonderry City, has with the approval of his Excellency, the Lord Lieutenant, appointed Mr. John R. Hastings, of Seymour House, Templemore Park, to be a Deputy Lieutenant for the city.

"Flag Day" was held in Antrim on Friday, and although the weather was bitterly cold and rain came down in torrents, yet Lady Massereene (Antrim Castle) and the local members of the Red Cross Society made a house-to-house collection. A good sum was realised.

At a meeting of Armagh Rural Council on Tuesday the Local Government Board sanctioned the appointment of Dr. Hampton Gray as medical officer of the Armagh dispensary district (in room of his father, who resigned), at a salary amounting, in all, to £270 per annum.

On Friday Mr. Robert Shooter, auctioneer, Banbridge, on behalf of Miss Morton, Newry Street, let portion of her farm at Orange Hill, Banbridge, in conacre for flax, for the handsome sum of £12 5s per Irish acre. The whole of the farm, containing twelve acres, is let at prices from £11 to £12 5s per acre!

Seeking for Private John Murphy, 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers, the Gilford police caught him in Laurencetown Roman Catholic Church, where he was attempting to got married, but failed, as there was no clergyman available. A special Court subsequently ordered him to be handed over to a military escort.

The annual meeting on behalf of Methodist Home Missions has been held at Carrickfergus. Mr. George E. Reilly presided, and Rev. Wm. Corrigan, of Knock, acted as the deputation, and delivered a very impressive address. There was a large attendance. The collection was considerably in advance of the previous year.

At a meeting of the Committee of Management of the Derry County and City Infirmary on Tuesday Dr. Cooke, chief surgeon, reported that the chairman and himself had appointed Dr. Crosbie Weir, Portadown, as house surgeon, in room of Dr. Daunt, who has resigned. The appointment was approved of.

An eight-acre farm of land at Derryinver (six miles from Portadown), owned by Miss H. J. Atkinson, Belfast, has been sold for £350 and auctioneer's commission, the purchaser being Mr. Albert Turkington, jun. There is no dwelling-house on the farm, which is held subject to payment of the half-yearly instalment of £1 16s 10d.

On Saturday afternoon the sad news was received in Clones of the death of Lieut.-Colonel Gerald H. C. Madden, late officer commanding the 1st Batt. Irish Guards, who had been severely wounded in the fighting near Bethune on 11th October, and afterwards had his left leg amputated above the knee in the base hospital, Calais.

With reference to the request of the Ballymoney Urban Council for a delivery of letters on Sundays, the Secretary of the General Post Office writes that owing to the demand on the National Exchequer arising out of the war the funds available for the extension of postal services have necessarily been restricted, and the Council's request cannot be complied with at present.

Saturdays meeting of Omagh Rural Council received from the Local Government Board extracts from the medical officer's returns for Gortin and Omagh No. 1 districts. These stated that in Gortin the water supply is bad. There is no proper sewerage system for the district. Sixteen cases of typhoid fever occurred in the district during the half-year.

At the quarterly meeting of Louth County Council on 11th inst., Lieutenant W. A. Doran tendered his resignation as chairman of the Council, as he was now about to move out to the front. He thanked the Council for the honour they had done him by re-electing him chairman in his absence, and he hoped to return as a member of the Council at some future time.

At a meeting of County Derry and City Infirmary Committee of Management on Tuesday. Mr. W. H. Chadwick, acting secretary, reported that he had received a special donation of £9 per Regimental Sergeant-Major R. J. Kensdale, 10th Service Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers (Ulster Division), at present at the front. The amount had been contributed by the sergeants of the battalion.

Miss Dorothy Blair Boyd and Miss Vida Garrett, both of Whitehead who some time ago volunteered for active service, have been sent to France and have been appointed to No. 1 General Hospital, which is said to be the prettiest hospital in France. Both these young ladies are connected with the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. Miss Dagwell, of Whitehead, is also engaged on active service.

The second of the hiring fairs for the Newry district was held last week. The following were the wages paid -- Ploughmen and those accustomed to work threshing machines, £13 10s to £15 for the half-year; general farm servants, £11 10s to £12; and boys, £9 to £10 10s; female servants, capable of looking after dairies, £11 to £12; generals, £9 to £10; and small girls for light house work, £6 to £6 10s.

The congregation of the "Society of Friends," worshipping at Bessbrook, recently met to consider their duty towards the relief of distress caused by the war. A collection was made which amounted to £284 4s 6d. This sum has been remitted in equal parts to the secretaries of "The Friends' War Victims' Association" and "The Friends' Ambulance Agency," both of which are operating in France and Belgium, and the latter in addition in Italy.

At a meeting of the Omagh District Asylum Committee on the 11th inst., at which the Earl of Belmore presided, Dr. P. O'Doherty, assistant R.M.S., wrote stating that he intended offering his services to the military authorities during the period of the war, and he wished to know what steps the committee would take in regard to his salary and the discharge of his duty. It was decided to consider the matter at a special meeting on that day fortnight.

A test case, which will rule about twenty other cases, was heard by Judge Johnston, K.C., at Fermanagh County Court on Saturday. The plaintiff was Robert Carter, Guiltagh, Lisbellaw, who sued Joseph Lattimer, Enniskillen, a seed merchant, for £10 damages for breach of warranty, misrepresentation, and breach at contract. His Honour said that plaintiff asked for spring wheat seed, and what he got was really winter wheat seed. There was a breach of contract, and after quoting decisions in similar cases his Honour gave a decree for £6 and costs.

The monthly meeting of the Fountainville Church Band of Hope was held in the schoolroom on Friday evening (Rev. Alexander Gallagher presiding). An excellent programme was submitted, the following taking part -- Mr. Robert Brown, Miss Alice Jackson, Mr. William Hart, Mr. J. H. Moore, and Mr. William Moore. The Band of Hope choir, under the leadership of Miss Renton, gave several choruses, which were much appreciated, and an interesting and instructive temperance address was given by Rev. Saml. Lindsay, B.A., Crescent Church. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to all who had helped to make the meeting a success. Miss Renton and Mr. William Moore acted most efficiently throughout as accompanists.

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

SERGEANT SOMERS, V.C

Striking Recruiting Statement.

A great recruiting rally was held in the Diamond, Londonderry, on Wednesday afternoon on the occasion of the hiring fair, which was attended by many farmers and farm hands from the counties of Derry, Tyrone, and Donegal. The Mayor (Alderman R. N. Anderson) presided at the meeting.

Mr. H. T. Barrie, M.P., said it had been thought that the war would have been short, sharp, and decisive, and the reason why it was not was that sufficient young men did not come forward in answer to the King's call. Now they had come to the parting of the ways it was up to the young men to come forward as volunteers during the next two weeks, and, failing that, they would be brought as conscripts. That was what they believed to be the final appeal under the voluntary system. Let there be no selfishness among the farmers; let there be none so greedy or self-centred as to keep his sons back when they were willing to respond if given freedom to respond. Every recruit that came forward was giving additional security to the homesteads of Ireland.

Sergeant Somers, V.C., also delivered a rousing speech, and in conclusion asked those who wished to join to put up their hands.

Several responded, and the gallant sergeant expressed disappointment at the small response, remarking that he wanted about four hundred. "Thank God," he added, "we are going to have compulsion next month. I have got 104 recruits, and all of them are Protestants. I appeal to the Roman Catholics to come forward like the Protestants, for everywhere I go the recruits I get are Protestants."

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

BELFAST LADY'S WILL.

Miss Martha Morgan, of 65, Malone Avenue, Belfast, who died on 25th Sept, last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £3,965 18s 1d, of which £240 is in England. Probate of her will, dated 12th September, 1913, with a codicil, has been granted to Mr. John M'Nally, of Whitehead, schoolmaster; Mr. Wm. Smith, 41, Malone Avenue, Belfast, commercial traveller; Mr. James Perkins, of Farragh House, Kittala, County Mayo, farmer; and Mr. William Patrick, of 7, Bute Mansions, Hillhead, Glasgow, merchant. The testatrix left £100 to University Road Methodist Church, Belfast; £100 to the Cripples' Institute, Belfast; £100 to the Methodist Home Mission Fund, £100 to the Methodist Supernumerary and Widows' Fund, £50 to Dr. Barnardo's Homes, and £50 to the Methodist Orphan Society. The other bequests are personal.

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

HOSPITAL SHIP SUNK.

EIGHTY-FIVE LIVES LOST

WOUNDED SOLDIER'S HEROISM

The hospital ship Anglia struck a mine in the English Channel on Wednesday and sank. There were 385 officers and men on board. Three hundred were saved.

The Anglia (Captain L. J. Manning) was the well-known Holyhead and Kingstown liner of the London and North-Western Railway, and was sister ship to H.M.S. Tara, sunk by a submarine in the Mediterranean on the 5th inst. The Anglia was taken over by the Government in August, 1914, and was employed as Fleet messenger until April, 1915, when it was converted into a hospital ship. Since then it has carried wounded soldiers from France to England, and it was on the Anglia that the King returned from France after his recent accident.

The King has sent a telegram of sympathy with the families of those who have perished through the loss of the Anglia, which, the telegram says, so recently conveyed his Majesty across the Channel.

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

DEATH OF MR. J. C. DUNCAN, PORTGLENONE.

We learn with regret of the death of Mr. Joseph Courtenay Duncan, which took place on Tuesday at his residence in Portglenone, and the news, we are sure, will be received with sorrow by a wide circle of friends. Only a few days ago he was going about in his usual state of health, but illness suddenly developed, and notwithstanding the skilful services of Dr. Stewart, with Dr. Thompson, Innisrush, in consultation, a fatal termination could not be averted. The deceased, who had good family and social connections, was a son of the late Mr. Robert Duncan, postmaster in Portglenone and Petty Sessions cleric for the united districts of Portglenone and Innisrush. After completing an excellent educational course, and rendering invaluable assistance to his father in the duties of the positions indicated, he was appointed clerk of Petty Sessions at Kilrea. There he remained for a number of years, performing his work with great acceptance not only to those responsible for the administration of justice in that town and neighbourhood, but also to the population as a whole. On his father's retirement, about fifteen or sixteen years ago, he succeeded not only to the clerkship of Petty Sessions for Portglenone and Innisrush, but also to the postmastership of the former town. In this sphere of responsibility Mr. Duncan displayed all the qualities of head and heart for which he had been noted from boyhood up, and was naturally held in the highest esteem and respect by all with whom he came into contact. Obliging and courteous he was ever ready to assist anyone in a difficulty, and owing to the variety of the knowledge and experience he possessed, the utmost reliance was always placed on his advice. Although he never took a prominent part in politics he was a staunch supporter of the Unionist cause. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and took a deep interest in the affairs of the first congregation in his native town. In the Masonic body Mr. Duncan held positions of dignity and trust, and had the respect and confidence of all his brethren. He is survived by his widow, and with her and the other relatives much sympathy will be felt in their unexpected loss. The funeral takes place at eleven o'clock to-day, when the remains will be removed from the deceased's late residence for interment in the family burying-ground at Magherafelt.

 

^ top of page

The Witness - Friday, 26 November, 1915

Marriage

BELL--NORRIE -- Nov. 23, 1915, at Elmwood Presbyterian Church, Belfast, by the Rev. William Park, M.A., D.D., Ross Bell, to Harriett Norrie, Burrin Avenue, West Kildonan, Winnipeg, Canada, and only daughter of the late J. P. Norrie, Belfast,

HUNTER--HUNTER -- Nov. 10, 1915, at Killeter Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. William Duncan, B.A., William S., son of Samuel Hunter, Esq., Lisnacloon, Castlederg, to Rebeeca Mary Elizabeth (Minnie), elder daughter of George Hunter, Esq., Lislaird, Castlederg.

Deaths

ALLEN -- Nov. 24, at 100, Thomas Street, Portadown, Elizabeth, relict of the late William Allen, Portadown.

BOOTH -- Nov. 19, at 2, Mill Street, Larne, David Jarvis Booth.

BRYARS -- Nov. 21, at 239, Mountpottinger Road, Dr. J. S. Bryars, J.P.

BRYSON -- Nov. 20, at Burnview Cottage, Ballybracken, Jane Graham Bryson, widow of the late John Bryson.

BURNSIDE -- Nov. 20, at Portglenone, Annie Burnside, for many years the faithful housekeeper of the late Rev. A. H. Beattie, The Manse, Portglenone.

CHAPMAN -- Nov. 20, at Battlehill, Portadown, Elizabeth Chapman, in her 91st year.

COATES -- Nov. 18, at Clonallon, Strandtown, Sara, widow of the late David Lindsay Coates.

CORBITT -- Nov. 21, at 36, Brougham Street, Belfast, Thomas Henry Corbitt.

CORSCADDEN -- Nov. 22, at Holymount, Manorhamilton, Eliza, wife of Thomas Corscadden, aged 69 years.

CURRAN -- Nov. 24, Martha, wife of Henry Curran, 22, Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, and daughter of the late John Hutchinson, Straid.

DOHERTY -- Nov. 21, at 26, Cherryville Street, Mary Ellen (Minnie), wife of William Doherty.

GRANT -- At Buenos Ayres, Argentine, Herbert H., son of the late James E. Grant, Hazelwood, Belfast.

JEFFERSON -- Nov. 23, at 68, Hopefield Avenue, Belfast, Margaret Emily ("Daisy"), daughter of George Jefferson.

KENNEDY -- Nov. 23, at Ballyhenry, Carnmoney, Grace, daughter of James Kennedy.

KYLE -- Nov. 19 (suddenly), at Broadway, Ballymena, James Kyle.

MANSON -- Nov. 18, at Barnice, Kells, Co. Antrim, John Manson, aged 71 years.

MOFFETT -- Nov. 19, 1915, at Crievagh House, Ballybay, Elizabeth Moffett, in her 91st year.

MOODY -- Nov. 21, at Hazelbank, Knutsford Drive, Cliftonville, Samuel, husband of Edith Moody.

M'CUNE -- At the King's Park Road, Mount Florida, Glasgow, Margaret Megaw Baird, wife of Thomas S. M'Cune, daughter of the late Hugh Baird, formerly of Ballyweaney.

M'ELHONE -- Nov. 20, at 8, Churchill Street, Belfast, John, husband of Jane M'Elhone.

M'KEOWN -- Nov. 20, at Drumatticonnor, Listooder, Robert, son of John M'Keown.

PATTERSON -- Nov. 23, at the Throne Hospital, Antrim Road, Bessie, wife of the late John Patterson, Townspark, Antrim.

ROUNTREE -- Nov. 20, at 12, Springfield Parade, Alexander Rountree.

SCOTT -- Nov. 19, at Bangor, William Scott (late engineer of Gunning & Campbell, Belfast).

SUTHERLAND -- Nov. 20, at Dufferin Place, Killyleagh, Alexander, husband of Jane Sutherland.

VAUGHAN -- Nov. 26, at Ashgrove, Laganvale, Belfast, Henry Robert Vaughan, husband of Rosina Vaughan.

WHITE -- Nov. 18, at Carrowdore, Daniel, son of William White, aged 9 years and 7 months.

WILSON -- Nov. 19, at Ormidale, Marlborough Park, Belfast, Archibald Wilson.

WILSON -- Nov. 22, at Brookfield, Doagh, William John, son of the late Thomas Wilson, Drumadarragh.

Clippings

ULSTER WILLS.

Mr. Marshall Tillie, D.L., of Duncregan., Londonderry, managing director of Messrs, Tillie & Henderson, Ltd., shirt and collar manufacturers, Mayor of Londonderry in 1903 and 1904, who died on the 20th August last, son of a late Mr. Wm. Tillie, H.M.L., left unsettled personal estate in the United Kingdom, valued at £39,578 2s 8d, of which £2,996 12s in in England. Probate of his will has been granted to Mr. George G. Lamb, of 3, Bayview Terrace Londonderry, and Mr. John F. A. Simms, of Strabane, County Tyrone, solicitor. The bequests are of a private character.

Mr. James Henry Murray, of Athole, Bangor, County Down, shipbroker and forwarding agent, who died on the 29th August last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £11,773 14s 2d, of which £11,263 14s 2d is in England. Probate of his will has been granted to his sister, Miss Katherine Mary Murray, of Athole, aforesaid. The testator left £300 to the Rev. Father Skelly, of St. Mary's, Belfast, for the celebration of masses, and £60 to his confidential clerk, Mr. George H. Clark.

Mr. Wm. Teele, J.P., of Dunbar House, Enniskillen, who died on the 20th May last, left personal estate in the United Kingdom valued at £14,466 18s 3d, and probate of his will, dated 6th September 1912, has been granted to his widow, Mrs. Jane Thallon Teele. The testator left £100 per annum to his son, William Teele, during the life of the testator's wife, and the residue of his estate he left upon trust for his wife for life, and, subject to her interest, he left £4,000 upon trust for each of his daughters, Florence Sarah Pratt and Jane Thallon Johnston, and the ultimate residue of his estate upon trust for his said son William and his issue, whom failing, to his (testator's) said daughters.

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

DEATH OF DR. J. S. BRYARS

We regret to learn of the death of Dr. J. S. Bryars, J.P., which occurred on Sunday morning at his residence, 239, Mountpottinger Road, following an apoplectic seizure. He had suffered from a serious illness about eighteen months ago, and, while he recovered sufficiently to enable him to again resume his practice, it was felt that he would not enjoy the same robust health as was his prior to the illness. Dr. Bryars, who was a native of Bessbrook, received his early education from his father, who was a schoolteacher, and after subsequently studying at Queen's he qualified L.R.C.P.S. at Edinburgh University and L.F.P.S. at Glasgow University. He commenced practice at West Hartlepool, where he remained for six years. Afterwards he came to Belfast, where he has since practised for a period of twenty four years, Dr. Bryars had an extensive practice, which included the position of medical advisor to several societies. He was a member for some years of the Belfast Board of Guardians, on which he sat as chairman for two years. During his tenure of office he was appointed a Justice of the Peace for the city. He was a member of the Megain Memorial Presbyterian Church, Newtownards Road, and was clerk of session.

Of a genial but unostentatious disposition, the deceased was held in the highest esteem by all with whom he came in contact in private, public, and professional spheres, and his death will be deeply regretted by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. He is survived by his wife, who is a daughter of the late Mr. Gavin Paterson, Provost of Hamilton, Lanarkshire, and by three sons and one daughter, the last mentioned being eight years of age. Of the sons, the oldest is Lieutenant William Bryars, Royal Army Medical Corps, Special Reserve, who is preparing for his final medical examination before going on active service; the second son is Lieutenant Gavin Paterson Bryars, of the 6th Battalion Princess Victoria's (Royal Irish Fusiliers), and is stationed at Pirbright, Surrey, while the third son is a pupil at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution.

The funeral took place on Wednesday, the remains being interred in the City Cemetery. Although it was of a private nature, there was a fairly large attendance, showing the esteem in which the deceased had been held. The chief mourners were Lieutenant Wm. Bryars, R.A.M.C. Special Reserve; Lieutenant Gavin P. Bryars, 8th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles and Master Frank Bryars (sons); and Mr. James Hamilton (brother-in-law). Rev. James M'Connell, B.A., Megain Memorial Presbyterian Church, conducted a brief but impressive service at the house and also at the graveside.

Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd., were entrusted with the funeral arrangements, which were carried out in a most satisfactory manner.

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

THE LATE LIEUTENANT KERR.

M'Crea Magee Students' Tribute.

At a meeting of the Literary and Scientific Society of M'Crea Magee College held last Friday, the following resolution of sympathy with the relatives of the late Lieutenant Kerr was adopted -- "We, the students of M'Crea Magee College, desire to place on record an expression of our heartfelt sorrow at the loss of our esteemed fellow-student, Daniel Kerr, B.A., and to tender to his bereaved brother and relatives our sincere sympathy. Daniel Kerr possessed in an eminent degree those qualities which marked him out for a successful career in the profession for which he was preparing. Having almost completed a highly successful collegiate course, he felt constrained to respond to his country's call. When he had completed his training he was ordered with his regiment to the Dardanelles, where he laid down his life for his country. His loss will be felt in all departments of student life, for he took an enthusiastic part in everything pertaining to the welfare of the college. Though we shall greatly miss him, yet this memory of has unselfish life and his heroic death will ever remain in our hearts."

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

DEATH OF MR. ARCHIBALD WILSON.

The announcement of the death of this well-known citizen, which took place at his residence, Ormidale, Marlborough Park, on Friday, will be received with deep regret by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. He was ailing for the past six weeks, during which time he had the valuable services of Sir John Byers, M.D., the family physician, with Dr. W. Calwell in consultation; but notwithstanding skilful treatment and careful nursing he gradually grew worse and passed away, as stated. The deceased, who had attained the age of 65 years, was a son of the late Mr. Thomas Wilson, of Ballyquinton, Portaferry. He began his business career in the employment of the Whiteabbey Spinning Co., and while there gave many evidences of the resource and enterprise to which he owed much of his subsequent success. Soon after terminating his apprenticeship he entered the services of Messrs. M'Cleery & Reynolds, of Doagh. On the dissolution of that firm he became a partner in the Doagh Flax Spinning Co., which was then formed, and later he had the satisfaction of seeing the original property extended by the purchase of the spinning mill at Ballysillan. In 1900 the Doagh Flax Spinning Company was reconstituted and turned into a limited concern, with Mr. Wilson as chairman. The duties of that position he discharged until his death with an ability which not only commended the fullest confidence, but told emphatically on the side of progress. One of the projects of the newly-constructed firm was the acquisition of the factory in Mayo Street, by which the scope of its operations was considerably enlarged. Mr. Wilson did not take an active part in politics, but he was a staunch Conservative, and as such supported the cause of the Union. A member of the Presbyterian Church he belonged to Fisherwick congregation, and took a deep interest in all its affairs. He was twice married, his first wife being a daughter of the late Mr. John Ferguson, Parkgate, County Antrim, and his second a daughter of the late Rev. Edward Kemmitt, of Shandon Park, Knock. In addition to his widow, he leaves a large family. Two of his sons, Mr. Thomas and Mr. Gordon Wilson, were engaged with him in the same business. He is also survived by three brothers, Mr. Thomas Wilson, Belfast; Mr. Samuel Wilson, Downpatrick; and Mr. Hugh Wilson, Ballyquinton.

The funeral took place on Monday at Kilbride. There was a large and representative attendance of mourners, showing the high esteem in which the deceased had been held. Prior to the removal of the coffin a short but impressive service was conducted in the house by Rev. Charles Davey, of Fisherwick Church. The chief mourners were -- Messrs. Thomas Wilson and Gordon Wilson (sons), Samuel Wilson, Tom Wilson, and Hugh Wilson (brothers); James Gallagher, jun.; Archibald Wilson, and Howard Wilson (grandsons); Samuel Wilson, Tom Wilson, and James Wilson (nephews); Rev. James Gallagher and Mr. James Dick (sons-in-law), and Mr. E. Kimmitt (brother-in-law). At the graveside the service was conducted by the Rev. Mr. Sloan, Fisherwick Church; Rev. D. B. Knox, Whitehead; and Rev. A. M'Kinney, Parkgate. The funeral arrangements, were satisfactorily carried out by Messrs. Melville & Co., Townsend Street, Belfast.

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

RECRUITING IN ULSTER.

CAMPAIGN CONTINUED.

APPEAL TO FARMERS' SONS.

The recruiting campaign in Co. Down was continued on the 18th inst., when a party of the 18th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles visited Ballynahinch, where the monthly fair was in progress. Attracted by the music of the band a large crowd of farmers and labourers assembled at The Square, where an open-air meeting was presided over by Mr. James Hurst.

Rev. T. M'Creight said it was a pleasure to him to stand on that platform and join in the appeal that was being made to men to come and fight for the British Empire. He believed in his heart that if the men of Ireland only realised the situation as it actually existed they would come forward without any hesitation and volunteer to help the brave fellows who were at present in the firing line. He was past military age himself, but if the authorities would accept his services as a chaplain, he would offer them without delay. There were 100,000 men, the sons of farmers, in this country who had not yet enlisted. (Cries of "Shame.") Such a state of affairs did not bring honour to the farmers of Ireland. (Applause.)

Rev. Noble Huston having referred to the terrible atrocities perpetrated on the women and children of Belgium, said if the Germans succeeded in effecting a landing in this country they would be guilty of even more heinous offences than those which they had practised on the Belgians. The people did not seem to realise the fact, but he believed he was justified in stating that it was not altogether impossible for the Germans to come here. If fit men refused to come forward courageously and help their country then they would have to come unwillingly. (Applause.)

Short speeches were delivered by Captain Moore, Lieutenant Hall Dickson, Sergeant Goodchild, and Corporal Fitzpatrick, after which

The proceedings terminated with the singing of the National Anthem.

The second day's recruiting tour of the Ballymena rural districts in connection with Lord Wimborne's Recruiting Scheme, organised by the County Antrim Recruiting Committee, took place on the 18th inst. The meetings were organised by Mr. W. R. Young, Galgorm Castle; Mr. T. W. Haughton, J.P., Hillmount, and Mr. R. C. Simpson, Ballymena, who had the assistance of the local Rural Councillors in the various districts visited. Speeches were delivered by Rev. Andrew Patton, Captain Gaussen, Royal Irish Rifles; Mr. F. J. Hodges, J.P.; Lieutenant Panter, Mr. A. J. Pilkington, and Private Faulkener.

A recruiting rally was held in Magherafelt on the 18th inst., the day of the half-yearly hating fair. The band of the 3rd. Inniskillings paraded the principal streets, with the result that a great crowd of people, amongst whom were many young men of the farming class, assembled around the brake upon which the speakers were seated. Sergeant Somers, V.C., was one of these, and his manly bearing and stirring address created a deep impression. Mr. Rowley Elliott (vice-chairman of the District Council) occupied the chair. Addresses were also given by Lieut.-Colonel Bailie, Captain Graham (formerly a native of Castledawson), Lieutenant Collins, Mr. R. E. Buchannon, C.E.; Mr. S. S. Badger, Dr. Hunter, and others. As the result of the meeting a number of young men joined the colours.

A recruiting meeting was held in Church Place, Portadown, on Saturday afternoon. There was a large attendance, including many eligible men from the country districts who were in town for the market and fair. The band of the 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers and a recruiting party were present Mr. George Calvert (chairman of the Rural Council) presided.

A recruiting rally took place at the half-yearly hiring fair at Moneymore on Monday. The town was thronged with people, farmers' sons and farm hands constituting a large proportion of the crowd. At the public meeting stirring speeches were delivered by Mr. Henry Byrne, J.P. (chairman); Captain Grahame, Lieut. Collins, Lieut. Foley, Rev. J. R. M'Kim, M.A., rector, and Mr. Robert Cousley (Redford). At the conclusion of the meeting a vote of thanks was accorded to the chairman, on the motion of Rev. William Reid (First Moneymore Presbyterian Church), seconded by Captain Grahame. The bands of the 3rd Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers were in attendance and discoursed lively airs during the day.

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

DOWN VILLAGE'S RECORD.

The village of Culcavey, near Hillsborough, has the distinction of sending twenty-eight volunteers to the colours out of a possible thirty odd.

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

GALLANT ULSTER OFFICERS.

AWARDS FOR HEROISM.

It was intimated in Friday's "Gazette" that Lieutenant-Commander Arthur George Seymour, R.N., has been appointed a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order --

For excellent work throughout operations in Mesopotamia. During the attack on Nasiriyah on 24th July, 1915, Lieutenant-Commander Seymour, who was in command of the armed launch Shusan, fired a gun himself under very difficult conditions and sunk an armed Turkish patrol boat.

Lieutenant-Commander Seymour is a member of the Hertford family which was closely connected with the town of Lisburn and the County of Antrim for many generations. Born on 19th October, 1884, he is a son of Lord Ernest James Seymour, and grandson of the fifth Marquis of Hertford, G.C.B., a distinguished general in the Army. He is a nephew of the late Marquis, who was M.P. far the County of Antrim from 1869 to 1874.

Captain Samuel Russell Foster, M.B., 2nd North Midland Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps, Territorial Force, has been awarded the Military Cross --

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Hohenzollern redoubt on 16th Oct, 1915. He went to the relief of an officer and some wounded men who were lying in a trench between the firing lines, passing over a considerable space of open ground in broad daylight under heavy shell, machine-gun, and rifle fire. He spent eight hours in this trench tending severely wounded men.

Born in Londonderry in 1887, Captain Foster is a son of Mr. John Foster of that city, and was educated at Foyle College and Queen's University of Belfast. He matriculated in the Royal University of Ireland in 1906, and graduated M.B. in 1912. He was a member of Queen's University Rugby Club, and played in the 2nd XV., turning out occasionally for the 1st XV. Captain Foster is a brother of Mr. A. R. Foster, B.A., the well-known Rugby international player, who is an assistant master in Foyle College.

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

LOCAL AND PROVINCIAL

The price of sweetmilk in Lurgan has been raised to 4d per quart from Monday.

On Saturday night a stack of flax belonging to Mr. Daniel M'Cormick and two stacks of corn belonging to Mr. Francis Kane were burned at Carnsampson, Ballycastle.

Mr. Rowley Elliott, Coagh, and Mr. Andrew Browne, Ballyeglish House, Moneymore, have been appointed to the commission of the peace for County Londonderry.

Mr. Thomas Toal, J.P., chairman, presided over the adjourned half-yearly meeting of the Monaghan County Council, held on Monday, when Mr. Charles Toal, Killeevan, was unanimously elected as rate-collector for the Clones Rural District.

The funeral took place to Derrygortreavy Churchyard on Sunday of Mr. James Richardson, J.P., Coolkill, Dungannon, who had attained an advanced age. The deceased gentleman had been an extensive farmer and former road contractor.

At a meeting held in Lifford a sum of £50 was promised in aid of the British Rod Cross and St. John Ambulance organisations, and it was also arranged to have a house-to-house collection in the district, which includes Porthall, Clady, Lifford, and Ballindrait.

The death has taken place at his residence, Drummiller, Jerrettspass, Newry, of Mr. Thomas Dooley, who belonged to a family the members of which have been for many years past successful exhibitors of live stock at the Dublin, Belfast, and provincial agricultural shows.

Coleraine Guardians on Saturday agreed to allow Dr. S. J. Bolton, J.P., the recently-appointed dispensary medical officer for Aghadowey, to have his dispensary premises in the townland of Agivey, but it was also decided to have a branch dispensary at Ballylintagh, where Dr. Bolton should attend once a week.

The twenty-second annual report of Dungannon Nursing Society shows that the even flow of good work still goes on in the district, and although the people of Dungannon have again and again generously contributed to Red Cross and other war funds, the donations during the past year amounted to £114 0s 5d.

Armagh Guardians an Tuesday received a letter from Mr. Frank M'Geough, horse contractor for the ambulance, asking to be released from his contract as his son had joined the Army, and he could not get a suitable man. Remarking that they had no power to do so, the Guardians adjourned the matter till after the New Year.

An extensive farmer named Robert Blair, who resides near Stranorlar, discovered on Tuesday morning that a number of his bee-hives had been destroyed, and that the honey and the bees had disappeared. On making further investigation he found that a number of his fowl had been killed and that various articles were missing from the place.

Answering a question on Tuesday the of Lisburn Union stated that the average number of tramps in the Workhouse was thirty, as compared with 100 formerly, Mr. M'Connell inquired if there were any paupers in the house who were eligible for war service. The Master replied that there were only thirty males, most of whom were old men.

On Tuesday a farm of land, containing 8 acres and 1 rood statute measure, situate at Ballygallough, Ballyclare (within the urban district boundary), held as a judicial tenancy at the annual rent of £6 18s, was put up for sale by auction, and knocked down at £327, with auction fees. The only buildings on the land are four small thatched cottier houses.

At a meeting of the Provisional Co-Operative Committee at Rathturret, Warrenpoint, it was reported that the committees are anxious to ship a cargo of potatoes at an early date, and correspondence has passed between the secretary and the I.A.W.S., A member mentioned that he was negotiating a cargo of coal provided the members showed a general desire to back him up.

John Purdy, an inmate of Monaghan Lunatic Asylum, escaped from the institution, and when he reached Armagh he presented himself at the local recruiting depot as a volunteer. The asylum clothes revealed his identity, and he was returned to his keepers. He had been in the army for several years, and served through the South African war.

At a conference of temperance workers in the Friends' Meeting-house, Portadown, on the 18th inst., Mr. H. Stephen Richardson, Drumlyn, presiding, resolutions were adopted (a) calling upon the Government to prohibit the manufacture and sale of intoxicating drink during the war and for at least six months afterwards, and (b) urging the stoppage of a rum ration to the soldiers at the Curragh or anywhere in the United Kingdom.

Under the auspices of the Young People's Guild in connection with Downshine Road Presbyterian Church, Newry, on the 18th inst., Rev. J. G. Paton, M.A., B.D., of Coleraine, a former pastor of the congregation, recounted some of his experiences while engaged for three months in work under the auspices of the Y.M.C.A. at the front. Mr. Paton is about to return to the seat of war as an army chaplain.

On Friday morning the police discovered a fire on the promises of Mr. John J. M'Ardle, Irish Street, Armagh, who keeps a posting establishment. Although the Fire Brigade was quickly on the scene it was impossible to do very much owing to the severe frost, and the fire had made considerable headway before it could be extinguished. Mr. M'Ardle lost a valuable horse and waggonette, and several other machines were badly damaged.

The death has taken place at Battle Hall, near Richhill, of a most interesting personage -- Miss Elizabeth Chapman, of Battle Hill Post Office. The deceased, who was upwards of ninety-one years of age, was a Quaker of the old school, and always wore the quaint but picturesque bonnet and plain grey dress. She is survived by a brother and sister, both on the verge of ninety, and these are the last of the old Richhill Quakers.

At the weekly meeting of Omagh Rural Council on Saturday, Mr. M'Ginn drew attention to tire fact that the tenants of labourers cottages were not cultivating their plots as they should, and that the plots were bring largely used for grazing purposes. He moved that the Council request the labourers to cultivate more land. The chairman said there was a very old and spacious house on the old Ballyhaise farm, and it had been used as a school, but there were very few scholars, and the Department decided to sell plots of the farm, to local farmers and labourers. The house, with about 200 acres, was bring retained by the Department with the object of reopening the school when the times were more favourable. The Council expressed the opinion that the labourers should cultivate more land.

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

THE LATE MR. DUNCAN, PORTGLENONE.

The remains of Mr. J. C. Duncan were on last Thursday interred in the family burying-ground, Magherafelt. The funeral cortege, which was unusually large and representative, bore testimony to the high esteem in which the deceased gentleman was held. The chief mourners were -- Messrs. James Ross and James Brady (brothers-in-law), Mr. Hadden Brady and Master Norman Brady (nephews), and Mr. W. G. Courtenay, J.P. (relative). The services at the house and graveside were conducted by Rev. T. C. Jasper, First Presbyterian Church, Portglenone, and Rev. John M'Ilwrath, Templepatrick.

On Sabbath last Rev. T. C. Jasper preaching from the Gospel according to John xvi. 7, in the course of an eloquent sermon, said -- It is difficult to realise that Mr. Duncan is no longer with us. It seems all like a dream, and we can hardly think that we shall see his face no more. His Christian character, has unfailing courtesy, his remarkable kindness, his gentle bearing, his genial countenance, made him a man greatly beloved and a prominent figure in this village of Portglenone. As Postmaster and Petty Sessions Clerk he discharged his duties with such accuracy and care as to receive the highest commendation from the officials, who from time to time inspected his work. He was the adviser, counsellor, helper, and friend to rich and poor alike. He was always giving to something and to somebody, always helping and saying nothing about. I shall miss his sound advice and kindly sympathy. His religion was not of the demonstrative type, that sometimes exhausts its influence in self-advertisement -- far from that -- but it was deep and sincere, the type that makes a lasting impression upon a community. Mr. Duncan read widely, and had a most intelligent grasp of public affairs, but I think it was his goodness of heart, that impressed us most. He was a good man, and he was always the Christian gentleman.

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

THE LATE SIR. JOSEPH C. DUNCAN, PORTGLENONE.

The remains of Mr. Joseph C. Duncan, clerk of petty sessions and postmaster at Portglenone, were removed from his late residence on Friday last for interment in the family burying-ground at Magherafelt. The attendance was large and representative of all classes and denominations in the district. The chief mourners were -- Messrs. James Ross and James Brady (brothers-in-law), Mr. Hadden Brady and Master Norman Brady (nephews); and Mr. W. G. Courteney. J.P. (cousin). The services at the house and graveside were conducted by Rev. T. C. Jasper, Portglenone, and Rev. J. M. M'Ilwrath, Templepatrick.

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

A SON OF THE MANSE.

The new Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Councillor Dr. R. J. Smith, is the youngest son of the late Rev. J. A. Smith, M.A., of Cork, and has during his residence of eighteen years been attached to Windsor Place Presbyterian Church. He has the distinction of being the youngest Lord Mayor since the granting of the city charter. His Lord Mayoralty is unique in that the Lady Mayoress is his twin sister. Bom in Midleton, Co. Cork, he graduated in medicine in the Royal University in 1896, migrated the following year to Cardiff, where he soon established himself in practice. Wresting the seat from the Liberal party, he entered the Council as a Conservative in 1903, and has ever since sat continuously for his town.

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

DEATH OF MR. JAMES KYLE, BALLYMENA

We regret to announce the death, which occurred last Friday, of Mr. James Kyle, auctioneer and valuer, Ballymena, and the secretary of the County Antrim Agricultural Association. Mr. Kyle entered business early in life, and was for many years head bookkeeper and accountant in the employment of Messrs. Robert Morton & Co., millers, Galgorm Road. Some fourteen or fifteen years ago he started on his own account the business of auctioneer and valuer, and was highly successful, his sound judgment and excellent business methods being widely recognised. On the formation of the old Ballymena Recreation Company he was appointed secretary, which position he held .until the concern was taken over by the County Antrim Agricultural Association. His services as secretary were retained, and the marked success which the association has achieved in recent years was due in no small measure to his energy and enthusiasm.

Mr. Kyle also evinced a keen interest in the affairs of the town, and since the passing of the Old-Age Pensions Act acted as secretary to the local committee, and for six years he was a member of the Urban Council, and had the honour of occupying both the chair and the vice-chair. In religion the deceased was a staunch Presbyterian, and held the position of secretary to the committee of the First Ballymena congregation. In politics he was a sound Unionist. Deep sympathy is felt with his widow and family in their heavy bereavement. The eldest son, Dr. John Kyle, is at present at the front with the R.A.M.C.

On Monday afternoon the remains of the deceased were removed from his late residence, Broadway, Ballymena, for interment in the family burying-ground, Ballymarlow, and the funeral cortege was one of the largest that has been seen in Ballymena for a long number of years, extending for over a mile of the road. The chief mourners were Messrs. John Kyle (son), John Wylie (cousin), Charles Taylor (brother-in-law), Wm. Greer and Herbert M'Clelland (relatives).

 

^ top of page