ANNOUNCEMENTS under this heading are charged for as follows:-- Thirty-five words or under, 3/-; and 6d for every additional seven words. All announcements, must be prepaid and authenticated.

Deaths

CALDWELL -- June 1, at 4, Bridge Street, Donaghadee, James, the beloved husband of Martha Caldwell.

CAUGHEY -- May 31, at the residence of his father, Ballylimp, Kirkcubbin, John, only surviving son of Hugh Caughey.

HARVEY -- June 1, at Dumesia, Greystone, Antrim, Margaret Harvey, daughter of the late John Harvey, Moneyleek, Rasharkin.

JOHNSTON -- June 1, at 39, Avenue Road, Lurgan, Albert Isaac, dearly-beloved husband of Jane E. Johnston.

M'QUILLAN -- May 30, at Tully, Killead, Wm. McQuillan.

M'WHINNEY -- May 30, at Draperstown, Rosetta M'Whinney, last surviving daughter of the late Wilson M'Whinney.

SHANKS -- May 31, at Mount Pleasant, Blackscull, Dromore, Co. Down, Thomas Henry, youngest son of the late Mark Shanks.

SINCLAIR -- June 2, at Rahanna, Co. Louth, Dr. James Sinclair, of Newry.

WATTERSON -- June 1, at Cottown, Annie Watterson, late of Groomsport.

Clippings

NEWS IN BRIEF.

An explosion occurred in a munitions factory in the North of England. The material damage was small, but three workers were killed and two injured.

The British Workers' League, after taking a referendum from its branches, has decided to form itself into a political party, to bo known aa the National Democratic and Labour party.

Mr. Thomas Worthington, a well-known agricultural expert and valuer, of Wigan, and for some years President of the Independent Methodist Conference, has died, aged sixty-eight.

Mr. Charles Mott, the well-known vocalist, who for several seasons appeared in grand opera in London, has succumbed to wounds in France, where he was serving as lance-corporal in the Artists' Rifles.

Reuter's Agency learns that the basis of discussion having been agreed, British delegates will proceed shortly to The Hague to confer upon the question of an agreement concerning the exchange of prisoners of war.

The body of the Rev. David Lord, M.A., curate of St. James' Church, Aylestone, Leicester, who has been missing since Wednesday, has been found in a pond, there being a wound in the throat. Deceased was fifty years of age.

The Irish Insurance Commissioners have been authorised by the Pensions Minister to prepare and administer a scheme for general practitioner treatment of invalided seamen, marines, and soldiers resident in Ireland, as in Britain.

The arrangements for the anniversary celebration of the Battle of the Boyne on 12th July were considered at a meeting of the County Grand Lodge of Belfast, when it was decided to hold the demonstrations at Finaghy, where last year's gathering took place.

According to an official announcement, the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the appointment of Lieutenant-General Sir F. C. Shaw, K.G.B., General Officer Commanding-in-Chief the Forces in Ireland, to be a member of his Majesty's Privy Council in Ireland.

The Emigration Bill was read a second time in the House of Commons. It proposes to set up, under the chairmanship of the Colonial Secretary, a Central Authority of seventeen or eighteen members with executive powers to control emigration machinery and advise and assist intending emigrants.

With a view to promoting closer co-operation between French Protestant Churches and English Free Churches the officers of the National Free Church Council had a conference with Professor Henri Bois and Pastor Andre Monod, as representatives of the Federal Council of the Protestant Churches of France.

The "Rheinische Westphaelische Zeitung," announces that the Black Sea Cruiser Fleet, which managed to escape from Sebastopol before the arrival of the Germans, has been destroyed by Russian sailors, who unanimously decided to blow up their ships rather than hand them over to Germany. Only the Russian commercial fleet was captured.

The new postal rates are now in force. Every letter which hitherto would be carried by a penny stamp must now be stamped 1½d, and postcards must be stamped 1d. Neglect of these rates will involve recipients of letters in a surcharge of 3d on each fetter and 2d on each postcard. Parcels are 6d where not over 3lbs. Letters to the forces in France, when not over 1oz., will still go for 1d.

At a committee meeting in the City Hall, in connection with the "Summer Fete" to be held in the Botanic Gardens on the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th June, under the auspices of the British Red Cross and Order of St. John of Jerusalem, it was announced that the Lord Lieutenant (Lord French) had arranged to be present at the opening ceremony.

A movement is on foot to start depots in Dublin, Belfast, and Cork for the manufacture of Hobbs artificial limbs for disabled soldiers, such as are manufactured in various British, centres to supply the Governments of Britain, America, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. A capital of some £10,000 will be required, and much employment will be given if the scheme fructifies.

At a special meeting of the Chapter of the Order of St, John of Jerusalem in England it was decided to send to the Grand Master of the Bailiwick of Brandenburg and members of the Johanniter Order in Germany a letter protesting against the sinking of hospital ships, the ill-treatment of sick and wounded prisoners of war, and continued breaches of the Geneva Convention.

Widespread and sincere regret will be caused by the announcement of the death at Killeen, Fortwilliam Park, of Annie Lady Dixon, widow of Sir Daniel Dixon, Bart., D.L., M.P., who was for six years Lord Mayor of Belfast, and died in office in March 1907. Lady Dixon took a deep interest in everything that pertained to the welfare of the city, and was always willing to help every deserving cause. She was respected and beloved by all who knew her.

The Press Association learns from Serbian official sources that the result of inquiries into the conditions prevailing among the Serbian prisoners in the Central Empires is appalling. There is bo doubt as to the alarming mortality. Even from statistics given in the German Press one is forced to conclude that at least 3,500 Serbs have already perished in Germany and Austria -- that is to say. about 50 per cent. -- tuberculosis claiming the bulk of the victims. In Austria over 3,000 Serb prisoners have become insane.

The system of high grade examination for National Schools, which was inaugurated in 1915 in Belfast, continues to prove a decided success. The annual examination was held on Saturday, when 1,060 pupils presented themselves (compared with 615 two years ago), this number representing ninety city and thirty-five country schools. The Lord Mayor visited one of the examining centres, and said the movement was the first practical step taken in Ireland towards the co-ordination of primary, and secondary education, and merited enthusiastic support.

The Local Marine Board, Belfast, presented handsome tokens of the Norwegian Government's gratitude to Captain S. Orr and in crew of the Rathlin Head for rescuing officers and crew of the Norwegian barque wrecked in mid-Atlantic in November, 1916. The captain got a solid silver cup engraved with the Norwegian Royal Arms; Mr. D. F. Moore, chief officer, silver plate; Mr. H. Wilson, second officer, do.; and silver medals and diplomas to the boat's crew -- M. Tollerton, H. Humbertson. A. M'Fall, J. Lavery, and H. Main. The High Sheriff presided the function.

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Death of Mr. William Scott.

We announce with regret the death of Mr. Wm. Scott, manager for over sixty years of the Foyle and Bann Fishery Company, which took place at the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. Thomas Roulston, at Ballymagorry. Widely respected as a type of good citizen, Mr. Scott was an elder of half-a-century's standing in Artigarvan Presbyterian Church, and held the position of Sabbath-school superintendent for a like period. He was a staunch Unionist, who made friends amongst all classes. He leaves five sons and two daughters.

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Memorial Services for Ulster Heroes

The County Grand Orange Lodge of Belfast have decided to hold services in three of the largest halls in the city on Sabbath, 30th June, at 3-30 p.m., in memory of the brethren who fell in the memorable attach of the Ulster Division before Thiepval, at the opening of the battle of the Somme, on 1st July, 1916. The arrangements are as under --

Assembly Hall -- Preacher, the Moderator of the General Assembly (Right Rev. Dr. M'Granahan, of Londonderry); chairman, Br. Colonel R. H. Wallace, C.B., D.L.; organist, Mr. F. J. Moffett. The brethren of Nos. 4, 5, and 6 Districts will be present at this service.

Ulster Hall -- Preacher, the Lord Bishop of Down and Connor and Dromore (Right Rev. Dr. D'Arcy); chairman, Br. Alex. P. Dalzell, Deputy Grand Master of Belfast; organist, Mr. Samuel Leighton. This service will be attended by the brethren of Nos. 1, 2, and 3 Districts.

City Y.M.C.A. -- Preacher, the Vice-President of the Methodist Conference (Rev. William Maguire); chairman,, Br. Jackson Totton, Deputy Grand Secretary of Belfast. The Districts allotted to this service are Nos. 7, 8, 9, and 10.

 

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Birth

MOORE -- June 4, at The Manse, Pomeroy, to the wife of the Rev. F. Moore -- a daughter.

Marriages.

CUNDELL--STOOPS -- May 29, at Clarkesbridge Presbyterian Church, Co. Armagh, by Rev. R. J. Tweed, George B. Cundell, C.A., H.M.S. "Havelock," eldest son of the late J. B. Cundell, "Mildenhall," Marlborough, Wiltshire, to Edith Enid May, eldest daughter of Andrew Stoops, Beech House, Altnamackin, Castleblayney.

M'COLLAM--TAITE -- May 29, 1918, at Armoy Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. A. E. Crawford, M.A., Alexander, third son of the late John M'Collam, Monaclough, Armoy, to Maggie, fifth daughter of the late Wm. J. Taite, Stroan, Armoy.

Deaths

BLANE -- May 28, at Ballydugan, Portadown, Alice, widow of the late Christopher Blane. Interred in family burying-ground, Newmills.

BAXTER -- June 5, at her mother's residence, Market Place, Carrickfergus, Wilhelmina, daughter of the late Isaac Baxter.

CALVERT -- June 4, at 3, Brenthamville, Knock, Robert James Calvert, aged 82.

CAMPBELL -- June 3, at Ballycarry, Eliza, widow of the late James Campbell.

GARDNER -- June 5, Jane E., eldest daughter of the late James Gardner, 4, Hartford Place, Armagh.

HUME -- June 3, at 1, Jerusalem Street, Mary, relict of the late William James Hume, Ballyboley, Ballyeaston.

JARDIN -- May 14 (suddenly, of heart failure), in Dublin, David Smith, son of the late Robert Jardin, Sydenham, Belfast.

JOHNS -- June 2, at Comber, Colonel Sir Wm. A. Johns, C.B., C.I.E., second son of the late Alexander Johns, Carrickfergus, aged 59.

MAGILL -- June 1, Andrew Magill, late of Ballycrune, Hillsborough.

MacMANUS -- June 2, at Sandown Park, J. P. MacManus, Agent, Bank of Ireland (Queen's Bridge Branch, Belfast).

TODD -- June 4, at his parents' residence, Glencairn, Suffolk. Dunmurry, George, the youngest and dearly-beloved son of Alexander and Bella Todd.

In Memoriam

ROSS -- In loving memory of Private Campbell Ross, R.I.R. (Y.C.V.'s), third son of R. J. and C. Ross, 6, Cameron Street, Belfast, killed at Messines, 7th June, 1917, aged 19.

Clippings

NEWS IN BRIEF.

It is unquestionably true, said the Archbishop of Canterbury at Queen's Hall, that in these days of strain and anxiety there has been a great revival of the use of family prayer.

Output of coal in the United Kingdom in 1917 amounted to 248,499,240 tons, Mr. Brace said in the Commons. Exports of coal last year were 34,995,787 tons, and of coke 1,278,646 tons.

It is reported that large numbers of Irish eggs are being pickled at the instance of the Ministry of Food, whose intention is to reserve these stocks for winter sale at a maximum price of 4s 6d per dozen.

The Ministry of Food has issued the following -- During the summer months the public will be well advised to purchase only sufficient bread for daily requirements, and to keep it in as cool a place as possible.

The Exchequer returns from 1st April to 1st June show that the receipts were £100,479,511, and the expenditure £507,782,070. For the corresponding period last year the receipts were £79,830,639, and the expenditure £469,758,186.

It Is understood, although no official announcement has yet been made, that Sir Edward O'Farrell, the present Assistant Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant, will succeed the late Mr. Bailey as one of the Estate Commissioners.

The Rev. W. H. Spinks, who recently resigned a Baptist pastorate at Loughborough to go to France in connection with the organisation of Y.M.C.A. huts, has died from wounds through the bombing of one of the British hospitals.

At Liverpool, Samuel Rimmer, assistant cook, was sentenced to two months' hard labour for causing 600lbs. of fish, the property of the Ocean Steam Navigation Co., to be thrown overboard. It was stated that 2,000 eggs had to be supplied to 920 people to meet the deficiency.

By dredging the discharge canal of the works of John Cockerill & Co., at Seraing, near Liege, on the Meuse, the Germans have recovered over £40,000 worth of copper objects, such as machinery, taps, pipes, &c., which were hidden there at the time of the German invasion.

Mr. Shortt informed Mr. King, in Parliament, that Mr. Ginnell, M.P., was still in Mountjoy Prison, and on admission went on hunger strike "in order to shame the Government" and not because of the conditions under which he was detained. An amelioration of his treatment had been granted.

New records in traffic and revenue were established by the Glasgow Corporation Tramways during the financial year which closed on May 31. The receipts amounted to £1,404,110 4s 8d, an increase of £158,602 5s 6d on the preceding year; while the passengers carried numbered 430,946,566, an increase of 42,651,690.

The Earl of Ranfurly, chairman, reported to the Dungannon Urban Council that he had interviewed Sir T. W. Russell and the coal expert of the Department of Agriculture on the re-opening of the Tyrone coalfields. The Department expert would visit the district next week, and there was every possibility of the coalfields being re-opened.

Sir James and Lady Craig are about to visit Belfast in order to fulfil a number of engagements. Lady Craig has arrived from London, and will be joined on Monday by her husband, whose engagements include meetings of the East Down Unionist Association, the Lecale District L.O.L., and the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.

The Australian House of Representatives has adopted a report of the Standing Orders Committee to include a prayer for the soldiers and sailors of the Empire in the opening prayers. The concluding words are -- "Give them speedy victory over their enemies, and grant that an honourable and lasting peace may result from their valour and sacrifices."

The Chief Secretary, replying to Mr. Field, states that considerable progress has been made with regard to the formation of the committee to inquire into salaries, grants, &c., in intermediate schools, and the terms of reference have been under consideration. Owing to the recent changes in the Irish Government some unavoidable delay has occurred.

Sir A. Stanley stated in Parliament that no part of the revenue derived from the increase on season tickets or on ordinary tickets would go to the railway companies. It would only go to the State. He could hold out no hope that the week-end railway facilities which had been given to munition workers who were working away from their homes would be restored.

The following increased charges from July 1st for carriage of merchandise between Great Britain and Ireland are authorised by the Board of Trade -- On cattle and calves, 3s 9d per head; pigs, sheep, and goats, 1s 6d; on lambs and other small animals, 9d. These charges are in addition to those authorised by the Through Rates Orders of 1917 and 1918, and are allocated to the sea portion of the journey.

A man named Patrick Duffy, watchmaker, Castleblayney, was shot by a member of the Royal Defence Corps. It appears that some members of this corps were guarding a railway bridge, and it is alleged that Duffy on approaching refused to halt when challenged, and got into grips with a sentry. Another soldier who was on guard came on the scene, and, it is alleged, fired at Duffy, who sustained injuries which proved fatal. The sentry was also wounded in the arm.

Right Rev. Dr. Moore, presiding at Elphin Diocesan Synod, stated that a gift of £20,000 Consols had been received from an anonymous donor as a memorial of the late Right Rev. Dr. Elliott. His lordship said if the Matrimonial Causes Bill became law prisoners of war in Germany might return to find their wives legally married to other men, or they, on returning, might repudiate their wives and marry others. No Christian Church could recognise such "marriages."

The King has been pleased to approve of the appointment of the Right Honourable Sir James H. Campbell, Bart., K.C., Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, to be Lord Chancellor of Ireland, in succession to the Right Honourable Sir Ignatius John O'Brien, Bart., K.C., resigned. His Majesty has been graciously pleased to approve that the dignity of a peerage of the United Kingdom be conferred upon the Right Honourable Sir Ignatius O'Brien, Bart., K.C., on the occasion of his retirement.

A large concourse attended the funeral in Belfast of the Dowager Lady Dixon, widow of the late Sir D. Dixon, Bart. The chief mourners included -- Sir Thomas Dixon, Bart, (stepson); Major D. Dixon, Capt. H. Dixon, and Major F. Dixon (sons); Mr. A. M'C. Dixon (uncle), and Dr. E. Dixon (nephew). The service was conducted by Rev. R. H. Brett, rector of St. Peter's. Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd., had charge of the funeral arrangements, which were satisfactorily carried out.

Investigations made in German elementary and secondary schools by Professor Schlesinger, of Salzburg, show that whilst there was no backwardness in growth in 1916 as compared with 1913, in 1917 there was a reduction in height increase, and a very big difference in the weight increase, among children from seven years upwards. About one-eighth of the younger children weighed the same as they did nine months earlier. Moreover, many children were anaemic and this and exhibited signs of general weakness.

The remains of the late Mr. James Murdoch, an old and highly-respected official of the Belfast Corporation, were interred in the City Cemetery. Many of the deceased's colleagues in the municipal gas department were present to show their regard for his memory, and several members of the City Council also attended. A short service was conducted at Balmoral Cottage by the Rev. R. W. Beaver, rector of St. John's, Malone, who also officiated at the graveside. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd.

A violent thunderstorm, with heavy rain, was experienced in parts of the West and North-West of Ireland, as a result of which four deaths are reported. Patrick Giblin, aged fifty-six, and Thomas Donelan, seventy, were killed by lightning at Patch, near Glenamaddy. At Deerpark, Grange, Sligo, a youth named Kelly was killed while working in his field, the fourth victim of the storm being Maggie Molloy, Clougherow, Glenties. While a man named Walsh was ploughing at Benedine, Nenagh, both his horses were killed by lightning, Walsh being unhurt.

At the annual meeting of the Limavady Board of Guardians, Mr. John A. Lang, J.P., suggested that, as they had now dispensed with the services of a schoolmaster and sent all the children out for religious instruction, they might effect a considerable saving by sending out all the inmates of the workhouse for religious instruction. They were paying something like £90 per annum for religious instruction, and if they sent out all the inmates to three of the Limavady churches they might get instruction given for about £15 per annum. The matter was held over for discussion at a later meeting.

The Food Controller has made the Meat (Licensing of Export) (Ireland) Order, 1918, which provides for the licensing by the Department of Agriculture of persons in Ireland who deal in meat by wholesale for delivery to any destination outside Ireland. Such persons must apply before the 17th June to the Secretary, Department of Agriculture (Veterinary Branch), Upper Merrion Street, Dublin, for the necessary license, and no unintended person can export meat from Ireland after the 15th July. The Order also provides that no meat shall be consigned from Ireland to any person other than a person duly authorised by the Food Controller to take delivery of meat consigned from Ireland.

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Death of Mr. Alexander Munro, Magherafelt

On Friday last the remains of this estimable gentleman were interred in the family burying-ground at First Magherafelt, amidst manifestations of universal sorrow. For more than thirty years the late Mr. Munro, on account of his consecrated life, occupied a quite unique place in the affections of the people. He exercised a powerful influence over the young. He was a most devoted worker in First Magherafelt Sabbath School, first as a teacher and for the past ten years as the superintendent. Besides, in every form of Christian service his presence was an inspiration and an encouragement, and his loss is keenly felt by the whole Christian community. Through years of failing health he maintained his faith and hope and peace unclouded. A service was conducted in his late residence by Revs. Geo. Gillespie and E. M'Cammon. He leaves a widow and two daughters to mourn his loss.

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Late Major J. G. Brew.

Preaching in the First Presbyterian Church, Portadown, at morning service on Sabbath, Rev. John Heney, B.A., referred to the great loss which their congregation, the Church, and the whole community had sustained through the death of another of their members. He said he spoke for himself, and he was sure be spoke also for all who knew him, when he said that it was with feelings of the most profound sorrow that they learned last week of the passing from earth of Major Brew. The preacher then paid an eloquent tribute to the memory of the deceased officer.

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POET'S CORNER.

Jesus and I.

I cannot do it alone;
The waves run fast and high,
And the fogs close chill around,
And the light goes out in the sky;
But I know that We Two
Shall win in the end --
    Jesus and I.

Coward, and wayward, and weak,
I change with the changing sky,
To-day so eager and bright,
To-morrow too weak to try;
But He never gives in,
So We Two shall win --
    Jesus and I.

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RANDOM READINGS.

THE LIFE OF THE EEL.

It seems to be generally agreed among naturalists, "Spectator" essayist says, that all eels are bred below the hundred-fathom line in the Atlantic -- below the storms, in the quietude of the deep, where the sunlight hardly penetrates and the phosphorescent fish make a silver gleam. That is their home, in the calm under the everlasting stir of the tides. As they develop, something forces them up into the sunlight away towards a thousand shores and into a thousand dangers. There in the storm and stress they mature and become graceful, strong, and exquisitely supple. Most authorities seem to be agreed that after spawning they die, having enjoyed life during some eight years or so.

"THIRTEEN" IN THE UNITED STATES.

Can you wonder that our President is a believer in the power of thirteen (said an American to a writer in the "Daily Express"). There were thirteen original States in the great American Republic, and these were represented in the national flag by thirteen stripes. On the seal of the United States thirteen arrows and thirteen stars appear. The dollar contains thirteen stars, thirteen letters form the scroll, while on the other side of the coin the eagle has thirteen tail feathers and thirteen wing feathers, and there are thirteen arrow heads, thirteen horizontal lines, and thirteen perpendicular lines. Finally, there are thirteen letters in the national motto "E Pluribus Unum."

WEALTH OF THE SEA.

The North Sea has never been so productive as now. The inference is that the restriction of fishing has permitted an unchecked multiplication of fish. No matter how we fish the seas the harvest comes bounteous to the nets. There are great rhythmical waves of productivity in the ocean. Early spring and early summer heat in the waters increase numbers incredibly. Given such conditions the sea holds such an overflowing wealth of life that two or three times a century we find herrings swarm on the west coast of the country. And the Skagerack knows its "winter herring," which appears once every 111 years in teeming millions, and has been doing so for the last twelve centuries.

GLADSTONE'S RULES FOR LIFE.

In "Some Hawarden Letters" there is an answer which Gladstone sent to an inquirer for guidance in life:--
Rely on it that every mind has a work and every life a purpose, which earnest, humble pains will not fail to discover;
Prefer reality to show;
The future to the present;
Manly assiduity and application to supposed, or even real, brilliancy of natural gifts;
Concentrated to diffused attention;
To know, and do, a little well rather than much superficially;
To cherish reverence not lees than freedom;
In doubtful matters to give the doubt against yourself;
In all matters to take for guide such answer as you can best give to the question, "How would Christ have acted?"

 

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Marriage

HANNA--EATON -- June 5, at Kells Presbyterian Church, by Rev. R. K. Hanna, B.A., Dublin (brother of the bridegroom), assisted by Rev. A. Holmes, Kellswater, John Henry, second son of the late Mr. George Hanna and Mrs. Hanna, Kildrum, to Catherine Murphy, fifth daughter of the late Rev. Thomas Baton, M.A., and Mrs. Baton, New Lodge, Shankbridge.

Deaths

ANDERSON -- June 4, at his residence, Cullyvenny, Coleraine, James Anderson.

BALMER -- June 12, at Private Nursing Home, Belfast, Thomas Balmer, Inspector, G.N.R.

BLACKSTOOK -- June 11, at Ballygoney, Coagh, John Blackstock, beloved husband of Sarah Blackstock.

BOAL -- Ellen, widow of the late William Boal, Frances Street, Newtownards.

BROWN -- June 7, at Agharainy, Donaghmore, Tyrone, Alan D., younger son of Robert and Mary Brown, in his 11th year.

BROWNE -- June 9, at Virginia House, Groomsport (late of 209, Albertbridge Road), Alfred Valentine, M.D., the dearly-loved husband of Annie Browne.

COUSLEY -- June 10, at 12, Church Street, Ballymena, William James Cousley, dearly-loved husband of Lucy Cousley.

CRAWFORD -- June 11, at Ashville, Ballymena, Matilda, beloved wife of Robert Crawford.

CULLEY -- June 6, at Tiersogue, Lurgan, John, dearly-beloved husband of Elizabeth Culley.

D'ERMAINE -- June 5, at 769, Dumbarton Road, Dalmuir, Scotland, John, beloved husband of Kathleen D'Ermaine, and last surviving son of the late Robert and Agnes D'Ermaine, of Belfast.

ECCLES -- June 8, at Cardy, William Eccles.

HERDMAN -- J une 7, at Ballyhill, George Herdman.

HUNTER -- June 9, at Windy Hill, Cairncastle, Ellen, last surviving member of the family of Samuel Hunter, in her 89th year.

LINDSAY -- June 8, at her parents' residence, Beechmount, Moneymore, Maud Muriel Alice, second and dearly-loved daughter of Robert John and Roseanna Lindsay.

LYONS -- June 12, at Beechpark, Killyleigh, John, beloved husband of Ellen Lyons.

MARTIN -- June 11, at his father's residence, Ballyvicknakelly, Joseph Martin, Market Square, Dromore, Co. Down.

MOORE -- June 8, at Primacy, Bangor, Olive Moore.

MORROW -- June 10, at Mourne View, Magherascouse, Eliza Jane, beloved wife of Samuel Morrow.

M'KEE -- June 10, at Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, John M'Kee, late 36, Botanic Avenue (formerly of Banbridge).

ROBINSON -- June 7 (suddenly), at a Private Nursing Home, Lizzie, eldest daughter of the late Samuel Robinson, Ballytrim, Crossgar.

SURGENOR -- June 5, at his residence, Killycoogan, Portglenone, Co. Antrim, William Adams, youngest son of the late James Surgenor.

WRIGHT -- June 9, at Shore Road, Magheramourne, Isabella Wright, relict of James Wright (killed in action).

In Memoriam

NICHOLL -- In affectionate remembrance of my much-loved and devoted wife, Minnie Hillis, who passed from mortality to life, 14th June, 1917. Of the excellence of her virtues it is impossible to speak. ROBERT NICHOLL. Arlington, Princetown Avenue, Bangor.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

A Constantinople telegram says the number of houses burned in the recent big fire at Stambul was at least 8,000, covering an area of 2,500,000 square metres.

Mr. Arthur Henderson has received from M. Branting, leader of the Swedish Socialist party, a telegram intimating his acceptance of an invitation to attend the Labour party conference in London on June 26th to 28th.

Sir Robert Borden, Canadian Premier, in an interview, said that the Quebec disturbances had been exaggerated, and that the men there were volunteering for service, and no braver would be found in the Allied armies.

Investigation has established, says a Rome journal, that the recent destruction of the Benedette Brin (battleship) was effected by a machine imported by the accused man, Carpi, from Switzerland, and which was made in Germany.

An agreement between Great Britain and Denmark, by which all the wool in Iceland was to be secured by Great Britain, has been protested against by Swedish firms, who have called upon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take the matter up.

Mr. John Hodge, Pensions Minister, said at Bristol that in some parts of Ireland very little sympathy with disabled soldiers was shown by War Pensions Committees, and he desired greater power to see that justice was done to their Irish comrades.

Leather worth three-quarters of a million sterling has accumulated in Australia. The tanners are offering the Imperial Government 60,000 bales of the best; quality at one shilling and ninepence per pound, and lower qualities proportionately cheaper.

Mr. Bonar Law informed Mr. Whitehouse in Parliament that the present position of women with respect to election to the House of Commons was engaging the attention of the Government. It was mainly a question of law which was being examined into.

Shipbuilding contracts to the value of $64,500,000 have been placed in Canada. The vessels ordered consisted of forty-six wooden ships, with a total tonnage of 128,000, representing $24,500,000; and for forty-three steel ships, totalling 211,300 tons, worth $40,000,000, or a total value of $64,500,000.

Mr. Harbison, M.P., at Tyrone County Council, stated that an English syndicate was prepared to put down £300,000 for the development of the Coalisland and Dungannon coalfields, but the Government would not give permission. Mr. Coote, M.P., said he would be glad to co-operate in furthering the scheme.

Thousands of Belfast people will benefit by a decision which the Railway Executive has come to -- viz., to reckon Bangor as twelve miles from Belfast for the purpose of subscription tickets. The effect is that tickets for periods up to six months can be issued. Bangor Station is twelve miles three chains from Belfast.

By M. Clemenceau's orders, says a Paris telegram, the despatch abroad of periodicals and printed matter containing advertisements is forbidden. The "Temps" explains that this measure has been adopted to prevent any possibility of communication with the enemy through the medium of personal or other advertisements.

In the House of Commons, Mr. Macpherson stated that between May 15 and June 1 the Germans had bombed hospitals on seven occasions; 248 persons had been killed, and 593 wounded in those raids, but the casualties occurring in hospitals were not distinguished in these figures from those caused in the district by the same raid.

A cow which had been driven out of the Fair Hill, Ballymena, burst into, the showroom of Mr. C. Welshe, J.P., monumental sculptor, Broughshane Street, and smashed no fewer than headstones, which were all finished and ready for lettering. A figure of St. Anthony was also injured. The damage is estimated at over £100.

Eighteen men and boys, returning in a half-decker boat 20ft. long from an all-night fishing expedition, were drowned in Morecambe Bay, off Barrow-in-Furness, through the capsizing of the draft. The boat was found stranded near the shore, and, as it was almost broken in two, it is assumed that it was swamped by a heavy sea.

In reply to a deputation, the Chancellor of the Exchequer said that, regarding allowances in income tax assessments for depreciation of plant and machinery, he would agree to certain concessions, including allowances to be made for the first time for depreciation in the value of buildings, with the right of appeal to a Board of Referees.

The Earl of Rosse was found dead at Birr Castle, King's County. He expired whilst taking his bath. William Edward Parsons, fifth Earl of Rosse, was born in 1873, and had been a representative Peer for Ireland since 1911. He fought in the South African War and the present war, and was severely wounded in the head in 1915 while in action with the Irish Guards. The heir is Lord Oxmantown.

The Moderator of the General Assembly (Right Rev. Dr. M'Granahan, of Londonderry) paid a visit to the Neurasthenia Hospital at Craigavon, and was shown over the establishment by Dr. Adamson, the resident medical officer) and the matron, Miss Betten. The Moderator expressed his high appreciation of the equipment of the hospital, and of everything that is being done for the comfort and benefit of the patient's.

Under the auspices of the Portadown, Lurgan, and District Christian Endeavour Union a united rally of the various societies wa3 held in the Methodist Church, Queen Street, Lurgan, where there was a large attendance of members. Mrs. Moffat Clow, Portadown, president of the union, presided, and interesting addresses were delivered by Mr. Jas. Kelly, M.A., the field secretary of the British Union, and who had just returned from France, and Rev. E. W. Young, M.A., Lisburn.

At the monthly meeting of the Belfast Teachers' Association -- Mr. J. Harbinson, J.P., presiding -- the general secretary of the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (Mr. O'Connell) gave an interesting account of the work of the organisation in the past year, and of the present agitation for an increased war bonus on full Civil Service terms to meet the steadily increasing cost of living, and of the efforts being made to speed up the promised committee of inquiry into the salaries of Irish teachers.

Mr. Shortt has informed Mr. H. Samuel that about one-third of Ireland's population, or some 1,460,000 persons, live in districts in which the compulsory attendance provision's of the Irish Education Act, 1892, are not enforced. About 348,000 of these are between the ages of three and fifteen years. For the year ended 31st December, 1914, the latest for which statistics axe available, the average number of children on National schools' rolls in such districts was 251,302, and average daily attendance 175,874.

At a meeting of the Belfast Shipbuilders' and Engineers' War Fund Committee, the lion, treasurer, Mr. C. Cameron, submitted a financial statement, which showed that the total amount to be disbursed from all sources would be £4,519. It was decided to allocate this sum as follows -- U.V.F. Hospital and Limbless Branch, £1,750; Hilden Convalescent Hospital, Galwally, £1,000; British Red Cross and Order of St. John, £500; Sailors and Soldiers' Service Club, £1,000; Wounded Sailors' and Soldiers' Rest House, £250.

A severe influenza epidemic which had occurred in Belfast presents several new features. The general signs are intense headache, sudden faintness, feverishness, sore throat, pains in the back, and high temperature. Groups of workers have been seized, and one manufacturing firm has had to suspend business in a department owing to the number of girls who have been stricken. A number of military cases have been quarantined. Medical men deny that the disease is, as had been alleged, trench fever, and state that there is no cause for alarm. No fatalities are reported.

At a meeting of the Lisburn Board of Guardians, a communication was received from the Local Government Board, in which it was stated that the Board did not feel-justified in withholding from the inmates religious ministrations, especially having regard to the imperative duty imposed by the Legislature in this particular matter. Moreover, the Board did not consider it reasonable that clergymen should be expected to give their services without some recompense. In the circumstance the Board were not prepared to abolish the offices in question, but they recognised that, owing to the diminution of the work, a reduction should be made in the salaries of the chaplains, say, from £30, which they receive at present. It was resolved,, by nine votes to five to ask the Local Government Board to make an order authorising the payment of £15 per annum to each of the three chaplains.

The late Sir George Alexander, the well-known London actor-manager, left property valued at £90,672, the bulk of which he bequeathed to his widow for life.

Mr. Robert M'Kee, who has died at his residence, Tullyard, Lisburn, was father of Rev. P. M'Kee, Downshire Road Presbyterian Church, Newry, who is now with the Forces in France.

A neutral who has arrived from Germany at The Hague states that black smallpox is now raging at Krupp's works at Essen. He said that four or five fatal cases occur daily. The reason for this outbreak is underfeeding and filth.

The recent notice as to delivery of sugar for domestic preserving does not apply to Ireland. The sugar allotted for this purpose in Ireland cannot be distributed to the wholesalers before the 20th of this month at the earliest.

Father Charles Whiteford, C.F., Shrewsbury Diocese, has been killed. He was wounded, and died just before the casualty clearing station, to which he was taken, was severely bombed. His body has not yet been discovered in the ruins.

Sir Edward Carson, in a message congratulating John Moir, Belfast, for having created a world's riveting record, states that it will show the Hun that Ulstermen will continue to use all their powers to defeat the murderous efforts of the U boats.

Lurgan Orangemen have decided to celebrate the Twelfth of July anniversary this year by a demonstration at Lurgan, in which it is expected the brethren from the Lower Iveagh District -- which includes Waringstown, Donacloney, and Moira -- will take part.

In response to representations made by the Royal Agricultural Society of England, the War Trade Department has intimated that it has been decided, with the concurrence of the Board of Agriculture for England, to abandon the proposal to ration the export of pedigree live stock.

Prince Victor Duleep Singh has died at Monte Carlo. He was born in London in 1866, and was the eldest son of the late Maharajah Duleep Singh of Lahore. He served for some years in the army, and married in 1908 Lady Anne, youngest daughter of the Earl of Coventry.

A Congregationalist minister preaching at Orange (N.S.W.) on Peace and War announced that he could not sing the National Anthem. Soldiers who were present rushed the pulpit and ejected the clergyman. A free fight followed outside the church, and the crowd had to be dispersed by the police.

Mr. Brace states, in a written reply to a question by Mr. Whitehouse, that the King on the occasion of his birthday approved the appointment of 2,983 persons to various classes of the Order of the British Empire. The total number of appointments made since the institution of the Order was 5,950.

The Intermediate examinations are taking place this week in the various centres throughout Ireland. About 8,000 boys and 5,500 girls have entered. It is stated that, compared with previous years, there is a remarkable falling-off in the number of students entered for examination in German.

A star of first magnitude was discovered at Thornton Heath, Surrey, on the 8th inst., at 10-45 p.m. Greenwich time, by M. Felix de Roy, Secretary of the Astronomical Society of Antwerp. It is possibly at a very great distance away. If it were as near as the sun it would be thousands of times as bright as viewed from the earth.

Opening an exhibition of standard clothes for men, at Bradford, Mr. Albert Illingworth, Postmaster-General, spoke of the necessity of fixing prices in the interests of the poorer section of the community. Discharged soldiers would soon be supplied with serviceable suits at two pounds. Another speaker said a standard dress for women was probable.

A despatch from Zurich to Milan states the report is being generally circulated in Germany that the Admiralty there contemplates a great naval offensive. Orders are said to have been given for the fleet to be in readiness. A number of German high naval officers have been urgently recalled from Switzerland, and all leave has been suspended.

On the recent anniversary of her birthday, the Queen received from the Maharanee of Kotah the gift of a lakh of rupees (£6,600) to be devoted to such purposes connected with the war as her Majesty might decide. Her Majesty has accepted the generous gift, and has decided to devote it to the Queen's Hospital for Sailors and Soldiers suffering from facial and jaw injuries at Frognal.

The Department, Sir Thomas W. Russell told Colonel Sir James Craig in Parliament, had taken steps to ascertain the financial loss incurred by the Down fishermen through the sinking of their boats recently by a German submarine. They had no funds for giving compensation, but vessels and gear could be insured with the Irish Fishing Vessel War Risks Insurance Committee.

In halfpennies Monmouthshire school children have collected £4,400 for The Prisoners of War Fund. To other war charities they have contributed nearly £9,000, collected 300,000 eggs, and made 600 pairs of crutches for wounded soldiers. In addition to garden produce and garments sent to soldiers and sailors they have invested £85,000 in way funds and supplied 1,200 harvest workers during holidays.

A well-known figure in local railway circles passed away in a private nursing home in Belfast in the person of Mr. Thomas Balmer, Westbourne Terrace, Lisburn. The deceased, who was about sixty years of age, had been in the service of the Great Northern Railway Company for nearly forty years, and during a considerable portion of that time he had acted as traffic inspector. He was a devoted member of the Masonic Order.

The Right Hon. the Earl of Ranfurly has intimated that the Chapter-General of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem in England has approved of the award of a certificate of honour to Porter Francis Metcalf, Great Northern Railway Station, Lurgan, for his conduct on the 29th December last in rescuing John Martin at Lurgan railway station. The railway company granted Porter Metcalf a gratuity in January last for his gallant action on the above occasion.

The death has occurred of Mr. Louis A. Plunkett, of Canmore, Windsor Park, Belfast, senior partner in the firm of F. Plunkett & Son, marine insurance brokers, Corporation Street, which was established by his father. A man of outstanding business ability, sincere, and of a very kindly disposition, Mr. Plunkett was highly esteemed in commercial life, whilst in social circles in the city he enjoyed a signal measure of popularity. He was a member of the council of the Belfast Chamber of Commerce, held the 32nd degree in the Masonic Order, and was prominently associated with the council of the Episcopal Diocese of Down and Connor and Dromore.

The death has taken place at his residence, 80, Dublin Road, of Dr. Richard J. Purdon, in his seventy-third year. He was consulting physician to the Belfast Charitable Society and the Forster Green Hospital, and was also medical visitor in lunacy to the Recorder of Belfast. Dr. Purdon had a large practice, and was greatly respected both by his professional colleagues and the general body of citizens. Hie wife, who survives him, was a Liverpool lady named Miss Curran. His eldest son, Mr. Chas. D. Purdon, was drowned at sea some years ago; and of the two surviving sons one is Lieutenant-Colonel Brooke Purdon, D.S.O., M.C., of the Royal Army Medical Corps; whilst the other, Mr. Richard Purdon, is in Vancouver. There are also two daughters.

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Death of Dr. Browne

Dr. A. V. Browne, of Albertbridge Road, has died at Groomsport. He was formerly a member of the Belfast Board of Guardians, and from 1897 to 1912 represented Pottinger Ward on the City Corporation. Dr. Browne was a member of the Church of Ireland, worshipping at St. Patrick's, Newtownards Road; whilst in politics he was a staunch Unionist. For many years he acted as surgeon in connection with the Admiralty, and was also medical officer to the local branches of various trades unions. He leaves a widow, and five children.

The funeral of the deceased was largely attended by members of public Boards and trade organisations, with which he bad been professionally identified. A service was held in St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, Ballymacarrett, and the remains were afterwards interred in Shankill Burying-ground. Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd., Townsend Street, had charge of the funeral arrangements, which were admirably carried out.

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RANDOM READINGS.

COLOURED SCAVENGERS.

Paris streets have recently gained in picturesqueness by the employment of coloured scavengers (says a writer in the "Daily Chronicle"). Ebony-hued Senegalese and copper-coloured Arabs from Algiers and Morocco, whose terra-cotta fezes contrast so deliciously with the pale blue soldiers' uniform, clean, or affect to clean, metropolitan thoroughfares. In the boulevard there is a giant negro, with the lordly gait of an African prince, who trails his besom behind him as majestically as if it were a peacock's feather fan.

NEW GERMAN DISEASE.

A strange new disease has broken out in Germany, according to articles in German medical weeklies, summarised in the "Journal of the American Medical Association." The physicians call it war edema. It manifests itself by a swelling of the lower extremities, less often of the upper, the face, and the serous cavities. Unless permanent relief is obtained it may last for months. Apparently all the German writers attribute it to the poor diet that now prevails; excess of carbo-hydrates and deficiency of fats, together with large quantities of water, as the food is taken mostly in the form of soup. The cure is rest in bed and the addition of at least 100 grams of fat to the daily ration.

NEW WOUND HEALER.

"Tethelin," a newly-discovered American growth-stimulant, is isolated from the pituatary body, the little gland at the base of the brain that is supposed to regulate nutrition, and that has been given so much recent attention. In hospital tests the new material is reported to have had marked effect in causing prompt healing of obstinate wounds. In thousands of cases tissues are so injured by burning, freezing, or otherwise that the wounds remain open for months or even years, and tethelin seems to act by restoring vitality to such tissues.

HUN BOMBS HELP THE HEATHEN.

If air raids do a lot of harm, they occasionally do good. The vicar of a parish in "a certain district," the official report says, has reason to be grateful to the Hun airmen. In his parish magazine he announces a profit of £350 as the result of a missionary sale, and adds -- "We feel deeply thankful that the two incendiary bombs which fell in the garden behind the church and church room, in the early morning of the day on which the sale began, buried themselves harmlessly in the ground; one was dug up and viewed at 3d a time by those who came to buy! By this means an extra 25s 6d was gathered in for missionary work.

CASTOR OIL FOR AEROPLANES.

America, to stimulate the production of castor oil beans, is offering a guaranteed price to farmers in the Southern States. The oil is wanted for aeroplanes. Under the rapid changes in temperature and air pressure which these machines must encounter in constant transitions from low to high elevations they must have a lubricant which will flow under all conditions of temperature and atmospheric pressure, forming a thin film over every bearing, and which will not carbonise. Castor oil has been found the most satisfactory lubricant in the circumstances. The United States is probably the second world producer of castor oil, of which the world's demands have so constantly and unexpectedly developed.

HEIGHT TO WHICH ZEPPELINS CAN FLY.

Basing his statement on accurate measurements of a Zeppelin that was brought down in England last October, on known facts regarding the lifting power of hydrogen gas, on the state of the barometer during the flight, on the temperatures of the air recorded in the airship's log, Jhadoo Jaboz writes in "Aeronautics" as follows -- "It would appear from the foregoing that the latest type of Zeppelin is designed to be able to attain a height of 17,000 to 18,000 feet, when over its objective and after dropping its bombs, but is capable of going even higher under stress of circumstances and at the risk of suffering some slight damage on returning to its base. These conclusions accord well with Mr. Warner Allen's statements that these airships are built with a view to flying at between, 16,000 and 18,000 feet. Of course, on a short flight they could go higher, in view of the reduced quantity of petrol to be carried.'"

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Roll of Honour.

SECOND-LIEUT. R. G. HUNTER, DUBLIN

The death of Second-Lieutenant R. Gordon Hunter, R.D.F., which took place on April 25th, in a German hospital, has caused very deep regret. He had been wounded and taken prisoner about a month previously, while fighting bravely in the earlier stages of the present German advance. The young officer belonged to a well-known Presbyterian family in Dublin, his father, Mr. William Hunter, solicitor, being one of the founders and faithful members of Howth Presbyterian Church. At the service on last Sabbath morning. Rev. H. C. Waddell made the following reference -- "Gordon Hunter was in a very special sense one of ourselves. He grew up in one of our own homes, and he remained a great lover of home; he was moulded by the influences of his home and of our community. And he was just the very type of lad we should like to see growing up amongst us. Unconsciously he drew in and made his own all that is best, most lovable, most wise. Utterly unpretentious as he was, we knew him to be the very soul of goodness. 'The sanctuary of his soul unwitting he kept white and whole.' He had all a boy's wholesome natural reticence; but there was no mistaking or disguising the real depth of his nature, the sincerity of his Christian faith, and the growing earnestness of his life. He gave promise of a stainless, whole-hearted, generous-toned Christian manhood. When the time came, in a simple, unquestioning way he made his choice to go to the war. His time of service was all too short; but he had time fully to approve his manhood, to show the stuff that was in him. In the eight or nine days of the terrible fighting in March this untried boyish officer earned the admiration of his superior and of his comrades. His captain writes -- 'He behaved with the greatest gallantry, and his remarkable coolness under fire and disregard of danger was remarked upon to me.' His story on earth is finished before he had yet quite left his teens. To us every one his death is a keen personal loss. His warmheartedness made us all his friends. Had he been spared, we could have foreshadowed for him a life of beautiful development and singular usefulness. But he has no doubt accomplished more by dying than he could have done by living, and life lies in front for him. God has need in His higher service not merely of the worn and earth-wearied spirits, but of those who retain the zest and joyaunce of youth. They carry their light and laughter into heaven. Our hearts today are with those to whom he is very dear, and who are very dear to him. We know they sorrow -- with Christ. May they have His blessed comfort fulfilled and perfected in them!"

CAPTAIN W. A. TYRRELL.

Captain Walter A. Tyrrell, M.C., Royal Air Force, son of Alderman John Tyrrell, J.P., of Belfast, and The Cairn, Ballyholme, Bangor, was killed in action on Sunday. Captain Tyrrell, who was only nineteen years of age, was educated at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution, and obtained his commission on 21st June, 1917, through the Queen's University Contingent of the Officers' Training Corps. Up till the time he came home on leave last month he had been responsible for the destruction of fifteen enemy machines in aerial combat, and had been awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry in a scrap in which he succeeded in bringing down three German aeroplanes within twelve minutes. Widespread sympathy will be extended to Mr. and Mrs. Tyrrell and the other members of the family in their bereavement.

Major Horace R. Haslett, Royal Irish Rifles, attached East Yorkshire Regiment, missing since 27th May, is a son of the late Sir Jas. Haslett, M.P., Belfast. When last seen he was alive, and it is hoped he is a prisoner of war. Major Haslett was formerly in the West Belfast Regiment, and was seriously wounded in 1916.

Captain Hugh Young, M.C., of the Royal Innis. Fus., is now in an American Red Cross Hospital overseas, suffering from shell wounds received on the 29th May. He is a son of the Rev. W. J. Young, Milford, Co. Donegal.

 

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Marriages

GRAHAM--MICHAEL -- June 11, at St. James' Presbyterian Church, Ballymoney, by Rev. William Michael (brother of the bride), assisted by Rev. R. H. Wilson and Rev. R. Graham (brother of the bridegroom), Samuel Tease, second son of Richard Graham, Drumcaveny, Co. Donegal, to Martha, youngest daughter of the late William G. Michael, Garryduff House, Ballymoney.

HALL--MARTIN -- June 10, at St. Stephen's, Belfast, by the Rev. W. J. Dunlop, B.A., Robert King, second son of the late Robert Hall, Ballycanew, Co. Wexford, and Mrs. Hall, Rathview, Wicklow, to Florence Victoria, only surviving daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin, Monage, Dartrey, Cootehill (late of Belfast).

RANTON--PETERS -- June 14, at Newcastle Presbyterian Church, by Rev. Thomas M'Dermott, B.A., Robert Ranton, Frankfort, Donaghmore, Newry, to Clara M., only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Peters, George Hotel, Rathfriland. [No cards.]

Deaths

M'CONNELL -- June 13, 1918, at Tullyvallen, Annie E., wife of the late John M'Connell, aged 78. Her remains were interred in the Presbyterian Graveyard of the Second Newtownhamilton Church, Tullyvallen. The deceased leaves a family of six sons and three daughters to mourn her loss.

CREENY -- June 14, at his residence, 34, Cyprus Gardens, Bloomfield, Joseph Creeny, sen. (late of Gibson & Co., Ltd.).

DODD -- June 16, at Carricknaceesna, Saintfield, George Dodd, late of Holmlea, Florenceville Avenue, Belfast.

GORDON -- June 17, at Kinora, The Head, Portstewart, Elizabeth, wife of William Gordon.

HOLLOWAY -- June 15, at 122, High Street, Holywood (the residence of her son-in-law, W. A. Fry), Emily, widow of Gilbert Wm. Holloway, in her 82nd year.

LOMAX -- June 13, at Hibernia Street, Holywood, James Lomax (late Depot Sergeant-Major, R.I.R.), beloved husband of Mary Jane Lomax.

MALCOLM -- June 16, at Umgall, Mary Ann, dearly-beloved wife of James Malcolm.

MARSHALL -- June 13, 1918, at his residence, Sallybrook, Samuel Marshall.

MAYBERRY -- June 14, at Drumlane, Upperlands, Margaret A., beloved wife of Wm. Mayberry.

MOORHEAD -- June 16, at Prospect Road, Bangor, Helen V. Moorhead, youngest daughter of the late Thomas Moorhead, Larch Hill, Dromore.

M'MORDIE -- June 20, at Mellafernaghan, Banbridge, Hans, the only and most dearly-beloved son of Hans and Agnes M'Mordie.

STEWART -- June 14, at Market Square, Magherafelt, Robert Stewart, aged 84.

Clippings

Death of Mr. S. Marshall, J.P.

By the death of Mr. Samuel Marshall, J.P., of Sallybrook, County Donegal has lost one of its most enterprising and respected residents. Mr. Marshall was a man of extensive knowledge and keen business instincts. A farmer of a scientific turn of mind,, he was one of the pioneers in every branch of the industry. He was a member of the North-West Agricultural Society, and chairman and one of the directors of the firm of Messrs. Kerr, Lang, & Jackson, of Derry. A member of the Presbyterian Church, he took a lively interest in the affairs of his Church, and contributed generously to its funds. He leaves four sisters to mourn his loss. The funeral took place on Saturday to Taughboyne Cemetery amid signs of widespread regret and sympathy.

The services at the house were conducted by Rev. S. J. Parker, B.A., Second Ray Presbyterian Church; Rev. S. Watson, B.A., First Ray; and Rev. W. J. Logan, Letterkenny. At the graveside the Rev. S. Watson officiated.

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NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF.

Two Italian pilots have flown 500 miles to Friedrichshafen and back, and have taken excellent photographs of this German aerial stronghold, returning unharmed.

Mr. Bonar Law, Chancellor of the Exchequer, has accepted the invitation of the Executive Committee to become the Unionist candidate for the Central Division of Glasgow at the next General Election.

Two recipients of the British Empire Medal, Robert Morrison and Duncan Campbell, coast watchers, of Islay, Scotland, received their awards for saving American soldiers after the torpedoing of the transport Tuscania.

"Bachelor," in the "Sunday Times," says that from all he can hear, "Home Rule is indefinitely postponed." The Drafting Committee, it seems, cannot agree on "quite essential points," and "the federalists have made the whole thing more difficult."

Lord Milner, Secretary for War, stated in London that this was the hour of the climax of German power, that they were called upon to fight as they had never fought before, and that if he could state the numbers put into the field since the great battle began it would astonish the enemy.

The number of emigrants who left Ireland in May was 96 -- 55 males and 61 females -- against 80 in the previous month, and 100 in the corresponding month, 1917. Nine went to Canada and 87 to Great Britain. Only four emigrants have gone to the United States since the beginning of this year.

East Donegal Sinn Fein Executive have addressed a letter to Mr. H. A. Law, M.P., stating that he no longer represents the views of his constituents, as he acquiesced in the trafficking with Mr. Lloyd George and Mr. Asquith regarding Ireland's liberty, and calling on him to test the opinion of the electors.

The recent proclamation prohibiting until June 14 all meetings or processions in the Dublin Metropolitan Police district, has been extended by General Shaw, Commander-in-Chief in Ireland, "until further notice." Meetings or processions may, however, be held if authorised by the D.M.P. Chief Commissioner.

At the meeting of Coleraine Board of Guardians, the Local Government Board intimated that they had appointed Rev. W. H. Bradley, M.A., Church of Ireland chaplain in the Workhouse; while they also approved of the appointment of Rev. G. W. D. Rea, B.A,, as Presbyterian chaplain for the duration of the war.

Arrangements have now been completed for the establishment of an Irish Linen Corporation to promote the development of the industry by research, an advertising scheme involving an expenditure of £90,000, and the provision of special courses, prizes, and scholarships in Queen's University and Belfast Technical Institute.

In connection with the Twelfth of July demonstrations, Sir Edward Carson will address the Belfast Orangemen at Finaghy, Colonel Sir James Craig, M.P., will speak at Ballynahinch as well as Downpatrick; Mr. Ronald M'Neill, M.P., at Lambeg; and Mr. Gershom Stewart, M.P. for Wirral, one of the Cheshire Divisions, at Dromore.

The President of the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries has appointed a Committee, with Earl Grey as president, to consider and report how Government stores, which may become available after the close of the war can best be utilised for agricultural purposes and what methods of purchase by farmers and others should be adopted.

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Purdy, of Cornforth, Durham, have had three son's killed in action during the last six weeks -- Private Wilfred Purdy, aged 22, Scots' Fusiliers; Corporal Joseph Purdy, aged 40, R.F.A.; and Driver Tom Purdy, aged 19. They have three other sons in the army, one of whom is in France, one in hospital in Egypt, and one on leave recovering from being gassed.

The death took place at the Royal Victoria Hospital of Mr. Wm. C. Walker, 103, Fitzroy Avenue, as the result of a street accident. He was injured in a collision while cycling. The late Mr. Walker was formerly manager of the Glencolumbcille Hotel, Carrick, Co. Donegal. His only son, Captain C. N. B. Walker, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, was killed in action on the 16th August, 1916.

"Many Catholics may have wondered," says an "Evening Standard" writer, "why only one lamp is to be seen burning in each church -- namely, that before the Blessed Sacrament. I am told that, in deference to a wish expressed by the Ministry of Food, the bishops have issued instructions that this restriction must be observed. One pint of oil per church per week is the amount sanctioned."

The General Synod, Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church, meeting in Belfast, elected Rev. A. Turner, Templepatrick, Moderator for the ensuing year; and re-elected Revs. G. J. Slipper and J. A. Kelly clerk and treasurer respectively. It was intimated that there were returns from 32 congregations, not including those of Dublin, Cork, and Clonmel, paying members numbering 2,480, and non-paying 141.

A meeting in Manchester of the principal dye-ware users declared approval of the Governmental policy on the question of dyes as likely to be the only way of securing rapid development of the dyeworks industry in such a manner as would make the United Kingdom sufficiently independent of Germanic supplies after the war, and also approving of an immediate amalgamation of the chief dye-ware manufacturing companies.

Lord Pirrie is understood to be associated with a syndicate which has concluded negotiations for the purchase of the British interests in the International Mercantile Marine Co., the transfer price being reported up £25,000,000, which is much below the present market value of the ships, aggregating 960,000 tons. Restrictions already existing against transfer to foreign registry are to be in operation for three years after the war.

Mr. Pemberton Billing, M.P., addressing a "Vigilante" demonstration in London, declared that he had fought in his recent case against the hidden hand influence in British politics, and he denied that he had had "Mr. Bottomley, Lord Northcliffe, or even Mr. Lloyd George behind him." He said that Mr. Beamish, "Vigilante" treasurer, was to contest the Clapham seat. The Coalition candidate is Mr. Harry Greer, an old Dundalk man.

The "Dublin Gazette" has published a proclamation applying sections three and four of the Criminal Law and Procedure (Ireland) Act, 1887, to the following counties -- Clare, Cork, Galway, Kerry, King's, Limerick, Longford, Mayo, Queen's, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Tyrone, Westmeath, the County Borough of Cork, and the County Borough of Limerick. Sections three and four of tho Act provide for change of venue and trial by special juries.

The opposition to the proposal to present an address of welcome to the Lord Lieutenant was the occasion of wild scenes of disorder and confusion at a special meeting of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce, and when the President (Mr. E. H. Andrews) declared the resolution to present an address carried he was received with shouts of derision by members, and the protesters after the meeting was declared at an end made strong protests against the council's action.

A distinguished native of Dublin has passed away in Dr. James Drummond, who has died at Oxford, aged eighty-four. He was principal of Manchester College, Oxford, from 1885 to 1906, having succeeded Dr. Martineau, whose letters he edited. He was the author of numerous books on theological subjects, his commentaries on St. Paul and on the Fourth Gospel exciting much discussion, while his "Critical History of the Messianic Idea" attracted much attention.

The quantities of Irish butter exported from Ireland under licence each month since the prohibition of export has been in force are as follow, Mr. Clynes has informed Col. M'Calmont in Parliament:-- January, 54 tons 13 cwts.; February, 22, 18; March, 4, 16; April, 274, 3; and May; 2,234, 13. The figures for the first three months refer to tinned butter for use on shipboard. It was only recently that there had been any surplus of Irish butter available for export in the ordinary sense.

An Order which took effect from Monday, restricts growers' prices for strawberries, raspberries, black currants, and, red curants, in the United Kingdom, and limits dealers' profits. Sales by retail of 5lbs. of fruit or less are unrestricted as to price. Existing contracts are cancelled, and growers who have more than 1cwt. of any of the fruit mentioned may not sell it to any other than licensed jam manufacturers or a recognised fruit salesman who undertakes, in writing, to sell it to a licensed jam manufacturer.

Mr. Asquith, speaking as the guest at luncheon of the Aldwych Club in London, in a plea for fuller information, said that in his judgment we had reached a stage of the war when far more was to be gained than lost by laying before the people all the actualities, favourable or adverse, of an unexampled situation. He expressed the opinion that the long strain of the war had left unimpaired the steadiness of judgment of the nation as a whole, and warned his hearers of the danger of being influenced by daily bulletins recording doubtful battles or yield of ground. We must take large views and measure events, not by the noise or dust they for the moment created but by their real and lasting significance.

Under the Representation of the People Act has nine constituencies instead of four, and the number of electors has been trebled. The total Parliamentary electors for the city are 158,363 and the total Local Government electors 128,792. In the old Parliamentary Register the total electors was 55,840.

Jeremiah O'Leary, the New York lawyer, who was recently indicted on a series of treason charges, has been arrested on a chicken farm in the State of Washington. He is to be taken to New York. The indictment includes -- Obstruction of recruiting, giving important information to the enemy, and fomenting revolt in Ireland.

Rev. Richard Crawford, M.A., rector of Magherally, Banbridge, has joined the army as a combatant. Rev. Mr. Crawford was one of the first to get permission to enter the forces under the recent arrangements made by the Bishop pf Down for releasing clergymen for military service. He is a son of the late Sir Thomas Crawford, K.C.B.

During the three years ended 31st December, 1917 -- the latest date for which statistics are available -- 37 national schools in Ulster which were under Protestant management against 7which were under Roman Catholic management. So the Attorney-General for Ireland informed Mr. Coote in Parliament.

A Washington message saya that the new Anglo-American military treaty exempts Irishmen and Australians in the States from the draft, and makes British and Canadians there between twenty and forty-four subject to the draft unless they enlist, American subjects in England and Canada between the ages of twenty-one and thirty-one being placed in like position.

Mr. Clynes informed Major Wheler in Parliament that it had been decided, with the approval of the Agricultural Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Food -- on which were represented all the leading agricultural societies of the United Kingdom -- that the Ministry of Food should assume the responsibility for the wholesale collection, utilisation, and distribution of milk.

Mr. G. N. Barnes, at Dartford, said that when he proposed in a recent speech an Allied Conference to inaugurate a League of Nations he was speaking on his own responsibility and without any special authority. He advocated such a League before the war ended, otherwise in the first flush of peace the world through sheer exhaustion would fail to make proper provision for maintaining peace.

There was a full attendance at the second meeting of the Imperial War Conference, the representatives of Australia and India having arrived. Mr. Long read a reply from the King thanking the Conference for its message of loyalty in which his Majesty expressed the hope that the deliberations, conducted "in circumstances of unparalleled gravity," would lead to the building up of an Empire more free, more united, and more strong.

Belfast Corporation has adopted a revised scheme of tramway fares on the basis of one mile a penny, and also introducing 1½d fares. The highest through fare is 4d -- viz., from the city centre to Glengormley. Councillor Turner (chairman Tramways Committee) said the increase was solely due to war conditions. Power was double pre-war price, and bonus awards to employees amounted to £50,000. The material had increased in price in some cases 200 to 300 per cent.

Mr. Hughes, Australian Premier, on arrival at Liverpool, said that Australia from its population of less than 5,000,000 had enlisted 400,00 people. They had 210,00 casualties, 46,000 being dead. Australia would be with the Mother Country to a victorious end, even though the road might be long and strewn with sacrifices. He had seen the Americans preparing. They were coming in their millions to press the Germans back, slowly it might be, but irresistibly, across the Rhine.

An extraordinary case of self-mutilation to avoid military service came before the Bristol magistrates. It was alleged that John Henry Brown, a carpenter, bored two holes in a piece of wood, placed two of his fingers in the holes, and had the fingers cut off by a circular saw. Brown, who pleaded guilty, told the magistrates he had been put into Grade 1, and being unfit for military service, was worried. He was fined £10, with the alternative of 61 days' imprisonment.

According to the "Rheinische Westfaelische Zeitung" Herr Cohn (Socialist), in the Reichstag said -- "We do not want this terrible war to become the family affair of the Hohenzollerns, as the telegram beginning 'Wilhelm has attacked' gives people to understand." "Wilhelm," he continued, "did not attack, but thousands of soldiers had to attack, while Wilhelm was twenty to thirty miles behind the front lines. Rather peace without monarchy than war with the monarchy."

The political correspondent of the "Sunday Times" says that, although Mr. Gulland's resignation of the Liberal Whipship has been denied, every effort is being made to bring it about, and as his "dismissal can only be effected with the consent of the leader of the party, the intriguers are still busy with the endeavours to supplant Mr. Asquith." It is added that as Viscount Grey cannot be drawn into rivalry with the latter. Lord Crewe is mentioned, and that Mr. H. Samuel is one of the men indicated.

The minister of Munitions has made an Order providing that "it shall be the duty of every grower of flax in Ireland during the season of 1918 to save the seed from one-eighth of his crop of flax, and to comply with any regulations that may be prescribed in this behalf by the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction for Ireland, provided that nothing in this clause shall be deemed to apply to any grower having under flax in the year 1918 a total area not exceeding two statute roods, and provided further that nothing in this clause shall be deemed to apply to flax of any variety other than a fibre variety."

A Vote of Credit for £500,000,000 was agreed to in the House of Commons, in committee of Ways and Means. The Chancellor of the Exchequer stated that during the current financial quarter the average daily expenditure was £6,848,000. This vote brings the total votes to £7,342,000,000. He thought the possibilities of home now nearly reached their maximum. The diminution on the estimate for the four public services of the Army, Navy, Munitions Department and Air Ministry carry to £15,200,000. The present vote was to carry on till the end of August, and a further vote would be necessary before the autumn adjournment.

At the weekly luncheon of the Belfast Rotary Club in the Shaftesbury, a lecture on "Reconstruction and International Trade and the Necessity of Common Commercial Language" was delivered by Lieut.-Col. Dr. John Pollen, C.I.E.,. Kih, who said his belief was, that like the daylight saving, Esperanto would come swiftly and suddenly, especially when it became known that it would not supplant English or any other language. Mr. J. H. Stirling, ex-President of the Chamber of Commerce, expressed the opinion that it would always pay a business man better to speak in his customer's native tongue. He thought the necessity of Esperanto for getting business was not proved.

James Larkin, who posed as President of the "New Irish Republic," and Cornelius Lehane, appointed by Larkin "Ambassador" to the United States, have been arrested at New York on a charge of circulating seditious literature, and, in the absence of bail, fixed at £5,000, were both lodged in jail. Other emissaries of the "New Irish Republic" failing to secure donations or moral support where they expected to find them, have been arrested under the vagabondage laws, and are now engaged in road mending. Larkin told a meeting lately that he was "bitterly disappointed" with America, which so far from objecting to conscription for Ireland, actually supported that measure as a desirable war measure.

At a meeting of the Ballyclare Branch of the Ulster Farmers' Union -- Mr. W. M. Barklie, J.P. (president), in the chair -- a resolution was passed calling upon the authorities to make Larne a port, for the shipping of next season's potatoes, so far as Government purchases were concerned. The question of the disposal of tow was discussed, and a resolution was passed that markets for the sale of tow should be established throughout the district. In reference to the proposal of the Government to commandeer all the coming season's hay crop, a resolution passed by the Antrim branch of the Union, pointing out the hardships of the proposal, was adopted, with the addition that a free market should be allowed for any hay not required by the Government, that a larger allowance should be made for shrinkage, and should be increased up till the end of the baling season.

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Death of Mr. John Stewart, New York.

The announcement of the death of Mr. John Stewart, of 54, East Fifty-third Street, New York, who was for many years prominently identified with the linen industry, will be received with great regret by his many friends in Ulster. Mr. Stewart, who was a native of Donacloney, was born in 1857, and was a son of the late Mr. Wm. Stewart, founder of the firm of Wm. Stewart & Son, Franklin Street, Belfast. Educated at the Belfast Royal Academical Institution and Queen's College, Belfast, he went to the United States as one of the representatives of the textile trade in the North of Ireland. He was one of the first to introduce silk weaving into the States, and became very extensively interested in that now very important industry. Twenty years ago Mr. Stewart retired from business and devoted himself wholly to church and charitable work. He became chairman of the American Missionary Society, and was actively associated with the principal hospitals and other benevolent institutions in New York. He was also one of the elders of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. Until the death of his wife some six years ago, she and Mr. Stewart were regular annual visitors to Bangor, County Down. Mr. Stewart is survived by his brother, Mr. Samuel Stewart, of this city, and his sister, Miss Stewart.

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Death of Mr. Edward Sclater, J.P.

The death of Mr. Edward Sclater, J.P., took place on Monday at his residence, Kilwarlin House, Hillsborough, after an illness extending over several months. He was the fifth son, of the late Mr. James H. Sclater, D.D., of Newick Park, Lewes, Sussex, and was born in February, 1862. He graduated at Cambridge, and took up residence in Ireland, between thirty and forty years ago, in his capacity as agent for a number of extensive landowners. A convinced Unionist, he helped largely to reorganise the unionist clubs, and remained chairman of the Unionist clubs of Ireland until his death. He was one of the members of the Provisional Government and a member of the Standing Committee of the Ulster Unionist Council, and he threw himself with enthusiasm into the formation of the Ulster Volunteer movement. Mr. Sclater was a Justice of the Peace for the Counties of Cavan, Fermanagh, Meath, and Down, and a member of the Down County Council. He was greatly interested in all matters relating to stock-raising and agriculture, and for some years was a member of the committee of the Royal Dublin Society and also of the council of the Royal Agricultural Society. Mr. Sclater was a devoted member of the Church of Ireland, and read the lessons in Hillsborough Parish Church, of which he was a churchwarden and diocesan synodsman. The funeral yesterday to Hillsborough Churchyard was largely attended.

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An Ulsterman Honoured in South Africa.

We are pleased to hear that his Majesty the King has conferred the honour of the Order of a Member of the British Empire on the Mayor of Kimberley (Mr. John Orr), an Ulsterman who emigrated to South Africa during the "eighties" and who has had a most successful business career in that part of the British Empire. Mr. Orr has occupied the Mayoral Chair in the Diamond City for now close on three years, at different periods. The extra duties and responsibilities during the war period in connection with patriotic organisations, recruiting and such work, have entailed a great amount of stress and strain, and the many expressions of goodwill expressed in South Africa to the recipient of the new honour, go to show that he has accomplished his task to the satisfaction of the entire community. We noticed in the report of the General Assembly meeting of the Presbyterian Church of South Africa, held in Kimberley some few months ago, that Mr. Orr gave a very hearty official welcome there to its members, and that he is closely connected with the Presbyterian church of that city, of which the Rev. D. Wark, M.A. (also an Ulsterman), is the esteemed minister. Mr. Orr is a Co. Tyrone man, hailing from Benburb, where two of his brothers are living at present, one being Mr. W. J. Orr, J.P., of that place. Mr. Orr retains a keen interest in Ulster affairs, and is a staunch upholder of the Union, and a strong opponent of Home Rule. His many friends will wish him long to enjoy his energetic usefulness and the newly conferred honour in the land of his adoption.

 

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Roll of Honour

WHITE -- June 15, in Royal Naval Hospital, Malta, from wounds received in action and pneumonia, Engineer Sub-Lieutenant W. Charles White, R.N.R., eldest son of Rev. P. W. White and Mrs. White, The Manse, Stonebridge, Clones.

Roll of Honour -- In Memoriam

"One crowded hour of glorious life is worth an age without a name."
HUNTER -- In proud and ever-loving memory of Johnston Shaw Kirker Hunter, second lieutenant, Special Reserve of Officers, Royal Field Artillery, the elder and dearly-loved son of Robert J. Hunter, Barrister-at-Law and Mrs. Hunter, Dromore, Co. Down, killed in action on June 30th, 1916, near Neuve Chapelle, France. He sleeps in the Military Cemetery at Richebourg, St. Vaast. "He did all that he could."

Marriages

HILL--KERR -- June 26, 1918, at Downshire Road Presbyterian Church, Newry, by the Rev. S. J. Hamilton, B.A., of Mountnorris, Wm. S, Hill, Drumalara, Markethill, Co. Armagh, to Elizabeth Jane (Bessie) Kerr, eldest daughter of John Kerr, of Drumnascamph, Laurencetown, Co. Down.

ROWAN--HONEYFORD -- June 24, 1918, at the First Presbyterian Church, Armagh, by the Rev. George Faris, B.A., Caledon assisted by the Rev. Wm. M'Coy, B.Sc., Cullybackey, the Rev. Thomas Rowan, M.A., Vinecash, Portadown, to Susan Honeyford, daughter of Mr. Robert Trouton, Lurgancott House, Kilmore, Richhill, Armagh.

STEVENSON--STEVENSON -- June 20, at Sion Mills Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Matthew Neill, Captain Charles Stevenson M.C., 10th Canadians, son of the late John J. Stevenson, Maghregar, to Margaret, daughter of the late Oliver Stevenson, Strabane.

Deaths

CAMPBELL -- June 21, at his residence, Lisnamulligan, Hilltown, William J. Campbell, in his 87th year.

LARMOUR -- June 23, at Marine Cottage, Whitehead, Catherine, dearly-beloved wife of William Larmour.

MACAFEE -- June 23, at Boghill, Coleraine, Robert James Macafee.

M'CAW -- June 16 (the result of an accident), Margaret, widow of the late Alex. M'Caw, Craignamaddy, Ballymoney, aged 78.

POLLEN -- June 23, at Lisburn Street, Ballynahinch, Mary Ann, widow of the late Robert Pollen.

QUIGLEY -- At his residence, 1, James Street, Omagh, Thomas Quigley, Carriage Builder, aged 65 years. Deeply regretted by his sorrowing son and daughters.

RAMSAY -- June 21, at Lisnennen, Letterkenny John James Octavius Ramsay, M.E., R.U.I.

SLOAN -- June 23, at Ballykeel, Moneyrea, John, the beloved son of Elizabeth Sloan.

WARWICK -- June 23, at 51, Pretoria Street, Stranmillis, Margaret, widow of Robert Warwick, and youngest daughter of the late Robert Blakley, Brocklamont House, Ballymena.

WHITESIDE -- June 24, at Marsden, Knockdene Park, Samuel Whiteside (late of Bangor).

In Memoriam

CLEMENTS -- In loving memory of my dear wife, Emma J. Clements, who fell asleep 29th June, 1910. Remains interred in Bangor New Cemetery.
"Until the day breaks."
JOHN CLEMENTS. 84, University Street.

Thanks

Mr. and Mrs. M'MORDIE and Family desire to tender their most sincere thanks to the many kind friends who sent letters of sympathy to them in their recent very sad bereavement. Mullafernaghan, Banbridge.

Clippings

NEWS OF THE WEEK

IN BRIEF

Rev. J.P. Mahaffy, Trinity College, Dublin, has been appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire.

No kips or calf skins taken off in Ireland from 24th inst. may be bought, without a permit from the Director of Raw Materials, or above fixed maximum prices.

At Moreton Hampstead (Devon) Sessions, Miss Clara Tyndall, a lady farmer, of Chagford, for allowing rats to devour six loads of wheat which were ricked, was fined £5.

As the result of a deputation of the Irish Dairy Cattle Breeders' Association to Sir T. W. Russell, it is expected that there will be a relaxation of the restrictions on the export of milch cattle.

Sir John Byers, speaking at a Belfast meeting, said that every day the war continues means a loss of 7,000 potential lives to the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and the Central Empires.

The postponement of the introduction of Home Rule, says the Press Association, will render possible a comparatively early adjournment of Parliament, probably at the end of July, until October.

A Berlin telegram says that an explosion occurred at the Bioscope Film Company's premises in the Friedrichstrasse. Fifteen persons in the company's rooms were burned to death and eight persons were badly injured.

General Sir George Richardson has received from Mr. C. E. S. Wakefield £184 8s 5d, being result of St. Patrick's Day sports and concert at Newchwang, Manchuria, by Irishmen and women to name beds in the U.V.F. Hospital.

The Board of Trade has made an order increasing the price of all coal from Monday last by 2s 6d per ton, except in shipments to France and Italy, where the increase is 5s. The increase is due to increased cost of working at the collieries.

The town of Tralee has been proclaimed a special military area under the Defence of the Realm Regulations by the Army Council with the concurrence of the Chief Secretary. It will be remembered that a policeman was shot there lately in daylight.

Temp. Lieut.-Col. R. G. Sharman Crawford, M.P., relinquishes his commission on leaving command of a battalion. Brevet-Col. H. T. Lyle, R.I.R., also vacates command of a battalion, and Temp.-Col. S. W. W. Blacker relinquishes his temporary rank.

The number of old-age pensioners in March, 1918, was 943,077, of whom 336,581 were men and 606,498 women. The cost of the pensions was about £11,855,000, the cost of administration about £500,000, and the cost of additional allowances in the year 1917-18 about £5,203,300.

An arrangement has been concluded under which the Anglo-South American Bank, Ltd., and the London and Brazilian Bank, Ltd., will be directly represented by the Northern Banking Co., Ltd., of Belfast, which will in future act as their local agency in the North of Ireland.

Since March 21 500,000 Germans bled to death in the offensive against the Allies, Herr Hoffman stated in the Russian' Lower House, and he charged that Independent Socialists were sent to the trenches as a punishment for strikes or political activities, while news of hunger strikes in Hungary was suppressed.

A Melbourne telegram says that a daughter of Governor Sir W. Ellison Macartney (formerly member for South Antrim), who was seriously injured about the head by being thrown to the ground through her horse bolting while she was riding with her father at Claremont, Perth, has succumbed to concussion of the brain.

At a public meeting in Hillsborough, under the presidency of Lord Arthur Hill who was accompanied by the Marquis of Downshire, Mr. J. Shanks, postmaster, Lisburn, by command of his Majesty the King, presented the Imperial Service Medal to Mr. Joseph Beattie, postman, who had retired after forty-five years.

The following boys have been successful at the recent examinations for Royal Belfast Academical Institution scholarships -- Charters Scholarship, John Adrain (Model School, Belfast); John Morton Scholarship, William L. M'Clelland (Skegoniel National School); Sir Donald Currie Scholarship, George B. Cree (Skegoniel National School).

With practical unanimity the Methodist Conference in Dublin elected Rev. H. M'Keag, University Road, Belfast, Vice-President of the Conference. A resolution was passed welcoming the Lord Lieutenant to Ireland, and expressing loyalty and devotion to the King. Rev. J. M'Auley and his staff of secretaries were re-appointed.

Following a protest meeting at Strabane against the recent arrests and deportations, lively scenes were witnessed at Sion Mills. As contingents of Sinn Feiners were returning from the demonstration mothers and wives of soldiers appeared on the streets waving Union Jacks. Stones were thrown on both sides, and several persons sustained nasty cuts.

"The marriage of the Prince of Wales is still discussed," says "Club Member" in the "Liverpool Daily Post." "In inner circles it is believed his choice, will fall on the daughter of the Duke of Abercorn, for many regard a union with a daughter of the King of Italy as likely to be equivocally viewed owing to the Princess having been reared as a Roman Catholic.

The Food Ministry have withdrawn the offer to supply private consumers, public institutions, asylums, &c., with potatoes at £4 12s 6d per ton f.o.r. in free bags. Great advantage has been taken of the offer during the week, and as potatoes are now moving much more freely and as the demand has increased owing to the cold weather, there is no need to continue it.

The United Kingdom fruit allowance for 1917 averaged 4oz. per head per week. In 1918 it is expected to be only 1oz. Soft fruit for retail may only be supplied to dealers by growers whose total crop of any variety is within 1 cwt., except in the case of gooseberries, where the limit is 5 cwt. The crops of larger growers is being taken by the Government to make jam for the Army.

The Chinese authorities having failed to take steps to secure the pirates who murdered the Rev. H. E. C. Graham, a member of the Dublin University Fukien Mission, off the coast of Fukien in April, a British gunboat has been sent there to search for the murderers. The Chinese Government have protested against the employment of a gunboat as being derogatory to their Sovereignty.

The result of the bye-election in the East Cavan division, which was rendered necessary by the death of Mr. Samuel Young, was -- Griffith (Sinn Fein), 3,795; O'Hanlon (Nationalist), 2,581; majority, 1,214. There had been no contest in the constituency since 1892, when Mr. Young was returned against a Conservative candidate by a majority of 4,664. After that time his candidature was never opposed.

It was reported to the Methodist Conference in Dublin that there are sixty Irish National schools under Methodist management. In these are 8,331 pupils on roils, with an average attendance of 6,217. There are 183 teachers and twenty-one pupil teachers. The schools' total income was £18,262, an increase of £779. The Methodist College, Belfast, now in its jubilee year, was never more prosperous, the students having increased by 60 per cent.

Addressing a Labour conference at Brighton, Mr. Arthur Henderson said that measure of State control were no longer derided as the dream of impossible idealists, and the fruits of collectively produced wealth could no longer be regarded as the monopoly and plaything of the few. It was more than ever recognised that there was a community of interest and responsibility, and that the future would demand a more scientific organisation of the resources of civilisation.

Mr. T. P. Gill, Secretary of the Department, in his evidence before the Agricultural Policy Sub-Committee of the Reconstruction Committee, said that for all practical purposes the Vice-President and the secretary were really the Department. He regarded co-operation, organisation, and credit necessary to the advance of agriculture. He had observed the tendency of societies to co-operate not only regarding agricultural committees, but also in forming trading bodies to buy not merely seeds, manures, and machinery, but even house-hold requirements. That be thought a mistaken policy, because in legitimate farming co-operation there was quite as much as could be done for twenty years. He believed that after the war a stimulus would be required in the way of compulsion to secure continued cultivation.

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RANDOM READINGS

OLD TIN CANS £30 A TON.

Japanese merchants, instead of throwing away the 5-gallon tins in which they receive oil from America, as they used to do after returning them filled with vegetable oil, now have their tops and bottoms removed, their sides slit and opened flat, and ship them back to Japan. There they bring £30 a ton from manufacturers of toys, bottle-caps, dust-pans, and roofing materials/

WHAT 185,000-H.P. MEANS.

After figuring a while on what 185,000-h.p. -- the installation of an electric drive on a new warship -- really means, John Q. Everson, of Pittsburg, sends to the "Scientific American" a graphic comparison. If the ship were to be pulled along by 186,000 horses, two abreast, the team would be 175 miles long. If such a team were to start from New York its leading pair of horses would be well beyond Havre de Grace on the way to Baltimore before the vessel it was pulling had left Jersey City.

NEWEST WORD IN MEDICINE.

Major Kellogg Speed, of the Medical Reserve Corps, introduces a word that will be new to most doctors and to all laymen. The word is "bipp," used either as a noun or a verb, with the past participle "bipped." Bipp is a dressing much used on wounds at the front. It is bismuth iodoform petroleum paste, the initials of which is B.I.P.P., give us the word. The paste is smeared into wounds, these are tightly closed, and the wounded man is sent to the base hospital for regular treatment.

 

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