The Times from London, Greater London, England • Page 8

8 THE TIMES, THURSDAY, DECEMBEK 20, 1900. THE WAR LORD ROBERTS. Tho Governor of tho Wo of wight, Prlnc Henry of Bittonbcrg, hi expressed her cordial nnnnrral of tho proposal that an address of wclcomo should bo presented on behalf of tho Island to lord Roberts when ho lands at East flnwm to visit tho Queen at Osborne An escort of local Yoomanry will bo provided, tho nOWta "trill bo lined by Princess Beatrice's Own Biflo Volunteers, and tho Deputy Governor, Mr. Cochrane, representing tho Koyal Rorornor, trill. It is understood, present iho address at East Cowcs Town hall.

MEMORIAL SERVICE AT ST. PAUL'S. A solemn and Impresslvo scrvieo was held yesterday afternoon in St. Paul's Cathedral, in memory of the soldiers and sailors of tho Empire who haro fallen during tho present year in South Africa, in tho scrvieo of tho Queen. Tho hour fixed was 3 o'clock, and thus tho ordinary after noon scrvieo was not interfered with, for less than an hour was occupied by this really beautiful scrvieo of prayer, intercession, and song.

Tho sympathy of tho public for thoso: who have died in their country's canso was amply attested by tho great congregation that assembled to join in tho commemoration of their deaths. Tho vast building was tilled in all its parts and tho service was followed devoutly and earnestly by all. It was only fitting that thcro should bo present representatives of tho Army, and accordingly arrangements had been made for the attendance of detachments of tho "Royal Horso Guards, tho Scots Guards, and tho Coldstream Guards. They arrived early, and passing through tho groat doors at tho wast end took up their places beneath tho dome, within tho spaco which had been reserved for them and tho relatives of their fallen comrades. Tho smart appcaranco of theso men in church parado order did not so vividly call to mind tho realities of warfare as did tho presence of tho few men, scattered hero and there, wearing tho fighting khaki garb.

Lord Wolseley occupied a scat in tho choir, General Trotter, Commanding tho Homo District, andbthcr officers sat in front of tho soldiers, together with Mr. St. John Brodrick, Secretary of Stato for War, and other representatives of the War Office, Mr. Asquith, M.P., was also present. Before tho servico began tho band of tho Scots Guards, who wero placed in front of tho steps leading into tho choir, played under tho direction of Mr.

F. W. Wood Chopin's Funeral March (op. 35). Beethoven's Funeral March, and Wagner's Trauermarsch from tho Gottcrdammerung.

Precisely at 3 o'clock tho clergy namely, tho Dean, Bishop Barry, tho Bishop of Stepney, Archdeacon Sinclair, Canon Xewbolt, Archdeacon Thornton, Prebendaries Wace, Qlcndinning Xash, Stores, Ridgeway, and Hodson, and Minor Canons Gilbcrtson, Besley, and Milman and the choir met tho Lord Mayor and tho Sheriffs, who attended in stato accompanied by tho Sword and Maco bearers and other officials, at tho west door and passed in procession into tho choir. The service at once opened with tho hymn" Brief Life is hero our Portion," which was accompanied by tho band of the' Scots Guards, Sir Georgo Martin having taken tho place of Mr. Wood as conductor. Croft's setting of tho opening sentences of tho burial service, "I am tho Resurrection and tho Life, saith tho Lord," was then sung bv tho choir to the accompaniment of tho band, after which Psalm? 116, w. 19, 120, 130, and 136 were chanted.

Then followed a second anthem, The Souls of the Righteous are in the hand of God (Byrd), tho lesson (Ecclesi asticus 44, 115) read by tho Dean, and the Magnipsat sung to Walmisley's setting in minor. Somo special sentences and prayers were next sung by Minor Canon Besley, including an intercession for thoso who fight, for thoso who suffer, for those who aro gone forth to minister to the suffering, to their souls and bodies, and for all thoso who ha vo fallen in the true faith of God's holy name Yet a third anthem. Spoor's well known work Blest aro tho departed, was beautifully sung by tho choir, and this touching scrvieo was brought to a closo with tho prayer for all sorts and conditions of men, tho prayer of St. Chrysostom, and tho Benediction. Tho congregation then rosa to their feet and remained standing while tho Dead Marcn in Saul was played on the organ by Mr.

Macpherson, tho sub organist. CASUALTIES. DEATHS FROM DISEASE AND WOUJTOS. Tho following deaths aro reported 1st Brabant's Horse. 9042 Pte.

B. Cooke, enteric, Lindler, Dec. 9. Sad Gloucestershire Bginfnt. 1933 Pte.

J. FarmHoe, enteric, Springfontein, Dec. 17. lit Essex Regiment, 6023 CpL W. Miller, enteric, Heidelberg, Dec.

16. 20th Co. Imperisl Yeomanry 9177Pte.E.A.McGrady, enteric, Rietfontein, Dec. Royal Scots MJ. 5726 Pte.

B. Macdoaald, enteric, Vrede, Dec 17. 7th Co. Imperisl Yeomanry. 2218 Pte.

A. Tayleur, enteric, Dec. 18. Ammunition Col. R.P.A.

5S9S7 Pte. A Cragnell, enteric, Harrismith, Dec IS. 2nd Grenadier Guards. 538G Pte. J.

Lewis and 4ZH Pte. J. Dixon, dysentery, Harrismith, Dec. 17. 20th Co.

R.E. 25631 Pte. T. II. Hill, enteric, Bloem fonteia, 17.

14th Battery R.F.A 239S3 Dr. J. Cunio, enteric, 3Jloemfontin, Dec. 17. 1st Division Telegraph Batt.

R.E. 4691 Pte, Buchanan, enteric, Bloemfontein, Dec 17. Volunteer 2nd Lincolnshire Regiment. GC95 Pte. A A Eoyce, enteric, Pretoria, Dec.

15. A Troop Bridging Batt. R.E 2351 Sppr. P. Hosy, dysentery, Volksrust, Dec.

17. 86th Batten' R.F.A 3616 Sgt. E. Winfield, enteric, Standerton, Dec. 17.

3rd King's Royal Rifle Corps. 2181 Pte. J. Hill, enteric, Dec. 16.

3rd Royal Warwickshire Regiment. 5499 Pte. R. Howard, dysentery, Smaldeel, Dec. 15.

8th King's Royal Rifle Corps. 74 Pte. W. Farren, enteric, Kroonstad, Dec. 15.

Volnnteer Co. Roval West Kent Regiment. 6SC5 Pte. F. Wilcox, enteric, ftorval's Pont, Dec.

15. Army Scrrioe Corps (attached to 10th Ammunition Col. Artillery), 13573 L. Cpl. IL Low, dysentery, Middelburg, Dec 15.

Thorneyeroft's M.I. 12S26 Pte. J. Hooper, dysentery, JJloeaifontein, Dec 14. 1st Koyal Irish Regiment.

3119 Pte, W. Scaanell, peritonitis, Johannesburg, Dec 14. 4 th North Staffordshire Regiments 6035 L. CpL D. Talbot, enteric, Deelfontein, Dec.

15. 2nd Devonshire Regiment. 2S54 Pte. A Bully, in Cammation of spinal cord, Germiston, Dec 15. 10th Hussars.

3129 CpL T. Pickin, cntericitiddelbm Dec 15. Cape Mounted Rifle 3165 Pte. W. Pierce, wounds, Junberley, Dec 15.

Battery RJLA 5S01 Gar. F. W. Wright, wounds, Bietfontein, no date stated. THE XOOITGEDACHT ENGAGEMENT.

Tho following officers, reported missing, Jiooitgedacht, Dec. 13, wero killed in action South Wales Borderers. Capt. H. de Moody.

Royal Army Medical Corps. CiTil Surgeon Englebach. Tho following, reported missing, Nooitgodacht, Dec 13, have boon released and aro now at liustenburg Northumberland Fusiliers. Lieut. A C.

L. H. Jones, slight wound leg Sec Lieut. G. P.

Westmacott, slight wound wrist and 205 c.o.'s and men. Tho following, reported missing, aro woimdod and in hospital Bietfontein Koithumberhuid Fusiliers. Somerville, arm, slight Lieut. Stanton, back, dangerous and 68 sad men. Ten and men Jforttomberland Fusiliers were Dec 13 44 are still missing and 3353 C.

Sgt. Spencer has died, of wounds. Lieut. A D. Shaf Northumberland Fusilierj, taken prisoner Dec 13, since released.

The following further casual ties aro reported 1st Border Regiment. 23S5 C. Sgt. H. Grcgcrson, dangerously wounded, Vlakfontein, Dec 14.

2nd Gordon I inlanders (Militia Reserve). 1785 PU. George Greig, severely wounded, Wsteiral, Dec. 14. Cth Dragoon Guards.

30S7 Pte. Alfred Roberts, severely wounded. Klip River, Dec 10. 2nd Grenadier Guards Capt. Hon.

W. E. Cavendish, accidental dislocation of shoulder, Harriamith, Dec IS. 7th Dragoon Guards. Lieut.

J. L. Hansel, 4096 Pte. 7. Ford, and 3224 Pte.

C. S. Goddard, wounded, Standerton, Dec H. 3rd Grenadier Guards. 1937 Pte.

Knowles, kiHedj Rolf ostein Drift, Dec. 14. tanath African LIcht Horse. 1953 Pte. R.

Smythe. fa CerpnxlywoundeL tinea dead 1853 L. CsL II; G. 1 Gelding, dangerously wounded 3333 CpL Anguitus S'Arcy, Mvarely wounded. Thai Ken uee.

it. Cth Bitt. Imperial Yeomanrr (13th 1330 Pt. A Muul. llthtfr wounded, tmti Ltchtenburr.

Dec. 14. 1st Lelnster Red ment. 5031 11. James Door ley, mltvhtlYwnnndad.

VradA. tWw. 14. 16th Lancers. 4204 Harold Wyke, Mvcnly wounded, A aalfcop, Dec 14.

2nd Dragoons. 1531 Pte. H. Payne, severely wounded. 70th Co.

Imperial Yeomanry. 12617 Sgt. J. A. Kerry, severely wounded, Boahof, Dec 15.

50th Co. Imperial Yeomanry. 4726 CpL T. Grace, severely wonnded, Boahof, Dec. 15.

Natal Carbineer. Cnl. Peter Comble and TpT. U. 3rd King's Royal Ride Corp.

7285 lie. T. Raynor, unwoundetl priaonerVrjLeid, Dec. 11. Svvitfl.K it.

J. Jlvers. 3033 Pte. w. Davidson, and C016 lie.

E. Sheppcrd, missing, believed prisoner, Vryheid, Doc 11. The followint? nrisoncrs of war wero released near Plaatkop, Dec. 13.: Gloucestershire Regiment. MaJ.

Tufnell, Cspt. Fyffe. CSth Battery R.F.A. Maj. Mav.

Army Service Corps. Lieut. F. Morally. 2nd South Wales Bordrers.

270S Pte. R. Wlnyard, reported missing, has rejoined. lncashire Fusilier. 42C7 L.

Cpl. T.Wslahe, reported misning Vryheid, wa killed. 2nd Wilwhire Ueglroent. 3141 Pte. 0.

J. R. Gale, reported died at Bloemfontem, April 13, is alive. Tho following deaths have not been previously irnnrtrd 2nd Wlfuhire neciraent. 6593 Pte.

J. Lockhead died nf Senekal. Juno 20. Battery H.IIJ. 93789 Gnr.

B. Tallelh died of disease, lvroonstad, May 18. Cause of death of 7354 Pte. J. McDermott, 4th Derby shire Regiment, reportod died at rort cjizaoeu disease unknown), is now reported to be enteric DANGEROUSLY ILL.

Tho following are reported dangerously ill French's Scouts. 20 1 05 lie. A. I'rosser, enteric, Naauwtioort, Dec. 16.

21th Co. A.S.a 8706 Sgt. W. Imrsy, Pretoria Dec. 1.

Sthllusaars. (4316 Pte. G. Wilson, enterie.Rusten burg, Dec 17. Royal Army Medical Corps.

12100 Pte. T. Jarvis, enteric, Rutonburg, Doc. 17. 1st Arryll and Sutherland Highlanders.

4149 Pte. J. Drysdale and 6404 Pte. P. Kelly, enterio, Rustenburg, Dec.

17. 8th Hussar. 2078 Crl. W. Ieale, appendicitis.

Rustenburg, Dec. 17. 2nd Yorkshire rte. r. Waseneld, wounds, Rustenburg, Doc.

17. 3rd East Kent Regiment. Maj. A. IL Tylden-Pattenson, diseaso not stated, marseu unprovement, Kroonstad, Dec.

17. Kina's Own Scottish Borderers. 6666 Pte. E. Cassidr.

disease not stated. Aliwal North. Dec. 17. 31th Co.

Imperial Yeomanry. 6290 Pte." J. C. Mcllraith, enteric, Reitx, Dec. 17.

35th Co. Imperial Yeomanry. 4222 Saddler W. D. Rice, enteric Reitz, Dec.

17. 1st South Staffordshire Regiment. 5297 Pte. J. Dole man and 3811 1'te.

E. Dytch, enteric, Reits, Dec. 17. 2nd East Yorkshire Regiment. W12 lie.

W. Simpson, Reitz, Dec 17 6473 lie. A. Henderson, intestinal obstruction, Reitz, Doc 17. Civil Surgeon Cowie is reported improving.

Capt. Trecuine, Reserve of Officers, in hospital, Pretoria, progressing favourably. OFFICERS DISCHARGED TO DUTY; Tho following wero discharged hospital to duty for week ending Dec. Annr Servico Corps. Sec Lieut.

K. McKenrie. Civil Veterinary burgeon. J. M.

Magill. For week ending Doc. 0 6th Dragoon Guards. ilaj. W.

J. C. Butler. Railway Pioneer Regiment. Capt.

U. W. Ablett. 2nd Lincolnshire Regiment. Lieut.

II. Stephenson. Neshitt Horse. Lieut. J.

C. Lovemore. New South Wales Bushmen. Rev. J.

II. G. Anld. Roval Field Artillery. Maj.

IL Chance, Capt. E. P. Smith. Canadian Artillery.

Capt. D.LV. Eaton, Lieut. J. McCreA.

8tb PattJ Imperial Yeomanry. Adj. J. S. A.

Williams. 1st King's Own Scottish Borderers. Lieut. Hon. M.

St. John. 1st Royal Scots. Lieut. A.

F. Lumsden. Royal Army Medical Corps. Xlaj. J.

S. Eayre, Civil Surgeons G. Mowat, S. II. Sharpe, A H.

For week ending Dec. 16 1st King's Royal Rifle Corps. Maj. L. E.

Eustace. Wet Yorkshire Regiment. Lieut. II. D.

Bousfleld. 1st Devonshire Regiment. Lieut. G. F.

Green. 18th Hussars. Sec. Liout. D.

M. King. Thorneyeroft's M. I. Capt.

W. S. Knapp. 1st Manchester Regiment. Sec.

Lieut C. A Anderson. Royal Army Medical Corps. Lieut. E.

Trimblo Civil Surgeons W. J. I. Bruce, Gerald Hirklots. 1st.

Leicestershire Regiment. For XL C. Thorold, reported discharged to duty for week ending Dec 2, read Lieut. II. D.

Beamish. Captais nEXBr de Clekvactjc Moodt, South Wales Borderers, who wan at first reported missing at Nooit gadacht, was killed in action. Born in 1SC4, he joined tne Royal West Surrey Regiment in 1SS3 as lieutenant, and obtained his company in 1S92. In 1334 he was transferred to tho South Wales Borderers. Captain 'Moody served in tho Bunneso expedition of 1SS5 and received the medal with clasp.

RECEPTION OF LORD EDWARD CECIL. Major Lord Edward Cecil, D.S.O., returned to Hatfield last night from South Africa, and was accorded a most enthusiastic welcome home by the inhabitants. The streets of tha town were elaborately decorated and illuminated in honour of the occasion. Lord Edward reached Hatfield by the train arriving shortly before 7 o'clock and wa3 accompanied by Lady Edward Cecil and their little son. When he had taken his "scat in his carriage, Mr.

A. L. Stride, deputy lieutenant of Hertfordshire, advanced and, on behalf of the Inhabitants, presented Lord Edward with an address expressive of hearty welcome and referring to tho active part which he bad played in upholding, during the memorable siege ofMafeking, tho causo of right and justice and the honour of the country. Returning thanks for the address, Lord Edward Cecil said that during his absence his mind had often reverted to his home, and be was cheered by the feeling that there were many people who sympathized with the troubles and difficultit with which he had to contend. There were, ho said, many Hertfordshire men, and some from Hatfield, among the defenders of Mafeking.

He expressed bis deep and heartfelt thanks for tho kindness which had been shown him. It was almost as great a pleasure as he could have imagined to see again so many of his old friends in Hatfield. The horses having been removed from the carriage, it was drawn in procession, ith the local firo brigade as a guard of honour, to the north front of Hatfleld house, where had assembled tho Marquis of Salisbury, Viscount Cranborne, M.P., and Viscountess Cran borne, Lady Gwendolen Cecil, tho Rev. "Lord William Cecil and Lady Florence Cecil. Lord and Lady Robert Cecil.

Lord Huch Cecil, M.I, the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne, the Countess of Sel borne, Mr. Gerald Balfour, M.P., and Lady Betty Balfour, Mr. George Wvndham, and Counters Grosvcnor, the Hon. Alfred Lyttclton. 3I.P., and tho Hon.

Mrs. Lyttelton, the Earl of Hard 1 .1 i i Lord Edward Cecil addressed the townspeople from the (steps of Hatfleld house, and said that ho could not find words to oxnrcss tho cratitude which ho felt at the reception they had accorded him, but he felt that their reception was not aae to nira onjy dui was a tnoute to the whole of her Majesty's troops in South Africa. Three cheers were then given tor Liozd and. Lady. Edward Cecil.

Lord Salisbury, in responding, said We are all greatly obliged to you for your extreme kindness and, above all, for the sympathy that you have exhibited by this to our gallant soldiers who are pursuing a task of so much difficulty with so much bravery in South Africa. A large bonfire, erected in front of the north quad. rangle, was afterwards lighted by Master George Cecil, son of Lord Edward, and the townspeople, tenantry, and others, wero entertained by Lord Salisbury, smalL This fact might exnlain the frequent firing upon the hospital flag by the Boers, of which so many com piainta aad bra neard. TM lecture was Illustrated py limciignx reproductions of Sir. Maud own drawings.

jut. aiaud was warxaly thanked at tha close. TUB "SHAME AND DISGRVCE OP THE WAR. Mr. James Reid, recretary of the Dundee Central Branch of tho Dundee Labour party, has forwarded tha following resolution to Sir John Leng, M.P.

That we, the. members of the Dundeo Central branch or tne National Independent labour party, hereby declare our utter abhorrence of tho attitude of the British Government towards the Oranso Free State and the South African Republic, and of tho ravage methods of wmnare now sanctioned by tho Uovcrnment, and call Upon the Government to propose terms including the continued independence of tho two Republics which can honourably be accepted by both, and so bring to a close a war wheuse coutlnuanco an only odd to the sud diigraco of our country." Sir John Long says, In the course of his reply, which is uiu un nu i an. Without pecifying every word, I cannot agree to th6 demand for the continued independence of tho two if by that is liiiderstood the restoration of the power to accumulato micb tremendous armaments as havo been used sinco October, 1899, with such deadly effect against our forces. Having begun tho war, the Boen abide by iu insuos. There are sonyes in which every war is a shame and disgrace 'to every country that takes part in it.

This war is a shamo and disgrace to un so far as it originated in the Jameson raid and was fomented in tho professed interests of L'itlanders, three fourths of whom, instead of thanking us, at onco joined the Boers in gating against us. Uut it is still more a shame and disgrace to ex 1'resident Krugcr. The Transvaal Government under Kruger was everything that I should havo espoctod the Independent Labour party to atwniuntc a Uovernment of tho many in the interests of tho few specially adveise to men of our own dioou on tne one nand and to the native races under the other; giving, or rapier selling, huge advantages, concessions, and monodies to Dutch, German, French, and other nationalities in preference to our own and denying to the aborigines all native rights of property, laws, and religion, while tacitly encouraging their demoralization by declining to enforce laws made for their protection. Whatever sharuo end disgrace tho continuance of tho war may bring on this country, far more, in my opinion, will be duo to thJ Boer oligarchs, who, having amassed enormous wealth from their admini stration of the Transvaal, spent largo sums in preparing to overrun Natal and tho Cape Colonics, and establish a great Dutch South African Stato in which Boer ascendency would have been maintained as unscrupulously and rigorously as it has been in tho Transvaal." THE MANSION HOUSE FUND. Down to last evening the fund now being raised at the Mansion house for the relief of the sufferers by the war amounted to 1,035,400.

Of that Sura 438,153 had been contributed specially for the widows and orphans, for the sick and wounded at tho front, 110,100 for permanently disabled soldiers and sailors, for' the Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association, and 196,400 to a discretionary fund administered by Sir Alfred Newton, the lato Lord Mayor.of which sum 104,800 has already been disbursed among charities and objects connected with the war, including a special graut'of 50,000 to the Sailors' Families Association. Uecent donations include the second and final instalment of 5,278 2s. from Tasmania, of which 3,000 has been given to the widows and" orphans and 2.278 2s. to tho Soldiers and Sailors' Families Association Northleach and district 9 proceeds of children's bazaar at Uelmsley 10 Helmsley Parish Church 10 18s. Members in Order of Scottish Clans United States and Canada 142 9s.

Chelmsford (final instalment) 104 13s. emriovi Messrs. Peters lirothers (final donation) 14 Anonymous 12, per Mr. D. Tucker (Akyab) illi Ui.

and Ueccles per tha jtia ayor, 14 16s. lOd. THE SD2GE OF LADYSMTTH. Mr. W.

T. Maud, special artist to the Graphic, read a paper last night at the Society of Arts, Adelphi, on The Siege of Ladysmith." Sir Steaart Bayley presided. After giving a brief survey of the events that led up to the siege, and indicating how deficient was the informa tion at the disposal of our IaQ lhcence Department as to the strength of the Boer force, Mr. Maud showed how Sir George White, with a force of barely 12,000 men, was opposed to General Joubert with 22,000 men and much superior artillery. lie described tho battle cf Talana Hill, the death, of General Symons, the retreat of General Yule from Dundee to Ladvsniithand the battle of Elandslaactc.

Close upon tho disaster at Nicholson's Nek followed the complete isolation of Ladysmith, with the subsequent bombardment from day to day ol tne whole British force by the Boer Long Tom. He upheld tho decision of Sir George White to remain at Ladysmith lor strategic reasons instead oi retreating vo the Tugela. The depressing monotony of the life passed by tho troops in besieged Ladysmith was described in some detail, and many of the incidental engagements which took place with the Boers, including tha destruction of Long Tom by the Imperial Light Horse on Lombard's Kop, the conspicuous gallantry of officers liko the Hon. R. Pomeroy and Lieutenant Norwood, and the amusing incidents connected with the desire of the garrison to play polo, football, cricket, and golf amid the distraction of Boer shells.

Disease was meanwhile busy claiming it victims, and tho supply of food wasdecreasing. It was owing to the foresight and sound judgment of Colonel Ward, the commissariat officer, that the garrison was not starved into surrendering and, in his judgment, Colonel Ward had well earned the tribute of Sir George Whito that "he was the greatest commissariat placer since the time of Moses." Mr. Mand paid a warm tribute to tho courses and fidelity of tho hospital sisters, and. said that tao ilea uross osxs used tar our wert ix ioojl Civilian writes May I. throuch tout columns.

ask those who accuse our generals of barbarity in removing supplies from the enemy's country just at what extent of area the reduction of tho enemy by starva tion becomes barbarous and not legitimate The Boers had their try' to reduce Ladysniith, Kimberlev, and Mafeking by starvation, not liking the job of attack, and they included women and children in the starving process in order to expedite it. We, on the contrary, remove and take care of them, though wo would have a perfect right to follow tho example of the Boers. I seem to remember that tho Boers took all they could get and did wanton damago when 'they invaded Natal. No lie is too stupid for somo men 'to use to try and blacken their own countrymen witness the story served up again in Parliament of the officer who compelled a ISoer to take the oath of neutrality at the muzzle of a pistol. Why on earth should any otSccr trouble himself to make a Boer take ti.o oath instead of going abroad with tho other prisoners, and who would tupposo an engagement extorted in such a way to be binding 'i A correspondent sends us tho following remarks with regard to tho successful defence of Vryheid by tho late Colonel Gawne There appears at the present time a tendency in the public mind to dwell on reverses in South Africa, as on that to General Clements 's force.

Meanwhile real successes aro lost sight of. The successful repulse of the Boers, led, it appears, by the two Bothas, on Vryheid on December 11 has passed almost unnoticed. Some 700 men, chiefly of the Lancaster Regiment, repulsed a force double their number. Tho lines held by the English troops wero very extensive, over 20 miles, but Colonel Gawne'3 incessant vigilance prevented a successful surprise, and ho was enabled to repulse tho enemy with loss. So much adverse criticism has been hoard of tho British officer that Coionol Uawne's conduct of tho defenco of Vryheid, in which he lost his life, should bo noted to tho credit of the English' officer." Imperial Yeoman writes with reference to Mr.

Burns's speech in the Houso of Commons, reported in The Timti of the 11th on tho relations between tho Yeomanry and Volunteers and tho Regulars After tho correction Mr. Bums received attho hands of tho War Minister and the precisely exact statement of' ono of our own officers Captain Mildmay you may consider this letter superfluous. At the same time, a word from a private in the Imperial Yeomanry, who lias been with Bundle till a few weeks since, may be of interest to somo of your readers. I havo been in the Yeomanry somo years at home, and can most confidently say' that none but tha most happy relations over existed between ourselves and the rank and file of tho Regular Army. Wo always received tho greatest kindness at their hands, and they havo invariably taken great pains to make us efficient soldiers.

I havo spent a good deal of time at Woolwich and cannot too strongly insist on tho kindness which has prompted tho many tips I have received from n.c.o.'s and men alike. The last word I had from an old acquaintance in the Army Servico Corps on his departure forjSouth Africa 12 months since was that ho expected the Yeomanry would bo called out shortly, and that he hoped to meet me in Pretoria. The same good fellowship existed at the front. I think it was at Senekal, in, June, that an artillery man said to my brother. Don't yOu Tun away with tne idea that we don't liko having you fellows out hero with us.

Wo aro only too pleased, not only because you do your sharo of work, but because it is from men like you end from yotir observation of Tommy's life on active service that wo bopo reforms will come. We saw a great deal of the Guards, and always got on excellently with them. Thomas Atkins is a good follow, and his good points aro nowhero more noticeable than on active service. I sure they will all say the same, of us, and it is a great pity that a man of Burns's influence should attempt to how dissensions where none exist. The legend about tha zaribas of Fortnum and Mason's delicacies is acontemptiblo innuendo at which the Imperial Yeomanry can, happily, afford to smile.

We do not pretend to rival our professional brethren in matters of drill and such like, but 1 am sure, Sir, if a poll was taken, you would find that a very large majority of "tho Regulars would say that we were worthy companions in, arms and anxious to do that which is so much more, easily criticized from a comfortable place in tho Commons than performed among tho spruits and kopjes of South Africa, if the hon. member for Hat terse a had been along with us in the 8th Division during tho last six months, and lived on the rations which tho Regulars and Irregulars shared alike, the bilo which disgraced his utterances of Thursday night would have been a physical impossibility for him. I enclose my card." yintelligence THE CHINESE CRISIS. Tho Bakfleck, battleship, Captain G. J.

S. Warronder, flagship of Eear Admiral Sir James Bruce, second in command, China station, left Wei hai wci for Hong kong on Monday. IliFEOVEllENTS IN TOTTENHAM COCET EOAD. The City Lands Committee havo reported to the Corporation that the question of dealing with tho Corporation's property on the east side of Tottenham Court road had had their anxious consideration, and in view of the fact that tho leases of the larger part of the property would expire at Lady deemed it their duty to lay before the Corporation a plan showing tho manner in which it was proposed that the estate should be laid out, together with suggestions as to the modo of dealing with the leases as they expired. Alfred place, which is parallel to Tottenham Court road, has at its north and' south ends short streets (Chenics street and Store street) the houses in which are arranged in the form of a crescent.

Such planning was qui to out of date and was to be deprecated for many reasons Tha abolition of these crescents was, after somo negotiation, approved by the late St. Giles District Board of. Works, and the formation of two new streets 50lt. wide had now received tho sanction of tho London County Council. Alfred place is to be prolonged northward and southward on the north to meet Alfred mews (to be widened to 50ft.) and on tha south to meet a new street which rues into Tottenham court road, also 50ft.

wide. Iho Corporation had received several petitions from tenants on the estate, notably one from Messrs. Hewetson, Milner, and Thexton, house furnishers, who occupied a considerable site at the northern end of the property. They had also been approached by many other occupiers who desired to retain their holdings. It would no doubt be wise to come to an arrangement with the larger tenants, but before any definite propositions were made the committee thought it highly desirable to ascertain the proper valuo of the land.

The Corporation have approved the proposed laying out of the estate according to the plan, and authorized the committee to deal forthwith with the oroPCrtT generally, by auction or otherwise. xanortinjt irom. uma to urns. The DxTASTATloy, battleship, Capt. F.

O. EIrby, left Malta yesterday for Gibraltar, and will call at Malaga. The following appointments were made at the Admiralty yesterday Captain. II. Dare, to the PxsrBROKI, lot service la sew auxiliary ship now fitting, to date Dec 14.

Lieutenant. C. A Fulcher, to the NoaTHAatnos for the Clkofatra to date Dec 19. Sub Lieutenant. N.

A. Marshall, to the Royal Oak for the Dragon, to date Dec. 19. Midshipmen. G.

F. Cholmley and W. W. Hallwright, to the NlOBE, to date Doc. 19 A.

B. Cunningham, to the Haxsibal, to date Dec. 15; Lord George F. Seymour, to the HixxinAL, to date Jan. 7 and A.

St. V. Keyes to the Blenheim, to date Jan. 1. Fleet Engineer.

R. C. Moon, to the Assort, on commissioning. Staff Engineer. J.

A. H. Hicks, to the for the Rodney, undated. Fleet Surgeons. J.

O'B. Williams, M.D.. to the Royal Marines, Plymouth, andR. Bentham.to tho Magnificent, to date Jan. and E.

Ferguson, to the Anson, on commissioning. 6urgeon. J. F. M.

McDougall, to the Assos, on commissioning. Engineers! II. T. Davis, to the Asscrs, on commissioning and W. R.

Parsons, to the Nltx for the Leopard, undated. Assistant Engineers. C. E. Venning (temporary) and J.

W. J. Sellex, to the Asson, on commissioning. The Svbillk, cruihcr, Capt. Hugh P.

Williams, with t.b. No. 00 arrived at Loan da on Tuesday. The transport Scxda arrived at Gibraltarj yesterday on her way to Bombay. Col.

C. Kennedy, who has been discharging the duties of at Aldershot for tho past 12 months, has been selected for service in South Africa as Chief Stall Officer on tho lines of communication. Tho headquarters companies of the 1st Batt. Irish Guards, the one portion of the regiment as yet organized, arrived in London yesterday from Pirbright Camp to take up regular duty for the first time in the London infantry garrison. The threo companies which at present con stitute the establishment of the battalion number about 210 officers and men but there aro nearly 000 recruits of the regiment at tho Caterham depdt, and these, with the detachment gono to Australia as part of the Imperial Representative Contingent, the men on furlough, and the companies brought to London yesterday, make tho present lull strength oi tne insa uuards nearly ww oincers ana men.

LieutCol. R. J. Cooper, formerly of the Grenadier Guards, who returned from his post as railway staff officer in South Africa to take up the command of the 1st Irish Guards, was at the head of the battalion, Col. Vesey Dawson being at the head of all the omcers as regimental colonel.

The companies wore the usual Guards white undress jacket, and the new undress cap, the low round flat topped cap of naval pattern recently adopted, but with the green band and metal device of the Irish Guards. The men detrained at Nine Elms, where there were' many people outside the station to seo their arrival and with the briefest delay they marched of! to Chelsea Barracks, their first London station, headed by the drums and fifes of the 3rd Coldstream Guards. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION, IN THE BRITANNIA In tho Britannia, at Dartmouth, yesterday, the prizes awarded in the final examination of cadets were distributed by Adm.Lord Charles Scott, Commander in Chief at Plymouth. Ho was accompanied on the platform by Capt. O'Callaghan, commanding the ship, Mr.

G. B. Mason, and Com. Travcrs. Mr.

G. B. Mason, Senior Naval Instructor, said that before touching upon tho various points of interest con nected with tho examination just concluded he would refer to that part of his report on the examination held in August last in which ho pointed out that in order to endow a first class in mathematics with greater distinction harder questions than usual had boen set, and that such questions would ahso be set' at uturo examinations. He made this reference to prevent some possible misconcep tion with regard to the' general ability, and attainments of the cadets who were now passing out of tho ship and who had had to contend with an extra paper of an unusually formidableformidable type. With regard to the general results of the examination, he found that of the 63 cadets examined 13 had obtained a first class in mathematics, 23 a second ckus, and 22 a third class.

While the first class seemed somewhat smaller than usual, the cadets who composed it thoroughly deserved its distinction. The second clas was an exceptionally large' ohe, and he was glad to. note that the number of cadets placed in tho third class had decreased from 37 in December last year to 22 on the present occasion. This he regarded as one very satisfactory feature of the examination. The marks obtained in algebra and in geometry were much above the average, while those in theoretical navigation and in practical navigation were distinctly high, so high, indeed, in the latter subject that the cadets appeared capable of coping with a somewhat more extended course.

Mr. Wells was much to be congratulated upon retaining the position he occupied on the list at entry, as also were all threo who shared with him the honours of first class in mathematics, extra subjects, and seamanship, while their sympathy, as well as congratulations, must be extended to 5lr. fritz gibbon, who, having raked himself from number 20 at entry to second place on the present list, unfortunately failed (by some five marks wanting in seamanship) to obtain the coveted midshipman's patch. Messrs. White, Tandy, Richardson, and Ardill had advanced many places on the list, the outcome of steady and good work on their part.

The facts that no failures had to be recorded, that tho prizes were well distributed, and that tho average of the marks obtained was good all pointed to the conclusion that tho passing out term was abovo tho average in ability, and he hoped that their examination might to considered generally satisfactory. He wished all' the cadets a happy Christmas, and for those who were commencing a now life in tho new century every success in it. Com. Travers brought up the report of the seamanship examination. This stated that the general result of the examination was very satisfactory.

Twenty six candidates passed first class and tho remaining 33 second class. There were no failures. Mr. Smyth Pigott did especially well and was first on the list with C63 marks. Signalling at sea, seemed specially well.

taught, but the compass and the use of the helm appeared to be the worst subject, and was a stumbling block to many. Several of the cadets lest first classes by a small number of marks. Perhaps half an hour's extra work would have made up for their deficiency in the subject. In a largo number of cases tho cadets showed that 'they took a great interest in their work, and the whole examination reflected great credit on the instruction given by tho staff. Com.

Travers added that Mr. Clarke was tha warrant officer in charge of the and he thoroughly deserved the credit for tho success of the class intact, the whole instruction stall had every satisfaction to all concerned. Mr. SsncoMBEpresented the report on tho examination in steam, which stated that all the 04, cadets, with few exceptions, had shown a good knowledge of the subject, the various questions having been treated in a satisfactory manner. The ability shown in practical work was generally very good.

Tho examiner brought to his lordship's favourablo notice Cadets Makin, Chambers, Weils, Kellett, Smyth Pigott, and Godsall. Those young gentlemen presented papera considerably above the average. Adm. Lord Charles Scott said it gave him great pleasure to hear Buch a good report from the chief naval instructor, the commander, and the engineer! It reflected not only great credit on tho cadets, but also oa the instructing staff. It must be great pleasuro to them to know that the boj 3 under their instruction took so much interest in their work and benefited eo much by It.

The fact that first classes wero reduced in number was satisfactorily accounted for by tho extra papers being harder, and he was afraid they were going to continue harder. Consequently tho boys in future would have to make up their minds to work harder. The examining officer in steam reported, among other things, that the cadets had been extremely good in the practical khowledgo of the work they had to do in the steam boats. That was very satisfactory, because as midshipmen they would often have to go away in steam launches, and a practical knowledge of the boat would be most useful to. them.

Some of them were now going off to sea for their first trip, and they would find many things that were new to them. They would find that the practical life on board ship at sea was somewhat different to life on tho Britannia. There everything was in their favour. They were well taken care of in every way, but in sea going ships they would find that they would have to take care of themselves. A great thing was to be determined to do their duty in every way quite regardless of the consequences.lt was no good telling a lot of British boys that tbey must be brave, because they had it shown to them every day that they were brave.

They had iust seen a case in China of a midshipman winning the (Cheers.) Many years ago in the Crimea there was another midshipman who gained the V.C., which showed that the highest decoration, that the Queen could give was' within their reachjiowever junior in rank they might be. Another midshipman the other day highly distinguished himself at the battle of Graspan. He was a young Australian, and, though wounded three times, he kept right on, and was eventually killed closo up to the enemy's lines. (Cheers.) They could not wish for a nobler example of personal bravery than that, but it was not merely physical courage that was wanted, they needed moral courage as well. They would find a.

few even in the service who would laugh at them when they tried to do the right, to stick to their duty and maintain a high moral tone. There was. a good deal of moral bravery required to stand all the chaff and temptations that would assail them, and they should remember that they could show just as great bravery by sticking to their duty, in spite of every obstacle as in other ways. If they did that they would get on in their profession, earn tha praise of those oyer them, and win the respect of those under their orders. Cspt.

O'Callaghan had informed him that Lieut. Clinton Baker was leaving the ship this term. He was sure they would all be sorry, because Lieut. Clinton Baker had been first lieutenant there some time, and had taken great interest in all their studies and pleasures, and especially in photography, which was very useful nowadays. Lieut.

Clinton Baker had been a great friend to them many ways, and they would all be very sorry to lose him. (Cheers.) He gathered from their cheers how much they li ted' and loved him, and he hoped they would follow his good example. His lordship also heard that Mr. Binmore was going. He had been there many years, and had devoted himseU.to their Denefit, and he hoped they had profited by his in lfpTS.1 Iffrnihm armnrmoed that tha Jjtructiaa.

Admiralty had agreed to tha appointment of Mr. Campbell and Mr. Smyth Pigott, the chief captains, to the Uiory. The prizes were then distributed. Lady Fremantle pinned the badges on the arms of the new captains as follows Chief captains.

Mr. ToyeyIr. BisseU Fourth term captains. Mr. O'Brien, Mr.

Fraser, Mr. Alexander, 3Ir. Priston. Third term captains. Mr.

Potter, 3fr. Clements. Mr. Hnlnnnn. Mr.

Boyle, Mr. Salt, Mr. FaveU, Mr. Gordon, Mr. Seton.

The breaking op entertainment took place on the poop on Tuesday evening, and was of an unusually interesting character. Its main feature was a lime light exhibition of photographio snapshots taken during the year by Lieut. Clinton Baker, R.N. Exciting; finishes at the sports, the regatta, swimming races, scenes at the assaslt at arms, and incidents on the Racer at sea were shown, and some amusing antics by the ship's dog Walkey and Jock. Oae of tho most striking pictures was the view of a Cash of lightning.

At intervals there were song by Mr. Binmore, Mr. Hartley, Mr. Sercombe, Lieut. Cameron, Lieut.

Lewis, Mr. Richards, and Cadet Binning. Prize List. Grand asrregate. Mr.

L. V. Wells. Study subjects. Mr.

L. V. Wells, Mr. C. S.

Beaning. Seamanship, general. Mr. B. C.

V. Wells. marts ana instruments. ir. u.

a. vsuuxuigwu, V. Layard, Mr. O. H.

Kellett. French. Mr. S. B.

3Iainguy, Mr. R. F. D. Fitzgibbon, Messrs.

Fremantle. Powell, Tandy. Smyth Pisgott. Drawing. Mr.

U. M. Hopkins, Mr. A F. PowelL Steam.

Mr. R. Makin, 3lr. F. J.

Chambers. Religious Knowledge. Mr. F. N.

Sheanne. Prize for Best Boat sailer in tho Term. Mr: A F. Powell. The chief captains each receive a dirk Mr.

B. C. Smyth Piggott. 3lr. A U.

Campbell. Beagle Whips. Mr. A. E.

Godsall, Mr. J. P. Farquharson. Photographic Prizes.

First. Mr. H. B. Pilcher second, Mr.

K. F. Sworder. Recipient of Diploma of Honour as Selected Candidate of his Term for her Majesty's 3Iedal. Mr.

R. B. Janvrin. Captain Rugby X.V. Mr.

Campbell. Captain Association XL Mr. Janvrin. The marks were as follows A. F.

S. Grant A. E. Fremantle B. V.

Layard J.J. C.Ridley L. V. Wells 1,872 Hi V. D.

Fitzgibbon 1,803 C. S. Penning 1.S02 B.C. Smyth Pizott. 1.S02 A E.

Godsal 1.793 1 L. A. D. Sturdee S. B.

Main guy 1,724 F. 3L Kerr R. C. S. White A U.

Campbell 3L C. Brotherton 1,677 1 R. V. Alison U. II.

Sax by Thomas 1 1 W. J. Whitworth W. B. Mackenzie H.

G. IL Tandy J. F. Wood A B. St.

John A. W. Loveband J. A. Scott W.

Richardson G. K. Ridgeway 1,620 1 R. P. Chisholm 1,597 J.

Chambers 1,596 C. E. V. Crauf urd 1.590 3L Hopkins 1,583 R. J.

Willoughby k. li. Jinvnn E. L. Colley Grattaa A.

D. Cochrane II. L. Hitchins R. Makin H.

G. Moore E. H. B. Scrivener 11.

Ardill E. B. Arathoon G. Bavin J. R.

Harvey G. II. W. R. Phillimore C.

Phillipps A. F. Powell G. W. Head J.iP.

Farquharson J. Brewer 1,565 J. A. Morris 1,517 H. B.

1,412 1,383 1.SS0 1,373 1,376 1.3G5 1,365 1,323 1,323 1,323 1,319 1,311 1,287 1.2SC 1,254 1,249 1,233 1,237 1,236 1,214 1,207 1,172 1,170 1,153 1,141 1,531 J.C. Wahab 1,513 C. W.Baldwin 1,516 R. W. S.

Curtais 1,516 S.F.Russell 1,515 IL R. Thrupp. 1,507 J. K. McLeod 1,499 J.

R. A. Codrington 1,135 1,494 1 A G. Seymour 1,130 1.491 F. J.

O. Lamb 1,094 1,474 II. Vaughan Jonas 1,012 1.4C9 11. B. BodiUy 9i9 D.Hall 923 THE HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY.

The annual returns of the above corps in respect of the official year show an efficient strength of 857 of all ranks as against .543 in 1899 an increase of 309; and the efficiency of the feciment in drills. trun practice, and musketry is 100 per cent. In musketry the figure of merit is 137, and for recruits 120, there being 77 marksmen, of whom Pte. F. F.

McKenzie is the chief. No. 6 is tho' best shooting company in the regiment, and No. 2 heads the list lor attendance at drill. THE VOLUNTEERS.

Maj. Gen. W. H. Mackinnon, lato commandant of the City of London Imperial Volunteers, was present last night at the prize distribution of the 1st Surrey Rilles, held at the Drill hall, Flodden road, CamberweU.

Among thoso on the platform were Capt. Lord Loch and tha Hon. Miss Loch. Cant. Maxwell Earle and the Hon Mrs.

Earle, and Lieut. Col. Ernest ViUiers, commanding the corps. In responding to a vote oi thanss lor his attendance, Maj. Gen.

Mackinnon, who was received with hearty cheers, said he appreciated the reception which had been accorded to him because he took it as a sure sign of the good feeling which existed between the returned CI.V.'s and their Volunteer brethren. There were two points which he would like to impress upon Volunteer officers and men. First, with regard to musketry, he was one of who had a very high opinion of individual firing. In future also they must lay more stress, without neglecting the individual firing in any particular, upon collective firing, and they must do more to teach men to come 'up in rough country at unknown distances and fire their rules oil pretty quicsjy. ile noticed on several occasions in South Africa that men who were the best individual shots in the C.I.

V. (and they had some of the picked shots of the Home District) were not always the most useful men in sectional practice. Tho other point to which he would like to draw special attention was march discipline. That was almost the only thing in which he was disappointed with the CI.V.'s in South Africa. It was one of the most important parts of a soldier's training.

Ho hoped that in future commanding officers would remember how very important marching discipline was and enforce it as far as they possibly could in peace times. In conclusion, Maj. Uen. Mackinnon said he would be glad to accept tho kind invitation of Col. Villiers to become an honorary member of the corps.

A V61unteer correspondent, who signs himself Ammunition," writes As the shooting is now at a close. I consider this a proper time to discuss the new position of. tne past season namely, standing at ja) yards and Kneel ing at 500 yards. As an individual 1 consider it a ridiculous position, especially in front of such an enemyd as we nave just experienced in tne south Aincanwar. the less a man is exposed in warfare the better.

I should like to make a few suggestions as to reform in Volunteer shooting. All artificial means for shooting should be abolished. If a Boer saw any of our modern crack shots going through his preliminary previous to shooting it would kill him with disgust. The Volunteer carries with him a bag or box containing paints, pencils, verniers, wind gauges, field glasses, orthoptics, and several other articles too numerous to mention. Then, first, be turns the back sight upside down, which would be of no use in warfare; secondly.be paints the sights, which covers all the Government marks and, thirdly, he sets his wind gauge, applies it to the sight, and draws a line with a coloured pencil.

This line can only be used for one position in front of him at a if the wind changes or if ho turns to the right or left, he requires to draw a new line, which I consider would be ridiculous in face of an enemy fourthly, he puts his vernier on for elevation, although the Government has the rifle thoroughly marked and he knows the exact distance to shoot by it. It is said that the Lee Motford is not always marked correctly by' the maker, but how is the Volunteer who uses paints and artificial means to know whether they are right or wrong When he has to use his rifle in defence of his Queen and country without artificial means, he might as well be armed with a bow and arrow for all he knows about tho. markings on tho sight. Now the Volunteer who shoots with the rifle as issued finds out by practice whether the marks on the sight are too high or too low and fixes his sight accordingly, and therefore ne is the best man in the beld in face of an enemy, althouch he has no chance in competitions against; the crack shots he then fixes his orthoptic to his forehead it hangs in front oi his eye. inis is an instrument with a very small hole which he looks through to clear his sights.

Is this tho way the defenders of our country are to be trained Would any of these men on active service be of any use Why Dot keep the rifle as it is issued by the Government and let the men shoot in competitions as they would shoot at an enemy. I consider tho Scottish National Rifle Association took a step in tho right direction when they discarded all the above named appliances and made it compulsory to shoot with the sight in the city of Glasgow competition this year. If this was carried out by all we should have more enthusiasm in shooting tan at present. know for a fact that many young members would in that case come out for practice, while now they consider they have not a chance by the side of the crack shots. I hope the.

officers will take up the subject, seeing that the War Office has issued orders for every officer of infantry to go through musketry training as a result of the war. Bikmtngiiam Cham is ex ox Commerce. A meeting of the council of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce took place yesterday, Mr. F. li.

Goodman presiding. On the recommendation of the education committee it was resolved to present a memorial to the authorities of the Birmingham University setting forth that the chamber of commerce are glad to understand that thora is a prospect of a professor of economics being appointed at an early date with a view to the organization of the curriculum of the faculty of commerce. The memorial states that the council are of opinion that in the early stapes of the development of this faculty tho University night aim at a course of instruction of the same relative standard in the subjects included as those of the A. and B.Sc degrees. Such a course would not conflict with other schemes adopted in the neighbourhood, but would, on the other hand, be a necessary preparation for any students who desired to complete their equipment for business or commercial life by entering on a still higher course of study.

The council were asked to give their support to the memorial of the Blackburn Chamber of Commerce to the Duke of Devonshire, urcinz the importance of a more extensive system of secondary education. The rh iim said the practical point in the memorial was a suggestion that local authorities should be formed for the promotion of secondary education, and that they be allowed to help themselves by devoting a sum not exceeding a penny rate in aid of secondary ednca UUil 1X1 OUUiUUU (A, rammrw njr lOT Twnniwi instruction. He thought that in train zham there were plenty of opportunities to give commercial education providing the authorities did their part in the work. He suggested that the chamber should take no action in regard to the memorial. A discussion took place on the project to improve the water communication between Birmingham and the Bristol Channel.

Mr. Parkes, and other members emphasized the importance of the question, and expressed the view that means should be taken to represent to the Birmingham Corporation the chamber's new of the desirabilty of the subject beins fully investigated, and expressing ahope that the municipal uuionues wouia co operate in sucn an investigation. A resolution nrRinzthe city council to assist in an inquiry UBto.tha subject wm snorted. SPORTING INTELLIGENCE. dOLF.

THE PARLIAMENTARY TOUENAMEST. The final tie of the Mr. H. Seton Karr. 3LP.

fliaadican Robertson, The Titau (scratch), fixed to taks rf the Princ a Club's course, at Mitchara, MltgjV has, owing to the death of relativa of ilr Sat Tt in South Africa, been indefinitely postponed! ifV' painful coincidence the former oaan the final had to be postponed iwine to th. his daughter, while. aWt Vt the samf "JV toi hi i on, oi tae.oruiamoeriana rusiinrs.who suceno. enteric fever after taking part in the battle of OadW FOOTBALL. RUGBY UNION RULES.

Oxford University beat tho Edinburgh Acaifealal, i one try to nothing at Edinburgh Teste rday. Dublin University beat Cambridge UturerilrrT goal to a try at Dublin yesterday. ASSOCLVTION RULE3. The Old Carthusian International School yesterday at the ieea's Club by flv, roaC? The brothers Walter 31. and A.

31.1 whh Pfr Parry and W. N. Cobbold were oa the winnbr. HOCKEY. 1 tYy afclQj Tri to a close yesterday.

Oxford, who have won all their matches, beat the Stock Exchaarra h. (A. L. F. Smith, Balliol.

six, and P. G. aCaLun Balliol. one) to five R. S.

U. Baiss. two 31. Baker, and II. Oreig, one each).

The uadefei' Teddington team beat Cambridge by two goai (fTI? Crowdcr and E. C. Jeffrey, one each) to aif. THE LONDON ATHLETIC "CXTJB. There was a thoroughly representative gatherr.

athletic bodies at the dinner of the London Athletic Qsa at the Hotel Cecil last night, when Lord AlverstoM, ti Lord Chief Justice, who has been a member of since his running days at Cambridge, and whis avie. president, was in the chair. Some 100 ceabers irJ tnirt nmfilAH. Anon. thnA rtrAunt M.

Chinnery, 31r. Charles II. Mason; Mr. IL B. Chis' Mr.

Montague Shearman, 3Ir. John Percy Thornton, M.P. Lord Alverstone ccngntiiUdtS club on it3 successful career during last summer.aEd caS fact that 3Ir. Jupp's record of lOsec for the icirJZr. had been recognized by the Amateur Athletic AssociitK 3Ir.

Jupp had also won the Chinnery Cup and 3Irt Ward and 3Ir. Pritchard had run him very closely forfi event. The chairman thought that Mr. PritctirdwM one of the best hurdlers ever seen. The London Atiietia Club had not won so.

many prizes as usual bat ictj from the American visit they had colonials pre and these skilful runners had shown that even men had plenty of lee way to taakejip. But above tirrr thing there was a splendid spirit of fellowship, "fa schools and the Universities were still thrwiar .1. I I.M support lHiu uio mu ui una uuaiua Auneuc Usa. ARMY REFORM. TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES.

Sir, It will bo only a few days now below Lord Roberts returns from South Africa to tils up tho chief command of the British Array imj to begin with that work of reorganization azi reform which tho British nation, or, rather, tie. whole Empire, demands. Lord Roberts ha again and again borne testimony to the splendid conduct of tho colonial troops, and Lord Kitchener is at this moment emphasizing this same testimony by his anxiety to keep the colonial Volunteers out in South Africa till the period cf guerilla warfare is over. Bat there Is ahigier testimony than mere praise that can and ought to givo to tho colonials via havo fought at our side. By their action a volunteering to help us, and by their conduct ia the field, they have earned the right not merer to bo praised, but also to bo consulted.

Miy I venture, Sir, through your columns to express tho hopo that whatever committee is.appoisted to go into tho question of the reform of our military system should contain at least one representative of tho militar forces of each of the great, colonies The colonial officers have found to admiro in their comrades of the Regular forces," but it would bofoofisn" to disguise the fact that taey havo also found much to criticize. And frc'nwhoa could wo get more valuable or fruitful critieisa I They aro soldiers, and yet they stand outside our military system, with its long inheritance of tradition and routine. At the same time, though residing the Army, as it were, from the outside, they in absolutely at one with cs in desiring its efficiency They can criticize they have to tho right to do so, and our duty, aa well as our own interest, bids as consult them. I enclose a passage from a letter I LiTS received from a colonial officer who has dona distinguished servico at tho front in Soda Africa, not so much that I desire to press, tho particular point he presses, though it is la important one, as to show that colonial ofScen are not returning home withoat very de finite convictions as to tho needs of "our Army convictions which it is. our duty to study Let me assure you, too, that if ever Britain rsar? against a greater show than this South African an her officers must be trained.

You may be surprised my saying it I who respect them so much, who got ca so weu with them, and. who know and admire their very, very many superior qualities but the British officer, rule, is not nearly well enough educated. lie knows little or nothing of tha subject most essential to the caas ment of men i.e., history, in all its departments. Few are graduates of the colleges or Universities, inj even those are not well up in constitutional or generu history of their OTOor any other land. Andsa study is necessary to enable one to be a good isaasger of men; Of course, they must also be trained, haagae college professor trusting to his servant or to the janitor to manage his classes.

Yet how many oncers pay tsj' thing but the most casual attention to the teachis drill of their men. The sergeant major.aad noa coss. generally ran the show. ARMY REF0B1L TRANSVAAL APP01STUEST3. TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES.

Sir, In your issue of the 17th ink. 3lr.H. O.K. Webber states that I weakened my case by x'tai jnrtttrn1 inaccuracies," and he gives two instances. (1.) He states that 3Ir.

George Farrar holdjno sppaw ment in the Administration. I never said he did. Ha further complains that I described ilr. tarrsrn being a solicitor. I did not wish td trespass on the The Timet tn rnrrort l'nvnnr rpnort of DT SPeech was self evident to every one "who knows anythicg abctf South Africa that it was Mr.

Solomon I reierreuw being tha solicitor who accompanied Faror oiv" Webber has discovered that Mr.Tarrar is not a soha butchairman of the East Rand Group of Mines, ta cuj interested to know that ilr. Farrar was director of additional companies. (2.) Mr. Samuel Evans, ol tha una oi ixei Civil Commissioner of Johannesburg, and I kaMiaB' possession a letter signed by this gentleman' while scUS. in this capacity.

1 our obedient servant. ABTHCl. irtnn. Stnjynwood hall, Slansfield, Dec 13. the latest contributions received at the Lank ol for the Prince of Wales's Hospital, tuna ror TrC" the following AnnuaI Subscriptions.

The Arcifcc? of Canterbury, 100 Grand Junction Vaurworb i pany, 10 10s. Messrs. Joseph Brothers, Corlations. Mr. Henry Oppenheim.

25 Messrs nail Brothers, 21 Mr. and Mrs. James Trestraa, Royal Isstitctiok. On Thursday next, clock, Sir Robert Ball will deliver the tot of i tfreat Chapters from the Book of aatsre. maininff lectures will be delivered ca Deceate.

January 1. 3, 5, and 8. TTrrrt Tri. Tvnim uiw Tni 'r TTrvr.no v. At the invitation 'ol Aldensaa.

Leas reduction of the finer grades KJXGDOM At tne invitation oi tlaat mayor of Leicester, an important thermg ot Ee r.nrntin? tha leather industries of the country s. plSe yesterday at The ma stimulate tne pacswaru tJK TZCZZ. hoc and the extended use i SnHnetriiM by the leather, a practical monopoly or wmcn ti state oi imngs wuisji tit more than three fourths of the leather boot and shoe trade at Leicester is ci fjet factors. This has been brought ld. Ldof lilhter' weight, wmbined dDers Company, the Master of the Cordwamen Gordon" Parker, Professor Prcctcr JirSj Wcodhouse.

Sir Thomas WnM.w Alderman Boyce, president of Ce aa Tiut uJitJ tTmn. took cart ux the which were attended by about whienwere auenoea uj wwi Urrsworu Bsed in the conduct and management oi famous centres. itJtoi and warenouses were tisih, "KfjS. Leicester nvo a diaaaz at the Miaeuxa bciMffif.