Manchester Evening News from Manchester, Greater Manchester, England • 4

FOOTBALL NOTES. ASSOCLATTON. Both League clubs and players are looking forward with some anxiety to the conference of this afternoon on the subject of the transfer system. It will be remembered the last conference called by the Association was adjourned so that the parties interested might confer with each other over certain tentative proposals then made, and the representatives of the Leagues, the players, and the Football Association are now to report as to the feeling of their constituents on the issues raked. The League has kept its side of the case very dark; but we have reason for saying its officials, so far from taking up an attitude of non possumus, are ready, and within certain limits have power, to agree to a reasonable modification of the present system.

As one of their officials points out, they have always their case iv their own hands. If the Association were to pass a new law forbidding the imposition of sums on transfer the League would still be able to prevent poaching on the part of its own members, and, as is pertinently pointed out, that is all it dce3 now. It seems likely, as far as can be made out from the proposals made by the Players' Union, and also those emanating from Mr. Clegg, that the difficulty will be settled by compromise on the basis of an Association recognition of signatures for more than one season, and the condition that where transfers are insisted on in the case of men whose signatures are now held the sum shall not exceed the amount originally paid. One club manager, however, points out a difficulty which would most assuredly require attention in the event of the adoption of the multiple season signature.

At present a club is bound to pay a player for a whole season whatever happens it' he obeys the club instructions. It would be a serious matter if a club had to pay a player for two or three seasons when he had hopelessly broken down and was obviously incapacitated. Some fresh clause would have to be inserted on this head. Otherwise managers would jump at signing the majority of their men for a series of years as obviating a great deal of anxiety and trouble. It was perhaps to be expected, seeing that the clubs are busy signing such of their men as they want or can keep, that the air would be full of rumours of changes on the part of players.

It is a curious commentary on the effect of time that there is just now as much uneasiness in the South over men whose signatures are sought to be held as in the North. Last year Southern writers were telling us their clubs held the whip hand." They are now realising that they do not, for one or two of their cracks will need a deal of holding, and will only stop at the cost of a heavy advance in wages and an alteration in their terms of agreement which will put an end to the insensate three-match-a-week system. Talking of the signing-on season, there is great satisfaction in Bolton that the Bolton executive have retained the best of their players, including Sutdiue, about whom some singularly exaggerated rumours were afloat. It was said he was going south at £7. 10s.

per week, that he was coming to Manchester City for £7 per week, that he was going to Liverpool, to Everton, and to the Glasgow Celtic! Some (redit is due to Sutcliffe for stopping with the Boltonians. It shows a degree of loyalty which is not always suspected in a football pro. He could have got more than £5. he now which there was a temptation to evade the Second Division. The directors, too, might have been tempted to transfer him from financial reasons.

They could have had £450 down from one club. Bolton Wanderers tried to get Settle, but Everton were far and away the highest bidders, and as Bury could not rise to the wages Settle demanded they accepted the offer of Everton. The Goodison Park people got Toman, of Burnley, for practically the same reason. He wanted a big rise, and then it also was a matter of offers, the highest bidder to whom the man would go securing the transfer. The two transfers have cost not far short of £800.

Settle was the more sought-after man. Aston Villa wanted him badly as inside to Athersmith, and were prepared to give not far short of £400, whilst Sheffield United were also to the fore with a very decent offer. The salaries of Settle and Toman will add materially to the Everton wages bill; but the executive have found that class pays, and that with serious competition" at Antield they stand to lose far more than they gain by poirtlessly cutting down wages." They would like to have the offer of Crabtree at £6 per week. Congratulations have poured in on Manchester City since it became assured that they would head the Second Division and thus recure entrance to the First; but these have been all the warmer since the defeat of Grimsby, which gives to the City record an appearance at one time thought impossible. Their performance is ahead of that of Bumiey, and practically equal to that of Liverpool 1893-4, because, though the percentage of points is not so great, the season which has had to be passed through is infinitely more arduous and the standard of strength of the clubs really running for honours rather higher.

Glossop have been putting in serious training for their later matches, and think they can make themselves safe for the second place, thus equalling Liverpool's performance in forcing themselves into the First Division at the first time of asking. The offer of £500 to be divided amongst the players, which has come from Mr. Wood, is making them grimly determined, especially as accession to the First Division means an advance of wages for most of them next season. How desperately annoyed Newton Heath people must be to find that if they had only performed anything like as well as they ought to have done in matches which were supposed to be easily theirs they would now have had the second place on the record assured to them. Whilst credit is due to some of the players, others have most assuredly not seemed to take anything it be their weekly pay.

The earrestness which Aston Villa are pursuing their quest for the championship is proved by the fact of their going into special training and making special arrangements as to travelling. Their difficulties with their players are not so real as some would make out, and the demand of Crabtree would certainly not face them with the dilemma which has been set forth. Those who estimated that would cost £7,000 a year for wages at the rate of the international player's demand make the mistake of including the reserve players at the same figure, and forgetting that the men would be on half-pay for the summer months. As a matter of fact the amount it works out to is not much more than the Villa paid last year, and will pay this, in wages. One difficulty the Birmingham team have to face, however, is that of having too many men for their various positions.

These players are not content to play as reserves, and some of them, like Beatton, are kicking against signing on again, though they may not be able to get off owing to specially drawn agreements. Liverpool have also been in training, and hay 3 not yet given up hope of the championship. There are some serious rumours as to their players, but Mr. Tom Watson has no doubt as to the men he wants. The price the Anfield Road people pay and are prepared to pay does not invite competition, but one or two will have to have bigger wages than this season.

RUGBY. So far the Northern Union Cup ties have not produced much rowdyism. Last Saturday Jenkins, of Huddersfield, and Hughes, of Widnes, were sent off by the respective referees, Messrs. Brooke and Renton. Neither case, however, was of sufficient importance to demand the attendance of the two officials at the hearing.

Jenkins stands suspended up to September 9th for insulting the referee, and Hughes cannot play again this season. The iatter is only 18 years of age, and is just the build for a Northern Union He looks like being very prominent in future. Everyone deplores the absence cf a really finished Northern Union ground in the Manchester district. The want becomes more apparent when such capital enclosures as Headiugley, Huddersfield, and Bradford are borno in mind. The reason, of course, is that land close proximity to town is so valuable that long leases are not granted to football clubs.

If this was done Salford and Broughton Rangers, would quickly make the necessary improvements on their grounds. The end of the season is being marked by a few accidents Lancashire. The one to Coleman, of Leigh, was a very serious affair, resulting in a fracture of the leg below the knee. Fortunately Messer's injury at Stockport was not so bad as reported, a break of a bone in the ankle being the extent of it. Baty, of Widnes, has sustained a nasty accident to the hand, which may end his career for this season.

Murphy, of the same club, has had his splints removed this week. Quite the feature of the close of the season is the splendid work of the Oldham three-quarters. The peculiar thing about them is that all the four, Davies, Fletcher, Williams, and S. Lees can play a capital centre game. They certainly are the cleverest lot at present playing.

Martin is said to be aggrieved at being passed over, and has demanded his transfer, whic has not been granted. He is now finding out his error in not carrying out the instructions of the officials. Should the final of the Northern Union Cup be played in Lancashire a Yorkshire referee will probably officiate. It was thought that Mr. Bruckshaw, of would be called upon.

It is, however, more than likely that custom will be followed. When the final was in Yorkshire last season a Lancashire man, Mr. Smith, officiated. The choice seems likely to fall on Mr. Marshall or Mr.

Benton. The Rest of the League team to oppose Broughton Rangers cannot be picked until next week on account of the semi-finals to-day. In any event a strong fifteen will be cl osen. Houghton, of Runcorn, may be selected as full back, and if so may captain the team. Whichever Lancashire club is left in to-day will not, of course, be called upon to supply any men.

The Rangers will have a chance of putting in another good display ere the season ends, and a man like Jackson should be glad of the opportunity of making amends for his wretched form against Leeds Parish Church and Wigan. Swinton are evidently getting quite stale, and will be glad the season is almost at an end. is by this time quite certain that Badger's return has not done much good. He is painfully slow at times, and ever since he played so badly for Lancashire against Cheshire many people have thought him an overrated man. Stockport supporters had a chance of watching Davies, the new Swinton half back from Llanelly, and speak of him in terms of highest praise.

There is plenty of evidence that he is as good as he is made out to be. Some discussion is being caused as to the position of men like Steel and T. Blacklock, who have for some time been suspended by the. Broughton Rangers Committee. The men, of course, naturally want their transfers, and so long as the Rangers have no use for them it becomes a question as to whether they should not let them go.

The transfer laws of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Senior Competitions give great powers to committees, and they are masters of the situation. Amidst a busy wind-up to a busy season two matches stand a chance of being overlooked. These are the one for Valentine's benefit on the Salford ground next Wednesday, and that between Morecambe and Millom in the test match, on the same ground, on the 26th. The latter is a very serious affair indeed for the seasiders," and it is hard to see how they are going to keep their place. Last year, however, they disposed of BaiTow when the outlook was all against them.

They will have to be very smart to beat the Cumberland team. Williams, the Salford right wing three-quarter, has been very little use to his club this season, and against Huddersfield last Saturday he was again a failure. He certainly will have to shape differently to keep his place next season. The club, as a matter of fact, will require remodelling in time for 1899-90. Tho "M.A.C." at Fallowfield have just wound up a season in which it is reported marked advance has been made.

Owing to the fact that the members pay their own expenses the financial position is sound. Twice only have they taken gates, and tho amount realised has been £1. 9s. Id. It is pleasing to record these facts about a purely amateur club.

So far as the Lancashire County Club is concerned Mr. Poyser, the secretary, furnishes the information that the position is about the same as at the commencement of the season, which means there is a slight pecuniary deficit. THE NEW CHIEF LIBERAL WHIP. A POPULAR APPOINTMENT. Mr.

Herbert Gladstone took up his duties as Chief Liberal Whip last evening, and received numerous congratulations in the Lobby of the House of Commons. Lord Edmond Fitzmaurice, speaking as one who served under Mr. Herbert Gladstone's father, said to a reporter: He bears a name to conjure with. Mr. Burns who had a long conversation with Mr.

Herbert Gladstone, predicted a career of energetic activity. The general opinion is expressed by one hon. gentleman (Mr. A. W.

Soames) It is very public spirited of Mr. Gladstone to take up the work, and a happy selection by Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman." Mr. John Dillon and Mr. Michael Davitt have received favourably Mr. Herbert Gladstone's selection as Chief Liberal Whip.

Speaking to the lobby correspondent of the Central News, Mr. Dillon said I was very pleased when I heard that Mr. Gladstone had consented to act. It is, I should say, a good arrangement. It is in the right direction, and I regard it as a hopeful sign for Ireland.

Mr. Michael Davitt said: An Irish member has no concern with Liberal or Tory Whips beyond feeling a detached interest in them. I should think that the as a party have made a very good selection. Mr. Gladstone is universally popular in the House, both for his own personal qualities and on account of his father's fame, and for these reasons he will be a great help to his party in the duties he has assumed.

OPINION IN LEEDS. The selection of Mr. Herbert Gladstone for the post of Chief Liberal Whip is regarded with much satisfaction by the Liberals of Leeds. The longer the right hon. gentleman has been one of the city's Parliamentary he was first returned in the memorable 1880, nearly nineteen years higher he has risen in the estimation of those most interested in his political career.

He is considered peculiarly well-fitted to discharge the onerous duties attaching to his new post. Amiability, tact, and judgment, as well as an enviable physical endowment, distinguish him, and the highly creditable services he has rendered in past Liberal the Board of Works, in the War Office, and in the Home the favourable anticipations here as elsewhere. This tribute to his long experience of Parliamentary life, to his statesmanship, and to his great name, is cordially appreciated, and his political opponents are not insensible as to the honour conferred upon one of the city's representatives. Mr. Gladstone's supporters in West Leeds, on learning of his acceptance of the office, were at first inclined to think that he had made a sacrifice.

They considered he was worthy of greater distinction, but on reflection they realise that it is in harmony with his zeal for the Liberal cause that he should be willing to serve whore he can do so with great advantage to the party whilst it is in Opposition and that the further experience he will gain as Chief Whip and head of the party organisation in the country will the better fit him for the high office for which they believe he is destined in the next Liberal Administration. OLDHAM MASTER SPINNERS' ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the Oldham Master Cotton Spinners' Association was held last night, in the Oldham Town Hall, under the presidency of Mr. J. B.

moving the adoption of the report and accounts, the Chairman said they had had to deal during the year with a large number of new principles, and the way the Committee had dealt with them deserved their support and consideration. Referring to the agitation for an advance of wages, he saii they had done all they possibly could in the matter, and had tried to get a principle adopted which they felt sure would in the future lessen the liability to violent disturbances in the trade and exercise a beneficial influence for both parties in the apportionment of the profits or losses in the trade. It was really absolutely necessary that something of the principle of conciliation should be adopted in matters relating to general advances or reductions of wages. Both sides had got so strong financially that a struggle would mean incalculable loss to thousands of people and perhaps permanent injury to the trade of the country. hear.) He trusted that the operatives would see their way to join with the employers in devising some means of peacefully settling matters of wages.

They had had somo difficulty with spinners as weli as weavers, and it was a difficulty which extended throughout the Federation. He was glad the Federation had a scheme in hand which promised to meet with every success, and if carried it would lead to a considerable increase in the number of spindles in the Federation. report and balance-sheet were adopted, and all the officials re-elected. POOR-LAW GUARDLANS AND TRADE UNIONISM. At a meeting of the Walsall Board of Guardians, yesterday, the Mayor (Mr.

J. Clare) presiding, an application for admission to the workhouse was made by a man who explained that he was a harness-maker, but, through failing eyesight, had become unable to do certain portions of the work connected with his trade; and as he wa6 unable to earn the minimum wage fixed by his trade society, he had been prevented from working at all. Several members expressed the opinion that was an abominable state of things that a man who might have earned enough to keep him off the rates should be driven to seek refuge in the workhouse. Mr. Noake intimated that he would himself find the applicant work which he could do at his own home.

A second application of a similar character was made by a man, who explained that he had been employed on the erection of the new Boardroom, but had been compelled to cease work, as a dispute had arisen with the contractor, and six or seven men had threatened that they would kill any labourer who continued to work on the job. The Clerk (Mr. A. H. Lewis) stated that he had received a letter from the building trade society intimating that there was a dispute with the contractor, it being considered that he was not paying his workpeople the standard rate of wages, and they asked that the Guardians would enforce the fair wages clause in the contract.

It was explained that there was no such clause, and Mr. Wootton stated that the contractor was paying the current rate of wages, also that the men had received fair and reasonable treatment. He thought the men at work on the job to really have police protection. It was decided to'pass on to the next business. State of the Skilled Labour forthcoming issue of the Board of Trade Journal" contains the following memorandum regarding the state of the skilled labour market in March: The improvement in the state of employment reported as having taken place in February, has been well maintained during March, and there have been rises of wages affecting a large number of workpeople in the coal mining, iron and steel, and cotton spinning industries In the 123 trade unions making returns with an aggregate me mbership of 494,334, 12,222 (or 2.5 per cent) were reported as unemployed at the end of March, compared with 2.6 per cent a month before, ard 3.1 per cent in the 116 unions, with membership of 466,701, from which returns were received for March, 1898, when the figures were still affected to some extent by the engineering dispute.

A MODERN ALCHEMIST. BY EDGAR PICKERING. (Author of "A Stout English Bowman," It is long ago since the events which I am about to describe happened, and all the mental suffering I endured has been forgotten, yet I still think that Doctor Fremberg came to Deanhampton at a most inopportune moment. Regarding Beatrice that is, for at the time I considered his advent a distinct blessing. Deanhampton is the dullest place possible to imagine, and what little society it boasted consisted of middle aged people, as dull as the town itself, and something had occurred just then that made a fresh face and a new acquaintance doubly welcome.

If it had not been for Beatrice Alleyn I should have shaken the dust of Deanhampton off my feet long before, but my love for her kept me from going abroad, as I intended after leaving college, and for two years I had been living at home with my father doing nothing but loving Beatrice. Which was sufficient for me, I think. Old Mr. and Mrs. Alleyn lived at Easthampton, which 'is about half a mile from the town, and their house is the quaint old mansion that fronts the wayfarer from Deanhampton across the grassy square around which the other houses stand, separated from each other by hedges and gardens, every home with its own peculiar attractiveness and picturesque charm.

In a word Easthampton is to my mind the prettiest place in the world and for two years I regarded it as the happiest. To say that Beatrice was beautiful and that she loved me as fondly as I loved her, that there was no obstacles to our mairiage, and that both Mr. Alleyn and my father were wealthy men, will make it clear that my position was a very contented one. She was a highspirited girl moreover, and possessed a firmness of ill-natured old women in Deanhampton called it I always admired. Once or twice I had seen it displayed, notably upon the occasion when a skittish little mare I had bought for her required conquering, but the third exhibition of Beatrice's determination brought disaster.

It was the day after the county ball at Oldchester that we quarrelled. I was madly jealous, for Beatrice had openly flirted with one of the officers from the depot. At least I accused her of doing so, and she resented the imputation. Neither of us would give way, and I left the house with the memory in my heart of Beatrice's flashing eyes and clear ringing shall be better friends than lovers, Harry," she told me. I am sorry you mistrust me.

I shall never believe you loved me. It's good-bye for ever." It was only a lover's quarrel, maybe, but there was no reconciliation. The breach widened between us, yet, although I hated Deanhampton now, I could not tear myself from it. There was a kind of lingering hope that Beatrice and I would be again to one another as we were formerly, yet a foolish pride restrained me from making the first advance. Then Beatrice and her parents went for a long tour on the continent, so that the chance of making up our quarrel never came.

It was when I was in the very depths of my misery that I met Doctor Fremfoerg for the first time. It was in the billiard room of the Talbot Hotel where I was wiling an hour away, I remember, and I thought him one cf the handsomest men I had ever seen. He had a merry face and perfect manners, he spoke with just the suspicion of his being a foreigner, and upon every topic he proved himself exceedingly well informed. Nothing could ruffle his serene temper, and it would have been impossible for him to have said an ungracious word, or done an unkind thing. Society in Deanhampton declared him to be a true gentleman, and for once in my life I agreed with society's verdict.

We speedily became great friends, and I considered, as I previously stated, that his coming to Deanhampton was a distinct blessing. I like your old town," said the Doctor, its repose is delightful to me after living so long in busy cities, and I am better able to pursue my studies here than in London. Yes, I shall remain here." "If you can put up with its dullness," I answered, and at this he placed his hand on my shoulder characteristic action of laughed, showing his white teeth. No place can be dull with so pleasant a friend as you, my dear Harry, for a companion," he answered, and I have my work to engage my time." It was not until I had known Dr. Fremberg for some time that he told what the work was to which he referred, and when he did so I began to regard him as somebody far above the ordinary sort of man.

I believed in him instinctively, and although what he told me was strange and wonderful I never doubted him. Only to you hav9 I divulged my secret," he said. Were I to speak openly the world would call mo a I know the world. In the Middle Ages I should have been persecuted as a wizard, and believed to have dealings with his Satanic Majesty," and he showed his teeth again as he smiled. Yet the world believes in this." he went on, taking a piece of yellow metal from his purse, examine for yourself, that piece of metal as you will, and try exd disprove its nature if you can.

It is pure from silver. Transmutation of silver into gold is the work I speak of." I looked at the tiny fragment that lay in my hand, too surprised to answer him, and he went on talking. "I am not much older than yourself, but since ten years I have studied, toiled, hoped, and despaired, now disposed to fling my apparatus away and again struggling on, Jind at last success rewarded me. I discovered tiiO of changing silver into gold, and untold riches lie before me. The gold I produce is absolutely pure, I have proved that by sending a 6mall piece to the mint, where it was exchanged for its value in coins.

Yet the process is slow and laborious at present, I can produce only in small the secret has been wrested from nature. Now I will tell you why I am determined upon living in the country. My experiments brought me annoyance in London, there were prying eyes upon mo always; envious men who would steal the result of my long labours from me; and I have removed here, where in quietude I can perfect my process." I could only stare at him in astonishment as he spoke, for without the slightest doubt the piece of metal he had shown me was gold. "Ail silver contains gold," he continued. "I cause silver to deliver up its treasure.

That is all, but the way to do so I alone know. Respect the confidence I placed in I need not ask in due time I will admit you to my workshop," and as he said this, the merry laugh broke out once more, and then ho became serious. "They will say here as they have said in other places where I have been," he went on, "that I am a mysterious person; they will have suspicions of me, watch my movements, remark that I admit no one to my house, and sneer that I keep no servants. It is to be it is the price I pay for my success. In time I shall be worshipped when I dazzle the world with my riches, but I cannot do without one friend, and I regard you as that.

I wish to form no other intimate acquaintances in Deanhampton, for obvious reasons." I nodded my head, feeling gratified that he had thought me worthy of his confidence, and proceeded to give him my own which related to my unfortunate love affairs. told him about that wretched quarrel with Beatrice, and how miserable my life was. "Love!" he exclaimed. "Ah, if had but gained the woman I adored I might have been happy. She played me false, and I vowed to shun all womankind from the day she jilted me.

Only my studies kept me from going mad then, but I have forgotten the very meaning of tho word Love conveys no ideas to me except hatred and despair. I am satisfied in winning a much greater prizo than a woman's love. I have wealth, and all my faith and trust is given to that. I have no place in my heart for thoughts of love." After the day in which he explained his reasons for coming to Deanhampton we became greater friends than before, and one of the houses facing the green at Easthampton being vacant Doctor Fremberg bought it, payin" a much larger sum than I thought the place worth. "What matters the price?" he laughed, when I spoke about this to him.

Do I not make the gold that I pay for the rest and peace which I get in my new home?" The house which he had purchased was the one that stands a long way back from the road, only a glimpse of one window to be seen through the thick hedges guarding it. The garden surrounding it was overgrown and neglected, the place having been tenantless for a year or longer, Sit DGctor Fremberg seemed to care very little about this. "I have no time for gardening," he told me as we walked up the hill together from Deanhampton upon the day on which he took possession. That is Mr. Alleyn's honse, you say," he observed, pointing to the place which had a thousand tender memories for me, "and he with his wife and daughter are absent from England." They are expected back in about a month's time," I answered.

"He is rich, you say," continued the Doctor. He has the credit of being one of the wealthiest men in the neighbourhood," I replied. And only one child," observed my companion. "Indeed I am grieved that M'selle and you have disagreed. Still one must hope for a reconciliation.

You will come into my house, Harry," he added changing the conversation at this moment. "We will drink good luck to its new tenant. lam no anchorite, although lam alone you will see." We went in at the gate, which he locked after us, and down a winding path that led to the door of the house, the dismal garden lying forlorn on either hand. There was thick dust on the windows and an air of desolation that rather repelled me, but Doctor Fremberg made merry over his purchase. "Is not a workshop always dusty and untidy," he laughed, "even where gold is made? I have no desire for the pretty trifles such as other men surround themselves with, yet I do not despise comforts.

Come this way," and he led across the empty hall, that echoed under our footsteps into a little room which overlooked a corner of the garden. The room was comfortably furnished, and from out of a cupboard the Doctor brought a bottle of whisky and a syphon. It was a chilly, cheerless afternoon, and a bright fire blazed in the rusty grate, making the place warm and cosy. Here wo sat for some time, during which I learnt a great deal of Doctor Fremberg's history, told in the lighthearted somewhat cynical way that always amused me. I heard of hij struggle with poverty and the long delay of his success; how he had travelled in South America, strange people and risking his life over and over again, and finally the story of his wonderful discovery.

"In six months I may snap my fingers at the world!" h-3 exclaimed, "for I shall be rich. A rich man fears rottirg. At present the purchase of this house nas exhausted my resources; there is silver to be my raw material as I call it the changing silver to gold is not quickly done. I give myself six months in which to become rich and then here he stopped abruptly, a merry twinkle in his eyes seeming to end thj sentence. Therefore we shall see but little of each other during that time," he continued.

"People will talk. Do they not always talk of me, but I trust my reputation in your hands, Harry Tell those who inquire for Doctor Fremberg that be is immersed in study and work. It will satisfy their curiosity." I rromdsed that no one should breathe a word against him in my preseice and he laid his hand on mine as he thanked me. It was a hand small and sinewy, roughed by the constant handling of tools, glazed here and there as through the action of fire on the skin. "Except for this room and the one I have selected for my bedroom," he explained, "the house is unfurnished.

My workshop is beneath the ground." I should tbink it a privilege to see where you make your gold, Doctor," I answered, and he gave me a comical look. There are people would give a great sum to do that, dear friend," he replied. Some day you shall have your wish. Ido not doubt your honour yet it is better that I reserve that pleasure from you." I had so long given up being surprised at anything Doctor Fremberg said, that I only joined in his hearty laugh as he refused my request, and then I rose to leave him. He saw me to the little gate and I went down the road into Deanhampton, thinking sadly of the time when Beatrice and I walked along it last, and looking anxiously forward to her return home, when I meant to plead humbly for forgiveness and end our wretched disagreement.

I missed Doctor Fremberg's society greatly at first, neither Deanhampton nor I seeing much of him after his moving to Easthampton, but I had other things besides to think of his wonderful discovery, for Mr. Alleyn was expected home, and what was the making of gold in comparison with regaining my old favour with Beatrice? I never doubted her faithful love for me, and I regretted my hasty accusation a thousand times. I think it wa3 not until the prospect of seeing her again came near, that I realised how deeply I loved her, and how worthless my life was without the woman of my choice to brighten it. But I resolved to wait a little before putting my fate to the test, and then I would write to her, asking for permission to see her. I knew Beatrice's nature too well to risk approaching her in any other way at first, and so when a fortnight or longer had gone by since Mr.

Alleyn's return to Easthampton, I sent my letter, couched in language that no human being could have resisted. It was rather humiliating I felt, but anything would be preferable to the torture I had endured during our estrangement. It was as I came out of the house to post my letter to Beatrice, that I saw Dr. Fremberg coming towards me, and I met him with an exclamation of pleasure. "The very man I wished to I cried, shaking hands with him heartily, "and the last I expected to see.

You've found Easthampton too lonely after all, Doctor, and have come into town for a little life." Partly true," he replied with his old merry laugh. Easthampton is not particularly lively, but did I not for repose when I bought my house? Repose has not failed me. And you?" I am happier than I've been for a long time. Beatrice has returned." Ah, I remember Miss Beatrice with whom you disagreed so sadly. Has she returned home then?" A fortnight ago," I answered.

I see what a mad fool I've been. was all my fault and Beatrice isn't to blame. lam writing to her. Here's my letter begging to be allowed to Tenew our engagement." "So." Doctor Fremberg uttered the word softly. That is very wise of you, Harry.

You have all my good wishes for the success of your letter. It will reach Miss Alleyn She will have it by six this evening." And to-morrow you will be happier than ever before in your life," he said, touching me on the shoulder. Let us together drink the health of Miss Alleyn." How handsome he looked and how merrily his dark eyes danced as he said this I can never forget. He was dressed with scrupulous neatness and good taste, and arm in arm we walked to the post office, going afterwards to the Talbot, where we had a game of billiards (he played wonderfully well), and here with his laughing look on me, he drank to Miss Alleyn's happiness and mine. About four o'clock we separated, Doctor Fremberg telling me that he had exceeded his hours of relaxation from work, and I saw him go gaily up the road to Easthampton.

By the next day's post I had my letter returned unopened, and addressed to me in a strange handwriting. I had been six weeks away from Deanhampton, trying by aimless wandering on the Continent to find comfort for my woucded heart without avail. Beatrice was lost, she could never have loved me, I thought, or had she crushed mo to the earth and left me wounded to death, and then pride came. I would show the world a brave face at any rate, and walking from the station upon my arrival home, I met an old acquaintance. "Glad to see you back," he said.

"Maybe you've heard the latest I have heard nothing." "Miss were intimate with her people I Alleyn is to be married to-morrow." I tried to gasp out something, but my tongue refused its office. "To a Doctor Fremberg. You must know the man, Harry. He's rather a mystery. Bought a house at Easthampton, you remember." Remember! I was too stunned to remember anything at that moment, and groping my way to my father's house, I sat down trying to understand what I had been told.

Had Fremberg played me false, had he used the knowledge I had given him for his own ends? Yet, what if he had? I could not blame him as I condemned Beatrice who had spurned me. Alas, that I ever thought she loved me. The sun was shining brightly, and from the window I saw the carriages drive rapidly in the direction of Easthampton. There were wedding favours on whip and harness, and through the soft air came the merry chimes from Easthampton Church. Everything looked gay and happy except the reflection of my haggard face in the mirror, and a feeling of repugnance to be seen or spoken to came when the servant announced a visitor.

Almost as she did this a stranger walked into the room. "-I believe you are acquainted with a person calling himself Doctor Fremberg," he began, without preface. "I am Inspector Joliffe, from Scotland Yard." I did know the person you refer to. What of it?" A great deal," he replied. The fellow is one of the cleverest criminals in Europe.

Can you tell me where I shall find him?" "He will be on his way to church," I answered, about this time. He is to be married to-day." Inspector Joliffe rose with a start. "There's not a moment to lose then," he cried. Tve a trap at the door, and, pray Heaven, we may be in time to prevent one of the scoundrel's crimes. He's a noted coiner, Mr.

Delafield." Wo were galloping towards Easthampton in a few moments, a wild voice seeming to ring in my ears calling upon me to save Beatrice else appearing like a nightmare to me. If we could reach the church in time the woman that I loved would be snatched from an awful fate, and the mad gallop was too slow for my excitement. It was but three minutes to the hour at which she and that scoundrel would be made man and wife, and there was a good three-quarters of a mile uphill to go yet. Onward and lashing the the snorting horse we tore, coming at headlong speed amongst the carriages outside the church, and here someone attempted to prevent our entrance saying, Hush in a feeble way. Inspector Joliffe thrust the fellow aside roughly, and we were in the aisle hearing the clergyman's solemn voice and seeing a throng of gaily dressed people at the altar rails.

I caught a glance of Beatrice's face as Inspector Joliffe and I ran forward, and then she seemed to suddenly vanish. There was a click of somthing like steel, and Dr. Fremberg was in the detective's grasp. I've got you at last, Tom Fielding," said Mr. Joliffe.

Best come quietly." Then his prisoner recognised me, and a smile crept over his pallid face. Only to the detective did I divulge the Doctor's story as we ransacked the house at Easthampton, finding a complete plant for tho making of false coin, and I understood then the reason for his repose and seclusion, and in what manner his silver became gold. "But my letter, dearest?" I said (all the clouds had gone now), why did you return it You nearly broke my heart." And you mine," she answered. "It was because I thought you had forgotten me, that I listened when he asked me to marry him. I consented in a mad moment.

I never had your letter, but I remember now seeing that man' speaking to the postman and take a letter from him." And he it was who sent it back to me," I exclaimed. "I see the clever plot now. Beatrice, darling, I've been a wretched idiot haven't all along? Will you forgive me?" Yes," she replied, answering both my questions at once, she has told me since. THE ROYAL VISIT TO SARDINIA. WAITING FOR THE BRITISH FLEET.

The Rome correspondent of the Daily News" telegraphs British squadron is expected on Monday. It is awaited with the pleasure with which old friends are looked for. I am authorised to state that the visit of the British squadron is not contemporary with that of the French, not from motives of etiquette, as asserted, but for the purpose of showing that the reestablished friendly relations with ftance have not altered the relations of Italy with her ancient ally. Reports from Berlin state that in view of the turn taken by the Samoan question the meeting of the naval forces of the three Powers united in the Crimea produces there a certain amount of concern. CALLOUS SPEECH OF A MURDERER An extraordinary confession by a murderer on the gallows is reported from Chattanooga, Tennessee.

A man named Hiram Hall, the owner of considerable property there, and aa alderman and man of influence generally, was hanged yesterday morning for the murder of his wife. He stood on the gallows smoking a cigar apparently unconcerned, and when asked if he had anything to say proceeded to address the crowd who had been admitted to witness his death. In his speech he said, I pushed my wife into the well. She clung to the stone sides and seemed to realise I intended harming her. I picked up a stone and struck her on the head to make her let go.

She quivered and dropped into the water, and I went into the house a moment later. I picked up a after me, saying Ida was trying to get out. I returned to the well and found my wife floating at the top of the water. I then took a plank and struck her on the head and face repeatedly, and pushed her under the water and held her there till she ceased struggling, and sank of herself." The cold-blooded confession so infuriated the public that they were only restrained with difficulty by the officers from tearing the man from the gallows to execute him under lynch law. DINNER TO MAJOR HARLEY.

The officers of the postal and telegraph service of tho Manchester Postal District last night at the Mosley Hotel entertained Major Harley, D.5.0., of the Indian Staff Corps, son of Mr. H. Osborne Harley, the postmaster of Manchester and surveyor of the district. About eighty gentlemen sat down. The chair was occupied by Mr.

J. F. Moore. Mr. J.

A. Elliott proposed The Postmaster General and the The Postmaster, in response, expressed his absolute confidence in the fidelity of the staff of the Manchester district. He could not, he said, resume his seat without saying how profoundly he valued the generous sentiment which had prompted so many of his brother officers to come of them considerable distances and many of them at personal so high a compliment to a son of his, of whom he was not ashamed. Chairman gave the toast of Our Guest," which was received with loud oheers. Since the return of Major Harley from Chitral, said the Chairman, where he had so greatly distinguished had gone through a very exhausting and arduous campaign in the Soudan, and although severely wounded at the battle of Atbara, he he was now fit and well, no doubt eager again to do service for Iris Queen and They all congratulated him upon his approaching marriage to Miss toast was honoured with three Harley, who was received with considerable enthusiasm, said the achievements in the field of battle to which Mr.

Moore had referred were merely incidents in the ordinary life of a British soldier while working out his own destiny and, in a very humble sphere, trying to work out the destiny of the great Empire to which we belonged. But the incident in his 6hort career of which he was most proud was that to which the chairman had referred last, and for that incident he was bound to thank in some measure the postal staff of Manchester, to whom he owed his introduction to toasts followed. SUNDAY TRADING PROSECUTIONS AT STOKE-ON-TRENT. At the Stoke-on-Trent Police Court yesterday 37 persons, including small shopkeepers and barbers, were charged, urtder the Lords Day Observance Act, 1677, with pursuing their ordinary work not being one of necessity or Sunday, March R. E.

C. Kettle, barrister, appeared for one of the defendants, and others were represented by Mr Holtom and Mr. Bell. Mr. J.

B. Ashwell, town clerk watched the proceedings on behalf of the Stoke Town Council. Superintendent Gilbride explained that the proceedings had been taken on the authority of the Chief Constable of the county at the urgent request of the Corporation of Stoke-on-Trent. A case against Mary Anne Hannon was first taken. She was alleged to have sold a bottle of herb beer on the Sunday mentioned.

Superintendent Gilbride, cross-examined by Mr. Kettle, said that the communications which the police had received from the Town Council were accompanied by memorials from Nonconformist ministers, Sunday school teachers, and other persons calling attention to the prevalence of Sunday trading in the borough, and requesting tho Council to take steps to suppress it. He produced the Chief Constable's authority to institute the proceedings. Mr. Kettle said that the Sunday Observance Prosecutions Act, 1871, provided that prosecutions under the Act of 1677 must be taken with the consent in writing of the chief officer of police or two justices of the peace, the object being obviously to prevent such proceedings being lightly undertaken.

He submitted that an offence having been committed a report of the matter should have been submitted to the Chief Constable, and his authority to prosecute obtained. In this case that had not been done. The Chief Constable's authority to prosecute was dated March 23, three days before the date of the alleged offence. The requirements of the Act of 1871 had not therefore been met and the case must fail. The Stipendiary Magistrate (Mr.

Harold Wright) concurred, and dismissed the case. In reply to an application for costs Mr. Wright said the difficulty was that the county would have to pay. Mr. Kettle replied that the difficulty was created by the extraordinary conduct of the Stoke Town Council.

Instead of putting their backs to the work like men if there was anything in the matter, the Town Council had taken refuge behind the Chief Constable of the county, with the result that the costs of what was practically their action would have to be paid by those who had nothing to do with this rotten and trivial prosecution. The Stipendiary Magistrate said that the costs must follow in the ordinary way, but it was a pity the parties who really instigated the proceedings had not to pay. The same objection applied to the other cases, and all the summonses were dismissed. In view of the Midland Railway having recently placed 30 locomotives, and the Great Northern 20 locomotives, with the Baldwin Company of America, it is important to note that this week the Midland reverting to their old plan, have placed an order for 20 locomotives with Messrs. Dubs and Polmadie, Glasgow.

The specifications are not yet available, but the locomotives are to be of a most powerful type, and will embody some new features. TO-DAY'S SPIRIT OF THE PRESS. THE DRINK TRAFFIC IN WEST AFRICA- The "Daily News" Chamberlain declared yesterday more than once, in energetic and straight forward terms, that if the Conference did not act would. We have no dcubt that he means what says. There is no question of politics, or, at least, party politics, invo'ved.

Common sense and conn" 09 humanity plead for the ultimate abolition and further immediate restriction of this most hatet traffic. It is not legitimate trade at all. The spin supplied to these miserable blacks are of the stronge and most injurious kind. They have no merit cx fl that they produce intoxication. They are sold people who cannet drink in moderation, and whoso oB object is to get drunk.

Apart from its wickedness is a shortsighted policy which encourages such ueai ings. For nothing can be more detrimental to business than the wholesale supply of virulent poisofl- A BAD BUDGET. The Speaker" describes the Budget aa withou exception the worst in our recent financial history, says tampering with the sinking fund we as absolutely indefensible. The basis on which It the sinking fund now operates rapidly than was intended radically false. To beg' with the reduction of the debt is really much less the £7.700.000 a year which remains out of tn £25,000,000 voted for the debt after paying interest aO management.

During the past year large sums we 1 re-borrcwcd on shorter terms for the Uganda Railw" and ether purposes, and the actual reduction cf debtedness was only about £3,300,000, or much than Sir Stafford Northcote contemplated as" tU immediate annual reduction by means of the fund. The same thing would in any case have happou 6 during the coming year. But it is ridiculous to supp that because Sir Stafford's plan gave an immediate duction of only £5,000.000 no greater reduction intended. The whole basis of the sinking fund is the interest will decrease and the repayment of increase annually and automatically. The principle 1 enforced in the case of every local authority, thovC there the expenditure is largely reproductive, and should apply equally to the State, which is 11 to get rid of the old war burden before the start wh 'C exceptional international conditions gave to industry has been lost.

The Statist" says: differences in finanC' expedients are strikingly shown by the very dissinu' 3 vay in which Sir William Harcourt some years ago the necessity for raising large additional revenue that in which Sir Michael Hicks-Beach now proposes meet a deficit of less than millions sterling. Sir "i I Harcourt reformed the death duties, and thereby his colleagues, and afterwards their successors, to the country a fleet which is admittedly superior to probable antagonists. Sir M. Hicks-Beach alter ing on non-national and non-Imperial purposes m'jch I the ample provision made by his predecessor now redu our war chest by nearly is to say the very large sum of two millions sterling per We bad hoped that a Cabinet which has been held 'fl to the world as above everything determined to thi prestige, the interests, and the credit of the Emp would not descend to such a measure. We find that rated the courage and the public spirit of Ministers tjj high, and that they have not only thrown away tJ resources which their predecessors had provided for th by recklessly granting aid to denominational schools to landed interest, and to the local authorities, but now laying hands on our national insurance fund.

The Economist" says: Michael cannot be complimented upon this year's Budget. to face with a deficit for the first time since he office, instead of grappling with it boldly he had back upon tho petty device of drawing upon the sinking fund and supplementing that measure by minor alterations in the stamp and wine duties. will possibly carrso more disturbance than tbey worth. And these tame expedients he has sought justify by specious pleas the hoilowness of which needs but the slightest examination to disclose. PROFESSIONALISM IN FOOTBALL- The Standard," commenting on the close of fcotball season, say 3: are 'hose who deplore extension of professionalism, and who regret that season should have seen its hold upon the England so greatly increased.

They would do well. :1 ever, to consider what professionalism really me While the number of amateur players may be by hundreds of thousands, the total ntvmber of sional players in the whole country is barely five UjJJ. sand. The preponderating influence of this 9 tively small section is, of course, due to tho fact it includes the majority of the best players i' ir country to whom the bulk of the international necessarily go. Amateurism is thus only being professionalism, and is not being swamped by it.

its high standard of play it furnishes an cxceil stimulus to amateur effort, and in no way threap to destroy it. On contrary, the Universities, Boy" clubs, and other leading amateur organist have this season played more football than ever. football, too, of a higher class. Their best matches considered to be those against the leading professiot clubs, and only recently it was seriously suggested" Oxford University should cut some of its Old fixtures in order to give greater opportunity Jvisits of such teams. The present attitude of the ing amateur clubs towards professionalism i 3 clearly marked, and the sporting instinct of men is generally to be relied upon.

There is no of amateur football suffering by the recent sprea" professionalism. MR. BALFOUR AND THE CHURCH- The Spectator says: from many poi ll view we deprecate the debate and the resolutioncannot altogether regret that the matter was raised Mr. Gedge. It has had at least one good result- gave us Mr.

Balfour's speech. A speech more a with wisdom and good feeling has not yet been parliament on any Church question, and we do not A that it will have an excellent effect throughout country. It represents what in our opinion is 1 the standpoint that ought to be taken by those have the true interests of the English Church at and who desire to save from harm an institution with all its faults has been the spiritual home of noble natures and eelf-sacrifiring lives than auy institution in the world. The Church of known days of bigotry, of selfishness, of and of woridliness. but even in her darkest hour Church of England has always contained men of piety and devotion.

And this 3 supreme spirit of freedom and of a large holy tolerance indifference, but that tolerance partakes of the divine been somewhere and among her members. Often this flame of inspiration has burnt neglected and almost unseen- vjjj often the attempt has been made to obscure, to 8 jji i it, bwt never with success. And the reason is the hour of danger we have never wanted men tf perhaps as often as clergymen who have shovvn (i spirit which Mr. Balfour showed on Tuesday "yijf At the moment it is not either or popular to such a spirit, some call it interested, some say it inconsistency and weakness, others declare that vague and unpractical, but for all that it is the spirit which can ultimately save the Church. TAMMANY RULE.

REMARKABLE DISCLOSURES: Mr. 7 EVIDENCE. The Mazet Commission of the Stats appointed to inquire into the causes of corrupt ment in New York, took the testimony of Mr. Croker yesterday. The boss of Tammany Hah 0.

sulky in demeanour and ungrammatical in expres His evidence went to show that his rule is an abs dictatorship, and that conditions prevail in the encipal departments almost inconceivable to Englis' He stolidly attempted to fence the questions ol Moss, the examining counsel, but the latter's adrd 1 baffled him. In the end he admitted he controlled the appointments made by the mayor, and interfered in city and State legislation to the that his support or opposition settled the fate ot proposed laws. He acknowledged that it is the law of Tammany to dismiss opponents all offices, regardless of the holders' abi' 1 and replace them by men who have claim 3 Tammany. In an unguarded moment he praise" efficiency of Mr. Moss when the latter was a police missioner, but after a few fencing answers intiC that he had removed him at the earliest and solely on partisan grounds.

Earlier in his tion he had declared repeatedly that the police dep ment was free from political interference. The most damaging admissions were of political ference with the judiciary. Candidates for office must contribute to the Tammany campaign 11 They were expected always to appoint partisan ordinates in their courts. Judges must also partisan referees, and the latters' decrees must the lion's share of the proceeds of real estate si' 6 the firm of which Mr. Croker is a partner.

'y in his answers he sought to extenuate Tarn" 1 methods with the exclamation The spoils belong victors." That wa3 the keynote of all his evidence terday. His examination is not concluded yet. recall there will be searching inquiry into the for Tammany blackmailing in the Legislature, and it is accomplished. He will also be questioned A warfare his officials have waged against certain 3 tions, and on his alleged stock-jobbing in concerns ing in competition with the former. Ex-Judge Daly, who had been 28 years on the in the City Court, also gave evidence.

He stated Mr. Croker refused to renominate him on account o'- refusal to remove the clerk of the court and appoint A Tammany nominee. The room in which the Commi sS ii sat was thronged by Tammany placemen, who dut applauded Mr. Croker's sentiments. Other showed that candidates for judicial offices were assesjj to contribute from 10,000 dollars to 35,000 dollars to Bj Tammany campaign funds.

There is intense locai terest in the inquiry, and the papers are printing i batim reports of the proceedings. THE MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS, SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 1899. 4 SPEAK THE TRUTH AND SHAME THE DEVIL. As to the first we should say, "By all means do so," speak the truth, but as to shaming the devil, we don't think it can be done. He's such an old arch-villain we don't think he's any sense of shame left.

We never thought very well of him, and we think less to-day. To come back to the first part of the text, Speak the Truth," we think this can be done, and thus win the esteem of every honest man. They're the easiest to rob; people who lie themselves, Tike others to speak the truth. Now read this bit of truth. For the cure of Indigestion, Liver Complaints, ind on the Stomach, Sick Headache, Nervous Debility, Costiveness, Palpitation of the Heart, Biliousness, take PAGE WOODCOCK'S WIND PILLS.

A prominent Business Man, whose name is known in every quarter of the globe, says: "Your celebrated Wind Pills are priceless to me. I am never without a supply, and give many away. For Biliousness, Sick Headache, and Indigestion they are far before any of the largely advertised Patent Medicines, for I have tried most of them. Use my testimony as you please. Give my name and address to any inquirer." Page Woodcock's Wind Pills being purely Vegetable, Tasteless, and Mild and Tonic in their action, may be taken with perfect safety by the most delicate of either sex.

Children may take them in reduced doses. Pago Woodcock's Wind Pills are sold by all Medicine Vendors at Is. and 2s. 9d. post free for price by Page Woodcock, Lincoln.

Be particular that you ask for Page Woodcock's ind Pills," and see that you get no other. NATURALLY SWEETENED. CLARKE'S CLARKE'S "CARLTON" TOBACCO C-y A TfT" TH 5 as all the rtues which an ideal pipe I K. tobacco should possess. It is mild tL i without being insipid, consequent upon its maturity and ripeness; fl 4 ol and smokes perrT XV -Li xN Se ctl dry to the end of the pipe without fouling.

It is -CARLTON bacco Up a pj TOM" Is manufactured by an en- JTJL JLV I A. ll tirely novel process from the finest old sun-dried Virginian 4 le.if, and is entirely free from 1 I I I I I ail flavourings, scents, or any kind of adulteration. It smokes with a very pleasing aroma and leaves no nauseating I A after-taste in the mouth. J3 OBTAINABLE AT ALL TOBACCONISTS, STORES, in loz. Foil Packets, and in 2, 4, and Boz.

Tins. TOO CANNOT BE SURE THAT IT IS GALLAHER'S GALLAHERS "TWO FLAKES" "TWO FLAKES" TOBACCO TOBACCO YOU ARE BUYING UNLESS YOU INSIST ON GETTING IT IN THEIR 1, 2, OR loz. DECORATED TINS, SECURED BY PATENT BAND. ADDELL AND HOPE, CATHEDRAL-STREET, MANCHESTER. Imperial Half QUINNESSS EXTRA STOUT rjpETLEY'S PALE ALE 3s.

3d. 2s. Od. rjIETLEY'S FINE ALE 2s. 6d.

Is. Bd. The above are supplied in Eottles (screws or corks) bearing the Brewers' Registered Trade Mark Label, and are delivered free within three miles of the Exchange in Quantities of two dozen or upwards. WORTH A CUINEA A BOX JJEECHAM'S PILLS. PILLS jgEECHAM'S PILLS.

FOR ALL BILIOUS AND NERVOUS DISORDERS SUCH AS gICK HEADACHE. QONSTIPATION. EAK STOMACH. JM PAIRED DIGESTION. JJISOEDERED LIVER AST) JIEMALE AILMENTS.

ANNUAL SALE SIX MILLION BOXES. In Boxes, Is. and 2s. 9d each, with full directions. The Is.

lid. Box contains 56 Pills. Prepared only by tha rpHOMAS BEECHAM, ST. HELENS, LANCASHIRE. DEAKIN'S MARMALADE, A DELICIOUS TONIC.

DEAKIN'S MARMALADE IS A BREAKFAST APPETISER. DEAKIN'S FIG AND LEMON. DELICIOUS AND WHOLESOME. DEAKIN'S FIG AND LEMON IS SELLING FASTER THAN EVER. DEAKIN'S BLACK CURRANT, MADE BY DEAKIN'S SPECIAL PROCESS.

DEAKIN'S BLACK CURRANTS RETAIN THEIR RICH FRESH FRUIT FLAVOUR. DEAKIN'S PURE PICKLES MAKE A DINNER ENJOYABLE. DEAKIN'S PURE PICKLES, PLEASING EVERYBODY. IS THE TTME FOR HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS.

NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS.

LEWIS'S HATS, in all the new shapes 2a. lid. LEWIS'S HATS are the best va ue 3s. lid. LEWIS'S HATS are the most stylish 3s.

lid. LEWIS'S HATS are first-class quality 3s. lid. LEWIS'S HATS are remarkable for wear 3s. lid.

LEWIS'S HATS in all the new colours 3s. lid. LEWIS'S HATS are the smartest 3s. 11.1. LEWIS'S HATS arc great favourites 3s.

lid. LEWIS'S HATS for the holidays 3s. lid. LEWIS'S HATS are up to date 3s. lid.

It would exhaust the dictionary to describe Lewis's Hats as they deserve to be described. Her Majesty's liege subjects never look better than in Lewis's Hats. Everyone wears Lewis's Hats regularly who has worn them once, that is the secret of their great popularity. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS.

NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR LEWIS'S HATS. LEWIS'S HATS at 3s.

lid. are equal to those sold by hatters at ss. lid. and 6s. lid.

No wonder that LEWIS'S sell more hats than all the hatters in Manchester nut together. HATS FOR THE MILLION. THE SMALL. HATS FOR THE TALL. HATS fOB THE THIN.

HATS FOR THE SHORT. HATS FOB THE STOUT. HA FOR THE GREAT. HATS FOR ALL CLASSES. Lewis Tn mTarket-steeet, MANCHESTER MON JAMES HILTON; Barlow Moor Road, opposite Southern Cemetery.

Tel. 7,602. Town Office: 16a. VICTORIA BUILDINGS. Tel.

7.602. PAY RENT when you can save the Five shillings in the pound under shop prices. We are now showing New Spring Goods in Great Variety, Including Serges, Worsteds, Vicunas, Scotch and Irish Tweeds. Suits (to order), to 375. 6d.

Ccats and Vests, 21s. to 30s. Trousers, 9s. 6d. to lis.

6d. Call or send for patterns, and compare with anything else in the market. THEWLIS ft 14, Turner-street, High-street, Manchester. Hours 830 to Saturdays, 830 to 3. A Warehouse, not a shop.

MEDICAL REFORM SOCIETY will SEND FREE to all applicants an excellent BOTANIC CURE for Indigestion, Biliousness, Liver Plies. Rheumatism. Gout, and The Secretary 801 -NIC INSTITUTE, NOTTINGH VM. WALKER, LIMITED. MANCHESTER CASH DRAPERS.

gPECIAL NOTICE. JJIRADING STAMPS. rXPIKATION OF AGREEMENT. ON TUESDAY, MAY 2nd, our AGREEMENT with the PREMIUM STAMP COMPANY EXPIRED, and we taKe this early opportunity of informing our Customers and the General Public that WE SHALL NOT CONTINUE THE SYSTEM AFTER THAT PATE. We hope all our Patrons will endeavour to Compete their Books by then, as WE CANNOT ISSUE any STAMPS after the time stated above.

I FASHIONS. SMARTEST ASSORTMENT OF DRESS FABRICS IN TOWN. £10LOURED DRESS DEPARTMENT. POPLINS In a Grand Ranee of Colours, all Wool: Smart and Durable Is. Is.

2s. 2s. Hid. per yard. MIXTURE COATINGS, at' Wool Fabric, in pretty mixtures; rare value Is.

Is. Hid 2s. lid. per yard BI UUTY. CLOTH or Reversible Velvety Finish.

Fabric very rich 2s. lljd. per yard. COSTUME CLOTHS, 1" Spring Shades, lor Coats, Skirts, ic. The Latest Is.

2a. is. 6d. per yard. DRESS DEPARTMENT.

HCOVOMIC4L Assortment of ill the Newest. Fabrics for Mom-run? and General Wear, at one-half the prices charged by Mourning Houses. CREPOI.INE.—This is a New Material, highly recommended, and makes a useud and becoming Gown. 2s. 2s.

llid. per yard. EVERLASTING BLACK CASHMERES. Is. Is.

6jd Is. FRENCH MERINOS by the Best Makers. Is. Is. 2s.

lid. per yard. PLAIN" AND FIGURED ALPACAS, Splendid Variety, all first-ciass goods. is. is.

is. 2s. 6d 2s. 3s. fkt, is.

Hd. pei- yard. POPLINs, an Wooi; Everlasting Dye is. Is. U.

Hid to. 2s. 2s. 3s. 3s.

lid. per yard. DEPARTMENT. A Choic" Selection of FAMILY AND COMPLIMENTARY MOURNING always in Stock. The I A TEST CONTINENTAL PRODUCTIONS IN BONNETS, TOQUES, from 7s.

Ud. WIDOWS' OUTFITS Completed on the Shortest Notice. AND CHILDRENS MILLINERY Large Variety. J-lOSTUME AND MANTLE DEPARTMENT. WIDOWS' COSTUMES from 255.

3d. TAILOR-MADE COAT AND SKIRT from 12s. lid. CHILDREN'S COSTUMES AND COATS in Newest Styles. LADIES' CAPES, with Sequin Tiiaiining, Braided, from 12s.

lid. to 4i guineas. CURTAINS, CURTAINS. LATEST NOVELTIES AND DESIGNS IN LACE, GUIPURE, AND MADRAS CURTAINS. LACE CURTAINS, white and cream, I yards long.

Is. 2s. 2s. 3s. is lid.

pair. LACE CURTAINS, white and cream, 3i yards long, 3s. SWISS, GUIPURE, and MADRAS CURTAINS, Bs. 10s. FRILLED and TASSELLED MADRAS MUSLINS, 13.

Is. Is. Is. Is. Hid.

yard. ART MUSLINS AND CANVAS STRIPES, NEW DESIGNS, 6id. yard. FUNERALS FURNISHED COMPLETELY. WALKER, LIMITED.

62, 86, and 08, OLDHAM-STREET, MANCHESTER. URN ITURE. WHY AY CASK TOR YOUR FURNITURE CRNITURE. When you can ret it at the LANCASHIRE FURNISHING CO, URN ITURE. 56 58, SPEAR-S I REET, Behind Crosby and Walker's, OLDHAM-STREET, EY WEEKLY OR MONTHLY PAYMENTS.

at the following terms: s. d. To the value £5 2 0 weekly. "17'URNITURE. To the value or £10 3 6 weekly.

To the value of £15 5 0 weekly. To the value of £20 6 0 weekly. To the value of 0 3 0 weekly. FURNITURE. "lo the value of £50 12 0 weekly.

Other Arrangements can be made it FURNITURE. necessary. URN 1 I FURNITURE, for the Drawing, Dining, and Btd ftjom, Parlour, Kitchen, and Library AT LOW PRICES Distance no object ALL GOODS DELIVERED FREB. i 'fHNITUBE. Write for Catalogue, sent free.

LANCASHIRE FURNISHING Furniture. spear Behind Crosby and Walkers. jpUKNITURE OI.DHAJI-STREET. QUININE AnITYroNIC TONIC. ir iy jo years before the Public.

Pepper's Quinine lias newer tonic of every shade, and still is the one wav to Digestion, Vigour, Health Strength, Energy, for Weak I Women, and al! In need of raising from a low tone of nerve and body. PEPPER'S TONIC is in Shilling Bottles, but Insi- on having only Pepprr's. WALL PAPERS from lid. per piece, Ceilings Golds Rd Cadburys Cocoa is absolutely pure, bams entff free from kola. mile, hops, a kali, or any foreign admix.

Caution! The public should insist on aavinz CaobC'lt's in packets and other Cocoas art oftei take of extra Cudahy's Rex Ox Toxgues and Lunch Tongues are the success of the year. Ask your grocer for them. Can be had from, all branciiea of T. Seymour Mead and 09.,.