sorry to learn that on the previous day the court had
the misfortune to bury two of its members, who were
good workers in Forestry, and were each interred with
the honours of a good Forester, as they both justly
merited it.

The court having been duly closed, and it being
the first meeting in the year, the kind host gave his
usual entertainment to his friends, which he is ac-
customed to give every year, and the ever favourite
friend "punch" was freely indulged in till the early
hour for closing arrived, when the brethren sepa-
rated, pleased as usual with "mine host."

COURT ALMA, No. 2668.-LUD.

This court, (of which Br McTernan is secretary,)
is held at the Maze Hotel, Chichester-place, Harrow-
road, Paddington, and received an official visit
from the officers and members of Court Solomon's
Temple, No. 5184, of the EL & ED. The visiting
brethren, under the leadership of its founder and
host, Br S. A. Green, PCR, arrived at Court
Alma, about nine o'clock; it was a summoned
meeting, for the election of officers, auditors,
and delegates to the district. The court business
having been disposed of, Br McTernan proposed
"Prosperity to Court Solomon's Temple, No. 5184,"
which was duly acknowledged by Br Green on behalf
of the Court, who in vited the members of Court Alma
to their Court in the East, where, he assured them,
they would meet with a reception equally as hearty as
that which he and the members of the court to which
he had the honour to belong had received at their
quarters that evening. The brethren of Court Alma
promised to return the visit to the East, and the
brethren, about 17 in number, then returned, pleased
with the proceedings.

COURT ALBERT, No. 4387.

THE brethren of the above court celebrated their sixth
anniversary by dining together at the court-house, the
Sultau Tavern, Lake-road, Landport, on Thursday
evening. The chair was taken by Br W. G. Smart,
PHCJW, and the vice-chair by Br W. H. Harris,
PCR, and secretary of the court. The chairman was
supported by Br Pridham, DS, and Br Ward, PCR,
and treasurer of the court, and vic -chair supported
by Br Philp, CR. PCR, and Br Fowler, PSCR, and
trustee. After the usual loyal, patriotic, and other
toasts, intermixed with harmony, Br Bond, DSCR,
responded on behalf of the Ancient Order of Fo-
resters, showing the increase for the past year to be
£86,838, and 38,459 members initiated during the
year, making a 'total worth £1,305,274 3s. 5d., and
340.081 members, with an average of £3 13s. 5d. per
member. Br Smart, PHCJW, responded on behalf
of the executive council and permanent secretary.
Br Pridham, DS, responded on behalf of the Ports-
mouth District, advising those present who were not
members to become so at once, providing they were
in accordance with the rules. The present number
of members in the district is 2,134, and the total
worth of district funds amount to £9,315 10s. 3d.
The chairman then gave the toast of the evening,
"Court Albert." He trusted that the court would
go on progressing as they had of late, both finan-
cially and numerically.

Br. W. H. Harris, court Secretary, responded on
behalf of Court Albert, remarking that the increase
for the year was £23 15s. 6d., making total worth of
court funds £104, and 40 members, and taking into
consideration the time they had been established, age
and health of members, they were second to none.

The chairman said he had to perform the most
pleasing part of the evening, viz., to present Br
Reynolds, PCR, with a testimonial. Br Reynolds
had, as they all knew, left one of the oldest courts in
the district and come amongst them when they had
but few members, and had used his best exertions at
all times to promote the welfare of the court. He had
held the post of secretary for a considerable time, be-
sides many times as CR, and had at all times given
his services gratuitously, and to him in a great mea-
sure must be attributed the present prosperous state
of the funds. The Chairman, then turning to Br
Reynolds, said," Allow me, in the name of the
members of Court Albert, to present you with this
testimonial, as a token of their respect and esteem for
you." The testimonial was a silver Maltese cross,
with the motto of the order in the centre, within a
chased border, under a glass case, and with cross quill
pens and beehive attached to the bottom by rings. It
bears the following inscription on the back:-" AOF.
Presented to Br E. Reynolds, PCR, by the brethren

of Court Albert, No. 4387, as a mark of esteem for
the active part he has at all times taken in furthering
the interest of the court, likewise for his past services
as secretary. November 24, 1870." Br Reynolds
feelingly returned thanks. Br Harris responded on
behalf of kindred societies, and Mr Tiles for the
visitors, when the meeting broke up, all being highly
satisfied with the able manner in which the host, Br
Helby, had catered for them, likewise with the even-
ing's proceedings.

COURT BRITISH WORKMEN, No. 3670.
ON Tuesday last, a very pleasant evening was spent
by the members and friends of the above court, at the
Court-house, the Cock Hotel, Great Berry Street, on the
occasion of a presentation to Br C. J. Moseley, PCR
of the court, for the valuable services he has rendered
since he became initiated a member. The chair was
taken by Br M. L. Feibusch, PHCSB., and the vice-
chair by PCR J. Williams. The usual preliminary
toasts having been duly proposed and acknowledged,
the "Ancient Order of Foresters:" was given by the
chairman, Br Feibusch, and ably responded to by PCR
J. Suthard, of Court 411, Chester district. The chair-
man, in a very able speech, then presented to BrMoseley
the testimonial, which consisted of the thanks of the
court, inscribed on parchment, framed, and a valuable
patent lever hunting watch, with the following in-
scription engraved on it:-"A OF. Presented to
PCR C. J. Moseley, for his valuable services rendered
to the court, December 27th, 1870."-Br Moseley
acknowledged the gift in appropriate and feeling
terms, after which votes of thanks were accorded to
the chairman, vice-chairman, the host and hostess,
and duly acknowledged. Toasts, songs, and recitations
followed by Brs Rainbow, Gibney, Berry, Williams,
Billing, and others, and the proceedings were highly
enjoyed.

THE ANCIENT ORDER OF FORESTERS
IN TURKEY.

THE first anniversary of the Court Golden Horn;
5389, was celebrated at the Hasskeui Institute, last
Friday evening, by a concert and ball, which was at-
tended by upwards of 300 members and friends of the
order. ČR Br Holland presided, and was supported
by PDCR Br Cowan, PCR Br Flucker, PCR Br Legg,
and the officers of the court. In his opening address
the chairman briefly reviewed the origin and growth
of benefit societies, and, after alluding to our mutual
dependence one upon another, said that none were so
exalted by birth or rank as not to feel proud of the
honour of being a member of their order.

Subsequently the secretary, Br Dorrell, after a few
appropriate remarks, read the financial statement,
which was of a very satisfactory character, -very
little sickness and no arrears. Everyone, he said,
connected with the court, whose anniversary they
were then celebrating, was proud of the success it
had achieved, and which he attributed to the rules by
which it was governed.

The concert consisted of duets and songs by Messrs.
Icely, Blair, Hosking, Mann, Teadstill, Ferguson,
Stone and Dyke, all of whom acquitted themselves
very well, and were loudly applauded. Mr. Fra er
made a striking impression by his reading of the
May Queen," for which he received great applause.

After a short interval, the ball commenced at 11
o'clock, and was kept up with great spirit until an
early hour. At intervals during the evening refresh-
ments of a light description were handed round.
The whole proceedings were a complete success,
everybody being thoroughly satisfied, and reflected
great credit on the committee of management.

FORESTRY IN THE SOUTH.-BY LITTLE
JOHN.

ON January 11 I was pleased to have the oppor-
tunity of visiting Court Prosperity, 3608; it was their
election of officers, and the selection made gave great
satisfaction. Br J. E. Mitchner was elected CR, Br
Carter Secretary, and our particular friend, Br T.
Clarke, the newly-elected DSCR, Treasurer. I may
here state that our Br Clarke must become a most
valuable member to the court, as he was for years an
active member of a London court, and is blessed with
a clear knowledge of our laws. It certainly was a
graceful act when he drew his clearance to a court
that required assistance. The health of the visitors
ended a most pleasant evening.

On January 19, being in the neighbourhood of
Court 2632, I paid a visit, and found the large court-

room crowded, it being their annual night. The
election of officers over, I was pleased to see Br John
Cramp, the "Little Forester's Secretary," installed
as CR. The other officers installed, propositions
passed to be sent for consideration of the next HCM.
The business of the court being over, Br Brooker,
Jun., was presented with certificate and ribbon of a
PCR. The health of the visitors brought a very
busy evening to a close. Little John cannot conclude
his monthly report without referring to some facts
that have come under his notice. One is a question
the press of Brighton are assisting in. From letters
that appeared in the Brighton Observer of January
20 and 27, I find we have had laws passed at our dis-
trict meetings, and then the officers have put them
on one side, and not got them registered. From the
letters I glean that the members of Court Pride
of Sussex, 2512, consider the matter of so much im-
portance, that they have called a summoned meeting,
and invited all the Foresters in Brighton to attend to
see what is to be done.

Like many towns that have had the honour of an
HCM, Brighton is not content to lie quiet. It is now
hear
12 years since the honour was conferred, and
that a proposition is to be sent for the HCM of 1873
to be held in Brighton. That the Queen of the South
will get support there cannot be two opinions. Little
John wishes it success, but doubts its coming off
at the first time of asking. The new court alluded
to in my last is to be opened on February 6, with all
the pride and honour contained in the pleasant and
The name of the
prosperous village of Preston.
court, I have the great pleasure to record, is to be
Creswell's Pride, and the brother is well worthy of
the honour conferred upon him.

STATISTICS OF FORESTRY.

FROM the directory of our Order for 1870-71, the
following facts are gleaned:-namely, that there are
296 courts having 37,915 members meeting away
from public-houses, being an increase on the year of
21 courts and 5,670 members, giving an average per
court of 128, being an improvement for the year of 11
per court, and although the courts meeting away from
public-houses form but the ninth part of the whole,
yet in connection with them very nearly half of the
increase for the year took place. Of the above num-
ber of courts, 26 having 1,687 members sent no finan-
cial returns, the others, however, show sick funds to
the amount of £135,917, or £503 15s. per court, being
at the rate of £3 15s. for each member. The divi-
sion of the courts now under consideration is as
follows:-

500 Members and above 2 Courts having 1,093 Members.
400
2.755
300
4,274

6
12

THE above court held a soiree at Sydney Hall,
Leader Street, Chelsea, on Monday, January 9th, for
the benefit of Benjamin Farrow, a member who has
for a long time been the subject of both personal and
family affliction. About 80 friends sat down to an
excellent tea, which was provided by the committee,
and superintended by Mrs Pocock, Mrs Milton, Miss
Saunders, and Mrs Bryant, after which a concert was
given by the members and friends, under the chair-
manship of Br J. Milton, the secretary of the court.
The chairman briefly stated the object of the gather-
ing, and the concert was opened by Er George
Scribens, followed by a negro entertainment by
Messrs Palmer and Cook, causing roars of laughter.
Recitations were given by Brs J. and S. Moslin, and
some very nice singing by Brs Littlejohn, Crowther,
Loton, Trotman, and Colman. "Shelling Green
Peas' was very nicely rendered by Miss Saunders,
and a comic recitation by Mrs Wood, followed by Mr
George Mitchel, Mr Breton, and M. Saunders.
This part of the evening's amusement was brought
to a close by a vote of thanks to the friends who had
amused the meeting so well. Br Seth Moslin re-
plied on behalf of the singers, and said if the com-
pany were gratified they were satisfied, and if they
were satisfied the singers were gratified to know their
efforts were appreciated. Dancing then commenced in
good earnest, the company being in the best of homour,

the members having their wives and some of them
their sweethearts present. Br Alonza Maguire acted
as M.C. with great credit, and the evening passed off
to the satisfaction of all present.
The amount
realized for Br Farrow was £4 128.

COURT 3335.

HELD at the White Horse, Theobald's Road,
Bloomsbury. A benefit took place at the Raglan
Music Hall, on behalf of Br G.W. Atkinson (a member
of the court), who with his wife and four children
were obliged to leave Paris on account of the war,
they not being allowed to bring anything with them
but a small bundle. The members of the court think-
ing this a very deserving case gave £2 from the
benevolent fund, and formed a committee to get up
an entertainment, so as to give him a fresh start;
and great credit is due to Brs Wand, W. Paine, and
others, for the manner in which they worked to make
the benefit a success. The total amount received was
£20 5s Sd, expenses £3 2s, leaving a balance of
£17 3s 8d, which was handed over to Br Atkinson.

The Robin Hood Band kindly gave their services
on the second evening, and played several selections
and popular airs.

SANCTUARY 2299.

THE anniversary of the above sanctuary was held at
the Star Tavern, Lake Road. The chair was taken by
Br W. G. Smart, PHSFA, the vice-chair was ably
filled by PP Reynolds. The chairman said, "The
AOS was not to supplant the first order, but was to
assist the brethren by augmenting the pay in time of
sickness and death, the order was strong in finances
if not in numbers;" the toast was received with ap-
plause. The chairman next gave "Sanctuary Fel-
lowship 2299" Br Andrews, the Scribe, responded:
"he was glad to say the sanctuary was in a good posi-
tion, having over £4 per member, and they had only
five deaths in fifteen years; the stock was over £200,
and he hoped they would still go on and prosper, and
each member would do his best to introduce new and
healthy members." Other toasts followed, and a
very pleasant evening was spent.

REPORTS, &c., RECEIVED.
Twenty-fourth Annual Report of Court Hyde
Park, 2109, Swan Tavern, Bayswater Road, Pad-
dington. Secretary, Br F. Champ, 21, Lombard
Street, City.

Eleventh Annual Report and Financial Statement
of Court Perseverance, Host Willcocks's, Tiger Inn,
North Street, Wolverhampton. Secretary, Mr. V.
Harris, 3, Dunstall Lane, Wolverhampton.

Fourth Annual Balance Sheet of Court Bryant's
Pride, 4980, AOF, Leader Street, Chelsea. Secretary,
Br. G. Parrington, PCR.

Twenty-fourth Annual Balance Sheet of Court
Star of the West, 2140, AOF, White Hart, Duke
Street, Chelsea. Secretary, Br W. Waters, 2, Orchard
Street, Wandsworth.

Annual Balance Sheet of the Vauxhall Juvenile
Friendly Society, Temperance Hall, 122, Vauxhall
Walk, S. Secretary, Br Rowe, 41, Besborough
Street, S.W.

The Financial Statement and Report of Court
British Oak, 3249, AOF, Wolverhampton and Tipton
District, for the year 1870.

Report of the Half-yearly Meeting of the North
London District Independent Order of Odd Fellows
Manchester Unity Friendly Society, held at the
Portman Arms Hotel, Milton Street, Dorset Square,
on Monday, the 2nd January, 1871. Prov. GM
John Bellerby in the chair.

Agent for the North West District-
W. H. MAY, 18, Eversholt Street, Oakley Square.

Agent for Sydenham District :-

W. HOOD (Ct. 1968), High Street, Forest Hill.
Agent for Greenwich and Deptford :-
E. SKEVINGTON, 4, Molesworth Street, Lewisham.
The Journal can also be obtained regularly of the follow-
ing Agents:-

W. OVENS, Newsvendor, 169, Pentonville Road.
G. GOSLING, Stationer and Bookseller, 98, West-
bourne Street, Eaton Square, S. W.

T. GRAY, Stationer, 141, Pentonville Road.
W. T. ADKINS, Bookseller and Stationer, 14, Bel-
grave-street South, near Victoria-station, S.W.
S. J. BURKETT, 143, Great Portland Street, W.
E. T. FLINTHAM, 10, Richmond Place, Grove
Road, N.W.

WILLIAM SMITH, 6, Redhill Street, Regent's
Park.

C. DAVIS, "Great Western Stores," Harrow
Road.

W. SAUNDERS, Bookseller, News-agent, and
Tobacconist, 3, Chichester Road, Kilburn Park, W.
W. GALLEY, 34, Grosvenor Street, Commercial
Road, E.

F. ROBINSON, (Ct. 2593), News-agent, 37, Brook
Street, Holborn.

C. OGDEN, "Sidney Arms," Sidney Street, Mile
End Road.

R. HARRIS, 1, Howard Street, Grundy Street.
W. TYLER, 14, Isabella Street, Collingwood Street,
Blackfriars.

W. H. DAWS, 77, Spencer Street, Sutton Street,
Commercial Road, E.

GAMBLE, P.C.R. (2799), 1, Blucher Street,
Arthur Street, Walworth Road.

-Cocн (2536), 69, Murray Street, New North Road
E. ELLIOT, 20, Harcourt Street, Marylebone.
J. JEFFERY, 19, Bermondsey Square, S.E.
J. TOD, 17, Fellows Street, Hackney Road.
J. GOSLING, 34, Bemerton Street, Caledonian
Road

E. Low, Havana House, 3, Sternhall Place,
Peckham Rye.

WILLIAM BAILEY, (Secretary Courts 3648, 4913.
and 5423), 12, Brewer's Green, Westminster, S.W.
J. PHILLPOTT, (Court 1984) 215, King's Cross
Road, N.

B. REACH, 57, lifton Street, Finsbury.

S. D. ARUNDEL, News Agent, 142, Central Street,
City Road.

W. BEARD (P.C.R., 3371), 21, Burnham Street,
Barking Road, Essex.

J. HOARE, 22, Victoria Street, Paddington Green
RICHARD BONFIELD, 9, Bradwell Street, Bancroft
Road, Mile End, E.

A. T. HAINES, No. 3, Aske Terrace, Bevenden St.,
Hoxton.

JOHN WARNER (Ct. 3335), 4, Apollo Ct., Fleet St.
Br. D. HART (Ct. 4231), 8, Lower John Street,
Mile End New Town.

Agents for Cardiff-
J. JENKS, 2, Wood Street.

Agent for Brighton-

G. T. BARNARD (P.H.C.S. and secretary of Court
2632), 12, Middle Street, Brighton.
Agent for Sussex-

Br. W. MANWARING (Sec. Ct. 3166), Post-office,
Broadwater, Worthing.

Agent for Yorkshire-
Br. B. J. PARKIN, (D.C.R,) 30, Stanhope Street,
Leeds.

Agents for Staffordshire-
Br. N. HAUGHTON (Sec. Ct. 3929), 16, Gaol Road,
Stafford.

Br J. H. NUTTING, P.H.C.S. and D.S., 21, Canal
Street, Wolverhampton.

Agents for Cheshire-
Br. R. STANHOPE (Sec. Ct. 311), Adlington Hall,
near Macclesfield.

Br. T. COOKSON (P.C.R. Ct. 4784), Kelsall.
Agent for Lancashire-
Br. J. PILKINGTON (P.C.R. Ct. 2340), Townpitts,
Helmshore.

Agent for Swansea, South Wales-
Br. RICHARD T. REED, 2, Wassail-st., Swansea.
NEW YORK, U.S.
Agents for New York-

Br. N. S. LEVY (D.S), 9, Clarke Street.
Br. L. LYONS, (P.D.C.R. and Sec. Ct. Washing-
ton 4982,) 404, Grand Street.

Br.W.DANIELS (P.D.C.R.), 348, West 36th Street.
Br. M. CANTLON (Sec. Ct. 4665), 177, Greenwich
Street.

J. H. ROBINSON (Secretary 2992), 52, Norwich
Street, Cambridge.

Hints to Young Speakers,

BY THE COURT FOOL,

Will be published in our next issue.

Tabour & Unity.

FEBRUARY, 1871.

PROVIDENT SOCIETIES FOR
YOUNG AND OLD.

HAT "extremes meet" is a
trite saying, and one fur
ther exemplified by two
notices which appear in our
columns this month. Youth
and age meet together in a
manner somewhat strik-
The
ingly suggestive.
Vauxhall Juvenile Foresters' Friendly
Society seems to stand at one end of
the path of life-hardly, as it were,
emerged from the cradle. The Metro-
politan Benefit Societies' Asylum is
placed at the other end, and by force of
comparison is sadly suggestive. The
juveniles in Lincoln Green aptly illus
trate the hopeful, ambitious, rejoicing
period of existence: the members of
the institution at Ballspond, well into
the "sere and yellow leaf," have doubt-
less to look back on widely chequered
muse on disappointed
schemes, and meditate on blighted
hopes.

careers;

to

Turning to Foresters' Juvenile Socie
ties, we think that a few facts about
them may prove interesting. There are,
it appears, about 230 societies distributed
over the country, and having a grand
total of nearly 8,000 members. The

Bolton and Portsmouth districts stand at the head of the list, having respectively 700 and 500 members, while there are about seventy societies having less than ten members, seven societies who have but two, and one society that at Bangor - rejoicing in the possession of one only. We should like to attend a meeting of this last-named Society, imagining-especially as the proceedings would doubtless be conducted in Welsh-that it would be highly interesting. It is to be hoped that the one member does not fall sick too often, because the Society would thus be prostrate at a blow. We presume the youthful Bangorian pays his subscriptions to himself, fines himself heavily, receives. his sick pay, and-keeping up the good old provincial custom,-yearly marches round the town, forming an imposing procession of one! The Bangor Society is decidedly "juvenile," if the Directory -that admirable compendium of statistical information-is to be trusted.

Although the system seems to have worked satisfactorily at Vauxhalljudging, as we do from the balancesheet that has been submitted to usyet there are obstacles in the way of its development in the metropolis. Whether it is apathy, or a distrust of the scheme, that has thus militated against its more general introduction, we are not prepared to say; still, while the president of these Vauxhall Juveniles can congratulate himself upon the financial and hygienic success of the Society, we think the question one worth perhaps more careful study, namely, whether such associations could not be fostered in London to a much greater extent than is at present the case. If there are exceptional difficulties in the way of assembling young people in London, there are also exceptional temptations placed in their way. The instillation of prudent habits cannot be commenced too early and these Societies are proved to be excellent inculcators of prudential lessons.

The Metropolitan Benefit Societies' Asylum is so well known that we need only refer our readers to the lengthy report in connection with it, appearing in another column. We would earnestly commend this excellent institution to their most careful consideration. The provident man-identified with any wellknown society-is eligible to its benefits. Thus it stands on a truly catholic basis: and to this catholicity of basis it is that it has chiefly owed its undoubted success. We trust that our readers will do all in their power to advance the interests of this institution; so that, not only in youth, or in manhood, but in old age as well, the influence of friendly societies may be felt to be essentially beneficial.

Ancient Order of Foresters-continued.

THE COURT FOOL'S FACTS FOR
FORESTERS.

REMOVAL OF COURT HAMPSTEAD, No. 2979. On Tuesday evening, January 10th, the officers, consisting of Brs Burr, CR, Livermore, SCR, Walkey and Wymant, (the Woodwards,) Baird and Attfield, (Beadles,) J. Goddard, (Secretary,) Prentice, Honeybun, and Hankin, (Trustees,) assembled for the purpose of removing the above court from the Coach and Horses, Heath Street, to the Black Boy and Still, High Street, Hampstead. Upon arriving at their new quarters the worthy host, Mr. Putney, became an honorary member, and presented the court with 10/6 towards the W. and O. F. Br Dr Steel also

sent 5/- for a like purpose. The members of Court Goulding's Pride mustered very strongly to assist in the removal, in addition to a number of visitors from other courts. Several vocally gifted brethren favored with some excellent singing, to which sundry bowls of punch added its quota. The company separated at a late hour, mutually wishing success would attend Court 2979 in its new home.

ST MARY'S HOSPITAL FETE COMMITTEE. Proceedings are now being taken against the defaulters by the officers of the above committee under the superintendence of a talented solicitor, for the purpose of getting in the outstanding arrears, some of them owing for years past. I am happy to say that Br James, of Court 1862, has honourably come forward and paid the amount 17/3 due from him, and I sincerely hope others will follow his example, and thereby save the expense and unpleasantness inseparable from law proceedings.

COURT DUKE OF PORTLAND, No. 1817. REMOVAL.

The above court will remove from the Princə Arthur, Boundary Road, St. John's Wood, to the New Inn, Henry Street, Portland Town, on Tuesday evening, February 21st, and will henceforth hold their meetings on alternate Tuesdays instead of Mondays as hitherto.

THE COURT FOOL'S CHRISTMAS Box.

I beg to acknowledge the receipt of a parcel of books, fifteen volumes, from Br John Dean, PCR, of Court Bailey's Pride, 2993, and to thank him very much for the same. I have also received parcels from Miss Emily Saunders and Miss Gibbs, to whom I beg to return my sincere thanks. I have forwarded the books to St. Mary's Hospital, as a proof of which I append the following letter received from the secretary of the institution.

St. Mary's Hospital, Paddington, Jan. 23rd, 1871. DEAR SIR,-I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of a further collection of books and periodicals for the use of the patients, and to thank you very much in the name of the governors for so very kind and acceptable a donation. I remain, Dear Sir, Yours faithfully,

To the Court Fool.

Jos. G. WILKINSON, Secretary.

As it may be getting late in the season for a Christmas box, I shall be happy to receive a souvenir of sympathy from my kind readers in the shape of anything readable for the use of our afflicted fellowcreatures now lying in the above hospital. The same addressed to the Court Fool, care of Mr. C. Davis, Great Western Stores, Harrow Road, Paddington, will be thankfully received and acknowledged.

THE FORESTERS' MISCELLANY.

The next number of the above will contain a finely engraved portrait of the well known Br George Walker, of the. London United District. Brethren requiring a copy of the same had better order of the secretary of their court early, and thereby ensure an excellent likeness of the gallant captain.

JEWELLERY ON ITS TRAVELS.

Br John Goldring, (warranted a real GOLD RING) a member of Court Queen Victoria, 518, sailed from London, for New York, U.S. in the ship Constantine, in search of fame and fortune, among our American brethren on the other side of the Atlantic, on Monday,

January 23rd. Upon the occasion of his last visit to the above court a unanimous vote was passed, wishing him God speed and success in his venture. The Court Fool sincerely wishes to endorse that sentiment. Br Golding was formerly the west end agent for LABOUR AND UNITY.

COMPLIMENTARY VISIT To Court 4983. The officers and members of Court Hyde Park, 2109, assisted by members of courts 1774, 2677, and 3109, will pay a special complimentary visit to Court Queen of the Forest, 4983, held at Br Charles Davis, the Great Western Stores, Harrow Road, Paddington, on Wednesday evening, February 1st. From the well known character of the genial host a very numerous attendance of brethren from the adjacent courts may be confidently anticipated.

FORESTER'S FUNERAL.

The remains of Br James Fisher, a member of Court Pleasant, No. 1451, were interred in the dissenters' ground of Kensal Green cemetery on Saturday, January 14th. The deceased had been a member of the order over twenty-two years. His death occurred suddenly, at his residence on the morning of the 8th instant, aged sixty-two years. A great number of brethren attended the funeral to pay their last tribute of respect to the deceased, many of whom wore black silk scarves. Br C. Gardner, the CR of Court 1451, read the prescribed lecture over the .grave, assisted by Brs E. M. Lander, PCR, and J. Pushman, PCR, in a very impressive manner. The deceased being a member of the Wesleyan Church, a sermon was preached by the officiating minister on Sunday, the 15th instant, at the chapel he used to attend, choosing his text, "Though he is dead yet shall he speak.'

FUNERAL OF A CRICKETING FORESTER.

Br Stephen Slatter, a member of Court Abbey, 1940, well known to the habitues of Lord's Cricket Ground as old Stevey, having been connected with the ground for forty years, died at his residence on Tuesday, January 3rd, aged fifty-two years. He was greatly respected by the members of the Marylebone Club, as a proof of which the whole expense of the funeral was defrayed by them. He was interred in Willesden Lane Cemetery on Monday, January 9th, a great number of the brethren following him to the grave.

COURT COBDEN, No, 4786.

The officers and members of Court King of the Forest, 3109, paid a special complimentary visit to the above court, which is held at the Freemasons' Arms, Boscobel Gardens, W., on Wednesday evening, January 18th. Several visitors from the neighbouring courts were also present, including Brs Flintham, 1817, Sankey, 5017, Upton, 518, J. Hoare, 2677, &c. Br Dr Gaye, in a very neat speech, introduced his partner, Dr Stuart, who became an honorary member of the court. The health of the visitors was drunk with the usual honours, and responded to by Br J. Hall, jun., secretary of Court 3109, &c., &c. The visitors then drank success to Court Cobden with the F.F., to which Br E. Pitteway, the treasurer, eloquently responded. The proceedings concluded with some excellent singing by Brs Lark, Newman, Selvey, W. Knife, Hall, sen., Limbrey, Hall, jun., &c., &c. Brs W. Frampton and T. Newsham, admirably acquitted themselves in some magnificent choruses.

LONDON UNITED DISTRCT.

The quarterly meeting of the delegates of the above district was held at Penton Hall, Pentonville, on Thursday, January 12th.

On the roll being called, 115 delegates answered, leaving but three courts unrepresented.

Bus Darling and Reade were appointed tellers. The minutes of the last meeting having been read and confirmed, the auditors of the C. P. fête (1870) presented their report, which, after some discussion, was received, and a vote of thanks passed to the committee and auditors.

Brs Glass (1535), Koch, Darling, Halls, Bonfield, Bryant, Bailey, Sharp, Tummon, Pritchard, Tims, and Tims were elected to serve on the Relief Committee.

Brs Tummon, Sharp (1561), Glass (1882), Goddard, Ashman, Molony, and Endersohn were nominated to

serve on the Committee of Management, in place of Brs Wright and Winckworth, whose term of office expires in April next.

The DCR reported that £1000 had been deposited in the joint names of the trustees and contractor as security for the fulfilment of the contract for erecting the New Building, which has been commenced.

Court 3116 applied for permission to re-admit John Bishop, who had been expelled for felony, circumstances having transpired which led the members to believe that he had been unjustly convicted.--The sanction was granted.

Court 2220 applied for permission to re-admit Alfred Chapman, who was expelled in 1869 for some slight offence, but since then his conduct had been very good, and the members were quite willing to readmit him.-Sanction was granted.

The meeting sanctioned the circulation of a petition, applied for by Court 1791, on behalf of the London Hospital, throughout the whole district.

A question arose as to propriety of apportioning the deficiency of the late secretary among the various funds, and, after some discussion, it was decided in the negative, but that it should in future be recorded as usual, but in red ink.

Court 5286 applied for the funeral allowance for the late Br Markham, who died while under suspension of benefits from his court. It was explained that the contributions were sent to the Court-house on the proper night, but the court was closed earlier than usual (11 o'clock instead of 12), it being a summoned meeting. The claim was to be paid on production of proper documents to the committee of management.

The meeting was then adjourned.

On the roll being called at 3 o'clock two delegates were absent The sum of £1 17s., owing by Br Rearden, was ordered to be inserted in the goods account and financial position. It was resolved that a letter be written to Mr Gomme, requesting him to remit the sum of £4 48. which he received as builders' deposits. Brs Goddard and Gould were elected senior auditors, and Brs Davies and Tod the junior auditors. Sanction was given to Court 4492 to re-admit Mr John Hood, formerly a member of Court 3294. The meeting closed at 6.45.

WIDOW AND ORPHAN FUND.

THE quarterly meeting was held at the Penton Hall, Penton Street, Pentonville, on Thursday, January 19th, 1871.

On the roll being called there were 100 delegates present, leaving 11 courts unrepresented. Br Aylett, DSCR, presided in the place of Br Taylor, DCR, who was absent through illness. Brs Darling and Bonfield were appointed tellers. The usual preliminaries having been gone through, the auditors' report was read and received. Brs Goddard, Gould, Davies, and Tod were elected auditors for the ensuing quarter. Thirteen applications for bonuses, in lieu of pensions, were received. The meeting closed at 8.45.

Correspondence.

To the Editor of Labour and Unity." DEAR SIR, -Exciting were the anticipations of the mightiest of the Tadpoles and Tapers, as well as of the more humble workers of the Leeds district of the AOF, on Saturday last, when a special meeting was held to receive, adopt, or reject the district laws as presented by a committea to whose wisdom they had been submitted for revision.

A generally more intelligent meeting has seldom been held in this district; of course, there were the usual exceptions the carpers and quibblers-whose ominous experiences, ultra-amenities, combined with notions of their own importance, for which nobody else gave them credit, and which were only excelled by the injustice and bad taste displayed by several of the entities in their non-recognition thereof. The meeting was opened at precisely two p.m. by Br B. J. Parkin, DCR, when, on the roll being called, it was found that thirty-six delegates were present. The consideration of the laws were, after a few preliminaries, proceeded with, but rather than the legitimate object, in this deponent's opinion, seemed to be, in two or three cases, personalities of the brutum fulmen description, directed against Br Crowther, PDCR, from whose court had emanated the proposition to the last district meeting, to revise the said laws, and from which had also proceeded "instructions" confirmed by the said meeting; for

the alteration of some of the laws, one of whichthe payment of delegates from the district management fund- had met the determined opposition not only of a few of the delegates then assembled, but of members of the committee, especially Brs Uncless, PCR and Burrell, Secretary of 1106, the latter of whom, at the meeting on Saturday, whether in abhorrence of the subject of an article in the last number of the Foresters' Miscellany, by Br Crowther, or from some other covert motive, or from a belief that he was right, or, "because the wiser we get the less original we become," on Br Crowther making a statement, called out to the meeting, with all the emphasis of an angry man desiring to "transact a quarrel"-" you are - He was called to order,

and retracted this very elegant sentence. Let us hope that this species of expression does not generally represent the good manners of this court.

It may be some excuse that Br Burrell, chafed and defeated in one of his favourite projects-the introduction of a law giving to each delegate to a district meeting from a court, consisting of fifty members, or a fraction of that number, two votes, &c., because he objects to the principle of small courts having the same number of votes as the large ones, which, per inuendo, sbews his consistency, inasmuch as he would give one vote to fifty members, and one vote to one member, if the court numbers fifty-one. His original proposition on committee was ten and fractions of ten; but not being supported, he agreed with one of his colleagues to make it fifty.

That committee was chosen-not advisedly-from seven of the largest courts, and consisted of Brs Foster, Richardson, Clarke, Uncless, Mair, Burrell, and Crowther, all of whom, but the last named, were in favour of the "cumulative vote," and wasted almost a whole "sitting," discussing its adoption, although advised by that brother and Br Temple, DS, that it was contrary to the spirit of the 40th General Law, which was subsequently borne ont by an appeal to the EC, and which resulted at the special meeting in these acute lawyers having to "eat the leek,' whilst Br Crowther had become the upas tree under which its digestion must proceed. The DCR, under the advice of the EC, refused to put the "proposition" to the meeting.

On another subject where the worthy delegate of 1106 had a desire to override General Law, defeat followed, and might be taken in extenuation of still further" Billingsgate," in reference to some delegate or delegates, to whom he applied the elegant epithet of "stoup or lamppost."

Out of sixty-two laws, seventeen were considered and passed. The delegates taking the principal part in the discussions being those already named, together with Brs Plummer, Lister, Wildman, Hargreave, Scott, Thorpe, Newton, Ash, and Shortland, The meeting at ten o'clock was adjourned to the Thursday following.

Few visiting brethren were present, but amongst them was our respected Br Edmondson, DS, of Bradford, who had come over for the occasion. We cannot say there was a "murrain of monotony"for one or two "terrible old Pharaohs," now becoming almost as rare in our meetings as the mammoth or the plesiosaurus, endeavouring to introduce some of their pristine notions, by returning to their normal state of retrogressiveness, talked to the younger brethren as if they were human beings like themselves," advising a "Daniel Dancer" sort of economy, without, of course, mentioning that "worthy's' name, thereby strengthening the impression that they had once done good service, but weakening the faith in their ability to continue it.

I am, Dear Sir,

Yours fraternally, THE COURT FOOL'S COUNTRY COUSIN.

Leeds, January, 1871.

To the Editor of "Labour and Unity." SIR,-It is at all times pleasant to read in the public journals the different opinions entertained by all of us on all subjects, therefore I opine you will not think my observations on Br Patient's letter inserted in your journal of last month out of place.

In advocating nightly meetings for the LUD, your correspondent must have been unacquainted with district meetings. The idea of commencing business at five o'clock in the evening is wrong; a time when most men have exhausted the superior portion of the mind, and are less capable of enduring debates which necessarily must occur on the business of such an important body, while the prolonging the meetings till twelve at night would be productive of the most mischievous re

sults, inasmuch that, for the reasons I have adduced, the delegate would get anxious to close the business, and important matters would very frea quently receive but paltry attention. The writer has lost sight of the fact that there are al ways plenty eligible and anxious on the night of nomination for the post, disproving the monopoly as alleged. But, Sir, it is the old, old story, one part of the community (always the minority) finding it impossible to elbow its way into the front ranks, c ntinually grumbling and pining over the fact of always being in the background. Well, it is pitiable to see it thus, but good generalship should dictate the propriety of swallowing the leek before rushing into print with complaint. The latter portion of the letter, respecting a better representation, is no more than we have known for years, and as Br Patient has offered no new scheme for its alteration, I am afraid we must remain as we are. In conclusion, let me beg of you to raise your powerful pen against ever. ing sittings for the funeral fund of the district. We can scarcely rest satisfied as it is, with the W and O meetings being held in the evening. Your insertion of this by way of reply will oblige, Yours fraternally,

BENJ. CONSTABLE, PCR, 1681.

COUNTY COURT CASE FOR A DOCTOR'S BILL OF £2 58. 6d.

To the Editor of "Labour and Unity." SIR,-As your columns have become of much use to Foresters, I wish to ask the opinion of our leading members on the 87th general law. We have a member who made a charge against the surgeon of the court in accordance with the 14th court law, which runs thus on the matter:-"If complaint be made against the surgeon, the same shall be laid be fore the court or a committee thereof in writing, and the surgeon and member shall be summoned in ac cordance with the general laws of the order to attend the following court night to investigate such complaint, and should the same be proved to be well founded, the court or committee may, after giving a quarter's notice in writing, or a quarter's salary, discharge him, if they think proper, and appoint another in his stead, which decision shall be final." The court then demanded 5s., in accordance with the 3rd section of the 87th general law; the member would not pay the 5s., as other cases had been heard before, and no demand ever made for it. On the fol lowing court night, the question was fairly argued before the court, that the 5s. could not be demanded in accordance with the 87th general law, as the surgeon was no member or officer of the court, but a servant, and therefore did not come under the functions of the court committee; and the court de cided that it should go to the committee without the 5s. being paid, and it went accordingly. The cota mittee heard the case, and the member not proving the case to their satisfaction, they fined him 58, 8 they said the 3rd section of the 87th general law gives them power to do so. The member then took the case to the County Court, under the 51st section of the Friendly Society Act. He was nonsuited, as the court had no jurisdiction in consequence of the case having been heard before the committee of the court. The member would not go to the district,

he

of an opinion that he could not get a verdict, inasmuch as there is some ill-feeling and prejudice introduced into the case, that he could not get an impartial verdict, if he proved his case ever so well; but I do not think that they could influence the district committee so much as that if they were to try. It is contended for the court, that a dispute between a member and the surgeon of the court comes under the general law, and that they can fine the member under the general law. I hold that they cannot if so, the law is vague and empty on the point. I hold that each member makes a contract with the court to pay him so much per week in sickness and so much at death, medical attendance and medicine. Now the 87th general law, section 2, tells me how I am to proceed in case of my sick pay being stopped, and the 88th general law, section 2, tells me how to pro Iceed in case of funeral money being stopped; but the general law does not say one word how I am to proceed if the court fail to provide me with medicine and medical attendance, neither is there anything in the functions of either of the committees to give them power to hear a case between a member and the sur geon of the court; but I hold that the 49th general law gives courts power to make laws for themselves in such cases, which we have done, as above stated. I beg to say to my brother Foresters, that I cannot

PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT.

THE annual delegate meeting of the district was ld at Br Helby's, Sultan Tavern, Lake Road, and pert, on Wednesday, December 14, 1870. Offirs present-Brs W. G. Smart, PAD; W. Grant, PAD; J. Turner, DT and Relieving Officer, pro .: J. Smith, DG; and C. Ballard, DS. Crerials being received and names called over, the L'ing was duly opened by Provincial Arch Druid Br V. G. Smart, at 7-15 p.m. After the business of the leting had been gone through, the Provincial in lusion called upon the delegates present to elect e district officers for the ensuing year. On the tes being taken, the Provincial Arch Druid declared A. R. Robinson duly elected as Provincial Arch uid, Br A. Manistre as Deputy, Br J. Turner as easurer, Br C. Ballard as Secretary, Br W. G. art as Relieving Officer, and Br J. Smith as tardian.

The Provincial Arch Druid Br. W. G. Smart ted the attention of the delegates while at some gth he reviewed the work done by the officers and mmittee during the year 1870, in connection with I for the benefit of the United Ancient Order of aids, Portsmouth District. The opening of three ge, one at Gosport, one at Landport, and one at sea, thereby strengthening the order in this dist, was part of the work which had occupied their e, and they had an opportunity to find out some alterations necessary to be made in the district , which he was glad the delegates had taken into sideration. The constitutional laws were far from ing of that clearness and distinctness which was cessary as a foundation on which to build the dist and lodge laws. He wished particularly to call attention of the delegates to the necessity lodges paying the funeral levies as soon as to them from the district. Although about to de the office of Provincial Arch Druid, he hoped to be able to render some little assistance in the s of Druidism in this district. He thanked delegates assembled for their kindness and forance while carrying out the duties of Provincial Druid, and hoped his successor would receive sympathy and support of the delegates and comee which he had at all times experienced. be Deputy Provincial Arch Druid, Br W. Grant, he quite coincided with the reniarks which Br It had made, but he could not help expressing his ngs at the manner in which the Provincial Arch id had been treated by some of the committee ng their term of office, and he must say that tever may have been their feelings (against the ), they ought to have respected his official posias chairman of this district. He (Br Grant) was it to vacate the office of Deputy Provincial Arch id, but he also hoped still to be able to render e little assistance in furtherance of the Order of didist.

r Blake spoke of the marked ability which the vincial Arch Druid had shown during his term of *; he (Br Blake) had been one of the committee Lodge Sacred Oak, and had had an opportunity udging of the Provincial Arch Druid's capaes of filling the office of chairman of this dis

Mansell proposed and Br Slade seconded, at a vote of thanks be given to the district by this meeting for their services during the and a past arch certificate be given to the Proal Arch Druid Br Smart."-Carried unanisiy.

ovincial Arch Druid Br Smart returned thanks imself and colleagues.

e district officers were then installed in their etive offices.

Visitors present-Arch Druid Br Bryer, of Lodge 559, Arch Druid Br Rowe, of Lodge 585, Past Secretary Br J. White, of Lodge 548, and Br Fox, of Lodge 585.

The annual dinner of Lodge Royal Victoria took place on Friday, December 30, 1870, when 41 members and friends sat down to a sumptuous dinner provided by Host W. Ward, of the Coburg Arms, Fratton. The chair was occupied by the secretary, Br Hewitt, and the vice-chair by Br Hooper. After the cloth was removed the chairman commenced the business of the evening by giving the usual toast, "Her Majesty the Queen," and wishing her health and strength for many years to come, and that she may be guided aright by her ministers in these troublesome times.

The vice-chairman gave "The Prince and Princess of Wales, and the remaining branches of the Royal Family."

The chairman, in responding to "United Ancient Order of Druids, and Success to Lodge Victoria," stated the lodge was formed in March, 1868, by 31 members, and that the number had been raised to 66, but owing to the state of the country, and the discharges from the dockyard, the members had been reduced to 47. They had paid away the large amount of £53 19s. for sickness and he (the chairman) believed that this society and all others founded on the same basis were doing a great amount of good to the country by keeping many poor families out of the union, and he called upon the brothers of the lodge to try and get young men to join, believing that by so doing a great favour was bestowed upon them, it being the means of making them better husbands, better fathers, and better members of society.

Br Nichols gave "The Portsmouth District," coupled with the name of the district officer, which was very ably responded to by PPAD Br Smart.

The chairman then said he had a very pleasing duty to perform, and that was to present PAD Br J. M. Hooper with a past certificate. He was a brother that took a great interest in the lodge and society, and although this was only a small token, yet he believed that PAD Br Hooper would appreciate it just as much as if it was of greater value. In presenting this small emblem he hoped that he would live long to enjoy the brotherly love that was shown towards him, and when it pleased God to take him from them, this small token would be handed down as a heirloom to his family, that they might see what it is to be respected and honoured by his fellow men; and the chairman hoped that the members would carry out their motto, United to Assist," and when their duty was done they may be placed in the same position as Br Hooper.

Br Hooper returned thanks in a neat speech. "The Health of Visitors," was drunk, and also "The Host and Hostess," and the successful meeting was brought to a close in the usual manner about 1 o'clock.

Several songs were sung by the members of the lodge and friends, which were well received.

The Court Guide.

COURT PROTECTION, No. 2127, held at the White Horse, Castle Street East, Oxford Street, W., the second and fourth Tuesdays. The following officers will be happy to meet any brother that can make it convenient to pay them a friendly visit:Brs. T. Thurgood, CR; J. T. Trower, SCR; J. T. Rannie, SW; J. Buck, JW; J. Smith, SB; T. G. Brown, JB; D. Callick, jun., secretary; J. N. Prior, cash secretary; J. Paul, minute secretary; C. Lufkins, jun., treasurer; Brs Trower, Noon, and Haynes, auditors; J. Hursley, Esq., Surgeon.

COURT STAR OF KENT, 3134, held at the Admiral Hardy, Greenwich, alternate Mondays. The following brethren were elected on Monday evening, January 23rd, as officers for the next six months :Brs Blackburn, CR; Baldock, SCR; Scott and T. Cooper, woodwards; Parkins and Niven, beadles; Lockwood, treasurer; Liversage, secretary; and Ffinch, check-secretary.

COURT PERSEVERANCE, 3186, held at the Tiger Inn, North-street, Wolverhampton.-The Worshipful the Mayor, James Walker, Esq., Councillor O. S. Walsh, C. Hardwick, Esq., PGM, MU, G. Griffiths, Esq., Mr. A. Leach, Mr. J. Hill, honorary members; Mr. E. Moore, Mr. J. Craddock, and Mr. Doleman, trustees; Mr. Councillor H. Willcock, treasurer: Councillor F. Turton, Esq., LRCP, Lond., MRCS, Eng., surgeon; Mr. Valentine Harris, secretary.

COURT COMMERCE, 1965.-The following officers were elected at the half-yearly summoned meeting, January 12th:-Brs J. T. Austin, CR; Tibbatts, SCR; Pugh and Beardmore, woodwards; Horstman and Coleman, beadles.

COURT HYDE PARK, 2109, Swan Tavern, Bayswater Road, Paddington.- Meeting nights second Tuesday in every month. T. G. Turner, W. Warmington, and G. Wright, Trustees; H. L. Dixson, treasurer; R. E. Gaye, Esq., surgeon; F. Champ, 21, Lombard Street, City, secretary.

COURT LEGALITY, 1882.-Brs Joseph S. Hills, CR; Robert W. Gray, SCR; Charles Voice, SW T. Broome, JW; Newton, SB; A. C. Jones, JB; R. J. Perfitt Harvey, PCR, treasurer; Thomas Scott, secretary; Hood, assistant secretary; W. L. Mumford, Esq., M.D., surgeon; Moore, Smith, Herbert, and Robinson, trustees. Court meetings at the Essex Head, Essex Street, Strand, the first Tuesday in each month.

COURT ROYAL OAK, 2749, held at the Royal Oak, Church Street, Lee, Kent, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays in each month. List of officers elected January 17th :— Brs F. Humphreys, CR; Evans, SCR; C. Bargent, SW; J Shorter, JW; S. Randle, SB; H. Heserlwood, JB; G. Wright, treasurer; H. Wright, secretary; W. Phippen, assistant secretary; J. Burroughs, Esq., Thos. Sidery, and G. Dampier, trustees; J. Burroughs, Esq., surgeon; A. Barker, Brooks, and Sutton, auditors; Sidery, Dampier, Crook, Boroff, Phippen, A. Barker, Heserlwood, S. Randle, S. Smith, Kempster, Sutton, and Durnford, appeal committee.

COURT BRYANT'S PRIDE, 4980, held at Sydney Hall, Leader Street, Chelsea, the second and fourth Wednesday in every month, at 8.30 p.m. Brs W. H. Anscombe, J. Fitzgerald, and W. Hopwood, trustees; H. Mackintosh, Esq., M.D., surgeon; W. Bryant, PCR, treasurer; G. Parrington, PCR, secretary; S. Gandee, PCR, Kimmins, PCR; Parker, SCR, W. Hopwood, PSW, J. Field, PSCR, Mathews, PSW, and Lyddon, auditors.

VAUXHALL JUVENILE FORESTERS' FRIENDLY SOCIETY, held at the Temperance Hall, 122, Vauxhall Walk, S. F. Sharp, PCR & PP, 1561, H. Patten, PCR, 2993, M. Johnson, PCR, 4030, T. M. G. Calvert, PCR, 4030, A. R. Bailey, 4022, W. Ware, 4971, committee of management; Dr G. de G. Griffith and Messrs. Coppin and Bevis, surgeons; J. Rowe, PCR, 2103, secretary, 41, Besboroughplace, Pimlico. The committee meet on the first Thursday in every month, from 8 till 10 o'clock.

COURT BRITISH OAK, 3249, WOLVERHAMPTON AND TIPTON DISTRICT, held at the British Oak Inn, Wolverhampton. Mr J. Talbot, Mr J. Stevens, and Mr. G. Howes, trustees; Mr. J. Deveny, treasurer; F. Turton, Esq., surgeon; Mr. Valentine Harris, secretary.

Oddfellows.

SOUTHAMPTON DISTRICT. THE quarterly committee of this district was held on Monday, at the Lodge room of the Loyal Raymond Lodge, Cliff Hotel, Woolston. PGM Thomas, of Winchester, presided, and Deputy GM. Raitt, of Gosport, occupied the vice-chair. There were twentyone lodges represented at the meeting. The accounts of the funeral fund stated that the balance in hand on the previous quarter was £102 9s. 3d., and the receipts from a levy of 18. 3d. on 4283 members, £267 138. 9d.; the expenditure was £264, and the present balance in hand £106 38. After some discussion on minor matters the district accounts were passed. Mr J. C. Harris (Hope Lodge), was appointed an auditor in the room of Mr George Smith (Raymond), who retired by rotation. It was decided by 14 to 5 that the funeral levy for the ensuing quarter should be 1s. 3d. on cach member, the minority being in favour of a 1s. 6d. levy. A levy of 2d. was also made for incidental and management expenses. The meeting then proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing year. Deputy GM Raitt was the only nomination for the chief office, and was therefore declared PGM of the District for the ensuing year amidst some applause. For the office of Deputy GM there were ten nominations, and after three divisions Mr D. C. Howard (Prosperity Lodge) was elected, receiving 11 votes, Mr. Bridges (Princess Royal) and Mr J. Carpenter (Hythe) having 5 each.