The Witness - Friday, 2 February 1917

Deaths

M'FARLAND -- January 29, at Main Street, Castlederg, Maggie, the beloved wife of Thomas M'Farland.
M'FARLAND -- January 30, at Main Street, Castlederg, Thomas M'Farland.
Both interred side by side in the family burying-ground, Castlederg, on January 31.

ALLEN -- January 30 (from pneumonia), at Erin Crescent, Portadown, Freda Isobel Allen, aged 18 months.

BELL -- January 26, at a Private Hospital, Dublin, Wm. Bell, late of Ardlussa, Bangor.

CALDWELL -- January 28, at his residence, Windsor House, Portstewart, Hugh, the dearly-beloved husband of Jennie Caldwell.

CARLISLE -- January 30, at his residence, Union Street, Coleraine, James Carlisle, formerly of Lusnarick.

CASTLES -- January 29, Thomas, second son of Hugh Castles, Drumlin, Donacloney.

COWDEN -- January 31, at Upper Balloo, Grace, wife of David Cowden.

DOUGLAS -- January 30 (suddenly), at his residence, Springmount, Coleraine, Frederick Stewart, eldest surviving son of the late John Douglas.

EAGLESON -- January 28, at Ballycraigy, Jane Eagleson, youngest daughter of the late Samuel Eagleson, Maxwellswalls.

GRACEY -- January 27, at Dundrum House, Mary, youngest daughter of the late Thomas Gracey, Esq., of Ballyhossett, County Down.

HARVEY -- January 30, at Dromore, County Down, Mary Jane Harvey, widow of the Lite Robert Harvey, Ballynabraggett.

KEAG -- At her residence, Rubane, Maggie, beloved wife of Adam Keag.

MEARES -- January 24, 1917, at his residence, Beechlawn, Moyvore, Co. Westmeath, George Meares, aged 75 years, dearly-loved husband of Kate Meares. "He hath done all things well."

MEGARRY -- January 30, at her residence, Tully, Killead, Eliza, relict of the late Wm. Megarry.

MILLAR -- January 25, at his late residence, Plumstead, London, Andrew, the fourth son of the late Alexander Millar and of Mrs. Millar, 214, Duncairn Gardens, Belfast.

MONTGOMERY -- January 25, at Nordrach-on-Dee, Banchory, N.B., Agnes, wife of Wm. Montgomery, 12, Pendennis Road, Seacombe, Cheshire, and late of Ballymena, Co. Antrim.

M'CANCE -- January 26, at 68, Little Frances Street, Newtownards, Margaret, beloved wife of John M'Cance, formerly of Magherabeg, Antrim.

M'KINSTRY -- January 31, at her residence, Moss-side, Dunmurry, Ann, relict of the late James M'Kinstry.

M'ILVEEN -- January 28, 1917 (of pneumonia), at his residence, Bellesguardo, Johannesburg, South Africa, John, the beloved husband of Amelia M'Ilveen, and eldest son of the late James M'Ilveen, Garryduff, Belfast. M. J. M'ILVEEN.

M'MILLAN -- January 30, at her residence, Browndodd, Margaret Agnes, relict of the late James M'Millan, aged 75 years.

M'MULLAN -- January 28, at 60, Dromore Street, Banbridge, Bessie White, eldest daughter of Mary M'Mullan and the late William M'Mullan.

PATTERSON -- January 29, at his residence Main Street, Crumlin, James, the dearly-beloved husband of Charlotte PAtterson.

PATTON -- January 2, at Coyote, California, John A., eldest son of the late Andrew Patton, Ballygrott, Helen's Bay.

SHAW -- January 29, at his residence, Creevy House, Lisburn, James W. Shaw, aged 79 years.

SINTON -- January 29, at Braidview Cottage, Ballymena, the residence of her brother-in-law, A. Smith, Henrietta E., eldest daughter of the late Samuel Sinton, Belfast, formerly of Bessbrook, County Armagh.

SKILLEN -- January 29, at Bangor Demesne, Annie Skillen.

SPIERS -- January 24, at Drumnasole, Carnlough, County Antrim, William James (Willie), second and dearly-beloved son of Thomas and Annie Spiers, aged 2 years and 9 months.

THOMPSON -- January 29, at her residence, Killcross, Carmavey, Margaret, widow of the late James Thompson.

TROTTER -- January 26, at his residence, Sea Park Cottage, Greenisland, Alex. Trotter.

WARDEN -- January 28, at his residence, Rose Hill, Cunningburn, David, beloved husband of Jane Warden.

WEST -- January 29, at his residence, Ballyclare, Aaron West, formerly of Cootehill, aged 77 years.

Clippings

EPITOME OF GENERAL NEWS

The King has appointed Field-Marshal the Duke of Connaught to be Colonel-in-Chief of the Volunteer Force.

Admiral Sir David Beatty, G.C.B., K.C.V.O., has accepted the vice-presidency of the British and Foreign Sailors' Society.

Speaking at Westminster, Mr. W, Long said the German Colonies which we had captured would never return to German rule.

At a police court in the North Midlands five men were sentenced to a month's imprisonment for smoking in a munition factory.

Sir Edward Carson is confined to the house with a severe cold, and was unable to fulfil an engagement to speak at Hull last night.

As a result of landslides on Bali Island, Dutch East Indies, a whole village has been engulfed. Three hundred persons lost their lives.

Presumably as the result of a "rag" Second-Lieutenant T. H. Beit, son of the African millionaire, shot himself in his room at York Barracks.

Major Goodden was killed while testing an aeroplane at Aldershot on Sunday. The wings broke and the machine fell from a height of 1,000 feet.

Mr. Arthur W. Samuels, K.C., and Sir Robert Woods, M.D., have been nominated for the Parliamentary representation of Trinity College, Dublin.

A few acres of the Curragh lands have been broken up near Newbridge, and it is thought that arrangements may be made for the tillage of the whole Curragh Plain.

A meeting was held in Dundela lecture hall, Knock, in furtherance of the scheme to provide an Ulster Hut in France for the Soldiers' Christian Association at a cost of £750.

Beet root grown in County Limerick this year, Sir Charles Cameron (Dublin) states, contains 12 per cent. of sugar, as against 8 or 9 per cent, in foreign-grown beet-sugar.

London Flour Millers' Association have advanced the price of new G. R. flour to from 58s 6d to 61s, according to quality, per sack of 280lbs., delivered. The previous price was 60s.

It is officially announced that the King has conferred the Albert Medal on Mr. Joseph Conolly, third engineer of the steamer Vanellus, of Cork, for his gallantry when that vessel struck a mine in Havre roads.

Mr. J. Hodge, Labour Minister, denying a statement that women could not be induced to go to employment exchanges, says that 2,063,813 women registered at them last year, and 765,481 were placed in employment.

The report of the Speaker's Conference on Electoral Reform has been issued. A majority of the Conference favoured women's suffrage; while a redistribution scheme (which does not apply to Ireland) is included in the recommendation.

Rev. Alex. Stewart, minister or the Bessbrook Presbyterian Church, who has been working amongst the British troops in Egypt for the past six months, under the auspices of the Y.M.C.A., has arrived in London on his way home.

The Exchequer returns, April 1st, 1916, to Jan. 27th last, show:-- Receipts, £374,830,176; expenditure, £1,710,075,170. Corresponding period of the previous twelve months -- Receipts were £214,452,833; expenditure, £1,195,275,725.

Pork reached a new record in Cookstown on Saturday, 121s a cwt. being paid for first quality, a rise of 15s in a week. Prices on other markets were -- Portadown and Omagh, 118s; Letterkenny, 117s; and Ballybay, 115s to 116s 6d, a rise of 10s since last market.

At Liverpool Lord Derby said that last autumn 60,000 men in agriculture whose claims for exemption had been rejected were merely lent to the land, and a number of them had now been called up, after consultation with Mr. Prothero and with the sanction of the War Cabinet.

It is reported that an attempt has been made to wreck a train by which King Alfonso was travelling near Granada, an iron beam having been placed across the rails. Fortunately the beam was discovered and was removed in good time, a disaster being thus prevented.

The Government is requisitioning potatoes for troops from West Lancashire merchants and farmers. An order for 500 tons stipulates £8 a ton, or whatever price the Food Controller fixes. The tubers must be disease free, packed in cwt. bags, and delivered on rail at the nearest depot as required.

The King has addressed a letter to the Lords Lieutenant of Great Britain appealing for their help in the organisation of the Volunteer Force. His Majesty pays a tribute to the splendid work accomplished in various theatres of war by the Territorials, who were originally intended for home defence.

When Sarah Campbell Goodship, an elderly woman with a Scottish accent, was sentenced to a month's imprisonment in the second division at Clonmel, she stated that fourteen of her children by her first husband were fighting in France and her second husband was a munition worker who had lost has sight.

At Derby, Alice Wheeldon, aged 50; Harriet Ann Wheeldon, aged 27; Winnie Mason, aged 30; Alfred George Mason, aged 24, were charged with having conspired to murder the Prime Minister and Mr. Arthur Henderson. Only evidence of arrest was given, after which the prisoners were remanded until, to-morrow.

The Manchester delegate meeting of the Amalgamated Society of Engineers, which was recalled to consider a number of important matters, has decided to increase the wages of the organisation's general officers by 15s a week. An addition of 25 per cent, is also to be made to what are known as delegation expenses.

The Secretary of War announces that at the request of the military authorities in France the forwarding of parcels to France via the Military Forwarding Officer at Southampton has been suspended for one week from Sunday, January 28. It is requested that no parcels may be despatched to Southampton until Monday, February 5.

The report on the administration of the National Relief Fund to September 30 shows that contributions amounted to £5,634,385. The issues for naval and military relief amounted to £2,920,800, of which £2,000 was sent to local committees in Ireland. For civil distress the amount issued was £487,385, of which £30,700 went to Ireland.

Sophia Eken, a single woman, aged 90, who has lived alone in one room at Hull for seventeen years, has been found dead in bed. She was believed to be poor, and was in receipt of an old-age pension, but in her handbag were found two bank-books, one showing a credit balance of £1,000. She also had £27 in gold, over £4 in silver, and a gold watch and chain.

The death has occurred at his residence, The Highlands, Holywood, of Mr. Robert Duncan, of the firm of Messrs. R. & D. A. Duncan, coal merchants, Donegall Quay, Belfast. One of the older members of the Ulster Rifle Association, he took a very keen interest in rifle shooting. Mr. Duncan was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Holywood, and was a staunch Unionist.

The death has occurred of Mr. Robert Tennent, J.P., at his residence, Rush Park, Belfast. Mr. Tennent, who had reached the ripe old age of 82 years, was a son of the late Mr. Robert James Tennent, D.L., a former member of Parliament for Belfast. He had a wide circle of friends, and he was esteemed by all who knew him for his uprightness of character, his lovable nature, and his kind and unassuming manner. He was a convinced Unionist.

There were stormy scenes at Omagh Guardians' meeting, when the Local Government Board intimated that they would not sanction the temporary appointment of Dr. H. E. Owen for Omagh, and forwarded a protest against Dr. Owen's appointment signed by eighteen Unionists, and also another from Dr. Duncan. The Unionists demanded a vote as to whether Dr. Duncan should be appointed, but the chairman (Mr. Murnaghan) refused. No section was taken.

A destructive fire has occurred in Cardiff. The outbreak originated in the wholesale drapery stores of Messrs. Downing & Co., Frederick Street, in the centre of the city, and extended to an adjoining five-storey block, which was built at a cost of £20,000. and was in the occupation of the Glamorgan Insurance Committee and several drapery firms. A chapel on the opposite side of the road became ignited, but was saved. The damage is estimated at about £100,000.

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DEATH OF AN IRISH BREEDER.

The death has occurred at Mallusk, near Belfast, of Mr. James Barron, who for over half a century was a leading agriculturist and horse breeder. His dairy farm is reputed to be the largest of the kind in Ireland, and for forty years he was contractor to the Belfast Union Workhouse. There was no better judge of horses in Ulster. The deceased was a relative of Rev. Dr. Robert Barron, Whitehouse.

The funeral of the deceased took place on Sabbath, when his remains were interred in burying-ground, Umgall. There was a very large attendance of mourners, testifying to the widespread esteem in which the deceased was held. A service was conducted at the house by Rev. Dr. Magill and Rev. Dr. Barron. The chief mourners were -- Messrs. Robert, John, James, Samuel Gibson, and Humphrey Barron (sons); Mr. Wm. M'Bride and Mr. James Barron (grandsons); Messrs. Robert, Samuel, and Gibson J. Barron (brothers). The service at the graveside was conducted by Rev. Robert Wallace and Rev. Dr. Magill.

The funeral arrangements were satisfactorily carried out by Messrs. Melville & Co.

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TRIBUTE TO LATE MR. G. H. ELLIOTT

Rev. D. H. Maconachie, B.D., at the morning service in High Street Church, Holywood, on Sabbath, referred in touching terms to the late Mr. G. H. Elliott, the Chief Librarian of the Belfast Public Library. He said -- "I wish to say a few words about one who died in our midst in the past week. Our hearts and thoughts were deeply saddened and touched by the sudden call which came to Mr. G. H. Elliott. He was an elder in this congregation for twenty years. He was for a time superintendent of the Sabbath school and was in charge of the Sustenation Fund. He was interested in everything which concerned the temporal and spiritual prosperity of this church. He was God's good gift to his own home, to this church, and to the community in which he lived. He went out and in in every sphere of his life "wearing the white flower of a blameless life." We thank God for him. There is no need for tears over such a death, and we cannot but recognise the heavy bereavement of his widow and his family, and we offer them our very deepest and most loving sympathy."

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THE LATE MR. A. ROBINSON, J.P.

The funeral took place on Saturday amid signs of deep regret and sympathy of Mr. Andrew Robinson, J.P., of Ray, Manorcunningham. A very large and representative attendance of mourners followed the remains from the house to their last resting-place in Errity Burying-ground, the Rev. S. J. Parker. B.A., Second Ray Presbyterian Church, of which deceased was a prominent member, officiating at the house and at the graveside. The cortege included gentlemen from different parts of the three counties of Derry, Donegal, and Tyrone, and was the largest seen in the district for many years. The chief mourners were -- Mr. Wm. Robinson and Mr. Andrew Robinson (sons), Mr. W. Robinson (brother), Mr. John P. Thompson, J.P., ex-Mayor of Derry, and Mr. W. Thompson (brothers-in-law), Mr. J. M'Kimmon (nephew), Mr. Kennedy, Ballyneanor, and Mr. Kennedy, Draperstown (cousins), Mr. M'Kinlay (son-in-law), Mr. D. M'Farland, Derry.

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THE ROLL OF HONOUR.

Second-Lieutenant R. Brian M'Connell, King's Own Scottish Borderers, killed in action, was the youngest son of Mr. T. E. M'Connell, University Street, Belfast, of Messrs. Robson's, Ltd., Chichester Street, and a nephew of Sir Robert J. M'Connell, Bart., D.L., Glendhu, Holywood Road. The deceased officer was educated at the Royal Academical Institution, and on leaving school entered the Messrs. John Robson. Prior to the war he was an enthusiastic member of the South Belfast Regiment U.V.F., and of the Officers Training Corps at Queen's University, from which he received his commission in the K.O.S.B.'s on 1st July, 1915.

Lieutenant E. O. B. Killen, Royal Engineers, killed in action, was a son of Mr. Edward Killen, formerly of Malone Road, Belfast, a grandson of Rev. Dr. Workman, Newtownbreda Manse. His father, Mr. Edward Killen, was a nephew of the late Rev. T. Y. Killen, D.D., for many years minister of Duncairn Presbyterian Church. The deceased entered the Engineers as a second-lieutenant on 9th January, 1915, and was promoted lieutenant, on 12th April, 1916. He served through the Gallipoli campaign.

Sub-Lieutenant Ian Campbell M'Cormick, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, killed in action, was the only son of Mr. John M'Cormick, Craigroyston, Knock, Town Solicitor of Belfast. He received his earlier education at Campbell College, and matriculated at Trinity College, Dublin, in 1914, terminating his studies in the following year to respond to the call of country. He obtained a commission in the Royal Naval Division in September, 1915. Prior to his departure for the front in October last he was entertained by a large number of his friends, who made him the recipient of a sword, the presentation being made by the High Sheriff (Mr. Robert Dunlop).

Lieutenant Ezekiel Vance, Royal Irish Rifles, of whose death from wounds received in action is announced, was a son-in-law of the Moderator of the General Assembly (Right Rev. Dr. West), The Manse, Antrim. Widespread sympathy will be extended to the venerable head of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, his daughter, and the mother of the fallen officer, not only on account of their bereavement, in which they share an experience that is painfully common, but also by reason of peculiarly distressing circumstances in connection with the notification of Lieutenant Vance's death. In this case grief and joy have alternated in a manner that, fortunately, is seldom the lot of those who have suffered loss through the war. Following the memorable attack by the Ulster Division before Thiepval on 1st July last, Lieutenant Vance was reported killed in action. A month later a letter was received from Captain C. C. Craig, M.P. for South Antrim, a prisoner of war since 1st July, stating that he was in the same hospital as Lieutenant Vance, who was wounded in the head, but doing well. This communication had been written shortly after Captain Craig had been wounded and fallen into the hands of the enemy. Now comes the intimation that Lieutenant Vance succumbed to his wounds at Caudry, in Flanders, on 15th July last. The deceased was a son of the late Mr. William Vance and Mrs. Vance, Riverside, Antrim, and was educated at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution, being engaged in the estate agents business with Mr. H. D. M. Barton, The Bush, Antrim, before the opening of the war. He was a company commander of the Ulster Volunteer Force in Antrim, and obtained his commission in one of the county battalions on the formation of the Ulster Division.

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DEATH OF MR. AND MRS. M'FARLAND, CASTLEDERG.

The death of Mrs. M'Farland, wife of Mr. Thos. M'Farland, Castlederg, on Monday of this week, followed by that of her husband on Tuesday, has occasioned a melancholy feeling in the Castlederg district, where they were two of the most respected and prominent figures in the community. Mrs. M'Farland had been in failing health for a considerable time, and became seriously ill towards the end of last week, gradually sinking until death supervened. Mr. M'Farland contracted his fatal illness about the same time, and only survived his wife by a few hours. They were devoted members of the Presbyterian Church, and carried on an extensive drapery, hardware, and general trade. The late Mr. M'Farland was for many years the agent for "The Witness" in this district. Mrs. M'Farland was a native of near Omagh, where a number of her relatives still survive. The deceased are survived by three sons -- Rev. W. J. M'Farland, Presbyterian minister, Ballygilbert, Co. Down; Mr. Jas. M'Farland, who is in the United States; and Mr. Robert M'Farland, Castlederg. The remains of both husband and wife were laid to rest on Wednesday in the family burying-ground at Castlederg, the funeral cortege being exceptionally large.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 9 February 1917

Birth

MARTIN -- January 25, 1917, at Kinelowen Street, Ready, Co. Armagh, the wife of Thomas W. Martin, of a son.

Deaths

M'KEOWN -- February 3, at Littlebridge, Moneymore, William, dearly-beloved husband of Elizabeth M'Keown. Interred in the family burying-ground, Ballygoney.

BOYDE -- February 7, at her residence, Randalstown, Deborah Jane, widow of the late Thomas Boyde.

BROWN -- December 13, 1916, at the residence of her son, Thos E. Montgomery, Auckland, New Zealand, Elizabeth, widow of the late Robert Brown, Newtownards, aged 97.

BROWN -- February 3, at 54, Brookvale Street, Belfast, Charlotte Bradshaw, wife of William Brown.

CHAMBERS -- December 1 (suddenly), at Stratford, New Zealand, William Hugh, eldest son of the late John Chambers, Tullynaskeagh, Downpatrick.

COWAN -- February 3, at Broughshane Street, Ballymena, Susan, dearly-loved wife of John Cowan, and daughter of the late William M'Calmont, Larne.

CRAIG -- February 5, 1917, at his residence, Magheralane, Randalstown, John, beloved husband of Margaret Craig, in his 94th year.

CUNNINGHAM -- February 6, at the residence of his son-in-law, 2, Upper Street, Maesteg, South Wales, Edward, third son of the late John Cunningham, of Rostrevor.

EDGAR -- February 7, at 13, High Street, Newtownards, Samuel Ernest, eldest son of Robt. and Josephine Edgar, aged 16 years.

FINLAY -- February 7, at her residence, Mountain View, Sandy Lane, Tullynacross, Lisburn, Eva, the beloved wife of Robt. Finlay.

GARDINER -- February 3, at his late residence, Bridge Street, Portadown, Thomas Gardiner.

GOLDIE -- February 5, at her father's residence, Rose Cottage, Aghalee, Georgina, youngest and dearly-beloved daughter of Alexander and Ellen Goldie.

GRAY -- February 6, at his residence, Auburn Villa, Glenburn Park, William Gray, M.R.I.A., aged 88 years.

HARBISON -- February 4, at her residence, St. Margaret's, Portstewart, Mary Elizabeth Harbison.

MAGILL -- February 5, at her residence, Doagh, Dorothy ("Wee May"), daughter of George and Sadie Magill.

MANN -- February 3, at her daughter's residence, Linenhall Street, Ballymena, Catherine, widow of the late Robert Mann.

MARTIN -- February 4, at his residence, Beechwood Terrace, Ballynahinch, Robert Martin.

MINNIS -- February 6 (of pneumonia), at his residence, Saintfield, Samuel Orr Minnis, aged 46 years.

MORELAND -- February 6, at his residence, Glastry, William Moreland.

M'CAULAY -- February 4, at his residence, Legananny, Loughbrickland, James Downs M'Caulay, aged 84 years.

M'CONNELL -- February 1, at his residence, Brookville, Whitehead, John M'Connell, late of Donegall Place.

M'WHA -- February 4, at Ballyrolly, Millisle, Eleanor (Ella), dearly-beloved daughter of James and Lizzie M'Wha, aged one year end six months.

NICHOLSON -- February 2, at Drumawhey, Newtownards, Mary, widow of the late Thomas Nicholson.

RODGERS -- February 1, 1917, at 2, John Street, Newtownards, Ellen C. Rodgers, formerly of Crossgar, Dromara.

STEWART -- February 5, at Mountstewart, Nathaniel Stewart, aged 85 years.

THOMSON -- February 5, at the Manor House, Kilrea, the residence of her son, Dr. Lennox, Mrs. Maria Anne Thomson, aged 79 years.

WHITESIDE -- February 4, at 38, Dover Street, Agnes, second daughter of the late George Whiteside, Whitecross, Co. Armagh.

WYLY -- February 6, at Creggmore, Banbridge, Prudence Love, dearly-loved wife of Edward Wyly.

YOUNG -- February 4, at his residence, Groves End, Coleraine, William Young, aged 64 years.

Clippings

EPITOME OF GENERAL NEWS

Nine of the marooned men of the Shakleton expedition have been rescued. Three men had succumbed.

The bank clearances in Liverpool for Jan. amounted to £38,141,990, an increase of £8,427,690 over the corresponding month last year

A Tokio message reports an explosion which caused considerable damage in the petroleum depots at Yokohama. It is stated there were 100 victims.

The King has conferred 407 war honours, including seven V.C.'s, at Buckingham Palace. The recipients of V.C.'s included Lieut. J. V. Holland, Leinster Regiment.

Referring to the German Note, Sir Frederick Smith in Cardiff said never before had a belligerent dared to threaten the ships of a proud and powerful neutral.

Speaking in London, Mr. Hodge, Minister of Labour, said our rulers would be unworthy of the race if they did not punish as they should be punished the chief assassins.

In a letter to a War Loan meeting at Hull Sir Edward Carson said the submarine problem is being grappled with day and night by the Admiralty with tireless vigour.

Captain Amundsen, the famous Norwegian explorer, who is to endeavour to reach the North Pole by aeroplane, has arrived at Liverpool, en route to Norway, to complete his plans.

The Amsterdam "Tyd" reports a serious train smash on the line from Aix la Chapelle to Dusseldorf. A military train and passenger train collided, over 100 people being killed or injured.

Ernest Nunan, one of the Irish prisoners who was tried by court martial at Torquay on the 22nd ult. for refusing to wear a military uniform, has been sentenced to two years imprisonment, with hard labour.

At Fermoy market farmers demanded 1s 10d per weight (1½ stones) for potatoes, but the police intimated that only 1s 6d could be charged. The sellers denounced the regulation, but eventually complied with it.

Major P. J. Woods, D.S.O., son-in-law of Mr. S. Blacker Quin, Unionist candidate for West Belfast, has been appointed to command the battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles in which he served since the outbreak of the war.

Eight girls were injured, two of them seriously, by a boiler explosion which took place at the works of Messrs. Dobson & Crowther, Aston Road, Birmingham. It is supposed that the explosion was due to the frost.

At a meeting of the Cavan Branch of the Town Tenants' Association, Mr. B. M'Cabe, vice-chairman of the Urban Council, said that the only return that Ireland had received for its trust in the Irish party was a legacy of blood and tears.

The appointments of army chaplains with rank of captain are announced of Rev. W. H. Hutchinson, Presbyterian Minister, Cullybackey; Rev. T. A. M'Elfatrick, Presbyterian Church, Belturbet, and Rev. R. C. H. G. Elliott, Whitehouse.

The clearings of Manchester Banks during January were £45,298,585, which is £4,825,054 more than in any former month in the history of Manchester banking. High prices and transfers of money for War Loan account for the magnitude of the sum.

The Right Rev. Dr. Ingram, Bishop of London, in an address on the war, said the nation demanded that they should mobilise all their resources. He was about to mobilise the Church, and what the Church was about to do must be done by everyone in the land.

The death occurred at Shepton Mallet, of John Hamlin, who had nearly completed his 102nd year. He was formerly a draper in Taunton, Windsor, and London, and had long been recognised as the oldest draper in the kingdom, and the oldest resident in Somerset.

The Earl of Harrington died at Elvaston Castle, Derby, from blood-poisoning, following on burns sustained whilst working in his engineering shop. He was aged 72, and was an all-round sportsman. The new Earl is the deceased's brother, the Hon. Dudley Stanhope.

The London Flour Millers' Association have fixed the following prices:-- New G. R. flour, 58s 6d to 61s, according to quality in charged bags, per sack of 280 pounds, delivered (if in Hessians 1s more); ordinary bran, £14, and coarse middlings, £13 15s per ton ex mill, bags included.

As a solution of the scarcity and increased cost of milk in Cookstown, a milk depot was opened in the market yard on Monday. Over thirty-nine gallons of new milk were collected from farmers at a distance by motor car, and most of it was disposed of in a couple of hours at 4d per quart.

The death took place at his residence, Black's Court, Lurgan, of Patrick Grimes, with one exception Lurgan's oldest citizen, he having reached the advanced age of oven 100 years. Deceased, who was a hawker and dealer by occupation, preserved his full faculties till the last, and up until a week of his death pursued his calling as usual.

The "London Gazette" announces that the King has been pleased to appoint Major-General Charles Herbert Powell, C.B., Indian Army, to be a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. Major-General Powell is well known in Belfast and Ulster as the first commanding officer of the Ulster Division.

The teachers and students of Skerry's College, Royal Avenue, entertained, a number of wounded soldiers in the Avenue Hall, Garfield Street. After a sumptuous tea, an enjoyable programme was greatly appreciated by all present. The arrangements were carried out in a highly satisfactory manner by the esteemed principal (Mr. C. H. Cassidy) and Miss Hamilton, secretary.

Within the past few days Mr. Aiken, from near Victoria Bridge, Strabane, delivered 32 cwt. of flax to a local buyer, and received the price of £12 per cwt., which is the highest ever paid in the district. The 32cwt. was produced from three bags of seed. Mr. Dick, of the same neighbourhood, sold a quantity of flax just recently, and also received the price of £12 per cwt.

The list of Belfast Harbour Board electors has just been revised for the ensuing year by Mr. James M'Connell, LL.B., B.L., who, in opening the court, stated that last year's list contained 10,680 names, and intimated that any increase was anticipated this year. Mr. D. J. Owen, secretary, on behalf of the Commissioners, welcomed the Revising Barrister on that, his second annual visit in that capacity.

The promoters of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Service Club, Belfast, announce that they have acquired the Commercial Hotel, Waring Street, for the new club premises, and that the premises will be opened in the course of a week or so. It will be recollected that the original proposal was to secure the Ulster Hall, but the Corporation, by a majority, would not agree to grant the use of that building on the ground that other places which would not inconvenience the public were available.

It is officially stated that while the ice-breaker Tschelicuskine was being unloaded near the wharves at Archangel an explosion occurred. A fire broke out, which spread and damaged the buildings near the station. A tug was destroyed, and five other steamers damaged, three only slightly; 344 persons were injured, including three officers and ninety-nine soldiers. Fifty-nine persons were injured severely. The number of killed has not yet been definitely ascertained, but it is feared thirty have lost their lives.

The death of Mr. William Gray, M.R.I.A., took place at his residence, Auburn Villa, Glenburn Park, Belfast, in his eighty-sixth year. Mr. Gray, who was a native of South of Ireland, took a prominent part in matters relating to education, art, science, and archaeology. He was President of Belfast Naturalists' Field Club in 1879-80, and was one of the foremost advocates of the establishment of the Free Library and Art Gallery in Belfast. He was the author of several books on antiquarian and archaeological subjects.

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ANCHOR LINER SUNK.

Forty-One Lives Lost.

The Anchor Liner California, on passage from New York to Glasgow, with 205 passengers and mails, has been torpedoed and sunk. Some twenty-eight of the crew and thirteen passengers are missing. Four persons were killed by the explosion, and twenty injured, and no warning of any kind was given by the attacking submarine. The California only remained afloat seven minutes after being struck. The survivors, who were rescued after being less than an hour in the lifeboats, have been landed.

 

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The Witness - Friday, 16 February 1917

Marriage

BRAND--RODGERS -- February 6, 1917, at Second Ballyeaston Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. William Brann, William Brand, Donegall Park, Belfast, to Alice M. M. (Aida) Rodgers, only daughter of the late William Rodgers, Fitzroy Avenue, and grand-daughter of the late William Rodgers, The Manse, Carnmoney, Co. Antrim.

Golden Wedding

MILLIKEN--REA -- On 15th February, 1867, in the First Presbyterian Church, Ballymena, by the Rev. William Park, Alexander Milliken to Mary Rea, both of Tullygarley.

Deaths

CHAMBERS -- February 8, at her residence, Molesworth Road, Cookstown, Isabella, widow of the late John Chambers, Ballymaguire, Stewartstown. Funeral private.

SMYTH -- February 9, at her residence, 44, Thorndale Avenue, Martha, beloved sister of Catherine Smyth. Funeral private.

DEMPSTER -- February , 1917, at her residence, 103, Fitzroy Avenue, Belfast, Maggie F. Pollock, widow of the late Samuel Dempster, and third daughter of the late Rev. Alexander Pollock, Second Ballyeaston. Laid to rest in the City Cemetery, on Sabbath, 11th February. Inserted by her sorrowing Family. "He giveth His beloved sleep."

DEYARMON -- February 11, at his residence, Cargygray, Thomas Deyarmon.

DUFFIN -- February 9, at her father's residence, Massereene, Antrim, Annie Isobel, youngest daughter of John Duffin.

DUNLOP -- February 9, at her brother's residence, Killynether Cottage, Newtownards, Jane Dunlop.

ELDER -- February 8, 1917, at his residence, Rosemount, Stewartstown, Kennedy Elder, aged 84.

FRANCIS -- February 11, at 21½, William Street, Newtownards, Mary, dearly-beloved wife of William J. Francis.

GIBSON -- February 6, at her brother's residence, Isabella, youngest daughter of the late Henry Gibson, of Lisball, Bailieborough.

HILL -- February 8, at her residence, 84, Quaker Buildings, Lurgan, Agnes Lee (Aggie), second daughter of Thomas and Adelaide Jane Hill.

JAMISON -- Feb. 7, at her residence, Skerryvale, Broughshane, Hester Graham Jamison, eldest child of the late James and E. J. Jamison.

LAWTHER -- February 13, at Cluntagh, Crossgar, Sarah, widow of the late William Lawther.

MONEYPENNY -- February 13, at his residence, Wyncote, Strandtown, Belfast, Joseph Henry, eldest son of the late Joseph Moneypenny.

M'CORMICK -- February 9, at her residence, Ballyclan, Crumlin, Elizabeth, widow of the late John M'Cormick.

M'GOWAN -- February 4, at 4, Church Street, Bangor (the residence of his sister, Jane M'Keown), William M'Gowan.

M'ILROY -- February 9, at his residence, Portballintrae, Daniel M'Ilroy, aged 75 years.

M'KILLOP -- February 9, at 12, Chichester Avenue, Belfast (the residence of his sister), Lambert M'Killop, late of Ballymena.

M'WATTERS -- February 12, at his mother's residence, Ballymullan, Kirkcubbin, Alex. (Sandy) M'Watters.

NEILL -- February 10, at The Cottage, Ballyskeagh, Lambeg, Lisburn, Sarah, dearly-beloved wife of Thomas Neill.

NEWELL -- January 12, 1917, at Albert Lea, Minnesota, U.S.A., James Patterson Newell. Born at Glasswater, Crossgar, County Down, November 21, 1836. Deceased was a brother of the late Thomas and Isaac Newell, of that place. He is survived by his wife and one daughter, Helen.

PETHICK -- February 13, at Whitehead, Wm. Charles Pethick, for over 22 years a valued member of the staff of H. B. Brandon & Co., Chartered Accountants, Belfast.

RUDDOCK -- February 9, at her residence, Diamond House, Portadown, Betonia, relict of the late Robinson Ruddock, Ballywilly, Richhill.

SCOTT -- February 10, at her residence, Ballykeel, Lough Erne, Eliza Shaw, wife of R. W. Scott, and only daughter of James Barr, Burren, Ballynahinch.

TATE -- February 8, at his residence, Frances Street and North Street, Newtownards, John Tate, the dearly-beloved husband of Sarah J. Tate.

In Memoriam

PORTER -- In fondest memory of dear father, William B. Porter, who passed away at his residence, Ballynogher, Castledawson, on Feb. 2nd, 1901, aged 63 years. Interred in Magherafelt Presbyterian Churchyard. "He being dead, yet speaketh."

Thanks

SHAW -- The Family of the late James W. Shaw desire to return grateful thanks to the many friends who so kindly sent letters of sympathy in their great sorrow. Creevy House, Lisburn.

Clippings

EPITOME OF GENERAL NEWS

Addressing a religious revival meeting at Glasgow, the Bishop of London said whether we had State purchase or not he was frankly for prohibition during the war.

Mr. Redmond is suffering from the effects of his attack of influenza, and as soon as the weather improves the doctor recommends him to leave London for a while.

The King has bean pleased to approve the acceptance of his Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught of the appointment of Colonel-in-Chief of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade.

Intense cold prevails in Germany, and is greatly aggravated by the shortage of coal. In Saxony all theatres, cinemas and public halls are closed with the object of saving fuel.

A distressing ice tragedy took place on Sabbath afternoon at Springfield Road, Belfast, when three boys who had been sliding on the lower mill dam fell through the ice and were drowned.

A man named Peter O'Keefe, who was tried by court-martial for having on various occasions purchased service rifles from a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, has been sentenced to five years' penal servitude.

Lieutenant H. Macmillan, R.F.C., Glasgow, was killed by the fall of his aeroplane in Scotland. He was terribly burned, owing to the petrol tank taking fire, but it is believed he was dead before it ignited.

The flax-mill belonging to Mr. A. Weir, Straid, near Ballymena, one of the largest in the district, was practically gutted by fire on Monday evening, the damage being estimated at several thousands of pounds.

The Operative Cotton Spinners' Amalgamation at Manchester agreed to accept the offer of the employers of an advance of 10 per cent. They asked for 20 per cent. About 50,000 workpeople are involved.

A destructive fire occurred at the Braidwater Spinning Mill, Balnamore, near Ballymoney, which employs 350 hands, two of whom were injured making their exit from the building. The "Old Mill" was entirely gutted.

Mr. Duke told Mr. Lundon that the standard fixed price or oats (first quality -- 1917 crop) is 36s 6d for 336lbs. in Great Britain and Ireland. Oats would be purchased throughout by weight, and not by the bushel or quarter.

The grounds of the Newry Agricultural Society, on the Warrenpoint Road, outside the town, containing about seventeen statute acres, have been let by public auction for oat cropping, the prices obtained averaging about £7 10s per acre.

The result of the Rossendale election was -- Sir J. H. Maden (Coalition), 6,019; Mr. A. Taylor (Independent and "peace-by-negotiation" candidate), 1,804; majority, 4,215. Mr. Taylor is in the custody of the military as an absentee. The register contained 13,686 voters.

His Majesty has awarded the Victoria Cross to Sergeant Thomas Mottershead, late R.F.C., who brought his aeroplane enveloped in flames back to the British lines and effected a landing, thus saving the life of his observer. Sergeant Mottershead has since succumbed to his injuries.

Captain Bathurst states that the Food Controller has decided to authorise farmers to use the concurrent right of killing pheasants on the same lines as their right of killing ground game. The Controller was, in this regard, able, under the Realm Act, to override existing legislation.

Replying to Mr. W. Coote regarding the hardships of grocers who were refused sugar supplies because they were not in business in 1915, Mr. Bathurst stated that steps were being taken to meet the more urgent needs of districts where the population had materially increased since 1915.

Rev. Wm. A. Kerr, Harlesdene Congregational Church, London, has accepted a call to the pastorate of Albertbridge Congregational Church. Rev. Mr. Kerr, who is a Belfastman, who had a most successful ministerial career across the channel, and his coming to Albertbridge should prove very popular.

At the quarterly meeting of the Southern Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, held in Newry, congratulations were extended to the Rev. R. N. Lyons, on his safe return from Y.M.C.A. work in France, and to the Rev. J. M'Ilmoyle on his obtaining the M.A. degree of Trinity College, Dublin. Supplies were made out for the congregation of Loughbrickland.

Considerable damage was caused, but no lives were lost, by the explosion of a gasometer at Cook Street, Glasgow, belonging to the Caledonian Railway Co. Scores of windows in dwelling-houses, shops, offices, and workshops were blown in, while the concussion shook buildings over a wide area. Some fires broke out, but prompt measures prevented these from spreading.

At the annual meeting of the Women's Foreign Mission of the United Free Church (Presbytery of Glasgow) it was reported that there had been an increase of £437 7s 3d in the contributions in Glasgow Presbytery for 1916, the total being £5,540 16s. The Girls' Auxiliary continues to advance, seven new branches having been formed during last year. The contributions to the Girls' Own Missionaries' Fund amounted to £104 2s 4d, an increase of £6 19s 1d.

The King has been pleased to approve the appointment of Sir William Grey Ellison Macartney, Governor of Tasmania, to be Governor of Western Australia, in succession to Major-General Sir Harry Barron. Sir W. G. Ellison Macartney was formerly one of the Ulster members of Parliament, having represented the South division of County Antrim from 1885 to February, 1903, when he vacated the seat on his appointment as Deputy Master of the Mint. In 1913 he was appointed Governor of Tasmania, and received the honour of K.C.M.G.

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DEATH OF MR. J. H. MONEYPENNY

We regret to announce the death of Mr. Joseph Henry Moneypenny, which took place at his residency Wyncote, Strandtown. The deceased gentleman for a quarter of a century was secretary of the firm of Messrs. S. T. Maclean, Ltd., linen and yarn merchants. Ormeau Avenue, and about eleven years ago was appointed a director. He was also a director of several other concerns, including the Whiteabbey Flax Spinning Company, the Tavanagh Weaving Company, Portadown; and the Dunadry Bleaching Company. He was a staunch Unionist and was a member of the Church of Ireland. He was unmarried, and is survived by three brothers and two sisters. The brothers are Mr. F. W. Moneypenny, M.V.O., Belfast, City Chamberlain; Mr. John D. Moneypenny, an accountant in the Corporation Gasworks; and Mr. Alfred Moneypenny, B.A., of Dublin; while the sisters are Mrs. Melville, London, and Mrs. Turtle, Belfast.

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DEATH OF MR T. R. SALMOND.

The death of Mr. Thomas Ross Salmond, C.E., formerly Resident Engineer of the Belfast Harbour Commissioners, took place on Saturday at his residence, Park House. Antrim Road, Belfast. Before coming to Belfast, Mr. Salmond, who was a native of Perthshire, had gained wide experience of his work as Assistant Engineer of the Clyde Navigation Trust. During Mr. Salmond's period in the office of Port Engineer in Belfast the Spencer and Dufferin Docks were opened, the river channel was widened and deepened, the Albert quay renewed and extended, the Queen's quay reconstructed, the Donegall quay rebuilt and extensive goods sheds added, a larger graving dock constructed, and an extension of the Victoria Channel commenced. The deceased, who was eighty-nine years of age, had been in the service of the Commissioners for twenty-one years, and retired in 1892. A member of the Presbyterian Church, he was connected with Fortwilliam Church, in whose interests he devoted much time as well as contributing most liberally to its funds. He was the senior elder, and for many years rendered valuable assistance as the secretary of the congregation, a position which he resigned to the deep regret of the members about three years ago. A gentleman of a most kindly disposition, he was greatly beloved by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance, and his demise has occasioned widespread sorrow. He is survived by one son and two daughters.

The funeral of the deceased took place on Tuesday, the interment being in the City Cemetery. There was a large attendance, including the elders and Session of Fortwilliam Church, representatives of the Harbour Board and staff, and members of the Belfast Presbytery. The service was conducted by the Rev. Dr. James Maconaghie and the Rev. A. Lyle Harrison. Messrs. Melville & Co., Ltd, Townsend Street, had charge of the funeral arrangements, which were admirably carried out.

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DEATH OF LIEUT. BOAL, BALLYMENA

In Wellington Street Church, Ballymena, on last Sabbath, at the conclusion of the morning service, Rev. R. M. M'C. Gilmour, in a reference to the death of Lieut. Boal, LL.B., Royal Garrison Artillery, who was brought up in the congregation, and whose parents are respected members, said -- After a brilliant scholastic and university career, he gave up his profession (with its bright remunerative prospects) to take his place among thousands of loyal Ulstermen, in their efforts to defend the interests of the Homeland ana the British Empire. He was a young man of fine character, and noble spirit, and by his bearing in life, commended himself to those who knew him. He was most successful in his studies, taking first place, with a gold medal, in his professional examinations. His career, from his boyhood days, I myself followed with interest. What makes the case more sad is the fact that he was an only son of these heart-stricken parents (Mr. and Mrs. John Boal), over whose loss we feel keenly to-day. I have had several letters from our young friend since he joined the army, the tone of which has deepened my respect for his memory as a courageous Ulsterman, but the last letter (written just before receiving his fatal wounds), which arrived after his death, was chiefly an expression of his thanks for the parcel sent by this congregation, telling me how much we were in his thoughts, how cheering it was for himself to think that we were mindful or thoughtful of him. Lieutenant Boal was, methinks, more than a good son, more than a brilliant student, more than an heroic Irishman, for circumstances, words, and actions prove him to have been imbued with a deep religious feeling, and when there was no chaplain present in his division to take the spiritual duties, he proved himself faithful to his religious upbringing by undertaking these duties when called upon. With all his good qualities of head and heart, and all his brilliant parts which cause us to mourn, the loss to his home and country and Empire, he was not too good -- no one is -- for our Lord to claim as a citizen of the heavenly country, and as a member of the family of the redeemed in the glory-land, so we bow to His Sovereign wish, and amid the overshadowing clouds which are only relieved by the bright light of Christian hope, we say submissively, "Thy will, O Lord, be done, as in heaven, so on earth."

 

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The Witness - Friday, 23 February 1917

Marriages

JENNINGS--SOMERVILLE -- Feb. 13, 1917, at Coronary Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. W. Auld, Thomas Robert, eldest son of Mr. Francis Jennings, Clifferna, Cavan, to Eva, youngest daughter of the late Mr. Joseph Somerville, Latsey, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan.

M'ELWAINE--HUSTON -- February 15, 1917, at Shercock Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Francis Moore, William M'Elwaine, second son of the late John M'Elwaine, Lisgar, Bailieborough, to Ada Huston, youngest daughter of the late John James Huston, Drumlom, Shercock.

Deaths

ANDERSON -- February 19, 1917 (suddenly), Wm. Scott Anderson (retired Superintendent Prudential Assurance Co., Ltd.), beloved husband of Elizabeth Anderson, 4, Clonmohr Terrace, Ballymena. Interred in City Cemetery, Belfast.

M'CRACKEN -- February 16, 1917, at his residence, Lessize, Rathfriland, Alexander Henry M'Cracken, aged 82 years. Laid to rest in Third Rathfriland Presbyterian Burying-ground, 19th February.

M'ILVEEN -- February 21 (the result of an accident), at his residence, Carryduff, Arthur M'Ilveen. Funeral to-morrow (Saturday) morning, 24th inst., at ten o'clock.

APPERSON -- February 16 (suddenly), at 19, Thomas Street, Newtownards, John Apperson.

BAXTER -- February 14, at her residence, Salisbury Terrace, Portrush, Jane Baxter.

BRABAZON -- February , 19, at her residence, 1, Clonlee, Larne, Lizzie, the beloved wife of Captain Hugh Glynn Brabazon.

BRIGGS -- February 15, at her residence, Kesh Road, Maze, Anne, dearly-beloved wife of Thomas Briggs.

BUNTING -- February 18, at his residence. Smithfield, Lisburn, Thomas, dearly-beloved husband of Elizabeth Bunting.

CARTER -- February 16, at his residence, Carrick House, Portadown, George Carter, aged 82 years.

COOPER -- February 18, at her residence, Rademon, Elizabeth Ann Cooper, youngest daughter of the late William Cooper.

COWAN -- February 18, at 20, Abbey Street, Armagh, Maria Elizabeth, widow of the late Thomas Walter Cowan, of Armagh.

DAWSON -- February 19, at her residence, 6, Sandy Row, Portadown, Mary Ann, the beloved wife of Thomas Dawson.

FALLOON -- February 17, at her residence, Drumcairn House, Main Street, Larne, Miss Jane M. N. Falloon, daughter of the late Rev. Mr. Falloon, formerly Rector of Ballynure.

HENDERSON -- February 15, at his residence, The Lodge, Draperstown, William, the dearly-beloved husband of Sarah J. Henderson.

HEWITT -- February 19, at his residence, 21, Eureka Terrace, Prospect Road, Bangor, (Capt.) Robert Hewitt aged 80 years.

HOGG -- February 16, at the residence of his son-in-law, George Rodgers, Innisfallen, Downshire Road, Cregagh, David Hogg, formerly off Tullywest, Saintfield, aged 78 years.

IRELAND -- February 17, at his residence, Cottonmount, Mallusk, Israel, the dearly-beloved husband of Eliza Ireland.

JOHNSTON -- February 16, at her residence, Mosside, Dunmurry, Charlotte Johnston.

LIDDELL -- February 17, at Church Place, Portadown, Eleanor Craig Stewart, aged 21 months, dearly-beloved daughter of Mr. G. T. Liddell, L.D.S.

MEGARRY -- February 15, at her residence, Ballyknock, Moira, Jane Megarry.

METRUSTRY -- February 14, at Greenmount Terrace, Ballymena, Hester, widow of the late C. Metrustry, merchant, Ballymena.

MULHOLLAND -- February 17, at, her residence, Eglantine, Hillsborough, Mary Filgate Mulholland, aged 87 years.

M'BRIDE -- February 19, at her residence, Adaville, Bay View Park, Kilkeel, Elizabeth M'Bride, aged 90 years.

M'CULLY -- February 17, at Castle Street, Newtownards, Catherine, the dearly-beloved daughter of James and Jane M'Cully, aged six months.

M'MILLAN -- February 18, at his residence, The Rock, Ballybeg, Ahoghill, John M'Millan, youngest son of the late Wm. John M'Millan.

NELSON -- February 17, at the residence of her son-in-law, 4, Florence Place, Elizabeth, beloved wife of the late David Nelson.

RAINEY -- February 16, at Ballymacvea, Ballymena, Liza (Elizabeth), daughter of the late Robert Rainey.

REID -- February 17, at her residence, Bridge Street, Comber, Elizabeth, widow of Hugh Reid, Comber.

RUSSELL -- February 7, at Ditchling, Sussex, Hessie Nesbitt Dill, widow of the late Rev. William Andrew Russell, of Strabane, Co. Tyrone, aged 83 years.

WARNOCK -- February 18, at his residence, Greyba, Napier, New Zealand (after a short illness), Francis Purse Warnock, aged 58 years, third sop of the late Andrew Warnock, Greyabbey.

WILSON -- February 15, at the residence of his brother-in-law, James R. H. Ball, Springvale, Annahilt, Hillsborough, James Wilson, Stubby hill.

Death on page 6

WATTERS -- February 14, 1917, at her husband's residence, Killyneill House, Dungannon, Susan Anna, dearly-beloved wife of W. R. Watters. Interred in Dungannon Cemetery, on Friday, 16th inst.

Clippings

EPITOME OF GENERAL NEWS

The debate on the future of Ireland will take place in the House of Commons next week.

Mr. Sandford Fawcett, the deputy chief engineer of the Local Government Board, has been appointed chief assistant to the Director-General of National Service.

Mr. John Hodge, the Minister for Labour, speaking at Bolton, said it was essential that after the war there should be the closest co-operation between capital and labour.

Mr. Joseph Bradner, a native of Enniskerry, was gold-mining in the Yukon when he first heard of the war. He walked to Vancouver to enlist, covering 321 miles in thirteen days.

A new regulation has been added to the Defence of Realm regulations which prohibits a person, without permission of the Shipping Controller, from purchasing any ship or vessel.

A census of motor cars and cycles in Ireland shows a decrease of 4,085 since 1914. The figures for 1916 are 10,778 cars and 9,338 cycles, as compared with 12,965 cars and 11,236 cycles in 1914.

The War Conference of the Empire, which the Secretary of State for India announced in December, would be held in England not later than the end of February, has been postponed till April.

Mr. John Herbert Pollock, Ard-ni-Hone, Deanfield, Londonderry, head of the firm of Messrs. J. J. Pollock & Co., Ferryquay Street, Londonderry, has been appointed a justice of the peace for the city.

The steamer Inver, of Larne, was in collision with a steamer on Friday and sank. The crew has been landed. The Inver was a steamer of 1,032 tons gross, and belonged to the Shamrock Shipping Company, Limited, of Larne.

The Army Council have given notice under the Defence of the Realm Regulations that they take possession of all unsold stocks of raw jute in the United Kingdom, and intend to take possession of any unsold stocks that may arrive after this date.

Damage estimated at £2,000 was caused by an outbreak of fire at the scutch mill belonging to Mr. Thomas Orr, Grove Hill House, Crossgar. It is presumed that the machinery became over-heated, and the building and contents were completely destroyed.

A regulation under the Defence of the Realm Act has been made, enabling the Board of Trade to take possession during the war of any canals in the United Kingdom. They propose to appoint an Executive Committee to control the canals on their behalf.

There was a decrease in 140 of the number of emigrants from Ireland during the month of January. This is a decrease of thirty-nine per cent. below January last year. The total of emigrants last month was 218, of whom sixty-eight were males and 150 females.

Presiding at the annual meeting of the Midland Railway Company of England, at Derby, Mr. G. Murray Smith said that twenty p.c. of the staff joined the services, and 897 had been killed. They were now employing 6,300 women and would soon find more oa porters.

Speaking at Liverpool, Gen. Sir W. Pitcairn Campbell said he looked upon that date (Feb. 15) as a happy augury, for he maintained that it would be the anniversary of peace. There would be heavy fighting until, perhaps, September, then politicians would confer, and he believed that peace would be signed on Feb. 15, 1918.

At a meeting of, the committee of the Ulster District of the Institute of Journalists it was decided to request the council to confer the Fellowship of Institute upon the following members in recognition of their services to the Institute in the Ulster district -- Messrs. B. Allen, M.A.; A. W. Stewart, J. F. Charlesson, and John Shannon.

The report on mines and quarries for 1915 states that the total value of the minerals raised during the year was £170,460,949, an increase of £24,597,917 compared with 1914. The output of coal, 253,206,081 tons showed a decrease of 12,458,312 tons, but was valued at £157,830,670, an increase of £25,233,817 on the figures of 1914. The average price was 12s 5.60d per ton, against 9s 11.79d in the previous year.

It os stated that one of losses the Germans would incur by a rupture with China would be £350,000 which she receives annually as an indemnity for the Boxer trouble and railway loan. It is this indemnity which Germany has been using in its expensive and unscrupulous efforts to delude the Chinese into the belief that she has right and truth on her side and is the supreme friend of liberty and humanity.

The late Mr. J. Beck, Belfast, left estate valued at £74,128, and bequeathed £1,000 Belfast Corporation Stock to the three sons of his nephew, R. M'Dermott; £500 each to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Presbyterian Sustentation Fund, and his housekeeper. Miss Leggett; his consumable stores and £1,000 a year to his daughter, with the use of him residence, and the ultimate residue to Wm. and Stewart M'Dermott

A Berlin semi-official newspaper says that for the American steamers recently despatched to enter the war zone would amount to nothing else than most wickedly tempting God. Judging by the German spirit and threats, it is more like a tempting of the Devil, who seems to be the only superior, the Germans recognise; and many think that even he could not) teach them much in the way of barbarity, brutality, and savagery.

Replying to Mr. Lundon in Parliament, Mr. Duke said the Order prohibiting the slaughter of breeding sows, save under the Department's licence, came into operation on Dec. 16 last as a special war measure, and became necessary owing to the fact that breeding stock were being fattened with the object of disposing of them for slaughter. The Department were not prepared to encourage the depletion of the stock in this manner.

Count Plunkett, the Sinn Fein member who refuses to take his seat, and defies the Speaker to arrest him -- as if that official would take the trouble -- says that dining and wining and eating strawberries and cream with English members have snapped the integrity of the Irish members, and made them tools and dupes of England. The Count is determined not to risk becoming a tool. He will be content to play the fool in Ireland.

"The Times" educational correspondent says the register of Irish secondary teachers is expected to be ready in a few days. The regulations follow the lines of the English register. Training and possession of a teaching diploma are required of applicants for registration, but the regulations will be modified during the first five years in favour of teachers whose engagements do not permit them to comply with the Council's full demands.

Mr. J. Milne Barbour, D.L., presiding in Glasgow at the annual meeting of the Linen Thread Company, said the public would be amazed to learn that the Irish flax crop, which was estimated last year to be worth three and a quarter million sterling, was wholly dependent upon imported seed for its cultivation, as no satisfactory method had been adopted for saving the seed, which was absolutely lost. Russia, Holland, and Belgium always saved the seed.

The divinity students at Glasgow University have presented the Rev. Professor Cooper with a sermon case on the occasion of hia nomination as Moderator-elect of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. On the front cover of the sermon case, which is blue morocco, are the arms of the Church of Scotland and the University, and on the other cover are the arms of the family to which Dr. Cooper belongs -- a device surmounted by a "presbyter's hat" and bearing the motto, "Veritate cinctus."

Amongst the officers decorated by his Majesty the King at Buckingham Palace on Saturday was the Rev. H. A. Bennet, Chaplain to the Forces, who received the Military Cross awarded to him in November last for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in the field. A son of the late Mr. W. Boyd Bennet, Poyntzpass, and Mrs. Allworthy, The Manor House, Antrim Road, Rev. E. A. Bennet, who has the relative precedence of captain, was educated at Campbell College, Belfast; Trinity College, Dublin, and Cambridge University.

A sad drowning accident occurred on the last voyage of the Belfast-owned steamer Lord Ormonde while homeward bound from the United States. The vessel encountered terrific weather, and when four days out a seaman named John M'Clement was carried overboard by a heavy sea. All attempts at rescue failed. It is a sad coincidence that the widow of Mr. M'Clement, who has a young family of three children, is at present a patient in the Forster Green Hospital. The deceased, who resided at Portavogie, was a member of Glastry Presbyterian Church.

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DEATH OF MR. W. S. ANDERSON BALLYMENA.

It was with feelings of much regret that the public learned on Monday evening last of the sudden demise of Mr. W. S. Anderson, Clonmohr Terrace. Ballymena, formerly district superintendent of the Prudential Assurance Company, Limited, which office he filled in Ballymena with remarkable distinction to himself for close on thirty years, and with very much credit to the company whom he so worthily represented. The deceased, who was in his seventy-eighth year, had been in failing health for some time past, and some ten years ago he retired from active business on a well-merited pension, since when he lived privately in Carnarvon Place, and latterly in Clonmohr Terrace. In all his dealings with the public, extending over a period of well nigh half a century, he at all times evinced a keen and practical interest in the welfare of the company which he represented, and was ever jealous to promote its success and prosperity. Outside of business life he was of a very modest and retiring disposition, and took little or no part in public life, or in the local and every day affairs of society. He was a devoted member of West Church congregation, and although taking no active part in politics he was a pronounced Unionist of the old school. He leaves behind him to mourn his lamented demise, his widow, two sons, and four daughters, to all of whom the deepest sympathy is manifested in this the season of their mourning. His son, Mr. James Anderson, J.P., is at present superintendent of the Prudential Assurance Company, limited, in Londonderry, and is held in the very highest esteem by everyone in the Maiden City. The remains of the deceased were interred yesterday in the City Cemetery, Belfast, the funeral being largely attended.

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DEATH OF MISS JANE BAXTER, PORTRUSH.

A highly-respected evangelist in the person of Miss Jane Baxter, Salisbury Terrace, Portrush, passed away at her residence last week. Miss Baxter, who was a sister of Sir William J. Baxter, Coleraine, and Mr. John Baxter, J.P., Co.C., Ballymoney, was trained at Glasgow for her work in connection with the Presbyterian Church. She was the first deaconess ordained by the Presbyterian Church of England, and was appointed to Heaton, one of the leading churches in Newcastle-on-Tyne. She took charge of the district of Byker, a populous suburb, and her work there was so successful that eventually a church was found necessary to accommodate the people who were gathered to her classes, the funds being provided by Mr. Gibson, a philanthropic Irishman. After working there sedulously for a number of years her health broke down, Returning to Ireland she took up service in connection with one of the Belfast churches. She was also the first deaconess appointed by the Irish Presbyterian Church. About six years ago Miss Baxter was appointed deaconess in connection with the Portrush Evangelistic Mission, and worked in that capacity for about three years, when, owing to failing health, she was obliged to resign. Wherever she worked the deceased lady displayed the greatest devotion, and the best of her services were given to the sick poor.

The funeral took place from her residence on Friday last, the chief mourners being Sir Wm. J. Baxter, D.L., Coleraine; Mr. John Baxter, J.P., Co.O., Ballymoney (brothers); Messrs. F. W. Skelly, J.P.; J. A. Wallace Gilmour, and James Gilmour, Coleraine. Rev. A. H. Dill, M.A., First Ballymoney, conducted the services.

 

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