The Dorset County Express and Agricultural Gazette.
Dorchester, Dorset, England, 1862-04-29 00:00:00

DORSET FRIENDLY SOCIETY.

The animal meeting of this useful benevolent
society took place at Gillingham on Thursday, and
was rendered More especially interesting, in the fact
that it was in Gillingham the first, or one of the Hot,
branches of the society was established. 'l'he
members of the local branch, assisted by their
brethren from contiguous places, formed a procession
in the morning, and with a band, composed of native
talent, at ito head,repaired to the parish church, where
prayers were read by the Rev. C. F. H)de, the
sermon being preached by the Rev. H. beau, the
vicar, from 1 Cot. x., 31. At its conclusion, the
cortege perambulated the town, at length reaching
the free schoolroom, where the chair was taken by H.
Ker Seymer, Eel., M. P., for the dispatch of business.
He called upon the assistant secretary, Mr. G. H.
Davis, to read the annual balance sheet, as follows:
"Tns 16rn AeNtrAb REPORT OF THZ DORSET FRIINDLY
SOCHITY /OR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER Slay,
1861.

" During the pant year two new branches have been
formed; one at Spettisbury, the other at Buckland
Newton. The number of members on the books at the
close of the last year was—males, 1864 ; females, 147
total, 2,011. Members enrolled : 334, withdrawn 85,
died 9. 1:32 wos paid on six deaths, and £lO5 on nine
endowments. The contributions' of members in 1861
wire £1,979 7s. 7fd. ; ditto in 1860, £1,788 4s. 04(1.—
increase in 1861, £1903, 74d. The honorary subscrip-
tions in 1860: £214 ; ditto in 1861, £204 Bs. 6d.
—decrease, lls. 6d. Sick pay was allowed to 543
males for 2,416 weeks 2 days, amounting to
£915 its. 54d., and to 33 females, for 335 weeks 5 days,
amounting to £72 Bs. 5.1.; making the total of sick pay
£998 2s. 104.1. ; being £B2 18s. 64.1. more than last
year. The capital in hand, invested as followa :—ln
India Bonds, £1500; with National Debt Commissioners
at 244. per cent per diens, £792 ls. 5.1. ; with ditto at
24. per cent. per diem, £632 10s. Three per
Cent. Commis, £922 7s. &I. In three per cent.
reduced, £1449 ; Balance due from branches,
£441195. 9,1. ; ditto in treasurer's hands, 1:8410A. 94
total £5,825 9s. 5.1. Capitol in 1866, £5,091
13s. 24.1. Increase in 1861. £730 163. 2td. The
results are these :—Two new branch clubs; 159 inure
members : increase on death pay £lO, on payment of
endowments £45, on sick pay £B2 18s. 641., and a
decrease on. honorary subaoril,ti.as4B lie. 61. There is
an increase in members' contributions, however, of
£l9O 3s. 741.1. All this shows that as our society becomes
older, our liabilities increase, but still we point as a
matter of congratulation to an augmentation in our
funds, of £730 16s. 2d. ; the largest investment we
have yet made in any one year. We should also re-
member that all payments on death pay and endow.
ments are permament discharges of the liabilities of the
society. It appears that in smile hranoh clubs the
niectings of their committees have been very much
nealected, and in others have even become obsolete.
The attention of members, therefore, may be well drawn
to rules 6,7, and 8, and to Bye Law No. 2, from which
the inference is clear, that except by a oommittee, no
person can be elected as a member, and that even if so
passed, hie case must be submitted to Use secretary, so
that a pi oposer is not actually a member, until he
receives lii eniolment paper. As rules will, however,
only be obeyed if they arealsown to be reasonable, it
is well to state that the reason of the committees' super-
intendence is, that many a candidate may be proposed
for admission, with *hose history or that of his family
the branch surgeon sannot he acquainted—as for
instance whether he or his family been the taint of
scrofula or consumption—and so such person be unfit
for admission., This some of the committee may know,
and the person prcposed in such cases, should bis at once
withdrawn. lb is only by this care on admission that
the society con work well. If, notwithstanding this
want of watchfulness, the stttistics of the society show
so good a face, it surely may be fairly attributed
to the sound principles on which the tables are cal-
culated, and so far there are grounds for encourage-
ment ; het none for neglecting our duties. There ap-
pears to be a sum of £ll6 due from members of
different branch clubs to their respective stewards, as
arrears of contributions. So large a totol induced the
secretary to write to our actuary to know if the calcula-
tions of the tables were made on the supposition that
such laxity of payment would take place. Mr. Robin..
son in reply writes : " No allosvance is made for arrears.
Members in ',near should within certain limits pay
fines or forfeit their membership." It is therefore
necessary that stewards should carry out peremptorily
the provisions of rule 16, and members are reminded
that, 11., on page 24 of the rules, the tables are said to be
calculated on the supposition that the capital of the
society will realize at least 3 per cent. cotnpound in-
terest ; they are in fact by their arrears so for vitiating the
trinciple of our society. The society has sustained a
very serious loss in the death of one of our moat
esteemed and able trustees, the Rev. H. F. Yeatman,
whose energy for its welfare was manifested not only
in his frequent and powerful advocacy at our annual
meetings, but in a very lucid pamphlet which he penned
on its advantages in companion with many other clubs
in the county. It has been extensively useful. We
share, in common with the whole of the county, the
bereavement of his earliest zeal, his accuracy of
research, his ability and benevolence, which were highly
estimated. He employed his time and his great talents
in our 'service, we honour and offer this tribute to his
memory, and point to his example."—Signed, CHARLES
PORCHES, honorary secretary ; GEORGE HEZIST DAVIS,
assistant secretary.

The worthy a/LAIRMAN, addressing the members,
oongratulated them on the tlonri,lnng state of the
society and its funds. The Gillingham branch more
particularly shared in that congratulation, as it was
one of the first districts in the county which
embraced the benefits offered by the society. The
common sense and forethought u Lich they showed
so readily, was a pattern to other places, and
encouraged others to emulate them. A serious draw-
back, and to which he alluded at their but annosl
meeting, was the Ammo of their seorstary, Mr.

Percher, to whom they were indented for the
existence of the society. At an early period, he
(Mr. Poreber,) saw that what was good for the
county of Wilts must also be benelicial to Dorset, a
connty alutoet similar in point of population, and
geographically nearly Mention!. Mr. Porcher put
his shoulder to the %heel, and did not rest until lie
had established their society. Hu sever, though he
was not able to take pmt in their annual
meetingA, he still, took great interest in the
institut ion, and to allow it hail drawn up the able
report 'which had just been read. They had also
to regret the hiss of one of their trustees, the Rev.
11. F. Yeattnan, who both by his purse and also
with his talents, supported the society. He had
been of great use to the society, and they could not
feel too grateful for it, and too sincerely regret their ,
loss. Thepatnplilet which Mr. Yeatman published, ,
setting f int' the benefits of the Dorset Friendly
Society in comparison with other societies, had been ,
productive of great good. Some people had felt l
alarm for the safety and continuance of benefit '
clubs, owing to the organisation of the Post-office
Savings Banks, hut he did not see any necessity
for such an alarm, as their objects were different,
and there aa9 room enough for all. That the Post- 1
office Savings Banks were valuable institutions,
he would not deny. A man who put into a Savings'
Bank ex 'meted to have his money returned at some
future (lay with interest. On the other hand, a man
who paid into a benefit society, was anxious to make
provisien for sickness, old age, or death ; and how
, could he (10 it without the assistance of others! If a
man oven, after /six months' niembership, became
permanently disaliled lie was provided for lifc by
that society. They must, however, be particular in 1
admitting members, and closely adhere to the rules. I
He had boasted both there and elsewhere, that I
, they were safe, and M:1 long as they I
maintained their rules in their intergity
their society stool on a firm basis.— ,
The Chairman then slimiest to several of the rules,
and to which lie exhorted them to pey grcat attention, .
as it was to the eeveral committees to look after their ,
own interests, as they were the persons, who from their
local knowledge and circumstances, were the most coin-
Went to protect theinselvea In generel, persons, (he
observed,) holding money, should give security, not that
there seas the slightest suspicion cast upon their recti-
tude, but simply o' business priliciples. Reference was
made to the Bilatdt Savings' Back fraud. The rev.
gentleman who an ropriateil so large an amount of
money, the Cheirinan observed, was, lie believed, honest
, at one time, but finding implicit confidence reposed in
him—being inausger, trustee, secretary, and actuary,
; .
without any restrictions, the temptation was ton 'great,
, and he felt It taught us that not too great a dependence'
I should be placed in any of us. The principle of the old
l Savings' Banks was the Caine as that of their society ;
the money was safe,provided Government couldget bold
of it. In the Savings Bank this duty might devolve on
1 one person only, but in their society they hail a number
of gentlemen of position and influence, who must sadly
! neglect their duty or do something worse, if the money
did not reach Government. So many persons must be
at fault ere the society could be endangered. An irro-
neons opinion appeared to prevail among many, which
was, that if the rules were certified a society was safe.
, No such thing, the certificate of Mr. Tidd Pratt went no
l further than to state that there was nothing in the
rules contrary to the tenor of the Friendly Societies Act.
l It was the calculation of the actuary that could make
it safe, and that was a reason why they should adhere to
. the rules, because the tables were framer' upon the sup.
poeition that they v mill be strictly enforced. He urged
' them to give attention to the matter, and keep the sub-
• " scrapt inns well paid up, otherwise the calculations made
might be seriously disturbed. They must also endea-
vour to make an secession to their ranks of healthy
young members, not only to make the more the merrier,
but the eater. Their liabilities were increasing as well
as their contributions, and that was a reason why the
members should endeavour to augment their numbers.
As a man advanced in years lie found that he lied less
working days, and more days of sickness. In moving
the adoption of the report, lie would advise them to be
careful in the selection of the members, act up Iç, their 1
rules, and endeavour when an old deb in the aeig bour- 1
hood dissolved, to secure some of the vigorous me bees.
(Applause.)
Mr. J. MATTHEWS having seconded the adoption of
the report, the Fame was carried.
The election of trustees, secretary, assistant seer tary,
and auditors, van then proceeded with, no change , ing
made in these for the preceding year. 4
Mr. W. R. BELL moved a vote of thanks trt.t.lie
m
Chairman, and urged upon the embers incr ed
watchfulness on the admission of new members, as hey
were better acquainted with the applicants think the
surgeons who examined them.
The vote of thanks was carried by acclamation, atgl
' The Chairman, in response, said he hoped the Society
would always be as flourishing, if not inure so, as at the
present time, and the attendance at their annual me -
mg es large.
The procession then re-formed, the able stews
Mr. J. Sheppard, in this, as throughout this whel
of the day, rendering assistance and advice cheerfully.i
After the members bad again shewn themselves, the,
members and friends of the society assembled in the
market room of the South Western Railway Hotel, '
neatly decorated for the occasion. An excellent dinner
was served up by Host hiaton, and his exertions were
apusrently appreciated. About 120 partook of the
"spread", and H. Ker Seymer:Feq., M.P., occupied
the chair; Mr. W, R. Bell taking the "vice."
Upon the removal of the cloth, the CHAIRMAN pro-
posed the "Health of the Queen," and in feeling terms
alluded to the Ilnis of her councillor and guide, the
Prince Consort, a Bereavement so great, he thought, as
to render it liteslaating. He, however, Winks& that
she would be 'idatedned by • divine providence in her
great trial, and that time with its softening hand would
lessen the shock. The toast having been drily honored,
that of "The Prince of Wales and the rest of the royal
family" followed from the Chair, its occupant remark-
ing that of the Prince of Wales they knew but little at
;resent, but what they did know Was good. He had
not been brought up in the atmosphere of a court, •
situation above all others pernicious to an expectant
sovereign, but among those whom at some future period
he would perhaps take into his council. The Prince
had spent • portion of his life in travelling, which was
essential to the proper perception of public mattere.
When he ascended the throne, which the Chairman
trusted would be far distant, he hoped he would become
in every way a constitutional sovereign, and that lie
would imitate his. royal mother. (A milanee.) " The
Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese" wastaext given. The
Chairman said lie was happy to see so many of that
body giving their assistance to that society, and present
that day. They would no doubt bear testimony to the
usefulness and good working of the society. He had
seen it stated that at a recent meeting a comedian cm
marked that he believed that the clergymen did not
like to see other people enjoying themselves. Now be
maintained that no greater calumny had ever been
spoken. The clergy were no puritans, and none were
more ready to give their countenance to rational
enjoyment. It was the excess of that enjoyment which
incurred their censure. He would give the toast,
attaching to it the name of the Rev. H. Dean, who
responded, and believed that if there was a man above
all others who had an interest in their welfare it was
their most escellent bishop. Labouring as be (the
Rev. H. Deane) had done for thirty years among the
poor, he heel witnessed much buffering among them,
and bore testimony to the alacrity which many of his
parishioners ministered to the relief of such distress,
but there were afilietions which it was impossible for
private benevolence effeetnally to relieve. In that
parish there were three other clubs, beside the Dorset
Friendly, and all did good within their respective
spheres, but they were deficient in the most essential
point, that if permanency. He knew of a man who
for years was a member of a benefit society. At the
close of his life he found him in receipt of parochial
relief. Upon inquiry it turned out that the club
had dissolved at a time when he began to need it. He re-
militated reading lately a paragraph in a life assumes
prospectus as to the uncertainty of • single human life,
but the certainty of life when a great number of lives
' were taken together. The Dorset Friendly Society had
his best wishes for its success, but he did not mean to
say that the other clubs had not done good. Far from
it, for he had known instances where • membership
was • seam of greet comfort in distress. West was
wanting in their constitution were the elements of per-
manency. In conclusion, he wished prosperity to the
society, and good health to all of them. (Applause.)

The Cll.\ Ina AN then proposel the " Army, Navy, and
Volunteers," alluding to the great contrast which would
characterize the Exhibitien of 1851 and that shortly to
be opened. In 1851 we supposed we were inaugurating
a long era of peace, and lie believed throughout the
Exhibitionmet onglastrument of destructive warfare—
save some fowling,pipces and guns for sports—could be
found. How different the present one would be, where
every description -oaf weapon for taking human life
would be exhibited: What was the inference to be
drawn from it? Had they retrograded in eleven years?
No • they had made a mistake in thinking that the
balance of power could be maintained on commercial
principles without au appeal to arms. For his own part
he should not like to see our liberties and laws subject
to the commercial test alone, as they could judge by
America, where in the North the dollar was almighty,
and cotton king in the South the effect of such a mode
of adjustment. Until ambition and several other vices
were rooted out it would not be wise to disarm. When
they spoke of the navy in future they must drop the
term " wiyeien walls," as the days of wooden ships were
numbered, seeing that two ships made of iron pounded
away for five hours at each other, without doing mate-
rial injury to either. His opinion was that the superi-
ority of forts over ships would still be maintained, and
believed England would yet maintain her maritime
supremacy, though the pluck of the British sailor
would not be called open so often as formerly. It was
a curious thing that the word pluck was peculiarly
English, as it could not be translated into any ether
language, not that he meant to deny that there were
valiant men among other nations. The tendency of
the present system of warfare was to bring men to chase
quarters, and then Englishmen were at home. He had
spent many years in the Yeomanry Cavalry, and upon
such occasions as those they should not be forgotten.
The interest of the public, however' centred more par-
ticularly on the rill. volunteers. He considered the
movement was not only good in a patriotic sense, but
ass means of counteracting the disadvantages attendant
upon the increasing centralization of the population in
towns. .tk' march out into the country would brace
their nerves, and keep up the manly spirit. The move-
ment at the present moment was in a critical state, and
he thought that the volunteer was entitled to assistance.
(Applause.) He did not think it would interfere with
the spirit in which they were raised. If they gave
their valuable time, and paid for their clothes in the
main, all ether expenses, such as nMending reviews,
ke., should be paid for them. (Applause.) He trusted
the r(sult of the commission now sitting would be in
accordance with his views. Great difficulty, he knew,
was experienced in obtaining the services of a drill
instructor in the Vale of Blackrueor, and he advised the
small villages which could not raise a corps, to get up a
sub-division, so as to secure the assistance of a drill
serjeant.

Lieut. FREAII6 (id the Gillingham Corps) responded.
lie could not help saying that they had laboured under
many disadvantages, and he accepted the prophecy of
wit
the wortb). hairiness that they were likely coon to
be at an 'Olin( to be imbued with that
m odesty ' distinguished a rifleman, ho

drew a comparison between the Dorset Friendly
Soinety and the Volenteer movement, both established
for a good perrose. -
The Cii \ TOM iN OHM.° -I for acceptation be tbe com Pena
"The Health of the Lord.Liriltemulf and the Magistracy"
observing that the Lord-Lieutenant had nesanired a
world-wide reputation, end Itiet his none woehl never
be forgotten A% the nrin enneentfully carrel
through Pad ii the ten -liners Bill, a measere
alike beneficial to the en ploy-- awl the employer,
theitgli the great in mete:titters f-are I ou its pissing
that it wouli have in contrary effect. Being ono of the
magistracy it di-I not become him to ley much, but Inc
could add that t hey always endeavoured to
satisfy their own con eeenees end of the public in the
discharge of their duties. He di I not believe that
stipendiary magistretes, though they might le b misters
of six years' standi be, would be more acceptable than the
unpaid magistracy.
Mr. Hussey briefly acknowledged the compliment.
lie believed that the magistrates of the county
endeavoured to boll the scales of justice with an
iineartial hand.
The Viee.CUAtamen said lie had a pleasant duty to
perform. To give the health of a gentleman who was
not only the President of that society, hut also their
Chairman that day. He e,ave the health of "H. liar
Sevmer, Est." (Applanse.)—The Chairman tendered
Ids acknowledgments. He thought that the post of
President end Chairman of the annual meetings were
sytionyinoue. Their yearly meeting was held at a
very convenient period, during the holiday week, and it
aff"laled him the opportueity of attending. There
were othcr gath,rinp at which lie would like to be
present, but hie parliamentary dillies prevented
him. In speaking of beer they generally
spoke of malt and Imps in its ruanufactate,
but the duty on hops had gene first, yet
he hoped to see the removing of the silt duty at some
future iieried. Has lone as he had health and strength,
LIR services wonlrl be at the diseosal of the society. He
claimed to himself no merit, save that of seeing at an
early period of its existence, the greet gond it NSW
capable of achieving, and supporting it accordingly.
The society had gone into every district, but it had not
increases, to the extent commensurate with its years,
and the benefits offered. He appealed to the clergy to
give it a helping hand, believing they mild not do better
then establish a branch in their respective parishes, if
one did not exist. (Applause.)
The CHAIRMAN gave "The Health of the Visitors,"
coupling with it the name ofSir William Medlycott, who
thanked the company for the honor accorded to the
visitors and to himself. He mentioned a club with
which at one time he was connected, whose members
being seized with a panic, not from bankruptcy or in-
solvency, he celled his friend Mr. Yeatmen to his aid.
which led lie believed to the pamphlet referred to being
written. The members were told that if they were de-
termined to dissolve Sieve was one chance left for them,
that of joining the Dorset Friendly Society, feeling
certain that not only would their capital be secure, but
Permanency of the benefits offered secured, as lie be-
lieved it to he based on principles which were sure to
last. 110 sincerely trusted that the directors of the
seciety would be induced to hold a meeting at Milborne,
as in a population of nearly 2,000, some good result,
would be sure to accrue. The clubs which periodically
divide the funds were descanted upon, Sir William
observing that it appeared to bean Irisbism to pot
"perpetual" at the head of their rules, and then to part
the money at stated periods. Many young mete had, he
was sorry to say, been deluded into joining them.
The Ray. H. DRAM begged to propose the health of
one who from the fleet had been a watchful and
constant member of the society. He attached himself
to the club at an early period of its existence, and no
one, he was convinced, took a greater interest in
the society then Mr. Bell. (Applanse.)
The Vree-Cnnsflaten replied that the interest he had
taken in the society was from a conviction that the
Principles were sound and pure. Ho had belonged to
other elute, but bad withdrawn from them simply on
principle, as when lee saw good, and nothing but good
arising from a society, he adhered to it. As long as he
saw the polar star in the north, so he would endeavour
to steer by it. He then proposed the " Health of their
Chairman," as one of the comity members, and whose
many amiable qualities; were too many for bier to par-
ticelarire. Ile challenged any county to prodnce
members who had more sedulously attended to their
dnties. (Applaused After passing eneoninins on the
Hon. W. H. B. Portman and Mr. H. G Sturt, he
offered the tout for adoption, which was enthusias-
tically received.

The CHAIRMAN, in response, alluded to the fact of
his not being able ti attend the agricultural meeting,
owing to his absence in Leicestershire. As county
members they endeavoured to do their duty. At the
end of the session there was a list published giving the
attendance of eaeli member of the House. Now such
list must be taken for only what it WM worth, as it
was a fallacious estimate of the amount of work done
by respective members. Those who were fond of late
hours figure best in the list, while those who have been
present in the early part of the discussion were not.
reckoned. such of the hardest work of the member
was dose on committees, and not in the House. He hoped
the county would not think them remiss in their
duties. Two more thereligh.going English gentlemen
than his colleagues could not be found, and a good feel-
ing existed between himself and them.

The the Honorary
Members," and routed with it the name Of Mr.
Matthews!.

Mr. MA.Tregyis acknowledgod the compliment, and
remarked that he hoped the society would prosper, and
that he should always be willing to give his countenance
and
.support to it.

The .thi:ttiat- a—tr. proposed "The Health of the Secre-
tary, Mr. C. Porches., and the assistant secretary, Mr.
Davis," the latter of whom had recently seen Mr.
,
Poreher, and would doubtless state his views as to the
society w-hittb would be thankfully reeeived.
Mr. DAVIS, in responding, said that Mr. Porchor 11.4
said that miles.' they closely adhered to the rules they
would get into disorder. The Chairman had said that
Mr. Percher was the founder of the society. It would
ho more correct to cell him the parent of the society,
and the branches the children. The society Was started
in 1847, and in the presentation of the first annul re-
port they had 15 branches, now they had 35. Thernein-
bars were 446 in /848, and at the date of the report read
that day 2,011. The contributions by the first
report was 228 fl 16s. 111 d.; at date of 414r8epert. £1978
7s. 7f4. ; honorary niem/krli What' oral in 1847,
r6l 10s. 2d.; 1861, 2204 Bs, 6d, In 1 the amount
of sick pay wee £56 19s. 9d. ; in 1861, £998 2s lop.
The balance in hand at the end of 1847, Was £298 1284
in 1861, £5,825 Is. 511. In his opinion the society had
not increased sail ought to have done and as its use-
fulness entitled it. H 6 was surprised that it bad not
been welcomed by every village and hamlet in the county.
By looking 0 the report the member' could see where
they possessed a good steward and where they did not.
The stewards, he considered, were the slays of the
society, and he had every laa.oll to believe that there
were grounds for oongratulation in thefact that anxious
inquiries were beinz made as to the objeete and aim of
the society. Agriculturista, he thought, did not take
that intermit in the society which it demanded. One
of them had, however, at a recent meeting of a farmers
club, alluded to it in terms of eommendation. Mr.
D.vis then lucidly and at great length explained the
rule. of the society, and hoped at the next annual
meeting the report would be still more favourable.
The CHAIRMAN thought as a happy sequel to the
speech of the assistant secretary, would be that of the
health of the stewards, adding to it the name of Mr.
Shepherd, steward of the Gillingham branch.
(Applause.)
Mr. SHICPII6IID said he believed he was one of the
oldest members of the society, and jut any time he bad
said ought to wound the feelings of anyone, it Was
more for the benefit of the society than for the sake of
finding hash. He then pointed out where he thought
some beneficial change in the rule, might take plate.
The Vice-Cummins gave "Time Health of the
Medical Officers," coupling with it the name of Mr. E.
Miles, surgeon to the Gillingham Branoh, who responded
to it, observing that the society was sound in principle,
actuated by good motives, and enjoyed the support of
the wealthy and influential portion of the county.
"The Press" was then given from the Chair, and
suitably acknowledged, after which
The CHAIRMAN proposed "To our next merry meet-
ing," and the company separated.

--
WARE/UAL—CATTLE FA Lit —The spring cattle
fair was held on Thursday, 17th inst. l'he atten-
dance of dealers was numerous; stock plentiful, and
fetching good prices. It was, altogether, the beet
fair that has been held in Wareham for many years.
Gentlemen residing in the neighbourhood have taken
considerable pains to establish a good market for
live stook in Wareham, and their efforts are now
meeting with much success, but a freah and
unlooked•for barrier is rising before them. This is
an Act of Parliament, whk,h_ the turnpike trustees
have-roViehow or 'other smuggled into existence, by
which live stock, which has hitherto been exempt,
will have to pay toll Wareham is hemmed in on all
sides Wy toll-bars, .and if the trustees are blind
enough to force this new Act, Wareham cattle fairs
and markets will again dwindle to mere nonentities.
If breeders are prevented sending their stock,
dealers, farmers and others, will cease to attend the
fairs and markets, consequently so much money will
not be taken for tolls of horses, gigs, &c. We trust
this matter will meet with the consideration it
deserves.

WARKHAM AND PORIINeK UNION. —The usual
annual appointment sif John Hales Caicraft, Esq., as
chairman, and Messrs. Voss and Damen, as Vico-
chairmen of the Board of Guardians, was made at
the weekly meeting of the Board of Guardians, held
on the 22nd Met., being the first meeting after the
lath Mat.

WOODLANDS.—On Friday. the 18th inst., one
of the most juiPWAllt arid interesting meetings ever
held in this village took place in the Wesleyan
Chapel. a boot 260 persons partook of tea together,
and the greatest harmony and good feeling was
evinced by all parties: After tea a public meeting
WAS held. Mr. Parry: farii;er, of Witchampton, took
rite
the chair, and the us 'wine-addressed by several
of the circuit local,.
~ re. ,Tke speeches were
of more than riveregrA 'kW iiri excellent feeling
characterised Lief . gs. The proceeds of the
, tea are to he devoted to some repairs that have
recently been made in the chapel.
WIMBORNE.—Tna SIXTH DORSET VOLUNTEER
RIPL6B.—We cannot have a volunteer army of
Alumna. No one would desire to see a female corps
de reserve, with jaunty plume, silken cross-belt, and
scarlet skirt. Whatever the Mrs. Bloomer's of New
York may think and choose to do—however anxi-
ous they may be to take rite in hand, and go
through the manual and platoon exercise, in order
worthily to reinforce "the grand army of the
Potomac--England would never desire to behold their
a i yea, sisters, and daughters forming a martial
1,1 igade, and preparing themselves for a march-out.
Times may occur when the heroism of • Maid of
Barageea can save her country, and inspire the timid
and indolent with valour and defiance. The memory
of the women of Chester will still be cherished in
the Chronicles ot the Civil War, and their prowess
iilumine the page of history. A Highland Jessie— 1
half soldier, half prophetess—may stimulate the '
flagging sprite and energies of an exhausted regi-
Meet. Bat these are exceptional caeca They

~
, are the products Pf perilous Old deadly days. The
I maiden's fair, fragiteformwas neverineaut to be seen
-in the van pt batth, or to contend with the enemy,
at the*, tot- If, however, they prinnt fight, women
I can dir. still, and have done, great things to create
' [end filter a martial spirit in the warriors of every
countiy. In England especially, the veltinteer
, morethent owes much of Its eminent success to the
• countenance and good will of the ladies of the land.
Hail they not taken it in hand—had they not
eneouraged their ems and brothers to don the
uniform —hail they not insisted upon constant atten-
dance, and jsreacheil the doctrine of patience and
, permmm :ot. those's/he would have fallen out of
the ranks iind abanlloned the banse—should we
now 4ti m bet a launched apt' fifty thousand men,
equipped aoll.4'ractise4 in the rifle, for the security
and honour of the country? Feminine influence. it
cannot be denied, has largely assisted the movement,
and never have its possessors been loth to reward the
steady and persistent volunteer with a due meed of
praise rend sympathy. ficonetimesi, in the enthusiasm
of her heart, woman has stepped out of her natural
reserve, and, iii a graceful address, presented to a
battalion a silver bugle or a silken banner, to testify
to the senate the daughters of England -entertain of
the sacrifices made by the chivalrous youth and
manhood of the country in defence of their bearthe
and home.. But laying generals aside and coining
to particulars, we have to congratulate the ladies of
Wifilliorne for having set RR example to Dorset
wet thy of all huitation. We shall not pry into this
sacred privacy of home, and inquire how much
anxious thought has been taken, what toil (early and
late) has been performed by the fair and gentle con-
stituency in this part of the county for months past;
suffice it to say that their personal contributions and
exertions were made manifest on Tuesday and Wed-
nesday, the 22nd end 2.3 rd inst., at the Grammar
School, when a bazaar, in aid of the funds of the
Wimborne Volunteer Rifle Corps was 'held under
the patronage of the nobility and gentry of the town
and neighbourhood. Unfortunately on Tuesday the
morning was ushered in with a large fall of rain,
which no doubt prevented the attendance of many
who would otherwise have been present; neverthe-
less, the room was at times crowded. The stalls
were kept by Lady Augusta Sturt, Miss Sturt, Mrs.
1 Portinan, Mrs. Charles Parke, Miss Ada Fryer,
Mrs. Georee-Manad, Mies Onslow, Mrs. 4ankes, Mrs.
Garland, Mrs. Biddle, arid the Misses Goode.
—Among thee. company we also noticed Captains
Biddle, 11. Nugent Hankies, Esq., Captain Wyndham
and the Misses Wyndbein, Major Portenus, J. B. Gar-
land, Esq., W. It. Fryer, Esq., and the Misses Fryer,
I C. J. Parke. Feel. and the Misses Parke, C, R. Rowe,
I Esq.' and Mrs. Rowe, Captain D. F. Grant Dalton,
Captain J. C. Manuel, and Mrs. Maned, J.
Calereft, Req.. and Mrs. Calcraft, Captain and Mrs.
Coventry. Colonel mid Mrs. Todd, Rev. C. Onslow,
and Mrs. Onslow, C. Onslow, req., Rev. H.
and Mo. Good, Ensign Taylor. ke.' The
' room was tastefully decorated with flap and
banners, and the stalls were welt stocked with articles
of children's dress, plain and ornamentsl needlework of
. every description imaginable, as well as articles for the
toilet, the drawing-room, the work table and the library.
As we took no inventory of the numerous goods exposed
for sale, we cannot publish a catalogue of them,
astetioneer fashion, as perhaps some of our contepipora-
raries may attempt to do; and oar reason for the omis-
sion is, that in almost all instances the artistes were of
such exquisite materiel and workmanship, that no pen
could possibly do justice to the tastes of the fair
artistes who had designed and wrought out those designs
with so much skill. We only line that every volunteer
ie Wiinhorue saw chose stalls. If sueli was the yam we
, are sure there will be no more flagging or &sternum in
attendeece at drill, end that, so far at least as they are
concerned, should the enemy ever land upon ourshores,
the mothers and daughters of England will find In
then% 'staunch, able, and gallant defenders of their
native land. 'Without being- thought irarricheous, or as
thetkiug slightingly of the rest, there were one or two
stalls which particularly struck our attention, as the
number and variety of the articles exhibited showed ,
that no ordinary degree of labour and artistic skill had
been spent upon them. The first was tha of Miss Ada
Fryer, who, with her oWn Minds, had produced pa ex-
eelleet model el }lathery Rings and butts, the exorcise
ground of the Wimberne Volunteers en an exalt scale
of 100 feet to the hub, with, by the aid of some
mechanical contrivance, the riflemen firing in volleys on
the word of command being given. The model bore the
following appropriate motto:—" Pro aria et foris"—for
our hearths and homes. The young lady exhibited also
two exact models, aceording to scale, of Kineon church
and churchyard, with the stained window, yew tree,
tomb stones, kw complete; a wheel of fortune; an
order barrel obi:riddles and puzzles for oystep 4 and
- • two flower stands, handsomely ornaniented wale' pine
apples end the Dagen of the oak. There wereasitfour
magnificent terra cones, beings portion et a smell needier
manufactured by Edward Beaumont, EN., of Woodhall,
Yorkshire, for the International Exhibition. Mrs.
Porlman's stall was also justly admired for the large
number of articles of amebae design and finish displayed.
Amongst these were • puee Genes velvet amoking cap,
camp stools, flowers in India embroidery, screens made
of the head and wings of owls, flower stand beautifully
ornamented, sore cuehions, ladies and gentlemen's
knitted scarfs, Parisian purees , Son, and at the stalls of
Mrs. Mengel and Miss Onslow was an exquisite model
of a palace, designed from • picture in the Illustrated
News. Of course, if • little putfilg is at times
exeumble, it is on such an occasion rind for
so praiseworthy an objeet as this. The meat notable
that ea der our observation was in relates to
'The Vi as perfume, or the 6th Dorset Rifles
met
Bouquet," t Is. 6d. per bottle. This delicate novelty
was remote as being • made of the choicest herbs
and flowers of Persia and Arabia, and the inventor par-
ticularly cautioned all pnrchasers that "none is genuine
unless bearing the trade mark, to imitate which is
dreadful!" The 6th Dorset Volunteer Drum and Fife
Band, end the brass band, under the able leadership of
F. it Blount, Req., organist of Winsborne Minster, were
in etteedenee, and added greatly to enliven the pro-
ceedings during the afternoon. On Wednesday the
weather was delightful, and the number of visitors was
greatly ineresoed, but to give a list .of the nurses of
those present Would far exceed our Runts, as we should
be obliged so enumerate more than half of the gentry
in the county. We were pleased to learn that "trade"
was brisk, and we trust that we shall next week be able
to give the pleasing ictelligence that the proceeds more
than realized the expectations of the most sanguine
promoters of the prabeworthy oiijeet for which it was
intended.
SALISBURY DIOCESAN CHORAL ASSOCIATION.
This is Easter week, and all mew, women, and
children, not being bedridden or under a stern
gaoler's lock and key, think they have a perfect
right to enjoy themselves. We have theological
chapter and verse to warrant us in making merry,
for is it not the meow/ great annual festival of
Christianity? It is true we English have given the
Pascal time a Pagan title, and call it after the name
of the Saxon goddess Eostre ; but then, ho* St.
Augustine made its observance binding on all the
English faithful so far back as the year 597; and it
was ordered by the Council of Nice to be kept at
the same time throughout all the cliristian world.
We trust that Sunday last, being Easter Sunday,, all
our readers observed the time-honoured custom—in-
vented, it may be presumed, by the tailors and
mantusemakers--of putting on some new article
of apparel in honour of the day. in Paris "pilques"
is always kept with great splendour and rejoicing.
Everybody congratulates themselves that those weary
forty days of Lent, full of dolorous reminiscences of
omelettes, salt fish, and lentil soups, and warmly
relieved by the spasmodic gaiety of the ml airtime, are
over. In Italy And Spain there is simply a frenzy
of holiday-making ; and it is only our Russian and
Hellenic friends who, being elevetiebres behind hand
in their calendar, will have to wait nearly another
fortnight }Alois they can give away their painted
eggs, eat their butter-cakes, and kiss one another in
their usual Easter and affectionate fashion. What
millions of Mtiscovite kisses will be dispensed by
the Ist of May! The haughty Czar will kiss the
common sentinel who mounts guard at the palace
gate; the poorest droschky driver may hug the
police official who but yesterday delivered him over
to the tender mercies of the stick, for Easter is held
to be a season of universal joy, and imbued with "a
feeling of affable gladness," and millions yet bear in
their -hearts the beautiful tradition once current
amongst the English peasantry, that the sun itself
dancee on Easter inilfising. Thee cad be no denying
that Vi' im borne this amateur set anexample of spending
Easter-tide "right merrilie," not in bacchanalian
boistrousnesa ot the middle ages, when sack was
almost as plentiful as water and brown October was
free from the sacrilegious presence of the
exciseman or the interference of Parliament ; but in
a manner that may be reviewed with the most
pleasureable feelings at any future period of one's
life. Wednesday morning being fine, hundred* of
persons, of both sexes and of all ages, were tempted
from their homes—the railways bringing large
number of visitors from all parts of the county.
The festival of the united choirs was of sawn
the great attraction of the day, and never
was thee fine old Minster of Wimborne more densely
crowded than it was on this occasion. Every part
was crowded, and notwithstanding a large smasher
of temporary fittings had been erected, scores were
obliged to stand daring the whole service, while
1 undreds were unable to obtain admission. The
service was choral throughout--the Preces and Litany
Salisbury use, according to the arrangement off.
H. Richardson, Esq., assistant organist of Salisbury
Cathedral, and the Sanctus, Kyrie, and Creed, to-
gether with the Psalms, Canticles, Anthem and
Hymn, according to the arrangements of the Revi
0. Tower, diocesan secretary. The choirs, taking
part in the service, having ma at the GriiMlnif
SCUGOI, proceeded to the Minster, chanting
the propeasional hymn r... Alt----flarillac
chaster, 18' Blandford, 18; flearnabam,f- 116;
1 Canford with Kinson,• 16; Charlton 'Marshall, / i
I Cranhorne, 10 • Critchell, 12; Dewlish,
• 9; Landford, 9; ungfieet, 8 ; Poole, 16; Piddle.
town, 7; Spettiabury, 15; Tarrant Gunville, 10;
Tolpuddle, 12; Weymouth, 36; Wimborne, 18.
, The Venice, No. 99, Wimborne Minister Chant Book,
and the Psalms, No 102 and 94 from the same col-
lection. Lessons were read by the Rev. H. Goode,
the Litany intoned by the Rev. Lakin, one of the
minor canons of Salisbury Cathedral; the Commu-
nion service was conducted by the Rev. Dr. Moberley,
Head Master of Winchester College, the
Epistle for the day being read by the
Rev. C. Onslow, The music used at this festival was:
Processional Psalm—Green, from No. 10, Sahib
• Chant book ; Preeee--Tallis, accompanied ; Venice—
No. 99, Wimborne Minster Chant book; Psalms of the
day, Nos. 102 and 94 from the same collection • To
Deem landarans—Helmore, Bth tope, Ist ending 'B.
Jubilate Dee—Heltiore, Oth toes, 2nd ending' The Apostles' Creed, Tanis; Anthern, "-Lit. tno your heads
0 ye gates r ...Handel; The LitelyoeTallis I Sanctus;

-

from Merbecke ; Kyrie—Rev. C. Tower, after Merbecke;
Nicene Creed, from Carter's Psalter; Before Sermon,
Hymn ild, flaliebury Hymn book, Troyte I. When W 6
remehdrer that the sese.al choirs had not practiee,t
together, we may well say that the whole of this tea
choral mm rviee MAI rxcellently rrndered. liandere
beautiful antlienan could no fail to elicit the admiration
of all present, and Troyte's hymn was well sung. no
Strllloll was preached by the Rev. Dr. Moberley, who
took for Lis -text Psalm ace, 1 and 2, "0 come let ur
sing unto the Lord ; let us heartily rejoice in the
streugth of our salvation. Let us come be-
fore his presence with thanksgiving: and show ourselves.
glad in hint with psalms." The rev. preacher mid that
to, psalms contained a precious store of Christian ceps.
route*, a rich store of every state of Christian feeling—
suitable alike for states of depressiou, exhortations of
itankfultime, and songs of rejoicing. How ap, New,
were soine of the valuta that should set forth the Mateo
of their mind during the season of Lent through which we
had just passed, and the Psalm from which his text Was
taken for Easter tide, when they might well celebrate
the praises oL,Qtrd for his great sift to nail/tough his sou.
The Psalms set -forth, prophetically and beatitifully,
the clirist;an dispensation, and thmept work of redemp-
tion ; for unless Christhad flied, and bard the bonds et
death bow could we have rejoiced? But Christ had
def„.„:reo the rower of deattr, and thereforelf we had
been penitent, and had confessed our sins before God
we wore new well prepared tojoin in the language a,
Mie text and say. A' 0 come let using unto the Lord,
let us heartily rejoice in the strength of our salvation..
The reverend Doctor, next proceeded be phew how
we *ere to praise bind. We were to "unn4fon me
presence in time church where he mole pardienjery
inanifested himself to his people," "with thenhielefor,
and show ourselves glad in hini with psalms. `' All
animate creation praised him, and inanimate creation
showed forth his greatness. Ought net roan,
who had been purehased with the precious
blood of Christ, to praise him also? He expressed the
great setisfaction with the success that had attended the
Salisbury Diocesan Choral Association, and pointed out
the useful objects of such festivals as the one they now
celebrated. It was to foster and encourage a cermet
taste for psalmody throughout the diocese, and huh.
rectly throughout the eounit. The Pennon of the
Rev. Dr. use listened to with great interest and dm
light, and many of our readers will, we are sure, be
pleased to learn that it is intended to publish it. At
the close of the sernion a collection wee made, during
which the offertory sentences sere read by the Rev.
Prebendary Watts, the benediction being pronounced
by the Rev. Dr. Moberley. After +terries the choristers
were entertained at the National school-room to
an eleellent dinher, to which we need hardly add,
ample juetiee was done by them. During the afternoon
several of them visited the Ride Corps bazaar, and at
in the evening with their friends raterned for train to
their several homes, having spent at the pleasant
little town of Wimberne Minster one of the happiest
day! of their

--..WESLICY•N CIRCUIT Tea hilieTlNG.—Oe Good
Friday, the annual circuit tea meeting was held at
the Townball, Wimhorne. Tlicre was a goodly
attendance, and after the party had partaken of the
social meal, a public meeting was held, over which the
Rey. J. Wood, the superintendent of the circuit, pre-
sided. Very interesting addresses were delivered by
the ministers of the circuit, Mr. Hawke, whose name
is a household word amongst the Wesleyan body in
almost all parts of the kingdom, and ether friends.
The proceeds of the tea were applied to the general
circuit fund.

--POOLE. —Ten PZRANCE SOCIETY. —On Wednesday
and Thursday, the Rev. G. Maser gave to lectures,
accompanied by Mr. Thomas, the eminent musician,
in the Temperance Hall. The attendance we,
numerous, and the lecturer was received with great
applause each evening.
BOARD OF GUARDIANS. —On Wednesday, the
'election of Guardfine for the Poole Union took
placahich WM AS follololl :—Poole : Mesas. James
Weed, Joseph 4prie„ Thomia Belbin, aad John P.
Glitch Canfoal : Mis----Tastass Rawlings and John
Rych; klaniwortby Mr. G.A. Adams; Einem :
Mr. Thomas Abbott; Lytelsott Matravers : Mr. J.
Crnmpler ; Lytchett Minster: Mr. Homy House;
Loneliest : Mr. John Durell ; Parkstone : Mr.
George Foot.
TEMPERANCE 11ALL. —The committee of the Tem.
perance Society have received & handsome glass gas
chandelier, consisting of twelve burners, to a.,ed
in the centre of the new hall, from John Welch,
Esq., of Loudon, brother of Mr. K. Welds of this
town. E. Everett, Esq., the Judge of the County
Court, presented £5 towards paying off the debt for
the building.
CRICKET CLUB.— Active preparations are now
being made for the approaching season, and a field
has been engaged at liamworthy. Sir Ivor Gunk
Bert, has sent £5 to the funds of Una club.
Latium.— On Wednesday, the schooner yacht
"Gertrude" was launched from the yard of Messrs.
Wanbill. This yacht was built for a gentleman at
Cork.