ing result of these measures is that
the management is enabled to present to the public an entertainment that
has cost _nothing at all_. Patriotism could no further go.

* * * * *

"Meanwhile, the turnip trade is booming, and prices going higher: People
seem to be talking to them in place of potatoes."--_Newcastle Evening
Chronicle._

Yes, and their language is often very regrettable.

* * * * *

TO FRANCE.

If so it be for every generous thought
Spring scents are sweeter yet.
For every task with high endeavour wrought
Earth's gems are fairer set--
Primrose and violet;

If for each noble dream in dormant seed
The life-spark stirs and glows;
If for the fame of each heroic deed
Some bloom the lovelier grows--
White lily or red rose;

Then, France, thou shouldst be lavish of thy flowers
For all our dead and thine,
And for all women's tears, or thine or ours,
Put forth some tender sign--
Heartsease or eglantine.

* * * * *

CHILDREN'S TALES FOR GROWN-UPS.

THE JUDGMENT OF THE ASS.

VII.

It was in the year that the donkey was elected judge, because only he and
the mule came to vote and the mule spoiled his voting-paper.

The weasel came before the court to make a serious complaint against the
rat.

"Most learned judge," said the weasel, "the rat came to me for advice.
'Tell me,' he said, 'how I can obtain a delicious piece of cheese I have
seen.' I showed him how he could get it. He ate the cheese, and since then
he has not ceased to revile me."

"Most unjust," said the judge. "What has the rat to say?"

"The rat does not appear," said the mule, who was usher.

"And why not?" asked the judge.

"He is still in the trap," said the usher.

"I showed him the way in," said the weasel proudly.

"But not the way out," said the rat's prospective widow.

"He only asked me how he could get the cheese, and I showed him," said the
weasel.

"The weasel shall have the reward of virtue," said the judge. "As for the
rat I shall fine him for contempt of court in not appearing."

"Justice!" cried the rat's prospective widow. "I demand my husband."

"You shall have him," said the ass. "I order the weasel to show you the way
into the trap."

* * * * *

An Indian Circus handbill:--

"Programme of the Bengal Grand Cirkcus Co:
Perfo