pes, and money to the amount of L96,700. These statistics are
furnished by the present secretary, Mr. Charles Dibdin, a descendant of
the Dibdin whose naval songs are known to all sailors. British seamen
are always ready to risk their lives to save their fellow men, and there
is never any difficulty found in manning the lifeboats, but it is
necessary to have a permanent staff, and to keep up the stations, while
those who volunteer to imperil their own lives ought to have reward, in
order to help to provide for others dependent on them. The Prince again
presided at the Annual Meeting in 1884.

SOCIETY OF ANCIENT BRITONS.

_March 1st, 1867._

A Welsh charitable institution might claim the patronage of the Prince
of Wales, from his title, apart from the sympathy shown by him towards
benevolent works amidst all classes of the people. On St. David's Day,
March 1st, 1867, the Prince presided at the 152nd anniversary festival
of this ancient and useful charity, the origin of which dates back from
the year 1715, shortly after the accession of George I.

Caroline, the Princess of Wales, was born on the 1st of March of that
year; and as there were divisions and intrigues at the period, many
influential Welshmen combined to show their loyal attachment to the
House of Hanover.

At first the combination was probably prompted by political motives, but
the Society soon took up practical work, and founded a school for the
education of poor children of Welsh parents in London. The Scotch had
already formed similar patriotic institutions, and at a later period the
Irish followed the example. On the present anniversary the Prince was
supported by a distinguished company, including several of the most
eminent and influential natives of the Principality.

The Health of the Queen having been drunk with enthusiasm, that of the
Prince and Princess of Wales was proposed by the Duke of Cambridge, who
said that every one would agree with him in expressing the high sense
which every body entertained of the admirable way in which His Royal
Highness had supported not only the general interests of the country,
but also those of individual societies. The Prince responded in a few
hearty words, saying he would always be found ready to assist charitable
objects, whether as an onlooker, or as a participator in the
proceedings, as he was that night. Having returned warm thanks for the
reception given to the toast, and the good wishes express