Happily Mr. GERARD refused to oblige.

* * * * *

"The annual report of the Kneckenmüller Lunatic Asylum at Stettin
states that a number of lunatics have been called up for military
service at the front, adding: 'The asylums are proud that their
inmates are allowed to serve the Fatherland.' It appears, however,
that the results are not always satisfactory."--_The Times_.

We have heard of no complaints on our side.

* * * * *

"Meat, particularly mutton, is (says 'The Times') likely to remain
dead this week-end."

_Lancashire Daily Post_.

But if the hot weather continues--


* * * * *


LITTLE WILLIE'S OPINION OF FATHER.

["How long the conflict may last lies in God's hand; it is not our
business to ask questions about it.... It is not the Prussian way
to praise oneself.... It is now a matter of holding out, however