MIDNIGHT SERVICE—For the first time a midnight service was held last Saturday night in the Parish Church. Quite a good number of people attended. Appropriate hymns were sung by the choir, and a seasonable and profitable sermon was preached by the Vicar from "We all do fade as a leaf,"—Isaiah 64-6. Some will remember the effect when as the clock struck 12, and the whole congregation were kneeling in silence, the Vicar solemnly repeated the text, "We all do fade as a leaf." Although this was the first service of the kind ever held in Irchester Church it is hoped it will not be the last.

Health reports in the Wellingborough Rural Sanitary Authority
The Epidemic at Irchester—The Inspector, who was called in and questioned, stated that the ashpit in Partridge's-row had not yet been removed. He had obtained promises from the owner that it should be removed, but he had not carried them out as he was waiting to see whether a scavenger's cart would be provided.—Mr. Coales proposed, and Mr. Siddons seconded, that the owner be instructed to have the nuisance removed forthwith.—The Inspector said that pail closets had been recommended by Dr. Haviland as a first step to a system of scavenging, and the only way to meet the difficulty was to have a scavenger's cart.—In reply to a question, the Clerk stated that the only reply he had received to his letter, asking the Local Government Board whether the cost of a scavenger's cart might be made a special charge upon the parish of Irchester, was an application for a report of the epidemic.—Mr. T. Parsons strongly urged that there was no remedy apart from scavenging.—A long conversation ensued, from which it appeared that the Parish Committee had practically resolved itself into Mr. T. Parsons, there being a difficulty in getting the other members to attend.— Ultimately Mr. Denton proposed as an amendment "That a scavenger's cart be provided for the parish of Irchester, the cost of which shall be subject to the decision of the Local Government Board."—This was seconded by Mr. Parker, who said that even as a matter of economy it would be the best thing to have one.—Mr. Gross stated that at the Guardian's meeting the previous week there were 17 cases from Irchester, chiefly through the epidemic, and one of which had cost the ratepayers 26s, in a fortnight.— Mr. T. Parsons said as a matter of economy, humanity, and Christianity, and everything else they ought to have one.—Mr. S. Parsons said that if one were provided he did not anticipate there would be any difficulty as to payment on the part of Irchester parish.—On the amendment being put, six voted for it, and three against.—The Sanitary Inspector was instructed to provide a cart.—Mr. S. Parsons thought the house which Dr. Thomas had declared uninhabitable and in which deaths had occurred since it was first condemned, should be closed, but it was pointed out that when a system of scavenging was carried out the nuisance would abate.

A VILLAGER writes as follows:—This village for the last few months has suffered from a most malignant fever. It is hoped now, however, that ill will not spread further, as it has of late abated to a great extent. Eleven persons have fallen victims to this dreadful malady. Recently the shoe trade here has been very bad. It appears that the army contracts have fallen into other hands, so that many who do get employ have to fetch their work from Raunds or Northampton. During these last twenty years "the lines have fallen to us in pleasant places, and we have had a goodly heritage," and it is hoped that the present state of things will soon improve. A new clergyman has taken the place of our late vicar (Rev. J. Monk.) He is generally liked, and the church is well attended. He is very energetic and useful in the village, and visits those afflicted with fever or otherwise, almost without exception. We have also a new schoolmaster who is promising to be a boon to the village, and although, through the raw state of the material, he may be obliged to wield his cane pretty freely—which for the time, to its objects, is not joyous but grievous—yet it may work out a far greater amount of discipline and education, as it not only assists the circulation, but tends to enlighten the understanding. It is expected that the fine old church in this village will shortly be restored by new seating it and providing it with a new roof. The estimated cost is upwards of £3000.

SOCIAL MEETING—On Wednesday last a united singers tea was held in the Day School-room. About 150 were present. After tea the Vicar read some amusing pieces, and a portion of the time was occupied in singing, the pianoforte being played by Miss Radcliffe. Some of the party also amused themselves by dancing. Mr. E. Parsons took the most prominent part in getting up the affair.

WELLINGBOROUGH RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY
The monthly of this Authority was held in the Board-room at the Workhouse on Wednesday last, when there were present Mr. J. W. Watts (in the chair), Rev. T. Richards, and Messrs. J. Siddons, T. H. Wykes, R. Pell, J. H. Coales, G. Denton, T. Parsons, J. Austin, J. Parker, G. Parsons, S. Knight, J. Earl, and S. Parsons.

The Scavenging Question at Irchester
Mr. T. Parsons stated that everything possible was being done to improve the sanitary condition of the parish. He would see to the payment of the scavenging up to the end of March.—The Inspector reported that the cart had cost £24, and the bill was passed for payment.

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT
IRCHESTER—Since my last report there have been eight fresh cases of typhoid brought under my notice. Four more deaths from this disease have occurred. This brings the total to 70 cases and 12 deaths. The ashpit which caused a house to be uninhabitable has been closed and emptied, and the house is now fit to live in. The scavenger's cart has been bought, and appears to answer well where it is used. At the request of the Local Government Board I sent them a special report on the sanitary condition of the village, which I have been desired to communicate to you:—

This village has a population of about 1700. One portion of it stands on higher ground than the other. The Water.—This is supplied by pump and open wells. From an analysis I have made I find the wells lying in the upper part of the village are pure, but the wells in the lower part of the village are not so. I have examined ten of them with the following result: Two are unfit for drinking, and of the eight others, the water in all contains evidence of more or less contamination with sewage matter. The Drainage—The slop water in the upper part of the village is conveyed in 12-inch socket pipes; in the lower part in stone or brick drains. There are two main outfalls. The first is at a distance of 300 yards from the village into a narrow watercourse, which runs into the Nene about a mile and a half off. The drain in this 300 yards is made of 12-inch pipes. The other outfall was originally into another water-course, which then ran into the same watercourse as the first. This watercourse has, however, become dried up, and the slop water then ran on to a field. The owner has complained, and the parish authorities are about to erect a tank for it to flow into, from which it is to be carried by pipes into the first mentioned watercourse. There are a few houses at the upper end of the village with separate drains leading into the same watercourse. The Excreta—The majority of the houses in the village have the ordinary privies with the common cesspool. Many of these are too large. There are besides 42 pail closets, 30 of which belong to houses in yards with no gardens. In these yards ashpits have been built, into which the palls are emptied. These ashpits emitted foul smells. One of them, built at the back of a cottage, rendered it uninhabitable from the stench. From another, whenever it rained, there was leakage into the drain, thereby polluting the slop water with foecal matter. A system of scavenging for the removal of the excreta is necessary for this village. If such a system was carried out many of the large cesspools now used might be done away with, greatly to the improvement of the sanitary state of the village. In a former report I recommended the formation of a reservoir, and the substitution of socket pipes for the stone drain.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL—An impressive sermon was preached in the above chapel last Sunday evening by Mr. Millar of Burton, who towards the close made mention of the sudden death of Lizzie Smith, a scholar in the Sunday school.
PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL—Anniversary services were held in the above chapel on Sunday Feb. 5th and 12th. The preachers were Miss West, Mr. Burrows, and D. Cornwall. On Monday Feb. 12th. & there was a public tea and a meeting afterwards. The report of chapel finances was read by Mr. Jones, the secretary, after which addresses were delivered by the Rev. G. Newton, Messrs. Fowler, Crookshank, and Parbury. Collections were made after each of the services in aid of the Chapel Fund amounting in all to £6 9s. 4½d. The entire for the year was £27 19s. 7d. and the expenditure £19 13s. 1½d. leaving a balance of £8 6s. 5½d. of the chapel fund.

Fatal Accident on The Midland Railway
On Tuesday afternoon last, Mr. J. T. Parker, divisional coroner, held an inquest at the Red Lion Inn, Irchester, respecting the death of John Clark, a navvy employed on the widening at Wymington. It appears that the deceased was crossing the line near the bridge below Irchester Station to go into the village, when he was knocked down by an express train and killed. After the jury—of whom Mr. H. Saxby was foreman—had viewed the body, the following evidence was taken:—

Wm. Pepperill, a shanty keeper at Wymington, identified the body, and said that the deceased—who had been known amongst his companions by the nickname of "Soldier"—had been working on the widening for eleven weeks. Witness knew nothing of his previous history. Deceased left home on Monday morning about 7.30, saying that he was going to work, and he never afterwards returned. He had heard deceased say that he was 47 years old, and he believed that he had some letters in blue ink on one of his arms near the wrist.

Henry Ledbitter, a Midland Railway driver, deposed that on Monday lie was driving the 9.30 a.m. express from London to Derby, and passed Wymington about 11.8 at a speed of about 50 miles an hour. When near Irchester station he saw a man leave the upside of the line to cross. He at once whistled, but the man did not turn his head or take any notice, and walked across right in front of the train. The engine caught him and knocked him down. It was impossible to avoid him. Witness stopped at Irchester and gave information to the station master. There was no other train near enough to have attracted deceased's attention.

Thomas Wade, fireman, gave confirmatory evidence.

George Crowson, station master at Irchester, said that on receiving information of the occurrence, he went up the line a distance of 300 or 400 yards, and found the deceased lying on the side of the down line quite dead, having apparently been struck by a passing train. He was near to a level crossing over the line.

Mr. Freeman, surgeon, of Rushden, said that he had attended the deceased ten days or a fortnight since for inflammation of the lungs. He was under the impression that he was slightly deaf. On Monday he examined the deceased's body, and found that he had sustained an incised wound on the left temple, with extensive fracture of the skull. He also had a comminuted fracture of the left leg and the left forearm, and a simple fracture of the right arm. Deceased had no tattoo marks on his arm or chest. He looked from 47 to 50 years of age. His hair was slightly grey, having previously been dark. He was about 5 ft. 11 in. in height.

P.C. Thomas said that he examined the clothes of the deceased, and found 2s. 7d. in money upon him, and a discharge ticket from the widening works, which he could have got cash for at Irchester to the amount of 2s. 4d. There was also in his pockets a knife, comb, box of matches, box of insect powders, and two pipes, but nothing leading to his identification.

The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death."

STARTING A BAND OF HOPE—On Wednesday evening last a meeting was held in the Wesleyan Schoolroom, for the purpose of establishing a Band of Hope. The chair was occupied by Mr. William Darnell, who opened the meeting very appropriately. After recitations by Alice Luck, and also by Nellie Wilby, the Chairman called upon Mr. Banks, of Wellingborough, for an address, after which an entertaining dialogue was given by two young ladies. The singing of several of Sankey's hymns and two short prayers also formed part of the programme. It is proposed that this newly-formed Band of Hope shall remain connected with the Wesleyan School, and under religious influence.

BAND OF HOPE—The Band of Hope in connection with the Wesleyan Sunday School held their second meeting in the schoolroom last Wednesday evening. The place was filled. The meeting was opened and closed with prayer. Miss Radcliffe presided at the harmonium. Addresses were given by the Chairman and by Mr. Banks; a song by Mr. Bull, of Wellingborough; reading by Mr. D. Darnell; recitations by Mr. Bull and Miss Letts; and a dialogue by Messrs. Riddle and Bond. In addition to the juvenile members 50 adults have signed the pledge.

SERVICE OF SONG—On Monday last a tea meeting was held in the Wesleyan Schoolroom, after which there was a service of song entitled "Christie's Old Organ," which was very nicely rendered. The readings were given by the J. Peet, of Wellingborough. Miss Ratcliffe, who now presides at the chapel organ, played for the occasion. The amount collected at the tea tables and in the evening was over £5, which is to be devoted to the harmonium fund. The whole affair was under the superintendence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Parsons.

GOSPEL TEMPERANCE MEETING—On Good Friday the members of the Norman Lodge of Good Templars, from Wellingborough, visited Irchester, and held meetings in furtherance of the Blue Ribbon or Gospel Temperance Movement. An open-air meeting was held, and a procession of friends passed through the streets singing suitable hymns, after which a meeting was held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel (kindly lent for the occasion). The chair was taken by Mr. G. H. Burrows, of Wellingborough, and addresses were delivered by Messrs. W. Sharman, S. Busby, and the Rev. G. Newton. Mrs. Burrows and Mr. John Selby sang solos during the evening. At the close eight pledges were taken, and 40 put on the blue ribbon.

A correspondent sends us the following lines for publication:—

THUNDERSTORM—The terrible thunderstorm of last Wednesday surpassed in duration and violence any the oldest inhabitant can remember. The hailstones were as big as children's marbles, some of them measuring about three-quarters of an inch in diameter. Much of the bloom is cut off the fruit trees. The rain descended in torrents, flowing down the street like a river, flooding many dwelling houses, including those in Mr. Lilley's yard, which, notwithstanding the large pipes recently laid had a depth of water 12 or 13 inches. A channel a foot deep was scooped down the garden, the bottom of which is an entire marsh. Considerable damage was also done by the lightening. It struck a chimney belonging to Mr. Hardwick, laying it open and bringing the chimney pot down into the bedroom; a number of holes of several inches in diameter were made in the wall and in the breast of the chimney up stairs and down; a large looking-glass was broken to pieces; a beautiful picture in gilt frame was turned black; the clock was carried across the room and smashed up; the Bible, with a number of other books, was thrown off the table to the floor; and broken pieces of glass and china were scattered over the beds and carpets, most of the chimney ornaments upstairs and down being destroyed. The rooms through which, the electric current passed were filled with smoke. The family were taking tea in an adjoining room and were untouched, although, naturally much alarmed. The damage altogether must be very considerable.

SCHOOL EXAMINATION—On Monday last the children of the Parochial Day School of this village underwent their examination before the Government Inspector. To celebrate the occasion the bells pealed forth merrily. The children seemed to enjoy the day very much, inasmuch as when the examination was over, they were at liberty to spend the remainder of the day at play.

BAND OF HOPE —A largely attended and enthusiastic meeting was held last Wednesday evening, by the members of the Irchester Band of Hope and Temperance Society, in the Wesleyan Schoolroom, The meeting was opened by singing and prayer, An address was then given by the Chairman (Mr. Spencer George), after which, a recitation entitled "How does the drunkard go down to the tomb," was given by Mr. Thomas Bond; a song "I'm a young abstainer," by Mr. F. Payne; dialogues by the Misses Ward and Smith, and Misses Riddle and George; and recitations by Mr. Riddle, Misses Robinson, Stokes, Percival; Masters Parbury, Ward, Bradshaw, and A. Ward. Hymns from Hoyle's Temperance Hymn Book were also sung during the evening, and the meeting concluded by prayer. Miss Radcliffe presided at the harmonium. At the close of the meeting 25 persons signed the pledge, making a total now belonging to the society of 203.

CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY—The 69th quarterly meeting was held at the Stores on Tuesday evening at eight o'clock. A goodly number of members were present. Mr. J. Letts was proposed as chairman for the evening, and after a few remarks he called on the secretary to read the report, which appeared to give great satisfaction. The receipts for the quarter had been £1,600, an increase of £148 over the corresponding quarter last year. The net profit had amounted to £154 19s. 6½d., which, after paying 5 per cent, interest on shares and loans would allow a dividend of 2s. in the £ to members, and of 1s. to non-members. Addresses were delivered by Mr. W. Darnell and Mr. W. George, on the subject of Co-operation, and some practical remarks and suggestions were made by Mr. C. Riddle, and other members present. A vote of thanks was given to the manager, his son, and the officers of the society, which brought the meeting to a close. It is proposed to hold a tea and lecture in Whit week, which will be advertised in due course.

THE RECENT EXAMINATION—"Novice" writes us as follows:— Sir, I noticed a statement in your last issue that on Monday last the bells "played forth merrily" to celebrate the examination of the school children by H. M. Inspector. Now is not this rather too much for most of your readers to swallow all at once? It is true that the annual examination of the schools began on Monday, the 8th inst., and on that day the bells did ring, but why any one should connect the two I cannot for the life of me see. The bells "played forth merrily" in honour of the visit of the Bishop of the diocese, and rightly so, for it has been some 30 years since any Diocesan has entered the church. The object of Dr. Magee's visit was to inspect the grand old fabric and the far famed spire of the Parish Church, and we may hope now that the ice is broken a fresh impetus will be given to the movement for the restoration of the church.

RUSHDEN - ACCIDENT—On Saturday morning last a young man in the employ of Mr. G. Denton, shoe manufacturer, named Ephraim Laughton, of Irchester, met with an accident. It appears that he was engaged in splitting leather with a splitting machine worked by steam, when he unfortunately put his hand too near the roll so that his fingers were drawn in the machine. His cries attracted the attention of his fellow workmen, and one of them instantly pulled toe strap off the wheel. The prompt assistance fortunately prevented the accident assuming an alarming character, but we understand that the young man will be unable to work for several weeks.

SCHOOL TREAT— On Tuesday the children of the Wesleyan Sunday School had their annual tea. The procession was formed at the chapel, and headed by a splendid banner proceeded to the bottom of the village, where the children sang a hymn as on previous occasions. In returning, Mr. Parsons distributed cakes of gingerbread to teachers and children as they passed by, after which hymns were sung opposite the dwellings of the sick ones in different parts of the village. The weather being fine the tables were set in Mr. Parson's field, and after tea children, teachers, and visitors amused themselves for several hours in a variety of games.

BAND OF HOPE—On Monday evening last, the children belonging to the Band of Hope gave a service of song in the Parochial Schools, entitled "The Musical AEsop." This being the first entertainment of the kind given by the Band of Hope in the village, great interest was taken in it, as shown by the large audience who were most enthusiastic in their reception of the different songs, recitations, &c. constituting the service, which were rendered in an admirable manner. This performance by the children reflects great credit on the Misses Ratcliff, and Mr. J. E. Parsons, who must have had an arduous task to bring the young folks to such a state of perfection. The connective readings were given in good style, by the Rector of the Parish, the Rev. E. W. Sandys-Reed, one of the vice-presidents of the society. At the close a vote of thanks was given to the Misses Ratcliff and also to the rev. gentleman for presiding.

CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY—On Wednesday last, the Co-operative Stores of the above place held their annual tea in the Parochial Schoolroom. They marched in procession through the village, headed by the Rushden National School Band. After tea a lecture was delivered by Mr. Butlin, of Long Eaton, Mr. John Letts proposed the vicar as chairman for the occasion, which post he ably occupied. Mr. D. Darnell, of Rushden, gave an appropriate address on co-operation, which was followed by Mr. Butlin's lecture. The report was given by Mr. Coleman, showing things to be in a most satisfactory state. 348 tea tickets were sold, and many more visitors were present. This year the society was patronized by the leading inhabitants of the place and never before had they had such a grand demonstration.

MUSIC AT THE PARISH CHURCH—"Musician" writes us criticising in several points, the musical part of last Sunday's service at the Parish Church, and also complaining of the neglected condition of the parish churchyard.

BAND OF HOPE—The largest and most enthusiastic meeting since the starting of the movement in this village was held in the Wesleyan Schoolroom on Wednesday, when Mr. C. Banks, of Wellingborough, presided. Ernest Slater, Wm. Kemshead, Arthur George, May Robinson, Julia Slater, William King, Joseph George. Corrie Stokes, Maggie Walden, J. Parbury, T. Saxby, and Mr. Thomas Bond, took part in the programme, Miss Ratcliffe again presiding at the harmonium. At the close 29 persons joined the society, making a total of 280.

DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT—To wind up the proceedings of Whit-week a temperance, dramatic entertainment was given by members of the Irchester Temperance Society entitled, "Selina Selby's stratagem," the parts being ably sustained by the following ladies and gentlemen: — Misses C. Ratcliff and C. Joyce, Messrs. J. E. Parsons, Purser, A. Kemshed, and T. Bond. At intervals during the evening several part songs were nicely sung by Mrs. Robinson, Mrs. Wilby, Miss Joyce, Mr. Reuben Slater, and Mr. Chas. Pain, which added much to the enjoyment of the evening. The audience, which was very large, showed their appreciation of the several parts by frequent bursts of applause.

Obituary Mrs. Mary Coles, aged 84.

THE CHURCHYARD—The churchyard in this village has recently been enlarged, half-an-acre on the western side, kindly given by Lord Overstone, having been enclosed by a wooden fence. It is proposed shortly to level the old part, which will be a great improvement. Many improvements have already been made in connection with the sacred edifice, and it is hoped that now the parish has a hard working and persevering vicar, who co-operates with the parishioners, the church will soon be thoroughly restored.

PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL—Sunday school anniversary sermons were preached in the above chapel on Sunday last by the Rev. T. Rockham, of Leighton Buzzard. On the following day the children of the schools had their annual tea, and a public meeting was held in the chapel the same evening. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. T. Rockham, the Rev. G. Newton, and Messrs. Burrows and Lovell. A diaologue was nicely given by Miss Sharp and Miss Carter, and recitations by Masters Parbury, Hill, Luck, and others. The congregations and collections were good.

BAND OF HOPE—Another enthusiastic meeting was held in the Parochial School on Wednesday evening last, under the auspices of the Irchester Band of Hope. The chair was taken by Mr. David Darnell, of Rushden, who commenced the proceedings in a neat speech, after which Mr. J. Parker, of Finedon, fulfilled his promise by giving each person that signed the pledge when he was last at Irchester, an orange. During the evening the following programme was ably carried out:—Two part songs by the Misses Joyce, Mrs. Dossett, and Messrs. Dossett and Slater; dialogues, Misses Saxby, Pettitt, Spencer, and Hardwick; dialogue, Miss Lilly Toms and Mary Percival; dialogue, Messrs. A. George and W. George; recitations by Masters J. Brudenell and Felix West. The meeting broke up by singing the National Anthem. Miss Ratcliffe again presided at the harmonium, and at the close a good many signed the pledge.

Rural Sanitary Authority Report - full report under Rushden

IRCHESTER - STREET LIGHTING — "A Parishioner" writes us:- For several years past the streets of this village have been lit up with paraffin, the outer lamps being the ordinary street lamps. Those who have seen them say they are nearly equal to gas. One thing, however, has to be regretted, that so much of the dark night season is allowed to pass before the lighting is attended to. Some of the darkest nights in the year are in September and October, but the lamps are not put up till November. The lamps belonging to private individuals are already giving their light. Would it not be well for the street lighting authorities to follow this example? By so doing they would very much promote the comfort of the public. As oil is now very cheap the cost will be a mere trifle, and an important addition would be made to the comfort and safety of the inhabitants.

PARISH CHURCH IMPROVEMENTS—The restoration of the above Church has for some years been talked of, and now a step has been taken which looks something like carrying the thing into effect. "The Sanctus Bell," or, as the old folks used to call it, "The Parson's Bell," which about forty years ago got broken, and has since been silent, has this week been restored to its former place. It was cast at Taylor's Foundry, Loughborough, and bears, in addition to date, &c., the initials of the vicar and churchwardens of the parish. It is a little heavier than the old one, but the tone is about the same, and reminds the old people of bygone days, and helps to call up to remembrance the old faces and voices that used to be seen and heard in the fine old Church about half a century ago, when the father and grandfather of the present clerk not only sustained the same office, but took the most prominent part in the singing, the old gentleman playing a bass viol and his son Tozeland a violin; for in those days, our young folks must understand, there was no organ, but musical instruments of all sorts had to do their respective parts in the psalmody of the sanctuary.

IRCHESTER - BAND OF HOPE—On Wednesday last, the Band of Hope of this village had a public tea in the Wesleyan Schoolroom. In the evening an entertainment, consisting of singing and a variety of other performances was held in the Parochial Schoolroom, which was numerously attended. The chair was occupied by Mr. S. George and the following took part in the entertainment:—Messrs. D. Darnell, C. Riddle, A. Kemshead, J. E. Parsons, C. Dossit, W. and A. George, Reuben Slater, S. George, and Misses A. Pettit, E. Letts, C. and P. Joyce, and the two Misses Ratcliffe.

PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL—On Sunday and Monday last, harvest thanksgiving services were held in the above chapel. On Sunday three sermons were preached by the Rev. J. Evans. The chapel was tastefully decorated for the occasion. The arch over the reading desk was exceedingly pretty, and there were also fruits and vegetables in great variety nicely arranged, so that the chapel altogether pre-sented a very attractive appearance, and did great credit to the "lady Primitives" of Irchester. On Monday there was a sale of the fruits and vegetables. Tea was provided at four o'clock, and during the afternoon refreshments were to be had at moderate charges. In the evening a public meeting was held, when addresses were delivered by Messrs. Gent, Busby, Lilley, and the Rev. J. Evans. The proceeds of the services and meetings amounted to about £5, which sum is to be divided between the Chapel and Circuit Funds. The choir did good service, Mr. Busby, jun., presiding at the harmonium.

PARISH CHURCH—For several years past harvest thanksgiving services have been held in the above Church, and last Sunday was the day set apart for similar services, when the display of vegetables, fruits, and flowers was quite equal to that of former years. Suitable sermons were delivered by the vicar, and harvest hymns were sung. The attendance was good, especially in the evening. Collections were made to aid the restoration fund.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL—Harvest thanksgiving services were held in the above place of worship last Sunday, when excellent sermons were preached by the Rev. J. Peet. The Chapel was moderately but tastefully decorated for the occasion, the decorations including the motto "Harvest Home" in front of the gallery. Seasonable hymns were selected for the day, and collections were made, to aid the annual subscription of the chapel to the Northampton Infirmary, amounting to £5 12s. 7½d.

IRCHESTER—SINGULAR OCCURRENCE—A correspondent writes as follows: "Your readers will be amused with the following singular occurrence. On Thursday last the village crier announced that two acres of ground were lost, with twitch attached, and that anyone finding the same and bringing it to Mr. Owen Humphry should be handsomely rewarded. Mr. Owen Humphry is a small farmer under the Vicar. Such a strange announcement has not been made since many years ago, when it was cried that the eclipse of the moon would be postponed on account of a lecture which was to be delivered that evening against temperance.

WELLINGBOROUGH RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY
The monthly meeting of this Authority was held on Wednesday in the Board-room, at the Workhouse, when there were present Mr. J. W. Watts (in the chair), and Messrs. J. H. Coales, W. J. Gross, S. Knight, C. S. Groome, J. Siddons, J. Allibone, G. Wyman, J. Burr, J. Walker, J. Ward, and J. Parker.

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT—The Medical Officer of Health reported that there had been a case of typhoid fever at the huts at the Midland Railway widening. He found the sanitary conditions fairly satisfactory, and was of opinion that the disease had been contracted elsewhere, possibly by sleeping near a cesspool. The case was going on satisfactorily, and there had been no further outbreak. If, however, the disease had been of a more infectious nature, such as scarlet-fever or small-pox, the results might have been very serious, as there was no place in which a patient could be isolated. He was strongly of opinion that there should be a hut specially set apart as a hospital. A case of typhoid fever had also occurred at Rushden, from miasmatic causes, in a yard near the Church. He found on enquiry that the pails were emptied on the gardens, and there were also pig-styes connected with the cottages that were not very clean. The Medical Officer urged the importance of regular scavenging and said that the excreta from the houses in question should no longer be thrown upon the gardens. The only remaining subject dealt with in the report was an impure well upon land in the occupation of Mr. Dawes, at Little Harrowden.—Respecting the case of fever at the huts, Mr. Austin bore out the doctor's report, and as no new case had arisen it was considered unnecessary to take action. The Inspector reported that the scavenging was now being carried out systematically at Rushden. Instructions were given to him to take the necessary steps for the abatement of the nuisances reported by the doctor. In the case of the impure well at Little Harrowden Mr. Groome said he thought the pollution could only be of a temporary character, and it was decided to write to Mr. Dawes to ask him to remedy it.

THE ESTIMATE FOR IRCHESTER PARISH—It will be remembered that at the last meeting of the Authority, the precept for £100 upon the overseers for the parish of Irchester was cancelled, as the Parochial Committee did not consider so large a contribution necessary, and the issue of the new precept was deferred till this meeting.—The Clerk said that the parish was £29 in arrears, so that a precept for £30 would cover the deficit. It would however, leave nothing in hand.—Mr. Austin suggested £35 or £40 as the amount of the precept, but the Clerk said that it would either have to be fixed at £30 or £45. The former would be realised by a rate of 2d. on houses and ½d. on land, and the latter by 3d. on houses and ¾d. on land, but any sum between these two amounts could not very well be raised.—The Inspector mentioned that there would be a small charge at the end of the year for scavenging, and the Clerk pointed out that probably there would be other small expenses during the year.—On the motion of Mr. Austin, seconded by Mr. Coales, a precept was ordered for £45.

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT—Further conversation took place respecting the notice served upon the Authority by one of the Electric Light Companies. The Clerk explained the provisions of the new Act, and it was ultimately decided to let the Company take its own course.

BAND OF HOPE—In the parochial school-room of the above place on Wednesday evening last, Mr. J. W. Kirton, of London, author of "Buy your own Cherries," gave a very interesting lecture on the benefits of total abstinence, illustrating the subject by diagrams which shewed the comparative quantities of nourishment in different foods and drinks. There was a good attendance, and the Rev. Sandy-Reed, vicar of the parish, occupied the chair.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL—On Sunday last collections were made in the above place of worship for lighting and warming, amounting to £2 13s. 3½d. Two excellent sermons were preached by the Rev. C. E. Mees.

FLOODS—The high wind and heavy downpour of rain during the early hours of Tuesday morning, caused a flood in this village. The water flowed copiously down the street, the church yard, and Mr. Turnell's yard, and the streams meeting at the top of Lilley's yard the grates were not sufficiently large to let the water into the drains, and it flooded the yard and cottages. Some of the tenants being apprehensive of the mischief, got up and took up the street grates to let the water in, which at once checked the flooding. To prevent these frequent inundations of yards and cottages it will be found necessary to have larger grates to let the abundance of water into the main pipes.

Irthlingborough Highway Board - see full report under Rushden

BAND OF HOPE—The fortnightly meeting was held in the Parochial Schoolroom on Wednesday evening last, and consisted of singing, readings, recitations, and dialogues, by several of the members. Mr. Wm. Darnell occupied the chair, and Miss Ratcliffe presided at the harmonium, room was well filled, and all seemed delighted. The members of the above are paying their weekly subscriptions towards a seaside trip next summer. It is observable (says our correspondent) that the habits and morals of the people of this village have considerably improved since the commencement of the Blue Ribbon movement.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL—On Sunday last two sermons were preached in the above place of worship, by Mr. J. Chambers, of Kettering. A children's service was held in the afternoon, and collections were made after each service on behalf of the Wesleyan Foreign Missions, amounting to £2 19s. 9d. On the following evening a missionary meeting was held, the speakers being the Rev. J. Peet, the Rev. C. E. Mees, and Messrs. J. Reader, and C. Lilley. The chair was very efficiently occupied by Mr. Edward Blott. Hymns and pieces adapted to the occasion were nicely rendered by the choir. Miss Ratcliffe presided at the organ. The collection was not quite so large as last year, but, putting together the collections, donations, subscriptions, and boxes, the sum for the year is about £10.

BAND OF HOPE—On Wednesday evening last the Band of Hope of this place held their fortnightly meeting in the Parochial School-room, when the usual routine of business was gone through. Mr. S. George occupied the chair. There was as usual a large number present, the interest being well kept up.

AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY—The members of the Ircastrian Amateur Dramatic Society, made their first appearance on the boards on Wednesday, and achieved a most decided success. The room was so crowded that numbers were unable to find seats. It was decided therefore that there should be a second performance on the Thursday. Fuller particulars will appear in our next issue.

THE BAND OF HOPE—On Tuesday evening last, a public tea was held in the parochial schoolroom, and in the evening a public meeting was held when Mr. Pollard, of Kettering, delivered his popular lecture on "Strong Drink and the five D's" Mr. C. H. Banks, of Wellingborough, occupied the chair. A collection was made at the close to defray expenses.

THE FEAST—The annual feast has this year passed off with unusual quietness, there being no shows and very little in the shape of toy and sweet stalls to attract and amuse the youngsters. Quarrelling and fighting used to be looked for at these seasons, but this year there has been nothing particular of either, and not so much drunkenness and noise about the streets.

BAND OF HOPE—The fortnightly meeting of the Band of Hope, was held in the Parochial Schools on Wednesday evening, when the following programme, under the able superintendence of the Misses Ratcliffe, was carried out:—dialogue, Lizzie George and company; recitation, Mary Tyler; dialogue, "Miss Burton's domestic troubles"; by Bessie Spencer and company; recitation, Julia West; recitation, Sarah E. Laughton; dialogue, A. George, A. Kemshed, and T. Bond. The schools were filled, some having to stand, the interest being well kept up throughout the meeting. The chair was taken by Mr. W. Long.

DRAMATIC SOCIETY—The Irchester Amateur Dramatic Society gave their performances in the Parochial Schoolroom, on the evenings of Wednesday and Thursday, the 13th and 14th inst., and attracted quite a large attendance. The following ladies and gentlemen took the respective parts:—Messrs. W. Payne, H. Ward, A. Ward, W. Ward, H. Warner, G. Hurry, J. Smith, Mrs. Smith, Miss Desbro, Miss Ward, and Miss West. The admission and collection money, after defraying expenses, will be devoted to the Church Restoration Fund.

ADVENT—During the season of Advent, there have been special evening services in St. Catherine's Church on Thursday evenings, when appropriate sermons have been preached by the Vicar, Rev. E. W. Sandys-Reed, M.A.

THE AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY—"Stage Manager" writes us as follows:— "Dear Sir,—In the name of the Ircastrian Amateur Dramatic Society will you allow me to correct a slight inaccuracy in the account of the entertainment as rendered in the issue of the 23rd inst. The original idea of the society was that the proceeds should be devoted to the Restoration Fund of the Parish Church. Inasmuch, however, as the projected restoration seems to be still a thing of the future, it was decided by the members that a four-light corona of duplex lamps should be presented for the body of the church. A similar one was provided at Christmas 1881, and there is yet one more required to complete the lighting of the nave."

CHRISTMAS TREAT—On Friday evening, the 22nd inst., the scholars of the Sunday School of this parish were provided with their Christmas treat and tree, with prizes. The tree, a very fine specimen, was furnished through the liberality of the squire, Mr. R. W. Arkwright, of Knuston Hall, whilst Mrs. Arkwright provided some very useful presents as prizes for those who had been most regular in their attendance. The children sat down to a bountiful tea of cake, buns, and scones, the cakes having been presented by a few ladies in the parish. After tea an adjournment was made to the Infant School, where the Christmas Tree was established, and Mrs. Arkwright and Miss Isabel Arkwright distributed the prices. Games were then indulged in, and in the intervals the Misses Eady were kind enough to play some pieces of music. The children were much pleased with the kind assistance of Mrs. Arkwright and Miss Isabel Arkwright, Mrs. and the Misses Eady, together with a few of the Sunday school teachers, as well as Mr, Bryant, the master of the mixed school. Before the children separated they were each presented with an orange and two pieces of cake, whilst during the evening Mr. Arkwright distributed a bountiful supply of excellent sweets. The children testified their appreciation of their evening's enjoyment by loud and continued cheers for those who had provided the wherewithall for their delectation.

IRCHESTER BAND OF HOPE—The Band of Hope in connection with this place held their usual meeting in the parochial schoolroom last Wednesday evening. The attendance was as good as on former occasions. The interest in the movement' is rather on the increase than otherwise.

JUMPING OUT OF A TRAIN—On Monday night last, as the mail train from London was coming down the incline towards Irchester Station, at the rate of 60 miles an hour, one of the passengers jumped out. The train pulled up at Irchester to inform Mr. Crowson, the station-master, who at once proceeded to the spot where the man fell. Fortunately, however, the man, although badly bruised, was not killed. He was at once taken to Bedford Infirmary. It is thought he will soon recover.

THE OLD YEAR AND THE NEW—On Sunday night last divine service was held in the Parish Church, commencing at half-past eleven o'clock. A goodly number took the opportunity of attending. It was about twenty minutes past twelve when the service closed, and then the fine old bells began to ring, proclaiming a loud and cheery welcome to the year 1883.—On Sunday last a watch-night service was held in the Wesleyan Chapel, commencing at a quarter to eleven o'clock. After singing and prayer, the 90th Psalm was read, and a few remarks made by one of the friends on the changes of the year, the goodness of God, and the shortness of time. The rest of the time was profitably occupied by singing and prayers. The attendance was very good. The meeting terminated about ten minutes past twelve.

SPECIAL SERVICES—Special preaching sermons have been held in the Wesleyan Chapel, and also in the Primitive Chapel, in the evenings of this week, and have been well attended. The Wesleyans and the Primitives united in singing through the village and announced in the street that the people would have a cordial welcome to either chapel.

BAND OF HOPE—The Band of Hope fortnightly meeting was held in the Parochial Schoolroom, on Wednesday evening last. The programme consisted of recitations and dialogues by several members. Mr. W. Long gave an earnest, and practical address which was listened to with good attention. Mr. W. Darnell occupied the chair, and in the absence of Miss Radcliffe, Mr. A. George presided at the harmonium. At the close of the meeting several pledges were taken and the meeting was a thorough success.

JUMPING FROM A RAILWAY TRAIN—John Moore, a railway labourer, of Wymington, was summoned at the Sharnbrook Petty Sessions, on the 19th inst., for leaving a train whilst it was in motion. The defendant, who did not appear, was seen by the guard of the mail train, which leaves St. Pancras & half-past eight p.m., to jump from the train while it was running at the rate of over 50 miles an hour. As the train was nearing Irchester it was then pulled up, and information given to the official of what had happened. The Irchester station master proceeded down the line on an engine, and found the defendant lying on the embankment . He was cut about the head, and was just recovering consciousness. He was subsequently taken to Bedford Infirmary, but he soon recovered from his injuries, and was discharged.—The Bench imposed a fine of £2, with £1 7s. 1d. costs.

ACCIDENT—On Sunday morning, about half-past eleven o'clock, an accident happened to Mr. and Mrs. Ward, of Irchester, who were riding to Wollaston in a light cart. Mr. Ward was driving the pony round the cross roads near the village, when he drove too near the hedge, and one of the wheels ran on to the bank, upsetting the cart, with its occupants, on the road. Mr. Ward was fortunately not hurt, but Mrs. Ward received a severe cut on her head, which bled very much. Assistance was rendered to them when the accident occurred, which they were very grateful for.