The Library of Wimborne consists of about 243 volumes. To enumerate all the books would occupy too much space, and would, probably, be interesting only to the most ardent bibliophilist. I may mention, however, that the oldest work, a single entire manuscript, dated 1343,* is a compendium of instruction for priests having the cure of souls, and has a curious formula of absolution for the writer added at the end. Next, perhaps, in interest comes a black-letter Bible of date 1595, bound in oak and brass; while Walton's Polyglot Bible, in seven large folio volumes will necessarily take some attention. This work is composed as follows: the Old Testament, in seven languages, takes four volumes; the New Testament, in five languages, one volume; and a Lexicon by Castello, in seven languages, occupies two volumes-the five former bearing date 1657, the two latter being dated 1669. There are also some four or five other editions of the Bible, variously printed at London, Oxford, Geneva, and Amsterdam, at dates ranging from 1581 to 1703. A fine copy of Sir Walter Raleigh's "History of the World" is here, London, 1614, and also its continuation by Ross. The former volume has been burnt through some 104 of its leaves, and neatly repaired by placing a piece of paper over each hole, and restoring the text with great minuteness. Both the burning and restoration are traditionally, but erroneously, attributed to Matthew Prior, the poet. We also find here a "History of the World" by Howell, 3 vols., London, 1680-5. Here our glance at this quaint old room must cease. Amongst the many objects of interest in the grand old Minster, this spot lingers in the memory with the keenest pleasure; a pleasure heightened by the remembrance of the intelligent and courteous official whose explanation added to the interest of the visit, and who was proud to boast that 70 years of his life had been spent in the service of the Minster. F. W. or. *The writer, not having taken notes at the time of his visit, is indebted to Mr. G. Yeatman, of Wimborne, for these details as to contents of Library. Scraps. Since our last issue a new local periodical, The Mason College Magazine,* has made its appearance. The source of its inspiration and the object of its existence are indicated by the title. Believing, as we do, in the advantages accruing to the members of any literary or scientific society in having an outlet for their thoughts, and a record of their work, we should heartily welcome the advent of this magazine per se, but we hail it with still greater pleasure from the fact that it is a magazine almost sui generis, being edited, we believe, by a lady, and containing articles contributed for the most part by ladies also. It must not be inferred, however, that the pabulum provided is of a light and superficial character; on the contrary, some of the articles evince a depth of thought and a familiarity with scientific phenomena which would do credit to many an able professor of the sterner sex. As an evidence of the demand for Mr. J. H. Shorthouse's now celebrated work, a new edition of John Inglesant has recently been published by Cornish Brothers, complete in one volume, price 6s. An able and interesting essay on Milton's Paradise Regained, by Mr. Arthur T. Carr, F. H.S., has been printed by Messrs. Cund Brothers for private circulation. Our esteemed townsman and valued contributor, Mr. John Bragg, has recently printed a charming little volume of Sonnets, for private circulation only. Some of these pieces bearing the well-known initials " J. B.,” have already appeared in this and contemporary magazines. We think Mr. Bragg might submit his poems to the criticism of a wider circle of readers than is possible with the necessarily limited number he has issued, without the slightest misgivings as to the result. A dramatic poem by a veritable working man is a novelty; and if we cannot honestly award the highest praise to the author of Lawrence Hardiker, as a poet, we can heartily congratulate him on the possession of a refined taste, and a cultivated mind. Would there were more working men as well educated, and with aspirations as praiseworthy as his. * * This is the second volume of poetry written by Mr. John Harrison, and published for him by Cornish Brothers. His first venture, entitled Imaginary Loves and other Poems, was dedicated to Mr. Howard S. Pearson. * Published monthly by Cornish Brothers.-Price, 6d. The Rev. F. Langbridge, B.A., formerly of this town, who has already made his mark as a lyric poet, has recently published a volume of exquisite poems under the happy title of Songs in Sunshine. All who love poetry- bright and sparkling, yet withal full of tenderness, should possess this book. At a meeting of the Town Council, held on the 6th ult., a letter was received bearing the signatures of Messrs. J. T. Bunce, J. H. Chamberlain, G. J. Johnson, Sam. Timmins, and the Rev. A. R. Vardy, asking the Mayor and Council to support a memorial to the Treasury in favour of the purchase of the Ashburnham MSS., a request which was immediately complied with. We must confess to having experienced a feeling of humiliation when the Hamilton treasures were allowed to leave our shores, and we do hope, most sincerely, that the appeals now being made in this, and other important towns to avert a second national misfortune will be crowned with success. Work of the Session. HE Fifth Meeting of the Session was held on the 15th December, 1882, thirty members present. AN IMPROMPTU DEBATE took place. Subject: "That parents of the well-to-do middle class are justified in sending their children to Board Schools." Speakers: Messrs. James Heaton, G. Titterton, A. Liddell, J. Suffield, P. Porter, T. Hadley, S. E. Short, S. Tonks, A. J. Claddo, A. Holden, Hy. Clarke, John Cotton, and J. R. Pardoe. Voting. --Affirmative, 13. Negative, 9. The ANNUAL CONVERSAZIONE took place in the Town Hall, on Wednesday, December 20th, 1882, 288 members and friends present, 310 tickets sold. Dancing commenced at 8; Supper was laid at 10-45; Dancing re-commenced at 11-30, and closed at 2 o'clock. A short Concert was given by Messrs. Hallilley, Minett, and John Suffield, in the drawing room. A balance of £30. 13s. 6d. was handed over to the Treasurer. Sixth Meeting-January 19th, 1883. members and friends. Semi-public. Present: 85 DEBATE: "That the reforms proposed by Henry George in 'Progress and Poverty' are practical, and urgently needed." Speakers Affirmative, Messrs. G. Titterton, Jas. McClelland, Paxton Porter, and John Suffield. Negative, Messrs. Chas. Hibbs, F. W. Goldsmith, and T. C. Ratheram. On the motion of Mr. Holden, seconded by Mr. F. R Heath, the Debate was adjourned. Seventh Meeting-February 2nd, 1883. Semi-public. Present: 70 members and friends. ADJOURNED DEBATE: Speakers: Affirmative, Messrs. A. Holden, A. R. Tolkein, and T. Cund. Negative, Messrs. F. R. Heath, C. C. Smith, E. M. Coleman, J. W. Tonks, and A. J. Claddo. Voting (members only):-Affirmative, 5. Negative, 25. 8. ་་ 38. Eighth Meeting-February 16th, 1883. Semi-public. Present: 140 members and friends. DEBATE: "That the Leaders of the Liberal Party have violated or wilfully neglected to redeem the promises made by them prior to, or during the election of 1880." Speakers: Affirmative, Messrs. W. Barton, E. M. Coleman, W. Lawson, and R. C. Jarvis. Negative, Messrs. Chas. Lean, W. S. Ireland, Councillor Payton, and C. C. Smith. Mr. Barton replied. Voting (members only) :-Affirmative, 14. Negative, 35. (Members and friends) 22. Ninth Meeting-March 2nd, 1883. Semi-public. Present: 230 members and friends. LECTURE by Mr. Howard S. Pearson upon "Utopia, the daydream of a Philosopher." On the motion of Mr. Leonard Brierley, seconded by Mr. J. W. Bond, an unanimous and cordial vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Pearson for his very interesting and instructive lecture. Tenth Meeting.-March 16th. Debate:- "That it would be unjust to a large section of the Ratepayers to pass the Birmingham Corporation Consolidation Bill in its present form." Opened in the affirmative by Mr. Frank Taylor, supported by Opened in the negative by Mr. Councillor T. J. Moore, and Motice to Members. THE EDITOR again appeals for assistance in providing illustrations for the Magazine. Hitherto, through the kindness of one or two members of the Association, the C.L.M. has rarely, if ever, made its appearance without one or more artistic illustrations; and although the services of these gentlemen have always been given freely, cheerfully, and as a labour of love, the Editor cannot help feeling that he has already encroached too much on their good nature. He will, therefore, be greatly obliged to any member of the C.L.A. possessing artistic skill (and there are several), who will kindly come forward and render assistance in this department. THE TREASURER begs to intimate that there are many subscriptions still unpaid. INTENDING CONTRIBUTORS to the July number will oblige by sending their papers to the Editor not later than June 3rd. |