prominently as the chief of this movement, in the days when strong men were wanted to lead, and in these latter days Sir Thomas Hughes is entitled to much credit for the firm and consistent manner he has ruled over the licensing bench. Liverpool now breathes freely, and is no longer "the black spot" on the Mersey. Throughout this long and angry controversy the Conservative party occupied a difficult position. Many of its most active supporters were connected with what is termed the "trade," they were endeavouring to conduct a very difficult business respectably, and in conformity with the licensing laws, they have also been called upon to make large sacrifices. The Conservative party were always sympathetic with the "trade," and felt that the measures meted out to them were unduly harsh, but have always recognised that something heroic must be done to win back the city's good name. It is regrettable that a great and much-needed social reform should have become so much mixed up with party politics, but under the circumstances it was perhaps unavoidable. The reforms which have taken place owe much of their success to our press. _Porcupine_ in the 'seventies, under the editorship of Hugh Shimmin, was their active and strong advocate; and more recently the _Daily Post_ under the direction of Sir Edward Russell, has also done good service, and sad to say, both editors had to appear in the law court to vindicate their actions. While this movement to exercise increased supervision over public-houses and to diminish their number was in progress, the City Council was actively engaged in the problem of not merely demolishing insanitary property, but of replacing the rookeries thus destroyed by suitable and well designed houses. This new policy began in 1885, when the group of dwellings known as Victoria Square was erected. This good work has proceeded rapidly, and the Corporation has already expended considerably over £1,000,000 in this direction. Perhaps no one obtains such a full insight into the charitable and philanthropic work of the city as the Lord Mayor. He is called upon to preside over annual meetings of some ninety of our charities, and is brought into close contact with the many smaller societies, doing what they can for bettering and brightening the lives of the people. Whatever may have been the shortcomings of Liverpool in other respects, her people have always liberally supported her charities, and these have been far-reaching and generous in the benefits they have conferred upon the community.