connection with the Art Gallery is the "Public Picture Gallery Fund," the founder of which was the late Mr. Clarkson Osler, who gave £3,000 towards it. From this fund, which at present amounts to about £450 per year, choice pictures are purchased as occasion offers, many others being presented by friends to the town, notably the works of David Cox, which were given by the late Mr. Joseph Nettlefold.--The _School of Art_, which is being built in Edmund Street, close to the Art Gallery, is so intimately connected therewith that it may well be noticed with it. The ground, about 1,000 square yards, has been given by Mr. Cregoe Colmore, the cost of election being paid out of £10,000 given by Miss Ryland, and £10,000 contributed by Messrs. Tangye. The latter firm have also given £5,000 towards the Art Gallery; Mr. Joseph Chamberlain has contributed liberally in paintings and in cash; other friends have subscribed about £8,000; Mr. Nettlefold's gift was valued at £14,000, and altogether not less than £40,000 has been presented to the town in connection with the Art Gallery, in addition to the whole cost of the School of Art. ~Art Union.~--The first Ballot for pictures to be chosen from the Annual Exhibition of Local Artists took place in 1835, the Rev. Hugh Hutton having the honour of originating it. The tickets were 21s. each, subscribers receiving an engraving. ~Ash, John, M.D.~--Born in 1723, was an eminent physician who practised in Birmingham for some years, but afterwards removed to London. He devoted much attention to the analysis of mineral waters, delivered the Harveian oration in 1790, and was president of a club which numbered among its members some of the most learned and eminent men of the time. Died in 1798.