Experiments in rat-killing, says a news item, are being carried out at
the Zoo. At the time of writing the reticulated python is said to be
leading the whale-headed stork by a matter of three rats.

* * * * *


[Illustration: _Husband (just arrived home)._ "WHAT ON EARTH HAVE YOU
BEEN DOING WITH YOURSELF?"

_Wife_, "ONLY THE COAL-MAN'S BEEN AT LAST, AND I SIMPLY COULDN'T
RESIST GIVING THE DEAR MAN A KISS!"]

* * * * *

From the report of a breach of promise case:--

"The engagement came about through a chance meeting in Richmond
Park in the summer of 117."--_Daily Herald_.

Despite the happy case of Jacob and Rachel, we never have approved of
these long engagements.

* * * * *

A PAYING GAME.

When Belgium lay beneath your heel
To prove the law that Might is Right,
And Innocence, without appeal,