t by the creditors at any general meeting. He
has to call meetings of committee and creditors when necessary. He can
transfer or dispose of the bankrupt's property for the benefit of the
creditors as the bankrupt could have done himself prior to his
bankruptcy. He can also carry on the bankrupt's business if necessary,
compromise or arrange with creditors, and sell bankrupt's property by
public auction or private contract.

1551. Trustee's Duties (2).

The trustee must render accounts to the Board of Trade not less than
twice a year; and must pay all money received into the Bankruptcy
Estates Account, kept by the Board of Trade at the Bank of England,
and not, in any circumstances, into his private banking account.

1552. Priority Debts.

Certain debts have priority, and must be paid in full, or as far as
assets will admit. These are--parochial and local rates, due at date
of receiving order, or within a year before; assessed land, property,
and income tax, up to April 5th next before date of order, not
exceeding one year's assessment; wages and salaries of clerks,
servants, labourers, or workmen, not exceeding L50, due for four
months' service.

[WHAT IS DONE WELL ENOUGH, IS DONE QUICKLY ENOUGH.]

1553. Distraint with Bankruptcy.

Landlord may distrain for rent either before or after bankruptcy, but
only for one year's rent if _after_ bankruptcy. Any balance beyond one
year's rent must be proved as in case of an ordinary debt.

1554. Allowance for Maintenance.

Allowance for maintenance may be made to bankrupt by the Trustee with
consent of committee of inspection, for his support, or for services
in winding up the estate. Where the bankrupt is a beneficed clergyman,
the Trustee may apply for sequestration of profits, and, with
concurrence of the bishop, allow a sum equal to a curate's stipend for
bankrupt's services in the parish. In the case of officers and civil
servants, in receipt of salary, the Court directs what part of
bankrupt's income shall be reserved for benefit of creditors.

1555. Declaration of Final Dividend.

A final dividend may be declared when the Trustee and committee of
inspection consider that as much of the estate has been realised as
can be done fairly without needlessly protracting the bankruptcy.

1556. Close of Bankruptcy.

Bankruptcy may be declared closed, and order to that effe