l-room, and signed the minutes of the last
meeting, in the capacity of President of the Council. The inspection of
the horses, cattle, and sheep was then made. Among the awards, made by
the judges of the Show in the forenoon, was a prize for the best pen of
shearling ewes, exhibited by His Royal Highness.

The annual banquet was given in the evening at the Exhibition Palace. It
was a brilliant and successful affair. About 450 guests were present,
and the galleries were thronged with ladies. When the Prince entered and
took his place at the head of the table there was tumultuous applause.
After dinner the Prince rose and said:--

"My Lords and Gentlemen,--The first toast which I have the
honour of proposing to you this evening is one which I am sure
will be heartily received by you. It is 'The Health of Her
Majesty the Queen.' In proposing this toast I am convinced that
the Queen has a part in the best wishes of the Irish people.
Although, unfortunately, some time has elapsed since she has
been over in Ireland, still I hope the day will yet come when
she may again come over. I am also convinced that the reception
she has met on former occasions she will meet with again. I will
not add more, but ask you to drink the health of Her Majesty the
Queen."

The toast was drunk with loyal fervour. After a short interval the
Prince of Wales again rose and said:--

"My Lords and Gentlemen,--I have some slight difficulty in
proposing the next toast, because it relates to members of my
own family; still, as it is on the list before me, I propose
'The Health of the rest of the Royal Family.' I am sure that it
has been the wish of my brothers not to be useless appendages of
the State, but to do all they can to serve their country. My
brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, as you are aware, has for some
time past been in the Royal Navy, and has had the advantage of
seeing many countries, and I may say of twice sailing round the
world. On my left is my brother who is serving in the Army, and
who responds to this toast. I trust that he has also a bright
career before him. He has some slight claim upon you,
gentlemen, as he bears the name of Patrick. Without saying more,
I beg you to drink the health of the rest of the Royal Family,
coupled with the name of Prince Arthur."

His Royal highness Prince Arthur, on rising to respond to the toa