["Perhaps the popularity of the competition in national sport between the different parts of the Empire is worthy of the serious attention of statesmen ...  Mr. ASTLEY COOPER proposes rowing, running and cricket ...  There is something fascinating in the idea of such a Pan-Britannic gathering.”—­Daily Paper.]

The SPEAKER, having taken his seat in the Pavilion, the Minister for Cricket rose to move the third reading of The Six-balls-to-an-over Bill.

The Right Hon. Gentleman said that the amount of time wasted in changing sides, although the field did their best to minimise the loss by assuming a couple of positions alternately, was very serious—­especially in a first-class match.

The Member for Melbourne begged to ask what was a first-class match?

The Member for Sydney replied, certainly not a match between Canada and Victoria. (Laughter.) Now everyone was aware that New South Wales—­("Question!  Order!  Order!") He begged pardon, he was in order.

The SPEAKER.  I really must request silence.  The Minister for Cricket is introducing a most important measure, and the least we can do is to receive his statement with adequate attention. (General cheering.)

The Minister for Cricket continued, and said that the measure he had the honour to commend to their careful consideration would not only lengthen the over, but also allow Cricket to be played all the year round.

The Minister for Football begged to remind his Right Hon. friend that he had promised to consider that matter in Committee.  What would become of Football were Cricket to be played continuously? ("Hear, hear!”)

The Member for Bombay thought that a matter of no moment.  In India Polo was of infinitely more importance than Football, and he could not help remarking that, in the Imperial Parliament, representing so many sports, and so many Colonies, where every great interest was represented, and well represented, Polo was absolutely ignored. (Cheers.)

The Minister for Aquatic Sports agreed with the Hon. Member.  Polo was entirely of sufficient interest to warrant the creation of a special department for its guardianship.  But at present he was responsible for it.  He hoped soon to be able to welcome a colleague who would make its interests his continual study. ("Hear, hear!")

The Minister for Cricket concluded by thanking the House for the attention the Hon. Members had given to the subject, and sat down amidst loud applause.

A division being taken, the Bill was carried by 127 to 96.  The majority were composed of Australians and Canadians, and the minority were Africans, Indians, and miscellaneous Colonists.  The House then adjourned.

* * * * *

[Illustration:  TRUTHFUL BUT NOT CONSCIENTIOUS.

Elderly Dowager.  “Now, PERKINS, I REQUIRE YOUR HONEST OPINION.  DON’T YOU THINK THIS DRESS SUITS ME?”