THE MARKETS.

Press, Volume XLVIII, Issue 7871, 23 May 1891, Page 5

THE MARKETS.

(MB ?____ __35oiatios1, , Reoeived May-2nd, 8 _*,_. Pakis, May 21. The French grain crops are iv a critical condition, and offioial estimates of the yield show a deficiency in the home supply of 20,000,000 hectolitres [A hectolitre equals 2.75 imperial bushels.] _■ ■

. Th* National Oamk or Mawt__s.-'"-» Polo is the national game of Manipur, says a recent lady visicor to that Country, and the princes of the royal house Are among the best players. To be unusually skilful is to be sore of the Maharajah's favor and to be excused forced labor; so polo is the end and aim of a M-U-ipuri's ambition, and, moreover, he » so passionately fond of the game that he Will baiter hia wife for a good potty. It is tbe national pastime. As boys play crick.* on the village geCu in England, so boys of ail agee may be Seen at hookey in Manipur; very babies come toddling but with ball* and minis t*ure polo sticks. No wonder they are skilful at it. I have seen them strike the ball in the air aa it flew past, or, missing their first Btroke, catch the ball with a second made wi th a wonderful turn cf the wrist and indescribable swiftness. They ride recklessly, though no doubt the pace is not quite as good as it looks, for the ponies are all very small— about eleven hands, and always under twelve. Going at full speed they turn in so short s distance that the pony almost seems to he lying on his side aa he goes round.

Beautiful Palms for table decoration, Pot Plant* in great variety at Nairn and Sons', Lincoln road, Cfaristchureh--t_JDv*T. Treat- your guests to a cup of. ' Matchleas" tea, and your parties will never be dull* ~ . /.,.:

A P.rfe_t Bavermge—"Arab" and * Bi____" _____ Teae, la aad 8a _i _*_ Ite,