AN INTERESTING DOCUMENT.
Athletic News - Monday 01 June 1903
By Junius
The annual statement of accounts furnished by the Everton secretary. Mr. W. C. Cuff, is to hand, and provides some interesting figures.  The club can again boast of having had a prosperous year from a financial point of view, the profits amounting to nearly £2000.  The actual figures are;—lncome, £11,789 15s., the gate receipts alone totaling £10, 194 19s. 8d.; expenditure side is players’ wages and transfer fees, which amounted to £4, 544 14s, 7d.  Another interesting item is; Proceeds of benefit match divided between Balmer and Wolstenholme, £325 5s. 4d. This is rather disappointing and consider the Football Association went needlessly out of their way in refusing the request of the Everton directors, who were desirous of increasing the amount to £250 each.  The fact that the club received £91 14s, 6d, as their percentage of the receipts in the Liverpool Senior Cup final is extremely encouraging, and justifies the action of the Association in their innovation of last season, whereby the competition was restricted to one match –between Liverpool and Everton.  Training expenses and trainer’s wages amount to £509 8s. 4d- an enormous sum- ad one which furnishes ample food for reflection, as does travelling expenses £944 6s. 4d. The directors again recommend the payment of the maximum dividend allowed by the Football Association, namely 5 per cent per annum, on called up capital.  The retiring directors are Messrs W.R. Clayton, D. Kirkwood, and H. Wright, who offer themselves for re-election. 

FRANK BRETTELL
Morning Leader - Monday 01 June 1903
Frank Brettell, the new manager of Plymouth, was born in Scotland 43 years ago, but North Britain only knew him in his babyhood if we try and forget the number of times he went there in later life in search of football talent. Many years of his life were spent in Liverpool, where after holding the post of second secretary for Everton F.C. from 1879 to 1884, he bore a prominent part in forming the new Liverpool club. From the great port of the North he went to Bolton Wanderers, then to Tottenham, and from thence to Portsmouth, after which he spent over a year at sea. There were over 200 applications for the post which he now holds. At one period of his life Frank Brettell was a schoolmaster at Liverpool.

JACK BELL
Lancashire Evening Post - Thursday 04 June 1903
Jack Bell, the famous Scotch International forward, was last evening signed on by the Preston North End directors. Bell has had a long and honourable connection with first class football in England and Scotland, and it is felt that his experience and coaching abilities will have a wholesome effect on the Preston forward rank, which for several seasons has lacked the presence of a guilding spirit. Bell was born in Dumbarton, in 1870, and is of sturdy build, standing 5ft 10 ½ in., and turning the scales at 12 ½ stone. hge is a player of many parts and one of the most useful and brilliant forwards Scotland has ever produced. he has played either centre forward, outside right or outside left againstB England in 1892, 1896, 1897, 1898, 1899, and 1900; against Wales in 1899, and against Ireland in 1890 and 1899. Thus a big share of International honours have fallen to his lot, and he can boast of never having failed in an International game. When he came to Everton from Dumbarton he quickly established a reputattion as partner to Edgar Chadwick, but subsquently changed to inside right, and played in that position for some seasons. Three years ago he migrated to the Celtic, and last season cast in his lot with Everton.

WELL-KNOWN EVERTON PLAYER FOR PRESTON NORTH END
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser - Friday 05 June 1903
J. Bell, of Everton, Celtic and Dumbarton fame, yesterday signed for Preston North End, who ae making efforts to secure a strong team for next season. Bell, who is 32 years of age, has played six times for Scotland against England, twice against Ireland, and once against Wales.

EVERTON PLAYER FOR PRESTON NORTH END
June 5, 1903. The Liverpool Courier
Jack Bell of Everton, Celtic and Dumbarton, yesterday signed for Preston North End, who are making efforts to secure a strong team for next season. Bell, whom is 30 years of age, has played six times for Scotland against England (2), Ireland, and once for Wales.

JACK BELL FOR PRESTON NORTH END.
Dundee Evening Post - Friday 05 June 1903
Jack Bell, of Everton, Celtic, and Dumbarton fame, yesterday signed for Preston North End, who are making efforts to secure a strong team for next season. Bell, who is thirty-two years of age, has played six times for Scotland against England, twice against Ireland, and once against Wales. The North End forward play has been rather scraggy in recent years, and it is hoped that Bell's presence at inside right will add finish.

JACK BELL SIGNS ON FOR PRESTON
Liverpool Daily Post - Friday 05 June 1903
Jack Bell, of Everton, Celtic, and Dumbarton fame, yesterday signed for Preston North End, who are making efforts to secure a strong team for next season. Bell, who is thirty-two years of age, has played six times for Scotland against England, twicer against Ireland, and once against Wales. The North End’s forward play has bene rather scrappy in recent years, and it is hoped that Bell’s presence at inside right will added finish.

EX-DUNDEE PLAYER FOR ENGLAND.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Saturday 06 June 1903
Tommy M'Dermott Signs for Everton.
Celtic yesterday completed the negotiations for the transfer to Everton of T. McDermott, there clever forward. McDermott graduated in the Cambuslang Hibernians, whence he migrated to Dundee, and proved one of the cleverest left wingers secured by the local combination. In order to strengthen their front rank Celtic obtained ther signature in exchange for Storrier. McDermott did not altogther come up to the expectations of the Parkhead Directors. It is undoubted that McDermott is an exceptionally clever footballer, and possesses a skill and resource which should prove of great service to his new club.

McDERMOTT TRANSFERRED TO EVERTON.
Dundee Evening Post - Saturday 06 June 1903
THE OLD DUNDEE FORWARD.
Tommy M'Dermott, the old Dundee forward, who last season was a member of the Celtic Club, has been transferred to Everton. M'Dermott graduated the ranks of Cambuslang Hibs, whence migrated to Dundee. In order to strengthen their front rank, Celtic obtained his signature exchange for Storrier. M'Dermott is a clever forward, and should do well with Everton.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
THE MATCH WITH BLACKBURN ROVERS
DIRECTORS EXPLANATION
June 6, 1903. The Liverpool Courier
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club Company Limited was held last evening in the City Hall, Eberle-Street. Dr. Baxter “Chairman” of the directors, presiding over a large attendance. The directors present were Messrs. Clayton, Davies, Kelly Kirkwood Wright, and Dr.Whiford. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, which recommended a dividend of 5 per cent, said he considered that the want of success in the field last season was largely due to sickness and accident. The centre forward, Young was practically out of the field for the whole of the season and that was a heavy blow to the club and was a great barrier to success. In regard to the match with Blackburn Rovers, he denied that any arrangement had been made by the board or the players to give the Rovers a walk over. There was no doubt that an amount of sympathy was felt for the Rovers, and he had no doubt that it had a great effect on the play, and robbed the play of energy, which was neccassary to win. The commission of inquiry had exonerated both the players and the board, and the only slur cast on the club was in the reprimand issued to the directors for not having reported the conduct of the Rovers secretary in approaching the board. The board held an exhaustive inquiry themselves, and catechized the players, and they decided that it was not in the best interest of the club to report the matter. They were sorry for the secretary of the Rovers Club, and he trusted the Everton Club would inaugurate a movement whereby the sentence upon him might be reconsidered and disimished. He was a paid official, and his living was practically being taken away. The arrangements for the coming season were almost settled, and would be completed by the addition of a good centre forward. Mr. Kirkwood, one of the directors, had justed returned from Scotland, having secured McDermott inside forward from the Celtic club (hear, hear). Financially the club was in a very strong position, and they hoped that in three or four years the ground would be entirely from debt. (hear, hear) Mr.Wilson seconded, and the resolution was adopted.

A shareholder remarked that he considered that the directors ought to have reported the matter of the Rovers to the authorities right away, so that no reflection should be cast on the club. (hear, hear). Another shareholder asked for the names of the directors who were approached, and who ought to have reported the matter. The Chairman said there were two directors concerned. They reported the matter fully, to the board, and the board took the whole responsibility. Mr.Clayton-And advocated that it should be reported. Dr. Price considered that some club other than Everton should take up any action in regard to the sentence on the Rovers secretary. Mr. Clayton, as one of the directors approached by the Rovers secretary, said that he and his colleague reported the matter to the board, who passed a resolution at their first meeting to bring it before the Football Association, and Football League. While he was out of town an emergency and smaller meeting was held at which the arrangement was altered. If the matter had been reported the club, and players would have been spared the mud with which they had been besmirched in the newspapers, and the club would not have been censured (applause). Mr. Horace Wright, at the other directors concerned identified himself with Mr. Clayton;s remarks. A shareholder suggested that the want of success is the field might be due to want of harmony on the board (hear, hear). The following were nominees as director's Messrs. W.R.Clayton, Horace, Wright. D.Kirkwood (retiring directors) Roberts Wilson, E.W.Bell, and C.McKie, Messrs Kirkwood, 152 votes, Clayton 117 votes, and Wright 106 votes, were declared elected. A vote of thanks to the directors was passed unanimously. Mr W.C.Cuff the secretary, announced that the players for next season were: - goal, Kitchen and Whitley, Backs W.Balmer, R.Balmer,, J.Crelly, W.Henderson, W.Wildman, D.Gordon, and D.Murray, half-backs Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, Clayton,, Russell, Chadwick, and Makepeace, Forwards, Sharp Taylor, McDermott, Young, Sheridan, Settle, Simpson (Leciester Foose), Hardman (as an ameteur), McEwan, Dilly, Wolfe, Corrin, O'Hagan, and Rankin.

THE EVERTON-ROVERS MATCH
Lancashire Evening Post - Saturday 06 June 1903
EXPLANATION BY EVERTON DIRECTORS
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club Company, Limited, was held last evening in the City Hall, Eberle-street, Dr. Baxter, chairman of the directors, presiding over a large attendance. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, which recommended a divided of 5 per cent, said he considered that the want of success in the field last season was largely due to sickness and accident. In regard to the match with Blackburn Rovers, he denied that any arrangement had been made by the Board or the players to give the Rovers a walk-over. There was no doubt that an amount of sympathy was felt for the Rovers, and he had no doubt that it had a great effect on the play, and robbed the play of the energy which was necessary to win. The commission of inquiry had exonerated both the players and the board, and the only slur cast on the club was in the reprimand issued to the directors for not having reported the conduct of the Rovers’ secretary in approaching the board. The board held an exhaustive inquiry themselves, and catechised the players, and they decided that it was not in the best interests of the club to report the matter. They were sorry for the secretary of the Rovers Club, and he trusted the Everton club would inaugurate a movement whereby the sentence upon him might be reconsidered and diminished. He was a paid official and his living was practically being taken away. The arrangements for the coming season were almost settled, and would be completed by the addition of a good centre forward. Mr. Kirkwood one of the directors, had just returned from Scotland, having secured McDermott, inside forward, from the Celtic Club. (Hear, hear). Financially, the club was in a very strong position- The resolution was adopted.
A Shareholder asked, in regard to the Rovers-Everton incident, for the names of the directors who were approached, and who ought to have reported the matter.- The Chairman said there were two directors concerned. They reported the matter fully on the Board, and the Board took the whole responsibility.
Mr. Clayton; And advocated that it should be reported.
Dr. Price considered that any action in regard to the sentence on the Rovers’ secretary should be taken up by some club other than Everton.
Mr. Clayton, as one of the directors approached by the Rovers’ secretary, said that he and his colleague reported the matter to the Board, who passed a resolution at their first meeting to bring it before the Football Association and Football League. While he was out of town an emergency and smaller meeting was held, at which the arrangement was altered. If the matter had been reported the club and players would have been spared the mud with which they had been besmirched in the newspapers, and the club would not have been censured. (Applause.)
Mr. Horace Wright as the other director concerned, identified himself with Mr. Clayton’s remarks.
A Shareholder suggested that the went of success in the field might be due to want of harmony on the Board. (Hear, hear). 
Messrs. W.R. Clayton, Horace Wright, D. Kirkwood, (retiring directors) were re-elected.
The Secretary announced that the players for next season were;-
Goal.- Kitchen, Whitley; backs, W. Balmer, R. Balmer, J. Crelly, W. Henderson, W. Wildman, D. Gordon, and D. Murray; half-backs, Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, Clayton, Russell, Chadwick, and Makepeace; forwards, Sharp, Taylor, McDermott, Young, Sheridan, Settle, Simpson (from Leicester Fosse), Hardman (as an amateur), McEwan, Dilly, Wolfe, Corrin, O’Hagan, and Rankin.

EVERTON FOOTBALL ECHO
Liverpool Daily Post - Saturday 06 June 1903
THE MATCH WITH BLACKBURN ROVERS
DIRECTORS’ FXPLANATION
NEXT SEASON’S PLAYERS.
The annua! meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club Company, Limited, was held last evening in the City Hall, Eberle-street, Dr. Baxter, chairman of the directors, presiding over a large attendance. The directors present were Messrs. Clayton, Davies, Kelly, Kirkwood, Wright, and Dr. Whitford.
The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, which recommended a dividend of 5 per cent., said he considered that the want of success in the field last season was largely due to sickness and accident. The centre forward, Young, was practically out of the field for the whole of the season, and that was a heavy blow to the club, and was a great barrier to success. In regard to the match with Blackburn Rovers, he denied that any arrangement had been made by the board or the players to give the Rovers a walk-over There was no doubt that an amount of sympathy was felt for the Rovers, and he had no doubt that it had a great effect on the play, and robbed the play of the energy which was necessary to win. The commission of inquiry had exonerated both the players and the board, and the only slur cast on the club was in the reprimand issued to the directors for not having reported the conduct of the Rovers secretary in approaching the board The board held an exhaustive inquiry themselves, and catechised the in the players, and they decided that it was not in the best interest of the club to report the matter.  They were sorry for the secretary of the Rovers Club, and he trusted the Everton Club would inaugurate a movement whereby the sentence upon him might be reconsidered and diminish.  He was a paid official, and his was practically being taken away. The arrangements for the coming season were almost settled, and would be completed by the addition of a good centre forward. Mr. Kirkwood, one of the directors had just returned from Scotland, having secured McDermott, inside forward, from the Celtic Club (hear, hear). Financially the club was in a very strong position, and they hoped that in three or four years the ground would be entirely free from debit (hear, hear).
Mr. Wilson seconded, and the resolution was adopted
A Shareholder remarked that he considered that the directors ought to have reported the matter of the Rovers to the authorities right away, so that no reflection should be cast on the club (hear, hear).
Another Shareholder asked for the names of the directors who were approached, and who ought to have reported the matter.
The Chairman said there were two directors concerned. They reported the matter fully to the board, and the board took the whole responsibility.
Mr. Clayton-And advocated that it should be reported.
Dr. Price considered that any action in regard to the sentence on the Rovers secretary should be taken up by some club other than Everton.  
Mr. Clayton, as one of the directors approached by the Rovers secretary, said that he and his colleagues reported the matter to the board, who passed a resolution at their first meeting to bring it before the Football Association and Football league. While he was out of town an emergency and smaller meeting was held, at which the arrangement was altered. If the matter had been reported the club and players would have been spared the mud with which they had been besmirched in the newspapers, and the club would not have been censured (applause).
Mr. Horace Wright, as the other director concerned, identified himself with Mr. Clayton’s remarks.
A Shareholder suggested that the want of success in the field might be due to want of harmony on the board (bear, hear).
The following were nominated as directors Messrs W. R Clayton, Horace Wright, D. Kirkwood (retiring directors), Robert Wilson, E. W. Bell, and C. McKie. Kirkwood 152 votes, Clayton 117 votes, and Wright 106,  votes were declared elected.
A vote of thanks to the directors was passed unanimously.
Mr. W. C. Cuff, the secretary, announced that the players for next season were Kitchen and Whitley: backs, W. Balmer, R. Balmer, J. Creily, W Henderson, W. Wildman, D. Gordon, and D. Murray; half- backs, Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, Clayton, Russell, Chadwick, and Makepeace: forwards, Sharp, Taylor, McDermott, Settle, Simpson (from Leicester Fosse), Hardman (as an amateur), McEwan, Dilly, Wolfe, Corrin, O’Hagan, and Rankin.

NEW PLAYER FOR LANCASHIRE.
Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 06 June 1903
(SPECIAL TELEGRAM.)
It is reported that the Lancashire county authorities are about to give a trial to Simpson, the Heywood professional, who has done remarkably well lately. Simpson is a Notts man, aged 23, and left-handed. Yesterday he took six wickets for 19 runs against Royton and in the last three matches he has scored 105, 94, and 85 respectively, being not-out each time. As a footballer Simpson has signed for Everton next season.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
Liverpool Mercury - Saturday 06 June 1903
BLACKBURN ROVERS MATCH
NEW PLAYERS FOR NEXT SEASON
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club, Limited, took place last evening at the City Hall, Eberle-street, where there was a large attendance of those specially interested in the affairs of the club. The chair was occupied by Dr. Baxter (chairman of directors), and there were also present Dr. Whitford, Messrs. W.R. Clayton, A.T. Coates, E.A. Bainbridge, R. Kelly, D. Kirkwood, and H. Wright. The report and statement of accounts submitted by Mr. W.C. Cuff (secretary) were taken as read.
The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, which has appeared, said he considered the non-success of the club during the past season was due to sickness and accident amongst the players. Their centre forward -Young-had been practically out of the field for the whole of the season. It was a very heavy blow to the club, for the position was a hard one to fill. In regard to the Blackburn Rovers match, they were aware that many people thought some arrangement had been made so that the Rovers could have a walk-over. He, however, assured them that no such arrangement was ever thought of. He regretted the heavy sentence passed upon Mr. Walmsley, the secretary of the Blackburn Rovers, and he thought the Everton Club might take up a movement for the purpose of getting the punishment lightened. Concluding, Dr. Baxter said Mr. Kirkwood had just returned from Glasgow, having secured McDermott, an inside forward from Celtic, and he (the speaker) was sure this player would greatly strengthen their front line. The ground, it was hoped would be clear of debt in four of five years.
Mr. Wilson seconded the motion, and the report was adopted.
The proposed payment of 5 per cent, on paid-up capital was then carried.
A short discussion then ensued on the Blackburn Rovers incident, and several shareholders put forward questions to the chair. One gentleman thought it would not be wise to take up a movement to assist Mr. Walmsley, and, in his opinion, it had much better be left to some other club to do.
Mr. Clayton said it was regrettable that the incident had been brought forward; but, now that it had been spoken upon, he wished to tell the shareholders that when he heard of the attempt to square the match he reported it at once to the board. A meeting was afterwards held, and it was resolved to report the matter to the Football Association. If that resolution had been carried out the club would have escaped the mud which had been thrown at them. They were, in his opinion, rightly censured, and he was only sorry that the original resolution was not carried into effect. The meeting then proceeded with the election of directors to fill the vacancies caused by those who retired, and six names were submitted as candidates for the positions.- Dr. Whitford, one of the directors, speaking from the platform, rose to support the reappointment of Mr. D. Kirkwood as one of the directors, but a strong protest was made against this being done by a member of the board. He then said that he would go down to the “floor of the house,” and there he urged the claims of the candidate.- Mr. Clayton protested against this course being taken, and characterised the speech as invidious and unwarranted. He (Mr. Clayton) had not thus sought any special pleasing, and if anyone deserved the support of the shareholders he thought that Mr. Wright’s claims should be specially put before them. He had done good work for the club, and therefore he deserved the hearty support of the whole of the shareholders. In the course of a discussion which followed a shareholder said that there was evidently a difference of opinion on the board of directors, and that the shareholders should take the matter into their consideration at the earliest possible moment, so as to bring about a more harmonious condition of things. The result of the polling for directors was declared as follows; Kirkwood, 152; Clayton, 117; and Wright, 106, and they were declared re-elected.
A vote of thanks was passed to the directors for their services during the past year, and the compliment was acknowledged by the chairman, who assured the shareholders that their interests would be carefully looked after by the board.
Mr. Theodore Rogers, accountant, was reappointed auditor for the ensuing year, at a fee of 40 guineas. The Secretary announced that the following players had signed on for the next season;- Goal, Kitchen, and Whitley; backs, W. Balmer, R. Balmer, Crelly, Henderson, Wildman, Gordon, and Murray; half-backs; Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, Clayton, Russell, Makepeace, and Chadwick; forwards, Sharp, Taylor, McDermott, Young, Sheridan, Settle, Simpson (outside left from Leicester Fosse), H.P. Hardman, McEwan, Dilly, Corrin, O’Hagan, Rankin, and Wolfe.
Hardman, who comes from Blackpool, will play as an amateur; Corrin returns after having spent a season with Portsmouth, and Murray is from Celtic. McDermott who comes with a good reputation from Celtic, is looked upon by the directors as a valuable acquisition to the forward rank. His position is inside right, while he is speedy and weighs 12st.
The proceedings terminated with a vote of thanks to the chairman.

EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB
Liverpool Evening Express - Saturday 06 June 1903
COMMENTS ON THE ROVERS’ MATCH
DIFFERENCES ON THE BOARD
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Everton Football Club Co., Limited, was Held last evening at the City-hall, Eberle-street. Dr. Baxter (chairman of the board of directors) presided over a large attendance. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the accounts (which have already been published), said that the Blackburn Rovers match had given the directors great concern. Many people thought that arrangements had been made whereby the Rovers could have a walk over. (Hear, hear.) No such arrangement was ever thought of or made by the board, and in his opinion no such arrangement was made with their players. He thought the players, in common with the directors, and no doubt many of their supporters felt an amount of sympathy with the Rovers in their position, and no doubt that had a great effect upon their play. That was the only blame they could place upon the players. The board were most anxious to win that match as well as any other. A commission sat, and the board and the players were exonerated, the only slur placed upon the club being a reprimand upon the directors for not reporting the Rovers’ committee or secretary in approaching the Everton board.  The directors had a most exhaustive inquiry themselves, and decided that it was not opportune, it was not in the best interests of the club that they should report the matter. They were sorry for Mr. Walmsley, the secretary of the Rovers, and he hoped that there would be some mitigation of his very severe sentence. He hoped Everton would inaugurate a movement for that object. Mr. Wilson seconded, and the motion was agreed to.
A Shareholder thought the directors should have reported the matter of the Rovers’ match, and so saved the club the odium cast upon it.
Mr. Mitchell said the shareholders should have the name of the director who was approached by the Rovers. The Chairman said that there were two gentlemen, and they reported the matter fully to the board, and the board took the whole responsibility of the position.
Mr. Mitchell.—in that case the whole board is at fault.
Dr. Price deprecated the taking of any action by the Everton Club in regard to Mr. Walmsley, the Rovers’ secretary. Such a movement should come from outside and not from an implicated party.
Mr. Clayton said that the chairman had made an expert speech, and as one of the directors approached he could tell them that when he reported it to the board he told them that it ought to be reported to the Football Association. Their players and the board had been besmirched with mud in the papers, and they should all be cleared by an independent investigation. A resolution to that effect was moved by himself and carried, and because it was not acted upon they had rightly been censured. An emergency meeting was called, at which there was a small attendance of directors, and that meeting thought it desirable to alter the arrangement.
Mr. Horace Wright, as the other director approached, identified himself with the remarks of Mr. Clayton. They took a strong view, but were overruled.
Nominations were then received for the vacancies on the board, the retiring directors being Messrs. Clayton, Kirkwood, and Wright. The three retiring directors were nominated, and also Messrs. Robert Wilson, E. W. Bell, and C. McKie. At a later stage the voting was announced as follows:—Kirkwood 152, Clayton 117, and Wright 106. These three were declared elected. Mr, William C. Cuff (the secretary) read the names of the players for next season as follows: —Goal, Kitchen and Whitley; backs, W. Balmer, R. Balmer, Crelly, Henderson, Wildman, Gordon, and Murray; half-backs, Wolstenholme, Booth, Abbott, Clayton, Russell, Makepeace, and Chadwick; forwards, Sharp, Taylor, McDermott, Young, Sheridan, Settle; Simpson (an outside left from Leicester Fosse), Hardman (an amateur), McEwan, Dilly, Corrin, O’Hagan, Rankin, and Wolfe.

A PROBABLE NEW RECRUIT FOR LANCASHIRE
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Monday 08 June 1903
It is reported that the Lancashire County authorities are about to give a trail to Simpson, of Heywood, a professional who has done remarkable well lately. Simpson is a Notts man, aged 23, and is left handed. On Saturday, he took six wickets for 19 runs against Royton, and in his last three matches has scored 105, 94, and 85 resspectively, being not out each time. As a footballer, Simpson has signed on for Everton next season.

THE EVERTON –ROVERS MATCH INQUIRY TO BE REOPENED
June 9,1903, The Liverpool Courier
In consequence of important information having reached the ears of the commissar, which recently dealt with the case of alegal “squaring” as between Blackburn Rovers and Everton, the inquiry is to reopened at Manchester to-morrow. Precisely what fresh evidence the commission have has not yet transpired, but developments of a highly interesting character are expected.

EVERTON v  BLACKBURN ROVERS
Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 09 June 1903
THE INQUIRY TO BE REOPENED
In consequence of important information having come to the knowledge of the commission which recently dealt with the case of alleged “squaring” as between the Blackburn Rovers and Everton, the inquiry is to be reopened at Manchester on Wednesday. Precisely what fresh evidence the commission have obtained has not yet transpired. The inquiry into the signing on by Portsmouth of three Liverpool players is also to be made on Wednesday.

A FOOTBALL COMMISSION.
Liverpool Evening Express - Wednesday 10 June 1903
THE ALLEGED SQUARING OF AN EVERTON MATCH. T
he Transfer of Liverpool Players.
(SPECIAL TELEGRAM.)
A football commission sat at the Grand Hotel, Manchester, this evening, for the double purpose of considering the alleged “squaring” of the Everton-Blackburn Rovers match and the transfer of certain players of the Liverpool team to Portsmouth. It will be remembered that in consequence of allegations a commission, representing the Football Association and the Football League, heard evidence on the 15th ult. as to the Everton-Rovers fixture. In the result they gave the Everton players ‘“ the benefit of the doubt,” censured the Everton directors for not reporting the matter to the Association and the League, and suspended Mr. J. Walmsley, the Rovers’ secretary, from any further part in the game. Since then fresh evidence is said to have come to light with reference to some alleged participation of others in the affair, and this evidence formed the subject of the re-opened commission this evening. One other matter concerning the Liverpool Club related to the transfer of Raybould, Gouldie, and Glover to the Portsmouth. All ‘three players, it is stated, were offered the ‘maximum terms to sign on again for Liverpool, but declined. The Liverpool directors accordingly requested an inquiry, and this formed the second subject for the consideration of this evening’s commission.

EVERTON FOOTBALL AFFAIR
June 11, 1903. The Liverpool Courier
Having concluded the hearing the commission proceeded at once to deal with the Everton-Rovers matter. It will be remembered that in consequence of allagations a commission representing the Football association and the Football League heard evidence on the 13 th ult, as to the Everton, Rovers fixture. In the result they gave the Everton players “the benefit of the doubt” censured the Everton directors for not reporting the matter to the Association and the League, and suspended Mr.J.Walmsley, the Rovers secretary, from any further part in the game. Since then fresh evidence is said to have come to light, with reference to some alleged participation of others in the affair, and this evidence formed the subject of the re-opened Commission yesterday. The Commission for his inquiry consisted of Messrs., Clegg, Crump, Alcock, Sherrington, Hart McGregor and Sidney. Mr. W.R.Clayton and H.Wright (directors) and Mr Win C.Cuff represented the Everton club, while from Blackburn Rovers club there were in attendance Mr.Woodhouse and Mr. Shorrock (directors) This inquiry, which was also conducted in private lasted an hour. At its conclusion Mr.Wall announced to the press that the Commission in both cases would give an decision that night, the matter was adjourned for further inquiry and consideration.

FOOTBALL SCANDALS
Liverpool Evening Express - Thursday 11 June 1903
THE ALLEGED “SQUARING” OF AN EVERTON MATCH
A COMMISSION OF INQUIRY.
A football commission sat at the Grand Hotel, Manchester, last evening, for the double purpose of considering the alleged “squaring” , of the Everton-Blackburn Rovers’ match and the transfer of certain players of the Liverpool team to Portsmouth. The first matter dealt with was the Liverpool affair, which concerned the signing-on by the Portsmouth club of three Liverpool players in Raybould, Goldie, and Glover. All three players were offered the maximum wages to stay with Liverpool but declined, and upon the Liverpool club reporting the circumstances to the Football Association the Commission was appointed to hold an inquiry. The Commission consisted of Messrs. J. C, Clegg, C. Crump, J. S. Sherrington, C. J. Hughes, and F. J. Wall, secretary. The inquiry, which was conducted in private, lasted three hours, during which evidence was given by representatives of both the Liverpool and the Portsmouth clubs. There were in attendance from the Liverpool club Mr. J. McKenna, Mr. Astbury, Mr. Knowles (directors), and Mr, Tom Watson (secretary), and from the Portsmouth club Mr. Bonny (a director), and Mr, Blythe (secretary). The three players concerned were also present, and were called before the Commission. Having concluded the hearing the Commission proceeded at once to deal with the Everton-Rovers matter. It will be remembered that in consequence of allegations a commission, representing the Football Association and the Football League, heard evidence on the 15th ult. as to the Everton-Rovers’ fixture. In the result they gave the Everton players “ the benefit of the doubt,” censured the Everton directors for not reporting the matter to the Association and the League, and suspended Mr. J. Walmsley, the Rovers’ secretary, from any further part in the game. Since then fresh evidence is said to have come to light with reference to some alleged participation of others in the affair, and this evidence formed the subject of the re-opened Commission yesterday. The Commission for this inquiry consisted of Messrs. Clegg, Crump, Alcock, Sherrington, Hart, McGregor, and Sidney. The Everton club was represented by Mr. W. R. Clayton and Mr. H, Wright (directors), and Mr. Wm., C. Cuff (secretary); while from the Blackburn Rovers club there were in attendance. Mr. Woodhouse and Mr. Shorrock (directors). This inquiry, which was also conducted in private, lasted an hour. At its conclusion Mr. Wall announced to the press that the Commission in both cases would give no decision that night; the matter was adjourned for further inquiry and consideration.

HALLIDAY TO BRADFORD CITY
Leeds Mercury - Saturday 13 June 1903
Halliday of Bolton Wanderers has been signed on by Bradford City. During the past two seasons Halliday has played in 78 matches for the Wanderers, 45 of which were with the first eleven. Previous to coming to Bolton he was with Everton.

FUNERAL OF A LOCAL VOLUNTEER
Liverpool Mercury - Friday 26 June 1903
The remains of Mr. James Pickering were laid at rest in Anfield Cemetery on Wednesday., deceased held the rank of Corporal in the 6th King’s Liverpool Corps and had been connected with the service for upwards of 20 years. Showing the great esteem and respect in which he was held, a military funeral was accorded him, and the regimental band, and about 150 of the rank and file were present. At the conclusion of the service at the graveside three volleys were fired over the open grave. The military arrangements were under the control of Staff-Sergeant McFarlane. The chief mourners were Mrs. Pickering (widow) and five children. Mrs Gowan (sister), Mrs. Norman (sister-in-law), Mr. Gowan (brother-in-law), Mrs. Kidd, Mrs. Derry, Mrs. Heron, Mr. O’Brien and Mr. O’Brien, jr. Mr. Joseph Stocker (in whose employ deceased had been for 25 years) and a large number of fellow workmen and friends were present. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr. W. Williams, of Wavertree-road, and Great George-place.
(Blue-correspondent – Not sure if this is the James Pickering ex-Everton player who died in Liverpool on the Saturday last).

DEATH OF AN OLD EVERTON FOOTBALLER
Liverpool Echo - Saturday 27 June 1903
AN APPEAR TO FRIENDS
We have been asked to bring the following and case under the notice of our readers.  There are many old footballers in Liverpool who remember Pickering and the good services he rendered the old club in raising itself to its present position, James Pickering, one of the old original Everton players, passed away very suddenly last Saturday, leaving a widow and six children wholly unprovided for.  A fund has been opened for their benefits, and it occurs to us that there are many old Evertonians who would be willing to contribute their mite.  Subscriptions will be gratefully received by Mrs. Hindle, Royal Hotel, Everton-road. 

DEATH OF AN OLD EVERTON FOOTBALLER
Liverpool Daily Post - Monday 29 June 1903
AN APPEAL TO FRIENDS
We have been asked to bring the following and case under the notice of our readers.  There are many old footballers in Liverpool who remember Pickering and the good services he rendered the old club in raising itself to its present position, James Pickering, one of the old original Everton players, passed away very suddenly last Saturday, leaving a widow and six children wholly unprovided for.  A fund has been opened for their benefits, and it occurs to us that there are many old Evertonians who would be willing to contribute their mite.  Subscriptions will be gratefully received by Mrs. Hindle, Royal Hotel, Everton-road.