The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

ABERYSTWYTH. CARDIGANSHIRE.—Sir James W. Szlumper, Aber- ystwyth, has been appointed high sheriff of Cardi- ganshire. FOOTBALL.—On Saturday Aberystwyth play a friendly match with Ellesmera on the Vicarage Fi ) i. COLLEGE FOOTBALL CLUBS.—The Rugby and Ass -ciation Clubs cf the University College of Wales left Aberystwyth on Thursday for Scuth Wales. The Rugby te-im propose playing Swan- sea at Swansea, whilst the Association tram will p ay Cardiff College. CLERICAL.—Mr J. De La Bere, M.A., of Christ College, Cambridge, was at the recent Lent ordination admitted to holy orders. Mr Ce La Bere, who took honours in the Moral Science Tripes at Cambridge, has b. en giving lectures on philosophy at the University College of Walep, Aherysr; .vytn. JUNIOR RADICAL CLUB SOIREE.-This annual soiree will be held at the Assembly Ronms on Wed- nesday next, when a highly-interesting programme will be gone through. Thfre will be a number of solos, comic songs, and humorous recitations, and the entertainmeut will conclude with au amusing farce eutitled, "la Possession." MONTHLY MARKET.—The monthly horse and cattle fair was held in the Smithfie:d on Monday and was the best March fair seen for some years. There was a large supply of cattle, for which there was a good demand, buyers being numerous. Yearlings realized from JE7 to 910 each two and three-year-old catrle, Ell to JE15 each and calving cows (of which they were but a few shown), £10 t) £13. A few horses were sold, the demand being slow. DEBATE.—At the weekly meeting of the Junior Radical Club on Thursday last, Mr W. E. Words- worth, U.C.W., opened a spirited debate on, "Should Parsons and Preachers tike Part in Politics ?" A large number of members took part in the discussion, amongst them being Mr Robert Doughton, ex-mayor. The majority of themembers pre'ent were against parsons and preachers taking part. CARDnAN ARTILLERY.—The recruits of the Royal Cardigan Artill, ry will assemble for training on Monday. The recruits number 160. which is a slight increase on those cf last year, and there will be in addition thirty old hands and eighteen non-commisaioned officer; making a total of 20S, who will assemble on Monday, The officers in charge will be Captain Jenks and Mr Lloyd Hughes, with Captain Lushington, adjutant. The old hands will assemble on May 16th and on the next day the battalion will procepo to South Hook for training until June 10th, when they will return home and be dismissed on June 11th. THE CORPORATION AND THE GAS COMPANY.—A private meeting of the Council was he'd on Wed- nesday to consider a compromise with the Gas Company in respect of their application to Parlia- ment for an Act empowering them to purchase the freehold of the site ot the Gas Woiks. All the terms of the compromise were agreed upon, it is understoo I (inclu ling the removal of the works outside the town), except the maximum price to 1>3 charge 1 by the Company for g is. The Company, it seems, seek for power to charge 5s per 1.000 feet. The Corporation are willing to allow 4s as the maximum charge, but the Company will not concede auything below 4s 61. The matter will be further discussed at the Town Council next Tues- day. BAPTIST MINISTER'S BREACH OF PROMISE.—At the assizes at Brecon on Monday, before Mr Justice Phillimore, a breach of promise case was heard in which the plaintiff was Miss Susan Williams, a prepossessing lady about 25 years of agp, and the defendant, the Rev John Burry Thomas, Baptist minister, formerly a student at the Baptist College, Aberystwyth. Both part' ss reside at Talgarth, Breconshire, the plaintiff being organist at the de- fendant's chapel. The engagement began in June, 1896, and was broken off in July, 1897. The de. fendant had obtained the consent of the lady and her father to t<e marriage, a house had been taken, the furniture purchased, the bride's trousseau bought, and the bridemaids chosen. The plaintiff was awarded JL40 damages. YSTWYTU LODGE.—The usual weekly meeting in connection with the Ystwyth Lodge of Independent Order of Good Tempiars which has now over two hundred members, wa held on Friday evening at the Progress Hall, in Mill-street. The Hall, which has only just been opened, is capable of accommodating one hundred and fifty persons and is well lit and fitted out. There was a large attendance of members, and Brother D. C. Williams, W.C.T., presided. The following programme was gone through :-Song, Mr D. M. Edwards recitation, Miss S. Williams song, Miss Nellie Jones paper by Mr H. J. Morris; recitation, Mr Hugh Jones, U.C. W initiation ceremony of two members, words of welcome being given by Masters Richard Jones, David Lloyd, and Evans song, Miss Nesta Hughes. TABERNACLE SOIREE.—The annual soiree in con- Bection with the Tabernacle Sunday School was held on Wednesday evening. There was a crowded attendance and the Rev T. Levi, pastor, presided. The tables were presided over by the lady teachers of the Sunday School. Among those who took part in the concert were Misses Levi and Evans. Mr E. L. Lewis, Misses G. and R. Jones, Mr Dick Griffiths, Messrs Roberts and William-, and Messrs J. J. Thomas and M. H. Jones, U.C. W., Mr Allen Lewis, U.C. W., Mr J. Hugh Edwards Miss Myfanwy Jenkins and party, Misses E. and K. Jones, Messrs D. Ellis and W. R. Jones, D. Williams, U.C.W., and party, Mr Dd. Ellis and party, Miss Lizzie M. Jones, Messrs R. Edwards, U.C. W., and J. Morgan, and W. R. Jones and party. A votes of thanks was sccarded to the promoters of the soirees on the proposition of Mr Evan Evans, seconded by Mr Thomas Owens. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.—A meeting of the Managers was held on Friday evening when there were present Dr Lloyd Snape, chairman, Mrs William^, Messrs John Evans, Richard Richards, and Robert Ellis, Mr Sam Evans, clerk, and Mr D. Samuel, M.A., headmaster.—The Chairman said the Building Committee had met and had considered the question of the purchase of school furniture which had been referred to it. They, however, had not felt able to determine with any degree of precision what would be required and had asked the Headmaster in (onsultatioki with the Architect to prepare a scheme to be submitted to another meeting of the Committee.—Mr Robert Ellis suggested that they should get to know what kind of furniture other schools had gone in for.—The Chairman observed that the local tradesmen had been entrusted with the supplying of the furniture for the College and had given great satisfaction.— Mr Ellis said it was intended that local tradesmen should supply the School furniture.—This was all the business of public interest. FLORICULTURE. The Earl of Lisburne, who takes an active interest in floriculture, has success- fully cultivated a choice collection of orchids, of which he makes a speciality. Among the orchids now in bloom were some remarkably fine Ep-cimens of healthy plants, bearing a luxuriant crop of exauisite blossom. The Dendrobiums were well represented. D. nobile nobilius bore no fewer than fifty blooms its flowers are highly coloured and exhibit a rare bl'nd of pink and rich purple. D. fimbriatum oculatum made a fine show, with its large spikes of deep golden flowers with fringed lip and crimson spots. D. nobile bore a fine cluster of beautiful pale pink blossom, with a deep purple velvety throat and the delicate petals of D. findleyianum were almost transparent and t-nged with a pale lilac hue. Other beautiful specimens were Cattleyia Mossei flammia, with a fine array of deep purple bloom Vanda insignis, with its pecu- liarly formed p-tals, their rich yellow mottled with brown spots. Odontoglossum Edwardii produced a spike with over sixty blooms of a deep violet colour with a bright yellow centre. For delicacy of texture and purity of colour the sweet-scentad white blossom of Pdumna fragrans were unsur- passed. There were also several varieties of Lycaste and Cypripedia. PETTY SESSIONS.—The weekly sessions were held at the Town Hall on Wednesday, before the Mayor (Mr Jlhn Jenkins), David Roberts, Thomas Griffiths, Thomas H. Jones, John Morgan, Griffith William., R. J. Jones, and Edward Evans. Esqrs. —Inspector H. Styan, Carmarthen, R.S.P.C.A., charged Jenkin Rees, Bridge-street, with having caused a horse to be worked on February 14th while in an uufit state.—Richard Watk ius, driver, was charged with having worked the horse on that date,—Mr A. J. Hughes appeared for the defence, —The Inspector said he saw the horse outside the Post Office on February 14th. On the offside shoulder there was an old sore, which was swollen, inflamed, and very painful. Watkins admitted that the sore had been there before that morning and hoped the Inspector would say nothing about it. Shortly after, he saw Rees who said he knew the horóe was working and that it had a pimple on the shoulder. During the interview, the Inspector said Rees asked him to take some mont-y. -Cross- examined Had no one to prove seeing the horse in the morning. The sore must have been there for some time.—P.C. Charman gave evidence as to the wounds.—For the defence, J. Dawson Roberts, veterinary surgeon, said the horse would have been quite fit for work.—Jenkin Rees, defendant, said the horse had a pimple on its shoulder on the Saturday morning, but it had not broken. The horse suffered no piin from it and it had been working every other day since. —Abel Thomas, Penparke, said he saw the pimp'e on the horse on the Saturday morning. It had not broken. The collar might rub against it going down hill. In bin opinion, the horse was fit to be worked then.—The Bench dismissed the cases.-For having been drunk and disorderly in the borough on St. David's Day, Edward Daniel, Plascrug, was bound over in the sum of £2 to come up for judgment when called upon.-John William Davies, Pt-nmaesglas-road, John Morgan, Pro- spect street, and James Humphreys, Portiand-laiie were fined 2s 6d each for having played football near the Assembly Rooms on Saturday. — Percy Lobb was fined 2s 6d for having allowed a chimney of his premises to go on fire.—For allowing an accumulation of manure to exist on her premiseB, Mary Parry, Queen-street, was fined 15s and CObtS. WEDNESDAY FOOTBALL.—A match was played on Wednesday between the Wednesday United and U.C.W. Reserve on the ground of the latter. Result Wednesday United five, goals College Reserve, four goals. TRAINS AND ADVERTISING.—A meeting was held on Wednesday between members of the Council and Mr Denni-s, manager of the Cambrian Railways Company, for the purpose of discus-ing the question of advertising fcr the coming season and a more punctual arrival of trains. A list was presented showing the'number of times the trains had arrived late between July and September, from which it appear that unpunctuality ranged from five minutes to one hour and thirty-five minutes. These figures it appears, had reference only to the arrival of the first sections of trains timed to arrive at a c'rain thour and not to the subsequent sections which were considerably later. The fault seems to lie in the London and North Western failing to make punctual connections at their junctions -.with the Cambrian. The local line was not responsible for the delay. During the pa.-t six mouths a large sum of money had been spent on the permanent way of the Cambrian to enable the Company to acceler- ate their express trains and so bring along the passengers quicker when they are delivered and contracts are about to be entered into at once for doubling certain portions of the line. A conversa- tion cccurred also over the late delivery of letters and there again the fault appears to rest on the London and North Western in failing to make punctual connection. A suggestion .va.9 made that a deputation should wait on an official in London. As to advertising, it was resolved to revert to adver- tisements in English papers. SALE OF THE TERMINUS HOTEL-At the Lion Hotel on Wednesday af'ernoon, Mr J. E. James, auctioneer and valuer, acting under instmctions re- ceived from the execut.r of the late Mr T. H. Jones, put up for sale the leasehold vaults known as the Terminus Hot" l, situated at the corner of Railway terrace and Terrace-road. The property is held under a lease from the Corporation of Aber- ystwyth for the term of seventy-five years from November, 1890, at annual ground rents amount- ing to £ 10 12s 8d, and was sold subject to a lease thereof vested in Messrs D. Rob-rts and Sona, L'mited, Brewers, granted by the late Mr T. H. Jones for the term of seven yeara trom &epi.etnuer, 1897, at the annual rent of £70, w-th a provision for a renewed lease at the option of the lessee f-.r the further term of seven years at the same rent There was a large attendance at the sale, a Lyo; d number of those present being licensed victuallers. The conditions of sale were re:-d by Mr Evan Evans of Messrs Roberts and Evans, solicitors. Bidding commenced at 9500 and by bids of 950, the sum of of £1,150 was quickly reached. A long pause ensued, after which a bid of £1,175 was made, which was covered by XI.200, when it was declared an open sale. Bids ef £10 each were then taken For a long t:me there were three bidders in the running, but towards the end bidding was confined to Mr Daniel Jcnes, solicitor, and Mr Dd. Roberts at £ 1,430. Mr Daniel Jones withdrew and the hotel was knocked down at that figure to Messrs David Roberts and Sons, the Brawery. COUNTY SCHOOL.—The following obtained the maxin.um number of attendances at school during the first half of the present term Form IV. John ,'ames, Cwmerfin Henry Thomas, Llanilar M. H. Evans, Gcginan David Jenkios. Form III. Ernest Evans, Percy Edwards, John Morgan Jones (Lledrod), Griffith Daniel Ellis, Stanley Msssey. Form II. Septimus James, Crugiau J. Arllwyd Jones, Devil's Bridge E. J. Owen; Taly- bont Edgar Francis John Davies, Penyparcau Epworth W. Davies. Form I. Robert Francis Morgan, Llanbrynmair James Davies Samuel Morgan W. H. Felix Itaac D. Hopkins; Whit- lock William, Borth John Edward James, Peithyll; R. Humphrey Jones, Clarach; T. Capp- r Evans, New Quay; John Evans, Llangeitho. Trie follo" in, were absent from school only once :-R. D. Edwards, Goronwy Owen (Penlhvyn), Frankis Humpidge, S. Owen Owens, E. Llewelyn Williams (Borth), Emrys Evans, W. Arthur Lewis (Devil's Bridge), R. D. Evans (Llanafan), John Morris Lloyd (Llanbadarn). Those who miss, d two attend- ances only:—Granville Owens, D. O. James, J. Garfield Jones (Tyllwyd). The following were absent thrice :—Gwesyn T. Williams. Talybont; H. R. Owen, Rhydmeirionydd; D. Jonathan Jones, Cern Mabws Bernard Owen R. Samuel, Llan- hadarn. Four missad four attendances—Gomer James, Evan Doughton Evans, D. Morgan Jones (Llanon), Ernest Wilkinson. Of those who began the term after the opening day Cecil Badger, Strat- ford-on-Avon, and Ernest C. M. Watson, South- port, obtained the highest possible number of attendances. DEATH OF CAPT. HUGHES,—The death occurred on Tuesday evening about eleven o'clock of Capt. John Hughes, 48, Portland-street, at the age of sixty-six. He had been in failing health for some years, and never recovered from a severe illness which occurred to him about three years ago. On Tuesday week he was seized with bronchitis and influenza. He became seriously ill on Saturday and died on Tuesday. He was attended to during his illness by Dr A. Thomas. Capt. Hughes, who was the only survivor of seven children, was born at Pennal, Merionethshire, and when a child of twelve months he was brought to Aberystwyth. He started business as a cabinet maker, but health failing, he left that occupation for the sea. He worked his way by up force of energy and determination, and before he was twenty five years of age, qualified as master mariner for foreign, trade. He was for eleven years captain of the "Eliza Jane," of Aberystwyth and at one time also captained the Dora Ann," Rheidol Queen," and "Granville," being master of the latttrwhen he retired from SFa eighteen years ago. He was the owner of the "Mary and Alice," which was lost some years ago on its way to Hamburg. While on sea he traded more especially between London and the West Indies, the west coast of America and South Africa. Captain Hughes married Elizabeth, daughter of Mr Dd. Clayton, Aberystwyth. He a was Calvinistic Methodist, having been a member of the Tabernacle and Shiloh Chapels, and afterward Salem Chapel, where he was appointed deacon, which pesi he held up to his death. He had held several appointments in connection with the Chapel, of which he was a most faithful member. The funeral will take place on Saturday next at Aberystwyth Cemetery, when the Revs T, Levi, Wm. Jones, and T. E. Roberts will officiate. FANCY DRESS BALL.-In connection with Mr Massey's dancing class, a fancy dress ball took place at the New Market Hall on Friday night, when the company numbertd about one hundred and twenty. The costumes were elaborate and made a pretty scene. Dancing commenced at ten o'clock and terminated at four o'clock. The floor was in excellent condition, having been prepared for the occasion by Mr Hamer. The music was supplied by Messrs C. Wheatley and J. H. Rowe, and the refreshments by MriJ G. Mssey and Mr W. Thomas, Terminus Hotel. The following were the characters taken: --Britannia, Miss M. Blackwell Lady Teazle, Miss A. Caldwell; tennis, Miss Powell Pyrenees mountaineer cr minstrel, Miss Ranger; Tina, Miss May Rogers; Spanish maiden, Miss L. Felix school girl, Miss N. Felix violet, Miss A. Deniel; serving maid, Miss M. E. Daniel; Uipsy, Miss Jenkins flower girl, Miss M. Davies; W thh gentlewoman, Miss F. Bluck nurse, Miss A. Angus violet, Miss A. J. Jones Italian, Miss L. Jooes; gipsy, Miss Ella Bubb middy, Miss Pilot Tina, Mies A. Shortt; Italian girl, Miss J. Shortt; gipsy. Miss L. Jenkins; My Sweetheart, Miss L. J. Evans Italian, Miss A. Jones (Brooklyn House) Don Ctesar de Bazan (Spanish count), Mr James Evans; policeman, Mr William Jones (Pros- pect-street); Mexican cowboy, Mr Wm. Jones (Mill street) barrister, Mr Hind Highlander, Mr T. Wilson; army cyclist, Mr Mulholland Charles II, Mr Wilmot; sergeant of artillerv, Mr Eldridge trumpeter, Mr Wakelin, junr. Mexican cowboy, Mr J. J. Davies sailor boy, Mr Gittins Klondyke miner, Mr Jackson navy reserve man, Mr R. D. Evans jockey, Mr D. Phillips are brigade man, Mr J. G. Smith; lackey, Mr Thomas Hughes; clown, Mr J. T. Williams; Jack tar, Mr K. J. Lewis; Cape mounted policeman, Mr W. LI. Davies ship's steward, Mr O. C. Beddows circus clown, Mr J. Maszey navy reserve man, Mr Max Lipman M. Zola, Mr John Evans 1st lieutenant R.N., Mr Llew Owen petty officer R.N., Mr Charles Jones Eastern shepherd boy, Mr D. Hamtr engineer, Mr T. Bevan lieutenant R.N., Mr Board captain R.N., Mr J. Lloyd officer Horse Artillery, Sergeant Heddle Matabele warrior, Trumpeter Howell; Turkish nobleman, Mr C. J. Ivory navy reserve man, Mr T. J. Meredith skipper, Mr Mc Williams working man, Mr R. Jones. The following were also pre- set?t:-Mrs Wakelin, Nliss Wakelin, Mrs Powell, Mrs and Miss Jones. Mrs Hetherley, Mi-s Ford, Mi-s B. Davies, Miss N<-al, Mrs Wilson, Miss White, Miss J. Jenkins, Miss Vale, Mrs Smith Misses Davies, Messrs J. Thcmaq, I. Seargeant, W. Jones, and William Lewis.

I Hunting Jtppoinimcnts. THE PLAS MACHYNLLETH FOXHOUNDS Monday, March 14th Darowen Village at 11. Saturday, Mar. 19ih Gellylydan at 11. THE PLAS MACHYNLLETII HARRIERS Tuesday, Nltrch 15th Penmaen Dovey 1030 Weather nermittinff.

c-o- ghippmg. ~XbER YSTW YTH HARBOUR WEEK ENDINO March 9th, 1898. ARRIVED. March 4th, Countess of Lisburne, s.s., Jenkins, Bristol March 8th, Countess of Lisburne, s.s., Jenkins, Liverpool Mersey Ketch, Hughes Workington Lizzie, a.s., Campbell, Cardiff. SAILED. March 5th, Countess of Lisburne, s.s., Jenkins, Liverpool March 8th, Lizzie, s.s., Campbell, Carnarvon March 9th, Gountess of Lisburne, s.s., Jenkins, Liverpool.

PORTMADOC. SOIRKE.—On Wednesday evening last a very successful soiree was held in connection with the Portmadoc Memorial (C.M.) was held in connection with the Portmadoc Memorial (C.M.) Chapel. COUNTY COUNCILLORS.-At the recent election of county councillors for the Portmadoc electoral division, Messrs Rd. Davies and John Jones Morris were re-elected without opposi- tion. DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTION.—Notices have now been issued that the election of councillors for the Urban Dis- trict Council of Ynyscynhaiarn will be held on Saturday, April 2nd. Nominations are to be sent in by March 17th. The district has been divided into four wards, the Eastern Ward returning five members tlje Western, five members the Tremadoc, three members and the Gest, two members. It is uncertain as yet whether the election will be fought on political or religious grounds, hut it is rumoured that the promoters and others interested in the proposed Beddgelert Light Railway will make an effort to secure members willing to support the scheme. The feeling in the out districts appears to be rather against the rates being used to assist in the pro- motion of the scheme. MARRIAGE.—On Wednesday the ceremony was solettinlzed at Ebenez. r Chapel between Mr David Jones, son of Mr D. G. Jones and Miss Jennie Williams, eld. st daughter of Capt. Evau Williams, Meirion House. The ceremony was performed by the Revs Owen Evans and J. J. Roberts (Iolo Car- narvon), the bride being given away by her father. She was attended by Misses Nellie, Martha, and Maggie Williams (sisters) and Mis Maggie J. Jones (sister of the bridegroom) as bridesmaids. The best man was Mr D. O. M. Roberts. Later in the day the happy pair left for Liverpool en route for Man- chester. A large number of beautiful presents were received. THE HORS; SHOW,—The subscribers of this very successful show met last Tuesday evening and made arringements for this year. The balance sheet audited and signed by the auditors was unani- mously adopted. It showed a good balance in hand, in spite of extra and unavoidable expenditure incurred last year. The way the show has been managed since it started is a great credit to the committee and officials. Messrs Dr Jones Morris, J. R. Prichard, J.P., and R. G. Humphreys were re elected chairman, treasurer, and secretary, with a gojd working committee. ST. DAVID'S DAY LITERARY, &C., NIFETING.-Orl Tuesday of last we; k most successful competitive, I literary, &c., meetings were held at the Town Hall, Portmadcc, the meetings being held in con- nection with the churches in the parish. Mr Ignatius Williams occupied the chair and after ex- p.easing the great phasure it gave him to attend, expressed his appreciation of the efforts made to encourage children by offering so large a numbsr of pr zes for competition exclusively by them. It could not but be most ben,ficial-first, in training the children to the work and afterwards by the advice they received in the adjudications in teach- ing them where they went wrong. They would thus learn be ter how to make the most of their opportunities. He thought it was a very happy idea to have a meeting of that kind to celebrate their fatioual saint's day. Whilst other places were talking of wars and rumours of wars, VVales, tiueto her rationality, was bu"y encouraging music, poetry, and "he aits and he trusted this meeting would be followed by a series of others on St David's day, tending in like manner to encourage the good work. He was glad to find the national feeling stronger now in Wales than he had ever known it to be and hoped it would find expression in such good work as that of the present meeting. During the afternoon the children's compositions were heard and decided. Most of the open com- petitions ere r, served for the evening meeting. The following are the principal open competitions with the prize winners :—Contralto solo, The River of Years," Miss Hughes, Pwllheli quar- tette, "TiWyddost beth Ddywed fy Nghalon," Parry Jones and Penrhyn and Talsarnau party; englyn on restoration of Tremadoc Church, Llew Madog; essay, "USiJ and Abuse of Ornament in House Decora ion," Mrs C. E. Breese and R. Powell equal special prize, Miss M. Homfray; challenge solo, O, fy Hen Gymraeg," J. Griffith Jones (Gutin Eifion); choral competition, Teyrnasoedd y Ddaear," Glaslyn party, con- ductor, Mr J. C McLean history of Tremadoc, Will am O. Parry, Tremadoc; carved pinel em- blematical of Wales, Robert Tecwyn Rowlands, Talsamau composing chant for Psalm xix, Wm. Griffith, Porcmadoc; pianoforte solo, "rarantelIe," Miss S. J. Richards, Pwllheli; picture poster in three colours to advertise a concert, equal three, Miss Mary Homfray, Mr Edwards, junr., Conway, and Mr J. Edwards, Festiniog duet, Y Ddau Arwr," "Pererin" and friend; bryddest, Dewi Sant," J. O. Jones, Church-street, Pwllheli; special pr"z», Laac E- Benjamin, Brynffynon, Tan- ygrisiau soprano solo, Ar y Traeth," Xliss Alics Williams, Pwllheli; tenor so'.o, Llwybr y Wyddfa," Ellis Morris, Barmouth hymn, Melton Mowbray," Glaslyn party, conductor, Mr J. C. McLean bass solo, Brenin Erl," Robert R. Thomas, Rhostryfan instrumental quartette, divided between "Boston" quartette (string) and Bronwe-,i quartette (brass), both of Portmadoc. For the prize for composing a chant to Psalm xix, there were no fewer than fifty-five competitors. Numerous other subjects had ten competitors, and there were altogether 270 competi, iOlls, all of them of a high class-the works of art receiving very high commendation from the adjudicators. The room was crowded and a large number of people were unable to gain admission. The duties of secretary were carried through by Mr J. Tobias and the judges in the diff, rent departments were of the highest class. In addition to the money prizes, a silver cup and numerous medals were awarded to successful competitors. THE CARRIAGE OF FISH. CONFERENCE WITH MR EENNISS. On Wednesday, at the Police Station, the Committee appointed by the Western Sea Fisheries Committee met the Manager of the Cambrian Railways Company (Mr Denniss) relative to the railway rates for the carriage of fish from towns on the Welsh coast to English towns. There were present Mr T. L. Manchester, Pwllheli; Mr John Williams, Portmadoc Mr R. Casson, clerk and the Fishery Officers (Messrs Robert Jones, Dd. Pritchard, and Richard Davies). The CLERK said he had hoped that the Chairman (Mr Issard Davies, Carnarvon) and one or two other gentle- men named on the Committee would have been present in addition to those who had attended. AfrIsgardDavies had written to say that he could not attend and he added that be did not think he could render much assistance, as his district was entirely in the hands of the L. and N. W. Railway Company. Mr H. Bonsall wrote from Aber- ystwyth that he could not attend, but hoped that the Committee would succeed in arriving at some under- standing with Mr Denniss. He added that the small catches of fish despatched to Liverpool from Aberystwyth were charged at 2s 3d per cwt, whilst quantities over ten cwts were charged at Is 9d. That was considered a hard- ship by local fishermen who had small boats and who only sent small quantities away. It also brought them into unfair competition with the large boats from Hoy- lake and Lancashire. He suggested a uniform rate to encourage local enterprize. The Clerk then read a petition from Manchester mussel merchants, Messrs Watson Marshall, John Clarkson, George Smith, John Woods, and W. Keyworth, which stated that it was impossible for them to do any great trade with Aberdovey, Barmouth, and Portmadoc whilst the railway rates were so high. They could get good mussels from Cork and Dundalk, delivered to them at 20s per ton and from Parkgate and Connah's Quay at 14.. 2d per ton, so the Company would see the. impossi- hility of doing trade with Aberdovey, Barmouth, or Portmadoc as long as the rates were so high. Therefore, they asked that the amount should be reduced to 20s per ton from those places. Until that reduction was made there was no prospect of trade being done. The CLERK explained that the question arose eighteen months ago and in March, 1897, he was instructed to write to the Cambrian Railway Company, the L. and N. W. and G.W.R. Companies, pointing out that in the opinion of the Committee the rates for the carriage of fish were very high. He wrote to those companies. The L. and N.W. Railway Company did not reply the G.W. Railway Com- pany wrote that only Cardigan was affected in their system and the quantity of fish sent from there was very small the Cambrian Railway Company also replied. The letters were considered and a Committee of eight ap- pointed to meet Mr Denniss, and the fishery officers were instructed to make enquiries amongst local fishermen as to their grievances in the matter of railway rates. They had dealt with Mr Bonsall's statement as to the lates to Liverpool and with the complaints of the Manchester merchants. He did not know whether Mr Manchester could make a statement as having special knowledge of the matter. Mr MANCHESTER agreed with Mr Bonsall that a uni- form rate for conveying large and small quantities should be fixed. u_- Mr DENNISS said he could not very well tollow Mr Bon- sall's letter. The Cambrian Railway Company charged a rate of 2s 3d for conveying common kinds of fish. Mr MANCHESTER said that at Pwllheli they paid 2s 6d. Mr DENNISS said that was for conveying best kinds of fish. Mr MANCHESTER said the rates were high and in the summer they had to throw some fish away because it was not worth while sending them to market on account of the rates. In reply to Mr Denniss, the CLERK said what Mr Bonsall meant by his letter was that the large boats sent away large quantities and were charged a low rate, whilst the small boats, who only despatched small quantities, were compelled to pay a high rate. Mr DENNISS made a statement as to the difficulty of obtaining a reduction which he asked should not be re- ported. LYIR JOHN WILLIAMS said he had sent away several truck loads of fish and after paying railway rates, com- mission, and cartage there was hardly anything left for the fishermen. That was the reason he brought the matter before the Committee some time ago. They were endeavouring to develop the fishing industry, but in- stead of the fishermen being benefited thereby the rail- way companies received the benefit. For the carriage of herrings to Liverpool he had paid 2s (id per cwt., while, in his opinion, the rate should be reduced to one half of that amount. Mr MANCHESTER said that fish was conveyed from Grimsby and Hull much more cheaply to the Welsh coast than it could be sent to Mauchester and Liverpool. Mr DENNISS said the rate for sending fish from Hull and Grimsby to Liverpool, a distance of 133 miles, was 2s 3d for best fish and 2s for common fish. From Port- TUadoc to Liverpool, a distance of 131 miles, the charge was 2s 6d for best fish and 2s 3d for common. There was a slight difference. The CI.ERK asked Mr Denniss if there was a different rate for large and small quantities as suggested by Mr Bonsall ? Mr DENNISS said there was from Pwllheli, but not from Portmadoc. When ten cwts and over were sent from Pwllheli, they were charged at Is 6d per cwt. A sugges- tion had been made at that meeting that the price should be about Is 3d. If a quantity of ten cwts and over was sent, it could be sent for Is fid per cwt, so the suggestion had already been realized by the Company. Mr MANCHESTER said the small boats would never be able to send that quantity each. Mr DENNISS was afraid that was a difficulty which would not be overcome. Mr MANCHESTER said that at one time the small boats at Pwllheli joined together their catches in order to avail themselves of the cheaper rate for large quantities, but that did not work, for they quarrelled amongst them- selves. If a uniform rate of Is 6d per cwt was fixed for conveying large and small quantities, he believed the difficulty would be met. Mr DENNISS said that it was hardly likely that his Company would be able to induce the other companies to agree to that rate. If such a reduction was made, Hull and Grimsby would soon find it out and would secure a reduction pro rata; therefore the Welsh coast ports would he in the same position as before. The FISHERY OFFICER for the Carnarvon district (Mr Robert Jones) said the complaint all along the coast was that fish was conveyed very cheaply from Grimsby to Welsh ports, while the charge for sending fish from Welsh ports to Liverpool and Manchester was much higher. Fish was conveyed from Grimsby to Carnarvon for Is lljd per cwt. He had paid that amount himself many times. Mr Denniss then gave the following figures, showing the charge per mile for the carriage of fish between different places :—Portmadoc to Liverpool, 131 miles, best fish, 28 fid per cwt, '22 of a penny per mile to Man- chester, 134 miles, best fish, 38 per cwt, '26 of penny per mile, for common fish, 2s 8d, "23 of a penny to Bir- mingham, lfi9 miles, best fish, 4s, '27, common fish, 3s0id '22 from Hull and Grimsby to Portmadoc, 234 miles, the charge was 3s, which was '15 of a penny per mile. That was double the distance from Portmadoc to Liverpool, and the difference was '7. From Yarmouth and Lowes- toft to Portmadoc, 341 miles, best fish, 3s 9d, and common fish, which was '12. Of course, as the distance increased the charge was less. The CLERK asked, as a guidance for the Committee, what the charge was for carrying slates to Bir- mingham ? Mr DENNISS replied that he could not then say and pointed out that fish and skates could not be compared, as the one was sent by passenger train and the other by goods. Mr MANCHESTER supposed that a uniform rate could not be fixed ? Mr DENNISS was afraid not. The Company, however, would be glad to make any special provision for convey- ing fish from parts on the Cambrian Railway to inland stations on that line. They could do as they willed in that direction. It was their wish to do all in their power to help to develop the fishing industry and to offer in- ducements to fishermen trading at the Welsh coast ports to increase their business but, unfortunately, as regarded the large centres his Company was dependent upon other companies who had greater interest in other ports. His Company could not of itself lower the rates when other companies were concerned. The OFFICER of the Pwllheli district (Mr Pritchard) said it cost more to send fish from Pwllheli to Liverpool than from Grimsby to Pwllheli. He submitted the rail- way company's bill to bear out the statement and a bill for three boxes of rays for which was charged the highest price. Mr MANCHESTER said that was the difficulty. There were not different charges for sending the best and the common kinds of fish. The fishermen could afford to pay more for sending the best fish, but could not afford to pay the chal"le for the commoner kinds of fish. Sir DENNISS said there were two different charges. For conveying common fish the sum of 2s per. cwt was charged. Mr MANCHESTER said Pwllheli fishermen paid more than that. He called attention to the want of accom- modation for storing fish boxes at Pwllheli Station and said complaints were made that the boxes were thrown about and los Mr DENNISS said he would have that matter remedied. Mr MANCHESTER also called attention to the insufficient loading accommodation at Pwllheli Station. Mr RICHARD DAVIES, officer for the Aberystwyth dis- trict, submitted petitions in favour of a reduction of the rates from Aberystwyth and Aberdovey fishermen and boat owners. Mr Davies called attention to the rates charged for the carriage of mussels and said 48 6d was charged for sending a bag of mussels weighing one cwt from Aberdovey to Llangollen. Mr JOHN WILLIAMS said the mussels from Portmadoc to Birmingham were sent along the Festiniog Railway and 2s 6d per cwt was charged for the carriage. In 1895, fifty-one tons were sent, but last year 124 tons were for- warded. When they reached Birmingham they cost 68 to 7s per cwt. I u consequence of the rates fishermen only got 3s out of that sum, whereas they ought to get 4s 6d. Mr DENNISS asked if the fishermen could not arrange to send the mussels away in ton lots, then the Company might convey them for Is or Is 3d per cwt? Mr JOHN WILLIAMS said they were sent in small quantities to suit the merchants, who desired to have them fresh. Mr DENNISS said the Company at present had a special rate for the conveyance of mussellil from Portmadoc to Liverpool—27s 6d per ton, which would mean about Is 2d per cwt. In reply to the Clerk, Mr WILLIAMS said the reason the mussels were sent along the Festinio Railway was in order to save cartage from the gathering ground to the Cambrian Railway Station at Portmadoc. The Festiniog Railway Station was not far from the place where the mussels were gathered. Mr DENNISS said he would call the agent's attention to this matter to see if something could not be done. Mr David Pritchard submitted a statement showing that the quantity of mussels sent from his district increased annually. The CLERK said that Mr Pritchard was proving too much. What they desired to show Mr Denniss was that the railway rates were killing the traffic. (Laughter.) There being no further information to be supplied, Mr MANCHESTER proposed a Yote of thanks to Mr Denniss. The proposition was seconded by Mr WILLIAMS and agreed to. Mr DENNISS acknowledged and said he had taken note of the points and they would be considered in detail. If it was possible for the Company to make a concession in the ratils they would be very glad to do so. The interests ef the Committee and Company were identical and it was as much to the interest of the Company as to the Committee that the traffic should be increased and it would be admitted that the rate was a very important question. It was of vital importance that the be8t facilities as regarded rates and expeditious transit should have the best attention the Company could give to the matter. He would like to assure the Committee that the Company would do all it could to give effect to the wishes that had been expressed. The meeting then terminated. THE BREACH OF PROMISE CASE. At the Bcaumaris Assizes, on Thursday, Mr E. J. Griffith, M.P., rep ated an application he made at Carnarvon relative to the Portmadoc breach of promise case. He applied for a stay of execution, on the ground that the verdict was against the weight of evidence. Another thing in connection with the case was this, as he was instructed The plaintiff gave her evidence in English and the defendant in Welsh. The evidence of the plaintiff was not interpreted, and his instructions were that three out of every four of the jurymen were quite unacquainted with English. That might account for the great surprise, and, therefore, he aked his Lordship to &tay execution until they could have a rehearing of the case.—Mr Trevor Lloyd opposed and said it could only be a needless expense. The question was, whether there was a promise or not.—The Judge remarked thas he hoped the Court of Appeal now would be a little different to what it used to be. It seemed to him to be simply a question of costs. It was very surprising to him that anybody could find a verdict similar to the one brought in at Carnarvon when there was such a strong balance of evidence in favour of the p'aiotiff. The evidence and the letters were perfectly conclusive to his mind, and under the circumstances, he felt he was bound to give them an opportunity to have the case reheard. He could not say what the jury would do, and last year, before there was a certain retirement from the Bench, he felt certain the Court of Appeal would not do anything, but now things might have changed. He would not prevent the taxation of costs, but would stay execution for lourteen days, aad longer if an appeal wasmadewithin that period, until the new trial took place.

THE LLANDYSSUL WATER RIGHT DISPUTE. At Carmarthenshire Assizes last week, his Lord- ship Mr Justice Phillimore and a special jury were occupied for the greater part of another day in hear- ing the action for damages and an injunction which was brought by Mr John Lewis, Pont Twelly Mill and Factory, Llandyssul, against bis neighbour, Mr Wm. James, Ffrwdwen Mill, who, it was alleged, caused such an obstruction in the Teify as to interfere materially with the working of plain- tiffs factory. Mr B. Francis Williams, Q.C., and Mr S. T. Evans, M. P. (instructed by Messrs lsa. and Ivor Evans and Stephens, solicitors, Cardigan), were for the plaintiff; and Mr Abel Thomas, Q.C., M.P., and Mr Arthur Lewis (instructed by Messrs Thomas and Evans, solicitors, Llandyssul), for de- fendant. The jury having letired for a few minutes. brought in a verdict for defendant, and judgment was accordingly given with costs. This concluded the Assizes.

All letter. must be written on one side of the paper and accompanied by the na and addrcss of the writer, not nwetsarilp for publication, bul as a guarantee of good faith.

MERIONETH COUNTY ROADS. SIR,—I notice in your valuable paper of last week that "Idris" in his letter has drawn attention to the bad state of the roads leading to Talvllyn Lake. I think it is high time someone moved in this matter, as the inhabitants of this place (few as they are) have becn asleep. Had" IdriB" aid "hedges" instead of "bridges" I would agree with him. The former are in a most dangerous state, briars and thorns overhang the roads. One most objectionable thing appears to have been overlooked by him entirely. Between Penybont Hotel and the top of the lake will be found two wooden and one iron gate across the Jhighway. I do not think you will find such things on any highway in the whole of Wales. These, certainly, should be done, away with. Why should ratepayers and others be put to unnecessary trouble and danger by these obstacles?—Yours, See., RATEPAYER. TRAIN ACCOMMODATION FOR BARMOUTH. SIR,—We have heard several times lately that promin- ent members of the Urban District Council intend to ap- proach Mr Denniss, the general manager of the Cambrian Railways, with a-view to getting a large number and more convenient trains to run to and from Barmouth for the coming season. That is all very well as far as it goes, but we all know that the Cambrian Railway does not run further than Dolgelley in one direction, a very im- run further than Dolgelley in one direction, a very im- portant direction as far as Barmouth is concerned. Why, therefore, do not these gentlemen, who most likely repre- sent the Council, approach and consult the authorities of the Great Western Railway ? The majority of our visitors come from the midland counties, whence the G.W.R. runs through to Barmouth. Is it not very important that this deputation should have at once joint consultation, both with Mr Deuniss and Mr Grant who represents the G.W. Railway? I have not the least doubt but that the latter gentleman is ready and will do everything in his power to advertise Bar- mouth by means of running a service of express trains from Birmingham and other large towns to Barmouth for the next season. I understand that Mr Grant will be down at Barmouth soon, and I hope arrangements will be made to see him concerning this matter.—I am, yours, RATEPAYER. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL MISTRESS-SHIPS AND FEES. SIR,—Knowing you are very ready to take up any instance of unfairness towards women teachers, I venture to call your attention to the following In the Atheneum of last Saturday there was an adver- tisement for a science mistress in one of the Welsh Inter- mediate Schools. On sending in an application I found that before it can be considered I must pay to the person whose address was given a registration fee of 2s 6d and must sign a paper agreeing to pay a further sum of about £5 if successful in obtaining the post. I, for one, shall withdraw my application rather than agree to such a demand. But there are other women who are less fortunately situated and have no home to go to. They must needs agree to pay, what to any assistant mistress is a large sum, rather than risk being unem- ployed for six months. Will you make this as widely known as possible in the hope that other committees will not be guilty ofthe same inj ustice|? I enclose my card and remain yours truly, etc., B.Sc.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION. The polling in divisions in which there were contests took place on Saturday. There were contests in fourteen divisions, and the result was the return of eight. Liberals And six Con- servatives. The unopposed returns were sixteen Liberals and twelve Conservatives, and the Council are now divided a follows .-—Liberals, 24; Conservatives, 18. The retiring aldermen consist of five Liberals and one Conservative. Mr Edward Davies, Dolcaradoer, retires from the aldermanic chair this year. The following is the result of Saturday's polls at Darowen, Machynlleth, and Uwehvo-arreg •— DAROWEN At Aberhosan polling station, the presiding officer was Mr Wm. Jones and the poll clerk Mr S. Williams; and at Darowen polling- station the presiding officer was Mr T). Davies Williams, and the poll clerk Mr J. C. Ashton. The total number polled was 226. After the declaration of the poll both Mr Richards and Mr Owen left the town for Peneg-ors arm in arm. RpsultJames Henry Richards (L.), 125; N. Bennett Owen (C.), 100 Liberal majority, 25. MACHYNLLETH. The returning officer for the Machynlleth Union was Mr John Rowlands and the votes were recorded at the Town Hall. Mr Rowlands wag the presiding officer at the polling station and the poll clerks were Mr H. H. Clayton and Mr Meredydd Davies. The greatest interest was taken in the contest and the town had been exceptionally well canvassed. The total number polled was 410 out of a possible 412, and it is doubtful whether the remaining two were in a position to attend at the Town Hall. There was an increase of 60 voters on the last election. Out of this number Lord Henry Vane Tempest received 29 and Mr Richard Rees, 31. Mr Rees was returned bv a majority of 6, an increase of t'.vo on the last election and of four on the first election. There was a large number awaiting the result in,front of the Hall and the greatest excitement prevailed. On Mr Rees leaving the Hall, he was carried in triumph bv his suppor'ers through th" town. RE'ult :Richard Rees (L.), 207; Lord Henry Vane Tempest (C.), 201. Liberal majority, 6.

THE MUTINY IN UGANDA. ACCOUNT OF THE DEATH OF MAJOR THRUSTON. Last week's debate in the House of Commons, as well as questions asked in the House of Lords on the recent disastrous mutiny in Uganda, have a local interest for two officers closely jonnected with Wales were killed there in the mutiny. Major A. B. Thruston brother'c.,f -Mr E. H. Tiirusion,'J. P., D, L, of Pennal Tower, Merionethshire and Lieutenant B. F. Feildinp, second son of the late hon. and Rev C. W. A. Feilding. rector of Stapleton, near Shrewsbury and first cousin to the Earl of Den- bigh. The following is a short account of the tragical circumstances by which they met their death :—An expedition was sent towards Lake Rudolph, under the command of Major Macdouald. He had with him several companies of Soudanese (black negro) troops who were very discontented as they hid been continually fighting fIr several months and wished to return to their homes and did not like being sent on another expedition. Major Macdonald appears also to have been un. popular with them and did not understand t}lpir language (Arabic). The expedition had hardly started when the Soudanese refused to go on, and, as Miijl.r Macdonald refused to hear their griev- ances except through a native officer (who appear-i to have been untrustworthy), they turned back by themselves to lay their case before Mr Jackson the commissioner. Major Macdonald was obliged to abandon the expedition and pursue them. He failed to overtake them or get between them and Uganda, owing to some (as yet) unexplained delay, which delay formed the subject of enquiry in both Houses of Parliament last week. Mean- while Major Thruston, the commandant, hearing of this though he was suffering from a painful illness hurried almost alone from Kampala (the capital) where he was in safety, to the assistance of Mr N. Wilson at Fort Lubwas, hoping by his persona! influence to bring the mutineers to reason. He was personally very popular with the men, as he understood their language and they served under him with great credit in the Unyoro war where, led by h:m, they stormed an almost impregnable fortress under a storm of rocks and bullets which were hurled down on them. He hoped thus to avert the horrors of an Indian Mutiny on a small scale. Unfortunately Major Thruston did not know and therefore could not take into account that the mutineers had already been fired on on their way to the fort, and so turned from soldiers of the Queen, although deserters, into bloodthirsty muti- neers burning to avenge their wrongs, careltss upon whom, after the manner of ignorant ravages. The small garrison fell at Major Thruston's feet and protested their loyalty, and the next few days were spent in fortifying the fort. Major Thruston had sent a message to Major Macdonald and Mr Jackson begging them to come on at once, but the mutineers arrived first and overawed the small garrison, placing Major Thruston, Mr Wilson, and Mr Scott, the engineer of the launch, in chains. Meanwhile Major Macdonald and his force arrived and took up a strong position on the hill ove) looking the fort and a short distance from it. The mutineers attempted several times to treat with him, but, for some unexplained reason, nothing was done to effect the release of the three prisoners. A bloody fight ensued in which some hundreds were killed on either side, including Lieutenant Feildins:, who was shot through the heart whilst gallantly leading his men to the charge in the thick of the fight he died immediately. Mr Jackson was shot through the lungs, but has since recovered. After the fight the mutineers retired in disorder to the fort and then it seems as if the attacking force might have rushed in with them and taken it, but they remained on the hill. Maddened by their losses, the mutineers dragged their prisoners outside the the fort and shot them, almost under the eyes of their comrades on the hill. It is said by an eye. witness that they stood chained together, bravely facing their foes, unflinching and unmoved by the yelling and infuriated savages, until they sank deal under a hail of bullets. The Acting Commissioner writes in the despatches just laid before Parliament:— The report of the murder appeared to be so incredible and caused such a horror throughout the capital as to require direct con- firmation before being accepted as correct." From this time (Oct. 19th) to the 9th Jan. the fort was besieged by Major Macdonald, or officers under his orders, with the Uganda army, and in a letter published in the London newspaper, from one of these officers, it is P,-tid at the outside200 Soudan- ese are setting at defiance a force of about 15,000 There were numerous fights and Major Macdonald's brother and Mr Pilkington, of the Church Mission- ary Society, were killed in addition to a largo num- ber of the native soldiery. On the 9th of January, the mutineers left the fort by night, having sue- ceeded in obtaining a native sailing vessel and some canoes, and with all their families escaped across a bay of Lake Victoria (Fort Lubwas is situated on the lake). They were pursued, but have not been overtaken, and when last heard of were in the wild country to the north of the lake. It is to be deeply regretted that they have rscaped from justice and that these brutal murders have gone unavenged, for African authorities declare that the prestige of the white man will be much lowered and that the effects of this bad example will be felt far beyond the limits of Uganda. Lord Stanmore, in the House of Lords, tried to obtain information from the Government as to the delay in going to the rescue of Major Thruston and the officers in Fort Luhwas. The Duke of Devonshire replied that they had little or no information to give. Lord Stanmore then feelingly alluded to the brilliant though short career of Major Thruston and ex- pressed his regret at its untimely and tragical ending. In the debate in the House of Commons, Sir Edward Grey asked for the same information and said, alluding to the delay, "Twenty-two days were taken to march 170 miles and so Major Macdonald and his force arrived just one day too late and after the first mutineers had reached Lubwas and induced the garrison to rise also. I do not know whether there is further information to be given on this point, but it is certainly very important. What happened afterwards is the saddest and most dis- tressing thing in the whole of these distressing events and that is that Major Thruston, Mr Wil- son, and Mr Scott were made prisoners and were killed. Therj is a great desire on the part of officers to take this sort of service, which needs courage and resource and which they know eu.ails great danger this they are ready to accept, but the circumstances under which these lives were lost were exceptionally distressing. (Hear, hear.) All we have heard in the despatches as to their murder is contained in one sentence of Maj r Mac donald I regret to inform your Lordsnip they murdered their prisoners.' I do not know whether any more information is forthcoming, but we should like to have more information, not nnly on that point, but also as to whether it would have been possible fcr Major Macdonald to have arrived at Fort Lubwas earlk-r, or to have done something to gain any time during which steps might have been taken to save the three prisoners in the f nt." Sir E. Grey spoke further on this subject and speeches were made by Sir Charles Dilke, Mr H. M. Stanley, the great Welsh African explorer, and others, but Mr George Curzon, on behalf of the Government, stat-d he had no further information than was con- tained in the despatches, but promised a full en- quiry into all the points raised. The subject will come up again in both Houses. Lieutenan" Field- ing was boru in 1870 and joined the Wiltshire regi- ment from the Cheshire Militia. His home is in Flintshire. Major Thruston was born in 1865 and joined the army in 1884. He served in India and Egypt with his regiment, served with Sir Henry Colville in Uganda, and for his distinguished ser- vices there received the Order of the Brilliant S'ar of Zanzibar, medal, a brevet-majority, and 'he thanks of the Foreign Office. Was special service officer in the Dongola. expedition in 1S96, received t'le Oamanieh and medal with two clasps, and uas mentioned in the despatches. He had passed the examinations f(,r interpreter in Turkish aud Arabi; and understood Hindostani.

NORTH WALES BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY. The annual meeting of this Society Ivalil held at the British Hotel, Bangor, on Friday, February 25th. In the absence of the President (Mr W. E. Oakeley), Mr R. M. Greaves occupied the chair. There were also present, Messrs Thomis Prichard, Llwydiarth Esgob J. R. Jones, Bodfeirig C. F. Priestley, llirdrefaig R. W. Pritchard, Coedmarian John Evans, Tai- hirion, Gaerwen John Lloyd Jones, Wern Home Farm, Tr. madoc; Owen Jones, Madryn Farin and W. A. Dew, hon. secretary. Letters of apology for non-attendance was reid from Messrs W. E. Oakeley, Thomas Roberts, W. Lester Smith, and F. A. Walker Jones. The Hon. Secretary read the minutes of the general meet- ing held at Bangor, April 23rd, 1897, which were confirmed and signed. He also submitted the statement of accounts for the year ending 31sf December, 18Ji and these were adapted. Sir Watkin Williams Wynn was elected president and Mr C. F. Priestley vice-president for the ensuing year. Mr W. A. Dew was re-elected hon. secretary, treasurer, and editor of the Herd Book. In accepting office for another year, Mr Dew signified his intention of resigning at the end of trii- year, hy which time he hoped the sixth volume of the Suctcty's Herd Book would be completfd and issued, and he gave this early intimation in order that the members may have ample time to took for a successor. In making this announcement, he said that he had done his best for the Society during thp last twelve years, but that he had not now the time necessary to give to its interests. Regret was expressed at the announce- ment, and Mr Dew was asked to reconsider the matter, but while feeling very grateful for the kind expressions he h:ni just listened to, he said that he had already duly considered the step and his mind was fully made up as stated. Mr James Smith (Messrs Lloyds' Bank) was re-elected audi- tor. The following gentlemen were elected on the Executive Council Messrs Trevor Hughes, J. R. Jones, Thomas Roberts, Humphrey Ellis, Ephraim Wood, J. Marshall Dugdale, D. E. Hughes, R. M. Greaves, John Evans, and John Jones (Plas, Llmfaglan). Mr \V. Lester Smith had given notice of motion that rule two ba amended so as to read as follows The annual sub- scription of members shall be 10s, except in the case of tenant farmers, whose subscription shall be 2s 6d per annum." This, on being put to the meeting, was carried with the proviso that in the case of existing members this reduction will take effect from 1st January next. Mr Thomas Roberts had also given notice of motion, That the resolution as to holding the annual meetings of the Society at Bangor, Rhyl, and Chester, alternately, be rescinded and in lieu thereof it be resoived that the place of the next meet- ing be decided at the preceding one." This, on being put to the meeting, was carried. It was resolved that the next annual meeting be held at Bangor. It was resolved to offev two of the Society's silver medals to each of the following agricultural societies Carnarvonshire, Anglesey, and Merionethshire, for competition at their county shows for the best male and best female animal at such shows, provided they had been entered in or for the North VVales B!ack Cattle Society's Herd Book. In the course of the proceedings, it was incidentally re- marked as showing the growing preference given by buyers to animals entered in the Herd Book, that enquiries for such animals were becoming much more general, and that higher prices were readily paid for them, in fact it was known that some purchasers who came down would not buy unless the animal was entered in the Herd Book. A cordial vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the meeting.

AGRICULTURE IN WALES. On Friday, the 4th March, an interesting meeting was held at the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, when, in response to an invitation issued by a committee of present students of agriculture, a large number of those who had pre- vious.y studied in that department assembled to hold a re- union meeting. Thore were present-Principal Roberts, Pro- fessors Anwyl, Edwards, Lewis, and Murray, and Mr A. E. Brooke Hunt, the inspector from the Board of Agriculture. who happened to be in Aberystwyth at the time, together with about seventy students from the counties of Merioneth, Montgomery, Cardigan, Carmarthen, Brecon, and Stafford. Principal Roberts was voted to the chair and, after some preliminary business had been disposed of, the following re- solution was proposed by Mr J. G. Davies, Pencarreg, Lam- peter That it is the wish of this meeting to form a society which shall serve to unite together all who have studied in the agricultural department of the University College of Wales, and to promote the study and development of agriculture, and that such a society be hereby formed."—The motion was seconded by Mr Walter Williams, Llanwrda, and was sup- ported by Mr John Roberts, Towyn Mr Evan Hughes, Aber- ystwyth Professor Anwyl; Mr Simon Blare, Stafford Pro- fessor Edwards, and Mr Robert William Jones, Bala, and was carried unanimously. Principal Roberts then addressed the meeting. He pointed out the importance of the step which had been taken and very seriously impressed upon the students the great in- fluence they might exert on the life and work of their several districts through such a society. It was, he said, a perfectly spontaneous action on the part of the students and he ex- pressed his gratification at the spirit which had prompted it. Mr A. E Brooke Hunt also congratulated the students on the eventful issue of their meeting. A scheme of rules for the regulation of the society was then drawn up, from which it appears that it is to be called the University College of Wales Agricultural Association, and its membership is open to all who have studied in the agricultural department of the College. An annual general meeting of the whole association is to he held at Aberystwyth early in March, and the members residing in each county are to form local branches and to hold meetings from time to time. The following ottice-bearers were elected President, the Principal of the College; vice-presidents, Professors Middleton, An Nyl, and Edwards, Mr John Roberts, jun,, Perfeddnant, Towyn Mr Morgan H. Williams, Bankylan, Llansadwrn, Llanwrda v general secretary, Mr J. Alan Murray treasurer, Professor Lewis local secretaries, Messrs Phillip John Williams, Ffosy- gerwn, Brecon Walter Williams, Brongam Farm, Llan- sadwrn, Llanwrda; D. D. Evans, Llanio-issaf, Pont Llanio, Cardiganshire Samuel Jones, Neuadd Newydd, Caersws; Robert Nathaniel Jones, Brynmelvn, Cor«ve« and Simon Blare, Alton Hall, Rugeley, Staffordshire. The office-bearers to act as a committee.. It was agreed that the local associations should carry out experiments under the direction and organisation of the General Secretary, leollect local statistics, initiate debates, and should read and discuss together books and original papers on subjects of agricultural interest and importance and they may, if they see fit, combine to purchase manures, implements, See., at the lowest possible rates, and for any other mutual benefit in accordance with the declared objects of the society. The General Secretary agreed to distribute amongst mem- bers of the association copies of published reports on field experiments and experiments carried out at the College ex- perimental stations. It was also resolved that an effort, should be made to secure the presence at each general meeting of some prominent agriculturist to deliver an address to the members. In the evening, Principal Roberts held a reception for the members of the association, at which all were liberally sup- plied with tea and other good things. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Principal Robert and the professors for their kindness and co-operation during the reunion. Later, the students held an entertainment at which speeches, songs, and recitations were given until, owinif to the lateness of the hour, it was found necessary to separate.

THE ECLIPSE OF THE SUN. A correspondent has forwarded the following interesting account of the recent eclipse of the sun as seen in India We are all home again and our journey to see the eclipse a thing of the past. We had been looking forward to it for so long that we seem to have lost a landmark and to be rather at sea with regard to dates and engagements. We were only up at Huscar for the day. Everyone says they were disappointed in the ec!ip=e. So were we, but only because we did not see all they had told us we should. What we did see was very beautiful and worth spending mere than two nights n in the train for We we. t through the crowds of natives and took up a position on the walls of the old fort armed with our smoked glasses and ready for any and every impression. They had told us to watch particularly for the moon's shadow which at the moment of totality sweeps over the earth and for the iridescent streamers and ilimes of fire. Non, of these were to he seen, but what there was ought to have been enough for anybody. We sat for an hour and more watching the shadow eat away the sun and noticing the decrease of colour and solidity in the sunlight — perhaps density is a better word. It was still bright, though much cooler, but the light seemed thin and the shadows transparent. Several people have told me that hands held against the light showed all the bones, aud they noticed ho<v just before totality people standing by seemed to become transparent except in the centre, but that we did not notice, we were too intent upon the sun. All of a sudden the whole body of the moon appeared rimmed with light and the next instant the sun was gone, twilight fell, the lipples in the river ran silver, and away on the horizon pale yellow faded into green-it was like a few minutes before dawn. The natives all stood with upstretched arms chanting their invocations and from all round the moon burst out the corona and one long streamer of pale primrose light, softer and mora beautiful than any thing I had ever seen. It was all too short and before one had had time to realize the whole beauty a shaft of dazzling light burst from the lower rim. The crowds of natives gave a great shout of joy and it was all at an end. All those engaged in taking observations must have bfen much pleased. The sky was cloudless and clear; there was no haze and very little dust in the air. We went to lunch at the Viceroy camp which had been pitched in a rice field shaded by mango trees. The moat elaborate preparations had been made for a stay of only six hours. Some of us walked back through the fields to the Station, stopping to watch a country boat coming through a lock in the canal and trying to imagine we were at home. It was a regular excursion. Each train that went out full of people we knew and they shouted and called to each other like so many school boys. Mother enjoyed it so much, except she says she was too excited to take it all in and wishes she could see it all again."

Ikrcal aitb gtstnet NORTH WALKS HORSE SALW.— It will be seen on reference to our advertising columns that Mr Frank Lloyd's North Wales Horse Sales, with a catalogue of over 1,400 entries, commence at Wrexham on Wednesday next. Catalogues had on application to the Auctioneer, Wrexham. THE BALA-BANGOR ASD THK BRECON CONGREGA- TIONAL COLLEGES. The Executive Committee of the Brecon M-marial College has received a letter from the Rev D. Rees, the secretary of the Bala- Bacgor Independent College, on the question of tlm amalgamation of the two institutions, stating That we as a co:lege are not in favour of amal- gamation with the Collegg at Brecon, believing that tho interest of theological education in Wales will be best served by the retention of the present in- stitution at Bangor." It was decided to call a special meeting of the Committee on the 22nd inst. to con- sider tne whole question, and to make preparations for appointing a principal, or additional profe»s-">rs if the Gommittp so decide. The Bala-Bangor Com- mittee will hold a sppciai meeting next month to consider the question of the principalship of the College. On Tuesday afternoon Mr Lloyd-George. M.P.. unve led a memorial to the late Rev John Williams in the cemetery attached to the Salem Welsh Bap- tit Chapel, Penyeae, near Wrexham. The late n :vl,;la!ns was the author of Yr Oraclau Bywiol, being a Welsh translation of the New Testani-nt from the Greek, together with many other important worss. Be was successively pastor of the B iptist churches at Llitas ilin, Brymbo, Newtown, Rhos, and Penycae. Nine or ten noted Welsh preachers lie buried in the PF>ncae Baptist cemetery, and it was there that the Rev J. Wil- liams «as buried in 1856. A Baptist causa has Hour isiieu Penycae for over one hundred years, and the congregations on Sundays now average be- tween 600 and 700. The memorial consisted of a granite column and b )re iu Welsh the following:- In memory of the late Rev John Williams, pas- tor of the Bapt st churches at Rhos and Penycae, author of the Living Oracles,' Figures of Speech of the Bible.' &c. Died November 15, 1856. Aged 50 years. Erected by his admirers. A crowded public meeting wa held in the Salem Chapel, uuder the presidency of Mr Simon.

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Carriages, anb deaths. No announcements of marriages are inserted without suffi. Ctent authentication, for want of which announcements to are sometitnes omitted. A charge of Is., paid in ailvance, is made for the words II No Cards," die., in marriages, and an addition to the simple record of deaths. BIRTHS. EVANS—March 4th, the wife of Mr David Charles Erans Cnwch, Llanfibangel-y-Creuddyn, of a daughter. MARRIAGES. BOXN-KR—WHITFIELD—ON the 9th inst., at St. Augustine's Church, Edirbaston, by the Rev J. C. Blissard, M.A., Thos. Irvine Bonner, M.A., C.M., M.B., of Aberdovey, North Wales, to Gertrude, daughter of the late S. B. Whitfield cf Birmingham. uOO HmIPIIRRYS-PRICE-February 26th, by liceice, at the Brithdir Independent Chapel, near Dolg-elley, by the Rev John Walters, minister, in the presence of Air Tom Parry, regis- trar, Mr John Humphreys, OrefKerrig, to Miss Maggie PrTee, both of the parish of Brithdir and Islaw'rdref. JOSKS—WILLIAMS— On Wednesday, March 9th, at Ebenezer Chapel, Portmadoc, by the Rev Owen Evans, assisted by the Rev J. J. Roberts (Iolc, Carnarvon), Mr David Jones, junr., assistant cler-c, Fpstiniog- Union, to Miss Jennie Williams, eldest daughter of Captain Evan Williams, Meirion House, both of Portmadoc. MORRIS WILLIAMS March 3rd, at the Sussex-road Welsh Cal- vinistic Methodist Chapel, Holloway, London, by the Rev W. Ryle Davies, Robert Owen Morris of the schooner Excel," to Dorothy, daughter of Captain Evan Williams. Walter Ulric," of Portmadoc. PAUL—LLKWKI.YN—March 5th, at the Register Office, Aberyst- wyth, by the Rev W. Jones, Mr John Paul to Miss Mary Llewelyn, both of Goginan. THOMAS—JONES—March 8th, at Calvinistic Methodists'Chapel. Llandinani, by the Rev D. Lloyd Jones, M.A., in the pre- sence of Mr D. Rees, registrar, Mr Alfred N. Thomas of Penybont, Radnorshire, to Miss Sarah Edwina Jones, daugh- ter of Mr and Mrs Edwin Jones, Llandinam, and formerly of Brynarvor School, Towyn. U73 WILLIAMS—JAMES—March 9th. at the Tabernacle Chapel, Aberystwyth, by the Rev W. Jones, .Mr William Williams, Gorsfach, to Miss Mary Ann James. WILLIAMS—PRITCHARD—March 5th, at the Register Office, Dol. gelley, in the presence of Mr Tom Parry, registrar, Mr Stephen Williams, College Cottages, Llwyngwril, to Mrs Gwen Pritchard, Penygraig, Bartuouth. DEATHS. DAVIES—March 5th, Mr David Davies, Hafoducha, Bontddu, Llanaber, aged 45 years. EVANS-Much Sth, Mr Evan Evaus, Brynmawr, near Dol- gelley, aged 70 years. EDWARDs-February 22nd, at 116, Salcott-road, Clapham Junction, London, Evan Edwards, aged 39 years. JONKS—March 3rd, Cambrian-strept, Sarah Jones, widow of John Jones, mariner, aged 72 years. JONF.s-Match 3rd, at her son-in-law's residence, Tynycae, Do)gelle\, Mrs Elizabeth Jones, aged 84 years. THOMAS—March 8th, Mrs Francis Margaret Thomas, widow of the late Rev Thomas Thomas, Wesleyan minister, aged 47 years. VON ZEIGLER-February 27th, at Barrowmead, Strathbourne- road, London, Elizabeth, second daughter of the late Andrew James, 27, Pier-street, Aberystwyth, aged 61 years. Printed by J. <? J. GIBSON, and published by them in Terra.e-road, Aberystwyth, in the county of Cardi- gan at Ll. EDWARDS'S, stationer, High-street, Bala; at J. & J. Gibsons', at the Cambrian News Office. High-street, Barmouth, in the county of Merioneth 5 and at DAVID LLOYD'S, Portmadoc, in the county of Carnarvon, On Friday, March lltb, 1898.