The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

ABERYSTWYTH. HARBOUR COMMITTEE.—Councillor C M Williams (mayor) presided over the ordinary meeting of the Harbour Committee on Monday evening. There were also present Alaerman T Doughton, Coun- cillors R Doughton and E H James, with Dr Thomas (medical officer of health), Mr Rees Jones (surveyor), and Mr H L Evans (borough account- ant).—There was no business beyond the passing of a few bills.-Alderniazi Doughton said it would be a great advantage if two more lamps were placed on the Rofawr, one at each end of the ware- house.—The Committee agreed to recommend this to the Public Lights Committee.—The Surveyor reported that the road from the stores to the boat- house had been completed and the other was pro- ceeding. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEES.— The Mayor aba presided over this meeting when the same members were present, together with Councillor Hopkins. —The labour sheets for the past two weeks were passed as were several quarterly bills. Dr Thomas presented his report for the quarter ending December. There had been 37 births registered—2j males and 14 females, giving an annual birth rate of 18'7 upon a popula- tion of 7,971. There bad been 40 deaths, one of which was a visitor, this left 39 for the towns- people and on a population of 7,971 gave a death rate of 19 6. There had been only one case of infectious disease, viz.: a case of scarlet fever. The patient made a good recovery and the disease was prevented from spreading. The town had not been so free from infectious diseases since the autumn of 1898. Influenza in an epidemic form had broken out and two deaths occurred.—The Mayor Then on the wbole you consider the report satisfac- tory. Dr Thomas: Yes.-Thp. Mayor In referring to his question the Corporation will have to seriously consider the provision of au isolation hospital. Two or three months ago the matter came before the Public Works Committee, and I understood then t.:lat it was the intention of the committee to visit various sites with a view of being in a position to consider the erection of a hospital.— Alderman Doughton Yes, it was decided.—The Mayor: This question has been discussed off and on since 1893. I believe the necessity of it—especially haying regard to the importance of the town as a watering place-is to the minds of a large number becoming very urgent. I think we must be all convinced that if in any summer season a large number of in- fectious diseases were to break out in the absortce of an isolation hospital it wouid be a serious matter for the town. He had no doubt that when such a place was erected it, would raise the town very much in the estimation of tho visitors. The Coun- cil would have to consider the matter, and he hoped that when tha.^edical officer pre- sents his next annual repo: it onld contain a statement to the effect that the hospital was being- proceeded witti.-The Medical Officer said there were two or three cases in the towte^last season. In large centres the people went fik a matter of course to isolation hospitals, and in £$et they preferred doing so.—The Mayor suggested that they should include in their report a reoom^j| mendation to the Council to proceed with the work, and then the Public Works Committee oo'uld be requested to select a site—Councillor Hopkins declared that the committee had met and visited certain places more than once.—The Mayor: No report has been presented.—Councillor Hopkins: It is not our fault. We visited the sires, and a report should have been presented.—The Medical Officer said that it was decided to call a meeting of the whole Council to visit the sites. This had not been aoue. The Committee agreed to recoinmwntK the Council to adopt the principle aud request th<r j'Rnblic Works Committee to report upqn a site -jti acoe. Mr James Evans, inspector of nuisaruses, rcWrtfsd that, a large number of persons had>$ailed cfl^sly With notices served nnon them ^jjfespect to oeoH^jve waier ^fittings, troughs, eUjjS^'and the Io8pectoT*W^j|^m?.c'ted to ta^a^^pa^Tngs without SCHOOL BOARD. — On Tuesday evening the monthly meeting of the members of this Board was held in the Schoolroom. There were present. Mr Peter Jones (chairman), Rev Prebendary Williams, Rev T Levi, Mr Win Thomas, Mr T B Hall, Mrs Griffiths, and the Yen Archd eacon Protheroe, with Mr R J Roberts, clerk.— Upon the consideration of billy, etc., the Chairman drew attention to the g-isbill, dated from April 1st to Oct lat, daring which period the Board was charger! for the consumption of 35,000 feet of gas.— Mr W m Thomas said tint if the meter was correct there must have been an escape of ga3.—The Chair- man: Weil, we had better get the bill for the cor- responding quarter of last year.—This was agreed t(:Iile Attendance Officer (Mr Lloyd) presented his report of percentage of attendance for the three weeks ending De- 31st: Board Schools—Boys, 883 J Percent; infants, 70 per cent; girls, 86 per cent. [ A a fcl •pom?' W-V" tAluJiwor- abiu iilness during the past mouth, i'he Rev j Prebendary Williams asked that the Attendance Officer should in future "bring in at the end of each month the actual number of scholars on the books in each department.—The Chairman then pro- ceeded to deal with the annual financial statement. The annual grant from the Education Department was £ 604 17s, as compared with £ 559 17s for last year; but included in this was the annual grant from the Science and Art Department, which brought the difference down to £ 34. Fee grant was £ 279 2s 6d, last Near it was P,262 2s 6d: receipts from rating authorities Y-725, last year £800; Agricultural Bating Act, £8 12s; tofal recepts £1,617 158 lid, as compared with £1,646 last year. Expenditure was—Officers of the Board £ 86, last year X106 stationery £ 102 6a 8d, last year £ 128 17a 3d; maintenance and salaries zES65 5s, last year Y,3,34 18s lOd; books, etc., £ 88 12s 9d (included in this item are two years' accounts), last year dS9 13s 7d; light and fuel, etc., 167 4s, last year £ 124 7s 9d. Repayment of hans and interest was a little over X-346, and the total expenditure was placed at 91,501 1Ss lad, compared with £ 1,479 last year. They started with an adverse balance of RII 4s 9d, and at the end of the year they had £ 104 12s 4d in hand. The total increase in the grant was over E50. PETTY SESSIONS.—Wednesday. Before Messrs C M Williams (ex-mayor), T Griffiths, E P Wynne, and R J Jones. CHIMNEY ABLAZE.— George Wilkinson, North parade, chapel trustee, was charged by Rees Jones, borough surveyor, with allowing the chimney of the V< eslevan Chapel to go on are on uanu-o-y 7th. -it, Wilkinson said that the chimney was swept on Jan 6,h.The trustees were fined Is 6d. DRUNK AND I)ISORDFRLY.-Evin Daniel, boat- man, Plascurig, was charged with having been drunk and disorderly on Jan 6th.-P.C. John Jenkins said that about 11 p.m. on Saturday even- ing he was on duty by the town clock. The defendant was there drunk and very disorderly, causing a largo crowd of people to assemble. His conduct was disorderly and le acted like a madman. He hit three young men and was anxious to fight, anybody. When witness threatened to lock him up the defendant was taken homo by his brother.- Defendant said that: he was not drunk but he had no witnesses to call and finished by pleading guilty.—The Bench decided to take the following charge of assault before deciding the ca^e.—John Edward Murphy, Custom House street, boots, charged Evan Daniel, boatman, with having as- saulted him at Aberystwyth on Jan 6th.-Murphy said that he was standing by the town clock on the Saturday evening when Daniel struck him twice. Defendant's brother came forward to take him away and whilst doing so defendant threatened to take IiiF; b 'life.- D(,fe nda,-i t, said that he did not strike complainant.—Harry Bluck, office boy, said that he saw the defendant striking him on the back of the ear. The ItRyor (to defendaut): Have you anything you wish to say P—Defendant: I No sir.—Fined 9,1 and costs for having been drunk and disorderly or ione month's imprisonment, and for the assault 10s and costs, in default 14 days' hard labour. AFFILIATION ORDER. Mr T J Samuel ap- peared and informed the Bench that W Jones, Union street, who promised to pay the money due on an affiliation order, and entered into recogni- sances to appear at the Police Court following the meeting of the sessions had not doos so and was not present that day. The warrant was allowed to remain in force and the cas,) was further ad- journed to Saturday at noon. PRIVATE STREETS ACT. — Th.>c\-) was a further adjournment of the hearing of objections to the Private Streets Act being put into operation in Trevor road. Mr W P Owen who appeared for Mr W J Watkin, Captain Jenkins, and Mr Night- ingale; asked the Bench to grant a further ad- journment owing to the fact that Mr Bassttt, his only witness, was down with influenza. Mr Hughes had said that ho would leave the matter in the bands of the Bench and he therefore nsked for an adjournment for a week. There were, too other circumstances which he thought made it right that lie should apply. Yesterday for the first time he came across two deeds which put a different complexion on the matter. There were covenants in both deeds between the buyers of the property on Trevor road to make, lay out and form the present roads. The person mentioned in the deed had received notice to be present, but he was not there; and having regard to this he was about to take action as to his clients' t position in the matter.—Mr A J Hughes said that he had come down at great inconvenience to attend that meeting, and he left the matter in the handa or the Bench. He hoped that the matter would be I proceeded with as there was a lot of work to be done and no delay could be admitted so far as he was concerned. With reference to proceedings outside the question they had only to treat with the owner, and whatever remedy the owner may have with another person must be taken to another Court.—Mr Owen I w your clerk last night and told him and he coftld have wired you. Un- fortunately I have nothing to do with influenza and this letter from Mr Bassett was only received last night, when I was prepared to go on with the case.—-Mr Hngh.es I am quite prepared with the prosecution and leave the matter in your hands.— The Mayor said the Bench had decided to adjourn the case for a week, but it should be understood that the case must be decided then.—Mr Owen: Unless Mr Hughes and myself have influenza (laughter).—Mr Hnghes: Influenza has been an old friend of society for a long time.

WELSHPOOL. CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOLS PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. On Sunday afternoon in the Town Hall, the Vicar (Rev D T Davis) presided over the annual distri- bution of prizes to the scholars attending the Gun- grog, Berriew streetv and Christ Church Schools. The large hall was packed with an assembly of scholars, and those interested in their success, indeed the gathering assumed such proportions that the supply of seats ran short, many htvitig to stand. The Vicar was supported on the platform by Atra Mrs Hawkgworth, and her sister Mrs Peppv, Bird- pore, India, with the Rev E M Fitzgerald, Vicar of Frees, Shropshire. The meeting opened with the singing of O come aU ye faithful," after which The Secretary (Mr W Smith) read his report on the year's work, at the outset stating that the schoots continued to flourish, the number of scholars exceeding those of 1899 or any previous year.' In Christ Church school the average attendance for 1899 was 134, against 130 in 1898; in the GuDgrog school 82, against 78; in the Boys' school 70, against 72; in the Girls' school 83, against 94; in the Belan school 54, against 54; in the Men's Bible Class 88, ngainst 84; and in the Women's Class 16, against 15. These figures, he thought, were satis- factory and showed a slight increase over 1898, when the total attendance was 525 compared with 527 for 1899. In conclusion, he thanked the clergy, superintendents, teachers, and scholars, for the ready help they had always given him as Secretai y of the schools. The Rev E M Fitzgerald then delivered the annual address, coi-,fining Iiis remarks mainly to the children, who followed him with the greatest interest. He took as his text a vprse from the third chapter in the Book of Revelations, I have set before thee an open door," words which he thought singularly applicable .to.tho present time, the first Sunday in the New Year. He afterwards dealt exhaustively with his subject, interspersing it with apt illustrations, n»dpr five heads: The jjppen door of Christ, the open door of the Church, h8 open door of prayer, the open door of oppor- fjinity, a.nd the ooen door of Heaven. .,t The Vicar explained that the prizes in the Men's Bible Class would not to,, given that afternoon, but nixt Sundav, at three o'clock, in the Church House. hrm the Rev H Hawkins, Yicar of Guilsfield, wonld preside: Continuing, ha said he was sure (they were all cseeoly indebted to their indefutiguable 'secretary, Mr Smith. I* At this stage Mrs Hawkaworth handed the prizes to the scholars of the Gungrog and Christ Church Schools, arid Mrs Peppy to the scholars of the Berriew Street Schools. The list, of successful scholars was as follows:- GUNCFLROO SCHOOL. Miss Pollie Ellis' cla ss-NLel lie Ellis, Katie Hamer. Miss Rowlands' Frank Meredith, Willie G "rge Oliver. Miss Annie Adarns' clas.,i Lucy Horley, Annie Evans. Miss Evans' class- Roderick Sayco, George Hamer. Mr Sidney Rider's chs-Uiehard Price, Harold Davies. Miss Wall's cla«s—Eddie lugiarn, Albert Davies. Miss Wor- filey's ciass-Agno8 Ingram, Jane Rowlands, Baatia Pritcl^i&r Miss Davies' class-Thomas Meredith, .John Taylor, George Price. Miss G Rud^e's class- Pugh. Margaret; Owen, Pattie Griffiths. Miss Owen's c'dsa—Winnie Dalies, Map-gie Meredith, Edith Oliver. Miss I'udge's class-George Davios, Thomas Edwards. CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL. Nellie Wood, Mary Pryee. Nellie Gardiner, Lizzie Trow. Sissy Williams, Flossy Higgins, Charlotte Meredith, Minnie B*cLtiighaijp^.Alice Morris, Elsie Williams, Annie Gardiner, T3dith Trow, Bertha Baker, Gladys Harris, Amily fTig'gios, Maggie Gardiner, Eva Mary Jor.es, Annie Meredith 'kfummoTKla^jobio Wilcox, Oliver Wilcox, Albert Morris, George Preece, Edward Williams, Archie James, Ernebt Sapple, Fred Beckingham, Richard Evans, Edward Lewis, Arthur Roberts. Attended regularly for two years: John Meredith, John Edward Davit's, En.est Dav'es, John Sydney Lewis, Ernest Trow, Ethel Davies, Francis Smith, Elsie Davies, Lucy Williams. Attended for three years » Percie Evans. For four years: William Smith, Frederick Smith, Wilfred 'Smith, Maggie Smith, Alice Evans. Attended for six years Bertie Jones, Lizzie Williams. Attended for eight years: Annie Williams. BERRIEW STREET GIRLS' SCHOOL. Miss II Barker's class-Alice Pugh and Emma Pugh: Class 10—Edith Brighouse and Florrie Poston. Miss Thomas' class—Agnes Bowen, Dora Bowen, Lizzie Humphreys and Slade Jones. Miss A Barker's class-Rose Hodge and Victoria Price. Miss Maggie Jones' class Emily Ellen Higgins and Francis H Higgins. Miss Barker's class-Mav HnmnhreV8 and Gertrude Williams. Mias Clara Jon 6,3, class—Phoebe Brighonse, Rose Bowen and Edith Humphreys. Miss Owen's class Louie Humphreys, Annie Pugh, Ada Hodge, Ethel Jones and Alice Evans. Miss Amy Jones', class-Florence BrighouHe and Susie Pryce. BERRIEW STREET BOYS' SCHOOL. Mr F Lambert's class—Bertie Pryce (Ono year), Percy Jeatico, Harry Parry. Mr J Jones' clss- Charles Humphreys (one year), Victor Jestico, George Blair, George Gboding. Mr G Bowoo's class—Ernest Brighousef (2 years), John Pryce (6 years). Class 6—Thomas Trow (4 years), James Ellis, David Trow (4 years). Mr F Anderson's class—Walter Brighouse (4 years), Thomas Waters (3 years). Mr E J Francis' class— John Smith (5 years), Fred Bluck (3 yeare). Mr F P Hughe*' class—Edward Morris, John Owen (3 years), Fred Evans, John Morris. Cjitr J Maddox's claes 100 win Gwalohmay (1 year), Edward Humphreys (6 years). Miss M A Jones, superintendent of the Berriew street Girls' School, in her report stated that the average attendance during 1899 was 83.- Thirteen girls from the school had left the town daring the year. Two now attended the Gong-rog Sunday School. The numbor on the register was now 119. Full attendances bad been made by the following girls:-For eight years, Pryce; for seven years, Rose Bowen, Løuie Humphreys, Agnes Bowen, and Lizzie Humphreys; fornix years, Alice Evans and Dora Bowen Jnr four years, Florence Brighouse and Phoebe Brighouse; for two years, Ada Hodge, Alice Pagh, Edith Brighouae, and Annie Pugh; for one year, Ethel Jones, Slade Jones, Rose Hodge, Edith Humphreys and May Hum- phreys. The Vicar said he thought the reports, which had been read, -very satisfactory. They showed that good, honest work had been done by the teachers during the past year and be was exceed- ingly indebted to them for their services. They wore also grateful tt the secretary, to the ladies who had so gracefully distributed the awards, to Mr Fitzgerald for so" excellent an address, and to Mr T M Pryce for presiding at the harmonium. The meeting concluded with the singing of While Shepherd's watch" and with prayer by the Vicar.

BERRIEW. PETTY SESSIONS. Before Cipi, Johnes aud Mr W J Corbett-Winder. 1 EDUCATION, — Thomas Goodwin, Cefn Vaynor, [\:1(1 Robert Williams, Bridge End, were summoned by Robert Tomley, Montgomery, for not seniin,- their children regul'.uly to,school. Fined 58 eaub. I!Oa orders were made against Ed Jones, Middle House, and Joseph Pugh, Brooks and the cases against W Bennett, Liandinam Bytake, and Robert Pryce, Plasllwyu, were dismissed. MAINTENANCE ORDER. Thomas Evans and J Evans, Mauatou, were summoned by J Wilson, relieving officer, Oaerswp, for a maintenance order. --A r. order was made for 2s each per week towards their parents' support. NON-PAYMENT OF RATFs.-Thomas Evans, Ty- mawr, Manafon, was summoned by Joseph Watkin, overseer, Manafon, for non-payment of i-ateq.- Order made for payment of the amount due in 14 days. DRUNKENNESS. William Wilkinson, labourer' Welshpool, was charged by P.C. Davies, Berriew, with being drunk and disorderly on the highway leading to Welshpool on Saturday, December 30th. —Fined 78 including costs.

—: «—— Mr Albert Maurice, of 122, Harley street, London, has been appointed Honorory Dental Surpaon to the Belgrave Hospital for Children.

&Y. RTTT? AT COUNCIL. An ord;narv m3 Counci! was hc\d the House of Wda' on Monda? nig V t,lie'o beill,, presek Peate (chairman" 1 W 2 vans Whitfield, T Roln^on, R jRohert, E J W Edwards J W Daies, and W T>lr Davles- 3un- Mr Robi*son r? notice, moved tha, a sIal be P\.ced :rook at. the Fron, Tre. forin. Ee ga-j of children went from .L ,f'!o.f" the-Fron to TV, sch001 ana at croSed t^ brnr.?3 Placecl in the bed' if tis sla waa „ it would be of great con- ven-nce. RR IN estimate amounting I<O 12s.~It %Q „„ the work should be carried out-A RN^II WAS received from tno Loci Go\rn 1 calling attention to tbe Parih of Office Act. Previously the erm 0<E ouncillor was a year wmc terrinate On Aih, but in future the couacil- lorswill period of three years, ant the ounSrs a'-rt in office will continue in offic, nnA 1901, and the elections will TAKERS* year. Tbo Chairman,how- ever,*3 T'EI nnuaUy.—The Chairman it wtU ld R^NC not to have the elections FS Vl' r com t o ^en statement was made by tie Chairm!\fc parish councillors had collected about £ )vvg the reservists' fund. Mr W Evau. Sq hjpllected over R21 now. i ere was go otu@83 of interest. )]ÛRATION.- MOXDA Y. Presen. olin Richards (vice-chairman), presiding T M Bulkeley-Owen, Messrs A C Nij David Vaughan, R Wamwrijrat, J H 5 Vft Howell Davies, T Whitfield, Goff, T "een W E Frith, Joseph Vaughan, W Honrs, CPeate, J Cartwright, W Evans, J Sauds„rts W M Richards; with Mr J o Bull, C'6 0 II Bull, assistant clerk; Aira Price al-teynolds, relieving officers; Mr G Fulcher, MISCELLANEOUS. Mr Ni<fcubmitted the report of tho Finance Comniitt^mending payments amounting to -067 13a Sthe jeport was adopted. MBERING THE PAUPERS. Pursuaaotioe given, Mr Howell Davies moved thttra relief for one week be grange to each f%ceiving relief, subject to the ap- proval of cal Government Board. He said it would be of kindness to grant this. Similar appHsctio. been made by other Boards and sanctioned Local Government Board.—Mr J Vaughan —The Clerk stated, in reply to Mr Ward that the proposal would cost, oe- tween zCl, Lil.-Ori a division, the motion j was reject I APPKNT OF RELIEVING OFFICER. | The fiveidates selected by the Board ap- | peared befe Iticorporatirii. When a candidate .red, Mr Howell Da,vies asked if he could spea'gh and received a negative reply. It, was sfcaf,^ neither of the present relieving officers coheak Welsh.— Mr Perks sam the Welsh nev>plied for relief (laughter;.— n0 following a-ad Messrs A Hughes, Llanfarda P C Hines,)r at the Workhouse Seth Powell, Oswestrv Richards, Victoria road, Oswestry, and Olivhurchstoke.—Mr WaVford proposed and Mr Wareen seconded, the application of Mr Hines.—r»nv7id Vanorhan proposed, Mr Per s _n' --n seconded, alr'iJowe!! Da vies supported, t j application <r Seth Powell.—On a voU\ 7 v<uec for Powell !9 for Hines, who was thnrefoie appointed, thanked the Board and earn he would do hi^ost to give satisfaction. appointed, thanked the Board and earn he would do hiA,)St to give satisfaction. rwo POSTS VACANT. Mr and M-ines sent in their resignations of I the posts porter and laundress which were accerted.-Iras agreed to advertise in the COUNTY TlMtnd two other papers tor sncot at salaries cf5 and £ 18 per annum respectively. THE HOUSE. The Masteiknowledged the following gifts Oranges and -ets from Mrs Thomas, Ardmi an, for the in mat of the hospital; illustrated Vapr-jrs from Miss Lie (Aston Hall), Messria C G B}tny and Pugh. Ereported that Mr and Mrs Wynne Corrie desired treat the whole of :,be inmates to a tea and a isical entertainment on Thursday, Mr Greenwoo<Leach desired to give a conçert on a date to beixed the Kentucky Mmstie s a concert; and r P G Davies, schoolmaster, Morda, a concert for,he benefit of the inmates.-Per- mission was anted, and in the latter case the master was aiwed to admit tae public aud-tnase a small chargejr admission. TEE MJISTRATES AND THE BOARD. The Master jported on the case of James Caird, a luuatic, who as sent to the House, but was re- fused admifctane on the ground that there was no îfL'mWJeiI'l.:N,t!hvuM.aro' stftfesw with an order from the Medical Officer to Mrs Price who did not give an order becanse ahA thought it was not a fit cage. On the next day Supt Lewis brought the nan back, with a magistrates' order. He saw the assistant porter and asked to be shown the receiving -oom. The assistant porter went to the master wio returned with him. Supt Lewis handed him tie notice and he told him he cod(l not accept the man, owing to the Board's instruc- tions regarding such cases. He said, The man is a lunatic," and Supt Lewis replied, No, no more a lunatic than t am." Those were his words. Ho refused to admit the man and put his back against the door, but Supt Jjewis pushed past him and the man followed bitn out. They jumped into the cab and drove away leaving the man behind, and that was the last be heard of him. He thought that if the man had attempted to commit suicide as it was alleged that he had, he could be removed as quickly to the Asylum as to the House. He sent a com- munication to the Superintendent telliag him that the man had followed his cab immediately, and the letter was returned unopened. That letter might have contained a request, to the police to send up a man because the man bad attempted murder.—Mrs Price, relieving officer, stated that Supt Lewis stopped her on the street and asked her why she was not at home to attend to her duties, and she replied that such a question was below her dignity to answer, and she wrote to him the next, day on the matter.—The Chairman read the letter.—The Chairman said it was to be regretted that the chair- man was not present to deal with the matter, and be thought it one that they could not pass over. The Supt of polioe no doubt was acting legally under the instructions of the Magistrates in bringing the man' to the House, but when he tried to raid the House and leave behind a man whom the master had refused he believed he exceeded his duty. When the Board gave the officers instructions they must support them in carrying them out, and he thought Supt. Lewis should be reported. II; was most un- gentlemanly and he had exceeded his duty. He proposed that the clerk should write to the chief constable informing bim of the behaviour of Supt Lewis.—Mr W Roberts asked if they could not get Supt Lewis to attend, and the chairman replied that the Board had no power.—Mr Roberts said the reason he asked the question was becnuso he had heard different tales.- The Chairman said Superintendent Lewis would state his case to his authorities,-—Mr E Goff seconded the Chairman's proposition.—The Chairman said the resolution to refuse these oases was the action of a former Board. It was moved by Major Lovett, who was a magistrate, and knew the House well, a:;c1 it waq seconded hv the Rev E W 0 Bridgeman. who had been on the Board for upwards of forty years, and these gentlemen knew tho accomniodarion Pt, the House better than the borough magistrates who did not have a thorough knowledge of it. The Board was fully prepared to take the responsi- bility in those cases. He felt that when they acted like that it was the duty of the Board to pro- test. The proposition was carried. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. Mr J Richards presided over a meeting of this Council, which was convened to confirm the busi- ness of the previous meeting, when there was no quorum.—The Sanitary Inspector (Mr G C Smith) sent in a satisfactory report OIl his annual inspec- tion of the canal boats.—The Clerk stated that the steam roller bad arrived that day (hear, hear).— The Sanitary Inspector being confined to his bed with illness, and not being likely to resume duties: for a month, Mr R H Richards, Victoria road, wns i appointed to carry on the duties pro. tem. TOWN COUNCIL—MONDAY. Present: The Mayor (Councillor It H Mason), Aldermen G Owen, T Whitfield, W 11 Spaull, C G Baylev Councillors W T Jones, G Perks, J P Sheather, R Daniel, E Bremner Smith, S Lloyd, C E Williams, T Poole, W Martin, W H Plitnmer, ft Howell Davies, E B Thompson, J Maclardy, and Dr Lewis, with Mr J Parry-Jones, town clerk Mr Jackson, deputy clerk; Mr W Thomas, finance clerk; and Mr G W Lacey, boroug-h surveyor. CORRESPONDENCE. The Town Clerk stated that he had received a letter from the Bridgnorth Council thanking the Council for the courtesy extended to the deputation which visited Oswestry recently, and in a private letter the Ex-Mayor (Dr Lewis) was thanked for his hospitality.—Mr Ferrington, secretary to the Library Committee, wrote stating that his com- mittee had directed him to call attention to the imperfect ventilation and lighting of the reading room.—The Town Clerk stated that he had seen Mr Diamond, who said that the lighting bad beep improved, but there were other matters meeded attention. He suggested that the should be referred to the Watch Committee for consideration.—Agreed to.—The County Clerk wrote stating, with reference to the county rat assessment, that the committee had carefully con- sidered the matter, and could not see their way to ntke any alteration.-The Town Clerk explained that the committee appointed bv the Tow n Oo"° was courteously received at Shrewsbury. ascertained that the basis for tne cou" assessment was taken from t!.e basis of Imperial 1 (0 41- taxation, which differed considerably iron. basis of tho Town Council.—Mr R Darnelisa the committee could not inform them in detail how the difference arose, and sugges that the Town Council should obtain a cony of Schedule A of the income tax and verify the cou y assessment. If durin the year a disci^epanoy >m discovered the county would alter it. In tut l the assessment would be made each year instead or three or four years as before. He proposed that the Council should obtain a copy of the schedule and that the Incorporation Assessment Commit be asked to obtain a copy with a view to correcf.ni the whole Union if there was nee-I —Mr Powell seconded —Mr Bremner Smith said his experience -ii,rid the experience of others was that the surveyor of taxes fixed the amount himself. It was a senous matter to make the Imperial taxation basis the basis for their assessment; and it seemed to him 1 that that course did away with the necessity of J overseers and Assessment Committees. He did not agree with the principle that the surveyor of fnvfls who kn^W nrobablv less than any of them there, should fix the value — Mr Whitfield also sup- ported, and said if they could relieve amaa fiom paying £ 100 a year-mOre than he ought tney should do so.^The propositions were carried.—lne low 0ieri r a ported his visit to tq* Board of Agncultu and said that the S wine Fever Order had been revoked and the market was now open. GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE. Mr Whitfield submitted the report of this com- .oL' mittee which recommended that the surveyor be allowed to take an additioua.1 pupil dunng the remainder of the present pupils term; that ilr Edward Hughes, a former pupil of tho surveyor Le appointed as his assistant for two "lO'itns a" a, salary of £ 1 per week; that plans for five house, in Gobowen road for Mr Elhs Hughes, and for office in Bailey street for Mr Leatner be W!ove_ that proceedings be taken against. Mr J Mo. ga Jones for allowing two houses in ^Velsh W' be inhabited without first obtaining a certificato from the surveyor, and that he be informed that he must take down the wall erected at the rear to allow the prescribed air space.—The hrst^ th « recommendations were approved. — As M -1 .I J-t. Morgan Jones' houses Mr Whittiem moven « or L, recommendation of the committee and asked the Town Clerk to read a letter from Mr M«;'gan,Jf^rr -The Town Clerk said he had written to Mr Morgan Jones appealing to him to comply wi h tiin by-laws failing which proceedings would be taken TT,, n letter that morning from Mr J Morgan Jones in which he stated that he had asked the "surveyor for a certificate for his houses m the Welsh Walls, but owing to the wall being so I Morgan Jones in which he stated that he had asked the "surveyor for a certificate for his houses m the Welsh Walls, but owing to the wall being so high, in the surveyor's opinion, not m his own, was not according to the by-laws. The Council recunred 150 feet of air area and he had 3iJ, which was behind the house which was temporarily Occupied, so the height of the wall; « o^y a matter of opinion ^s repuueu D",r fc warehouse, he saw taa'j he ,n. the plan except for the partition wall. He M crested that the Council should appoint a. commit^ consisting of Dr Lewis, Messrs bmith. Span 11,^C E Williams and R Daniels (laughter) to inspect. 1 Whitfield p-aid iq this case there was a dou offence—allowing two houses to be occupied in what Mr Morgan Jones termed temporanly,^an building the wall direcr.y m original plan showed. On the original plan 15 fee, space was shown, but instead of that space.being Xowed at the baik of the premises a wall had been built 7 feet 6 inches from the rear of one 6 feet 8 inches from that of the other, curt.uh .g more than one half of the space shewn on the original plan. The Council might appoint a com- mittee, but the fact remained that the houses had i n lIrH'-t>ól to become tenanted, without the Sur- veyor's certificate being granted. He moved t,e adoption of the recommendation that be taken.- Mr R Daniel seconded. — Mr Howell Davies said he was in an awkward position because he lived near the houses and Morga Jones was a relative and ic might be said that he was advocating his claims, ULL" — he was going to do was the intention of 'th. Council taki.* a for whiol, b«y wonM be sorry afterwards. This was a question about two out of four houses, which of the two they were not of him. He was sure no builder in the town would defy the Councit in their desire to carry out the by-laws. There was a difference of opinion about the by-laws, and he would like tbo Council to be sure before they proceeded. Hd could not under- stand why this man should be proceeded against, whilst others were allowed to go free. Some seemed to have a thste for blood and wanted more (laughter). The Town Clerk stated the other day that proceedings were taken against Mr Morgan Jones some years ago. It was not for occupying a hause without having had the surveyor s certificate, but it was for building a inch wall instead of a 9 inch. He was summoned and he paid the fine. Why had t'he Surveyor refused the certificate ? Ho wanted to find out. He hoped the Council would not take the step, for he did not want to have the chairman of the committee put into the undignified position of having to withdraw th summons and say it was a mistake, and that it would not be done again (laughter). lIe proposed a committee be appointed to inspect.—Mr Thompson seconded.—Mr Lloyd spoke in favour of the pro- position.—Mr Bremner Smith said there was only one thing before the Council, and that was that a person had permitted two houses to be occupied without a certificate. If the surveyor was wrong the Committee wonld know; and by their vote they declared he was not wrong. His memories went back about 18 years, and Mr Morgan Jones was then summoned for a very same offence, so that he knew, exactly what it was to occupy a honse with- out a certificate or licence from tho Surveyor. Mr Howell Davies said Mr Jones was not summoned for allowing a house to be occupied without a certificate as Mr Smith hadsaid. It was for another thing and tho Council lost the caae and had to pay the costs.-1r Jackson said he defended in'he case and that statement was not correct.—Mr Whitfield c said Mr Howell Davies had been- throwing a lot of mud at the Surveyor that morning. (Mr Davies protested against the remark). He had also said that he would be put into an undignified position. Never had a block of buildings been put, af) in Oswestry where the by-laws had been tried to bo broken, more than in the present buildings. They could construe the matter as they liked, the origin- al plans nor the by-laws had beeu complied with.- The proposition was carried. BY-LAWS. Bv-lavvs for prevention and suppression of nuisances; as to pleasure and recreation grounds as to as to new streets and buildings, slaughter houses, hackney carriages, common lodging houses, clea,ning of footways, &0., sauhary convenience, and offensive trades, were adopted- They will be open for inspection for one month during which time objections (if any) may be Jaid against any of them. MOTIONS. Motions by Mr Howell Davies as to supplying men in charge of Corporation horses with oilskin coats, and for the repair of the crossing leading to Cambrian street wore referred to the committee. A WARM DISCUSSION. In accordance with notice, Mr Bremner Smith moved that the fine payable on resignation of office of councillor be reduced to one shilling. At the present time the fine was r,,25, which was an antiquated euactment. If in a large place like Liverpool the fine was Is, he couJd fairly expect that amount as being enough for Oswestrv. A member of the council may feel it his duty to resign and gave his reason for so doing, and if that member was doing his duty sin- cerelv it was very hard that the Council should find him £25 for doing ifc.—Mr Spaull seconded.— Mr Whitfield proposed an amendment that the fee should remain the same as before. Since 1373 the Council had had two cases of retirement to deal with, and the cheques had been returned. Cer. taitdy no inconvenience had been felt hitherto. In a place where political feeling ran high, it, might be different. A man might say Let us fight it our, before tbe electors." (A Voice: "That has been doue here.") He thought it was nonsense (laughter). He 100ketl at it in this way: If retire- ment meant such a cost there would not be so many elections. If a man did not care to bo on the Council he could stay away for six months, and his seat would be declared vacant as had been done by auofcher Board in town.- Mr Sheather said he was at the last meeting when a motion L was brought forward by a member with regard to the filtration of water and he fed under the lash of the Councillor who was now proposing this motion. He (the member) could hardly find words strong enongh to express his contempt for the manner in which it was brought and eventually it was ordered to lie on the floor or <in"ir>T^r" -v>1 it wag stigmatized as the most absurd resolution I ever brought forward in that room. If this matter was seriously brought forward Mr Watkin Jones' resolution last Friday would have to take a back seat and the present a front, one .1° ™ mind the position of the Council would be that when members felt a little peevish in the morning the Town Clerk would be sitting at the end of the room receiving the shilling and if the member felt a little more peevish than usual he could pay it in coppers. Such a resolution should not be submitted to 3, Council. When a man took L r. W.oi-i ilAQlrA to be office ill that room ic, wad — of some service to the people he represented to j bvin<' forward a proposition of that kind ana as them seriously to vote in the question of allowing a member, who" might be suffering from some irrita- tion of temper by crossing some of his pet schemes to pay hia shilling he thought was derogative to the Council—Mr Watkin Jones said he convl not give the silent vote without saying a few words. ^ms shillinc proposition took the cake (laughter). tie was surprised that Councillor Smith should pro- pose this because he was the champion resigner ot the Council. When he waa made mayor, because '-be'v would not make him chairman of the Markets Committee, he resigned bis position. When he was made chairman, be objected again and resigned, but reconsidered the matter. tie migm, resign off the Markets Committee, and per.iaps be the "consulting chairman. Of all the ridiculous things that had over been proposed that was it. If a man did not, want to sit on the Council let him sray away for six months as he did with the Board of Guardians and then they could throw him out. He got what he wanted (laughter).—Mr Poole thought it was desirable that this £ 25 penal -y should be retained. It was a deterrent against • omrDoai'nn -if fpplln^ wh^n would lead, to retirement. "in case of illness and a member resigned, as Mr Whitfield bad said, the cheques had been returned and the same could be done agam. He wouid vote against the resolution.—Mr C b Wil- liams also said he would vote against it for the a'" a LL .T?"r\I"1\rl nAnllt, reason that it it was carried uuu 1" to the expense of a number of by-elections, ar Daniel thought it would be unwise to alter the I)e Martin supported the amendment, remarking that when a member took office he also took tho responsibilities.—Mr S Lloyd said he bad been waiting for some explanation. Councillor Watkin Jones was ridiculed an 1 worried very muci on Friday because he did not give an explanation of his proposal. He (Mr Lloyd) could see that that motion was not going to be carried that day nnn„ht«rl-bficauseMr Smith had failed to give \J<AI(4'J"1 some reasons why he had brought it forward, and 1 i what advantage there would be to the town, or Council, or anybody. He looked at, the expense to the town. As it had already been aid by Coun- cillor Sheather, if a man was cross oe wcuia warn out of the room. They had heard of that in the maciatrates' meeting. If the retirement fee was only to be a shilling^ar member could upset tne whole Council Committees.—Mr Plitnmer said he had been asking himself the question < who was going to be the backslider (.laugutei,. He never thought of Mr Bremner Smith, as ne .ad money. If they reduced the fine they would he having elections every month.—Mr Bremner Smith, in replv, said notwithstanding the remarks made he still" adhered to the opinion that a fine of one shilling was ample under the circumstances. e .-vu-ed not for the views of inexperienced nobodies with no practice of local government. Almost _n: nr.. evorv municipal body had tines a. one 611111W14, j a. he had not got all of the wisdom and that somebody had outride Oswestry. All he asked them was to fo,low the example of others, they could not get f ,vron,r He repeated that this £ 2o fine was an antiquated matter, and if the Council's by-laws had beet brought up to date they would have the fine afc Is. Referring to a statement that a mem- w ron'd* v&t off the Council by being absent six months, the speaker said the term was three years, and the ward would be disfranchised. ino- his resignation referred to he said h^ did so because he felt an indignity had beenoieted him, and as long as be Uved he would maintain hia dignity. It was quite true he left uh~ Btuc i ■ other day, and he did not think there was a single member of the Bench that day who he <hd wrongly. It was not customary for the B magistrates to explain their course ol conuuuu lit that place. It was a piece of iraP^tm™ on the part of Mr Samuel Lloyd to men- tion it there that day Having gone that fo- he would go a bit further. It hai always been his duty at tbe Council so in his power, to respect the opinion of If he proposed a resolution and was defeated lie ma.v fairly claim that he afterwarde worked heartily with the majority. It was quite clear he «« the minority that morning and ne respected the maioritv: consoou-ntlv ha asked da J.e.uer^ittsd —Mr iVatLaa Jones asked the Town t.erk it a member would. not be disqualified by absenting himself for six months, and the Town Clerk re- plied in the negative.—Mr Watkin Jones: How could they do it below (meaning the Incorpora- tion). The Council then rose.

ELLESMERE. THE LATE JOHN DAVIES OF BLACKWOOD.—The public were surprised to hear of the death of Mr John Davies of Blackwood, Penley, on Monday, at the early age of 48. Mr Davies had for upwards of 30 years attended Ellesmere Smithfield, and was one if not the largest dealer attending Eilesmere fairs, and will be greatly missed. He was to all appearances a strong active man. A few weeks ago he took cold and pneumonia setting in resulted in his death. He leaves a widow and five children. The funeral took place yesterday at Penley. LITERARY SOCIETY.—The weekly meeting was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday, Mr R E Llovd (presiden^-in the chair. There was a Very large audience to hear a debate on The poor law: Should out-door relief be further extended?" Mr John Hood was to take the affirmative, and the Rev Heury Moody, Vicar of Welshamptou, the negative. Mr Hood opened the debate, and spoke strongly in f-ivour of out-door relief as a great saving to the ratepayers and better for the poor in every way, and concluded by moving a resolution, "That out-door relief be further extended to deserving people." The Rev Henry Moody moved as an amendment, "That out-door relief being subject to so many difficulties and dangers it is expedient to minimise it as far as possible." He considered it would increase pauperism to increase out-relief. — Mr F Ashley seconded Mr Hood's proposal in an excelleut speech, and Miss Jebb, Lee Hall, seconded Mr Moody's amendment in a telling speech. A splendid debate followed, which was kept up with great spirit until 10 p.m., when the Chairman put the motion and amendment. Mr Hood's motion was carried by a large majority, but many people did not vote either way. !Next we^k Mr Lea, Kinsale, will open a debate on The best way to keep the labourer on the land." BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—TUESDAY. Present: Mr Brownlow R C Tower (chairman), presiding, the Rev T J Rider (vice-chairman), the Rev S T Wilson Barker, the Rev W C E Kynaston, and the Rev H Moodv, Messrs J D Owen, H D) Chapman, J Woodville, John Hood, J Darlington, j 0 J Evans, S J Lewis, and A J P Child; with Mr It E Lloyd, clerk. OUT-RELIEF. Out-relief administered during tbe past fortnight: Ellesmere district, per Mr W H Rutter, £ 13 4s 4d to 107 recipients in the first week of the fortnight, as compared with £ 9 16s 4d to 114 last year; second week, £8 16s 6d to 107 recipients, compared with £ 9 29 to 114 paupers; Haumer district, per Mr W Williams, £ 2 199 6ri to 31 in both weeks, as against. R2 13s to 26 in both weeks. 0 "THE HOUSE. The Master (Mr Davies) reported that the num- ber in the House was 62 as against 69 in the first week; and 62 against 70 in the second week. Tramps relieved 112, against 104. On Christmas morning each of the inmates received a Christmas letter card kiudlv sent by the Christmas Letter I Mission by Mrs W Briscoe, Shifnal. He acknow- ledged with thanks from Mrs Brownlow Tower toys 1 1 :1 I" '1" and sweets for the cnnaren; from Airs wanton, cake and buns; Mr and Mra Marsden, Blackpool, tobacco, cake, oranges, figs and cards for the nursery children. On Christmas Day the inmates were supplied with a good dinner of roast beef and plum pudding, and on New Year's Day a good tea consisting of plum and seed cake, jam, oranges, apnles, and sweets.—A vote of thanks was accorded those who had made gifts.

LLANERFYL. CAROL SERVICE. The usual Epiphany carol service was held at this church on Monday even- ing. The service was read by the Rector, the llev C HariDton, add carols were sung by parties from Llangadfan, Llanerfyl, and Llanfair. Although the weather was exceedingly wet and stormy there was a very large congregation, the church'being crowded.

LLANLLUGAN. MR HERBERT'S RENT AUDIT. The half-yearly rent audit was held at the Cefncoch Inn on Satur- day, when Mr Rowlands attended to receive the rents. An excellent dinner was provided by Mr and Mrs Arthur. Afterwards the usual loyal toasts were given and several songs rendered. Seven- 5\"D--vhalf TVT- cent, reduction was allowed.

THE LATE MISS POWELL, ) ■ NEWTOWN. j ■ Oil Monday the mortal remains of Miss Powell, J ■ only daughter of Mr and Mrs Powell, Plasybry n, were | ■ conveyed to their last/resting-place amid universal 1 H si en s of sympathy and condolence on the part of 1 ■ the inhabitants, blinds being drawn and other H signs of sympathy being manifest durmg the day. ■ Several of the leading tradesmen closed their estab t ■ lishments as a mark of respect. The funeral was.* 1 ■ nrivate one The procession started from Plasy ■ L™ soon after two o'clftck, and took the following y ■ —First carriage, Reys R Evan-Jones ana x Powell and two sons, Mr Syditey and Arthur B Powell; fourth carriage, ColPryce-Jonps, MI. M { MaHhew Powell, Mr Thomas Powell, ana Mr W T Prvce-Jones; Dolerw carriage, Mr Clayton AIR A W Pryce-Jones, Mr George Wilson, Master Victor Prvce-Jones, and Dr Purchas; Caerhowel carriage, Mr T R Morris !Mr Archibald Read, Masters Noel, Aleck, and Walter Powell; i: brvn carriage, containing the family pra' 11 eighth carriage, two nurses; ninth carriage, beaiers, conveyed the coffin was a p atform hearse. The q coffin was placed on the centre and covei ed with a l white oall, whilst this was covered with t.raos flowers, whilst right around the w'-eaths were j placed in fact the entire vehicle was literally loaded with a beautiful array of flowers. The place of into m^nt was Llanllwchaiarn Churchyard, whioh, by the time the solemn cortege had' arrived, was 6 thronged with people. The procession was met at the church gates by the Revs R Evan-Jones and T r Enoch, the choir lining the path. Tho most impressive, tho choir singing a special bjmn t No 261, "Blessed are the pure m hoart. | P officiating" clersry were the ttevs a* T Enoch, the' former officiating at the grave-side. n On mi-ivin^ at the grave one waa again struck with j a the magnificent array of wreaths and other emblems v of love which were placed on the graveside. The | t. grave itself was a brick one lined with moss whils { the following flowers were prettily arranged on th moss which" had a very pleasing effect amid the t sombre surroundings: White camellia*, maid £ hiir ferns chrysanthemums, hyacinths, tn°s, K arum K naroilus, Hlhims, lily of valley. This b work was done by Mr J J Lawson, of S^cksons a Nursery, Newtown. The coffin was ^P^^y Messrs E Davies and Son, and was made of oak, i, heavily moulded, panel, and fitted moulded lid, plated fittings, and the following inscription Nora on y daughter rC Dl. "T ,vun r. of Edward and Mary Eleanor t owe.i, <•' y J > D Newtown born March 24th, 1881, left us January d 3rd 1900." Alargenumberof uiagm'acent wreaths, e crosses,&«., ware sent. The parents placet upon ancho,. ot ,toh.n»d violet,, »..<! »«« • lilies of the valley with strings of violas, the f rue severed, and the two brothers a wreath of lilies J StlL valteamlaCfOMofviolol. Otber r sent were from Grandpa and Grandma, Uncle Pryco anil V "I rpne" Uncle Wrnest, V.T, Pis* Uncle Frank," "Cousin | A i- A Annrio Kate" Auntie Rose, I Archie aud Auntie i^aio, -tnion" 1 » Uncle Matthew and Auntie Ellen, J. •• Coo-m E«,oV !>«* »nd Do^lsGoorse and Auntie ilarv, v n if a THn » '-Uncle Cleaton and Auntie Nellie il ^nde To» and Auntie," « Mr I Mi»3 Arthur and »» J Jones, BanR House,^ Mrg" Rohin,on," the Misses „ u M- 9 Harris and Edith HaSi" 47C6B Harr!8 and family." "Mr and the Missed Read," Caateu i orwJ' Laird Mrs Beddow," Capt and Mia »I r and Mrs Palmer and George" ''Bessie, i^T^ie Rev Evan-Jones and ^mily^Lon^ « Mr and "Mrs Cuthbert Xeeson and I v, ■■ I C Arthur and Missi A Adde^ey^r. | dissesHumphn, famny» '-Daisy, | ander Davies, isyo Mrs Morri8 i "Yiong friends. Newtown Rectory | and Mrs Martin," "Mr and M« Morlay B | Mr and Mrs Smith, G.anliafreu, | | Kinaey," HOm, H B. J™f,V J a Vtr, ) E I lbort." "M,-EanllECDav,e» Mr d -'1™ » » I I :,srI Dryii, ■' U TJOWIS, iracie I ments were carried out by Mr D it i'O f Hall, Newtown.

FORDEN RURAL DISTRICT^ COUNCIL.—WEDNESDAY. H Present- Mr J Holloway (chairman), Moft«rs^ f fresent .1 c T B Bailey, R JoneS B Jones (Aston7 ir^wrHrds. and Talbot ITovl: "Letters were read from the agent t<f*< Major Corbett-Winder, saying that, as the Talbot road had been used and repaired as a public high- way, he did not feel justified in contributing more than any other ratepayer to the cost of repairing t or fencing it.—A committee was appointed to superintend the carrying out of the fencing.—The Clerk said that be had written to the County Sur- veyor asking for the gratuitous use of the sieam roller in repairing the road, as both ends were county bridge approaches, and it relieved the traffic, which would otherwise go along the county v .v road, running parallel to it. The County Surj veyor s reply statea tnar, tne eteam roiinr 5 hired by the Council at the usual rates.—Tfa» Clerk was directed to write the County Couft* i cil, applying for the free use of the engine upon the grounds enumerated above.—The Liatil fair Light Railway It was agreed to apply to tW Public Works Loan Hoard for an advance of £ 50t'»^fc< t the sum it had been arranged to loan to the Llan- I fair Light Railway.—The War Fund: The Clerk 1 reported that he had, as directed at the last meet- I ing,written to the [clergymen of the parishes in I the rural district, with the view of starting collec- I tions in support of the War Fund, and had received I letters from most of them, saving that sucn funds j had been or were being raised. Motor Cars: The ] Council agreed to adopt the resolution forwarded by the Yeovil District Council, and to suggest to the Local Goverement Board the desirability of the Light Locomotives Order, 1896, being amended, so that the danger to which drivers and occupants of carriages and others were exposed in consequenoe of motor-car traffic might be minimised. The amendments proposed included the reduction of the maximum speed from 12 miles per hour to 10, or to six when approaching a curve or iyteetiu, a borse aud the regulation that each locomotive should bear a denoting mark. + —

FORDEN BOARD OF GUARDIANS. WEDNESDAY. Present, in addition to the members of the Rural District Council, Mr A C Humphreys-Owen, M.P. (who was voted to the chair, in the absence of the chairman and vice-chairman, both absent through infiueaza), Messrs E Roper, J P Jones and D Jones* with Mr C S Pryce (clerk)—Statistics: It wa-11 reported that the'number in the Workhouse was 80, against 75 last vear vagrauts relieved in the fortnight 89, against 77; out-relief, E42 173 to 250 persons, agaii)st 7s 4d to 243 balance in the treasurer's hands, £ 1,757 118.Tho represent- ation of Welshpool Mr F Roper said that at the present time there were six members elected for the three portions of Welshpool, three fo; Pool Middle, two for Pool Lower, and one 40 Pool Upper but the County Council had mS.de an order doing away with those divisions. The six members would thus have to be appoiritwl by the whole parish, and in case of a contest this would mean considerable expense, as three polling stations would bo required. He proposed that they apply to the County Council to re-divide the parish iuto the same wards as were now used for municipal purposes, and that the m°:ubets be apportioned as follows:—Enttington Ward (168 electors) aud Castle Ward (250 electors), one guardian each Guihffield Ward, (287 electors) and Llanerchydol Ward (302 electors), two guardians eacli.-Ta Chairman said it waS desirable, as this was an important matter, that it should be treated as a notice of motion.—Mr Roper agreed, and the matter was deferred until the next meeting. I ——

THREATENED STRIKE AT THE Y-. WYNNSTAY COLLIERY. A dispute has arisen between the intisierf, end the workmen at the Wynnstay Colliery, Ruabon, en the slack percentage, and other questions. The men have already banded in their notices, which will expire to-day. As a result of this the masters, yesterday, posted the following notice on the pit y bank: "Owing to the coal-getters having given notice to terminate all contracts at the Colliery, the Wvunstay Colliery Company, Ltd., are reluctantly compelled to give similar notice to all workmen. Therefore notice is hereby that all contracts of service will terminate on the 20th day of January, 1900." About 800 are employed at the colliery.

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