Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

MOLD. LITERARY AIEFTI.VC.-On Tuesday se'nmght, a very interesting literary and competitive meeting took place at Bethel Chapel, New-street. There wa.s a large attendance, and the chair was taken by Mr B. Powell, who delivered an excellent opening speech, after which the various prizes were awarded for essays on several subjects, answers, songs, &c., the adjudicators being the lie vs. J. Roberts, W. T. Thorny, Llew Glas &c., &c. One or two additional prizes were offered by Dr. Williams, Woodlands. We are sorry that, owing to other engagements, we were unable to be present to give a more lengthy report of the proceedings. TH E BRERETON TESTIMONIAL.—We are informed that at a committee meeting of the above fund, Mr B. Powell in the chair, it was resolved to de- vote j;300 to the institution of a scholarship, and 912 to the purchase of a silver cup, as a personal memento of the respect in which Mr Brereton is held, and that both scholarship and cup will he presented at a public dinner, to be held at the I Black Lion Hotel on Monday evening, the 23th instant. Several of the Welsh literati are ex- pected, and Mr H. Owen, lion, secretary of the Aberystwith University College, is expected to attend oil behalf of that institution. STSI'ECTED CASE OF INFANTICIDE.— It to rumoured on Tuesday night that the body of a newly-born infant had been found under very suspicious circumstances, at Bromfield, that night, and on Wednesday the report was authen- ticated. On enquiry, we found that the police received information of the fact about half-past seven, whereupon P.O. Derrick accompanied a man named Robert Powell to the turn of the road which leads from Bromfield to Pentre, and on the top of the hedge cop. Powell pointed out to him where the earth had been disturbed, and, removing 'a sod and a little earth brought out a paper parcel, inside the paper was an old table cover, and in that the nude body of a fine full grown male child, having an extraordinary long umbilical cord still attached, with the one end tightly twisted twice around the neck. Having provided a small hamper, Derrick placed the body in it, and took it to the Police Station, at the same time giving information to the Coroner. Mr Parry arrived in the town on Wednesday (midday), when an inquest was held at the Black Lion Hotel, Mr H. Vaughan Jones being fore- man of the jury. The man Robert Powell was called, and said that he was a carter, in the em- ploy of Mr E. P. Jones, (ilanrafon Brewery, and on the previous day had been employed in hedg- ing and ditching in a field in the occupation of Mr Jones situate on the Wrexham Road, having the road from Bromfield at the lower end. In the afternoon he had occasion to go into the latter road to repair the hedge cop, when his attention was attracted to a. sod, which had apparently only recently been disturbed, and placed on the top of the cop, about five yards from the turnpike road. It came into his mind that some thing might have been hidden there, and he determined to see, and found out what we have stated above. Seeing that the child was dead, he did not leave his work, but looked out for a policeman. It was then about half-past in the afternoon, and he stayed at his work until a quarter to five, and then went home to tea. Having had his tea, lie went up the street in search of a policeman, going as far as the Cross without seeing one. He then went to P l ace, the residence of P.C. Williams, ill Warden Place, but lie was from home, and then he went to the house of P.C. Derrick, whom he told what lie had .seen.—The officer was called and said he accompanied Powell to Bromfield, where they lighted a candle, and Powell, removing the soil spoken of, pulled out the parcel containing the child, which witness placed in the hamper, and took to the police .station. The sod appeared to be torn out of its place and not cut as with a spade.—The Coroner said that would be as far as they could go that day. The case was a very im- portanfc one, and in the interests of justice, the whole facts connected with it ought to be searched to the bottom. He had seen the body, which was that of a full grown healthy male child, who, in his opinion, had been born within thirty- six hours. The culprit must be in the neighbour- i hood, and he trusted that all concerned would be brought to justice. He had instructed the Doc- j tors Williams to make a putt Mortem examination, the re-ult of which would be given at the ad- journed inquest, which was arranged to be held "n Monday, the 214 m4.Ve understand that the medical gentlemen who conducted the ?o.? mortem are of opinion that the child lived after birth, and that the twisting of the umbilical cord caused strangulation. They are of opinion also j that the child must have been born within forty- eight hours of the making the examination. He was a tine full-grown child, weighing about S'jlbs. The police are busy making inquiries, but, owing to the difficulties of the case, little hopes are entertained of finding the perpetrators. BRYMBO. TEMPERANCE MEF.TINO.—A temperance meet- ing was held on Thursday evening week at the Brougliton Reading Room, presided over by Mr C. E. Darby, who, in opening, gave an excellent address, and read extracts from the testimonials of several eminent medical gentlemen on the temperance question, and also gave ome very weighty remarks on the evils of moderate drinking. The following was the programme :— Address by the Chairman, reading by Mr E. Davies, handbells by Mr C. H. Hughes, address by Rev. W. Williams, flute solo by Mr P. Parry, address by Mr James Hughes handbells by Mr C. H. Hughes, address by Mr W. Wilcock, flute solo by Mr P. Parry, address by Mr E. Williams, handbells by Mr C. H. Hughes, hymn bv the audience. WE -AN QU..klTEIf,Y MEETING.—On Tues- day last, the quarterly meeting of the Coedpoeth j Circuit of Wesleyan Methodists was held at the Vron Chapel, presided over by the Rev. Davi(I Jones (b), Coedpoeth, superintendent minister, assisted by the Rev. David Jones (c), Rhos, and the Rev. 'William Owen Jones, Brymbo. The various societies of the circuit were fully re pre- sented by leaders and other office bearers. The numerical returns from the societies showed a falling off of members during the quarter to the number of 10, standing at present at (j4U com- lJared with (jfi5 of the previous quarter. Xot- j withstanding a slight increase in the amount of funds returned to the Circuit Board, owing to a few extraordinary charges there was a small de- ficiency to meet the entire claims. The terin of office of Mr Joseph Jones, Coedpoeth, as circuit steward, expiring at this meeting, the thanks of the circuit were conveyed to Mr Jones, with the heartiest feeling, for his very valuable and ilHle- fatigable services on behalf of the circuit during the last two years, and Mr Edward Foulkes, Vron Farm, was elected to the office for the en- suing period. At a second sitting of the meeting, an inquiry was instituted into the spiritual state of the work, and the representatives gave their respective reports. The regulations of the last conference for promoting the Temperance move- ment and Bands of Hope were discussed, and it was ultimately decided to hold a public meeting at one of the chapels to explain fully to members and attendants the objects in view, and the means whereby the objects may be attained. A com- mittee was appointed to make the necessary arrangements. It was also llecided to hold a public meeting at the Won Chapel to convey to Mr Boaz Jones some articles purchased as a presentation on his leaving the neighbourhood for Denbigh. BANGOR-ISYCOED. FORTHCOMING CONCERT.—A concert of an un- usually interesting character is fixed to be held in the National Schoolroom on Tuesday evening next, in aid of the Bangor and Eyton School Funds. The following ladies an'l gentlemen will sustain the programme :— Mrs Harold Lees, the Misses M'Cill, Miss M. L. Champion, Miss Preston, Hey, C. W. Streatfeild, Rev. H. Par- llienter, Mr (iobat, Mr Beard, and Mr Thorney- croft, together with a glee party. Readings will be given by the Rev. (i. H. M'I Jill, rector, Rev. Studholine Wilson, and Mr Webster. PETTY SESSIONS, S.vrnu>Av.— Before R. Howard, Esq., and ('. E. Thoriiveroft, Esq. Assault.—Henry Wright and Evan Hughes, Cross Lanes, were charged with assaulting Ed- ward Williams. Complainant said he called at the Oak Inn on the evening of December 23rd, and on leaving, Wright came up to him and threatened to throw him in the river, sub- sequently striking him several times in the face whilst Hughes held him fa-t. The defendant Hughes only appeared, and said he thought it was Wri.(,Iit tlizlt he was holding, and wanted to stop the row. It was quite dark, and he did not know the defendant.—The case against Hughes was ultimately dismissed, Wright being lined, in his absence, 10s, and costs 13s (id in default, seven days.—Henry Wright was then charged with being drunk and refusing to quit the Buck Inn on another evening. Not appearing, a war- rant was issued. Unproved Chavjee. of Indecent Assault. I Francis Young, (20), labourer, Bangor, was charged with having committed an indecent assault upon Annie Stant (17), l daughter of Thomas Stant, Tha Graigs, Bangor. Mr Sherratt appeared on he- half of the defendant.—Complainant said On Christmas Eve she was coming from Wrexham, and met the defendant in Bangor with her brother. Defendant asked her should he walk home with her, hut she declined his company. He, however, became importunate, and per- sisted in following her down the road to her house, and on the way he seized hold of her, and turning her clothes up over her head tried to throw her down on the ditch hank. Defendant had his trousers unbuttoned. Complainant afterwards returned to Bangor and subsequently the defendant in custody of the police on a charge of criminal assault.—By Mr Sherratt I charg'e of cr i m i na l assau l t. B v Sherratt I had l.d worth of liquor* at WiIhams vaults in Wrexham, and also one glass of beer. Left Wrexham about a quarter-past six o clock. Re- member breaking a bottle of rum in the aults on the top of a barrel, intended to take it home for the pudding. ft was after e?ht o clock w hen  happened I reached Ban?or, and the Ms:mlt happened about half-past nine. I am quite sure 1 was sober when Ireached Bangor; my brother was with the young man (defendant) and saw me as soon as 1 came. There were others with my brother and the defendant. Saw limothy Roberts and Charles Johnson and others there. The defendant has never walked about with me anywhere before. When my brother went away, defendant went into the Buck Inn. I didnt stop outside with either Timothy koberts or Charles Johnson. I was talking to 1 imothy Roberts, but it was foolish talk. He said he wanted to hire a dairymaid," and I asked if lie wanted a good one, and not a dirty sloven ?" (Laughter.) Didn't sing lewd and disgusting songs. Don't know how long I stopped talking to Timothy Roberts. Stood by myself a long time by the new shop. Saw an old woman going into the shop, but said nothing to her. The defendant afterwards came and stood by me by Fowles' shop door till the snow had done. There was no one but me and the defendant together, and I never asked him to wait for me" at all. Told the policeman that the defendant had made me lose a bottle of rum, but that I would forgive him for that, and that was not what I had brought him here for. I heard the policeman say that the defendant had better pay for the rum, but I said never mind the rum, that is not what I came here for." I had no rum to drink in Wrexham. Don't know whether there is any" difference" between defendant's father and mine.—Thomas Stant, Upper Graig (father of the complainant), said he was in the Lion, Bangor, on Christmas night, and the defendant was there, and on the way home he said to wit- ness that he would not have had it happened along with Annie and him for tlO !This was flatly denied by the (lefendant.P.C. W. John said on the night in question the complainant came to him, as stated, and complained of having been indecently assaulted by the de- fendant, adding that in the scuffle a bottle of rum had been lost. Afterwards met the de- fendant, and on charging him with the assault, in the presence of the complainant, the de- fendant said he had done it, but it wasn't much, and that he oughtn't to be taken up for that." Witness added that if the bottle of rum was lost they had better go and find it. Told the defendant he had better pay for the rum.— By the Chairman The first charge made to me by the complainant was that of a criminal as- sault. She appeared to be very much excited, and was crying, with her hair all down.—Mr Sherratt then addressed the Bench, observing that there existed a sort of animus between the families of the complainant and defendant, and that there was no doubt the story had been con- cocted by Mr Stant, the father of the girl. The complainant had been drinking in Wrexham— beer and spirits—and when she came to Bangor her brother remonstrated with her for being drunk and also for being out so late. Whilst the defendant was in the Buck, as stated, the complainant spent her time with the two young men, Timothy Roberts and Charles Johnson, and sang before them songs with the words of which he (Mr Sherratt) would not soil his lips nor insult their worships' ears. The defendant had been seen walking about with her many times, and had frequently had a" bit of fun" with her, no objection having ever been made before. On this particular night she had actually asked the defendant to see her home, and he, very unwillingly, went home with her. There was no doubt but the complainant was a woman of a very immoral character, and she could easily trump up such a charge as the pre- sent, which, however trumpery, was nevertheless very difficult to rebut, the defendant's mouth being, in these cases, perpetually and her- metically sealed. He could not say what in- ducements had been held out to him by the com- plainant, and even if he had done what he was charged with doing—which, however, was flatly denied—her own conduct previously would cer- tainly have justified it, for more disgusting language than she had uttered could not have been made use of by the commonest street- walker in the whole of Great Britain. He, therefore, submitted that their worships could not send the defendant for trial on the evidence that would be laid before them. Mr Sherratt then called Mary Rogers, Bangor, who said she was with the complainant, Annie Stant, at Wrexham, and saw her drink beer and spirits at the Town Hall Vaults. Witness and the com- plain ant had the same to drink, and they went afterwards to Roberts' Vaults, and had some more liquors together.—Thomas Roberts, ostler, said he saw the complainant by the new shop on the night in question, but could not say what state she was in. Heard her brother say to her, "Annie, go home, you're drunk now." She didn't go, however, but stayed in company with witness and Charles Johnson, joking together. They all stayed together for about an hour, during which time the defendant danced on the new shop -itei), and kept singing ribald songs, and making use of loose and disgusting ex- pressions.—Complainant denied the singing ant! dancing episode in toto, and also a statement made by the witness that she had often walked home with the defendant.—Charles Johnson gave corroborative evidence, and Mr Sherratt was about to call other witnesses, when the Chairman said Oh, never mind, Mr Sherratt we shall not trouble you to go on with the mat- ter any further, the case is dismissed. COEDPOETH AND MINERA. ALR. JJESTER'S LIME WORKS.—ON Saturday the workmen at the above quarries made a collec- tion among themselves towards the distress in South Wales. The collection amounted to t-5. We hope the district in general will follow their example. FU.N;ER.A.L.-Oll Wednesday, the funeral of Mr Josiah Roberts, Nant Road, Coedpoeth, took I¡' place at the burying ground of the Welsh Wes- leyan Chapel, of which he was a member, and had been a Sunday School teacher and a class leader for 38 years. The funeral was one of the largest ever witnessed in the neighbourhood. The (leceaserl was a man well loved by every one who knew him, and his great loss will be felt in the church and Sunday School. The procession I was as follows the ministers and local preachers, Rev. D. Jones and Rev. W. 0. Jones, Wesley an ministers, Rev. Hughes, Calvinistic Methodist, Rev. J. Pickering, Baptist, Messrs. John Ed- j wards, Thomas Jones, Griffith Evans, Edwin Hughes, and Thomas Williams, local preachers, all his fellow class leaders, the Wesleyan Choir, afterwards the body, followed by his relations and friends. The funeral service was performed at the house by the Rev. W. 0. Jones, Brymbo, and at the cha-jel by the Rev. D. Jones (Druisyn) PRESENTATION.—On Monday, a presentation was made to Mr J. A. Broadbent, manager of: the Minera Lime Company, on the occasion of his marricge. It consisted of an illuminated address tastefully executed by Mr H. Boothey, I 4, HilI-street, Wrexham beautiful silver tray ;md tea ,wd coffee service, and set of dessert knives 1md forks; and a remarkably hndsome timepiêce the latter presented by the workmen of the Company, and the other articles by friends. Mr John Jones, on behalf of the subscribers, said that he had mueh pleasure in handing the beautiful gifts to Mr Broadbent, who had proved himself during the short time he had been manager of the Company, to be prudent, skilful, and courteous and this presentation was intended to manifest their appreciation of him, and he (Mr Jones) was quite sure that all present j joined in wishing him and his wife long life and much happiness. Mr Broadbent replied in suit- able terms. He deprecated strikes, and pointed out the South WiJMn and Stan'ordshire dis- tresses and sta?iatlou as their offspring. He hoped that the present good feeling between him and workmen would continue and increase, and I tlumked them and all friends who had contributed to the testimonial. TFIE SALEM EISTEDDVOD.—This Eisteddvod was held on Monday i Salem hapel under the pat- ronage of Major Cornwallis West, Mrs. West, Mr. G. 0. Morgan, M.P., Mrs. Morgan,Mr. and Mrs W. Lester, Mr. and Mrs. WiHiamson. The first meeting commenced at two o'clock under the presidency of Mr. Lester. Penrhynfardd acte(l' as conductor. The president delivered a brief and appropriate address on the objects of Ei, II teddvodau in general, namely, to cultivate taste for literature in its various branches. Penrhyn- fardd recited several epigrams to the Eisteddvod and the president, and then followed a competi- tion in reciting Eva" by Caerfallwch. One competitor made his appearance—Mr. S. Jones, Xant, and was deemed worthy the prize. Mr. Thomas Roberts (Harmonydd) followed with a selection on the harmonium. Mr. J. Wilcoxon next read the adjudication of the Rev. D.Roberts, Wrexham, on the Essay—" The importance of forming a good character in early life." Xine competed, and one under the cognomen" Fu ar frys was awarded the prize of eight shillings, he turned out to be Mr. T. T. Jones, Llandegla. Next Gomerydd gave a humorous and lively song. For the best hawl-wntmg of the first Psalm, Mr. Jones, Board Schools, awarded the prize of three shillings to Mr. J. R. Jones of Coedpoeth. Pen- rhynfardd read his adjudication on the Epigrams, "Ymdrech Jacob," none worthy of prize. Com- petition in singing the Bass Solo Gwnewch i mi feddrod," four competed. Mr. H. Davies, A.C., Garth, adjudicated and divided the prize between Messrs..T. Jones, Tryddyn, and D. Roberts, Rhos. Awarding the prize of two shillings for the best reading of Isaiah 50th chapter and 5th verse. The prize was divided between Messrs. Llewelyn Williams and S. Rogers. Choral com- petition for t'l on lorddonen." Two choirs com- peted, Coedpoeth Vocal Union, and Sion Choir, Leeswood. The latter won the prize. Penrhyn- fardd next delivered his adjudication on the stanzas to Minera Mountain," best Eos Brym- bo. Awarding the prize of two shillings and six-pence for reciting "Ar lan yr lorddonen ddofn." Four competed and the prize was divided between Miss Downing and Miss Moss. Com- petition in singing the quartett "Y Mynach Du," and the prize of eight shillings was awarded to Mr. S. Moss and party. Mr. J. Wilcoxon next Lread the adjndication of the Rev. D. Roberts, Wrexham, on the Essays Dinistriad Sodom a Gommorah" the best" Balael," Mr. J. Griffiths, Coedpoeth. Song by Gomerydd Typin o liwyl i ini." ('horal competition for E3 3s., Gwyn ei fyd y dyn." Coedpoeth and Leeswood choirs competed and the prize was awarded to the last choir. This terminated the afternoon proceedings. At the evening meeting, the proceedings were opened by a ong by Mr. H. Davies. Nf r. Lester then delivered a stirring and lively address and referred pathetically to the great distress among the colliers of South Wales. Competition in singing "YnNyffryn Clwyd"; three competed and the prize was awarded to Miss E. Jones, Rhos. Song by Gomerydd entitled "Y Ffug- foneddwr." Adjudication on the Essays Man's Moral Responsibilitythree Essays were sent in and one bearing the non de plume "Ydwyf (iyfrifol was deemed best, he turned out to be Mr George Edwards, Brymbo. Song, "Plas Goger- 11 1 '1 to j ddan by Mr. H. Davies. Choral competition on Coedpoeth," composed by Harmonydd. The Vocal Union and Leeswood choirs competed and the prize of £ 1 was awarded to the latter. Pen- rhynfardd next read his adjudication on the Elegy to the late Rev. E. Roberts. Twelve compos- itions were sent in, all were not of a very high order, but the best was £ one signed "Tafolwyn awg who turned to be o ut D. G. Jones, Corris. Mr. H. Hughes represented him and was invested in the usual way by Mrs. Gomerydd. Awarding the prize of three shillings for reciting the Ys- torm," best Thomas Roberts, Brymbo. Compet- ition in singing "A wyt ti yn coffo yr lIoer," prize divided between 1. Davies and Evans. Song Hen Ofergoelion," by Gomerydd. Adjudica- tion on the "Epigrams to the Chandelier by Pen- rhYllfarJd, best, "Dyn a?r baich drain. Com- petHIon in Extempore Speaking,the subject given Qualitk-ations in a woman to make a. good cup of tea." Three competed and the prize was divi- ded between Messrs. Thomas Smith and J. Hughes. Competition in singing a tune given at the time. Great numbers competed and the prize was awarded to Mr. Peter Roberts, Leeswood. Song by Gomerydd. There was no choral com- petition for ES prize and the proceedings were brought to a close by Gomerydd singing God save the Queen and the audience joining in the chorus. The Essays and Poetry were adjudicated by the Rev. D. Roberts, Penrhynfardd, the Rev. J. Pickering, H. Hughes. Messrs G. J. Jones and H. Davies adjudicated the other branches. The attendance wxs exceedingly good. DENBIGH. I EARLY LAMB.—Mr Wm. Longton, Cadr, near Nantglyn, has a Shropshire Down ewe which brought him a fine lamb on New Year's Day last, both are doing well. DENBIGHSHIRE AND FLINTSHIRE AGRICUL- TURAL SOCIETY.—A meeting of the finance com- mittee of this society was held at the Bull Hotel on Monday, Mr J. Scott Bankes in the chair; there were also present Mr P. P. Pennant, Mr J. Roberts, Geinas, Mr W. Bell, Mr Bowdage, Mr Thomas Jenkins, Mr David Jones, Tan-v-graig, Mr J. R. Jones, Mr Roberts, Well House Farm, Mr G. Bellis, Secretary. A very long discussion took place upon the alleged case of having bor- rowed sheep at the last show, but after a careful investigation it was agreed that there was no- thing to go forth to the public. The secretary presented the books and vouchers for the past year, and a certificate from Mr A. Griffith, of Mold, that he had examined the same, and they were found to be correct, there was a balance in favour of the Society of £530 12;; 7d. The ac- counts were considered correct and passed. There was one outstanding, and Mr Bellis explained that it was an amount of .£19 10s in dispute with Peter Devins of Ruthin, for some hurdles which had been used by mistake on the morning of the show, and had since been sold. Mr Bellis said he came to town and saw the hurdles in the sta- tion yard consigned to Denbigh, and he prevailed upon Mr Miller, the station master to deliver them in the show yard. Devins took advantage of the mistake, and the cost and expenses amounted to toC19 10s. It was agreed that the matter be left in Mr Bellis' hands to settle as well as he could. The committee went carefully through the list of arrears, but with one ex- ception there was nothing noticeable in them. It was agreed to send the list of those in arrears to the local committee, and to suggest that no one be allowed to compete who was in arrear with his subscriptions, in order if possible to prevent a repetition of a case which occun-ed last year, where a person competed but did gain a prize), whose subscription was this year in arrear. A letter was read from Mr W. P. Evans, Green- field, proposing to hold a show for the six coun- ties of North Wales at Rhyl, in August, 1878, in connection with the annual show of this society, and that it should last three days. The proposal was debated and considered a very good one, but it was agreed that it must be brought up at the annual meeting in March next. The progress of the Society may be seen from the following table I Show held at Amount of Admission Balance of subscription to show Local Fund Yard. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. Nj-WreX!lam .370 0 0 130 7 1 19 11 10 I Holy well .350 1., ti 9 8 21) 6 0 II711-Delihigh"m7 3 «. 197 17 10 40 0 0 ]?7'-MoM .M 7 (?.HX) 2 10 45 3 8 l'<7?-Wrcxh?m.4M:2 0.107 5 0.5417 3 i 1^73—Rhvl 397 5 0 257 Ifi 0 lt> 11 (I ls74-Kutliin 41M 3 0 iS7 1 0 64 4 2 i J.S75—Mold 401 1 0 25<! 10 C 90 0 0 ]W!-Wrt;xh;un.4n 7 1S 14 O.H22 6j i?7t:—Denbigh 443 0 (i 310 4 0. 40 13 11 BALANCES IX THE BANK Yl\Cm THE YEAR 1868. t s. d. 18! 18—Wrexham 399 13 3 331 4 4 1S70—Denbigh 217 4 4 1S71 -Mold SI 1« 4 1X73—Rhyl 105 17 « ]S7-1-Rathin, 259 0 10 0 1«7(>—Wrexham 475 2 1 1877—Denbigh 504 16 2 TOWS COUNCIL MEETING, MONDAY — Present: The Mayor (T. W. Gee). Aldermen T. J. Williams and J. Parry-Jones, Councillors J. S..Tones, W. Moms, R. Humphreys Roberts, Robert Parry, WIll. Hughes, John Davies, W. G. Roberts, and John Lloyd. The Minutes of the last two meetings were passed.—Mr J. Davies asked if Mr Clough had ascertained the depth of the Infirmary drain, and the Mayor said he had. Other questions were answered, and the Mayor put the question of their confirmation.—Mr Morris complained that the Mayor invited discussion, and then as soon as on3 or two of the Council asked questions he stopped them.—The Mayor explained that the only questions which were admissible at that stage were in reference to the correctness of the record and not to its subject matter; if there was any decision of the previous meeting which was distasteful to any gentleman, he might give no- tice and seek to have it altered in the proper way, but they could only alter the record when the Town Clerk had made a wrong entry, which he (the Mayor) did not suppose any gentleman thought had been done.—Mr Morris said he wished to know the reasons for arriving at certain decisions, and the Mayor said he was certainly unable to give reasons.—Mr Roberts thought that everyone who proposed a resolution in that Council should do it in writing, and there could be no question about the wording of it, as those resolutions might be filed and referred to when any dispute arose.—The Mayor pointed out that there was a resolution on the minute book now to that effect.-Mr Roberts further asked about the raising of the road at Captain Bridge.—The Mayor replied that the whole of the way from the Infirmary to the Ystrad road was not to be interfered with, but only the portion of the inside dip at Captain Bridge.—Mr Roberts said that a certain pencil line on the section approved of, showed that it was intended, only Mr Clough had not done it. Letters of Apofofiii for absence were received from Dr. Pierce, Mr Armor; and Mr Thomas, as well as from Mr Clough, the surveyor. Some of these gentlemen gave reasons for their absence, while others did not, and Mr Morris asked if it was not incumbent upon all absentees to give reasons for their absence. A reference was made to the minute on the subject, and it WAS found to be sufficient for them to give notice of the fact and the reasons, if demanded, might be given at the next Council meeting, when the council might judge of the reasonableness of the excuse. The A</en-da was then read all through, and the portion of the work for each committee pointed out.—Ml- Roberts thought it would be better that the officer's reports should be on the table at the commencement of the meeting as well as at the end, but nothing was done in it. No. 1 Committee.—The principal subject which came before this portion of the Council was stones, and their price, and cartage. There were bills for a Royalty of 4d per load on 113 loads of stone, a bill for carting 200 loads at Is per load, and a bill for 200 loads from Griffith and Son, also at Is per load carting to the Castle 96 loads at Gd, Mr J. Davies.—Mr Parry-Jones and Mr Williams asked questions as to whether Mr Clough had ever seen those loads of stone, or any of them, and as to how the account was kept?— Mr Lewis, for Mr Clough, replied generally that either he or Mr Clough did see the loads and counted them, and noticed where they were placed, that the riser of some of them was paid at per load, and he and the roadman kept account by a talley stick.—The Mayor observed that Mr Clough ought to satisfy himself that the amount of stone had been delivered before lie initialled the bills, for if they had to trust to men it was of little use having a surveyor.—Mr Davies said the ratepayers were complaining that the Council did not look after its officers.—Mr Williams said it was confessedly a very difficult subject, for it was not to be expected that Mr Clough or any other man could stand and see every load loaded and deposited. After some further remarks the bills were passed, as was one of 10s for stone, and one of £ 2 Is 6d for dressing, setting, and other work in connection with the Henllan bridge, which had been carried away by the storm; in the latter there was an item of 3s 8d a (lay for labourers at that bridge.—Mr Lewis explained that it was very wet, and that the men had to work up to tha mirt,H.. in water.—Mr Huehes said he had men working for him seven days in the water, and only paid them what they asked, which was 3s a day.—Mr Davies thought it was excessive, looking at the price that men were working at the Castle, 2s Gd.—Mr Williams replied that the two works were very different, and that while the one was very wet and only a short job, the other was dry and a much longer job. The bill was passed, as was also one for 60 loads of stone at 8d per load, purchased from Messrs. Evans and Jones, excavated in their alterations in their new pre- mises at the upper end of Portland Place. Ten- ders for the supply of stone were received from Griffith and Son, to break and cart a ton at 3s 3d per load of about 24 cwt., from Mr Foulkes, Plas Meifod, 3s 2d, within a mile of the quarry. There were also 4 tenders for stone in the quarry at Is per load. It was agreed to defer the tenders till a future period.—Mr J. Parry Jones advocated the purchase of a stone crusher, which would break 40 tons a day.—Mr Davies said it was a very unpopular movement.—Mr Williams pro- posed that they should recommend the purchase of a horse and cart to remove the manure and ashes and other things from the cottages of the town, and to do the watering of the streets in the summer. It would save them C30 a year, besides being a great convenience. Other towns had them, and he thought Denbigh should have one. -N,lr J. Lloyd seconded the motion. He much much approved of it,—Mr Davies and E. Hughes opuosed it.—Mr J. P. Jones thought a contract would be better than a purchase. They were such bad managers in Denbigh.—Mr Williams would agree with Mr Jones if it should be a con- tract for all the time of a man, with a horse and cart.—The subject then dropped—.Mr J. Parry Jones called attention to the increased cost of maintaining the highways. He found that in the item of team labour, which was £ 101 in 187; had become £ 155 in 1870. Manual labour had risen from £ 279 in the former, to £ 357 in the latter year, while the cost of material has increased from £ 107 to £ 189, making an increase of .£214 in 1877 over 1875.—Mr Lewis said that they had taken over some lengths of the turnpike roads in the latter end of 1875, which would account for part of the iiierea,se.-The borough accountant presented his report, and the pay sheets and vouchers, all of which were carefully examined in sections by the committee and passed, being found correct.—Mr Smith reported the receipt of £142 !G8 2d on the borough rate, C13 18s on account of the Assembly Room. Payments £34 8s, balance in favour of the Corporation 978 5s, district rate received £ 77 6s 3d, payments 210.1 Os 7d, balance against the Corporation E304 14s 7d. Thus the general balance against the Corporation is reduced to £ 236 lis 7d.—It was recommended that 21 per annum be paid to Mrs Dew for cleaning the Council Chamber, and that she be allowed Is per fire. No. 2 Committee sat in the Council Chamber, Mr R. H. Roberts being voted to the chair. The principal business was sanitary, lighting, and market matters.—A long letter was read from Mr W. Morris relating to certain irregularities in the lighting and extinguishing of the lamps and as to the state of the lamps. The result of the consideration of this was, that the Gas Company are to be communicated with, and the lamplighter to be warned.—The sum of P.8 10s was voted for keeping the Henllan lamps lighted, cleaned, &c.—The use of the Assembly Room was granted to the Geod Templars for five meet- ings at 10s 6d for the first, and 5s for each of the other four.-The medical officer read his report as follows:— During the four weeks ending December 29th, 1877, 6 births and 14 deaths were registered as having 'occurred within the borough. Of the deaths, 9 occurred at the Asylum, and the remaining o are all certified to. The births are at the annual rate of 13.;m per 1,000 population (1871) as compared with 42'41 during the previous year. The deaths (5) are at the annual rate of 11-16 per 1,000 as compared with 22*32 during the previous month, and 24"53 during the corresponding month of 1870. Calculated upon the present estimated population of ti,0(ii), the birth rate is I;H6, and the death rate 10'71 per 1,000 population living. The causes of death are unimportant, though disease of the heart and luns are conspicuous amongst them. This is as it might have been expected, for the deaths from those diseases are nea.r their annual maximum during the twelve months, and the wet which has so persistently pre- vailed during the autumn and winter months may account for so high a proportion to these diseases I' as (i out of 11 deaths. J. LLOYD ROBERTS, M.B. The Inspector, under the Contagious Diseases Animals Act (Sergeant Lewis), reported that another animal had died at Mr Evans', but there were six animals still living unaffected. There was no further trace of the disease at the Lodge Farm. The bill for the dead animals was passed, and the Inspector was recommended a salary of k7 7s per annum, while it was proposed to cancel the appointment of Mr Williams, which was mad e in 1867, owing to an alteration in the law since that time.—The Nuisance Inspector pre- sented his report. It appeared that only one case was recorded therein, whereat the committee were much surprised, the Chairman declaring that it was absurd to think that in a town like this, only one nuisance had arisen in a month.— The Inspector explained that he did not put down all the cases that he saw, because some people did what he told them. He only put in the book the bad cases.—The Chairman thought that all should be booked, and then the committee would see what work had been done.—A member reminded the Chairman that the Inspector was only paid E15 a year, and not much could be ex- pected for that sum.—The Chairma.n said it I would be much better to pay a man well and have the work done well than half pay him and take excuses. He was sure there were many nuisances existing in Denbigh which were not brought to the notice of the Council.—In a bill for repairing a lamp in Vale-street, the sum of IGs was ordered to be charged to Mr Joseph Lloyd, St. Asapli. The Gencred Board.—Most of the business of No. 1 committee was passed unanimously, as it principally consisted of bills ordered to be paid indeed, with slight discussion, all was agreed to. The business which had been before No. 2 oc- casioned more conversation. The appointment of P.S. Lewis as cattle disease inspector, in the place of Mr Williams was somewhat warmly debated—some of the Council thinking that Williams, though not actually a certificated man, had nevertheless had such long and varied ex- perience that he must be much better able to detect the early stages of the disease than Ser- geant Lewis however illtplligent that officer might be. Other members of the Council while ac- knowledging that, could not help remembering that it was doubtful if the appointment of Williams could now be considered legal. Mr J. Symonds Jones deprecated the re-discussion of this matter, as it had already been fully discussed in committee, and this was only a. loss of time and a piece of the badness of the present system. He rose at this point, as several others seemed to be echoing Mr Jones' sentiments, and said there used to be four committees, who used to meet often in the course of the month, now there were only two, and the work was all, or nearly all, done in one day. If Mr Jones and others did not like the system, they should not grumble and make remarks about it, but should move a resolu- tion and have the matter discussed let them not complain till the plan had had a fair trial.—Mr .Morris But we make complaints as they arise. —Mr J. S. Jones thought it would have saved time, but it did not. The Boys.—Mr J. Parry-Jones, junr., presented his bill for legal expenses in the matter of the late notice as to dogs which had been so suddenly put out and so suddenly withdrawn after the Council meeting on December 3rd. After a little conversation, Mr Parry-Jones agreed to I withdraw his own private claim for the work (JE3 17s Od), and Mr J. S. Jones proposed that the 22s which had been paid to the police for their exceptional activity, should be repaid to him. From the Mayor's explanation it appeared that the notice was issued on a Saturday morning, and the police began operations on Sunday mor- ning, which looked rather sharp. Mr R. H. Roberts thought that it could not be a surprise to those members of the Council who were present when the resolution was passed, some of whom had been proceeded against. The amount was ordered to be paid, and the whole of No. 2 busi- ness was adopted. Crown Rents.-The Town Clerk read a long letter from the Officer of Woods and Forests. The Crown was willing to sell the rents at 25 years' purchase, and would make out a convey- ance to the Corporation free of charge for the whole or if the Town Clerk would send up the names and amount, the Crown would make out conveyances for each individual purchaser for 10s 6d each over and above the purchase money. The total amount of these rents is £4 17s Od, It then became a question with the Council which was really the best way to do it. whether to ac- cept one conveyance from the Crown for the whole and then sell again to the various pur- chasers, or to adopt the suggestion of the Woods and Forests Officer, for the Council simply to be the medium whereby these small amounts may be secured to the owner of the property at the low cost of 10s tid. Mr Williams and Mr Lloyd advocated the former course, while Mr Davies and Mr J. Parry-Jones, with four others, carried the latter; thus, as his father remarked, doing the Town Clerk out of £ 30." Salary of the Clerk to the Boroufih Justices.— The Town Clerk said that Ps Clerk to the Borough Justices, he had for the i rc:ar beginning September lotn, 1870, when he took office, and ending 13th September, 1877, received £ 90 10s in fees. Fees to the amount of 30s had been remitted, while 2 guineas were irrecoverable, making 2100 2s Od then he put down jE5 for acting under the Contagious Diseases Act, and 210 for Government returns, stationery, &c., making in all £115, Some were for letting the subject be on the table till next meeting, but Mr R. H. Roberts asked what more information they would have at their next meeting than they had now ? Mr Morris, who was very impatient to be gone, it being near post time, shouted out Settle it at once, Mr Mayor; so Mr Roberts proposed, and Mr J. S. Jones seconded, that the salary be kll5 per annum. The Mayor said he objected to the two last item, but upon putting the question it was declared carried, and the Council rose at about quarter to seven. FLINT. THE OPES SEASON.—On Monday last, at Flint Mountain, we noticed several primroses in full bloom. It is very unfrequentlv that these flowers are to be seen in the open at this period of the year. TOWN IMPROVEMENTS.—We are glad to notice the gradual improvements effected by the local authorities of this town. The old buildings are disappearing, new ones being erected in their places, while Church-street, the principal avenue in the town, has been greatly improved, the para- pets being wide, doping, Mid laid with Yorkshire flags, while the street has had a thick layer of Halkin rubble, so that in a short time it will be one of the finest and cleanest in the district. PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY. Before J. Henry and J. L. Muspratt, Esqrs. Drunkenness.-Patrick Kenerlv, charged by P.C. Ryan with being drunk and disorderly. Fined 5s and costs or seven days in default.— Patrick Mulligan, drunk and disorderly, 7s 6d and costs or seven days.—John McCormick, who did not appear, was charged by P.C. Ryan with representing himself to be a traveller, and so ob- taining two glasses of whiskey at twelve o'clock on a Sunday at the Royal Oak. He said he came from the Quay while in fact he lived at the Pentre, not more than a mile. The Chairman said the defendant had aggravated the case by the contempt of court, in not putting in an ap- pearance. Fined 20s and costs.—Ed. Jones, John Jones, John Ellis, and James Lloyd, the latter, of whom did not appear, were charged with being on the premises of Wm. Davies, Mount Pleasant, the Mill Tavern. The time was 11.20 p.m. The The case was proved by P.C. H. Hughes, and the Bench fined the first three defendants Is each and costs, and Jtnies Lloyd 5s and costs.Wm. Jones, Flint Mill, pleaded guilty to refusing to quit the Three Pigeons, kept by Mr Wilkinson, on the 1st of January, he being then and there drunk.—Fined 5s and costs. Hij'hwai/ Offence.—John Roberts was charged with riding without reins on the Northop road.— Fined Is and custs. Womens' Quarrels. Amelia Saunderson was charged by Elizabeth Roberts with assaulting her. The complainant said she lived in Feather- street, and had summoned defendant on three previous occasions. On the present one she was going to the butcher's shop, and was speaking to Mr Melling, and as she was talking with that gentlemen, the defendant rushed out of her house accompanied by her husband, and struck the com- plainant in the mouth, who said" Amelia, well if you got free at the last court you'll not get free for this." The defendant then rushed and got hold of her hair, and pulled out a handful. There was a scuffle, in which the defendant was hurt by a plate. Joseph Bellis said he heard the complainant saying to the defendant to keep off as she did not want to have anything to do with her. He did not see any blows. P.C. Ryan saw nothing of the row, but said the defendant was stifferinc, from a cut in the head. The defendant then addressed the ('ourt, .saying she had re- ceived provocatioii.-The case was dismissed. Violent Assault— Wm. Thomas, a mulatto, was charged by Agnes Williams, who appeared in Court with a buised face, nth assaulting her She said she kept a lodging-htuse. and defendant lodged with her for three weeks. On New Year's night he came in for tea. She asked him to take his tea, and he said he could please himself. He then ordered her to pour out 'his tea and she de- clined, whereupon he got up and hit her in the eye, causing the damage to be seen. He did not ap- pear to be drunk.—Hannah King said she lodged with the complainant, and heard the complainant! screaming, and she rushed in and prevented the defendant striking her a second time.—The de- fendant admitted that he had struck the woman, but pleaded that the complainant had threatened to scald him with the tea, and then struck him when he struck her.—The Chairman said it was a violent and cowardly assault, and fined him 10s and costs. School Attendance Cases.-Timothy Williams, was summoned by Mr Wm. Bithell with neglect- ing to send his boy to school, a month previous to the issuing of the summons, and after notices and warnings had been given.—The defendant said that he had entered on an agreement with Father Power to send the children to school, and produced one signed that day to that effect.—The order was made, nothing being said about costs. HOLT AND FARNDON. -1 "I. FALL OF A -Koop.-One ot tne outbuildings on the farm occupied by Mr Phillips, Wrexham-road, has been for some time in a rickety state, and one night last week the massive roof, supported by old oak timber, fell down with a terrible crash. A number of cattle in the adjoining building narrowly escaped being buried under the debris. Fortunately, no living thing was hurt. The farm has been recently bought by Mr Charles Bellis, of this town, who contemplates making altera- tions shortly. PROPOSED TESTIMONIAL TO THE VICAR OF FARNDON.—At a public meeting held last week, at the Schoolroom, Farndon, it was decided that! a testimonial be presented to the Rev. B. W. Johnstone, as a token of the high esteem in which he is held by the parishioners and others, and in appreciation of the valued services he rendered to them in many ways during the 23 years he has resided amongst them. Messrs Lorne and Parker were appointed collectors, and Mr Broster, trea- ¡ surer. The new Vicar is expected early in April. HOLT VICARAGE.-We have been given to understand that the alterations to be made in, and additions to the present house are to com- mence forthwith. The tender sent in by Mr Samuels, contractor, Wrexham, has been accepted. The cost of rebuilding is to be de- frayed by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, with the money received from the parish from time to time. The new Vicar does not intend to enter upon his charge and assume his duties until the house has been finished. At present the Rev. T. Williams, curate, officiates in his place. SAD ACCIDENT TO A FARM-SERVANT.—On Tuesday afternoon, as John Taylor, who has, for some years, been in the employ of Mr Stephen Diclcin, Hugmore House, near Glanypwll Chapel, was engaged in feeding a straw-cutting machine, worked by horse power, his leg came into contact with the cog-wheel which jagged it from the knee down to the top of the boot; the holes cut are about an inch deep, and the flesh has also been much lacerated. The poor fellow cried out with his might; the boy who was driving the horses stopped them as quickly as he could, and Mr Dickin, who had just gone to the house for a file, on hearing the screams, ran to the spot im- mediately, and tenderly liberated him from his dangerous condition. Every attention was paid to him by Mr and Mrs Dickin, and Dr. Eyton Jones, Wrexham, was at once sent for, under whose treatment, it is to be hoped, he will gradually improve. BAND OF HOPE MEETING.—This was held on Thursday evening week, at the Presbyterian Schoolroom. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, there was a large muster of children and adults. After prayer and singing, Rev. R. L. Roose addressed the meeting; Henry Woodall read a piece Robert Holmes sang. Mr Martin, gaworks, spoke a few words to the following effect-After wishing them all a "Happy New Year," he said it was all important for them, though children, to feel themselves sinners in the sight of God, and then they could pray in earnet. When a man feels he deserves punishment it win make him thirst for the water of life, and will! not rest until he has had it. He asked them to respect the third commandment, and to be earnest I and faithful in all they said and did, to pray every day and thank God for his care and good- ness to them. Reading, The poor boy's card book," by Thomas Pridding. Address by Mr j Tomlinson. He told them they were all sensible lads, otherwise they would not be at that meeting. Some of the temperance men present had never tasted beer. He wished them all to be actuated by a principle within. A man without principle ? wa like a man without backbone; such a person will go any way the wind blows. He liked a lad who knows how and when to say No," this was the boy to go through the world, and to resist the temptation to drink even if money were offered him for taking it. Song by Sarah Chatham. After the children were dispersed, a new Com- mittee of Management was appointed for the year; four were admitted members of the Tem- perance Society. After some discussion it was agreed that no person under the age of fourteen be allowed to join the Temperance Society, but to continue members of the Band of Hope. Messrs C. Martin, E. Bellis, G. Chaloner, J. Tomlinson were appointed to conduct the Band of Hope meetings for the ensuing month. LLANGOLLEN. I LOCAL BOARD, THURSDAY, present: Mr S. G. Fell (chairman), Major Tottenham, Capt. Best, Messrs Thos. Hughes, E. H. Roberts, Samuel Hughes, Wm. Jones, R. S. Richards (deputy clerk), T. Edmunds (surveyor.) Reading of the H, initta.-In reply to the Chair- man, Mr R. S. Richards said that his father could not attend, as he was busy with Quarter Sessions business. While the minutes were being read, the Chairman took exception to an entry which had been inserted after the minute ap- pointing Messrs Longueville, Jones, & Williams, Oswestry, to communicate with the Cleric, the entry was as follows:—"Major Tottenham ob- jected to the appointment as incurring unneces- sary expenses." The Chairman ruled that Major Tottenham had no right to have his opinions recorded on the minutes, all he could do was simply to record his vote for or against any motion brought before them.—Major Tottenham could not see any objection to having that ex- pression recorded; he should like to hear the opinion of the Board upon the matter.—Mr Wm. Jones thought it was most objectionable, for the minute book was never intended to record the personal opinions of the members.—The Chair- man said the question was whether that was a resolution, or simply an expression of opinion; if the latter, it could not, of course, be entered.— Major Tottenham said he would like to know the opinion of the Clerk about it; he was their adviser in such matters.—The Chairman said he could not see why Major Tottenham should persist in showing such disrespect to the chair. He could only attribute it to his youth and in- experience.—Major Tottenham again expressed a desire to consult the Clerk, as the Chairman had told him they were to abide by his decision.— The Chairman But he is not here.—Mr R. S. Richards But I represent him. I am your clerk here now. This was a part of the proceedings of the Board, and it is for that reason it has been inserted.—The Chairman But I shall rule that it be struck out.—Deputy Clerk Do as you like. —Mr Thos. Hughes said they ought to be very careful not to intrude upon the privilege of the Chairman. He had a very onerous and difficult position to fill, and Major Tottenham was certainly out of order in contradicting the Chair- man in the manner he had done. He (Mr Hughes) thought the Chairman had a perfect right to say that this entry should not be put down on the minute book.—Capt. Best having just entered the room, Mr Fell explained to him the matter under discussion.—Capt. Best: Oh, no. You can't put in that; you can't express your opinions in the minute book.—Major Tottenham referred to the Deputy Clerk for his opinion.—Capt. Best: I should be very sorry indeed to recognize him as representing the Clerk here to-day. I decline persistently to abide by. the Clerk's decision. I beg to move that these words be not entered on the minutes.—The Chairman I shall simply decline to sign the imnutes with those words in.—Mr Wm. Jones If we were to put down everything that we say, the minute book would be more like a newspaper.—The Chairman thought it very peculiar that the Clerk or his representative should insist upon the insertion of these words, when opinions to the contrary were not inserted.—Mr Edward H. Roberts seconded Capt. Best's motion, that the words be expunged. —Mr Samuel Hughes could not see why any resolution should be passed upon the matter. Was not the ruling of the Chairman Hufncient ? The motion was then withdrawn, and the words erased, the Chairman affixing his initials thereto, and remarking that Major Tottenham could take any course he may like.—Major Tottenham Oh, certainly.—The remainder of the minutes having been read, Major Tottenham objected to their being signed because they had been altered.— Chairman Then I am not to sign them !—Capt. Best: The question is whether those minutes are a fair record of the proceedings of that meeting, He would like to know whether Mr Tottenham con-! sidered they were.—Major Tottenham I simply object. It is no use stating my reason, for it will not be put down.—The minutes were then signed by the Chairman, Major Tottenham alone dissenting.—The Chairman requested the Deputy Clerk to produce a copy of the notice convening the meeting. The latter said he had not got it. The Chairman then read the one he had in his possession, observing that the Clerk ought to have brought one with him. The Board and the Clerk.—The Chairman I having referred to the resolution passed at the last meeting in reference to this matter and the correspondence that had subsequently taken place. The first was a letter sent by him to Messrs Longue villo,.Tones. & Williams, Oswestry, conveying the resolution of the Board. This was sent to Mr Richards, with a letter from the solicitors advising him to resign his post as Clerk, as it seemed to be almost the unanimous wish of the Board that he should do so. A reply to this had been received from Messrs Hammond, Simpson, Richards and Ham- mond, the Clerk's solicitors, in which it was stated that their client refused to withdraw from the position lie had taken. A further reply to this communication from the solicitors to the Board closed the correspondence. The letters having been read, the Chairman said the corres- pondence spoke for itself, and needed no observa- tions. A resolution to have them entered on the minutes was adopted, Major Tottenham voting to the contrary.—The Chairman in passing the letters to the Clerk, expressed a desire to have them returned to him.—Deputy Clerk But they are the Board's property.—Chairman But if I wish to have them, the Board I suppose would be willing.—Several voices Oh, certainly. The C?nM? .P?K.-N?/.—A letter was read from Dr. Price Jones complaining that the path- way across the Gwernant Hill between Llan- gollen and Glyn was choked up with projecting branches of trees from either side, and thus rendered impassable.—Some discussion took place, in the course of which it was stated that Mr Dickin, the owner of the adjoining property, i had been requested to lop the trees; that! although anyone going along the path had the power to remove any obstruction of the kind, it would be better that Mr Dickin's men should do it.—The matter was referred to the Works' Committee. Extension of the Gas Vain. -A letter was read from the Gas Company, informing the Board that a Committee of their Directors had been ap- pointed to confer with a. Committee to be ap- pointed by the Board, to consider the question of extending the gas mains to portions of the town where they had not been laid down, and to see what number of the householders in those dis- tricts would be willing to use gas if the pipes came to their houses.—The Chairman said that this was a very hopeful sign, and he was very glad of it. Resolved that the Works Committee be em- powered to confer with the Gas Committee. Proposed Lease of Smithfiefd.-It having been intimated that the draft of Smithfield lease to Mr F. Lloyd, auctioneer, Wrexham, although drawn out for several months had not yet been signed, the clauses objected to by Mr Lloyd were again considered, and, after some discussion, it was re- solved that no modification could be made, and that unless the lease was signed or withdrawn, that it be cancelled. The Estimate for and 18),fJ.The Board then proceeded to the discussion of the estimate. The following items were severaley passed after some discussion :-Deficiency £ 109 9s 4M high- ways R290 Gs 8d; scavenging SL3; salaries V3 1;-)S; tithes, rents, and taxes <? Is lOd gas and public lamps £70 10s Id election expenses f.7; water works 2.5 13s; advertising, printing, and sta- tionery Ell 14s Od interest and instabnents f497 3s Id; paving £15; drains, fences, &c. • L'J ( 18s 3d.—The Chairman having intimated that the estimates had been prepared this year upon a different basis, all those householders, upon whose premises three was no water being exempted from paying water rate. This would make a re- duction of about £1,000 upon the rateable value under that head. It was proposed to increase the district rate in order to make up this deficiency. The principle involved being an important one, The further discussion of the estimates was, at the suggestion of the; Chaii-rntn deferred to an ad- journed meeting to be held in a fortnight. OSWESTRY. TOWN COUNCIL, MONDAY.—Present: The Mayor (Mr J. Thomas), Aldermen G. Owen and Salter, Councillors J. Morris, J. Shaw, C. G. Bayley, W. H. G. Weaver, J. Parry Jones, T. Whitfield, R. Hughes, W. H. Lacon, E. Thomas, T. P. Parry, U. W, Owen, W. H. Spaull, W. Fletcher Rogers, and J. Jones. The Recent Out-break of Typhoid Fez-er.-Dr. Beresford presented aspecial report on the recent fatal out-break of typhoid fever at the National School, from which we gather that the drinking water used was obtained from a pump, and this caused the out-break of the disease. The managers of the schools had agreed to carry out certain alterations he nad suggested, and he hoped to be able next month to report the disappear- ance of the disease, from which Oswestry has for so many years enjoyed a happy immunity. Re- plying to a question, Dr. Beresford said he had had the water from fifteen pumps analysed, and the majority were contaminated, or liable to con- tamination. There were, no doubt some wells in the town pure, but he still recommended, as he had always done, the water from the waterworks as being the purest and safest. Surveyor's Report —The Surveyor reported a number of matters of detail, subsequently adding that the side of No. 1 Reservoir the steps and the corner near the road had slipped. The upper bank had not slipped. About eight years ago a slip had occurred on the other side of the steps, and it was repaired. Subsequently the side near the road slipped.—Mr Rogers urged the necessity of doing the work while there was plenty of water. "He moved that the Works Committee meet on the spot, and take action.—Mr Morris seconded the motion, which was carried unani- mously. C«stk Ficlds.-The Surveyor produced his ap- portionment of the work to the streets in the Castle Fields, the total cost of which amounted to £1,074 12:; 1M. The Finance Committee re- commended that orders for payment be made on I the several owner,)Ir Bayley asked if the re- payment might not be by instalments V—Mr Spaull thought there might be an improvement rate levied upon them.—Mr T. P. Parry would be very glad to hear that re-payment might be done in this manner, There were many poor people there who were purchasing their houses by monthly instalments, and who would not be able to pay the whole sum at once.—Mr Bayley said some such arrangement was made in Wrexham. —Alderman Owen said it could not be done.—It was explained that no application had been mal Ie I to borrow the money had been paid, and the Board must get it back as soon as possible. The Water and Saeayc Qucstiolls.-The Town Clerk read the following report P,(poj-t of the Special Cominittee appointed at the meethfj of the Board, 3rd December, 1877, to consider the questions of additional tcater storage and the dis- posnl of tlte sctcage. Your Committee met on the 17th December, IS, 7. when it was agreed that the Clerk should write to Messrs Gotto and Beesley on their report of 15th March, 1877, requesting them to call the attention of the Local Government Board to the storage, and ascer- tain whether, in the opinion of the Local Government Board, the Board had the power to construct extra works, as the works authorised by the special Act had been completed, and also that the Clerk ascertain from the owner of the laml at Penygwelley what price he would accept for the eight acres (or thereabouts) of land required, and also whether lie would give per- mission to raise day, and on what terms. The Clerk read a letter from Mr Humphreys, of l Hanley Hall, dated 20th September, 1877, to the Mayor (copied at the foot hereof), when it was pro- posed that the Mayor, Mr Alderman Owen, and Councillors Shaw, Whitiield, and Spaull should have an interview with Mr Humphreys. Messrs Thomas (mayor), AVhittield, and Shaw had an interview with Mr Humphreys by appointment on the 21st December. 1S77, and having fully discussed the question, Mr Humphreys produced some estimate j of his own. which embraced cost of tanks, levelling the land, draining same, management, labour, and other matters amounting to upwaids Of £ 1,000, which justified him, on beiiifc' pressed, to state that he wouM do the necessary work for purifying the sewage and to indemnify the Board from all pains and penalties by the puMic or private in'?TiduaIs by any supposed nuisance or pollution of streams at an annual silbsid) of "50, or he would sell the piece of land called Maesydawdd, containing about 30 acres, at S200 per acre, with an additional sum for the cost of the cottage built by him thereon, and the timber at a valua- tion. Your Committee again met on the 3rd of January instant, to receive the report of such sub-committee, and they could not arrive at any conclusion on account of the sum named being too large to justify them m making anv recommendation, and thus they bring the question back for the consideration of the whole Council. (Signed) (imRG> ()wr;, Chairman. The Town Clerk said he had since written to Messrs Gotto and Beesley, and to the Local Governmen Board, and had not yet heard from them. He had received a letter from Messrs Min- shalland Parry Jnnes, on behalf of Mr T. Morris, stating that if a ale he effected it must be subject to such terms for Mr Morris' protection as an engineer or surveyor, to he appointed by Mr Morris, together with themselves, should approve, all costs of every description being borne by the Local Board. With this understanding Mr Moms was prepared to sell the land for the sum of £ 1,000. As to the elav, Mr Morris would not object to a search being made for it, on his being indemnified against all injury occasioned by the search, and upon having a fair royalty paid.- Several members thought the sum a large one, and Mr John Jones suggested that Mr Morris be applied to again. He proposed that the Mayor, Alderman G. Owen, Mr John Morris, Mr Whitne!d, and Mr C. W. Owen wait upon Mr Morris.—Mr J. Morris seconded the motion, which was agreed to unanimously.—Mr C. G. Bayley hegge, I to propose that the question of the sewage disposal be adjourned for consider- tion at a special meeting. That was the first time they had heard the terms upon which Mr Humphreys would deal with the Board, and he thought they should not go into a question in- volving an expenditure of two or three thousand pounds at the fag end )f i meeting.-1Ir Weaver seconded the motion, which was agreed to, also that in the meantime the Town Clerk should ascertain from Mr Humphreys in writing what in reality wa.s required by him from the Board in consideration of his being paid such a sum as might hereafter be agreed upon. The Corporation Accounts.—The Town Clerk read the following recommendations :— That a system of hook keeping hv double entry should he adopted applicable to the borough account, the I.ocd Board account, the water account, and the markets. 2. That the rate hooks in each half-year be made up so as to ascertain what arrears, and what non- recoverable, the months of February and August being the advisable periods, or monthly, at the option of the committee. 3. That a list of salaries, as returned to the Income Tax Commissioners, be supplied to the auditors- That there should he pay sheets for each man certified by the Surveyor, who would hand it to the clerk and book keeper for payment. That pay sheets he presented with vouchers, and that payment on account of contract work be vouched. 4. That it is advisable that the collector's duties should be supplemented by that of clerk to keep the accounts, as suggested by paragraph I. and that be shall devote his whole time to the service of the Board, at a salary, instead of at present by poundage, and that the making of the rates should be included in his duties. 5. That the boronjdi treasurer should produce at least each quarter of a year his account, vouched and certified, to Finance Committee. ti. That a rental should be prepared of the corn desks in the market place, so as to show the number of vacancies, and that, the clerk or collector give receipt in a proper book with counterfoil to check with the rental. The report was adopted, and it was resolved that I Mr Glaseodine be appointed clerk to the Board, at a salary of £ '120 a year, the duties to commence in February next. The Markets. —The Mayor introduced the question "f the desirableness of paying off a portion of the 't?)t on the markets. He might say that the income from the markets was about .£1,300, and bethought they WOHIll have a surplus of something like ,liOO or t700 for the current year. He did not see a prospect of anything he required in the immediate future, and he gave j six months' notice that tliev pay off two deben- i tures, one for t20H, and the other for £1.000, The first they paid interest on at the rate of 5 per per cent. They could cent., and the second at 4.1 per cent. 1 hey could not payoff both those, but he thought if they had to borrow they could get the money at a much less rate of interest.—Mr Bayley, in sup- porting the Mayor, said he was thoroughly con- j vinced that the time was at hand when they would have to spend a large sum upon the C'rnis Market, but he agreed with the Mayor that the money could be got at a less rate of mterest.— Mr Lacon was pleased to hear what had fallen from Ir Bayley. He would not oppose the proposal i as he thought the money could lie paid off and I borrowed again at a more advantageous rate.- The Mayor said he found it was always the best plan to pay what you could. If you only had half the debt it was better to borrow the re- mainder and pay it than to wait until you had the whole. The markets were worth RW a year net, and their borrowing powers were only £ 5,000, so he should think there would be no difficulty in getting 1:1,000 if it were needed, at four per cent. The Distress in South Walez.—The Mayor said in part of the country there was a great amount of distress existing, and he had been requested by some of the members to mention the matter to them. He left it to them as to what steps should be taken—whether they should open subscription lists at the banks, &c.—Mr Bayley remarked that in the time of the Indian famine there was a Mayor's Fund, and a large sum was .subscribed.— It was resolved to open lists at ti e several banks, and a list was opened in the room, when the Mayor headed it with three guineas, and twelve guine aswere subscribed. RUTHIN. ST. DAVID S VAL-The memory cof the patron Saint of Wales is to he duly honoured again this I year. The Mayor is announced as president, and an array of talent is engaged for the occasion. No doubt the literary and musical meeting will he a success as usual. The Ruthin United Choral Lnion will render their services. There are competitions to be ill literature and music. THE SCHOOL BOAri).-A meeting of this body was held on Friday. Reporters were not allowed, I but we learn that the principal business related ¡ to plans for the better attendance of the children, and for their greater cleanliness when they do come. It was also arranged that all the little ones should have a treat, on Friday next, of tea, buns, oranges, &c. This treat is to be given by subscription, and is not to come out of the rates. The benevolent will therefore have an oppor- tunity of making many hearts glad by subscribing to this treat. BKNKKIT CONCERT.—On Monday evening, a benefit concert was given at the Schoolroom at Llanychan, under the presidency of Mr Watkin Willaims, Q.C., M.P., for the bene*it of Miss Maggie Jones, R.A.M., of Llanganhafal. The artistes who took part in the meeting, in addi- tion to the fair beneficiare were Jenny Mabhvyn, Eos Maldwyn, Mr Powell, St. Asaph Cathe- dral, and other ladies and gentlemen. The weather was somewhat unfavourable, but the j attendance was very good and the proceedings very successful. COI-TKE ROOMS.—Efforts are being made, with every prospect of success, to establish a coffee I room company" in this town. Some ladies who have the welfare of the working classes at heart have met with every encouragement and co- operation, and we trust their praiseworthy object will be carried out. At present there is no re- sort of any kind for the young men of the town, not even a reading room. This is a deplorable state of things, and does not sper k well of our future generation, the apathy shewn in this is only to be accounted for by the precept given by our local magnates. IN^CEST AT LLANSAXXAv.— Dr. Pierce, the coroner for East Denbighshire, held an inquest at the Saracen's Head, Llansannan, on Monday evening, on the body of a young man named Joseph Roberts, aged 21, who met with his death by falling down a pit on the previous Saturday. Deceased was working in tbe pit with others, and had occasion to go to the top to fetch a pair of gas tongues, and as the rope was going down he appears to have caught hold of it for the I purpose of sliding down. All that is further known is, that he was found dead at the bottom of the shaft. After the coroner's summing: up, the jury, of whom Mr Davies was foreman, brought in a verdict of "Accidental death." Mr Evans, of Amlwch, the Government Inspector "f Mines, was in attendance to watch the No blame appeared to attach to anyone. POLICE COURT, MOMMY.-Before Mi- R. G. Johnson, and the Rev. the Warden 01 Ruthin. Lrunlenntss.— Robert Jones, Ehos-street, was summoned for being drunk on Chrii t]): uioni- j ing about two o'clock. The defendant did not j appear until the case was proved by P.C. Jones, and he was fined 10s and 8s costs. Game Trespass.—Jno. Jones and John Eva.ns, Rhos-street, Rnthin, were summoned, for this offence. Mr Roberts prosecuted, and called j John Hunt, gamekeeper to Major West, who said that on December 2!ith, he was on the Llan- bedr-road, and saw the defendants ferretting on a field in the occupation of Mr .Tel.kins. They came from Williams' field leaving net-! over the holes, and saying they had as much right there as anyone. The defendants were each flerllb and 0s Od costs, but the advocate's fees Were re- fused. Assault.—John Jones, defendant in the pre- vious case, was summoned for an assault upon John Hunt at the same time and place. It appeared that they followed him on to the- road, and while he was talking to a friend, the de- fendant came up and threatened to knock out his brains if he told of him. and said he would do it then. He pushed witness up and down the road by the shoulder. Witness had corroborative evidence, but it was not called, and the defendant was fined 10s and 8s costs. or 14 days. Transfer of License.—The license of the Old Cross Keys, Llanfwrog, was temporarily trans- ferred from John Chapman to .Tames Hill. Coiiiinitmnt.—P.S. Rowland applied for an order of commitment against John Lloyd, who had failed to pay a fine for refuting to quit a public-house. BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, WEUSESI)AY, January 9th.-Before M. Louis Esq. (Mayor), D. Jenkins, and Rev. BuIMcy 0. Jones. Larcen'i vpon an Old Man of Eij'hi;t.—Maiia Jones and Maria Edwards, two well-known characters, were charged with being concerned in robbing an old man of 80. named Robert Humphreys, of a purse containing ('», a, j.oeket handkerchief, and an ounce of tobacco, 4tii the 8th inst. The old man said that being molested lie treated the prisoners at the Boar's Head, about three o'clock in the day. Arranged to meet the prisoner Maria Jones at seven o'clock that evening, and she took him through the churchyard on the way to her lodgings a" lie im- derstooft, and there he was robbed. I\<Jones proved finding the purse, tobacco, and handher- chief on the prisoners. Previous convictions for vagrancy were proved, and they were eaeh eL- tenced to three months' laird labour.