Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

Business Announcements. MORGAN & CO., LIMITED, (Late Jackson and Son.) COACH BUILDERS & HARNESS MAKERS, OF LONG ACRE, LONDON. PATENT CEE SPRING RUSTIC CART, On Morgan's Patent Cee Springs. fLilST OF TESTIMONIALS POST FREE. BRANCH ESTABLISHMENT, NORTtl WALES CARRIAGE WORKS, WREXHAM. Established 1762 1743 EVERY HEAD of a FAMILY SHOULD SEND for t*J HARPER TWKLVETttEES' Illustrated PRICE LISTS of Laundry Alachinery. and Pamphlet, entitled, •" How we Wash at Home," containing most valuable practical experience. Post Free.-HARPKR TWELVETRKES, ,T-anudry Engineer, 8, City Road, London, B.C. 43a SEEDS, SEEDS, SEEDS. SEEDS IN BULK May be inspected every THURSDAY AND MONDAY IN FRONT OF MR WILLIAMS' LIVERY STABLES, CHESTER STRE3 Fine Samples of WHITE AND BLACK TARTARIAN OATS, A good change for this neigbbourhood, being direct from Ormskirk. LEWIS, ROSSETT MILL. 415a

Births, Marriages, and Deaths. "J.J, /_r' "r- BIRTHS. -————— DAVIES-Feb. 18th, at Trefonen Post-office, the wife of Mr Dd. Davies, of a son. DAVIES— Feb. 24tb, at Battery-row, Greenfield, the wife of Mr Walter Di»ies, of a daughter. JONES—Feb. 26th, the wife of Mr John Jones, butcher, Crescent Villa, Wrexham, of a daughter. MARRIAGES. BILBRETO'q-ROBER-t S-Feb. 25tb, at the Babtist Chapel, Chester-street, Wrexham, Mr Roger Brereton, only son of the late W. Brereton, Esq., Dutton Villa, to Miss Roberts, eldest daughter of the late Mr T. Roberts, draper and outfitter, Salem Terrace, Coedpoeth. 'DAVIES—VAUGHAN—Feb. 18th. at Llangedwyn Church, by the Rev R. Trevor Owen. vicar, Charles Lovatt, eldest son of the late MrC. H. Davies. Banhadla. Llangedwyn, to Mary Jane, only daughter of the late Mr E Vaughan, The Green, Llangedwyn. SHSRWIN—ROBERTS—Feb. 22nd, at the Pari-h Church, by the Rev. J Davies, B.A., curate, Mr Charles Sherwin, Bagil t-road, Holywell, to Mrs Elizabeth Gomer Roberts, near Bo)t Gata, Bagiilt. DEATHS. DAVIES—Feb. 14th, aged 73 years, at The Cottage. Hnlt road, Gresforll, Jane, widow of the late James Davies, formerly of "The 0, iffin." DAnES-Feb. 23th, aged 62 years, at The Wern, Trefonen, Elizabeth, widow of Mr Howell Davies. DAVISON—Feb. 22nd. at •' The Hollies," 4, Eaton.road, Chester, Margaret Elizabeth, relLt of the late Tallett Davison, of Stafford Cottige. Hi warden. DYKINS—Feb. 21st. aged 58 years, at New Cottages, Llanerchymor, Holywell. Mr Philip Djkins. GERAGHTY Feb. 22nd, aged 55 years, at Milford-street, Mold, Patrick Geraghty, fish dealer. GRIFFlTUS-Feb. 22nd, aged 70 years, at New-street, Mold, Mr Joseph Griffiths, Registrar of Marriages, &C. BUDsos-Feb. 22nd, aged 21 years, at 24. Windsor-street, Liverpool, Ada, the loving wife of John Thomas Hudson, late of Holywell, and third daughter of Thorn tS Bramwell, also late of Holywell. JONES—Feb. 21st, at 31, Kinmel-street, Rhyl, Elign, widow of William Yorke Jones, surgeon, Denbigh. and sister of Dr. Kdward Williams, M.D., Holt-streat House, Wrexham, JONES-Feb. 18th, aged 78 years, at Crown Farm, Berthengam, Holywell, Mr Robert Jones. JONES—Feb. 20th, aged 81 years, at 2t, Willow-street, Oswestry, the residence of her son, Anne Jones, formerly of Bryntirion, Llanerchymedd, Anglesey. JONES—Feb. 24th, aged 73 years, at Whitford-street, Holywell, Margaret, widow of Mr John Jones, currier. JONES—Feb. 16th, at New York-terrace, Abergele, Jane, wife of Mr Peter Jjnes. JONES—Feb. 22nd, aged 81 years, at his residence, Clifton Villa, Rbyl, Robert Jones. LLOYD-Feb. 25th, aged 65 years at 54, Park Avenue, Sarah, widow of David Fdward Lloyd, of the Cross, Oswestry. MANSBRIDGE--Feb. 23rd, at No. 11, HeAketh Crescent, Torquay, Eva, the youngest daughter of Charles Mansbridge, St. Asaph. WoRitis -Feb. 20;h, aged 37 years, frcm a fall in the hunting field. Major W. B. Morris, 7th Hussars, and Adjutant of the Shropshire Yeomanry, third son of John Grant Morris, of Allerton Priory, Liverpool. FAaRy-Feb. 23rd, aged Bliears, at Bagillt-street, Holy- well, Mr Thomas Parry. Piucio-Feb- 19tb, aged 50 years, at the residence of his cousin. Dr. Hughes, Denbigh, the Rev. Ellis Price, son of the late John Price, of Chester. REILy-Feb. 28tb, aged 62 years, at 35. Castle-street. Oswerstry, Eli lab ^tb, widow of William Reily, RILEy-Feb. 14th, aged 21 years, at Golly, Burton, Jane, wife of H. Riley, and second youngest surviving daughter of John and Elizabeth Coupland, Tallant, Flintshire. Deeplyregretted by her sorrowing parents and was interred in Gresford Churchyard, thelstb inst. WILLIAMS—Feb. 21st, aged 69 years, at Bersham shop, near Wrexham, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Williams. Deeply regretted. WILLIAMS-Feb. 25th, at Wrexham-street, Mold, Eleanor, youngest surviving daughter of Mr Edward Williams, chemist. WILLIAM i—Feb. 25th, aged 20 years, at Rhesycae, Holy- well, Mr Meredith Williams.

THE Bishop of Bangor is about to resign the See, which he has held since 1859, on account of ill-health. ON the second reading of the Government Tithe Bill, Mr Dillwyn will move an amendment for the application of tithes in Wales to national purposes. AT Broxton Petty Session the licence of a public house was granted to a married woman, it being explained that her husband, who was a traveller, was frequently away from home. THE interest in Wehh football increases as the struggle for the handsome challenge cup is being narrowed. On Saturday the Wrexham team defeated the present cup holders, Bangor, and accordingly meet Chirk or Newtown in the final tie. THE April number of the Westminsetr Review will contain a "Round Table" discussion on Bome Rule for Wales," articles being con- tributed by the Right Hon. G Oaborne Morgan, Q. C., M P., Sir E. Reed, and Principal Edwards, of Aberystwyth WE report an important meeting of the governors of the Wrexham Grammar School Foundation Exhibition, There are seven ex- hibitions, open to boys and girls residing in the ancieut parish of Wrexham. The subjects of examination are indicated. THE parish churchyard at Sc. Asaph, supposea to have been in use 400 years, was ordered to be closed some years ago. Nothwithstanding thie, new graves are to be seen, and the result, as ah own by the medical officer's report, is a serious reflection on the authorities. It is to be hoped prompt measures will be taken. THE arbitrary refusal of the Vicar of Farndon to allow the use of the National Schools for a Nonconformist concert contrasts strongly with the courtesy of the trustees of Holt Endowed Schools. What cannot be tolerated in Cheshire can be approved the other side the Dee. The rev. gentleman and his colleagues will no doubt be pleased to learn that Nonconformity has not suffered through their churlishness. THE Welsh members have under a considera- a matter of great importance, as to the FAteps to be taken to obtain the appropriation of £ 20 000 from the Meyricke Endowment in support of intermediate education in Wales. Mr Stuart Rendel was deputed to draw up a resolution setting forth the case, and calling Upon the Government to take steps to carry out the avowed intention of the Endowment Commissioners, frustrated by an accidental circumstance. ON Thursday Mr Rendel submitted draft resolutions, which were unanimously adopted, and it was agreed that cooiea of them should be forwarded to the Principal of Jesus College and the First Lord of the Treasury. Another resolution was passed asking Mr Smith to afford facilities for discussing the = matter in the House of Commons.

Council Notes. .L- «. THE Town Council of Wrexham has I turned its attention to the question I ul intermediate education. The discussion comes rather late in the day, considering what has already been done at Llangollen and Corwen, as well as at Denbigh and Ruthin. Other towns have completed their work and made out their case. The indifference displayed at Wrexham, which prides itself on being the commercial centre of North Wales, was certainly not creditable to the town. We are pleased to notice that at length, at the eleventh hour, the Council is awaking to the importance of the occasion. We can understand, from what was stated on Tuesday, why nothing has hitherto been done, but to say the least the delay is most unfortunate. Alderman Samuel will be thanked by many for taking the initiative in opposing the removal of the Militia to Eleetwood- The War Office seems to be laboring under the delusion that we are ruled by the military instead of the civil authorities, and it would be as well if this misapprehension were disposed of. We hear that in future it is probable the Militia will remain in Denbighshire or a neighbouring county, being moved about from one town to another for the annual trailing. In a mining district like this the appeal on behalf of the sufferers by the recent dis- astrous explosion at Llanerch Colliery ought to meet with a sympathetic and ready response, and we trust that the recommendation of the Council will be carried out. The vote of congratulation to Mr Stanley, and the invitation of the famous Welshman to a banquet at Wrexham, will be generally approved, and we only hope that we may before long see him in our midat.

The Coal Traie. ArrER enjoying a brief period of prosperity the colliers threaten to involve us in a far-reaching disaster. The notices for an advance of wages which expired to-day have, we understand, been withdrawn, so that the contracts may not terminate for another fortnight. The colliers of North Wales will then be in line with Lancashire, Yorkshire, Stafford- shire, North and South, in fact with every coalfield in England and Wales, other than those of South Wales, Northumberland, and Durham. According to the last mining returns the notices will affect 258,000 men and boys employed in mining opera- tions, representing an output of some 90,000,000 tons of coal. Such an event as a strike can only be looked upon as a great national calamity, and a portent of fearful suffering to a mining population of 1,000,000 people, to say nothing of the enforced idleness of millions more. The responsibility rest- ing on those who have instigated the movement is a serious one. In the absence of any suggestion that the men are not receiving fair wages, are we to conclude that the strike is threatened because the employers have commenced to make profits which will enable them to pay dividends to their share- holders for the first time for 8me years. We are informed that the Federation of employers is a measure of protection against the arbitrary demands formulated by interested agitators, who only repre- sent a minority of the real feelings of the men. The speeches delivered on Wednesday night by Mr E. S. Clark and other gentlemen interested in the industries of the neighbourhood are very timely We commend them to the careful consideration o all workingmen.

Nat ional Affairs. WALES has this week again been prominently before the public, and as the days roll by it becomes more and more manifest that the growth ot I national political feeling in the Principality is being rapidly developed. Welshmen are, to use the common phrase, feeling their feet," and pleasant it is to notice it. The new born activity, however, is not altogether without its element of grave danger. The question of I Home Rule for Wales, attractive as it is and certain as it is of accomplishment in some form or other in the future, is a matter for the most anxious thought. What are the means to be taken by which the nation will be endowed with that political emancipation which will enable it to deal with its own local affairs ? The North Wales Liberal Federation met on Saturday, and considered the resolutions to be proposed at a conference upon the subject, to which we shall refer again. The Federation decided to propose a rider to one of the resolu- tions providing that no agitation should be undertaken which would embarrass the Liberal Party with regard to the Irish difficulty and Welsh disestablishment. The proposal was a very wise one, foi, apart from Home Rule for Ireland, Wales has the very definite question of the Church before it, upon which Liberals of all shades are united. The conference for the consideration of Home Rule for Wales and Scotland met on Tuesday, and we are glad to note that the tone of the discussion and the results arrived at were firm and judicious. It was rightly conceived that Home Rule for Wales was a matter upon which much education is needed, and the method which must be adopted in order that the Principality can formulate ics demands will have to be arranged, and we shall, no doubt, hear very much in the future upon this important subject. We earnestly hope that no step will be taken which will in any sense disturb the harmony which at present prevails among Welsh Liberals. Everything is to be gained by united action, but should discord be introduced, it needs no word of ours to foretell the result. The proposal of a Minister for Wales was brought before the House of Com- mons on Monday, but the amendment to the address was withdrawn. In the course of the debate. Mr Kenyon delivered a very good speech full oi good humoured chaff, which will be ap- preciated by those who know the hon. member for the Denbigh Boroughs. Mr Osborne Morgan also delivered a convincing speech, and showed the difficulties which hedge the subject. The right hon. gentleman thought the principle of a grand committee was more likely to work and his large experience, for he occupies the position as chairman of one of them, must have great weight. On the whole, the discuilsion was a useful one, and we hope the result will be that Wales may derive those benefits which her members are honestly endeavouring to secure for her.

The Proviccial Insurance Co. m SOME of the moat important and even momentous transfor- mations in nature and in the ». I I concerns ot men, erten take place in a very quiet manner. We record to-day a commercial transformation cf great interest to many of our readers, which took place at a quiet and busi- ness-like meeting which was held in Wrexham on Thursday, when the shareholders of the Pro vincial Insurance Company ratified the pro- visional agreement entered into by their directors for the transfer of the business and undertaking to the Alliance Assurance Com- pany. Henceforward the Provincial, established in 1852, with its subscribed capital of £2001000 (since reduced to £ 175,000) will, subject to the sanction of the High Court of Justice, be absorbed in the Alliance, established in 1824, with its subscribed capital of five millions sterling. The Provincial has had no small obstacles to contend with in its time. As will be remembered, it once had a fire department. That, however, proved unprofitable, and upon the final closing of its accounts invol ved a less to the shareholders of about £ 27,000. Such an experience could not of course be otherwise than detrimental to the progress of the surviving branch of the bueinesa-that of life assurance— particularly when the announcement in 1875 of the loss on the fire business was followed by several years barren of dividend to the pro- prietary. The directors, however, pluckily grappled with their task, and when we consider the high esteem in which the Compauy has come to be held, both on account of its financial soundness, and of the honorable and careful lines on which its business has been conducted, I we cannot but admit that they have done well. We have, however, still further and more substantial evidence of how the Board's good management has improved the value of the Company, in the terms which they have now secured from so careful a companv as the Alliance. Ths shareholders receive a verv substantial price for their pro- perty. The participating policy-holders have the advantage of a much larger bonus than the Provincial, with all its careful administration, has ever been able to declare, while all the assurers, of every class, get the benefit of the greatly stronger security afforded by the Alliance funds and capital. The agents, who have been loyal and devoted supporters of the transferred oiffce, will now find it much easier to bring in clients, seeing their new office is one which is in all respects equal to the demands of the severest competition. The agents in Wales will naturally feel gratified at the fact that thfcy will be working for a company whose chief manager is one of their own fellow-countrymen. We had the pleasure, a few weeks ago, of trans- ferrirg to our columns, from the pages of a leading financial organ, a brief account of Mr Lewis' remarkable progressive success from the time when he entered upon the insurance pro- fession, in the office which he has now been instrumental in purchasing, up to the present. How far it is correct we do not know, but we have been told that there is a larger proportion of our fellow-countrymen from the Principality in the Alliance than in any other insurance office. W e are pleased to understand that one of the conditions of the agreement with the Provincial is that the present office in Wrexham is to be permanently retained, with Mr Francis as secretary. Mr Francis' services during his years of secretaryship have been of the most onerous character, a.-d it was pleasing to find how fully they were appreciated by the share- holders on Thursday.

Local News. I THE MILITARY AND ST. DAVID'S DAY.-To-day (Saturday), by permission of the Mayor (Dr. Palin), and through the kindness of Col. Liddell, the drum and fife band of the 23rd Brigade DepÙt, will play the Retreat" at sunset. The band will also give an appropriate Welsh selection in honor of the festival of the National Saint. It is proposed that the band should play in High-9treet. BERSHAM SCHOOL IROAP.D -At the monthly meeting of this Board, held on Thursday, there were present; Mr Witcoxon, chairman Mr B Harrison, vice-chairman Messrs G. F. Rogers, W. Jones, and Jesse Roberts Mr Thos. Bury, clerk.— It was resolved to re-open the schools on Monday. The Board also passed a vote of congratulation to Mr Louis Blew, whose success in Natal appeared in our last issue. A FALL OF FLOUR.-On Wednesday sima ten sacks of flour were being delivered from one of Mr F. Jones' lorries at the shop of Mr W. J. Williams, Town Hill. The driver endeavoured to turn the wagon round, and in doing so upset the "ehicle and scattered the bags of fl iur over the street. Two burst, the horse fell over, and for some time there was a little commotion. Eventually everything calmed down, and the flour disappeared. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION. -OU Monday the distri- bution of prizes to the members of St. Gi'es' Sun- day School took place in the Parochial Schools. Archdeacon Howell presided and presented the prizes, and the greatest regret was expressed at the enforced absence of Dr. Edward Williams, the esteemed superintendent of the school. Forty children who had not been absent once during the year were presented with blue rosettes, and were invested by Mrs Th mas, Miss Howell, and Mhs Boden. Addresssa were delivered to the children and parents by tie Chairman and Mr G. P. Edwards. Many thanks are due to Mrs Thomas fcr her arrangements, and at the close each child was presented with a bun and an orange on behalf of Dr. Williams. The following programme was successfully sustained:— Prologue Addle Pagh Pianoforte duet ..Mrs Thomas and Miss E. A Mason Recitation Johnny's Pocket .Teddy Thomas song Above the Spire "Miss Stirling's Class Recitation Tommy Carrigan So-ig Come to the Greenwood "Edith Carman Recitation To a Redbreast" Emma Butcher Pianoforte solo Esther Holland Recitation. Fanny's Feather Pattie Thomas Song Rev. Griffith Williams zsung Hark o'er the Sea "M iss F. Mason's Class Recitation "Past and Present" Win. Edwards Pianoforte solo Miss E. A. Mason Recitation Delays are dangerous "Eliz.ibettL Jane Evans Song. The Graves of a Household "Miss White- house's Class Recitation. Picking and Choosing Lizzie Thomas Recitation.. The Housekeeper's Soliloquy "Elizabeth Humphreys Pianoforte solo. The Snowdrop Polka Cisse Griffiths Recitation "The Orphan Children .Lizzie Carrigan Epilogue "=-=- Addie Pub MARRIAGE OF MR R. A. JONES —The marriage of Mr Robeit Aibert Jones, of Liverpool, barrister- at-law, only surviving son of the, late Rev. John Jones, of Wrexham, with Miss Harriett Agues Thompson, daughter of the late Mr Joseph Thomp- son, of New York and Liverpool, was solemnised on Wednesday at the Weat-end Chapel, Sowerby Bridge. The bride, who was given away by htT brother-in-law, Mr Thomas Apsimon, of Willow Hall, Sowerby Bridge, wore a dress of ivory silk, a wreath of orange blossoms, and tulle veil. She carried a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and also wore a diamond brooch, gifts of the bridegroom. The groomsmen were Mr Robert Jones, of Bryn Maethlu, Anglesey, and Mr Robert Jones Powell, of Wrexham, cousins of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids were Miss Florrie Carter, of Formby. niece of the bride, and Miss Edie Jones, of Liver- pool, niece of the bridegroom. They wore cream pongie silk dresses, yellow sashes, cream hats with cream ribbon and yellow flowers. They also wore gold brooches and carried bouquets of flowers, gifts of the bridegroom. The wedding breakfast was given at the Willow Hall, where the numerous and costly presents from friends of the brid, and bridegroom were displayed. A testimonial which has been largely subscribed to by the friends and supporters of the North Wales Liberal Federation, of which Mr R. A. Jones is joint treasurer, and of whose executive he has been a very active member from the first, will be presented on his return with his bride from their wedding tour. They left Halifax by the 4 40 p. m, train en route for the Riviera, the bride's travelling dress being of fawn- coloured cloth, trimmed with beaver vclvct, nith hat and jacket to match. IN BELGIUM AND HOLLAND.—On Monday even- ing Mr Councillor Benjamin Owen delivered a lecture in the Cheater-street Baptist Chapel, his subject being A Tour in Belgium and Holland," in aid of the new organ fund. Sir Evan Morris was announced to preside, but the Rev. P. A. Hudgell read a letter from Sir Evan, in which he stated that he regretted that owing to the state of his health he was prohibited going out at eight. He could assure them that it was a great disappointment, because he had hoped to have renewed the old associations he had with the chapel. (Hear, hear.) He had asked Dr. Eyton- J ones, but he had prohibited him going out. Mr Hudgell said that Sir Evan suggested that Dr. Eyton-Jones might be asked. He had done no, and he had very kindly stepped into the gap. (Hear, hear.)—Dr. Eyton-Jonea then said those present would be pleased to hear that Sir Evan Morris, although unable to go out at night, was getting better, and he hoped would soon be able to be re- stored to the citizens of the town, and to those good works to which he bad put his hands. Sir Evan had told him that he felt a great interest in that place of worship, and that his grandfather was a trustee of it, and they might rest assured that he was not present because he was not allowed to come. With regard to the lecture, the chairman anticipated pleasurable reminiscences of countries which it bad been his good fortune to visit on more than one occasion.-Mr Benjamin Owen then proceeded to give his lecture, which was illustrated by a series of capital views, kindly shown by Mr Frater with an oxy-hydrogen lantern. Mr Owen said he felt very diffident in appearing as a lecturer, and explained that he was a member of the Improvement Society held in con- nection with the chapel, each member of which was supposed to prepare and read a paper, The secre- tary (Mr J. G Sudtow) suggested he might give a lecture upon his trip, and in a weak moment he consented. In company with three friends, he went in July, 18SS, with Messrs Gaze and Sons, via Chester, London, and Harwich, for a few days' trip in Belguim and Holland. The journey to Antwerp proved to be devoid of any important incidents. Antwerp struck the travellers with new sensations, and the lecturer as a town councillor was somewhat surprised at the apparent want of municipal control. Among many wonder* ful and curicus things he saw was a public-house called The Weltsh Harp," kept by one bearing the familiar name of John Jones. Inquiry dis- covered that Mr Jones was a native of Ruthin, and had settled at Antwerp, where he had married a Flemish wife. Another incident occurred which surprised him. He pointedly inquired his way of a little boy on the street, and was replied to in good English. Mr Owen asked how he knew English, and the boy said that at the public elementary school which he attended he was taught German, Flemish, Dutch, and English. This made the lecturer blush, when he thought of what was taught in the English schools. Interest- ing accounts of the Ruben's pictures were given, and then Brussels was described. He visited Waterioo, and found that the inn there was kept by a Welshman hailing from Tenby. Passing hence to La Hague, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam, the lecturer described each place in a way which showed that he bad travelled with his eyes open, and bis descriptions, which were occasionally very amusing, were listened to attentively. At the close of the lecture Mr G. P. Edwards moved a vote of thanks to the lecturer, and to Mr Frater fur his kindness in exhibiting th; views. Mr Edwards said that he and Mr Owen were little boys together in the Sunday school of that chapel, and referring to later times congratulated Mr Hudgell upon the large congregation which assembled Sunday after Sunday. Mr John Rowland seconded the resolu- tion, which was carried. The lecturer responded, and proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman, which the Rev. P. A. Hudgell seconded, and the Chairman in responding recounted some of his ex- periences in Belgium. He said he was acquainted with several friends who resided in that country, I and some time ago was present when the King of the Belgians inspected the Mareey at Liverpool. Lord Torrington, one of the suite, bad an abcess on the thumb, and he (the chairman) with a pocket lancet relieved him of it. He suggested that as the King of the Belgians had an English surgeon in extraordinary, he might have a Wesh surgeon, in extraordinary. The King replied to Lord j Torrington, and invited the chairman to dinner, when he found him to be a most kindly disposed man.—The proceedings then terminated. The I lecture has resulted in augmenting the organ fund j to the extent of iclo. i I SIGNS OF SPRING.-An informant states than on Saturday a corncrake was heard in the neighbour- hood of Sontley. It is said that the bird has been heard for about a fortnight. THE REv. W. OLIVBR.-We are glad to hear that Rev. W. Oliver, M.A., pastor of Penybryn Congregational Church, has recovered from his recent illness, and will preach 19-morrow at both services. Mr Oliver has been recently staying at Holywell, and has derived the greatest benefit from the change. A TREAT AT CHESTER.—We would remind our readers that the St. David's Day celebration at Cheater takes place at the Music Hall on Monday, There are to be many competitions, and the artistes engaged are Miss Jennie Evans, Mr James Siuvage, and Master Tonzo Sanvage. Mr A. J. Caldicott is the adjudicator. CONCORD CONCERT.—On Friday night the third Concord Concert took place in the Public Hall, and there was a large audience. Sir R. E. Egerton, who presided, said he saw by the large number present that evening that the concerts had not fallen off in populuarity. (Applause.) The fol- lowing programme was then efficiently per- formed March &The Band of the F (Caergwrle) Company. 2n..i V B.R.W.F. Song The Missing Song" (encored) .Miss Lizzie Evans Song with chorus Dolly" Miss Edith Pa-ry tiong Arm, arm. ye Brave" Mr E. Jones Regitat,ion. The Slave who Saved St Michaer." Miss Griffitb-Boacavren Concertina solo (encored) Mr J. Rowland Song "Q teen of my Heart" Mr E. Jones, hon. sec. Selection "Bohemian Girl" .Band Song Miss Edith Pa:ry Recitation. The Ballad of the Oyster Man" visa Griffith-Bosctwen Concertina 1010.Mr J Rowland Song. The Anchor's Weighed" Mr E. Jones, hon sec. Song. Cherry Rips" (encored) Miss Lizzie Evans Song The Bachelor" .Mr Edward J,>nes Overture Arcadia' .Band Before the close of the concert the chairman said hr was sorry he had to announce that Sir Evan Morris would be unable to preside at any of these concerts, but in some measure to compensate for his absence, Lady Morris had kindly promised to sing at the next concert. (Applause.) He was sure that they all regretted that the state of Sir Evan Morris' health prevented him from under- taking a duty of that kind. He also wished to mention that they were very much indebted to Mr E. Jones, the secretary, for his successful exertions in getting singers and others to take part in the concerts. and he was sure they would appreciate those efforts. (Applause.)—A vote of thanks was proposed to the chairman by the Rev. R. SpurreU and carried unanimously, and the concert termin- ated by the band playing the National Anthem.— Miss Lizzie Evans, who is possessed of a pleasing contralto voice, made her debut at these concerts, and sang so successfully that both songs were encored. We understand that Capt. Sparrow, who kindly allowed the F (Caergwrle) Company's band to play at this concert, has promised that they shall attend again sometime during the season —Miss Simms, perhaps our most successful local pianiste, and Mr J. H. Parry acted as accompanists. MACBETH.—On Friday evening Professor Ellis Edwards, M.A., of Bala, delivered a lecture on "Macbeth," in the Egerton-street School, under the auspices of the Young Men's Society of the Calvinistic Methodist Church, Regent-street. There was a large audience, and Mr John Evans, the president of the society, occupied the chair. In opening the proceedings, Mr Evans said it was the wish of the society to increase its usefulness, and it was thought that public lectures of a high class would prove attractive. They bad had the advantage of hearing the Rev. Griffith Ellis, of Bootle, on Evolution," and they were now specially fortunate in securing Professor Ellis Edwards. (Applause.) Professor Edwards then proceeded to deliver his lecture. He did not think it was necessary to say much about Shakespeare. Macbeth was a member of. a group of plays which he wrote after he had addressed himself to the serious study of English history. He thought that study must have made the poet think more solemnly of life, and Macbeth balonged to this period. Later on, Shakespeare wrote plays of a lighter character. II Macbeth" was one of his most intense tragedies. Professor Edwards detailed the history of the play, and gave an able analysis which was followed with close attention by the audience. The lecturer suggested that the ap- parition of the witches was but a reflection of Macbeth's own mind. This mind was running upon the removal of Duncan, but the necessary resolution was wanted. Macbeth's initial mis- take was to trifle with the evil, and be succeeded in deluding himself that he could ba neutral in its presence. Lady Macbeth was all that Macbeth might have been expected to have been, while Macbeth possessed something of the gentler disposi- tion characteristic of woman. Professor Edwards read several extracts from the play with much effect, the murder scene being excellently done. The knocking at the gate, which the lecturer rightly observes was the most wonderful thing in the play, be interpreted to be a parable of retribu- tion, a view which readers of De Quincey will probably reject, although it possesses much to recommend it. Summarising in observation, the Professor said that Macbeth was a very imagina- tive as well as an indecisive man and possessed many characteristics of the Celt. He did not know that the Welsh were more remarkable for indecision than other nations, but if it were so. it was due to their circumstances. He believed that as Wales rose to her proper place amongst nations, her people would be less easily rebuffed, and that the Scotch, whom they deservedly honored, would find it more difficult to carry off the best prizes. (Applause.) Mr Wynn Evans moved a vote of thanks to the lecturer, and Mr Benjamin Powell seconded.—The lecturer, in responding, congrau- lated Wrexham upon having a public library, the only one in North Wales. He said the British Schools were famous, and it would be necessary to bring in an Act limiting the number of children sent from these schools to compete for the scholarships. (Laughter.) He proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman. This was seconded by Mr W. R. Evans, and was carried. Sincere thanks are due to the hon. sees, of the Society, Messrs R. 0. Jones and W. G. Robert?, for arranging so excellent an intellectual feast. WREXHAM SCHOOL BOARD.—At the meeting on Friday afternoon there were present Sir Robert Egerton, in the chair, the Very Rev. Canon Hopkins, vice-chairman, Mr Wm. Thomas, Mr J. Oswell Bury, and Mr E. E. Rogers. Mr Ashton Bradley, clerk.—Mr D. Lloyd Jones, the attendance officer, presented his report, in which he stated that the attendance was lower than in the corresponding period of last year, owing no doubt to the epidemic which was so prevalent in the town. The statistics were as follows :— Number Number on present at Week ending Books. Average. all. January 17th 1979 1454 1673 January 24th 11)84 13S9 1681 January 31st 1974 1287 1598 February 7th 2006 1349 1630 Febiuary Iltb 2000 1315 1531 Showing a decrease of 70 in the average attendance, and an increase of 122 in the number present at all as compared with the corresponding period of last year. In reply to the Chairman, Mr Jones said that influenza had caused much of the absence from school, but many of the parents offered it as an excuse.—The Clerk read a communication from the Liberation Society inviting the Board to pass a resolution condemning the tendency towards Denominational education in recent educational movements. The letter was allowed to lie on the table.—The Clerk read a letter from the North Wales Scholarship Association asking the Board to pass a resolution recommending the Intermediate Education Com- mittee of the county, to adopt the machinery of the Association, and offer scholarships through it, until the Committee have had time to formulate sehemes. A memorandum enclosed in the letter explained the object of the Association at length. Mr Bury said his view was that the Board was merely an attendance committee, and he always felt they should leave matters outside those duties alone. The Chairman said quite so, but be SnOUIa De glad It the Hoard could assist the Associa- tion, which was doing excellent work, in any way. Mr Bury said he was clerk to the Hope School Board, and all the schools there were affiliate d with the Association, but their own had no schools. After the reading of the memorandum, the Chair- man said that a great deal might be said about it. It seemed certain that before any scheme under the Act was brought into operation some time must elapse. It was suggested that the Association should be recommended to the Committee for temporary use. Of course they did not know what the Committee was doing. On the motion of Mr Bury, seconded by Mr Wm. Thomas, a resolution recommending the Association to the County Com- mittee was unanimously passed.—A paper contain- ing queries relative to proposed new schools or aiding schools already established, was received from the County Education Committee. The Chairman said the answers which would come from so small and unimportant a body as the School Board could not have as much weight as those coming from a large assembly. He understood that Sir Evan Morris intended asking the Mayor to call a public meeting to consider it, when it was pro- posed tO invite some well-known authority upon the Subject. It was agreed to allow the matter to stand over until the next meeting.—The Clerk presented his budget for the year, and said there was a balance of f43 13a Id in hand, and he estimated that L130 would be sufficient to carry thfln on for the year. Last year the precept was for £200. The expenses were estimated as follows :—Salaries. E120 printing, stationary, audit stamp, &c., £17 10s; magistrates' clerk's fees, 15 registrar of births and deaths, 94 industrial schools, C66 6s. Total, f212 16s. Balance in hand, JE43 13s Id, leaving E169 2s lid to be met. Mr Bradley said he always tried to keep the rate to Id in the £ and suggested that a rate at this amount be levied, be- cause the expenses in connection with the industrial schools might increase. On the motion of Mr Thomas, seconded by Canon Hopkins. a precept was signed for this amount. THE LoSDOS COLLEGE OF Music.-Local ex- amination in music (practical and theoretical) will take place in April, when silver and bronze medals will be awarded. Names to be sent in by March 2,5th to Matthew Bowen, L. Mus. L.C.M., Ruabon. THE THEFT OF MASONIC JEWELS.—At Chester Quarter Sessions, on Thursday, Edwin Jones, 36, I tail-ir, was indicted for stealing, from the Masonic Hall, Chester, on the 27th January, a coat, an umbrella, and a hand bag containing a quantity of Masonic jewels and clothing, value £50, the pro- perty of Charles Kenny Benson, grocer, Wrexham I and an overcoat, a hat. and a handbag, also con- taining Masonic clothing, a tobacco pouch, pipe, and other articles, the property of Thomas Beech Barton. coHiery agent, Wrexham. Mr D. A. V. Colt Williams prosecuted, and prisoner, who denied the charge, and adhered to his statement that the 'I property was given him, was undefended. The Recorder (His Honor Judge Lloyd), characterising the offence as a most impudent robbery, backed up by dangerous falsehoods and deceit, sentenced the prisoner to six months' hard labar. DEATH OF MR THOMAS HUGHES, ALDFORD.—We have to announce the death of Mr Thomas Hughes, of Aldford. Mr Hughes had been in failing health for some time, but recently had taken to his bed, and did on Tuesday afternoon. Mr Hughes had conducted a large and successful business as a builder and contractor for several years, and was widely known. He was about seventy years of age, Mr Hughes for forty years occupied a prominent and honorable position on the turf, but retired through failing health about four years ago. During his career as an owner of racehorses, Mr Hughes won the Chester Cup, in 1S70, with Our Mary Ann; the Stewards' Cup at Good wood, the Brighton Cup, and the Shobden Cup, the latter twice with Oxonian, whom he afterwards sold to Capt Machell for JE3 000. Mr Hughes was one of the earliest patrons of Fred Archer, and enjoyed a lifelong friendship with the great jockey. MORGAN AND COMPANY, LIMITED.—On Wed- nesday afternoon, the annual meeting of Messrs Morgan and Company, Limited, coach and carriage builders, was held at the Cannon-street Hotel, London. Mr G. H. Morgan, who presided, stated that the balance ebeet showed a net profit of £ 7,245. The general trading of the company for the past year had been of a fairly satisfactory character. The effective sales credited to each establishment had bcen-Longacre, £ 47,819 Bond- street, £ 37,951 Leighton Buzzird, iC4,640 on order, f 16.560 and Wrexham 22 335. The directors recommended a dividend at the rate of 4 per cent, for the year. Although the balance sheet was not as satisfactory as could have been wished, yet in almost every respect progress had been made by the company as compared with their position in the previous year. The adoption of the report was seconded and agreed to. MR 0 J. ROWLANDS.—Many readers will be pleased to hear that Mr O. J. Rowlands (son of Mr Hugh Rowlands, chemist, Bridge street), has arrived in New York. He has gone out engaged by Mr D'Oyley Carte for the production of the new opera" The Gondoliers." Mr Rowland's letter is dated Feb. 13, and in it he says :—" We produce the Gondoliers on Tuesday evening next at Palmer's Theatre, a very beautiful one in Broa-lway.. I have got a capital part to play, and a splendid song to eing. I may say they are re- hearsing night and day." During the trip out in the City of Paris a concert was given in aid of the Seaman's Orphanage, Liverpool, and Blue Anchor Society, New York, when X25 was raised. Mr Rowlands sang True till death," and Thy Sentinel am I," as well as taking part with Mr Keppel in Night attack," a duet by St. Quintin. It is pleasing to hear that the new Company is very highly spoken of. Miss STEER IN WREXHAM.—At St. James's Hall, on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday cext, Miss Steer pays a return visit. Great interest should attach to the visit owing to the generosity of Miss Steer, as twelve months ago, when last here, the Brynmally Colliery explosion occurred, and she very kindly gave 25 to the distress fund, and this fact will no doubt be borne in miud by the miners and their friends. Miss Steer now appears in The Cloven Foot," Miss Braddon's greatest novel, essaying a double role, that of Laura Treverton and La Checot, two entirely dis- similar characters, the one the good loving woman, the other the Music Hall dauseuse. The dresses necessarily are far from few, and are all by the eminent Worth, of Paris. An old Wrexham favorite is promised us in Haldane Crichton. The Cloven Foot" will be played on Monday and Wednesday, and on Tuesday we are promised a new play, written by Miss Steer, entitled Idols of the Heart," in addition to Pygmalion and Galatea." Special scenery is carried by the Com- pany. I WREXHAM BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—At the meeting of this body on Thursday there were present-Capt. Griffith-Boscawen, in the chair, Mr S. T. Baugh, vice-chairman, Lieut.-Col. Meredith. Mr T. Ll. FitzHugh, Mr W. Thomas, Mr H. J. Royds. the Rev. Canon Hopkins, the Rev. P. W. Sparling, Messrs F. A. Sturge, E Roberts, John Jones, John Daniel, George Clarke, R. Randies, J. W. Evans, Benjamin Williams, E. Tunnah, J. Lloyd Thomas, J. Rogers, Hezekiah Jones, Geo. Heyward, John Brereton, Simon Jones, and Saml. Rowden. Mr J. Oswell Bury. clerk.—The Chair- man gave notice that next Thursday he would move the re-appointment of Mr J. T. Gobat as medical oiffcer for No. 5 District for three years, commencing Christmas, 1889.-Mr Brereton called attention to certain remarks made at the Rural Sanitary Authority, which he said were unfounded, and he was invited to attend at the next meeting of the Authority.—Mr Simon Jones handed a paper of questions relating to finance to the clerk, and Mr Bury said he would answer them at the next meeting of the Board.—The Master reported that Rev. W. Smith, F.R A.S., bad kindly offered to give a magic lantern entertainment, entitled "The Gipsy's Revenge," to the inmates if the Board did not object.—The Guardians at once accepted the kind offer, and the Chairman remarked that the Board was always obliged to thosd who desired to contribute to the enjoyment of the inmates.—The Master's books showed the number in the house to be 230, last week 226, last year 243, Vagrants relieved 68, last year 65. Imbeciles 42. In schools —boys 18. girls 27, total 45 receiving industrial training-boys 10, girls 8, total 18. Out-relicf- Mr Cheetham JE12 4s to 123 persons Mr Owen 925 41 lOd to 425; Mr Williamst23 18a 8d to 265, and Mr Evans 123 2s 9.1 to 179. A SERIOUS FIRE QUENCHED.—On Thursday the buildings in Hope-street, occupied by Mr Simon Jones and Mr Sudlow, were nearly destroyed by fire. There runs across the ceiling of both shops a large projection. This consists of two beams of pitch pine, having a large space between them. These beams were introduced some years ago when alterations were made in the shop, and they prac- tically bear the principal weight of the building Above them was a very large chimney stack, and it is the theory of those likely to know, that a quantity of soot had fallen down a disused flue, and accumulated between the beams. Here it lay. probably for a long time, and on Thursday asserted its presence by catching fire, but how no one can tell. Early in the afternoon of Thursday smoke was observed in Mr Sudlow's shop coming from the beam, and a crackling noise was heard. Informa- tion was given to Mr Weaver, who was the nearest I member of the Fire Brigade, who attended, and having cut away tho plaster covering of the beam, a fierce flame broke ont. Water was applied, and the fire was put out. It was found that the beams were much charred, and supports had to be placed under the remains. In the evening a fire was dis- covered in Mr Simon Jones' alioi). It was in a corresponding position to the one in Mr Sudlow's place of business. Capt. Davies, Lieut. Evans, and other members of the Brigade came ralidly on tho scene, and it was soon put out. The cause of this fire is more a matter of theory than the other, for the beams are hardly connected, and there is a brick wall dividing the space. However, the danger of the fire is averted, and the damage done is not very considerable. Mr Sudlow and Mr Jones express their indebtedness to Mr Weaver, who being the nearest fireman was first called, and it is no doubt owing to his promptness and skill that the fire was so aoon put out. Mr Simon Jonea, as a token of his appreciation of the service of the Brigade, is going to give JC2 2s to the funds. I

A WIDOW CENSURED. I DEATH FROM EXCESSIVE DRINKIXG. Yesterday (Friday) morning, an inquest was held by Mr B. H. Thelwall, coroner, at the Tiger Iuu, Beast Market, upon the body of John Miles, aged thirty, hawker, who died suddenly on Wed. nesday night. Mr William Wright was foreman of the jury. Elizabeth Miles said her husband, who was thirty years of age, was an earthenware dealer. They lived in Harrison's-court, Farndon-street. Deceased complained of his head on Monday, and he became rambling. Witness advised him to go to bed. The doctor from the Iufirmary was sent for, but J never came. On Tuesday Miles insisted upon going I out, and at night grew more rambling in his talk. On Wednesday he was most uneasy, and she believed it was caused by drinking. He had been on the spree for a month, drinking much and eating little. Between four and five o'clock on Wednesday witness brought him into the house from the yard, where he had I been walking about. He then had something to eat. At 9 30 he went upstairs in the dark, and never came down again. Witness hearing a bit of a noise upstairs went up and found deceased lying on his face on the floorf She called for assistance, and her husband died in her arms. She did not send for Dr. Palin, who lives near, because deceased did not want him. She and deceased had lived on good terms, but she had remonstrated with him for taking drink. The Coroner reprimanded witness for not sending for a doctor, when she found her husband ill the last time. Maria Williams, wife of John Williams, skinner, said she had known deceased for six months. Joseph Wardle, stepson of the deceased, came to her house on ^Wednesday night and asked for assistance. She found deceased was resting on the arm of the previous witness. Deceased had been drinking heavily for the last three weeks. They lived right enough together. Witness went for the doctor at the Infirmary on Tuesday, but she never saw him. He nenr refused to come. Witness did not leave the paper which s he had from Me Phillips, grocer, at the Infirmary. Deceased and his wife had not lived together for about a fortnight. The jury returned a verdict of death from excee- sive drinking, and censured Mrs Mi.t:s for net send- ing for the doctor. ———— 0 ————

THE PROVINCIAL INSURANCE COMPANY. 37TH ANNUAL MEETING. I On Thursday the 37th annual general meeting of the shareholders of the Provincial Insurance Company was held at the Company's offices. Wrexham. Mr H. V. Kyrke, chairman of the Company, presided, and there were present :-Mt!ft.rp. F. Alimmid, S. T. Baugh, Geo. Bevan, Geo. Bra iley, Ashton Bradley, solicitor;. John Bury. Thomas Bnrv, lowri clerk Sir R. A. Cunliffe, B-rt., Me-srs. J. L. D jvenp it, Ecl. j DAvie,. M.D., T. W. Davi'S, Olie»fc?r e. K. D ivies, W. G. Dodd, Llangollen J. E. El Cheater I W. R. Evans, Sir R. E. Egerton, K C.l., Dr. Fuller, Oswestry; Rev. E- Jerman. Ale.^r-. T. C. Jones. E. Downell Jones, Sir Evan Itforria, Messrs. J. M. Nicholson, Cheater; Benj. Owen, J. E. Powell, John Prichard, Wm Roberts, Cardiff Y. Strochan, W. H. Tilston, D. Williams, St. Asaph W. H. Williams, J. B. Wakeford. and John Francis, eecre- tary. The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the state- 1 .f i 111 11 1 ment ot accounts and balance sheet, called attention to the excellent position which the Company had "tt lined, the amount added to the life .*v-siuai:ce fund in the past year being larger than in any previous year. that fund now amounting to over C350,000 Sir Robert Cunlitftj seconded t':e resolution, which was carried unanimously, and after the transaction of some formal buainfa-, the EXIKAOKULXAEY MEETING -1 ot the shareholders was opened tor the purpose of dealing with the following resolution passed by an extraordinary Board of Directors held on the 12th February, instant, viz.—" That the business and un- dertaking of this Company he mild and transferred to the Alliance Assurance Company on the terms and conditions set out in the conditional agreement, dated the 12 h February, 1890, and made between Ilichaid Venables Kyrke, of Penywern, Hope, near Mold, in the County of Flint, chairman of the Company, for and on behalf of this Company Pi the rne part, and the AUiauce Assur»i:ce Comp-ny by their ctiaiiman, the Right Honorable Lord Rothschild of the other part. The Pecreiary having read the notice calling the meeting, and also the conditional agreement referred t.>, The Chairman, in moving the resolutior, said they had all heard t te proposed agreement which bad been sanctioncd by the Directors of both Companies and confirmed the day before by the shareholders of the Alliance, and only awaited now confiimation at their hands. It was the Dlot inipi)rtat.t and, he thought, the most Satisfactory resolution he had ever submitted t > t'ls Company. The proposed change was evident y acceptable t I the shareholders generally, seeing that nearly 90 per cert of the whole vct?s of the Company had been rendered to them as proxies. (Hear, hear.) The only objection po-sibie wcuid be a sentimental objection. Sentiment, however, did not go for much in these day-. It millt still be a crumb of comfort to think that the gentium m who was deal- ing with them in this mat .er was a Welshman, who had commencad life in tne Provincial Office, and wl.o by energy and ability had worked himself up to the top of the tree. (Applause.) They would have learnt already from last year's account* that the Company was in a good and sound position, and was abl t I go alone without assistance from anybody. Thty had been fighting a plucky fight and had got on remark- ably well, and this being so, it might he a-ked why should they sell ? Well, they were in t needy, and that was the very time to sell. If they had been needy they could not have secured the gnod terms they had done. They had, however, con. eluded a satisfactory bargain, a bargain which in this case was satisfact Iry to both eider. (Applause.) Having sketched the histoiy of the negotiation", com- mencing with a letter received from Mr Lewis on the 17th December last, the Chairman went on to say that as to this agreement which had been read to them, by far the larger portion of it was devoted to the inteiests of the policy-holders, which were really the first con- sideration with the Board, Eti,d no propoi; iOIl would have been submitted to tbe shart holders which did rot include great advantages to the policy-holders. The Directors were the policy-holders' trustees, and he thought they would have been very faulty if they had neglected to put them in a better position. (Hear, hear.) He though • they wera in a very much better position. The plain, bioad fucts that the immediate bonus to those entitled to it was to betl 10.J, instead of 1:1, an increase of 50 per cent. upon the highest bonus the Provincial had paid, and that in future the Provincial pal t' cipating policy-holders would share rateably with the Alliance participat'ng policy. holders in the bonuses that will be divided by that Company, were facts which spoke for themselves. (Applause.) Again, imt nd of having as security behind their accumulated funds a capital of only 917,5,000, there wou d be now a capi al of five millions. (Hear, hear.) TheBe were facts which no policy-holder touid refuse to ydmit as t-eing highly gratifying, and he was sure they would be thankful for having beer, by the proposed transfer, place i in a position which otherwise ihey couldsca oely ever have expect!d to occupy. Both in the ma't r of bonuses and in everything else the whole arrangement t trued in favor of tIle uolicy-hnlders. G>i>isf back some- what, most of them would remember the position the Comnany occupied in 1875, when. in closing the Fire Department, tby were leit w th a deficiency of £ 27,000 The Company's position at that time was therefore very nislieartemng. jruoiic c>i.n<ltfOCe was shaken, tuany po'icy-holders burrt-ndeit-d their policie*, and shureholders were practically giving away thtir shares-that is to say, some of the unwise i-neti, who would no doubt find it (nt to-day. (Hear, hear, and laughtr.) Weil, rt that time they called their good frieud Mr Francis to the head of affairs. (Applause.) He had a very up-hili ta-k before him, hut he h \(1 overcome all difficulties, a- d no "lUre faith- ful and efficient officer to any company could possibly exif,t, his whole time, ti.,ougi t, .n-rgy and ability, and they were by 110 meatis sm"I1-(he,u, hear)— having been given to the interests of tlod Provii c'al. (Renewed applause.) Their only regret l-.ad be- n that owing to the srnallness of their resources they had not been ah'e to remunerat °1\1.. Francis in t'!e wiy they shou'd have liked t'. have done. (Hear, hear.) Had he gone to other offices, and he believed he had had opportunity of doing so. he might have had a very much larger salaty, but he preferred to stick to She Provincial. He hoped tie transfer of the Company would ri, t pass over to the Alliance without Mr Franc's receiving eome voluntary ar.d tangible proof of their appieciation < f his eetvicts. (Hear, hear.) Wet!, from that time t'ley had been t trertz. ing into daylight. They began to itceive small dividends, which had been traduully increasing. Having regard to their excellent financial position, it might naturally be thought by some that they would have d )):e w-sfr to go or, but tiiey. ( f course, must look o the future as weii tis t i rip pieeent. There were undoubtedly rocks ahead upon which many boats, and especially small ones like t",ilS, if no' wrecked, might be seriously dema--t, d. For in. stance there was the growing difficulty of tetting a remunerativa rate of interest for permaner. t invest- ments, but the greatest element affecting them was the vast amount of competition. (Applaus .) In that competition small Insurance C,wm-iaiii-s wrre very much at a diaadvantug- ti e agents of a email company rot having anything like tiierame chance of getting business as the agents of the large company. Mareafter thtir agents, many of whom had l'e"1I very loyal workers, and whose dev t'on the Direct >r greatly appreciated, would he in a posp ion to meet effectively the strongest competition. They would have a C'm;>any to represent sreor.d to n> n^, as to security, ii.fln-r.ee, or other advantage-. The agree- ment provided for the permanent leicntion of their present oiffce, and he only hoped that the exl-nsioti of the hu.sL.esa under the new arrangement would eventually mak e it an even more important office than it has been in tV pa>t. The staff a!f>o w!.i: 11 was to be taken (.vkr wel,'d be benefited, brcau-e the Alli- ance Company had a saj-.erannu.»tron scheni of which the officials would have the advantage. Mr Francis would likewise retiin his position as secretary—(hear, he.ir,) which he thought was a very valuable p-%rt oi the bargain. (Applause.) The only other class afftcted by the agreement was the Directors, and they would continue attached to the office. (Hear, hear.) When he referred to the Board' he did not allude to himself, but to gentlem-n like Sir Watkin. Sir Robert Cunliffd, Sir Robert Egerton, and Sir Evan Morris, whose n-wes were known wherever Welshmen lived, and that was all over the world—(hear, hear)—and it was a distinct advantage to the Company tit have such names connected with it. (Applause.) In conclusion, he might say that in connection with the whole of this arrangement there had been no contention over details on the contrary, everything had been conducted in the most amicable manner. (Hear, hear.) They knew they bad a good property to sell at a fair pricp, and on the other hand the purchasers felt they were gettirg good value for their money. He hoped that when this transaction wa." con<ple:ed, as it no doubt would be, the earns support would be given to ili- Alliance as had been accorded hitherto to the Provincial. (Ap- plause ) He begged to move the resolution. Sir Robert Cunliffe seest.ded the resolution, and said after the able and lucid speech from the Chair- man, who had touched upon every point of real importance, they must a'l he in a posif tion to form a clear opinion and to pass a final judgment upon the proposal submitted to them. (Hear. hear.) He had only been a Director for tha last few years, and the admirable position in which the Company now stood, and which had been recognised by one of the largest Companies in the kingdom, was owing to the way in which the early Directors and their indefatigable secretary had conducted its business. (Applause.) It was impossible for him to heighten the well- deserved eu'ogy passed upon the secretary. He heartily endorsed everything that had been Raid in praise cf Mr Francis. (Hear, hear.) He had one regret in connection with the matter. Amongst the early Directors who had helped on the Company so much was their late friend, Mr Cbas. Hugbe8-(hear, hear)-and had he been present he was sure he would have felt that the result of their long labors might be looked upon with satisfaction by the shareholders and policyholders alike. (Applause.) The resolution was then carried unanimously. Mr Edwards, Chester, said ha wished to Eubiiiit resolution to the shareholders present. A few words had been uttered with reference to the valuable ser- vices rendered by Mr Francis, and with the permission of the meeting he begged to move the following re-olu- tion, viz.:—"That the transfer of the Provincial Insurance Company to the Alliance Assurance Company seems a suitable occasion on which to recognise the valuable services of the Secretary Mr I Francis, and that a committee be formed to collect subscriptions for the same." (Applause.) Mr Edwards (continuing), said that outside the Directors he did Iwt thirok IHI] one tlad a better opportunity of forming an opinion of a secretary than (he auditors. He had occupied that position for years,, and be had always admired Mr Francis as a man of integrity, uprightness, and activity. (Hear, hear.) He bad learned outside that Mr Francis had been connected with the Company for thirty-five years, the best period of any man's life. (Applause.) He should be very glad if a committee could be formed to show Mr Francis how very deeply they appreciated his past services. Mr John Bury had much pleasure in seconding the motion, and said if Mr Edwards would allow himself to be one of the honorary secretaries of the fund he should be happy to act as the other. (Applause.) The resolution was then carried unanimously. Sir Robert Cunlifie, in moving a vote of thanks to the Chairman, saii it was not an ordinary vote of thanks upon that occasion. They were holiling their last meeting as a Company, and he did think, speak. ing as one of 1,111 colleagues, and having had or- portunities of witnessing hit3 conduct aa cbairmaa at their meetings, that they were indebted to Mr Kyrke in no slight degree for the ability, temper, courte-y, and other good qualities which be had exhibited in his capacity as chairman. Mr Thomas Bury, in warmly seconding the resnlu. tiou, said Mr Kyike a!ways spoke so modestly of tdmeelf and his sei vices thst he WIIB much pleased Sir Robeit Cutiliff-a had embraced the present oppor- tunity of paying a hearty trit)uit ) t 1 Mr Kyrke's past services, which he thought was the very least thing they c luhl d", (Applause,) The resciuc on was then carried unanimously. Mr J. K. Powell moved a warm vote of thanks to the officrs of the Company for their past services. It was tbeit duty to lecoKiiise tile services of those man who had practically built up tleir business during the last fifteen years. (Applause.)—The motion having been seconded by the Chairmar, and unanimously adopted, .L_ -11.- __L_3.L- me imairman BMH lie wished to express HH tnansa to .tir Robeit Cunliffe for the very fliitirinl terms in which he had spoken of him. He had done hia bett for t ;e institutior, with which he had now been con- nectsd for thirty-aeven years, and he had followed all iti tortur-ee. (lleur, hear.) Befoie Bitting doWU he wished t ) remedy one important omission he had made, viz., to acknowledge the great services rendered to them in connection with t'leir new arrangements by Sir Evan Morris, the truetid friend of both patties, and t irou^h whose inst umentality everything had gone off nmootidy, and every point and corner bad been satisfact irily rounded off. (Applause.) Mr Frances, in reptying to Mr Powell's resolution, said it was a painful position ia which they had placed him tlit. t day, but it wou'd not be justice to the gentlemen who had c-upported him, with a devotednese that could not be excelled by any staff of any In- surance Company in the kingdom—(hear, hear)—if be were to let the meeting pass without paying tribute to the support and assistance he had received from them. The difficulty, however, which he experienced was in selecting, because, from the newest and least capable of assisting iiim, up to the oldest member on the staff, there had hten nothing but devotion and zeal. (Ap- plause ) lie owed this more especially to Mr Wake- ford—(applause)—in whose presence he would not say what Mr Kyrke had thought proper to say of him (the Speaker). He beuged to acknowledge the kind resolution just passed. He would not say they did not deserve their thanks; they had stri ven to deserve their thllnks-(he:u', hear)—and in doing that they felt that they were doing eonietliiiir more than simply earning their salary, as he had often said there. He would not give anything for a man who simply worked for his salary and iiotliiiig elie. (Applause.) Its again, on beh-tlf of the -t ff and hiuiaeif, tendered them his best thanks for their kind vote. 'J lie bu-unfsi of the meeting then terminated.

FATAL ACCIDENT AT FFRWD COLLIERY. A shocking fatility occurred at Ffrwd Colliery on Saturday morning. A brakesman, Hugh Randies, was loweiiug a wagon down a line of Dletas (0(1 a three chain curve, the gradient being 1 in 18) to change a wagon that was standing loaded at one of the screens In bringing it down he evidently forgot a close place that he had to pass at the lower pit stage, and continutd sitting on the brake lever until lie got to it. He the 11 appears to have sprung forward just as the wagon had proceeded on to a greater curve, and to closed itself within five inches of the wall, bad y crushing his head, killing hitn instantly. Had the poor fellow remained on the lever he Would pro- bably have got through with a slight crush, as there were 102 Inches of room between the lever and the wall. In cuitiequencd of his being kiled at this point there was no one to control the wagon, and it ran on at an increased speed for fourteen yards fu ther, dashing into the loaded wagons at the screen, and knocking off an unfortunate man named John Barkley. who was finishing off the top of the loading, and tunning over One of his legs, cut it completely off. Baikley is progressing favorably in the Infirmary. An ir q,ie,t was lie;(i at the Qlteen Inn, BrytnOo, on Monday, before the Coroner (Mr B. H. Thelwall.) Mr J. L. Uediey, Assistant Government Inspector of Mines, was preset.t Tiie Coroner said the body waa t iken to the nearest public-house, and be apDointed the inquest to be held where the body was tiken. fhe relatives, however, took t'ie b.)dy home witiout hia fti t'lority, t IUS causing a consi Ierable amount of t oubie, as it was taken into the beat of another officer, and a fresh place had to be selected at which to ho!d the inquest. Ha mentioned this with the view of a similar thing being prevented in the future. Mr W. Millington, certificated manager of the Firwd Collury, produced a plan of the place where t ie accident took place, and said hi knew the deceased, who wati a brakesman employed at the colliery. On Siturday he was bringing an empty wagon to take the place of a full one. which was under the coal screens, and while siting on the brake was crushed between a wall and the wagon. The wall was about fourteen yards from the screens. Deceased had only been employed as an actual brakesman for a week, but had done the work before. Deceased ought to have got the engine to take the wag.'ui down, as he had control of the engine. He had had a circular from Mr liall calling attention to places of the kind where t;»e accident occurred, but be did not think that this place was dangerous. The distance between the wagon and the wall was about ten inches, but the line was a three chain curve, and the distance between the wall and the latter part of the wagon as it papsed would be only five inches. The gradient was 1 in 18. George Griffiths, engine driver, eaid on Saturday morning. abjut 11 30, he saw the deceased riding on the lever of the brake of a wagon, nhich was coming a little quicker than ut:ul, about four yards from the wdl where he was killed. He had never seen de. ceased ride on the broke past the wall, And he ought to have pinned down the brake before he got to that place, and then walked in front. He thought that the dt:c-n-ed knew the wagon was going quicker than usual, and would bump into another wagon on which a man was working, and to prevent this be sat upon the brake longer than usual to press it down. He did n, t se how deceased caught the wall, as the wagon prevented him. He had looked at the brake, and it was all riyht. He had dometime8 taken wagons down with the engine when they had poor brakes on. on Mr J. L. Hediey said this was a sort of accident that happened only too frequently, and about two yettrii ago a cilcnlar was sent round to the collieries calling the attention of the owners and managers to such places. It was a pity that nothing had been done to this wall, and then this accident would not have happened. The jury returned a verdict of "accidental death.'

BARON HUDDLESTON. Baron Huddleston denies he has any intention of resigning h:3 seat on the Bench.

PENDING ELECTIONS. Tha candidates for North St. Pancras were nomi- nated this morning as follows :—Mr Thomas Henry Boltjn, Gladstotiian Liberal Mr Harry It. Graham, Conservative and Mr John Leighton, Independent Unionist. The polling is next Tuesday. Mr George Leveson Gower, Liberal candidate for Stoke-on-Trent-, issued his address this morning. He advocatts Home Rule for Ireland, Welsh disestablish- merit, and free education. Mr Shapherd Allen is the probable Conservative candidate.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. SIR W. W. WYNl"'$ HOUNTS. Monday, Match anI. Petton Park Tuesday, Mnrch 4th. Llai Smithy Tliuisday, March tjth Brynypva At 11. Saturday, March Sth .Brou2,hal Smithy At In.:Ju. THE VALE OF CLWYD HARRIERS. Satuiday, M;i:ch lat LUndyrnog6 At 11. THE FLINT AND DENBIGH HOUNDS Tuesday. March 4th fleupys, uear Uanfa r Friday, NfLtrch 7th Egryn Milir near Oroes At lL VALE OF LLANGOLLEN BEAGLES. Satu diy, March 1st Brynffynnon Wednesday, March 5th Pentred?r Saturday. March Sth Fingerpost. GIvu Hm Saturday. il-kreh Sth At H.. THE SHROPSHIRE HOUNDS. Monday, March 3rd Twemlowe At 11. Tuesday, March Ith At 111.30. Thursday, March 6th Shawbury Village Friday, i*larch 7th ',hawbury Village Friday, March 5th Milestone, Baschurch Road At 11.

Ask your Grocer or Baker for THE THBEB ROLLER FLOUR, THE Two STABS ROLLEB FLOUB, THE ONE STAR ROLLER FLOUR, which is FUBK and maufactured upon the Hungarian System of milling from the Finest Wheats obtainable.— Alun Flour Mills, Mold. 515