Wrexham and Denbighshire Advertiser and Cheshire Shropshire and North Wales Register

Mli. ami MRS. HUGHES, 3, Osborne ?_ L riact'. Wr-xham, dc?ira to tender their  :? tii. ir fric? .?K f«>r the kiud sympathy shown La tiie-lu in their recent bereavement.

In cur war news we give several letters from ¡ ice-u soldiers. I Tlia sale ol property, at Leeawood, held at Chester, on Tuesday, was the scene of an unusual incident. The less and recovery of a parcel of plans engaged the attention of the Borough Magistrates, at Wre-kani, on Monday. I The young Duke of Westminster is coming home from the war, but will return when the II Iinperi.il Yeomanry go out. The Chief Constable for Denbighshire informed the St-.mrling Joint Committee, on Friday, that four mem bers of the force are now on active ¡ 38 rviL-e III South Africa. The annual meeting of the Cheshire Milk Producers' Association, of which there are many msmbers iu Denbighshire, was held at Crewe, on I Monday. Mr Caradog Roberta, of Rhos, has earned the I valuable degree of F.R.C.O. The examination, as the reader will sec on reading the report given elsewhere, is severe. At a meeting of the Coal Conciliation Board, held in London, on Tuesday, an advance of five per c"rit. was conceded to the men, and the Board was continued until 1904. A number of carol singers have been before the I magistrates, at Ruabon, and have been fined, i They were charged with being on licensed premises during prohibited hours. John Richards, aged thirty-eight years, of Ruabon, was killed about one p.m. on Monday by being crushed between the buffers of a coal train in the siding at Wynnstay Colliery. The annual meeting of the Wrexham Nursin g Society was held in the Baptist Chapel, Chester- street, Wrexham, on Friday evening. The reports presented showed that the society is increasing its usefulness. I George Jones, janr., aged nineteen years, of Brymbo. after drinking with friends most of the day on 1 uesday, quarrelled with a nam named John Shone, of Bryn-road, and died iu the road soon after the latter left him. On Friday evening a meeting was held in the science Class-room, Guildhall, Wrexham, for the purpose of forming a book club in connection with the Wrexham Free Library. Over sixty subscribers have been secured. At the Wrexham County Magistrates' Court on Monday, Heury Gillam, labourer, of Rossett, I was committed for trial &t the Rutbm Assizes, j on ? charge of perjury committed at a. recent inquest at Rossett. Bail was allowed. A case of robbery, at Penyffordd Railway Station, was conEidered at Mold Police Court, on Monday. William Roberts, accused of opening a box left at the station by a passenger and stealing various articles, was sent to prison for one month. f At a parish meeting held at Marchwiel, last wetk, to discuss the Parochial Charities, it was ¡ reported that there was a balance in hand of £ 153 16J 9J, as compared with £ 166 16-A 9;1 the previous year. The income by dividend from Consols amounted to E823 33 5d, and the expenditure amounted to C799 19,3 5d. An Admirable Idea. Through the energy of Mr George Frater, the honorary secretary of the Free Library Committee, a Book Club has been established in Wrexham, which shows every jJrrcm; o of becoming a successful institution. The idea of the club is to circulate new publica- tic,n amongst the subscribers, and afterwards to rcplemsli the Free Library with these volumes. ••nnjilir clubs to that inaugurated in Wrexham have proved a success in other towns, and fc'rj is every prospect of such being the case litre, seeing that after the inaugural meeting over sixty subscribers had been secured. A separate -00m is being set apart for the club by the Free Library Committee, and it is hoped to have the uQoks in circulation by the beginning of February 0 Wrexham Nursing Society. The Wrexham Nursing Society has completed another year of its existence, and it is pleasing to note that its beneficient in- fluence is on the increase. The i'er.orti; presented at the annual meeting last Friday showed that Nurse Wilson had paid more visits during the past twelve months than in any previous year since the society was inaugurated. l'racticul acknowledgment of her services had oten received from the patient?, tome of whom bad contributed what Bmall sums they could Eif,rd to the funds of the society. The com- mittee have had in contemplation the extension of the work by the employment of an additional llur"c, but tliio lias been found impracticable at the present moment, on account of the financial state of the institution. Through last year's forking the balance in hand was reduced by &.oont Z2. No doubt, however, this fact only oetds pointing out for the subscription list to be improved, and possibly a year hence the com- mittee will be able to carry out the extension scheme. We publish a letter, written by a stranger, who was at the meeting referred to. The writer regrets the presence of narrow sectarianism in the movement, but this must surely be a mistake. The society is an offspring of the Nonconformist churches of the town, but in no instance is any case refused, whatever the creed of the patient. This seems to have escaped the notice of Well-wisher." If this is not what is meant, then we fail to follow the thread of the argument. We think that the Free Churches would be thankful to hear much more about the society than they do. The falling off in the funds is no doubt due to the want of publicity, and the committee would find a generous public quite willing to help if they only knew how and when. Milk Producers. The importance of milk as an article of food is admitted by all. There are many who sell it, and the existence of the Cheshire Milk Producers' Association shows that there is among the farmers a spirit of unity, which is extremely significant. Milk sellers have difficulties to contend with which can only be overcome by organisation. We hope that soon the agriculturists will recognise that in other things, as well as iu the sale of milk, unity is strength. There are many Denbighshire and Flintshire farmers. who are members of the Association, of which Mr Jas. Sadler, Botterly Hill, Nantwicli, is the secretary. We hope those who are interested will read the repurt of the Association, which shows that already it has done useful work. To our mind, its utility is not confined to milk only. There are many matters upon which farmers ought to unite, but hitherto) the difficulty has been to get them to fuse their interests. Better things are perhaps in store. ————— 0 ————— A Four Years Peace. On Tuesday, the Conciliation Board which governs wages in the arer. covered by the Miners' Federation of Great Britain, met in London. The North Wales Owners were represented by Mr Henry Dennis, and the men by Mr E. Hughes, the agent for the North Wales Federation. The result has been to confrm the decisions arrived at in December. The men will receive an increase of 5 per cent. This increase applies to the underground men, but it is recom. mended that the same advance should be given to those employed above ground also. This advance shows that the coal trade is flourishing, and to us who are in this distict so largely dependent upon the prosperity of the coal mines, the news is good. The London meeting also decided to con- tinue the Conciliation Board until January 1st, 1904, and perha.ps this is most welcome of all. It means that until that date—and let U3 hope for long after-we shall be spared the prospect of a wages dispute in our great industry. The outlook is extremely satisfactory, and indicates a state of great national prosperity. Carol Singing. From the report of the Ruabon Petty Sessions it will be seen that the carol singers in the vicinity of Ilhos and Ponkey have fallen upon hard days. Time was when the close of the carol was followed by the opening of the house door. A great fire and refreshments of various kinds made the singers welcome, and if the vocalists did siog a trifle flat at the end of the visit, it was generously attributed to the severe frost or the keen wind. Now-a-days such a visit, if paid to mine hoste," is liable to be followed by police proceedings. In one case Mr Benjamin Williams took an active part, and set the officers of the law at work. We fear that either Mr Williams has no ear for music, or the singing must have been quite below the standard of the country, that he should have so seriously treated the custom. It seems, according to the judgment of the Rua.bon justices, that a publican may not be serenaded by carolists, or if he be, he may, should the hour be late, offer his grateful thanks through a window, and even give money, but the offer of refreshments is not to be thought of. Perhaps, after all, considering the average quality of the carol singing, a poor defenceless person, retired to slumber, and unwiliing to rise, might offer his sircere opinion to the astonished con- sideration of the singers—perhaps, for such a person, the decision of the magistrates is based on equity at least. Charity at Marchwiel. The annual meeting in con- nection with the Marchwiel Parochial Charities affords food for many interesting reflections It is primarily pleasing to observe that the aged and the infirm are so well provided for. When we consider that the highest state of Society is that in which the chances of the life of the children are greatest, where parental care of the offspring is least hindered, where parents are allowed to give proper attention to the rearing of children, and where the declining years of the people are a source of pleasure through association with their offspring—when we think of these things, we are reminded that there are features about parochial charities which make them preferable to the present system of poor-law administration. The avowtd objects of the Marchwiel Charities are (1) to relieve the aged, (2) to assist needy widows, (3) to alleviate the sick, and (4) to ease the burden of large families. With such high aims before us the only question to consider is the efficiency of the distribution of relief. We quite agree with Mr A. Payton, that if there were more working men on the Parish Council the chances are that the monev would be disbursed in more deserving quarters because it is for the unfortunate of this class that the money is intended. Mr Robert Price, referring to a case where a man who was a member of several club", and yet obtained more relief than other people at Christmas because he was ill, said he did not blame the trustees for giving the sick man the money. Indeed, he encouraged such a course. We, however, s-liou!d like to state that to assist those who do not really need help would be con- trary to the object cf the Charities, as laid down by Mr Price himt-elf. Moreover, we take it that the man who ha= joined friendly combinations of workmen is endowed with a fair proportion of that altruism which industrialism fosters, and that he is a member of his friendly society because he feels too proud to be a burden upon his fellows.

-u_. J WAR AND PARLIAMENT. Since the arrival of Lord Roberts and Lord Kitchiner in South Africa, there has been an almost complete suppression of news from the front. At best, rumours, based upon an official despatch of the briefest and mott formal kind, have had to be re-dished and presented to an anxious pablic. This sort of thing went on for Jays, and until the tension bad become unbearable. It was with unspeak- able relief that on Thursday we learned that very important movements had taken place during the time of silence. General Buller and Sir Clias. Warren have passed over the River Tugela, and it is said that some of our men are very close to Ladysmith. The official Jcapatch declares the Boers to be strongly entrenched, and of course this means severe fighting. Lord Methuen is on the move, ¡i but, of his intentions, it is impossible to glean any information. There come reports of dis- affection among the enemy, but how far these I tidings can be relied upon, it is difficult to say. But it is correct to say that our position in South Africa is better and more hopeful than it has been since the first shot was fired. I Of great interest and importance to all is the announcement that Parliament meets on the 30th inst.-Tuesday week—and then the Government and the Opposition will be face to face for the discussion of many things. At present, as every Liberal knows, the Opposition is not disposed to raise serious '^ates upon the war. Sir Henry Fowler, Si- dwftrd Grey, Mr Asquith, to say nothing of Lurd Rosebery, and the leader of the Opposition, Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman, i have adopted the only possible position, which is to refrain from harrassing the Government at a time when it is face to faoe with a serious national struggle, but there are not want. ing signs that while giving the Govern- ment all the supplies needed, the Opposition will not refrain from plain speaking and direct voting, if necessary To those of the Liberal Party who hold that the present war has been forced on by injudicious negotiation, the position is a difficult one, and they may justly ask, Why should we be silent while wrong is being done ?" The moral position is unassailable it is true, but in the present temper of the country, counsels of perfection will be wasted. When the country went crazy at the time of the time of the Crimean War, John Bright kept protesting with all the energy and all the overpowering eloquence and paihos of his silvern tongue. What happened ? He was hooted in his own constituency, and the strain of the contest caused his health to be seriously impaired. Those who object to the present war have, we greatly fear, as little chance as had John Bright, of turning the tide which is now running so strong. By and by there will come a lull, and in those days the people who objected to this war, who object to all wars. and who believe that the path of true Imperialism is one of peace then these people will have an opportunity of speaking, and they will be listened to. One of the first duties which Parliament will have to discharge will be to provide more money for the war chest. Already ten million pounds sterling have been voted by the country. All this has gone, and more. The consequence is that another large vote wilt be asked for. This is not the time to quibble about money, but it is just as well to note that war is an extremely expensive way of settling a quarrel. Among some of the questions which will have to be considered, after the war, will be an inquiry into the state of our Army and its con- trol. The war has taxed the resources of this country most severely and is taxing us still. We pay for cur land forces and fixed defences alone forty-three millions sterling every year. This is a huge sum, and it exceeds by three millions sterling the yearly amount which France pays for both her Navy and for her Army. And no one will say, after what has happened that this country is getting anything like its money's worth. The nation has never been niggardly in the way it has supported the Army. We hope now that our representa- tives who have charge of the purse will see that the money shall be properly spent, and that the nation obtains value for its important investment. It is not a bit too soon to com- mence the work of investigation, and the early meeting of Parliament will afford an opportunity for beginning the task. There is another matter connected with the Army which seems to be in a most curious position. It is the supreme control of our land fighting machine. Time was when the Secretary of State for War was the head of the Army, but now a change has been made. One of the best of our Generals-Lord Wolseley —has been made Commander-in-Chief, and we all hoped that this would lead to greater efficiency, but the creation of the Committee of National Defence has made a situation, which is, to say the least, most remarkable- This committee consists of Lord Salisbury' Mr Balfour, Lord Lansdowne, the Duke of Devonshire, and Mr Goschen. These gentle- men are, no doubt, most estimable men, but they are not soldiers. Yet, they can, and they have, without consultation with Lord Wolselcy, given orders in connection with the South African war, which, may or may not have been wise. Surely when diplomacy has failed, and the Army is asked to take up the discussion, the responsible Chief of the Army ought to have a very important share in the arrangement of the campaign. These state- ments are made by a I- well informed corres- pondent," who points out that the Committee of National Defence made many alterations in the plans of the war, and suggests that blame, which is being bestowed upon our Generals, should in all fairness, fall upon the statesmen at home. There is very ample food for re- flection in the statements made by the corres- pondent. If ever there was an overwhelming case for investigation and reform, the nation has it for the Reform of the War Office and the Army.

WREXHAM. I MINE MANAGERS' EXAMINATION-.—Mr H. Percy I Harris, of Wrexham, passed the recent examina- tion for a mine manager's certificate in the first class. PABISn Cnuncu, Sunday.—Organ recital at six p.m. by Mr Frank Pullein, A.R.C.O. :—Minuet and Trio (Bennett) Toccata in G (Dubois) Pastorale (MacMaster) Invocation (Salome). NOTICE OF REMOVAL.—We observe that the old- established business of Mr J. Lloyd, cabinet maker and upholsterer, Chester-street, is to be removed, after the 25th day of March, to No. 21, Town-hill, late in the occupation of Messrs R. and T. Sauvage, drapers. ST. MARK'S CHUKCH.—At 11 a.m. on Sunday there will be choral celebration of Holy Com- munion to Barnby and Page hymns, 320 and 324. At Evensong the service will be Barnby in E anthem, Praise the Lord (Garrett) hymns, 298, 277, and 257. Orgau recital by Mr C. Morton Bailey, Mas. Bac., F.R.C.O.Conce-t overture in C (W. T. Best), The Question and Answer (Wolstenholme), Legendi in C (Dvorak), Grand Chceur in A (Salome.) THE MINEKS' AGENT.—Mr Edward Hughes, the miners' agent for North Wales, had an excellent reception a Abercyun, on Friday evening, where he addressed a meeting of the men on the benefit arising from the federation of miners. He denounced in unmeasured terms the action of the South Wales men in contracting out of the Work- men's Compensation Act. The speech of Mr Hughes in their own mother tongue appeared to have a great effect on the workmen. ST. JAMES'S THEATIIE.—To-night (Friday) and io-morrow, January 19th and 20th, Messrs Bancroft and Rutlancl's Company, will appear in the celebrated play Her Wedding Day, includ- ing Mr C. James Bancroft, so well-known as The Private Secretarv." Mr Edward Graham Falcon's Company will present the new and original up-to-date pantomine "Aladdin," on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, January 25th, 26th, and 27th, with a matinee on Saturday. BILLIARDS.—A friendly encounter between representatives of the top and bottom rooms was decidad at the Reform Club, on Tuesday. The top room representatives won by a majority of 157 points. BOTTOM ROOM. TOP ROOM. Mr W. a. Stephenson 100 .NlrP.. Owen-Jones. 97 Mr James Fra-er leo Mr Harry Jones 93 Mr It. T. Joties 72 Mr T. Yates loo Mr S. Ilritcbard 100 Air George Seddon 98 Mr W. Martin 87 Mr L. HaDDier 100 Mr T. %N'. I-luiiiphreyb 48 Mr G. Buchanan 100 Mr James Jones 72 Mr Joseph Wilson.. 100 Mr A. C. Williams. 87 Mr B. Rowlands 100 Mr F. SteveLis 65 Mr W. Y. Bryne 103 „ 731 888 BDDDEN DEATH.—Ibe Wrexham police report the sudden death of William Edwards, aged eixty-four years, of 35, Nelscn-street, Wrexham, which took place on Wednesday. Information was received at noon from a man named Robert Parry, of 34, Nelson-street, that Edwards had been found dead in his house. Deceased was fully dressed at the time. It appears that he was last Eeen alive by his daughter, Mrs Davies, of 18, Victcria-rcad, at 9.30 the previous evening. Deceased then seemed to be in his usual state of health, although he was infirm, and had been 1 attended by Dr. Evans, of Egerton-street. The death has been reported to the coroner, but no inquest will be held. PENYBRYN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, SALISBURY PARK.—As will be seen from our advertisement columns, the Rev. Peris Williams, the popular minister of the Welsh church, Queen-street, will preach in English in this church next Sunday. SUCCRsi.-We are pleased to notice that Mr James P. Hodge, who is articled to Mr W. D. Haswell, of Chester, has successfully passed the Intermediate Examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants held in London in December last. FOR OUR SOLDIERS.-On Friday, a dance was held at Abenbury Church-room, when there was a large attendance, and a very pleasant evening was spent. The proceeds, amounting to 15, have been handed to Major Dunn for the benefit of soldiers now in South Africa and their wives and families. THE INFIRMARY.—The matron acknowledges eratefully the following gifts :Toys from the Misses Palin, Crescent House scrapbooks from Miss Cotton, Erbistock Hall, Master Hargreaves, and Master and Miss Leadbetter apples from Captain Barker jam and dolls' house from Mrs Townshend, Trevalyn vegetables from Mr P. Yorke, On January 10ch a magic lantern I entertainment was kindly given by the Rev. R. J. Hopkins. Medicine bottles are most greatly needed. P.S.A.—The speaker at the P.S.A. in connec- tion with the Wesleyan Chapel last Sunday was the Rev. Hugh Edwards, of Newtown. His sub- ject was Living or life, which ? and in the course of his address he pointed out that whilst everyone recognised the necessity of seeking a good living, few recognised the necessity of seek- ing a good life. Mr W. Aston presided, and Misn Thomas sang Entreat me not to leave Thee and Jesus lover of my soul" (Pritchard). Mr Jacob Edwards, of Rhos, contributed Lead kindly light." Next Sunday's speaker will be Mr Mr A. J. Cook, B.A., recently returned from South Africa, whilst Mrs Kirkham Jones, of Cefn, has promised to sing "He was despised" and There is a green hill." THE KORTH WALES REPOSITORY.—Frank Lloyd and Sons hold their opening sales for the year in the above repository next week. The catalogue is a large one, and contains an entry of over 800. On Tuesday, January 23rd, the first day of the sale, will be offered 160 high-class harness horses (including twelve match pairs) also eighty valuable hunters, and six fillies and colts from the Eaton stud. Wednesday's sale will comprise 280 small harness horses, show cobs and ponies, including many prize winners. On Thursday, the last day of the sale. 300 heavy town, lurry, and young horses will be offered. These certainly will be worthy the attention of brewers, team- owners, and others. Full particulars will be found in our advertising columns. I.O.G.T.—On Wednesday evening, a supper and entertainment were given to the members of Prohibition Ledge and their friends, at the Baptist Mission-room, Bradley-road. Bro. the Rev. M. O. Evans presided over quite a large gathering, and explained the object of the meeting as twofold. First, to bring the members a little closer together at the beginning of the new year; and secondly, to follow up the work of the successful mission conducted by Mrs Walker, and especially to arrange for the visiting of those who had sigoed the pledge in due course. Among those who took part in the entertainment were the fallowing:—Singers Misses Smith, Annie Baker, Matilda Jones, Minnie Jones, Gertrude Jones, Bro W. Phillips accompanists: Miss K. Suther- land, Bro. E. Stant speakers: Bros. R. H. Smallwcod, J. Phillips, and Inskeep; reciters: Bros. W. Barker, A. Ecclestone, T.. Pugh. The catering was done by Mr A. Ecclestone, Bradley- road, who was ably assisted by Sisters Mrs Barker, Mrs Bevan, and Mrs Williams. All the arrange- ments were excellent. A hearty vote of thanks to the chairman brought a very pleasant and stccessful evening to a ciose. THE GLOBE, BEGEN-T-STREET.-It affords us much pleasure to note another improvement in our street architecture in the alteration to BrynvfFynon House, Regent-street. The building was originally erected for a bank, with large house over and at the back, and one familiar with the original building would be surprised at the improvement which has been so skilfully carried out, more especially when one takes into account the massiveness of the old work. The irregular form of the old building and heavy walls called for more than ordinary attention and care on behalf of the builder, Mr W. E. Samuel, who has executed the work without the slightest mishap and in a thoroughly workman- like manner. There are five large cellars in the I basement, with light front and back. The shop i. thirty-three feet wide by forty feet deep, with showroom over of the same size, both well 11 lighted, and on the second floor there are three large stock rooms, all connected with broad stair- case and large hoist, at the back the house re- maining intact. The front is very artistic having moulded and corbelled stone joints, twisted iron columns and dented and bracketted cornices. The shop window is glazed with three-eighth inch plate, the showroom -veer with one-quarter plate, while the door and are glazed with bevelled plate glass, landrilg or angular portions glazed w cut plate. The front has been deco Mr Henry Samuels, and the whole under the direction of Mr M. J. Gut I.B.A., for the late Mr Evan Richards awn, who, unfortunately died before f completion of the work. The new pre: e occupied by Messrs R. Owen-Jo; :o.. House Furnishers, and an annouc ears in our advertising columns. BRYMRO SCHOOL BOARD. present Messrs T. Charles (chairin coxson, T. Williams, and E. Giles.—T A. Jones, viiar of Bwlchgwvn, wrote lis inability to attend owing to ill-he Attendance Officer reported the attenda bo children at the National School, Br ;he year as follows:—Boys, 82, six pe Is, 78, eight per cent. infants, 74, s nt. At the Vron mixed school the average attendance was I 137, being eighty-three per cent. of the total on the register; at Vron Infants the average attend- ance was fifty-seven, being seventy-nine per cent. i of the names on the register. The Bwlchgwyn attendance was eighty-five per cent. of the total on the register.—The Head Master of ths Vron mixed school reported the average attendance to be 214, and the Head Master of Bwlchgwyn School reported the attendance to be 216.—The visitors to Bwlchgwyn School recommended the removal of the gallery in the infants' department, as recommended by Mr Roberts, H M.I., and the purchase of Kindergarten desks; also, that further desk accommodation be furnished in the room.—The report of H.M. Inspector for the Vron School was read and considered. The renort is very satisfactory. Of the mixed school it savs that it is in exceedingly good order, and is taught with great zeal and energy by Mr Jones and his staff. I was particularly pleased at the competent way in which the pupil teachers handled large classes." In reference to the infants' department, the report states that they are bright and cheerful, and show interest in their work. I was glad to notice that answering in complete sentences is bein" encouraged on object lessons. Good methods arc- used generally, but some parts of the work have suffered during the year from the closing of the school." The total grant to the mixed department is JE361 28 9d, being educa- tional grant, C53 2a 9d, and fee grant, 9108. The infants' department has earned examination grant, iE79 18s, and fee grant, 245, total, JEI24 18s. Both schools have earned the full maximum grant on each subject.—The Inspector called attention to the want of further desk accommodation in the mixed school, and pointed out that the attendance must be reduced, or the general accommodation increased. These matters were referred to a com- mittee of the whole board. BOOK CLUB.—With the object of forming a book club in connection with the Wrexham Free Library, a general meeting was held in the Science Class Room, Guildhall, Wrexham, on Friday evening. There were present :—Mrs Richard Evans, Mra Rowland, Mrs Caldecott, Miss Davies (Plas Darland), Messrs W. Aston, Jarman, Reid, J. Francis, Brockbank, Heyward, Fry, and Cooper, Rev. E. Worthington Powell, Dr. Moss, Mr F. Meredith-Jones, and others, with Mr Geo. Frater, hon. secretary of the Free Library Committee. In the circular convening the meeting it was stated :—" A proposal has been made to form a, book club for Wrexham, I similar to those which have proved very success- ful at Dundee and Hereford. The books in the subscription club are to be supplied at the Free Library daring the ordinary circulating library hours to members in rotation, in the order in which the books may be applied for. As in the other clubs above referred to, it is proposed that the books selected from time to time shall be mostly such as have been very recently published, and that (subject, as may be hereafter agreed, to the right to reserve a small percentage) the books which shall have been in use by the club for twelve months to be transferred to the Free Library. The Free Library Committee pro- pose to place the books in a separate room, to which subscribers shall have access." Mr F. Meredith-Jones was elected to preside. The draft rules of the proposed club, to be called the --Wrexham Book Club," were adopted. Messrs John Francis, J. H. Beecroft, and Mrs Caldecott were put on the committee to the club, to represent the Free Library Committee whilst Mrs Acton, Miss Davies, Messrs F. Meredith-Jones, Brock- bank, and Wykes, and the Rev. G. T. Sadler were elected on the committee to represent the Book Club. Mr G. Frater was appointed hon. secre- tary for the first year. At the close of the meet- ing, the secretary received the nanfes of 85 ladies and gentlemen as members of the club. Others, it was stated, would be welcomed, as the greater the number, the greater would be the success of the club. The committee hope to be ready for the issue of books by the 1st of February. A small room at the end of the public reading-room, hitherto used as a store-room, is being fitted with shelves, and will be placed at the service of the club by the Free Library Committee. VICTOR HUGo.- On Friday, under the presi- dency of Miss Evans, Chester-street, Miss Wordsworth (Wrexham Board School) read a thoughtful and extremely interesting paper before the members of the Hill-street Literary Society upon Les Miserables." THE POLICE CONCERT.—We invite the attention of our readers to the announcement of the concert which is to be held in the Public Hall on Wednesday, in aid of the Police Orphanage. An extremely good programme has been provided, and the artistes are well known. We owe much to our police, who keep watch and ward over us at all times, and are exposed to many risks. Everyone is helping Tommy, but Robert deserves our assistance, and those who so desire can help by taking tickets for Wednesday's concert. PRESENTATIONS.—On Sunday afternoon, the Vicar of Rhosddu (the Rev. D. Stanley Davies) presided at an interesting gathering in St. James's Sunday School, the occasion being the presenta- tion of a table to Mrs Eyton-Jones, a former teacher, who has jast been married, and a Bible to Mr P. H. Wykes, formerly hon. secretary of the school, who is now at Oxford, having gained an open scholarship at Balliol College. Mrs Turner presented the table to Miss M. Dodd, a sister of Mrs Eyton-Jones, and Mrs Stanley Davies handed the Bible to Mr Wykes. Mr Wykes made an appropriate response. SOIREE D.A.SA.TE.-On Friday evening, the annual soiree dansante was held in St. James's Schoolroom, Rhosddn, the proceeds this year being in aid of tha funds of the Rhosrobin National Schools. The room was most tastefully decorated by Mr J. Lupton and a number of willing helpers. Dancing was kept up for over six hours, to the strains of Mr Moore's band. Messrs R. L. Ellis and Lupton proved very Eilicient M.C. 's. The refreshments were provided by a committee of ladies, and were laid out in the classroom. The gathering was pronounced a most successful one. WBEXHAM AXD DISTRICT FANCIERS' ASSOCIATION. -We beg to call the attention of our readers to the forthcoming exhibition of prize poultry, pigeons, cage birds, rabbits, and cavies, which will be held in the Public Hall, on Friday and Satarday, the 26th and 27ih inst. The last great combined show which the above society held caused a great surprise to all who visited it, as such a collection of prize pets had never been seen in Wrexham before. We are given to ucderstand that there will be a laige number of splendid specimems of the different varieties at this next show, many of them being well-known winners at the leading exhibitions throughout the country, including Bingley Hall, Birmingham, the London Dairy Show, and the Crystal Palace. Well-known judges have been engaged, a number of special prizes have been presented by friends of the association, and the committee trust that all loverg of "fur and feather will give the show their hearty support. The entries close to- day, the 20th inst. Mr Job Mason, the hon. secretary, will be pleased to receive names for membership and to give any further information that may be required. THE HECEXT week's Temperance Mission organized by the Wrexham Temperance League, concluded on Fridav last, when Mrs Walker delivered her popular lecture entitled Womens rights, place and power Dr E. D. Evans J. P. who presided, in his introductory remarks referrc-d to the various avenues of work and usefulness which were being opened out to women, and to their advance in the scientific and professional world. Mrs Walker at the outset of her address gave no indication of the orator to follow, but having unfolded her prefatory remarks she for upwards of an hour completely enthralled the audience with a magnificent address, surpass- ing in power and brilliancy, as expressed by a local professional gentleman present, of great intellectual attainment, any address by it lady to which he had ever listened. The manner in which the power of Mrs Walker increased night after night was remarkable. One gentleman remarked to the writer, after hearing the preliminary lecture on Saturday :—" Yes, she is a good speaker, very good, but she is not the 11 Queen of Orators." A few days later, however, he observed .-I, I must apologise for my remarks the other day. The address ou Thursday night was truly wonder- ful, and she is undoubtedly the finest lady orator in this country." The results of the mission surpassed expectation. The crowded attendance during the week testified to the appreciation of the public, and the number of pledges taken exceeded 250. Hopes are widely expressed that the committee will endeavour to secure a return visit from Mrs Walker in the near future. Before departing from Wrexham, Mrs Walker expressed her appreciation of the magnanimity and open- heartedness of Wrexham people. CONCERT FOR YEOMANRY AND VOLU-NTEEns.-The Reform Club was packed to its utmost capacity on Wednesday evening, when a concert was held, to which the members of the Denbighshire Brigade of Imperial Yeomanry and the 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers were invited, along with the members of the Conservative Club. Many of the Fusiliers attended in their uniform. The chair was occupied by Mr Frank Meredith- Jones, J.P., who made an admirable chairman. The proceedings were commenced by Mr J. F. Edisbury, J.P., starting the National Anthem and Rule, Britannia." An excellent concert followed for nearly three hours, the items being of a high order. Amongst the performers was Mr Bird, who sang The Absent-minded Beggar," to the accompaniment of the harpist aud flautist, who are so well known to Wrexham people. A number of selectionj were also given from the Gaiety Girl" by these two instru- mentalists. Mr Walter Roberts and Mr Harold Davies gave two or three cf their inimitable sketches. The Wrexham Quartette Party also gave a good account of them- selves, and were honoured with several encores. Mr Richard Hughes proved to be in fine voice, and received an enthusiastic welcome. Mr John Roberts, M.R.C.V.S., contributed the Eisteddfod song, and other items were given by friends. On the motion of Mr Edisbury a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the chairman, whilst the members of the club committee were accorded a similar compliment from the guests, on the motion of Mr John Roberts, seconded by Captain J. J. Scott. A vote of thanks to the musical performers, including Mr Crompton, the accom- panist, was proposed by Mr Edisbury, and seconded by the chairman. The proceedings terminated about 11.30 by the singing of the National Anthem. His Worship the Major (Councillor Thomas Jones) was present during part of the evening.

INFLUENZA. IN FLINTSHIRE. The doctors are exceedingly busy just now in Flint- shire with a phenomenal number of cases of influenza. In Holywell, Mold, Buckley, and other places of business, establishments, and works of various kinds are greatly affected by the number of workpeople who are down with the complaint.

THE BANK-RATE. The bank-rate was on Thursday reduced to 4i per cent.

THE LATE DUKE OF WEST- MINSTER'S STUD. We understand that, with the exception of three two-year-old fillies, all the late Duke of West- minster's horses in training will be sold by auction at Kingsclero early in March. A reserve will be pat on Flying Fox. Only the stallions Bend Or and Orme and some of the brood mares are to be retained, and the remainder of the mares and Grey Leg will be sold in the summer.

WYNNSTAY COLLIERIES. A STRIKE AVERTED. The miners of the Wynnstay Collieries, whose notices to terminate contracts ended on Saturday, resumed work on Monday, pending a settlement of the wages dispute between the miners' representa- tives and the coalowners. A strike affecting 1,000 men is thus for the present averted.

FLINTSHIRE AND DENBIGHSHIRE CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION. The quarterly meetings of this Association were held at Holywell on Tuesday and Wednesday, when there was a very large attendance of ministers and delegates, representing upwards of 100 churches. On Tuesday evening the Revs. P. Williams, Wrexham, and R. Roberts, Rhos, preached. On Wednesday the basiness meetings were held under the presidency of Mr Williams, Rhos, the attendance including the Revs. Thomas Roberts. Mold, secretarv; R. Williams (Archdruid of Wales), Llangollen; Dr. Pan Jonen, Moatyn; R. Roberts, Rhos; 0. L. Roberts, Liverpool; Ivor Jonea, Cheater; Lewis, Rhyl; D. Oliver, Holy- well; E. Johnson, Chester, &c. It was decided that the next meeting of the Association beheld at Talwru. The Rev. D. Williams, Soar, and Jonathan Edwards, Rhos, werej received as members of the conference. Rev. O. L. Roberts, Liverpool, one of the secretaries of the Twentieth Century Fund, set before the Con- ference the condition of the fund, and called upon the churches reresented to do their part. The Congrega- tional churches in Wiles had undertaken to raise 120,000. So far S5,000 had come to hand. The Rev. R. Roberts, Rhos, called the attention of the meeting to the removal by death of the Rev. W. Powell, Rhyl, who recently returned to this country from America, and moved a vote of condolence with his family, which was seconded by the Archcrnid.

TO CURE A COLD IN ONE DAY. 1 Take Laxative Bromo Quinine Tablets. All j Druggists refund the money if it fails to care. 1/1 J. The genuine is stamped tJ.B.Q. 2868 The Vinolia Compauy, Limited, which is sending id on each tablet of Vinolia Soap sold, has now sent iE4,200 to the Lord Mayor's Fundi and hopes to make the amount reach at leftst £ ?.5,000. LINSEED COMPOUND" Trade Mark of Compound Essence of Linseed, for Coughs and Colds. 985c

I WREXHAM BOARD OF GUARDIANS. I On Thursday the fortnightly meeting of the I Wrexham Board of Guardians was held, at which there were present :-Captain Griffith-Boscawen, chairman, presiding Miss Jones, the Very Rev. Monsignor Slaughter, Rev. E. R. James, Captain Fenwick, Messrs W. Wilde, G. Clarke, J. Allen, G. Cromar, S. Peate, E. Lloyd Jones, H. Curwen, W. Evans, Watkin Jones, J. Roberts (Minera), Joseph Edwards, J. Roberts (Gwersyllt), T. Lea, Edwin Evans, T. Jones (Esclusham Below), B. Bowen, James Davies, A. E. Evans, G. Heyward, W. H. Lancelott, W E. Samuel, T. B. Taylor, John Edwards, Robert Pritchard, and J. Whiitiagham, with Mr J. Oswell Bury, clerk. Letters of apology for non-attendance were received from Mr Simon Jones (vice-chairman), Mr Jones-Parry, and Mr Wm. Ellis, the. two I former being ill. THE POOR-LAW CONFERENCE. I The Chairman said he was not present at the last meeting of the Board, and he wished to refer to a statement which was then laid before the Board in reference to the proposed re-arrangement and constitution of the Poor-law Conference, and he was very glad to find the Board had not passed a resolution on the matter. There had been some dissatisfaction expressed as to the constitution of the Central Committee, upon which it was formerly competent to include persons who were not mem- bers of the Board oi Guardians, but who had previously been members, and were experts, and whose experience and co-option had been found serviceable. He was very sorry to see that in some places resolutions had been passed to the effect that the Central Committee should be com- posed only of elected guardians and clerks sent up from the various districts, to the exclusion of those other persons to whom he had alluded and he considered any alteration in this respect un- desirable. He might add that he believed that the Central Conference would be held either in February or March. PRESENTS TO THE INMATES. I ) The Master (Mr Cartwright) reported that the i Mayor and Mayoress of Wrexham enter?ained the whole of the inmates to tea on January 5?. I They also provided 2JZ. of tobacco for each man who smoked, and tea and sugar for non-smokers. He had also received presents of magazines and papers from Mr Simon Jones, Grosveuor-road; Mrs Darby, Miss Bewsher, Mr G. Bevan, Mrs Davies, Bryn Off a Miss Jones, Poplr.r-road Mrs Moore, Mrs Thomas, Grosvenor-road Miss Francis, Miss Macrae, and a lady who did not wish to give her name. APPOINTMENT. I Miss Kate Parry attended before tha Board as a candidate for a vacancy on the nursing stalf in the hospital. In reply to the Chairman, she said she could speak Welsh, and, on the motion of Mr Cromar, seconded by Mr T. B. Taylor, she was appointed to fill the vacancy, subject to the sanction of the Local Government Board. NOTICE OF MOTION. I Mr T. B. Taylor said he wished to give notice of motion that he desired to draw the attention of the Board to the inconvenience caused to the out-door poor in consequence of the situation of the pay stations. He had felt for some time that the pay sta-tions might be more centralised, so that the out-door poor could get reli of without walking for many miles. For the last few weeks it had been almost a pity to see the people walk- ing. He gave uotice of the following resolution That the guardians for the parishes comprised in the respective returning officers' districts appointed to inquire into and report upon the suitability and position of the present pay-stations for out-relief, having regard to the distance of same for the dwellings of the out-door poor." APPLICATION FOR INCREASE Or SALARY. I Dr. H. V. Palin applied for an increase of salary, and on the suggestion of the Rev. Mgr. Slaughter and the Chairman, the matter was referred to the Finance Committee tfith instructions for the clerk to prepare a return of the amount of remuneration received by Dr. Palin during the past twelve months. STATISTICS FOR WEF E EDIXG JAN. LOTH, 1930. Number in the house 297 Previous week 3)1 Corresponding week last year 272 ViiKrants relieved—Men 44, women 4, children 0. 48 Du. last year—Men 71, women b, children 4 83 Imbeciles in the house 43 in Iicliool-Boys 3J, girls 30 60 Keceiviiig industrial training—Boys 13, girls 12. 25 OUT-KELIEF. Mr Chfctham iEl3 13s 6d to 123 persons' Mr Owen IE48 10:; Od to 455 „ .Ur .),illikiiiii iC6S 18s 8.1 to 628 „ FOR WEEK ENDING JANUARY 17TH, 1900. Xumber.in the house 295 Ilrevious week 297 Corre-ponding week last year 271 V agrants relit-ved-Men 44, women 5, children 2. 51 Do. last year—Men 69, women 4, children 0 73 Imbeciles in the house 43 In School—Boys 3C, girls 33 60 lieceiving industrial rainiDg-Boys 13, girls 13. 26 OUT-RELIFCF. ]Nlr Cheethapi ill 13s Od to 120 persons. Mr Owen S42 5s 6d to 455 „ Mr Williams £ 51 3s Od to 610 „

I MOLD PETTY SESSIONS. I MONDAY.—Before P. B. Davies-Cooke (chairman), — 4.1. IIUrl. j-r T.lnvrl Sergeant Langdon (Buckley) stated toat at ti.ou p.m. on Christmjis Day he entered the Bridge Tnu at Padeswood and found the defendant drunk at the bar. The landlady, Mrs Fisher, said, Will you put this man out ? He has been upsetting the house all night, and has refused to leave." He took the defendant out, and accompanied him part of the way home.-Fiued 5s and 7s 6d costs. I A FORTUNATE DEFENDANT. I Edward Simon, butcher, of Garden-jnace, had a narrow escape from what promised to be a certain conviction and heaty punishment. He was sum- moned by Emily Davies, a single woman, residing with her parents at the next house, for an assault. The version of Davies and her mother was that on the afternoon of the 11th inat. the defendant's wife, who is in a delicate state of health, called at their house and appeared to be anticipating violence at the hands of her husband. It was consequently arranged that if in danger at night Mrs Simon should signal to them by knocking the wall. At 11.15 p.m. a knock came to the wall, followed by a second, whereupon the informant entered Simon's house, to find that some of the furniture had been broken and the wife had been threatened. Upon her endeavouring to make peace he called her foul names and struck her on the eye. She bled profusely from the blow and got the wound plastered up. The informant's mother, hearing sounds of a struggle, followed into the defendant's house in time to see Simon seize her daughter by the hair, and place one arm round her neck.—The defendant's story was that he didn't strike the informant, who caught her head against the fender. She had no light in hia hoase, and when I be attempted to put her out she scratched hia face.— Case dismissed. I AN UNDESIRABLE IMPORTATION. I I John Thomas Reaney, now of Connah's Quay, and employed at the Dee Iron Works, was charged, in custody, with being drunk and assaulting the police. The police evidence was that on the previous Saturday night the defendant was cautioned for using bad language by P.C. Edward Spencer. Intimating that be had a special knack for dealing with the bobbies," the defendant attacked the officer, whom he kicked and otherwise maltreated in most violent fashion.—The defendant's defence was that when taken to the police station the oiffcer assaulted him, and sprained his wrist with the hand- cnff s.-Superintendent Ioor Davies said the defendant belonged to Wolverhampton, where twenty-five convictions were recorded against him, some of them being for assaults on the police.—The Chairman said the police must be protected against such men as the detendant, who would be sentenced to three calendar months' imprisonment with hard labour. I ROBBERY AT TUB PENYFFORDD RAILWAY STATION. I William Roberts, of Penyffordd, of no fixed occupation, was charged, in custody, with stealing a number of articles contained in a box deposited in the Penyffordd Station of the Wrexham, Mold, and Connah's Qnay Railway Company. Sarah Hilda Jones, aged fourteen years, of Leeswood. said that on Saturday, the 6t,h inst., she was returning home from her situation at Waterloo. She reached Penjfforjd Station at 8 5 p.m., and remained there till midnight, being afraid of going home. She had a tin box containing her things, which was locked, and tied with a rope. She was at length found by the stationmaater, who got a man to take her home. She took the parcel home, and left the box in the waiting-room of the station. On the Monday morn- ing, the Sth mat., she and her brothers went down for the box. She found the box had been opened, the lock having been forced off. Some of the things were hanging out of the box. There was no one about the station, so she took the box homo without saying anything to anyone. Upon reaching the house she found there were missing from the box a night- dress, a silk square, a red scarf, a lady's companion, a brooch, a toy ring, a toy cannon, and some dolls and Christmas cards. She identified the lady's com- panion, the white eilk square, the red ecarf, the brooch, and the ring now produced as her property. Thomas Turner, stationmaster under the Wrex- ham, Mold, and Connah's Quay Railway Company at Penyffordd and Hope Exchange, and .James Dodd, porter at Penyffordd, with P.C. James Williams, gave evidence. Prisouerwas sentenced to one calendar month's imprisonment, with hard labour.

l ACREFAIR. I j ST. PAUL'S MISSION CRuitcii.-The annual social, in connection with the Girls' and Boys' Union, came off on Monday evening in the Mission Church. The members, numbering forty-eight, substantial tea, aftsr which various indoor games \Vo.'>: indulged in until nine p.m., when each member received a mince pie and orange, and were d:s.^ii.ised, fully satisfied with their evening's enjoyment. Several I older friends were present, and assist; d the presidents of the union in making the time pa-s :>:asantly as possible. Mr John Neville, conf-c'.iop-r! High-street, Cefn, catered in his usual satisfactory style.

GREAT REDUCTION. DELICIOUS "MAYPOLE" DAIRY BUTTER REDUCED TO PER 1/1 LB. PER 1/1 LB. "MAYPOLE" TEA, THE VERY BEST! ONLY 1/6 PER LB. ONLY 1/6 PER LB. ONLY 1/6 PER LB. WHY PAY MOKE ? "MAYPOLE" TEAS, at 1/4, 1/2, & 1/ ARE ALSO SUttE TO PLEASE. MAYPOLE DAIRY ce. (LIMITED,) 55a, CHESTER STREET, WREXHAM. Branches in all largo town*. Å.ut ev;rvwivera 280 gUPPORT YOUR COLONIES AND EAT ONLY "NOR WEST" BRAND OF CANADIAN KOLLED OATS. THE BEST IN THE WORLD FOR JgEAlN, BONE, AND ^JUSCLE. 11 MPORTANT. J L ——————— AN ^JNSOLICITED fJIESTIMONIAL. EXTRACT FROM LUTTEK SET BY A LADY. JAN. 4TH, 1500. For niriny years past I have been ia the habit of using llcliip'i O-tts, 8.11.1 have tried almost every brand advertised. I have no h -sitatinn in Having that I consider the NOR-WEST Brand CANADIAN ROLLED 0\TS NO P orilv easier tj make, bat WHITER WHtSN COOKED, and mu-h more piiatabie than any oilier OATS I i £ AVK TRIED PREVIOUSLY. From Grocers, etc., ASK FOR FREE SAMPLE AND TEST FOR YOURSELF. Messrs. n. &. T. JONES, and Mr. W. J. WILLIAMS, Town-hill (a!l Braiiehea). 3203r

CEFN. LANTERN LECTURE. In connection with the Twentieth Century Oae Million Guineas Fund, an excellent lantern lecture was given by Rev. J. Sewell H-iWorth, F.R.G.S., Llangollen, on Tuesday, in the English Wesleyan Church, Cefn Bychan. Mr Allen Lsitsome. Llangollen, acted as lanternist. OBITUARY. On Saturday, the funeral of the late Mr Rictiard Morris, Trefynant, took place at the Ga.rth Cemetery. The Hev. E. Jones officiated. The deceased was a very faithful member of the Wesleyan Chapel, and was very highly respected, Also on Saturday the remains of Mr Thomas Evans, Cefn, but formerly of Corven, were interred at Trefynant Cemetery, the corteye being very large. The Hev. John hewit3 (Zion Baptist Chapel) officiated. S A. ANNIVERSARY.—Brigadier J iffries and Staff Clioptai11 Reeves, conducted the anniversary services, which were held in the Solvation Army Barracks, on Saturday. Sunday, and Monday, and all of which were well attended, and proved decided successes both spiritually and financially. On Monday after- noon, the Cefn Corps was reinforced by friends from Rhos and Oswestry, the band of the latter being a highly appreciated acquisition. A tea. was given on Monday evening, and a large number of persons par- took of same the ladies of the Cefn Corps, presiding at the tables. BASDS OF HOPE.—A nnited meeting of the Zion I "I bernacle Welsh Baptist Cnapeis was h-ld on r. at the latter place of worship, »nd proved uccesiful. The Rev. John Lewis, Zion, pre- The programme was wholly sustained by :Z'8 of the Zion Branch, and it consisted of jy Messrs J. R. Davies, Jeremiah Jones, and luesach Roberts, Misses Jane Ann Williams, Gertie Jones, and Annie Williams. VerT powerful addresses were delivered by Messre Joseph Wright, and Edward Williams. A special feature of the evening was a grand recitation by Mr William Ectwards on "The Voice. This gentleman possesses wonderful powers as an [elocutionist, and has come off very creditably in numerous Eisteddfodau. Miss Mary Evans proved herself a capital accompanist. The Rev. R. E. Williams closed the meeting with a prayer.

RHOSLLANEftCHRUGOG. THE LATI MRS GRIFFITHS.—We regret to record the death of Mrs Sa&h Griffiths, widow of the late Mr William Griffiths, Glasgow House, High-street, which took place on Tuesday last, after a long illness. The deceased lady was a member of the Scotch Baptists, Ponkey, where her loss will be deeply felt. MUSICAL Sl."CCESS.- -Ye are pleased to learn that Mr Caradog Roberts has been successful in passing the organ-playing test for fellowship (F.R.C.O.) at the Royal College of Organisls, London. The examination inclnded the playiDg of the following Sonata No. 9 in B flat minor (Rheinberger), choral prelude, Komm Heiliger Geist, Harre Gott" (Bach), sonata in F, air with variations and finale (Dr. Alan Gray) also, extemporise upon a given theme, playing at sight from open score with C clefs, harmonise a melody at sight, to accompany a Psalm with a new chant, to play at sight. THE LATE MRS CRo-tN-The remains of the late Mrs Emma Cronin, wifs of Mr John Cronin, Hill- street, were interred on Sunday afternoon at the Ponkey Cemetery. The beilyars were Messra H. Wynne, C. Crewe, W. Parry, J. Wynne. J Pemberton, and F. Hotchkiss. The chief mournera were Mr J. Cronin and family, Mrs Hibbart Hare- wood (sister), Mrs E. Broadbent (sister), Blackford Bridga, Bury Mr G Roberts, Bury (brother) Mr Thomas Roberts and Mrs Roberts (brother and sister-in-law.) The Rev. Charles Jones, assistant Primitive Methodist minister, officiated. The deceased had been a member of the Primitive Methodist Church, but during the past fire years she had been an iavalid. MYNYDD SEiox EISTEDDFOD.-The members of tbe Literary Society attached to Mynydd Seion Welsh Congregational Church, Ponkey, held a very success- ful Eisteddfod on Monday, the president being the Rev. Robert Roberts, Rhos. The following are the results of the principal awards :—Soprano solo, "Bedd fy Nghariad," prize 53, Miss Jane Witliama, Pankey tenor solo, Bradwriaeth y Don," prize 5s, Mr John Powell, Ponkey baritone solo, I rhowch i mi fy ngloew gledd," prize 53, Messrs L. Williams and J. Williams, equal; soprano solo for juveniles, Cnddi Moses," Miss Sarah Parry, Ponkey essay, History of Paul," prize 5s, Mr R. Griffiths, Ponkey recita- tion (Welsh), prize 5s, Mr Thomas Williams, Pankey; model speech, Chief events of the past year," prize 29 6d, D. Jones; poetry. "To the late Mr Robert Hughes, deacon," prize 31, Mr D. Jones, Pankey; choral contest, anthem Blessed is he that pitieth the poor," prize V-2 10s. After a spirited competition the prize was awarded to the Welsh Congregational Choir, Rhos. leader Mr Jacob Edwards. The Rev. D. iTafwys Jones, Johnstown, acted as conductor. The adjudicators were-Masic, Mr T. S. Thomas G.T.S.C., Wrexham; literature, the Rev Tonlas Hughes, Bwlchgwyn, and D. T. Jones, Johnstown The artistes were Messrs Sam Parry and Tom Lloyd: Mrs Griffiths, and others. Mr R. W. Jones efficiently acted as secretary. Mr Caradoc Roberts, A.* RCO* presided at the organ.

PONTBLYDDYN & LEESWOOD. -V CRFSTRY.- -ulle halt-vearly meeting of the mem- bers of Court Treasure of Wales was held on Satur- day, when the following officers were elected for tha ensuing term: Caief Ranger, Bro. Robert Roberts Sub-Chief Ranger, Bro. John Jones; Senior Wood- ward, Bro. Alfred Austin; Senior Beadle, Bro. Thoa. H. Griffiths. The installation ceremony was per- formed by Past Chief Ranger Phillips. A vote of condolence was agreed to in silence with the family of the late secretary, Mr James Thomas. Bro. W T. Phillips was appointed secretary, and the follow- ing members were appointed to form the arbitration committee:—Messrs John Lewis, William Price. Jonathan Hewitt, George Trevor, William Jones, George Williams, Edward Roberts, and WiDiRm Prydderch. Messrs T. G. Jones and E. G. ?or? schoolmasters, were elected as auditors.

BROUGHTON. I?NTFltTAiNMFNT. An enfcrtainment was held in I ° ,irr.outh Schoolroom, on Wednesday night, for the benefit of St. Feter's Cunrch, Brynteg. FUN-HEAL.—On Tuesday the remains of the late Mr Joseph Salisbury, B/yuteg, were laid to rest in (lv.-er,lyl,lt C-iurc.iyard. He was well-known in tha ni.nii '.t, naw.ig !;ved here verv many years. The futv-al was largely attended. NATIJNAL KisTEnnron-A juvenile choir is now beir.g organised 111 Bronghton p.nd Brymbo district to compete in the next National Eisteddfod, which is to be held in Liverpool. The conductor is Mr Ben. W-illiams, Brynteg.