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THE A.M.C. AT ABERYSTWYTH.

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THE A.M.C. AT ABERYSTWYTH. The long-expected and much wished for visit of tile Annual Moveable Committee of the Independent ^der of Oddfellows to Aberystwyth has been paid during the past week. The preparations made for the deception of the delegates were on a rather extensive Scale, and great interest was manifested. Committees iiad been formed to secure funds to provide for the Expense which a visit must necessarily entail, and 11.180 to carry out the details, and, as usual, a good fleal of feeling was created by the action of some parties who attempted to monopolise the arranging Ilona carrying out of the proceedings. It is now feared that there will be a large deficit in the funds, many persons in the town refusing to contribute towards the fund in consequence of the course adopted. Much is expected from the visit of the A.H.C. to our town, and no doubt it will prove an excellent means of making known the beauties of the "Watering-place and the neighbourhood to people in parts of the United Kingdom, and we believe that the large number of delegates who attended are greatly pleased with their visit, having been received in the most cordial manner. Several deputies arrived here last week, but the large bulk of them came in On Saturday evening, and the railway station was be- seiged by throngs of people anxious to see the stran- gers from whose visit so much good to the town is expected. A good deal of rain fell in the afternoon and evening, which had a rather chilling effect upon the feelings but notwithstanding this drawback the Streets were crowded with townspeople and others, Igzd the work of decoration was proceeded with right briskly. The corporation took upon themselves the decoration of Mary-street, a part of North- parade, Terrace-road, Great Darkgate-street, and Pier-street; and the householders lent considerable assistance by means of hanging out flags from their endows, &c. Besides the working committee com- posed of parties outside the pale of the Order, the Oddfellows throughout the district worked with com- mendable zeal in the matter, and collected large sums of money among themselves. Mr W. H. James, Pier- street, we believe, acted as secretary to the commit- tees composed of Oddfellows, and he worked very diligently to ensure success. The Foresters, too, lent all the assistance in their power, much to their Credit be it said, and in this respect both friendly societies acted with the greatest harmony. Although it was market day on Monday, business seemed to be I almost entirely suspended, if we except the licensed Victuallers and refreshment room keepers, all of "Whom must have done exceedingly well. The first meeting of the delegates was held at the Public Hall at nine a.m. on Monday morning. Before the commencement of business the excellent band of Messrs Wheatley played choice selections of music. The hall was very nicely fitted up for the reception of the deputies, and formed an excellent room for the purpose. The business of the day commenced by Bro. Thomas Collins, secretary, calling over the list Ðf deputies, and not more than a dozen, out of nearly 450, failed to answer to their names, the representa- I fives of Auckland, New Zealand, and New York, North America, being very loudly cheered. The I Grand Master then read a telegram from the execu- tive of the Ancient Order of Foresters now meeting at Leicester, asking the delegates to accept their hearty good wishes, and wishing them joy during the week, and that the results of their sittings would be condu- cive to the benefit of the Order (cheers). Mr Scholfield proposed, and Mr Pownall seconded, that the telegram should be acknowledged, recipro- cating the sentiments expressed. Carried unani- mously. The minutes of the last A.M.C. were confirmed. THE ADDRESS. The Grand Master then proceeded to deliver his address. Brethren,—In pursuance of a time-honoured custom it now devolves upon me to undertake the discharge of the important duty of addressing to you a few Words inaugurative of this meeting before declaring it open for the transaction of business. In doing so i am somewhat at a loss to know how I shall say any- thing in connection with the past history, or present position, of the institution, which is iiotas well known to all of you as to myself. In the first place I desire to offer you all a very hearty wel- come to this beautiful watering-place, and to express a hope that our week's sojourn here may invigorate Us and enable us to apply ourselves to our respective duties with renewed energy, and also that the work we have undertaken to perform this week may still further extend the sphere of usefulness and strengthen and consolidate the affairs of this great society. I pleasure in being able to congratulate this meet- cp0-11, 1Q, steady progress which has been made by °ciety during the year 1884. The net increase in Iluii* wr of members during the year was 14,484, Very nearly 5(0 in excess of the net increase during F +jprev*ous year, and that, too, in spite the fact that the number of mem- sufnn w*10- ''J' secession was nearly <4,1)00 more in 1884 than in the previous year—a cir- cumstance attributable, no doubt, in a great measure to the serious trade depression which existed (and, I am sorry to say, still appears to exist)-amongst the industrial classes in this country. With regard to the finances of the Order, we learn from the very excellent report issued by our respected C.S. (Mr pollings) in October last, that the returns received by inm showed the following result, viz.:—Receipts: For contributions, £ 603,803 18s 2d for interest,< £ 203,037 16s 7d; for admissions, < £ 11,020 19s 4d—, £ 817,862 14s Id. Payments: For sick benefits, £ 454,108 6s 8d; for funeral ditto, < £ 107,130 18s 6d—< £ 561,239 5s 2d in- crease, .£256,623 8s lid. Capital: Sick and funeral funds of lodges, £5,367,089 ISs 2d. These figures do lot include the returns of lodges, consisting of 5,554 members, which neglected to furnish their returns in proper time.a circumstance very much to be regretted, more especially as attention has been called to this matter year after year for sometime past. In addi- tion to the above total amount of capital of the Sick and Funeral Funds of the Lodges, we have the follow- ing Supplementary Funds :-District Funeral Funds, •45152,507 17s 3d Widows and Orphans' Societies, j £ 245_,162 lis lid; Past Grands' Lodges, < £ 5,058 14s juvenile branches, £ 23,783 0s 5d benevolent or ether funds, £11,18628 4d— £ 437,698 6s 4d; making a total capital of £5,804,788 5s 6d, being an average amount of about X10 2s 3d per member for the number of members included in the returns. In connection with this matter of Numerical and financial progress, I would remind you that the financial forms, which have from time to time been adopted, have sometimes given offence to members who failed to understand them, and the consequence, doubtless, has been that the numerical increase of the Society has been seriously retarded, but, notwithstanding these discouragements, the accumulation of wealth and consequent increased Soundness, can be claimed as being unparalleled in any similar institution. I now ask your indulgence for a few moments whilst I say a few words with re- gard to some of the more important matters which will come before you for consideration during the week, some of them being of so momentous a nature that on the proper and equitable settlement of them depends in a great measure the future stability and well-being of the Society. In the first place, as being the most vital and important amongst them, I will refer to the establishment of District Funeral Funds on equitable and sound bases. I have been much pleased to notice from time to time the able manner in which this question has been dealt with by the various contributors to the correspondence, and I believe they have all condemned most strongly the present unjust system of equal levies also uni- versally prevailing. At the same time I cannot pass Over this matter without expressing my regret that cne of the gentlemen who has written on the subject should have gone (as I think) out of his way to cen- sure the Directors for the course they have taken in the matter. I refer to a letter in the January num- ber of the Magazine for the present year. The Directors are charged with "diplomacy," whatever that may mean, and then the writer goes on to say— 'One never knows, no matter how you watch them, what is to be their next move evidently imply- ing that they (the Directors) are constantly plot- ting some evil, or that they have some dark design with regard to the welfare of the Society, further on, he adds, "this greed for power must be checked, or our servants 'the Directors' will fast become our masters." I feel fully persuaded that it is perfectly unnecessary for me to attempt to Snow how utterly absurd and unjust the above charges are. With regard to the absurdity of them, it is only necessary for one to point out to you that, inasmuch as the form of Government of this institu- tion is the most democratic it is possible to devise, the directors cannot be anything more than servants, to whom you delegate the executive power for one year only, and, if at the end of that time they have in the least degree abused that sacred trust, you ave the absolute power to relegate them to the j sc;irity they would then so well deserve. As to the njustice of the accusation, I have only to point out VP history of the Society for at least fifty > ars will abundantly prove that the directors have always, both in season and out of season, advocated Pr°!notea by all means in their power those re- che^8 k&ve done so much to place the Man- ihA *r the proud position it occupies as rnnr^Tm. all matters tending to improve the Oition of Friendly Societies. And, coming to the question more immediately under notice, what have the directors been doing for at least the last twelve years ? I find that, in 1873, the then board of di- rectors reported to the WeymouthA.M.C. as follows — The directors are of opinion that until more time is given to districts for consideration of the valuations now completed, it is not advisable to press this important question upon the consideration of the A.M.C. but they most cordially approve of the suggestion to remodel district funeral funds by placing them on a sounder basis, and by abolishing the system of an equal levy. The directors believe it preferable to establish this fund on the same prin- ciple as life assurance societies. Tables could be prepared for these purposes, and districts would then be liable for the insurance at death, the lodges for sickness—both having funds in hand for these separ- ate purposes." The principle recommended in the latter part of the above quotation is shared in by the present directorate, and is, I venture to say, the correct one. Having referred to the offer made by Mr W. L. Jackson, one of the members of Parliament for Leeds, of £ 100 for the best essay on this subject, he proceeded :—Personally, I feel strengthened and confirmed in the opinion I have long held on this matter, viz. that the levy system (both equal and graduated) is most unjust, and that the only equit- able manner of dealing with the subject is that dis- trict funeral funds should be raised and supported by graduated contributions from lodges, in the same manner in which the sick funds of our lodges are raised and maintained by graduated contributions from members according to age. If, as I hope and expect, the different insurances which we provide will now be separated, the real progress of the Unity will be accelerated, and the Aberystwyth A.M.C. will have the credit of removing the last of those em- harassing legacies which have come down to us from a past generation, and re-launching the Man- chester Unity barque on a less troubled sea than it has hitherto explored during its eventful but generally prosperous career. He next alluded to various schemes which had been propounded by different writers on the question, and then passed on to say Since the publication of the last general valuation report (which, as you are aware, was incomplete in consequence of some lodges having failed to furnish the necessary returns) we have received from the Actuary a further report of the result of some valuations of lodges which do not appear in that report. I am sorry to find that, with the exception of eight, all the lodges I have alluded to appear to have deficiencies. I would earnestly call the attention of the members of such lodges to the invaluable advice contained in the report of the Actuary issued last year by the directors, and urge upon them the necessity of carefully studying and striving to carry out the important suggestions therein contained. I would also recommend to the careful consi leration of my brethren a small work on this subject, recently issued by the eminent actuary,. Mr F. G. P. Nelson, entitled Observations on the efficient valuation of friendly societies." It is one of the most valuable of recent contributions to friendly society literature, and deals very comprehensively with the whole matter. The report of the Registrar of Friendly Societies for 1883, which wts issued in the early part of the present year, contains a large amount of very valuable information, and is worthy of perusal by all persons interested in the manage- ment of such societies. I cannot do more here than briefly allude to one or two of the most important of them. In the first place we are given some very in- teresting particulars regarding the ordinary routine work of the office. The Registrar then proceeds to explain very clearly the effect of the provisions of the "Provident Nomination and Small Intestacies Act, 1883." Ho next calls attention to the Bill in- troduced into the House of Lords by Lord Greville to amend the" Friendly Societies Act, 1875." The Bill (which was withdrawn before the second reading) was intended to require the certification of tables by an actuary as a condition precedent to the regis- try of a Friendly Society not confined to benefits at death." I may here say that his Lordship again in- troduced his Bill to the House at the beginning of the present session, but on the second reading was defeated by a very small majority. In commenting upon the objects of this Bill, the report says "The Chief Registrar could not too strongly deprecate the return to a policy thus utterly condemned by ex- perience." Another matter of great moment to a large number of societies, more especially those whose affairs show a deficiency on valuation, will be found on page 27, under the head of "Settlements of disputes by the Chief Registrar." The case appears to me so important that I think it advisable to quote the paragraph in extenso:(2) New Rules and Ex- isting Contracts: Claim on behalf of a member of a branch lodge of an Order, who had been in receipt of sick-pay from his district at the date of registry of a complete amendment of the rules of the district, in pursuance of which his sick-pay was stopped. It was admitted that he had not been a consenting party to nor had assented to the amendment. Held, that the case was governed by Lord Selborne's opinion of 11th June, 1864, followed in Caudle v. Bingham, Report for 1879, p. 17. Award, that notwithstanding regis- try on 25th January, 1883, of complete amendment ef districtrules,the member not having been a consenting party to nor having assented to such amendment, was and continued entitled to any relief or benefit from the funds of the district of which he was in the actual receipt on the 25th January, 1883, under the pre- viously registered rules of the district, and under the same condition as under the previously registered rules. The expenses of the award were directed to be paid out of the funds of the district. (Prince of Wales Lodge. I.O.O.F., Kingston Unity, on behalf of R. Richardson, a member v. Officers of Shields Dis- trict, I.O.O.F., Kingston Unity; award, 17th Decem- ber, 1883)." This case was remarkable as having been referred to the Chief Registrar, not only, as the Act requires, by consent of the parties, but with the full assent of the Order itself, through the secretary of which the papers were received, and which, it is understood, will accept it as settling the practice in similar instances. If the above ruling is to be ac- cepted as correct, it is most desirable that the ques- tion should be carefully considered by the members of friendly societies, with a view to obtaining from the Legislature a more satisfactory and equitable method of dealing with such cases in future. It ap- pears to me most unjust that in the case of a society being compelled, in consequence of the impoverished state of its funds, to reduce the amount paid as sick pay, that some of the members should be allowed a preferential claim over the other members, especially bearing in mind the fact that in societies of this character the interests of the members are, or should be, mutual, as distinguished from the interests of individuals insuring for similar benefits with a proprietary company. He then spoke of several points which had been brought up in courts of justices during the past year affecting the society, and concluded as follows During the two years I have had the honour of hold- ing the important offices of Deputy Grand Master and Grand Master, I have been favoured by my brethren in many parts of the country with invita- tions to attend various meetings in connection with the Order. It has been to me a source of gratifica- tion, and I have much pleasure in recording the fact that wherever I have been privileged to visit I have been received with that kindness and cordiality which is always extended towards the Chief Officer of the Society. It has been to me a peculiar pleasure to observe that devotion to the good cause of Oddfellow- ship isby no means waning, as some people wouldhave us believe; but, on the contrary, I have seen, wherever I have visited, earnest and conscientious men striv- ing and struggling to promote the moral and material welfare of the Society and its members. The obituary of the Order for the past year contains the names of many of our brethren who had made for themselves a name in connection with its affairs. Amongst them I may mention the' late Bro. Thompson, who for many years held the important position of Prov. C.S. of the Leeds District, and who also was well known and highly respected as a regular attendant at our annual meeting's for many years. The late Bro. Malcolmson, of Ulverston, was also widely known and as well respected. The late Bro. James Spry, of Plymouth, who recently passed away, was also well known, not only for the part he took for so many years in connection with our A.M.C.'s, but he will also be remembered as one who possessed an intimate knowledge of the history of the Society from its establishment, as shown by the work he published on the subject a few years ago. I hope I shall not be considered by you as exceeding my privi- lege, if I also mention the name of one who was sud- denly called from our midst during the past year. I refer to the Right Hon. Henry Fawcett, the late Postmaster General, and although he was not, as far as I am aware, directly connected with the Society, yet the well-known interest he took in all matters tending to improve the condition of the industrial classes of this country, entitles him to a place in our memory. I have now great pleasure in offering my sincere thanks to my esteemed friends, the D.G.M., C.S., and all my colleagues on the Directorate for the invaluable aid and uniform support they have given me in carrying out the onerous duties which have devolved upon me as Grand Master. In conclusion, brethren, permit me to a.gain express a hope that the result of this week's deliberations will have the effect of setting at'rest one of the most important matters we have had to grapple with since the com- mencement of that era of reform which has done so much to advance the Society to its present proud position. Personally it will be to me a source of considerable pleasure and satisfaction, if at the close of my term of office and in one of the most interest- ing places in the Principality, the crowning point of reform is reached, and the Society for ever released from the last of those anomalies which have done so much to retard its progress. [The speaker was fre- quently applauded.] Mr Watts proposed that the magnificent address which it had gi on them so much pleasure in listen- ing to be printed in the Quarterly Magazine and magazine of the Order. Mr Pownall seconded the proposition, which was agreed to. APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES. Voting papers for the election of members on the different committees were handed round, and scruti- neers were appointed. The delegates then adjourned till one o'clock. Upon re-assembling the counting of the votes was proceeded with, and the following were successful:— SUB-COMMITTEE (7). I Mr. Adams, Bristol 327 Hughes, Liverpool 230 Campkin, Cambridge 207 Warbrick, Lancaster 179 Eastwood, Blackburn 176 Norbury, Leeds. 171 Davis, Newport (Mon.) 170 RELIEF COMMITTEE (9). Mr. Watts, Bristol 289 Woodeson, Porstmouth 282 Chinn, London, South 220 Pope, Exeter 191 Crow, Devizes 162 Sandon, London, North 140 „ Bytheway, Kidderminster 134 „ Lindsay, Salford 131 Johnston, Glasgow 123 NEW DISTRICTS COMMITTEE (9). Mr Tunstall. 278 „ Bradish, Cork 237 Summerfield, Leicester 228 Nicholls, London, South 183 Lake, Swansea. 173 Atter, Reading 149 Wallwork, Bradford 144 Stickland, Poole 129 Vincent, London, West 122 ESTIMATES COMMITTEE (9). Mr Vaughan, London, South. 314 Diprose, London, North 278 Masters, Stafford 246 Flowers, Norwich 228 Poe, Oundle 158 Rogers, Reading 129 Holden, Saddleworth 125 Miller, Preston 125 Hardwicke, Leeds 106 The sitting terminated shortly before two o'clock. THE FETE AND GALA. The success of the fete and gala, the expectations in regard to which were very high, was greatly marred by the heavy downpour 'of rain, which con- tinued more or less throughout the day. It was in- tended to have started a procession from the Smith- field at eleven o'clock, but the circumstances were such as to prevent the carrying out of arrangements with any degree of precision. The town had been very gaily decorated with flags, &c., but they soon presented a sorry appearance indeed, the rain having spoiled all efforts at anything like decorations. Hundreds of people arrived here by early excursion trains which were run on the Cambrian and Man- chester and Milford Railways but doubtless there would have been many more in the town had the weather proved pro- pitious. It was one o'clock before the procession left the Smithfield, headed by Deputy Chief Consta- ble Lloyd, who was mounted on a steed, and he acted as marshall. He was followed by four mounted police, also policemen on foot, the band of the 5th brigade, Welsh division, R.A.: the Mayor (Mr John James) and Mr A. J. Hughes, town clerk honorary members and district officers; St David's, Rheidol, St John's, Earl of Lisburne, Dovey, Druid, Temple of Love, Cambrian, St Padarn, Llynlleodd, Goger- ddan, and the Iolo Goch lodges of Oddfellows the Oswestry Rifle Volunteer band, thel Foresters Court Old Castle (Aberystwyth); next came the Shrews- bury Juveniles' lodge of Oddfellows; the Llanwddyn band; members from Shrewsbury and Oswestry lodges Corris and Dinas Mawddwy lodges, preceded by the Corris band; the Briton band, members of Newtown and other lodges, &c. The procession contained all the elements necessary to have made it a very brilliant affair. The Oddfellows were attired in the regalia of the Order, and many of them carried emblems of their Order. The Foresters turned out in fairly large numbers, and the spectacle which they presented was one which attracted considerable attention. Several members of the court were attired in the garb of Robin Hood and his followers, and were also well mounted. The procession took its way through Mill-street, up Bridge-street and the upper part of Pier-street, down I wn Little Darkgate-street, Baker-street, upper part of North-parade, Terrace-road, Newfoundland-street, Queen's-road, down Great Darkgate-street, North- parade, Thespian-street, Railway-terrace, Lewis-ter- race, and back to the Smithfield, where the proces- sion broke up. Although the elements were so un- favourable, there was a humorous side to it, because such an assemblage of umbrellas has seldom been seen, and looked exceedingly comic. The lawn tennis ground and field adjoining, had been secured for the purpose of holding the fete and entertainments, and although the rain continued to fall several hundreds of people assembled on the grounds. The officers of the fete were—President, Mr John James, mayor; committee, Messrs. R. Nevill, R. Peake, and James Purton; hon. treasurer. Mr O. L. Roberts; hon. secretary, Mr W. K. Wheatley; judges, Professor Angus, U.C.W.; and Mr R. G. Smith referee, Mr A. J. Hughes starter, Dr. Harries; handicapper—open events, Mr J. H. Oliver, Midland Athlete; local events, the com- mittee; and timekeeper, Mr Foster. The prizes were very valuable, some of them being of the value of X5 5s, £ 3 3s, &c. Most of the events were very keenly contested, Mr Barford, Mr Rees, andMrF. W. Lewis of the University College of Wales, carrying off prizes and maintaining the honour of their college. The following were the events 120 YARDS FLAT RACE HANDICAP (Open).—First prize, silver-plated inkstand, value X3 3s Od 2nd do., silver-plated breakfast cruet, value 11 0s Od third do., silver-plated flask, value 10s 6d. First two in each heat to run in final. FIRST HEAT. NAME. HANDICAP. 1. R. Peake, Aberystwyth F.C 2 yards 2. F. Rees, U.C.W. 2 yards Time, 13t seconds. SECOND HEAT. NAME. HANDICAP. 1. F. W. Lewis, U.C.W. 2 yards 2. T. J. Barford, U.C.W. 3 yards Time, 1St seconds. THIRD HEAT. NAME. HANDICAP. 1. R. Nevill, Aberystwyth C.C 3 yards 2. A. Pugh, Presteign C.C. 4 yards. Time, 13t seconds. ONE MILE FLAT HANDICAP.-First prize, silver- plated tea and coffee service, value X5 5s second do., silver-plated cup, value £ 2 2s third do., sil- ver-plated breakfast cruet, value £1 Is. 1. T. Lewis, Newtown 30 yards 2. H. Evans, Birmingham 40 yards 3. Tom Morgan, Tregaron 30 yards Time-4 minutes, 56 4-5th seconds. 100 YARDS HANDICAP (Local). First two in each heat to run in the final. First prize, cup value £ 1 10s second do., butter cooler, value 15s; third do., cigarette case, value 5s. FIRST HEAT. 1. F. W. Lewis, U.C.W. Scratch. 2. R. Nevill, C.C. 2 yards Time-12 seconds. SECOND HEAT-. 1. J. C. Rea, U.C.W. 9 yards 2. F. Rees, U.C.W. Scratch Time—11 seconds. THIRD HEAT. dead heat-P.C. Smith, C. C.2 yards dead heat-J. J. James .7 yards Time-13 5th seconds. 440 YARDS HANDICAP (Open). First prize, salad bowl and servers, value < £ 4 4s.; second do., dress- ing case, value XI Is; third do, flask, value 10s 6d. First two in each heat to run in final. FIRST HEAT. 1. F. C. Rees, U.C.W. 2 yards 2. W. H. Thomas, Llandovery School Scratch SECOND HEAT. 1. T.-J. Barford, U.C.W. Scratch 2. C. S. Thorne, Wrexham H. H. 8 yads. Time-55 seconds. FINAL HEAT-120 YARDS HANDICAP (Open). First, Barford; 2nd, Rees 3rd, Lewis. Time—12 4-5th seconds. -I- OBSTACLE RACE.—First prize, biscuit box, value < £ 2 2s 0d; 2nd do., butter cooler, value 15s third do., meerschaum cigar holder. First two in each do., meerschaum cigar holder. First two in each heat to run in final. Competitors had to cross a I bar raised six feet from the ground, creep under a pole raised one foot from the ground, jump or vault hurdles, cross a number of strings, &o. I FIRST KEAT. 1. Thomas Woods, Newtown. 2. F. W. Lewis, U.C.W. SECOND HEAT. 1. K. Evans, Birmingham. 2. J. C. Rea, U.C.W. FINAL HEAT. 440 YARDS HANDICAP.—1st, F. Rees; 2nd, Barford; 3rd, W." H., Thomas. ONE MILE BICYCLE RACE—HANDICAP (Open). First prize, cruet and pickle stand, value £ 5 5s Od; 2nd do., biscuit box, value X2 2s Od; third do,, tea- pot, value .£1 Is Od. First two in each heat to run in final. FIRST HEAT. 1. H. E. Wheatley, B.C. 25 yards. 2. M. Parry,Swansea B. and T. C. Scratch. SECOND HEAT. 1. G. H. Peters, C.T.C 35 yards. 2. C. K. Wheatlev. B.C. 30 yards. FINAL HEAT.—100 YARDS HANDICAP (Local). 1st, Rees; 2nd, Rea; 3rd F. W. Lewis, and Nevill dead heat. Time—11 4-5ths sees. FINAL HEAT.—OBSTACLE RACE. 1st, Wood 2nd, H. Evans 3rd, Rea. FINAL HEAT.—BICYCLE RACE. 1st, H. Wheatley 2nd, M. Parry 3rd, G. H. Peters. Time—4 min. 26i sees. Mr W. G. Sylvester, of London, was retained to provide an entertainment, and he carried out his trust in a most praiseworthy manner. The acro- batic and other performances attracted a large number of spectators, and they all seemed greatly pleased with what was provided for them. The following was the programme .— Impalement act, by De Zello and Madlle Zanna; laughing eccentri- city, the g-rowing boys great contortionist, Eugene Negro delineators, Dawkins and Fullerton; flying trapeze artists, Les Freres Martelles acrobat enter- tainment, human serpent; laughable sketch. "The doctor's boy, or, I'JI cure yer interval great contortionist, Eugene; acrobatic entertainment, by the Selmaro troupe; laughing eccentricity, the Growing Boys; flying trapeze artists, Les Freres Martelles marvellous impalement act, De Zello and Zenna; entertainment, Human Serpent; laughable sketch, the Doctor's Boy, or I'll cure yer; negro delineators, Dawkins and Fullerton; finale, God Save the Queen. In the evening there was a grand display of fire- works, consisting of 150 pieces, the last piece being 30 feet wide, with the motto Success to the A.M.C. at Aberystwyth." The weather again somewhat interfered with these arrangements. Dancing was kept up with great vigour in the pavilion on the lawn tennis ground to music suppli- ed by the bands of the OswestryRifle Volunteers, the Llanwyddin, and the Briton bands. An additional charge was made for admission, and Mr W. H. James, who acted in the capacity of proprietor, received a large share of patronage and support. There was a large assembly at the Bijou theatre, Portland-street, where Mr Elphinstoneand Miss Ash, assisted by a carefully selected company, were play- ing, "the Lancashire girl "and" Ben Bolt." We can heartily recommend a visit to this theatre while the present company is on the boards, The business commenced at nine o'clock on Tues- day morning, when Mr W. D. Watts, P.P.G.M., read the report of the relief committee, which recommend- ed a grant of £ 15 to P. G. Rees Haman, of the Prince Llewellyn lodge, Merthyr Tydvil district but they were unable to recommend any grant to Bro. J. C. Holmes, of the John Brown lodge, Shef- field district the case, in the opinion of the com- mittee not coming within the objects contemplated by the 6th section of the 2nd rule, clause B. The committee considered an application from the St. Margaret's lodge, Swindon district, for a grant of zC36, but regretted that they could not recommend it, as it was not a case coming under the powers con- ferred upon the committee by the rule as now altered. They nevertheless desired to express their opinion that the case was one well deserving the considera- tion of the A.M.C. The facts are shortly that the St. Margaret's lodge, under the advice of eminent counsel, unsuccessfully contested a law case affect- ing a lunatic member, and arising out of the relation- ship between Friendly Societies and Poor Law Guar- dians, and involving the construction to be put upon a portion of the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1876 and other important questions affecting the Society as a whole. The lodge was eventualy defeated upon technical grounds, and incurred expenses in the liti- gation amounting in the aggregate to .£160, whic h sum, with the assistance of the Swindon district, they have now defrayed, with the exception of £ 36, and this amount they now ask may be discharged out of the funds of the Order. Mr Watts, Mr Chinn, Mr Addy, and Mr W. H. Lawson, supported the application,which it was un- animously decided to grant.—Mr Tunstall, chair- man of the new districts committee, read the the report, which recommended that the applictions of the St. John's Miners lodge to leave the Chapel district and to form a district to be called the St. John's Weardale district, be not acceded to, the application being informal; and similar applications from the Fountain of Peace lodge, Newport (Salop) Plasmadoc, Pride of Llangollen and Chirk Castle lodges, and from the Sunderland district, be not acceded to. The report was adopted in its entirety. REVISION OF RULES. A long discussion ensued on an alteration of rule proposed by Mr Thomas Walton, which was as follows "Rule 1, section d.—Strike out the heading and also paragraphs 1 and 2, and insert the following Application and investments of funds.-D. (1) All moneys received on account of entrance fees, contri- butions, levies, fines, donation, publication and sale of rules, lodge books, or other works calculated to be of interest to the Order, and interest on capital, shall be applied in carrying out the objects of the society, and in paying the expenses of management, according to the rules thereof. So much of the funds of the society, or any branch thereof, as may not be wanted for immediate use, or to meet the usual accuring liabilities, shall, with the consent of the society, to be had and testified in such manner as the rules direct, be invested pursuant to the 38th and 39th Viet., cap. 60. The Unity Sick and Funeral Fund shall, with the consent of the Committee of Management, be invested in the names of the Trustees, in such of the following ways as the Committee shall direct, viz. In a Savings Bank, certified under the Act of 1863, or Post Office Savings Bank, or in the Public Funds, or with the Commis- sioners for the Reducation of the National Debt, or upon Government Securities in Great Britain or Ire- land, or in or upon, the security of any county, borough, or other rates authorised to be levied and mortgaged by Act of Parliament; or they may pur- chase or take on lease any land in the Country where the society is established, sell, exchange, mortgage lease, or build upon the same, or alter, pull down, and again rebuild, or invest upon mortgage of free- hold or leasehold property all such leasehold pro- perty to be direct from the freeholder. The receipt for discharging a mortgage or further charge shall be in the form precribed by Schedule 3 of the 3Sth and 39th Vict., cap. 60.-G.M. and Directors. Mr Walton proposed the insertion of the words "or any branch thereof" after the words in paragraph 2, "with the consent of the society." It would then read so that the lodge or district would have the disposal of its own funds. Then, he next pro- posed that the words "with the consent of the com- mittee of management" should be struck out, and the words "A.M.C." be inserted in their place- (hear, hear)—and that the word "they" should be substituted furthor down for the "committee." Mr Scliofield seconded the proposition. It was ultimately agreed that the words, "or the branch thereof," be inserted after "consent of the Society," and the words "direct from the freeholder" struck out. On the motion of Mr Holmes, it was agreed with- out dissent to alter rule 1, section F., line 16, by in- serting, after the word "Unity," "the accounts to be made up to and including the date at which such papers were forwarded to the C.S., from which date the financial connection with the Order shall cease." Mr Samuel, Nantyglo, proposed to erase the words "each district to pay the expenses of its own deputies," and insert "That a contingent fund be inaugurated to pay the expenses of delegates attending the A.M.C;" but afterwards withdrew the proposal. Mr J. Bennett, Chester, moved, and Mr Walton seconded, the adoption of alterations 4 and 5, which they said were proposed to meet a little difficulty which occurred at the Reading meeting respecting the order of the proceedings. The alterations, which were as follows, were agreed to without comment In rule 1, section B, paragraph 2, line 3, after con- firmed" insert and the Grand Master's address has been delivered." In rule 2, section B, strike out paragraph 3, and insert, The report of the proceed- ings of the Grand Master and Board of Directors, to- gether with the auditors' report (copies of which shall have been previously forwarded to each district which has intimated its intention of being represented), shall then be read if desired by the meeting." J, SAD NEWS. The Grand Master said he was sorry to have to an- nounce that their friend Mr Cox, of Stafford, had re- ceived a telcgTam saying that his son-in-law (Mr T: P. Bromley, Stafford) had died. He (the Grand Master) was sure none of them would wish to detain Mr Cox from leaving the meeting, and much regretted the circumstances which called for the necessity (hear, hear). ESTIMATES COMMITTEE. The estimates committee presented a long report, but it was of no interest. On the motion of Mr Stoekwell, seconded by Mr Outrarn, it was agreed after remove in rule 2, to insert or form a new district and on the motion of Mr Holmes, South London, seconded by Mr F'lannagan, Manchester, it was agreed in rule 5, last line but one, after the word order," to insert the words the receipts and expenditure for manage- ment purposes." A show of hands was taken in re- spect to the latter alteration, and a large majority declared in favour of the proposition. NOMINATION OF DIRECTORS. Mr J. R. Smith, South London, proposed, and Mr W. E. Hougham, Dover, seconded, that in rule 6, paragraph 1, the words, at their annual meetings," should be erased, as well as the word February" in the fifth line, and the word April substituted. Mr Hope, Mr Lake (Swansea), Mr Packer and Mr J. H. Smith (Norwich), Mr Outram, Mr Smith (South London), Mr E. Bolt (Portsmouth), Mr Sarney, Mr Vincent, and Mr Woodeson took part in the brief debate which followed, during which it was stated that if the suggestion was adopted it would make no alteration in the agenda of the A.M.C., but the nom- inations of candidates would appear in the April re- port and not in the February report, thus giving- the Corresponding: Secretaries more time. Mr Vincent said it would not affect the time of nomination by the districts. The proposition was eventually put to the meeting and agreed to. Mr Gledhill, Brighouse, moved that rule 6, para- graph 7, line 1, referring to the payment of directors, should read as follows:—"They shall be paid 15s per day," instead of They shall be paid twenty-one shillings per day." Mr Coales, of Stoney Stratford, in a humorous speech, seconded the proposition. Mr John Bland, Market Harborough, who said that fd per member covered the whole cost of the man- agement of the society, Mr Simpson, Mr Windle, and Woodeson, opposed the motion, and Mr Haw- kins, of South London, spoke in favour, on the groundof economy. On being put to the meeting there was a large ma- jority against, but Mr Hawkins demanded a count, jority against, but Mr Hawkins demanded a count, when 87 voted for, and 264 against the motion, which was therefore declared lost, amid great cheering. During the morning's proceedings, Colonel Pryse, lord lieutenant of the county, Mr John James, mayor, and members of the Corporation, and Mr H. C. Fryer were introduced by Mr J. J. Griffiths, Prov. C.S. The Grand Master remarked that he had great pleasure in introducing to them first, Mr John James, mayor of the town (applause). He was also attended by members of the Corporation. They were also ac- companied by Colonel Pryse, lord lieutenant of the county, and Mr H. C. Fryer, chairman of the Board of Guardians (applause). They did not expect him to make a long speech, but merely to express, on be- half of the delegates, their cordial appreciation of the compliment paid to them. The Mayor thanked them most heartily for their kind invitation to attend there that morning. He was pleased to see so many of the delegates present at Aberystwyth. If there was a less number present at Aberystwyth than elsewhere it would have disap- pointed them. He regretted their inability to attend the previous day to hear the very able, practical, and lucid address delivered by the Grand Master- (applause)—upon the past, present, and future posi- tion of the Manchester Unity. He understood that they had one or two questions of great importance to discuss this week, and he hoped they would be able to finally settle at Aberystwyth questions that had been left to them as a legacy to the next A.M.C. (applause). He again thanked them for their cordial welcome, and he trusted that the business to be transacted would be completed to their entire satis- faction. Colonel Pryse, the lord lieutenant, said he had not come there with the intention of making a speech. He had great pleasure in accompanying the Mayor and Council to the gentlemen assembled in answer to their kind invitation. As Her Majesty's representa- tive in this county, he gave them a hearty welcome to Cardiganshire (applause). Her Majesty had no more loyal subjects than members of their Order, as he was well aware. He had not the honour of being one of them, but he might possibly Ibecome one (ap- plause). He was fully convinced ofthegood done by such societies in the country—in fact all their work was good. He did not know of any harm in it at all. He thanked them very much (applause). Mr H. C. Fryer, chairman of the Aberystwyth Board of Guardians, observed that he, like the Lord Lieutenant, had not come prepared to deliver a speech to them. He only came there to add his voice to that of the Mayor and Lord Lieutenant in giving the heartiest possible welcome to the delegates from every part of England, and he hoped also from the colonies (hear, hear). They had come a long way from the centres of population to a somewhat poor county and thinly populated. He hoped before they went away that they would be convinced that the hearts of the Cardiganshire people beat as warm if not warmer than the hearts they were accustomed to at home and as warm as at any town they had visited. One thing he exceedingly regretted, and that was that the weather was so unfavourable. He could only as- sure them that Monday was not a fair specimen of Aberystwyth weather. It was weather they were very little accustomed to, and he regretted that the delegates and the numerous visitors should have been favoured with such a bad specimen of Cardiganshire weather. He appeared there as the representative so to speak of, he might say, the ratepayers, as chair- man of the Board of Guardians of this union, and he begged on behalf of the ratepayers to give his best thanks to this great Society for the great benefit conferred upon the people at large. He believed it was estimated that their Society alone saved the ratepayers cf England £ 2,000,000 a year, and no doubt this diminished the amount of pauper- ism to a great and considerable extent. No Society he believed did more good than the Order of Odd- fellows, as it was the strongest Society in the world. No one could have a better idea of this than those engaged in administering the poor law relief in the country. More than that it raised the character of the persons who associated themselves with the Or- der. They were rai-ed in the social scale, and made to think it a disgrace to come before the Guardians and ask for relief, and it was a duty for everyone to provide against sickness and old age, and in every possible way to relieve the rates. He understood that they had very important questions to come be- fore them, one of which was that of superannuation. He had taken very great interest in it. He was aware it was a very great difficulty to know the con- tribution necessary, for superannuation entailed a rather heavy strain upon the purses of the young. He only hoped the wisdom of the delegates would enable them to arrive at some means, so as to make superannuation part and parcel of the rules and reg- ulations, so that every person could look forward to having a provision made for the remainder of his days, when he had reao 'ied 60 or 70 years of age. He begged to thank tlism for coming down to a distant part of the country, and to congratulate them on the action taken by the society in the past, and the action that would no doubt be taken in the future. (Ap- plause). The proceedings terminated about 1.30, and at 2.30 p.m. the delegates made an excursion to Bar- mouth, returning about nine o'clock in the evening. Many of them expressed themselves highly delighted with the ride and the beautiful scenery which the coast affords. Fortunately the day was warm, bright, and clear, and this added greatly to the com- fort of the party A regatta was held in the bay opposite the Terrace in the afternoon, and drew large numbers of people to witness it. In the evening Mr H. H. Davies held his aquatic sports in the baths, Newfoundland-street, when he was assisted by Messrs Thomas, Rogers, Kitto, James, Davies, and Harold Evans. Mr Harry Davies' won- -derful performances elicited rounds of applause. Thomas also displayed much ability, and both of them appeared quite at home while engaging in their acquatic evolutions. On Wednesday, the third meeting of the A.M.C. was held, when Mr Collins, C.S., for the third time revised the list of deputies, and the Grand Master, Mr Louis E. Wollstein, announced that the number attending was 434, the second highest number on re- cord since the holding of the A.M.C. The sub-committee's report, which dealt with mat- ters of little importance, was adopted in its entirety. In the discussion on the director's report, consider- able time was spent over a clause which had reference to the rate of interest used in the valuations, the following paragraph meeting with very general dis- approval :— It need not be concealed that the remarks relating to the rate of interest used in the valuations apply largely to those of the Manchester Unity. The directors acknowledge the force of these remarks, and would be content to see all the valuations made at the 3 per cent. rate if that arrangement would meet with the approval of the A.M.C. Whatever view the members may take of this suggestion the valuer must be untrammelled and must not be re- quired to use any higher rate of interest than 3 per cent., except in cases where it may appear to him that there is considerable probability that such higher rate can be relied upon. It was decided by 233 against 139 to strike out the paragraph. Mr Vaughan Davies was introduced to the assem- bly during the morning, and received a very cordial bly during the morning, and received a very cordial l reception. He said that he was glad to have the opportunity of attending there and watching them in what they might call their Parliament. The country watched over their deliberations with the greatest I keenness, knowing that they were legislating and working' for the good of the empire and for all who claimed the rights of Englishmen—which were free- dom, unity and prosperity. He hoped that their as- sembly would be guided by intelligence, and carried out in order. He thanked them most heartily for their kindness in receiving him (cheers). Mr David Davies, M.P., visited the hall during the afternoon, and was well received. i The following clause was agreed to :—It is hig hly important that every person joining the Society should produce a certificate of his birth, the cost of which is one shilling, but there is frequently much difficulty experienced in obtaining this document. The directors placed themselves in communication with the Registrar General with a view of securing a supply of blank forms to be supplied to ledges it is to be regretted, however, that he cannot comply with this request, but in his letter the Registrar states that any person requiring a form can obtain one gratis from any Registrar of Births and Deaths or Superin- tendent Registrar. Clause 4, which related to the progress of registra- tion and clause 5, which stated that proceedings had been commenced against several lodges which refused to pass the necessary resolutions to become regis- tered branches of the Order, were agreed to. A clause empowering the directors to proceed against the trustees of the lodges Travellers' Rest, Lord Lyttleton, and Queen Victoria, in the Stour- bridge district, for amount due to the district for levies, was agreed to. Clause 7, dealing with Bootle Corporation bonds, after some slight amendment, was agreed to. It was also agreed to invest £ 1,500 on security of the Greenock Harbour Trust at 4 per cent., and to increase the insurance on the Unitv offices from £ 1,900 to £ 2,000. The Grand Master read a letter from the Aberyst- wyth Free Masons as follows Dear Sir and Bro- ther,-Allow me to offer my sincere congratulations as W.M. of the Aberystwyth lodge of Freemasons, and on behalf of the brethren, bidding you welcome to Aberystwyth, with hearty good wishes for a suc- cessful year and glad to see a brother mason in the G.M." (applause). A telegram was also read from the annual meeting of the Free Gardeners' Society, Natal, as follows :— Kindly greetings to you. Trust your meeting may tend to your general advancement (laughter). Mr Vaughan, South London, raised a discussion as to whether Colonial delegates should be allowed to vote on financial questions of the Order, but eventu- ally the following clause was agreed to :—It will no doubt be remembered that at Reading last year a question was raised as to the status of Colonial and Foreign Deputies at our Annual Meetings, and ex- ception was taken to their voting on financial ques- tions. The Directors, upon mature consideration, see no reason to recommead any alteration in the method of procedure which has obtained for a long period, inasmuch as the Colonial and Foreign Dis- tricts contribute to the Unity Management Fund in- directly, by the profits on the goods they purchase from the Board. The Directors are of opinion that the bond of union and friendship which has charac- terised our Colonial brethren towards those members of the Order who have emigrated to the Colonies, ought to be maintained. ALTERATION OF ACTS OF PARLIAMENT. t Mr Holmes moved the adoption of the 12th clause. He remarked that it would be remembered that two years ago this matter was brought before them, and it was suggested that a communication should be made with other societies, in order to effect an improve- ment of the Friendly Societies Act. A meeting of the chief men of the Oddfellows and Foresters was held, and it was decided to ero to Parliament and have some alterations effected. Soon after, a meet- ing" of Societies was held in London, and a number of Foresters and Oddfellows impudently took upon themselves to deal with questions that had anything whatever to do with them, These gentlemen went far out of the way, and passed resolutions that they had no business to. Lord Greville, in the House of Lords, took the matter of Friendly Societies up and wanted to make numerous alterations which he knew nothing about. He believed that they were the per- sons who knew what was required. Stsps should be taken immediately for a bill to be introduced. Mr Pugh, Liverpool, seconded the proposition. Mr Curtis, the Parliamentary agent of the Unity, assured them that their interests would be looked after. Mr Tomlinson, M.P., had taken the matter up, and he had a bill prepared. This week he had received the following letter from Mr Tomlinson :— House of Commons, May 21st, 1885. Dear Sir,—I am happy to be able to inform you that the Friendly Societies Amendment Bill has passed through Committee and been read a third time to-night. It will go at once to the House of Lords, and I have no doubt become law this session. I beg to thank you for the copy of the report of your Society which you have been kind enough to send me, and also to thank your Society for the complimentary way in which my efforts for improving the law relating to Friendly Societies are alluded to.—Yours faith- fully, W. E. M. TOMLINSON. A short discussion ensued, when the clause was unanimously adopted. The meeting then adjourned. THE BANQUET was held in a large marquee in front of the Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon, and fortunately the weather was very fine, otherwise it would have been anything but comfortable. Mr John Roberts, of the Lion Royal Hotel, was the caterer, and when we re- member the large number of persons who sat down— probably between 400 and 500—it must be said that the arrangements were very satisfactory. The menu included some of the choicest delicacies of the season, and also dishes of a more substantial nature. Mr D. Davies, M.P., presided, and he was supported by several gentlemen of the county and town in addition to the deputies. After grace had been said, The Chairman proposed the toast of the Queen, which was followed by the singing of God save the Queen. The Chairman next gave the Prince and Princess of Wales and the rest of the Royal Family." after which "God bless the Prince of Wales wassun^. Mr H. L. Woodeson proposed The army, navv, and reserve forces," arguing that the country was not opposed to a just expenditure in keeping up the strength of the army and navy. He urged that the navy was in an inefficient state arising from the de- sire of both parties in the House of Commons for many years pastto cut down expenses. He coupled with the toast the names of Colonel H. C. Morse and Lieutenant Pownall, P.G.M. The latter gentleman responded. Mr J. Bennett, P.G.M., proposed the "Bishop and clergy of the diocese and ministers of all denomina- tions," and said he knew of nothing that tended to assist the clergy and ministers so much as institutions similar to the one whose representatives now met in Aberystwyth. He also referred to the fact that with one exception the whole of the bishops in Wales were Welshmen, and said that that was how it should be. He coupled with the toast the names of the Rev John Pugh, and the Rev J. Varteg Jones, who responded. Song,—"Hen wlad y Menyg- Gwynion,"Mr Maldwvii Evans. Mr A. C. Humphreys-Owen proposed the "Houses of Parliament," coupled with the name of Mr David Davies. Mr David Daves, M.P., in responding, said he was sure he felt the compliment paid to him. They all j knew that Mr Humphreys-Owen was his nearest neighbour and was one of those men who would not compliment him if he did not deserve it. (Laughter.) He was also sure they would not pay him the com- pliment unless they thought he deserved it. (Laugh- ter.) As he was a public man, some of them, perhaps did not know him personally, but might have heard of him. (Laughter.) He could not say much about the august assembly of the House of Lords, but that he was not a member, as they all knew. (Laughter.) He was a member of the House of Commons and that they all knew. He did not often meet with the members of the House of Lords, but he would pay them this compliment, even if they were all there. There were many of them very good, able, and con- scientious men. Bat a large number of the members of the House of Lords were the poorest sticks he had ever come across. (Laughter.) If they always stop. ped in the House of Lords he should not complain about it, but occasionally they came upon committees and caused great trouble and expense. (Laughter.) The committees of the House of Lords are made np sometimes of only about three or four members, and if the Bill is not to their taste it is thrown out. He thought the House of Lords, ought to be amended or improved. (Hear, hear, Rot," and hisses.) He did not say how it could be done, but he thought it was in ueed of reform. At the same time they should re- member that he was not saying they ought to do away with it altogether. As to the House of Commons he could say a great deal about it, as he had been there for many years. He did not know of any assembly in the world that worked so hard and turned out so little work as the House of Commons. (Laughter.) He could tell them where the secret was, and then they would see through the whole thing. The mem- bers were the representatives of the people. One man got up, perhaps a minister, and made a good speech. He really thought it was a good speech and that he had sifted all the points. After speaking for about an hour, another man would get up and con- tradict every word be had uttered. They were all good men. but he could not but think that some were there for mischief. They did good work, but some- times after they had sat until three in the morning- he would defy anyone to say that they had made one inch of progress. (Laughter.) He ex- plained how the bill went into committee, and amendment after amendment having been added, | until at last it was unreadable. He trusted that many of the delegates would find seats in the new parliament. They wanted such men, as they pos- sessed sound common sense. (Hear, hear). As they had been told, he was one of them, and what little he had done he had made himself. (Applause.) He should advise them if they got into the House not to make long speeches. They would be read in blue (Continited on page 8.)