The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

EUROPEAN ARMAMENTS. SIR,—I shall feel obliged if you will kindly permit me to state through your columns that at Swansea, on the morning of the 20th of November (the day after the Con- ference on Closing Public-houses on Sunday), another Con- ference will be held in support of a motion which I intend to propose in the next Session of Parliament in favour of a mutual and simultaneous reduction of European Arma- menta. May I venture to hope that many of those who may be present at the Conference on Sunday Closing will do me the pleasure of meeting me on that occasion. As my proposal is entirely free from all party purpose or bias, men of all religious and political party may take part in the movement in support of it. Further particulars as to the time and place of meeting will be given hereafter.—I am, &c., HENRY RICHARD. 22, Bolton Gardens, South Kensington, London, S.W., 10th November, 1879.

MALLWYD SCHOOL. Sir.,—Allow me a brief space in your columns to make a few remarks upon some statements made by the Rev. Mr. Thomas, Rector of Mallwyd, at a meeting of the rate- payers of the parish of Mallwyd, held at the schoolroom on Nov. 4. This meeting was held "for the purpose of taking into consideration the necessity of establishing a School Board for the parish," for the very simple reason that the school committee were unable to carry on the school further for the want of funds and because many of the ratepayers refused to pay the voluntary rate, principally because there was no school at Aberangell. The Hev. Mr. Thomas is a member of the school com- mittee, and the fafct that the meeting was called and that he was there as chairman was enough to prove that the committee could not carry on the school further with the machinery in existence at the present time. And what the ratepayers naturally expected from Mr. Thomas, as a member of the committee who called the meeting together, was a well devised scheme for carrying on the school by voluntary subscriptions or a warm support to a School Board, but instead of that he absolutely condemned a School Board in the most emphatic manner, and even thi-eatered the poor ratepayers that as far as his powers went he would punish them with the utmost rigour if they decided upon a School Board, but at the same time he omitted to point out any other way for them to get out of their dilemma!! Whether it was wise for Mr. Thomas to make many of the remarks that he made at the time and place, I will not take upon myself to de- cide. I will confine myself for the present to two state- ments made by him at the meeting. He stated that if a School Board was adopted he would not deliver the property of the Church up to the Board, that is to say, he would not let the Board have the use of the school. It is not long since Mr. Thomas came to reside in the neighbour- hood, otherwise he would be aware of the unpleasant effect of his remarks upon the ears of those that had been, hat in hand, toiling to get subscriptions to build the school. Now, suppose Mr. Thomas forces a School Board to erect a new school, would not the burden fall as heavily upon Churchmen as Nonconformists, and would he not have to take a large share of it, as one of the largest ratepayers in the parish ? On the other hand, if Mr. Thomas means to undertake to carry on the school on his own responsibility, let him do so by all means. No doubt the ratepayers would hail his attempt with delight. Perhaps Mr. Thomas knows that with all his authority he cannot make the school into a dwelling-house, and if lie could get the consent of the Churchwardens to make a kiod of a Chapel of ease of it, a curate or some assistant would be required, and the Churchmen would have to pay all the more. Anyhow, it seems that if Mr. Thomas prevails with one pary of the ratepayers to spite the other by appropriating what is really a common property, they will find it a very expensive luxury. Perhaps the Church property party" would wish that Mr. Thomas filled the Mallwyd Church to overcrowding before they feel it is their duty to provide another costly establishment, and that be would let the ratepayers alone to carry on the school in the best way they can in peace and goodwill. Mr. Thomas also stated that the Bibles in the Mallwyd School were thrown into the coalhole. Perhaps some loose leaves of the Bible, torn by the children, had found their way with loose leaves of other books to the coalhole of the school. But why should Mr. Thomas mention the fact; and even supposing the state- ment to be absolutely true, without going into the question of Bible teaching in public schools pro et con, we should like to know what does Mr. Thomas mean to infer from such a statement ? We hardly expected a gentleman of Mr. Thomas's amiability to create dissensions amongst the parishioners of Mallwyd. who worked together so peace- fully in the time of his predecessor.—I am, &c., CLERICAL CLOTH,

ELECTION OF MAYORS. CARDIGAN. The annual meeting of the Council for the election of Mayor was held in the Guildhall on Monday, Nov. 10, when Mr. W. VYoodvvard, of the firm of Miles, Woodward, and Co., was elected. ABERYSTWYTH. TOWN COUNCIL (QUARTERLY MEETING), MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10.-Present: Mr. D. Roberts, Mayor, Aldermen John Watkins, John Davies, and Philip Wilbams, Councillors John Jones, Bridge-end, JoutiS, John James, T. D. Harries, T. Griffiths, Isaac Morgan, John Jenkins, Edward Hamer, Edward J. Jonns, J. J. Griffiths, Edward Humphreys. Mr. W. H, i homas. Town Clerk, Mr. David Lloyd, Mr. J. J. Atwood, Corporation Solicitor, Mr. Hugh Hughes, Treasurer, LA Ir. Morris Jones, Medical Officer, Mr. Rees Jones, Surveyor, and other officials. ELECTION OF MAYOR. The TOWN CLERK said he believed the members of the Council were aware that by Act of Parliament the first business was the election of Mayor. The MAYOR (Mr. David Roberts) said another year had parsed away since the Council conferred upon him the honour for the second time of. electing him Mayor of Aberystwyth. They were aU aware that some of the duties which had devolved upon the Council during the past year were of a weighty nature. Those duties, whether large or small, he believed had received a full share of the attention of the members of the Council. The purchase of the Castle Grounds, he was glad to say, had been accomplished in a very satisfactory manner and he felt proud that those old and venerable ruins with the pleasant walks would be secured to the town. His own impression was that the town had been fortunate in having to deal with a gentleman like Mr. Wilding, who had met the Council in an honourable and gentlemanly way. The great and momentous question which had been before the Board for the last bvelve months, a question which affected Aberystwyth greatly, was the excellent scheme of supplying the town with water from the Plinlymon mountain. The enquiry, as they knew, was held last Wednesday afternoon by Major Tulloch, to whom the thanks of the Council were due for the pains ue took, and the assiduous manner in which he investigated the facts of the scheme, and also for visiting and seeing for himself that grand lake of splendid and pure water. He thought the members of the Council should never forget the man- ner in which Major Tulloch conducted the enquiry, and he (the ayor) felt that the town generally should feel thankful to him. When that capital scheme was carried out Aberystwyth would have gained a great point in its favour. 1-'01' himself lie had to thank all the members of the Council for the kind and courteous manner in which they had assisted him in discharging the duties of Chair- man of that Board. He could assure them that he had endeavoured to discharge the duties conscientiously, a, d he hoped that by what he had done he had satisfied the Council and tile ratepayers of the to wn. He must also re- turn his sincere thanks to Major Lewis, the Chief Con- stable, Mr. Superintendent-Lloyd, the sergeants, and the police force, for the prompt and able way they had given their services whenever they had been required. The Council would now proceed to the election ot a^Iayor for the coming year, and when they had so done he should have pleasure in vacating the chair ill his favour. (A Voice: "The Town Cleric.") He had also to thank the Town Clerk. He wa." out not ieust, and it was an iu- advertence that he had not been tnaniced before. He (the Mayor) had received from Mr. Thomas most kind, valu- able, and prompt attention whenever his assistance was necessary. The TOWN CLERK—Also Mr. Atwood. The MAYOH-I have not done with you yet. (Laugh- ter.) I hope you will long continue to held the office. Respecting our solicitor he has acted very courteously, and his promises have been .very good. (Laughter.) Mr. J A MES—Except in sending in his account. The TOWN CLERK-Don't go into hot water too soon. (Laughter.) The MAYOR, continuing, said the reason why Mr. At- wood had not sent in his account was very likely that he knew there were no funds to meet it and so he had been kind enough to let his bill stand over for a few months longer. He thought he. had mentioned everyone except the°town surveyor, the rate collector, whom he saw pre- sent, and the town crier. (Laughter.) Respecting the town surveyor, he certainly must say that all the members of the Council would agree that he had performed his duty » most efficiently. The Surveyor had had several important works on hand at the same time, and he (the Mayor) was happy to ba able to say that he had performed them all in a very satisfactory way. He believed the rate collector also had done his duty very faithfully m fact they could not have a better officer. He thought that the thanks of the town were due to their worthy and talented medical officer (Mr. Morris Jones) for the way in which he had discharged his duties. (A Voice "The Press. ) The memb ers of the press were present to speak for them- selves. Thev could put down what they liked he sup- posed." (Laughter.) He thought there was only one opinion about the press. They were found to be about the same everywhere -intclligcttr. men, 111.;11 a ho performed their duties satisfactorily to all parties. He again thanked them all for the kind assistance which had been given him during the.time he had been Mayor of Aberystwyth. (Applause.) Dr. HARRIES said he thought the next thing was to elect a Mayor for the ensuing year and he would take it upon himself to propose a gentleman for that office. It gave him the greatest pleasure to propose that gentleman, because he felt contident that he was a fit and proper person to undertake and carry out the duties of chief magistrate of the town of Aberystwyth. He believed the time had come when he might sav they all more or less appreciated talent, and nowhere was talent move needed than in cairymg oift the public duties of the chiff lon-uistr.-te of the town. He had at all times appreciated t.1tI:"IIL so far as his own way of thinking went, and he thoo,iO', as lie had said before, they till nppreciated it. The geutieuiau he should pro- p,H for the office of mayor was more or less talented, in- d"f.,i it might be said that he was talented. He had, ho'v^vt-r, other recommendations. Ever since he had bf> a member of tie Council he had been true and up- ri"b t in all his dealings. He bad always done his best, and his best had been far the good of the town. Further th"n that he (the speaker) believed that the one he should was senior member of the Council. He merely said that in order to satisfy the ratepayers, because he did n;; Lllce 3. man for his seniority but by his power to serve the town, and a man could not serve a town with grey diaira or a wrinkled face only, ihe one he should propose had been out of the Council for a. few months, but that had nothing to do with the question. It was simply by mistake that he was Kicked out. The ratepayers, how- ever soon found out tke mistake and they returned him ftcrain to the Council. If he were elected mayor it would ba found that no mistake had been made, but that the right man had been put into the rjg-ht place. As a mayor he would conduct the business of the town in every way satisfactorily, in the same way, in fact"as he had dis- charged the duties of Councillor, and Le (Dr. Harries) hoped all the Imembers would assist him in carrying out the duties of the office. The gentleman he had the honour to propose was Mr. Peter Jones. He proposed Mr. Jones to be Mayor of Aberystwyth for one, two, or three years as the case might be. (Cheers.) Mr. EDWARD J. JONES said he had much pleasure in seconding the proposition. As to Mr. Peter Jones's quali- fications, he added, he considered they were well known to the members of the Council, and, therefore, it was un- necessary that he should mention them. If the Mayor should be eiected according to seniority, he (the speaker) maintained that Mr. Peter Jones was senior mem- ber of the Council, having been in the Council for six years and nine months, which was a longer period than any other member of the Council had served. He had great pleasure in seconding the pro- posal, for he considered that if elected Mr. Peter Jones would be a worthy successor of their worthy Mayor, Mr. David Roberts. (Cheers.) The MAYOR—Has any Councillor an amendment to make? No answer. The MAYOR—Well, I suppose it is unanimous. Mr. ISAAC MORGAN—It is no use tS waste time. The TOWN CLERK-If there is no motion to the contrary I suppose the Mayor will declare the election and vacate the seat. Tue -NIATOr,-Well, gentlemen, I beg to declare that Mr. Peter Jones is unanimously elected Mayor of Aberystwyth for the ensuing year. (Applause.) The MAYOR (Mr. Peter Jones), on taking the chair vacated by Mr. Alderman Roberts, said his thanks were due in the first instance to Dr. Harries and Mr. Edward J. Jones for having proposed and seconded his election. The only thing he regretted in connection with the remarks which Dr. Harries had made was, that it might create a very high expectation as regarded the performance of his duties, which he feared would fall far short of the mark anticipated by Dr. Harries. He must also thank the Council for tile unanimity with which they had agreed to the proposal. He could assure them that nothing gave him greater pleasure than that proposition. As a native of the town, and as one who had only been out of it for a few months, he might say it had been his ambition to occupy that position, and he thought legitimately so— (hear, hear)—as he looked upon it as the highest honour his fellow townsmen could bestow upon him. He believed that he was the youngest Councillor who had occupied that position at Aberystwyth, and that, he considered, added to the honour. It would be a difficult thing for him to follow in the steps of so able a predecessor as Mr. David Roberts, with whose assistance and co-operation the Council had been able to carry the business of the town to so satisfactory an issue during the past year. As Mr. David Roberts had observed, several important matters were likely to engage the attention of the Council during the ensuing year, particularly the water question and he trusted that the result of the enquiry would lead to a satisfactory settlement of that question, a settlement which, he thought, would add materially to the prosperity of Aberystwyth as a watering place. The town was well sewered and paved, and he believed there was nothing of a public and permanent character to be done in the town except the settlement of that question. When that was done Aberystwyth would be equal in sani- tary matters ts any town in the Principality. (Cheers.) As to finances, they were not so bad as some seemed to think. The Corporation had a rent roll of £ t500 or 2700 a year, and the municipal property was only charged with a mortgage of 1:4,400. Then they had a net rental of £480 to 1:500. When the arrears were paid, and also the rent for the ensuing year, ho believed that the balance due to the treasurer would be wiped away. They had E500 a year actually received from the Corporation property at the present time. if they could only bring about a settlement of the leases question, that would add materially to the prosperity of the town in a financial sense and he trusted that, with the co-operation of the members of the Council, they should be able to devise means to utilize the Corporation property for the present generation, and thus reduce the rates and liabilities of the town. He was much obliged to them for the honour they had done him. Nothing should be wanting on his part in the performance of the duties of the office so far as power in him lay. (Applause.) The MAYOR read ana signed the usual declaration, and then said the Council ought to pass a vote expressive of their thanks to Alderman Roberts for the very able and painstaking way he had performed the duties of the officJ of mayor for the past two years. He had been most con- scientious in attention and regular in attendance. During the period he (Mr. Jones) had been a member of the Council, he had not known any gentleman—and he did not wish to speak disparagingly of his predecessors—who had given greater satisfaction to the Council and the public generally than their former Mayor. He, there- fore, had great pleasure in moving a vote of thanks to Alderman David Roberts for the way he had discharged the duties of the office during the time he filled the civic chair. (Cheers.) Alderman DAVIES seconded the motion, and it was carried. The EX-MAYOR, acknowledging the vote, said he had given all the time he possibly could to the performance of the duties of the office, and he hoped he had given satis- faction to the town and Council. COMMITTEES. Public Works and Streets Committee.—Messrs. David Roberts, John Watkins, John Jenkins, John James, John James Griffiths, Isaac Morgan, Edw. Hamer, John Jones (convener). Slaughter-house and Afarktts Committee.-Messrs. John Davies, Thomas Davies Harries, John Richard Jones, John Jenkins, John James Griffiths (convener). Public Library Committee.—Messrs. E. J. Jones, Thomas Griffiths, John Richard Jones, Edward Hum- phreys, Edw. Hamer (convener). Public Lights Committee.—•Jvi.ssrs. Thomas Griffiths, Thomas Davies Harries, John James Griffiths, John Jenkins, Philip Williams (convener). Finance and Valuation Committee.— Messrs. John Richard Jones, John Watkins, Isaac Morgan, Edw. Hamer, E. J. Jones, John James (convener). Harbour Committee.—Messrs. David Roberts, John Davies, John Jones, Bridge-end, Philip Williams, E. J. Jones, John James, John. Jenkins, Edward Humphreys, John Watkins (convener). QUARTERLY MEETINGS. On the motion ot vir. ISAAC MORGAN, seconded by Alderman WILLIAMS, the quarterly meetings for the ensuing year were fixed for the first 1!ridöYi! in I ebruary, May, and August. LOAN. The MAYOR read a letter from the Public Works Loan Commissioners acknowledging the receipt of the state- ment from the Town Council, respecting the proposal to borrow tl6,000 for water works purposes, and saying that the application had been recorded upon the books of the department. RATAL REFORM ASSOCIATION. The MAYOR also read a letter from the Ratal Reform Association, whose object, among other things, is to get the poor charged to the country, and not to unions, asking support from the Corporation, pecuniary and moral. The letter was laid on the. table. CLOSING OF PUBLIC HOUSES. The MAYOR read a letter respecting a conference to be held at Swansea concerning the closing of public houses on Sundays, and requesting that delegates should be ap- pointed to attend the conference. Dr. HARRIES proposod that Mr. Isaac Morgan should attend. (Laughter.) Mr. ISAAC MORGAN asked who would pay the expenses. (Laughter.) The MAYOR stated that some time ago a resolution was passed in favour of the project, on the proposition of Mr. Isaac Morgan, and it would be well to send that resolu- tion. THE CASTLE GROUNDS. The Corporation Solicitor produced an agreement be- tween Mr. Wilding and the Corporation, by which Mr. Wilding gave up his interest in the Castle Grounds for £ 250. The agreement was executed, on the motion of Mr. JOHN JAMES, seconded by Mr. ISAAC MORGAN. PLINLYMON WATER SCHEME. Mr. ATWOOD was directed to send to Major Tulloch as soon as possible the notices served respecting the purchase of the reservoir site. Dr. HARRIES said that Major Tulloch wished I. present his compliments to the Council for the pleasant day's outing they had given him, and to the ratepayers who attended the enquiry for their .very orderly conduct. His report would be presented in fourteen days after he was at Aberystwyth. MR. TREDWELL'S APPLICATION. Mr JOHN JONES, in answer to Mr. David Roberts, said the Harbour Committee recommended a site on the north side of the river Rheidol for Mr. Tredwell's dock. Mr. Pickering, on behalf of Mr. Tredwell, desired to have eighty feet by forty feet outside measurement. The report.s adopted, on the motion of Mr. ISAAC MORGAN, seconded by Mr. JOHN JAMES, and it was agreed to grant a lease of the site for twenty-one years, at a rent of 21 per annum, BOROUGH ACCOUNTANT. Mr. H. L. Evans offered the Guarantee Society as his security, and it was accepted. LLANIDLOES. TOWN COUNCIL, MONDAY, Nov. 10.-Present: Mr. Richard Jones, in the chair, Aldermen Thomas Davies, T. F. Roberts and Thomas Jones, Councillors Edward Davies, Wm. Thomas, Dl. Davies, David Jones, Geo. Morgan, Geo. Thomas, J. H. Webb, Edwd. Pryce, Dl. Higgs, Hy. Hamer, and E. Williams. It was proposed hy Alderman T. JONE.3, and seconded by Couiiciiior (i. Txioju.s, that Councillor Emvu. DAVIES be mayor of thj;, borough for the emsuinj year. Carried nem. con. The Mayor elect having taken the chair, it.wa-? proposed by Councillor WILLIAMS, and seconded by Alderman ROBERTS, that the thanks of the Council be given to the late Mayor for the efficient manner in which he has per- formed the duties of that office. Carried unanimously. It was proposed by Alderman T. DAVIES, and seconded by Councillor W. THOMAS, that a vote of thanks be also tendered to the late Ex-mayor, for the manner in which he has performed the duties of his office. Carried unanimously. The following committees were appointed :—Alderman T. Jones, Councillors Dl. Davies, W. Thomas, George Thomas and J. H. Webb, as the Encroachment Com- mittee. Alderman T. F. Roberts, Councillors Williams, Pryce, D. Jones and G. Thomas, as the Watch and Litrht- ing Committee. Aldermen Thomas Davies and Thomas Jones, Councillors W. Thomas, E. Williams, J. H. Webb, R. Jones and Vi. Davies, the Scavenging Committee.— Councillors R. Jones, D. Davies, J. H. Webb, G. Thomas and H. Hamer, the Finance Committee.—The various officials were re-elected, and it was proposed by Councillor E. Williams, seconded by Councillor W. Thomas, and carried, that the lamps in this borough be lighted on week days till 11.30 p.m., and on Saturdays and fair days till 12 p.m. WELSHPOOb. TOWN COUNCIL (ANNUAL MEETING), MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10.—Present: The Mayor (Mr. Councillor W. T. Parker), Aldermen T. Jones, W. Withy, E. M. Jones, and VV. Rogers, Councillors E. T. D. Harrison, S. Davies, T. Morris, G. D. Harrrison, W. Itowland, J. Sayce. W. Beattie, G. Morris, E. Jehu, R. Jones, and C. Mytton. Mr. E. Jones, Town Clerk. ELECTION OF MAYOR. The MAYOR said the time had now come when his term of officeexpired and it was for them to appoint his sue- cessor. Mr. T. MORRIS said he had much pleasure in proposing Mr. G. D. Harrison as a fit and proper person to fill the position of Mayor for the ensuing year. (Applause.) He 0, felt certain that he would fill that positiou with great credit to the town, and from the interest he had taken in the welfare of the borough, he thought the least they could do was to make him Mayor. (Applause.) Mr. Councillor SAYCE rose with great pleasure to second the motion. There could only be one opinion amongst them, and that was that Mr. Harrison would fill the office successfully and with credit to himself. (Hear, hea.r.) The MAYOR asked whether there was any other candi-1 date, and on there being no response, he said it was with grear. pleasure he declared Mr. Harrison elected as the Mayor of Welshpool for the next twelvemonths. After having vacated the chair, the ex-Mayor invested the Mayor-elect with the insignia of office. The MAYOR said he felt some acknowledgment was due for the very distinguished honour that had been paid him. It did not require many words to express his appreciation of the compliment. He accepted the position with some misgivings, as he had many demands upon his time, and the remainder that was at his disposal was, he felt, hardly sufficient to allow him to pay that attention to the duties of his office which they deserved. Another reasons which made him rather reluctant in accepting the position of mayor was that he was but a young member of the Council, and consequently somewhat inexperienced, and he also felt they might have made a much better selection. However, he felt very grateful to them for electing him to the highest position of authority in his native town. When his friends came forward-and without being in- vidious he would mention the name of the ex-mayor (Mr. Parker), who had promised to render him all the assistance he could-his scruples gradually gave way, and he felt he should be ungrateful if he did not accept the office which was offered him. He asked the Council to assist him in the discharge of his duties, and he trusted that when the time came for him to hand over the insignia of office to another, he would be able to do so without feeling that he had ever done anything to disgrace it. There were one or two matters he should like to allude to, although he did not wish to keep them too long, as it was market day. As far as he knew the public works which had been carried out were a credit to the town, and would tend to the well being of the in- habitants. They had, however, brought with them in- creased expenditure, and he had no doubt he would have the sympathy of all in endeavouring to reduce the ex- penditure so far as it conduced to the welfare of the rate- payers. There was one other matter they would pardon him for making allusion to, and that was in regard to their mortgages. He could not help feeling that they might be consolidated, and if this was done the rates might be reduced. If it was feasible he would bring the subject forward for consideration. (Hear, hear.) Another im- portant question was that of the by-laws. They were brought before them rather late in Mr. Parker's day, and he apprehended it would be his (the Mayor's) duty to bring the matter forward again at no distant date. He must ask the Council carefully to go through them, as they were of great importance to the ratepayers, as regulating the management of the borough over which he had now the honour to preside. He must, therefore, ask the indulgence of the Council when he brought the by- laws before them to be considered seriatim. He must apologise for trespassing so long upon their time, and in conclusion he begged once more to thank them for the lionour they had paid him. tAppl,-tiise.) Mr. E. T. D. HARRISON said it was his pleasing duty last year to nominate a gentleman (the ex-Mayor) to preside over them, and he had now an equal pleasure in proposing a vote of thanks to the ex-Mayor -for the able and satisfactory manner in which he had fulfilled those duties. (Applause.) He had had a great deal to do with their late Mayor, and had always found him anxioil's to do what he considered to be right, and in assisting him in his efforts it was a matter of great satisfaction to him (the speaker) to think that they had never had the slightest difference. (Hear. hear.) It must be satisfactory to the Mayor to know that he had honourably and faithfully discharged the duties pertaining to the office of mayor. (Applause.) He had much pleasure in proposing that the best thanks of the Council should be given to the Ex-Mayor. (Applause.) Mr. W. WITHY seconded the motion which was unani- mously agreed to. The EX-MAYOR, in reply, said it was certainly pleasant to a man who had endeavoured, however feebly, to do his duty, to know that he had pleased his colleagues. He thanked them all for the courtesy and kindness which had been shown him during his year of office. The time had been pleasantly occupied, and he was happy to say that during that period they had not had a single division. Djiring the past year the work of the magistrates had been rather heavy, but hp was again happy to say that they had not had one case of appeal. In conclusion he reported that Messrs. W. Beattie, W. Withy, S. Davies, and C. Mytton had been elected members of the Council.. Th.e MAYOR said the next question was the appointment of committees, but as it was market day they might per- haps feel inclined to adjourn the appointment to the next ordinary meeting of the Council. Mr. T. MORRIS said he had been speaking to one or two of the members and they thought that as it was market day they had better adjourn the remainder of the business to the next meeting. They were a happy family now. (Laughter.) The Ex-MAYOR then said he had a pleasant duty to perform, whoever held the position of Mayor was cer- tainly fortunate in having such a Town Clerk as theirs. (Hear, hear.) He had much pleasure in proposing a vote of thanks to the Town Clerk. (Applause.) Mr. S. DAVIES seconded the motion. The TOWN CLERK in responding, hoped the office would not suffer at his hands. (Applause.) The proceedings then terminated, and the Mayor in- vited the Council to meet him the following Sunday at the Town Hall* and accompany him to St. Mary's church. SHREWSBURY. TOWN COUNCIL MO-NDAY, NOVEIIIFP, lo.-Pr,?sent The Mayor (W. G. Cross, Esq.,) Aldermen Eyton, Groves, Southam, Smith, White, How, Bratton; Councillors Calcott, Crump, Evans, E. Jones, T, Williams, J. D. Harries, Bintiall, J. Groves, J. Cross. Burrey, Holt, Bagnall, Cock. Kent, Robinson, Davies, Gillitlie, Palmer, Lawson, Robbins, Morris, Morgan, Blower, Blockley. Mr. Aldermon EYTON said he had great pleasure in bringing before them the name of a gentleman as mayor for the ensuing year, who had been in the Council for many years. From the fact that he had been well known in the town for a very loug time, and was much respected, he need not say much about him. His father and his family had been well known. He was one of the first who established a business in the Smithfield, and lie had always shown an interest in the prosperity of the town. The name he should mention was that ot iNIr. Wm. Hall, the well- known auctioneer of the town. who from his business habits, he (Mr. Eyton) was well assured, would be a,very fit and proper man to take the office of mayor. (Cheers.) Mr. Councillor CRUMP, in seconding the nomination, said lie had known Mr. Hall from childhood, and he was well known in the borough. It was twenty years since he first took his seat in the Council, and he was sure they would all be glad to see him more frequently amongst them. The resolution having been put to the vote, was unani- mously adopted. (Great cheering.) Soon after Mr. Hall entered the Council Chamber wearing the chain of office, and took his seat in the chair amidst loud cheering. He said they had done him the -h honour of electing him chief Magistrate of the Borough and he had only to say that he had been in the town all his life, and his antecedents were well-known to all. He bad been in the Council for many years, but had been a bad member, as his business had prevented him attending as often as he would have wished. He hoped he had now made arrangements which would .enable him to attend more regularly, and to fulfil the duties of Chief Magistrate. He should endeavour to maintain the dignity of the office' and to steer a straightforward course, so that at the end of his Mayoralty, they might be able to say that he had done his duty. (Loud cheers.) Mr. Alderman SMITH proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Alderman Cross for the excellent manner in which he had performed the office of mayor, both with regard to his duties in the Council Chamber and on the Bench. (Applause.) Mr. Councillor J. D. HARRIES seconded the proposi- tion, complimenting Mr. Cross upon the diligence he had shown in the fulfilment of his duties both there and else- where. The EX-MAYOR thanked them for the cordial mr.nner in which they had received the proposition, and said he had specially to thank his brother magistrates, tLe Town Clerk, and the Chief Constable for the great assistance they had given him during his term of office. The Council then proceeded to the general business on the agenda, the first of which was to appoint committees, and the selection of the various members occasioned a great deal of fun and lively Conversation, several of those proposed declining positively to serve on the particular committees to which their names were attached,, but even- tually all were carried as previously arranged, with the exception of the School Attendance Committee, where Councillors Cock and Palmer were substituted for Davies and Wilson, the two former volunteering their services on what was described as the most unpopular and disagree- able of all the committees. All the old officers, bellman, sergeants-at-mace, &e., were then re-elected, after which the reports of the various committees were submitted for consideration. On the Parliamentary and Estates Report being in- troduced, Mr. Councillor BAGNALL said, with reference to the £ 100 given by the Horticultural Society for improve- ments in the Quarry, he supposed it was all absorbed in the. alterations which had been already made but the TOWN CLERK said that was not so, and that what re- mained of it was included in the balance carried on. The reports of the Watch Committee, the Improvement, Gas, Water and Lighting, and Sanitary Committees were all passed unanimously. On the Markets and Fairs' report, Mr. Councillor EDDOWES made some remarks, congratulating the com- mittee of 1878-9 on the success which had attended their labours, consequent upon the excellent manner in which they had fulfilled their duties. The rentals of the market and Smithfield for the next three years would produce an increased income to the Corporation of S300 per annum. —Mr. Alderman SOUTHAM referred to the great increase that had taken place in the supply of produce in the market, poimiug out the necessity of some alterations heing made for the convenience of buyers and the public generally, lie also spoke of the extreme ipconveniences ,,f the Corn Exchange, which must have some alterations made in it. or it would be useless for the purposes for which it was intended. No other discussion": of any importance took place, and the appointment of aldermen to superintend the several wards at elections concluded the business. WREXHAM. Forthe first time in the municipal history of Wrexham the Council met wrth seventeen members present, namely, the Mayor (Mr. Isaac Shone, the retiring member for the West Ward, who sought re-election, and was defeated by Mr. Freder ick .Tones >, Aldermen Smith, Lloyd, J- C. Own. and Beale. Councillors Bradley. Edisbury. J. Os- well Bury, SamueK J. Jones, Walter Jones, J. Williams, R. Jones, Huxley. Sherratt, and T. Rowland. Mr. Alderman J. C. OWEN proposed that Mr. Alderman Smith be elected Mayor for the ensuing year. This was seconded hy Mr. Alderman BEALE. Mr. Alderman LLOYD, in a speech of some length, then proposed that Mr. Councillor Bradley be elected. This was seconded by Mr. EDISBURY. Mr. JOHN WILLIAMS caused a little sensation by speak- ing in support of the nomination of Mr. Alderman Smith, he being the only member of the Council who had de- clined to pledge himself to either candidate. Before the votes were taken, Mr. Alderman OWES put a number of questions to the Town Clerk as to the right of Mr. Shone to vote, when he had ceased to represent any ward in the borough. The TOWN CLERK gave it as his opinion that Mr. Shone had a perfect right to vote as Mayor, and to give a ca.sting vote if it were required. The votes were then talc em, with the following restilt: For Alderman Smith, Aldermen Beale, J. C. Owen and Smith, Councillors J. Williams, R. Jones, F. Jones, Huxley T. Rowland, and Sherratt (9). For Councillor Bradley, the Mayor, Alderman Lloyd, Councillors Bradley. Edisbury, Oswell Bury, Samuels, J. Jones and Walter Jones (S.) Mr. Alderman Smith wa.s therefore elected by a majority of one. The Council then proceeded to the appointment of Committees and other business. A cordial vote of thanks to the retiring Town Clerk closed the proceedings. LLANDOVERY. A meeting of the Town Council was held in the Town Hall on Monday, November 10. On the proposition of Mr. Charles Bishop, Dolgarreg, seconded by Mr. J. Jones, M.P., Mr. Thomas Jones, solicitor, Llanfair Grange, was unanimously elected Mayor for the ensuing year. It was proposed to have the footpaths of the town flagged, and to borrow money for that purpose on the security of the borough rate, repayable by instalments extending over a number of years. The question was, however, adjourned trtl Friday. OSWESTRY. TOWN COUNCIL, MONDAY, NOVEMBER IO.-Present: Mr. John Thomas (Mayor); Aldermen T. Minshall, Jackson Salter, and George Owen Councillors John Morris, E. Shaw, E. Thomas, W. H. Spaull, R. Hughes, W. H. Weaver, G. Bayley, W. Fletcher Rogers, W. H. Lacon, R. Lloyd, John Jones, J. < 'ottam, G. J. Saunders, and C. W. Owen The Town Clerk (Mr. Henry Davies), Mr. Jackson (Town Clerk's Office), the Medical Officer (Dr. Beresford), the Surveyor (Mr. Hodgson), and the Collector (Mr. Glascodine.) ELECTION OF MAYOR. The MAYOR said that the first business of the meeting was the election of a Mayor for the ensuing year. Alderman GEORGE OWEN then rose and said-As our expected Mayor properly reminds us, the first duty that i Involves upon us this day is to elect a Mayor for the en- suing year, and I think that I shall have little difficulty in fulfilling that duty when I ask you to edve a unanimous vote for the gentleman whom I shall propose to you to fill that high and honourable office. Fortunately, the gentleman I am about to name is not a Benedict, so it cannot be said in this instance that the grey mare is the better horse." (A laugh.) Put of this I am sure, that you cannot possibly select a better Mayor. (Cheers.) About the middle of the last century we read that there WolS a burlesque Mayor for the hamlet of Garrett, a small place lying between W andsworthand Tooting, named Sir John Harper, who, in his address to his constituents thanking them for having once before returned him to represent Garrett in Parliament out of doors," styles himself" the rectifier of all mistakes and blunders, promises to promote the trade and commerce of the laud in general, and of every freeman in par- ticular, of that borough, to ,establish a firm, lasting and universal peace with America, chastise the insolence of France, Spain, and Holland, utterly smash Russia, and restore the nation to its ancient glory. (Laughter.) He also promises to call servants in high places to account, shortcn*'Parliaments, and finally to ex- tinguish the national debt. (Renewed laughter.) Now, although we cannot expect our new coming Mayor to perform or promise any such miracles as these, the year before him will by no means be a sinecure year of office; the street improvements, the market alterations, the reservoir repairs, will tax much of his time and patience, and for these claims I am sure you will heartily agree with me that we cannot select a better man than our mutual friend Mr. Councillor John Morris. (Cheers.) Born and reared in the town; growing up with its increasing prosperity a past mayor a tried justice of the peace a gentleman of energy; an hospitable host; a sincere friend; no man's enemy, not even his own. (Cheers.) With plenty of spare time at his disposal, and blessed with plenty of this world's possessions, these, I think, are qualifications that entitle us again to select him as our chief magistrate for the ensuing twelve months. I, therefore, propose that "Mr. Councillor John Morris be and is hereby elected mayor of this borough for the mayoral year." (Cheers.) Mr. E. SHAW said it gave him very considerable pleasure to second the norninat' n of Mr. Morris to the office of mayor for the ensuing Tax. and he fully en- dorsed all that Mr. Owen had s. id of him. Mr. Morris possessed the two chief qualifications for the office of mayor, namely, time and ability, both of which he (Mr. Shaw) felt certain he would devote to the duties of that office. If ever the hackneyed phrase was applicable, The right man in the right place," it was applicable upon the present occasion. (Cheers.) The MAYOR asked whether any member of the Council wished to nominate anyone else and there being no re- sponse, he put the proposition to the meeting, and it wt.s carried unanimously, amidst cheers. The MAYOR then said he had very great pleasure in vacating the cha.ir in favour of his worthy friend, Mr. Morris. He then gave up the chair to the Mayor-elect, and invested him with the chaiu and badge of office, amidst loud cheers. The Mayor-elect next made the necessary declaration. Alderman MINSHALL said he hsfd been expecting some other gentleman to rise to perform a duty which must not be omitted, and the discharge of which it was customary to arrange beforehand. He should not like it, however, to be thought that there was the slightest hesitation in bring- ing forward the motion he would now submit to the meet- in°. If any other gentleman was prepared to make the proposition, he would no doubt have done it far better than lie could, and he (Alderman Minshall) should be very glad to find that gentleman his seconder. He begged to propose a coreial vote of thanks to the retiring mayor, Mr. John Thomas—(cheers)—and he need say nothing to commend that proposition to them. Mr. Thomas had been instant in season and out of season. (Hear, hear.) They had never had a more indefatigable Mayor, or one who had striven to do his duty better than Mr. Thomas, and probably few mayors ever had the same ability for the special kind of work he had had to do. Mr. Thomas had one qualification which all mayors did not possess, and which he (Alderman Minshall) did not possess. He had the power to see a thing and he had the pluck to stick to it. (Hear, hear.) When lie thought a thing was right he would not relinquish it even though he saw that a good many people did not believe in it. There were some who, when they found that the ideas which they saw plainly to be right did not commend themselves as clearly toothers, were perhaps too ready to relinquish them for the sake of peace. It was not always a good thing to do so. Peace might be bought too dear. He (Alderman Miushall) liked to see a man who had once made up his mind about a thing, ready to stick to it as long as he saw it was right. He liked a man also-and he was sure Mr. Thomas was such a man-who was always ready to listen to others who had something to say, and who, although prepared to adhere pretty closely to his own views, as long as he was con- vinced he was in the right, was also ready to modify Gr give them up when he saw that he was in the wrong. He would not enlarge upon the services Mr. Thomas had rendered the town. It was not necessary he should do so. They knew how well he had served them for the last two years, and also before then, and he would, therefore, at once •, lrln move that their cerdial thanks be presented to the retiring Mayor for his most efficient services during his term of office. Mr. BAYLEY said he was not aware that the time had arrived for a vote of thanks to be proposed to the retiring Mayor. He expected to have first heard a long speech from the Mayor whom they had just elected, and he regretted that Alderman Minshall got up to propose a vote Of thanks to the late Mayor, because he (Mr. Bayley) intended to propose it, and should have had great pleasure in doing so. He had, however, equal pleasure in seconding the motion Alderman Minshall had so ably brought before them. He almost thought Mr. Minshall must have stolen his speech. He had certainly anticipated some of the things he had intended to say. When he (Mr. Bayley) was asked to propose a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor, he felt that they all knew him so well, and valued the services he had rendered to the town so much, that it was not necessary to ask auyone to propose a vote of thanks to him. He was sure that if he (Mr. Bayley) had not risen himself, there was not a man in the room, but would have been glad to do so. He need not .spea,k to them of the industry of the Mayor during his term of office, and of his constant anxiety to promote the interests of the town, the care and pains he had taken in regard to the management of their finances, the enlargement of the markets, which wl-, initiated by him, and other im- portant matters, in which he had tiken a deep interest. He did-not know any Mayor they had had of late years who so much deserved a vote of thanks as their retiring Mayor. The amount of time lie had devoted to the duties of his office had been very great indeed. He (Mr. Bayley) had the greatest posibiepleasure in seconding the vote of thanks which had been proposed by Alderman Minshall. (Cheers.) The MAYOR—You have heard the vote of thanks pro- posed, and I am sure I need say nothing in support of it. I have been associated with our late Mayor a great deal, and no one can appreciate his conduct more than myself. I will nJW ask those in favour of the motion to signify it in the usual way. The motion was then carried unanimously. Aid. MINSHALL said he found he nad been really out of order. One or two gentlemen sitting near him wanted him to rise, or he should not have done so. The MAYOR, who was received with cheers, said he was very much obliged for the flittering manner in which his name had been brought before them, and in which they had elected him to the office of Mayor for the ensuing year. Heonlywi-hed he deserved the kind things which had been said of him. The last thing he expected or coveted was to be appointed Mayor in succession to Mr. John Thomas. He was waited upon by certain gentlemen on Friday, who requested him to accept the office. He felt great diffidence in doing so; but he was pressed so very strongly that his good nature gave way. (Hear, hear.) One cause of his diffidence was that he would be succeeding a man so efficient aud able as the ex-Mayor. Probably his own shortcomings would show off to better advantage the excellencesof his predecessor; and he was afraid he should suffer by comparison with Mr. John Thomas's superior ability and activity. Nevertheless, as the gentlemen to whom he had referred urged him so very strongly to allow himself to be nominate 1, he gave way. They told him of the claims the town had upon iiiui they reminded him that he was a iiitive of the town, and so he was. If lie lived to the tenth of next month he should have saon sixty-three years in it; and he could say this, that he had never been o it of the town since he was born for more than three months together. It was also urged that he had plenty of time at his disposal, aud so he had, and he should be very pleased to give all the time required for the faithful and proper discharge of the duties of the office. He should not trouble them with long speeches for, as they all knew, he was no speech maker, an<] they scarcely ever heard his voice at that J3oard. Nevertheless, he could think if he could not talk (hear, hear)—and as they had been pleased to raise him to that position be should do all that lay m his power to maintain the honour and dignity of the office, and to be able to retire from it without having disgraced it. He thanked them all for the honour they had done him. (Cheers.) The ex-Mayor, who was received with cheers, said he rose to acknowledge the very flattering compliment they had paid him in thanking him for hw services during the past two vears. They had had very important mat- ters to consider during that period, and they had entered into very important engagements. The first thing that occupied their attention after he took office was the wi- dening and improvement of UnHs-street, which was mainly due to their present worthy Mayor. After that came the question of enlarging the markets whuh had pressed upon them for some time. As Alderman Min- shall had said he the (ex-Mayor) was no doubt a little bit obstinate sometimes.—[Mr. Alderman Minshall. 1 never said so," and latigilter. ]--Well, at any rate, that lie was rather tenacious of his opinions. irie a iniuted it. Individual members of no Corporation. qpmd reasonaoiy expect to be thoroughly I acquainted with every depart- ment of business with which it had to deal, inere must always be certain subjects, of which certain members had a special knowlege, and upon which they were therefore most competent to speak. There were several depart- ments of business in the Council of ""hiGh he (the ex- Mayor) did not pretend to have a knowledge; but ever since he had been a member of the Council he had taken a main interest in the markets. Two or three attempts were made to enlarge the Cross Market, but from some cause or other they fell through. Two properties, however, were offered for sale last year, the Grapes and the Three Tuns, the purchase of which afforded ample facilities for enlarging the market. They had been criticized a good deal by some people outside who complained that they were going in for too much. But they found that they could not get what they wanted 'I unless they bought those two properties, and looking at what they purchased them for, he thought those who did lot agree with them upon the subject could not very well and fault with them. They had bought thase two pro- perties at a cost to them of about £8,000. When they bought them they knew perfectly well that they would want part of each but to have bought part of each fould probably have cost them about six times the amount in the long run. The amount of land covered by their markets would be nearly doubled, and the surplus property they had to let would give a return of three or three and a quarter per cent, upon the whole pur- chase. (Hear, hear.) He had every confidence in the result of the undertaking. Perhaps they would hardly be inclined to believe him if he said he was a Conservative; but he was very conservative, and particularly so, upon any quuestion concerning the expenditure of the town. He should be the last man to advocate any scheme that would burden the ratepayers. (Hear, hear.) He wished gratefully to acknowledge the fact that during his term of office he had received every assistance from the Council and had been treated with the greatest courtesy. It was pleasing to note that throughout the course of the negotiations to which he had referred they were unanimous. It was on record that it was so. He had every reason to believe, now that they had negotiated the last purchase of land and the letting of the houses, that the result would be very satis- factory. The other matter, the widening of Cross- street, had mainly engaged the attention of their friend the Mayor, and he was most competent to deal with it, especially as he had been the initiator of the improvement by means of his munificent offer to the town. (Hear, hear.) He hoped Mr. Morris would live to see the day when it was .completed to his satisfaction. He (the ex- Mayor) had little more to say, except to thank them most cordially for the confidence they had placed in him. Whatever he had done might have been done better by others but he had always done it willingly and cheerfully, and he should always look back upon the time when he occupied the chair, as well as upon the whole period during which he had had a seat in that Council, with a great deal of pleasure. He always felt it an honour to belong to it. It was well not to be too egotistic, but he must say that he thought there were few Boards which conducted their business with so much decorum as did theirs. When they came there they knew nothing but the business before them • and whatever differences of opinion they might have upon other matters, those differences were never imported there, and he hoped the day was far distant when they would be. (Cheers.) The MAYOR said they would, perhaps, excuse his saying a few words more. He had intended to make some allu- sion to the Cross-street improvements, and he would, if thev would allow him, do so now. When he made an offer of a certain sum of money towards the widening of Cross-street, it was upon conditions, that it should be carried out to his satisfaction in his lifetime, and he had, with the assistance of the Surveyor, worked put a plan, which would have made the improvement, if effected, as he proposed, ona of the greatest boons ever bestowed upon the town of Oswestry. (Hear, hear.) He was sorry to say that they had had obstacles in their way which prevented its being carried out. He referred to a portion of property on the left hand side of the street. He feared they would never be able to make a good job of it, until they got possession of that property, and he should be very glad if some gentlemen would use their influence with a view of obtaining it. It was not impossible to get it if they spent a little money, and he hoped to see it done before he died. They had pulled down the houses which they had bought and obtained possession of, and there were two more house.! to come down. He should like to propose that they should begin to show the town what they were doing, and he honed that in a very few days a fence of some kind would be put up, so as to show what sort of thoroughfare they proposed to have. The widen- ing of Cross-street had been a favourite theme of his for* the last ten years. It always seemed to him a miracle that there were not more accidents in that street. He had seen carriages waiting there five or ten minutes before they could get along. He trusted they would soon see an im- provement. (Cheers.)

MONTGOMERY. A Row.—This quiet little town was very much dis- turbed on Thursday night, Nov. G, by two -msn, James Owen, and Joseph Hamer, hailing from the Sarn, in the parish of Kerry, where they ara well known. They came to town to the fair and got drunk and were turned out of two or three public-houses for their disorderly conduct. About 8 p.m., they went to the Dragon Hotel where they were refused drink owing to their conduct. Mrs. Wat- kins asked the police constable to turn them out, P. C. Edwards did so, and saw them start in the direction of their homes, but it appears they were not satisfied to go home, and went again to the Dragon Hotel, where they were refused drink and put out again. They kicked the door and challenged any five men in the town to fight them. John Dolan the ostler, was struck by one of them with a bucket and cut on the forehead. Dr. Robertson attended to him at once. Wm. Pryce, groom at Lymore, was struck on the back of his head and cut by one of the men, and was also kicked he was only passing along the street at the time. P.C. Edwards was sent for and took James Owen into custody, and fOUJHl that Owen had an old blade of a scythe in his possession. After a severe struggle, and with the assistance of the inhabitants of the town, both men were locked up. They were brought up in custody to the Town Hall, on Saturday morning, be- fore the Rev. R. M. White, and N. W. Fairies Humph- reys, Esq., and were sent to Shrewsbury gaol for six weeks' hard labour.

LLANSILIN. PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3!.—Before A. T. JdJb, Esq., and J. Parry Hamer, Esq. Dr¡¿nkenness.-The following persons were convicted on the information of P.C. Owen Jones for being drunk and riotous at Llanrhaiadr, on September 27 and 29, viz., William Hughes, fined 12s., costs 8s., John Thomas, fined lis., costs 95., Maurice E^ans, lined lis., costs 9s., William Rowlands ;md Robert Evans, both being old offender*, were fined £ 1 10s. each, in- cluding costs. The magistrates informed them that if they ap- peared again they would be tined the full penalty.

WHITCHURCH. LOCAL BOARD, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5.—Present: Mr- Mr. R. T. Smith (in the chair), Major Lee, Messrs. J Bromfield, J. Hudson, T. C. Howell, E. J. Howell, Pears- son, E. Lea, and Mr. Clay, Clerk. The Surveyor.—A letter was read from Mr. Atty, the surveyor, stating that Mr. Bromfield had promised to explain his absence. Mr. Bromfield said he was ill and unfit to go out. The apology was accepted. Waterworks Loan.-The Clerk stated that he had received a letter from the Public Loan Commissioners informing him that under the New Act the Board were obligerl to apply for a loan before the 31st of December next if they wished to proceed with the waterworks before April, 1881. He therefore recommended that they should apply at once.—The Chairman thought that jthat would be a wise step to take, as they would have the p >wer of refusing after they had applied. He would propose that they should give notice of a loan of £:3,000. Mr. Wyatt esti- mated the cost at ,£6,000, but he thought it would be safer to apply for £ 3,000.—Mr. Bromfield thought that they should have the plans before them previously to the application. —Mr. Pearson remarked that as they did not want to do any- thing uIl,til after next year, it would be useless take any steps in the mtttter.-The Chairman said that he merely pro- posed the present matter as a precaution. If the Board was in a position to move in the matter of the water scheme before next April twelvemonths, they would not be able to do so unless the present step was taken.—Mr. Lea thought that as the next meetmg would take pbce before the 31st December, and ttS Mr. Wyatt would have his plans ready for that meeting, it would be better to leave the matter for a month.-It wa" accordingly decided to postpone the question until the next meeting. PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, Nov. 7. —Before T. H. Sandford, Esq. (chairman), R. P. Ktliolston, Esq., and S. H. Sand bach, Esq. Drunkenness on Licensed Premises and Charge of Permitting Drunkenness.—Edward Speakman and Samuel Walsh were charged with being on the licensed premises of Mr. W. B. Black, the Old Eagles Inn.—Sergeant Thomas stated that at 7 10 on the night of the 21st October he visited the Old Eagles Inn, kept by Mr. W. B. Black. In the kitchen on the screen, on the left hand side, he saw Speakman sitting clown. He was almost "speechless drunk," and had a glass of ale before him. On noticing witness he comm mced to say something, but could not get his words out in anything like an intelligible manner, and when witness asked him what was the matter he only laughed. Walsh was on the other side, and also drunk. He had an empty glass before him. An old man named Thomas Hill was also in the kitchen, ami ha was drunk. There were others present, George Sharpes, Robert Hesketh, and Thomas Smith, all of whom were sober He went in the bar to the landlord, and spoke to him about the defendants being drunk. Mr. B!ack then followed him into the kitchen, and took hold of the glass which was before Speakman, and said he should not have it. Witness told Mr. Black he uught not to have supplied him with the drink, and as he took the glass of ale into the bar he said It shall not happen again." The defendants and Hill then went out into the street, and they all staggered as they went along. He called Mr. Black .to the door to see the state in which they were in. The defendants turned to the left bv the Lord Hill, and went towards the Wharf. He lost sight of them for It time. He soon after met them coming from the back of the theatre. He saw them go towards the Bull Ring arm :in arID, and they knocked the people off th, footpath as thev went along. Walsh lived in Green End, and as they got to his— Walsh's—house, Walsh opened the door, and carried Speakman into the house. Speakman was so drunk that Walsh had some difficulty in doing so.-P.C. Banks gave corroborative evidence. —In answer to the charge Walsh had nothing to say, but Speak- man denied being drunk.—Herbert Day said he was in the employ of Messrs. Dick. The defendants were workimy in the shop until five o'clock, and they came in again at six o'clock. They were t,hen quite sober. He. dill not see them after.— Before dealing with the defendants the Magistrates decided to hear the next case, which was a. charge against William Black for permitting- drunkenness on the 21st of October. -:VIr J. Htiwley Ktwards of Shrewsbury, appeared for the defendant who pleaded not guilty.Sergeant Thomas repeated his evidence. In cross-examination by-Mr. ^Edwards witness said he was in ;¡rr.. Black's house abollt three miulltes.-P.C. Banks next gave evidence.—For the defence the defendant was first called. He said he had kept the Old Eagles, which was his own house, for eight years. He recollected Sergeant Thomas being in his house on the evening of the21st October. He knew Speakman and Walsh. They had only been in his house a short time when Sergeant Thomas came in. They had had noubing to drink in his house. He admitted they had been served with drink. There was nothing in the appearance of the men to in- dicate they were not sober. When they came m they looked as if they had just come from their work. He asked Sergeat Thomas what was the matter, and he said" These men are drunk." Witness said he could not see that they were drunk, and they appeared to him as if they had just left off work. The Sergeant answered It is a good job tor you they have not drunk out of the glasses." G. Sharpes, Brian O'Hara, and three other men were in the house at the time, and his eldest son Henry Thomas Smith and Robert Hesketh were in the bar. He ordered the men to go out because of what the Sergeant had said about them. Speakman said to him. Well, if I'm not to have the drink give me the money back," and witness returned him lid., and he and Walsh and Old Tom walked out of the house. He never made use of the words" It shall not occur again" to the Sergeant. When Speakman went out he told the Sergeant he had made a mistake in saying he (Speakman) was drunk, and that he was lame. He tohl the Ser- geant he could not see that the men rolled or that they were drunk.—George Sharpes, butcher, said he rerneYnbered bein^in the Old Eagles on the night of the 21st October. He saw Speak- men, Walsh, and Hill come into the house. Beer was supplied to them, but none of then. drank it. He took the men to be sober. He was present when the sergeant came in. Mr. Black was in the kitchen at the time. Sergeant Thomas asked Mr.. Black if he was aware that it had been pension dav, and that. the men had been drinking about the town all day. Money was returned to Speakman by Mrs. Black, at least he believed it was by her. He did not notice anything unusual in the talk of Speakman and Walsh.—Hannah Onslow, servant at the Old Eagles Inn, and Robert Hesketh, plumber and glazier, gave further evidence.—At this stage of the case the Chairman said it was unnecessary to proceed any further as they had decided to give defendant the benefit of the doubt, and dismiss the charge. They had. however, no doubt but that Speakman and Walsh were drunk, and that they had been supplied with beer, but without Mr. Black being aware that they were drunk. The Bench were of opinion that it was a very proper case for the police to bring forward, and they hoped for the future Mr. Black would be very careful to whom he supplied ariii Jilack thanked the Bench, and said no one was more careful than he was. Similar Case.- William Hunt, tailor, was summoned for being drunk on the licensed premises of Mr. Thomas Pye, the Star Inn. on the night of the 2lst October.— Sergeant Thomas gave evidence, which P.C. Banks corroborated.—Defendant made a long statement, and attempted to prove that he was not drunk. —The magistrates, however, were of opinion that he was drunk, and fined' him 10s., including costs.—Thomas Pye was then charged with permitting drunkennes on the a'.>ove-named day, and Sergeant Thomas and P.C. BaNks repeated their evi- dence. There was no defence, and Mr. Pye was fined £ 1, and costs. The charge was not endorsed on the licence, as Mr. John Robinson, who has recently purchased the house, said negotiations were pèlldillg for another person to take the house. Drunkenness.—Frederick Griffiths, who did not appear, was committed for fourteen days' hard labour for being drunk and riotous in High-street, Whitchurch, on the 29th October.— Wm Cookson, for a similar Offence in Watergate-street, was or- dered to pay the costs of 6s., this being his first offence.—Paul Rklgway and Wm. Clay, of Prees, were charged with being drunk and riotous in Green End.—Clay, against whom there were two previous convictions, was fined el, including costs, ind Ridgway was ordered to pay the costs of 83. 8d.—John .Tones, colt breaker, was fined £1, and costs, or fourteen days' for being drunk and riotous at Yardin,g-ton.-Elizaheth Richards for a like offence in Yardington, was ordered to pay 63. 4d. costs. —Samuel Sumner, an old offender, who stated that he was a labourer in the employ of Mr. Arnold, of Broughall, was fined P,1 and 6s. 4d. costs, or 14 days', for being drunk in Watergate- street on Oct. 30. Breach of the -Peace.-Thos. and Frederick Griffiths were sum- moned for committing a breach of the peace, by fighting with each other, on the 23rd October.—The case was adjourned.

WELSHAMPTON. AMATEUR PIGEON SHOOTING.—This event came off on Thursday and Saturday, October 30th and November 1st, and was considered a great success. On Thursday there were several sweepstakes shot for, and the amateur cup was won by Mr. F. Large, after some good shooting. Saturday was the All Comers' Cup day, and the prize was won by Mr. Lusby, the host, who was loudly cheered. On both days a large company dined at the Sun Inn, where Mr. and Mrs. Lusby provided an excellent dinner. Mr. Ford was in the chair. The cups were supplied by Mr. Grosvenor of Ellesmere, and Mr. G. Evans of Oswestry. Mr. R. Lloyd was, as usual, scorer.

The following appeared in only a portion of our issue last week. BALA WATER SUPPLY.-PUBLIC ENQUIRY. In acoordance with an application from the Bala Local Board for sanction to borrow 23,000 for works of water supply, the Local Government Board directed an inquiry into the subject matter of the application. The inquiry was held at the Local Board-room, in the County Hall, Bala, on Tue-da.v, the 4th November, before Major Hector Tulloch, Royal Engineers. The following members of the Bala Local Board were present:—Mr. D. Morgan, chairman, Messrs. D. Evans, R. Hughes, J. Jones, D. Rowlands, R. Jones, E. Jones, W. T. Phillips, W. Owen, National Provincial Bank, T. Ellis, R. 0. Jones, and R. Roberts; R. Edwards, medical officer, T. Roberts, C.E., Portmadoc, J. R. Jones, solicitor (who re presented Mr. A. A. clerk) and W. Jones, surveyor and inspector; also Dr. Richards, Fronheulog, Captain E. G. Jones, Frondderw, Colonel Evans-Lloyd, Moelygarnedd, Messrs. F. Parmeter, Bryn- yraber, W. Owen, White Lion Royal Hotel, W. Ellis, Red Lion, Bala, &c. Mr. T. Roberts, C.E., Portmadoc, explained the scheme, producing the plans and sections of the proposed works. It was intended to take the water from Arrenig Fawr Lake, which is situate about five miles and a quarter from Bala, at an elevation of 800 feet above Bala, with an area of eighty acres, and to bring the water by means of a 4-inch iron pipe to the town. A service reservoir would be made about a mile and a quarter from Bala. He esti- mated the cost at 92,909. The parties interested were the Shropshire Union Canal Company, who had specified that they had no objection provided that the Bala Local Board would make good any damage they might do to that Company's works on the lake. Also Dr. Price Roberts, of Rhyl, who claims a right to the water, as his property surrounds part of the lake, he also by deed granted permission to the Board on payment of a consideration of £ 5 per annum. The Com- missioners of Woods and Forests granted a lease for thirty-one years for laying pipes through part of Crown lands, at a consideration of £1 per annum. The following analysis of the water was submitted :— Analysis of n ater for Bala Local Board. The water is clear, colourless, and free from smell. Total solid contents .3 grains per gallon. Chlorine. 0"o 11 Nitric acid olol i" 11 Hardness, by Clarke's scale 0*5 degrees. Ammonia per gallon 0'0'?1 grains. Albumenoid ammonia per gallon 0'006 grains. This is an excellent water. It is absolutely free from con tamination by sewage, past or present, and from copper and lead. It is practically soft as rain water, the average of springs being 16 degrees of hardness, while this is half a degree—in fact, the amount is almost inappreciable. The solid contents also are scarcely a tenth of those in an average spring water. A hint trace of vegetable matter is pre-ent, but the amount is 'together unimportant from a sanitary point of view. In fact, this may be regarded as a typical water for a town supply, and Bala is to be congratulated oa having access to so excellent; and pure a sample. TMUH. P. BLUNT, M.A. Oxon, F.C.S., Public Analyst to the Counties of Salop and Montgomery. The Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury, Nov. 12,1377. Mr. Roberts explained that it was intended to take the water from the lake twenty feet below the surface by a syphon. Major Tulloch said that it would be better to take the water from the surface, which was by far the purest water, and referred to cases of cholera breaking out in Bombay, in a short period of time, by the person in charge having closed the surface valves, and drawing water at a level of considerable depth. A medical man, having suspected that this was the cause, had the lower valves closed, and those on the surface re-opened, and the cholera soon dis- appeared. He suggested the adoption of a plan similar to the one adopted at Glasgow. Mr. Roberts concurred, and said that method would be better for the syphon. The Inspector congratulated the Board upon the superior quality of the water, which would no doubt be a great blessing, and the bringing it to the town would be highly appreciated for domestic purposes by the women of the working classes, and he felt sure that in a twelvemonth the good effects of a pure supply of water would materially tell upon the state of public health and rate of mortality in the Local Board District. The following declaration was read by Mr. J. R. Jones:— I, Augustus Anwyl Passingham, of Bala, in the county of Merioneth, Cle-k to the Local Board of Bala, aforesaid do hereby solemnly and sincerely declare as follows— ?. In the month of August, 1877, the said Local Board received instructions from the LoctI Govern- ment Board to consider a scheme for, and proceed with the construction of, the necessary works for the supply of water to the said town of RLla, and a scheme was ultimately prepaied by the Local Board, and approved by the Local Government Board, for obtaining such supply from the lake known as Llyn Arrenig, ill the parish of Llanycil, in the said county of Merioneth. 2. In the month of August, 187S, in compliance with the pro- visions of sections 32 and 54 of the Public Health Act 33 and 39 Vic., c 55, and three months before the construction of any such works as aforesaid was commenced, I prepared a. notice of the said intended works, and caused the same to be issued by adver- tisement in the Cambrian News (16 August, 1878), being a local newspaper circulated in the district where such works were in- tended to be done. 3. A copy of the said notice or advertisement is annexed hereto, and marked A. It describes the nature of the inteuded work, the intended termini thereof, the names of the parishes, the turnpike roads and streets, and other lands through, across, under, and on which the said intended work is to be made, and names a place where a plan of such intended works was open for inspection at all reasonable hours. 4. I caused a copy of the same notice to be served on all the owners or reputed owners, lessees or reputed lessees, and the occupiers of the said lands, and on the trustees, surveyors of highways, or other persons having the care of such roads or streets who would be affected by the execution of the said in- tended work. 5. In reply to such notice, which was signed by myself as clerk to the said Bala Local Board, I received notices in writing within the said period of three months hereinbefore mentioned objecting to such works, from the following owners, lessees' occupiers, or other persons who would be affected by the in- tended work, viz., Her Majesty's Office of Woods and Forests The Shrooshire Union Canal Company, ;and Dr. Price Roberts* Rhyl, in the county of Denbigh. Copies of objections annexed hereto numbered B.C.D. No other objections were received by me or by the Bala Local Board in reply to the said notices or ad vertisement. 6. Correspondence and negotiations subsequently took place between myself, on behalf of the Bala Local Board, and the several persons from whom I have received objections' as afore- said, and the whole of such objections were ultimately with- drawn, as appears by the several letters or notices, copies of which are hereto annexed and marked with the letters E F.G. 7. There are now no objections to the said scheme outstand- ing, and the consent of all parties and persons affected by the said intended work has been obtained thereto. Declared and subscribed :tt Bala. in the county of Merioneth this 2nd day of September, 1379. T, Q A- ANWYL PASSINGHAM. Before me— WILLIAM WILLIAMS, A Commissioner, &c. Mr. Roberts said the reservoir was to be on the late Mr Anwyl's property, or Mr. Price of Rhiwlis, who had consented" to its being made. The reservoir is to hold 21,570 Dillons o' water. The Inspector recommended a 3-inch main in the town instead of a 2-inch, though with si;ou a pure water it was not likely there would be a deposit of lime in them. Colonel Evans-Lloyd said he had been led to understand that the Board were going to spend a deal of money, which would be an enormous fine upon the ratepayers of. Bala, an addition as he understood, of from two to three shillings in the pound' It was estimated the works would cost £ 3,000,' but their ex- perience in Chester was that the carrying oUt (>f works far exceeded the estimate. Had the Board any definite solid basis to calculate the costs besides the Engineer's estimate ? And besides, would it not be better to have the question of sewage disposed of at the same time—he thought it would be cheaper to do both together—and the Board might soon be compelled to attend to the sewage? r Mr. J. R. Jones—The cost would be nothing like that stated ny Evans-Llof!: .T^ otie-aiiVrlue 1878 amounted to £ 2,751; at present it is ~3,031 and taere is no debt. the interest at 5 per cent (the lo in would be granted for 50 vears at 41 per cent) it wo'iH be only £ 150. A rats of Is. in the pound: woutd amount to true sua*. Dr. Richards—What is it that has increased the ratable vahW S £ SS»SXSai!r*w'«t,M-» ra",« ii ™intoSto0'ra<la''y «*h"" -o* ««*». The Inspector-I take it to be as near as possible one shilling in the pound. & Mr. Evan Jones-We may deduct from that an amount for consumption. A water rate is generally fram ei,htpeilee to a shilLing in the pound. ei,uupence to a, The Inspector—You should not look nnnn a burden to a district or town it is a great benefit nw wm' aS p,y for the outlay.. In small places, lfkeLl^AZ* where they had a river and wells, they thought it hard that the^ should be pressed to have a water supply, but since it hadbeln carried out it is universally appreciated, even bv many who at hrst opposed it. The women of the lower classes know the ad vantages of a water supply, and earn their living, many of them, by washing, &c. It is not right to compare the rate of mortality of a country town like Bala with thit of the laro-» towns, such as Liverpool, &c., but with other country towtw similarly situated. towns After some discussion on the rate of mortality in the district Mr- T. EUis said he did not think the works could be carried Tiie Inspector said—If a contract once exceeds the limit of the estimate it is never forgotten, but if it happens the other way that the contract is less than the estimate, it is sehlom rernem- bered Mr. Ellis—What is there to show it can be done for the money ? Mr. T. Roberts, C.E.—I will undertake to do the works at the sum mentioned. I have carried out water works at Dolgelley Tne Inspector said the watur supply would not be required for flushing the draiu» oul> for drinking and domestic purposes. It did not helP the sewage question to object to the Waterworks, which was a very important step in the right direction. He had no doubt the time would come when everv town would be compelled to have a system of sewage and Bala would be in no worse position, as regards that question with the water supply than it was now, but better off. Dr. Richards—How could a system of-sewage be carried out without a water supply.. ° uneu oat Evan .Tones referred to the letter from the Local Govern- ment I>o,.rd in which they pressed the Board to have a water W-e'n of sewage, in which it was stated that it was staultaneo"FSRYECESSARY VT BOT'H SCH°MES AHOAKL 1,0 EARRIED OLLI Colonel Evans-Lloyd recommended waiting a little as it was itew-POrKnt.?S Hthe .of exPe«se, still he thought if V, ° Practicable one sfulling in the pound it would be very cneap, but the Board may have to do the sewage at once, and tue cost would have to coma irom the rates. The Inspector said the difficulty with Bala was its low posi- tion, that pumping the sewage would be necessary if this water supply scheme was carried out, and he had no doubt it would materially affect the health of the district. Mr. Evan Jones said that it was important not to delay in the matter. Already the rise in the iron market made a difference of 4:250 in the cost. u in tue course ot .tne day Major Tulloch and mem'bers of the i,wel,lt, to 1,15,11 Arr«1?g Fawr, and he was much pleased with the lake and the absence of vegetation, &c., but he strongly urged oil the Board the importance of havinf a six- inch main rather than four inch. 0 At an adjourned meeting of the Bala Local Board held on Wednesday, the 5th November (present Mr. D. Morgan chair- man Messrs. D. Evans, I?. IIugh.es, T. filli3 J j"nes Ji Roberts and E. Jones J. K Jones reoresented 'Mr. Passingham, clerk), upon the motion of Mr. T. Eilis, seconded by Mr. E. James, it was unanimouslv resolved "That on the lecommendatioii of Major Tulloch, (lie main pipe he increased from four inches in diameter to six inches, and that the Board in consequence apply for £ 3,500 instead oft3,000, as previously applied for, to meet the extra cost." A copy of this resolution was supplied to Major Tulloch before be left the town On Wednesday morning Major Tulloch, with the members of the Board, visited the waste lands belonging to tJJe Bala Local Board at the Plasey and the Green, with a view to obtain the couent of the Local Gvernmeut Board as to the Bala Local Board granting leases for building houses, &c., thereon