The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

A ROMAN CATHOLIC ON THE CHURCH CONGRESS IN WALES. The Very Rev. Canon Richards, in a lecture at St. Joseph's, Swansea, on the recent Church Congress, dwelt upon the interesting and unique character of the event, which he described as an attempt on the part of the Church of England to win back the alienated affections of the Welsh people, and to gather them to the unity" of the Established Church. He then proceeded to sketch the history of the relations between the Established Church and the Welsh people since the Reformation. It was a sad picture of maternal coldness and neglect. For tht child she might have won, had she had a mother's heart, a mother s care for it, in its cradle and youth, has now grown to man's estate, and to a steadfast alienation from her house and her discipline; what might have been to her in these days of her danger and weakness a strong bulwark of defence has become instead a magazine, forging weapons for her down-fall. When at the Reformation the old clergy were dispossessed to make way for strangers, the Welsh people cluD'" to the old faith and the old traditions with a tenacity like to that with which they still cling to the old language. In their churches they no longer heard the familiar voices of the old pastors speaking to them the old truths in the old tongue they missed them at the altar, in the pulpit, in the confessional, in their homes, at the bedside of the sick and dying, in their schools; and repelled by the cold formality, the want of sympathy, the unintelligible speech of the men who replaced them, they abandon'd the churches, and held meetings in their homes, reciting, the old prayerss singing the old hymns, cherishing the old be- liefs, and thus the earliest form of Dissent in Wales was a protest of the people in favour of the old faith against the new and thus, as a speaker said at the Congress, the ftrst Dissenters were Roman Catholics. And s, they re mained for generations, and they would have remained to this day, like their Celtic cousins in Ireland, Roman Catholics, but for one cause, viz., their priesthood was ex- terminated by the rack and the gibbet, till at length the Welsh mountains and valleys knew their footprintil n, more, and sacrifice ceased from the improvised altar, afid there were none to break the bread of life and the word of truth to them. And thus the old faith died. But it lingered long in men's heart3 and memories, nor was the chasm that separated the Welsh people from the old Church ever bridged over by the new. When at length, at the beginning of last century, men of a new-born zeal and love for souls came and stirred up the land by the vigour and earnestness of their preaching thev found an ignorant, but a religiously-minded people. ready to embrace any doctrine which came on persuasive lips, clothed in their own speech; and yet even at that date, 200 years after the Reformation, the new preachers found a people that still retained many of the practices of the old religion—a people that sealed on their forehead- the sign of the cross, that still sang the legend in honour of the Virgin Mother of God; that knelt on the fresh sod I of a lost one's grave, to breathe a prayer for the departed soul; aye, and most touching of all, that bent the knee in the churches in reverence of a sacred presence that once had dwelt on the dismantled altars, in days when they were in very deed the houses of God. These were but empty forms that had lost for the most part their true meaning, but they betokened a religious sentiment which soon passed into new forms and new beliefs, till at length Dissent assumed the aspect and grew into the vast propor- tions of to-day, at once a protest against a despoiled and a despoiling Church. And thus in these latter days the Church of England, threatened by the growing forces of Rome on the one hand, and of infidelity on the other, torn by factions within, nnd assailed by the surging hosts of Dissent without, comes to Wales in the person of her Primates and magnates, crying Peccavi for the past, add inviting a return to a maternal bosom moved by a love too tardy to be genuine, prompted by a fear too real to be disguised.

SOUTH AFRICA. News from Cape Town of October 14, via Plymouth, has been received that the British forces have made a suc- cessful patrol to the Kadu river in Basutoland, Five of the enemy were killed, four wounded, a: d seven taken prisoners, and the latter stated that the British camps were t-> be attacked. A special session of the Volksraad of Che Free State had been convened for the 27th Oct., at which the principal subject for discussion was a proposal irom the Cape Government to construct certain lines of tele- graph in the Free State, for which tenders were called some months ago. A telegram from Pretoria of the 14th October states that Sir Garnet Wolseley was to start on the following Saturday for Fort Webber, for the purpose of being in the vicinity of the Operations against Secocujui, should these become necessary. At present it is only con- templated to seize and establish a position upon thatchiet's mountain top, and await the termination of the unhealthy season fur undertaking more extensive operations. Mean- while the time will be occupied in raiding through Seco- cneni's country and capturing his cattle, and for this a con- tingent of 1,000 .Knobnoses and 4,000 Swazies will be used. Troops continue to leave Durban, and their health is re- ported to be good, A telegiam Ir.,m Cape Town, dated the 21st Octob. r, st:ti.es that hostilities are to be resumed ag inst Scicocmai if he refuses to submit to the British. Sir Garnet Wolse- ley is on his way to Secoeceoi's country. Colonel Lanyon lias returned to Pretoria from Middle burg. The partici- pators in the recent seizure of ammunition at Middlesburg are to be proceeded a:;ainst on the charge of robbery. Air. Gordon Sprigg, the C.:pe Colonial Secretary, was present at a meeting in Basutoland, on the IG'h October, at which some 10,000 natives were present. The proceedings were orderly throughout. A feeling of luyalty to the British was generally manifested.

SHREWSBURY HUNT BALL. The members of the Shrewsbury Huut gave their annual ball in ta. .\IllS¡C H i! Shrewsbury, Oil Thursday evening, Nov. 0, and it passed off in a very successful manner. Tho hall was decorated in much the same manner is former ye:irs, at the entrance heing a trophy of flags. The supper was provided faorn the K iveu, in the room ouee 1I;<j¿Ú as the Reading room, and the tables were adorned, as well as those in the c )! ri .ri.ns, iJeneath the orchestra, with a splendid collection of foliage nd flowering plants and cut flowers, most artistically arranged. The Museum, which adjoins the bill-ruo<n, was thrown ope;, tor cards and as a reuring-room. On the Old Market Hall, at the further end from the Music Hall, was a gas star, which. illumi- nated the quare, The banll was Edwards's Military Band. The bitli Via- with" country dance by ;\1¡-, Sitweli, vice- president., with the Countess of Bradford. Member* <>/ the Hunt.— Mr. D. F. Atcherley, the Earl of Bradford.. Mr. R. H. L. Bftrton, Mr. C. M. Campbell, Sit- V. II. Corbet, Mr. C. C. Cotes, Mr. A. E. Darby, Col. Edwards, Mr. T. S. Eyton, Mr. W. O. Foster, Right Hon. the Vise >unt Hill, the Hon. U. C. Herbert. Mr. A. P. HeywooJ-Lousdale, Colonel Keuyoll Slaney, SirBaldwyu Leighton, Bart., Mr. A. P. LLoyd, Mr. G. Butler UnYIl, Mr. W. Layton Lowndes, Ir. S. K. M nn- waring, Mr. F. Monckcon, Mr. R. Jasper More, Mr. C. J. Mor- ris, Viscount Newport, Mr. A. Mostyn Owen, the Earl of Powi", Mr. W. F. Plowden, Mr. A. C. Plowden, Mr. John Pritchar,l, Mr. R. D. Pryce, Mr. J. E. Severrie, Mr. W. H. Sit- wdi, Lord Windsor, Mr. J. H. N. Walford, Mr. T. A. W. Whit- more, Mr. C. G. VVingtield, Mr. Stanley Leighton, Mr. W. H. Garnett Botfield. Invited, Gue.sts.—Captain, Mrs, and Miss Mytton, lIon, II Denison, Mr. A. Sandeinan, Mrs. Burton, Lieut, liowland O dilev, Mr. E. D. Holmes, Mrs. Wingfield, Miss Pennant, Mr. and Mrs. W. Salt and' the Misses Salt, Sir Frederick and the Hon. Lady Smythe, Mrs. Sitwell, Hon. G. Douglas Pennant, Mr. E. W. Wynn, Mr. A. Percival, Mr. and the Mioses Sandford, Mr. F. N. T. Baniwtll, Miss Jendwin, Mr, Folhott Stokes, Mr. D. Adams, Miss E. Nlr. Lii,i Mrs. Adams and Miss Edith Adams, Mr. J. A. Anstice, Mr. F. Lloyd, Mr. T. Gordon, Colonel and Mrs. Colville, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Blunt, Dr. Edwyn Andrews. Mrs. and Miss Williams Wynn, Mr. Clement Hill, Rev. H. W. and Miss Moss, Mr, Mrs, and the Misses Bathe", Rev. G. Powell, -Iti,s Powell, Rev. E. G. Hall, Rev. R. K., Mrs, and the Misses Hasiehurt, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Houe, ir James Drunnnond, Ilr. H. Long, illrs Walford, Capt F. Leighton, Mr. and Mrs. Drummond, Mr. and Mrs. Buddi- COlli, Rev. H., Mrs, and Miss Wayne, Miss Hartopp, Lieut.-C I., L:tdy Frances, and the Misses Lloyd, Mr. E A. Plnlli; Mr H. R. Sandford, Mrs. More, Mrs. Pritchard, Mr and Mrs. Sladen, Mr. George Forester, C lptain Cope, Mr. E. (Jope, the Misses Cope, Mr. W. W. Douglas, Miss Mary Douglas, Mrs. Lovell, Mr W. Whitmore, Mrs. and the Misses Carey, Mrs. and the Misses Butler Lloyd., Miss Ward Hunt, Mr. A. R. Kenyon, Mr. Dacre Trevor-Roper, Mr. and Mrs Roxby, Miss Egremont, Mrs. and the Miss. Hope Edwards, Major and :.lrs. Coldwell, Mrs. and Miss Ellicot, Mrs. Atcherley, Mrs. and the Misses Foster, Colonel Lyttleton Anneslee, Nir. and Mrs. OfIley J. Crewe-Read, the Rev, J. and Mrs. Hall, Rev. R. H., Mrs., and the Misses Cholmondeley, Mr. T. R. Cholmondeley, Mr. E. Kenyon, Mrs. G. and Miss Kenyon, Misses Eytoti, Mrs. Slaney Eyton, Captain Bell, L idy Louisa Cotes, Mr. G illison, L;dy Corbet, Lady H irlech, Miss Goie, HOd. Lady Leighton, Captain Langlauds, Mrs. LLoyd, tlia Rev. E. liridgeman, the Misses Bridgeman, Vfr-i. Ileyrick, Mr. and Miss Kenyon (Pradoe), Hon. Misses Hill, Mr H. E. Heber Percy, Colonel, .Mrs., and Miss Edgell, Miss Clare Leighton, Lieut. E. H. Bayley, the Rev. F. P., Mrs., and Miss Wilkinson, Mr. C. Wilkinson, Airs, and the Misses Garnett Bottield Mr., Mrs and the Misses Whitaker, Mr., Mrs., and Miss Tippinge, Major Walter Wingfield, Miss Combe, Mrs. and the Misses Edwards, Lieut. W. H. H., Inniskilling Dragoons, Mrs. Herbert Crawshay land Miss Crawshay, Nlr. W. M. How, the Viscountess Hill, Sir H. Hope Edwardes, Mrs. and the Misses Yate, the Viscountess Newport, the lev, F. H., Mrs. and the Misses Hotham, Sir Coiley H. Scoiland, Sir R. Musgrave, Mr. R. Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. W. Boughtou, Mrs. Darby, Mr. A. P. Hickman, Capt., Mrs., and Miss Lovett, Lieut. G. G. Bather, Mr. and Mrs. George Bather, Mr. Geo. Price, Mrs. F. A. W. Whitmore, Sir Wui. and Lady Honey- man, Mrs. and the Misses Kenyon Slaney, Mrs. Pryce, Miss Houghton, Miss Hawker Colonel and Mrs. Field, Rev. C. Brooke, Mr. W. O. Corbet Miss Davison, Mrs. Phillips, Mr. U. H. Simpson, the Misses Downward, Miss Alice Chance, Major and Mrs. Lovett, the Rev; W. B. Corfield, Mr. W. H. Fisher, Mr. H. Graham LLoyd, Hon Mrs. and Miss Florentia Herbert, Mr., Mrs., and Miss Harrison, Mr. H. Montgomery, Miss Montgomery, Rev. E. and the Misses Bridgeman, Mr. P- Stewart, Mr. G. V. Hill, Mr. P. R. Kenyon Slaney, Mrs. and the Misses Hunt, Mr. W. E. Garnett-Bottield, Mrs Cuiling, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Corbett, Mrs. Heywood Lonsdale, Major Harrison, Mrs. John 1'illard, Mr.and Mrs. Owen Walcot, Mr. Corbet Catty, Miss Mary Wilkinson, Rev. T. B. and the Misses Lloyd, Mrs. and Miss Lloyd, Mr. E. B. Moser, Mr. A. Mouckton, Miss May Harding, Mr. and Mrs. Kelso, Lieut.- Col. and Mrs. Hervey Talbot, Miss Linwood Strong, Dr., Mrs., and the Misses Burd, Mr. ^Vilson Todd, Mrs. aud the Misses ■lohnson, Mr Scobell (?icots Greys), Mr. De VVindt, Mr. Fetherstonhaugh, the Hon. Mrs. and the Misses Noel Hill, Lieut.-Col. VV. S. Kenyon Slaney, the Rev. R. D. and Mrs. Bonnor, Miss Hayhurst, Mr. and Mrs. Bartolucci, Hon. A- Saumarez, Hon MisS Saumarez, Mr. VV. R. Carnac, Mr. H- Rouse Boughton, Mr. and Mrs Shakerley, Captain and Mrs. Kell, Mr., Lady Hester, and the Misses Leeke, Mrs. Boughton Knight, Miss Boughton Knight, Mr. R. H. Cholmondeley, Mrs. Morris, the Hon. H. Littleton, Mr. E. W. Hussey, the Hon. E. F. Kenyon, Mr. Charles Hall, the Hon. A. and Mrs. Wood, Miss Edith Selwyn, Mrs. and the Misses Heber Percy, the Viscountess Newry, the Hon. Mary Needham, Capt. and Mrs. Arkwright, Lady Mary -Plowden, Capt. Leeke, Col. and Miss Buckle, the Hon. E. Hanbury, Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Peele, Major and Mrs. Mostyn Owen.

WELSHPOOL AND LLANFAIR RAILWAY. MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS. A meeting of the shareholders of the Welshpool and Llanfair Railway Company was held at the Cross Foxes Hotel, Llanfair, on Saturday, November 8, for the purpose of considering a resolution passed unanimously at a former meeting of the guarantors to the following effect:Thilt it is desirable that immediate steps should be taken for constructing the line as far as Pontsycoed, which they are of opinion that the means at their disposal justify. In the event of the shareholders not confirming this resolu- tion, the Board consider that the requisite notices of intention to apply to Parliament for all Act authorizing the abandonment of the-undertaking should be forthwith given." The chair was occupied by Captain R. D. Pryce Cyfronydd, and there were also present Messrs. A. C., Humphreys-Owen, Glansevern, E. Hilton, Glynhiriaeth, R. D. Gough, Eithnog, G. Slater, Northwich, F. B. Jones, Coedtalog, O. Jones, Gelli, T. Morris, Spring Bank, T. Williams, Trwstllewelyn, v. Evans, tsryn Jlytryd, Nv Gardiner, Llanerfyl, C. Gittins, draper, J. Vaughan Jones, Bryntirion, J. Jehu, Dolgoch Mills, A. H >dgkin- son, senior, T. Jones, Graig, J. Thomas, W. Morgan, E. Hughes, Foxes Hotel, S. Ellis, S. Evans, T. Watkin, Brymnair, R. Jones, wool merchant, R. Edwards, High- street, W. Story, Dr. Evans, Rev. D. Evans, and Rev. J. Mcintosh, Llangyniew, Messrs. J. Watkin, A. Williams, Trwstllewelyn, A. Hodgkinson, junior, J. Bebb and L. Williams, Castle Caereinion, J. Vaughan, Tymawr, R- Jones, Tanllan, &c. Mr. G. D. Harrison, solicitor, and Mr. Swettenham, engineer, were also in attendance. The CHAIRMAN said he had not much to report to them since their last meeting. It would be within their recol- lection at that time the question they were considering was, whether by going to the Board of Trade they c,)uld get from them powers to enable them to construct a narrow, instead of the ordinary gauge railway. He had seen the Secretary, and had been told that the Board had no power to grant the proposed alteration, and if they wanted to divert the Act in order to make a narrow gauge line they would have to go to Parliament for the necessary powers. Since their last meeting Mr. Gough had gone, as a deputation, to see the directors of the London and North Western Railway Co, and he had sent them a long report as to the results of his interview, the substance of which was that the North Western Company gave them their best wishes, but could not give them any material assistance. They knew that their funds were not sufficient to justify them in constructing the whole lengtn of the line from Welshpool to Llanfair, as was originally proposed, and that it was now proposed to make a portion of it, commencing with the junction with the Cambrian line and proceeding as far as their means would allow. As for himself he had no objection to this as it would suit him well enough, but perhaps it might not meet with the approval of the other shareholders. He should like to hear them express an opinion as to the desirableness of adopting the proposal. Mr. GOUGH said he had been connected with the scheme ever since the commencement of the undertaking. The original cost of the proposed line was estimated at £ £ 0,000. This was subsequently reduced to 233,700, and they were aware that a deposit of five per cent. of that amount had to be found before the line could be proceeded with. They were now in the third year of their Act, and at the end of the present twelvemonths their compulsory powers ex- pired. The guarantors for the payment of the Parlia- mentary deposit had a meeting recently, and it was tren said that in order to be able to abandon the undertaking they would have to present a petition to Parliament. The usual notices would have to be given during the month of November, and it was necessary for the share- holders to decide at that meeting whether they should petition Parliament for powers to abandon the line or whether they could see their way to proceed with it. They were met to discuss these questions, and if they failed to see any prospect of constructing the line a proposed, it would be necessary to pass a resolution to abaudon the scheme that the guarantors might be re- leased from their present responsibility. He spoke in the interest of the fourteen gentlemen who were the guarantors, and without whom they could not have made as much progress as they had been able to make. He should like to hear some of those present speak of the opinions entertained in the neighbourhood as to the pro- posal to construct only a portion of the line. Mr. MCIJSTOSH said that the general feeling in his district was in favour of a line to Llanfair, but he was un- ahle to say what support might be expected from the in- habitants. He did not know if they approved of the line being taken in the first instance to i ontsycoed as he had uot been spoken to on the subject. Mr. SLATER said it would assist them a good deal if they were made acquainted with the financial position of the Company. If they knew how much money was likely to be forthcoming they would know how far they could take the railway. Mr. SWETTENHAM said that from a statement prepared some eighteen months ago, since which a number of sub- scribers had.diedandtheirplaceshad been taken by others, it appeared that the amount of subscription contracts, signed principally by small proprietors, was £ 7,050. The large proprietors, such as the Earl of Powis, and others, brought up the subscriptions to £ 18,010. There were several persons who had land on the railway that had promised their assistance by selling their land cheaply and in other ways. In the amount of 218,010 he had not set down anything for Captain Pryce's subscription. Mr. T. MORRIS said that Mr. Swettenham would find the promises of subscriptions were given on condition that the line should be made from Welshpool to Llanfair. Mr. SWETTENHAM—The Llanfair town list comes to 2570 altogether. The subscribers signed the contract. Mr. MORRIS said they denied having done so. He wanted them to attend that meeting, and they said they had nothing to do with it. There were many in Llanfair who did not think they were responsible parties who were mentioned by Mr. Swettenham as subscribers. Mr. SWETTENHAM said that those in Llanfair who had signed the subscription list wanted the station on the town side of the bridge. Before they got the station they must bear in mind that it was necessary to make the rail- way. Mr. MoRRlti said he thought a line ought to be made to Llanfair from Welshpool, but if they had not enough llIoney to carry the scheme out in its entirety it would be bet er to abandon it altogether, and pay what expenses had been hitherto incurred. Of course were he Capt. Pryce he shotil4l have no objection to see a line made to Pontsycoed. He was afraid chat if a railway was only ¡fUrl,>, to Pontsycoed, Llanfair would be placed in the same position as Montgomery, when it was proposed to take the railway there through Bishop's Castle. Mr. J. JEHU remarked that, Morri.; WM senting the opinions of. a few <ua iw» L..0 i".ij.ty of those interested in the construction of the ;ine. (Ap- plause.) The Rev. O. G. JOXES, Geiii, said that the Bishop's Castle railway was a warning, and only a warning. There never had been yet any enterprise undertaken, but some fool had failed in it. (Laughter, and hear hear.) If they took that as a precedent, they would never get any- thing. (Hear, hear.) Because there, was a failure as was stated by Mr. Morris, that was no reason why it should be repeated at Llanfair, He lived about three miles from Liantair, but he spoke from what lie knew to be true when he süil that the people- were greatly interested in the making of the line, and most earnestly wished to see it started. The country had been suffering from great de- pression for the past few years, and as yet they at Llan- fair had not felt it, but next year and the one following that they would feel the change very severely. To compete with this, he thought the best course t, tike would be to make a railway, which would give encouragement to the farmers, aad would conse- quently benefit the landlords, many of whom, if this was not done, would have a large number of farms unoccupied. He believed newspapers were doing a vast of mischief by writing on agriculture when they knew nothing about it. The next two years would see dark clouds hanging over Lianfair, and even if there could be ever so small au opening it would be a good thing, if the railway wfts commenced it would help to brighten the prospect, and. would be a great advantage to them all. (Hear, hear.) He bad no doubt if the railway could be taken to Pontsy- coed it would ultimately reach Llanfair. (Applause.) Mr. SLATER — Supposing th«s meeting feels inclined to bring the line to Pontsycoed, do the Directors think there is sufficient money to take it there ? The CHAIRMAN sai l he thought their engineer was of opinion he could take it to Pontsycoed with their present capital. Mr. SWETTEiffA31 said lie had no doubt they could take the line to Pontsycoetl, He was not in a position to give a reliable answer as to the financial position of the Company, but he should not think if it was intended to carry the line to Pontsycoed first of all, and then take it to Llanfair when they had the necessary means, that any gentlemen would withdraw their subscriptions. Mr. SLATER said he did not think any one knew more about the line than he did, although he did not live amongst them. He had not a very great interest at stake, but when he took a thing in hand he aiways, after being assured of its necessity, liked to carry it out. After they had been discussing the matter for four or n.ve years lie thought it would be a disgrace to them if they let the scheme fall through. He was of the same opinion as ever that a line to Llanfair was of the highest importance. If they were unable to take it to Llanfair he would take it Pontsycoed. He would regard that as au instalment, feeling certain the latter portion of the line would eventually be made. Even if this was not done, having a line to Pontsycoed would shorten the distance to Welshpool and would take away many difficulties which at present were difficult to surmount. A linfe to Pontsy- coed would be more convenient for passengers, as well as for coal, lime, and other traffic. The time had arrived when they must do one of two things, either construct the line to Pontsycosd, or abandon it altogether. He should feel very much mortified if they determined to take the latter course. If the directors saw their way to take the line to Pontsycoed he should vote in favour of it and hope that it would be taken further in the future. It was impossible for the residents in that part of the country to make any satisfactory and successful progress unless a railway was made, and he thought they should stretch a point and see if they could not bring the line even part of the way. He did not think it would be difficult to lengthen and strengthen their list of subscribers. Their store was not yet exhausted and more money could be ob- tained if they would take the trouble to look for it. He thought the line should not be abandoned, and that they should try to meet the wishes and supply the wants of the locality. (Applause.) Mr. T. WILLIAMS said he attended the meeting on be- half of certain shareholders whom he represented. Until he had seen the present circular he had had but little hope of seeing the line commenced. If the line was taken to Pontsycoed, the district would be benefited almost as much as if it was continued to Llanfair. He felt sure, even if the whole length were made, Pontsycoed would be the best paying part of the line. They would be able to take their lime and coal to Llanfair very easily, the diffi- culty now was in getting to Pontsycoed. One horse would bring a load from Pontsycoed, but it took three horses to take it there. These were matters worth serious consider- ation, because if the line was taken only to the place at present proposed, it would, from an agricultural point of view, supply.the wants of the district. (Hear, hear.) Proprietors ought very easily to see that if that was done it would double the value of all the timber in the upland country. If it was proposed to take the line to Pontsy- coed Bridge, he would, if he coald, not hold up one but three hands in favour it. (Applause.) The CHAIRMAN asked whether any shareholder was pre- pared to move a resolution to make the railway as far as the funds would allow. The other and only alternative was for them to abandon the line, and this would have to be done at once, as the notices would have to be inserted in the newspapers the following week. Mr. SLATER—Supposing a resolution was agreed to to carry the line to Pontsycoed, would it be necessary to apply for an extension of time ? The CHAIRMAN—Our compulsory powers do not expire until August. The Rev. 0. G. JONES said a great deal depended on the degree of unity that was shown at that meeting. Tf those outside saw they were united, he did not think any of them would withdraw from their promises, but if those who were irresolute saw they were divided in opinion, it would have a disastrous effect. When the people were once convinced that the line was going to be made, they would get thousands of pounds to assist them. Up to the present they had done nothing but talk, but when the line was started they would receive plenty of help. Mr. SLATER quite agreed with Mr. Jones. He felt almost certain he could obtain more subscribers himself. Mr. GOUGH said they had heard the same arguments then as at former meetings. They had been frequently told they could get more money, but when they applied for it none was to be found. Mr. Slater was the author of the railway, and they were all very much indebted to him for what he had done. Mr. Jones, a little while before, had said that the farmers would not be in a very prosperous condition during the next two years, and if that were so, he wanted to know where they were going to look for the money. He did not wish to damp their ardour, and he thought his actions had shown he was desirous of seeing the railway made. They somehow always stuck at line was started they would receive plenty of help. Mr. SLATKR quite agreed with Mr. Jones. He felt almost certain he could obtain more subscribers himself. Mr. GOUGH said they had heard the same arguments then as at former meetings. They had been frequently told they could get more money, but when they applied for it none was to be found. Mr. Slater was the author of the railway, and they were all very much indebted to him for what he had done. Mr. Jones, a little while before, had said that the farmers would not be in a very prosperous condition during the next two years, and if that were so, he wanted to know where they were going to look for the money. He did not wish to damp their ardour, and he thought his actions had shown he was desirous of seeing the railway made. They somehow always stuck at that £ 17,000 or £ 18,000; they could not get beyond that. If they decided on making the line as far as Pontsycoed, he thought that some of the large proprietors would say that they did not consider they ought to give as much as they had originally promised on account of the change in the plans. It was all very well to talk of P,17,000 or £ 18;000, but he did not think they could say they had more than C7,000, which was about all they could legally claim. He again said he did not wish to discourage them, but there did seem to be new obstacles assailing them as they went on. Mr. HARRISON said it seemed as if Mr. Gough's assump- tion was that the line would not be made further than Pontsycoed. He believed the directors simply wished to construct the line that far at present on account of the limited extent of their funds, but fully intended taking the line, as soon as they had the means, to Llanfair. He did not think, when this was understood, that any gentle- man who, although not legally, was morally bound, would withdraw his support. (Hear, hear.) Mr. HILTON said no one was more wishful to see a line made to Llanfair than he was, but he failed to see what benefit a line to Pontsycoed would be to any one. If they decided on adopting the proposal to take the line to Pont- sycoed, without at the same time taking it to Llanfair, as was originally intended, he would not contribute one penny to the undertaking. It would net pay the working expenses, or anything like it, and there would be many of the subscribers who would not allow their subscriptions to be appropriated to that portion of the scheme. To benefit Llanfair they must bring the line to the town. He thought the line would, if brought to Llanfair at the estimated amount, be remunerative; but lie had told Mr. Swettenham they would never make a line unless they had the assistance of the Cambrian or some other railway company. The money would never be obtained unless this was done. Mr. GOUGH said this only corroborated what he had stated, and it was the opinion of one of their largest share- holders. Mr. HILTON remarked that they had not even the means to take the line to Pontsycoed. It would not answer unless the line was brought to Llanfair. Mr. SWETTENHAM expressed an opinion that the line to Pontsycoed would pay quite as well as if it was continued to Llanfair, and he thought all who knew the district would agree with him. With respect to what had been said about the large proprietors withdrawing, because the directors could not see their way to go on at once with the whole scheme, he could not conceive how any gentle- man would leave them when they intended to complete the line as soon as they saw their way clear to do so. The question to him seemed to be whether the amount of support likely to be withdrawn, if they first of all only constructed the line to Pontsycoed, would leave them in a position to carry out that intention. He thought it would be a matter of much regret if the scheme was allowed to fall through after having been under consideration for a period of five years. Mr. SLATER said he felt sorry, even pained, to hear Mr. Hilton say that he would not fulfil his promise. (Mr. HILTON I promised to subscribe to a line from Welshpool to Llanfair.) If they could not make the line to Llanfair at once they would do it the second time. (Hear, hear.) If it did not come part of the way in the first instance, it would never come the whole distance. The most likely way to succeed was to take it as far as they could then; but to abandon the scheme would be disgraceful, and he did not think Mr. Hilton would, on sober reflection, withdraw his support. If the line was abandoned now it '.vould be a long time before it would be taken up again. Let them do as much now as they could, and trust to the future for further assistance. (Ap- plause.) Mr. ELLIS said Mr. Gough and Mr. Hilton would be benefited as mhch as anyone by the line being taken to Pontsycoe I, as they were both largely interested in the timber traffic of that neighbourhood. He (the speaker) had taken seven shares in the railway, and was prepared to take three more; and if each one would do the same they would be able to take the line direct to Llanfair. (Applause.) Mr. HUMPHREYS-OWEN said that no one would think he was actuated by personal motives in addressing them, as all the land he was interested in was situated the other side of the castle so that, as far as he was concerned, a line to Pontsycoed, or even a shorter distance, would suit him very well. When he joined their Board it was on the understanding that unless they had sufficient actual cash in hand the line was not to be attempted. This was decided upon, as it was felt that if the line was made on credit it would be inferior as regard workmanshiped, and also that they would not be doing the public any service. They had subscriptions in promises amounting to £ 18,000, and it was now proposed that the money should be applied in beginning a line that would not reach Llanfair, and possibly not even so far as Pontsycoed. They had heard Mr. Gough say that he and other shareholders would not agree to this being done. If that was so what was their position? Strong language had been used and the words honour and disgrace had been mentioned. It was a ques- tion for consideration whether the people who took money for one purpose and used it for another were free from blame. The last gentleman who had spoken had given him considerable hope that they might proceed with the line. Owners of property and men of business had been thinking hitherto that the line would be made for them without their bearing a share in the burden and heat of the day, but now they found it was not to be so, and he hoped the result of the present discussion would be to bring in such an amount of support as would enable them to carry out the line in its integrity, but for himself, unles44 they could proceed with some legality, he should voto with regret for its abandonment, rather than agree to go on in a haphazard sort of way, beginning with the Cam- brian junction and ending somewhere in a field by Tref- uaut, (Applause.) The Rev. 0.. G. JONES said that Mr. Gough had mis- understood what he had said. Wiiat he meant to say was that if the liue was started they would receive more help and consequently receive more money. He for one would double his subscription. The people had heard so much talk about the line that they very much doubted whether it would be made. They wanted to see that they were in earnest. Mr. GOUGH asked what could be more convincing to prove that they were in earnest, than what had been done by the Company in obtaining an Act of Parliament? Mr. GARDINER said there were many people who would not subscribe until they saw the Hue commenced. The smaller shareholders wanted to know why they should sign subscription contracts when the large shareholders did not do so. Mr. HUMPHREYS OWEN asked whether, supposing the directors were to say that they had entered into a contract with the contractor for the making of the 1st section of the line from Welshpool and Trefnant, and that the shares should be taken conditionally, would there be any possi- bility of the directors b,,¡ng supported by the shareholders. The Rev. O. G. JONES—The best thing to do would be to gain over Mr. Hilton. (Laughter and applause.) Mr. HILTON said that if only a portion of the line were made at one time they would never see the other part of it. He had promised to subsciibelto the rai way on condition that it was made from Welshpool to Llanfair and he wanted to see that done. The CHAIRMAN—It seems to me, after listening to the opinions expressed at the present meeting, that the feeling is certainly against the abandonment of tne line. I abstain from saying anything in favour of the line being taken to Pont-yeoed, on account of my interest in it, but I should feel sorry, after all the trouble and expense we have been put to, to see the scheme fall through. (Applause.) Mr. SWETTENHAM said that as one of the guarantors he had said at their last meeting, in answer to a question, that the guarantors would sacrifice their money it the line was not abandoned this autumn, but he had since been told that the money was recoverable next year. If that were so he had misled his fellow guarantors, and the neces- sity for an immediate abandonment of the line was not so pressing. Mr. HARRISON said that as one of the guarantors, and he spoke adviaedly, he was of opinion that there was no immediate hurry. If they were to ruthlessly abandon the line, after all the fight they had with it, he believed they would ultimately regret their decision. Mr. Humphreys-Owen had made a suggestion well worth their consideration, and that was that a conditional contract could be entered into. Whether this were adopted or not, he hoped they would not see any immediate necessity for abandoning the line. In answer to a question, jlr. SLATER said he was quite willing to move a resolu- tion to the effect, that in the opinion of the shareholders the line- should be commenced, and that the directors should have full power to take the line as far as the means at their command would j ustify. They were more fortun- ate than he had thought, as he had been thinking they were driven into a corner. Mr. SWETTENHAM—Will you assist us in getting sub- scriptions ? Mr. SLATER—I've got some before and I can get some more. The CHAIRMAN—If you will move a resolution and get Mr. Hilton to second it, I think we shall do. (Laughter and applause.) Mr. HILTON-I shall have to move an amendment. The Rev. 0. G. JONES observed that if they could see nothing but delays before them, it would be better to abandon the line. Delays, as they all knew, were dangerous. Could they make sure that those WHO had promised subscriptions would keep their promise, and, if they were'certain of this, could they get them to add a third to the amount originally subscribed, because if they could, the line would easily be made. He did not believe that any were in favour of abandoning it. As he had said before, he would increase his subscription, and if they would all do the same the railway would be made. (Applause.) Mr, GOUGH said that a meeting of the guarantors, who were resposible for the payment of the parliamentary deposit, had met three weeks ago in that room, aud Mr. Swettenham had then told them (Mr. Harrison not being able to attend) that immediate steps would have to be taken for the abandonment of the railway in order to avoid losing their money. This had caused them rather precipitately to call that meeting in order to relieve the guarantors of their responsibiliy, but as they had just been told they could have another twelvemonth allowed them, there was no cause for hurrying in the matter. After all, he thought the mistake would do them some good by causing them to hold that meeting. Mr. HILTON asked when their compulsory powers ex- pired ? Mr. HARRISON-Next August. Mr. SLATER proposed that in the opinion of the share- holders it was highly desirable that the directors should commence the construction of the line, and that they should be empowered to carry it as far as their means would permit. Mr. HUMPHREYS-OWEN said tlffey had only money in hand to the extent of k7,000 that they could depend upon, and until they were sure the other subscribers would consent to what was then proposed, it would be unsafe to vote for such a resolution. There were about £ 3,0J0 due for preliminary expenses, and that would not leave them £5,000 to go on with. He would not vote for the resolution until it was found they could obtain the consent of those who were at present opposed to it. Mr. HODGKISS said he had signed his name on the under- standing that all the other subscribers were equally as liable to pay as himself. He would not withdraw his sub- scription if the line was only then taken to Pontsycoed, but was prepared to double the amount. (Hear, hear.) After some further remarks, principally referring to the wording of a resolution to be adopted by the shareholders, Mr. Harrison read the notice convening the meeting. Mr. HUMPHREYS-OWEN said that in the notice it was stated that all the guarantors were unanimous in thinking that as the means were insufficient to carry the line to Llanfair, it should be taken to Pontsycoed. Unfortu- nately, he had had another engagement which prevented his attending the meeting. Had he been present he should not have been in favour of the resolution, although a line to Pontsycoed would answer his purpose. The CHAIRMAN then put the motion to the meeting, that the line should be constructed as far as Pontsycoed. This was seconded and agreed to, and the proceedings terminated.

THE PREMIER AT THE MANSION HOUSE. The Earl of Beaconsfield and several members of his Cabinet attended the banquet at the Guildhall on Monday evening, November 10. The Premier, in his speech, re- marked that the aspect of public affairs had become much more satisfactory during the past twelve months. The only question was whether the revival of trade which had undoubtedly taken place was temporary, and in the opinion of the Government it was of a permanent character. One circumstance which was even more satisfactory was the admirable conduct of the people of this country throughout the past five years of severe trial. He failed to see that a remedy for Ireland consisted in political agitation and social confusion. The Irish people had never appealed in vain to England, and the English sympathy generally as- sumed a very substantial embodiment. Our operations with regard to the north-western frontier of India had met with signal success, and the supremacy of our arms had been maintained, and our influence had been clearly es- tablished in Central Asia. There had been a dark calamity which one could not recall without emotion, but no time had been lost in avenging the memory of our country- men and asserting the supremacy of our arms. After paying a high compliment to the administrative capabilities of the present Viceroy of India, his lordship alluded to the Zulu campaign. He did not enter into any controversy with respect to the war in South Africa, by which the colonists had been secured in their property, and which had taught them something of the art of self- defence, on which in future they must chiefly rely. As to our external relations, Europe might be covered with millions of armed men, but he believed that peace would be maintained in Europe, and for a long period. That was their opinion, because they had a conviction that peace was a necessity of all the great Powers, and no great Power would shrink from its responsibility. But of this he felt very certain, that if England deserted her natural post in the councils of Europe war was too prob- able. He spoke thus frankly because he was convinced that they would never be bewildered by the sophistry that would teach them that to maintain their empire they must forfeit their freedom. In conclusion, he expressed a hope that on that dhy twelve months he would be again present in that hall ready to congratulate his lordship on his skilful administration of a brilliant reign.

About eight o'clock on Thursday night, November 6, a farmer named Broomfield was driving home to Audlem from Nantwich, whither he had been to dispose of some cheese. At Hatherton, a village close to Audlem, he noticed that he was being followed by a man. He, how- ever, took no further notice of him, but when near the residence of Mr. T. L. Boote, and in a lonely part of the road, the stranger jumped into the farmer's cart, threw Broomfield out, robbed him of his watch and chain and some money, and made off. Information was at once given to the police. RECKITT'S PARIS BLUE.—The marked superiority of this Laundry Blue over all others, and the quick appre- ciation of its merits by the public, has been attended with the usual result, viz. a flood of imitations the merit of the latter mainly consists in the ingenuity exerted, not simply in imitating the square shape, but making the general appearance of the wrappers resemble that of the genuine article. The manufacturers beg, therefore, to caution all buyers to eee Reckitt's Paris Blue" on each packet. AN INTERESTING COMMERCIAL FACT. Notwithstand- ing the great depression of trade during the last twelve months, at the Christmas half-yearly stock-taking, the Messrs. Dicks' found that that the previous six months had been one of the most prosperous seasous they ever had. To give an idea of the ramifications of their business, and the enormous trade this firm must do, it may be stated that they have so many shops all over England, Ire- land, Scotland, Wales, andthe Channel Isles, that if they were allput together they would make a town twice the size of Lampeter, one as large as Machynlleth and Dol- gelley, larger than Barmouth, and about half the size of Aberystwyth. Customers when buying boots and shoes at any of Dicks' branch shops in the above mentioned places are buying their boots at actually the largest boot and shoe shop, or in fact shop of any sort, in the world. There is hardly a town in Fritiin where Dick's shops are not to be found, and wherever the name is seen, if you want a pair of boots you may have every confidence that you will get genuine value for your money.

rg THE CAMBRIAN NEWS JBm0iteth)3{ure Jstarttmrb £ Jlbtrjisttyyth CQrime5 Is the LEADING JOURNAL for an EXTENSIVE DISTRICT in NORTH and SOUTH WALES, INCLUDING Merionethshire, Cardiganshire, South Carnar- vonshire, and parts of other Counties. TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION. Post, or by Cambrian or ^Delivered in any town Manchester & MUford in Wales where there Rail way. is an agent. Advance. Credit Advance. Credit s. d, s. d, s. d. s. d A months ..22 2G 18 2 0 » 4 i 5 0 3 3 3 Q 12 8 8 10 0 6 6 7 6 In these cases it is better to order diiect of the ;v-ent whose names will be found below. The CAMBRIAN NErVi) is sold by AGENTS in the fallowing places:— CARDIGANSHIRE. AB!•]RY8TVA'T! 1( AParliamen-, Mr..J.Gibson, 12, Chalybeate- t.av and Municipal Lorough, terrace tPubiislling Office a.seaport, ami one of the fa- o; Oainbrian Neizs.') yourito watering places of the Messrs. Smith and Son Rail- Kingdom. In the neighbour- way Bookstall Kingdom. In the neighbour- way Bookstall hood are a number of impor- Mr. E. Edwards, Great Dark- tant mines. The University f gate-street. College of Wales is situate;! *r. John Morgan, Pier street here. Aberystwyth is the ter- minus of the Cambrian Rail-1 way, and the Manchester and | here. Aberystwyth is the ter- minus of the Cambrian Rail-1 way, and the Manchester and | Milford RailwaY.) j ABJiRAliRON (Watering place, ) Mr. J. M. Howell, 3, Market seaport anu (jumper session^ J* town.) J BORTH Mr. Evans, Mayfield Cotwee BOW cvTRKET S >ld at the Station CAPEL BANGOR Mr. Biackwell, Post-Oifice.; CARDIGAN (Assize Town. Par- ) liamentary and Municipal Mrs. Williams, books*.ier Borough and seaport.) j CWI,IYSTIV-YTII Mr. C. Burrili, iVst-(>jfiee GO GIN AN (Situate near several lead mines) Mr. P. Nidiolls, Druid Inn LAMPETER (Parliamentary 1 r T — borough. St. David's College y i: Evans> Medicid Kali is here.) J -Ur- Rees, draper. LLANDDEWI BREFI Mr. Thomas Jones, grocer. LLANWENOG Mr. Evan Evans LLANGEITHO Mr. Stephen Jones, picture framer. LLANILAR Mr. Jenkin Morris, draper IJLANON Mr. Daniel Jones, grocer LLANRHYSTYD ROAD Statioumaster. PONTERWYD (Waterfalls and Mr. William Claridge, Goger- lead mines in neighbourhood) ) ddan Arms. PONTRHYDYGROES Mr. T. W. Davies, Post-Offic« STRATA FLORIDA. Mr. John Jones, grocer. SWYDDFYFNNON Mr. Evan Jones, shopkeeper TALIESIN (Lead mines) Mr. Thomas Jones, Post-Office TALYBONT (Lead mines) Mr. John Pritchard TREGARON (A market town where large fairs are held) Mr. E. C. Evans YSTRAD Mr. W. Owen Hughes CARNARVONSHIRE. BEDDGELERT Mr. Evan Roberts, bookseller BANGOR Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son. Railway Bookstall CARNARVON Mr. D. W Davies, printer and stationer, 30, High-street CRICCIETH(A pleasant water-) Mr. Bowen, bookseller and ing place with hne mountain >• stationer views) J DOLYDDELEN Mr. Ellis Pierce PV,PlT?,L\P9G (Terminus of) Mr. D. Lloyd (Publishing-Office the I?estmiog Railway. Ail f of the Ca/mbrian Newsy important shipping port; a fRichard Humphreys, Booksel- growing town) ) ler, &c., The Repository » Messrs. W, H. Smith and Son, Bookstall PWLLHELI Mr. J. T. Evans, bookseller, Church-street Mr. W. Trevor J ones, 8, Ala Road MERIONETHSHIRE, (Seaport and 1 Watering place) Ulr. W. Williams, Caprera ) House ABERG ANOLWYN(Great slate > quarries in the neighbourhood) | Mr. E. Jones, Post-Office ARTHOG Mrs. Jones, Post Oifice BALA (the Calvinistic and Inde-'i T T pendent Colleges are situated ( j*?-, .Jones, High-street here, and it is much visited by C ("Polishing Office of the tourists for its fine iake and ) Cambrian News) surrounding scenery). BARMOUTH(one of the favour-) Mr. John Evans, grocer Glan- ite watering places of Wales).. j- yuior House >> ji J Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son. CORRIS Mr. Robert W. Evans, grocer. Rhosynant Mr. D. Ifor Jones CORWEN (A market town) Mr. T. Edmunds, printer DINAS (Terminus Messrs Evans and Sons of the Mawddwy Railway) j DOLGELLEY (Assize and Quar-) Mr. Dav{(1 Davies ^ocej. ter Sessions held here. One of Mr. R. O. Rees, chemist the head quarters of jurists. /"Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son. Manufacture—Welsh Tweeds)/ DYFFRYN Mr. J. Roberts, Shop Isaf FESTINIOG(The great slate dis-) Mr. Ellis Roberts, bookseller trict of Wales. Terminus of ( Four Crosses the Festiniog Railway. A (Mr. Evan Lloyd, Saron. very populous place) ) Mr. R. J. Thorns, bookseller, New Market-place, Fouir Crosses HARLECH Mr.W.Evans. Gorphwysfa Cot- tage LLANBEDR.. Messrs. J. Evans and Sons LLANEGRYN Mr. Pughe, chemist LLANELLTYD Mr. T. Griffiths LLWYNGWRIL Mr. J. Lewis, The Mill MAENTWROG Mr. Evans PENNAL Mr. R. Humphreys PENRHYNDEUDRAETH (A) populous place) j TALSARNAU Mr. G. Williams, postmaster TOWYN (Favourite watering ) Mr. J. Jones, Post-Offioe Place) At Mr. E. Newell's (Mr. IL D, Evans) MACHYNLLETH(Markettown) Mrs. C. Hughes confection** In the neighbourhood are t Penrallt-streBt several mines) j Messr3. Smith and way Bookstall LLANBRYNMAIR Mr. Maurice Jones, Winllan NEWTOWN Messrs Phillipsfz Son, printers 11 Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son. WELSHPOOL Messrs. Smith and Son, Rail. way Bookstall OSWESTRY Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son As:erts, Woodall. and Venables LIVERPOOL. Messrs Foulkes and Evans .barn-street Afi k'°yd, 52, Everton-rd. Mr. Isaac Foulkes, stationer 18, Brunswick-street. Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son, 56, Castle Street LONDON Messrs. Davies and Co., Not Finch Lane, Cornhill Mr. M. Morgan, 31, Hawley Road, Kentish Town >> Mr. E. Evans, 21, Fairbank- street, East Road CHESTER Mr. J. Rathbume, Roman Baths, Bridge-street CARMARTHEN Messrs W. H Smith and Son Bookstall LLANELLY Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son, Bookstall. MANCHESTER Mr. Jas Royle, 2, Old Mill-gate BIRMINGHAM. Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son4 Great Western Bookstall LLANIDLOES Mr. J. H. Mills 11 Mrs. Pierce, China-street LLANDRINDOD WELLS Mr. D. C. Davies, Bookseller » Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son HOLYWELL Mr Evans, Printer & Stationer WHITCHURCH Messrs. W. H. Smith & Son. WREXHAM Messrs. Bayley and Co., Caxton Buildings. RUABON STATION Messrs. W. H. Smith and Son ADVERTISEMENTS and other communications, in Welsh and English, should ba sent not later tbas Thursday morning to the Publishers-- JACOB JONES, High-street, Bala. J. GIBSON, 12, Chalybeate-terrace, Aberystwyth. or D. LLOYD, Portmadoc.