The North Wales Express

THE M)aTH WALES ELECT IONS. CARSARTOXSUUili ELECTION. MR WATKIN WILLIAMS' CANDIDATURE. LIBERAL MEETING AT CWM-Y-GLO. The enthusiasm which is apparent throughout the county is indicative of the fact that the voters are fully alive to the importance of the present political crisis. This was amply proved by the great meeting held at Cwm-y-glo ou Friday last, on the occasion of the visit of Mr Watkin Williams, Q. C., to the place. The learned gentle. man was met by a demonstrative crowd at Pont- rhythailt station, and a grand procession was formed. The horses drawing the carriage in which were Mr and Mrs Watkin Williams, and Mr James Rees, arnarvon, were liberated, and hund- reds of willing arms dragged the vehicle, pre- ceded by the Llanrug Brass Band. As the pro- cession approached Cwm-y-glo, the reverberating boom of artillery could be heard echoing and re- echoing through the mountain passe?, while the enthusiastic multitude cheered the Liberal candi- date and his amiable lady. At two o'clock the Calvinistic: Methodist Chapel had been crowded with an attentive audience, congregated to listen to an address from Mr Williams. The chair was occupied by the Rev John Williams, Brynffvnon, who after congratulating Mr and Mrs Williams, proceeded to criticise most mercilessly the policy of the Conservative Government, which had occasioned so much misery and distress in the country during the last five years. Two of the principal acts ot the Tory Government were the transformation of the Queen into an Empress of India, and Benjamin Disraeli into Lord Beaconsfieid (iaughter). Soon after the Tory reiga commenced we had a large number of banks collapses, confidence in financial circles was entirely lost, and the country had been ever since gliding into a state of depression almost unpre- cedented. A Liberal Government alone could bring matters to a satisfactory state—could ensure a return of commercial confidence and commercial prosperity, and he urged most strongly upon the voters at that meeting to vote for Mr W. Williams, who would be found a strong and staunch supporter of Liberal principles (cheers). Mr James Rees, Carnaivon, drew attention to the great increase ef expenditure that had occurred under Tory rule, and the additional taxation that had been imposed upon the people by Lord Beaconsfieid and his ministers. The money spent in prosecuting the Zulu and Afghan wars- had been shamefully wasted. There had been no necessity for those wars and the only way to bring back prosperity to the land was to persue a peaceful policy, which would only be done by a strong Liberal Government. Those who desired peace and prosperity at home and abroad could mate- rially assist in that direction by supporting Mr Watkin Williams (loud cheers). Mr Watkin Williams, Q.C., M.P., on rising was received with lou i and protracted cheering. His opening remaiks were in Welsh, and were to the effect that it was very manifest that the people of Cwmyglo were determined to turn out the wicked Government of Lord Beaconsfield from power, and raise Mr Gladstone to power in his place (great cheering). Turning to English he thanked the meeting for the kindly greeting which they had extended to hm-a greeting which he could never forget. He wished to refer to a matter which had appeared in the news- papers, and which had caused some excitement. The Liberal party had a great meeting at Bethesda, and he had received a hearty welcome there. On leaving the place, some distance out- side the town, the carriage in which he (Mr Williams) was, together with some friends, was set upon by a number of men, who pelted them with stones. It was dark at the time, and though the occupants of the carriage might have sus- tained serious injuries, he was glad to say that they escaped with some bruises and small cuts ("Shame' ). IJe wished to say that no one re- gretted this ruffianly attack more than Mr Pennant. That hon. gentleman had written a most kind letter to him (Mr Williams) expressing his abhorrence of the treacherous conduct, of those who had com- mitted the assault, and disclaiming the slightest sympathy with or knowledge of the offenders (ap- plause). The speaker sincerely hoped that the conduct of those men at Bethesda would not lead his hearers to emulate their treachery, but would rather induce them to return good for evil (cheers). Mr Williams then referred to the struggle which Mr Gladstone—(cheers)—was conducting against the great Tory landowner of Midlothian—the Duke of Buccleugh; and as it were in humble imitation of that great statesman he (MrWilliams hadbbeyed the call of the Liberal party to fight in this county against the preponderating influence of the house of Penrhyn, represented by Mr Douglas Pennant (great cheering). Although he had no wealth and no land in the county, he believed that his political sentiments were in unison with those of the great majority of electors in the county, and it was upon those grounds that he asked for their support to send him to Parliament as their representative, with a great majority (loud applause). It was full time to turn out Lord Beaconsfieid, who had en- tangled the finances, who had upset commerce, who had embroiled us in war in every quarter of globe, and who had brought the fair fame of England to discredit and to shame (applause). The principles upon which this country was governed by the Tories were endangering the liberty of the subject, and the right of citizens. He rejoiced to see the people of Carnarvonshire awake to the danger that encompassed them, and were determined, in spite of all the influence which the Tories could bring to bear, to do all they could to maintain those principles of liberty and constitutional government which were so dear to theheartsoffreesubjects (cheers). Mr Williamsthen referred to the conduct of the Tory Government towards the Welsh nation, when an application was made towards the support of the University College of Wales and impressed upon his audience the necessity for returning members to parliament who would represent their views on that important question. Mr Williams expressed in favour of the disestablishment and disendowment of the Church, as a step towards that religious equality which every free country ought to possess (cheers). Endowments were the property of the nation and they should be diverted to educate the poor children of the country (cheers). He was in favour of the aboli- tion of the Game Laws-kclleers)-and would support a measure having for its object the closing public heuses on Sunday. He was in favour of simplifying the laws controlling the transfer of land and would support a bill for assimilating the county and borough franchise (cheers). He promised to give his support to every measure having a tendency to benefit the Principality, if he were returned as their representative. He would do his best to ascertain their feelings on all ques tions of public policy, and would help to carry out their wishes by his voice and vote (great cheering amid which the learned gentleman resumed his lleat), Mr John Evans,Caellenor, Carnarvon, referred to Mr Williams'ancestry, and his distinguished ability as a scholar and lawyer, which made it an honour to any constituency to secure his services (chficrs) After' the Rev. R. W. Griffith, Bethel, had addressed the audience, a question was put to Mr William-, whether he would support a measure for conferring electoral power on women. Mr Williams replied that he would not vote for such a measure, as he was of opinion that women al- ready possessed, in the sphere in which they were engaged, ample means of making their influence felt. In reply to the Rev J. Eiddon Jones, the candidate stated that he not inly felt an interest in the slate trade, but he would promise to study it well. After a short address from the Rev M. Jones, Penygroes, a vote of confidence in Mr Watkin Williams was put to the meeting, and unanimously I eariied after which the meeting, which had been of a most enthusiastic nature, terminated. THE LIBERAL CANDIDATE AT LLAN- BERIS. From Cwmyglo, Mr Watkin Williams and his party proceeded to Llanberis, where he met with a grand reception. The inhabitants turned out en masse to greet him; a long procession was formed; while the Brass Bands of Nant Uchaf and Llanrug discoursed sweet music. The road from Cwmyglo tJ Llanberis had been lined by a large crowd, anxious to evince their sympathy with the cause for which Mr Williams is now fighting. Hundreds of banners floated in the wind and shouts of Watkin Williams for ever rent the air. After parading the streets the pro- cession entered a field belonging to Mr Lane, where a temporary platform had been erected. There was an audience of between 3000 and 4000 present, among whom we noticed Mr D. P. Wil- liams, Revs. J. O. Jones, G. Tecwyn Parry, and J. E. Owen, Llanberis; T. J. Wheldon, B.A., Ffestiniog R. Roberts, Wern; W. Ryle Davies, Mr. Rowlands, Cefnywaen; Messrs R. Hughes, Dolperis; Thomas Thomas, Snowdon Valley; O. Williams, Thomas Ingram, R. Owen, printer R. H. Parry, Mrs Lane and party; Mrs J. G. Owen, Messrs D. Davies, Glyn D. H. Wil- liams, Cefnwerthyd J. F. Roberts, painter John Williams, Plascoch; Wilson Roberts, Ishmael Davies, J. Evans, J. W. Jones (Andronicus), Car- narvon James Rees, Carnarvon; John Evans, Caellenor; Griffith Jones, Mount Pleasant; T. E. Jones, Compton House; R. E. Jones, Dr Ro- berts, Broneryr, Clwtybont; J. D. Jones, Beach Bank, &c., &c. Mr Watkin Williams, who was accompanied by Mrs Williams, on making their appearance on the platform wer" received with great applause. Mr D. P. Wiiliams, chemist, Llanberis, was voted to the chair. The Chairman observed that there could be no doubt that the great majority of the voters in the county of Carnarvon were opposed to Tory principles. They all felt sorry for the illness which had prevented Mr Jones- Parry contesting the county, but it was a matter for congratulation that the Liberal party had suc- ceeded in inducing such a distinguished person as I Mr Watkia Williams to come forward to fight on the Liberal side. He hoped that this meeting would be the mean i of infusing into the young I men present a greater interest in political ques- tions and would prompt many of them to qualify themselves as voters at the earliest opportunity (hear). The Conservatives were the means of limiting the number of electors in such an import- ant place as Llanberis. The Tories believe that money or riches make the man, and did not in any way acknowledge that the intelligence of the work- ing man was deserving of any csnsideration. He hoped that after another Parliament the Liberal party would have succeeded in assimilating the borough and county franchise, which would confer electoral power upon a large number of those at the meeting, who were now deprived of them. The Chairman proceeded to compare the great reforms inaugurated under the Liberal Government of Mr Gladstone with the blood thirsty, a muddled policy of Lord Beaconsfield, which had occasioned war abroad and misery at home. He enjoined upon every voter the absolute necessity of doing every- thing in his power to ensure the return of Mr Watkin Williams with such a majority as would teach the Tories that their power had for ever vanished (cheers). The Rev G. T. Parry expressed his pleasure at seeing such a vast gathering which had come to- gether to do honour to one of Gwalia's most dis- tinguished sons (cheers). Mr Williams was a man of distinction and a man of energy. Even the Welsh Tory paper-the most miserable rag that was ever known-had admitted that Mr Watkin Williams was distinguished in one branch of knowledge. It was unnecessary for him to tell them who the author was, they all would know that as the article bore his un- mistakeable mark (cheers). After referring to the unjust policy of the Tory Government Mr Parry proposed the following resolution —That this, meeting thoroughly disapproves of the dishonour- 1 able, wasteful, and destructive policy of the Government; and condemns its recklessness in financial matters, and its utter disregard of domestic legislation (cheers). The Rev J. E. Owen seconded the resolution in a lengthy speech. He promised not to detain them at no great length, as they were no doubt anxious to hear Mr Watkin Williams (a voice: "That;k you" and laughter). He denounced Lord Beaconsfield's action in making the Queen an Empress as an instance of what Mr Gladstone or Mr Bright would not stoop to accomplish. Lord Beaeons- field cared not how the poor of this country fared provided he succeeded in extorting sufficient money to squander in killing Zulus and Afghans (" Shame," and a voice: "Out with him to wander over the world, like his brethren"). While the people of India were starving in thousands in 1877-8, did the Tory Govern- ment succour them at once ? No! not for weeks and months. Instead of relieving those miserable heathen that were dying in thousands they denied that there was a famine and when they were compelled to acknowledge that the people were starving for the want of food, the miserable sum that was spent to relieve them amounted to £ 57,000! He concluded by appealing to the voters at that meeting to" satisfy the dictates of conscience at the poll; and to vote for Mr Wat- kin Williams,—who was in favour of peace, re- trenchment, and reform (loud cheers). Mr Watkin Williams was received with enthu- siastic cheers. He commenced his remarks in the vernaculai, and expressed his unfeigned gratifi- cation at the brilliant reception which he had re- ceived from the people of Llanberis. Although he was not able to speak Welsh fluently, he could fairly claim to be as good a Welshman as any one present (loud cheers). If the meeting would per mit he would make a few remarks in English (cries of "Quite willing "). He had been re- quested to support the resolution which had been proposed, and he did so from a conviction that it was time the Beaconsfield Government—which had exhibited such incapacity for its work-should now be relieved of further duties (cheers). During the sanguinary war between Russia and Turkey Lord Beaconsfieid had sided with the oppressive by preteading that England would defend Turkey. Yet the Tory Government permitted the dismem- berment of Turkey. Not only had we permitted Russia to take what it wanted, but we had brought England into discredit by robbing Turkey of the Island of Cyprus. There was not the slightest truth in the assertion that the Liberal party desired to see the influence and power of England diminishing. Every loyal subject of thes realms had the welfare of the Empire as much at heart as the Tory party and its supporters (loud cheers). This was a matter dearer to Liberals than even to Lord Beaconsfieid himself; because the former desired the spread of civil and religious liberty throughout the world, and their sympathies were therefore with those nationalities that were struggling to obtain those blessings (cheers). But what had been the attitude of Lord Beaconsfieid P When the Bulgarian people attempted to throw off the yoke of Turkish tyranny and oppression, and fought for the liberty of themselves, their wives, and children, Lord Beaconsfield threw his influence on the side of the Turk, and helped to tighten the cords that held the oppressed Bulgar- ians in unrighteous subjection (" shame.") If they turned to India they would be able to see what Lord Beaconsfieid had done there. England, without the slightest provocation, had invaded Afghanistan, and made war upon a brave and inoffensive people—a brave people like those who stood before him, fond of their country, their liberties, and their religion (cheers). The Tory Government made war upon the Afghans, carry- ing pestilence and famine by fire and sword. Villages were burnt in the depth of winter and their inhabitants turned out to the mountain snows to die by the thousands, with curses for English rule upon their lips (Loud cries of "Shame.") And what had been the cause of this cruelty? Did the Afghans injure us? No one dared to insinuate that they did. Did they break their treaties with us? No. And yet we have been told that this unnecessary butchering of human beings had been carried on for the sake of a scientific frontier. It would be a similar case if a wealthy landowner in this country filched a piece of land belonging to a poor man in order to make a "scientific frontier" to his park! What would they think of the conduct of such a man? Yet that was precisely what Lord Beaconsfieid had done in Afghanistan. They had gained nothing by the Atghan war; though thousands of lives had been sacrificed, and millions of money had been squandered. Yet this was not all. England had lost something of greater value-her charaeter as an upright and righteous nation The learned speaker then referred to the horrors of the Zulu campaign, and asked his hearers if they endorsed a policy characterised by injustice and destructiveness. Mr Williams drew attention to the secrecy afforded by the ballot; and promised to see that all the ballot papers were mixed up before the process of counting commenced, so that it would be impos- sible to ascertain the approximate number of those who had voted for or against a candidate in any particular district. Speaking of the grant to the Welsh University Mr Williams said that their representative did not vote on that question. (A Voice Perhaps he was at home shooting," and laughter). That would have been some excuse (observed Mr Williams) but he had been informed that the Hon. Douglas Pennant was in the JIouse when the division took place (" Shame.") Well, it was rather shameful, but the voters now had an opportunity of declaring that they would tolerate the shame no longer (cheers). After alluding to the Sunday Closing Bill, the Disestablishment of the Church, and other measures likely to occupy the time of the new Parliament, Mr Williams referred to the cry set up by his opponents that he was a stranger. But they all knew he (Mr Williams) was a Welshman to the back-bone. He was not a stranger to Wales. All his ancestors were thorough Welsh. His mother was born in the county of Carnarvon, and his father was a native of Merionethshire. In j ustice to Mr Pennant he would say that gentleman was too wise to raise such an objection to his candidature. If his (the speaker's) ancestors had not lived in castles they had been genuine folk since the flood, for all he knew (laughter). In conclusion, he urged upon every voter to do his duty to the great Liberal cause at the poll which would soon take plac, on his part, if they thought him worthy of their suff- rage, nothing should be wanting to give effect to their opinions in Parliament (great cheering). Someone in the audience asked Mr Williams' opinion of Home Rule and received a reply that the Liberal candidate entirely disapproved of it. The resolution, on being put to the meeting, was passed with but one dissentient—an intoxi- cated fellow, who lustily shouted Pennant far ever," and left the meeting. The Rev J. Owen Jones, honorary secretary of the Liberal Association, gave an encouraging ac- count of the state of the Liberal party in the dis- trict and expressed his opinion that if all the promises made were kept Mr Watkin Williams would receive two-thirds of the votes at Llanberis. If other parts of the county afforded support in a similar proportion he felt confident tnat Mr Wil- liams be returned with a majority of from 1000 to 1300 (great cheering). Mr Ishmael Davies, Llanberis, proposed the following res(-,lution: That this meeting, after listening to Mr Watkin Williams cordially acoepts him as a Liberal candidate for this county and hereby pledges itself to use every legitimate means to secure his return to Parliament as our represen- tative (loud applause). The resolution was seconded by Mr Thomas Ingham, who made some humorous allusions to the claims put forward by the supporters of Mr Pen- nant. Mr Griffith Jones supported the resolution in a brief speech. The Rev T. J. Wheldon, B.A., Festiniog, gave a most encouraging report of the result of the canvass on behalf of the Liberal candidate in that district ? He designated the Government as one that him bred on beer and died on water, and said it was only worthy to be compared to a "bragging bully." He believed that the death- knell of the Tory Ministry had been sounded, and it would not be inappropriate to carve on its tomb something similar to the epitaph what bee. written to poor John Giles Here lies the body of poor John Giles,— Yes, here he lies Nobody weeps and nobody cries Where he is gone to, and he fares, Nobody knows and nobody cares. (Loud laughter). The resolution was carried unanimously, and amid much applause after which three hearty cheers were given to Mr Samuel Holland, M.P., and to Lord Newborough. Thanks were given to Mr Law for his kindness in placing his field at the service of the meeting, free of charge. As Mr Williams and his party drove off the ground to hold another meeting at Deiniolen, enthusiastic cheers were given by the audience. MEETING AT DEINIOLEN. At eight o'clock on Friday evening last, a large meeting of the supporters of Mr Watkin Williams was held at the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Deiniolen. The Brass Band of Llandinorwic had here assumed the functions discharged at the two previous places by the bands of Llanrug and Nant Uchaf. The process of unharnessirlg the horses from the carriage conveying the Liberal candidate and his amiable wife* was here repeated, and willing hands were found in abundance to supply the motive power. Dr Roberts, Bron-eryr, occupied the chair. The Chairman said they should all feel proud to hear such a man as Mr Watkin Williams willing to undertake this contest on behalf of the. Liberal cause (cheers). The Tories objected to the Liberal candidate on the ground that he was a barrister—(Oh, oh)—but was it not from that pro- fession that the Lord Chancellor was selected? (Hear, hear). The nobility of our country were not likely to supply men capable of filling that weighty and responsible office- (lau gb ter) -and if Mr Williams succeeded in attaining a post of high honour that would not only reflect credit upon Carnarvonshire but upon the entire Principality (cheers). He exhorted them to take advantage of the provisions of the ballot, to return Mr Williams witn a substantial majority. The Rev W. Ryle Davies, in a speech carefully prepared, and full of telling points, proposed a resolution condemning the reckless expenditure of blood and treasure by the Tory Government; their financial incapacity, and neglect of domestic legislation. The resolution was seconded by the Rev Isiah Jones, Wesleyan miniigter, Rhiwl?s. In the course of a lengthy speech the rev. gentleman set forth the qualifications of the Conservative and Liberal candidates. He said it would be a source of pleasure to him to support Mr Pennant in any effort he might make to secure a post, the duties of which he could adequately discharge but he protested against being asked to support Mr Pen nant in this contest, because that gentleman did not represent the political sentiments which were dear to him (the speaker), and which he knew to be near the hearts of those who stood before him (cheers). A great deal had been made of the fact that Mr Pennant was living among them, and that he was kind to his workmeit and to his tenants. Undoubtedly that was true. But the causes which led to that were mutual. Mr Pennant would not be kind and liberal to his men if his men did not deserve it. Employers could not get on without their workmen, any more than workmen could prosper witnout em- ployment. He was of opinion that the men did a great deal to deserve that kindness which Mr Pennant showed towards them and he hoped they always would endeavour to deserve well of their employers (cheees). To illustrate this fur- ther, the rev. gentleman related an anecdote which occasioned considerable amusement. With J I regard to the Tory Government it was not neces- sary for him (the speaker) to say much. They all knew its character. Lord Beacon sifeld-when he was a novelist called Mr Disraeli-had said, I could settle the Eastern Question in a month; but after trying for six years he was as far off as ever (cheers). He (Lord Beaconsfield) was sent with great pomp to Berlin, and there he signed a treaty for the dismemberment of Turkey, and which permitted the aggrandisement of Russia. He returned home bearing with him, he said, "peace with honour," but he (the speaker) thought that the Hebrew nobleman entertained ideas of "honour" widely different to those en- tertained by the electors of Carnarvonshire. The speaker then referred to the Zulu and Afghan wars; and excited the indignation of the meet- ing by drawing a comparison between the inva- sion of Afghanistan by the English, and the conquest of Wales by the Anglo-Saxons. He concluded an eloquent appeal to the voters to be true to their principles by a just eulogv of the patriotism of air Gladstone and Mr Bright. His remarks were received with great applause. The resolution*was then put to the meeting and carried unanimously. Mr Watkin Williams next addressed the crowd. He spoke a few words in Welsh, and then aske:l the permission of his audience to address them in English. He had been so many .years among Englishmen that his Welsh had become somewhat rusty, but he felt that his dear old native language was fast returning to his tougue- (cheers) -and he believed if he had the honour of appearing often in their midst that he would be able to speak in Welsh as well as he could in" English (applause). Some of his hearers were probably aware that he had been invited to contest two constituents where the fight would have been less arduous and the labour lighter. He was one of those who de- lighted in overcoming obstacles, and a battle won under those circumstances had to him a greater glory (applause). Eleatoral fights were not new to him. In 1868 he had the recklessness—as some people called it (but it proved in the end to be courage)- to fight the Conservatives of the Denbigh boroughs. He was laughed at on that occasion, and people told him it was useless for a Liberal to go against a Conservative, as that constituency had never re- turned a Liberal to Parliament. But he deter- mined to try. The people got up like one man, and after a gallant fight the Tory was vanquished 9 11 and he was returned at the head of the poll with a splendid majority (loud applause). If the enthus- iasm had been great in 1868, it was far greater in Carnarvonshire in 1880. The meeting on that day indicated that the Liberals were determined to overthrow the Government of Lord Beaconfield. Mr Williams then referred to the injustice, and the destruction accomplished during the six years the Tories had been in power. He denounced in indignant terms those who had been incessant in the attempt to asperse the character, misrepresent the views, and distort the language of the great and conscientious statesman Mr Glad- stone (great cheering). Mr Gladstone stood up bravely, and faced his slanderers; and he was proud to think that he (Mr Gladstone) was still beloved by the great mass of the people (cheers). Mr Disraeli had the temerity to tell the people of this country that the Government had not been carried out in the true spirit of the constitution for the last 200 years (laughter). The Prime Minister laughed at the idea of popular Govern- ment, and said that sovereigns and statesmen- men like the Czar of Russia, the Emperor of Ger- many, and Bismarck-should be allowed to govern. Were the people of this country pre- pared to submit to that sort of thing (" No, no"). Tkat was the great question which they had to decide. The principal idea of Lord Beaconsfield always had been to desire the flattery of European statesmen, and to glorify himself (laughter). The speaker then referred to the secret treaty between Lord Salisbury and Count Schouvaloff, and the dishonourable manner in which this country had —by hints and indirect encouragement—lured Turkey 'to her destruction. He concluded a powerful address bv referring to the various measures mentioned in his address and promised, if returned to Parliament, to do everything in his power to increase the prosperity of his constituents (loud cheers). The Rev W. Rowlands proposed a resolution accepting Mr Watkin Williams as a Liberal can- didate in the county, and pledging the meeting to use every exertion to return him triumphantly to Parliament. The resolution was seconded by Mr John Evans, Caellenor, Carnarvon, in an able speech, in which he traced the progress of Mr Williams as a scholar, lawyer, and member of Parliament. His remarks were heartily applauded. The resolution was passed unanimously and en- thusiastically. The Rev W. Ryle Davie3 proposed, and Mr Watkin Williams, Q.C., M.P., seconded a vote of thanks to the chairman,- which was passed. A choir styling themselves The Sons of Snow- donia" then sang an original chorus entitled the "War of Principles;" after which cheers were given for Mr and Mrs Watkin Williams, and the meeting dispersed. We are gratified to hear that the Liberals of the district of Deiniolen have decided to pay the costs of the election in this district. It is to be hoped that other districts will emulate their generous example. GREAT MEETINGS AT LLANDUDNO AND CONWAY. The Liberal candidate visited Conway on Satur- day afternoon last, and addressed a crowded meeting at the Market Hall. On arriving at the station he was most enthusiastically received. The horses were detached, and, headed by a brass band, the carriage was drawn by ropes through the streets of the borough, which were gay with bunting and crowded with people. Alderman Albert Wood presided, and on the platform were Mrs Watkin Williams, Messrs Bulkeley Hughes, M.P.; Hugh Pugh (Carnarvon), W. A. Darbi- shire, Swinford Wood, 0. Darbishire, Glynne Jones (Bangor), E. E. Davies, T. Parry, W. Rogers, S. Roberts (Llandudno), Revs J. Spinther James, S. Roberts, and others. The Chairman regretted the absence, through illness, of the mayor, who was to have presided, and congratulated Mr and Mrs Watkin Williams upon their safe return from Bethesda; Mr Watkin Williams, who was greeted with long and continued cheers, said that although bold and, as some people thought, ambitious and- rash enough to seek the distinguished honour of repre- senting Carnarvonshire, he had declined to accept the tempting offer until he had been assured that Mr Jones-Parry was unable to come forward, and that he had that gentleman's good wishes and warm support for his success; and having the united suppoit of the Liberal party, he had not shrunk from the contest. It would be an arduous one, but as a Welshman—(cheers)— he thought he might appeal to his past career to show that he was not afraid of coping with difficulties. He need only instance the great contest he fought in the Denbigh Boroughs twelve years ago, and what a magnificent su :cess then rewarded the exertions of the Liberals (cheers). At the present time, the constituencies had for their decision probably the most important and momentous question which had come before the electors of Great Britain for the last fifty years—whether they desired to be governed by Lord Beaconsfield or to return to constitutional government under the leadership of Lord Hartington, Mr Gladstone, and Mr Bright (loud cries of "Gladstone"). Lord Beaconsfieid —(groans)—had embarkedjupoa an exciting foreign policy, distracted attention from home affairs, and pledged the country to enormous and stupendous obligations without consulting the House of Commons or the British people. Empires, he had said, were governed not by the people, but by sovereigns and statesmen, which were very omi- nous words, and indicated what would be the policy carried out by Lord Beaconsfield if he was returned to power. During Mr Gladstone's term of office, England had reached a height of pros- perity seldom known beforei g From twelve to thirteen millions oi taxes were removed, the income of the country went up, and England stood in peaceful relations with, and enjoyed the confi- dence and respect of every foreign nation. The Liberals had struggled for centuries to extend the hand of freedom to all; their sympathies were with those who suffered from tyranny and op- pression, and wlu> v< ie uuder an absolute and personal government. They knew what were the feelings of Lord Beaconsfieid and Lord Salisbui y upon this subject, unless the people now as serted their opinions their future liberties were in danger. The cruel, wicked, and fraudulent war with the Zulus had injured our good name, and the honour and credit of England had been tarnished and dragged through the mud (shame). What had the unfortunate Afghans done to us ? They were, like the Welsh, a high-spirited nation, fond of their homes, and brought up in their mountains. We were, it was said, afraid of the Russians, but instead of standing up like men and telling the Russians to stand back we cast our eyes enviously upon the land of the free Afghans to make a scientific frontier (shame) We proclaim to tlij. world that England did not wish a policy of all nexation, that our territory was already large enough and yet, to make a scientific frontier, we had invaded Afghanistan, destroyed her govern- ment, and shattered every vestige of power in the country-(" shame ") -and the consequence was that we were compelled to remain there against our will. Humanity required it, for, if we retired from Afghanistan after destroying her civil and military government, it would be like letting loose a lot of foxes into a large place full of par- tridges. The whole world was looking with as- tonisiiment at the conduct of England, allowing herself to be in the hands of a despot who would make secret treaties without even acquainting hi s colleagues (" shame. ") How was Wales treated by the Government? With indifference, if not contempt(shame). Ireland,which was in a frequcllt state of commotion, where there were outrages of a grave and serious character, had the measures and grants she wished, and it was a sad lesson to teach the Welsh what were those tactics which gut Ireland what she asked for. Poor little Wales, Mr Gladstone had many a good word to say for her, and he deserved a good cheer from them in return. (Three cheers were here given to Mr Gladstone). Welshmen must look after their own interests, for unless they did, no one else could be expected to do so (hear, hear). Take the question of higher education. The Welsh had set up their college 'out of the hard- earned wages of the people; it was flourishing, Lut was in danger of not being so successful as was wished. Ireland and Scotland had their universities and grants, and had mt Wales the same claim upon the Government ? (cheers). Wales should say this through her members; but he reminded the people of Car- narvonshire that when this question came before Parliament the voice of Carnarvonshire was not there—(" shame ")—and the responsibility for this rested upon those who returned the member (hear, hear). They had now the protection of the balot and, although unscrupulous persons were spreading over the country the most ridiculous and false statements, he hoped the electors would see through them (hear, hear). During his long electioneering experience, he had never witnessed anything like the grand and enthusiastic recep- tions he had met with, at Nantlle and Llanberis especially, where it was fit far royalty. At Beth- esda they were attacked and stoned on the road, not by a fewpeople near Llandegai, for the attack lasted for nearly 200 yards when going out jof the village, and the lies told about it would have as tonished anyone not accustomed to electioneering (shame). In conclusion, he asked them to return him to assist in the dethronement of one of the worst Governments which had ever presided over the destinies of the country, and resumed his seat amidst loud cheers. Mr Owen (Bryndowsi) proposed, and the Rev. J. Roberts seconded a vote of support. Mr Bulkeley Hughes, M.P., in supporting the vote, said he should, although his appearance might tell against his own election—("no, no") — continue to raise his voice zealously to induce the c nstituency to return Mr Watkin Williams, who had ever done justice to Wales, and had ever ilhown his readiness to uphold the Welsh and their feelings (cheers). The vote was carried with en- thusiasm. The same evening, Mr Watkin Williams ad- dressed a crowded meeting at Llandudno. Mr Bulkeley Hughes, M. P., chairman of the Llan- dudno commissioners, presided. He was met outside the town by an immense crowd and with the Gloddaeth brass band, which declined to play when Mr Pennant visited the place. Mr Watkin Williams'carriage was pulled by ropes through the streets. The St George's Hall, a considerable build- ing, was far too small to contain those anxious to welcome the Liberal candidate. The Chairman, 'in introducing Mr Watkin Williams, said that in him they would have a member who would do his utmost to further the interests of Wales. The Government had not listened to their appeal for a grant to the Uni- versity of Wales, and b/ returning Mr Williams they would find not only a voter, but an able ad- vocate for the rights of Wales. Mr Watkin Williams, on rising, received quite an ovation. He denounced the Government, and said Lord. Beaconsfield aimed at personal and ab- solute Government. All was done to glorify the great Lord Beaconsfield, who, in his speech at the Guild Hall, ridiculed the notion of the people governing themselves. He condemned the wars in South Africa and Afghanistan as cruel and wicked, and said our finances were in a state of entire confusion. He said that it was rumoured that the Prime Minister had given way to a wish of her Majesty, by allowing her to read first the despatches from foreign courts before they had gone through the Foreign Office. Much as he (Mr Williams) loved and respected the Queen, he con- sidered that this was a most dangerous step, a step affecting the liberties of the people of this country. His address was enthusiastically applauded throughout, and a vote promising to support Mr Williams' candidature was unanimously passed. ENTHUSIASTIC LIBERAL MEETING AT THE CARNARVON PAVILION. THE RECENT COWARDLY OUTRAGE UPON MR AND MRS WATKIN WILLIAMS. On Monday evening last one of the largest political meetings ever witnessed in Carnarvon was held at the Pavilion, to hear an address from Mr Watkin Williams, M.P., the Liberal candidate for the county of Carnarvon. The proceedings were of the most enthusiastic char- acter throughout, and notwithstanding the im- mense attendance, the audience was con- spicuous in its orderly conduct. The meeting was also attended by a very large number of the leading ladies and gentlemen of the county. The spacious building was well filled long before the time announced for th commencement of the meeting, and on the entrance of Mr and Mrs Watkin Williams, accompanied by Mr Bulkeley Hughes, M. P. for the boroughs, Mr W. A. Darbishire, and several other distinguished ladies and gentlemen, the vast assemblage rose en masse and gave the party such a true and hearty greet- ing which will doubtless be never forgotten. The chair was taken by Mr W. A. Darbishire, chairman of the Liberal Association, and silence having been restored, he rose to open the meeting, and was enthusiastically received. He said it was usual for the chairman to say a few words, and he promised that his would indeed be very few words. tie wished to express his exultation and delight to meet such a noble assembly, and join with them in the great and good cause, and in a struggle which he had no doubt would be carried to a suc- cessful issue. This was one of the greatest epochs in the history of this country. They had to cnoose between to courses, whether they would continue the downward cc irse of disaster, destruction, dis- order, and ruin of our country, or whether they preferred the magnificent progress they had wit- nessed under the leaders of the Liberal party, whom they turned out seven years ago. Our Queen was b-loved more than any sovereign in the world, but the policy of t1111) present Govern- < ment tended to the diminution of that affection, IUJd a cloud had been cast over it by insidious flatterers (cheers). The history of the Parlia- ment, he believed, had been during the last few years one of humiliation, and calculated to cause anxiety and dismay to all lovers of freedom, progress, and civil and religious liberty (hear, hear). He considered that every voter in this county should do his duty on this occasion, and place our country ouce more on.the basis of prosper- ity and security at home, reinstate its good name in the eyes of the nations of the world (hear). Our country had ceased to be what it was. It was not previously cruel and wicked. We could not say that of it now. The war against the Zulus had been cruel, and more so our invasion of Afghanistan. We had to regain our character, and lie hoped that they would do so in a few years (cheers). They had a good cause, and all they wanted was a good candidate. He believed that thev had in Mr Watkin Williams not oiily a good candidate, but the best they could have (hear, hear, and cheers). He might tell them that when the Dissolution was announced, Mr Watkin Williams was asked if he would stand for the constituency of West Kent, the electors of which offered to return him without expense to himself, but he preferred to contest Carnarvonshire, and without hesitation, when he was invited to st-md for Carnarvonshire, he said that was the county for him, and Mr Pennant was the man he must oppose (cheers). The Tory candidate was recommended to their notice because he had a great deal of land. He was an amiable and suc- cessful gentleman in many ways but if they merely wanted a good and kindly gentleman they gowct find thousands of them in the neighbourhood. Mr Pennant, no doubt, had a great deal of land, and was a distinguished member of Parliament. He was distinguished because he had a very large slate quarry—laughter—but if a slate quarry would qualify a person to be a member of Parliament, he believed that he (Mr Darbishire) had a greater right to the seat than Mr Pennant (cheers). On the other hand, Mr Watkin Williams, although not a slate owner, was a man of great courage and ability, and stood in the front rank as an advocate of progress and reform, and every movement in favour of the advancement of the people. No doubt he was just the candidate they wanted, and as they all loved and admired him, he would leave him to speak for himself (cheers). Mr Watkin Williams, who, on rising, was re- ceived with long and prolonged cheers, said :—To any man of energy and courage, a lover of his country, and one who took a deep interest in poli- tics, no prouder position could be occupied than that of lighting a difficult and a great battle in support of the great principles which lie had at heart (cheers). Many persons had asked the ques- tion, Why was it that Lord Hartington, our great leader—(cheers)—left a safe and undisturbed seat in the Radnor boroughs to fight an arduous and difficult task in the North East of Lancashire ? Again, others asked why our veteran leader, Mr Glad stone (clieers) left a perfectly secure-not one seat, but twenty seats that would be too proud to return him without trouble and without cost, to go and fight the great power, he might say the great leviathan of Scotland in Midlothian? (cheers). He would tell them why they did it, it was because they were patriots, because they did not begrudge labour, and often expense, anxiety, and trouble, for the sake of the principles that they had at heart, and because also they wanted to inspire their humble followers and admirers, like the humble person who was then addressing them, to go and do the like in other constituencies, where many of them, if they had been selfish, might have been content to have fought less difficult battles. He hoped they would believe him to be in that respect a true and determined Welshman (loud cheers). The great question they had to determine was whether they were going to continue in power over this country a Tory Government ("No"). If it was their opinion that a Tory Government should be returned to power, and tIlAt Carnarvonshire was by voice in the Imperial Parliament to support a Tory Government, a better and a more honourable representative could not be selected than the honourable gentleman who opposed him in this election. During the six years that Lord Beacons- field had been in power he had stated in the plainest language, and by his acts had shown in the most unmistakable manner that he des red to introduce into this great empire of ours principles of government with which we have not been fami- liar for more than 200 years ("Shame "). Well, there were a lar e number of people who would like to go back to the despotic and autocratic time of King Charles I: (" Shame "). There was no mistake about that. There were a large number of people who would like to carry our Government back to those times, when, in place of responsible, representative, and constitutional Government, we should have the absolute ru e of personal govern- ment. Did the Conservatives imagine that Lord Beaconsfield was a Conseivative If they did, let the delusion disappear. Lord Beaconsfieid hated and despised the Conservatives more than he did the Radicals (laughter). Yes, lie did. Did they notice that they never saw the word Con- servative come from Lord Beåconsfield P It was the word" Tory" that he used. The word "Tory", had disappeared from our political language for a good number of years. It was reproduced by Lord Beaconsfieid,and he would show them what he meant by it. Mr Disraeli's own words in the House of Commons on a memorable occasion were" Dissolve, if you please, the Parliament you have betrayed, and appeal to the people who, I believe, mistrust you. For methere remains this, at least-the opportunity of expressing thus publicly my opinion that a Con- servative Government is an organised hyprocisy" (great laughter and cheers). But they had the issue plainly put before them because Lord Bea- consfield had told them at Guild Hall, in contempt of the people, that empires were governed not by people but by sovereigns and statesmen (" Shame"). lie meant that all the people had got to do was to submit to the great Minister who rules the des- tinies of the country, to obey him, to fall down before him, to worship all he did and to pay the taxes (" Shame," and cheers). What did the | Liberals desire the power and the strength of England for ? It was that they may have an op- portunity of propagating through the world those- great principles of civil and religious liberty for which they had fought in the past, and for which we are ready to fight in the future (cheers). He was anxious to point out that in dealing with the Eastern question, while our Government, upon every occasion in which it could show on what side its sympathies were, our Governmentunfartunately took the side of opposition to those who were struggling for their liberty and freedom ("Shame") The hon. gentleman then pointed out that the most important treaties and arrangements were concluded in Fecrecy, and he contended that that which created our influence abroad was not all this bravado, all this mystery, all this secrecy and these sudden surprises—I may call them nothing other than fireworks on In the part of the Prime Minister (cheers). It was no" that we trusted to in Great Britain for our greatness and iniiiience-but rather to getting a character for honesty, for doing justice, for acting unselfishly, and carrying out the principles which we profess to hold before the world (loud cheers). Lord Beaconsfieid had interested them with foreign topics for the express purpose of taking their attention from home affairs? That was the object of it. It was done deliberately and intentionally, and unless they perceived the danger the day may be upon them, the tide may be over them, before they were aware of it, and our liberties may be lost not to be iecovered perhaps without a bloody war (cheers). While all this great game, this 'high game of Imperialism -and personal Govern ■ • nt is being played by the Prime Minister, how do w stand at home ? We all know now, looking back with longing sorrow and regret, that Mr Gladstone had brought this country by his unexampled skill in finance, by his knowledge of the springs of trade and of commerce, to an unexampled period of prosperity (cheers*. Commerce was thriving, our III with foreign nations was both peace-