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GREAT LIBERAL DEMONSTRATION…
GREAT LIBERAL DEMONSTRATION AT THE PAVILION, CARNARVON. SPEECH BY MR RATHBONE, M.P. On Monday evening, a public meeting was held W the Pavilion by the supporters of Mr Jones- tarry. The audience was a very large one, and the enthusiasm was a proof of the estimation in 1rhié. the selected candidate w"s held by them. t'he chair was occupied by Mr Darbishire, chair- man of the Liberal Association. There were also present Mr W. Rathbone, M.P., Mr John Roberts, Bangor Mr Hugh Pugh, Llysmeirion; Mr Lewis ,tewl-s (ex-mayor of Carnarvon), Mr Pughe.Jones, ])r Kirk, Dr Morris Davies, Mr J. W. Jones (Acdronicus\ Rev R. W. Griffith, Bethel; Messrs John Evans, proprietor of the Carnarvon and Den. bigh Herald; R. D. Williams, Porth-yr-aur; Morris Owen, solicitor; H. Jonathan, T. Bugbird, J. Thomas, breker; Thomas Williams, Golden Goat; N. Davies, Ty Fry; W. G. Thomas, Moorings D. W. Davies, offices of the Genedl and Express; J. Edwards, Pwllheli; John Jones, Chemist; James Evans, Bron-y-maeu; W. B. Tooikinson, Oefn Hendre; W. J. Williams, Accountant, &c. Mr Darbishire, who was received with loud Cheers, in opening the meeting, said that he Was very glad to be present to take the chair on the occasion. He did not feel himself as well as he had been for many years, although that morning he was in doubt whether his voice -ou.ld not be silenced. Although not a voter for the borough be represented the Liberal Associa- tioiij whose opinions-he had always adopted as his Own. He was glad to find such a large meeting support of Mr Jones-Parry's candidature, but berore proceeding to the future they ought to re- cord their opinion of the past, and adopt a vote of Condolence with the widow and family of the late J:')llkeley Bughe. The vote was put to the meeting and unani- mously passed. Mr Rathbone, who was received with loud Cheers, said-I have to apologize for being here this evening, for I regret that I have not the honour of being a voter for the Carnarvonshire Boroughs. But I am here in response to the sum- mons of the chairman of the Liberal Association, who has led the Liberal party to successive victor- es, and who will, no doubt, do so again if we re- main united. I have come to say no hard word of y one, but urge on every good Liberal that it "1e his imperative duty to avoid anything which Could weaken the support Wales has given to the Government of Mr Gladstone. It is impossible to exaggerate the gravity of th present crisis. Ire- land is in a state bordering on rebellion. In some Parts-of that unfortunate country outrage and ter- IOriam. are contending fiercely with law for the mastery, and there is nothing between the actual Instruction 0f the value of property in Ireland but £ he Land Act and the Government. The House of ■Lords and come Irish landlords seem bent on the •Uicidal course of weakening instead of strength Citing both, and they are aided in this course by lhe powerlessness of the leader of the Conservative Party to control his followers, and by the deliberate Action of a set of men in the House of Commons, ?*ho geek to dismember the empire by rendering ifgialation and government impossible. Is this a "me when any man can place personal ambition 5* Personal considerations in the balance with the •luty of showing a united front to the enemies not ?nly of Mr Gladstone and of the Liberal party, fet of order and of good government? Has Mr Gladstone forfeited his claim to the gratitude and 4116giance of the Liberal party ? Are there no Objects which all Welshmen and other good patriots have at heart, which compel us to sink Pyrenees and to give the most effective sjpport 1° Mr Gladstone? Look at what Mr Gladstone already done for this country, and f r the ^°*ld. Has there ever been a time when the re- gions of this country with foreign Powe™ w?re S0te cordial than they are now, or whenthevoice +v England was listened to more cheerfully m JJe council of Europe? How marvellous is the Change which Mr Gladstone's Government has ~*ected in this respect in a few years, ana ye *heu has any Government been able to give tne rjme constant and efficient attention to the aa- ?*mistratnu of our own affairs and what cabinet proposed more beneficent legislation for the j^ttsideration of Parliament ? Look at the exper- Uce of last week alone. We then had laid before the administration of our army and navy in of conspicuous ability by Mr Childers Mr Trevelyan. Had there been anything de- cent in either service, it would have been the and it certainly would have been the Pasture of our political opponents to expose it; j^t, on the contrary, they bad nothing but satis- faction to express with regard to the administra- of both services, and approval of the plans Fl°Posed by the Government for strengthening and ^Proving the army and i-avy. As regards the exposals for the improvement of our home govern- tueQt» can anything be more practical or beneficial r1* the measures to which the Government invite J* consideration, if we are allowed by obstruc- T^ists to enter upon any legislation at all? Does d?* man, whatever party he may belong to, t. uht the importance of the hills left over from C5 last session for the reform of our bankruptcy and for removing the stain which electoral Jn Option throw s upon our free institutions ? any man of any side of politics doubt the 1m- w^ance of measures for improving our local ad- k"lstrfktion Rr cl giving relief from local burdens l"warrl!' the maintenivace of our roads? 1 nee-1 rc;t ask whether anybody, in Wales at lc..&t. doubts the importance of Mr Gladstone having the opportunity, as he has declared he has the will, of given effect to the report of th committee on higher education in Wales? Weil, these are m<: aures which, if obstructives do not prevent hun, Mr Gladstone intends to deal with in the present ae.ssion of Parliament, and any ifuprovemeuts in local fc-ovemment ought to inc-.ude, and probably would include, a reform of our licensing system. In future sessions we hi;1.v, the promised reform of the county franchise, and many other much needed reforms; but surely I tave enumerated enough to show why Welsh Liberals should con- tinue to give that united and powerful support which thev have givan so often to the Liberal cause, and which Mr Gladstone knows so well how t-j value and expects at your hand. Never has 11 r Gladstone shown himself greater, more patient, and more powerful than in his recent aetion "s leader of the Liberal party. Are we to allow any differences, any personal considerations whatever, to weaken his handa and to imperil the usef liness of the few invaluable years that remain of that invaluable life? It is a noble ambition to represent auch a constituency as this. Itisanatural aud an honourable ambition. But the moment a man seeks to gratify it at the sacrifice of the' in- teiests of the cause to which he professes to adhere, and, in opposition to the real interests of the nation, that ambition becomes mean, selfish, and dis- honourable (cheers). Do not let me be understood to apply these terms to any of the candidates. The honour of representing you might have been con- sidered the just and natural reward of yeaisof able, devoted, and successful leadership of the Liberal party in the county and boroughs, and Mr Darbishire is not the man to underestimate such an honour (cheers). But with the instinct of a true leader and tJH unselfishness of a true man, he saw that Mr Love Jones-Parry's candidature would bJ so acceptable as to prevent a Conservative from even contesting the boroughs and Mr Darbi- shire would not allow his name even to be menti- oned (loud applause). Captain Verney, Mr Lewis Morris. and Mr John Roberts sought the honour of representing you, and have shown that they were true patriots and worthy of their Welsh descent or connection by sacrificing at once their own wishes on learaiug the decision of the majority of the party, and throwing their support heartily in favour ot the selected candidate for the good of the cause (loud applause). I decline to believe that when once Mr Sorton (hisses and groans, which interupted the speaker for a few moments). I was going to say that I decline to believe that when Mr Sortou (more groans and hLsrs, which were prolonged for a longtime). Let me go on, please (cheers). I was going to ex- press my belief that when Mr Sorton-Parry (groans) realizes that a division in the party would have the effect of weakening the great moral sup. port which the unopposed return of a Liberal for the Carnarvonshire Boroughs would give to Mr Gladstone, he will not hesitate to bow gracefully and patriotically to the decision of the majority of the Liberal party, and prove himself, as he de- clares himself to be, a true Liberal, and a loyal, hearty supporter of Mr Gladstone and Mr Bright and of their Government. It can be no slur on his personal character that the Welsh, with their characteristic faithfulness, should have determin- ed to adhere to Mr Jones-Parry, who first led them on to victory in Carnarvonshire (cheers). I have spokea throughout of your supporting Mr Gladstone, for that is what you are asked to do in supporting Mr Jones-Parry (cries of We will "). It has been urged on behalf of Mr Sorton-Parry that Mr Jones-Parry should retire ("No, no"). Such a course would be an insult to the Liberal partv who called him to fight their battle, and would be more fatal to the Liberal cause than a Conservative victory. The one danger to the Liberal cause is the tendency of Liberals to dis. union. We are victorious when united, and only when united. I would ask anyone disposed to support Mr Sorton-Parry to consider the fatal effects on the prospects of the Liberal party if any man who allowed personal ambition to out-weigh loyalty to his party, succeeds in foisting himself on a constituency but I repeat I decline to be- lieve that Mr Sorton-Parry will attempt this. The duty of every good Welshman and every good Liberal would in such a case be to show in the most distinctive manner their reprobation of a course so tending to weaken Mr Gladstone's f hands-so fatal, if such an example were to be followed, to the common cause (cheers). I know that I speak the views of the Liberal party and Government in what I have said, and again I urge you by no uncertain voice once more to strengthen Mr Gladstone's power to serve you, and mark as foolish and disloyal all attempts to split the Liberal party (loud cheers). I have heard it argued that it would be a good thing for the Liberal party that Mr Sorton-Parry should go to the poll, as the contemptuous beating the loyal Carnarvonshire boroughs would give him would discourage future dissensions in Wales (cheers). But Mr Sorton-Parry will probably not wish to take that precise way of serving the Liberal a'Ause. He will not care to be held up as a shock- ing example und a warning, and as a lover of peace and wishing to tee as few heartburnings as possible smong Welsh Liberals, I should prefer that Mr Sortan-Parry should, from higher motives, do the right thing, and that the mistakes of the last few days should be rectified and forgotten as soon as possible (cries of So he will"). And as it will not be'necessary for me again to absent myself from duties in Parliament to take part in what can only be a sham fight, if you do fight at all, I would just like to say, in concluding, when you have gained the decisive victory be magnanimous. Let "bygones be bygones." Some two or three friends who have rendered good service in the past have made themistake of separating themselves on this occasion from their party. The lesson they will receive will be in itself severe enough, and will be all the more surely taken to heart if we show them by our conduct that we are more anxious to remember past services than recent errors (loud applause). I hope I h..ve said nothing that can by any chance embitter, and something to he -,I, the split which unfortunately has shown itself in the L beral party (" No "). I have only done niy best to advocate the opinion which I have always held and acted upon, and shall be prepared to act upon again, that every man is bound to subordinate his own interests and his own ambition to the welfare of the party to which he belongs and the advancement of the p inciples which he supports (loud and continued cheering, Rathbone resumed his seat). +T, t who seconded the resolution said that he felt inclined to believe that Mr Sorton- Parry would withdraw from the contest, and would be amongst the first on the polling day to record his vote in favour of Mr Jones-Parry (cheers). Questions of greltot importance were now occupying the attention of the Ministers, and one in which Wales is deeply interested was that of education. Mr Gladstone promised some time ago that a measure would be prepared and if possible passed to meet the requirements of the Principality during the present session. He (Mr Pugh) had en occasion to be m the neighbourhood ofWestminster Hall on Wednesday, and accidentally met Mr Gladstone going to the House of Commons, and he was glad te say that he looked remarkably well, but it was a disgrace to our country that the first statesman of the age, and one whose life was so valuable to the nation should be subject to all kinds of annoyance and msults from the Obstruc- tionists who could have no other object in view than that of preventing important measures ad- vocated by the Prime Minister „dunng the last election, and announced m Queen s Speech addressed to the present House of Commons. Edu. cation, County Franchise, and County Boards, the country and Principality stand greatly in need of and it is to be hoped that these measures will be carried through it not in this session at all events during the present Parliament. He then referred to the past history of our borough elections since the late member, Mr Bulkeley Hughes, was first elected in 1837. At this time Mr B. Hughes (Tory) and Capt. Paget (Liberal) came out as candidates, and the former was elected by a majo- of 20. In the election or 1841 Mr 13. Hughes Tory)and Lord George Paget^ Li beral) were candifi- ates, theformer being retun ed by a majority of 29. In the election of 1847, Mr B. Hughes became a Liberal Conservative, and was elected unopposed. In t e election of 1852, Mr b. iJughes (L U and Mr Richard Davies (L) became candidates, and the forme*- wis re-elected by a majority of 99- In the election of 1857 Mr B Hughes (L.C.) was re- elected unopposed. In the cloction of 1.,59, Mr B. Hughes (L.C.) and Mr Charles Wynne, of Cefnymwlcii, became candidates: the former was defeated by a majoi-ity of 52. In the e)etion of 1665, Mr B. Hughes was returned unopposed. In the election of 1868, Mr B. Hughes and the Hon. Mr Wynne became candidates, tne former be ng returned by a majority of 550, and continued member up to tae time of his death. In the elec- t'on of 1868, Mr Jones-Parry and the Hon. Mr Pennant became candidates f i the county, when the former was elected by a majority ot 148. In all the abov elcctioustiie ancient house of Madryn t)ck active part, and rendered valuable and sub- stantial support to the Liberal party in the county and borougbs, and at a cost of not less than -1-30, 00 to £ 40,000. Their friend w<v new a can- didate for the boroughs, and he felt great p easure in seconding the resolution submitted to the meeting by Mr Rathbone. Mr John Davies (Gwyneddon), in supporting the resolution, observed that as only two candi- dates had announced their intention to contest the boroughs, and as the two were nearl' of the same political opinions, he found it difficult to confine himself to abstract politics, without indulgiag in some personal remarks upon the merits and claims of the rival candidates In doing so, he would not intentionally hurt the feelings of anyone (hear, hear). The first question which they as electors had to determine was, whether they approved of the policy of the Liberal Government now in power— their pait actions, and premises as to the future if so, another question naturally arose, bow could we best shew our appreciation of that pohcy- by supporting Mr Sorton-Parry or by supporting Mr Jones-Parry? (voices: "Mr Jones-Parry"). We are of opinion (said Mr Davies) th -t the best possible candidate, under the circumstances, is Mr Jones-Parry. You may find oLher very eligible candidates, but unless ycu can carry them successfully to Parliament their personal good qualities are of little avail t.1 you (cheers). We want a vote for Mr Gladstone, and we find just now the only chance of obtaining it is by cur supporting Mr Jones-Parry. You know the obligations we are under to the Madryn family for generations gone by. They h we been invanably on the side of the people. We need not go further than the services rendered to the Libeial party by the father of our present candidate. Sir Love Parry contested these boroughs successfully in 1835; he also contested the county in 1837, but did not succeed in wresting it from the Tories. Previous to that ha was returned for Horsham, and had to do battle with no less a personage than Lord Palmerston. Later on he contested Shrewsbury, his antagonist being Mr Disra -li, afterwards Lord Beaconsfield. They knew what Mr Jones-Parry in our days had done for this county-his noble stand and. victory in 1868, and another expensive contest in 1874. He admitted that those and other services did not, in- dependent of the other considerations, constitute an absolute claim for their suffrages, but they were worthy of record, and had a good claim to our gratitude. The electors received by post that morning a paper entitled, The truth cki4inst the world, enumerating as truths the good qualities of Mr Soiton-Parry. The wisest of men says:- "Buy the truth and sell it not." But I am afraid the; wri(*rof this paper has the unblushing effrontery to barter away the truth, and deal in commodities of a very questionable character (cheers). The first "truth" he enunciates is that Mr Sorton- Parry, previous to March, 1880, had very earnest invitations from leaders of the Liberal party to come forward as a candidate for the-e hercugha. Now,we have heard thatover and over again,andwe have as often asked for the nam s of those influential leaders. I won't say but that he may b,.vB been asked, but why all this secrecy about the persons who are pa-ties to this invitation? It is a public seat he aspires to, and why object to the produo- tion of the requisition in respect to which he said he came forward? (cheers.) The writer also beasts that Mr Sorton-Parry was the means of bringing about the contest in 1868. This J assert is quite novel to the electors, and in keeping with other similar assertions. It says the reason why Mr Sorten-Parry's name did not appear side by side with the Liberals tLeu was that he was high.3berff of the countv. But where was he from 1868 until Marctl 1880 ? He surely was not elected a perpetual sheriff —any- how he was neither known nor recogniz d in the Liberal camp at Carnarvonshire during the whole of those years. He is referred to here as the "Father .of Liberalism." When and where was lie ever known as the father of Liberali m in Carnarvonshire? Did he ever pay the slightest attention or a single penny towards .the regutra, tion here ? Let anyone reply if he can (ccecrs). The other "truth" stated herein is that he re- tired from the field in 1880 that be might not cause a rupture in the party. Was it not evident to him when he first issued his address that he would cause a "split" by Si) do-ng F Was not Mr Bulkeley Hughes, our old member, the chosen candidate of the party as such, and were we not at the critical moment fighting the cause of Liberalism and concentrating our efforts in the county? Instead of assisting us, he commenced to fight in the boroughs, and that against an old and consistent Liberal (cheers). Again he refers to a pledge said to be given by Mr Darbishire on behalf of the Liberal Association. Yon know what reply. Mr Darbishire has already given to that as sertion. Mr Sorton-Parry could never have expectei to extort a pledge of that nature. He was looked upon as an obtruder; asked in a respectful way to retire, did so, and was thanked for so doing. But how that can be construed into a pledge is beyond my comprehension. I shall not detain you longer, but shall leave the other mis-statements to the common sense and intelligence of the electors to whom-they are addressed. I merely add it is our duty as consistent Liberals not to allow personal ambition and petty consideration to drive us t,! fight each other, but to stand manfully and fight consistently for the present Liberal Government, in the person of its only representative, Mr Jones. Parry (cheers). The resolution was then read to the meeting once more, and was passed unanimously. Mr Jones-Parry then rose to address the meet- ing, and was received with vociferous cheers. He said that he had had the honour of addressing them at the Guild Hall on a previous occasion, after the meeting in which he had been selected by the Liberal Association, and after he had been paying the last tribute of respect to his late esteemed friend and their beloved member—Mr Bulkeley HughLd. He had then alluded short y to the most important questions which he thought interesting to them, and which were now before Parliament. He had been misunderstood on certain questions which he had referred to at that meeting by some party who, he feared, were only too ready to misunderstandh;m(cheers). He was sure he did not make himself unintellgible. He believed he had given his statement in quite a plain language, and he would leave it to them to judge whether he did or not. The first point upon which he had been misunderstood was that in reference to Local Option. He had said what he entertained on that question (cheers). He was not a total abstainer himself but he had the greatest respect for those who were, and who made it their endeavours to repress the crime of drunkenness, for there was nothing which led to so many evils (cheers) as intemperance. At the same time many of them would remember that when he came before them as a candidate in 1874, he refused under great pressure to vote for the Permissive Bill. He vote against the first reading of that bill, I Hd alongside him the ic gat Hon. Johu Bright (cheers). He afterwardi i camel) a compromise with his temperance friends to the efict that he should not oppos the sccond reading of tnat bill (cheers). He however reserved to himself the -rig. t to re-model and amend the bill. He had fulfilled the promise (chc rs), but the bill never came to a second reading. He afterwards came to a further understanding to the effect that he was to vote for the second reading of that bill (cheers). He did not fulfil these promises as he was not returned to Parliament in 1874. When he addressed the meeting at the Guild Hall he offered a few remarks on this question shortly as he did, but he hoped to make himself quite intelligible that they might know what his opinions were on this as well as other questions (cheers). He would vote for the second reading of any measure on the lines of the resolution on Local Option (cheers and applause)—whether it came from the Government or from any private member (cheers). He could not say anything more plain than that but he dared say that the Carnarvon and Denbegh Herald (roans and hisses and an interruption)* would tell them the following day that he was a "half. hearted Liberal" ("Shame ") a weather cock" (groans), and a school-boy in politics"—(groans and hisses). He would not condescend—(cheers and hisses) to make any re- mark on that paper (cheers). Some of them might read it; but he trusted that they would judge between himself and Mr Sorton-Parry according to their correct judgment and conscience (cheers). He did not thiuk any man could accuse him of being a half-hearted Liberal (cries of "No, no ") or with being a weather-cock—(cries oi "No")—or either with being a schoolboy in Politics-(" No "). These remarks mpde little difference to him (uheers). Of course he was a candidate, and was" yn ngwyneb haul a 11 ygad goleuni" a target for all parties whether Liberals or Conservatives (cheers)—or those who supported hii opponent and namesake (cheers and applause). He was leady to be shot at (laughter and cheers). It did him no harm; it amused his opponents avid gave him pleasure, and that without any injury (cheers). He was only misunderstood on the question of the Cloture. He thought his remarks on this question had been quite clear, and if they had been reported verbatim he was certain they would be quite satisfactory. He said that obstruction in the House of Commons had arisen to such an extent as to form an obstacle to the carrying on of the public business in the house, and that some means of correction should be adopted to prevent that sort of thing. He had afterwards said that the French measure was being proposed as a remedy—which went under the name of Cloture. He did not approve of that measure, pure and simple, because it fettered the freedom of speech of the minorities, in which in this country we prided ourselves (hear). But the new rules which were proposed in Parliament did not go so far as was proposed by the Cloture, but protected minorities if it was desirous to continue the debate. He had been reported in the Mercury and other papers to have said that he was opposed to the Cloture; but, unfortunately, he was not reported to have said what he had said at the conclusion, which was to the effect that the English measure, not going so far as the French Cloture, he did not object to it. They knew that this measure was proposed by Mr Gladstone, and for that reason he did not think it advisable to tell them more definite that he was in favour of it. He was always on the same side as Mr Gladstone, and those who had read the papers at the time when he was in Parliament would know that. Yet he was reported to have said some thIngs. which lessened his respect for Mr Gladstone in some paper—(groans and hisses)—which he would not soil his lips—(groans)—by mentioning again, and which had also described him as being inconsistent and with being a weather-cock," a "school boy in politics," and a "half-hearted Liberal" (groans and hisses). He could not be expected to supply brains to editors of newspapers (cheers and laughter). Reporters were expected to take his speech as it came from his mouth, and he was not very unintelligible (cheers); and could flatter himself that as a general rule he was able to make himself understood both in the English language and in his native tongue (cheers). He had also been misunderstood on one other queston, viz.. his fidelity to Mr Gladstone. To avoid any further misunderstanding, he would say that te most cordially supported Mr Gladstone's new rules (cheers). It had been said that he had not sufficiently glorified Mr Gladstone, or expressed the confidence he had in that great statesman, but he had said in his address that his views respecting Mr Gladstone in 1868 and 1874 had been un- changed, and that if anything they were strength. ened (cheers). He would continue his support of Mr Gladstone, the greatest statesman of the century (cheers). As a landlord in Wales he had natllrally a great interest in the land laws, and he and his tenants were always on the most friendly terms—(cheers)—but it was necessary the rights of the tenants should received adequate compensation for the unexhausted improvements (hear, hear). He advocated the establishment of county financial boards, and concluded by thanking the meeting for the patient hearing he had received, remarking that he deshed not to say one word against the only other opponent in the field. Had he not been selected by the Liberal Association he would have willingly retired, and have done his best to further the interest of the candidate who was selected (cheers). It had been stated in print that whether the delegates chose him or not he would go to the poll. That was un- true (cheers). He wished not to aggrandize himself, but to do all he could to support Mr Gladstone and his party. If returned he would spare no effort to do so (loud cheers). The motion having been carried with enthusiasm and unanimity. Dr Kirk proposed a vote of confidence in the Liberal Government. The fidelity of the Welsh to Liberal principles was proved by the fact that no Conservative had ventured to present himself, although there were unfortunately two Liberals in the field. Mr Sorton- Parry (hisses) would shortly retire to London a wiser man, and would learn to see through the objects of those independ- ent Liberal gentlemen at whose request he was said to have been asked to divide the Liberal in- terests in the Carnarvon Boroughs. The Con- servatives had started a newspaper for the pur- pose of turning horrid Liberals "to be genu- ine Conservatives," but he believed there was no hope of that task being accomplished (cheers). Mr John Roberts, Brynadda, who was accorded a very enthusiastic welcome, seconded the resolu- tion, and said that the present election was speci- ally disagreeable, because no Conservative was in the field. NotMug quickened the life of a con- stituency more than a contested election, Jwhich assisted in the dissemination of Liberal principles. The Liberal Government deserved support equally on account of its promises as well as of those ful- filled in the past (hear, hear). There must be something dene for the agricultural interests, for which the Conservatives had promised much, but done nothing (hear, hear). Full and ample com- pensation should be given for unexhausted im- provements, as it was greatly to the credit of Mr Jones-Parry, as a landlord, that he was willing to give such a proposal his support (cheers). He hoped that the county financial boards would be thoroughly, representative, and that no magistrate would have a seat unpon it unless he was elected like any other ratepayer (hear, hear, and cheers). The burials Bill must also be amended, as the clergy were inclined to abuse their power by re- fusing the selection of a grave or the erection of a headstone, unless certain illegal fees were paid to them. He thought it desirable that this question should be left not to the clergyman, but to the elected board (hear, hear). Mr William Davies supported the resolution, which was unanimously carried, and the proceed. ings closed with the customary compliment to the chairman, proposed by Mr B. Pughe- Jones.
MR SORTON-PARRY AND HIS SUPPORTERS-
MR SORTON-PARRY AND HIS SUPPORTERS- i GREAT ROWDYISM. I Mr Sorton-Parry, the independent candidate, I on Wednesday night, addressed an excited meet- I ing at the Guild Hall. Rev J. Spinther James, Llandudno, a Baptist minister, who was received with cries of Turncoat," presided, and on the platform were Mr and Mrs Sorton-Parry, Messrs Lee Ellis, Castle Hotel; H. Richards, W. H. Owen, J. Fraser, T. P. Williams, Conway; Rev Samuel Roberts, Conway; Mr Davies, Dolcaradog, and other gentlemen. The Chairman, who obtained a hearing with difficulty, and was frequently interrupted, opened the proceedings in a Welsh speech. He would tell them why he had come there personally (voice, Money "). He was a Liberal since his birth- (voice: Who are you ?" Another voice—te the enquirer: There's a fine specimen of the Car- narvon Town Council," which was answered back from the gallery: "And you are a specimen of the Carnarvon town scoundrels ")—and would always be one. At the last general election he persuaded Mr Sorton-Parry to withdraw his candidature in opposition to Mr Bulkeley Hughes, who had always been a most faithful member, promising that he would do all he could for Mr Sorton-Parry when a vacancy occurred. Mr Sorton-Parry—(hisses)—now appeared before the electors as a true Welsh-an-(hisses and in- terruption)—and a thorough gentleman—(inter- ruption)—and he hoped he would be accorded a fair hearing, and that the electors would pass an impartial judgment upon the merits of the two candidates.: Mr Sorton-Parry said that the chairman of Mr Jones-Parry's committee was not a borough elector was an answer to the complaint against Mr Spinther James that he was not an elector. His enemies had packed the meetings, and had rotten eggs to pelt him, but he had sufficient friends to protect him from the dastardly attacks which had been made upon him. How was it he came thpr^v 1 a Voice: No one knows.") His name had for some years been mentioned as a probable candidate he was invited by distinguished Liberals-and when he mentioned their names they would aeree wUh him that they were distinguished membSb of the Liberal Association-to come forward. As a Oarnat von boy he had the greatest desire to represent his ntiwJfcTSf ln-^ men £ Eefore the Section of 1880 he was waited upon by several gentlemen in London, who asked him to stand for the county, which he refused, saying that his desire was to re- present his native borough. It was with extreme regret that he had to name these gentlemen. They knew he was taunted by the enemy, and why did those gentlemen not come forward [and save him the necessity of naming them ? He was Dound to do it in self defence. He 'asked those gentlemen to come forward and relieve him from the difficulty. (Ones of Name.") On March 9, 1880,he received a telegram from Mr William John Parry, Maes-y- groes, Bangor, stating, 11 An intimate friend of yours and mine, who dined with you when going through London recently, informed me you would contest the Carnarvon boroughs. Kindly meet a number of friends to-morrow at Bangor." Who was Mr William John Parry ? (cries of "A Tory, "A Traitor," and "An agent for the Penrhyn Estate.") From his personal knowledge be knew Mr Parry was secretary to the Liberal Association (a voice He ran away.") He telegraphed back to Mr Parry stating he would he at Bangor at half-past four the following day. He was met by Mr Parry and other gentlemen, and adjourned to the British Hot-1. Mr Parry brought Mr John Roberts, solicitor, who put him through his political catechism, and, this being satisfactory, said that the contest would cost J1200, He (the speaker) — T I pulled out. h'3 waii, in which there was £1300, and was told to get on with his address which he did as luickiy as p -tsible. The manuscript was taken to be corrected by Mr John Roberts, and was sent to the newspaper offices to be published. It had been askrd wh Mr Sorton-Parry was. He was born in Carnarvon, but his family be- longed to Lleyn. He was a thorough Liberal irom the crown of his head to his heel,and a Wehh patriot From Pwllheli he went to work, and when 13 years old he maintained himself and served his time in Liverpool. He arrived in London with less than 2us. and without a friend to give him a kind word. He had plenty of pluck, and although he had often to dine upon a glass of wat0r, he managed to get along. In London he met lour other boys, two of whom became lord mayors a-ad were knighted, whilst the others died worth some thousands of pounds. lIe had been high sheriff of Carnarvonshire, and who was better known than himself? (cries of "Jones-Parry.") He had been the largest contractor for stores for the Indian railway, a' d had been largely interested in the Great Eastern (cries of "Politics.") His address contained a true ring of a Radical ("No," and interruption.) Referring to the Cloture, he said he had sat in all the assemblies of the civilized wo-ld; and the House of Commons being,, more like a be ir garden than an assembly of gentlemen, he would vote in its favour. He advocated higher education in Wales, and pro- z, ceeded to r^ad his speech being frequently inter- rupted witn cries 01"" Welsh." He promised that wherever the college was established it should have his support, and was proceeding to refer to local option, when he remarked to Mr O. 0. Roberts: Here's a subject that will huit y ?tt- tha.' Pcxmij sive Bill (I:iughter). At this juncture Mr R. D. Williams came for- ward, and Rid that Mr Jones-Parry had sent him there to requ^t them to listen to Mr Sorton-Parry ■' that, th y might know what he had to say. Mr Parry then went on and asked them to take a good look at the man who stood before them (laughter), that they might see a loyal and true specimen of the temperance men. Finding tem- perance a good caute he consequently would be glad to vote on the question of Local Option (great disturbance, and laughter). He then went on to uea1 with the way ia which the counties were now governed by the magistrates. The "gwr boneddig" about Pwllheli made the poor men and farmers p iy more than their share of the rates (cries of .1 Jones-Parry for ever"). There was consequently a x nefcl^ ^or count7 boards. Proceeding, he said: Now I am going to the question of the franchise (voice, How long will you be "). He thea went on dealing with the question, explain- ing it fit some k-ngth. He wanted the franchise syttem perfectly equalized. A great disturbance followed, and Mr Parry having been asked a question from the gallery s^tl:—If you don't mind, you will make me c-niuse my papers (laughter). As his friend had asked him how long he would be he wished to inform him that he would not be very long, and would move on to the merchandize question. He would pay attention to tlo question if he was allowed to go to Parliament (voices: "You shan't go.") He would leave it for them to decide whether he or Mr Jones-Parry was the more suitable man (cries: Jones-Parr, by, far," and Jotes- Parry for ever," &o.) However, he trusted the polling would show (voices: Yes," and disturbance). The speaker then said: I thank you for the courteous listeniug you have given me (great up- roar). I am almost tempted to come and speak again (laughter, and continued uproar). Mr T. r. Williams (Ap Arvon) then tried to Fnenk, when The Rev J. Alun Roberts rose in the middle of the hall, and, addressing the chairman, said: I have sent you a written question, sir," (voices: Answer it.") A scene followed, and amid great upioar, the audience insisted upon having Mr Roberts up to the platform. (Cries!of Down with Ap Arvor, to.") M? Roberts then tried to speak, and the chair- man said: I know what it is to speak hard my- self, and my friend there (pointing to Mr Roberts) knows the Elam thing. I know the object Mr Roberts has in view in putting bis question. (Voices: Why don't you answer it then.") Mr Sorton-Parry (to Mr Roberts) "You have come here to break the peace; you have come hero to disturb the fmeeting." A great disturb- ance followed, in which Mr Parry waved his arms and seemed to speak to Mr Roberts in censuring terms, but his words, owing to the great disturb- ance and uproar, were not intelligible. (Cries of "Answerthe question," and general uproar). Mr Sertoli-Parry tried to go on again, and was under- stood to say that he knew his friend—(uproar and confusion)—he kuew Mr Jones-Parry (Three cheors for Mr Jones-Parry)—and he did not know that he had any better claims than he (the speaker) had--(voic,ce Yes he has," &c.)-to re- presert th-m in Parl;sment-(" Answer the question you have been asked "). They had no right to nsk this q .c?tion, and if the person who aske i it was a gentleman he could not expect him to answer it (cries Yes.") Mr Roberts: I ask you to answer the question, i sir. Dr Kirk's voice was then beard-amidst a great nOlse-to say You have exposed two gentlemen and you ought to give the name of the third. Following this .a general uproar ensued, the whole avuience boing in a state of panic. Voices &c?e -!nH "Sv16XdaLm Answer the question," &c., and Three cheers for Mr Jones-Parry which were given ^Y.rk persisted in his right to address tae audience from the platform, and having cot there, said Ladies and gentlemen,"— Mr Sorton-Parry and the chairman wanted him to retire (great uproar and confusion). Dr Kirk: I will not disturb your meeting in any shape or form (cheers and applause). I was going to say that it was not right for Mr Sorton- Parry to name two of the gentlemen who had persuaded him to come forward without giving the other name also (cheers). The Chairman then attempted to speak,and the meeting once more became uproarious. After a while, and in the midst of great rowdyism and confusion, the Chairman said to Dr Kirk: You know it would not be proper or gentle- manly for Mr Sorton-Parry to divulge all secrets and name every person (voices: Why name other gentlemen and confusion). Following this another scene ensued, and the audience cried out "Up with Dr Kirk," "Up with him," &c., until at last that gentleman was again "on his legs." The Chairman again refused Dr Kirk permis- sion to come forward, and said that as soon as the programme was finished they would allow him to speak (voices, Answer the question.") Mr Ap Arvon Williams then tried to get on saying that he wa». a Liberal to the back bone (cries; "Answer the question.") The Sneake? There is vo question (voices •« Ves turbauce, and "Turn him ouV'^wtth him," Have your answer," &c) «' ?*«?'"><» attempted to apeak, SIUT" He "A of Satei of ribbon signifying tVe Tih P1t1 two Pieces voice from the a^.ce a.kM ^fim^wSe^do "From MoSXer," fusing T laU*htn Will you liSten-(con- Sries 6 aMg°.?n °ry to tel1 ?ou ff J™ will the question,»'"»«»," Answer interruption followed, and a voice ex- claimed Go down till- you get a vote," and disturbance continued. The chairman attempted to say a few words, but could not be heard as the audience had become qnite uproarious and enthusiastic for Mr Jones- Parry. Dr Kirk then went on to say that he should not like to hurt any gentleman's feelings but he had • painfu! duty to perform. Two gentlemen had. [ {Continued on Page 8.)
i MEEIING AT ORICCIETH.
i MEEIING AT ORICCIETH. [FROM OUR OWN RBPOBTE3.] I On Tuesday night Mr Love Jones-Parry ad- dressed a crowdoi meeting at Criccieth. The weather up tv the present had remained exceed- iugly mild and favourable for the campaign, out t now a sudden change took place, and, though not to the extent to mar the proceedings of the meeting at Criccieth, did a deal to harm the enthusiasm in the streets. Mr Parry's reception was most welcome, and the general feeling was evidently in favour of the selected candidate. Tie meeting was held iu the Town Hall, and on the platform as supporters were Mr Pugh-Jones, Mr John Edwards, mayor of Pwllheli; Mr Robert Jones, builder, Cy iecieth Mr Darbishire, chairman of the Liberal Association, and the Rev. John lOwen, M.A. Mr John Thomas Jonest Parciau, presided, and in openmg the meeting remarked that first of all he would move a vote of condolence with the late member's family. The vote was consequently put to the meeting and agreed upon unanimously. Hev. John Owen, M.A., Criccieth, proposed the following rerolution; -"That this meeting desires to express entire confidence in Mr Gladstone's Ministry, and most thorough approval of his policy in the past, of his actiens and speeches in the present session of Parliament, and of the measures proposed by him tor the future." Mr W. Bennett Williams supported the resolu- tion, and Mr W. Jones, Portmadoc, seconded it which, on being but to the meeting, was unani mously carried. Mr Jones-Parry then addressed the meeting, and gave them his assurance that he would be faithful in his support to the Ministry o f Mr Gladstone. They knew what he had done when hj was in Parliament before, and he new promised to be as firm in his Liberalism as he ever was (cheers). He then went on to refer to the topics of the day, dealing first with the question of edu- cation in the Principality, and said that he would support the proposed measure on that matter. He then drew attention to the bankruptcy laws, which, he thought, required amending. Moving on to the question of local option, he remarked that he had been misundetftood on this subject, but he now promiserl to vote for the measure (cheers). Also the land laws required to be amended. Beiug a landlord himself, and being also on good terms with his tenants, he had a right to say a few words on the matter. He would eive, a-ay measure having for its object the furthering of the interests of the farmers his most cordial, support. Mr Parry went on to deal with the question of the Cloture. He had been misrepresented on this question, too, and some people who did not want to support his candidature tried to prejudice the electors on this point. He hoped to be able to do all in bis power to serve them faithfully in the House of Commons. Having done thi^he would not feel ashamed to come before theJWfcgain in twelve months' time to re-seek their suffrages (prolonged cheers). Mr Wm. Williams (Manchester House) then proposed the resolution —" That this meeting consider Mr Jones Parry a fit and proper person to represent the Carnarvonshire Boroughs in Parlia- ment." This was seconded by Mr Robert Jones, con- tractor, and supported by the Rev. E. Jones (Carnarvon), and on being put to the meeting was passed unanimously. The meeting was further addressed by Mr Darbishire and Mr Pugh-Jones, and after a vote of thanks to the chairman, proposed by Mr Jones- Parry, the proceedings terminated.
GREAT MEETING AT BANGOR.
communication, and. b:s'» adapted to ac- f'omra 'ate the North Wales counties. Mr Jones J v f | I'SU prCC66^fid to 3T3GlltiOn the vjirio'^s ■ upon which. lie thought legislation Uec., ry bringing forward the sane arguments ",v«si<!g the same opinions as he did »t 5V- »-a the previous cvt-niug. The measures »•;« WtJ,e the regulation of procedure in th;* ,c' of Commons, locul opti,), ttie amendment the bankruptcy laws, the io-mitionof county boar 13, and the amendment of the land During the s:x years he was in the House Of "emmons ho had never obstructed the business by tt^ueh speaking indeed, theonly occasion wnich he'had raised his voice in that augas asscrnbly was when he had se onded the Prt$°1 Of Mr Osborne Morgan, the member for Derbigh- 8lrt, to appoint county court judges for Wales could speak the Welsh language. J he ^o^mment, he was glad to say, conse.i J^eaaure without opposition. He was P that- no man should speak upon a subject upon *hiab. he was not well informed and co^u br.ng arguments to support his caust. *ule foliov«ed a little more conscientiously in farUament he believed there would be no uoc^itv ior such measures hs the Cloture If the (Motors Of the Carnarvon Boroughs should return him he ahl"il be grateful for the confidence they had Plae-d in him. He would be their s, rvaut, as he %a? the servant of the count; before, althou-jh *hey turned him out (laughter), and he hop ") he *hould give them satisfaction, and that he should Hot be ashamed to appear before them again and give an account of his stewardship in Parliament ftd, furthermore, that t\ey woild not be ashamed to hear him give it The speaker resumed his seat amid great cheer- itP and enthusiasm. The resolution having been put to the meeting an; carried, the proceedings terminated with a 'to:- of thanks to the chairman.