Carnarvon and Denbigh Herald and North and South Wales Independent

PE^IGROES. THE SARON WWLSH OALVINISTIO METHODIST CHAPEL was re-opened on Saturday and Sunday, having been material- ly enlarged from the designs of Mr Richard Davids, architect, Bangor, at the approxi- mated, cost of £ 700, Mr Griffith Roberts, Penygxoes, being1 the contractor. The paint- ing was executed by Mr David ETOTS, Messrs Robert Williams, Humphreys, and Co., Car- narvon, supplying! the gas fittings. The ispecial preachers were The Revs. Thomas "Williams (Gwalchmai), and- Samuel T. Jonas {RhT) PORTDINORWIC.

GENEROSITY.—Mr Assheton Smith has this year again, with his usual generosity, for- warded half a ton of coal to all the deserving poor of Portdinorwic and neighbouring vil- lag6S PORTMADOC.

LEGAL.—We understand that Mr W. Morris Jones, solicitor, has been appointed a commissioner to administer oaths, &c. "WALES IN THE SEVENTEENTH CEiNTURY" was the subject of a very in- teresting lecture by Mr Owen Edwards, Bar- mouth, at Garth Chapel, on Wednesday evening. There was a very good attend- ance, Mr Richard Hughes presiding. SALEM (I.), MISSION SCHOOL. — The annual tea party in connection with the Salem Mission School was held on Wednes- day afternoon. Miss Morris, Bank-place, showed the same liberality as have been done bv her during the past twenty years, by treating the children to tea, &c., also con- tributing a substantial sum of money to- wards .0 savings club connected with the school.—Mr W. Timothy, who founded the school, deserves the highest praise for his unfailing good efforts. SERIOUS ENCOUNTER WITH POACH- ERS.—A gamekeeper in the employ of Mr Ignatius Williams, Hendregadredd, near Portmadoc, and also of South Wales, had a serious encounter with several poachers on Friday night. It is stated that the keeper came across a net, and whilst watching he was pounced upon by seven men, who, it is alleged, were either masked or had their faces blackened, ffhey kicked and beat the keeper in an unmerciful manner. The gang, who had three greyhounds with them, made their escape before any assistance could be rendered, as Hendregadredd lies in a very secluded spot between Portmadoc and Garn. The affair has been reported to the police, who are making searching investigations. NARROW ESCAPE FROM DROWN- ING.-About four o'clock on Wednesday morning last, two youths, named W. Ro- berts, and W. Parry, Britannia-place, had a narrow escape from drowning. It appears they were, according to their usual custom, bringing a boat to collect mussels, from what is called "Llyn Bach," towards the harbour, under the Britannia Bridge. There was a strong current at the time which the boat could not withstand. The consequence was that the tide carried it against one of the pillars supporting the bridge. The boat was split in two, and Its occupants thrown into the water. W. Roberts, who was a good "winner, managed to get hold of a rope at- < LjJ to the quay, and hearing the cries of his comrade, who "by this time had been car- ried a considerable distance, he returned to him, and both contrived to climb up the sides of the wharf belonging to the Oakeley Company. They were both "minus" thoir caps, and one a boot as well. It is surprising that under the circumstances they had such a narrow escape, considering there was no- body in the immediate neighbourhood to render any assistance. SCHOOL BOARD.—Wednesday, Mr D. R. Thomas presiding.—There was an appli- cation by several of the assistant-masters and mistresses for an advance in their sa- laries.—Some of the members did not think it necessary to go into the matter at pre- sent.—Mr W. Morris Jones thought it was the usual time for it, but lattention was called to the fact that by the resolution passed in November, that it had been ad- journed for three months. However, there was one exceptional case—that of Miss An- nie Roberts, and it was decided to bring this case forward.-In answer to the chairman, the Clerk said he had, in company with Sergeant Jones and P.C. Rowlands, gone to see the damage done to the windows of the school in Snowdon-street. Three of the laoys acknowledged the offence. — It was passed, on the motion of Mr Breese, se- conded by Dr Jones Morris, to take legal proceedings In future against onenders_— I It was decided, on the proposition or Mr E. H. Roberts, seconded by Mr J. R- Pnt- chard, that Miss Ellen Jones should be ap- prenticed by the board as pupil-teacher.- It was also agreed that Mr David Jones be apprenticed as pupil-teach^#.—Two choirs applied for the use of some of the schools, which was granted.

RHYL. DISTRICT COUNCIL. — Monday.- Councillor Joseph Williams presiding. it was intimated that the Board of Trade had fixed Wednesday, the 23rd of February, for holding a public inquiry into the Foryd dredging. With reference to the proposed seawall, the town clerk reported that the Board of Trade had written stating that having heard from the Local Government Board, they were prepared to give their con- sent to the proposed works as affecting the foreshore under their control. A committee of the council having met at the end of the Marine-drive on the East-parade to inspect the damage caused to the land defences by the erosion of the sea, it was decided that some works of a permanent nature should be commenced to protect the road and land adjoining. The town surveyor submitted a plan of the suggested improvements at an estimated cost of £1500. The committee recommended that the plan be affirmed and that application be made to the Local Government Board for sanction to borrow the money, to be repayable over a period of fifty years. Mr Williams (Summerfield) asked why the adjoining owners were not requested to make some contribution to- wards the cost, seeing that the west end j proprietors were asked to do so in similar cases. Mr Daniel Evans proposed an amendment that the matter be referred back to the committee with a view of ap- proaching the adjoining owners for contri- butions. Mr Clews seconded. The Clerk said that in years gone by the proprietors of the Marine-drive had contributed over £ 300 towards its maintenance, which had been the means of the town receiving £ 300 a year in rates. Captain Keatinge informed the council that the adjoining owners in the Marine-drive would not contribute a penny. On a division, eight voted for the amend- ment, and eight against, the casting vote of the chairman being given against the amendment. Mr R. Jones proposed that the question be referred back for further details, but at the same time he approved of the principle. Mr Griffiths seconded, and this amendment was carried by 11 votes to five. A further amendment by Mr Daniel Evans to the effect that only £300 be spent on the improvements, was lost by nine votes to three.

TOWYN. ILLEGAL FISHING. —1 On Friday, at the police court, Richard Lewis and William Jones, labourers, Dolgelley, weire charged with fishing en the 4th December during the close season, at Talyllyn.— (Mr W. R. Davies appeared to prosecute.—The defendants had signed a document acknowledging tlieir guilt, and imploring the magistrates to deal leniently with them.—In reply to the chair- man, it was stated that the defendants had 143 fish on them, which weighed from half-a- pound to two pounds each. — The Bench fined1 the defendants n, including costs FISHING RIGHTS.—Mr W. R. M. Wynne, the Lord-lieutenant of Merioneth- shire, and Mr E. W. Kirkby, agent to Captain Preston, have granted to the quarry- men of Abergynolwyn the right of fishing in the river Dysynny from Pontyrwyn to Dy- synny bridge, and from AbeTgynolwyn bridge to Maesypandy bridge. At a public meeting on Saturday the inhabitants of Abergynolwyn passed a vote of thanks to these gentlemen. It was also decided to form a society to be called the Estimaner Angling Association. Mr W. R. M. Wynne, Mr Kirkby, Mr Meyrick Roberts, and the Rev W. Lewis were elected patrons. Mr E. W. Kirkby was elected president of the society, and Mr R. Ellis vice-president, Mr Thomas secretary, and Mr E. M. Jones, treasurer.

THE PROPOSED LIGHT RAILWAYS FOR ANGLESEY. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE COUNTY COUNCIL. A special meeting of the Anglesey County I Council was held at Llangefni on Thursday, for the purpose of taking into consideration the Light Railways question. The chair was occupied by Mr W. Lewis Hughes, Amlwch. A VOTE OF CONDOLENCE. The Chairman at the outset called atten- tion to the death of the late Mr Thomas Lewis, and said that he desired the Council to place on record a vote of condolence with the bereaved family of a gentleman whom they all respected for his integrity, his abili- ty, and his manliness. He had written his name legibly on the scroll of the country, and his memory would long be with them. -The vote, having been seconded by the Rev D. Rees, was carried in silence. THE PROPOSED LIGHT RAILWAYS. The report of the committee appointed to consider the Light Railway question was sub- mitted by Councillor Thomas Evans. The committee reported that they had considered various questions connected with the scheme in detail, among others, the width of the road and the means to be taken for limiting the speed of the cars, and for the protection of other persons using the said roads. They also inquired whether the promoters had abandoned the scheme of a light railway from Valley to Amlwch, and from some point on the London and North-Western Railway to Red Wharf and Moelfra; and had been assured that these schemes were not aban- doned, but only postponed for the present, as it was not considered advisable to pro- ceed with too much work at once. The com- mittee recommended that this question should be fully considered by the whole Council. They had also informed several persons who wished to appear before them that they should have the opportunity of appearing before the Council. The committee would not recommend this scheme to be sanctioned unless there is a provision that the works should be commenced within twelve months of the date of the Order of the Light Rail- way Commissioners, and should be finished within two years from such date. The report having been adopted, the clerk read petitions against the scheme from the residents and owners of land along the route, and in favour of it from the inhabit- ants of Beaumaris and Menai Bridge.—Mr Thomas Hughes, the clerk to the district council of Menai Bridge, stated that the council at a special meeting had unanimously resolved to heartily support the scheme. Mr H. Vincent, speaking on behalf of Mr Chadwick and the other petitioners along the route, said that the Council could not help being struck by the exceeding modera- tion of the prayer of the petitioners. They did not ask them to refuse their consent to the scheme, but asked them to defer giving their consent until they had received all the information about it and about another pro- posed scheme. The object of the Light Rail- ways Act of 1896 was the facilitating of the means of carrying agricultural produce through the country, where there was no hea^y railway. TNfould this scheme carry out that object as was intended? He contended that the construction of a light railway from Llanfair to Menai Bridge and then to Beau- maris would not, and could not benefit the agricultural classes. The fact of the matter was that these gentlemen from Halifax, who were the promoters of the scheme, intended to catch the tourist who went from Menai Bridge to Beaumaris, and they did not in- tend benefitting the agricultural classes at all. They would monopolise the whole of the road between the two places, and it was already narrow enough. The scheme pro- vided for a line of tram which would occupy nearly one-half of th^ width, and as the speed at which they would be expected to travel would be somewhere about ten miles an hour, it -was reasonable to think that many accidents would occur. Then there WOI1L to eiPect that the London and N orth-Western Railway Company, if only proper y approached by an influential de- TRU.f W°UAd carrY out a line to connect 6 it* ma^n hne, which would really be to the interest of the agricultural +!aSSn!npr f f (Mr Vi«cent) believed that th ™ of J"* in the locality would be M Kn -to further that scheme.- a similar strain in sup- the mumcation with the London and North- We/stfJ W £ Z £ °mpany on the matter, and had seen Mr Harrison, the general sec- retary, on the subject. That gentleman told him that the question of making a railwav from Beaumaris to join the mam line was first mooted about 40 years ago, and was still under consideration. He might say that he had received intimation unofficially from the secretary that this line would not be a suc- cessful financial undertaking, and he feared it would not be promoted. It was ridiculous to say that the promoters were men from Halifa4 for the chief promoter was Mr Theophilus Rowlands, an Anglesey gentle- man, and who had many friends in the is- land.—After some further discussion, it was resolved by a majority of 28 against 10 to defer granting consent for three months. THE ELECTION. The date of the election of the County Council was fixed for March 5th.

ANGLESEY LIBERAL 'I ASSOCIATION. THE WELSH ORGANISATION t QUESTION. A MANDATE TO THE MEMBER. A very largely-attended and representative meeting of the Anglesey Liberal Association .1 was held at the Mona Hotel, Llangefni, on Thursday, when the chair, at the early part of the meeting was occupied by the Rev 1). Rees, Capel Mawr. Mr Ellis Jones Griffith, M.P., was also present. Mr R. H. Williams, the secretary, read a letter from Dr John Roberts, Mena,i Bridge, regretting his inability to attend; another from Mr Henry Lewis, Bangor, ac- knowledging tue vote of condolence passed with the family of the late Mr Thomas P. I Lewis and another from Mrs Lloyd-George, thanking them for a vote of sympathy passed with the member for Carnarvon Boroughs. SECRETARY'S REPORT. J The Secretary reported that the work during the past year had been carried out much the same as usual, and that the re- | cistration work had been satisfactory, ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Mr John Lewis; J.P., Llanllibio, was unanimously elected president for the en- suing year, and a vote of thanks was ac- corded the retiring president, the Rev D. Rees. The following gentlemen were elect- ed vioe-presidents, namely, Messrs H. Wil- liams, Cromlech; R. R. Parry, Brynala; H. Williams, Pantsaer the Rev J. Hughes, Holyhead; Mr R. P. Jones, Newborough; and the Rev R. Thomas, Llanerchymedd. Mr Samuel Hughes and Mr R. H. Williams were unanimously elected respectively trea- surer and secretary —The following gentle- men were appointed to represent the asso- ciation at the National Liberal Federation, namely, the President, Mr W. H. Jones, Treifan; Dr Roberts, Menai Bridge; the Rev E. B. Jones, Holyhead; Messrs Tho- 1 mas Williams, ironmonger, Llanerchymedd the Rev J. Hughes, Holyhead; Messrs Samuel Hughes, Lewis Hughes, the Rev D. Frimstone, Llangefni.—Messrs W. R. Jones, Menai Bridge, and R. R. Parry, Brynala, were unanimously re-elected auditors. ELECTION OF COMMITTEES. The following gentlemen were elected members of the general committee of the federation, namely, Mr E. J. Griffith, _H. P., Mr A. McKillop, Llanerchymedd, and the Rev Thomas Williams, Holyhead. The finance committee of the association was elected as follows: — Mr W. R. Jones, Holyhead; the Rev D. Rees, Messrs D. Griffith, Thomas Evans, Gaerwen; the Rev Thomas Evans, Amlwch; the Rev T. E. Williams, Gaerwen; Mr H. Creigfryn Par- ry, Ceidio; Mr R. W. Roberts, Menai Bridge and Mr J. H. Williams, Cromlech. THE FINANCES. I jTir Samuel Hughes, the treasurer, re- ported the total receipts for the past year tok be £ 57, whilst the eixpenses incurred amounted to JS86, so that there was a de- ficit of £ 29.—Mr Lewis Hughes called atten- tion to this matter, and said that there were hardly a fourth of the local associations who had paid their subscriptions. A new rule had lately been adopted, and the secretary had been instructed to carry it out, whereby all the accounts were to be reckoned to the end of the year. Unless the money for one year was forthcoming, they might take it that considerable difficulty would be ex- perienced in getting in the money of the two years. They had to complain continu- ally of the HBiaithfulness of some of the local associations in the matter of pay- ments, and unless some radical improve- ment came about, it would be impossible I for the association to exist. It was really a shame that a county that could command a majority of 1200 at the General Election should be unable to collect among them- selves a sum of £ 80.—Mr Samuel Hughes, the treasurer, spoke in the same strain, and said it was a shame that the county associa- tion should be in debt.-After some fur- J ther discussion, it was resolved to keep the accounts open for another month, in order that defaulting associations might have their Jsubscriptions entered in this year's account. VOTE OF CONFIDENCE. Mr Robert Jones proposed (a resolution expressing confidence in Mr Ellis J ones Griffith, M.P. for that county, and their determination to return him with a larger majority at the next election.—This having been seconded, was carried unanimously, and Mr Ellis Jones Griffith briefly returned thanks, and expressed a hope that he would be able to give them as much satisfaction in the future as he hoped he had done in the past. THE CARDIFF CONVENTION. The question of sending representatives to the Cardiff Convention next came up for consideration.—The Secretary read a letter from the Rev Cynffig Davies, Menai Bridge, stating that he hoped Anglesey would be represented at Cardiff. Anglesey should be to the front in this matter, and they should not neglect to send representatives pledged to vote in favour of a United Wales. At present, the Liberal party was divided, and it was necessary that the Welsh members should tbe united in one party, for that would do a great deal of good to the Prin- cipality at large. At present, Wales had j no organisation, and there was at present everything favourable to the formation of a strong organisation. Of coitr.se he quite understood that a number of Anglesey Li- berals would be against the proposal, but he sincerely hoped the great majority would be in favour of the organisation. If some members of Parliament were not in favour of the Convention, there was no reason why their member should be opposed, and there was every reason to hope that he would be found in the van of progress. The Secretary said that at the last meet- ing of the general committee, it bad been decided that Cardiff was an inconvenient place to hold a Convention, and that it would be difficult to get representatives from North Wales to attend but at a subsequent meeting of the executive; he had been in- structed to place the matter on the agenda for discussion at the annual meeting.—Mr Lewis Hughes asked if there was any cer- tainty that the Cardiff Convention would ever be held.—There was no reply.—Mr Hughes then said that in order to invite dis- cussion, he would make a proposition. He did not feel very much in favour of it, and I if it was an unpopular one, it would at any rate bring matters to a point. He begged to propose that this meeting should confirm the recommendation of the general com, mittee, to the effect that the matter of the proposed Cardiff Convention be left alone. There was no certainty that it would ever be held. At first, it was to have been in October, and then it was postponed until November. He happened to be in South Wales about that time, when it was sup- posed the conference would have been held, and he was to hold a kind of watching onef for the county of Anglesey. It had been suggested that Anglesey should have 19 representatives at the conference, but it would be interesting to know who was going to pay their expenses, and who was going to keep them while they were at Cardiff. The question of expenditure was by no means a Jfmall one, for it would involve at least £100. When the question was mooted at Peiff^roes, in the Eivion Division, some- body very bravely said that the association would pay all expenses, and subscribe suffi- cient to cover it. He feared that not one of those nineteen jialected to go from Anglesey would subscribe towards the expenses, and he doubted whether five of them would go to the first meeting, and certainly that number would not go to a subsequent meet- ing. The only associations winch had been of practical use to the Welsh nation were the old North and South Wales Federations, but these had been done away with by the friends of Cymru Fydd, who had so far done nothing to have their places filled. If this conference was to be held, it would have to be held about three or four times a year, and the representatives would be asked to go to all. Was there 19 gentlemen in the county ready to give their money and their time for this purpose ? And even if there were, he contended that there was no iden- uty of interest between North and South Wales. The whole population of the Prin- cipality was about 1,500,000, and of this number there was not half a million in North Wales. They were all congregated in the hives of industry of Glamorganshire, and on the shores of the Bristol Channel. The interests of the farmers of North Wales were not identical with those of the miners of Glamorgan, nor the quarrymen with the sailors. They could not stand on the same platform, and work amicably at the same conference, and then the representation of South Wales, in consequence of the greater population, would be so large that North Wales would be outvoted on every question. Again was this cry for a United Wales, the spontaneous wish of the electors, or had it risen in consequence of the whipping of some inexperienced youths supported by the news- papers (cries of "No, no," "Order, order, "Fair Play," and general disorder). — Mr Hughes continuing, said he would repeat what he had said. The newspapers had week after week, and some organs more es- pecially advocated the one side at the ex- pense of the other (Cries of "Nonsense"). There was no use in crying out "nonsense" for he knew it to be a fact. There was little else in some papers (laughter). He knew for a fact that the letters of gentlemen in favour of one side had been allowed to appear in full, while the replies to those letters had either been cut down to six lines or had been thrown aside altogether (laughter). It was an important matter for them to con- sider how many people would go from Angle- sey to South Wales. Let them take the conference which was held at Aberystwyth, and that was only half the way to Cardiff. Only two gentlemen from Anglesey went there, and one of those happened to be a commercial traveller who was in the town on business. The only thing they could do would be to resuscitate the old federation, which, before they were destroyed, had swept away all the Conservative members from Wales, with the exception of two. In the past they had managed things pretty well in Anglesey. The Liberal Association was still alive; and he hoped they would be kept quite clear of this conference. Let them hold a watching orief and remain neutral until they saw what more would be done. Mr R. P. Jones, Newborough, seconded. Mr Samuel Hughes proposed amendment to the effect that the Association was in favour of a United Wales, and invited all the North Wales Associations to meet to- gether at a central place to discuss how best to organise. He did not know where this scheme originated and he believed it was unwise and impractical. The difficulties which had met them in the past would pro- bably meet them again. They possessed no federation at present, and those who had been the means of destroying the old I federations had never given them an equivalent for them. r Mr Lewis Hughes said he would accept that amendment. Mr W. R. Jones, Holyhead, said that the ) matter they had to decide was whether they would send representatives to South Wales or not. Mr D. C. Griffith, Brynsiencyn, proposed that they should send representatives to the Cardiff Conference, not because they were bound to agree with everything that was done at the conference, but to see that the North Wales people had their rights. They could decide afterwards what the policy of these delegates should be. Rev D. Rees seconded because he be- lieved they were all anxious to have their views represented at this conference. Of course, he quite agreed that there was a difference in the requirements of the two parts pf the Principality, but there were also questions affecting Wales, on which they would agree. They could not compel repre- sentatives to attend, but he felt certain that if some failed to go others would most cer- tainly go. What was decided upon at Car- diff would not be binding upon any county in Wales. It was ridiculous to say that they were not certain that the conference would be held. No more were they certain that they would live until to-morrow, but the probability was that they would, and the same probability existed with regard to tho Cardiff Conference. They had lost the old federations, but surely they were able to get something in the shape of an association which would help them better to unite Wales. It might be true that the nine questions did not affect the colliers, the quarrymen, the farmers, and the sailors, but there were questions upon which all Wales was agreed, and he should be very sorry to think that a conference of Welshmen had been held at Cardiff or anywhere else where Anglesey was not represented. This was a conference to discuss a certain scheme, and surely the Anglesey people were entitled to have a voice in it. Mr Samuel Hughes had also objected to it, because he did not know where the scheme originated (cries of "No, no," and laughter). Mr Lewis Hughes: (In English) Order, order. You are not afraid of the truth, surely. A Voice: Let us have Welsh. We do not understand that (loud laughter). Mr Samuel Hughes Yes; try to hold up gentlemen. You are only showing your own weakness. If the orginators of the scheme had first of all consulted the counties as to the place and mode of meeting things would have been more satisfactory. But some people must have a meeting, and push every- thing to suit their own convenience. Mr Thomas Evans, Gaerwen, said that the scheme was originated by the members of Parliament for Wales—and the members in whom they had the greatest confidence. Surely, if such gentlemen as Mr Herbert Lewis, Mr Herbert Roberts, and Mr Lloyd- George (cheers), appended their names to a circular in favour of this movement they ought to have sufficient courtesy to listen to what they had to say. As a rule they agreed with those gentlemen's principles, and why should they disregard them now before they had heard what they had to say. He failed to see why some people should try their best to kill the movement at the outset. If there was nothing in it they could at least give it fair play and hear what the otner side had to say. He had not always been in favour of the Cardiff Convention, but since he saw such a determined attempt to kill th scheme he was inclined to favour it, for this attempt must have arisen from some motive or other (cheers). Rev O. M. Jenkins said that if they de- cided not to send representatives to Cardiff they would be practically showing themselves opposed to it, and would, perhaps, delay the work of organisation for another five years. Rev G. Williams, Amlwch, said that it was not a question of where the scheme originated or who started it, but whether the principle was right or not (loud cheers, and cries of "Vote"). Mr W. R. Jones replied that it was or- iginated in the form of "Cymru Fydd," when the revolt against Disestablishment Bill oc- curred "Cymru Fydd" had been a failure, and there was no reason to believe that "Cymru Gyfan" would be a success (Cries of "Vote"). Rev G. Williams explained that if they had a strong organisation at the time of the revolt they could have called a conference and told the members what the feeling of the country was, and they would be found to accept it (cheers). The matter was then put to the meet- ing when 41 voted in favour of sending re- presentatives. The Chairman asked if there were any against, and eight hands were raised, and the amendment was declared car- ried. The following gentlemen were then elected I to represent the Association at the Cardiff Conference, namely, Mr J. E. Jones, Llan- gefni; Mr E. B. Jones, Holyhead; Rev D. Frimston, Mr O. Jones, Llangefni; Rev Hughes, Holyhead; Mr R. R. Parry, Llan- erchymedd; Mr T. Evans, Gaerwen; Mr Samuel Hughes, Mr H. A. Parry, Mr R. W. Roberts, Menai Bridge; Rev Cynffig Davies, ivir D. C. Griffith, Brynsiencyn Rev G. Williams, Amlwch; Mr W. H. Jones, Treifan Mr J. Owen, Llanfair P.G. Rev R. R. Hughes, Brynsiencyn; Mr Lewis Morris, Cefnhir; and Dr Rowland Williams, Holyhead. Mr D. C. Griffith then proposed that this Association expects its representatives to vote for a federation for North and South Wales, with a power to eall a National Council to discuss matters upon which all Wales agrees. Of course, there were some subjects which did not affect both North and South Wales, but there were' others upon which the whole Principality was united, and these could be discussed at the National Conference. Rev J. Hughes, Holyhead, seconded, and the motion was carried. VOTE OF SYMPATHY. The secretary was instructed to com- municate with Mr John Morgan, Cadnant, an old and valued Liberal, expressing the kind regards of the Association towards him, and hoping that he would long be spared to assist them at their meetings.

LIBERALISM IN ARVON. THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LIBERAL ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the Arvon Liberal Association was held at Conway on Wednes- day afternoon, under the presidency of Mr G. H. Jones (Gutyn Arvon). Among others present were Messrs W. Jones, M.P., Elias Jones (Llandudno), treasurer; R Pentir Williams, secretary W. Evans, Llandudno and Robert Evans, Colwyn, vice-presidents, Ac.—From the financial statement submit- ted by the treasurer it appears that the re- ceipts during the year amounted to £ 107, which had been disbursed. Balance due from the respective districts was reported to be £236. On the 1st of March, 1897, the society owed £ 125 to Mr R. D. Williams, the late secretary. Of that sum J555 had been paid. The whole liability of the association is placed at B119. The treasurer made a strong appeal to the respective districts to pay their quota, in order that all the lia- bilities be paid off. The financial statement was adopted, and Mr W. O. Williams ap- pointed auditor.—The whole expenditure for the last twelve months, including the sec- retary's salary, was R56, which the delegates considered very satisfactory.—It was decided that Mr W. Evans, Llandudno, and the sec- retary, approach Mr R. D. Williams with a view of settling the account.On the motion of Mr R. E. Jones, Llanberis, seconded by j the Rev D. H. Williams, Ebenezer, Coun- cillor W. Evans, Llandudno, was elected pre- sident for the year, and Messrs Robert Evans, Colwyn, and Mr Roberts, Llanfair- fechan, vice-presidents.—Mr Elias Jones was unanimously re-elected treasurer.—The pre- sident thanked the association for all the courtesy and help they had extended to him during his term of office. Briefly alluding to general politics, he paid a tribute to Mr W. Jones for the work he had done in Parlia- ment, especially his moderate speeches on the Penrhyn question. He moved a vote of thanks and confidence in the hon. member. —Mr Moses Evans, Bethesda, seconded, and it was passed unanimously.—A similar com- pliment was passed to the officers of the as- sociation.—Mr W. Jones, M.P., subsequent- ly delivered a speech on general politics, in the course of which he recapitulated the struggle over the Voluntary Schools Bill and other measures. LIBERAL DEMONSTRATION AT LLANDUDNO. A Liberal meeting was held at the Riviere's Concert Hall on Wednesday even- ing, under the presidency of Mr J. Herbert Roberts, M.P. On the platform were Mr R. S. Haldane, Q.C., M.P., Mr W. Jones, M.P., Councillor W. Evans, president of the Arvon Liberal Association and the Llan- dudno Liberal Association; Councillor 'I Joseph Hughes, Councillor R. Roberts, Councillor Elias Jones, Rev J. Raymond, Mr Pritchard, builder; Councillor T..W. Griffith, Mr Ridge, Mr W. A. Evans, &c. Llandudno people seem to care little for politics except at election times. Still, the local Liberals are to be commended upon their endeavour to infuse new life and vigour to the Liberal Association, which has re- cently been re-organised. The services of the Tudno Silver Band was requisitioned with a view of attracting the attention of the public and ensuring a fairly good at- tendance at the meeting. The chairman and the hon. members who were to address the meeting received a cordial reception on making their appearance on the platform. Mr Herbert Roberts said that he had ac- cepted the invitation to preside at that meeting that day with great pleasure (hear, hear). It was a long time since he had been in a Liberal gathering at Llandudno. He was almost afraid of saying so, but it was about twenty years. That was memerable in his mind because then he heard the voice of John Bright (cheers). True, there was a difference between him and the Liberal party before he died, but he had rendered immense services to the democracy of the country (hear, hear). When they saw what was going on both at home and abroad, they only wished that his voice was heard in the cause of justice and humanity (cheers). His motto was, "Be just and fear not." They wanted strong men of the stamina of John Bright in the present crisis of the country. He (the speaker) was glad to be present to support his friend and colleague, Mr W. I Jones—{cheers)—who had worked so well in Parliament in the interests of his con- stituency, and notably in the case of the Bethesda quarrymen (hear, hear). They as Welsh members had done all they could to educate their English friends on Welsh politics, but it was impossible for them to show the strength and the vitality of Welsh Liberalism. To realise that they must come to Wales, mix with the people, and s8e for themselves (hear, hear). They were, therefore, proud to see present Mr Haldane amongst them, and it was an honour to the Llandudno Liberals that they had secured his services (hear, hear). Thj ?T.ev /?,hn Raymond, in a few words, moved the following resolution "That this meeting of Liberals believe that the class legislation is opposed to the wishes of the majority of the people, and pledge itself by unremitting endeavour to again secure the triumph of Liberal opinions." Councillor W. Evans, in formally seconding the motion, jocularly remarked that he would keep his speech in his hat until another oc- casion. Mr Haldane, upon rising to support the resolution, was warmly received. He dwells at length upon the various aspects of the Irish question, and pointed out that it was his firm conviction that the question of ua- tionahty underlay all their social reform, and until the Irish question was sett'ed upon those lines there would never be contentment; (hear, hear). Touching upon the question of the reform or the abolition of the House of Lords, the speaker said he was not in favour of its total abolition or a so-called measure of reform. There was a time when tfte people declared that the only remedy for despotism of the sovereign was to cut off the kings head (laughter). After a series of struggles a great change had taken place. By the gradual development of their con- stitutional bodies, the House of Lords had been deprived of its veto on many bills. But its veto must be further curbed—(loud ap- plause)—and he believed that that could be done without any revolutionary process. He I was of opinion that it could be done with the consent of the electors of the country-if the question was constitutionally put to them, or even by a resolution in the House of Commons (loud applause). Mr W. Jones, M.P., was accorded a warm reception, on rising to address the meeting. Touching upon local questions, the hon. mem- ber said that the leasehold enfranchisement and the land question, were pressing heavily upon Llandudno (cheers). It was true that I he had advocated the cause of the Penrhyn quarrymen in Parliament, but he had not forgotten the interests of Llandudno. He did not lose sight of their local bill, when passing through the Parliamentary committee. That bill, to acquire that splendid Marine Drive of theirs, had cost them about JE1400. Who got that money ? It simply found its way to the pockets of solicitors (applause). Would it not have been better if the repre- sentatives of the ratepayers had that amount for improving Llandudno as a seaside report ? (hear, hear). Certainly; it was purely a question of local government. At Llandudno as well as along the Vale of Clwyd, and along the coast up to Llanberis—the most romantic portions of the constituency-they stood in great need of some medium of advertising the attractions of the different localities. Politics had to do with developing the re- sources of such places. He had read lately that it was only Blackpool who had the power to defray the cost of advertising their town from the rates. The result was that the glory of that town was known all over the world (hear, hear). They in Llandudno and along the coast wanted the same right and privilege for thereby they would raise their districts to the same position and renown as certain competing places (cheers). They had their land question at Llandudno. They had developed Llandudno for the benefit of their ground landlord-whoever he was—of course, they knew (laughter). But his ques- tion was—not so much who he was—did that gentleman feel his responsibility in view of the fact that the residents had developed his land ? Referring to public rights on Llan- degai mountain, the Great Orme's Head, and other mountains, the hon. member observed that the day would dawn when those who were now in possession would h,-tve to show their titles. The people of Llandudno were laying down an electric plant, and they wanted a recreation ground. Did they get a piece of ground from their ground landlord at times, for such purposes ? Oh, no he always made the hardest bargain as if they were strangers (applause). The speaker then proceeded to deal with general politics. On the motion of Mr Ridge, seconded by Mr Spinther James, the usual votes of thanks were passed. MEETING AT BANGOR. SPEECHES BY MESSRS J. HERBERT ROBERTS AND D. LLOYD-GECRGE. Last (Thursday) evening^ a magnificent Liberal demonstration was held at the Pen- rliyn Hall, Bangor, under the auspices of the Bangor Liberal Association. In addition to the member for the Carnarvon Boroughs, Mr Brynmor Jones, M.P., had at first been announced to speak, but it was afterwards found that Mr Jones, who is away in the Riviera for the benefit of his health, could not attend until after the 20th inst., and the committee thought it would be rather un- wise on their part to postpone the meeting which had been advertised, and organised for for the 13th, so in consequence of a com- munication from Mr D. Lloyd-Georgey—a telegram as Mr Herbert Roberts explained- the member for West Denbighshire at once intimated his readiness to come up to the meeting. The hall, which will hold-about six hun- dred people, was crowded in every nook and corner by eight o'clock, the time advertised for the meeting to commence. By the bye, this hall is really not worthy of a town like Bangor, and instead of fighting over projects which will not be carried out during the life of the present generation, the city council should think of something feasible and plan to carry out something that is urgently re- quired, and which could be carried out im- i mediately by united effort, namely, a new town hall, or an enlarged Penrhyn Hall. The audience amused itself up to the open- ing of the proceedings by singing "The Land of my Fathers" and other patriotic songs. Shortly after eight o'clock, the Rev S. R. Jenkins, V. A. president of the Bangor Liberal Association, took the chair, and the appearance of Messrs J. Herbert Roberts, M.P., and D. Lloyd-George, M.P., was greet- ed with enthusiasm. There were also pre- sent on the platform nearly all the leaders of the Liberal cause in Bangor. j At about ten minutes past eight, when the hall was crowded to its utmost capacity, and the great audience surging close up to the edge of the platform, the chairman opened the proceedings with a brief speech. He said they were assembled that night to ex- press their unabated confidence in their es- teemed representative, Mr Lloyd-George— (applause)—and to expect of him an account of the work of the last Parliamentary ses- sion. That work was not such that Welsh- men need be proud of. The work done by Parliament during the past year was such as would redound to the discredit of our country when historians will find it pos- sible to record the same (hear, hear). They surely must be heartily sick of the foreign T)olicy of England, and they ought also to be heartily ashamed of it (applause). He then went on to refer to the Greco-Turkish war, and jocularly remarked that Mr Ash- mead Bartlett ought to be appointed govern- or of Crete. He also touched upon the Indian frontier war, and the troubles in Africa. Dealing with home matters, he remarked that the good old Liberal ship was now in dry dock, and they were told that the cargo must be re-adjusted, but whatever bale was thrown overboard, let them see to it that no Welsh bale was got rid of in that way (ap- plause). Whatever plank was removed, the Disestablishment plank must remain (loud cheers). Mr Herbert Roberts, who was greeted with prolonged cheers, said that it appeared to him that the character of the meetings they had in that constituency possessed that electrical atmosphere with which their mem- ber always surrounded himself. It was not necessary for him, in Bangor, to dilate upon the brilliant achievements and splendid ser- vices of Mr Lloyd-George to the cause of Liberalism. He had seen, and they had heard or read, of how he had courageously worked for the Welsh cause in the House oi Commons, by his abilities he had earned in that "refrigerator" a leading place for him- self among the members, and he (the speak- er) did not think there was another consti- tuency in the British Empire now more often heard of than the Oarnarvon Boroughs (loud applause). Mr George and himself were not always able to see eye to eye as to precise methods but that did not weaken their friendship in fact it had strengthened I it. No forward policy could be carried out without those little difficulties. Their mem- ber possessed the clearest convictions and an indomitable will; he was honest in his mo- tives he had a splendid courage; and he bore a high personal character-beyond re- prdach (loud and continued applause, re- peated over and over again). And all those things were inspired and dominated by an unquenchable love for Wales. He was sure they all wished their member a very happy and a bright new year (loud applause). The speaker then passed on to general political topics. They ought to be glad that Plymouth was safe (hear, hear). In fact, the Liberal prospects were very bright indeed all over the country. They had had 2^ years of Tory I rule, and how had the country stood it? What were the lessons of the bye-elections ? And what could they learn from the results of the municipal elections last November? In 18M, the number o! municipal Liberal gains was 28; Tory gains, same year, 68. Last November, Liberal gains 68 Tory gains, ^a complete reversal' of the figures of 1894 (loud cheers). And the recent school board elections throughout the country were a somewhat remarkable com- ment upon Mr Balfour's education policy (hear, hear). The speaker next passed on to the question of the Cardiff conference, remarking that he had seen it stated that that proposed conference was a proof of weakness and of want of organisation, it was a proof of the exact opposite (loud cheers). "We are going to meet in Cardiff in a few days hence not because we are weak and disorganised, but because we are strong and mean to be better organised than ever before" (prolonged cheers). It was neces- sarv for them to have a distinct and a spirited policy for Wales ("Right you are") but it was impossible for them to do their duty to Wales in the House of Commons unless they had at their back some machinery which would enable them, as Welsh members, now and again at important crisis to have an expression of the views and the voice of united Wales upon im- portant questions (loud applause). A local conference here and another there would be of very little use the Welsh members must have some machinery which would enable them to tell the House of Commons that they spoke out the united voice of an united Wales (applause). The inspiring question behind every one of the great questions which appertained to Wales was that of Welsh nationality. He did not believe, as far as Wales was concerned. that it was necessary to create any new programme; their programme lived for ever settled in the convictions of the people of Wales (loud applause). It was only right and just that the people of Wales should manage their own affairs, and to Mr Lloyd-George was due the prominence which that question had now attained (cheers). As to temperance reform he, as a member of the Royal Commission into that question, was not going to say anything beyond the fact that the inquiry was a most important one and that the com- mission was doing its work in awakening in- terest in the country in the matter. He hoped that they in Bangor did not agree with a recent utterance of Mr Herbert Glad- stone upon the question. He must have been misinformed of the facts. It would be an evil day for the Liberal party when they drop local option. Mr Roberts then re- ferred to the foreign policy of the Govern- ment, especially condemning the perilous and expensive and un-Christian Indian frontier policy. He closed a stirring speech amid thunderous applause. Mr Lloyd-George rose to addrejss the meeting, being received with enthusiastic cheers. He said he thanked them deeply for the cordiality of their reception of him. He fully appreciated the significance of that cordial reception. He also fully appreciated the significance of the fact that the Liber.1! leaders of the town had rallied in such large numbers on the platform in his support,, and he thanked them for the measure of support (loud cheers). Having given a sketch of the reactionary policy of the Govern- ment last session, Mr Lloyd-George entered upon a severe condemnation of the foreign policy of the Government, which had failed in the first element of commercial success. A Foreign Minister was bound to inspire either fear or confidence. Lord Salisbury had done neither, but instead had lowered the plighted word of Britain (cheers). In the case of Turkey, the English Government had written columns of letters to the Sultan, but nothing had come of them, and pro- bably by now the Sultan had used them as cigarette papers (laughter). Lord Salisbury was weak on every hand. When America told him a matter should go to arbitration he agreed, and when he told the Turks they must not slay the Armenians the Sultan replied that that was his immemorial pas- time. he replied, "Oh, very well." And so on in innumerable instances (laughter). Mr Lloyd-George then continued with his scathing denunciation of the foreign policy of the Government, and concluded- by re- marking that Lord Salisbury might postpone his visit to the electors of this country for two or even three years, but eventually be would have to come, and when he did come he (Mr Lloyd-George) hoped every finger would be pointed in the direction of the slaughtered thousands festering on the plains of Armenia, who died trusting in the honour of England (hear, hear). Professor Arnold moved a resolution ex- pressing unabated confidence in Mr Llovd- George, and thanking him for his consistent and courageous advocacy of Liberal prin- ciples. This was seconded by Mr Henry Lewis, and carried unanimously amid cheers. Mr S. Moss, M.P., in the course of his address, said that the leading difference be- tween Conservative and Liberal policy was that the policy of the Conservatives was one of convenience without conscience, of plunder without principle, whilst the Liberal policy was based upon principles of right truth, and justice. Referring to the Welsh Education Act of the present Government he said it was an imposition on every parish in Wales, and an attempt to foist upon them the principles and doctrines of a church which the great majority of the people in Wales were opposed to. The meeting terminated with the usual votes of thanks.

DEATH OF A CENTENARIAN. — The death is announced of Mr Thomas Jones, ot LIandymog, Vale of Clwyd. at the age of ?who was the grandfather °< iv nes' Denbigh, was a native r im °^' He remembered the funeral of Thomas Charles, of Bala, and Lad often listened to John Elias, Williams of Wern and Christmas Evans preach. He also knew the late Thomas Edwards (Twm o'r Nant) SOCIFTVEP0<]L WE'SU SATIOXAL Y. — An enjoyable gathering, under the auspices of this society, took p\ice on Wednesday, in the Royal Institution, Coi- quitt-street, when Mr Watcyn Wyn. of Am- manford. Carmarthenshire, delivered an ad- dress on "Singing with the harp." Pro cssor Kuno Meyer presided, and there was a large attendance. The lecturer's remarks, which were in Welsh, were of a particularly inter- esting description, their value being con rder- ably emphasised by admirable pennillioti sing- ing by Eos Dar (Manchester), with Miss Jennie Parry and Miss Bessie Jones, is the harpists. OWNERSHIP OF A CARNARVON- SHIRE QUARRY.—At the London Bank- ruptcy Court, on Thursday, during the ex- amination of a debtor named Sidney Hersee financial agent, it transpired that one of his principal assets was an equity of redemption of the Graigfawr Slate Quarries, Carnarvon of the Graigfawr Slate Quarries, Carnarvon In answer to questions, the debtor stated that he purchased the quarries for £ 8500 nd at I the same time mortgaged the propert/for a similar figure. Although he admitted that he did not personally find any of the money required for the purchase he mnJnfoii^ i tw tfi property was his, and ,SS propertv which he had „ i -j. ride sufficient to pav h^1 won d Pro" a surplus. The public and debtor was condudS e*ammatlon of the AmSn T0 MR W" RATHBONE.- pool to • keen inaugurated in Liver- Willkm 'tj fi1 u a statue or Portrait of Mr mo™ • l i .ne to serve as a permanent orial of him in appreciation of the valu- ^we services he has rendered to that city. Kathbone has been one of the leaders of every philanthropic and educational move- ment in the city for the last half century, and his efforts to improve the nursing of the poor, both in their own homes and in public institutions, have had world-wide con- sequences. A provisional committee has been formed, and the Right Hon. John Houlding, Lord-Mayor, having issued invitations a movement was held on Thursday, which was well-attended by the leading men of Liver- pool, of all shades of political creed, and at which it was decided to invite subscriptions for a statue, the site for which is to be chosen later.

tefuse, at the rate of 7s 6d per day, was ac- cepted.—A communication was read from the Local Government Board, confirming the ap- pointment of Mr John Roberts as sanitary inspector.—A letter was read from Mr G. R. Peers, electrical engineer, Colwyn Bay, setting fortn the conditions upon which he would be prepared to light the town by elec- tricity. After some discussion, it was re- solved that whilst the council were favour- able to the scheme, they could not bind them- selves to the terms contained in the letter.— At the request of the Bettwsycoed Rural District Council, Dr Owen, Mr Allard, and Mr J. Jones, were appointed as delegates to attend a joint meeting of local authorities to consider the advisability of adopting the Infectious Diseases Notification Act, 1889, and the Infectious Diseases Prevention Act, 1890, for the districts in question.—On the motion of Mr Elias, seconded by Mr W. Hughes, it was agreed that the fine upon re- signation be fixed at £1 Is.—The report and estimate of the sanitary inspector was re- ferred to a committee.—A letter was read from Dr Fraser, thanking the council for ap- pointing him as their medical officer of health.