Carnarvon and Denbigh Herald and North and South Wales Independent

DENBIGH SCHOOL BOARD. A LANDLORD'S OBSTRUCTION. At the monthly meeting of the board on Tuesday evening, a discussion arose as to the purchase of land for the site of a new school for Henllan, the owner, Colonel Mainwaring, having asked 2s 6d per square yard for half an acre of a small field in the village, as he did not wish to sell, considering a new school for the village an unjustifiable expense.-The Rev Joseph Evans moved, and Mr George Williams seconded, that the land be purchased at that price and the build- ing proceeded with.—The Rev H. Humphreys and Mr Cottom opposed the purchase of the land, considering the price was (what it was in- tended by the owner to be) prohibitory, and that, under the circumstances, they should go back to the original proposal of adding a new classroom to the existing school.—On a division, the pro- posal to purchase the site and build a new school was carried by the casting vote of the chairman.

A CARNARVONSHIRE MINE. ACTION AT CHESTER ASSIZES. In the Nisi Prius Court at Chester Assizes, on Tuesday, Mr Justice Bruce, sitting without a jury, heard an action by Sir Richard Henry Williams Bulkeley, Bart., to recover possession of certain mines and quarries in Carnarvonshire from the North Wales United Mines Company, Limited. Mr F. Marshall, Q.C., was for the plaintiff, and the action was undefended. Mr Marshall explained that the action had reference to the Great Aran and Snowdon Mine, in the parish of Beddgelert, which was leased by the father of the present plaintiff to one Ezra J. Coates for a term of forty years, from the 1st May, 1882. The rent was JE10 a year, and the indenture contained a clause of re-entry if the rent remained unpaid for twenty-eight days. Defendants were now the assignees of the mine, and they admitted the lease. They also admit- ted that if any rent was due the amount did not exceed JE40, and plaintiff did not propose to ask for more.—The only witness called was Mr John Stuart Laurie, agent to Sir Richard Bulkeley, who produced the lease, and stated that the last payment of rent was made in 1895, up to the 1st February. The sum of JE40 became due on 1st February this year, and remained unpaid.-His Lordship gave judgment for possession and £ 40, with costs.

FESTINIOG BOARD OF GUARDIANS. TUESDAY.—Mrs Morgan presiding in the absence of the chairman and vice-chairman. AN ESCAPING PAUPER.-The Master re- ported that James Roberts, an inmate who had escaped from the Bangor Workhouse and had returned to the Festiniog Workhouse, had been sent back to Bangor once more. This was the second time for him to escape. A SHOCKING CAS E.-The Master also re- ported that six children had been received into the house from the Brynrhys Pant, Penrhyn. They were in a most pitiable condition. Dr Jones and Inspector Rowlands, of the R.S.P.C.C., had visited the house in which the children had resided. The house only measured 18 feet each way, and ten persons lived there, viz., two women and eight illegitimate children. Four of those brought to the house belonged to Ellen Williams, alias Ellen Mair. The children varied in ages from four months to eleven years, I the youngest weighing only 61bs. The inspec- 1 tor's report was painful in the extreme, and some of the guardians strongly censured the Penrhyn Sanitary Authority for having neglec- ted to take notice of the case sooner. It was re- solved to forward them a copy of the inspector's report.—It was observed that Ellen Williams had been summoned before the magistrates on a charge of cruelty to her children and drunken- ness. RELIGIOUS SERVICES.-In reply to a I question from Mr Richards, it was reported that the religious services at the house during the month would be conducted by the Rev E. J. Evans, Penrhyn. The master was directed to submit monthly reports upon the matter. FINANCIAL.—During the past fortnight a total of JE231 18s 6d had been paid in out-relief in the various districts, and £237 was required for the same purpose for the ensuing fortnight. The balance in the board's favour was reported to be JE132. THE MERIONETH PRECEPT.—Merion- ethshire made a precept for JE2503 upon the union. This would be equal to a rate of 6ld in the R. The sum was allocated as follows:- Festiniog, JE1751 3s Old; Llanbedr, JE44 7s lOid; Llanfair, £ 56 9s 9Jd; Llandanwg, JE70 4s 3Jd; Penrhyn, R164 5s 3Jd Talsarnau, JE72 12s lid; Llandecwyn, JE38 19s Old; Llanfrothen, £9214s 101d Maentwrog, JE61 14s Ilid; Trawsfynydd, £150 10s 101d. THE BUILDING OPERATIONS.-The building committee recommended further addi- tions being made to the house, which would cost from JE400 to £ 500.—Mr C. Roberts opposed the proposal inasmuch as the cost of original plans amounted to nearly JE8000, and that the board would place itself in a most serious condition by ncurring further expense.-As the majority of he committee were absent the matter was ad- ourned to the next boar d meeting.

BANGOR POLICE COURT. TUESDAY.—Before Harry Clegg, Esq., the Mayor (J. E. Roberts, Esq.), and T. Roberts, Esq. CATTLE STRAYING.—Jane Evans, Tanv- bwlch Farm, Capel Curig, was fined Is and costs for allowing her cattle to stray on the I highway. NO LIGHT.—John Griffith, Glandwr, Llan- fairfechan, was charged by Inspector Row- ¡ lands with riding an unlighted bicycle after lighting up time.—He was fined 5s and costs. THE DRINK.—Michael Doughan, quarry labourer, 7, Mill-street, Bethesda, was fined 10s and costs for being drunk and disorderly at Garth, Bangor. BETHESDA ASSAULT CASES.—Owen Pierce, quarryman, Caellwyngrydd, Bethesda, charged William Roberts, quarryman, living in the same iocality, with assaulting him. — Mr Twigge Ellis appeared for the complainant. It was stated that whilst the complainant was re- turning from his work, the defendant, without any warning, seized him by the throat and threw him on the ground. Mr Twigge Ellis stated that whilst his client was proceeding to the court, that morning, the defendant accosted him, and said that he would "tear him into bits."—The defendant, who acted in rather a strange manner in court, stated that he desired to be tried at the quarter sessions.—The Chair- man pointed out that he had had sufficient time to consult a solicitor to make up his defence.- The Defendant: I won't have anything to do with lawyers.—-The Bench stated that the de- fendant had aggravated the case by acting in the manner he had that morning. He was committed for one calendar month.—Jane Hughes, a. married woman, residing at Spring- field-place, Behesda, charged Morris Hughes, Braichmelyn, Bethesda, with assaulting her.— Mr D. G. Davies appeared for the complainant, the defendant being represented by Mr Twigge Ellis.—On behalf of the complainant it was stated that on July 4th she was proceeding homewards from Bethesda towards Braich- melyn, about six o'clock in the evening, when, nea.r the Douglas Arms Hotel, the defendant, who was standing in a cart, spoke to the com- plainant. Ultimately he descended from the cart and walked with her some distance towards Pant. Subsequently he. referred to some dis- I pute between them, as regarded the letting of a house. During that walk the defendant acted in such a manner as to cause an injury to com- plainant's breast.-Dr J. Griffith, Bethesda, stated that he was consulted by the complain- ant soon after the affair, and found a larcera- tion on her breast, which might, in time, lead to serious results. The breast was also very much swollen.—Cross-examined He did not think it could be caused by her stays.—On be- half of the defendant a complete denial was given to the alleged assault.—A large number of witnesses were called or* both sides. — The Bench said that they had taken some time to consider the case, but they could not agree.- Mr Twigge Ellis So that really means a dis- missal?—The Chairmas: -No, we do not say that. It was a case where I and my brother magistrate disagreed, and there being no third1 magistrate present, Mr Davies can bring the case up asrain if he wishes. ALLEGED THEFT OF A WATCH.—John Jones, Glan Conway, was charged with stealing a watch and chain, valued at j36. the property of Robert Hughes, 3, Bryntirion-terrace, Aber. Inspector Rowlands stated that last Saturday the prosecutor was working in a schoolroom be- neath the Wesleyan Chapel, Aber, when he had occasion to go out of the room for a short time. On his return he found the watch and chain had disappeared.—Hamilton Williams, 6, Sta- tion-terrace, Bethesda, and Elias Parrv. Ger- lan, Bethesda.. gave evidence, stating that they had purchased the stolen watch and chain from the defendant at the Douglas Arms Hotel, for £ 1 2s. — The defendant stated that he had ] bought the articles at Montreal, and he sold them because he was "hard up." — Sergeant Owen deposed to arresting the defendant at. the Bethesda Railway Station, and in reply to the charge, he said he knew nothing iibout it.— Evidence having been given as to previous con- victions, the defendant wa* committed to the quarter sessions.

INTERESTING SHEEP- WORRYING CASE. In the Ruthin County Court, on Tuesday, before his Honour Sir Horatio Lloyd, Dr J. T. King claimed damages against a neighbouring farmer named Edwin Williams for the worry- ing of several sheep, which, it was alleged, had been committed by the defendant's dog. Mr A. Lloyd Jones appeared for plaintiff, and Mr A. O. Evans for defendant. The evidence pro- duced for plaintiff showed a. man named John Jones was going home about midnight, when he found a. number of sheep in plaintiff's field huddled together and being worried by two dogs. In company with another man, Jones went round the field, and found three sheep lying dead. The next morning they examined the field again, and found two more dead sheep. — Another witness named Humphrey Jones, whilst going to his work about five o'clock in the morning, found two dogs worrying sheep belonging to Mr Blezard, Pool Park, and he stated that one of the dogs belonged to the de- fendant. Two days afterwards the defendant was met by the police, when he stated that it could not have been his dog which worried the sheep, as it was away at Llansannan. The police went to the place, and ascertained that the dog had been there on the Tuesday, but disappeared almost immediately. — Evidence was called for the defence, to show that the dog which was seen by the witness Humphrey Jones was not defendant's.—His Honour said he considered this was a very suspicious case. He was bound to say for his own part he could not entertain any moral doubt that it was the defendant's dog which destroyed these sheep but he doubted very much whether there was sufficient proof to establish defendant's liability. He must therefore give judgment for 'the de- fendant, but he would certainly not allow him any costs, as he considered he had shown cul- pable carelessness in not looking after the dog, which it appeared had not been seen since a short time after the occurrence.

THE BARD AND THE BICYCLE. PROSECUTION AT CARNARVON. On Wednesday morning, before the Mayor (Dr Parry), W. Hamer, Esq., J. R. Hughes, Esq., and J. P. Gregory, Esq., Robert Jones (Trebor Ionawr), was charged with the theft of a bicycle, value 16 guineas, the property of Messrs Connah and Parry. Mr J. T. Roberts prosecuted on behalf of the police, and Mr H. Lloyd Carter defended. Mr J. T. Roberts, having stated the case, evidence was then called for the prosecution. David Parry identified the bicycle, as the property of his partner and himself. He valued it at JS16 16s. Not finding the machine in the shop on Monday afternoon on his return from tea he made inquiries, and eventually gave in- formation to the police. He never arranged with the defendant or anyone on his behalf that he should take the machine.-Cross-ex- amined Witness said that it was quite easy for any person to take a machine away from the shop. There were 15 bicycles outside the shop at the time. Personally, he had no desire to press the case. He had known the defendant all his life, but he never had any transaction with him. Confirmatory evidence was given by J. W. Kinsley and W. G. Jones, two employes of the firm. Mrs Hughes, wife of Mr David Hughes, of the Market Vaults, deposed to the defendant about five o'clock, on Monday afternoon, enter- ing the house with a bicycle, which he left in the passage used for business. Witness told him that she could not allow him. to leave the machine there. The defendant thereupon took the machine to a private lobby, and returned to the house and went into the smoke room. He remained some time and left without the machine, which was taken possession of by the police next morning.—-Cross-examined The de- fendant's conduct was perfectly straightfor- ward, there being no desire to conceal any- thing.-By the Bench: The defendant was neither in drink nor excitable. Humphrey Jones, Market-street, spoke to seeing the defendant entering the Market Vaults, on Monday afternoon, with a "Swift" racing bicycle. \1 Sergeant Evans said that in consequence of information he received, he went into the Market Vaults, about 11 o'clock on Mondav J morning, and there saw the bicycle which had been left in a. passage in a private part of the house. About a quarter past one he appre- hended Jones in his house. He read him the charge and cautioned him. In reply he said, "It must be a mistake. It is not 1. I was not near Connah's shop except to ask a boy for a bicycle on hire." Going down High-street he again said, "You are making a mistake. I shall claim compensation." Witness told him that the bicycle was found at the Market Vaults, where he had left it. The defendant then said that it was an infernal lie that he ha,d left any machine at that place. — Cross- examined, witness said that he had seen the defendant out at 4.30 in the morning, but he did not see anything peculiar in his manner. This concluded the case for the prosecution, and Mr J. T. Roberts said that he understood that Mr Carter did not dispute the taking away of the bicycle. Upon being formally charged with the offence, the defendant said that as far as his memory served him he was not guilty. Fol- lowing this remark the defendant had a con- sultation with Mr Carter, and turning to the Bench he said that he had been advised to plead guilty to the charge of taking the bioycle, for which he was very sorry. He had lately met with a serious cycling accident. The Mayor Are yrtu guilty or not? The Defendant.: I am guilty. Mr Carter, addressing the 'Bench in mitiga- tion of sentence, said that his position that day was a painful one, representing as he did a, ma* 43 years of age, who was a native of the town, and had occupied a position of trust for the last 20 years, and against whom such a, terrible charge had never before been brought. He did not attempt to dispute that Jones took the bicycle. If the defendant had been charged with stealing an article of the value of 40a the magistrates could deal with the case summarily. and if he pleaded not guiltv the Bench could find him guilty or not guilty according to the evidence. But in this case the article that was taken exceeded 40s in value, and, therefore, if the defendant pleaded not guilty he would have to go for trial, but having pleaded guilty the Bench could take the surrounding circum- stances into consideration in determining their judgment. Mr Carter went on to say that there was no wilful intent in the case. When the magistrates heard of what the defendant had been doing during the last few weeks, they would come to the conclusion that the act. he committed was more like that of tt lunatic than a sane man. The defendant went into a shop in broad daylight, took away a new machine, and attracted everybody's attention to it, as he went along the public thoroughfare, and left it at a public-house. He made no attempt to try and dispose of it or to raise money on it. A fortnight ago the defendant met with a cycling accident, as the result of which he was confined to the house for some days. He sub- sequently went to work, but afterwards got holidays, and during this time he had not been acting like a, sane man. Bottles of spirits had been taken from him. and his family had had the greatest trouble with him. On the very afternoon that the offence of which he was aft charged was committed he went to two fish shops in the town and bought fish to the value of 7s or 8s, which was afterwards found amongst a quantity of coal. He (Mr Carter) thought it was terrible for a man of his re- spectability to stand in the position he did. and he asked the Bench to temper justice with mercy. The Mayor, after the Bench had had a private consultation, said that the defendant had pleaded guilty to a very serious offence, and the magistrates iverik very sorry to find a man of his reputation in such a position. They were not anxious to ruin his future career; still they had a duty to perform to the public, and they could not overlook the offence. They also felt that there might he something in the accident the defendant met with to account for his conduct. As a medical man he advised him to keep away from stimulants. Taking into consideration also his wife and family, they had decided not to send him to gaol, but to inflict a penalty of j35 and costs.

The Marquis of Anglesey is entertaining a large party at Plas Newydd, his ancestral seat. j Amongst the guests is )1. Coquelin, the cele- brated French actor.

PRESENTATION TO THE BISHOP OF BANGOR. At St. Asaph on Wednesday afternoon, a' large gathering of ladies and gentlemen took place in the National School for the purpose of witnessing a presentation by the clergy and laity of the diocese to Dr Watkin H. Williams, formerly Dean of St. Asaph, in commemoration of his appointment to the See of Bangor. Arch- deacon Evans presided, and called upon Mr P. P. Pennant to make the presentation. Mr Pennant expressed the warm esteem in which the late dean, the present Bishop of Ban- gor, was held in the diocese, and especially in the archdeaconry of St. Asaph (applause). All hoped that Dr Watkin Williams would fill with honour to himself and satisfaction to everyone the important duties to which he had been called, and from what he knew of the boyhood of the Bishop, of his subsequent career, of his kindliness of heart, he had no doubt at all that his work in the diocese of Bangor would, with the aid of the Almighty, be discharged with credit and satisfaction (applause). Mr Pennant then presented to the Bishop an episcopal ring and a silver centrepiece, and to Mrs Williams a diamond star. The ring, of gold, was set with a vesica-shaped sapphire, upon which was en- graved a Bishop's mitre above a shield, having on it the arms of the See of Bangor, impaling those of the Bishop's family of Williams. The centre piece was of solid silver, designed in the Italian Renaissance period of art. On a shield on the obverse side was a suitable inscription. The gifts were handed to the recipients amid loud applause. The Bishop of St. Asaph, in the course of a brief address, during which he appeared to be considerably affected, said he felt he owed more I to Dr Watkin Williams than to anyone else. A more loyal and kindly adviser a bishop could not have had, and during all the time they had worked together they had co-operated in the heartiest manner. His own feelings were very much [drawn to'} the diocese of Bangor, and he wished the new Bishop most heartily God-speed in the work that lay before him. All would share in the prayer for his happiness and pros- perity in the very arduous work Dr Williams had to undertake. He felt they had given of their very best to the diocese of Bangor—(ap- plause)-and the more they knew him the more they would respect him (applause). Nobody missed the Bishop of Bangor more than he did (applause). The Bishop of Bangor, in reply, said that he could never forget the universal kindness which had marked his stay at St. Asaph. He had taken up duties at a time when there was a great storm in the Church, but with such an able chief, his lot had been a happy one. He re- ferred to the amicable way in which the Chapter had worked, and said that by strict economy they had reduced the debt from Cl200 to about half that sum, and he hoped that other means would be found to wipe it all off. With such a limited income they had been able to hold ser- vices in the Cathedral the like of which he had heard nowhere else. He then referred to the work done by the Vicar's Choral, who often at a moment's notice were sent to the furthest ends of the diocese to undertake duties for sick clergy- men, which they ungrudgingly and ably per- formed. He held the opinion that the Vicars of St. Asaph should be the first on the list for pro- motion, as they should be the pick of the diocese (applause). From the bottom of his heart he thanked them for the gifts and the kindness which inspired them (applause). Mrs Williams also replied, and spoke of her Mrs Williams also replied, and spoke of her deep attachment for those who had worked with her at St. Asaph. Votes of thanks were passed to Archdeacon Evans, Mr Pennant, Mr G. Ambrose Lee, Mr H. A. Clever, diocesan registrar (who acted as honorary secretary), and others. H. A. Clever, diocesan registrar (who acted as honorary secretary), and others.

N.S.P.C.C. STATISTICS. CARNARVON AND ANGLESEY BRANCH. The quarterly return of cases for the Carnar- von and Anglesey branch of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children shows that the total number of complaints were:— Warned, 29; convicted, 10 time of imprison- ment, nine months one week; amount of fines, JE4; number of children in cases found true, 129; number of offenders in cases found true, 70; number of supervisions visits by inspector, 249. Classification Neglect and starvation, 39.

THE BISLEY-MEETING. THE QUEEN'S PRIZE. The N.R.A.'s prize meeting was concluded tm Saturday, when the final stage of the Queen's prize was shot at 800, 900, and 1000 yards. At the 800 yards, interest centred in the men who had finished with the highest aggregates at the end of the second stage.—Colour-Sergeant Matthews, 12th Middlesex (silver medaflist), 218; Sergeant Proctor, 3rd Seaforth High- landers, 216; Surgeon-Lieutenant Bertram, Canada, 216; Colour-Sergeant Anderson, 4th Scottish Rifles, 214. Matthews added 39, and finished in front with 257; Bertram, 40, finished with 256; and than followed Private Boyd', 3rd Lanark, 44-256; Major Shapcott, 1st Corn- wall Artillery, 255; Sergeant Burrows, 1st Notts., 255; Private Priaulx, Guernsey, 255; Sergeant-Instructor Smith, Middlesex Yeo- manry, 255 Sergeant Chantler, Royal Fusiliers. 254; Colour-Sergeant Shaw, 2nd West York- shire, 254; Private Cruickshank, Queen's Edin burgh, 254; Colour-Sergeant Anderson, 4th Lanark, 254; Cvcle-Sergeant F. Jones, 1st. Royal Welch Fusiliers, 254. At the conculsion of the 900 yards' shooting. the leaders were Cycle-Sergeant F. Jones, 1st, Royal Welch Fusiliers, 299; and Sergeant Black, 10th Lanark, .99 Priaulx and Boyd, 298 each. Then followed Sergeant Anderson, 296; Corporal Wilmot, 3rd Welsh, 293 Ser- geant Tomkins, 1st Notts., 293; Private Shan- non, 3rd Welsh, 293; Major Shapcott, 291; Sergeant Hills, 5th Hants., 291; Colour-Ser- geant Matthews, 291; Sergeant Gray, 3rd Renfrew, 291; Sergeant Chantler, 1st Royal Fusiliers, 291; Colour-Sergeant Cameron. 10th Lanark, 291. At the conclusion of the 1000 yards range, when it was found that it was a tie between a Guernsevman, a Welshman, and a Scotckman, with 336 points, the excitement was intense, and the firing of the tie shots was watched with the greatest anxiety by the admirers of the respective marksmen. With their sighting shots, Priaulx scored a bull, Anderson a mag- pie, and Jones an inner. Prilaux began the three rounds to count with a bull, Anderson a. magpie (3), and Jones an inner (4). On the second counting shot, Priaulx was signalled an- other bull. A bull was also signalled to Ander- son, but a richochet was substituted, and his chance of winning the gold medal was gone. Jones's second counter was a bull. Priaulx. fol- lowed on with an inner (total 14), and Ander- son's third shot was an outer (total 5). A bull from Jones's rifle would have enabled him once more to tie with Priaulx, but there was so res- ponse from the target. He challenged, and there was a few seconds of painful suspense, then the issue was beyond doubt; he had missed the target, and Priaulx was gold medallist of 1899. The ill-luck of Sergeant Jones was a subject of regretful comment. In the competition it- self, the gold medal was within his grasp, a.i he had only to hit the target on his tenth shot to win, but he failed to score the all-essential "outer." The Welshman received many ex- pressions of sympathy under the peculiar circum- stances of his defeat. Wales had done well in the primary stages, and had six representatives in the final "100," and those of them finished third, fifth, and ei d..t respectively. Cysle-Sergeant F. Jones, 1st. Royal Welch Fusiliers. 336, L40 and badge Private J. Shannon, 3rd Welch, 334, J320 and badge; Corporal J. Wilmot, 3rd Welch, 332. £ 15 and badge; Sergeant J. T. Williams, 3rd Glamorgan, 332, L12 and badge; Colour-Ser- geant W. T. Davies, 1st Welch, 321, J612 and badge; Corporal A. Holt, 1st Royal Welch Fusiliers, 315, C8 and badge. THE ST. GEORGE'S. shot on Saturday. The principal prize was won by Corporal Ommundsou, 5th Royal Scots, with an aggregate of 116 points. The ranges in the first stage were 500 and 600 yards, and the winner put on "all bulls" at each, adding 46 out of a possible 50, at the final dista-nc* (800 yards), on Saturday. Among the principal prize winners were Private T. Hopkin, 2nd Welch, 32, 35, 46—113, £ 10 and badge;Ar- mourer-Sergeant J. Bell, 3rd Welch, 34, 32, 46 —112, L9 and badge Lance-Sergeant T. Jones, 3rd Royal Welch Fusiliers, 34, 33, 41-108, Lro and badge. el AGGREGATES. In the Grand aggregate, won by Lieutenanl Bertram, Canada, with 360; Cycle-Sergeant F, Jones, was second with 352, and won. JB15 and the silver cross. In the all-comere' aggregate, Armourer-Sergeant D. Jones, 4th South Wales Borderers, was first with 167, and won cup and JB15 Cycle-Sergeant F. Jones, 1st Royal Welch Fusiliers, 161, £ 2. In the Volunteer aggregate, Cycle-Sergeant F. Jones, 1st Royal Welch Fusiliers, 191, £3.

CONGRATULATING SERGEANT F. JONKSL On Monday evening, Cycle-Sergeant Fred Jones turned out on parade with tke Wrexham companies of the 1st Royal Welch Fusiliers, and was heartily congratulated by the Adjutant, Captain Barker, Captain Maurice, and his com- rades. Regret was expressed at his bad luck is not carrying off the gold medal, wbqn it seemed apparently within his grasp. Jones stated that he thought he was in front before firing his la.st shot, and did not take sufficient care over it. He ha.s represented the Wrexham volunteers at Wimbledon and Bisley, on many occasions, and! was third in the Queen's in 1889. During his visits to N.R.A.'s meeting, he has carried off over JB400, including the Field Memorial Chal- lenge Cup, worth about JB50. At a meeting of the Wrexham Town Council, on Tuesday, the Mayor said he wished, on the part of the corporation, to warmly congratu- late the local volunteers upon their fine shoot- ing at Bisley, and particularly Cycle-Sergeant Fred Jones, of whose skill his townsmen might, feel justly proud, as he not only greatly distin- guished himself by having tied for the Queen's Prize, but also, amongst others honours, won the silver cross, and second prize for the Grand' aggregate.

AUCTION SALES. PROPERTY AT BANGOR. On Monday, Messrs W. Dew and Son, Bangor and Llandudno, submitted for sale by auction at the British Hotel. Bangor, the freehold house and shop at No. 25, Garth-road, in the occupa- tion of Mr Parsons. The lot was knocked down to the bid of Mr M. G. Lawless, Red Lion Hotel, for JE389. The freehold residence, Fair Lawn, Upper Bangor, was also put up, but was with- drawn at JE1090.

THE THUNDERSTORM. On Thursday afternoon, a most terrific thun- derstorm burst over Anglesey, Carnarvonshire, and other parts of North Wales, and mged for about seven hours with unabated fury. The air was charged with electricity and flashes of lightning followed one another in quick succes- sion. The thunderclaps were unusually loud and almost continuous. Heavy rain accompanied the thunderstorm, and many parts of Holyhead and neighbourhood were flooded. Several walls were undermined by the rain, and tottered and fell. The neigh- bourhood of the gasworks was flooded as well as the lower portions of the town. Gas was not obtainable on Thursday night, in consequence of the heavy rains and floods, and the residents desiring light had to resort to other artificial means of obtaining it. In the country districts, it is said that several cattle and sheep have been killed. The rumour that two houses, with their inhabitants, had been destroyed at Rhos- oolyn proved unfounded. At Morfan, four of a herd of five heifers were killed. Half a mile away a mare was destroyed. At Penygraig the lightning fired a haystack and killed a cow, and near this place another cow 0 1 was killed. Near AberdaroR two sheep on the mountain were struck. Between Tydweiliog and Nevin rain fell in sheets, and the roads were flooded to a depth of a couple of feet, and where they were on gradients they became roar- ing torrents. The bridge over the brook at the former place was carried away, and all the timber stored in a neighbouring joiner's yard was washed down the stream.

AMLWCH HORSE SHOW. The annual horse, dog, and poultry show was held at Amlwch on Wednesday. The following were among the awards:- Team for agricultural purposes: 1, E. Roberts, lilanerchymedd; 2, O. Lewis, Llanerchymedd. Brood mare: 1, E. R. Hughes, Llanddeusant; 2, R. Thomas, Amlwch. Prizes offered by the society-Gelding or filly, foaled after January, 1896: 1, T. Jones, Dwy- xan; 2, H. Roberts, Rhosgoch. Gelding or filly, foaled after January, 1897 2, E. Roberts; 2, T. Jones. Colt or filly, foaled after 1st January, 1899 1, "Mrs Jones, Amlwch; 2, E. R. Hughes. Champion Prize-Gelding mare, colt, or filly: T. Jones. Tradesmen's turn-out: 1, R. W. Parry, Llan- erchymedd 2, M. Rowlands and Son, Amlwch. Brood mare with foal: 1, H. Jones, Amlwch; 2, Miss Jones, Rhosgoch. Gelding or filly, foaled after January, 1896, for riding or driving: 1, T. P. Williamson, Am. lwch 2, T. F. Evans, Amlwch. Collie dog or bitch (rough coated): 1, S. H. D, Dew, Llanfair P.G.; 2, J. Roberts, Amlwch. Sheep dog or bitch (smooth coated): 1, H. G. Roberts, Penygroes; 2, J. Parry, Llanllyfni. Welsh terrier dog or bitch: 1, W. P. Williams, Llandudno; 2, R. Bridson, Amlwch. Fox terrier dog or bitch (rough or smooth): 1 and 2, W. P. Williams. Setter or pointer dog or bitch: 1, W. Jones, Tylnygongl; 2, Sir T. L. H. Neave, Bart., LIys- dulas. Spaniel dog or bitch: 1 and 2, Sir T. L. H. Neave, Bart. Champion Prize-Sheep dog or bitch: 1 and 2, J. Hughes, Llandudno.

PAN-CELTIC CONGRESS. On Thursday morning, a meeting of the com- mittee of the Pan-Celtic Congress to be hold in Dublin in 1900 was held at Cardiff, Lord Castletown in the chair. There were also pre- sent Mr E. E. Fournier D'Albe, hon. sec- retary Messrs Charles Le Goffic, Jean Le Fus- tec, Rene Grivart (Paris) J. Durocher Carfoa, Cavaliers Radiguet, J. Jaffrennou, representa- tives from Brittany; Messrs J. A. Jenkins, Cardiff University College; Edward Thomas (Cochfarf), representing Wales; Mr Codic, of Dublin, and other Irish members. The following were elected as sectional sec- retaries —For Ireland, Mr Fournier; for Brit- tany, Messrs Jaffrennou (Morlaix), and Jean Le Fustec (Paris) for Wales, Messrs E. Vincent Evans, London; Eifionydd, Carnarvon; J. A. Jenkins, Cardiff University; Professor Anwyl, Aberystwyth; and Professor J. Morris Jones, Bangor; for the Isle of Man, Mr William Quale, Lonan for Scotland, Messrs Donald A. S. Mackintosh, Glasgow, and A. S. Macbride, Glasgow. It was resolved that each section should elect its own president, and that Lord Castletown be the president of the Conference as a whole. It was also resolved that Irish be the official language, and that all resolutions be proposed in that language, and be translated into Eng- lish and French as well. M. Le Goffic made an impassioned speech pleading for the right of the Congress to pro- nounce upon questions of political morality. Lord Castletown said that while the Con- gress would keep clear of party politics they might be expected to wield a larga influence which should be exercised in behalf of the best interests of the human race. It was unanimously agreed to take the motto, "Deffro, v mae'n ddydd," the motto of the Chair of Raglan, as the motto of the confratern- ity. The following resolution was passed *'That the Congress will be competent to ex- pressed opinions and pass resolutions concern- ing general questions of moral politics as long as they are unconnected with religions or political controversy."

DEUDRAETH RURAL COUNCIL. TUESDAY.—Mr W. Jones in the chair. ROAD EXPENDITURE.-The surveyor's Teport showed that E46 had been expended in the repair, &c,, of the roads in the district during the past month. The amount was con- firmed. GAME LICENSE.—A license to sell game was granted to Mr John Roberts, Harlech WORKMEN'S DWELLINGS.-JMr J. H. Thomas wrote on behalf of the Carnarvonshire Joint Sanitary Committee urging the council to give consideration to the provisions of the Work- men's Dwellings Act.—The Chairman and Mr J. P. Roberts observed that no special complaint had been made as to workmem's dwellings in that district.—The matter then dropped. HARLECH DRAINAGE AND WATER SUPPLY.—It was stated that the expense fall- ing upon Harlech in connection with the recent inquiry held there with respect to the drainage and water supply of the place was £ 2'15s 6d.— The Chairman observed that it was full time something should be done in the place.—Mr J. Lloyd, the local representative, concurred. CitOESOR ROADS.—Mr KelJow forwarded some details as to the cost of repairing the roads SJSfT- petition for the repairs was rM?!i^Qnr°fT Vhabitants of the place.—The TvnrH-o.nl-tn v. ^le question wastoo im- portant to be discussed that day as there was a memb6r" was, there- THE SCA\ENGI5 £ G OF TRAWSFYN TDDpThe Chairman „„ kehall oI placed his signature to an agreement with Mr Ellis Williams for the scavenging of Trawsfvn- ydd. A COMPLAINT FROM THE GUARD lANS,-The Festiniog Board of Guardians complained that this council had neglected to give attention to the house of one Ellen Wil- liams at Brynrhys, Pant y Peiyhyn, which was -said to be in a most unsanitary condition.—The Sanitary Inspector said he bad heard nothing of the case until that day.—He wa-s instructed to visit the place forthwith, together with other habitations in the Game neighbourhood.

TTn<JRT? W ALES MEDICAL ASSOCIA- HUA. It has been arranged that the jubilee meeting of this association, of which Dr Jones Morns (Iortmadoc) is president, shall be held this summer at Bangor. Ttwre will be n special service in the Cathedral, and a sermon will b? ^preached by the Bishop,

WELSH SETTLERS IN PATAGONIA. ARRESTS OF LEADERS. QUESTION IN THE COMMONS. In the House of Commons, on Tuesday, Mr Brynmor Jones asked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether Mr David R. Evans and the secretary of the Council of the Welsh settlers in the Chupat Valley in Patagonia were in January last arrested by the officers of Argentine Government on a charge of high treason; whether he could inform the House what were the grounds for the said charge and had they been tried, and, if so, by what court and with what result, and, if not, were they still in custody; and whether he proposed to take any steps to protect British subjects in the Chupat Valley from such conduct of officers supposed to act under the authority of the Argentine Govern- I ment. Mr Brodrick: The only information in our I possession relative to the arrest of Messrs W. and D. R. Evans was that communicated to the Foreign Office by the hon. member. Her Majesty's Government are not aware whether the persons in question are British subjects or not, but if they were born in the colony they would be Argentine citizens according to Argen- tine law (at least, while within the Republic). Her Majesty's Minister at Buenos Ayres has been instructed to report fully on the existing conditions of the settlement, and to endeavour to ensure to British settlers the most-favoured nation treatment to which they are entitled by treaty. That report has, however, not yet been received.

I FESTINIOG BANKRUPTCY COURT. On Tuesday, before Mr Registrar Jones, Robert Hughes, of Paethfod, Llanrwst, farmer, attended for his public examination. His ac- counts showed gross liabilities B207 17s 4d, and assets estimated to realise E67 lis lOd. The aleged causes of failure were pressure by an uncle and losses in farming stock. In reply to the Assistant Official Receiver the bankrupt stated that he took over the tenancy of the farm on the death of his mother, about four years ago. His mother died intestate, leaving pro- I perty worth jE60 and debts amounting to JE226. He had paid off JE96 of her debts. He had no I written agreement of tenancy with his landlord, but simply carried on upon the same terms as his father and mother.-The examination was closed. The adjourned examination was also held of Griffith Roberts, of Benar View, Blaenau Festiniog, builder and contractor, for whom Mr J. Jones Morris, Festiniog, appeared. The bankrupt was examined by the Assistant Official Receiver (Mr W. G. Williams) as to his losses on various contracts. He admitted that be- fore taking the last contract he was engaged upon he could not have paid his creditors 20s in the pound. This was due to his having lost money on prior contracts. To enable him to carry on his work he had to borrow money in consider- able sums from his wife, who had private means. He considered that his failure was partly due to his having put in a better class of work in the several contracts than was required by the specifications.-Subject to the filing of certain accounts, the examination was closed.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. LLANRWST UNION. Sir,-I am directed by the guardians of this union to ask you to be good enough to correct in your next issue a statement made in your report of the proceedings of the guardians at their meeting on the 4th instant, with reference to the k appointment of relieving officer for this union to I the effect that the testimonials of only three of t the candidates were read out of twenty-six in number. I am able to state that all of the testimonials were taken into consideration, and that a con- siderable number of the same were read and carefully considered.-Yours truly, H. PIERCE, Clerk. [We accept the correction, and regret we should I have published an erroneous report. In justice to ourselves, however, we must add that the information was given to our corres- pondent by a guardian, who adheres to his statement that the testimonials of three can- didates, and no more, were read.—Ed.] PATH THROUGH TWTHILL BACH, CARNARVON. Sir,Some twelvemonths ago a large number of the ratepayers of Twthill, St. David's-road, and other parts of the town, presented a petition to the corporation, asking that a road or foot- path should be opened through Twthill Bach. 1 Since then, I believe, the matter has been dis- cussed in committee and open council, but so far nothing bas been done to meet the wishes of the people. Surely the rates are sufficiently ) supplemented by the inhabitants of Twthill and that part of the town, as far back as Dinorwic- street to entitle them to such a small expenditure out of the public rates as would be required to construct this path. It is very well known that Mr William Farren has very generously placed at the disposal of the corporation a large piece of his property in order to meet the wishes of the public, and it is pre- sumed the Vaynol estate will not, if properly approached by the corporation, stand in the way ef facilitating the construction of this much needed path. The people do not want a road for carts or carriages, as few would think of using it for this purpose on account of the hills on each side leadiag to it. All that is required is a footpath such as the one leading from Llanbebhg-road to the Park, and the outlay for the construction of such a path would be very insignificant as it is already laid out the greater part of the way. The inconvenience suffered by the people of Twthill and the neighbouring district when their business takes them in the direction of the rail- way station iss very great, as they have either to travel round by Cae Cristo or Twthil-Iane, whereas, if this path were constructed, the station could be reached in a few minutes. It is hoped the corporation will take this matter in hand at once, and try and meet the wishes of this popular district of ratepayers. A TWTHILL RATEPAYER.

ST. ASAPH RURAL COUNCIL. SATURDAY.—Letters were received from Mr G. F. C. Yale, on behalf of the trustees of the Bodelwyddan Hall estate, and Major Birch, on behalf of Sir George Cay ley, consenting to the erection of a. brickworks on land near Cil- owen Bridge. — Two tenders were opened for the erection of a bridge over the River Clwyd at Cilowen, and the lowest, that of Mr John Davies, for J547 10s, was accepted.-The road between Rhuallt and Tremeirchion is to be widened to 17ft., and the tender of Messrs Roberts Brothers, Dyserth, to fence the road for 280 yards was accepted at 2s 5^d per yard. —A letter was received from Mr J. B. Linnell, agent to Mrs C. M'Laren, stating that she had decided to extend the water mains from Pres- tatyn to Towyn, Meliden. — A question was raised as to the quality of the water. — The Medical Officer said its purity was undoubted, but it wanted nitering.—Mr Conwy Bel! said that when the filters were laid down they were ample for the requirements of the locality, but the population of the district had rapidly in- creased.-The Clerk said he did not know whe- ther the council could interfere even if they wished, because the works were formed under a private Act.—Mr Bell said the Act was an open one.—-It was decided to ask Mr Linnell to meet a committee at the spot, and discuss the matter.—Mr Conwy Bell, on behalf of Captain Conway, stated that he was agreeable to grant a lease for a source of water supply for the dis- trict of Cwm at a nominal rent, subject to terms to be agreed upon, and the Local Govern- ment Board to be written to in the meantime arranging for a public inquiry.

THE WELSH COUNTY SCHOOLS. The Central Welsh Board, in their second re- port to the county governing bodies, mention that there are 20 schools for boys and 21 for girls, whilst 45 are dual and 7 mixed. During the year 88 schools were inspected, the number of pupils on the roll at the time being—boys, 3638; girls, 3274; total, 6912. The total num- ber of puils on the school roll shows an increase of approximately 7.5 per cent, as compared with 1897. The board recur to the remark made in the report of the previous year, that the poverty of rural Wales makes it difficult for children in primary schools, whether Board or Voluntary, to reach a really satisfactory stand- j ard of attainment, but the board hope that this condition of things may be only temporary. They have before them the encouraging instance of the Welsh University Colleges, which, while now taking their proper place as institutions of University rank, had, at the outset of their career, less than half a generation ago, to do in very many cases the work which is now being performed by the Intermediate Schools. The board concur with the chief inspector in re- garding as of much importance the provision of dining facilities for children attending school from a distance the supervision of approved lodgings, and the administration of the scholar- ship clauses, especially in so far as they relate to augmentations and bursaries. They are glad to find that governing bodies are giving atten- tion to these matters, which the board regard as an important aid in bringing the advantages of the schools within reach of the chldren in rural districts. The board also commend to the attention, of j the governors of schools in Welsh-speaking dis- tricts, the remarks of the chief inspector on the importance of systematic instruction in Welsh. He says —"The work in Latin and French would be easier and much more interesting to pupils possessing intelligent, knowledge of Welsh. At every turn I discovered that WTelsh-speaking children were hampered in their work by ignor- ance of literary Welsh and Welsh grammar. There are at least sixty schools in which a sys- tematic study of Welsh might be pursued with immediate advantage." The reports on the various branches of stjdy are extremely satisfactory. Both the exam.ner in history, and the examiner in English litera- ture, spoke strongly of the need of the children being taught the importance of English composi- tion. The examiner in English language and literature says: —"It is of the utmost import- ance that the students should be taught to mar- shal their ideas on a subject, arrange their ma- terial, and express themselves clearly, fully, And succinctly and it ought to be borne in mind that a knowledge of the rules of grammar can never of itself produce, a good, or even correct style of expression. The deficiency in this department is not by any means largely due to the fact that many of the pupils use English as a foreign language, but that they have sever been taught the art of expresstng themselves with correct- ness, lucidity, and precision." These remarks are supported by the examiner in history, who says:—"Pupils in (1) rural schools in purely Welsh districts suffered by their evident inability to express their thoughts with facility in English pupils in (2) border schools were often guilty of colloquialisms and slipshod English. The serious teaching of pure and nervous English composition by regular translation and essay writing, ,as distinct from i»- struction in the outlines of English grammar, would appear to be the remedy." The examiner in Latin also says —"Without expecting any elaboration of style in junior classes, it is evident that translation work should be made a useful exercise both in the choice of words, and in the correctness of English idiom. Deficiency in this respect was too often shown, but it is in accordance with previous observation, that such deficiency was not most conspicuous- in schools in Welsh-speak- ing districts." The examiner in Welsh says —"The work produced in this subject at the recent examina- tion, showed a very great advance on that put. in last year. Even where only one of the more elementary papers was taken the work was of a much higher character, but. in the number of schools, the subject has been made a serious part of the curriculum, and the results, as indi- cated, for example, by the character of the tran- slation in the composition papers, appear to justify very fully the course thus taken." The total expenditure of the board for the year ended March, including examination, inspection. and administration, was £ 5427 2s 7d. The total cost of the examination reached L3199 18s 4d, the average cost per school being C36 15s 7jd, the average cost per school being £ 36 15s 7jd, and the average cost per pupil examined 10?, ll|d. The total cost of inspection was £ 1061 4 19s 8d, the average cost per school being £ 12 Is 441 d, and the average cost per pupil on the books 3s Ofd. The estimates for the year ending March, 1900, show income c4651 15s 8d, and expendi- 1900, show income cf £ 4651 15s 8d, and expendi- ture JM505 7s 7d.

I LLANRWST PETTY SESSIONS J MONDAY. — Before Dr Edward Jones (chairman), O. Isgoed Jones, Esq., H. J. Wat- ling, Esq. STRUCTURAL ALTERATIONS.—Mr W. P. Roberts (Messrs D. Jones and Roberts) on behalf of Mr G. Jones, Black Horse, Llanrwst, applied for permission to add another house to the licensed premises for domestic purposes, the Black Horse being too small for the ap- plicant's family.—The Bench decided to allow the case to stand over until the licensing ses- sions in September, in order to give an ap- portunity to the applicant to submit proper plans of the proposed structural alterations. THE EMPLOYERS' AND WORKMEN'S ACT.-A farmer, named Lynch Jones, Ty'ny- twll, summoned J. Henry Roberts, a farm labourer, to recover Jul 15s damages for a, breach of the Employers' and Workmen's Act, by leaving without notice.—Mr W. P. Roberts appeared for the complainant, and Mr J. E. Humphreys for the defendant.—Lynch Jones, Tv'nytwll, Llanrwst, said that on the 11th of May he engaged the defendant as a farm labour- er. The terms were that Roberts was to get £ 21 a year. Defendant was previously in his employ and he was hired to continue his ser- I vice. But he left witness' employ without any I notice after a service of six or seven weeks. He was put to a great deal of inconvenience be- cause the defendant left when the busy time arrived.—Cross-examined Off and on the de- fendant had been in witness' employ for the last four years. Up to the last agreement Ro- berts was engaged by the week. Defendant did not refuse to come to his employ except by the week, nor did he pay defendant by the week. Roberts did not complain to him that he did not pay him his wages, nor that he was not allowed to follow the team. He was for three days after he left without a servant. He had suffered a great deal of inconvenience, and had now to pay 25s a week while he could have done with him.—The defendant stated that he was employed by the complainant as a carter from the day of the Eglwysbach Fair. At Ditto, the previous farm of the complainant, witness followed the team and did other work. He engaged with the complainant to follow the team. Witness left because Lynch Jones acted so very unfair towards him by not paying his wages and not allowing him to follow the team. When he asked for money to buy some stuff from the shop, the complainant told him to go to the shop for trust.—Cross-examined: Wit- ness was certain that he engaged with Lynch Jones by the week. When he asked for money, he wanted it to get some clothes on his back. He broke his heart because of the unfair treat- ment he got from the complainant.—The Bench found in favour of the complainant for £ 1 15s in lieu of a month's notice. NO LICENSE.—Jesse Jones, Ty'nyddol, Eglwysbach, was fined 6d and costs for keeping a dog without a license. DRUNK IN CHARGE.-Thomas Jones, Rowlyn, Talybont, was fined 2s 6d and costs for being drunk in charge of a horse and trap. DRUNK ON LICENSED PREMISES.— Robert Roberts, Llanrwst, was fined for being drunk on licensed premises, namely the Coach and Horses, on the 14th of January last. LARCENY. — Edward Morris, butcher, Scotland-street, charged Hannah Bartley, a neighbour, with stealing the sum of £1 Is 4d on the 19th of July.Mr R. Pughe Evans ap- peared for the prosecution. — The complainant said that he was walking about town on Wed- nesday evening, the 19th inst., and walked home with Joseph Thomas. There was no- body in the house at the time. He went to his house, and sat by the kitchen table, and pro- ceeded to make his accounts up. It would be beween four and five in the afternoon. He was counting money and found he had L7 2s. His little girls were playing in the streets. The prisoner came in. She asked whether Mrs Morris was in. Witness replied that she was from home. Prisoner then stated that Mrs Morris had promised her some washing. The accused closed the door and remained in the kitchen, but he re-opened the door, placed his purse over the coin, and proceeded upstairs for | some account book. Hannah Bartley followed him upstairs, and subsequently his little daugh- ter Bessie. When the latter was coming up Hannah Bartley called out to Bessie "go down." Bessie did go down, and was followed by the accused. When he came down L3 8s was missing, but he recovered a further sum of £2 6s 7jd on the following day from his wife. When he came down stairs Hannah Bartley had gone.—Joseph Thomas gave evidence to the effect that he took the complainant home in a drunken condition on the day in question. Witness saw a handful of money with him. Copper, silver and gold were mixed. He did nm see the accused at all near the house.- Nellie Morris, a little daughter of the prosecu- tor. deposed that she saw Hannah Bartley com- ing down stairs between four and five o'clock on the day in question. Accused proceeded to sit on the sofa. Witness went for the moneys which were on the sofa. She did not see any money nor the purse on the table, because she did not look. Witness took the money from the sofa., and placed it on the dresser until her mother had come home. She took them before her father came downstairs, for he would take them with him if he went down town again. Witness did not see Hannah Bartley touching the money, but her hand was very near them. The accused went out after she had placed the money on the dresser Witness told Hannah Baitley to go out because she did not want her to stop there in case her father came down. When witness' sister went upstairs the prosecu- tor sent her downstairs, and Hannah Bartley followed.—To the Bench Witness did not tell her father that she had taken the money for fear he would want it.—Bessie Morris, another little daughter of the prosecutor, gave further evidence of a somewhat delicate character, oi the course of which she stated that it was lie" father who had ordered her down. — Edwin Bartley, P.C. H. Jones, and Superintendent Jarvi. having given further evidence, the Bench dismissed the case.

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