The Weekly News and Visitors' Chronicle for Colwyn Bay Colwyn Llandrillo Conway Deganwy and Neighbourhood

THE NEW POLICE-SUPERINTENDENTINCONWAY. —Superintendent Rowland arrived at Conway Police-Station on Monday, when he took over the charge of the Conway Division. He is succeeded in the Pwllheli Inspectorate from which he has just been promoted, by Sergeant Thomas Jones (of Bethesda), who in turn is replaced by Sergeant Thomas Owen, of Bangor. P.C. Thomas Jones, of Criccieth, having withdrawn on reconsideration his acceptance of the Bangor sergeantcy, that position has been accepted by P.C. Evans, of Trefriw, whither P.C. Owen is moved from Portdinorwic. AN ATTEMPTED SUICIDE AT LLANRWST WORK- HOUSE.—Atthe Llatn wst Police Court on Tuesday, Feb. 25th, David Roberts, Brickfield Cottages, Llandudno Junction, was charged before Dr Jones and Mr Isgoed Jones, with attempting to commit suicide at the Llanrwst Workhouse on the night of the 5th inst.—The Bench bound the p. isoner over to be of good behaviour, and released him. A ROYAL CAMBRIAN ACADEMICIAN ELECTED P.R.A.—In succession to Lord Leighton, R.W.S., H. R.C.A., Sir John Everett Millais, R.A.. who is also an Honorary Royal Cambrian Academician, was elected, on February 20th, at Burlington House, London, President of the Royal Academy, the election being practically unanimous, Sir John Millais's own vote being the only one cast for any other artist. Intimation of the election of Sir John Millais as President of the Royal Academy has duly been forwarded to the Queen. This is done through the Keeper of the Privy Purse, that being the long-standing custom. It is no doubt explaiiied by the fact that the interest of George III. in the formation of the Academy was in the first place a personal one. Sir John Millais will be received by the Queen within the nex week or two, when Her Majesty will confer the badge of office upon him. This is a fine gold medal (supported by a chain hung round the neck) which George III. presented to the Aca- demy. Sir John Millais is the eighth President of the Royal Academy since its formation, his prede- cessors and their periods of office being as follow: —Sir Joshua Reynolds, 1768-1792 Benjamin West, 1792-1820 Sir Thomas Lawrence, 1820- 1830 Sir Martin Archer Lee, 1830-1850 Sir Charles Eastlake, 1850-1865; Sir Francis Grant, 1866-1878; and Lord Laighton, 1878-1896, THE VENERABLE GWALCHMAI.The follow- ing interesting item concerning the venerable Gwalchmai," who in his younger days was Pastor of the Conway and Henryd Welsh Congre- gatioiial Churches, appeared in The Manchester Guardian dated February 26th, 1896 Yester- day (writes a correspoiiv'o.u) Megan Gvvalcii- mai," Miss M. A. Parry, ;he daughter of the venerable Welsh Bard Gwalchmai" (the Rev R. Parry, Llandudno), received an old MS., found at Llanerchymedd, containing interesting information in reference "J the family of the Bard. It appears that Gvvak imi d is a year older than he thought he was, having been born 0.1 the 19th of January, 1803. He is therefore 93 years of age. On his father's side he is a direct decendant from Gweirydd Ap Rhys Goch, and on his mother's side from Hwfa Ap Cynddelw, two of the founders of the Fifteen Tribes of Givyliedd." ST JOHN'S ENGLISH WESLEYAN CHURCH, CON- WAY.—The series of Special Services that have recently been conducted in the above-named place-of-worship, by the Missioner and friends from Llandudno and Colwyn Bay, have been of the most encouraging character. Good congre- gations gathered night after night, and great power rested upon the people, a number being deeply impressed. The Church is baptised with the spirit of earnestness and a greater desire to do something to reach those outside. The prospects of the work already begun, are of a hopeful character,—arrangements are being made for con- tinuing evangelistic effort week by week, and it is hoped that greater things than those already seen, will be brought about. SEION CONGREGATIONAL SUNDAY SCHOOL.- The annual tea-party and concert was held on Wednesday afternoon and evening, February 26th. Tea was served at the Schoolroom in the afternoon, under the superintendence of the ladies of the Sunday School. In the evening, the con- cert, held at the Market Hall, was presided over by Councillor J. Williams (Superintendent of the School), the Conductor being the Rev T. D. Jones (Pastor). The following programme was gone through :—Sacred part-song, Seion Male Voice Party address, the Chairman pianoforte solo, Miss Sally Edwards; song, Gwlad y Canu," Blodwen-y-Ddôl; recitation, "Bugail Aberdyfi," Deiniol Fychan part-song, •< Ar- glwydd pawb yw ef," Juvenile Choir; song, Cadlef Morganwg," Trebor Glan Eigia trio, (encored), Bwthyn clyd a i;-I^n," Messrs J. Roberts, E. Griffiths and J. Griffiths recitation, Geneth Amddifad," Miss M. E. Williams sacred part-song, Male Voice Party; recitation, Die Ifaii y Ddôl," Deiniol Fychan humorous song (encored), "Myfi yw'r unig ddyn," Mr J. Roberts song, I am a merry Zingari," Blodwen-y-Dd,31 pianoforte solo, Miss Pollie Jones sacred pai t-song, Male Voice Party; duett (encored). "Glan gerilaw," Owain Rhun and Trebor-glan-Eigia recitation, The Burial of Moses," Miss M. E. Jones part-song, Ar lan y mor," Mr J. Roberts's ilai-ty instrumental trio (pianoforte and two violins). Professor W. Davies, Mr J. P. Griiffth, and Master Arthur Haydn Griffith penillion-singing (encored), Serch Hudol," Trebor-glan-Eigia; recitation, "Y dyn meddw," Deiniol Fychan, and in response to a vociferous encore, "Catrin Mary Jane;" song, The Holy City,' Blodwen-y-Ddôl; dialogue, "Ymgom y felin," Messrs Parry and Evans; song," Merch y Cadben," Owain Rhun recitation, Ystori Gyffredin," Deiniol Fychan. After the usual vote of thanks, a very enjoyable evening closed with the singing, by the Juvenile Choir, of God be with you till we meet again."—Owing to the indisposition of Miss Rowland (" Llinos Meirion "), her place was kindly taken by her sister (" Blodwen-y-Ddol," R.A.M.) who is well- known and always appreciated at Conway. We hope soon to have an opportunity of hearing Llinos Meirion also, who has hitherto (we believe) not appeared before a Conway audience. The accompanists were the Misses Dollie Jones and Sally Edwards. LLANDUDNO JUNCTION RAILWAY MISSION BAND OF HOPE.—The children in connexion with the above, had a treat on Wednesday evening, Feb- ruary 19th, when Mr J. S. Owen (of Carnarvon and Bethesda), brought his magic-lantern, with a view to amusing the juveniles. The room was crowded with children, and it was gratifying to see some of the parents had also come to see the views of North Wales, Russia, America, and other parts of the world. Afterwards The Drunkard's Progress was shown, and The Curfew Bell," Polly Nevitt reciting the appropri- ate poetry in splendid style. The lantern exhibi- tion closed with a series of comic pictures, which the children enjoyed very much. Mr Wynne proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Owen and his friends, for coming from such a distance to give a treat to the children and it was seconded by Mr Ted Jones, and a good hearty cheer was given by the children, who behaved throughout in a very creditable manner. After Mr Owen had responded, the meeting closed with the sing- ing of God be with us till we meet again." A NEW CHOIRMASTER AT THE TABERNACL CHAPEL.—Consequent upon the resignation by Mr T. W. Hughes (through indifferent health) of the Choirmastership of the Tabernacl Welsh Wesleyan Chapel, Mr John Jones (Gyffin) has been elected to the vacant position. CONWAY SCHOOL BOARD.—There was no quorum at the meeting called for February 26th, the only members attending being the Mayor and the Rev Owen Evans. The meeting held last month was the first for many months, and now the Board has apparently commenced another long vacation. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION. — A LADIES' CLASS AT CONWAY.—We are requested to publish the fact that a Ladies' Class for Conway, is being formed in connexion with the St. John Ambulance Association, and that any ladies wishing to join the Class should at once send in their names to Mrs G. Swintord Wood (Bodlondeb), Mrs Porter (Llys Llewelyn), or to the Hon. Sec. pro tern. (Mr J. W. Post, Conway), and attend an inaugural meeting to be held in the Guild Hall next Monday afternoon, March 2nd, at half-past five. THE RAILWAY MISSION. The anniversay meeting of the Llandudno Junction Branch of the Railway Mission was held, on Friday evening, February 21st, at the Girls' National School-room at Conway. At half-past six, more than one hundred railwaymen and their wives sat down to an excellent repast, provided, as usual, by the generosity of Mrs Dawson and Miss Dawson, of Tower View, Llandudno. The tables were very prettily decorated with palms, arum lilies, etc., and were well-laden with choice comestibles (admirably catered by Mrs Jones, Aberconwy Temperance Hotel), and with these and the smiling faces that sat down thereat, and the beaming faces of the lady friends who were acting as waitresses, the room altogether pre- sented an animated appearance. The ladies of the Mission Band present, in addition to Miss Dawson, were the Misses Appleyard, Arnold, Baker, M. Elliott, Raymond, and Taylor. When everybody had done justice to the good things provided, two or three Welsh hymns were sung— Bydd myrdd o ryfeddoàau" and 0 fryniau Caersalem," etc., to the old Welsh tunes with which they are so closely wedded, and Mr John Wynne, of Bronavon, took the chair, being sup- ported by Miss Dawson, the Lady Superintendent of the Mission Mr Cynwal Jones, the local Secretary the Rev J. Raymond, Llandudno; the Rev O. Evans, Conway the Rev Thomas Lloyd, Colwyn Bay and the Rev J. P. Lewis, Vicar of Conway. Mr John Evans, stationmaster of Deganwy, moved a vote of thanks to Mrs and Miss Dawson, for the tea, and to the afore-men- tioned gentlemen, for their kindness in coming that evening to address the meeting, and this was carried with acclamation. Prayer was then offered by the Rev J. Raymond. The Vicar of Conway spoke very encouragingly of the work carried-on by the Mission, and he was only too glad to support Miss Dawson in her endeavours for the spiritual amelioration of the railway men. He had pleasure in introducing to the meeting Mr Fox (the Engineer of the Snowdon Railway), who would be pleased to give a few words of address. Mr Fox kindly came forward, and expressing his pleasure at being amongst such a number of railway men, gave a brief history of the first line of railway in the Kingdom, the Grand Junction line from Birmingham, with which his hither (also an Engineer) was closely connected. A railway- man's life was a monotonous life, but he (Mr Fox) was glad that all along the railways they now had Mission Rooms, and he was very glad to find one down at Llandudno Junction, and it was very good of the kind ladies to take such deep interest in the railwaymen. When Mr Lewis mentioned that Miss Dawson had a gathering of railwaymen at Conway, he was very anxious to come and see them. Well, a railwayman's life was not a very pleasant one, and, were someone perchance to ask him (Mr Fox) whether he liked the life, he would certainly say No it was a very dangerous life, but he never went out without asking God for blessing upon his work and to care for him all through the busy day, and he hoped there was not one in the room that did not do the same,—the only true happiness was to work for God. Other speeches followed, the Revs O. Evans and T. Lloyd taking for their res- pective subjects the words Bod yn dda, a gwneyd yn dda and Hebrews vii. 27. Mr Ted Jones also gave a song. OLDEN CONWAY HOUSES. Amongst the Liverpool Mercury's "Special Welsh Notes" 011 February 22nd, appeared the following:—"The ancient premises at Conway, known as the Palace of Archbishop Williams, where the Rev. Dr. John Williams, Archbishop of York, resided, are to be sold. Plas Mawr, an interesting relic of the Tudor period, was rescued in 1886 by the Royal Cambrian Academy of Art, and kept from further decay and it is to be hoped that the Archbishop's Palace will also come into hands that will preserve it from destruction." The Globe, on February 19th. in its turnover article entitled "Characteristic Houses," pleas- antly refers to the vicissitudinous history of Plas Mawr, Conway Human beings are not the only possessors of marked personal character- istics buildings, especially houses, may bear the like distinctive traits. A resident does not always succeed in impressing his own individual- ity upon the abode which he occupies. There are mauy instances of ancient mansions, like some of the houses in the old portions of Edin- burgh, or the well-known Plas Mawr of Conway (now rehabilitated from its degraded condition), which, even when converted into residences for the lowest classes of the community, yet retain traces of their former rank, like monarchs become beggars and still have a grand air," never possessed by abodes erected expressly to house the persons whom the stately old mansions are now reduced to shelter." MISS (OR MRS) JULIA C. R. DORR IN WALES. In the leading columns of The Liverpool Courier of February 24th, is a lengthy notice of, as our contemporary says. some sketches of English travel by Miss (or Mrs) Julia C. R. Dorr, recently published by Messrs Macmilan & Co. The title— The Flower of England's Face,'—is siupid enough, but the book is by no means uninterest- ing." From the Courier notice we now proceed to quote the paragraph dealing with the authoress s impressions of Wales in general, and Conway in particular Unfortunately originality in one respect was not seconded by the same quality in others. Miss Dorr was true to the tradition as to what to see, and her mind was so full of Sir Walter Scott that one might suspect her of hailing from that New Orleans region so domina- ted by the spirit of the Wizard of the North that it impelled Mark Twain to execration. Even Shakespere seems relegated to a second place in her affections. Her interest in English scenery is almost entirely literary. In Wales, for example, her business is with the castles—not the mountains and glens. These often ugly decayed teeth in the skull of a dead tnecliwvalisiii provoke her to transports of admiration—even to poetry. Given an ancient building, ruinous or otherwise- the former preferred—she luxuriates in the creations of a romantic imagination, and is happy in the society of persons reconstructed by fancy from the pag-s of history or historical fiction. Carnarvon Castle offends her because it is in too good a state of repair to let imagination act freely; better far the ruinate pile at Conway, and for the same reason Kenilworth is vastly to be preferred to Warwick Castle. At Plas Mawr, in Conway. she is not at all interested in what she calls the Royal Cambrian Society of Art." It takes Queen Elizabeth and Leicester (two of her pri-iie favourites) to make the fine old building attractiv e. Her art perceptions, however, are evidently not developed, for at the I Ctstle' Hotel the remark- able decorative panels by the late J. D. Watson, which adorn the coffee-room, only provoke her to say, apropos of someone else who disliked them- Why need we have given the things so much attention ? It is well to know when to shut one's eyes." It is a deliciously quaint touch where she at last discovers some art worth notice—two or three sketches by an American artist Obviously the book—which we have not seen- contains, with insufficient (if any) correction, the authoress's memorable contribution" A Week in Wales," which appeared in the Atlantic Monthly of September, 1888. The occasion of the week in Wales, seems to have been an endeavour to evade tiie least picturesque and most ear-splitting of the Jubilee celebrations, the time of the visit being the week of the Queen's Jubilee (1887). In the article are some peculiar mistakes of an unaccountable nature (e.g., Gwrych Castle belongs to the Marquis of Mostyn."). It may not be amiss, perchance, if we quote from the At/antic the passage relating to the Castle Hotel and its pictures Conway is headquarters for the Royal Cambrian Society of Art. We wonder if that fact, or its having a landlady of artistic proclivities, accounted for the pictures, mostly oil-paintings, which covered the walls of our inn. The coffee-room and halls were lined with them, and the chambers held the overflow. In our hostess's private parlor, Kensington em- broidery, old China, painted door-panels, painted milking-stools, etc., had a strangely familiar air, showing that Wales, like America, is in the march of progress. If we could only have tound a decora- ted rolling pin, we should have been happy. But in a conspicuous place hung two or three sketches of American scenery by Thomas Moran, sent to our hostess, as she was proud to say, by the artist himself, who had been for weeks a guest of the house." Again, further on, the descriptions of the river-steamer, Plas Mawr, a sticet-singer, and Conway Castle, are all fine. From the paragraph about Plas Mawr, a short extract must content us:—"Its chief claim to distinction lies in the fact that its owner had the honor of entertaining Queen Elizabeth for some days. The old house is just as it was then, save for the ravages of time, which are many. But the great courts, the floors, the woodwork of paneled oak, now black as ebony, the window-sashes, the small diamond shaped panes of greenish glass, the fire-places, and the stairways remain unaltered, for the most pari fit the great banqueting hall-people seem never to have eaten, but always to have banqueted in those days—are the identical tables and chairs of massive oak used by the royal party." VALE OF CONWAY FISHERY BOARD. On Thursday, February 13th, a special meeting' of the Board was held at Llanrwst, the Chairman (Mr John Blackwall, J.P.) presiding. There were also present Messrs O. Isgoed Jones, J. Evans Jones, Robert Jones, and John Jones, and the Rev J. Spinther James, with the Clerk (Mr Allard). 'Hie Board of Trade wrote with reference to the proposed alteration in the scale of licenses. Tli- Board poi ited out that there were several circumstances which militated against the pro- posed scale. Wiili regard to the fixed engines, the action taken did not correspond with the notice given, and there appeared to have been several irregularities in the proceedings con- nected with th proposals. The Board also pointed out the great inconvenience resulting from changes of the nature proposed. In 1891 the question was brought up in consequence of an enlargement of the area of the district, and it was resolved to mako no alteration. But in 1884 the subject was again considered, and cer- tain changes were made, and it was now sought to make further alterations: The Board of Trade suggest that the deterioration of the salmon fishery in the Conway appears to dale irom the dale vv the fishery season was extended and .s the reduction of the license duties led to an increase in net fishing, it would not be desirable to take such a step unless it were aC-:0.panied by the passing of a bye-law lor the restoration of the statutory annual close season. Mr R. Jones (Conway) strongly protested against the letter of the Board above in reiusing to allow the licenses to he reduced from £5 Lo C4- The Conway he considered the most expensive river in the Kingdom. Mr Isgoed Jones considered the letter a most serious one. Tnpy must look at the matter in a broader light than a personal one. He advocated reducing the licenses to .£-1-, and now came a letter putting them in a deeper hole than ever. The Chairman said that he strongly opposed the extension of the season. He compared the low fish he caught now up the river as compared with years ago. Mr Isgoed Jones Perhaps the fish are getting wise now. [Laughter]. The Chairman The real reason is, as in all the other rivers in the Kingdom, the over-netting in the estuaries of the river. If the rod-fishermen paid Li for a license and the netters £tS. the rod-license would be dear as compared with the other. It was resolved, on the motion of the Rev J. Spinther James, seconded by Mr Isgoed Jones, not to persist in the application to the Board of Trade, to reduce the licenses from L.5 to L4, and not to curtail the fishing season. On the motion of the Chairman, a draft resolu- tion was approved, sub-dividing the Western Sea Fisheries District into North and South. The Rev J. Spinther James gave notice to move that the meetings of the Board be held alternately at Conway and Llanrwst.

Births, Marriages, Deaths, &c. Announcements of Hirt! s, Marriages, Deaths, or In Memoi-iam," are inserted at the following charge: One Sfhilling if prepaid; One Florin if booked. No annonncemellt will be inserted unless accompanied by the sender's real name and address (not for publi- cation, but merely as a gu-i.mntee of good faith). DEATH. GERMAN-Ioliii L. German, last surviving son of William German, of Plas Llewelyn, Colwyn Bay, who passed away February 23rd.—Mr and Mrs German desire to thank all friends for their etters of sympathy and kind enquiries. Printed tin ? Published bv R. P. Jones & Brothers, ai their PRINTING Works, 3, IJose Hill Street, Cu- aud I'u dished at tiie:Ceiitral Library,

to their proposal. On the 8th of this month the Board reminded the District Council that they had not received the information asked for, and no reply has yet been received by the Board. With respect to the charities, the Board on the 18tli inst received certain information for which they had applied in September last, and, subject to the concurrence of the Charity Commissioners, the Board were prepared to issue the Order ap- plied for. Six EDUCATIONAL SUCCESSES.— Rydal Mount (Headmaster, Mr T. G. Osborn. M.A. Cantab., J.P.) has scored no less than six passes in the London University Matriculation. The following are the names of the six successful Rydalians (of whom the first three passed in the First Division, and the others were placed in the Second Division):—Herbert Bedford, Alfred Marsden, Arthur Francis Martin, John Acomb, Frederic William Gatenby, and Frederic Hartley Small- page. WEDDING AT COLWYN BAY.—At the C. M. Chapel, Colwyn Bay, on Monday, February 17th, the Revs Thos Parry and J. Wesley Hughes, offici- ating, Miss M. J. (Cissie) Owen (Bryn-y-Mor), was united in marriage to Mr Edward Hughes, eldest son of Mr E. Hughes (Eirias Bank). Some time before the appointed hour, a nice company had assembled at Engedi to witness the ceremony, amongst whom were several old friends and school-companions of the bride and bridegroom. The bride was given away by her father, Mr R. Owen, and her maids were the Misses M. L. Hughes (Eirias Bank, Colwyn Bay) and M. E. Hughes (Minavon, Conway). The best man was Mr W. R. Owen (of London), the bride's brother. After the ceremony, the happy pair and their friends proceeded to Bryn-y-Mor, were a sump- tuous spread had been prepared, after doing duty to which, and having received the congratulations of friends and wellvvishers, the young couple left per the 1.26 p.m. train for Anglesey, where the honeymoon was to be spent. The following is a list of the wedding presents :-The Bridegroom, album Mr and Mrs E. Hughes, tea-set Mr and Mrs T. W. Hughes (Conway), silver tea-pot Mr R. B. Hughes (Conway), table-cover; Miss M. A. Hughes (Conway), table-cloth Miss M. E. Hughes (Conway), case of serviette-rings Miss Eunice Hughes (Conway), set of jugs; Miss M. L. Hughes, breakfast cruet-stand Miss J. A. Hughes, butter-cooler Mr Enoch Hughes, coal-scuttle Mr W. R. Owen, eiderdown quilt Miss A. L. Owen, hand-painted mirror; Mr J. D. Davies (Mount Pleasant), photo-frames and letter-holder; Miss Emily Wood (Llandudno), table-cloth Mr and Mrs Madren, tea-set Mr Berth Jones, toast-rack Miss Annie Grimsditch (Esher, Surrey), ink-stand The Misses Owen (Bodwrog), butter-knife and preserve-spoon Mr Owen (Bodwrog), silver spoon Mr and Mrs Dowell, tea-cosy Miss Jennie Vaughan (London), afternoon tea-set The family at Llys Aled, counterpane and towels. N COMPANY 2ND V. B. R. W. F. FIFE AND DRUM BAND.—On Wednesday afternoon, Feb- ruary 26th, a comical football match was played at the Board School field (kindly lent for the occasion by Mr T. G. Osborn), in aid of the funds for the formation of a drum-and-fife Band for the N (Colwyn Bay) Company 2nd V. B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers. A procession was formed, at half-past two, in front of the Public Hall, and paraded the principal streets. On a long lorry belonging to Mr J. Williams, a troupe of the Amateur Theat- ricals were seated. Among those in the proces- sion were the following characters, some of whom rode horses kindly lent by Mr F. Davies (coach- propt ietor):-The One-eyed Kaffir (E. Dagmar), Clown (E. H. Chaplin), Indian Chief(Stephenson), Chinaman (James), Trilby (Davies), Sammy the Tramp (Condron), Ally Sloper (Meirs), Cyclist (Lewis Jones), Volunteer (W. Davies), New Woman (Geo. Mason), Buffalo Bill (Jackson). Naval Officer (Godden), Coastguardsman (Homan), Volunteer (Wallis), Field Marshal (Warburton), Lance-keeper (Willis). The town team, whose members wore toppers, were restricted from kicking the ball when their hats were off, and were not allowed to give short kicks for goal, was composed as follows:—Goal, Maurice Davies; R. Salisbury, C. G. Roberts, J. Hully, M. W. Lloyd, Robert Jones, Percy Jones, Edgar Allen, W. Roberts, Tommy Williams, and Allen Jones. There was a good attendance at three o'clock, when, in the unavoidable absence of Mr Edwin Jones, Capt. F. Stubbs kicked off, and the fun commenced, and was greatly enjoyed by the spectators. The trophy was the Due de Mochdre's Challenge Cup," and the Burlesque team used all dodges to get the ball through, once taking it through on horseback. The Field Marshal and Lance Keeper were busy throughout the game, as also was the Ambulance Corps (under the superintendence of Whitby). A lock-up was erected on the field, and to this quarter all transgressors of the law were hauled. Several of the make-ups were excellent, and the result of the game was most satisfactory to the Burlesque team, who carried away the trophy. No doubt the fund will thus receive a satisfactory send-off, towards the proposed new Band. ENGEDI YOUNG LADIES' TEA-PARTY AND EN- TERTAINMENT.—A most enjoyable tea was placed upon the tables at Engedi Schoolroom, at four o'clock on Wednesday atternoon, February 26th, and the room was well filled with a company of well-wishers, who, from the happy expressions on their faces, evidently enjoyed the good things provided. Among the ladies who attended to the wants of the company, were:—Miss Evans, Ratonah Miss Jones, Harland House; Miss Jon, Dinglewood; Miss Roberts, Maenan House; Miss Dinah Williams, Victor Road; Miss Katie Davies and Miss Polly Williams, Grosvenor House Miss Williams, Audley House (Llewelyn Road); Miss Jones, Clwyd Villa: Miss Kate Williams, Llys Arvon Miss Carrie Jones, Car- trefle and Miss E. J. Evans, Pinehurst. The provisions were ably presided-over by Miss Lewis, Bradford House Miss Maggie Owen, Bodwrog; Miss Davies, 6, Victor Road Miss Hughes, Eirias Bank and Miss Davies, 1, Ivy Buildings. Miss Owel (Bodwrog) ably captained the whole arrangements. In the evening, an entertainment was held, Mr Jones (Harland House) in the chair. The programme was as follows:—Pianoforte duett, The Misses Jones brief address, the chairman song, Bwthyn yr Amddifad," Miss N. A. Roberts; recitation, "Carlo," Miss Anna Davies song, Merch y Cadben," Mr J. O. Davies, and, as an encore, A welwch chwi V;" song, Profiad plentyn y meddwyn," Llinos Cefni, and, as an encore, 0 Rest in the Lord selection on the auto-harp (encored), Miss E. J. Evans song, Gwlad y Canu," Mr Shad- rach Evans composition in translating, prize (1/-) won by Peter Williams song, The Better Land," Llinos Cefni duett (encored), The Welsh Girls (in costume), the Misses S. E. Jones and N. A. Roberts (accompanied by Miss L. Jones); song, P'le 'rwyt ti Margred Mor- gan," Mr J. O. Davies duett, Waiting and watching." Masters Oswald and Hughie B. Jones; song. Sweetest story ever told," Miss N. A. Roberts recitation, "Y Gof," Mr J. O. Davies and, as an encore, "Pobl drws nesaf; song, Cadlef Morganwg," Mr J. H. Roberts and, as an encore, Mynydd Aberdyfi." Mr Dowell proposed the vote of thanks to the chairman and singers, and Mr Evan Owen seconded, after which Miss Jones (" Llinos Cefni") sang "Hen wlad fy Nhadau." COLWYN BAY PRIMROSE LEAGUE. FIRST GRAND ENTERTAINMENT. This entertainment took place on Saturday evening, February 15th, when the Public Hall was well-filled for the enjoyment of an extensive programme. The chair was taken by Mr John Marston, J. P., of Wolverhampton, in the unavoid- able absence, through family bereavement, of the Rev. J. Gorrel Haworth (Ruling Councillor). After the introductory remarks of the chairman, explaining that this was the first public appearance of the Colwyn Bay League, the speech of the evening was made by Mr Charles Marston, who, in the course of his able address, touched upon the principles of the Primrose League, and showed how, when rightly undei st >od, they brought the members into such harmot i> >• relations that, in the words of the poet, "Tli,- rich man loved the poor man, and the poor loved the rich." Mr Marston spoke upon religion and that righteousness which exalteth a nation, and appealed to the audience's belief in the nation's safety whose "God is the Lord." The speaker referred also to Home Rule, and pointed out how vitally important it was to stand fast to the defence of the Union; when he but reminded them of the imminent danger the United Kingdom was quite unexpectedly drawn into when war was actually counted upon between Britain and America, to show what a sore and dangerous trouble might have had to be faced had Ireland been free to listen to the persuasions and demands of that great Irish faction in America, seeing that Ireland is greatly indebted to the Irish Americans for great sums of money and moral support in her fights for Home Rule and separation, and a knowledge of the innate retaliating disposition of the bulk of the Irish Political Party is now accurately guaged and amply displayed, and the return of the country to the maintenance and strengthening of the Union was a rallying to the Constitution, which gave a death blow to the dangers of separation. With tnanv other i-einat-ks- itty, and abounding in apt poetic and literary references,—Mr Mars- ton concluded a thoroughly able and enjoyable speech. The programme following, consisted of songs, a glee, a pianoforte solo, and 'cello and pianoforte, all of which were ably rendered by the Misses Everett, Mrs Sewell, Mrs Charles Marston, Mrs (Canon) Roberts, Miss Jukes, Missjumeaux, Miss Bowness, Mr and Mrs Page, Mr J. Owen Davies, Mr Samuels, Mr Llewelyn Davies, and Mr G. H. Mason, and Madam Williams gave great pleasure with her Russian sleigh-bells and auto-harp. The lime-light lantern lecture followed, and the "C audience had an unexpected treat in a graphic and beautiful display on the large sheet, of the principal magnificent ironclads, which were colored exactly as these monster iron battle-ships appear,—also the different compartments of the ships were beautifully shown in sections, where torpedo and all naval etctras are worked; in contrast were shown ships of the "Armada," and other celebrated ships in gigantic full-sail. Then followed pictures of the Army, and "Tommy Atkins was shown in all the glory of his rank. A splendid picture was Ironclads in action," this being a gem of the lantern art, and, with grand life-like portraits of General Wolseley, Mr Chamberlain, etc., etc., and views of the Trans- vaal and the Jameson raid and defeat, which were graphically portrayed, the pictures ended with that of our beloved Queen. The lecture, a very able address, was given by Mr Reginald Bennett, K.C.P.L.S., Clerk of the Grand Council, who kindly came from London purposely. In his opening remarks, Mr Bennett spoke of the character of the Primrose League, of its usefulness, and told the audience that no less than 1400 Associates were enrolled in the last week, and he invited most cordially all truly interested in the nation's welCare (independent of party politics), to send in their names to Mr Paterson (Hon. Sec. Constitutional Club) for Diploma of Association. The thanks of the meeting were due to Mr Charles Marston, of Woh •rhafnpton, for his excellent speech and to Mr J. Marston, for presiding; and to Mr Bennett, for his able lantern- lecture. This was the first public appearance of the Colwyn Bay Primrose League Habitation, and proved a most thorough success, and the entire audience could but hope that it may not be the last this season. DISASTROUS FIRE AT A COLWYN BAY CHURCH. MANY INJURED. MUCH VALUABLE MATERIAL DESTROYED. Shortly before I I o'clock last Sunday morning, early arrivals at St. Blank's Dutch Reformed Church, Colwyn Bay, were made aware by noxious fumes proceeding from the sacred edifice, that an appalliug catastrophe had occurred. It appears that some evil-disposed (or at least care- less and ignorant, if well-meaning) person or persons, after carefully closing all doors and ventilators, had turned on the gas and set fire to several of the jets. These had somehow come in contact with a vast quantity of oxygen, supposed to amount to several hundred cubic yards, which had been stored by the Almighty in the place for the use of worshippers, but which now was being rapidly consumed, leaving only carbonic acid gas and other poisonous gases in its pl.-i. e. The usual congregation arriving shortly ah or, found the carcase of the stately building still standing, and the pews, books, &c., untouched, but the most valuable contents of the Church were already past saving. There was a suggestion made to get a fresh supply by opening some of the numercus ventilators, but this was promptly negatived, as also was a proposal to put the fire out, by the simple expedient of turning off the gas. The con- gregation accordingly entered and took their places in the death chamber, tempting Providence, and hoping by soul refreshment to be fortified against bodily ill, a hope which was disappointed. No,—but, seriously, is this the end of the 19th century and the age of Board Schools, or what is it anyway? CONGO INSTITUTE. The following interesting letter, referring to Industrial Mission work in a new district at New Calabar, West Africa, is from Dr. Tlieo. E. S. Scholes, who is well-known to most of the inhabitants of Colwyn Bay, as he spent some months at the Congo Institute, about two years ago, before he left for Africa:- The Alfred Jones Institute, Buguma, New Calabar, W. Africa, Oct. 30, 1895. To the Executive Committee of the Congo Training Institute, Colwyn Bay, N. Wales. Dear Brethren,—In submitting to you the financial statement of this station for the year now closed, I desire in the first place to record my gratitude to God for His abundant goodness and mercy to us from the time of our advent here to the present moment. These favours have been manifest in the monetary support by which our work has been sustained throughout the year. In the subsidence of hostility on ou entrance, and at subsequent times, when the more determined section of our heathen neighbours clamoured for the worship of their fathers, only and the cessation of the new teaching. Also, in shielding us from serious accidents, and for preserving our own health. Further, I am conscious, and I wish to express my sense of obligation for, your kind and wise indulgence, when the force of an inflexible necessity carried us beyond the limit of expenditure, that you designed for our opera- tion. Nor must I omit alluding to the energy, consideration, and readiness that characterised the dealings of our Secretary, with the requests we have so constantly made, and upon which the steady movement of the entire plant has very largely depended. You .vill doubtless have been informed by Mr Hughes of our trip to Lagos in June, and you will have shared, I presume, in our joy for the opening vouchsafed to us there by the Most High. On the strength of this visit we were able to rep ace the two Accra carpenters- whose indifferent manner-of-work had caused us to part with their services,—with two carpenters from Lagos, to hire a sawyer, advancing a month's wages to each of the three, to pay the passage of the carpenters, and purchase a large rip-saw for the sawyer. But our arrangement with this man- the sawyer—has had a very melancholy termin- ation, tor on missing the branch-steamer with which we were to join the ocean-steamer in the Lagos roads for Bonny, he was left behind,—a circumstance that occasioned us some disappoint- ment,—and, shortly after our return here, in a letter from Lagos, we learned that he was sick in hospital, and in a later letter, that he had died in the hospital of small-pox. Thus what seemed an evil was in reality great good, for had this man come here, and had been smitten down by that fell scourge, in addition to the loss of his services, the consequence might have been nothing less than calamitous to the station. I had had pleasing testimony regarding his Christian character. We had rejected anothersawyerfor themanPrince-will, hut he has since joined us, and with the four boys whom we placed under him to learn, he has already turned a number of logs into boards and scantlings. Our means being inadequate for the employment of a large staff of workmen, the erection of a suitable dwelling has on that account been very slow. The death of the then leading Chief during our stay at Lagos, supplied the pretext, and our absence the opportunity, for passing a law, by the adversaries of the work, forbidding attendance at church, aed commanding the removal of the boys from school; hence on our return we found only four boys at school, and on the first Sunday an audience of some fifteen persons. This last is, however,recovering from the effects of this blow so that on the Sunday before last, there was an audience of 80 persons. But the school, although wearesanguine about its ultimate and triumphant recovery, still lies at the place where it was struck down. The first proof, justifying the excessive outlay last year for cultivation, has appeared in the verdure and bloom of a large field of cassava, plantains, and tarro (cocoa- yams); and as the augury of a harvest that will bring to the vanishing-point our present supplies from Europe. We have incidentally alluded to the spiritual side of the work, which, as the goal and summit of our endeavours, must either, by the signs of its success, cheer, or, by the signs of failure, depress. Making a more detailed refer- ence now, we may mention how much we have been encouraged by the consistent and earnest lives of the few Christians amongst us; a worthy reward they are, of the Church Missionary Society's past labours in districts contiguous to this. And concerning those of whom we may speak, as trophies won by the Gospel during the last twelve months; I will refer to three. These men were among the six whom we first employed; two, and more especially one of the three, were altogether indifferent at first to sacred things, but afterwards a difference in their manner, became apparent, and with it, their unsolicited confession, their upright walk, and general inter- est in matters spiritual, have since confirmed the belief that a change whose well-spring is Christ, has been wrought in them. And now I will close with a very brief notice of our linguistic pursuits. A double portion has been meted out to us in this department, for absorption and assimilation. They are lbo-tlio language spoken over a vast and populous region in these parts, and Idzo,- the local dialect. But the urgency with which the claims of other duties have pressed upon our time, caused four months to elapse before we could enter on the study of the one we elected to begin with. However, since then, although neither with regularity nor allotment of times that we could have wished, we have bee 1 plodding on chiefly with what we may call the anatomy and physiology of the Idzo language; and with the knowledge gained—not that it bears the sem- blance of proficiency—we are now thinking of approaching the Ibo, with our scalpel. With fraternal greetings, I remain, dear Brethren, Yours in the Bond of Service, THOS. E. SCHOLES. M.D. THE COLWYN C.M. COMPETITIVE MEETING. On Wednesday, February 19th, the Colwyn Calvinistic Methodist Sunday School annual competitive-meeting was held, under the most favourable circumstances. The adjudicators were as follow :—Essays: Revs. Dr. N. Cynhafal Jones and T. C. Roberts, both of Colwyn Bay and Rev. W. Foulkes (" Nefynydd"), of Colwyn. Poetry Revs. W. Foulkes and W. E. Jones ("Penllyn"). Music: Mr H. V. Davies, of Ruthin. Miscellaneous: Mrs Evans, Mr J. O. Davies, Mr W. Jones (Glasfryn). Rev. Thomas Parry, Mr Parry Jones, Mr R. Evans, and Mrs Lawrence. Miss Nellie Lloyd was the accom- panist. The afternoon meeting was presided-over by Mr Thomas Jones (Bryn Tirion, Colwyn Bay), who. in his opening remarks, said that there was too much of what was even sublime in the meet- ings, and he thought that History ought to be among the subjects for competition, to make the programme more diversified, the historical subject being not too ami)itlous,for example, the History of the Commencement of the Sunday School in the Parish in conclusion, he wished the meeting every success. After the chairman's address, Miss N. Lloyd gave tine selections 011 the pianoforte. In the baritone solo competition, "Gwlad y Canu," Mr J. O. Davies (Colwyn Bay) proved successful. Miss Annie Davies was awarded the prize for learning a chapter from "Rhodd Mam." For reciting "The Birch Rod" the first prize was awarded to J. E. R.ber.s (Colwyn), Annie Davies being second. In the answering questions on the History of Christ, Harry VVilliams was adjudicated the best. The ,1n:; "Ein Anwyl Wlad," by Mr H. V. Davies, Nv ,s highly appreciated by the large audience, which, by this, had very well filled the room. In the handwriting competition, E. Elwyn Jones (Mochdre) was adjudged worthy of the first prize, and Henry Williams coming in for the seconu (divided). For singing a quartette at first sight, the Wyddan Party carried off the prize. For the prize for the best essay on Joshua, "Ze'o. us" (the only competitor) was adjudged worthy, but did not answer to his name. In the T'and B duett, Messrs Llew. Jones and E. C. Evans proved victorious. With the best sketch of sermons preached at Hebron preaching-meet- ■«ngi Miss Annie Roberts (Colwyn) was a prize- er. In impromptu speech-making (" Tongue" Iic-T ven as the subject), Mr J. O. Davies, Mr R. J. Roberts, and "Maenan" were of equal merit. Fo. reciting, J. Jones, J. E. Roberts, Sarah Jones, ,a1.! E. Jones, were awarded prizes. In the Male Voice Choir competition, the test piece was "Hiraeth," and for the prize (Zi and a silver medal) four Choirs entered, but only two came forward, namely, the Crcjddyn Party, and the Excelsior Party; the lat C'r, after a very careful adjudication, proved to l:,cel by a little, and the Conductor (Mr R. J. s) was invested by Miss N. Lloyd. This brought the afternoon meeting to a close. Tea was provided at the Board School, between the two meetings. The evening meeting commenced at 6.30. Mr F. Nunn presided, after being introduced to the crowded assemblage by the able Conductor (Mr Lloyd Evans). Mr Nunn, who, 011 rising to address the meeting, was loudly cheered, spoke at some length in Welsh, aud said that he was very happy to be present for the first time there in Old Colwyn to preside, "because," he continued, "you are the capital; you are (as we may say) England, and we, Colwyn Bay and Llandrillo and suburbs, are the Colonies." After dwelling on various objects of the meeting, Mr Nunn closed his remarks amidst loud cheering. After a pianoforte duett by Miss Lloyd and Miss Williams, the soprano solo prize was won by Miss Mattie Lloyd, the test piece being the "Holy City." Among those competing for the pi ize tor the best epigram to the Rev. W. Foulkes, Penllyn said that none was of sufficient merit for the prize to be awarded. In the writing of a love-lrtter, W. LI. Jones and Miss Griffith were adjudged equally skilful, Miss Hughes and Arthur Roberts (Fez;ti.iiog) tying for the second prize. For learning the 14th Chapter of "Hyfforddwr," Miss Katie Richards was awarded the 1st prize, Sarah Jones, William Roberts, and David Jones, being also awarded premiums. The best translator proved to be J. W. Jones (Colwyn Bay). Song, "The Sailor's Wife," Mr H. W. Davies, and, as an encore, "No, Sir." David Jones (Chapel House) was the best reciter among the adults, and Mr W. Davies (Warwick House) was the best composer of music. Messrs W. LI. Jones, John Jones, and Thomas Williams, were awarded prizes for answering questions on Joshua and Timothy. In the hymn- singing competition, Mr W. B. Jones's Party, who alone came forward, were adjudged worthy. The best stockings were made by Mrs Jones (Henblas Villa). In speech-making upon Colwyn as it is and as it ought to be," Maenan (the only competitor) was deemed worthy of the prize. For the best fifty lines on "The Fall of Jericho," Maenan was awarded the first (and only) prize. The tenor solo competition, "Old Memories," brought forward 5 contestants, and, after a keen competition, Messrs R. J. Roberts and Llew Jones were adjudged equal in merit. Two Parties entered tor 1 he competition for the prize (Li) for singing -I \N'ele'j- Hafa,i, W,-Je'j- Artial, and Mr W. H. Jones's Party (Colwyn) were the victors. The best essay-writer was Mr David Edwards. The usual vote of thanks, and the singing of the Welsh National Anthem, brought the meeting to an end. Messrs Lloyd Evans and Mr Roberts proved themselves very efficient as Secretary and Treasurer respectively, and, as for the musical Adjudicator, he proved to be in every way satis- factory, as did also Miss Lloyd as accompanist. Mr Lloyd Evans also proved himself a thoroughly capable Conductor.