Rhyl Journal

"SUNNY" RHYL IN FEBRUARY. Only a fortnight ago we wrote of "Snowy" Rhyl; but now what a change has come over the scene The winter of our discontent" has passed, and we are again basking in the sunshine of sunny Rhyl. What would not be given by many jaded weary workers in the Midland Counties, worn by toil, wasted by influenza, weary of fog and mist, if they could be transported to our sunlit shores, where King Sol is pouring down his beneficent rays. Since our last issue we have again been enjoying Spring, nay, surely 'twas a foretaste of Summer, when on Saturday we strolled along the front. The intense blue of the sky was reflected in the joyous sea, the tide danced in with musical rhythm, covering the warm golden sands. A boat in full sail was beading towards Colwyn; on ocean liner passed across the horizon, and a large vessel was steaming across the bay verv near to land. closelv follnwprl hv boat, whose canvas glistened dazzlingly in the sun. On the sands scores of young- sters were observed disporting most merrily. Here a group of red-capped bairns build a sand castle on the brink of the swiftly advauciDg tide. There another happy party are sailing a miniature yacht. Yonder a group are almest cut off by the tide, and have to wade through water to firmer ground. A vigorous game of football is in course of pro- gress. Here a mother sits on the sand whilst her little one revels in the delight of the warm grains. There a father tbrows off his coat, and helps his tiny mites in their arduous labours with buckets and spades. Yonder a party of riders are walking their steeds through the refreshing waters. In the shelters adults are quietly aad hap- pily ensconced; talking, reading, working, or perchance only looking seaward and taking in with every breath life-giving healthful air whilst they appreciate the beauties of nature and the common objects of the seashore." On the wall we noticed a nurse busily en- gaged with needle and cotton, whilst her chargejbasked in the sunlit air. On the Pro- ruenade numbers of visitors were discernible- aged couples strolled placidly along, arm in arm. Young folks walked briskly from end to end, and cyclists whizzed past on the broad parade. On one seat a group were to be seen reading, on another busy fingers were knitting "comforts" for our Welsh Fusiliers—those who not long since marched away from their peaceful homes in gallant little Wales to join their comrades in the fight beneath the burning sun in Africa. Their thoughts must often revert to the happy hours spent in this same sea-girt town where even now many are working for them and waiting for their safe and speedy home- coming. Children, whose minds h,ad not yet grasped the sadness of the warfare, raD mer- rily along, dogs gambolled, sea-gu\\s wheeled above the waters,—even the >JOtiSe sparrows had come on the front. kll was life and motion. On the sandhills the .seats were occupied by amused and interested spectators of a mimic battle, waged w:.th great earnestness by a large party of schoolboys. Trenches bad been dug; a. "commandeer" or a small pony directed the movements, and the attacking parties Ixere vigorously repulsed, being hurled down from the hill (Bpion's ivop.) as soon as they gained the sujnmit. uc 1 y the mimic warfare ended without disaster after affording an enjoyable interlude to combatants and sightseers. All too soon I dusk crept across the sky, and the sunlit spring-like day had become, with a host of similar occasiorls, one of the happy memories of Bhyl. J.

RHUDDLAN. REJOICINGS. -Last night therQ were general ™ifch1DgM n r ^d?Jan over the relief o f Lady- i in > r u "S^es sent out a cir- hhprp wJ1 "if abitanta to take part, and y and ent'uusiastic response. mnSW-STT WM T? Md Wtai were delW "gm,Sf Patrlotlo1 ■he town was filled^ ;'andf0t SCVeral h°UrS ith rejoicings.

The Bishop of JV ,Z—, „ vhieh, as usual ■ m bu Lenten Pastoral, nentions that '» printed in England and Welsh, uuounting to *be offering of Peter Pence, he Holy Fa' 8d, has been presented to nntri hntor an(* be sends his blessing to all ions FUD e co'lections for the Poor Mis- rhich f ds 1899 amoant to £ 299 10s 10d, of Avh.ni 'lntshire contributes £ 103 12s 4d, Den- nJ JV re ^s. Carnarvonshire j £ 17 7s 9d, Merionethshire (Barmouth) 10s 6d. s i.r Adam Hunt, for forty-five years a resident Towyn, died last week at the age of seventy- ive. Mr Hunt was formerly connected with the excise, but had been superannuated for some time and had lately resided with his daughter at Weymouth. In the long list of killed published in the papers in the last faw days are the names of Col. Sitwell, and of Col. Thorold, Commanding Officer of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.

ST. DAVID'S DINNER AT THEh ALEXANDRA HOTEL. I I I The annual St. David's Day Dinner was held last night at the Alexandra Hotel, when Miss Williams placed before her guests an excellent repast. The menu was as follows:— I Soup. Mock Turtle. Puree of Tomato. Fish. Turbot and Hollandine Sauce. Fillets of Soles. Entrees. Oyster Patties. Sweetbread and Spinach. Releves. Roast Sirloin of Beef. Quarter of Lamb. Boast Chickens. Ducklings. Sweets. Alexandra Pudding. Jellies and Creams. Pastry. DESSERT. Mr G H Slack took the chair, in the absence of Mr Armstrong, and Mr Frank Horatio Lloyd (Chester) occupied the vice-chair. The President gave the loyal toasts, which were received with enthusiasm. Mr J. W. Jones in proposing "The Im- mortal Memory of St David," said it was not his intention to enter into the romantic life of our Patron Saint, enshrouded as it was in so much mystery and uncertainty. This un- certainty, coupled with the traditions and the superstitious decorations with which his history had been invested, had caused many to deny the existence of St David. But he honestly believed in him, and he ;elt it a privilege to be allowed to pay homage to his memory. The authorities were pretty generally agreed that St David flourished in the latter part of the fifth century. He was born in the year 460, and died on the first of March 540. His birth- place was a disputed point, but the presump- tion was that it was somewhere near the place which now bears his name. Doubts were also raised as to his nationality. He was the son of Sandde, said to be a descendant of Cunedda Wledig, who was the owner of an estate in Mynyw or Menevia, inl Pembrokeshire. This proved that St David sprang from a parentage whose connection with Wales had been suffi- ciently long to entitle them to regard him as a true-born Ancient Briton. What, however, established beyond doubt his nationality was his devotion to his country, and his zeal for his countrymen. So much did he accomplish, and so remarkable were his achievements, that it was scarcely to be surprised at that they were invested with the halo of the super- natural by the people among whom he lived. Ignorance and superstition caused achievements which might in these days be regarded as commonplace to be magnified as miraculous. These exaggerations had gone on through suc- ceeding centuries until the true life-work of St David had become lost in a vast mass of legendary lore. But when they stripped his history of the load of fables which encumbered it they would simply find an exceptional man who was perhaps centuries before his age. St David was a man who so towered above his contemporaries in learning, in zeal, purity and piety, that he commanded an almost slavish adoration. His title as the titular Saint was, however, a comparatively recent distinction. As the modern idea of Welsh Nationalism was developed it found in his virtues and qualities its chief source and inspiration, and so he had become canonised as the guardian and Saint Protector of Welsh Nationality. He had become as it were a mortal enrolled among the gods. The best features of our national history were to be attributed to the abiding influence of the memory of St David. The deep hold which religion had upon Welshmen found its earliest expression in him. He was placed at the head of the early British Church. He knew no "ism." He was an Archbishop of one great National Church, and as a minister was a worthy example of what a minister ought to be. He was "a guide to the religious, a life to the poor, a protection to the widows, a father to the fatherless, becoming all to all so that he might gain all to God." What nobler inspiration could Welsh Nation- alism have than the contemplation of the ministrations of snch a teacher 1 The potency of this influence found expression in the fact that no less than 63 churches had been dedica- ted to his name, nineteen of which had been traced to his own time, and were undoubtedly founded by hinu ielf. St. David not only lived in a whole h earted and divinely inspired ministry, but a] so in an educated ministry. He was himself a learned divine who had a ten years' collegiate training under Paulinus at Whitland Abb ey. Subsequently he started a seminary of his own, where he trained missionaries and sent them forth to proclaim the truths of the gospel. Here again they found how present day nationalism was carried over thirteen centuriies to the days of St David. One of the uiost gratifying and beneficent effects of modern nationalism was its awakened zeal for education, a zeal that had secured for the Prin- cipality an educational system that was com- plete from the primary schools to the recently established university. St David was the pioneer of Welsh education, as he was the pioneer of the religious life of Wales. No wonder then that his name was a rallying point around which all sections of Welshmen gathered. His memory fostered and intensified their national ardour of country. The nationalism which St David inspired was not that narrow aggressive provincialism which sought to be- little or destroy our alliance as a nation with the finest federation of nations under the heaveus. No, the nationalism which he in- spired was that which prompted them to realise that they must consecrate the very best of their gifts and talents to enable them to more worthily acquit themselves as subjects of an Empire which was the envy of the world. A nationalism which, while maintaining its own individuality, could merge itself into that wider nationalism expressed in the term Britain. How Wales had been able to do that had been proved to demonstration by the loyalty to which her sons had fought under the British flag in the present war, and by the enthusiasm with which Welshmen have volunteered to fight for England's glory. No part of tbe Queen's dominions had been more loyal in this respect than gallant little Wales. In our little town with its limited possibilities they had sent fifteen volunteers to the front, everv one of them Welshmen, and fourteen of them born in Rhyl. One of them received a proud wound the other day in the last magnifi- cent charge which led to the capitulation of General Cronje. This was the sort of Nation- alism which St David taught them, and as the pioneer of this Nationalism he asked them to drink to his immortal memory (applause). Mr Maltby gave the toast of the Bishop, Clergy, and Ministers of all Denominations He said he was not well acquainted with the Bishop, but his lordship appeared to look well after the clergy, was a man in every sense, and one who had tried to do his duty (hear, hear). With regard to the clergy and ministers of Rhyl he could say that he had never met a more hard working set of men (applause). The President, in giving the toast of the Army, Navy, and Auxiliary Forces, said it was impossible to realise the great rejoicings that had taken place throughout the British Empire at the news of the relief of Ladysmith (applause). The British troops had overcome great difficulties, and had accomplished tasks that foreign and War Office critics had said was impossible. Where were those critics to-day ? (hear, hear). Pride and arrogance became no one, but there was uch a thing as their pride as a nation, of which they were proud (cheers). The toast was received and drunk with en- thusiasm, cheers afterwards being given for Roberts, Buller, White, Dundonald, French, and Tommy Atkins. Lieut. L. G. Hall responded, and said it was a pleasure tojrespond to such a toast, which em- braced every arm of the service. This locality was well represented, as Lord Dundonald, of Abergele, was the first officer in Ladysmith, while the Welsh were the first infantry regi. i, nent to reach that town, suffering heavily. | ] The Volunteers could no longer be looked upon | is tinpot soldiers, and he felt that Wales had sent out a splendid contingent of 116 men who would reach Cape Town this week, and would nobly fill up the gaps that had been occasioned in the relief of Ladysmith (applause). Lieut. W Hatherley Jones also responded, and referred to the strength of the Navy. It was, however, necessary to increase the strength of the Navy in order to keep pace with foreign powers. The army was pro- portionately small, but it had proved itself equal to the task laid upon it in the defence of the Queen's flag- (applause)-as evidenced by the deeds of Roberts, Buller, and White. Sergt. R Davies and Instructor McCully also responded. Mr W Conwy Bell in giving the toast of the Lord Lieutenant and Magistrates, said that it was impossible to please everybody. He was sure that the Lord Lieutenant did his duty, and was sure that they would all agree that the magistrates were a very good body of gentlemen. (Hear, hear). The Vice-President, in responding, said he believed that the magistrates always en- deavoured to do justice to those brought before them. He thanked Mr Conwy Bell for some kind references he had made to the speaker's father, Sir Horatio Lloyd..The Vice-President then gave two capital humour selections, and to him was entrusted the toast of The Members of Parliament." Mr Batho gave the toast of the County and Urban Councillors, and observed that he had reason to believe that the County Councillors were doing good work. With regard to the Urban Councillors, although they did good work they talked a great deal. It was not always those who spoke most that did the work (hear, hear). Mr Jos Williams, in responding to the toast, said the Council was carrying oat great im- provements, at the same time studying economy (hear, hear). Mr A. Maltby said he was sure that the ratepayers kept a sharp eye on the doings of the Councillors, but at times the people passed unfavourable remarks. He believed that the Rhyl Councillors were doing all that was possible for the welfare of the town. Peo- ple could not expect a return unless they expended money. (Hear, hear). Mr J W Jones also responded, and said he had learnt to appreciate the work done by the Councillors, and he believed that they were animated with the deepest regard for the wel- fare of the town (applause). Mr W Bulcock proposed the town and trade of Rhyl. Mr Minshall gave The President." The President briefly responded, and gave the toast of the Vice-President, hoping that it would not be the last time they would have his genial companionship in Rhyl. The Vice-Chairman responded, and said he appreciated Welshmen and respected their feelings, and was pleased that he had Welsh blood in his veins. The proceedings closed with the drinking of the health of the hostess (Miss Williams), which was received with musical honours. Mr Joseph Williams responded on behalf of his sister. During the evening Mr L. J. Foster presided at the piano, and vocal selections, &c., were given by the Vice-Chairman, Mr Edwards, Mr Dunkerley, Mr Bulcock, and Mr Richards.

The Relief of Ladysmith. Yesterday Rhyl people were very much ex- cited and jubilant on receipt of the news that Ladysmith had been relieved. The first tele- gram to arrive was eagerly readi and the in- telligence spread like wildfire. A stream of persons sought the "Journal" Office for con- firmation of the news, which was not long in arriving. At the National Schools the children sang the National Anthem, and then streamed into the streets, cheering and singing, the rest of the day being observed at all the schools as do holiday. The bells of St. Thomas' Church rang a merry peal, and the ringing of the bell at the Town Hall brought people together from all parts of the town. The flag at the clock tower was run up and shopkeepers and others displayed flags and bunting from their establish- ments. In High Street there was a very ani- mated scene. Mr Shepherd, town crier, marched up and down the thoroughfare, an- nouncing the news and calling for cheers for the British forces. He carried several flags, and was followed by a crowd of children who entered heartily into the rejoicings. Herr de Mersy's Band enlivened the streets with martial strains, and the Coastguards fired off rockets from the pier, and guns were fired in several places. Much enthusiasm prevailed, and the evening newspapers on their arrival were quickly bought up. In the evening the volunteers, headed by Herr de Mersy's band, paraded and fired a feu de joie, and the Fire Brigade, postmen, coast- guards, yeomanry, and police marched through the town to the front. Later on the Rhyl Council Brass Band also turned out. At the Victoria Hall a very successful dance was held.

I ABERGELE. THE Church Army Van has been at Abergele of late, and on Tuesday evening Capt Morris gave an interesting lecture in the Church House on his first tour through North Wales, illustrated by lantern views. There was a good attendance. ST. DAVID'S DAY DINNER.—The annual dinner was held at the Bee Hotel yesterday, and was well attended. WAR NEWS.—Throughout the week the news- papers have been eagerly scanned for news from the seat of war, and yesterday flags were displayed from shops and other premises on the receipt of the news by Mr Egerton Leigh of the relief of Ladysmith. Abergele people feel proud of the exploits of Lord Dundonald and his cavalry, although opinions differ as to his family's connec- tion with a matter affecting the interests of this locality. On Thursday our quiet town became quite excit- ed, when it was known that Ladysmith had been relieved, and especially as Lord Dundonald was the first to enter the beleagured town. The school children were dismissed amid great rejoicing, and re-assembling in the afternoon, formed into pro- cession unrJer the leadership of Misses Rose and Gittens, and Mr Bedford, A.C.P. After the prin- cipal streets had been paraded to the strains of "Rule Brittania," the children were entertained to tea in the Parish Room. The tea was very satisfactorilly managed by Mr F J Fletcher, who also collected the money, and great credit is due to this gentleman for the painstaking way in which this was carried out. By the kindness of Messrs Perkins and Crabbe, and Dr Peter Jones, each child was presented with a packet of sweets, an orange and a bun, before leaving the room.

Discussing the agricultural outlook, the "Mark lane Express says:—The break-up of the frost" has not had time to affect the grain markets which are dearer on the week for every leading staple, with the exception of brewing barley. But the disappearance of snow and the flooding of the river banks, with the melting of the snow off the fields, are events that seem heralds of an approaching spring. Annie Green, of Wrexham, has been fined SIO, or sent to jail for two months, for attempting to obtain a situation with -L false reference. A woman who wrote the document was fined 25. The "faithful" have had a dispensation ex- cusing them from fasting during Lent This is the result of the prevalence of influenza. But hey are expected to pay for it; and the money goes to educate priests. Colonel Wynne Edwards has received the congratulation of the Embarkation Officer at Southamption upon the admirable conduct of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers under trying circumstances it that port. The men arrived soon after mid- day on a Sunday, and their troopship did not appear until eight o'clock in the evening, and in the meantime there was some difficulty in obtain- mg food, but the soldiers were quite cheerful the whole of the time," and on .the boat's arrival] 1 worked splendidly. A

FATAL ACCIDENT AT THE NEW 1 RAILWAY WORKS. On Tuesday morning an accident which was attended with serious consequences occurred at Rhyl. For some time past men have been engaged pulling down cottages near the Vale- road bridge for the purpose of widening the railway. While a party of labourers were at work on Tuesday morning the gable end of a house fell in, killing a man named Robert Sleigh and injuring two others, Evan Pendleton, 5 Kinmel Street, and Samuel Hollingsworth, Vale-road. Medical aid was called, and the two last-named were removed from the scene of the accident. Both are badly injured. Robert Sleigh was killed on the spot. He leaves a widow and three children. On Wednesday afternoon Mr R. Bromley held an inquest, the following forming the jury :—Messrs G. E. Simpson (foreman), Conwy Street; W. K. Miller, Bodfor Street; Thomas Thomas, 11 Wood Road Francis Beech, Vaughan Street; Herbert Marsh, 2 South Kinmel Street; W. C. Bell, Morley Road; George Clough, Wellington Road; Thomas Davies, Paradise Street; Walter Mid- winter, Aquarium Street; Joseph Evans, Wel- lington Road; John Jones, Russell Buildings; Charles Egerton, Elwy Street Robt. Roberts, Mount Pleasant; Thomas Francis Hopkins, Dudley Hotel; Walter Caradoc Davies, Ty- newydd Cottage. Mr D. C. Radcliffe watched the proceedings on behalf of Messrs Gates and Thomas, the contractors for the extension work. The Coroner, at the opening of the inquest, said that they were met under sad circumstances, as was always the case, in a court which he had to preside over, but he thought it would not be out of place if he were to felicitate with them on the great news received that day from the seat of war (hear, hear). Mrs Sleigh, wife of the deceased, residing at Gas Street, identified the body, and said that her husband was about 65 years of age. He was a butcher by trade, but had of late been engaged as a labourer. He started work on the railway extension on Monday. Mr John Keith Ross, C.E., resident onginees in charge of the work, said he visited the scene of the accident shortly before the fatality. The building was about 25 feet high. He noticed that the men had a rope around the gable end, and were endeavouring to pull down a small piece of it, but they were unsuccessful. All the men were then on the ground, and he told them that if they could not pull the wall down by hand they were to get the steam crane. He then left, and subsequently heard of the accident. On again visiting the spot he found that the whole gable end to the first floor had fallen inwards. By the Jury The crane was not used. By Mr Radcliffe We adopted the ordinary methods for pulling down the house, and had taken the usual precautions. Robert Williams, labourer, 40 Ernest Street, said he had been engaged on the works about four months. Between 11 and 11-30 they had a rope around the wall, and after giving it a few pulls they stopped, as they found that they could not get it down. The wall shook a little, but there was no crack. The rope was left on the wall so that it could be used with the crane. The ganger went away to fetch the crane, and witness with his companions went to the first floor to clear away a few loose bricks, not expecting that the wall would have fallen. The deceased and the men injured went to a pieceof the wall and started pulling away a few loose bricks, in order to loosen the gable end and the side walls. He thought it a dangerous thing to do, but he did not speak to them. Three men also tried to push down a piece of the side wall. With that he saw the wall fall- ing, and shouted to the others "Look-out, lads, it's all coming," and at once jumped off the building to the ground. He next saw the de- ceased was dead, another man was covered, and the third was buried up to his neck. Wit- ness added that lie had seen plenty of buildings pulled down. He was told by the ganger to clear the floor of bricks, but was not there long before the wall fell. The wall fell through the floor, and carried with it the deceased and two men. He had never seen an accident of the kind before. By Mr Radcliffe The ganger only told us to clear away the bricks. He did not tell us to touch the wall. Had the men not touched the side wall, the gable would not have fallen. They were paid by the hour. The men did not expect an accident of that sort, and were like a lot of lads laughing and larking on the job. The Coroner I can quite understand that answer. It is my experience of colliery and mining accidents that a great many are caused by such larking and carelessness. Francis Daniel Jones, labourer, gave some corroborative evidence. Frederick Atkins, ganger, residing at Purple terrace, Prestatyn, said he had been engaged at Rhyl for about nine months. On Tuesday they were getting the wall down in sections. Seeing that the wall would not give without the use of a crane, he told the men to clear off the loose bricks from the floor while he went to get the crane. He did not tell the men to remove the side wall, but had told them previously not to touch that part of the building. The Coroner in summing up said he did not think that there could possibly be any doubt as to the cause of the accident, and it did not appear that there was any blame attached to those in charge of the works. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death." Mr Radcliffe said he was instructed by Messrs Gates and Thomas to say that they regretted the accident, and would help the widow all they could.

The Rev. J. Puleston Jones, speaking at a meeting of the Llandudno Free Church Council, said the great thing for Nonconformists was to know what they were aiming at. They not only gave colour to the charge that they had only a gift for splitting, but they had been driven into a position of negative criticism, which was always a disadvantage. For a long time they had contented themselves with declaiming against special abuses to which they had been driven. It was time they should aim at something more united, and should set up a creed of method and of policy to teach to their children. He had seen whole meetings given up to the consideration of special abuses-such as that they could not marry people and that they could not bury people, and that they could not be chaplains in an asylum. These little grievances were, he was thankfnl to say, being blotted out, and there was not much to complain of. The grievances had been many, and their existence had made Nonconformists negative and critical, so that they had spent a good deal of time on speech in- stead of work. But that was not whv thev were Nonconformist to-day, and they did not wish to keep the memory of their old disabilities fresh. Many of these grievances were only symptoms of the real trouble, which was that they were denied the right to be a church or a series of sections of a churoh. Truth needed no external warrant: men could find it for themselves in the Bible without external guide. That was the principle of the Nonconformist position, and that was what they were fighting for- not tor the grievances, which were merely symptoms, not for disestablishment, although that would come. There might be a need of a ruling and guiding body, but it must be a free development. What they wanted to claim was that they had a heritage of Christian truth not, however, that they had a monopoly of it. This was all that they wished their brethren of the Church of England to believe.

A Rush for the "Rhyl Journal" TO THE EDITOR OF THE RHYL JOURNAL. SIR,-On Saturday evening I tried to get 12 Journals to send away, but I could only get six in seven different shops. One newsagent asked What's the matter, there has been such a rush on the Rhyl Journal' ?" I replied, It must be the Rhyl lodging-house keepers, like myself, wish our visitors abroad to know the advantages of Rhyl, so forcibly set forth in the leading article from Mr J. S. Greenhalgh's letter in a Liverpool paper." If the new members of the Council will only give more attention to advertising the advantages of Ruyl as a watering place, and how it could be improyed by a new Pier and electric light and other attractions, instead of lecturing the older members-old enough to be their fathers-they would render some service to the town.—Yours truly, A LoceiNQ-HousB Keefsk*

Rhuddlan and District Ploughing Association. The fifth annual ploughing match in connec- tion with the above Association was held yes- terday at Criccin Farm, on a field lent by Mr ) Roberts. There was a large attendance, the weather being fine. Mr W. Conwy Bell was the President, Mr F. Bibby Vice-President, and Mr T. Hughes, Kinmel View, acted as 1 Secretary. The judges were as follows: Ploughing Messrs Daniel Davies, St George Edward Morgan, Golden Grove; and Thomas Jones, Ddwyonen, Rhuddlan. Turn-outs, Messrs T J Dutton, W Conwy Bell, and Jones (Gop). The ploughing was of an excellent quality and was said to be some of the best ever seen in North Wales. The work of Cornelius Pierce was by far the best, and this competitor wins outright Mr Bibby's cup for the best ploughing. The teams were also good, but in consequence of Mr W Conwy Bell acting as a judge, the Bodrhyddan teams did not compete. It was stated that Mr Roberts, Criccin, had one of the best pair of horses ever seen on a field in this part of the Principality. It was after five o'clock before the judges of the ploughing finished their work, and the prizes were then distributed as follows by Mr W Conwy Bell:- First Class. -Wheel Ploughs, open to all comers. First Prize, f5; 2nd, L3 3rd, 12 4th, £ 1 5th, 10s,; 6th, 5s. 1 Thos Owen, Pentre, Rhuddlan 2 T Williams, Cwybr Bach 3 John Roberts, Tyddyncyll; 4 D Davies, Marian Bach 5 Hugh Davies, Criccin 6 Thos Hughes, Vale-rcad, Rhyl. Second Class.-Open to all comers. The fol- lowing conditions to be adhered to Neither wheels, cutters, guiders, chains, nor weights to be attached to the Plough. First Prize, 95 2nd, f3; 3rd, £ 2 4th, £1 5th, 10s.; 6th, 5s. 1 and Challenge Cup, Cornelius Pierce, Waen (who has won the cup two years in succession) 2 Abel Hughes, Ty Uchaf, Waen; 3 David Hughes, Hylas; 4 Chas Jones, Vaenol Bropor 5 Edw Williams, Plas Newydd, St Asaph; 6 Peter Roberts, Bryncwnin. Third Class. -Open to all Ploughmen under the age of 21. Wheel Ploughs to be used. First Prize, £3; 2nd, 92 3rd, £ 1 4th, 10s. 1 Thos Williams, Pydew; 2 William Parry, Nant Mawr 3 T Williams, Hottia 4 William Roberts, Cauolblas. Fourth Class.-For the neatest and most suit- able Turnout. First Prize, 15s.; 2nd, 10s.; 3rd, 5s. 1 Thos Williams, Terfyn, Newmarket 2 D! Davies, Marian Bach 3 John Roberts, Plassa. Fifth Class.—Special Prize by Mr A. Sheffield, Ironmonger, Rhyl: Two pairs of Bright Hames! for the most valuable team of Horses on the field. 1 T Roberts, Criccin 2 Jno Jones, Tyddyncyll. The Ploughman leaving his Headlands in and out completed in a most workmanlike manner. Won by Peter Roberts, Bryncwnin. The Cleanest Gears on the Field. Thomas Williams, Terfyn, Newmarket. The soundest pair of Horses on the field. Won by Mr, Roberts, Criccin. The annual dinner was afterwards held ab the Mariners' Arms, Rhuddlan.

TREMEIRCHION. MISSION Wopr,Miss Given, deputation from the Zenana branch of the C.M.S., last Sunday addressed the Church Sunday School on mission work, chiefly referring to China and India. Her lecture was admirably illustrated by photos and objects, which enabled all present to follow her clearly and attentively to the end. Miss Given was sincerely thanked by the Vicar on behalf of the Sunday School. DIOCESAN EXAMINATION.—The same afternoon, before the close of the Sunday School, the certifi- cates won at the last Diocesan examination were distributed to the successful scholars by Mrs Mainwaring, Brynbella Mrs Morgan, Caegwyn and Miss Oldfield, Brynclwyd. The following is the list of the recipients-fnfants Robert H Roberts, Wyndham Davies, Mabel Smith Sarah J Parry, Mary E. Evans, Margaret Roberts, Blanche Smith, Class IV. Evan Jones, Owen Jones, Cyril R England, Myfanwy Hughes, David Smith. Class III. Eleanor Jones, Elizabeth Vaughan Jones, Elizabeth Parry, Elizabeth J Smallwood, Catherine A Denman, Eleanor William?, Catherine Roberts, Annie Williams, Thomas Angel, John Jones, W J Williams, Samuel Jeffreys, H H Hughes, Joseph Royles. Class II. Margaret Griffiths, David Griffiths, Peter Smith. Class 1. E A Jones, David P Roberts, Honour Certificates: Margt Edwards, Edith A Roberts, Joseph Roberts, George Smith, John E Parry, T S Smallwood. Recommended for a prize Robert J England. The report says "that this school continues to be very efficient as regards religious instruction." The mark awarded the school in every subject is excellent." GOVERNMENT REPORT.— The following report on the National School has Just been received by the managers :—"The tone and order in this school are exceedingly good. The instruction is earnest and intelligent, and despite much illness amon? the scholars during the year very creditable pro- gress has been made. Composition (taught sys- tematically throughout the school) and Drawing are excellent features in the work. The directress of needlework reports that the needlework exercises of both the older girls and the infants was very good.' New maps, pictures, and desks have enriched the apparatus. The new classroom which has just been completed is a very welcome boou."

OOpONG-A judicious blend of the Choicest Teas Is 6d per lb. Ceylon Tea Pure, Fragrant, and Delicious at Is per lb. 61b carriage paid to any address in the United Kingdom.—Barber & Co. (Established over a century),67 Lord St., Liverpool, and 103 Market St. Manchester

HOCKEY NOTES. On Wednesday 21st, the Hockey Club held a very successful dance in the Victoria Hall. The whole ot the arrangements were carried out by a Committee composed of Messrs W Gunner, F W Nelson, L J Foster, A W Freeston, and C Pount- ney. The music was supplied by Mrs Hazelden. Dancing commenced at 9 o'clock, and was kept up till 3 in the morning. Amongst those present was noticed: Mr and Mrs T W Jones, Mr and Mrs Freeston, Mr and Mrs Gunner, Mr and Mrs Davies, Mr and Mrs Trevethen, Mr and Mrs Tot- ty, Misses Miller, Misses Gunner, Miss Buthin, Miss Ralph, Miss Todd, Miss Wilders, Miss Williams, Mrs Clarke, Miss Davies, Misses Alger, Miss Marshall, Miss Webb, Messrs L J Foster, C Pountney, G Brookes, A Vaughan, H Connah, F W Nelson, W Bailey, H Chatham, T Jones, A Mudd, F Lyne, Birstall, L Minshall, J Davies, T Davies, A Young, &c. The next Hockey match will take place at Rhyl on Saturday next, 'when Holywell will be the visitors.

£ Owing to the special process, |> |j Symington's Edinburgh Essences produce no heartburn [I or biliousness. Cheap, strong, g pure. Small and large bottles. jg From all Grocers. 4 {§

LLANDUDNO. In a lecture on the Boers, Blacks and Britons delivered at Llandudno on Wednesday, Rev. Owen Watkins described the changes in the franchise law, the commandeering of British subjects to fight natives, the imposition of taxes which harass- ed the British inhabitants and did not touch the Boers, and other matters. There was no question of the interests of millionaires it was a question of the foundation principles of liberty and equity both for white men and black men. Some of the noblest men in South Africa had been black people, and it was our duty to educate and Christianise them. White men could not perform manual labour in South Africa, and the black men were willing to work if they were properly paid. He had no love for war, and had frieuds in Pretoria and among the Boers. His son was shut up in Ladysmith. -(Applause.) After deliberate and prolonged thought he wished to say that if Eng- land ever had a righteous war she had got one now.—(Applause.) But the trouble would not be over when the Union Jack again flew over Pretoria, for then the British people would have to solve the problem of how to knit all the different countries and peoples in South Africa into one solid people equal in liberty before God and man. -(Applause.) He asked for no vengeance, for that was for God's charge, and he remembered that the Boer Government was a Government of adventurers 1 from Holland, and that the Boers themselves, except some of the more exalted, knew no more about the doings of the Pretoria Government, or even less, than we did in Britain. But while he I asked for no vengeance he did ask for justice for ( the Boers, for the blacks, and for the British.— I (Applause.) « 1

Mr Samuel Smith has been nominated to serve on the Standing Committee for Trade, Shipping, and Manufactures. 1 h

RHYL DISTRICT. JONE8 BROS, Prestatyn, still lead with their Challenge Blend Tea' and are unsurpassed with their Bread and Cakes. For "}lome.made Bread" and Confectionery, you do better than call at JONES BROS', Liverpool Souse, Prestatyn. First Prize Rhyl May Day, 1899-The Grosvenor Hotel Restaurant Dining Car. The popular place is the SROSVENORfor Parties, Wedding Breakfasts, Dinners, Teas, Suppers, Balls, Social Evenings, &c. Specia: S'itering undfr the personal supervision of Mr and Mrs Snowden. Large and small rooms let for club meetings evening classes, social gatherings, kails, private concerts, &c., with use of piano, at reasonable prices. SPECIAL NOTICE.—F. Hubbard begs to announce that having decided to give up his branch establishment now so well known as The Bon Marche, 24 High Street he will make a great clearance SALE of the whole stock of General Drapery Goods, commencing Saturday, Dec. 9th. The Goods will all be marked in plain figures and piled on thecounters for inspection. THE HOSPITAL FOR BROKEN PIPE is at EISISKI'S Queen Street and High Street (opposite the Post Office) All repairs promptly carried out. A large assortment o Walking Sticks, Tobaccos, and Pipes always in stock. EARLY SPRING FASHIONS.—Mrs Edwards, Compton House, will make a Very Special Show of the lttest novelties in Trimmed Millinery on Tuesday and Wednes- day next. A visit of inspection will be esteemed. MR Ernest Jones, Vale of Clwyd Studio, has just re- ceived a batch of photographs from South Africa, and hopes to have prints in bis window this day (Friday). Comforts for the Welsh Fusiliers. We are very pleased to learn that the appeal made to the people of Rhyl for comforts for the Welsh Regiments has met with most hearty and substantial response, as the following list of articles will testify. These have all been lent to the depot of the regiments at Wrexham, from whence Major Jones Williams has kindly undertaken to forward them to South Africa, at the same time offering his sincere thanks on behalf of the regiments for the thoughtful kindness shown. In addition to the articles of wearing apparel, stationery, &c., it may be interesting to note that after paying the carriage of the enormous parcel to Wrexham the balance of money in hand has been expended in a special comfort for The Absent-minded Beggar in the form of his favourite tobacco. List of articles :— 54 shirts, 56 cholera belts, 20 Balaclava caps, 160 comforters, 113 helmets, 130 pairs of socks, 33 doz. pocket handkerchiefs, 21 pairs of slippers, 52 muslin d'oyleys, 32 dozen boot laces, 39 pairs of cuffs and mittens, 5 reams of foreigu paper and envelopes, 150 indelible pencils, 70 to 80 pounds of tobacco, 1 rug, 2 nightingales, collar studs and buttons, 60 pillows. Wounded in South Africa. Among the list of those wounded in the fighting around Cronje's laager before the surrender of the Boer General and his force appears the name of Norman Hughes, who is at the front with the Canadian contingent. Mr Robert Hughes recently received a letter from his son who wrote in a Tery cheerful strain and referred to the excellent spirits of the men under Lord Roberts. St. Ann's Concert. An enjoyable entertainment was held at the Church House on Tuesday evening, in connection with St. Ann's Band of Hope. The Rev W D Thomas, in the absence of the Vicar, presided, and the following programme was capitally rendered Violin Solo, Miss Leonora North; Recitation, The Doctor's Fee" Miss Nellie Roberts; Song, "May Morning" (enccred, when" Clychau Aberrlyfi" was given), Mrs Tayleur; Song, If with all your heart," Mr Hall Chorus, '•King laughter" Boys; Recitation, "Mary Jane," Miss Rose Briggs Song, Mona," Mr W A Thomas; Song, The miller and the maid (en- cored, Talking in my sleep ") Miss Ethel M Briggs Recitation, The Union Jack," Band of Hope children Violin Solo, Miss Edith Fuller Trio, A little farm well tilled" (encored), Messrs Williams, Edwards, Thomas; Song, "Daddy," Miss Ethel M Briggs Recitation, Dat first soot," (encored three times), Aunt Tabithia," Miss Rose Briggs Song, Tommy Atkins," Mr Thomas Song, "Who'll buy my lavender "Mrs Tayleur Action Song, Tommy Rooke," Band of Hope children; Song, "Love's bequest," Mr Hall God Save the Queen. During the interval Mr Thomas cordially thanked all those who had rendered assistance in connection with the concert. Cambridge University Local Examination— Rhyl Centre. The following are the results of the above ex amination at this centre:—BOYS, Juniors: W W Knott, 2nd class honours, with distinction in drawing, prepared by Mr F Welsh, B.A., Rhyl. R. Amos, 3rd class honours, St Asaph County School. The following satisfied the examiners: A E Jones and W B Manley, County School, Rhyl, R T Millward, County School, Abergele. Preliminary J Rothwell, 2nd clast honours, with distinction in Religious Knowledge, English, and Geography, Epworth College, Rhyl. F L Green, 3rd class honours, Epworth College, Rhyl. The following satisfied the examiners: L B Clarke, J E Fallowes, B R Mills, FRF Mortimer, and D ) orke, of Epworth College, Rhyl; J H Clegg, Tan-y-bryn, Llandudno. Student above 14 years of age A. G. de Castro, Tan-y-bryn, Llandudno. GIRLS, Seniors: D. E. Burden, 3rd class honours with distinction in English and French, Arcville College, Rhyl. The following satisfied the examiners E D'Oyly Watkins, Lansdowne House School, Llandudno. Student above 19 years of age, M A Wrench, Arcville College, Rhyl. Juniors: Class iii., B M Newton, with distinction in religious knowledge, and F M Northwood, both of Lans- downe House School, Llandudno; A F Williams, Fairholme, Rhyl. Student between 16 and 18, who has passed the examination as Junior: MIL Walker, St. Winifred's, Bangor. Preliminary: Students above 14 years of age who have satisfied the examiners M F Bone, private tuition; M I Duke, E Lloyd Williams and M Parker, St. Wini- fred's, Bangor. R M HUGH-JONES, Hon. Local Secretary. Arcville College. Amongst the successful candidates for Local Examinations, Rhyl, during the past year, are the following students from the above school:—Senior Cambridge, D E Burden (3rd class honours, dis- tinction in English and French). Senior Pass-M A Wrench. Colletre of Preceptors—2nd class, 2nd division, K Pengelly; 2nd class, 3rd division, N B Robertson 3rd class, 1st division, Gwendoline Hughes 3rd class, 2nd division, E Fuller Junior Form Pass, K M Martin; London College of Music—Senior 1st division. D E Burden. Mr Welsh's Sohool. We arc asked to report the following successes in connection with Mr Welsh's school and Private Tuition Classes, Mr J F Roberts, Queen's Square Pharmacy, in the Pharmaceutical Society's Pre- liminary examination Mr E H Edwards, 65 High Street, Rhyl, second class, second division, College of Preceptors, qualifying for registration as Dental Student; W W Knott, Bishop's Castle, second class, with distinction in drawing, at the J unior Cambridge Local. English Presbyterian Chapel. On Tuesday evening the bachelor members of the above entertained a company of friends at a social gathering. The schoolroom was tastefully decorated for the occasion, and there was a large attendance. Those present were waited upon by their hosts, who provided a plentiful supply of confectionery, tea, coffee, etc. The following con- tributed to the musical part of the programme Miss Dot Jones, Mr Brodie Griffiths, Mrs Percy, Mrs Garson Allen, Mr Thomas, Miss Gwennie' Davies, Miss Verrier Jones, and Mr R Bromley. At the close a vote of thanks to the bachelor hosts was passed on the proposition of Mr Lewis Evans, seconded by Mr R Bromley. Mr McLennan and Mr Brodie Griffiths replied on behalf of the bachelors. Zenana Missions. On Monday a meeting was held in the Church House on behalf of the Zenana Missions. Miss Given, the deputation, gave a very good account of the work being done amongst the native women of India. The illustrations were very interesting, and gave a good insight into the rural life and cus- toms of the country. Mr R M Hugh Jones mani- pulated the lantern. The Rev J Griffiths opened the meeting, and after apologising for the Vicar's absence read out a list of subscribers and collectors, which was most satisfactory, compared with last year's. While the last hymn was being sung the contributions of those who had come, in spite of the rough night, were taken, and amounted to a good sum. A vote of thanks was given to Miss Given, and the meeting terminated. The Late Lieut. Colonel Thorold. The commander of the Welsh Fusiliers, Lieut Colonel Thorold, who was killed in action while [lis regiment was engaged with Sir Redvers Buller's Eorce on Saturday last was at one time the adju- tant of the Flintshire and Carnarvonshire Volun- teers. He succeeded Major Norman, who lived in Englefield, Rhyl, in 1887. Colonel Thorold-or Captain Thorold as he was theR-was a most popu- ar adjutant both with officers and men and his ieath will greatly be deplored by those who had privilege of serving under him. In the same mgagement Second Lieut C C Norman, son of Ylajor (or now Colonel) Norman, was wounded. Mr Herbert Lewis has again been appointed to ■epresent Wales on the Committee of Public I Accounts, on which falls the important duty of j ] IheokiÐg the national expenditure. {< --r Royal Alexandra Hospital. The annual meeting of this Institution is fixed for Tuesday next, at 2.45. The new buildings on the Marine Drive are being pushed forward as rapidly as possible. It is expected that one block will be ready for occupation at an early date. Funds are required for the completion of the building, which will be one of the largest and most handsome on the coast. Clwyd Street Chapel. On Wednesday evening interesting proceedings took place after the ordinary church meeting, presided over by the Rev S T Jones, pastor. These consisted of a presentation to two of the deacons who recently left the town to live elsewhere—Mr Robert Evans, at Carnarvon, and Mr G T Evans, at Abergele. The Chairman spoke feelingly of the loss sustained by the departure ot two such ener- getic officers. Several others spoke in a like strain. Mr G T Evans was presented with a silver salver, bearing suitable inscription. To Mr Robert Evans was presented with a beautifully hymn and tune book, and a purse of gold. The Milk Supply. On Tuesday, Messrs Ainsworth Bros., of Liver- pool and Birkenhead, commenced to supply milk in this town at 2t!d per quart. On this the com- bined milksellers of the town and neighbourhood, reduced their price from 4d to their old price of 3d. It is said that if the Messrs Ainsworth can be kept from having a footing in the town that there will be little chance of any other outside firm getting one. Death of a Baptist Minister. We regret to hear of tbe sudden death of the Rev J J Williams, Baptist minister, of Penygroes, formerly of Rhyl. During Mr Williams' stay in Rhyl he identified himself with every good object.

NOTES FROM PRESTATYN. The question of running of trains on the electric tramway on Sunday divides Prestatyn people into two camps, and there is by no means a unanimous feeling upon the subject. There is much to be said for and against the running of a regular service of trains on the Sabbath day, but I do not think that the Coun- cil need fear that there will be the wholesale desecration of Sunday that some people prophecy. At present there is undoubtedly drinking going on outside the three-mile limit from Rhyl, but the discussing of this view of the question will open up the debateable point whether the Welsh Sunday Closing Act is a success or not. One thing is pretty certain there would be none of the ragamuffins in Pres- tatyn from other places referred to by the Councillors if there was no Welsh Sunday Closing Act, or if the limit was extended. There are many things to be said in favour of giving the Light Railway Company unrestricted powers. The construction of the line will do good to both Rhyl and Prestatyn, and it is going too far to assert that because more than two trains are run during the day that the quietness of Prestatyn will be disturbed to such a degree that people will not live there. So long as the L. & N. W. Company run trains on Sundays at hours that are suited to the con- venience of the public people who want to come to Prestatyn for whatever purpose will travel by them. It will not do to be too narrow minded on a subject of this kind. If the electric tramway is not required for the con- venience of the public, why have the Light Railway Commissioners sanctioned its con- struction ? I quite agree with the views expressed by the Chairman of the Council that there are not sufficient police in the Prestatyn district. I hope that the Standing Joint Police Com- mittee will pay the respect that is due to his views, and that before very long we shall have an additional policeman, and also a respectable police station. Prestatyn, I think, should have a Sergeant in charge. The health returns of Prestatyn are remark- ably good, and the Councillors are to be con- gratulated on the way they have looked after the town. It is realised by all unprejudiced people that the Urban Councillors have had a great deal to contend with since Prestatyn ob- tained urban powers, and they have to a great extent been obliged to feel their way, at the same time to do the best for the rown without imposing too great hardships on the people who had been used to the rigid enforcement of the Public Health Act. The town wants improving very much in certain places, but the carrying out of the proposed improvement scheme will help to change for the better many things. TWM O'R NANT.

Prestatyn Constitutional Club. The annual meeting was held on Monday last, MrJWWorfolk presiding, and there were also present Messrs LI Roberts, T Brightmer, H Stansfield, W Bennett, R Hughes, E D Evans, W Glass, Parry, J Pritchard, T J Scott (Hon Sec). The report, which was read by the Hon Sf-C, congratulated the members on having passed through a highly successful year, 29 new members having been elected in that period, and although several had left the district the Club now consis- ted ot about 120 members. Reference was made to the interest taken in the Billiard League, and to the satisfactory action of the Club in looking after the registration of electors. The receipt of daily telegrams came under notice, and it was stated that they were much appreciated by the members. The financial statement disclosed the very strong position which the Club held. The report and balance sheet were adopted on the motion of Mr E D EvaDII, seconded by Mr Bright. mer. Lord Mostyn was re-elected President, and the following Vice-Presidents: Messrs RC Welsby. J.P., J T Davies, W Bulcock, W Horsfall, and Capt Fuller. Mr Evans propo-ted, and Mr Stans- field seconded, that Mr W H Coward, J.P., be re- elected Chairman of the Committee. Mr J W Worfolk was re-elected Vice-chairman. The Chairman (Mr Worfolk) moved, and Mr Bright- mer seconded, the re-election of Mr T J Scott as hon sec and treasurer. The following were appointed the Committee for the ensuing year Messrs E Taylor, D Davies, J Pritchard, LI Roberts, J 0 Clarke, R Hughes, W Prescott, E D Evans, H Stansfield, T Brightmer, W A Broad, G Roberts, Price, and J R Tickle. Providing it could be conveniently arranged, Primrose Day was named as the date of the annual dinner.—Mr T J Scott in referring to South African affairs, con- demned the unpatriotic action of the Opposition in the House of Commons in proposing a vote of censure, when all parties should have been united for the good of the Empire, and said that the Government had accomplished what no othel nation in the world could have done in transport- ing nearly 200,000 troops 8,000 miles. He pro- posed the following resolution, That this Club desires to express its confidence in Her Majesty's Ministers, and its approval of the policy they have pursued in South Africa, and the efforts they have made to bring the military operations to a success- ful issue." This was seconded in a few well- choseu remarks by the Chairman and carried unanimously. Several new members were elected and the meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman, Vice-chairman, and Hon. Secretary.

The Cheap Milk Supply. TO THE EDITOR OF THE RHYL JOURNAL. DSoin SIR,— I hope that this opposition in town will get the support it deserves, coming at a time when we are up in arms at the way we were being treated bv the milkmen of Rhyl, who would not supply us at less than 4d per quart. But now there is some opposition, they are all coming down, which shows us that there must be a b g profit, as the new milk people can d., it at 2Jd, which is a big reduction. BIl if we do not support them as they deserve, it will be our own fault. The price goes back if they succeed in driving opposition out of the town. I for one will give him the support he deserves. Tbe quart the man left this morning was excellent. Thanking you in anticipation,—I remain, A. BIG CONSUMER.

The St David's Welsh Service in St Cathedral on Monday evening was attended by about 10,000 persons. The special feature of the service this year was the orchestra of harps, about 120 in number, under the direction of Mr John Thomas (Pencerdd Gwalia) and four brass instruments. The large choir was conducted by Mr J. E. Davis, organist of St David's, Padding- ton. a native of Rhuddlan, and organist for some years of the parish church The Magnificat and Nant Dimittis were composed by Mr Meyrick Roberts, late of St Asaph. The preacher was Canon Williams, St David'&. Captain R. W. H. W. Williams Wynn, Mont- gomeryshire Yeomanry, is gazetted captain in the Imperial Yeomanry with temporary rank of Captain in the Army.