Rhyl Record and Advertiser

An actor says that not one comic song in ninety introduced to the public ever becomeg popular. — —♦ THE REDDITCH NEEDLE TRADE.—The way in which the Needle Manufacture has clung to Ked- ditch aud its neighbourhood has been strikingly illustrated within the last few davs by tbe amal- K^tnation of the firms ot Henry Milward & Sons, Limited, and J. k M. Mills & Co. Both these tirms huve existed under the same names since the ^•■ginning of the last century, Messrs. Mills hwing been established in the year 1706, and M-ssrs. Milward in th Messrs. MilwaH i.ave been the owners of the old-fashioned and pretty rural Needle Mill known as Waehford Mills, "tudley, since 1790, the same Mill having been in thf occupation of Messrs. Mills for thirtv or eurs before that date. Times have changed and he united business will new be carried on at the xtensive and tLoroughlv equipped modern Mills t Messrs Milward, Washford Mills, Reduitch, v here eipht hundred pairs of hands are employed iu making Needles and Fish Hooks.

A DCEL IX IRELAND. FATHER AGAINST DAUGHTER. Colonel Tyntc, resident, magistrate, at HUB- 1 -entna. Co. Donegal, has investigated a remark- able charge arising out of an actual duel be- tweeu father and daughter. It seems that Bo.neais ),h'j\'¡'¡j' is a clerk in charge of the extensive i'Oi-iieat:ons being built by the Gov- eminent on the chores of Lough willv, His dau^htev Lily, agtul and Corporal French, of the llwjul Artillery, were sweethearts. Magregor disapproved of tins, and one day, while the three were about, driving from oiie tort to another, he order the girl o!f French's side of the car. Subsequently about midnight words passed be- tween father and daughter, wfth the result, as alleged, that. seeing her father ]->ut his hand on 11, belt containing his revolver, the girl said, am in it," and took dowt a rifle. Both iired simultaneously, and each received scratch wonnds. The police charged with sh-.oting, and Magregor with cruelty in keeping his daughter out in the cold :1b1 night.—-Evidence was given at length, and the girl displayed great ability in cross-ex- mnining the witnesses called against her.—' Colonel ly;:> e j'c; urm a ooth for trial all a charge of shooting.The charge of cruelty against the father was adjourned.

DISASTROUS BALLOON TIUP. A FALL OF FORTY FEET. The "London Evening News" chartered a balloon which left London on Tuesday with the, view of crossing the Channel and getting, if possible, to Paris. When it readied Lalaning, a village near Worthing, a tear developed, and the occupants endeavoured to alight. The aeronaut, 11'. Arthur Williams, accomplished this without injury, though he was dragged through a hedge, but the Evening News" cor- respondent fell a height, of 40 feet, and received injuries to his side and hip. He received medi- cal treatment, and was then removed to Brigh- i ton. The balloon escaped Heawcrds.

The village of Kischlali, Central Asia, having been attacked by plague, only 125 souls out of a population of survive. Two brothers, Den Burton (17), and Charles Burton (7), have died in Leicester Infirmary: from injuries caused by the explosion of a uaraffin tamp. A middle-aged man named Robert Miles, wliilo ■ engaged in hoisting a number of packages by the lift at the premises of Messrs. Faudel i'iiillips and Sons, in (Queen's Head Passage and Newgate Street, London, was caught by the cage, which suddenly descended, and was killed on the spot. As the express which leaves Holyhead at was recently passing through Valley Station, a' private in the Lancashire Regiment fell out of the train, aud was picked up unconscious. He was 'taken back to Holyhead, where he now lies at the Stanley Hospital. The warehouses at Hartlepool Docks arc being severely taxed by an enannons importation of eggs. The other day, 2,600 cases, representing 3jt million eggs, were discharged, and during the past few days one firm alone has imported over two million eggs.

( DEATH. -SlMCoX.—November 23rd, at Min-y.Don Cottage, East Paradd, Rhyl, aged 73 years, Ann, the beloved wife of Richard Simcox.

ROYAL VICTORIA HOTEL, PRESTATYN. DESCRIPTION OF THE BUILDING. The magnificent hotel, the outcome of the enter- prise -of Mr Martin O'Connor, which adorns the corner of High Street and Sandy Lane, Prestatyn, must infallibly tend to give this charming little waterinc place a considerable forward impetus. It is so conspicuously situated, and 110 commanding 1 and imposing in its appearance that the thousands of passengers who travel up and down the Chester and Holyfiead line cannot help being attracted by it. The large outlay of money involved in the building and furnishing of so commodious and handsome an hotel indicates that the owner must possess almost unlimited confidence in the future of Prestatyn. The public manifestation of that confidence expressed by the erection of this costly buildidg must fering in its train incalculable advantages to a rising resort like Prestatyn. What a town bidding for public patronage needs above everything' else are a few public spirited men who will show their confidence in the place by timely enterprise and judicious speculation. The erection of the Royal Victoria Hotel has done this for Prestatyn, and not only this but it has also supplied the place with the chief essential to a holiday resort, viz., a first-class hotel replete with all the conven- iencos and comforts wbich have made modern hotels such palaces of luxury. After the magistrates had confirmed the Provis. ional Grant of the license last week our represent- ative was conducted by Mr O'Connor and Mr Sutton, one of the joint architects, through the hotel. As already intimated the building is erected on the corner of High Street and Sandy Lane with frontages to both streets. The elevation is of red Ru-tbon patent bricks with white stone dressings. A feature of it are the tower windows on the corner which add considerably to the architectural effect. Otherwise there is no attempt at elaborate orna- mentation; substantiality, neatness, and consist- ency rather are the leading characteristics of the elevation, and these combine to give the whole structure an elegant and imposing appearance. A massive stone porch, chastely and richly carved forms the main entrance from High Street, and this leads us into a wide vestibule and-entrance hall, the flaors of which are laid respectively with mosaic work and encaustic tiling. The walls at once attract our attention by their rich decorations of Burmantoft's Faience ware which extend the whole height to the second lauding. The luxurious effect produoed by the ornamentations of the hall is intensified by the vestibule framing and private bar fronts. These are of highly polished and carved H onduras mahogany, and are filled with brilliant cut glass the designs on which are in keeping with the good taste manifested throughout. To the right of the main entrance is the commercial room which Mr O'Oonnor has furnished in massive oak, whilst im- mediately opposite on the left is a handsomely furnished iiuffett for the entertainment of those guests in the hotel other than commercials. Behind the commercial room is a large roomy, airy and well lighted dining room capable of seating 100 guests and between the two rooms are the the lavatories fitted with hot and cold water and other conveniences. On the other side is the priyate bar. The bar stillage is of Honduras mahogany filled in with massive mirrors. The counter is also of mahogany, and the bar fittings are all of the most modern description and superior design. At the side is a spirit lift which ascends to the highest landing. The bar derives its light from the roof through an ornamentally designed rooflight arranged in the form cf a dome. The whole room is artistically decorated, and has an appearance of much charm. The back portion is divided from a narrow passage by a glass partition and this passage leads us to the billiard room, a large well-ventilated room in which two fust-class billiard tables with the incidental appointments are to be placed by Messrs T. Sowerby and Sons, Liverpool. Leading out of this room is a completely fitted lavatory with hot and cold water. By the same passage we are led to another part of the hotel which is approached from the outside by a separate entrance underneath the tower windows. Here a series of rooms are partitioned off for casual trade with special provision for pic-nic and excursion parties; smoke room, reading room and other facilities for the refreshment department. All these rooms are eleg- antly furnished, and the large massive cut-glass mirrors which adorn them are a commanding feature. The whole of the rooms on the ground floor are laid with wood b'ock flooring. The large kitchens and domestic offices are in the rear. The kitchens are completely fitted with all the requisites for an elaborate cuisine. The rango has three large ovens with two fires, and in a speeial recess, which might almost be called a room, is the lift which carries to the uppermost story. The whole of the basement uuderneath is occupied by the extensive veine and beer cellars which are already heavily stocKed with the finest wines and spirits, and oomprille the pro- ductions of all the leading distillers and wiiie producers. The cold larders are also in the base- ment. Before departing from the ground floor to explore the higher altitudes we were shown a Beries of smaller rooms than those enumerated which are to be set apart for various purposes such as retiring rooms for the transaction of private business by customers and guests; a boots' room, &c. Arriving once more at the entrance hall we are taken uptairs along a wide staircase with ornate carved mahogany newels (9in by 9ín), hand- rails and balusters. At the top of the first flight we are led to the rear of the building which is the private domain of the proprietor. Here there are seven bedrooms, a dining room, two lavatories, and other conveniences. Upon the first floor are about seventeen bedrooms so arranged as to enable them to be let with private sitting rooms en suite. Upon this floor also is the drawing room with windows to both High Street and Sandy Lane, the recess of the round tower window giving it a distinctly graceful appearance. The grate and mantle-piece are particularly handsome, the tiling in the former being all hand.painted whilst the mantle-piece is of solid white marble. Leading out of the drawing-room is a small dining room, whilst on the other side of the building is a large upstairs coffee room. Around the rooflight which gives the bar its light is a commodious smoke room for reeident guests fitted with facilities for communic- ation with the bar below. A writing room is provided on the same floor, and also bathrooms for ladies and gentlemen as well as lavatories and sanitary conveniences. The second floor is taken up with twenty-two large bedrooms all furnished in tne most handsome manner a dining room, four W.C.'e and a bathroom; whilst the attics above are devoted to the servant's apartments. Altogether about 40 bedrooms are available for letting purposes with a series ot private sitting rooms in convenient proximity. Stairs are provided which lead to the flat roof, where vistors may command one of the finest sea and mountain views to be seen in Wales. This description but imperfectly exhausts the accommodation and conveniences to be found in this delightful hotel, whilst we are necessarily obliged to pass over the multifarious details which form so important a factor in the general arrangement. We might say that on each landing patent fire appliances are provided for use in case of any out- break of fire, and on the second floor is a large rain water cistern capable of containing nine thousand gallons of rain water, whilst on the floor below is another similar cistern. The opportunity of obtain- ing1 a practically unlimited supply of pure rain water is a convenience which many will appreciate. Electric bells are fitted throughout the hotel, and wires are also laid for electric lighting by De Wassal, of Liverpool. For the present gas lights will be used, but as soon as Messrs Dickson who are laying the electric tramway between Rhyl and Prestatyn are in a position to supply the light it will be duly installed and failing their being able to do so, Mr O'Connor will put down his own plant. The hotel bas been handsomely furnished through- out, with sew and luxurious furniture by Messrs Watts, and Co., Compton Liverpool. Out- side the hotel, in a separate building with a direct approach from two streets is a large ballroom with a covered glass approach capable of holding 250 to 300 persons, with anti rooms &o. complete. It is also fitted up with a moveable stage for concerts, meetings, theatrical entertainments &c. In the rear are extensive stables, coach-houses, harness rooms &c., with accommodation for 20 horses enclosed in a large stable yard. Thesa latter buildings were built by Mr John Pritchard, of Prestatyn, the stable fittings being supplied by Messrs Yates, Haywood and Co., of Liverpool. The sole contractor for the hotel was Mr Charles Burt of Wellington Road, Liverpool. The bar fittings, seating and wood block, flooring were ex- ecuted by Messrs Tomkinson and Co., of Roscommon Street, Liverpool. The wall and floor tiling was supplied by Messrs Swift and Co., of Liverpool. The plumbing and decorations were carried out by Messrs W. H. Coward and Son, Liverpool. The locks and ironmongery were supplied by Messrs Townsdale, of Southport, and th., lifts by Messrs Waygood and Co., Loudon the iron work by Messrs Worral and Co., of Liverpool, and the glass including the lead lights, glazing and embossed glaes by Messrs Latham and Co., of Liverpool, whilst Messrs Cooper and Co., of Liverpool, supplied the rates. mantels, rangeB. &c. The whole of the work was executed under the superintendanee of the joint architects, Mr Richard E Hughes, Rhyl, and Mr J. Have lock Sutton, of Liverpool, the Clerk of the works being Mr B. Johnson.

NOTES FROM PRESTATYN. [BY DEWI WYLLT.] Out of the fifteen applicants for the office of Surveyor and Inspector of Nuisances for the Prestatyn Urban District Council. three were selected to appear before a special meeting of the Council on Saturday. These were Messrs W. H. Turner. Rbyl Bernard Griffithe. Rhyl; and W. C. Bell. The final voting was between the two first named, Mr Turner being ultimately elected by a maiority of one vote. Mr Turner was the second on the list on the occasion of the appointment of the first Surveyor, and it seems but fitting that be should step into the first place now, Everyone will agree that the selection is an excellent one, and in the name of a host of his friends, I desire to heartily congratulate Mr Turner on his appointment. May the improvement of Prestatyn proceed apace under his Surveyoiship and nuisances abate with sudden promptness under Lis In- spectorship. —o— I should like to know what is the position of affairs with respect to the improvement scheme? The Prestatyn Council are so fond of doing everything in the privacy of committee that the public are seldom ever afforded an opportunity of knowing what they are doing. It seems a thousand pities that more vigorous efforts are not made to push through with the improvements of High Street, Jf this, the principal thoroughfare in Prestatyn, were placed In something like decent order, it might induce prospective builders to put np a better and more artistic class of buildings than they are at present doing. Some of the recent erections in High Street are lamentaUy lack- ing both in architecture and substantiality. If a street worthy of good buildings were made, we might see a much needed improve- ment in the class of buildings erected in our High Street. o— It certainly seems remarkable that the Council should show such changing atd chopping about over their by-laws. The street by-laws are now a hardy monthly at the Council meetings. Apparently they are to be framed and manipulated to meet the views and wishes of a few people who exercise territorial sway at Prestatyn. 1 am one of those who like to see a local authority doing all they possibly can to consult the wishes of those who are capable of assisting in the development of the place. Bnt there is a limit to all things, and surely by now an end should be put to the manoeuvering over the by-laws. There are several gentlemen, it seems, anxious to make roads of a less width than that prescribed in the new by-laws. It is just possible if these gentlemen did not happen to be members of fhe Council or large landowners, that the Council would not have entertained this question of departing from the settled principle in regard to new roads. -0- The Chairman of our District Council. Mr W. H. Coward, J.P., is among those honoured by an invitation to the banquet to be given by the Chairman of the Rhyl Urban District Council next Thursday. I believe that he intends to be present at the function. He will possibly find a few useful hints there which will be of use to him when the Prestatyn civic dinner comes off at the new hotel. -0- The Flintshire Standing Joint Police Com- mittee at their meeting last week, decided to accept the generous offer of Mr O'Connor to let his room for the Magistrates' meetings. Though he exacts a rental of £10 a year from the magistrates" he has undertaken that the whole of it shall be handed over to the Pregtatyn Urban District Council towards the cost of maintaining a fire engine. With the valuable property now put up at Prestatyn, the Council should seriously consider the question of supplying proper means of fire extinguishing in the event of an outbreak of fire. —o— The formal opening of the Victoria Hotel, has been fixed to take place for Thursday [ next. Mr O'Connor will entertain the ,membrs of the District Council and a few friends, to a little dinuer, whilst refreshments will be provided free gratis and for nothing, for all who care to visit the hotel and drink to its prosperity and that of its enterprising proprietor. There will be open house that night for everybody. I hope to be among the number who will participate in this princely hospitality. Being moderate myself I expect to see the quality of moderation properly observed by others, and I shall keep a watchful eye on those who show a disposition to over- step the limits of moderation.

LET THE AIR IN. — Alexandre Duma^s, fhe French novelist, had in his character much of the natural comicality of the negro race, from which he had partly sprung. His son vas not- ably lacking in this quality, and' the father was fond df making pleasant little jokes at his ex- pense. Once, when the father was visiting the son, Alexandre's invited Alexandre pere into the garden, which is said to have been somewhat larger than a good-sized pocket-handkerchief. They sat under the one little tree in this garden, and fiuiaed themselves. "I am suffocating." said Alexandre pere. « What shall I do, father asked Alexandre fils. Open one of the win- dows, a'nd"let a little air into your garden," said fhe father. HE NEVHR CAME BACK.—He had been WOT- shippisg her for months, but had never told her, and she didn't want him to. He had come often and stayed late—very late—and she could only sigh and hope. He was going away the next day on a holiday, and he thought the last night was the tame %o spring the momentous question. He kept it to himself, however, until the last thing. It was 11.30 by the clock, and it was not a very rapid clock. "Miss Mollie," he said, tremulously, I'm going away to-morrow." Are you ? she said, with the thoughtlessness of girl- hood. "Yes," he replied. "Are you sorry?' Yes, verry sorry," she murmured. I thought' you might go away this evening." Then she gazed at the clock wistfully, and said good- night. THE TREND OF THE CONVERSATION. — The following conversation took place a few days ago between two countrymen:—" Oi wondher, Bill, how this wurld kum here ? Fwhy, that's not so hard, but oi ken aisly tell you how the United Sthates kum here." "How?" Pat asked. Fhy, Crostipher Columbus, if coorse, fotched id here." But," said Pat, 'tis sthrange, shurely the wurld must sthand on somethin', or else 'tud sink in the mud." It sthands on a big rock," replied Bill. "An' phwat dus the rock sthand on?" "Wall," said Bill (looking puzzled), "yer see, its all rocks all the way down, an' all must sthand on the lasht wan." Oi shympatise wid you thar," said Pat. You got a gud hedication, Bill, an' a gud hedication is worth a mon onny munney." HER FAIRY FOOTSTEPS.—A clever English actor was playing the role of the heavy villain in a very exciting but unsuccessful melodrama. He had just finished the consultation with the low-comedy villain which occurs in all pro- perly-constructed melodramas, and had spoken the cue for the heroine's entrance. "Away! she comes! I hear her footstepsI" As he made this speech the property-man, whether accidentally or not, dropped a sixteen-pound shot down the staircase which led to the dres- sing-rooms. There was a succession of delibes- ate crashes, which somewhat resembled the footsteps of a giant, and the audience saw the ludicrous side of the situation at once. Tha actor stood rooted to the spot, bursting with suppressed laughter, and not knowing what to do. The leading lady was unfortunately some- what stout, and, on hearing the noise, absolutely refused to make her entrance, vowing that the whole thing had been arranged for the purpose of insulting her. Entreaties and threats had no effect; she remained obdurate, and the curtain had to be rung down and the audience dismis- sed. The "Leading Lady" left the company the next morning.

Spain was originally formed from 14 frlbg- doms, and has an area of 196,173 square miles, and a population of 17,000,000. If all the lands suitable for cultivation ot sugar-cane were utilised in Cuba, the island could produce enough sugar for the entire Western Hemisphere. Havana was founded, in 1619, by a BOn. (Of Christopher Columbus, and in 1762 a British force captured the place; but the island was restored to Spain under the Treaty of PariI, 1763,

RHYL. WE are pleased to hear that the health of Mrs Rowlands, the wife of our esteemed Town Clerk, who has been lying seriously ill, has within the last few days shown gratifying signs of improvement. INSTITUTE OE JOURNALISTS.—A meeting of the North Wales sub-district of the Institute of Journalists was held at the Alexandra Hotel, on Saturday evening. Mr J. Mason (Secretary of the Liverpool District), and Mr McCabe, of Liverpool, attended as deputa- tion, and there were members present from Wrexham, Denbigh, Llandudno, and Rhyl. Mr J. Lloyd Williams, Denbigh, was elected to the chair pro tern. A discussion took place on the question of dividing the sub-district, and it was resolved to recommend that the district be divided into two, the first to be called the Wrexbam sub-district, and the second the North Wales Coast sub-district. The follow- ing were elected officers for the ensuing year —Chairman, Mr J. Lloyd Williams, Denbigh secretary and treasurer, Mr J. D. Pulkingborne, Rhyl. Mr J. Mason introduced the scheme of a Provident Fund" started in connection with the Institute, and it was received with considerable favour by the members present. Mr Mason explained that the annual meetings of the Institute would be held this year in Liverpool, and it was suggested that among the trips to be organized during the conference week, there should be one to the Isle of Man, and a sea trip to Llandudno. The North Wales sub-ccmmittee were asked to make arrangements for entertaining the members on the occasion of their visit to Llandudno and j r Moy of that town said the people of Llan- dudno would be glad to welcome them, and he could guarantee both a luncheon and garden party. Mr J. W. Jones urged that the sub-district should hold a special meeting to consider the matter. He said that it was aesirable in order to secure united action on the part of the sub-district, that the claim: of Rhyl should not be overlooked to a visit from the Institute. It was scarcely likely that the Rhyl journalists, and those of the surrounding district, would enter very en- thusiastically into airangements for enter- taining the institute at Llandudno. Should a visit be paid to Rhyl, there was little doubt that the people there would extend every, hospitality, and arrange for an enjoyable; programme. He proposed that a special meeting be held in January, to consider the matter, and to submit proposals to the Liver- pool district.—Mr Lewis Jones (Rhyl), seconded, and it was unanimously carried. The visiting members were afterwards enter-: tained to tea by the Rtyl members. PRESENTATION TO BRUNSWICK CHAPEL I At the close of the social tea, which was given by Mr R. J. Williams, High Street, at Brunswick Chapel, on Thursday week, Mrs Robert Jones, Brighton Road, widow of the] late Rev Robert Jones (c), presented to the Trustees of the Brunswick Chapel a handsomely bound and costly bible, for the use of the pulpit; and m making the presentation she addressed some appropriate remarks. The; inscription on the first page of the bible was as follows :—"Presented by Mrs Mary Jones, widow of the late Hev Robert Jones (c), for the use of the pulpit of Brunswick Chapel. A thank offering for the goodness of God. Upon the motion of the Rev W. H. Evans. seconded by Mr W. M. Williams, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mrs Jones, for her kind and acceptable gift. THE CHAIRMAN'S BANQUET.—Among those who have accepted invitations for the Chair- man's Banquet at the Westminster Hotel, next Thursday, are Mr Samuel Smith, M P., Mr T. T Marks. J.P. (Chairman of the Llan- dudno Council), Mr J. E. Roberts, J.P. (Chairman of the Uolwyn Bay Council), and Mr W. H- Coward, J.P. (Chairman of the Prestatyn Urban District Council). EXT YEARS MINSTREL TROUPE. — We understand that the General Purposes Com- mittee have decided to accept the offer of Mr £ H. Williams, in conjunction with Mr Gilbert Rogers, to supply the minstrel troupe for next year. Mr Williams offered £120 for the permit. Mr Rogers has since withdrawn his application and will become Mr Williams' manager. Mr Williams will corn- < mence on May 6th and continue tc Oct. 14tb. THE SITE.-—The directors of the North & South Wales Bank have intimated to the Rhyl Urban District Council, their ac- ceptance of the offer of Bodfor site at £3,000. The old building has now been entirely demolished, and the ground is being rapidly cleared of the material and debris, with the result that the improvement effected in Bodfor Street is already obvious. We understand that the North & South Walee Bank con- template the erection on the site of handsome and imposing bank premises, and that the work will be proceeded with without delay. GOSPEL TOTAL ABSTINENCE MEETINGS IX VICTORIA HALL.—Last fcunday night the Hall was again well filled. The Welsh Good Templars (Vale of Clwyd Lodge) were there in force in their regalia' occupying the platform and front thereof. After singing and prayer and a short address from the chairman Bro. Edwin Davies, C.T., the following programme was proceeded with. The addresses, singing and recitations, were very good and suitable:— Recitation, "Y ffordd i Baradwys," Brother Williams temperance field by lodge members address in English Mr T. E. Jones; solo, Ora Pro Nobis," Sister L. Hughes i recita tion, The dream of the Revellers," Bro. T. D. Proffitt; solo, h Daddy," Sister E. Jones; address in Welsh, Bolo. H. T. Jones address in Welsh, Bro. the Rev Enoch Anwyl, Coed. poeth, District who said he was very pleased to see so many present, and to find the lodge in sueh a flourishing condition. He strongly advised the young people to become members of the different lodges (Welsh and English), as it would help to draw out their different talents, as had been shown that night. The Good Templars should keep this question alive in their different churches. He believed that in a short time the temperance question would be well to the front, and every effort should be concentrated in that direction. There is plenty of work for all. Sisters M. Davies and E. A. Proffit, presided at the organ. LOCAL FREEMASONS AND THE LATE orLORD LATHOM.—At the ordinary meeting of the Caradoc Lodge (1674), beld at the Masonic Room, on Monday evening, a resolution of condolence and sympathy was passed with the family of the late Lord Lathom, Pro. Grand Master of England andtProvincial Grand Master of West Lancashire. A copy of the resolution was ordered to be sent to Lord Skelmersdale. GOOD TEMPLARS —The local lodge of Good Templars held their weekly meeting at the W elsh Congregational Chapel on Tuesday, when nine new members were received. Songs, recitations &c. were given by Sister S- A. Jones| and Bros. Proffit and Roberts, whilst Bros. Henry Jones and Hwco Penmaen spoke of the importance and responsibility of signing the pledge. Next Tuesday Bro. John Davies will read a paper on Why I am a total abstainer," Bro, J. Harry Davies will give a violin solo and songs will be rendered by Bros Evan Davies, W.C T, and Robert Jones. PROPERTY SOLD-—We are informed that Messrs Berrie and Williams, auctioneers, have this week sold a semidetached residence in Elwy Street, known as "Graianfa." This property, at one time, belonged to the late Rev. J. O. Gwen Jones, and was occupied by his widow for several years after the decease of the rev. gentleman. CLWYD STREET LITERARY SOCIETY.—At the weekly meeting in connection with the above held on Monday evening last, a very interesting address was delivered by the Rev. R. Williams, Towyn, on Ritualism." There was a good audience present, and at the close a hearty vote of thanks was passed for the able manner n?u w Williams delivered the address. The subject for next Monday is a paper on Music by Mr G. W. Jones. SATURDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT. The first of a series of entertainments intended to be held fortnightly by the Rhyl Council Brass Band took place on Saturday evening. The attendance was rather disappointing, but as the exellence of the entertainment provided becomes better known, they will doubtless receive a larger measure of public support. There was a well selected programme, the items of which were chiefly sustained by members of the band. Mr J. H Ellis, J.P., (Chairman of the Urban District Council) presided, and he was supported on the platform by Mr R. Jolley. The accompanist was Mrs McCann. The Chair- man made a few appropriate opening remarks, in the course of which he explained the object of those gatherings, which was to afford the band an opportunity for practise and improve- ment as well as to enliven, and enterain lovers of brass band music during the dreary Saturday nights of winter. The following is a copy of the programme :—March, Starlit Dell" Band; song, "Colomen Wen" Miss A. Williams (Winner of a Silver Cup) recitation, The Progress of Madness" Mr T. Amos Jones cornet solo, "LaFolies" Mr T. Clough; song, "The Village Blacksmith" Mr J. Morris Jones; violin solo, "Allegretto Giocoso" Mr J. H. Davies selection, Emira" (a and b) Band; song, "Death of Nelson" Mr W. Hibbitts song, "Perlfy N wyfron" Mr David Lewis; instrumental quartette, Rememb- rance Messrs T. Clough, D. Lewis, W. Jones and T. M. Roberts; recitation, Gwron y Conemaugh" Mr Henry Jones; song, "The Cows are in the Clover Miss A. Williams selection, "Pirates of Penzance" Band. At the close Mr R. Jolley proposed, and Mr J. A. Evans seeonded a vote of thanks to the Chair- man, to the artistes, &c. The band brought to a close a thoroughly enjoyable concert with the selection Pirates of Penzance," which they played in a highly creditable manner. We understand that the band will play a programme of music in the bandstand, which will be removed opposite the Westminster Hotel, cn the occasion of the Chairman's Banquet on Thursday next. The next concert will be given on Saturday evening next, when a good pro- gramme will be provided. CHBIBT CHURCH SOCIAL.—The second Socia evening in connection with Christ Church Congre- gational Youn People's Society, was held on Thursday at the Lecture Hall, Water Street. There was a large attendance presided over by the Kev. E. E. Ingham. The following programe was gone through with much acceptance. Pianoforte solo, Miss Harrison song, Mrs Freeman recitat- ion, Mr P. C. M. Wiliiams; song, Miss S. Jor.es: pianoforte solo, Mies Fraocis; song, Miss Ralph song, Miss Williams song, Miss M. M. YViu.ams. Various drawing room games were also played during the evening in which all present keenly participated. During an interval the President took the opportunity of presenting to Mr and Mrs W. freeman, a handsome (drawing room lamp sub- ^•iibed for by the Sundny School and Young People Society, on the occasion of their recent marriage. In making the presentation Mr Ingham referred in appreciative terms to the services rendered by both Mr and Mrs Freeman to the Church and wished them much happiness and prosperity. The eifr was appropriately acknowledged by Mr Freeman. Refreshments were supplied in the course of the evening, ENGLISH BAPTISTS ANNUAL TEA PARTT.—The annual tea party and concert cf the English Baptists, Sussex Street, was held on Thursday, and was attended by a gratifying measure of success. Tea was served to a large company in the Lecture Hall attached to the 2Chapel, which bad been prettilj decorated under the superintendence ot Mr Btlrrows by Miris B. McEwen, Miss Garnett, and Miss Roberts, the plants being kindly lent by Mrs Burrows. The ladies who presided at the tables were Mrs Burrows, Mrs D. G. Lewis, Miss Johnson, Mrs E. W. Parry, Mrs Cox, Mrs Slinn, Miss Martin, Mrs C. Jones, Mrs D. J. Davies, Miss Williams, Edward Henry Street, Miss Hugh s, Mrs Cooper, and Miss Lloyd, assisted bv Mrs Howard and Mrs Martin, who superintended arrangements in the kitchen.— In the evening an enjoyable concert w-ts held in the Chapel, under the presidency of Mr Burrows, J.P. C.A. There was a numerous and appreciative audience, who listened with much satisfaction to the following programme :—Organ recital, Mr Bryan Warharst; song "Thou did st not leave his Soul," Mrs Cousins, Colwyn Bay song, "Paradise" Miss Williams, song, 41 Light," Miss Lake; eonp, "River of Life," Miss Claudia Davies; song, "Hosannah Excelsas," Mr E. W. Parry; duett, Mrs Cousins and Mrs Williams organ recital, Mr Bryan Warhurst. Address by the Rev. H. T. Cousins, Colwyn Bay. who touched upon the ritualist controversy now engaging the attention of both Churchmen and Nonconformists. Song, "Abide with me," Miss Lake; song, "Be- hold Thy King," Mrs Cousins song, The Way of Peace," Mr E. W. Parry Bong, The Better Land," Miss Claudia Davies. The Rev D. G. Lewis proposed a vote of thanks to the tea makers and others for their successful efforts in the afternoon and it was heartily carried, and on the motion of the Rev. D. Davies, Rochd tie, a hearty vote of thanks was carried to ths Chair- man and to the artistes. The secretarial arrange- ments were carried out by Mr K. McEwen.

FLINTSHIRE POLICE COMMITTEE. THE QUESTION OF TIED HOUSES. ——— A quarterlv meeting of the Committee was held at Mold on Thursday. Mr R. LI. Jones, (Rhyl) presided.—The report of the Chief Constable (Major Webber) showed that during the past quarter 21 persons were proceeded against for indictable offences and 342 for nonindictable offences. Five full licensed houses (one free and four tied) had been proceeded asainst, and four convictions obtained. There had also been three tied beerhouses proceeded against, with two convictions. There had been a considerable increase in the number of convictions for drunkenness as compare i with the previous quarter and the corresponding quarter of last year. The estimate for pay and contingencies for the first three months of 1899 amounted to £ 1,340.—Arising out of the Chief Constable's re- port, a discussion took place as to whether the names of the licensees and owners should be given in tbe report —Mr W. Astbury (Nortbop) was in favour of the names of licensees being given, and Dr. J. ti. Williams (Flint) thought the names of the owners of bouses convicted should appear.—Mr L. Bromley (Holywell) deprecated the proposal that nimes should appear in the report. He did not see why the names of owners should be given as some of them might be more friendly with certain brewers than others. Mr Astbury though that the names of the houses at any rate should be given.—Dr. Williams said they were beg-wning- to realise that "tied" houses were continually cropping up, ani he wished to know whether certain houses belonging to p^rtioulai firms were oftener convicted than others. He did not see how they could know this unless the names of the owners were I given. In reply to Mr Bromley, he said he hoped that no member would allow any personal element to enter into this matter.—Mr?. P. Pen- nant (St. Asaph) pointed out that the information they desired the Chief Constable to include in his report was already public knowledge. In these cases there had been public prosecutions at petty sessions, find they were not asking for any new information. -It was ultimately decided to embody in the report information which had been made public at the pro- secutions. — Mr Prince (/Oonnah's Quay) wished to know whether the increase in the convictions for nunkenne88 had been general throughout the count y.—The Chief Constable quoted figures show- I icg that tbere hnd been an increase of nine C;1.ses of diunk-nness in the Mold division, four in the Hope division, nioe in the Hawarden division, one in the Njrthop division, and 15 in the Flint division.—Mr J. H. J. Roberts (Mold) asked how the increase in drunkenness was accounted for.—Mr R. V. Kyrke (Caergwrle) said that better times at the collieries .m^nt Account lor it to some extent, and a member also explained that it was piopably due to increased vigilance on the part of the police.—The CLief Constable remarked that these returns fluctuated a good deal. Some people put in down to prosperous times.—Tbe death of Police Constable John Williams, of Lanasa, was reported, and it was decided to grant the widow a gratu'tv of £ 52 9s. 4d. from the pension fund, according to the provisions ot ttie Police Act.—Tne tender of Messrs Hibbert and Co., London, for the supply of Police clothing f0 next year was accepted. The Cnief Consllj ble suggested that as the income of the Police Pension Fund was no longer sufficient to meet the existing payments it would be advisable to carry to that fund all items permitted under secti In 16 of the Police Act, 1890. Mr Pennant pOllited out tbat inoit counties had had to add to the police pension fund from the county rate, but sj far they had not paid a single in that county. At the same time, they ought not to transfer these items too hastily. Inert Lad been a heavy call on the fuud of late, and they had been running short, but it would not huit the men in the slightest degree, because the county was obliged to make up whatever deficiency there was. This question was ultimataly referred tv a tiub- con-iniittee for consideration and repoit. d,- ADTANCE OF TIME.—Hie age of man, we are told, is threescore years and ten. From twenty* five to forty, if the health be good, no material alteration is observed. From thence to fifty, the change is greater. Fifty-five to sixty, the altera- tion startles, still we are not bowed down. In the earliest periods of our life the bc0: strengthens and keeps up the mind; in the latter stages of it the reverse takes place, and the mind keeps up the body a formidable duty this, and keenly felt by both. Such is Time's progress! FEW MANUFACTURERS.—The manufacturing industries of Spain are few and unimportant, and the entire number of operatives in the king- dom is not larger than that of a half-dozen of the principal manufacturing cities in New Eng- land. Spain imports twice the cotton goods and four times the silk goods that she exports, and these exports arc made chiefly to the SpaniA J colonies, in which the market has greatly fallen 1 off. Spain is rich in iron. lead, zinc, copper and quick-silver, and with her admirable commercial location might supply the Mediterranean countries with manufactures and have little competition. SHAKESPEARE'S IMAGERY.—The retina of hia mind's eye, like a child's, or that of a man fever- ish from the excitement of some high day, is, as it were, a shadow-sheet, on which images re- ceived long since revive and grow to the very act and radiancy of life. A true poet, it is tritely said, ever remains a child, but especially in this, that his vision is never dulled. The glass of the window through which he looks out on the world is never ground of set purpose that his mind may better attend to business within. And to a poet, as to a obild, the primal processes of the earth never lose their wonder. So tjae most of Shakespeare's images are taken from Nature, and then are painted—but the word is too gross to convey the clarity of his 2I.rt-iu so transpar- ent an atmosphere as to seem still a part 01 Nature, showing her uses of perpetual change. —GEORGE WYNDHAM, M.P. (Shakcspcarc it Poems). SEASONING TIMBER.—Natural seasoning pro- duces the best results. It consists simply in stacking the timber in a situation which, while affording free exposure to the air, protects the material from the action ef the sun and high winds. A shed with open ends, or with louvred sides—that is with sides after the fashion of Venetian blinds—proves satisfactory. The boards may be laid horizontally or stacked in an up- right or vertical position. Hard woods, par- ticularlv. are usually horizontal, and generally take longer to season than soft woods. In stacking timber horizontally, it should be laid perfectly flat and level in breadth and straight in length. The usual plan is to lay "sleepers n or cross-bearers on the ground, and then stack upon these. If these sleepers do not fulfil the conditions just mentioned, permanently twist ed boards will result. The material must be kept from direct contact with the ground to allow of air circulating freely un derneath, and to guard against rot. If" ork. Music.—Music has an important influence on the whole of our emotdonial nature, and indi- I rectly upon expressions of all kinds. He who has once learned the self-control of the musician, the use of the piano" and forte," each in its right place, when to be lightly swift or majestic- ally slow, and especially how to keep to the kev once chosen till the right time has come for changing it, he who has once learnt this knows the secret of the art. No painter, writer, orator, who had the power and judgment of a thoroughly cultivated musician could sia against the broad principles of taste. True it is, music gives us a new life, and to be without that life is thte same as to be blind. Music is the language of the soul, but it defies interpretation. It means something, but that something belongs not to this world of sense and logic, but to another world, quite real, though beyond all definition. How different music is from all the other arts! Thev all have something to imitate which is brought" to us by the sender. But what does music imitate ? Not the notes of the lark, nor the roar of the sea; they cannot be imitated, and if thev are it is but a caricature.—PROFESSOR MAX MULLER. HOT WATER » ARIZONA WELLS.—The wells in parts of Arizona have recently become pro- ducers of hot water, and apprehension is felt by many of the residents of the region affected that they are about to become participants in a grand volcanic drama. In some of the wells the temperature of the water rose twenty degrees in a single night. In a few the phenomenon dis- appeared soon after its appearance. In a ma- jority of the cases, however, the well fairly steamed from their newly-acquired heat. The first-known of this curious state of affairs was a report that the wells at Maridopa. on the South- ern Pacific railroad, thirty miles south of Phoenix had suddenly become hot. It was four days there- after that the phenomenon first was noticed a dozen miles west of that city. A test at one well showed a temperature of" nearly one hundred degrees. No difference is noted in wells in the immediate vicinity of Phoenix. The line of sub- terranean heat wave follows the general direction of the Sierra Estrella Mountains, a volcanic chain lying immediately south of the Gila River. Thence it appears to continue on in the direc- tion of the Harqua Hala Mountains, near which are a number of large and modern volcanic cones • and hills of drifted valcanicash. Further to the east the lava fl nvs are so geologically morn all to have overwhelmed in a number of places the cliff dwellings of the ancient*.

POETRY. THE LULLABY OF A LITTLE CHILD" Here and there, where the shadows lie, Hither and thither the bats flit bv; Hushed in sleep are the daisy beads In the spangled line of the garden-beds; The saucy sunflow'r in the brake Is sleeping. Why does my baby wake ? Hie away. Yellow-locks, into the land Where baby-dreams wait to take thee by thIS hand. And kiss thee, and rock thee on Lullaby* strand! Here and there, through the long night hour, Mother will waiven to watch her flow'r. The night-lamp shadows are fliek ring low, And somewhere out on the deep. I know Thy father is steering his little bark Home to us. darling, out of the dark! So hie away. Yellow-locks, into the lan-T Where baby-dreams wait to take thee bv tha hand. And kiss thee, and rock thee en Lullabv- stramd! C. E. C. WEU ALL.

HITS TO HOUSEWIVES. 4 To prevent patent leather from cracking, warm the shoe before inserting the foot. DOWN will work through cushions unless tha covers to coatain the cluv n are first well rubbed inside with yellow soap. xuis iE1\J.so a preven- tive against moths. PAINT should be more often swept than scrubbed, as scrubbing it away. When it must be washed, use as little soap as possible, and wash off in plenty of water. INK STAINS ON BOOKS.—To remove ink-stains from books or engravings, apply a weak solu- tion of oxalic acid, citric acid. or tartaric acid, which will take awuy the stain without damage. FIBH KNIVES AND FORK?.—Knives and forks that have been used for fish invariably retain a trace of the smell ever, after they have been Wished. To remove this. lay them for a few minutes ia a pan containing wet tea-leaves. CHEAP AND GOOD DISINFECTANTS. — One pound and a half of copperas to a gallon of water. Two ounces of sulphate of zinc and two ounces of common salt to a gallon of water. Two oiftices of sulphur and two ounces of boraeic acid to a gallon of water. A PLEASANT SHAMPOO.—Dissolve two table- spoonfuls of pure Castile' scap in half a pint of boiling water. When cold. ad £ the juice of one lemon and a few drcps of any pure scent. Shake before using. BRIGHT pans can be prevented from be.. coming blackened by smoke by rubbing them with fat before putting them on the fire. After being used, they should be washed with hot water and soda, and they will keep bright and beautiful for an indefinite length of time. COLLA.RED EEL.—Bone and skin a large eel, split it and remove the bone. sprinkle over the eel allspice, mace, cloves, peppercorns, a few herbs, and leaves of sage to taste; roll up and bind with tape. Simmer for two hours in water, with a little vinegar and salt. May be served hot or cold with the liquid it was boiled in if cold, more vinegar must be added. CEMENT FOR DAMP WALLS.—The following cement, used as soon as made, will remedy damp walls: Boil two quarts of tar with two ounces of grease in an iron saucepan for fifteen Add some slaked lime and finely-powdered si^d glass—two parts of lime to one of glass—wqrk it to the thickness of a thin plaster, and give me walls one or two coats of this mixture. The walls may then be either papered or painted. DAMSON CHEESE.—Pick oH the stalks, and to every pound of fruit put three-quarters of a pound of loaf-sugar; bcil as for jam till the damsons are tender, then rub them carefully through a hair-sieve, and to every poun of pulp allow another three-quan^s of a pound of sugar, pounded this time. Boil it an hour very slowly, constantly stirring, then pout into pots or moulds, and tie down with brandy papers; when cold. it will be ouite firm. If wanted sweet, one pound of sugar should be allowed for each boiling. APPLE TART.—Line the sides only of the pie dish with puff paste, then put in a pound-and-a- half of good cooking apples, cut into quarters, then into small pieces (not slices). Put a tiny gallipot into the centre cf the dish, then place the cut apples on aaid round it. Scatter a table- spoonful of sugar over all: throw in two cloves and one ounce of eandin pee!. Put the lid on the pie, make a hole in the centre, and set into a hot oven until the paste is of a golden brown colour. Sift sugar over it, and send to table with a small jug of cream. GRIXLED BEEF ON TOAST.—Cut oold roäst beef in half-inch slices and of as good' size as possible. Dip eaoli im a little melted butter or olive-oil. arrange in a broiler, and broil quickly over a clear fire. In a small saucepan put two tablespoonfuls of butter, one tablespoonful each of Worcestershire and tcmato catchup, one- quarter of a teaspoonful of salt, one-quarter of a teaspoonful of pepper, one-half ef a teaspoon- ful of made mustard, ten drops of onion-juice, and one teaspoonful of lenon-juice or vinegar. Dip each slice of the broiled meat in this sauce serve them on toast, and pour the sauce over. TOMATOES STUFFED ANB GRILLED. — Stallr the tomatoes, then dip each into heated fat. Put them upon a well-greased grid, -whieh has been previously cleaned, over a clear fire, and torn often, occasionally dipping them agam and. again in the heated fat. Also, new they are very tasty for breakfast. When wished to be stuffed, choose the largest tomawoes, remove just the top, then scoop out a little of the imside. Mate a rich ferocmeat of chicken and ham, or use a veal stuffing, or any other savoury, such as minced kidney and bacon, or skinned and chopped mushrooms. With one of thpse fill the vacuum in the tomatoes, dip Mtte the heated butter, and grill as described before. THE HOME AN HOTEL.—It is uncommon to hear the querulous reproach from a wife or mother that one would think the httme was an hotel, where anything that was wamted oould be asked for at a moment's notice And why not ? Is it to be conceded that a man must be denied in hi8 own home the freedom and comfort offered liim in the public establishment? This would indeed be a sorry reflection on his woman- kind. But, alas, it is too often the actual case! Instead of realising that her house win reality a httle hotel for the convenience and comfort of a few privileged guests, the average housekeeper is possessed of the ludicrously irrational idea that it is a kind of private battlefield, on which it is her mission to wrestle daily with innumen- able foes to her physical comfort and peace of. mind: and she appears to think that the other members of her family should litem it a privilege to act the part ot interested and sym- pathising spectators of all her needless strug- gles. Surely this is as wrong a conception of a. woman's duty as can possibly be imagined! SCET PUDDING.—Six ounces of suet is about the right quantity to about ounees of flour. Many cooks will say eight ounces to the same weight of flour, but it is far too riclt The suet should be chopped to the size of small peas; if smaller, the pudding is apt to be heavy. The pudding must be mixed with enough water ta make it quite moist, and not to resemble dough. A clean cloth wrung out of clean cold water should be used—not one out of hot water and. floured, as many writers say. The pudding wilt never stick to the cloth if wetted in this manner. Put at .once into boiling water. It may then simmer for two hours or two hours and a half, according to the size. Should a pound of suefc be used. it will take three hours. The best mode of preparing to boil is to roll the pudding in the cloth, tie both ends tighth- in bovrs, pin the centre with a safety-pin. The pudding will then swell with ease. The pot must be kept supplied, with boiling water from time to time, as it ilJl sure to boil away. Jam. sugar, or golden syrup is very good to eat with this pudding.

inclined to cavil at the price which the bank are paying. But there is one consideration which is apt to be lost sight of, and that 18, when the new bank premises are completed, the Council will have on their hands the present offices, from which they are now in receipt of an annual rental of upwards of one hundred pounds. It is possible that they may fiud another tenant, but the probability is scareeiy a likely one. In that event we i hope the town will be in such a financial posi- tionas will enable the local authority to carry, oat the long-projected alteration of the Town Hall with provision for municipal offices, and they might simultaneously consider the question of erecting a building for a Free Library and Mnsenm in corjanction with such alterations. There is ample room on the site of the Old Police Station for such a building, and when those who are agitating in this matter realise that fact they will agree that it would have been an extremely unwise proceeding on the part of the Council to reserve the Bodfor site tor such a purpose. • In another column we THE REMEDY publish a report of the FOR RITUALISM. speech delivered by Mr S. Smith, M.P., at the National Conference of Nonconformists held in London last week. In the course of his speech Mr Smith adduced fresh evidence to show the extent to which ritualism is practised in the Church of England, and argued that the only remedy for it is the disestablishment of the Church as a national institution. The present controversy in ecclesiastical circles over ritualistic practices is not, as is common- ly supposed, a matter that concerns Church- men only. The teachings of the advanced ritualists are so hostile to Nonconformity that it is imperative that those who believe in the principles of the Free Chnrches should participate as actively as Churchmen in the agitation that is taking place for the sup- pression of practisee so diametrically opposed to the principles of the Reformation. The Church of England is a national institution enjoying speoial State privileges, and if its machinery is to be set in motion for the purpose of re-establishing the Roman Catholic faith in this country, it becomes the duty of Nonconformists to join in the great effort that is being made to overthrow the determined attempt of the Oxford Union and other secret societies in connection with the Church, whose avowed object is to bring about tbe reunion of the Church of England with Borne. The case for the disestablish- ment and disendowment of the Church of England was strong before, but now that the Church is using its power, its privileges, and tbe influence it enjoys as a State institution to undo the work of the Refor- mation, disestablishment is not only strengthened, but is made a necessity. Mr Smith puts the case of disestablishment as the only remedy for the Romeward tendency in the Church of England with convincing force. Thoughtful Churchmen, as well as Nonconformists must ere now have also come to the seme conclusion. The suppiness and the indifference of the Bishops all these years have allowed the ritualistic party to assume a strong position in the Church, and that party bas an equally strong following in Parliament. Conscientious Churchmen to whom the maintenance of the Protestant character of the Church is a sacred principle are realising and have realised this fact, and therefore thay see the uselessness of attempting to remedy matters by parliament-1 ary legislation directed simply against the suppression of ritualism. The only parlia- mentary legislation that will be effectual in arresting the Romeward movement ia Disestablishment. Hence it is that we find a large number of Chnrchmea who are! prepared to join forces with Nonconformists with the object of securing this. A jadic-, ionsly and vigorously conducted campaign in favour of the severance of the connection of the Church with the State would be attended with advantageous results if taken up at the present juncture. The country is more ripe for it to-day than it has been at any period in its history, and those advocates of religious equality who have striven for 60 many years co induce the people of England to listen to the justice of their plea, have now the satis- faction of seeing the object for which they have laboured within measurable distance of beiog attained.