Rhyl Record and Advertiser

PRESTATYN URBAN DI8TRICT COUNCIL. The Monthly Meeting of the Prestatyn Urban District Council was held at the Council Chamber, Prestatyn, oa Wednesday. There were present Messrs John Jones, J.P. (chair- man), R Davies. W. H Coward, G O. Jones, J. E. L. Jones, Thomas Hughes, Ellis Roberts, J. R Linnell, Dr. Griffiths, with the Clerk (Mr J.I hes), Medical Officer of Health (Dr Lloyd floijci ts), and the Surveyor (Mr W. C- Bell). THE PROPOSED MUNICIPAL OFFICES AND FIRE ENGINE STATION. At a special meeting of the Council held on the 5th of December. plans were approved of by a majority of one for the erection of a fire engine station, municipal offices, and Council chamber, on a site presented to the Council by the Vicar. On the question of the confirmation of the minutes Dr Griffiths asked whether the deed by which the land was conveyed to the Council did not contain a clause that only a fire engine station could be built on the site. The Clerk It is quite true as far as I can remember. The Chairman: The clause is "That the Council will not erect on the site any building other than for the purpose of storing fire engine and apparatus and other tools, the property of the Council, and will not use the site for any other purpose. Mr W. H. Coward said that when he gave the land the Vicar was asked as to whether he would allow another storey to be added to the fire engine station for other purposes, and he replied that he would not only allow one storey but two if necessary, and he did not know how it was that it was not in the deeds. At all events be could guarantee that the Vicar would not offer any objection. Dr. Griffiths said that for the present the clause stood in the way. The Vicar might say what be liked that day, but might change his mind to-morrow. As they had nothing in black and white he proposed that the portion of the minutes in question be not confirmed, but that the matter of the fire engine station and offices be referred back to the committee. Mr G O. Jones seconded, as they would be doing that which was not legal in confirming the minutes that night. He thought the com- mittee ought to have seen to this before making this recommendation. Mr R. Davies: I submit the amendment is tnot in order. The Chairman: It is in order. Mr R. Davies: I quite see through it. The Chairman: Keep your remarks to your- self. You are out of order. Mr R. Davies: Why did not the clerk give us the information at the time instead of keeping it to himself f The Chairman I know nothing about it. Mr Ellis Roberts said he did not think it was right to place the Surveyor to the trouble -of preparing plans, and then after the com- mittee had recommended it to drop it. That 'was the first time for him to hear the clause that was contained in the deed. as he was not tpresent at the time the Vicar made the gift. Dr. Griffiths said it was the business of the committee to have seen that what they pro- posed to do did not contravene the terms of the deed. They had no business to erect property on the land that was not permitted 'by the deed. He opposed the recommenda- tion at the last Council meeting for the simple treason that be did Dot think it advisable to •erect such trumpery buildings, and they would not be of any use after three or four years. For a public building, what was proposed was not good enough. Mr R. Davies thought the Council ought to know that one room in the proposed buildings would accommodate 50 people. The Chairman said that the question of the buildings could not be gone into. He further said that on a legal point he could not allow the minutes to be confirmed. fhe Vicar when he made the gift was under the impression that they would close the path leading up to the Vicarage, and he was afraid he would not agree to any alteration of the clause except on that condition. Mr W. H. Coward said he would move that the minutes be confirmed subject to the Vicar being asked to alter the clause so as to per cut the building. Mr R. Davies seconded. On a division Dr. Griffiths' amendment was carried by 5 votes to 4. THE WIDENING OF HIGH ST R The Road and Improvement Committee recommended that the frontage offered by Mrs Percy co extensive with her property in High Street, be accepted, and that the work be proceeded with at once, the cost to be included in the improvement scheme. The minutes were agreed to. FINANCES. At a meeting of the Finance Committee the Clerk reported that the amount of general district rate l collected up to date was -£695_1:18- lOd. TRAIN SERVICE. 8A letter was read from Mr F. H Dent. in reply to a communication from the board re improved train service, stating that no change could be made this winter as the service was settled, but the question would be borne in mind when the changes we made in the spring. The suggestion regarding market and cheap tickets was in hand- THE SUBSIDY TO PRESTATYN. The Chairman said that at the last meet- ing of the Connty Council the recommenda- tion of the Roads Committee to make a grant of £75 to Prestatyn in respect ot the maintenance of main roads was confirmed. But it seemed lit was uecessary that they should Dame the roads on which it was proposed to spend the money, and he suggested that they should name Meliden Road, and Grange Road. This was agreed to. THE NEW STEAM FIRE ENGINE A DEPUT- ATION'S VISIT TO LONDON: REMARKABLE DISCUSSION. The Chairman said that the Fire Engine Committee had met at his house, and they decided that it would be a great advantage if the committee were to visit the works ot the three firms who had tendered, but not at the expense of the ratepayers. They sent telegram to each of the three makers asking if the firm who obtained the order would pay the cost to the amount of £20; and each had replied agreeing to this. Dr. Griffiths asked how much had it cost the deputation to go to London. Mr W. H. Coward: I don't think that is a fair question; we are not the people who lias to pay it. Dr. Griffiths said that the money would come from the ratepayers eventually for no firm would pay £20 unless they made the profit some other way; What he wished to point out was that some of the gentlemen who com- 'posed this deputation, had opposed tooth and nail the allowance to the previous deputation to London, and they surcharged them to the amount of £5. It was only fair that if this last deputation had any money left after pay- ing the expenses that the firm who obtained the order should have the benefit of it. He pointed out that this £20 was intended to cover the expenses of a deputation of seven, and only fiye went. The strong argument for surcharging the previous deputation was that the allowance of £20 was for four whereas oniy three went. But the gentleman who contend- ed that then were silent now..The first deputation were three days and three nights in London, but this deputation was only there one night and two days, for they slept in the railway carriage when returning in order to save their beds (laughter.) and yet they spent exactly the sum amount. He did not wish to object to the allowance but as one who fought the battle of the first deputation, he thought he would try and get as much popularity out of the £20 spent by this deputation as did the gentleman who made such a fuss about the expenditure of the first deputation. He pro- posed that as two of the deputation did not go that the expenses of the five who went Jbe reduced proportionately. Mr. EllIs \Roberts: We will not object to giving you an account of what we spent if you will pay it. Dr. Griffiths: I want to know what you did spend. Mr T. Hughes The makers themselves offered .f20 and they did not know whether the deputation numbered three or twenty. The Chairman said that £20 was intended to cover the expenses of a deputation of seven, and he thought in all fairness to the firm who obtained the order that so long as only five went the proportion of expenditure in regard to the other two should be returned to them. Mr Linnell said this was the first time he heard that the £20 was intended to cover the expenses of a deputation of seven. Had he known that he should have declined to go as it was impossible for seven to go to London for £20. When in London they were not going to stay in any "mucky pucky show (laughter); they stayed in the best place in London, and whi e there they worked as hard as any man ever worked. Dr Griffiths I don't obiect to you having the money I only want to bring the matter before the public the same as was done with the other deputation. Mr J. B. Linnell: Did you know Mr Roberts that seven were to go for £201 Mr Ellis Roberts: Yes, I knew all about it. Mr Linnell: Why the deuce didn't you tell me then (laughter.) Mr Ellis Roberts: It was the Chairman and the Clerk that made it up. Mr. R. Davies said that Dr. Griffiths had suggested that some members had courted popularity in the opposition they offered to the cost of the first deputation. As one of the gentlemen appointed on that deputation did not go the Council decided to surcharge the three who went £5, and they had never paid I it. When the District gAuditor came down he only allowed a surcharge of £1 14s. out of the £20 that was spent by this small deputation. To say that they were courting popularity in taking care of the finances of the Council was too much. Whatever the consequences he would have the courage of his convictions for he did not think that the public auditor had any right to over-ride the resolution of the Council. He was only a paid servant of the Local Government Board- The Chairman: That is not the question before the meetihg- Mr. R. Davies: What Dr. Griffiths said has led up to it. Dr. Griffiths: I never touched on that question, if ynn wish me to do so I will tala. for a month. What I wish to point is that Mr Davies is in favour of paying £20 to five instead of seven, whilst he was opposed to paying £20 to four instead of three. The Chairman suggested that the Jdeputation should furnish an account and the matter dropped. The deputation then reported upon the result of their visit to the three makers and it was ultimately decided to accept the tender of Messrs Merryweather & Co., for fire engine, hose, equipment, uniform, hose cart, ladders &c., for the sum of £399. A FAVOURABLE REPORT. Dr. Lloyd Roberts thanked the Council for re-electing him Medical Officer of Health, and said he was pleased to say that the number of deaths in Prestatyn during the past year had not been half as many as in the previous year. There had not been one case of infectious disease in the district during the twelve months. The Water Company, he was pleased to say was also making new lfilter beds. VOTES OF THANKS. Mr Robert Davies moved a vote of thanks to the Chairman for the services he had rendered the Urban Council by obtaining for Prestatyn a grant of £75. Mr Coward seconded, and in putting the motion to the meeting Mr Davies wished the Chairman and all present a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. The Chairman thanked the Council for their good wishes, and hoped that they would al work well together, as Prestatyn had of late made a move forward. He was ready to fight anyone on this or any other body on matters of principle, but he hoped that he would never find that thei, differences made them any the worst personal friends.

RHYL PETTY SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY Before Mr S. Perks (in the chair), Mr J. H. Ellis, and Mr R. C. Enyon. SNOWBOUND." Wm. Price, The Moorage, Llandudno, was summoned by P.C. Tale with being drunk in a public place on the llth inst. P.C. Tale said that on the llth December he was on duty in High Street, at 11-30 p.m. He saw the defendant drunk lying down in the snow in High Street. He askad him to get up, but he could not do so. P C. Gomer Jones assisted him to take defendant to the Police Station, where he was detained until next morning. The defendant did not appear but sent a letter stating that he was suffering from the effects of a fit. The Chairman said that defendant was a man who ought to know better. He would be fined 7s. 6d. and 8s. costs. REMARKABLE RAILWAY CASE. John Tordoff\ot Soaker Lane, Shelf, Halifax, was charged by Detective Joseph Weaver, with having travelled from Abergele to Khyl on the 5th of November, without having previously paid his fare and with intent to defraud the Railway Company. Mr Fenna prosecuted, and defendant who did not appear, was defended by Mr R. Bromley. Mr Fenna said that on Wednesday, Nov. 5th. two special ticket examiners were on dntyat Abergele Station, where they saw the defend- ant, who was a cattle dealer and attended different fairs. Thay saw him enter the 3-35 up train, though he had not previously gone to the booking office. At Rhyl one of the collectors asked him for his ticket, and he produced a ticket from Corwen to Low Moor, but he had none from Abergele to Rhyl. He made no remark, and paid no excess, bat went on with the train. Swan and the other ticket collector went with the train and saw defend ant alight at Chester. At Chester Swan stopped him and asked him where he had c^me from, and he said he came from Denbigh. Witness told him he had seen him on the platform at Abergele, and the defendant then admitted he came from Abergele, and that he had not taken out a ticket as he had no time. TIcket collector Swan corroborated the above statement. In cross-examination the witness denied that he and the other ticket collector had grossly insulted the defendant at Chester. i I Aum Pr°duced an excess receipt ticket Abergele to Rhyl, for 4 £ d. dated Nov. 15th. The receipt was in the handwriting of Hudson. ° Re-examined: The defendant did not tell him at Chester that he had any excess receipt. W. G. Hudson, ticket collector, gave corroborative evidence. In cross-examination he said the excess receipt produced was in his handwriting. He could not say who it was given to, but it was not given to the defendant. He had issued excess receipts to others earlier in the day. He could say from the counterfoil on what train it was issued. The reason he knew it was not to the defendant he had issued the ticket was because he had been watching him in Abergele. At this stage there was an adjournment while the witness sent for his bag, in which was the counterfoil. On this being produced it was found that the ticket was issued by the very train by which the defendant travelled. Mr Bromlay directed attention to the fact that the witness had sworn that he had not collected a single ticket on that particular train. The witness said he might have issued the ticket at Abergele previous to arriving at Rhyl. The Chairman said after the evidence they were bound to dismiss the case. Mr Bromley said it was a shameful case, and he applied tor costs. It was a case which showed the risks that passengers ran on the railway. The Chairman thought that the defendant ought to have produced the ticket at Chester. There were faults on both sides, and they would not allow costs. 4. DRUNK. Sarah Boole, back Alexandra was charged by P.C. Tale with being drunk in Queen Sheet, on the 12th inst. She was fined 5s. and 7s. 6d. costs. Joseph Thomas, Castle Street, Rhuddlan, was also charged with having on the 17th of December, been drunk and disorderly on Vale Road Bridge. The charge was proved by P.C. Gomer Jones, and defendant who pleaded guilty, was fined 5s. and costs.

CHRISTMAS AT RHYL. A GLANCE AT THE SHOP WINDOWS. After a long spell of exceptionally mild weather, Christmas week was ushered in with weather which suggests the traditional Christmas of old. Snow there is none, but Jack Frost is a nightly vibitor, and his biting, bracing presence makes the atmos- pheric conditions all the more seasonable, and seems to sharpen the pleasure with which young and old look forward to this season of joy and testivity. That the inhabitants of Rhyl might derive the fullest pleasure and satisfaction out of this season of feasting and merry making, the tradesmen of the town have made the fullest provisions for the Christmas market, and their respective establish- ments are stocked with in abundance of good things which ensures thst, so far as they are concerned, no want will need to be supplied. With character- istic enterprise they have entered fully into the spirit cf the season, and have decorated their windows with that artistic taste and brightness which helps so much to^en!iven the whole community and to invest the town with the air of festivity so essential to a proper conception, and even to a proper enjoyment of the holiday of the year. But attractive as the window dressings were they by no means suggested the extent of the stock or the provisions made within, and which moreover was of as high a quality as it was extensive. In the very forefront in this respect were THE BUTCHERS. Messrs Owens and Sons, both in Water Street, and in High Street, hid on Friday an imposing display which attracted marked attention. They seem to excel themselves as eaoh Christmas comes round. A feature of their exhibit this year was a four year old Scotch Pulled Ox, and a Galloway Bullock, fed by the Duke of Westminster. K.G. Both these beast6 were the perfection of feeding in prime and ripe condition, with no superfluous or wasteful tat, but with rich veins of streaky fat whioh made the meat both profitable and eatable. The same sound judgment was also displayed in the selection of the other stock which fotmed the show and which comprised the following. One extra prime four years old Welsh Bullock fed by Captain Rowley Conwy, Bodrhyddan Hall, Rhyl. One choice fat four years old Short-Horn Heifer fed by George Lee, Esq Cop House, Saltney. One very prime three year old Hereford Heifer fed by T. Dawson, Esq Willington Farm, Cheshire. One extra prime fat Short-Horn Ox fed by W. Fryer, Biq., Leighton Hall, Chester. Ono verj prime three year old Hereford Ox fed by Thomas Handley, Esq., The Park, Chester. One prime three year old Welsh Bullock fed by Beech, Esq., the Fferm, Rhuddlan. Eight pens of extra prime four year old Welsh Wethers fed by Cadwaladr Hughes, Esq, Nantglyn, Denbigh. Six penli of very prime Yearling Gimmers fed by Messrs Hughes, GroHant Farm. A pen of Shropshire, fed by exhibitors. A quantity of prime Porkers and Bacon Pigs. One fat Calf fed by Mr John Hughes, The Shop, Rhyl. So rapidly was the stock which formed the original show disposed of that Messrs Owens had early in the week to supplement it with a fine Ox fed by Captain Conway, 14 porkers and bacon pigs from Mr A. T. Eyton, Bryn Polyn, St. Asaph, and four pens of Welsh Wethers from Mr Cadwalar Huges. Nantglyn, Dent igb. Mr Thomas Elias Jones, Bryngwyn, Wellington Road, had a magnificent show of meat, the pro- ductions ofjfeeders of well known repute. Among his exhibits were a prime thee year old Bullock fed by Mr J. B. Linnell, Prestatyn; a prime Heifer fed by Mr P. Storey, Denbigh one do. fed by Mr Richard Williams, Pen-y-Cop, Newmarket; and one Heifer fed by Mr Joseph Roberts, Green, Denbigh. The mutton consisted of 23 Welsh Wethers, in the pink of condition, fed by Mr Joseph Roberts, Green, Denbigh, and 10 do. ted by Mr Hugh Davies, Waen, St. Asaph, There were also three bacon pigs fed by Mr E. P. Jones, Aberkinsey and three porkers fed by Miss Hughes, Owm In addition Mr Jones had for sale a large quantity of geese, ducks, and poultry, and is to be congratulated upon a display as good as it was large and varied. Messrs T. Newman Sc Co., High Street, have succeeded in maintaining in an eminent degree the high reputation of their establishment for meat of the best quality and their Christmas Show this year was conspicious for some of the very best stock turned out by reputed feeders. Among their exhibits was a highly fed bullock, one of the three which won the Challenge Vase. at the St. Asaph Smithfield and fed by Mr Frank Bibby, Rhydorddwy Fawr; a two year old bullock fed by Mr Robert Gratton, Vaynol a well conditioned bullock which was awarded a reserve number at St. Asaph Smith- field fed by Mr Jones, Criccen, also three excellent bullocks fed bv Mr John Belsher, Onington Farm, Shropshire. The fine show of mutton consisted of 30 wethers fed by Mr R. Griffiths, Gwernigron, St. Asaph; and seven four year old Welsh wethers fed by the exhibitors. The six porket pigs came from Mr Nuttall, Newmarket, and the calf was fed by Mr Newman. Mr E. Angel, Water Street, has shown |the same care as was evinced by his successor in his selection of Christmas meat, and his show was a highly meritorious one, consisting as it did of one heifer which was awarded the second prize at the Flintshire and Denbighshire Agricultural Show held at Rhyl last August, and fed by Mrs Gratton, Foryd Fawr one bullock, fed by Mr Davies, Morfa Cwybr; 15, gimmers and wethers, fed by Mr Owens, Plas Llwyd; and four fine lambs, fed by Mr Davies, Trellewelyn; also four porkets fed at Tremeirchion. Mr A. Maltby, Water Street, was also well abreast of the times, and had a show of meat that was in the highest degree excellent. It consisted of a prime heifer, fed by Mrs Gratton, Foryd Fawr; a bullock in ripe condition, fed by exhibitor; 10 prime wethers from Mr Isaac Owen, Plas Llwyd; 10 lambs, fed by the exhibitor. The porkets and pigs came from Bodelwyddan, and a fine calf from Mr Brown, Rhuailt. Mr Maltby had also an imposing display of fat geese, which found a ready sale. Mr E. P. Roberts at 49, High Street, and Stall 29, Market Hall, showed a large stock of meat in the finest condition, which included a prime ox fed by Messrs T. and A. Heathcote, Merllyn Farm prime ox, fed by Mr T. A. Johnson; one ditto, prize-winner at the Dublin Show, fed by Mr Percy Godbody, Clara House, Clara, King's County; 30 Welsh wethers, fed by Mr J. Williams, Pydew Farm; 2 pens ditto, fed by Messrs H. and R. Roberts, Bronberllan i: 2 pens ditto, fed by Mr Owens, Vaenol; and nine porkets from Mr R.. Jones, Glan Llyn, St. Asaph. Mr W. Roberts, Sussex Street, is to be highly commended for his excellent show, which included a prime two-year-old heifer, fed by Mr H Jones, Plas Fassi Farm, Ruthin; several prime Welsh wethers, fed by Mr A. Davies, Bryncwmin Farm and two porkets, fed by Mr R.. Jones, Rhydyddau- ddwr. Mr G T. Lyne, Bodfor Street and Abbey Street, had a stock of rare quality, including a couple of beasts, prize-winners at the Agricultural Show held at Rhyl last August, and a fine bullock, which was the winner of the Champion Challenge Cup at St. Asaph Smithfield, and fed by Mr Frank Bibby, Rhydorddwy Fawr. There was also a large stock of well-fed wethers. Mr Ed. Roberts, Wellington Road, had a ohoice display of "chilled" beef. a speciality being some very fine Canterbury lamb. Ha also ex- hibited a splendid hare weighing lbs. Following closely upon the heelB of the butchers in the amplitude of their provision came the POULTRY DEALERS AND FRUITERERS, who vied with each other in a display of Christmas fare that does the utmost credit to their enterprise. Mr J. Mudd, in his establishment at Bodfor Street, and High Street, had a magnificeat show, selected with the care and success of the experienced hand. From 60 to 80 turkeys, 100 geese, a large quantity of duoks and poultry, 30 brace of pheasants, 20 brace of partridges, 20 hares, and numberless rabbits, oombined to make a show that was as imposing as it was excellent. In addition Mr Mudd had an excellent lupplyof fresh fish in season, as well as a varied stock of luscious fruit of the best quality. It was altogether a show upon which he is to be especially congratulated. Mr Walter (jlarke, at 3 Water Street, and 2 and 3 Market Hall, had an unique show. It was not merely the extent of the stock that attracted but its obvious fine quality. All the turkeys, and geese were obtained from the best local feeders, and were chiefly prize winners. The display of duoks and poultry was espioally fine and included all the prize winners at the Ruthin Show. Some of the ducks weighed as much as 171bs. a couple, whilst there were also chickens which turned the scales at 16 lbs. Altogether Mr Clark had about 140 turkeys, 200 geese, a large quantity of duoks and poultry, 60 brace of pneasants, several brace of partridges, 40 hares, grouse, woodoock, and a large stock of rabbits, all in the finest condition. He had also an exellent supply of fish. In his fruit department he had a choice selection of the very best fruit including some hot house grapes, bananas, apples, oranges, &o., and his windows were superbly decorated with greenery and some fine cut flowers. Mr E. P. Griffiths, Sussex Street, had a reputation to maintain it, and he more than maintained it by the exelJcenoey of his catering this year. Some splendid specimen from the Poultrers' yard were in evidence in his stock, which comprised about 100 turkeys, 80 geese, 50 ducks, a large quantity of poultry, and several brace of pheasants, and partridges together with a large number ot hares and rabbits. His supply of fruit was also of a highly satisfactory character. Mr D. J Griffiths, Queen Street, has long been noted for his discrimination and his success in selecting his Christmas stock. His stock this year proves that the reputation he enjoys is thoroughly deserved for it is in every respect excellent If not quite so large as some of the others, its quality is undoubted. He had about 50 fine turkeys, 50' geese, and a lsrge quantity of ducks and fo-vls. His fruit department was well supplied with all the fruit In request at Christmas, and in addition he had an excellent and varied stock of sweetmeats of all descriptions. Mr Boyle, and Mra A. Powell Jones, Water Street, had a show which irresistably attracted. All the stock was of unquestionable quality, drawn from the prinoipal feeders. There were about 50 turkeys, 70 geese, a great quantity of ducks and fowls; whilst the stock of game including pheasants, partridges, woodcocks, wild duck., hares and rabbits, was exceedingly large and ex- caption ally fine. The stock of fish wis also a prominent feature of the show whilst the selection of fruit was of a high order, It was a show worthy of the occasion, and worthy of the reputation that this old established business has enjoyed all these years. Among the fruiterers Messrs Waterworth Bros., Sussex Street and Water Street, stand prominently out ror the elaborate manner in which they catered for the speoial requirements of Christmas. Their supply of fruit was of undoubted excellence, and the possibilities of showing it to advantage by their imposing win lows were taken the fullest advantage of, the decorative effect being exceedingly pretty. Mr T. D. Jones, High Street, made an attractive show, and had a stock of oranges, apples, hot- house grapes, binana8, and several fine English pine apples, which bore oa the face of them the impress of maturity and ripeness. Their artistic arrange- ment in the window served to give the establish tneot a bright and attractive appearance, which was further brightened by a profuse display of plants and exotics and some choice out flowers. Miss Miller, K inaiel Street, deserves to be singled out for her artistic window dressing, and the magnificent supply of fruit in great variety which the shewed. Miss M. J. Thomas, Abbey Street, Mrs T' Jones, Wellington Road. Mrs Williams, and Mr Piercey, Market Street, had also made extensive provisions for th, Christmas trade, and had attractively laid out their establishments. THE GROCERS. The Grocers win have to cater for varied wants have alwas been well to the front at Christmas time, and this year is no exception to the rule. Meters E. P. Jones, Son & Co, Water Street, have filled one window with some fine specimens of Wiltshire hams and bacon, and several ripe anrl well-mutured Chester cheese which are a fair speci- men of the excellency of the provisions to be obtained at all times at this establishment. In another window is an artistically arranged display of dried fruit both for deseit.and for the indispensible Christmas pudding, the stock of sultanas, raisins, citron and candied peel, being of the very best. Several ornamental boxes of chrystalised fruit with sundry decorations combined to make a window that cannot fail to attract attention' In the second shop there was a display of bara" brith composed of the finest ingredients, which Messrs E. P. Jones make a speciality of at Christmas time. mL_1_ 't ø- iuete was aieu » capuai aispiay oi icea cakes, and cakes of all description, together with fancy boxes of chocolates and sweet meats. Their establishment in High Street presented a similar taking appear- ance, and was replete with till the good things for which this enterprising firm have made themselves famous. Messrs Jones and Son made excellent use of their commanding windows in Wellington Road, and had a stock of sultanas, cu-rants, raisins, candied peel and other dried fruit, the mere eight of which demonstrated their quality. Their stock of provisions was particularly noticeable, comprising as it did some rich sides of bacon, and fine hams, together with some ripe specimens of Cheshire, Gloucester, Gor- gODZola, Stilton and other cheese. Though they did not resort quite so much to the deoorative element in their "parent" establishment in Cres- cent Road, the stock there was if anything larger and there was an inexhaustible supply of the mul- tidudinous items which are needed to a proper enjoy- ment of < bristmas. Messrs William Williams and Co., Queen Street. are to be congratulated upon the artistic taste which they displayed in laying out their shop windows. Their show of season dried fruit, with fancy boxes of chrystalised fruit, chocolate and fig bo-es was admittedly excellent. No less satisfactory was their stock in the provision department, which included some of the finest hams and bacons, and cheese of rare quality. Mr John Owen, Cambrian* Bakery, bad one of the most artistically dressed windows in the town, one of which contained every specimen of the dried fruit so much in request at this festive season. A feature was the artisticallly ioed Christmas cakes with Welsh mottoes. He had also a (rood show of figs, prunes, and chrystalised fruit together with the latest novelties in crackers. One window was devoted almost exclusively to a commanding show of bara brith," and mince pies of which Mr Owen is making a speciality. They are made of the finest ingredients and are offered at special prizes. His stock of provisions was atso of a high order. Apart from h s catering in the matter ofjhams and bacon which is always of exeeptional excellence, Mr J. W. Roose, the S.P Q.R. Stores made this year extra provision in the matter of cheese which in. eluded several fine specimens of rich Cheshire Densley Dales and little Gloucesters'. He made a speciality of Cossack crackers of which he had an enormous stock which he retailed in fancy boxes at prizes from fourpence halfpenny upwards. His stock of sultanas, raisins, fruit, &c., was large and varied. Mr Robert Price, High Street, entered into the spirit of the season, and showed his well selected stock of ohristmas necesssities amid a profusion of seasonable decoration. Mr J. T. Jones, Aled House, maintained by the stock he showed the general excellence that obtained, and his windows were effectively decorated. Mr H. Edwards (Huwco Penmaen) Wellington Road, had made extensive provision for the excep- tional character of the demand, and had several novelties in the direction of sweetmeats, and articles suitable for Christmas tree decoration. The Star Supply Stores was specially attractively laid out, and the windows were thoroughly indic- ative of the extent and excellency of the stook with- in specially intended to meet the requirements of the season. Mr W. Davies, Albert House, Wellington Road, made a special feature of some rich plum cakes, specially baked and retailed at special prices. In his other vhop in Wellington Road, he had a window entirely filled with bottles of Port Wine, which was of old vintage and fine flavour. Other grocers who are to be commended upon their display are Messrs W. M. Williams, High Street, Smalley, Abbey Street, [and Isaac Jones, Aquarium Street, THE, CONFECTIONERS. Mr R. Lloyd, Le Bijou Confectioner, took ad- vantage of the Christmas season to open his com- modious new premises in Bodfor Street. Extensive alterations have been carried out to adapt the premises to a high clasiq restaurant, the feature of which is the addition of a large dining room, elegantly furnished in oriental style. The feature of the window-dressing is an exact model in sugar of the Big Wheel at Earl's Court, propelled by a small steam engine. There is a magnificent show of iced cakes including the guinea wadding cake, for which Mr Lloyd was awarded a prize at the London Exhibition. Another beautiful piece of work is the Betrothal cake, on which the passion flower and the red rose are artistically worked. There is a bewilding assortment of all sorts of fancy confectionery,all the most perfect productions of the confectioner's art; and chocolate, bon bons, and fancy sweatmeats are provided in abundance. It Is a most picturesque and pleasing display and during the week has been the source of considerable attraction. Mr F. Howard, Queen Street, had an elegant display of iced cakes, and pastry of all kinds, whilst he had a various selection of miscellaneous sweetmeats. Mr P. Thomas, The Avondale Restaurant, made a speciality of iced cakes of which he showed a large number all artistically decorated and bearing appropriate mottoes. In the other window were to be seen some delicious specimens of the pastry cook's powers of ministering to the sense of the palate. Mr Thomas Griffiths, Water Street, also made extensive provision in the way of iced oakes, all of which were pretttily decorated, and his show of general pastry was of a high order. Mrs A. Williams, Bodfor Street, had likewise a splendid assortment of fancy pastry, and a de- corated Boer's head—we do not mean a Transvaal Boer-formed a feature in the exhibits. Mrs Hulley, Castle Restaurant, Kinmel Street, deserves to be especially commended for her decorative show of miscellaneous coafeccionery and fancy sweetmeats, bon bons, &c. Mr Holt, and Miss Collis, Russell Road, had a splendid show of confectionery, including many novelties suitable for Christmas tree deoorations. Others who decorated their establishments and made speoial provisions were Mr Benbow, Kinmel Street, Miss Gregory, Wellington Road, Mr Pozzi, Queen Street, and West Parade, Mr R. Bathpate, Mrs "Phillip?, High" Street, The Greenfield Dairv Company, Queen Street, Mr J. Proffitt, Wellington Road, aud others. THE TAILORS AND DRAPERS. Since last Christmas Mr Talbott, Ugh Street, has coneiderably aided to his ramifications. In the parent shop in High Street, there was one window devoted to the brighter and more showy attire effected in the bill room, with the benign figure of a Father Christmas conspicuously attired in a costume of scarlet and ermine Some ex- quisite designs in ball room dresses, together with the multifarious requisites incidental to a graceful ball room appearance were on view; whilst in another window furs and other substantial articles of winter apparel were displayed, the whole being arranged in a tempting and artistic manner. In the adjoining shop there was a stylish display of millinery, and an excellent and varied selection of childrens' hats, coats and general apparel. Mr Talbott's new premises in Queen Street, was con- spicuous for the magnificent show in one window of artificial plants of all descriptions, the verdant greenness of which had all the appearance of reality. Another window had a more seasonable appearance filled as it was with eider down quilts, and a brilliant oollection of fancy worked cushions, &c. Mr John Frimston's premises in High Street have a distinctly seasonable appearance. In one window are to be found all the fineries incidental to a ballroom outfit, whilst in another general drapery goods of fashionable style, which are suggestive of winter, are displayed the whole being shown with that degree of effect which characterise Mr Frimstons window displays. Mr Thomas Jones, Cambrian House, though he has not applied any significant decorative treatment to his window display is to be congratulated on his show of seasonable goods, which cover all the ground comprised in the drapery trade. With his display it is a case of "Beauty unadorned is adorned the most." Mr Henry Millward, High Street, has an impos- ing miscellaneous display with ample provision for the special character of the occasion. Here will be found every requisite incidental to elegtnceand fashion ia the various social functk-ns ladies are supposed to participate in during this dissipated season. Mr R. B. Arnold, Queen Street, makes a special- i ,y of dressed dolls as a feature of his window dis- play, though what charms the female eye most is the excellent show of seasonable furs, and drapery goods Mr Daniel Evans High Street, has one of the most striking ballroom windows in the town. It contains some stylish evening costumes and a pro- fusion of coloured material which are arranged with pleasing regard for harmony. The elaborate display of millinery of the latest designs which adorns the windows of Mrs Edwards, Compton House, High Street, has unfailingly attracted the admiring eyes of all ladies, and the skill and taste shown in thejdressing of the wiadows is specially to be commended. Mrs Amos Jones, Sussex Street, has also a very fine shown of the latest millinery and fancy goods of all description, whioh just now are being sold at under cost prices. At the Free Tt ade Hall will be found a general assortment of drapery goods appropriate to the season, and a large selection of ready-made clothing. The show of su tings at the establishment of Messrs Hughes and Son. tailors. High Street, are especially appropriate, and some new deaigs in over- (9 its are displayed. Mr M. S. Osborne, Bodfor Street, shows some fine winter suitings with fashionable plates. Air J. M. Griffiths, Sussex Street, and Mr D. Davies, Tudor Buildings, are well to the front with winter suitings of all kinds and general articles of gentlemen's outfits. Mr Dayies makes a feature of ladies costumes. A feature in the window dressing at the Gwalia Cloth ing Co's. premises in High Street, is the red, white and blue ties. The manner in which they are arranged breaches the spirit of patriotism and militarism which at present pervades the whole atmosphere. Mr Hubbard, both in Wellington Road and High Street, has an attractive general display. At the High Street establishment a clearance sale as at present taking place. As usual Mr E. K. Miller, Bee Hive, has sup- plemented his extensive stock of general drapery goods, with a large assortment of Christmas novelties of all kinds suitable for presents. All kinds of drapery goods, ladies outfitting, nicknacks of every description, and decorations are included in his comprehensive stock. Mrs Hodson Lewis, Sussex Street, has a pleading show of fancy goods. In fact, her establishment is an emporium of dainty things. Goods incidental to the adornment of the male men things iwill be found in great variety, temp- tingly laid out at the establishments of Messrs Lewis and Thompson, H gh Street, and Mr Garson Allen, Market street. BOOT AND SHUE DEALERS. Some exceedingly elegant and chastely designed ball slippers are on view at the premises of Messrs Amos and Co., Sussex Street and Wellington Chambers, as well as boots and shoes intended to ensure greater warmth. Similar preparations in this direction have also been made by Messrs Stead and Simpson, High Street, John Williams, Market Street, E. Slinn, High Street, and G. F. Gunner, Welling- ton Road. MISCELLANEOUS. Mr S. Eisiski, in each of his three shops is'holding a special sale of pipes, cigar cases, cigar holders &c., in order to enable his patrons to secure suitable articles and presents at reasonable prices. He has an admirable selection, and of all the gifts which the average man likes at Christmas time, none is more appreciated than some articles from the tobacconists shop. Ms Eisiski has an unexampled selection of all the requirements incidental to the devotee of the fragrant weed. His brands of cigars are specially choice, and his stock of tobacco covers every known make. Mr H. A. Steer, High Street, as usual has an extensive stock of the finest wines, spirits and beers, specially matured for Christmas consumption. In addition he has a large stock of choice cigars. Mr J. H. Ellis' celebrated Glenlevet Whiskey is a great demand, and is one of the most popular in the market. His Christmas Stock of wines, spirits and cigars are on the usual extensive and high class el scale. The artistic and appropriate manner in which the windows at Messrs Rhydwen Jones and Davies are laid out is a feature of the Christmas decorations. There is a splendid display of artificial plants, and of Eiderdown quilts and cushions. At Messrs Fred. Roberts and Company's establishment in Russell Road one window is elegantly laid out as a dining-room with the table ready laid ior the Christmas dinner, whilst the other window ia furnished as a drawing-room and contains some elegantly designed chippendale furniture. For some exceedingly pretty and.pleasidg jewell- ery suitable for Xmas presents the shop of Mr J. E. Corney, High Street, must command itself to lovers of gold and silversmith's art, whilst some very chaste designs are also to be seen in the win- dow of Mr W. Freeman, Queen Street. We have of necessity omitted many shops who perhaps deserve mention. But wejhave no room to notice everyone, and advertisers necessarily have the first claim on our attention. To advertisers and non-advertisers, readers and non-readers we heartily wish "A MERRY CHRISTMAS."

MARRIAGE. BISHOP—WILLIAMS.—At Christ Churoh, Morning- side, Edinburgh, on the 19th inst., by the Rev C. M. Black, M.A., Vioar of the Parish, Mr T. Henry Bishop, of London, to Goace, younger daughter of the late Mr P. R. Williams, of Rhyl, and Mrs Williams, of Edinburgh. J ONES—WILLIAMS.—2oth December at Clwyd Street (C.M.) Chapel Rhyl, by the Revs. S. T. Jones aad Lewis Ellis, John Roberts Jones, Rhyl, eldest son of Alderman John Jones, J.P., Oswestry to Emice youngest daughter of the late Thomas Williams of Gron-int House, Denbigh and Mrs Williams, Trenewetb, Rhyl, at home January 10, 11, 12.

Football fixtures for Christmas week :— —o— The following matches will all take place ou the Belle Vue Grounds, Rhyl, daring the Christmas holidays:- Saturday, Dec. 23rd: Rhyl v. Llandudno (Com- bination). Monday (Christmas Day) Rhyl v. Crewe Athletic. Tuesday (Boxing Day): Rhyl v. Wirral Rail- way. Saturday, December 30th: Rhyl v. Flint. -0- Such an attractive programme of matches ought to draw large gates to BeUe Vua Grounds, peoaiily after the recent success of the lihyl team in their several engagements.

Magistrate *'Wnn"you swear that the publican sold you whiskey last Sunday daring prohibited hours ?" 8 Cautious Policeman "No your worship;! dn't like to swear to that, but that wai) I paid for." --k

fJotttB I> SLEEPING. The clinging arm, full, white and sweet, Beneath the white lids closing The cheeks flushed faint with rosy bleept The dimpled hands reposing— The sweet red lips held half apart- Smiles coming and retreating: God bless and keep the little heart, Within the white breast beating, As baby sleeps. The tiny, restless, busy feet Lie still in cradle nestling— The clinging arm, full, white and sweet, Upon the pillow resting Close out the burst of noise and glare- Harsh sounds, and harsher seeming- And let the soft, sweet summer air Float gently through his dreaming, As baby sleeps. And life and time go hurrying on, Their varied meshes weaving And heaven is lost, and heaven is won, And joy gives place to grieving The summer comes, the summer flies, And brings the autumn's glory— While still my darling's violet eyes Repeat the same old story— That baby sleeps. I sit and muse, while yet apace The future years are winging, And think what gifts of love and graca Their hidden hands are bringing What paths the little feet may tread, What works the hands be moulding- What crown awaits my darling's head, When heart and soul, unfolding, No longer sleep. Ah Hope has many a fairy theme, From her sweet lips unfolding, And life has many a golden dream, That some fond heart is holding But none so glad as those that rise, In light and beauty blending, To shine before a mother's eyes, Above the cradle bending,

WHEN DRYING BLACK STOCKINGS • Do not place them in the sun, or they will turn green. All woollen goods are best dried in the shade. INFANTS' CRIES Should not be a source of alarm to mothers and nurses. A good healthy cry does no harm to an infant, and no greater mistake is made than to dose a child at such times with syrups and cordials, which are injurious. Crying is really a form of exercise for babies. The cry of pain is soon detected, and that, of course, should not be allowed to continue without discovering the cause. THE REMOVAL OF IRONMOULD. Get a pennyworth of salts of lemon—which is poison, and must be kept out of the reach of children, and any left over should be burnt—lay the spotted article, which must be wet, over a hot plate, and, with a cork (a large one is best), rub some of the salts on the spots, which will soon yield. The most obstinate spots will disappear under this treatment. Rinse at once in cold water, and then wash in the usual way. TO CLEAN PAINT WHICH IS NOT VARNISHED. Put upon a plate some of the best whiting, have ready some clear, warm water and a piece of flannel, which dip into the water and squeeze nearly dry then take as much whiting as will adhere to it, apply it to the paint, when careful rubbing will instantly remove any grease. Wash off thoroughly with water, and rub it dry with a soft cloth. Paint thus cleansed looks equal to new, and the most delicate colours may be treated in this way. This process will preserve the paint much longer than if it were cleaned with soap, and the process only occupies about half the time of the usual method.

DOMESTIC RECIPES. TOMATO JELLY.—Cut the tomatoes in pieces, boil and strain measure the juice, add a sliced lemon, and boil half an hour. Now add an equal measure of sugar and an ounce of dissolved gelatine to a quart of juice. Boil five minutes, test, and if done put in glasses. Fisn LOAF.—Take the left over of a baked fish, remove everything meatable where there is no stuffing use a few crumbs to each pint of fish and crumbs use one cupful of milk and two beaten eggs season the custard with salt, pepper, and herbs, if liked mix with the fish, pack in moulds, and steam or bake until firm like a custard. DEVILLED SAUCE.—Mince two shallots, fry in half an ounce of butter till a golden colour add half a pint of brown gravy, a teaspoonful of mixed mustard, a dessertspoonful of Worcestershire sauce, and a good pinch of red pepper. Stir until the sauce boils, skim, it, and pass through a fine strainer, add a teaspoonful of finely chopped parsley, and serve. ApPLE TAPIOCA.—Soak half a cupful of tapioca over night, then drain. Pare and core sufficient tart apples to measure two quarts when prepared. Arrange in a greased baking-dish, sprinkle with a cupful of sugar, add the tapioca and three cupfula of water, and bake three hours in a very moderate oven. A little quince or currant jelly added gives a pleasing variation in flavour. Dried fruits soaked. till well swollen may be used in the same way. A SPANISH MODE OF COOKING EGGS.—Dissolve half an ounce of butter in a tablespoonful of good gravy, add the same quantity of milk with a sea- soning of pepper and salt. Prepare some buttered toast, and spread it sparsely with anchovy paste. Break three eggs into the gravy, etc., which should be heating over the fire, and stir over gentle heat till lumpv. Take the pan off, and stir the contents till set. Pile the mixture on the pieces of toast pre- pared. Scatter chopped parsley over and serve very hot. SAVOUKY PUDDING TO SERVE WITH PORK. — Take equal to half a stale loaf of bread in pieces, set it in a basin, pour cold water over, and stand several hours. Then squeeze very dry, and half a pound of chopped suet, and three or four boiled onions, also chopped small. Scatter over the bread a handful "E flour, salt and pepper to taste, and a little sago and thyme. Add two beaten eggs to the above, pour^jnto a flat greased tin and bake for an hour under the joint as you would Yorkshire pudding. A DUTCH STEW.—Have about two pounds of a shin. of beef, cut it into three-inch squares, and set it on to stew, with one pint and a-half of cold water or stock, and a large onion. When these begin to boil, add a. teaspoonful of salt, less or more, according to taste, also some pepper, and simmer gently for one hour and a-half. Prepare some young, white-hearted cabbage, which has been parboiled, squeeze very dry in a colander, and lay in the pan with the beef. Let the stew cook for another hour, then serve. Those who like spiced stew should add a little mixed spice and a few pieces of lean bacon. MUSHROOM KETCHUP. — Basket of mushrooms, salt, cloves, mustard-seed, allspice, ginger, black pepper; pick and wash mushrooms, and sprinkle with salt, stir occasionally for two or three days squeeze out the juice to each quart add half a teaspoonful of cloves and mustard allspice, black pepper, ginger, three-quarters of a spoonful of each; put all into a covered pot, and allow it to heat gently till it comes to boiling point; leave it for a fortnight; strain through a cloth bottle for use should it show any appearance of spoiling, boil it up once more with a little more spice and salt. GERMAN ApPLE CAKE.—Work well with the hands half a pound of freh butter and one pound and a half of flour. When mixed add four ounces of sugar, one ounce of sweet mixed spice, and the yolks of two eggs. Knead this paste, and then divide it it two, line the bottom of a round cake-pan with one half of the paste. Stew some apples with sugar and a few dried currants, and when the fruit is cooked till soft, let it get cold. Spread a layer of this fruit over the cake, roll out the other half of the pastry and cover the apples with it. Bake for half- an-hour, or more if the pastry is thick, and let it remain in the tin till cold. Ice the top with a good cream icing", and set in the oven just to harden.

By the Tape.—Coming in the course of his canvass to a tailor's shop, facetious candidate said, What we look for here are measures, not men. k:3

AN EGG PUZZLE. j "Twice as many as you eat, If of yours you will "ve me two. t An equal number we will get > If two eggs 1 may have from you." 'Twas thus two hungry men conversed; How many eggs had each at first ? One had fourteen eggs, the other ten. VOLTAIRE'S RIDDLE. What is the longest and yet the shortest thing in the world; the swiftest and the most slow; the most divisible and the most extended; the least valued the most regretted; without which nothing can be done; which devours everything, however small, and yet gives life and spirit to all things, however great?—Time.

Amy: "Am I descended from a monkey, ma?* Mother: "I dH,re fin v but I'm not sure, for I aever met anv of your tier's people."