Rhyl Record and Advertiser

CORRESPONDENCE. THE RHYL TOWN OUNCIL AND SUNDAY MUSIC ON THE PROMENADE. To the Editor of the RECORD AND ADVERTISER. Siiz,-The minority in favour of Sunday amuse ments and Sunday desceration have for a time secured their ends. I shall say nothing at present of the mean and contemptible way by which they have succeeded to attain this temporary victory at the height of our busy season. My object in writing is to appeal to all the friends of Sunday observance in this town to loose no time in communicating to their representatives on the Council ti.e indignation and shame with which they view the recent action of the Council, and to express their hope that at the next meeting of the Council immediate steps shall be taken to give practical effect to the actual views of the great majority of the inhabitants and ratepayers of this town on this question, a matter so vitally affecting our most cherished inheritage the Sabbath day. The majority of the Council, we have reason to believe are sound on this great question. What is now immediately necessary, is. that all men who value the Sabbath day should declare their support to those men oa the Council who have in the past stood firm against the continual agitations of the forces of demoralisation in the Council We owe these men a debt of gratitude. Let us assure these representatives of our convictions on this vital question the loyal support of the forces of religion and morality in this grave crisis. The Welsh section of the Free Church Council, representing the seven Welsh Nonconformist churches of Rhyl, and their branches have already held a special meeting, and have unanimously agreed upon a series of resolutions, which were announced, I understand, at the public services last Sunday evening. The protest of the Free Church Council will be conveyed to the next Town Council. These hurried proceedings, forced upon us at this busy time by the action of the Council, will I hope be sufficient at present to put a stop to this municipal sanction to Sabbath day breaking and desecration The-Band should also learn, it will be their own "Interest to do so that they will in the end suffer far more than they will gain by flouting the conscientious convictions of Welshmen on this question of Sabbath day observance If they are not well supported under the present arrangements, it would have been far better for them to seek the support of the religious element in this town to obtain a sufficient grant from the Town Couneil to maintain themselves comfortably on six days'work—hard work as I know it is, than to alienate their sympathy and support by these Sunday engagements. I am sorry that their support is not what it should be. The musical taste of this town lias not been yet cultivated The band will soon learn, however, that the comparative few supporters of classical music in Rhyl are neither among nor re- presented, by the recent petitions for Sunday Music, or their abbetors on the Town Council. I am Sir, yours, &c., T. SHANKLAND.

THE QUEEN'S PALACE. SUCCESSFUL OPENING. The Queen's Palace was formally opened on Monday amid the most promising indic- ations for its ultimate success. We have al- ready given a full description of this palatial and gorgeous place of entertainment. The ex- I ternal appearance of the building gives little idea cf the completeness of the interior. When one reflects that two months ago the roof was not en, it is simply marvellous that so mag- nificent a hall should have attained such a. finished state within so short a period. The rapidity with which the building has been pushed forward has not been either at the cost of efficiency. There is no scamping. The minutest detail has received the most careful treatment and though there are nec- essarily many matters requiring attention the inside of the palace as well as the roof ear- dens are fully completed and equipped icr the entertainment and amusement of the people of Rhyl. This is the result of the as siduoms attention which night and day has been paid to the work by those responsible for it. The whole has been under the per- sonal supervision of Mr. Biddiscombe, one tf the syndicate and [r. C. J. Richardson, the able young architect from whose plans ;nei designs the buildings have been erected. Air. James Richardson, the chairman, and Mr. II. E. Doughty, the solicitor, have also been indefatigable in their efforts to bring about the opening en Monday, and the successful start made must be highly encouraging and satisfactory to them. The Palace on Monday presented a most charming app-'ar. ance. It was a veritable temple of art. The beautiful paintings in the ceilings, the ex- quisite taste of the colours employed in lie balcony decorations, and the wealth of leaf embellishments excited the admiration of everyone present. The stairs, lounges and the whole of the balcony as well as the Cafe and Foyer are covered in a richly-designed Turkey Pile carpet. The sides of the ballroom are provided with settees upholstered in ruby plush, while on the balcony tip up' stall chairs are provided similarly upholstered. The effect produced by the electric light was especially admired. Inside there are no less than twelve arc lamps of two thousand candle power each. Two of these are ruby coloured and two blue. These are turned on for the purpose of shadow dancing, being supplemen- ted by powerful lights of a similar hue re- flected from the stage. As the dancing pro- ceeds these different lights are turned on al- ternately, and the sight from the balcony as the dancers disport themselves in the coloured shadows is one of exquisite beauty. The roof gardens, which are fitted with palms, planes, rustic kiosks, and ferneries, proved a popular retreat, whilst the luxuriously-fitted a, d furnished refreshment bar did a capital busi- ness. Altogether it is an ideal place of enter- tainment. Plenty of variety is afforded, arc! there is none of the restraint which character- ises the general run of seaside entertainments. Three or four hours can be spent here with- out any part of the time becoming monoton- ous. Such a place of amusement has long been wanted in Rhyl, and the fact that on Monday close upon 5,000 paid for admission, and that on subsequent evenings during the week full houses have been the rule, is the most convincing testimony of the popularity of this form of entertainment. We may add that the accoustic properties of the room are all that can be desired, and what is going on on the stage can be distinctly heard in the most extreme point of the room. THE OPENING CEREMONY. At two o'clock on Monday Mr. H. A. Tilbv, J.P. (Chairman of the Rhyl Urban District Council), performed the opening ceremony. He was accompanied on the platform by Councillors Dr. G ircllestone, J.P. (Vice-Chair- man), J. H. Ellis. J.P., F. J. Gamlin, J. W. Jones, Thomas Whitley, Joseph A. Williams, A. Maltby, W. Winterbcttom, and J. S. Green- halgh. There were also present the following members of the syndicate:—Messrs. James Richardson (Chairman), H. E..Doughty (So- licitor), W. Biddi,scombe, J. Robertson, and J. Marsh, proprietor of the Empire Theatre, Battersea. At the outset Signer Gherardi sang the Na- tional Anthem. Mr. James Richardson then stepped forward, and, addressing the large audience which had assembled, thanked them for their presence that day, 'and for giving their confidence and support to an undertaking which they hoped would- not only be for the benefit of Rhyl as a town, but also for the promoters of it (ap- plause). They came to Rhyl perfect strangers I some seven months ago, and he was afraid that at the outset their movements were re- garded with a good deal of suspicion. But they persevered steadily and industriously with their project, and as the people of the town saw 'that building grow up they had ceased to be suspicious, and had given iheri their confidence and support in no un- grudging manner. They did not want to cele- I brate the cpening that day by any elaborate function, or by inviting one of the aristocracy to perform the ceremony. They preferred that the opening should partake of the identifica- tion of the town through its Chairman and the Council with their undertaking (applause). That building had been provided for the gratification not only of Rhyl itself, but also for the visitors to Rhyl, and upon whom Rhyl depended (applause). They felt that in Khvl a place of that kind was wanted, and that fact had been abundantly proved during the last few weeks by the expressions of approval that had been uttered by scores of residents and visiters alike. He trusted if anything went on in that building, that was contrary to the feelings and taste of anyone, they as directors would take it as the greatest pleasure if it was reported to them, for their desir; was to conduct that building in a proper and legi- timate manner, free from all vulgarity or any- thing in the slightest degree objectionable, and and tOo the gratification of all who visited it (applause). He believed that the Queen's Palace would bring a number of people to this town who had not previously visited it (hear, hear). There was one thing which they wanted, and he hoped the Council would as- sist their Syndicate in securing it, and in. ■: was a better railway service (lcud applause;. A mere unsatisfactory service than that to North Wales he did not know of. His col- leagues and himself had often to wait foy. five minutes at Chester, and fifty minutes at Crewe for their connections, and this was the experience of nearly everyone coming north of Manchester. He could not understand hew such a state of things could exist on the main line of the London and North-wertern Rail- way. The Syndicate would only be too happy to co-operate with the Council in doing all they could to secure the improvement of th's service (hear, hear). As he had said at the outset they had not intended to have any opening ceremony at all, but on reflection they thought it would only be appropriate to invite the Chairman of the Council to make an official declaration of the opening, and he had at once acceded to their wishes (applause;. Ir. H. A. Tilby, who was cordially re- ceived, said it had had given his colleagues and himself much pleasure to come there txiat afternoon to show ther appreciation of the services which the promoters of that under- taking had rendered to the town, and to wnh them success in it (applause). As a Council, they were at times somewhat evenly divided as to the day, the hour, and the place at which a musical performance might be gj ell (laughter). Still they were absolutely unani- mous in their desire to encourage in every possible way any enterprise which would add to the attractions of our beautiful town, and the entertainment of visitors (applause). He need not point out to them that Rhyl had bem long far famed for its sea, its sands, and its sunsets, whilst most of their visitors would tes- tify to its general healthiness. The most emin- ent medical men in the country had over and over again pronounced in its favour as a 'O T. ..L- -¿1- health resort, it was oniy some two inunuis ago since that distinguished surgeon, Sir James Sawyer, speaking in the Alexandra Hospital in the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales on the occasion of their visit to Rhyl, said—' Here in Rhyl with its bright and sunny skies, its temperate seasons, its fresh sea breezes, and its ozone-lader air, there is a maritime climate unsurpassed for salubrity in our islands' (applause). That was a testimony of which they were naturally proud. The very best recommendation a sea- side place could have was a clean bill of health. During the last ten years the Council had spent a very large sum of money—no less a sum than £ 25 per head of the population— in order to secure an abundant water supply and to make their sanitary arrangements as perfect as anything human could make them, and he thought they had fairly well succeeded (applause). But their visitors like Oliver Twist cried for more. They complained', and there was some justification for it, that the amusements provided in the town were not all that could be desired. That was a very diffi- cult question for the local authority to deal with. If they provided an outdoor band they had immediately a complaint from those who were providing indoor entertainments that they were entering into an unfair competition with them, for the combination of the balmy air of Rhyl and outdoor entertainments was too strong for those held indoors. On the other hand, if they showed a disposition to safeguard the interests of the indoor caterers, they were in once charged with extending them an undue protection. He asked them to pity the sorrows of a much-tried Council (laughter). He, however, thought that with the provision cf that magnificent place of entertainment that the time had now arrived when the visitors would cease from troubling and councillors 'be at rest' (laughter). He had been asked to formally declare that building open. His task was comparatively a simple and easy one, and one which he felt much honoured in being asked to perform. It was the desire of the management to provide a thoroughly good show free from the slightest element which was objectionable. They had certainly a most excellent place in which to provide the entertainment. It would be difficult for any- one to find a building which would excel the one in which they were assembled in the three corners of the kingdom. Thev had heard from Mr. Richardson that the directors had set for themselves a high standard of excell- ence, and he had asked that if there was any- thing in the performances which was offensive to the taste or the sentiments. of the patrons of he place that they should extend the direc- tors their assistance in suppressing it. They had spared no expense -In providing that place of entertainment, and he trusted that there would be extended them such a measure of support the undertaking In this way, but also rture upon which they had embarked (ap- plause). He understood that the directors were issuing books containing 50 season tickets at a charge of £ 1 Is. He trusted that the residents would buy these books, and not only support the undertaking in this wya, but also by calling the attention of their visitors to the performances at the Queen's Palace (applause). His task was now dene, and in the name of the whole of the members of the Council, whose mouthpiece he was, he wished the pro- moters of that undertaking well, and that they would reap from it the financial success they so well deserved. He had much pleasure in declaring the Queen's Palace open to the pub- lic (loud applause). Mr. J. S. Greenhalgh said he had much pleasure in proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. Tilby for the graceful and able manner in which he had performed the opening cere- mony, and to the members of the Council for their presence. It was only ten months ago that a start was made with that building, and that day was one of the happiest days in his life. For twelve long years he had been planning this in his own brain. It was too. gigantic a scheme for one individual or for Rhyl capitalists to undertake, and he, there- fore, put it before some Lancashire men of capital. Hitherto, owing to; past failures, a certain amount of suspicion attached in Rhyl tOo new enterprises. But Rhyl had wiped off that stigma by the support they had given that Syndicate. They had had to deal with the County Council, with the Rhyl District Council, with the Rhyl magistrates, and with the press, and the verdict of rr. Doughty, Ir. Biddiscombe, lr. Richardson, and the Syndicate generally, upon whom the- brunt of the work had fallen, was, 'They have granted us all that we have wanted, and not grudging- ly they are a good sort, the very best fellows we have met' (applause). That was the ver- dict of Lancashire capitalists of Rhyl people. It had indeed been a source of great pleasure and encouragement to them to be so well supported. He only hoped that the visitors; would extend to them the sanse support, so that the undertaking might be the success it deserved to be (applause). The vote was seconded by fr. Richardson, and carried with hearty cheers. It was ap- I propriately acknowledged by Mr. Tilby, who again urged upon the residents to take up the season tickets. THE ENTERTAINMENT. The programme at the Palace this week is one of undoubted excellence. What has struck us is the remarkable popularity of the dancing. Though this is the first ballroom built in Rhyl, and the first time that public dancing has been encouraged, the number who have indulged daily in this delightful pastime has been surprisingly large. What also has impressed us is the obvious respectability of the dancers, and the perfect order and decor- um observed. It has apparently given as much pleasure to onlookers as to the dancers, for such a scene of life and gaiety never fails to charm. The band is under the conductor- ship of rr. Theo. McDonald. Of the artistes, each of whom give three turns, the fresh, young voice, and artistic singing of Little Lena Snaith appeal at once to the apprecia- tion of the auditory. She appears in a series of popular songs, which are bright, new, and catchy. Miss Connie Williams is a most graceful and skilful dancer, while the charac- ter songs and dances of Miss Beatice: Renee, the American soubrette, are exceedingly clever. rr. Leonard Barry, the great comedian, is in rare form, and sings all the songs which has made him so popular in excellent style. He 13 particularly successful in 'The Moucher.' She was a Strange in London,' ai-id I Oh, be careful, my friends,' are among the songs which he sings, while on Monday he gave by re- quest 'Darling Mabel,' of which he .is the composer. Signor Gherardi, the celebrated tenor, has also met with much success. He has a robust voice, of comprehensive register, well controlled and highly cultured, and sings in artistic style and taste. On Wednesday the Palace was thrown open in the morning for dancing, and there was a great crowd of spectators. II

OPENING OF THE NEW ENGLISH PRESBYTERIAN CHUKCH, PRESTATYN. SPEECH BY MR. H. D. McLAREN. On Friday the handsome new church built for the English Presbyterians at Prestatyn was opened by Mr. H. D. Mc'Laren, son of Sir Charles Mc'Laren, Bart., M.P. The brilliant weather drew together a fairly large number of residents and visitors, all of whom ex- pressed admiration at the artistic appearance of the church. Mr. Thomas Jones, the architect and builder, modestly accepted the numerous con- gratulations showered upon him during the afternoon The opening ceremony proper was short and simple A verse from the hymn, Praise God, from Whom all b essings flow," was rendered, and then Mr McLaren was presented with a key by Mrs Davies, wife of the Rev. J. L Davies, pastor of the church Placing the key in the lock, Mr. McLaren said: I thank the donors for the key, with which I proceed to open the door, and declare this building open for public worship. Mrs. Davies then entered the building, followed by Mr. McLaren and the rest of the spectators. A public meeting was afterwards held, under the presidency of Mr. Peter Roberts, J P., St. Asaph. Among those present were Dr. Townshend, the Revs. Francis Jones, Abergele; J L. Davies (pastor of the new church), T. H. Williams Griffiths, Connah's Ouay: Verrier Jones, Rhyl; Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Linnell, Mr. Goronwy Jones, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Parry, Mr Treborth Jones, Cambridge University; Mr. J. E. L. Jones, Mr Cunnah, Mr. Thomas Ellis, Mr. t'arry Williams, Mr. W. J Williams. Mr W. H Harrop, Mrs. Pattinson. Miss Butterworth, Man- chester; Mrs. Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jones After the singing of a hymn, the Rev. Francis Jones (Abergele) read a portion of the eighth chapter of the 1st Book of Kings. The Chairman said it was very gratifying to all friends af true religion to see such a beautiful little church as that. The cause of Christianity would never suffer so long as there were devoted adherents who worked zealously and earnestly to build np churches consecrated to God's worship They all hoped the new church would prosper, and that an excellent example of Christian activity would be emu- lated throughout the whole district. He was pleased to see so many ftiends present. He hoped they would have a pleasant meeting (hear, hear ) Mr. H. D. McLaren was accorded a hearty greet- ing. He said his first duty was to thank them for the houour they had conferred upon him in asking him to perform the opening ceremony, a ceremony of very great importance, not only in the history of the sect, but also in the hist.ry of Prestatyn (hear, bear ) It was a source of peculiar gratification to him, be- cause he regarded the construction of the church as a sign of activity in a body for which all must have the greatest respect and admiration. Their congregation like all other Nonconformist congregations, was in the position of having no endowments to fall back upon. On the other hand, they were not ruled by a pastor who was chosen independently of them, and thev were not subject to dignitaries, in whose ap- pointment they had no voice. Those circumstances brought with them privileges and a duty. The pri- velege, be might say the inestimable privelege, of being able to rule the affairs of their own church, was a great one, and carried with it certain responsi- bilities. An established church was more or less inde- pendent of the congregation. The Church of Eng- land, as a church, would subsist, even though the zeal of its congregation might not be all that was desired But if the zeal of the Nonconformist con- gregation waxed and waned, so also would the church itself wax and wane. Therefore, the responsibility resting upon the congregation, and more especsally upon the minister, whose duty it was to do everything in his power to promote the well are of his church and his flock, was not a light one. It could be said that in the past, their congregations had proved them- selves worthy of those responsibilities. The way in which Presbyterians and Nonconformist Churches had flourished in this country was proof positive of the energy shown by each member of each congre- gation in furthering the cause of their church. He regarded the opening of this place of worship, as a further sign of that same zeal and activity, and which, further, were signs of self-reliance and independent thought, hich a congregation such as that, could not help learning from the duties they were called upon to pertorm in connection with the church itself. The virtues of self-reliance and independent thought had materially assisted in a proper performance of those duties, and because of that in the forefront of every movement in the line of progress, there were Nonconformists, and, not the least among them Presbyterians. If they bad any wish to distinguish between Nonconformists, the Presbyterians could rightfully claim to have accomplished the most valu- able work. They had always been ready to improve and bring themselves to a level with new thought, yet, at the same time, they had never gone to ex- tremes, Visitors in Wales, and especially those in the country districts, had often remarked that the ap- pearance of churches and chapels was not a very strong point. They could, however, forgive this in some cases, because it was common knowledge that the building of a church or chapel, even of the most primitive description, often taxed the rescources of a congregation to the uttermost. It was often thought, little short of marvellous to see in Wales, how the very poorest of the poor saciificed a good deal in order to build themselves a little church or chapel. In such cases one could hardly countenance any ornate display of things not absolutely essential yet it was gratiiying to find, when they came to a more prosperous and larger town, such as Prestatyn, that the congregation determined to build not only an edifice with the barest essentials, but a place of worship that was a credit to the town and district (applause ) They could speak of the future of that church in no uncertain tones, and as the population grew, so would its influence grow and expand. Per- haps, it was not saying too much to predict the neces- sity of even a larger place of worship than that. He would, therefore, not hope that the building, pretty as it was would be fore vet- permanent. In conclu- sion, Mr. McLaren hoped the Rev. Lewys Davies wou d be long spared to preside over his congregation (applause-) The Rev Mr Griffiths (Connah's Quay) in the course of a lengthy speech, congratulated his Prestatyn friends upon the beautiful little church which had sprung up, and hoped that the work to be acoomplished therein would be blessed by God. Mr Treborth Jones (Cambridge University) and formerly of Chester, said he was glad to add his tribute to the many tributes that had been paid to the ernestness and the enterprise of their Prestatyn friends, and to express the hope that the great expectations and prayers m respect to its future would be answered. (Hear, hear.) He thought a 11 good many lessons were to be learnt from dedication services such as those They spoke of the need of self-devotion, and if they offered themselves more fully and entirely to God and His service, those services would not have been held in vain. (Applause.) Mr Goronwy Jones said their minister desired him to say, in case his absence might be misconstrued, bow extremely sorry he was that he could not be present. In some places in Wales, when an English cause was started, considerable ill-feeling was felt by the Welsh element, but he could assure them that so for as the Welsh cause in Prestatyn was concerned, no such feelings ever existed. (Applause.) It was, of course, a great loss for the top chapel to lose those friends who had thrown in their lot and entered so heartily in the new work before them. Still. he could honestly repeat that no ill-feeling existed between them, but that they heartily sympathised with their English friends, and would do all they could to assist them. He hoped those feelings would be reciprocated, and that they would work together for one common object. (Applause.) The. Rev Verrier Jones (RhyI) offered neighbourly congratulations to his Prestatyn friends upon the opening of such a beautiful p'acc of worship. There were many forms of Christian faith and belief. Sev- eral of those forms were doubtless represented there that afternoon, but there was only one source of spiritual power. No denomination, no form of belief had ever prospered which had not made the Son of God their beacon light. Let Christ be manifested in the preaching, and in the lives and conversation of the people who worshipped there. They complained a great deal in these days of scanty congregations Perhaps that was too frequently the case, but if Christ was more manifest in out lives, and if His personality was magnified, complaints about thin congregations would soon cease The R.ev Francis Jones (Abergele) and Mr Jenkins (Denbigh) also spoke. I The Rev. Dr Townshend, president of the New 1 Connexion Conference, spoke at some length. He congratulated the architect and builder (Mr Thomas [ Jones) upon the beautiful effects af his labours. He congratulated Mr McLaran upon being privileged to open such a pretty place of worship, and referred to the honour that had fallen upon Sir Charles by iavour of the King In regard to the Coronation honours, he should like to express his delight at the very im- partial and judicious manner in which they had been distributed. They had not been given to one class in the State, and in recognising the prominent men in politics and literature, he thought the King had shown considerable tact and judgment. He was glad that one great honour had come to Prestatyn, and was proud that Sir Charles McLaren was the squire in that neighbourhood He trusted that his son, Mr Duncan McLaren, would more and more devote his time to public work, for which he was well qualified by birth and education, and that his future would be a bright and useful one in regard to Wales and Eng- land. (Applause.) He was always glad to hear of the erection of a new Presbyterian church, either in England or Wales, because he knew it would become the eentre of a noble and religious activity. He him- self was a Presbyterian His denomination differed in name from Presbyteriamsm, but their forms and methods of church government were verv similar. They called their meetings the General Assembly. The Methodist New Connexion called it a conference, district and quarterly meetings, but in almost tvery other respect they carried on their church government precisely on the same lines. In his own de- nomination they bad considered whether it would not be advisable to alter their name. They called them- selves the Methodist New Connexion, and yet they were nearly roo years old. He loved Presbyterianism and hoped it would grow more and more, even in Wales itself, because he was speaking then as something of anoutsiderin regard to denominationalism in Wales. He was glad that the denomination was growing in England; he rejoiced in its prosperity. Many of his dearest friends were Presbyters, and many of their leading ministers in Wales were closely identified to him at the present time. He found them men of great scholarly attainments, of earnest religious spirit, and stalwart in maintaining the principles of their creed. He hoped that such men would be connected with that church, and then its future would be assured. People once said that they did not want him or his church in Prestatyn. Let them be done with that sort of feeling once and for all. He had come there, and they had come there, and they had all come to stay. Therefore, he wished them all prosperity, and hoped, as the place grew larger and larger, that the churches would be the means of elevating the whole neighbourhood with Christian truths and principles. Let them watch carefully Oyer the morals of their town, and take care that it was the home of a large population of the best kind. Let all the churches work harmoniously together upon common ground and for the attain- ment of common objects They all held special views of their own. One of the speakers had referred to John Calvin. Certainly, a nobler man never breathed nor did a greater work (applause). He congratulated the Rev. Lewys Davies upon being the pastor of that beautiful church, and sincerely trusted that he woul i stimulate his congregation into living a higher and nobler life. (Applauee.) I On the motion of the Rev. Llewys Davies, seconded by Mr Marshall, votes of thanks were accorded to the Chairman for presiding, aud to Mr. H. D. Mac Laren for opening the church. After the service, the visitors were entertained to tea in the schoolroom, the following ladies dispensing hospitality: Mrs. Llewys Davies, Mrs. J. D. Parry, Mrs. Marshall. Mrs. Thomas Tones, Mrs. Duncan and Miss Humphreys. OPENING THE NEW ORGaN. At six o'clock the new organ was opened bv Mr G. A. Tessimond, of Liverpool. There was a fair audience, who greatly appreciated the following programme: Coronation March (Meyerbeer). Andan. tino (Rosamunde) (Schubert), Pastorale in G (Salome). Andante in F (H. Smart), 4th Sonata (Mendelssohn). The vocalist was Madame Georgina Hughes, whose exquisite contralto voice was heard to great effect in the following selections Entreat me not to leave Thee," "O Rest in the Lord," and "The Promise of the King." During the interval, the Chairman (Mr. J. B. Linnell, J.P ), alluded to the fact that that church was the first one to introduce a proper organ into Prestatyn (applause) He heartily congratulated the congregation upon being privileged to worship in such a beautiful edifice (hear, hear). SPECIFICATION OF THE ORGAN. Ihe following is a copy of the specification of the organ: — Two manuals, CC to C-56 notes. GREAT ORGAN. I-Open Diapason (metal) .8 feet 2-Dulciana (metal) 8 feet 3-Sub-Diapason and Clarabella (wood) 8 feet 4-Principal (metal) feet SWELL ORGAN. 5—Gamba (wood and metal) .8 feet 9—Lieblich Gedact (wood) S feet 7-Gemshom (metal) 4 teet 8—Oboe (metal) g feet PEDAL ORGAN. 6 —Bourdon (wood) 16 feet COUPLERS. Swell to Great, Swell to Pedals. Two composi- tions to Great Organ. At seven o'clock a special service was held, the dedicatory sermon being preached by the Rev. J Reid Howatt, of London. There was a large con- gregation. The collections realised £ 25. RHFDDLAX CALVXNISTIC METHODIST CHURCH.—These last few Sundays. English services have been held at the above place, and have been very well attended by both our Welsh and English friends, to the latter of which it is felt to be a great boon. Last Sunday the pulpit was occupied by Proffesor Edwin Williams, MA, of Trevecca, who gave a most stirring and soul inspiring sermon from the 2nd chapter ot St. Paul's Epistle to Titus, and the loth verse, the service throughont being greatly appreciated. Our C.M. friends deserve our best congratulations for the Christian spirit they have shown, in supplying this long felt want of an English service for the benefit of those English Nonconformist strangers, that are within our gates. There is nothing more certain than, that this is a movement in a right direction, and one in which others as well as myself have warmly advocated for many years It will I believe be fraught with good in the future, and redound to the credit of Nonconformity and now the matter has been taken up so warmly, and likely to be permanent, at least during the summer months, I see no reason why this movement conld not be extended to at least an occasional English service during the winter months, and likewise to establish an English class in the Sunday School. Wishing every success to the movement.—J.J.T.K. THE SCHOOLS —The Diocesan Inspector's report has come to hand and is as follows: Mixed School- "This school has greatly improved as regards the religious instiuction. The Senior Division was excellent. The Lower Division did well, considering the time Miss Webb has had charge of it. Next year I hope to find this school one of the best in the Diocese Infant's School—" The little ones passed a very fair examination in religious knowledge." THE CORONATION SERVICE.—The Vicar, last Sunday announced that the service in connection with the Coronation of King Edward VII will take place next Sunday at 11 a.m., when the special prayers, hymns and anthems will be used. CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT.—The annual treat to the scholars attending the Church Sunday School will be held to day Saturday at the Boys' school at 3 p,m. DYSERTH. More people have visited Dyserth this week than for many years past. Brakes and all kinds of vehicles have conveyed thousands of holiday-makers to see the famous water falls and the hills THE PARISH CHURCH.-Special thanks- giving services will be held on Sunday next for the restoration of His Maj sty the King, and coronation During the last three Sundays the pulpit in the afternoons has been occupied by the Rev. C. A. Griffin, curate of Chesterton, who has preached sermons in English to appreciative congregations. COKONATIOX —We understand that there will be no public celebrations on Coronation day at Dyserth. as every item of the programme* has previously been carried out. DEATH.-The death took place on Thursday (last week) of Mr. Thomas Evans, watchman, Rhyd, at the age of 46, and his remains were inte rred at Dyserth Churchyard on Sunday, August 3rd. -lio:1- The Bishop of St Aaoph is gazetted honorary chaplaih to the Denbighshire (Hussars) Imper- ial Yeomanry.

RAWFORDS ■ aeAM. mRACKCRS

BANK HOLIDAY AT RHYL. A RECORD INFLUX OF VISITORS. Rhyl has little reason to complain of the patronage it has received from the holiday world this Bank Holiday. Until then there was little of an encouraging nature in the season. A combination of events has served to make it a particularly disastrous one for all the holiday resorts on the coast. Most of last week the weather was of a treacher- ous character and on Saturday there were frequent showers culminating in a heavy downpour during the eariy hours of Sun- day morning. On Friday and Saturday the traffic at the railway station, despite the fact that week end season tickets had. 'I been suspended all over the system ot the London and North Western Railway Company, was abnormally heavy- The trains arrived at the respective platforms in bewildering succession with the result that although there was yet more room in the town the accommodation in the lodg- ing houses was fairly well taken up whilst the hotels and boarding houses were all quite full. Sunday opened dull and threateningly and shortly after noon there were a couple of slight showers. It after- wards cleared up and there was a fine even- ing when the promenade wore a most con- gested and animated appearance. It was one black mass of people, and of life. Such a scene has not been precedented within the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The Royal Austrian Band held their sacred Sunday concert and this time the departure had a fair trial for there was no adverse at- mospheric element to interfere with it. All the seats were taken and there was a huge crowd in the vicinity of the orchestra which listened with evident appreciation to the music discoursed. There were special preachers in all the English Nonconformist places of worship. Particularlvpowerful sermons were delivered at the English Presbyterian Church, on the occasion of the anniversary services by Professor Edwin Williams, of Trevecca College. The pretty and stately little edi- fice was filled to its utmost capacity both morning and evening, and there was a satisfactory collection. A former minister in Rhyl in the person of the Rev. Duncan McGregor, principal of Dunoon College, occupied the pulpit at the English Baptist Chapel, Sussex Street. Here also there were large congregations and the rev. gentleman preached with much pcwer and acceptance. Both in the morning and evening the English Wesleyan Chapel, Brighton Road, was filled to overflowing when the anniv- ersary sermons were preached by the Rev H. Lefroy Yorke, M A., B.D., an ex-super- intendent of the circuit. Two brilliant sermons were delivered and the collection amounted to close upon £ 20. Mrs. Ormiston Chant was the attraction at Christ Church (Congregational) Water Street. There was hardly standing room obtainable either in the chapel or the Lecture Hall in the morning. Mrs. Chant preached with great charm and effect. Her subject in the morning was u God's Providence and in the evening "Man's Power of choice." The collection reached ^14, On Monday, excursionists commenced to arrive as early as three o'clock in the morning, and thereafter came in a con- tinuous stream until mid-day. The weather was of the most perfect character. In fact, it was one of the most pleasant days exper- ienced this year. The sands were studded with people and the promenade and streets weie one moving mass of life. Huge crowds gathered around Mr. E. H. Williams' "I Merrie Men at each of the tour performances. At the evening show there; must have been quite 10,000 people present. Special artistes supplemented the usual members of the troupe, and the programmes were of exceptional excellence, affording the greatest delight to the vast gatherings of people that had assembled. It was the universal verdict of the thousands who patronised the performances that they were the best of their kind to be seen in any seaside resort in the kingdom. Adeler and Sutton's Pierrots had also most flattering patronage. Special artistes were engaged for this week and they have met with a most cordial reception. Likewise Mr. George Penn's Pierrots who were better patronised. The Royal Austrian'Band discoured some capital music and had record attendances, whilst Mr. Cheetham, held forth on phreonology to numerous audiences. The doilman also had plenty of listeners whom he amused in characteristic fashion. The principal resort was the Palace which was opened for the first time on Monday and was visited by close upon 5000 people. A full account of the proceedings appears in another column At the Town Hall A Me-sagefrom Mars was produced, and there was a variety entertainment at the Sijou Pavilion. The numerous brakes, coaches and charabancs were in great demand, and the surrounding 2 1-1 country was visited by some thousands of tourists. The Marine Lake was alsc well patronised and boating was indulged in under the most pleasant and delightful conditions. The Belle Vue Gardens were also a source of attraction and much delight to large concourses of people. It was a most enjoyable and successful holiday with- out anything to mar it in the shape of accidents or disorder of any kind.

A GWESPYR MAN AND HIS MOTHER. At the Holywell petty sessions on Tuesday Daniel Jones, Gwespyr. was summoned by the Guardians of the Holywell Union, to contribute towards the maintenance of his mother, who resided in Holywell, and was in receipt of 3s. a week parish relief. The case was stated by Ir. P. H. Roberts, clerk to the guardians, to the effect that the defendant was in receipt of an average weekly wage of 26s. He was a widower with three children, two of whom he had to maintain. Mr. Roberts applied for an order for the payment of is. a week. Defendant said he was pre- pared to pay, but considered that his elder brother should also contribution. Tho order was granted.

GWAENY SGOR. The preaching anniversary in connection with the Welsh Wesleyans of the above place was held Sunday and Monday last week The meetings on both datys were well attended, and the sermons were powerful and impressive. The officiating ministers were Revs. W. 0 Evans, Birkenhead, and Mr. William Roberts, Maentwrog. The chapel at this place is becoming too small and the friends are con- sidering the advisability of having it enlarged.

GEO. T. ELLIOT (Successer to WILLIAM LITTLER), GENERAL GROCER AND CONFECTIONER MARKET ST., ABERGELE frijt'jfef' AND AT PENSARN.

J PRESTATYX. THE BANK HOLIDAY.—Prestatyn was exceedingly full of visitors for Bank Holiday, but a large number left for Rhyl on Monday and as their places were not filled up by many day excusionists the place did not present the full appearance it really is. DR. TOW.NSEIEND.-Dr. Townshend who is having an exceedingly busy year of office as President of the National Free Church Council has been appointed to represent the Council at the Coronation of the King at Westminster Abbey, on Saturday. On Sunday he preached the anniversary sermons at the Methodist New Connexion Church. CORONATION DAY.- Prestatyn having fairly well exhausted its possibilites of rejoicing on the day originally fixed for the Coronation there will be little in the form of public cele- brations to-morrow except a service at Church, an United Nonconformist service. Just now the residents are too busy making money to be able to devote much time to sports, &e. MR H. D. MCLAREN AT THE LIBERAL CLL B-—Mr, H. D McLaren son of Sir Charles McLaren, Bart., M P., paid a visit to the Pres- tatyn Liberal Club on Friday evening. lr. McLaren, who it is announced will offer him- self for a seat in Parliament on the first oppor- tunity delivered an excellent address. He has a pleasant, and lucid style of speaking and dis- plays a close and intimate acquaintance with political affairs. Several others also took part in an interesting meeting. SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION.—Despite the fact that the Prestatyn School Board has only a few months to exist, the Church party in Prestatyn appear determined to put the parish to the expenise of an election. The nominations have taken place, and they are running three candidates viz., Mr. Coward, the new Vicar, and Mr. T. J. Scott. They appear to have dropped Mr John Pritchard who has been nominated by two Nonconformists. The three Nonconformist candidates are Messrs, G 0, Jones, and Peter Ellis, and the Rev. F: Jewell, Great indignation is expressed at th treatment of Mr Pritchard. It is true that h is a Nonconformist, but he has been so stead, fast an opponent of the School Board and so useful a help to the Tory party in the past that he is at least entitled to more respectful con- sideration than that which has been meted out to him. Unless two of the candidates with- draw. a contest is inevitable, and the district will be placed to considerable expense. Seeing that the Board of Education has suggeeted that the retiring School Board should be re-elected owidg to toe imminent operation of the Educa- tion bill, and having regard to the fact that there is no principle involved in the election, tha question of a new school, having been decided we can only describe it as the height of bigotry and intolerence to force a coutest at this juncture, and to add to the burdens of a highly rated parish We feel sure that the Vicar is no party to it. In the ordinary course of things, the Church party would be perfectly entitled to run what candidates they choose, but seeing that in this instance, even if they are successful they cannot hope to gain more than a miserable empty sectariar victory, their action can not be too strongly condemned, Candidates may withdraw up to Saturday- This far the Vicar has asserted a salutary and peaceful influence in the parish, and we hope he will continue that good influence, by making every effort to avoid this contest Should a contest take place, the polling is fixed for Saturday week. CONCERT.—A grand yocal and instrumen- tal concert was held at the National School on Tuesday, August 5th, the proceeds of which were to defray the cost of providing chairs for visitors. The Chair was taken by Mr. T. J. Scott, and the following artistes sustained the programme: Mrs. fayleur, Rhyl Miss Gertrude Humphreys, Rhyl; Miss Dolby, Bradford Miss Jones, Brynford Mr. W. Bul- cock, J P., Talacre Mr. Hanlon, Rhyl Rev. T-Jenkins, B A., Rb) 1. The Misses Hickson, Miss Dobby, Miss L. Coward, Miss Jones. Accompanist Mr. Bryan Warhurst, Rhyl. OUR X A VY.-At the Town Hall, Prestatyn, Messrs Baring Brothers presented West's grand naval entertainment which included living pictures of our navy. The hall was crowded, and the entertain- ment was fully appreciated. BREAKDOWN. — Owing to the failure of an engine, a very rare occurrence on the Lon- don and North Western Railway, the Irish mail from Chester to Holyhead was on Sunday about noon delayed for an hour near Prestatyn

DENBIGHSHIRE AZD FLINTSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SHOW. LOCAL PRIZE WINERS. The annual show of the Denbighshire and Flintshire Agricultural Society was held at Ruthm on Thursday. This was the sixtieth show of the Society and was consequently de- scribed as the diamond jubilee show- The late Mrs Naylor Leyland of Nantclwyd was the president this year. and Mr. Thos. Welsby of Rhyl again did the secretarial work. fr. W. Conwy Bell, Rbuddlan was one of the showyard Superintendents, At the annual meeting the invitation of Wrexham to hold next years' show in that town was accapted. Among this year's prize givers were Mrs Rowley Conwy, Bodrbyddan who presented a solid silver challenge cup for the best heifer, and the Rbyl Star Supply Co., who g-tve a challenge cup for butter Tiir total number of entries was 1210 being 10 less than last year. The following are the local prize winners Mr F. Bibby, Rhyl, first prize for bull calved before 1900, also second prize for bull calved in or before 1900 the property of a tenant farmer Mr W Owen, Rhuddlan, first prize for pair of dairy cows, the property of a tenant farmer, first prize for heifer half or cross breed calved in 1900, in calf or in milk first prize for cow half or cross-bred in calf or milk, and first for heifer half or cross bred. In this department Mr F. Bibby also secured a second prize for heifer calved in 1901. Mr. T. Roberts, Rhuddlan, secured the first prize for cart gelding or filly fouled in 1900 Mr. J. H. Smith. Rhyl, took the second prize for roadster foaled in 1902, the first for roadster gelding or fillly foaled in I goo, the first for roadster colt or nlly foaled in 1901, the second for mare or gelding 13 and not exceeding 14 hands, the second for mare or geldmg over 14 and not exceeding 15 hands. Air. R. Davies, St Asaph was awarded the first prize for Welsh mountain pouy not exceeding 121 z hands. Mr. T. R. Evans, Prestatyn, first prize for mare or gelding over 13 and not exceeding 14 hands Messrs. Gratton Brothers, Foryd, first and second prizes for ram lamb, second prize for three cross-bred fat lambs, first prize for ewes of any mountain breed. Miss Bibby, St. Asaph, first prize for four half pounds butter slightly salted, first prize for butter perfectly free from salt. third prize for butter slightly salted (restricted t6 tenant farmers) Messrs. Roose & Co., grocer, Rhyl, first prize for loaf barley bread 2lbs. or over. The second prize in this class was taken by Messrs. W. Davies ahd Son, grocers, Rhyl. Mr. C. R. Jones, grocer, Rhyl first prize for brown bread, 2lbs or over. Mr. J. A. Harker, Highfield Park, Rhyl took the following prizes in the poultry section, first and third prizes for game (modern cock or hen), second for game (Indian), first for Dorking, first and second prizes for Langshan (cock or hen), third for Pullet, any pure breed hatched 1902, second for Bantam l game cock or hen. In the class assigned to pigeons, I Mr. Harker took first prize for Slag-pies or Fantails, second and third for Kinnerton Tumbler, first for Show Homer, and second for Flying Homer, and first for any variety not mentioned. Mr. D. B. Jones, Rhyl took second and third prizes for Ancona cock or hen. The Rev. D. G. Lewis, Rhyl, first and third prizes for Hamburg-cock or hen.

Colonel Cornwallis West, who was accomp anied by Mrs Cornwallis West, paid a visit 18 the camp of the 1st Volunteer Battalion Welsh Fusiliers on Salisbury plain a few days ago acd distributed the war medals tothe men who had recently returned from South Africa. The death of Mr. George Rae, formerly man ager and later chairman of the North and South Waies Bank took place at Birkenbead on Monday. He was born in 1817 at Aberdeen and by sheer ability, after two years service in the North of Scotland Bank, rose to the highest position in the North and South Wales Bank. In his 29th. year he became manager of the latter bank. When the Liability Bill was in ieopardy in Parliament in 1876 Mr, Rae used his influence to secure its passing-

even a pendulum does not swing of its own accord. It is the anger with which the country regards the Education Bill that has set the pendulum in motion, just as it was the Bread Tax which produced a similar result at Bury. This Government tricked iuself into power in October, 1900, by posing as an indispensible national institu- tion engaged in a great national undertaking. It has proved itself to be nothing more than the creature of a sect, inspired by the narrowest denominational ideals. The natural reaction has followed It is im- possib'e that any but the slaunchest of partisans should support a Government which has committed itself to a sectarian crusade. With the examples of Bury and North Leeds before him, Mr. Balfour can be under no illusions. Whatever majorities the Whips may be able to give him in the House, whatever temporary triumphs" the closure may secure, he is legislating against the will of the country. Democracy be- comes a sham when statesmen can ignore a lesson so plain. One would have thought that the Leeds election would have suggested to Mr. Balfoui the wisdom of some compromise on the Education question. He may, if he pleases, perserve. but at the present rate he is saving the way for a reaction which will probably endanger the interests he has at heart much more seriously than any politic yielding on his part might do at the present moment. An Education Bill which was not grossly unfair might survive a general election. A settlement on Mr. Balfour's Dresent lines can be only temporary. But the fair moment for compromise has now passed. It arrived with an amendment proposed by Mr. Dillon. As the Irish members have supported the Government in this Bill there would have been no humiliation involved in a surrender to an ally. The Irish proposal, moreover, was eminently leasonable. It was that in the :3,000 paiishes where the Church School is the only school, the board of management should consist of two members elected by the trustees, two by the Parish Council, and two by the parents of the children actually attending the school. Mr. Balfour, however, stuck to his point that four members should be appointed by the Church and only two by the iocality. He would, he said,'consent to nothing which might destroy the denominational char- acter" of these schools. It is useful to have this simple statement of principle. It would be fair enough but for one circum- stance-that Mr. Balfour's own Biil has already destroyed the denominational character of these schools by providing for their maintenance out of the rates. From the moment that the Church ceases to be responsible for the cost of the education given in these schools, ceases even to find .the teachers' salaries, it has no further right to treat them as denominational pre- serves. Moreover, Mr. Balfour seems to assume that the four managers to be chosen by the parish in Mr. Dillon's scheme would all be Nonconformists. Many of them, perhaps most of them, would be Church- men—but not bigots. That is why the extreme Anglican party object to public control.