The Chester Courant and Advertiser for North Wales

LOCAL GOVERNMENT JOTTINGS. 4. The Beaumaris Town Council have decided to rent at £ 50 per annum the tine bathing place to bo constructed at Beaumaris by Sir It. H. Williatna-iiuikalcy. and to allow mixed bathing. The Birmingham City Council have approved a recommendation by the Health Committee to purcliaae Saiterley Grange as a sanatorium for consumption, at a cost of £ 25,tX0. It 10 proposed to provide for 40 patients in four blocks of ohalet-t.wo blocks for sixteen each and two for four patients each. I do not suggest that there are windbags in the Council, but there are timea occasionally when inflated balloons happen to "lip their moorings," said Councillor Clough, M.P., unlid loud laughter, at the late meeting of the West Riding Town Council. Some time ago the Wrexham Town Council decided that all projecting signs in the town, for which permission had not been given, shotud bo taken down, and at last week's meeting of the Council a resolution to that effect was agreed to, and to serve a notice on every tradesman who has a. projecting sign. A reply was read. from the Postmaster-General to the effect that it was intended to use the underground oonduite for both telegraph and telephone win*. Tho an- nounocment WM received with eatisfeeti; It was agreed, however, that permission b. ,veii for the conduits only after an agreemver had been drawn up. At the Liverpool City Council, Alderman Burgess, chairman of the Water Committee, stated that owing to the frost 700 repairs to pipes had been already effected, and it was antici- pated that the number of burets would run up to 2,000. On the previous Tuesday the consump- tion of water was 41,000,000 gallons, against a normal 28,000,000. The General Purposes Committee of the Bangor City Council having recommended that permission be given to the Royal Welch Fusiliers to place pictorial recruiting advertisements on Corporation properly, on the matter wining before the late meeting of the Council Mr. J. Williams moved that the recommendation be deleted, on the ground that the War Office pro- posed to disband the Fusiliers. Colonel Savage pointed out that if the disbandment took place no advertisements would be needed. Dis- bandment merely meant incorporation in another form. His own Volunteers had just been informed that they were to be disbanded, but only to reappear as mountain batteries. The committee's recommendation was confirmed. What strikes one as a novel, if not im- practical proposition, was moved by Mr. Stott, a Socialist member, at the late meeting of the Warrington Town Counoil- Thai. in the opinion of this Council, it would be in the interests of the community for the municipal Corporations to bo granted powers to undertake the supply of coal to the inhabitants of the various boroughs, and in order to further this object the Town Clerk be hereby instructed to circularise each town and city council in Great Britain, asking them to pass a similar rcsolu- j tion, and to forward a copy of the same to the Association of Municipal Corporations, with a request that the association shall urge the Gov- ernment to pass legislation giving powers to municipal Corporations to undertake the sale of coal and the purchase of coal mines." In sup- porting the resolution, he argued that if it was Tight for the Corporation to purchase thousands of tons of ooal and dispose of it in tie shape of gas and ooke, why not buy and sell it to the citizens as plain coal. The Council was paying 14a. a ton for best coal which ooet the consumer 20s. In replying to the discussion, Mr. Stott said such an enterprise would mean a saving to the town of 218,000 a year. On being put to the vote the resolution was lost by six votes fo eleven.

DUKE'S GIFT OF COAL. 4 WORK OF DISTRIBUTION. The huge task of distributing among the poor people of Cheater the new year's gift of coil from his Grace the Duke of West- minster has now been completed. The task of organising the distribution was kindly under- taken by the City Accountant (Mr. F. J. Beckett) and his staff, through the directions of OOL Wilford N. LLoyd. All clergymen and ministers, as well as the city missionaries and the local leaders of the Salvation Army, were invited to send in lists of the very poorest resi- dents in Ohester. Altogether over 1,500 names Yore received. As it had been inteoded tha.t the recipients should number only 600, this total had to be reduced, but by Thursday the revised lists, containing 750 names, were ro- ceived. Tiokeits, eacth with the and ad- dress of a reoipient, were then made out and were sent to six coal merchants in the city, with orders to øuppJy 4owt. of coal at each ad- dress. For tho purposes of distribution, the ty was divided into the following six districts, and eaoh ooal merchant was given charge of que distriot: Boughton, St. John's Ward, St. yiwald's Ward, Trinity Ward, Handbridge, Saltmey and Hoole. The ooal supplied is the beat Wedah main from the Westminster, Wrex- Hama and Acton, Llay Hall and Ruabon. ool- iieriea, and altogether 150 tons have been dis- tributed.

LITERARY NOTICES. + THE JANUARY MAGAZINES. "The Strand" has an important article on the German Emperor, which has been specially re- "VJHod by his Majesty. In view of the German naval ambitions, the following words, attribu- ted to the Kaiser, are interesting: "My great aim ia to maintain the peace of the world, not to challenge the supremacy of Britain on the aaaa. or to make an enemy of Britain. It would be foily for us Germans to try to attain to the height of Britain's naval power. I cannot com- jwebemd how people can thus misunderstand my aims and intentions." Pramiaiont among a number of excellent ar- tiiolets in the "Wide World" magazine is the IIOOond instalment of an account of a 60,000 mile WQk by a man of 72. Owing to the "too-old-at- forty" ory, this man, who is a London me- o, set out in 1900 to prove the absurdity of ory by walking 60,000 miles in. seven years. ■He accomplished his task with some months to travelling through all tfce counties of and several Continental countries, yfoqr articles worthy of mention are "Our ^fcroh for the Mission Gold," a story of Ari- ZOna. and Mexico; "Tha Procession of Giarats at Doudi in France," and "The T. House Mys- rei7' The last-named is a weird story of the fortress at Kinsale in Ireland.

WINTER FOOD. Winter Food should be such as will supply the body with enough animal beat to resist the effects of weather, temperature, etc. Currants are two-thirds their weight natural sugar, the element which contributes heat to the human organism. Currants are fresh grapes of a seedless variety, grown only in Greece and dried in the open air by exposure to the sun. The practice of drying fruits almost as old as the hills. It renders food conomic, and increases their nutritive properties. *», P?UI,d of sun-dried Currants contains all the riment ^ve pounds of fresh grapes.

f IIORSE AS CHIEF MOURNER.-At a ral at Tettenhall, neu ^"olverhaiupton, on larm containing the remains of rIWfJt!c coachman at the Manor House, sorvani-Q V. T'al carr!e<* to the church by fellow- man'» t .the chief mourner was the coach- bebiod tbe SI "ho <°»a'd

FRODSHAM PARISH REGISTERS.' lp [FROM 1558 TO 1812.] -19b Instalment. 1748. Jan. 2. Thomas Brandreth and Margaret Fletcher, by licenoc. Jan. 5. John Toweris and Ann Handley, by banns. Jan. 9. Ralph Heppard of Hartford in the pariah of Great Budworth and Alice Whidby of Newton in this pariah, by licence. Jan. 10. William Daves and Ann Gibona, by banna. Jan. 29. John Gaakell of Warrington and' Elizabeth Darbyshire of Moor in the pariah of Runoorn, by licence. Jan. 29. Thomas Jackson of Crewdtonn in the pari&h of Weaverham and Sarah Mitchel of New Church, by licence. Jan. 31. Robert Barker and Ann Adams, by banns. Feb. 3. Thomas Low and Mary Ball, by banns. Feb. 22. John Tickle and Esther Hornby both living at Hornby's oth Stan-Hill in the Forest of Delamere, by licence. Mar. 16. Samuell Abram and Catherine Greety, by banns. Mar. 20. John Percival, of Groppenhall and Mary Leigh, by licence. April. 13. Samuell Miller and Elizabeth Leach of Runcorn, by banns. May 26. John Okell and Martha Lideart, by banns. June 1. William Brooks and Hannah Ball, by banns. June 11. Richard Parker and Elizabeth Houghland, by banns. June 16. Richard Turner of Norley and Mar- garet Hignet, by lioenoo. June 27. Robert Green of the New Pale in the Forest of Delamere and Margaret Rider, by licence. July 5. Samuell Yoxon of the Parish of Stoak and Ann Haslaa, by banns. July 19. John Seffon and Margaret Helsby, by licenoe. Oct. 15. John Spruce of Dutton in the parish of Great Budworth, Joyner, and Mary Tickle of Kingsley, by lioence. Nov. 7. Thomas Woodes and Hannah Davies, by banns. Nov. 9. William Buckley and Mary Smith, by banns. Dec. 6. John Cheshire and Elizabeth Light- foot, by banns. Dec. 29. William Brandreth and Ann Weet- brook of Cuerdley in the Chappelry of Farnworth, by banns. Dec. 29. William Clark and Margaret Lewis, both of Norley, by banns. 1749. Jan. 6. Samucll Moukxiale and Mary Jones, by banna. Feb. 6. Thomaa Roberta and Elizabeth Cook, by banns. Feb. 10, John Johnson of Dutton in the pariah of Great Budworth and Ann Whitaker, by licence. Feb. 13. John Johnson and Mary Chatterton, by banns. March 25. William Ellison and Elizabeth Garner, by banns. March 27. Peter Jackson and Elizabeth Blean, by banns. March 28. John Cornell and Mary Bickerton, by banns. March 28. Thomas Potter and Elizabeth Run- corn, by banns. April 17. Thomas Tickle and Ann Hall, by banns. April 18. John Ball and Ann Bevington of Plometall, by banna. May 9. James Sellars of Barrow and Martha Fryer, by banna. May 18. John Percivall and Deborah Woodee, by licence. May 26. Samuell Ball and Ann Brierwood, by banns. June 1. Samucll Williams and Martha Mercer, by banns. July 1. Thomas Davenport and Mary Toilet, by banna. July 25. John Radiah and Eleanor Hatton, by lioenoe. July 30. Charles Raohetta, of the parish of S. Peter in the City of Chester, hosier, and Dorothy Buxton, of the parish of St. Oswald in the city aforesaid, by licence. Aug. 24. John Hough and Margret Brown, by banns. Sept. 15. George Reighd, a soldier, end Mary Edgerton, by banns. Oot. 10. Joseph Slack and Elizabeth Shing- ler, by banns. Oot. 30. John Gibbons and Martha Heys, by banns. Nor. 6. Samuell Humphres and Mary Mad- dook, uy banns. Dec. 11. Isaao Perrey and Mary Grendley, by banns. Dec. 26. Thomas Bromfield and Margaret Yersley, by banns. 1750. Jan. 9. John Mitchell and Elizabeth Yould, by banns. Jan. 18. William Birtles, of Warrington in the County of Lancaster, and Hannah Barton, of the Town and County aforesaid, by lioence. Jan 26. John Hand and Esther Williams, by banns. Apr. 18. William Ottorem and Sarah Tom- Ion, by banns. Apr. 18. William Clark of Norley and Sarah Wilkinson of Warrington, by banns. Apr. 24. Joseph Garner and Martha Helsby, by banns. May 4. John Aston and Deborah Woodes, by banns. May 25. John Youd and Martha Weston, by banns. June 10. John Mainwaring and Elizabeth Redfern, by banna. June 28. Daniel Usherwood and Mary Whit- ley, by lioenoe. Aug. 1. Riohard Griffies of Miiddlewitch, maister, and Mary Gar rat of Middlewitch, by licence. Au.g. 1. William Chatterton of Middlewitch, butcher, and Martha Hind, wid- dow, by lioence. Aug. 6. Thomas Turner of the Abbey Court in the Oity of Chester, and Mary Hooker of the same plaoe. Sept. 17. John Owen and Mary Booth, by banns. Oct. 2. Thomas Bleaa and Helen Knowles, by banns. Oct. 21. Robert Price, butcher, and Ann Lloyd, spinster, both of the parish of St. Martin's in the Oity of Chester. Nor. 18. Orion Adams of the parish of St. Werburgih in the City of Chester and Ann Holliwell of the parish aforesaid. Dec. 19. Thomas Wesson and Mary Ridley, by Lanns. Doo. 24. John Grice and Mary Moulsdale, by banns. 1751. Jan. 7. Tames Rretland and Mary Holland, by banns. Feb. 12. William Booth and Mary Lamb, by banns. Fob. 19. Joseph Griffiths of Eaton in the parish of Tarporley and Sarah Bradbent of tho same place, by lioenoe. Apr. 30. Robert Bromley, gentleman, and Elizabeth Ohaddock, widow, by lioenoe. May 27. Richard Williamson and Elizabeth Richardson, both of Liverpoole. by I ioenoo. May 28. Saimxell Jones and Ann Newport, by banns. May 29. Jonathan Huxley and Margaret Edgerton, by banns. June 1. Thomas Cook of Cuddington in the parish of Malpas, and Sarah Jennion of Bradley, by lioence. June 3. George BurcheU and Elizabeth Hough, by banns. 4The publication of this interesting record of I marriages from the registers of the church of St. Lawrence, the Frodsham Parish Church, was commenced in our issue of September 11th. June 19. John Wright and Mary Burrows, both of Manly, by licence. July 30. George Harvey and Hannah Henaoo, by banns. Sept. 22. James Chester and Elizabeth Heys, by banns. Sept. 22. Nicholas Hughes and Ann Donaughey, by banns. Sept. 30. Joseph Tickle, and Mary Bate of Norton in Runoorn, by lie. Oct. 14. William Risdal and Catherine Nixon, by banne- Nov. 5 John Ashbrook and Mary Milner, by banns. Deo. 24. Henry Fisher and Hannah Worral, by banns. Deo. 28. ThomM Clark and Jane Perrey, by banns. (To be continued.)

COMMERCIAL TRAVELLERS' DINNER. t MR. MOND AND TRADE PROTECTION. DANGER IN RAILWAY AGREEMENTS. The annual dinner of the Chester and North Wales Commercial Travellers' Assooiation was held at the Blossoms Hotel on Saturday even- ing, and was attended by a numerous body of membans and Mr. Mond, M.P., pre- aidod, and among those present were the Sheriff of Chester (Aid. J. M. Frost), Mr. D. Ernest Evans (vice-president of the association), Mr. T. Gibbons Frost, Mr. J. Cullimore, Mr. W. H. Denaon (president of the Chester Traders' Association), Ald. Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Taylor, Aid. John Jones (B.), Mr. H. F. Brown, Mr. H. B. Dutton, Mr. J. Sheriff Roberta, Mr. T. J. Smiiih, Mr. John Griffiths, Mr. W. H. Barnes (hon. solicitor), Mr. Thomas Owen (hon. trea- surer), Mr. Henry Prioe (hon. secretary), Mr. M. C. Sunter (elections representative), Mr. D. E. Oliver, Mr. Evan Williams, etc. An excel- lent dinner was served by the manageress, MIs. Gilbert. After the loyal toast had been given, the Vias-presidont mentioned the absence of the president (Mr. Richard Mills), owing to the death of his father-in-law (Dr. Roberts), and he proposed a most hearty and sincere vote of oondoleneo with the family. Ho said not only had they lost one of the city's oldest and most oua-ioieatiotis and respected citizens, but many of tibem had lost an old and valued friend. Dr. Roberts was a man whose good deeds, cheery words of advice, and unfailing ohoerfulness in all oircumetanees had endeared him to the hc-arts of thoso with whom he had come in con- tact. The sad family bereavements, which came to him in such rapid succession, and tthe unfortu-nate circuxnstianoes of his domestic life had only caused his heart to beat with g-reater love and sympathy for others. He had gone to his reward, and had left behind him all ex- ample of a noble life, well and truly Lived, and which must be to everyone an inspiration. Dr. Taylor feelingly seconded, re-marking that Dr. Roberts, apart from his own family, waa his very oldest frie-ad. He believed they first met at Glasgow on the occasion of the oede- bilation of the King and Queen's marriage. Since that time he had enjoyed the friendship of one of the very best men that ever lived. Only those who had known Dr. Roberts inti- mately knew what he had been or what he bad done. Times without number Dr. Roberts had coma to him and said, "I w&nt you to see a patient with me, but there are no foes for either of us." Often had the doctor attended patients without any fee or reward, in all weathers and seasons, and at all times. The motion was carried in silence, the m. bers standing. "The Houses of Parliament" was submitted by Mr. T. J. Smith, Who asked them to couple with the toast their very worthy member, Mr. Mond. As a good Conservative, lie felt the association of the two Houses together by that gathering, which was reprewntative of the com- mercial olassee, was a good augury, as it was opposed to the Socialistic ideas of a wholesale sweeping away of one Chamber. In the course of his reply Mr. Mond took occasion to refer to the two city boreavemeats. In Mr. John Thompson we had had a citizen of the very highest type. He bad had the plea- sure of working with the deceased gentleman when the Birkenhead Water Bill was before the House of Commons, and Mr. Thompson shewed then much self-sacrifice in order to safeguard the interests of the Dee Conservancy, and dis- played tho same groat ability and acumen as he had displayed during a long and honourabls career. As to Dr. Roberts, whom ho had ha.d the pleasure of knowing inti- mately, he fe,t they had all met a great per- sonal low by his too-early death. It would not be easy to replace two suoh men, whosa long experience, ripe judgment and devotion to pub- lic duty bad made them beloved. Turning to tho toast, Mr. Mond reforred to the House of Commons from a business man's point of view. Ho said the business oommunity w&s on the whole well represented in the Houaa of Com- mons, but lie sometimes felt that the influence which was exercised on legislation by the busi- neas ability in the House was not as marked as it ought to be. In spite of their capacity, wealth and great position in the country, the business people in the House of Commons had never been organised as perhaps they ought to be. Ono sotnetimeo tlhoatght that a BUSINESS MAN'S PARTY, organised for business purposes, apart from the Hnes of ordina.ry party polities, might do some very valuable work. lie hoped they should not have to wait very long before they had a Minis- ter of Commerce, who had been promised too long. They did not watch sufficiently perhaps over commercial interests. Mr. Lloyd-George, in conjunction with Sir Edward Grey, had done many things to assist English trade on adminis- trative liaes, but there were problems ooming along which would require the beet brains of the business community, and the first would be the future administration of our great railways. Although he still looked on the nationalisation of railways with a rather doubtful eye, there was no doubt that if the railway companies were going to enter into working agreements which practically abolished competition, the trading community oould not be satisfied with sitting by quietly and sewing the agreements made wiUhout any protection of their real in- terests. (Hear, hear.) They would have to call on the Government to adopt some system of oontrolling agreements between railway com- panies. He was not hostile to the companies' making reasonable agreements to prevent un- reasonable competition, which had in the long run to be paid for by the trader; but the tra- der's interests must be safeguarded. In that and other matters there were no party divisions in the lIous3 of Commons. Business men would have to aoo that they got their due rights, and they would have to kick for them like other otaaaes, because in politics the people who said nothing did not get anything either. Mr. Mond them mentioned the Secret Commissions Act, which he hoped would be successfully directed against tho praotioo of sellers' giving secret oom- raiaafanist to otihar people's buy-or8. (Hear, hear.) Commercial travellers, who belonged to goods firms, often knew how impossible it was to get into some works, simply because some people were receiving commissions from others. The country, however, was still far behind other countries in legislation regarding business com- petition. IN GERMANY they had very much more stringent legislation, and he waa not at all sure we should not have to adopt similar forms of legislation. People should not be allowed to say they were selling goods under cost prioa, when they were doing nothing of the kind, nor to say that they were selling at greatly reduced prices, when they had bought a bankrupt stock and added 15 per cent. To issue advertisements which were not truthful should bo a punishable offence. Wo should make our business as pure as pos- sible, and the honesty and good name of a man ought to be of more value than fictitious statements which robbed the public and dis- couraged tho honeeft trader. (Applause.) Mr. J. Oullimore submitted "The Mayor, Sheriff and Corporation," in a very short but amusing speech. He said ho was not a great ardmirer of representative local institu- tions. Theoretical^ they wiero right, but pr.acit'idally they oonjduabed tJhemaed vkb in a somewliat unworkable way. Twice every year there came an occasion in which a great many wished they oould put the Corporation into a glass case and stand at a. distance and admire them for a period of ten years without their being able to do any practical work. (Laugh- ter.) In responding, the Sheriff paid a tribute to the work of the late Mr. John Thompson and the late Dr. Roberts. He said Mr. Thomp- son's help would be greatly missed in connec- tion with many publio otiioes and charitable institutions. A3 to Dr. Roberts, his cheery manner, broad-mindedness and ready sym- pathy had endeared him to a largo circle of friends. It was a lamentable fact that since the doctor became a.n alderman in 1903 no fewer than six vacancies in the ben eh had occurred. Referring to the work of the Cor- poration, Alderman Frost said that Chester, being a residential city, had net benefited much by the wave of commercial activity which had been felt in other places. The Corpora- tion had endeavoured to maintain the city as attractively as possible, and there was no doubt that with the increase of motor-cars the popu- lation of the surround ng neighbourhood was growing, and that must add to trade. Since he entered the Council 13 years ago, many municipal works had been carried out, notably the Electrio Light Works, the Isolation Hos- pital, the Public Baths, the electrio tramways and municipal oottages, besides several very extensive road improvements. Then again, tho Corporation had been obliged to erect sewage worko-(hear, theaf, and Jter)- which were in course of completion. (Laugh- ter, and a voice: "Glad to hear it.") Ho firmly believed that in a very short time the city would have the most successful system in existence, and at a very considerably less cost than had been estimated by the man in t-he street. Unfortunately new schools were being built to replace old buildings, and those ex- tensive works moan- a large sum of money. He thought the chairman of finance would have to Apply a word of warning to the Coun- cil to pause and digest what they had already in hand be-fore indulging in other enterprises. (Hear, hear.) Dr. Hamilton said be wished he had more eloquence to respond for the Corporation after their being "damned with faint praise" by Mr. Cuilimore. (Laughter.) He did not in- tend to i down under it (Laughter.) The Corporation compared very fa.voura.bly with any other in the ocuntry. (Hear, hear.) They were twirt :d with having spent a great deal of money, but they had something to shew for it. The state of the streets and alleys of Chester now, aa compared with 35 years ago, when he first came to Chester, was quite a revelatio 1 to those who know them as he did when he was visiting surgeon of the Infirmary. At that time the slums were hot-beds of diseaae. There were several diseases which were now really stamped out in Chester, sim- ply by improvements in the over-crowdod and insanitary alum areas. There still remained a ijreat deal to be done, but they were going on gradually and steadily. Another source of expenditure wus the Education Committee, and if the circular from the Board of Education, enjoining upon them the medical examination and inspection of children waa to be carried out, it meant a very oona:derahle increase of expenditure. They would admit it would be money well spent if it improved the health rnd mental activity of the children. Mr. H. F. Brown proposed "The Commer- cial Travellers' Schools and Benevolent Insti- tution." Founded in 1851, the schools had educated and seat into the world ae competent citizen3 2,700 pupils and at the present time they were feeding and clothing and eduoating upwards of 30J children. The eohooln were in all rpspeets prcgressive, and there had been recently added a swimming bath. What scorned to him an excellent feature of the Benevolent Institution was that every effort was made to secure that only thoso who needed it should benefit Mr. Sunter, in responding, mentioned that there had been an increase all round in the income of the institutions. There had been an increaaa of JE240 in annual subscriptions, and £ 375 in donations, and 1;550 for the Benevolent Institution and 2700 for the schools from the Commercial Travellers' hotel break- fast-table oolleotions "Tha Chester Traders' Assooiation" was pro- posed by Mr. W. J. Croydon. Mr. W. H. Denson s&id he had been in busi- ness 27 yeairs, and suoh was the taotftbLness dis- played by the commercial fraternity that he had had occasion to lose his temper with one of them only onoo. (Laughter.) That was say- ing a great deal indeed. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Danson mentioned that his association were taking an interest in the reform of the Poor Law system, and ho entered into a description of the EoorfeJd system of Germany. Under it every house-hold was in possession of a minimum amount of money every week, according to the size of tho family, so that workhouses were unknown. With regard to those who would not work, they were put into prison until they were willing to work—(bear, hear)—but in the mean- time the families of those men were not allowed to suffer. The system was not costly, and was very much batter than the English system. It was now being tried in some of the largest towns of Yorkshire and Lancashire, by volun- tary helpers. It would not be long before the system would be brought into aotive opera.tion in Chester, and the Traderd Assooiation was & likely one to provide the helpers, who would be needed. Mr. H. B. Dutton also replied, and aaid that the TmdeW Aasociation did something for the protection of Chester trade. Some people seemed to think that what they got from a dia- tance was superior to the homo artioles, and he knew a Chester lady who paid 13s. 6d. in Lon- don for three dozen coal-savers, which had been made only two miies from her house, and the wholesale price of which was nioeptenca per dozen. Regarding the relations of traders with commercial travellers, be spoke of the objec- tionable system of coupon trading, and suggested that the travellers should do all they could to persuade their firms to stop it. Mr. Evan Williams proposed "The Guests," to which Mr. Gibbons Frost responded, and said that for 15 out of the 25 years he had been a member of his firm he had been on and off the road. He knew something of a commer- oial's life, and could appreciate the (act and patienoe it required. After a graceful allusion to Mr. Thomas Owen (horn, treasurer) as a typical, straightforward, hard-working com- mercial traveller, Mr. Frost expressed the hope that the schools of the assooiation would con- tinue to do their exoellent work.—Mr. Robert Griffiths aJeo responded. The toast of "The Chester and North Wales Commercial Travellers' Association" was sub- mitted by the Chairman in a humorous speech. —Tho Vice-president, in the course of his reply, aaid they were losing the services of their hon. secretary, Mr. Henry Prioe, who had filled the office successfully for three years. Mr. Prioo was their new vice-president. The committee were very proud to enlist the services of Mr. H. M. Stone, whose good work aa secretary of the Alpha Association proved his particular talents for that all-important offioe. Owing to the increased work, Mr. Stone would have Mr. K. H. Juiesr as assietant secretary. The last toast was to "The Chapman," pro- posed by Mr. W. H. Barnes. The usual collection in the room and among members and friends for the association chari- ties amounted to about £ 200I and included fifty guineas from Mr. Mond, ten guineas each from the Sheriff, Mr. T. Gibbons Froet, Mr. H. B. Dutton and Mr. Richard Mills (president), five guineas each from the late Dr. Roberts and Messrs. Dicksans, Ltd., four guineas each from Mr. J. Cullimore and Mr. Robt. Griffiths, and three guineas from Mr. Harry F. Brown. Dur- ing the evening the hon. secretary read apolo- gies for absence from the Mayor (Aid. John Jones), who was abaent in ootsequence of the death of his old friend, Dr. Roberts; the Duke of Westminster, who sent 25; and many others. The enjoyment of the evening was enhanced by musical contributions by Miss Margaret Sttone and Messrs. M. S. Webster, Percy Stone and A. J. Armstrong, while the accompani- ments were efficiently ronderod by Mr. H. D. Williams. The arrangements for the dinner wero admirably carried out by the hon. aoore- tary (Mr. Henry Prioe), whose valued services in tihat officio have beeci recognised by the asso- oiation by the promotion which was announced by tho vioe-president during the evening.

For Chronic Chest Complaints, Woods' Greab PeoDerruint Cure. 1/li, 2/9.

FLINT. PRIMROSE LEAGUE SOIREE.—The an- nual soiroo in conncotion with the Mostvn-Flint Habitation of the Primrose League took plaoe at the Town Hall on Wednesday, when there was, as usual, a large gathering. For the danc- ing the music was supplied by Coupar a band. The soiree was a huge success, t-hanlcs to the efforts of the indefatigable Mrs. Barbara Bellis, secretary of th-o Habitation. Miss Evans (Churah-streef) and Mr Matthew Bentham, with Mr. T. B. Bellis, were also responaible in a g-mt moasure for the evening's enjoyment.

4 SANDYCROFT. MISS GLADSTONE'S TREAT.—On Wed- nesday the Sunday school scholars attending the St. Ambrose school from Sandycroft and Pentre, numbering 205, were entertained at t.he school by Miss Constance Gladstone, who had provided a handsome Christmas tree, laden with all sorts of presentfc. Each of the younger children received a present, and a bran dip was indulged in by the elder scholars. The teachers also received a present. Gramaphone selections were given, and several miscel- laneous items were rendered by the children. "Santa da us" was impersonated by Mr. R. Parry, the costume which he woro being kindly loaned by Messrs. Densons, of Norbhgate- street, Chester. Among the invited guests were the Hon. Mrs W. H. Gladstone, Miss Helen Gladstone, Miss Evelyn Gladstone, Mr. and Mrs. E. Sydney Taylor, etc. Votes of thanks were passed to Miss Constance Glad- stone, Mres Ada Jones, and the Sunday school teachers.

DELAMERE. SANATORIUM DOCTOR RESIGNS.- The hundreds of patients who have been cured or greatly benefited by a sojourn at Liverpool Sanatorium for Consumptives at Kingswood, will regret to 'earn that Dr. Hernforth Wood haa resigned his position as superintendent of that institution. Dr. Wood was the first doctor appointed to the sanatorium when it was opened, seven years a.go, and during that time he has had under his charge 200 patients per annum, and has examined ten times that num- ber and it is claimed that tho institution stands very high for the percentage of caaes relieved. Dr. Wood's great knowledge and wide experience of the scourge are not to be lost to consumptives, as he intends to set up in Liverpool liS a consumptive specialist. The patients at the sanatorium deeply regret h;s departure, erd are organising a testimonial in the form of a gold watch, etc., and already over JS25 has been raised.

f BUCKLEY. MR. H. EDWARDS ON EDUCATION.— On Tuesday evening, at the Central Hall, Buckley, Mr. Harold Edwards, the prospective Unionist candidate for the county of Flint, ad-1 drosged a successful meeting under the auspiosa of tho Flintshire Constitutional Association. Despite inclement weather there was a large audience. Mr. W. H. Roberts (Tyddyn) took the chair, and was supported by Messrs. J. IL Bottomley, T. Williams, S. Dunn. E. Ellis, R. M. Gibson, T. Rowlands, T. Halewood, H. Pioroey, W. Tarran, etc. SERIOUS ACCIDENT.—On Friday night George Reay, of Padeswood, near Buck- ley, met with a severe accident while working at Meaans. Taylor, Jones and Co.'s ironworks at Padeswood. A heavy piece of mechanism fell on him, and his back was seriously injured. A special train was char- tered at Mold, and he was put on it and brought to Cheater. There he was met by the city horae ambulance, and removed to the Cheater General Infirmary, where ho now lies. His condition is serious. «

CHRISTLETON. WOMEN'S UNIONIST ASSOCIATION.— The Ohristlotoo branch of the Eddisbury Union- ist Association, held a. social evening in the Boys' School on Thursday evening. There was a capital attendance, and the evening was spent in a most enjoyable manner. A varied pro- gramme was gone through very skilfully. The principal item was a little play entitled "The Up-to-date Play of Bluebeard." The characters were: Fatirna (Miser West), Sister Anne (Miss Hutton), Alizar, Fatima'a father (Miss Frost), Hachish, her brother (Miss K. Frost), Mouna, Hadhish's sweetheart (Mrs. M. Boden), Blue- beard (Miss Gardner), Fairy (Miss M. Boden). The chanaoters were well sustained, the various actresses shewing histrionic ability much above the average. Miss A. M. Boden was a capable pianist. Other items in the programme were two violin solos by Miss M. Okell, guitar solo by Miss M. Macfie, two eongs by Mr. Burley, two songs by Miss OkelL, song by Miss A. Mtuo fie, reoitation by Mr. S. Earlam, and a capital speech by Mrs. Cullimore on Tariff Reform, given in her forcible and convincing styoo. Seveml dances were indulged in, and refresh- ments on an elaborate scale were dispensed under the superintendence of Mrs. Cullimore, the popular local president.

» TARVIN. PARISH TEA.-This popular event took place on Wednesday in the Public Hall, when, in spite of the inclemency of the weather, there waa a large gathering. An enjoyable concert followed in the evening, and was in every way auoceasful, each .item being capitally rendered and encores being the rule. The following waa the programme:—"Pianoforte aolo, Miss Shur. I rock; song. "A little patch of red," Mr. A. Langford; duet, Life's dream is o'er," the Mieaes S. and E. Eaton; eong, "Friar of Orders' Grey," Mr. A. Chrimes; somg The May Morn- ing," Miss S. Eaton; duet, "When the wind blows in from the sea," the Rev. J. H. Wiloock- son and Mr. A. Langford; character sketch, "William 'Enery," Mr. Mitohell; dramatic sketch, "Difficult to Please," the Saighton Amateur Dramatic Society; duet, "Dear Little Shamrock," the Misses S. and E. Eaton; song, "Jack's Yarn," the Rev. J. H. Wiloockson; aong, "Margery Green," Miss Ethel Eaton; duet, Pulaaki's Banner," the Rev. J. H. Wiloockson and Mr. A. Langford; comic song, "The Automobile, Mr. Mitchell; dramatic sketch, "Rival Companions," the Saighton Amateur Dramatio Society. Mrs. Wiloockson efficiently acted as acoompaniat.

4 HAWARDEN. CRICKET CLUB BALL.-The Hawarden Cricket Club gave a ball at the Gymnasium on Friday, a goodly company being present. The music was supplied by Mr. Barkers band. The M.C.'s were Sergt.-Major Claridge and Mr. J. H. Wright, who were both indefatigable in the discharge of their duties, and contributed in no small degree to the enjoyment of the company. The proceeds were in aid of the funds of the club. GIFT FOR MEMORIAL CHAPEL.—The "Parish Magazine" states: We have to record the arrival of the very beautiful gift of an I altar cross from the Honourable Mrs. Henry Gladstone. The work has been designed and executed under the superintendence of Sir William Riohmond, R.A., and has been placed in the Memorial Chapel. The designer thus describes his work: "On the Ocean of Eternity stands :he Angel of the Resurrection, bearing aloft a sphere representing the world. From this globe springa a Cross—the Tree of Life— intertwined with vine leaves and Briar rose." The candlesticks for the altar have yet to come. SCHOOLS FABRIC FUND.—A printed statement of the list of subscribers to this fund haa just been issued by the honorary treasurers. This shews that the total sub- scriptions ai yet paid amount to the sum of £ 4,354. 5s. 6d., the number of subscribers to- wards this amo'mt being 541. "One cannot fail to perceive," says the "Parish Magazine," "when reading through this list the eelf-sacri- fioo shewn by many whose names appear, and to feel glad that such sacrifices have been pos- sible. When all have done so much, i tis per- haps difficult to give any special commenda- tion, but the number of subscribers in tho Pentrobin district and the amount of money they have contributed is too noteworthy to escape attention and remark. It is eo great a work, if it be passible for any to be more worthy, where all aire worthy, then we must feel very grateful to the district of S. John's." -At the recent bazaar, which Mrs. Drew ar- ranged at the Rectory, over L130 was realised.

BUNBURY. DR. KIRKPATRICK'S ESTATE. Mr. Arthur Kirkpatrick. M.A., of Audlem. Cheshire, and late of Bunbury, surgeon, who died on the 8th October last, left estate valued at £ 8,502. 4

UPTON. TELEPHONE IMPROVEMENTS.—An ex- change is now In uoo in Upton, and ere long it is expected there will be a public call office i at the exchange, which is situated in the centre of the village. REGULAR ATTENDANCE.—Thoe. Ast- bury, of Upton Schools, completed h.:s eight and a half years' attendance at school this Christmas. It is very creditable to the boy to have not missed school once during so long a pericd. «

SAUGHALL. SUNDAY SCHOOL AND GUILD.—The children's tea party was held in connection with the Sunday school of All Saints' Church on Wednesday afternoon, in the Town Hall. The tea waa arranged by Mrs. R. Kellock and Miss Bateson, and upwards of one hun- dred and fifty children sat down to an excel- lent tea, their wants being attended to by the following ladies:—Miss Vernon, Miss Bate- son, the Missea Glynin Johnston, Mrs. F. R. Wansbrough, Mrs. G. D. White, Miss Cooper, Mies Milligan, Miss Wright, Miss Moore, Mrs. Ludlam, and Miss Norton. After tea Miss Vernon entertained the children with selections from her gramaphone. After- wards the Rev. G. D. White gave a magic lantern entertainment. Both of these items were thoroughly enjoyed by the children. On leaving the hall each child was presented with a small gift. THE LATE MRS. H. O. MADDOCK.—The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon at All Saints' Church, Saughall. The service was conducted by the Rev. F. R. Wansbrough (Vicar), assisted by the Rev. G. D. White (late Vicar), and Mr. William Duckworth presided at the organ. The hymn sung was "When our heads are bowed with woe." Besides the deceased's family connections there were many sorrowing friends who attended to pay their last iwpects. The chief mourners were—Mr. H. O. Maddock (widower), Mr. James Tilston and Mr. Joseph Ttlston (brothers), Mr. T. and Mrs. Whalley (sister), Mr. Edward Griffiths of Gayton, and Mr. Robert Griffiths of Wood- bank (uncles), Mr. Chas. Maddock, Mr. John Maddock, M-r. J(rn,s Maddock, and Mr. Sam Maddock (Capenhurst), Mr. James Tilston (Cheater), Mrs. Joseph Tilston (Chester), Mr. Ed. Griffiths, jun., Mr. Wm. Griffiths, Miss Griffiths (Gayton), the Misses Griffirhs (Wood- bank), Mr. Thos. Charmley (Chester), Mr. T. Davies (Needwood). Mr. Thos Maddock (Capenhurst), Mr. E. L. Gregory (Liverpool), Mr. Robt. Ravenshaw (Tranmere), Mr. Robt. Jones (Lodshaml, Mr. H. Beeoroft (Ledaham), Mr. A. W. Ounnah (Chester). The general mourners were Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Whal- ley, Mr. R. Foulkes, Mr. F. Darlington, Mr. Chas. Done, Mr. J. T. Whaley, Mr. J. R Carter, Mr. Mark Vickers, Mr. Thoe. Wil- liams, Mr. Robt. Williams, Mr. Heber Jones, Mr. J. F. Noden, Mr. Thomas Jones, Mr. F. R, Wansbrough, Miss Cooper, Mrs. J. Harris, Miss Powell, Miss Healing, Mrs. E. Darling- ton, Mrs. Norton, Mre. J. Clarke, Misses Moore, Miss Jones, Miss Moore, Mrs. Brayne, Mrs. Woods, Mrs. Mawby, Mrs. Martin, and others. The following were the bearers: Mr. Robert Griffiths and Mr. Wm. Griffiths (Two Mills), Mr. Robert Griffiths (Padeewood), Mr. Samuel Griffiths (Borras). There were some beautiful floral tributes, the senders including the widower and daughter, Mother and Lizzie, Mr. and Mrs. T. Whalley, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. Tilaton, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tilston, Mr. and Mias Griffiths, Mrs. and Miss Tilston (Pengwladys), the Hon. Mrs. Trelawny (Arun- del), the Misses Trelawny, Mr. and Mrs. J. Harris, Mr. and Mrs. R. Kellock, Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Rigby, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Noden, Mts. Bradbury, Mr. Vernon (Shotwick Park), and others. f

FARNDON AND HOLT. CONCERT.—A crowded audience in the Kenyon Hall, on Tuesday last, was a fitting compliment to the splendid programme which Dr. and Mrs. F. Parker, of Farndon, had pro- vided in order to secure funds for the light- ing of the street Lamps. Madame Clara Moulsdale quickly aang her way to the hearts of her itt-di, in a couyla of songs, which were rapturously enoored, and, as an encore, gave a very fine rendering of "The Sands of Dee." Miss Ethel Scott sang the first item to her name, but owing to a severe cold wisely canoelled the second song. Messrs. Green- wood and Hopton are so well and widely known that it is only necessary to say both were in splendid form, and had to pay the usual penalty. Mr. W. H. Hallmark was funnier than ever, and so close does humour cling to him that hie formal announcement of Miss Soott's indisposition was treated by thd audi- er:oe as a huge joke. The last, but not by any means least, Miss Warren and Miss Le Bran, two violin students of R.A.M., of great ability and skill, who rendered high-class violin music si ch as is seldom heard in this out of the world old town. Technical skill in octaves, double stopping, phrasing, etc., was expected, but the full-eouled resonant tone charmed all, particu- larly ao with respeot to the younger of the two, a girl in her teens. They played works by Hubay, Do Beriot, A lard, Rudhart, names which bespeak the oharacter of the music. They will be heartily welcomed again. Credit and many thanks are due to Dr. and Mrs. Parker for their exoellent programme. The accompaniments were ably played by Mrø. Parker and other ladies. THE ENDOWED SCHOOLS.-A correspon- dent writes —Cheshire, unfortunately, has not the monopoly of possessing an education authority bent either upon forcing unnecessary expenditure in repairs on managers of de- nominational schools or in acquiring control of such schools. Welsh counties are at the present moment suffering from an over-zealous display of sectarianism on the part of their respective education authorities, and none of them more so than Denbighshire. To those who know how greatly the political element enters into every act of Welsh education authorities, it is not at all surprising that such authorities should seek to embarrass the mana- gers of denominational sohools by compelling them to carry out wholly unnecessary repairs with the fiole view to forcing them to hand over the control of the schools to the authority; but in Denbighshire the authority seem in such a desperate hurry to obtain con- trol of all schools that they do not limit their attentions to those of a purely denomina- tional character, but seem determined to get oontrol of all publio elementary schools. It will be within the recollection of many that about two years ago the governore of the En- dowed Schools at Holt spent a considerable sum of money in enlarging the school playing grounds and in carrying out such other repairs and rebuilding as it was fully thought would meet the requirements of the local education authority. These schools form one of the very few endowed schools in Wales, and were built between thirty and forty years ago by the in- habitants of Holt out of certain charitable be. quests to the pariah, which had under the En- dowed Schools Act been diverted from the trusts of the respective donors for this pur- pose, and for endowing the schools when built. Under the scheme of the Endowed School Commission it is provided that no denomina- tional teaching should be given in the schools and the election of tho governors is on a popu- lar bass. It was, therefore, with intense sur- prise and no little indignation that a short time ago Holt people learnt that an intimation had been received from the education authority requiring governors to carry out further ex- tensive alterations and repairs forthwith, or, in the alternative, to hand over the schools and the endowments to the authority. The governors at once brought these requirements to the notice of the parishioners at a meeting oopeciallr convened for the purpose, when it was unanimously resolved to lefuse to hand over the schools, but to take steps to raise funds to carry out tho repairs and alterations at the earliest moment. A committee, consisting of Lord Kenyon, the Hon. G. T. Kenyon, Mr. Edwin Bellis, and Mr. H. T. Lester (with power to add to the number) has already been formed, and a large proportion of the amount required (the estimated cost is about £ 300) has already been promised.

,assr AND UfonHoufeiis ammMmKs s 38J||| If you I have not tried I VAN HOUTEN'S I COCOA, I I buy a new 6d Tin; k 8 you will get 25 cups E out of it, | and enjoy every one. B

WAVERTON. VETERAN YEOMAN. Squadron-Sergt.- Major Gregory has just retired from the Im- perial Yeomanry (owing to the age limit), after nearly 35 years' connection with that foro. He is the possessor of long-sfrvice and good ooaduot raeda's, and his discharge paper, eignixl by the Adjutant, rtates that his coaduot has been exemplary. Mr. John. Gregory's long service probably constitutes a record, at any rate for the county. »

HARGRAVE. STUDENTS SUCCESS.—Iti the reoc.nt ex- amination for the "Sir John Willox" Scholar- ship, Mr. John Smeath Thomas, formerly a pupil at the village eohool hero, and afterwards at the Technical Day School. Chester, was bracketed first. The "WiUox" Scholarship if of the annual valua of E50, tenable for two years at the University of Liverpool, where Mr. Thomas is now holding one of the scholarship# awarded by the Cheshire County Council. 4

HAUGHTON. -MA-RRIAGE.-On Weuc^tLay afternoon last, at the Parish Church, Bunbury, the mar- riage took place of Mr. Edgar Sheen, only son of Mr. George Sheen, High Ash, Brindley, and Mies Blanche Owcen, youngest daughter of Mr. R. N. Ownn, Haughton, for many years the agent of the Eddisbury Conser- vative Association. The bride was given away by her brother, Mr. R. B. Owen. The brides- maids were Miss Laura Owen, and Miss Edith Sheen. The Rev H. Woodman officiated, and Mr. J. M. Taylor played suitable selections on the organ- The bride wore a dress of ivory silk poplin, trimmed with real Maltese lace and ohitfon, embroidered net veil and wreath, of orange blossoms, and carried a shower bou- quet of white roses, garcleniaft, lilios of the valley and white heather. She also wore a gold chain and pendant set with pearls, tho gift of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids' dresses were of violet cloth, trimmed with laos and embroidery, shaded silk liats to match, and ahower bouquets of white lilac and violets, and wore gold lace brooches set with pearls, the gift of the bridegroom. Air. A. W. Kay- Menzies acted as best man, and Mr. Chariea Holland as groomsman. A reception was after- wards held at Haughton Thorn, and subse- quently the happy pair left for London. 4

ELLESMEHE PORT & WHITBY. HALF-CENTURY'S SERVICE RECOG- NISED.—On Friday an interesting presentation took plaoe, the recipient being Mr. David Dutton, who haa lately retired after 52 years' faithful service with the Shropshire Union Railwaye and Canal Company, about 38 years of which have been spent at the Port. Mr. Done presided, and spoke of the good feeding which had always existed between Mr. Dutton and the men under him. Mr. Whitridge made the pre- sentation, and referred to the esteem in which they held Mr. Dutton. "Mr. Dutton." he said has been with you longer than I can ever hope to be. You have known him almost from boyhood. You who have worked under him are losing a good master, and the company are losing a valuable servant. We hope he may be spared to enjoy his retirement, which he haa ao richly earned and deserved. I have pleasure, Mr. Dutton, in handing you a puree of gold, which haa been subscribed for by the men, and I have to give you the best wishes of all here, and I hope that you may be long spared to enjoy your retirement." (Applause.) Mr. Dutton suitably replied, adding: As long as I live I shall not forget the kindness of the men of Ellesmere Port." Mr. Done proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Whitridge for making the pre- sentation. Mr. Whitby seconded, and Mr. Whitridge responded. He said one of the chief characteristics of Mr. Dutton was summed up in the one word, "duty." He thought the em- ployes of the Shropshire Union Company at Elleamere Port could rightly be termed "a "very happy family." (Applause.) 4

MOLD. THE NEW VICAR.—At a hockey match at Llanfair, Welshpool, between the local team and Newtown, the Rev. Evsn Jones (vicar of Llanfair) met with a serious accident, breaking his leg in playing the ball. The accident is particularly unfortunate to Mr. Jones, as he intended remov- ing to his new living at Mold on Mondav. CARNIVALS PAST AND FUTURE.-At the Black Lion Hotel on Thursday Is,-it a supper and smoking concert were held in commemoration of the successful cycle carnival of 1907. Mr. T. S Adams (president for 1907) presided, and there were 60 persons present, including as guests the carters who participated in the carnival and the members of the Mold Fire Brigade, the latter invited by Mr. Adams. After a four-course supper a miscellaneous programme was discussed. The toast "Success to our next Carnival" wac entrusted to Major T. M. Keene, Mr. J. Wynne Williams responding. MISSION CHURCH. NEW BRIGHTON.— A jumble sale was held at the Mold National Schools on Saturday evening in aid of the fund for the enlargement of the vestry at St. James* Mission Church, when, including donations, upwards of £30 was realised. The absence of the licensed lay reader. Mr. C. P. Morgan, of Bryn-yr- haul, through indisposition, was much regretted, but the following were present and actively participated in the good work:—Mrs. C. P. Morgan, Mrs. Trevor Roper (Plas Issa), Mrs. G. C. Alletson, Mrs. E. H. Davies. Mrs. W. E. Trxcketb, Mrs. Robert Jones, the Misses Helena Edwards, C. Gillett, Minnie, A. E. and K. E. Thomas. A. Aydon, J. A. Dykens, A. Hackman. Jones (Bryn-y-haul), West, G. Prince and Denne. the Revs. J. Strand Jones and H. E. Ruddy (curates), and Messrs. G. D. Kortright, D. Rutter Thomas, Albert Edwards, and others. Before the close, the surplus goods were sold by auction, Mr. Dodd acting as honorary auctioneer.

We are pleased to report that Mr. Alf. J. Adams, son of Mr. Goo. F. Adams, Ashbourne, Victoria-road, who has been articled with Mr. C. G. Haswell. chartered accountant, has euo- 'c"' oessfully passed the final examination in con- nection with tho Institute of Chartered Ao- oountanta. King Canute, a gay old shoot, Tried hard to stop the waves, The King aaid Dakh and made a splash* 'And kicked six of his slaves. But Woods so bold can stopa. cold When nothinef can procure Ronef froni paia; none try in vain .With Woods' Great Peppermint Ouri6