Denbighshire Free Press

Dr Johnson's Visit to Denbigh. LEAVES FROM AN OLD DIARY. I It was towards evening on July 28th, 1774, when Samuel Johnson first came within sight of the ancient castle—grey, grim, and stately—that still crowns the hill upon which the town of Denbigh is chiefly built. From the first the castle appealed to his imagination, although several days had elapsed ere he, with his friends, Mr and Mrs Thrale, visited it. The party dined at Mold and drove direct to Lleweney, then the residence of Robert Cotton, Esquire, a relation, it will be remembered, of Mrs Thrale's. I will now quote from the Doctor's Diary :— July 29.—We were at Lleweney. In the lawn at Lleweney is a spring of fine water, which rises above the surface into a stone basin, from which it runs to waste in a continual stream, through a pipe. There are very large trees. The hall at Lleweney is forty feet long and tweuty- eight broad. The gallery one hundred and and twenty feet long (all paved). The Library forty-two feet long, and twenty- eight broad. The dining parlours thircy- six feet long, and twenty-six bread. It is partly sashed and partly casements." "July 30.—We went to Bachygraig, where we found an old house, built 1567, in an uncommon and incommodious form, and my mistress (so Dr Johnson playfully termed Mrs Thrale) chatted about cleaning, but I prevailed on her to go to the top. The floors have been stolen the windows are stopped." I ought to mention here that Bachygraig had been the residence of Mrs Thrale's an- cestors ("he was a Salusbury) for several generations, but her father did not live there, and the house fell to decay. The house," continued the Diarist, was less than I seemed to expect, the river Clwyd is a brook with a bridge of one arch, nbout one-third of a mile. The woods have many trees, generally young, but some, which seem to decay. They have been lopped. The house never had a garden. The addition of another storey would make a useful house, but it cannot be great. Some buildings which Clough, the founder, intended for warehouses, would make store-chambers and servants' rooms. The ground seems to be good. I wish it well." I may here interpolate Pennant's des- cription of Bachygraig, which he gives in his accoilnt of a town in North Wales in 1780 :—" Not far from Dymerchion lies, half-buried in the woods, the singalar house of Bachygraig. It consists of a mansion of three sides, enclosing a square court. The first consists of a vast hall and parlour the rest of it rises into six won- derful stories, including the enpola, and forms, from the second floor, the figure of a pyramid. The rooms are small and in- convenient. The bricks are admirable, and appear to have been made in Holland, and the model of the house was probably brought from Flanders, wnere this kind of building is not unfrequent. It was built by Sir Richard Clough, an eminent mer- chant, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth. The initials of his name are in iron on the front, with the date 1567, and on the gateway 1569." Let u3 now return to the Diary. July 31.—We went to St Asaph. The Cathedral, though not large, has something of dignity and grandeur. The cross aisle is very short. It has scarcely any monu- ments. The Quire has, I think, thirty-two stalls of antique workmanship. On the backs were Canonicus, Prebend, Cancel- larius, Thesaurarius, Praecentor. The constitution I do not know, but it has all the usual titles and dignities. The service was sung only in the Psalms and Hymns. The Bishop was very civil. We went to his palace, which is but mean, they have a Library and design a room. There lived Lloyd and Dod well." The Bishop at this time was Dr Shipley. Upon another occasion, whrm be dined in company with his Lordship, Johnson said the Bishop was knowing and conversible. Their difference in politics would baldly admit of more praise from Johnson. Lloyd was raised to the See of St Asaph in 1680, and was one of the seven bishops sent to the Tower in 1G88. Dodwell was a man of extensive learning and an intimate friend of Lloyd, and, like him, a great friend to the .Revolution. August 1.—We visited DeMsgh and the remains of its Castle. The town con- sists of one main street, and some that cross it, which I have not seen. The chief street ascends with a quick rise for a great length. The houses are built, some with rough stone, some with brick, and a few of timber. The Castle, with its whole enclosure, has been a prodigious pile it is now so ruined, that the form of the inhabited part can not easily be traced. There are, as in all old buildings, said to be extensive vaults, which the ruins of the upper works cover and conceal, but into which boys sometimes fiud a way. To clean all passages, and trace the whole of what remains, would require much labour and expense. We saw a church which was once the chapel of the Castle, but is used by the town, it is dedi- cated to Bt Hilary, and has an income of about (Dr Johnson apparently could not satisfy his curiosity on this point). At a small distance is the ruins of a church said to have been begun by the great Earl of Leicester, and left unfinished at his death. One side, and I think the east end, are yet standing. There was a stone in the wall, over the doorway, which it was said would fall and crush the best scholar in the diocese. One, Price, would not pass under it. They have taken it down. We then saw the chapel of Lleweney, founded by one of the Salusburies. It is very complete. The monumental stones lie in the ground. A chimney has been added to it, but it is otherwise not much injured and might be easily repaired." The chapel here referred to appears to be the old Abbey Chapel. The late Sir Robert Salusbury Cotton says the anno- tator of the Diary, "had no taste for antiquity of any kind, and the chapel was not regarded by him as being in any respect better than a barn, or fit for any other purpose, and the present proprietor applies it to that use." With the Editor's permission, I will continue these extracts next week. Worksop. J.H.H.

DENBIGH WELSH CHOIR TRIP. (By One of the Party.) On Thursday, July 20th, the Den- bigh Welsh Church Choir had-their annual trip. It was decided this year to visit Bangor and Bethesda, and as Mr. Pierce had obtained permission to go over the famous Penrhyn Slate Quarries, the excursion promised to be one of interest and of pleasure. The day's programme had been arranged by a committee appointed by the choir, and much care and foresight had been exercised. At 6.30 a.m. we left Denbigh, accompanied by our choirmaster, Mr. W. M. Pierce, and Rev. D. L. James, travelling by saloon. The day, although not bright, was fair, and better than one of excessive heat. The journey from Denbigh to Rhyl was made in comparative silence, which was perhaps only natural con- sidering the early hour; indeed, several frankly confessed to feeling sleepy." After leaving Rhyl, however, the spirits of all began to expand, the ladies talking and the gentlemen smoking with praisewprthy energy. The run from Rhyl to Bangor along the coast was beautiful and greatly enjoyed, the places of interest being pointed out by Mr. Pierce to the party. On nearing Bangor we began to feel that we were really amongst our Welsh mountains, the scenery being every- where grand. Bangor was reached about 8.40, and as the train for Bethesda did not leave until 9.10, re- freshments were partaken of at Ban- gor. At 9.10 the saloon was attached to the Bethesda train, and a very lively journey was made. Most of the party now amused themselves by despatch- ing picture postcards to their less for- tunate friends at home. Here we had a slight rain shower, but it soon ceased, to our great relief, and a quar- ter of an hour's walk brought us to the Quarries, where we were met by three officials, Messrs. R. Jones, E. Jones, and T. Pierce. These gentle- men performed the task of showing us about with every courtesy and kindness, intelligently explaining the various methods of working, etc. Numerous were the questions they answered with untiring patience, for the sights and sounds so familiar to the two thousand men and boys em- ployed there were curious enough to the majority of our party. zll We beheld the whole face of the mountain scooped away in ledges or terraces, and dotted here and there by the small figures of workmen busily hacking at and detaching the slates. Here were a group conveying a block to the workshop to be split, and there a quarry man hanging by a rope sus- pended from the rock above in the face of which he was boring a hole for the charge of gunpowder. A look down into the bottom of the quarries made one who was inexperienced feel quite dizzy, so great was the depth. A visit to the workshops where the solid blocks are split into thin layers, which are then cut into the required sizes, followed. The slates are cut by means of a strong metal blade, which ascends and descends mechanically. One wondered at the ease and regu- larity with which each man presented his slate to the knife, long practice having minimised and rendered him fearless of that which to a novice would be the very real danger of risk- ing hands and fingers. The blasting was next witnessed. This is conducted according to Govern- ment regulations at set intervals. The long peculiar winding note of a horn re-echoes through the quarries. The workmen are seen running from their respective tasks and disappearing into holes and crannies. Here and there one is seen funning later than the rest —he has been setting fire to the fuse. A few minutes elapses, and from 20 to 5° blasts are discharged in rapid suc- cession from all sides and levels of that vast amphitheatre. Masses of slate are rent away, falling down the side like avalanches, and fragments are sometimes driven through the air into the quarry below. The explosion cracks the rock to a considerable depth, enabling the men to loosen great blocks with the crowbar. These blocks arc then piled on the tramcars, which run on rails to the workshops. The next experience proved a fine test of courage. In order to reach one of the highest terraces in the quarries it was necessary to go up an incline or water shoot," an almost perpen- dicular ascent, along which a platform runs on rails drawn by a rope capable of sustaining a weight of 180 tons. True, the adventure did seem rather appalling, in spite of the fact that no danger was involved. Consequently, the more cautious minds among us preferred to wait until they had seen their companions safely ascend the great height. Then with more confi- dence they too ventured, and were well rewarded by the splendid view of the country which their exalted position afforded them. The descent was then made, also in safety, and all felt proud of the exploit. It was now time to visit the depths of the quarries. We were closely packed into a kind of cage, and descended, by water power, a shaft which brought us into the dark- ness of the tunnels, where we were lighted along by the lamps carried by our kind guides. Great fun was caused by the frequent stumbles, and the stooping which all the tall folk were obliged to do for fear of bangs on the head by the low ceilings. Indeed, we often stooped when not at all necessary, and now and then one heard such exclamations as, Oh my skirt what will it be like? etc., etc. At last we reached the chamber where the great engine is at work night and day, pumping the water from all parts of the quarries to prevent floods. We then retraced our steps along the tor- tuous passages and made our ascent (80 yards) to broad daylight once more. Here Mr. W. M. Pierce called upon us to give Mr. Davies, the under mana- ger, and our guides three cheers. This we did with fervour. We then bade farewell to the quarries and our kind friends, and got into brakes, which were to convey us through Bethesda to Bangor via Llandegai- Lord Penrhyn's model village. Here a stop was made, and many went to see the famous old parish church, with its beautiful yew avenue. This church Lord Penrhyn attends for daily service when in residence at the Castle. The rustic beauty of the village, its pretty cottages, well-kept gardens, close- clipped hedges, and the atmosphere of peace, and happiness pervading the whole were appreciated and felt by the visitors. By the kind permission of the noble owner we were allowed to drive through Penrhyn Park. This drive was in itself a treat, and the broad acres and stately trees made one realise what a princely heritage it was. We came out of the grounds at the entrance near Port and drove through Bangor City past the Univer- sity and Cathedral. Dinner had been ordered at the City Hotel, and the hungry travellers were excellently cared for bv the hostess, Mrs. Owen. After dinner all were free to do as they pleased. Some crossed over to Beaumaris and Menai Bridge, some walked to the Suspension Bridge, while others with less energy wiled away the time on the pier or in the pleasure grounds, and, last, but not least, were those who attended the afternoon service at the Cathedral, and were rewarded by the musical treat of the fine singing of the choristers and the masterly organ playing of Mr. Westlake Morgan. At seven o'clock all assembled at the railway station, and at 7.17 the return journey was commenced. Now- good humour reigned supreme, and songs and recitations by the younger members of the party were the source of much amusement. We arrived at Rhyl about 8.45, and a stop of about 11 hours was made. At 10..10 the weary pleasure seekers started on the last stage of *their journey, the effects of a long day beginning to make them long for home. Votes of thanks were passed to Mr. W. M. Pierce for his indefatigable work in arranging and organising the trip, to the treasurer, Mr. D. E. H. Robb, and to the Rev. D. L. James. A special vote of thanks was passed to the ladies, who collected the money, as they had unselfishly undertaken a task which at the best of times is not an easy one, namely, Miss Annie J. Williams, Hall Square; Miss Flo- rence Gwen Jones, Miss Nellie Jones, Clifton Terrace; and Miss Charles, Conservative Club. Home was reached about 11 o'clock by a tired but happy and good-tempered party, all declaring they had never spent a more interesting or pleasurable day.

[COPYRIG HT. ] LLANRHAIADR CHURCH PLATE BY T. STANLEY BALL. The sacramental vessels belonging to the Parish Church of St. Dyfnog at Llanrhaiadr vn Cinmerch are all of early eighteenth century manufacture. An old notice board containing a list of benefactions to the parish states that a Communion set was given to the church in 1639, but this is not now in the church. It is possible, however, that, like most of the plate acquired during that period, it was composed of pewter or other inferior metal. The vessels now in the possession of the church are :— 1. Chalice "1723 2. Flagon 2p r, 3- Credence Paten 4. Small Alms Dish 5. Chalice 1742 1. Chalice, 1723. This, like the other articles of this date, is of plain but exceptionally massive character. It is 9! inches high, with a diameter at the lip of 4t inches. The bowl is of large capacity, bell shaped, with an inconvenient moulded rim at the edge of the lip, and stands on a plain stem divided in the centre by a heavy moulded stem, and ending in an ogee moulded base 4 inches in diameter. An inscription in Cursio's lettering runs round the bowl as follows, To the Honour of God and the use of the Parish Church of Llanrhaiader. Given by Mrs. Jones, 1723. The'letter "e" in the spelling of the name was doubt- less an error on the part of the en- graver. The hallmarks on this chalice and the other articles of 1723 are (1) leopard's head crowned, the assay mark of the London Goldsmiths' Co. (2) lion passant, the mark of sterling silver; (3) the date letter H in Roman capital of the year 1723; and (4) the maker's mark T.T. with a seeded rose and crown above all in a shaped shield, which was the distinctive mark of Thomas Tearle, an ecclesiastical gold- smith of London, who was the maker of a considerable amount of church plate in the churches of Kent between 1725 and 1737. The plate at Llan- rhaiadr appears to be the earliest known specimens of this maker's work, although he was entered as a member of the London Goldsmiths Company in 1720. Some idea of the unusual size and weight of this chaiicc may be gathered from the fact that chalices as a rule weigh on an average about 12 ounces, but this is 18 oz. 2 dwts. in weight. 2. Flagon, 1723. This is also a vessel of exceptionally heavy and large dimensions, standing 14 inches high, and having a diameter at the lip of 5I- inches, and at the base of 7! inches. It has straight sloping sides, which end in a broad spreading moulded base. It has a spout lip and a finely shaped domed lid with pointed finial in the centre, also a large scroll handle with shield at the lower end. Below the lip is the same inscription as appears on the chalice. It also bears the same hallmarks. The weight is no less than 76 oz. 9 dwts., and gives us a clear indication of the large num* uer 01 communicants me cnurcn pos- sessed in the early part of the eighteenth century, before the unfor- tunate differences arose which divided the Church in Wales into so many different sects. 3. Credence Paten, 1723. This is formed of a single depression with a sloping rim and moulded edge, 9 inches in diameter. It stands on a hollow moulded foot 2t inches his, 11, and weighs 19 oz. 8 dwts. Around the centre is engraved the inscription as on the chalice and flagon, and it also bears the same hail- marks and maker's mark. 4. Small Alms Dish, 1723. This is a plain plate somewhat simi lar to the paten, but without foot. It is 9 inches in diameter, and is formed of a single depression, the rim besn^ formed of a moulded edge. Around the rim appears the same; inscription as on the other vessels, and also the same hall and maker's marks. It weighs 25 oz. The total weight of this set, pre- sented by Mrs. Jones to the church, is 138 oz. 19 dwts., of pure solid silver, the value of which may be understood when it is remembered that an ordi- nary plain Communion set made in these days would rarely weigh more than between 4° and 5° oz. 5. Chalice, 1742. This is generally supposed to be the oldest cup possessed by the church from the fact that there are two dales earlier than 1742 inscribed upon it. H is of the same make as the chalice of 1723, and of the same dimensions. It has a bell-shaped bowl standing on a plain stem divided in the centre by a moulded knob, and ending in a neatly moulded base. On the bowl appears two incised I shields, on one appears, in script letter- ing, the words Llanrhayadr. Poculu pacis ex do: Io Peers. Salsburg 1669." And on the other shield is engraved The Communion Cup of Llanrhaydr. 1671 It will be seen that not only do the dates on the two shields vary, but the spelling of the name of the parish differs. The value of the hall-marks as indi- cating the exact age of pieces of silver is shown in this cup. As a matter of fact, it was made in 1742, and the engraved inscriptions are therefore a mystery. It bears the hallmarks of the London Assay Office as follows. (I) Lion passant in a shield in use only between the years 1736-55; (2) leopard's head crowned in the shield of the same period (3) the date letter g in small Roman of the year 1742; and (4) the maker's mark J.S with a crown between the letters, the distinctive mark of James Shruder, who was the only goldsmith who ever used that particular mark. It will be seen, therefore, that the actual date of the cup (1742) is not only given by the date letter, but also by the shields peculiar to that period bearing the leopard's head and lion passant, and also the mark of the maker. The in- scriptions must have been engraved upon the cup some time after its acquirement by the church, and may possibly have been copied from an earlier cup, not now in existence, given by Mr. J. P. Salusbury. Inscriptions on ecclesiastical vessels are not always to be relied upon, and ;many instances of this could be given. One may be mentioned as it is rather* an exceptionally bad example, vizr, an alms dish at the parish church of Prest- bury. in Cheshire, which, although it is inscribed Prestbury Almcs Basyr., 1584," bears the London hallmarks of the year 1883! [A letter having reference to last wiek's article cn Llandyrnog Plate and Mr Stanley Ball's reply thereto will be found on Page 8.]

A Great Ham I of Rabbits. -=- I SMART ARHESr DY DENBIGH, POLICE. For some time past the Denbigh police have received complaints from landowners in the vicinity of Henllan that poaching raids have been very frequent. In the early hours of the morning of the 11th inst Police-constable Evans, Henllan, and Police-constable Davies, Llannefydd, were on doty on the road leading from r Denbigh to Bontnewydd, with a view of falling upon any of the raiders. And their efforts were not in vain. At about 5.30 a.m. they saw four men with rabbits and bundles in their hands. The men having been caught red-handed found it was useless to try and escape, so they gave in. At the County Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, before Capt Cole (in the chair), Mr F J Vaughan Williams, Col Heaton, Mr J D W Griffith, and Mr E OWatkin Davies. Police-constable Evans, Henllan, charged Robert Jones, William Dodd, Elias Jones. and Thomas Roberts, all of Henllan-street, Denbigh, with being in unlawful possession of rabbits and nets, &c. Roberts did not appear, whilst the other three men pleaded guilty. Police-constable Evans said that at 5.20 a.m. on Tuesday, the 11th inst, he was on duty on the road leading from Denbigh to Bontnewydd, in company with Folice- constable Davies. They saw the four defendants coming along Lon Jack Ftwrn, carrying rabbits. Robert Jones came for- ward and the other defendants turned back and dropped the rabbits and nets in bundles. They searched them, and found 37 rabbits, throe nets, and four pegs, which were seized. The nets and pegs were pro- duced in court. Elias Jones: I would like to ask the Constable whether he has any authority in usiDg such violence as to try and strike a man in the head with a stick as big as my thigh. I dodged him, bu. he struck the man Roberts in the head with it. Police-constable Evans I never touched him at all. Robert Jones: I hope you will be lenient with us. The Chairman: I am afraid I know your face pretty well (laughter). The Superintendent then read the follow- ing convictions: Robert Jones 58, consist- ing of offences under the Poaching Prevention Act and drunks, &o.; William Dodd 3, under the Poaching Prevention Act. There were no convictions under this Act against Elias Jones or Roberts. The Chairman: Elias Jones, you have not been up for poaching before, we under- stand. You will be fined £1 and costs, and Roberts will be fined a similar sum, but the other men men will be titJor1 the full penalty-25 and costs, or in default two months. We also order the forfeiture of the nets and pegs.

"iew to exam nations, and there can be no doubt that the American pupil leaves school ith a taste for reading good literature which 18 almost unknown at the same age to us. Principal Reichel illustrated this point by a teference to a visit he paid to a traiuing college at Ottawa, where be remarked to the Principal bow very few books were in the library. The Principal replied that they had nOt the same interest in literature as the 4marican colleges, because all their work -as centiecl in the French language, their being to teach French. In canying out the American method in England as regards 1'terature, Principal Reichel remarked that Oxatninations were a stumbling block. Vital Poatssss cannot be valued with the same acco. asy as mechanical processes. The influence Of liti rtttut-e anti of art in all its forms is the !nost powerful of til, bat at the same time its Operation is the most insensible. Not even a clever man, much less a school girl, can readily Put down on paper the inner spirit, of a great Poem, and if he cauld no two examiners would agree whether tha account was just or not Oaqcrhter). But given an ordinary memory there is no difficulty in describing the metre, the date and circumstances of the composition, the nam ol the writer, and his other principal "Works. Thu what is called littr^ture in our cholg is too often anything but literature, and he (the speaker) often thought we should be Wise to drop examinations in literature alto- gether, and frankly recagnized that the subject Will not endure such treatment. The Principal then wc-nt on to refer to the need for the English pupil to be trained to express on the spur of the moment his ideas on any Subject in his native language. They had whac they cailed scholastic debates in the American schools, whilst here the lack of the power of expressions in their own language was one of the weak points in English schools. He then referred to a series of ariicles in one of -the London papers—the Morning Púst-which, on the two subjects of education and military organisation, was by far the best and most reliable of the London dailies. In one article on the question of educa- tion, dealing with the test for parents as to how thev were to know if their children were boing properly educated in school was for the parents to observe what kind of a letter the boy or girl could write home, if they had anything to say of interest, and if they could sa) it intelligently. Be always felt in a false position when appear- ing at a prize distribution, because he felt it should not bo the chief aim of education to secure a prize. His view was that this system of prize giving did harm to the winner, as well as to those who did not secure a prize, because it was discouraging to the last degree to those who were not fortunate enough to gain prizes. He would point out to those who did not win that after all the true aim of education was not the securing of prizes, but to form character which led men and women to do great, things for their country, and to make I r home life happy. It was even truer in a gir:s' school than in a boys' school that the examination test and the prize test was often a very misleading one. For the boy is usually going into he branch of executive life, where the instrumental activities, which can be tested by examination, are chiefly called into play, but ior women, though many professions are how happily open to them. the great profession, the most. important profession to the country and the empire is than of wife and mother, and her chief business is that of forming character, Which requ're character power. He then quoted from Dr Thring, who said Women are teachers by a law of nature. The whole of mankind for the first 10 years of their existence is sent in a continuous stream through the hands of women. This is the great river rolling seaward. The training and moulding of character by women is an eternal fact. Character training (for the child is yet too young to be hammered along in the hack- intellect omnibus), character training under the sweet influences of home and gentle teaching." Principal Reichel concluded by remarking that he desired most heartily to congratulate the head teacher (Miss Beloe) and her staff, as well as the Governors, upon the manifest development of the school and on the vigorous Work which is beine carried on therein, and concluded his address amidst loud applause. THANKS TO DISTINGUISHED VISITORS. Col Mesham, in propasing a cordial vote of thanks to the distinguished visitors who had honoured them with their presence, said that they were persons who took a foremost part in the educational movements of the day. They might draw two inferences from their presence. Two of them came from Wules and two from England, so that showed in ihe first place that this school was not merely a local school con- fined to Wales only, but that it took its pupils from the wider area of England also (applause). The second inference he would draw was that the presence of such visitors was n guarantee and proof that true education was necessarily, accompanied by the teaching of religion (applause'. He did not intend to say much about the visitors individually, but the presence of Lady Fiederick Cavendish re- minded them of the eminent services the families of Cavendish and Lvttleton had given to this country. If they turned to the pages of history they would find that these families had J'enderd most valuable services to their King and country, and also had been most eminent figures in literature, science and art. The name ot Lyttleton reminded them of that wonderful band of brothers who had achieved such fame, and one of whom had just been appointed headmaster of Eton. Principal Reichel was a most prominent educational leader, who had raised Wales educationally to a most prominent position. There was a great deal of electricity in the air at present over the educational controversy, and if the storm did burst he was sure they could look to Principal Reichel to endeavour to secure justice and fairplay when the storm was over. Canon Fairchild was also a most prominent educa- tionalist, and presided over that great In- stitution in which women were trained for the honoured position of schoolmistress, and they p I knew by his work that he was the right man in the right place (applause). On behalf of tbe Governors of the school he now had the pleasure of proposing a most Hearty vote of thanks to these distinguished visitors for their presence. In conclusion Col Mesham said they as Governors of that school knew they had shortcomings, and that new buildings were needed, and they hoped to proceed with this work before long (applause). Mr P P Pennant seconded the motion, which was received with acclamation. GRADUALLY REALISING THEIR IDEAL. The Bishop, before putting the resolution to the meeting, said that perhaps he would be allowed to say one or two words. He would first of all, on behalf of the Governors, welcome the distinguished visitors that were present. It was a great honour to welcome Lady Frederick Cavendish, and also Lady Harah Spencer, whose brother took such a keen interest in Welsh Higher Education. Refer- ring to the reference which had been made to the Empire League, the Bishop humorously remarked that he was a member of it, but would have been afraid to avow his member- ship, or speak there of the value of the Empire League but now that Principal Reichel had expressed his favourable opinion of it his fears bad been dispersed (laughter and applause). A reference had been made to Dr Thring, and he was glad to state that they were fortunate in having a niece of his on their school staft (applause). Speaking of the work that the school was doing, the Bishop said that the Governors were gradually, but surely, carrying out their ideal of making Howell's School the higher grade school for girls of Wales, and thus making it fill a place in Wales which no other school supplied. He believed that no other girls' school waa at the present time meeting that form of Higher Education oflher than Howell's School. He had attended this school for many years past, and he c >uld say with -conviction that the work of this school showed marked progress j'e«r by year. They could not build up a school of this character in one day. They were working on a high ideal, which would be a benefit to Wales at large. As far as the Governors were concerned, he could say that there was no body who attended to their duties more regularly, or who took a I keener interest in the work of the school (loud applause). gThe vote of thanks was then put to the meet- ing, and carried with acclamation. ) DEDICATION OF A SCHOOL MEMORIAL. THE LATE DOROTHY GREEN (HARVEY). Immediately the prize distribution was over the Head Mistress introduced the bead pupil, Gwen Henry, to Lady Frederick Cavendish, and representing the pupils, she escorted her ladyship to the lower schoolroom for the un- veiling of the memorial to the late Dorothy Green (Harvey), who, as our readers will re- member, was drowned last summer vacation, with her brother and others, by the capsizing of a boat on a lake near her home in Ireland. The pupils and the visitors having assembled, the Bishop read the prayers of dedication, the occasion being one of much solemnity, and a deep feeling of sorrow pervaded the gathering, the touching, beautifully expressed tribute by Lady Frederick Cavendish appealed to every heart, and there was scarcely a dry eye in the large assembly. Her ladyship, having drawn aside the curtain covering and revealed the striking, beautiful, and appropriate memorial, said:- I cannot but feel both honoured and touched by the invitation I received six weeks ago to unveil, in your name, on your festival day, this memorial of one greatly loved and greatly mourned in this school. I desire, on your behalf, to most heartily thank Miss Shaw for her generous gift in the carrying out of this beautiful bas-relief. It is advisedly that I have used the word festival," albeit it might seem incongruous in such a connexion. But from all I have heard, your dear schoolfellow's memory is one that will ever be associated with all that is bright; and in commemorating her, especially to-day, you all feel that her spirit, if permitted to bo with you, rejoices, and would bid you all rejoice. It is with that keen sympathy, which comes of sorrowful experience, that I enter into your feelings to-day. Some of you may remember that last year I was prevented giving away your prizes, by a happy wedding of one of my nieces. I am sure you will all feel for the sorrow that has, only two months ago, fallen upon that young bride and her family, in the sudden death of a beloved brother. In many ways, this loss re- sembles your own. True, my nephew was older; but, like your schoolfellow, he was at the outset, to all appearance, of a brilliant and useful career. Like her, he was dearly loved and looked up to by many friends; like her, his influence was strong for good wher- ever he was known like her, while taking life and its duties with noble seriousness, he diffused around him all the charms of sweet- ness and fun like her, his aim was high, his work strenuous and single-minded and like her, when the call came to "leave all and follow" the Saviour, he forsook earth and earthly hopes and joys with perfect willingness, in the strength and faith of Christ. For such lives and deaths we cannot, indeed, never sorrow as those without hope. When we mourn the vanished, the precious promise of beautiful work on earth for God and man, let us look steadfastly up to heaven and, by faith,, behold the glory that shall be revealed; believing, with all our hearts, that the Divine Love which gave us their lovely and pleasant presence here has for them in the wider and purer worlds beyond more blessed, more fruit- ful, purer, and more joyful work to do for Him, and for us. "The tasks, the joys of earth, the same in heaven will be; Only the little brook has widened to a sea." The company then gathered around and inspected the beautiful momorial, and ex- pressed high admiration of its appropriate design and skilful execution. It is executed by the well-known Irish lady sculptor, Miss Kathleen Shaw, R.H.A. It takes the form of a panel in a bronzed frame, modelled in clay, and cast in plaster, of the figure of Truth— a young girlish figure bearing aloft in the right hand the Lamp of Truth. The lines of the composition are quiet and dignified in their simplicity. The dedication, which runs as follows, completes the artistic conception of the whole. Above the figure are these Jines :-— Whatsoever things are true, Whatsoever things are lovely. And below the inscription :— To the memory of Dorothy Green (Harvey). Born April 2nd. 1889. Died August 24th, 1904. This memorial is ded:catad by her school- fellows in love and hope. 1905." Miss Kathleen Shaw, who was present in person, is well-known, not only by her com- positions, but also by her life-like portrait busts of some of the leading men of the day. Among her many sitters may be mentioned Dr Alexander, the Primate of all Ireland, Cardinal Vogue, the Roman Catholic Archbishop, Professor Mahaffy, Lord Avebury, and the Earl of Albemarle. At present she is at work on a memorial to be erected in Belfast, dedica- ted to the memory of the officers and men of the Royal Ivieh Fusilers, who fell during the late South African Campaign. Her sketch model, which was anonymous, was chosen from many submitted, and it was only after the decision of the judge was made known that the fact came to^light that it was a lady to whom the hONour fell. This composition, which is again marked by its dignified simplicity, is a figure in bronze, the bugler of the regiment, sounding almost with his dying breath the final call, "The Last Post;" and those privileged to see the photograph could judge with what fidelity the conception had been carried out. THE LUNCHEON. This followed the unveiling of the memorial m the caterers being Messrs Bodand, of Chester the menu beinrr: Dee Salmon. Cucumber. Forequarter of Lamb. Pressed Beef. Roast Chicken. Raised Savoury. Pigeon Pies. York Ham. Ox Tongue. Prawns in Aspic. Bondins of Veal. Lobster Salad. Summer Salad. Chartreux of Apricots. Macedoine Jelly. Str, Strawberry Creams. Wine Jelly. Coffee. Iced Coffee. FRUIT. The Bishop proposed the loyal toarts, which were duly honoured. Principal Reichel proposed the Drapers Company," referring to their power and in- fluence, to the great service they rendered the cause of education by their benefactions, and notibly so in connection with Howell's School. Rev Canon Fairchild proposed what he con- sidered the toast of the afternoon—" The School," and commented in congratulatory terms upon the physical and mental culture carried on in the school, eulogised Miss Beloe and her staff for the really excellent work being done, and praised the Governors for the care and zeal with which they discharged their duties, and the success with which they carried on the management of the school. The Bishop appropriately responded. The Rector proposed the distinguished visitors present, expressing their obligation as Governors to Lady Frederick Cavendish, Lady Sarah Spencer, Prineipal Reichel, and Canon Fairchild for the part they had taken in the day's proceedings. Lady Frederick Cavendish replied in a facedful little speech, and the proceedings NEEDLEWORK AND DRAWING. • D o1 towing the luncheon the visitors made an in pection of the exhibition of needlework and drawing in the library. Tbe work exhibited was excellent, and reflected the highest credit upon pupils and teachers alike. There was also a sale of the children's missionary needlework, much of which was purchased by the visitors, tbe proceeds going towards *^6 st^lars' missionary fund. GYMNASTIC DISPLAY. The physical, as well as the mental, capacities of the girls are well looked after at Howell's School. The gymnastic feats (under the superintendence of Miss Blake) were most interesting, and, judging from the way the girls took part in the display, this part of the school curriculum is most popular. Apart from the pleasure it must give the girls, the gymnastic training they receive must naturally very much benefit their health. The display given by the pupils named below gave great delight to the visitors, and reflected the highest credit npon the skill and care with which they hsd been trained. The programme was as follows: -Free-standitig movements and bar exercises—Forms III and IV, May Richards, Marian Jones, May Griffiths, Daisy Gillett, Matfcie Williams, Myfanwy Jones, Katie Simpson, Eva Cooke, Medi Roberts, Geridwen Williams, Janet Chapman, Barbara Wise, Leta Jones, Ethel Robinson. Jumping-Ferms I and II, Gladys Cherry, May Lewis, Jaine Lewis, Ianthe Williams, Kathleen Slingsby, Alix Brebber, Evelyn Davies, Marjorie Owen, Megan Edwards. Vaulting-Forms VI and V, Katie James, Bella Robert?, Lena Hughes, Mary Lloyd, Enid Grierson, Ray Barker, Gwen Henry, May Hammond, Gertrude Parry. Dancing—Spanish fan dance and gavotte- Form IV, Mattie Williams, Eva Cooke, Eva Evans. Myfanwy Lloyd Jones, Ethel Robinson, Amy Griffith, Gladys Barker, Janet Chapman. Highland Reel-Form III, Marian Jones, May Griffiths, Malangell Jones, May Richards, Noel Griffith, Amy Oliver, Ceridwen Williams, Daisy Gillett. THE CONCERT. During the afternoon a most delightful pro- gramme of music, &c., was given, which afforded thorough enjoyment to the large audiened, and proved most conclusively that the singing and music is becoming of a very high order in the school. A very pleasing new feature was the School Band," which played remarkably well, and bids fair to become an important factor iu the school life. Oldef pupils and friends were glad to welcome a. former pupil as one of the vocalists of the afternoon, Miss M Dunning, who sang most beautifully two songs, which were much appreciated. The programme was as follows :— March, "God Bless the Prince of Wales" (B. Richards). Pianoforte solo, "Tarantelle," A. Adams (F. Heath). Octette, Largo" (Ombria Mai Fu), School Band (Handel). French recitation, Scene from La Poudre aux Yeux," (Labiche), Ray Barker, Katie James, Barbara Wise. Part song, I-Cliorus of Spinning Maidens," Flying Dutchman (R. Wagner), Upper School. Pianoforte solo, "Study in a Minor" (Chopin), N Houghton. Song, M Dunning. Recitation (a) Vitae Lampada" (Henry Newbolt), Amy Oliver; (b) The Walrus and the Carpenter (Lewis Carrol). Form II.—Violin solo (a), Feierlich (F Retifeld) (b) "Elfentanz" (E Jenkinson), May Lloyd. Vocal trio, Prayer," from Tannhauser (R Wagner), Select Voices. Piano- forte quartette, Gallop-March" (ALavignac), E Evans, G Barker, J Chapman, E Davies. Song, M Dunning. Part song, "Wedding Song," from Lohengrin (R Wagner), Upper School. Part song, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." March, "Gaudeamus." After the concert tea was served in the beautifully laid out garden, and proved a most enjoyable finish to what had been a memorable day in the history of Howell's School.