Flintshire Observer Mining Journal and General Advertiser for the Counties of Flint Denbigh

(Continued from the Fifth Page.) T. Jones, Owen Jones, Richard Jones, Mrs. Jane Jones, Mrs. A. Parry Jones, Mrs. Elizabeth Parry Jones, Messrs. Edw. Jones, T. E. P. Jones, R. P. Jones, junr., Richard Jones, Wm. Jones, Caerwys H. Jonathan, Mrs. Joyce, Whitchurch; Messrs. T. Jones, Plasooch, Ruthin; T. J ones, Rhydycilgwyn; T. Jenkins, Plas yn ward; John Jones, Bwlch, Festiniog Edward Jones, Southampton Thomas Jones, Manchester; Owen Jones, Holywell; T. and Mrs. Lloyd Jones, Llangollen; Peter Jones, Halkyn; Edward Jones, Northop; Jones, Brothers and Co., Elias Jones, Amlwch; Dr. J. T. Jones, Holywell Joseph Jones, High-street; Hugh Jones, Light- foot-street, Chester; H. Judd, Holywell William Jones, Vardre, Abergele; Peter Jones, Gadlys, Llanasa William Jones, Nantgwilym Miss Jones, and H. W. Jones, Post Office; Mrs. J Jones, Pystill; Messrs. T. H. Jackson, Gym Castle; Bird (Messrs. Jones, Brothers); ReT. T. P. James, Messrs. Kennedy and Pritchard; Kirk, Abergele; J. Kenyon, Man- chester; J. Kerfoot, Vaenol Bach; J. Kerfoot, Hen- dre Bach Edward Lloyd, R. Lewis, E. Lewis, Mostyn; T. Jones Lloyd, T. M. Lockwood, architect, Chester Alfred Law, Littleborough W. Lord, Rochdale; J. Lloyd, Rhydymwyn; Dr. K. M. Lloyd, Robert Lewis, Rhyl; J. Lancaster, Mostyn Rev.Evan Lloyd, Messrs. T. A. Lambert. King's Head Hotel; John Lloyd, Tynycaeau, Cilcen Wm. Morris, Mrs. Ellen Morris, W. Joshua Morrison, Mrs. Mather, Glyn Abbot; Mr. Morris, Pile House, Colwyn Bay; R. Morris, Hendre, Rhuddlan J. Morgan, Mold E. B. Marsden, National Provincial Bank, Holywell; Messrs. J. and R. Morley, Messrs. Morley and Gray, Messrs. M'Cutcham, Afflick and Co., J. Morgan, Kelston, Llanasa G. Morris, Bodfari, Rhyl, John Marsden, Holywell; Mills, Llanrwst; J. Cooper (Messrs. Morley and Gray), Shripling (Messrs. M'Cutcham, Afflick and Co.), Beal (Messrs. Marshall and Snelgrove), W. F. Morris, High-street; Miss S. J. Owen, Messrs. E. A. Owen, T. Owen, Hendre Robert Owen, Rhiw. Festiniog; H. Sparrow Owen, Hardwick, Fred Openshaw, Capt. Openshaw, R. Oldfield, Rhyl; R. Oldham (Messrs. S. Fletcher and Co.), the Rev. Professor Oliver, Messrs. Johnson (Messrs. Outram and Co.), Peter Potts, Alfred Parks, Hon. Cecil Parker and Mrs. Parker, Eaton; Miss Price, Mertyn Hall, Holywell; Rev. J. Pugh, Springhill, Holywell; Messrs. D. Pugh, Penymaes; D. P. Parry, Oswestry Joseph Preston, Captain Phillips, Hoole Cottage, Chester; W. Pierce, Oaklands, Bagillt; W. Piokstone, Maesmynan; Messrs. Poison and Co., John Parry, Plas, Llanarmon; Major Platt, Llan- fairfechan; Rev. John Pierce, Wesley House; Messrs. Murray (Pawson and Co., Limited), Parry, Vaenol Bach: Alfred Parry Meusuddgwynion, Llanasa Joseph Peters, Panton Place, Holywell John Price, Mold, John Reeves, Mrs. Ellen Roberts, Messrs. Thos. Roberts, Ruthin; Thos. Roberts, Cilcen John Roberts, Birkenhead Robert Roberts and Samuel Rigby, Chester S. L. and Miss Revis, North and South Wales Bank, Holywell; Mrs. Roskell, Stokyn Messrs. George Rae, Liverpool; Roberts, Foxhall, Denbigh John Roberts, Geinas, W. Roberts, Llwyd faen, Conway; T. Roberts, -Aber: J. Roberts, Well-house Farm Hugh Row- lands, Sparrow John Robinson, Belfield Mill, Rochdale; James Reney, Connah's Quay, M. A. Ralli, Henffryn Hall; Hugh Roberts, Trefnant R. Roberts, Trefnant Mrs. Rees, Newtown Messrs. Rotherham and Co. T. and Mrs. Rogers, Chester; Roberts, Pontruffydd; Rowland Roberts, ironmonger T. Simon, Mrs. Alice Salmon, Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Slaughter, Birkenhead; Rev. E. Slaughter, Church of Our Lady of Angels, Birkenhead; Messrs. George Smith, Chas. Skipper, Greenfield; Thomas Shaw, Rochdale; Scholfield, Rochdale J. Shaw, Rasping Mills, Delph, Oldham Messrs. Shoolbrod and Co. and Mr. Butler, Messrs. Spencer and Co., Messrs. Sparrow, Hardwick, and Co., Mr. and Mrs. Strickland, London; Mr. and Mrs. Storey, Downing; Messrs. I. and R. Shears, Messrs. Rupert H. Smedley, Holywell; Jo!m Taylor (Messrs. Spencer, Turner and Company), J. M. Treweek, G. Thomas, Isaac Taylor, and Mrs. and Miss Taylor, Coleshill; John Tatham, Roger Tatham, and Shaw, Moss Lane and Milnrow-road Iron Works, Rochdale; Henry Taylor, town clerk, Flint; W. Taylor, Birmingham Henry Thorpe, Church-street, Manchester Messrs. Tarn and Co., Rev. Owen Thomas, Holywell Mr. James and Mrs. Tompkinson, Old Bank, Chester Messrs. Jas. Turner, Curzon Park, Chester Wm. Thomas, Plas Newydd, Calcot; Aaron Thomas, Greenfield; H. J. Varney (buyer for Messrs. Jones and Higgins, Peckham), Woodward (buyer for Messrs. Meeking and Co., London), T. R. Williams, Caerwys; C. R. Williams, Waverton, Worcester Robt. Williams, Llanfair, Anglesey; T. J. and Mrs. Williams, Denbigh Williams, Foregatc-street, Chester T. H. and Mrs. Waterhouse, Stratford House R. Wright, Bodfary; Elias Williams, Rich. Williams, John Wright, Wm. Wynne, Owen Williams, Glan- clwyd R. Wynne, Bachymbyd; G. Woodridge, Chichester; A. G. Williams, R. Walton, Manchester; J. Wright, Glasgow; G. Whitehead, Openshaw; A. 0. Walker, Chester: E. Wood, manager L. & N.W. Railway, Chester; Thos. Williams, Denbigh; Edw. Williams, Pentreffynnon Farm F. Warren, Greenfield; Wm. Williams, Glasfryn Caerwys; Wheeler (buyer for Messrs. Hitchcock Williams & Co.), Ward (Messrs. Sturt and Sharp), Messrs. C. Wills and Co., Major and Mrs. Cornwallis West, Mr. Evan Watkin. Newtown. Letters apologising for their inability to attend the opening ceremony were received from the Duke of Westminster, Lord Denbigh, Lord Mostyn, Lord Richard Grosvenor, M.P., Sir Pyers W. Mostyn, the Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire, the High Sheriff of Flintshire, Mr. John Roberts, M.P., Mr. J. Scott Bankes, Mr. P. P. Pennant, Major Conwy, Mr. W. H. Gladstone, M P., Mr. T. H. Jackson (Gym Castle), Captain Mostyn, Captain Openshaw, the Hon. Cecil Parker, Major Platt, Canon Ross, Mrs. Roskell, the Sheriff of Chester, Mr. Storey, Mr. Tomkinson, Major Cornwallis West, Mr. A. O. Walker, &c., &c. The following are copies of some of the letters received- Eaton, August 9th. DEAR MR. RROWN,—I am afraid that my only answer to your kind invitation to assist at the opening of the New Flannel Mill at Holywell must be, that we leave this on the 20th, for a month in Scotland. The establishment of the Mill must be of very great advantage to the locality, as I hope that it will prove to its promoters, and more especially in these times of mineral depression. I beg to wish it all success, and to remain, yours truly, WESTMINSTER. Overbury, Tewkesbury, August 14th, 1884. My DEAR MR. BROWN-,—I regret that Lady Mostvn and myself will be unable to accept the kind invitation 'of the Directors of the Welsh Flannel Manufacturing Company to be present at the opening of their New Mill at Holywell, for which we both thank you very much, We, however, wish you every success in your undertaking, and that it may bring great prosperity to the country.—Believe me, yours sincerely, PYEtiS W. MOSTYN. Bryngwenallt, Abergele, Sept. 10th. DEAR Sin,-I very much regret that I cannot be present at the opening of your new buildings. Hoping that the pro- ceedings may pass off well, and that your New Mills may have a very prosperous future.—Relieve me, yours truly, JOHN EOBERTS. THE FORMAL OPENING OF THE MILL. On the arrival of the procession from Holywell, the gentlemen forming it being received at the mill gates by Mr. Brown, Mr. Bromley, Mr. Enoch Lewis, and the other directors, the large company congregated in fro lit of a small platform erected in the yard, which was decorated with a beautiful display of exotics, kindly lent by Mr. Pickstone, from the Maesmynan Gardens. Mr. Joseph Garner (who is one of the shareholders in the large undertaking) stepped forward, and said he had great pleasure in introducing Mr. John Jones, the chairman of the Local Board, to Mr. Brown and his co-directors. In doing so, he could not refrain from expressing the pleasure he felt in seeing that the Welsh Flannel Company-who was really a -,child" of Mr. Brown's—had prospered and risen to a position of such eminence and useful- ness, and he trusted that it would continue its successful and prosperous career (applause.) Mr. Jones then read the following address, which will be illuminated, and presented to the Chairman of the Company TO WILLIAM BROWN, ESQ., CHAIRMAN, AND TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE WELSH FLANNEL COMPANY, HOLYWELr., FLINTSHIRE. GEHTLEMK.V,—As Chairman of the Holywell Local Board, I have much pleasure on behalf of the inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood, in oflering you our hearty congratula- tions on the completion of your extensive Mills. We are proud to have in our district so enterprising a Company as that which you represent, and we heartily wish that a long and prosperous career will abundantly repay you for the enterprise you have shewn in promoting local industry in the good old town of Holywell. We are not unmindful of the fact that your coming amongst us, will bring grist to our own Mills," and therefore we beg of you to accept our best wishes for the future success of your large and important Manufactories. (Signed), JOHN JONES, Uoui'm&n of the Local Board. September 18th, 1884. Mr. Wm. Brown, who on ascending the platform, was received with a round of hearty applause, addressing I I Mr. Jones, Mr. Garner, the members of the Local Board, and the kind friends'' said that on behalf of the directors, and also on his own behalf, he thanked them most cordially for the kind expressions they had that day conveyed to them. They were aware that one of the objects of the company in coming down to Holywell ten years ago and starting the Flannel Mills,^ was* to maintain and support one of the industries of Holywell (cheers.) They had had an obstruction- a serious obstruction-but it had been got over- (hear. hear)-and he hoped that the example the Welsh Flannel Company had shewn would be followed by others, and that in the course of time the noble stream would be covered with mills and factories (applause). It would not be through any laek of enterprise on the part of the Welsh Flannel Manufacturing Company if Holywell was not made the noted place for Welsh flannel in Wales (renewed applause.) Mrs. Waterhouse (wife of the Secretary of the Company), then handed Mrs. Brown a magnificent bouquet, which had been kindly forwarded by the direction of Lady Mostyn, of Talacre. The bouquet, which was supplied by Messrs. F. and A. Dickson, Chester, was greatly admired, and during the pro- ceedings following the formal opening, it adorned the table in front of the President's seat. Miss Richards (daughter of Mr. Robert Richards, the foreman woolsorter), also handed Mrs. Brown a very pretty 1 ouqu jt, the gift of the workpeople at the mills, which was supplied by Mr. Wm. Jones, gardener, Greenfield. Mrs. Brown having grace- fully accepted the pretty gifts, ascended the plat- form, and formally declared the mill open, a ring- ing cheer being raised, as the machinery was set in motion. The company having, under the direction of the Chairman and Mr. Bromley, with the other directors, visited the splendidly designed and fitted-up mill, afterwards assembled in the Ware- house, where a sumptuous BANQUET was provided by Mr. Lambert of the King's Head Hotel. The room, which forms the ground floor of the commodious building which skirts thehigh-road, is admirably suited for the reception of such a large company as that which assembled on Thursday, the length of the room being 95 feet. The building had been decorated in a very elaborate manner with evergreens, ferns and flowers, interspersed with a number of mottoes painted in a variety of pretty colours. The decoration of the room was a task involving a considerable amount of labour, but the taste with which it was carried out reflected the greatest credit on Mr. Wm. Jones, gardener, Greenfield, who undertook the duty and in no less degree is praise due to Mr. Benjamin Jones, ornamental painter, New-road, who designed and painted the mottoes which captivated the eye at every turn. At the back of the seat occupied by the Chairman was a handsomely painted banner, bearing the wish oft-repeated on Thursday, Long life to our Noble Chairman and Mrs. Brown," whilst on each side, in tastefully worked scrolls were the words Welcome to the Mayor of Chester" (Alderman Charles Brown). and Welcome to the Mayoress of Chester" (Miss N. Brown). We may also quote a few of the other mottoes displayed, such as "God bless the Welsh Flannel Company"; "Success to oar enterprising Directors"; "We send our heartiest thanks and best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Strickland" Long life to Mr. F. F. Brown (" a chip of the old block ")" "Success to the wool trade"; "Long life and success to Mr. Robert Wright, our wool buyer Hir oes i Mr. Enoch Lewis" Mind, Capital, Labour" "Long life to Mr. John Dugdale "Prosperity to the town and trade of Holywell"; "Long life to Mr. Urias Bromley, our managing director," &c. The ever- greens used so plentifully in the decorations were kindly given by Mrs. Johnson Jones, of Pystill, and Miss Buxton, Greenfield Hall, and Mr. Wm. Jones. The tables were beautifully laid out by an efficient staff of waiters, under the direction of Mr. and Mrs. Lambert, the vases of choice flowers which adorned the tables being particularly beautiful. The cuisine was of the excellence for which the King's Head is so well-known, and the fact that such a large undertaking could be taken in hand and so success- fully carried out by a Holywell hotel-keeper is no little credit to the town itself. The menu consisted of Fish-Salmon Roast and Boiled Beef. Roast Lamb Roast and Galentin of Veal Roast and Boiled Fowls. Roast Ducks Ham and Tongues Game Pies. Veal and Ham Pies Rabbit. rigeon and Beefsteak Lobster Salad Jellies, Creams, Pastries, Tarts Biscuits, Cheese, Celery. The chair was occupied by Mr. William Brown, supported by Mrs. Brown, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chester, and the principal guests we have named. Grace before meat was said by the Rev. E. Mayhew Jones, B.A., and after the banquet by the Rev. J. Pugh, B.A. The Chairman gave the toast of The Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales and the rest of the Royaly Family," which was loyally received. The Chairman said he was not going to trouble them with numerous toasts or long speeches, but he was sure that they would not desire to separate without drinking "Success to the Welsh Flannel Manufacturing Company." That they wished the Company success was evident by their attendance in such large numbers, and it was very encouraging to the directors that they should give them their attendance and support in the large and onerous untertaking in which they were engaged. They were well aware of the peculiar position in which the Company were placed some eighteen months ago, by the destruction of the old mill by fire, but the shareholders were good enough to permit the directors to put up a new building, the opening of which they had that day iuaugurated. That the building would be a great success he had not the slightest doubt: and if the success could be ensured by the good will of their friends in Holywell, their prosperity would be very great indeed, (applause). The directors had attended to the erection of the mill with all the care and attention they could bestow, and the work had been carried out very efficiently. The old mill that stood on the site of the present building for one hundred years, was now represented by a magnificent mill that a hundred years hence will be a far more substantial building than the one which had been destroyed, and he hoped that in the coming century it would prove a source of encouragement, and success to the people of Holywell. (applause). The toast was enthusiastic- ally drank. Mr. Enoch Lewis then submitted the toast of The health of Mrs. Wm. Brown," which was very warmly reseived. It had been well said, he observed, that if a man wished to do any good he must first take counsel with his wife. He was quite sure that Mr. Wm. Brown had had much encouragement in the arduous undertaking which he had assumed in the conducting of the building of those mills from the home source (hear, hear). Whatever incitement to that great work he might have felt through the kindly manner in which he had always been treated by the Holywell people, the home influence must have been much greater (applause). He (Mr. Lewis) had therefore much pleasure in informing his hearers that Mrs. Brown had—he really did not know how many daughters—(laughter)—but she was the mother of four sons. One of these had undertaken the defence of his country in the army (hear, hear). Another was caring for the souls of the savages in Africa as a missionary. He had not taken a curacy in a quiet hamlet—which would have been a most enjoyable thing no doubt, and might have resulted in his becoming a bishop—but he had sacrificed the peace and comfort of home life to go among the inhabitants of a savage country, and might God bless him in his good work (applause). Another son had undertaken the profession of the law, and he (the speaker) was quite sure he would shine in that department, if he would not ultimately become Lord Chancellor (laughter and applause). The other son had followed in his father's footsteps, and he (Mr. Lewis) was sure that his hearers would agree with him that notwithstanding the brilliancy of any other profession, that of providing employ- ment for the working people was after all most honorable (applause). Reverting to the subject of the toast, he said there was a great deal of talk these days about women's rights, but he was sure all assembled there would agree that Mrs. Brown had a perfect right to undertake the duty of declaring their new mill open, which she had that afternoon so graccfullyperforined (applause). On the question of women's rights he held that women had a perfect right—and he did not know that anyone I denied it-to undertake work when they could obtain work suitable for themselves (hear, hear). They had never usurped the trowel or the spade, or the pickaxe, and he hoped they never would- (hear, hear)—but they surely ought to be more largely employed at the spindle and in the manu- facture of flannel (hear, hear). He had lived long enough to remember three or four departures in regard to manufactures of this class in the neigh- bourhood. First of all there was the Holywell Cotton Twist Company, and in those days the brilliancy of the scene at Holywell market was almost wonderful. Then came a deadly period which lasted for some time, and three unsuccessful attempts were made to bring about the manufacture of flannel, but this the fourth attempt, he felt sure, would be a success (applause). There was one feature in connection with their undertaking which must tend in some degree to ensure success, namely, they paid for everything as they got it (applause). For the information of gentlemen farmers and others lie would say that they never require a day's credit the money was on the counter when the wool was in the mill, and that was a great thing (hear, hear). Another word he had to say to those gentlemen farmers-let them not offer their wool to any one before offering it to the Welsh Flannel Company. (hear, hear, and laughter). In conclusion, he said, for the sake of the employees, the shareholders, the directors, their worthy chairman, and the town of Holywell he hoped those mills would prove a grand success, (applause). The toast was warmly honored, and was acknow- ledged by Mr. Harry Brown, who facetiously re- marked that Mr. Lewis had referred to women's rights, and he was sure that they all would on that occasion at any rate, wish they were accomplished facts, as they would prefer that Mrs. Brown should respond to the toast herself. Had she done so he was sure that in the first place she would have returned her hearty thanks for the cordial manner in ;which she had been received, and for the very kind and generous manner in which her health had been proposed. Mr. Lewis had said that their chairman had received much encouragement in this enterprise from the counsel and support of his wife and why was that ? It was because a good wife is always interested in works and exertions of her husband, and especially when those works were undertaken for the benefit of the community. (hear, hear). It was for the good of Holywell that the works in which they were then concerned were taken in hand, and he trusted they would continue to prosper long after they had gone. (applause). The Chairman next gave "Our friends and customers," and said that it was when they were in adversity they found out who their true friends were, and when the directors were in difficulty eighteen months ago, the utmost kindness was manifested towards them on all hands (hear, hear). Among their friends he would name in the first place those who gave them every information as to the building and stocking of their new mill. Where- ever they went every mill and every machine was open to their inspection, and every information was freely given them to assist them in bringing about the construction of that splendid mill which had that day been opened (hear, hear.) He particularly desired to mention the name of Mr. Illingsworth and Mr. Isaac Holden, and other gentlemen who had allowed them to inspect the admirable arrangements of their mills, the result of which had been the successful fitting up of their new mill. But that was a question which he should leave to more com- petent judges than himself, and who were older in the trade. Together with the toast he would couple the healths of their customers, for without them they could not carry on the trade. He was glad to say that they had many good customers (hear, hear), who found that the flannels manufactured at their mills were the best that could be purchased, and were fit to offer to the best customers (applause). With the toast he coupled the names of Alderman Clough, of Bury, (whose own mill was well worthy of inspection), and Mr. Walton, buyer for Mr. Rylands, a name well known throughout the length and breadth of England, and he may say, through- out the world (applause). Alderman Clough, in responding, said that he had gone through the new mill, and he found that they had a very handsome and substantial building. They had stocked it with machinery from the best maker, and he hoped that it would result in the great success of the Company (hear, hear). He was told in Manchester, he facetiously added, that with the Holywell water they were able to make a piece of flannel without wool—(laughter)—and if that was so he could only say that they in England were too heavily handicapped, and would have to give in (renewed laughter).—Mr. Walton, who also repliei, said he had had some experience in buying flannel, but he had none in speechmaking (laughter). He congratulated the company on the acquisition which their new mill would be, in the production of their well-known flannel; at the same time cautioning the directors not to expect too much profit on their manufactures at the first. The next toast was that of The Town and Trade of Holywell," which was given by the Chairman. He said he was sure no one would be more pleased to see Holywell prosper than the Welsh Flannel Company (hear, hear). They, he hoped, were doing their share to make Holywell prosperous, and he trusted that others would follow their example, for if they had six or eight concerns on that magnificent stream paying the same amount of wages per week as the Flannel Company did, it would mean a vast amount of good to the trade of Holywell (hear, bear). With that toast he would couple the name of Mr. Jones, the chairman of the Holywell Local Board, and he must thank that body for their. great kindness in giving them the use of the assembly hall for their warping machines when, by reason of the fire, they were houseless. He would also couple with the toast the name of Mr. Lloyd Price, their good friend and kind neighbour, who had accommodated the company by every means in his power when they wore in difficulties (applause). The toast having been heartily received, Mr. John Jones said that that day was a very happy one in the history of Holywell. As chairman of the Local Board he accepted the thanks which had been so generously offered them by the Company, but he may say that it afforded the Board the greatest pleasure to assist and benefit by any means within its power the Welsh Flannel Company, for they knew that in so doing, they were supporting a company whose manufactures were well worthy retaining in their midst (hear, hear). The great benefit that Holywell had derived from having such a spirited company amongst them, was a sufficient inducement to make the Board accommodate and favor them as far as that was possible (hear, hear.) He hoped that that day, and the interesting cere- mony they had witnessed, would form a memorable link in the history of their ancient town, and that it would also serve to bring them more into a bond of unity together (applause). He thought that the very kind and hospitable manner in which they had been that day treated by the Company, should call forth their warmest thanks (hear, hear.) The present occasion was one to be remembered for many years to come, and he trusted that it would be so remembered as a great day for Holywell tradesmen (hear, hear). There was no locality in which public spirit and business enterprise was more needed than in Holy- well, and he trusted that many companies would follow the excellent example set them by the Welsh Flannel Company, and that the trade of Holywell would soon become what it was in years gone by hear, hear). Holywell in former times was known as one of the best business towns initbe Principality, and he trusted that with the advent of new com- panies imbued with the public spirit shown by the Welsh Flannel Company that the good times of former days would again be experienced by them (applause). C, Mr. J. Lloyd Price, whose name had been coupled with the toast, also responded. He said the occasion of the opening of that grand mill would always remain a red-letter day in the history of the town, and would always be looked back upon as a day upon which the trade of the town had taken a new departure (hear, hear). He had witnessed several celebrations and demonstrations in connection with the town of Holywell, but he had never witnessed anything before that was so calculated to promote the material benefit of the inhabitant s- (applause) or that promised to result in so great a public good, as the ceremony of that day (renewed applause). In the face of that day's proceedings no one had a right to say that the town of Holywell was a "decaying one (cheers). Whoever said so was guilty of the grossest misrepresentation—(hear, hear) —for during the great depression of trade that had prevailed throughout the country, Holywell was flourishing (hear, hea", and cheers). He hoped that the present demonstration would be but the precedent to their welcoming other great capitalists amongst them (applause). Other small towns had become immense cities in consequence of the action of energetic, courageous, and enterprising gentlemen, and their present chairman (Mr. Wm. Brown), Mr. Bromley, Mr. Wright, Mr. Lewis, and other gentlemen wore grand and noble specimens of that class (cheers). He looked forward with pleasure and confidence to the time when Holywell would beeJllle famous for its Welsh flannel, in the same way as Sheffield had become noted for its cutlery. Birming- hamforits "Brummagem" ware—(laughter),—and Burton for its beer (much laughter). In the same way as Manchester had come to be called Cottonopolis, he looked forward to the day when Holywell would be called Flannelopolis — (laughter and cheers)—and when the Welsh flannel would become so famous that medical men would find it a necessity to recommend the red flannel of the company as the best cure for rheumatism, and their white flannel as the best preventative against cold. (laughter and applause). As a member of the Local Board of the town, he must congratulate the chairman and the other members of the directorate on their being the possessors of such a mill as that. They had new machinery of the most modern invention; everything made was of the best material, and calculated to produce flannel cheaper in price, and better in quality than could be produced by any other firm (hear, hear). He hoped that other capitalists would follow the example of this company, and he was sure that the people of Holywell would give them every welcome and encouragement when they came to spend their money and to establish mills in their midst, so that they might flourish and prosper the same as this Company had every appearance of doing (applause). There was some magic after all in the water of St. Winefred's Well (laughter and loud cheers). Mr. John Jones next gave the toast of "The Chairman and the Board of Directors." He was very anxious, he said, to endorse all that had been said by Mr. Price as to the quality of the flannel produced at Holywell, and he was glad to tell them that Holywell was this day noted for its Welsh flannel (hear, hear). He had had the advantage of knowing the opinions of some of the largest wholesale flannel merchants in the kingdom on the subject, and he must say that they appreciated and valued the Holywell flannel above any other that could be obtained (applause). He believed that better days were dawning upon Holywell, and that years to come Holywell would retain its supremacy as the seat of the best Welsh flannel manufacture (hear, hear). He need only tell them in proof of the fact that the flannel made by the Welsh Flannel Company was the best that could be obtained, that in the year 1882 first prize and a silver medal was awarded the company for its manufacture (hear, bear). If they had achieved that success in the past what may they expect in the future, with the new mill, fitted up with the best machinery and every appliance for the manu- facture of the best quality of goods (applause). The directors of this company were equal to those of any company as good and discreet business men, possessed of sound judgment, and he congratulated them on having erected the largest flannel mill in the Principality (applause). The toast having been heartily received with musical honors, the Chairman responded on behalf of the directors and himself, and said he found that the honours fell to him, but the greater share of the work had fallen on his coadjutors. In the arduous duties connected with the new mill none had worked harder than Mr. Bromley, the managing director, and amongst the directors none had proved himself more useful (hear, hear). Then he may mention Mr. E. Lewis, from whom they always received words of wisdom, and good, sage, advice (applause). FromMr. Wright they obtained a goodquantity of their wool, for as the farmers present knew, Mr. Wright was always ready tobuy the fleeces they had for sale. From Mr. Dugdale, whom he may call the engineer of the Company they received good engineering advice, and the youngest director was Mr, Frank Brown, who he hoped was being trained in good business habits, so that when the old hands passed away he would be able to take their places, (hear hear). Mr. Bromley, who was loudly applauded, en- dorsed the remarks which had been made by the Chairman as to the kindness with which they had been received when visiting the mills in Rochdale and in various parts of Lancashire. Eleven years ago when they started that company they had no idea that they would ever meet such a number of ladies and gentlemen on thecompany'sown premises. They were then only in a small way but subsequent events had shown that they were in the right track (hear, hear). Personally he tendered his thanks for the kindness they had received on all hands. When they were visiting the various mills that kindness was very marked, but then they were accompanied by Mr. Brown, who not only seemed to know everyone, but also to remember their fathers and their grandfathers (laughter). The company was very deeply indebted to Mr. Brown for his exertions—(applause)—and he ventured to say that he doubted whether after the fire at the old mill the work would have been carried on but for Mr. Brown's services and encouragement (renewed applause), and he regarded it as a blessing to Holywell that Mr. Brown had become identified with its prosperity. Mr. Enoch Lewis also briefly replied, and said that he hoped that the good wishes expressed for the future prosperity of their undertaking would be realised. The Chairman next gave the toast of Our visitors and the wool growers," and referred to the letters of apology from noblemen and gentlemen who were unable to attend the ceremony that day. The Mayor of Chester, who was warmly applauded, responded- on behalf of the visitors for the kind and hospitable reception which had been given them. He regarded the flannel trade as the staple manufacture of North Wales, and he trusted that the energy of the company would be amply repaid, and the town of Holywell be greatly benefited by the erection of the new and splendid mill. Mr. R. Ap Hugh Williams also replied for the visitors, and expressed the great pleasure he had experienced in visiting the handsome mill, and in meeting such a large company as was assembled on that occasion. But they knew that a kind welcome brought many friends, and they knew that in visiting Holywell and those mills a kind welcome would be extended to them. He believed that the Welsh flannel trade had a great future before it, and he wished the Company every success in its important undertaking. Mr. Pickstone responded on behalf of the wool growers, in an excellent speech, and the interesting proceedings of the afternoon were brought to a close. During the afternoon the Holywell Volunteer Band was stationed in the yard adjoining the banquetting room, and discoursed a varied (selection of music. TREAT TO THE WORKPEOPLE-A GRATIFYING PRESENTATION. After the first company had separated, (those coming from a distance being conveyed to the station, in carriages supplied from the Kuig's Head Hotel), the whole of the hands employed at both mills were entertained to a very sumptuous repast, also provided by Mr. Lambert. The scene was one of a very pleasing and animated character, and the evident good feeling existing between the employed and the employers was mani- fested in a gratifying manner before the ter- mination of the pleasant reunion. On the tables on the occasion of the workpeople's feast was a large supply of grapes, pears and figs, which had been kindly sent by Mrs. Strickland, London (only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Brown) expressly for the workpeople, and as a mark of the deep interest she felt in the undertaking as affecting their welfare and prosperity. Over two hundred and fifty partook of the excellent collation and afterwards the room wasclearedfortheeveningmeeting. Mr. Brown presided, and said he was very happy to meet them all again on the completion of their very arduous duties of the past eighteen months. He would only very briefly recapitulate what he had said at the meeting which had taken place that after- noon, as his time unfortunately was very short. He wished to acknowledge the obligation the company was under to Mr. Hughes (of Alford). the contractor, for the exceptionally good work he had done in the erection of the building. Unfor- tunately Mr. Hughes had been unable to remain for that meeting, but Mr. Clubb, the clerk of the works was present, and he trusted he would accept tlieir heartiest thanks for his uniform kindness and attention. He had also to thank Mr. Hughes for his kindness in presenting them with that handsome clock which ornamented the end of the build- ing in which they were then assembled (ap- plause). Next he had to thank Mr. Tatham, of Rochdalc, for the excellent machinery with which their new mill was fitted. He must also acknowledge the ability and attention given by night and day to the arduous work by Mr. Bromley- (applause)—who had devoted himself to promote tho interests of the concern. He had also to thank Mr. Richard Rees for his valuable services, and also Mr. William Evaus, who he may say laid on paper the plans of the whole of their new machinery, and first of all gave them the dimensions of the building that would be required and which had been erected (applause). He must also acknowledge the ability of their head woolsorter Mr. Robert R irds. He could not enumerate all, but he may s;:J that every man and every woman, every boy and (very girl had done well in the past, but now that both mills were in regular work, lie hoped that they should have a greater output of flannel. He thanked them for the kind manner in which they had received him, and he could only express the pleasure he felt in being connected with the Holywell mills (applause which was again and again renewed) Mr. Bromley next proceeded to present Mr. Brown with a gift from the workpeople as an expression of the high regard in which he was held by them. It consisted of a magnificent solid siver loving cup," weighing sixty ounces, and standing nearly twenty inches high. The cup, which was a splendid specimen of the silversmith's art, was chastely engraved, and would no doubt be rendered more welcome to the worthy recipient from the fact that the true representations of both the mills on St. Winefred's stream, over whose fortunes he presides with such ability and geniality, were engraved on the cup. It also bore the following inscriptions:—"Presented to Wm. Brown, Esq., by the workpeople of the Welsh Flannel Company, Holywell. as a token of esteem and appreciation for the interest taken in their welfare," and "The mills were opened by Mrs. Wm. Brown, this day, 18th Sept., 1884." The cup, which was supplied by the firm of Messrs. R. Jones and Son, Castle- street, Liverpool, will doubtless remain an heirloom for many generations in Mr. Brown's family. Accompanying it was a framed and glazed illumina- ted address, prepared in an artistic manner by Mr. Harry Berwick, of.,Chester. The beautiful panel work was designed in the Italian Renaissance style, and in the upper border, in a central position was introduced a figure of Sant Gwenfrewi" (St. Winefred) which forms the trade mark of the Company over which Mr. Brown presides. The body of the address was neatly engrossed in German text, andjit the foot coloured views of the Crescent and the Upper Mills—the former as it appears after its enlargement. In the side ornamentations are introduced lae similes of the front and obverse sides of the silver medal gained by the Company at the Denbigh Royal Eisteddfod in 1882, as the makers of the best Welsh flannel in the kingdom. Mr. Bromley, in making the presentation on be- half of the workpeople, said that one of the happiest incidents in connection with that day was then to take place, for the workpeople at the mills had determined to shew in tangible and substantial form their appreciation of the services of Mr. William Brown (loud applause). He knew that he had only to mention Mr. Brown's name to make their hearts jump with joy, for he had done a great deal for Holywell, and they could never repay him, but they could show their appreciation of his good deeds, and thank him, as they did, most heartily for coming to Holywell to promote the important industry in which they were engaged. In handing the gifts to Mr. Brown, Mr. Bromley said that it was a proud office he was called upon to perform on behalf of the hands at the mills. He hoped that his (Mr. Brown's) children and child- dren's children down to many generations when they looked upon that" loving cup would appre- ciate it for the sake of him to whom it was given, and may generations yet unborn, rise to bless the name of William Brown. (loud applause). Some time ago they were all very anxious to know who it was who built the old mill, but he ventured to pre- dict that in a thousand years to come, there would be no doubt as to who built the present mill, and probably when the flannel industry in Holywell shall have extended itself to an immense scale, the people of that day will exclaim—" Well really that William Brown was a wonderful man. (pro- longed cheers, and a voice, "We'll send him to Parliament)." He thought they should send their warmest thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Strickland for their kindness in sending them such a plentiful supply of fruit. The gifts were then handed to Mr. Brown, and that gentleman received quite an ovation from the crowded audience. On the call of Mr. Bryan, chcers were given for Mr. and Mrs. Brown and their family, which were re echoed again, and again. The address was as follows — TO WM. BROWN, ESQ., CHESTER. WE, the work people, of the Welsh Flannel Co., desiring to commemorate the event of the opening the hew ills, em- brace the opportunity of expressing our deep gratitude to the Directors, and especially to yourself for the great interest taken in our welfare. Many of us bless the day when you interested yourself in this Company more than ten years ago. Under your guidance we have been fully employed all these years, which has enabled us to maintain and educate our children, and many a widow's heart has been made glad. The sight of the Old Mill burning we can never forget it damped our hopes and many of us sad, but we welcomed with feelings of joy your layiug the foundation stone of the splendid buildings we now rejoice and are thankful for the privilege of taking part in this great event in our lives, and in the history of the Welsh Flannel Co. We beg to wish the Company every success, and to congratulate them in h.aving at their head a gentleman of such large business experience, practical knowledge and force of character combined We earnestly hope that your valuable life may be spared many years to guide and reap the fruit of this great enterprise and trust that the happy relations now existing between us may long continue. Signed on behalf of the work people, THOS. H. WATERHOUSE, RICHARD REES, ROBERT RICHARDS, RICHARD JONES, JOHN CHARLTON. Holywell, North Wales, Sept. 18, 1864. Mr. Brown said that lie could scarcely find words sufficiently strong to thank them for their great kindness towards him. Had they presented him with an address only, he should have considered it above his merits, but that they should out of their little, present him with such a handsome memorial of their kindness quite overcame him. He accepted it gratefully, as a mark of their kindness to- wards him, his only fear being that they had far over-rated his merits ("No, no"). He only came over on stated days, and it was always a pleasure to him to come over to Holywell to confer with Mr. Bromley in particular, and to confer with the workpeople as to how the mills were getting on, and that little duty they appreciated above its merits. They had presented him with that magni- ficent memorial which he gratefully accepted, and he trusted that it would be handed down to his children and his children's children, and that it would always be regarded by them as a token of the manner in which their father was esteemed in Holywell (loud applause). He regretted that Mrs. Brown was not sufficiently strong in health to re- main for the presentation; his daughter (Mrs. Strickland), who retained a lively recollection of the kindness she received from the mill hands on the occasion of her marriage seven years ago, was un- fortunately unable to come over to Holywell, but he received a letter from her a day or two previously stating that she had ordered some grapes, figs and pears to be sent over for the workpeople on that occasion (loud applause). He was sure it would have given Mrs. Strickland great pleasure to have been present that evening, but in her absence he must convey to her the kind remarks Mr. Bromley had made on behalf of the hands. He had, however, to ask them to transfer some of the merit which they had been good enough to bestow on him to Mr. Bromley, who both before the old mill was burnt down and afterwards had devoted all his energies to the undertaking (loud applause). In again thanking them for the gifts, he said that he was happy and thankful in his old age to see the completion of that large mill, for verging as he was on three score years and ten, it was by the goodness of Providence that he was spared to see the fruits of labors which others were not left to enjoy. He could not help remarking that when they were assembling to open their new mill someone was being carried to his last home, but he had been spared to see the completion of the mills, and he trusted that be may yet live to see those mills flourish beyond their best expectations (applause). A choral party, under the leadership of Mr. H. R. Williams (China House), and consisting of Misses S. A. Jones, L. Jones, M. E. Hughes, S. Jones, M. J. Hughes, A. Davies, M. Jones, and A. J. Richards, and Messrs. W. J. Evans, J. Morgan, J. W. Hughes, R. Jones, and W. Bellis, then gave the chorus "We'll stand the storm," in a very efficient manner. Mr. Owen Jones (Bagillt-strect), in a telling Welsh speech proposed Success to the directors of the company," a sentiment which was warmly received, and Mr. Frank Brown, in responding, said the work people had been called hands," but he may say that they give not only the work of their hands but also of their heads and hearts to promote the success of the undertaking (cheers). 0 Mr. Aaron Thomas, in the course of an address, humorously remarked that he hoped that would be the worst day the Holywell Flannel Company would ever see (laughter and applause). Mr. Brown and his party being at this stage com- pelled to leave for the station, he was enthusiastically cheered, and the large audience joined in singing heartily as a chorus Dyn iawn ydyw Mr. Brown." The choir having sang an appropriate piece of music, Mr. Bromley proposed Success to the workmen at the Crescent Mill," observing that it did not matter what pains the directors may take in a concern of that description unless they had good men to carry out the work, and he attributed a good deal of the success of the Company to the application and earnest care of their leading hands (hear, hear). —Mr. Richard Jones in reply, said as workpeople he was sure they would do their utmost to turn out the best goods in the trade, Mr. John Charlton also replied, and expressed a hope that the success the company had achieved in the past would be multiplied as a reward to the directors and share- holders for their enterprise. Mr. Enoch Lewis delivered an excellent address to the workpeople, and referring to the happy feel- ing which existed between employers and employed at the Welsh Flannel Company, said that a strike was to them a thing unknown, and neither had the workpeople to suffer, as they had in other places, enforced idleness from working short time (hear, hear). A duott having been sung by Messrs. H. R. Williams and W. J. Evans, Mr. Bromley (who had taken the chair), proposed "The healths of the Shareholders," to which Mr. Bryan (Leicester House), responded, and remarked that no town in the Principality offered such a field for commercial enterprise as did Holywell. On one hand they had collieric s and an excellent river opening to the sea, and on the other hand lead mines and quarries, together with the noble stream from St. Winefred's Well. He urged upon the tradesmen of the town, and capitalists to make use of the natural advantages by which they were surrounded, and he trusted that the proceedings of that day would form a turning point in the history of the town of Holy- well (applause). A song having been given by one of the work- people, Mr. Bromley proposed Success to the workpeople at the Upper Factory." Mr. T. H. Waterhouse replied on their behalf, and after eulogising the conduct of the concern by the direc- to rs, he said there were no mills in the Principality that had a brighter future before them than those of the Welsh Flannel Company. The efforts of their chairman and the directors would be fruitless were it not for the hearty co-operation of the best workpeople in the Principality, and thus working hand in hand, workpeople, officials and directors, the future of the company would be such as had not before been known in Wales (cheers). Mr. Richard Rees and Mr. Robert Richards also replied. The toast of "The Makers of the Machinery," acknowledged by Mr. Shaw, engineer to Mr. John Tatham, of Rochdale, who said that the machinery they had built in the mill was new to North Wales, and if the Company did not succeed with them, it was impossible, in his opinion, for any Flannel Company to succeed. On the motion of Mr. Enoch Lewis, cordial thanks were accorded Mrs. Pickstone (Maesmynan), /T>1SSi.^mXk°n (Greenfield Hall), Mrs. Johnson Jones (lystill), and Mrs Mather (Glyn Abbot), for their presents of flowers and evergreens for the decorations on the occasion. Hearty thanks, on the proposition of Mr. Bromley, were also given Mr. and Mrs. Lambert for their excellent catering on the occasion, and a few other toasts being given, the pleasant proceedings ter- minated with the singing of the National Anthem.