Denbighshire Free Press

GRAND CONCERT IN AID OF THE N.S.P.C.C." ] On Friday evening a grand vocal and instrumental concert was held in the Drill Hall, Denbigh, in aid of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (Denbigh District). As evidence that there is a great amount of practical sympathy with this object, the Hall was crowded, and with a capital and varied programme, the concert passed off most successfully. The concert was opened by an overture, "Calif de Bagdad," which was admirably rendered by the Denbigh String Band, Under the conductorship of Dr Frank Jones. Members of the orchestra present were :— First violins, Dr Frank Jones (leader), Miss Louie James, Professor E Taylor Jones, D.Sc. second violins, Messrs 0 P Williams, "W James and J Thomas viola, Mr J Lloyd Williams 'collo, Mr W Parry Williams; clarionette, Mr J Jones; cornet, Mr J Evans trombone, Mr T W Williams; pianist, Miss Charlotte Jones. Later on in the evening the orchestra played the valse "Peacefully dreaming," which was higly appreciated. The baritone soloist was Mr Vaughan Davies, Carnarvon, who has a remarkably powerful and well trained voice, which was heard to advantage in the solo, 44 True till death," and a Welsh solo, which he rendered with great vigour. Miss M King Sarah, Nantlle, rendered some excel- lent soprano solos, which were heartily encored. She has a very sweet, and pure voice, over which she has perfect control, and her softest notes, which reached to the end of the halit were well sustained. Miss Edith Evans, a little fair haired girl, of Conway, whose fame had preceded her visit to Denbigh as a reciter, was loudly encored of ,her recitations her recitals showed that she has great talent, combined «,»V • ery ?Weeb voice* However it was W+PIU10N MADY PRE9ENT that the pieces recited were not at all suitable te so youn- a reciter, being of a melancholy nature and a.ing o be recited in a wailing monotone to give them effect, which style was quite out of keeping with a pretty fair haired girl. Nevertheless the youthful elocu- tionist recited remarkably well, and should her nervous energy be retained has a fine e^0i'G her in this department of vo wo,;k* Mr T C J ones earned uni- 7. \r praise for his beautiful tenor solo, Margaretta," and received a great ovation for the same. He was in excellent voice, and sang with fine expression. Miss Laura Evans, who is always a great favour- ite, ..excelled her previous triumphs. During the evening she rendered several solos which were all encored. The beautiful contralto solo. "By the Fountain," was a very fine performance, and was rendered with splendid vigour and musical taste, which, combined with a voice of purity and great range, was one of the finest vocal solos of the evening. A very pretty violin duet was beantifully rendered by Dr Frank Jones and Miss Louie James, entitled H Petet Duo Symphoniqne," and delighted the audience. Mr E J Swayne, always a welcome performer, rendered some excellent solos during the evening. He sang the Sailor's Star of Hope" with great expres- sion and fine effect. The Misses King Sarah and Laura Evans rendered a charm- ing duet entitled The gentle Spriug." Their voices blended very harmoniously in this duet, which was highly appreciated. The comic element was not overlooked and Mr T W Griffith, of Denbigh, most ably supplied this change, and brought down the house with his humorous monologues, I want to fly," and "Little Bill." These recitations were given with characteristic 3 i!ity and humour, and were highly a^pieciated. Miss Charlotte Jones, Den- bigh, rendered great service to the concert, by most efficiently accompanying the solos, and the string band. Mrs Swayne also accompanied some of the songs with marked ability. During the interval the president of the Mayor (Mr A 0 Evans) briefly addressed the adience and said he was glad to be present to support such an excellent society as the S.P.C C. This society had persons at the head of it who conducted its business in au excellent, capable and effectual way. The King and Queen were patrons of it, and they were fortunate in having Colonel Heaton, of Plas Heaton, as president of their local branch, and Miss Griffith, Plas Pigot, as their energetic hon secretary. They knew Miss Griffith very well and it needed no words of his to tell them why they should support this society or any society which had the name of Miss Griflith attached to it (loud applause). The object of the concert was to augment the funds of the branch, because they were trying to moke it self supporting, which, however, ^utry naa not been able to do as yet. lhe Mayor explained that the object of tlio society was not to harass or persecute the working man or woman, but to protect the young and defenceless, and to see that they were properly cared for. The evidence in cases of cruelty was sent up to the head offices of the society in London by their local inspectors, and prosecutions were ordered from headquarters, and therefore people who had been prosecuted must not sPito or prejudice on P* ^° "^spectors, and h« was sure no one th;nk that their inspector, Mr James, would prosecute anyone out of prejudice or spite (hear, hear). This district included parts of Denbighshire Flintshire, and Merioneth, and therefore the travelling expenses of their inspector were very heavy and the costs of prosecu- tion of cases of crueltv or neglect added materially to their expenses. He con- sidered the work done by Inspector James in this district was marvellous. For instance during the last twelve months there were 209 cases reported and this affected the welfare of 37G children. The visits paid by the inspector numbered daring the twelve months to 481, and thus the inspector made on an average nine visits per week to different places. In con- clusion the Mayor said he was convinced that the society was doing excellent work and that they could not do better than support it to the best of their means (applause). Col Lloyd Williams proposed a hoarty vote of thanks to the Mayor for presiding, and also paid a complimcnt to the Mayoress. He was glad to see such a large audience which showed there was great sympathy with this object. The Mayor had shown his sympathy with the object, and be was glad to say associated himself with all good ft jects. They a'o had the services of a &.dy who had brought this concert about, and who had so energetically undertaken the hon secretaryship of the branch. There was also their President, who was away doing his duty for King and country (loud applause). They were indebted to the performers, several of whom had grown up amongst tnem, and he referred to Dr Jones and Miss Jones, whose father had thoroughly trained his children in music. Ho trusted that parents'who had musical children would train them in it so that people might have the same treat in the future as they enjoyed on the present occasion. The Rev J Walter Lloyd, curate of Denbigh, seconded the vote of thanks. The concert closed with a hearty vote of thanks to the performers, which was proposed by Mr Harrison Jones, and seconded by Mr Bryan. The National Anthem was sung by the Misses King, Sarah, and Evans, and thus the proceedings terminated. Great praise is due to the committee who provided such aa excellent concert, namely, Miss Griffith, Miss Gold Edwards, Mrs Com'an, Mrs Harrison Jones, Alifs Humphreys Roberts, Mr John Davies, Mr Foulkes Roberts (secretary), and to Mr James, the Society's local inspector, who also rendered great assistance.

BIBLE CLASS SACRED CONCERT. On Sunday evening there was a crowded audience at the Church House, when the last of the series of the Bible Class Sacred Concerts was held under the chairmanship of Mr James Hughes, J.P., who was sup- ported by the Rev J Walter Lloyd and Rev D Lester Jones, curates of the parish, and Mr C Cottom and Mr J Bellamy, churchwardens of St David's. The Chairman prefaced the concert with some suitable remarks, and expressed the pleasure it gave him to preside. He had, unfortunately, been unable to attend .any of the gatherings held previously, and he regretted to find that this was to be the last of these concerts for the present season, because he thought that these sacred concerts were fulfilling a very necessary purpose, and filling up a gap in the Sunday evening—especially for the young people—which was of advantage to themselves and the community at large. Unfortunately they knew that some young people were in the habit of walking about the town and roads on Sunday evenings, and behaving themselves not in a very becoming way, and the object of these gatherings was to put a check on such conduct as that. However, the observance of the Sabbath had improved from what it was in years gone by; very much improved since the Sunday Closing Act had come into force in Wales, because he could remember that before this Act came into force there was a great deal of drunkenness on the Sabbath, and he should like to see this Sunday Closing Act extended to the whole of the Kingdom. There was still room for improvement even in Wales, because they knew that considerable abuse had been made of the three mile radius There was a great outcry of the licensed victuallers when the Act was first passed, but they had soon learnt that it was to their advantage, and were now strongly in iLs favour. He concluded by expressing his pleasure at seeing so large a gathering. The concert commenced with the singing of the hymn, Fight the good fight," which was followed by a short prayer by the Rev J Walter Lloyd, after which came a sweet vocal solo by Miss Florence G Jones. Mr Halford recited with much feeling "The legend beautiful," which was much appreciated. Miss Louie Miller sang Ora Pro Nobis," with some musical ability and effect. Dr Frank Jones played a most impressive violin solo which was greatly appreciated by all present. Miss Helsby admirably sang The dream of Paradise," which was accompanied with a violin obligato by Dr Frank Jones. An excellent Welsh part song was rendered in capital muscal style by Miss Jones (Conway Villas), Misses Hugh Williams, Messrs Charles Newman, Elias Roberts, Lewis Roberts, D E Humphreys Roberts, and W Thomas. This was followed by a pretty recitation, which conveyed a very useful moral, by Miss Alex Brebbcr, who recited her lengthy piece with marked ability. This piece was followed by the very beautiful sacred song entitled When I survey the wondrous Cross," most ad- mirably rendered by Mr J T Hughes, Vale- street. The accompaniments to the various songs were played by Miss Charlotte Jones, Miss Minnie Batten, Miss M Humphreys Roberts, and Miss Cottom-Radnor. At the conclusion of the concert Mr Charles Cottom proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman and performers, and as the concerts had so admirably filled the purpose for which they were intended, he expressed the hope that with the Rector's consent they would be resumed next winter. The resolution was seconded by the Rev D Lester Jones, and the chairman replied. The Rev T Walter Lloyd announced that during the singing of the hymn a collection would be made in aid of the S.P.G." Society, which he hoped they would support, because they had recently sent out through that society, to the mission field of South Africa, a young townsman in the name of Mr William Dew, who would be ordained on St David's Day. The first thing Mr Dew would have to do would be to collect money to build a church in his new district, and therefore he hoped that they at home would show him that they were taking an active interest in his work, which he was sure would be a source of satisfaction and help to him in that work. The meeting was then brought to a close by the singing of the Welsh hymn, Ffyddlon filwyr Iesu," and the collection, amounting to XI 3s 5Qd Great praise is due to the committee of the Bible Class, and especially the hon see, Mr W E Hughes, for originating and successfully carrying out this series of excellent concerts.

PRIMROSE LEAGUE CONCERT. A very varied and interesting programme has been arranged by a committee of ladies connected with the PrimrostJ League, of vocal and instrumental music for this concert, which will take place to-night at 8 p.m. (Friday), at the Conservative Club Assembly Rooms, Col T A Wynne Edwards chairman, and is open to (ail members— ladies and gentlemen—of the Conservative party.

.— DENBIGHSHIRE INFIRMARY ANNUAL MEETING. HEAVY DEFICIT: INCREASED SUPPORT NEEDED. The ninety-fifth annual meeting of this Institution was held yesterday (Thursday), when the president of the Institution, Mr Randle Mainwaring, presided. There were also present Colonel Mesham, Colonel Lloyd Wiiiiatus, Rev D Davies (rector), Dr J R Hughes, Dr Bowen Darice, Messrs R Humphreys Roberts, J P Lewis, John Davies (Bronyparc), E J Swayne, and W Parry, Ciwyd-villas with the secretary, Mr J Prtrry Jones. Apologies wt-re read from Mr Lloyd of Rhagatt, Mr T J Williams, Dr Lloyd Roberts, and Major Conran. THE ANNUAL REFOItT. A REe JRD ALL A ADVERSE BALANCE. The Secretary read to the meeting the following report :— The committee beer to present to the Governors and subscribers their ninety-fifth annual report. The number of in-patients under treatment bus been 177, as against 214 in 1901 and 150 in 1900. The number of out-patients has been 1,383, as against 1,833 ;n 1901 and 1,450 in 1900. The total receipts from ordinary sources amount to £ 948 12s 8d, to which has to be added the balance of the ball account £ 182 Is 64, making a total of £1130 12s 2d. compared with £ 1230 15s 7d in 1901 and X1197 12s lid I in 1900. The committee gratefully acknow- ledge the following legacies, viz:-From the executors of Mr Win Wynne, Tanl an Rhyl, £50; the execLitor4 of Mr Edward Ellis, Vale View, Denbigh. klO 10s and of Mrs BlackwiU, Dolhyfryd, Denbigh, £103; total jei60 10s, making the total income from all sources £ 12912* 2d. The total expenditure amounts to C1478 O 4d, as compared with £ 1512 3s 2d in 1901 and .£1337 139 2d in 1900. Annual subscriptions amount to X238 6s 5d, compared with C290 14s in 1901 and 1324 Is 4d in 1900. It will be noticed there is a slight decrease (j62 7s 7d) in the annual' subscriptions which is I to be regretted. Donations amount to 1,39 8s lOd, compared with L34 13s in 1901 and X124 "í 7d in 1900. The ball held pn the 19th I Dscember, 1902, was a great Success, and brought, after deducting expenses for band, &c., J3182 Is Gd, one of the largest contributions nnder this head that has hitherto been re- corded. The satisfactory result is mainly due to the efforts of a committee of ladies who kindly undertook the management of a supper at the ball, apart from the ordinary ball ex- penditure, with so excellent a result that they are able to report a balance in hand of £ 12 odd which sum they suggest they should retain as a nucleus for the next ball. Church and Non- conformist collections realised 1;70 6s, compared with L93 8s 3d in 1901 and £ 62 19s 4d in 1900. There has been an increase of expenditure under several heads, viz., bacon, fish, poultry, extract of meat, eggs, wines, spirits -and beer, but a decreae in butchers meat, butter, milk, breal, grocery and vegetables, the total amount for provisions being X420 3" 9d as against JE470 18s lOd in 1901 and £ 432 lis 8d in 1900. The surgery department shows an increase of £ 56 5s, but this is always a fluctuating item. Under the head of domestic expenditure there is a slight decrease compared with the previous year, while the establishment charges show also a decrease of JE15 12s, notwithstand- ing the purchase out of income of £ 25 L. and N.W. Railway Company at four per cent. preference stock, and £ 3G 16s Caledonian Railway stock.—A new house surgeon, Dr Eastman, was appointed in September in the place of Dr Fraser (resigned), and in place of Miss Picton Davies (resigned) Miss Enid E Ellis was elected lady superintendent and matron in October, and her sister. Mis BerLlia Ellis, was at the same time appoint6d' head nurse.—The excess ef expenditure over receip's for the year is ;C3:,S 19s 8cl, and including the debit balance of £ 232 Js 2d carried over from last year, the balance due to the treasurer on the 3.st December was £ >J01.8s lOd, from which has to be deducted the balance of the ball account, £ 182 Is 6d, making a net debit baionce of £ 419 7s 4d. On the 30th Sep- tember last the committee lost the valuable services of a very o'd official by the resignation of Mr Yaughan Jones, who faithfully served the Institution in the office of secretary for the long period of 28 years. Mr Parry Jones was appoiuted secretary in his place.—In con- clusion the committee very much regret the serious financial position in which the Institu- tion is now placed, and earnestly trust that a wiriner interest can be aroused on its behalf, resulting in an increase of subscriptions, not the least welcome of which would be those obtained in small sums from persvns whose means prohibit them from contributing largely. The committee invite the co-opera- tion of the Governors and subscribers to further this end.—ANNUM MKSHAM, Chairman of Committee. February 12th, 1902. AThe President moved the adoption of the l annual report, which was seconded by Col Mesham, and carried unanimously. YOTE. OF TilANKK TO PRESIDENT AND LADY J'ATKOMS^S. Col Lloyd Williams said he thought it very proper and appropriate that tht-y had a president this year, who had feught for I King and country in the late war in South Africa, and on this account he was sure that their president would be in sympathy with I au Institution, such as the Infirmary. The resolution he wished to propose was that the grateful thanks of this meeting be given to Mr Handle Mainwaring for his ollicient services during the year, and for his dona- tion of JE31 10s." There were few men, he thought, who could fully appreciate such an Institution as that, until they had come closely into contact with it. Whea the ball was arranged their president knew where to go for help, and that was to the ladies, who had helped to the extent of which they were all aware in connection with the annual ball. He felt that they were indebted to their president and com- mittee who had made the ball such a success, and lie trusted that their president would always take a keen interest in the Institution. They would always look back on the time when their president, Mr Randle Mftinwariug, created such a record annual ball (applause). Dr J R Hughes seconded the resolution, and said there was no need for him to dwell; upon the excellencies of their president. The resolution being heartily carried, The president, Mr Randle Mainwaring, said he was very much obliged for the kind and far too flattering remarks made about him. He could only say that it was a great pleasure to be of any service to such an Institution as the Denbighshire Infirmary. He saw a resolution recording thanks to the ladies committee for providing tho supper at the recent ball, and therefore he would not say anything upon that matter now, except that without their aid they would not have been able to arrive at tho satis- factory result that they had accomplished. He could only thank them for their kind- ness, and he hoped that they would be able to decrease the adverse balance by next year. The Rev D Davies moved that their grateful thanks be given to Miss Nesta Williams, the patroness of the ball, and for her liberal donation of 10 guineas." Xo words of his were needed to move this resolution, for they all knew the influence that svomen exercised on the world in general. They also thanked their Lady Patroness on the eminently- satisfactory results of the ball. Col Mesham seconded the motion, and said that this was really the second time that they were indebted to their Lady Patroness, as her father a year- or two bank had been their worthy president. The motion was carried amidst annlause. THANKS TO DONoJtS. I Mr John Davies proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies and gentlemen who had glven donations at the annual ball, a list of which was published, in the Free Press some time ago.-Col Lloyd Williatns seconded the motion, and it was carried. MEDICAL OFFI(IKRA HICilLV AITKKCIATKI) Mr J P Lewis proposed that the "grateful thanks of this meeting be given to the Hon Medical Officers of the In- stitution, with an earnest assurance of the deep sense of gratitude entertained by the eubscribers for the great benefits received I from their kind and unremitting attention." He was sure no words of his could express the debt of gratitude they owed t. these gentlemen who attended this Institution so I regularly. Col Mesham socondod the auti >n. and it was cordially carried. j Dr Hughes could assure them that the Honorary Medtcal Officers were glad to see that their services were appreciated. He could say for all of them that it was a labour of love. Every one connected with the Institution were doing a great service for their country, Pnd he hoped that the public would sup; rt his bonirtcial Insti- tution. He thoufc. t it wis a disgrace that in a district like th. of iboiit20,000 popu- lation, that they should only derive JE290 per year from the annual subscriptions. They could do a great deal more if they had more money. There Nore different things they would like to do in connection with the Institution, but they had not the money to do it with. OTHER VOTES OF THANKS. Dr Bowen Davies proposed thanks to the corimittee, stewards of the districts, hon treasurer, hon auditor, and that t:iey be requested to continue their valuable services for the Institution. Col Lloyd Williams seconded the motion, and it was carried. Col Mesham proposed thanks to the Clergy and Nonconformist ministers who had made collections in their churches and chapels in aid of the Institution. He was sure that they were indebted to them, but there was one church which he thought they should receive a collection from, and that was Ruthin, and he trusted that if there was any gentleman present who could influence the Warden of Ruthin in that respect that he would do so. I Mr J P Lewis seconded the resolution, and it was carried. lt:OCKRJ)S OF HALL. Mr E J Swayne moved that the proceeds of the ball, and the donations from the same, be appropriated to the charity. He also added that the amount received this year was a record one, being X182 Is üd. The Rev D Davies seconded the motion, 'and it was carried. EE-ELECTION S Mr Humphreys Roberts proposed that the retiring members of the committee be re-elected, namely, Col Mesham, Col Wynne Edwards, Rev Daniel Davies, Mr Swayne, and Mr Mellard. He suggested that Mr William Parry, Clwyd-villas, be ejected on the committee in the place of Mr Parry Jones. Dr Hughes seconded, and it was carried. THANKS TO THE LADIES. Dr Hughes proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the ladies who prepared so excel- lent a supper at the ball, and also to the ladies and gentlemen who contributed in money and in kind thereto. Col Lloyd Williams seconded the motion, which was cordially carried. KU(; G KSTKJ) ('HAN < JES. Col Mesham said he ventured to move that this meeting should sanction a resolu- tion in connection with the dispensary department, It had been suggested to make a slight charge on those who could afford it. Tho dispensary department cost them a great deal, but he was not prepared to say exactly what should be dane. He thought that perhaps they might make en- quiries from other similar Institutions and refer the matter to a sub-committee ap- pointed from the House Committee. He thought that they would be in order in sanctioning such a proposal. Mr E J Swayne seconded the proposal, and it was referred to the Committee to act. THE DEFICIT: HOW TO MEET IT. Col Msshnm said he did not know whether anyone wished to make any remarks upon the deficit of £ 119 17s 4d. Mr John Davies said that he hoped some kind benefactor would come forward and help them cut of the difficulty. Ic was regrettable that the deficit was so large. The subscrip- tions this last year were less than previously, and he hlpad that it would be improved in the future. TbfPresident said, that as there was a con- siderable amount of ignorance amongst some people as to the benefits derived from this Institution, he proposed that a circular be sent round to the Clergy and Nonconformist Ministeiv. asking them to explain the beneficial work of the Institution, before they had the annual collections. He had noticed when attending Church, that the announcement that the collection was in aid of the Infirmary, was announced in rather a bald manner. He thought the claims of the Institution were not sufficiently brought before the people who could give small amounts, which would, in the aggregate, amount to a substantial sum. He thought that a carefully worded letter sent round to the Clergy would be productive of very excellent results (hear, hear). Col Mesham said he agreed with what had been said. He thought that if a few words of explanation were given, instead of 6d being put on the plate, they would get half-crowns or five shilling pieces. Mr IV, illiain Parry suppor' ed what had beon said, ard proposed that the circulars be &ent a'.so to tho Clergy and Ministers of Churches and Chapels, who did not already make an Infirmary collection. Mr John Davies said he did not know whether it would bs advisable to send circulars to the stewards, but he would suggest it. Col Mesham said that circulars sliou!d be sent to Churches awl Chapels which did not already subscribe. For instance, there was Trcfnant Church which did not send anything. After some discussion, The President said lie would propose that a circular be sent out to the Clergy and the Nonconformist Mioisters rf all places of wor- ship in the district, calling attention to the beneficial influence of the Institution, and asking them to put the matter clearly before their congregations, to make collections on behalf, both where it had been previously made and in places of worship which had not hither- tj contributed. Mr. Parry asked if they would add Mission Stations as well, because there was always charity where there was spiritual life. The motion was carried unanimously. THANKS TO THE PRESIDENT. Colonel Mesham proposed a vote of thanks to thdr President for protiding, d said be was sure he would make one of tho best Pre- sidents they had ever liad%(hear, hear). He hr.ped that the interest the President had eviuced in the proceedings that day would still continue. Mr John Davies seconded the motion, and Dr. Hughes supported it, and it was cordially carried. The President in returning thanks said he had learnt a great deal about the inner work- ing of the Institution since he had become President, and he thought that a debt of gratitude was due to everybody that lived in tho locality who had supported this excellent Institution, He hoped that everybody would show their practice sympathy with the Institution in the coming year, and that by the time the next president came into office, the balance on the wrong side of the balance sheet would be very much lessened. The meeting then terminated.

WEST DENBIGHSHIRE LIBERAL ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the West Denbighshire Liberal Association was held at the Bodawen School, Denbigh, on Wednesday. Mr W G Dodd (Llangollen), president, occupied the chair, and there were present Mr J Herbert Roberts, the member of Parliament for the division, and a large number of the representatives of the 21 polling districts. The President gave a few words of welcome to the dele- gates and a brief review of the Associa- tion's work for the year A vote of condolence was passed with the family of the late Mr Owen Williams, of Glanclwyd, this being the first meeting of the Associa- I tion since his death. The following officers I were re-elected :—Mr W G Dodd, president: Messrs 0 Isgoed Jones, Llan- rwst; Joseph Jones, Old C >!wyn and Hugh Hughes, Tregeirfog (Tic. presidents). MrW Parry, Denbigh (treasurer); and Mr Gwilym Parry, Denbigh (secretary). The I General Purposes Committee for the year was appointed out of the following, in addition to the officers :-The Rev E Parry, Llansilin Mr John Rowlands, Llangollen Mr Henry Williams, Plasyward, Ruthin; Mr John Roberts, Plas Heaton Farm, Denbigh the Rev Francis Jones, Abergele; Mr Francis Nunn, ColwYR Bay; MrW Hughes, Llanrwst; and Dr Davies, Corrigydruidion. As delegates to the Welsh N&tion&L Liberal Council the follow- ing were selected :—Mr Herbert Roberts, M.P., Mr Boaz Jones, Mr W G Dodd, and Mr Francis Nunn. As delegates on the General Committee of the National Liberal Federation the following were appointed —Mr W G Dodd, Mr Ilowel Gee, and Mr Roberts, of Plas Heaton. A cordial and unanimous vote of confidence in and thanks to Mr Herbert Roberts was passed, and in reply the hon member delivered a brief address on matters of interest to the party.

DEATFl OF MR. JOHN BARTLEY. We regret to learn of the early death of Mr John Bartley, joiner, of Panton-hall, Denbigh, son of the late Mr and Mrs Bartley, the Hand, Denbigh. He went some weeks ago to a hospital near I London to undergo an operation for an internal complaint, believed to be cancer of the stomach, and yesterday (Thursday) the sad news was received that he had succumbed as the result of the operation. He leaves a young widow and two young children, for whom the deepest sympathy is felt.

Social and Personal. FonTHCOIIXC MARIUAGE.—A marriage has been arranged between John Stewart Clark, only son of Stewart Clark of Dundas Castle, West Lothian and Cairndhu, Co Antrim, and Marie Gertrude, second daughter of Major Marcel 1 Conran, of Brondyffryn, Denbigh, North Wales.- The Chief Secretary for Ireland and Lady Grosvenor (the Duke of Westminster's mother) gave a bali on Monday night at their official residence in Phoenix Park Catherine, Duchess ot Westminster, was one i of the ladies in the State quadrille at Dublin Castle the other night, when 500 tfuests were present at the ball. Prince and Princess Henry of Pless will leave England for Barritz shortly. Mrs Coruwallis West, who is staying with the Princess Alexis DoVgorouki in London, will accompany them. Dr Randall Davidson was yesterday, Thurs- day, enthroned as Archbishop of Canterbury. The Archbishop and Mrs Davidson were the guests of the King and-Queen on Saturday and Sunday. Mr Clement Edwards ^Liberal candidate for the boroughs) visited Denbigh, on Wednesday, for the "Progressives" Educational Confer- ence. He has also been visiting Wrexham and addressing a Liberal meeting at Holt. Lord Roberts (the commander in-chief) will visit Wrexham for the purpose of opening the new volunteer drill hall about the end of March. His lordship 5 ill be the guest during his stay in North Wales of Colonel and Mrs Cornwallis West at Ruthin Castle. A marriage has been arranged between Captain Viscount Crieliton, Royal Horse Guards, eldest son of the Earl of Erne, K.P., and Lady Mary Grosvenor, eldest daughter of the late Duke of Westminster, K.G., and Katherine Duchess of Westminster. A marriage has been arranged, and will take place in April, between Mr Watkin Handle Mainwaring, younger son of the late Mr Salusbury Kynaston Mainwaring of Oteley, and Violet Frances, youngest daughter of Sir Albert and Lady de Rutzen, 90, St George's Square, London. The Rov Herbert Evans, B.A., vicar of St Asaph, preached two excellent sermons last Sunday in St Mary's and St David's churches, Denbigh, which were greatly appreciated by the congregations. He also assisted in the administration of the Holy Communion at the 8 o'clock celebration, at St David's church. Mr A G Boscawen M.P. (son of Capt Griffith Boscawen), played the leading character in the farcical comedy. The Noble Lord," at the Tunbridge Wells Opera House, for the Tun- bridge Wells Hospital. His impersonation of Lord Archibald Melrose was highly successful, and continually applauded. Mrs A G Boscawen made a graceful Marchioness of Middlesex.

CORRESPONDENCE. THURSDAY FOOTBALL COMMITTEE: A PROTEST. To the Editor of the FREB PRESS. Sir,- \V ould you kindly allow me to express my opinion of the Thursday Football Com- mittee? I as one of the members of the club have found occasion to be in enmity with them. Their Committee is one of the softest and most foolish that was ever constructed to I govern a football team. They have made rules to which they expect the players to adhere to, v z., if any member of the above club shoul l break their rules in any way, be should be liable to a fine of 2s GJ or to be suspended for a certain length of time. This they have not adhered to and have done nothing but to show favouritism to a certain one of the members. I also disagree with their way of doing business, for they, according to their own rules, have no right to expel a member. They have not said anything to the one who has caused the real bother iu goinar from the field to strike a spectator. Ir may say this com- mittee consists of a sec of men who know not what they are doing or saying. When their team plays away from home thev cannot- get members to play and consequently they take outsiders who have to pay their own expenses and when they play at home they stop these players, and put on some others who have not been playing away. What do you call this but favouritism? Is it not time that this this business was stopped ? Victims awake and raise your voices. Do not be afraid of this committee. Chuck them on one side and select a proper committee who will represent every class and not favour individuality as this committee has done. In one of the secretary's letters which reads My com- mittee," I should think that it is governed by tho secretary and nobody otec. Trusting that some of fellows will follow my example and rise up in revolt against such injustice. Trust- ing you will insert this as there is a strong I feelin<r tagainst this instance throughout the town.—Yours faithfully, ONE WHO KNOWS, ONE WHO KNOWS,

ST. ASAPH. FLINTSHIRE CONSTITUTIONAL A.ocl.TION. IIF The annual meeting took place on Tuesday, under the chairmanship of Lord Mostyn. Lord Mostyn was re-elected president Mr Charles Davies, vice president Mr T W Hughes (Flint), chief agent and secretarj-; and Mr J Lloyd Price, Connah's Quay, treasure. The following were appointed to represent the association at the meetings of the National Union of Conservative Associ ations Messrs L J Gamliri, G A Lewis, R C Enyon, and J Lloyd Price. Piiorosr.D ABOLITION OF THE ST ASAPH Counr. —At the Rhyl County Court, on Friday, Mr F J Gamlin presented a petition to his Honour in favour of county court sittings being held continuously at Rhyl, instead of four sittings at St Asaph, as a', present. The petition, which was supported by a deputation consisting of the chairman and clerk to the lihyl Urban District Council, is signed by all the local solicitors and principal tradesmen. His Honour said he would forward the petition to the proper quarter, and cause a return to be made showing the number of suitors during the last three years who had been inconvenienced by the courts being held at St Asaph. Per- sonally, he should support the petition.

WREXHAM MURDER. I EXECUTION ON TUESDAY NEXT. The arrangements for the execution of William Hughes, the Wrexham wife mur- derer, at Rtlthin Jail, are now complete. As stated in last week's Free Press the gallows reached Ruthin from Upk, where it W..1i used for the execution of Jeremiah Gallagher, the Tredegar murderer. The death chamber has been erected in the prison yard. Precautions, of coarse, have been t&ken to prevent anyone not actually present at the dread scene from witnessing the execution. On Satur- day, two medical experts from the Home Office arrived in Ruthin, and had inter- views with the prisoner on Sunday, leaving the town early on Yon4my morn- ing. It is understood that the condemned man is keeping up his spirits wonderfully. LETTJm FROM THE CONDEMNED MAN". Mr. J. B. Marston, solicitor, of Mold, informs eur representative that he has received the following letter from William iluebes- Ruthin Prison, 7th Feb. 1903. Dear Sir,—Your letter to hand, and was pleased to here from yon. I am pleased to say I am doing very well under the present circumstances. I have sent a petition tnyself to the Home Secretary. Bat I don't know how I shall get on. I am pleased to hear from you, and that you are doing all you pos- sibly can on my behalf. Undoubtedly that hundreds of people where you mention you have sent copies will sign it for me, has they know my wife and hercarrying on. I've noticed that it states in your petition that I was tried on 19th January. It was 29th January. Trusting, sir, that if you should be coming this way you will give me a call. Will conclude with kixd regards to you.— I am, sir, your obediently, WM. HUGHES," AXOTHKR LETTER FROM THE CONDEMNED MAX. The following letter has been received by an aunt, living at Wrexham My Dear Aunt,—I beg to thank you for the amount of kindness which yoa have shown towards me throughout all my troubles, and my only prayers are that God may repoty you for all your kindness and sympathy already shown. I am sure I needn't tell you how very gravely I do feel my present position. May God have mercy upon me and upon my soul. Please give my warmest regards and love to my dear little children, and I most earnestly pray of you to look after them. This may be my last letter for me to write you for evermore. So, before concluding, may God bless and keep all of you for ever, and may God pardon me and keep me throngh Christ's salvation. Goodbye all." This clearly shows that a great change has come over the prisoner, and that he is now in a very repentant mood. PETITIONS FOR REPRIEVE. As we mentioned in last week's Free Press a petition lay at our office for three or four days, to the Home Secretary, pray- ing for a reprieve for the condemned man, on the grounds of insanity another also lay at the establishment of Mr. J. E. Jones, hairdresser. Both petitions were very freely signed, about 400 persons in all ranks in life appending their names. These were forwarded with other petitions from the Wrexham neighbourhood to the Home Secretary t'n Wednesday by Mr. J. B. Marston. At St Aaph a petition has been numer- ously signe-1, but at Ruthin, so far as is known, no petition has been received there for signature, and people have been in- quiring in all directions Do you know where there is a petition to b signed ? XO REPORTERS TO ATTEND THE EXECUTION. We received on Wednesday a com- munication from the Under-Sheriff (Mr. J. P*rrj Jenes) informing ua that the High-Sheriff had decided that no repre- sentatives of the Press were to be admitted to view the execution of William Hughes in Ruthin Gaol on Tuesday next. We are quite confident that the repre- sentatives of the Press have lecpived this intimation with the greatest satisfaction. TESTING THH SCAFFOLD AND APPLIANCES. During Wednesday afternoon, the work- men having completed the arrangements, an official superintendent of structural work in prisons, &c., visited the prison to inspect the scaffold and arrangements, and went through a preliminary experiment (a very necessary precaution) testing the scaffold and the whole of the appliances, together with the drop, in the presence of the Under-Sheriff, acting on behalf of the High-Sherilf the Governor of the Gaol and other officials. The whole was gone through quickly, and everything found in order. CONDEMNED MAN AND HIS RELATIVES. During the week some of the condemned man's relatives have visited him and re- ported him to be "looking well," indeed the prisoner himself asserts thac be doing pretty well. Rumour has it that he has asked to see his children previous to the dreaded execution, but this has been deemed inadvisable. KO RHPIUKVE YET RECEIVED. Up to to-day (Friday morning) nothing had been heard of any reprieve for the condemned mn, and his friends and those who hope his life may be spared are naturally extremely anxious, especially as the. ihterval between now and the hour fixed for the execution is so brief. 'NO REPRIEVE LIKELY. F.XPEnTS l'RO:\Ol,CÊ PRISONILLL SANE. From what we learn from a reliable source, just before going to press, all hop of a reprieve might as well be abandoned. Of course we do not say that that this is absolutely certain, as no official commu- nication has up to now been received from the Home Secretary. But we learn on good authority that the two specialists on insanity, sent down hy order of the Home Secretary and referred to above, after long and careful examinn- I tion of the prisoner, have pronounced him BASE. Consequently this destroyi the only hope of a repriere, for the only plea fut forward in the petitions was on the ground of insanity, and, as these two famous London specialists pronounce the man It perfectly sane," there is no other ground for hoping his life will be ipared. THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE EXECUTION. PREPARATIONS COMPLETED. At eight o'clock prompt on Tuesday mornirg, the execution of William K-ighes, the Wrexham murderer, will (as ceems quite certain now), take place in the presence of the High Sheriff, Lori ,;w- borough the Under Sheriff, Mr J Parry Jones, Denbigh Gaol Chaplain, the Rev J Jenkins the Sheriff's Chaplain, the Rev J F Reece, Llanfwrog Dr Jenkins, the prison doct«:; Mr E Parry J&nes, governor of the goal and the waid-rsin charge. The executioners will be Messrs P ring- ton Brothers, who have already been at Ruthin and made experiments with th-j scaffold, and found it satisfactory. The High Sheriff and Under Siseriif will have to report themselves at Ruthin at 4 o'clock on Monday afternoon, anl will stay at the Castle Hotel over niM, so as to be ready for the dread business on the Tuesday morning. Tle executioners, Messrs Billingion Bros., will be retained in the goal all Jsy Monday, and will be practically prisoners until after the execution is completed, and will only be allowed one pint of beer each during the day. The prisoner's cell is only a few yards from tho scaffold, and we hear that he wrote complaining to the Homo Secretary because of the noise that was made in erecting it; and certainly it was not very comfortable for the prisoner to he^r.tlie. gallows being erected piece bv niece. The condemned man will only have a few yards to walk to the gallows, on which he will be attended bv the executioner, who will strap his legs and apply the white cap. The hangman merely touches a lever, which acts instantly, causing the drop, and all is over. The drop" allowed is 5ft Gin. and the body will hang for an hour—from eight to nine—when the doctor will pro- nounce life extinct, and the duties of the Sheriff and U ndcrSheriff will bo finished. We learn that the prisoner is becoming more penitent every day, and gladly receives, and has indeed requested, the attendance of the Sheriff's chaplain, the Rev J F Reece, to minister to his spiritual needs. THE CORONER'S INQUEST. Should the exccaticn be carried out, the County Coroner will subsequently held an inquest on the body so as to comply with the legal requirements, making it nectary that the Coroner's Jury should cert fy hit the dread sentence isad been fully ma pro- perly carried out. This will take place at 11 o'clock, when the Coroner, Dr Hughes, Denbigh, will be accompanied hy Mr Ed Parry, deputy town clerk of Denbigh and the executioners, governor of the gaol, and warders present will appear as witnesses. The prisoner's tady will then be interred in the gaol graveyard.

G Co. 1st V.B.R. Welsh ruti i -i:ti The First Annual Entertainment in aid of the Prize Funds of the Company will be held in the Assembly Rooms, Ruthin, on Thursday. February 19th, 1903. Miss ALICE HUGHES (Birkenhead), Prize Winner New Brighton Eisteddfod, &-c. MB. HALTON MORRIS (Liverpool), Chief Prize Winner Llandudno National Eisteddfod, &c. Ma. FRED. ROBERTS (Liverpool), the Celebrated Baritone—of all the leading Provincial Concerts. Mu. MANOD OWEN, Society Entertainer—in his marvellous Gramophone Imitations, &3. Mn, J. W. ROBERTS (Lucky Jim). Comedian—New Songs and Sketches, "Morgan Jones in S. Africa." Selections by Members of the Volunteer Band. Acoompauist. :-IR. W. G. HODGSON. Doors open at 7.30, to commence at S p.m. prompt. Admission: -Reserved Chairs (numbered), 2: Gd.; Family Ticket (to admit five), JOs. 6d.; Front seats, 21.; Second seats, ls.; Volunteers (in Uniterm) Half-price. 21£14.

BUTEIN. JAPANESE OPERETTA..—This (Friday) evening the Japanese Operetta, Princess Ju Ju," will be performed at the Town Hall by the children of the National Schools. A crowded house should greet the children's efforts to night. TEMPERANCE MKKTIKG.—On Tuesday evening Mrs Mostyn Jones presided over a well attended meeting in tha Baptist Chapel Schoolroom, in connection with the Women's Temperance Association, when excellent addresses on the temperance question were delivered by Miss A Rowlands, B.A., of the County School, and Miss A Grace Roberts, Clwyd-street. The following programme was also gone through Qiiartette, tAr Griffiths, Mr P Rhys liavies, Miss M James, and Miss Maude Jones recita- tion, Mr P Rhya Davies; song, "The missing boat," Mi»s B Simpson; recitation, Aunc Tabitha." Miss Henrietta Jones song. Ora. Pro Nobis," Miss M Griffiths; dialogue, Miss M James, and Miss Maude Jones. After a short address by the Rev Ebenezer Williams, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded all those who had assisted.

1 DEATH AND FCNERAL OF lR JOHN WILLIAMS, RUTHIN. After having suffered from illness for sonje time, during which medical assistance was skilfully rendered by Dr J Medwyn Hughes, there passed away amidst general regret on Saturday last, in his 33rd year, Mr John Wi liarns, of the Red Lion Inn, Olwyd-screet, Ruthin. Heartfelt sympathy is expressed at such an early demise, inasmuch that there are left behind a sorrowing widow and sevon children. The funeral was very largely attended on Tuesday, the interment being in the Captist chapel cemetery. The service at t'se house was conducted by the Rev Isaac James, who was assisted at the graveside by Mr Poake, of Liverpool. The coffin, of polished onk with brass mounts, made by Mr W Koberts, of Clwyd-street, bore a nutnbef of floral tributes of respect and esteem. The chief mourners were Mrs Williams. <\vidow;, Messrs Ciwyd, Robert, Oakley, and David Williams (sons) Misses Myfanwy, Martha, and Gwlndys Williams (daughters); Messrs Robert Edward Ellis and William Williams (brothers). Mis W Jones, Ship Stores; Misses Maggie and Sarah Williams (bisters), Mrs Simoa, Liverpool (sister-in-iaw); Mr and Mrs Peake, Liverpool Mr and Mrs D William-! (nrcle and aunt) and Misses Annie and Sallie Williams (cousins), Hendrerwydd Mr and Mrs Thomas Jones, Penybryn, RbewI; Mrs and Miss Williams, Hendrerwvdd; Mr and Mr* Jones, Fair-view, Llanfair; Mr and Mrs Edward?, Cilan, LlaneHdan Mr and Mrs Owen Owen, Coed poet h Messrs Thomas and David Owen, Cocdpoeth; Mr and Mrs John Williams, Coedpoeth; Mr Edward Jones, Llan- iraithafal; Mr and Mrs Roberta. Beaco.rs-hil!, Denbigh Mrs Williams, Hirwaen Mr John Jones, Hand Iuu, Llanganhafal, &c.. Slo.