The North Wales Times

parliament in ,-r THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH. k HOUSE OF LORDS. IN the House of Lords, Lord Lansdowne made a statement upon the intentions of the Govern- ment in the matter of increasing the strength of the army. The difficulty at present exper- enced was, he said, that the portion of the army which was at home was unable to support the portion which was abroad; its present strength was insufficient for that purpose.

HOUSE OF COMMONS. The report of the resolution passed in Com- mittee in reference to the aid grant to Volun- tary schools was read and considered. Mr. Asquith said he made no apology for inviting tho "House at this stage to review the conclusions arrived at by the Committee, and to decline to assent to the report in which those conclusions wer* embodied. The. first and main ground on which he asked the House to decline to agree with the resolution was that the money to be granted was to be applied, not to the equal and impartial relief of necessitous schools as a class, but to the preferential relief of a particular category of schools. There had been no adequate explana- tion of the increase of the proposed grant from 4s. per head to 5s., except that it was intended as a solatium for not getting the grant this year. He contended that the 5s. was a bogus sum, and that it had no real relation to the actual facts of the case. The Opposition took their stand not upon any unwillingness to make good the admitted defects in the educa- tional system, whether in Voluntary or Board Schools, but upon the fact that the resolution introduced the principle of invidious discrimi- nation, which was entirely opposed to the statutory equality that had hitherto pre. valled, and that it provided machinery for the distri- bution of public money which offered no ade- quate security that the intentions of Parlia- ment would be carried out and the. the money of the taxpayer would not be squandered. Mr. Balfour said it had been asserted that in framing the resolution the Government had been guilty of a somewhat too clever trick in order to obviate legitimate discussion. The resolution had been framed in accordance with all Parliamentary practice and tradition. The Government had no intention of excluding any one. The terms of the resolution were settled by the officers of the House, over whom he had not the slightest control, and if any question had hitherto been excluded the fault lay in the methods of the House. He had been asked why the Government now proposed a grant of 5s. instead of 4s. The amount which the Chancellor of the Exchequer gave to an object was not usually determined by the value of the object, but must be largely determined by the resources of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. When he knew that the Chancellor of the Ex- chequer could give him 5s. per head—and that was not a penny too much for the necessities of the case-then he dismissed from his mind previous anxieties as to the precise date at which the bill should become law, for lie felt that the Government had amply redeemed its pledge. Mr. J. H. Johnstone, a Conservative mem- ber, said he deeply regretted that the Govern- ment had not found it possible to introduce concurrently with the present proposals their scheme for relieving the necessitous Board Schools. Sir W. Harcourt said the Opposition took their stand on the compromise of 1870. That settlement had worked with great advantage to the country. Up to this time, the principle of statutory equality had been strictly adhered to, but the present bill was a flagrant violation of that principle, inasmuch as it was about to give a great grant of money from the public Exchequer, but it was to be given to one class of schools and nob to the other. The failure of the bill of last year was due to the general feeling that it was intended or would have operated as a measure hostile to school boards, and the fate of the bill was sealed. The Liberal opposition to the present grant was based on the same ground, not because it favoured the Voluntary schools, but because in its operation it was intended relatively to depress the Board Schools.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH. HOUSE OF COMMONS. New writs were ordered for the election of members for the Chertsey division of Surrey, in the room of Mr. C. H. Combe, and the Bridgeton division of Glasgow, in the place of Sir G. O. Trevelyan, resinged. Mr. Wharton brought up and the Clerk read a report of the first meeting of the South Africa Committee, held earlier in the day. The report contained the conditions under which the Committee were prepared to hear evidence and speeches of counsel appearing for interes- ted persons. Answering Sir W. Wedderburn, Lord G. Hamilton said the abnormal mortality caused in India by the famine in 1877-8 wag calcula- ted to be 5,850,000, but of course any estimate of that kind must necessarily be regarded as approximate only. Reports on the mortality during the present famine would be laid on the table of the House every six weeks. The House went into Committae of Supply on the Civil Service Estimates, and considered an estimate of £ 798,802, 'the amount required in the yea-ending 31st March, 1897, as a grant in aid of vhe expenditure incurred in con- nection with the Egyptian expedition to Don- gola.' Sir M. Hieks-Beacli explained that the cost of the Egyptian expedition properly so called was £ 733,000. As to the criticisms passed on expedition last year, the only anticipation that had been fulfilled was that he would be called upon to ask Parliament to vote a certain sum of money towards this expedition. If, how- ever, the calculations he had every right to form had be-,Y, realised, he would not have had to -ask the Committee to vote a single penny towards the cost,:of the exi)eclit-on. The decision of the Mixed Court had created a remarkable situation, and he was bound to say that when next year the time arrived at which the consti- tution and powers of those Mixed Courts had to be reconsidered a very grave question ought to and must arise as to what should be their powers in future. For the present the Egyptian Government had no option but to pay the money, and the British Government had no option but to recoup them. The fact that we had, through no fault or action of our own, been compelled to make that advance was rather calculated to prolong than shorten our occupation of Egypt. The question of our posi- tion there had long ago passed beyond the region of abstract questions. Owing to a long chain of events for which no Minister or Government could be held specially reponsible, Mr. Gladstone and his colleagues were forced into that occupation, and from that day to this; though Governments have been in office whose leading members ardently desired that that occupation should cease, this country; had never been able to terminate it either withpionour or with safety. The main cause of that prolonga- tion and of the probability of a prolongation much further than was anticipated (was, he believed, owing to France never allowing us to have a free hand in Egypt. As to the future the Government felt that Egypt could never be held to be permanently secure so long as a hostile Power was in possession of the Nile I Valley up to Khartoum. Mr. J. Morley said he thought no one in the House could conceal from himself the gravity of some of the language used by the Chancellor of the Exchequer. If ever there was a moment when it was most desirable not to allow a whisper to be uttered that might break the harmony among the European Powers, when neither by word nor act should anything be done to increase the indignation felt notor iously in some quarters against this country, he should have thought this was such a mom- ent. How could Sir M. Beach suppose that the language he used in the earlier part of his re- marks about the action of France a»d Russij* in reference to the Caisse could be regarded as anything but a direct and most imprudent challenge to those Powers to take up a new position ? He admitted that. we had responsi, bilities in Egypt and he had no desire that we should evade them, but if the Government were going to raise the general question he hoped members and constituents would ask explicitly and plainly what were the advantages we had had to gain from a prolonged occupation of Egypt. Later in the debate, Sir W. Harcourt rose for the purpose of protesting against the mis- chievous language used by the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Sir M. Hicks-Beach entirely disclaimed having used any language of menace or defi- ance. Sir W. Harcourt replied that the proposal to revise the power and authority of the Mixed Courts was a dangerous position to take. It was time a protest was made, and he hoped that on the part of the Government something might be said that would remove an impression so perilous in the present position of Europe. Mr. Curzon maintained that there was no- thing provocative or irritating in the language of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Mr. Courtney and Mr. Arnold-Forroter strong- ly condemned the proposed expedition. Mr. Knox moved the reduction of the vote by 972,500, the amount of Ireland's contribu- tion, but the amendment was rejected by 139 votes to 29 Mr. Munro Ferguson and Mr. M'Arthur, two Liberal members, supported the action of the Government, and eventually the vote was car- ried by 169 votes to 57. The vote of 9145,000, the cost of garrisoning Suakim and the neighbouring places by Indian troops, was afterwards agreed to.

11 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH. HOUSE OF LORDS. Lork Kinnaird put further questions regard- ing the Indian famine, and in reply the Earl of Onslow made a reassuring statement as to the position of affairs. He read a telegram from the Viceroy stating that latest information was generally favourable.

HOUSE OF COMMONS. Mr. Curzon made a statement on the situa- tion in Crete, replying to questions. He con- firmed the account of the outrages already re- ported, and added that latest telegrams showed a more hopeful aspect. The grant to George Brooks from the Royal Bounty Fund was brought under notice by Mr- Davitt, but Mr. Balfour had no explanation to offer beyond stating that he was the Minister responsible, for the recommendation. On the motion for going into Committee of Supply on the Army Estamates, Sir C. Dilke called attention to the cost of the army, and the return obtained for it, and moved that the Home, while ready to provide the funds re- quired for the efficient maintenance of our mili- tary forces, desires to be convinced that the present system of enlistment and terms of ser- vice were such as to be suitable to the require- ments of the Empire.' He considered it alarm- ing that the military expenditure of an empire of the seas should have reached such a sum as 934,982,000, and adversely criticised the War Office scheme. If the Government wished to have a cheaper army with the same force, or a larger army at the same price, they would have to adopt a complete change of system. Major Rasch seconded. Mr. Broderick denied that the army was so inefficient as had been represented, and pointed out that the Government were m'aking the largest increase that had been made for the last 25 years. He also strongly defended the short service system. Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman expressed his concurrence with the views of the Under Secretary for War. After further discussion, Sir C. Dilke's resolution was rejected by 197 to 63.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9TH. HOUSE OF LORDS. Lord Loch drew attention to a reporb pub- lished a few days ago in a daily newspaper stating that President Kruger had desired its correspondent to cable his views, to the effect that 'it was quite time Mr. Chamberlain quali- fied his personal accusation against him, which was the non-fnlfilment of the promises made to the Outlanders. Let the undertakings which had not been carried out be named.' HisLord- ship asked if any notice had been taken of this Bingnlar message.' Lord Selborne replied that the telegram mentioned had not escaped the notice of Mr. Chamberlain, who communicated with Presi- dent Kruger, asking him if it was correct. The President had replied as follows :—' There must be a mistake. I will say that I am not in the habit of making observations on subjects of the nature of those stated in your telegram through such a channel as that mentioned, and I have not done so in this instance.'

BALA. TEMPERANCE MEETING. The ordinary meeting was held at the Plasey Chapel on Saturday last, when there was a good muster. Mr. D. W. Jones, Glantryweryn, oc- cupied the chair. The meeting was commenced through prayer, by Mr. O. R. Owen, Blaenau Festiniog. The following programme was then gone through: — Recitation, by Mr. Jones, Theological student. Addresses by Mr. H. H. Hughes, B.A.; Mr. Evans, Nantglyn and Mr. O. R. Owen. Song, Flee as a bird,' by Miss Dakin. Mr. Jacob Jones, Rhyl, will address the women at their Temperance Meeting next Friday. THE BIBLE SOCIETY. The annual meeting of the Society was held at the Board School, on Monday last. Colonel Evans Lloyd, Moel-y-garnedd, presided. The usual resolutions were passed. Professor Hugh Williams, M.A.; Revs. J. Howell Hughes; E. Wynne Parry, M.A., B.D.; H. E. Griffith, M.A.; Messrs. Evan Jones, Bodrenig; J. C. Evans, M.A., County School, and others, addressed the meeting. The delegate, Dr. Cynddylan Jones, Cardiff, gave an excellent address. We were glad to observe that the attendance was larger than it had been for some years, the school- room being crowded. The collectors appointed this year are Mrs. Jones, N. & S. W. Bank; Mrs. Jones, Minawel; Miss M. K. Evans, High Street; and Miss Lucy Roberts, Meirion House. DEANERY OF PENLLYN LITERARY UNION. On Friday last, at the Victoria Hall, Bala, a literary meeting was held, under the auspices of the above Union. Mr. J. Williams, Post- master, presided, and the Rev. T. Lloyd, Rector, conducted. There was a large attendance. The meeting was commenced with the singing of the Welsh anthem, I H,n wlad fy nhadau; and after a brief, but valuable address, delivered by the President, the programme was gone through:—For the best essay on 'Bell or bells of the church;' the prize was divided between Mr. Evans, Gwerngeran, and Mr. Richard Roberts, postman, Bala. Verses on Cymmer- iad pur; Mr. Richard Roberts, postman, Bala. Soprano solo, I LI.,ythyr fy rnarn,' Miss Sarah Lloyd, Sarnau. Solo for children, Awn yn mlaett .1111, wrol;' 1st, Myfanwy Williams, Bala; 2nd, Kate Jones, Flag Station, Llangower. Miss Gwendoline Jones, Llanuwchllyn, was awarded the prize for the Names of local herbs.' Recitation, 'Morfa Rhuddlan1st, Mr. John Evans, Llanycil; 2nd, Mr. W. J. Evans, watchmaker, Bala. Duett, Y ddau wlad.qarwr,' Messrs. T. J. Roberts, Bala, and R. Roberts, Tai'rfelin. Reciting a story, within the space of three minutes; Mr. C. L. Morgan, Llanuwchllyn, first, and Mr. J. Evans, Llanycil, second. The prize for singing a hymn and chant was divided between parties led by Mr. Owen Lewis, Bala, and Mr. R. H. Roberts, Bala. For Stocking knitting 1st, Mrs. Isaac Lewis, Mount Street; 2nd, Miss A. E. Buckley; 3rd, Miss Gwen C. Ellis. Translations, Mr. Richard Roberta, Bala. Contralto solo, 'Di?nonddeilen;' Miss S. Ellis, Red Lion. Translating unseen passages, Mr. E. W. Evans. Poem, 'Llanycil Churchyard;' the prize was divided between Mr. Richard Roberts, Bala, and Dewi Mai, Blaenau Festiniog. Singing, Beth sy'n hardd,' Mr. T. J. Roberts' party. Charity box prize divided between Mr. E. Williams and Mr. R. L. Morgan. Recitation, 'An Article on Baptism;' 1st, A. Williams, Bala; 2nd, J. Owen, Blue Lion. Tenor solo, Hyd fedd hi gar yn gywir,' Mr. R. Roberts, Tai'rfelin. Soprano solo, Y Gardotes fach,' Miss S. Lloyd, Sarnau. Miss Emily Jones, High Street, was awarded a prize for the pinafores. Bass solo,' Y Glowr,' Mr. T. J. Roberts, Bala. For rendering Y Blodeuyn olaf,' the prize was divided between a party from Llanuwchllyn, conducted by Mr. R. Jones, and a party from Bala, conducted by Mr. O. Lewis. The usual votes of thanks terminated the proceedings.

URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. THE ordinary meeting of the Council was held on Friday last, when there were present Mr. D. Jones (Chairman), Mr. R. Ll. Jones (Vice- chairman), Messrs. R. W. Roberrs, D. W. Jones, J. Vaughan, G. Rees, J. W. Roberts, and T. R. Dakin (Assistant Clerk). The Collector had deposited £ 30 5s. Od. with the Treasurer during last month. The balance in the Treasurer's hands was £5 4s. 4d. Mr. J. W. Roberts called attention to the in- terest charged by the Treasurer on an over. draft. He understood that it was made clear, when the Treasurer was appointed, that he was not to make any charge for overdrsas. As the payment was not recognized as a legwi payment, it was a matter affecting them personally. It was then resolved, upon the motion of Mr. J. W. Roberts, seconded by Mr. D. W. Jones, that the attention of the Treasurer be called to the matter, and that he be asked to expunge the item. PLAN. A plan was submitted of an alteration pro- posed to be made on the premises of Mrs. Evans, Tremaran, by the construction of two bay win- dows. It was resolved, upon the motion of Mr. J. Vaughan, seconded by Mr. J. W. Roberts, that the plan be approved of, subject to a nomi- nal rent of 6d. each window per annum for the encroachment. BLAENAU FESTINIOG RAILWAY. A letter was read from the Great Western Railway Company, stating, in reply to the Council's resolution, that the accommodation on this line has been under their consideration; and that they hoped, shortly, to be in a position to place a better class of carriage on the Blaen- au Line. It was resolved, upon the motion of Mr. R. W. Roberts, seconded by Mr. R. LI. Jones, that the letter be acknowledged, and that the Railway Company be thanked for their promise. FINGER POSTS. A letter was read from the Llanfor Parish Council, inviting this Council to request the County Authority to erect finger posts on the Main Roads within the county at the junctions and cross roads, for the convenience of the in- habitants and visitors. It was resolved, upon the motion of Mr. R. Ll. Jones, seconded by Mr. J. W. Roberts, that such an application be forwarded to the County Council. LOCALE OF WELSH UNIVERSITY OFFICES. A letter was read from the Mayor of Cardiff, inviting the Council's co-operation in their en deavour to secure the above named offices at Cardiff. It was, however, resolved that the letter be laid on the table, as the Council anti- cipated receiving similar communications on the matter. NUISANCES. The Chairman reported that the letter from the Local Government Board herein had re- ceived the careful consideration of the Commit- tee and Clerk. They had come to the conclu- sion that nothing better could be done than adhere to the resolution passed at a previous meeting, and not adopt the suggestions of the above Board, as their adoption would involve the Council into very great expense, which they considered quite unnecessary. Upon the motion of Mr. D. W. Jones, seconded by Mr. J. W. Roberts, it was resolved that the report be re- ceived and adopted, and that the Clerk again write to the Local Government Board fully on this matter. ALTERATION OF DAY OF MEETING IN CERTAIN CASES. Mr. R. Ll. Jones proposed, in accoril, m-n with the notice given previously, that in the event of the ordinary meeting falling on a Holiday in town, or on May or October fair days, that the meeting be convened on the following Friday. Mr. D. W. Jones enquired what was proposed to he done in the event of the Friday' being more important than the fixed date? Mr. R. LI. Jones said he could not say, unless the motion be worded to convene the meeting within a week from the original date. As there was no seconder, the motion drop- ped. EXTENSION OF BOUNDARY. In pursuance of notice, Mr. R. Ll. Jones pro- posed that an application be made to the County Council to add to the Parish of Bala the whole of the township of Bala which is not included in the parish, and portions of the townships of Cyffty, Is-mynydd, and Streflyn, lying between the township of Bala and Cae'rysgol hedge, be- tween ErylAran and Fronfeuno, Trydan brook and the river Tryweryn.' Mr. Jones endea- voured, to define the extent of the proposed ex- tension, but was hampered from doing so satis- factorily through the absence of plans. The proposed extension was, however, he said, iden- tical with that applied for by the old Local Board, only that it was differently worded. In order to prevent the matter from being laid aside, Mr. Jones proposed that an application be made to the County Council to increase the Parish of Bala. Mr. G. Rees seconded. Mr. D. W. Jones proposed that the Council proceed to the next business. The amendment was not seconded. Mr. J. W. Roberts then proposed an amend- ment, and Mr. John Vaughan seconded, that the matter be deferred for a month, and that Mr. R. Ll. Jones, at the next meeting, submit a plan of the extension proposed to be applied for. The original motion was withdrawn, and the amendment passed. REMOVAL OF BALA JUNCTION. The Chairman stated it was time something further should be done in this matter. The co- operation of the various Parish Councils and District Councils had been invited and secured. The matter should either be proceeded with, or allowed to lapse. The Council were strongly in favour of taking further steps, and it was 's resolved, upon the motion of Mr. D. W. Jones, seconded by Mr. J. W. Roberts, that the Com- mittee before appointed take the matter into their careful consideration, and submit a report to the next meeting. PUBLIC LIBRARY. The Clerk reported that he had received no communication from Colonel Evans Lloyd or Mr. T. E. Ellis, M.P., in reply to his letter on the matter of their promised subscriptions. Mr. R. LI. Jones proposed that the Clerk write again to ask for a reply. Mr. J. W. Roberts objected, stating that enough time had elapsed to enable these gentle- men to communicate with the Council. The motion was subsequently seconded by Mr. G. Rees, and passed; but Messrs. D. W. Jones, J. W. Roberts, and R. W. Roberts ab- stained from voting. PLASEY PLOTS. The Collector called attention to the fact that notice had been given the tenants to quit on the 25th March next. The tenants were naturally anxious to know whether the Council adhered to the notice, and intended them to evacuate on that date. It was then resolved, upon the motion of Mr. R. Ll. Jones, seconded by Mr. D. W. Jones, that the Building Committee inspect the place, and report thereon. HIGH STREET IMPROVEMENT. Mr. R. W. Roberts submitted various matters to the notice of the Council, as the report of the Committee. The report of the Committee was adopted. Mr. Roberts reported that nearly all the materials required for the parapets in High Street had been received. The work would be commenced about the begining of March next, if the weather permitted, by making a parapet from Penisa'rdre to the County Hall. No ob- jection having been raised by any ratepayer to the plans submitted, the work could be proceeded with without delay.

DOLGELLEY. THE SCHOOL BOARD A n MR. LEGARD'S APPOINTMENT. At t), last meeting of tl, School Board an unanimous vote was passed, probating against the uppointnient ot Mr. Legard as etuef inspector for Wales, on accouui, of his nubility to understand Welsh. WESLEYAN LITERARY SOCIETY. At the weekly meetin of this society, Mr. W. Williams, Macs-y.fl'ynnm, presiding, a stirring address dealing with the 'Life and Works of the latg Rpv. J. H. Evans (Cynfaen)' was given by Mr. W. CtoVon WHIiams, Caervnwch. A hearty vote .)f thinks to the speaker va", accorded— moved by LUe. D. J. Lewis, seconded by Mr. W. D. Pugh, and supported by others. I PROPOSED LOCAL COMMEMORATION OF TH8 QUEEN'S DIAMOND JUBILEE. A movement is on foot to secure public opinion on the desirabiity of erecting a Cottage Hospital in the town, as a Commemoration of the Queen's long reign. The Urban Council have been dis- cussiog the matcsr and a public meeting will, no doubt, be immediately called. LIGHT RAILWAY TO TRAWSFYNYDD. The Urban Council have nominated Com- mittee to make inquiries of the local landowners, mining companies, and others, respecting a pro- posal to have a Light Railway from ht-re to Trawsfynydd. The scheme is worthy of commen- dation The matter will be referred to a public meeting, we hope, without much delay and we also trust the whole district will unmistakably give their entire approval and support. COMPETITIVE MEETING AT IS LAWR. DREF. A competitive meeting, largely attended was held at the Board School, Is law'r-dn on Wednesday evening last. Mr. E. W. i ans, Frondirion, presided; Mr. Thomas Edward con- ducting Mr. Robert Davies, of this town, ably discharged the duties of musical adjudicator and Mr. John Roberts acted as accompanist. The different items were keenly contested. ELECTION OF MEDICAL OFFICER. Last Saturday, the members of the Aiding Friendly Society, better known as the Angel Club,' balloted for a medical officer to their society. There were two nominations—Dr. John Jones, Caerffvnnon (the present medical officer), and Dr. Richards, Aberaran. The result was as follows: Dr. John Jones, 134; Dr. Rfchards, 48. FOOTBALL. Great interest was evinced as to the result of last Saturday's match between the town crab and Towyn. The match ended in a tie of one goal each. The town team have now every reason to be satisfied with their position in the Cambrian League, and will, we trust, keep this position up for the remaicing three matches and then their superiority over the other clubs of the league will have been established clearly.

a ——. PETTY SESSIONS. MONDAY.—Before Messrs. C. E. Macro Edwards, Edward Griffiths, J. Leigh Taylor, Major Scott, R. Wynne Williams, Francis Evans, and J. Meyrick Jones. POACHERS CHASED BY A CONSTABLE. Evan Jones and William Anthony were charged by P. C. Morgan with having on the 24th Jan., being unlawfully in search of game. Both denied the charge. P. C. Morgan stated that on the day in ques- tion he was returning on duty from Rbyd-y main. He saw a dog on a field on T^'nsimdda land, and recognized it at once as belonging to the defendant Jones. Proceeding on his way, he saw Jones coming out of a hedge, and be took to running. He immediately suspected he had been on the land in search of game. He gave chase, and after- wards saw Anthony coming out of a hedge and going after the first defendant. He overtook both and searched them. Each had in his possession three nets and a ferret. The nets found en Wm. Anthony were quite wet. Evidence for the defence was called. The bench retired, and the chairman said they were unanimously agreed that the defendants were guilty of the charge. Jones would be fined 92 and costs, or one month in in default; and W. Anthony £1 and costs, or 14 days imprisonment. OBSTRUCTING THE HIGHWAY. John Jones, Bryn Ucha, L'an-y-mawddwy, was charged with obstructing the Highway, by leaving a cart thereon. Mr. R. Guthrie Jones defended. The defendant was fined 2s. 6d. and costs. SEARCHING FOR FISH. William Lloyd, Dinas, was charged by Wake- field, water bailiff, with having, oo the 28th Jan., been searching for fish in the river Dovey; and also for assaulting him, Mr. R. Guthrie Jones defended. Both summonses, after hearing, were dismis- sed.

DEATH OF THE REV. E. DAVIES, CORWEN. IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL AT DOLGELLEY. The mortal remains of the late Rev. E. Davies, resident Wesleyan minister at Corwen, were in- terred here on Tuesday last, amidst the utmost general signs of deep sympathy. All the places of business were closed. Deceased was only at the last Conference appointed to take up his residence at Corwen, after a previously one year ministry at Talsarnau, and a decidedly successful three years at Dolgelley, where he was held in high esteem by all classes alike. He had also successfully laboured at Pwllheli, Conway, Aberffraw, and other places. Since his removal to Corwen, in September last, his health was visibly failing and in pursuance to a high medical advice, he had to relinquish ministerial duties. After a painful illness," the reverend gentleman peacefully succumbed on Sun- day morning last, at the comparatively early age of 38, leaving a widow and four young children to mourn ever his loss and with whom the deepest synpathy is felt in th-,irsad bereavement. The remains arrived here by the mid-day train, and were conveyed to the Wesleyan chapel, where an exceedingly impressive service was held, the Rev. P. Jones Roberts, superintendent c; the Circuit, presiding. The representative gathering included the fol- lowing ministers:—The Rev. Hugh Jones, Bir- kenhead (chairman of the North Wales District); Edward Humphreys (Liverpool Circuit Secretary); Robert Lewis, Ruthin R. Curry, Llangollen T. Roberts, Corwen; T. O. Jones, P.E.H.S., Mold; R. Jones, Towyn Edward Jones, Talsarnau; D. leurig Jones, Porthmadog; M. E. Jones, Llan- bedr A. W. Davies, Criccieth, &c. There were also present several prominent lay. men of the cormpction, deacons, and representa- tives oi various churches in North Wales the re- presentatives from the Corwen Circuit, together with a number of prominent townsmen, and exceedingly :large influx of the general ,)a Numerous letters of sympathy and regretti" > I ability to attend, were also received. The service throughout was strikinr* j sive, in which the Revs. R. Curry fW '-fa' J Edward Jones, Talsarnau; T. O. • Mo R Lewis, Ruthin; Edward Liverpool Hugh Jones, Birkenhead, William Roberts' Maentwrog, took p-,rt; The large funeral Procession subseouentlv wen- dedYs way from t'je chapel to the New Cemetery ja taorougn oraej, as follows Ministers, Local Preaehers9 anfiKspresestatives of Churches, x i_oma, ot Oac, with massive brass fittings borne, by appointed bearers, 6 ■ Carnages, containing the nearest relatives The General Public. At the grave side, the Revs. P. Jones Roberts ana Robert oones, Towyn, officiated. A suitable nyrnn was also sung with much, emotion. uulIi The funeral arrangements were admirably carried out by Mr. Davies, Commerce floai, Coi wen and a nnmber of friends had cha-pe of the local arrangements, ° In the evening, a memorial service was bpld at the Wesleyan Chapel, the Rev. Thomas Robert^ Corwen, delivering a powerful sermon.

HOUSE OF COMMONS. Mr. S. Smith, in submitting a motion for the Disestablishment and Disendowment of the Anglican Church in England and Wales, re- minded the House that not since the rejection of Mr. Miall's motion in 1873 until now had any proposal involving Disestablishment for Eng- land been submitted to Parliament. He con- tended that the present union of Church and State was unscriptural, gave rise to grave abuses, and was hostile to freedom and popular rights. One of the chief grounds on which he demanded its dissolution was the growth of Roman Catholic tendencies within the Church, and the practical repudiation by the Anglican clergy of the Protestant attitude assumed by the Church at the time of the Reformation. In conclusion, he quoted Dean Alford's famous declaration that whether years or decades of years were taken for the accomplishment of Disestablishment-, and however it might be deprecated and opposed, accomplished it cer- tainly would be. Mr. E. J. C. Morton seconded the motion. Mr. A. J. Balfour, after describing the debate as little better than sham, said that when he looked at the benches opposite it seemed to him that the House was wasting its time and adding neither to its dignity nor to its efficiency in occupying itself wish arguments of which it would be far to high a compliment to say that they were academic. If the resolution meant anything at all, it was not with the remote past or the remote future that they were concerned, but with the actual present, and of the actual present they had hardly heard a word. Although he did not understand theargnmentsofthemover of the resolution, he understood hisjobject, which was to destroy theChurch. In his opinion a great- blow could not be struck at the religious inter- est of this country than to deprive the greatest religious body in it of so large a portion of its means for carrying on its important work. After a brief debate, the resolution was re- jected by 204 votes to 86. Mr. Lowles then proposed a resolution in favour of on immediate inquiry by the Govern- ment into the displacement of British labour in London and other industrial centres by the constant influx of pauper aliens, but Mr. Ritchie having stated that the Government meant to fulfil their pledge to legislate on the subject at no distant date, Mr. Lowles expressed himself satisfied, and stated that hw had no wish to press his motion. The House was shortly afterwards counted jap

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10TH. HOUSE OF COMMONS. The Preferential Pnymeuts in Bankruptcy Act (1888) Amendment Bill is a measure the object of which is to protect the employees of concerns wound up in bankruptcy. According to Mr. Kemp, who moved the seeond reading & I of the Bill, debts in respect to wages and salaries will, if the measure be carried through, have priority over the claims of holders of debentures under a floating charge upon the assets and the uncalled-up capital of the com- pany. The Bill found general support, espec- ially among the members for Lancashire, it being explained that the movement emanated from the Textile Operatives' Association for Lancashire, whose members are greatly inter- ested in it because of the extention of the limited liability principle. In some quarters it was ured that the Bill should apply to the claims of debenture holders under a specific as well as under a floating charge. The Solicitor General, on behalf of the Government, threw cold water upon the latter suggestion, but agreed with the principle of the Bill as it stands. Finally, the Bill was read a second time and referred to the Standing Committee on Law. Mr. C. Wilson then moved the second read- ing of the Sale of Intoxicating Liquors on Sun- days Bill, which was designed to bring about the closing of public houses on Sundays in England, a system which is already in vogue in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The mover said the Bill had the support of all the Labour members in the House, and of all the religious bodies, who claimed that it would be calcula- ted to promote the temperance of the people. Opposition was made to the measure on the ground that io was class legislation of a very bad character, that it would increase drinking by the establishment of clubs not under police control, and by inducing men to take beer and spirits home, and that it would materially in- terfere with the comfort of large classes of persons. The Home Secretary said he could not sup- port the Bill, and he added that it was the duty of the House not to pledge itself on the subject until the Royal Commission now sitting had reported. Mr. C. Wilson offered to accept a proposal that public houses should remain open one hour on Sunday morning for the supply of dinner beer, and one hour in the evening at supper time. On a division, however, the second reading was negatived by 206 to 149.

CORWEN. MARRIAGE. On Wednesday, the 10th inst., at the C.M. chapel, the marriage took place of Mr. H. W. Anwyl, Head Master of Corwen Board School, and Miss Winnie E. Jones, eldest daughter of Mr. J. Watkin Jones, coal mer- chant, Corwen. The wedding service was attended by a large number of friends and well-wishers, and the Rev. Evan Jones, Den- bigh (uncle of the ibride), assisted by the Rev; J. Williams, and the Rev. Lewis Da- vies, officiated. The bride, who was given away by her father was dressed in fawn bengaline silk with toque to match trimmed with violets. The bridesmaids were Miss M. Kate Jones (sister of the bride), and Miss C. M. Anwyl, Chester resister of the bridegroom), both dressed in pretty costumes of fawn crepon, with black velvet picture hats trimmed with cream. The best man was Mr. W. Anwyl, engineer, Gainsborough (brother of the bridegroom). After the cere- mony, a reception was held at the bride's home, and later in the afternoon, the happy pair left en route for Southport, where the honeymoon will be spent. In the after- noon, the members of the School Board treated all the school children to a tea party in honour of the event. The wedding presents were numerous and costly. DEATH OF THE WESLEYAN MINISTER. After aJong and painful illness, the death took place on Sunday morning, of the Rev. Evan Davies, Brynawen, Wesleyan minister for the Corwen circuit. Mr. Davies was a native of Pontrhyd-y-groes, near Aberyst- wyth, being the son of Mr. and Mrs. Davies, of Bwlch-y-blaen. He came to Corwen last September from Tal-y-sarnau in a failing health, and ever since he was not able to discharge his duties. He began |preaching when he was 16 years of age, anil was or- dained a minister in 1878. He served for three years as a missionary at Treherbert, one year at Dowlais, one year at Kidwelly, one year at Holywell. During three years stay at Conway, he cleared a debt of X700 on the minister's house at Llandudno Junc- tion. During three years fat Pwllheli, he collected £550. While staying two years at Aberffraw he cleared a debt there of over R200. He was very successful during his three years stay at Dolgelley, and did good and lasting work, especially with the young people there. He was presented with tes- timonials at Treherbert, Pwllheli, Colwyn Bay, Aberffraw and Dolgelley. He died at the age of 39 years leaving a widow and four young children to mourn his loss. The in- terment took place at Dolgelley on Tuesday, and was very largely attended by ministers and friends. The funeral service was con- ducted by Revs, R. Curry, Llangollen; Mo- ses Roberts, Cefn; H. Jones (chairman of the district), P. Jones Roberts, Dolgelley; E. Jones, Llanfaircaereinion; T. O. Jones, Tryfan R. Lewis, Ruthin, and E. Hum- pheys, Liverpool (secretary of the District). BOARD OF GUARDIANS. FRIDAY, February 5th.—Present, Messrs. W. E. Williams (chairman), Dr. D. R. Jones, John Hughes, J. O. Pugh, R. IR. Roberts, I and Miss Hughes, Corwen; John Jones, Gwyddelwern: Thomas Owen, Llangar; John Jones and Henry Davies, Llandrillo E. O. V. Lloyd, Llansantffraid G.D.; John Williams, Bryneglwys; R. Hughes, Cerrig- y druidion Miss Edwards, Mrs. Richards, and John Davies, Llangollen; J. D. Jones, Llanfihangel G. M., Ji: Herbert, Llangwm; R. Edwards, Glynceiriog; Thomas Hughes (clerk), E. Derbyshire, and E. Foulkes (Re- lieving officers), R. Wiliiams (Master). STATISTICS. Out relief granted during the past fort- night:—Corwen District, per Mr. E. Derby- shire, £ 59 18s. 4d., to 270 paupers; corres- ponding fortnight last year, 59 18s., to 267 paupers. Llangollen district per Mr. E. Foulkes, R59 lls. lOd to 258 paupers; cor- responding fortnight last year, £ 60 5s., to 350 paupers. Number of inmates in the house, 68; corresponding week last year, 57. Number of vagrants releieved [during the past fortnight 27 corresponding fortnight last year, 75. It. appears that the tramps have little attraction to spend a night in the new tramp wards. Balance due to trea- surer £ 384 lis. 7d. ACKNOWLEB GEMENT A letter was read from Mrs. Williams, Plas Hafod, Llangollen, thanking the Guar- dians for their vote of sympathy, and ex- pressing a hope to be able to resume her duties at an early date. CORRESPONDENCE. A circular letter from the Local Govern- ment Board with reference to the education of children in workhouse schools, and also a notice of a meeting ofithe Poor Law Con- ference were ordered to be laid on the table. PUBLIC VACCINATCR FOR LLANGOLLEN. A letter was read informing of the death of Dr. Price Jones, Public Vaccinator foi Llangollen district. Mr. Richard Edwards, Glynceiriog, said that it was the unanimous wish of the < I ratepayers in Glyn Valley that the district be divided, the same as was recently done for medical relief purposes. Upon the motion of Mr. John DaJvje, se- conded by Mr. R. Edwards, it was resolved that the consent of the Local Government Board be sought for dividing the district. MASTER'S REPORT. The Master reported that Mr. E. O. y. Lloyd had treated the women with tea and sugar, the men with tobaecoj and the chil- dren with oranges and sweets. Upon the motion of Mr. J. O. Pugh, se- conded by Mr. John Jones (Llandrillo) a hearty vote of thanks was tendered to Mr. Lloyd for his kindness. A BARBER WANTED. The Master made an application for a bar- ber to come to the house once a week to shave the men and cut their hair and the chidren's hair when required—the inmate who used to do this work had gone too shaky to do it properly. After some discussion, it was resolved to advertise for a person for this business.