The North Wales Times

BODFARY. DEATH OF MR. ROBERTS, GEINAS. We very much regret to announce the death of Mr. John Roberts, Geinas Farm, Bodfary. This sad event happened on Wednesday. Mr. Roberts had been in bad health for a long time, but hopes were entertained of his recovery, but a paralytic stroke prevented the fulfilment of those hopes, and he died as stated, in the 77th year of his age Mr. Roberts was born at Rhyd Evan, Llan- aantffraid-Glan-Conway, and was educated at Llangerniew. Although his parents were r farmers, it was considered that it would be an advantage to Mr. Roberts to undergo a more systematic course of agricultural study than he could obtain at home, and he was sent to War boys, in Huntington, to study farming, where he remained a considerable time. In due course, he married Miss Williams, daughter of Mr. Thomaa Williams, Cornel-y-cae. Whitford. There were three sons and two daughters, but two sons and one daughter only remain to plourn a kind and loving father. Mrs. Roberts died about ten years ago, much to the regret of the whole neighbourhood. Mr. Roberts was a well-known public man. He was a leading agriculturist, and took a keen interest in everything pertaining to -farming and stock-breeding. He was a mem- ber of the Denbighshire and Flintshire Agricul. tural Society since its establishment, and in this connection we will be sadly missed. He was an estate agent, and acted in this capacity for Col. Mesham, Pontruffydd, the executors of the late Dr. Anderton, Brondyffryn, the executors of the late Canon Browne, Mrs. Charlton Jones, The Grove, and others. As a connecting link between landlord and tenant, his services often were valuable and much ap- preciated. For years he carried on a large business as licensed valuer, and he also dealt as a general merchant at Bodfary station. In politics, he was a Conservative, but not of a bigoted or extreme kind. He took a great deal of intelligent interest in political matters, and was not afraid of.eriticising and condemning his own side when he was of opinion that thati side was not in the right. He was also a zealous churchman, of the evangelical school, and nothing grieved him so much as an attem pt to bring into the church any kind of extreme ritualism. Mr. Roberts was the oldest guardian in the St. Asaph Union, and he always dis- played much ability and conscientious straight- forwardness in his conduct in the Board, and the Rural District Council. We offer oar sincere sympathy to Mr. Ro. berts' relatives. He and us differed on many questions, but we always agreed to differ, and in Mr. Roberts we only saw one of the best of friends. The funeraljtakes place (tomorrow), Saturday, and is of a public character.

BATTLESHIP IN COLLISION. As the Channel Squadron was leaving Portland on Wednesday morning for a day's cruise, the battle- ship Repulse collided with a Norwegian brigantine. The latter vessel was completely crippled, her fore yards, fore mast, bowsprit and jibboom being brought down. Two steam launches were near at the time of the occurrence, and the disabled craft was towed into a safe berth.

CHILE AND THE ARGENTINE. Lord Macnaghten, Sir John Ardagh. Director ot Military Intelligence, and Colonel Sir T. H. Holdich have been appointed members of a tribunal to examine and consider the questions involved in the frontier dispute between Chile and the Argentine Re- public, which has been referred to the arbitration of the British Government.

LORD HUGH CECIL AT GREENWICH. Lord Hugh Cecil, M.P., on the evening of the 15th inst., addressed his constituents at Greenwich. He said in the London Government Bill they had to look forward to a measure which would arouse local patriotism, while at the same time securing the people against local jobbery. He saw no ob- jection to Ministers being directors of good companies, but he considered that members of Parliament who responded to the menaces of their constituen were acting corruptly. Mr. Balfour and Mr. Long had been threatened with the loss of their seats unless they did cer- tain things. People would have been scandal- ised if they read that those two members of the Government were offered E1000 each if they took a particular course. He had received two letters, which took the form of threats, in regard to Church matters, and lie regarded that action as a thing corrupt and shameful to yield to. If there were people in the Church of England who looked to the Church of Rome, or'who wished to undo the Reformation, he had no sympathy with them. But he did not believe this was so to any extent, and he thought the present difficulties might be left in the hands of the bishops to deal with.

THE PLAGUE. From Bombay it is reported that a plague panic has occurred in the Southern Kolar Goldfields. Two thousand five hundred coolies have left the mines. Sixty attacks of plague have been reported. In the Transvaal strict precautions are being taken, owing to a suspected case of plague, an Indian from 1 Bombay having died after three days' isolation.

THE FLINTSHIRE POLICE COMMIT- TEE .¡\ND THE TIED HOUSE QUESTION. POLICE SUPERVISION IN THE COUNTY A quarterly meeting of the Flintshire Police Committee was held in the County Hall, on Thursday last—Councillor R. Ll. Jones presiding. There were also present, Messrs. F. B. Davies Cooke, Bellis, James Reney, Colonel Mesham, P. Tatton Davies Cooke, Dr. Girdlestone, Joseph Davies (Hawarden), Dr. J. H. Williams, W. Ast- bury, C. P. Morgan, J. Watkinson, R. H. V. Kyrke, James Prince, H. J. Roberts, and H. G. Roberts. THE CHIEF CONSTABLE'S REPORT. The Chief Constable (Major Webber) read his report, (showing that, during the year ending 31st December, 1898, there were 95 Indictable Offences reported, for which 58 persons were apprehended, 31 proceeded against by summons, and 6 cases were unde- tected. Of the 89 persons proceeded against, 67 were dealt with summarily, 12 were com- mitted or bailed for trial, 2 were bound over to come up for judgment when required, and 3 discharged. There were 1047 persons proceeded against for Non-Iudictable Offences, of whom 866 were convicted, 169 discharged, 4 delivered to the Army, 4 sent to Industrial Schools, and 4 cases were withdrawn. Of the 866 persons convicted, 72 were for Assaults, 215 under the iElementary Education Acts, 250 for Drunkenness, and 26 for offences against the Poor Law and Vagrancy Acts. There has been a slight increase in the number of convictions for Drunkenness, as compared with the previous year. For offences under the Licensing Acts there have been, during the year, 20 fully Licensed Houses proceeded against, with 17 convictions, and in one instance the License was endorsed. There have also been 5 Beer- houses proceeded against, with 4 convictions, and 1 license endorsed. THE TIED HOUSE QUESTION. A SUGGESTION TO THE MAGISTRATES. Dr. Williams stated that the convictions against the licensed houses for the past quarter once again compelled them to say that the matter of tied houses was a ques- tion for the magistrates to take up at the Annual Licensing Sessions (hear, hear). They knew that the difference pro ratio of tied houses and free houses was 2| to one, but practically they had it before them in the matter of convictions of four to none. They knew that people in tied houses did not get the opportunities of making as much as people in free houses, and he was rather inclined to think that there was something in that to account for the number of con- victions against them, and the trouble they gave to the police. He did not like to move a resolution, but he thought it was a ques- tion that the magistrates should take into their serious consideration also, that the r&tio of convictions are increasing, at the same time, in Itied houses in comparison with free houses. There was no discussion on the subject. With regard to the dismissal from the force of ex-Police Constable William Parry, the Chief Constable, in reply to Dr. Will iams, stated that Parry had been in the constabulary for about two years. In consequence of illness, it was decided to give the full pension to Acting-Sergeant William Manley. THE INCREASE OF THE POLICE FORCE. Two deputations waited on the meeting with regard to increasing the number of police constables in their respective districts, viz., at Buckley and Rhyl. On behalf of Buckley, Councillor G. A. Parry (Chairman of Buckley'District Coun- cil), and Mr. Roberts, appeared. Mr. Parry stated that it was the custom, or something of the sort, to allow one constable for about every 1,500 inhabitants, but in Buckley they only had one for every 2,500. However wishful the Buckley people were to remain as they are, and the Buckley Council to hold its peace in this matter, they could not do so any longer, because they were not only pressed from the inside, but from the out- side. The policemen did their duty, but they could not do double duty. Sooner or later they would have to increase the police force in Flintshire and all the people of asked was, that their request would not bo forgotten when that time came. Mr. J. H. Ellis (chairman of the Rhyl Urban jConncil), Mr. P. Mostyn Williams, and Mr. Rowlands (clerk) appeared for Rhyl. Major Webber said that very strong re- presentatives had been made for some time for extra police. Of course, that meant an additional amount of rates, and he had respected that point, but he felt it his duty now to endorse the applications that had been made. Dr. Girdlestone supported the Rhyl appli- cation. He moved that two extra constables be provided for Rhyl, and one each for all other places. Dr. Williams seconded. After some discussion, it was agreed to apply for the force to be increased by four men.

— WAEN, NEAR, ST. ASAPH. COURSING. On Thursday, a coursing meeting took place at the above place, and a large crowd of spec- tators assembled to witness the Interesting event. The committee did not attempt' to ar- range the meeting tin a large scale, and the competition was limited to dogs in the imme- diate locality. Hares were plentiful, and the sport was, on the whole, very satisfactory. The first prize was awarded to Black Eye, the pro- perty of Mr. Henry Williams, Wern Ddu. The second going to a Rhyl dog named 'Pilgrim.' Mr. Henry Williams acted as judge. In the evening, a dinner was held at the Railway Inn, given by Major W. C. Jones, of Llanerch. Mr. Jones, who is (himself a keen sportsman, is always anxious that his tenantry should periodically enjoy a treat of this nature at his expense and more than once during the last few years he has preserved the hares in the neighbourhood of Waen to enable the residents and others to witness the sport. Mr. Henry Williams, Wern Ddu, presided at the dinner, and there was a large company present. The dinner was all that could be desired, Mr. and Mrs. Lothian sustaining the high reputation which they already possess, as the caterers of this particular feast. The Chairman, in a brief speech, proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Major Jones for his great kindness, and the consideration which he had shown towards them. Mr. J. A. Lloyd, in supporting, also referred in complimentary terms to the donor, and pro- posed the health of the rest of the Llanerch family. The toast was received with acclama- tion. Mr. Walter Williams then proposed the health of the Chairman, whom he referred to as the Mayor of Waen (laughter). Thia toast was also received with cheers. Mr. Jones, of Rhyl, proposed the next toast, viz., the health of Mr. Rees Roberts, head- gamekeeper at Llanerch Hall, and the other keepers on the estate and the toast was suit- ably acknowledged. The Chairman then thanked the company for the way they had received his name, and then named the following farmers as having assis- ted in getting up the cOU:irsing :-Mr. John Davies, Glanclwyd; Mr. Hughes, Penisa'rwaen; Mr. Davies, Waen Farm and Mr. Isaac Wil- liams, Tyddyn. Mr. J. A. Lloyd proposed the health of Mr. Lothian and family, and in doing so, referred in complimentary terms to the success of the dinner and the popularity of the host. Miss Lothian, on behalf of her father and mother, thanked Mr. Lloyd for his kind re- marks, and the company for the way they had accepted the toast. Sergeant Pearson was specially complimen- ted on the tact shown by him during the day in dealing with the large asaemblance of spectators at the coursing. The following gentlemen enlivened the pro- ceedings with songs :—Messrs. William Wil- liams, Castell Waen; John Griffiths, game. keeper; Hugh Davies, Waen Farm; and J. Thomas, Inspector of Cruelty to Children.

LLANRWST. RENEWED FLOODS. The railway between Tal y-cafn and Llan- rwst was submerged for many miles and in consequence of the high tide, considerable damage was done to the line, and passengers were conveyed in vehicles from Llanrwst to Tal-y cafn. -I DR. BARNADO'S HOMES. A grand miscellaneous entertainment was held in the Concert Hall, on Thursday, 9th I February, when Miss E. M. Price gave an address entitled, From Death into Life,' illustrated by lime-light views. The chair was taken by J. Blackwall, Esq., junr., of Hendre house. There was a crowded house, the proceeds being in aid of the above. A DISAPPOINTED FOOTBALL TEAM. The line from Tal-y cafn to Llanrwst was again flooded on Saturday and in conse- quence, the Llanrwst football team had to wire to Colwyn Bay that they could not come to play a match in the Welsh Coast League. This is the second time in three weeks that the Llanrwst team has been prevented from fulfilling its engagements, owing to the line being flooded. It was not until Tuesday night that the traffic was resumed. VALE OF CONWAY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. We have just noticed that the Gwydyr Castle challenge cup, presented by Earl Carrington, is now exhibited in the shop window of Messrs. G. Owen and Son, jewellers, Denbigh street; and no doubt it will be an incentive to farmers in the district to compete for the magnificent gift presented by his Lordship. Last year's cup was award- ed to Mr. Williamson, Derwen Hall, Corwen. The cup must be won three years in succes- sion before coming to the possession of the winner. OLD INFANTS SCHOOL, WATLING STREET. On Wednesday evening. February 8th, a grand operetta, entitled Old Friend with New Faces,' was performed at the above room by the members of the Children's Guild. Characters:— Sister Ann (Edith Kershaw); Mistress Mary (Gladys Thomas); Humpby Dumphy (Richard Jones); Jack and Jill (William Bickers and Laura Mary Jones); Mother Hubbard (Edith Jones); Little Boy Blue (Hugh Berry); Jack Horner (Idwal Glyn Davies); Red Riding Hood (Anna Jare Jones); Little Bo Peep (Rosie Williams); Soldiers (members of the Church Lad's Brigade), and choir of 40 children. A very pleasant evening was spent.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Board was held on Tuesday. Mr. E. Jones Williams presiding. The minutes of the last meeting were read, and confirmed. MASTER'S REPORT. Number in the house 37, against 39 last year. Tramps 19, against 22. APPOINTMENT OF MEDICAL OFFICER. Mr. J. Roberts, according to notice, moved that a successor to Dr. Evans be appointed at that meeting. The Rev. H. Rawson Williams seconded, and it was carried unanimously. Mr. J. Roberts moved that the salary should be the same as before for one year.' Mr. Edward Edwards proposed, Mr. D. Williams seconded, and the Rev. Rawson Williams and Mr. D. E. Davies supported, that the salary be reduced £ 10. For the amendment 8 voted, for the motion 12. Mr. J. Roberts moved, and Mr. D. Will iams seconded, that Dr. Harrop Parry be appointed to the different offices as successor to Dr. Evans for one year. The l-tev. Rawson Williams and Dr. Evans supported. Carried unanimously.

DURBAN, NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA. No doubt the following will be read with in- terest by many a Welshman, especially those who have relatives and friends in South Africa. DURBAN CAMBRIAN SOCIETY. ANNUAL MEETING. The second annual meeting of the Durban Cambrian Society was held on the 12th of January, 1899, in the Y.M.C.A. Rooms, Mr. S. Deane presiding over a good attendance of members. The annual report, which was presented by Mr. T. Lewis, the honorary secretary, stated that in January last they were favoured with a visit from the Rev. John Owen, of Mold, North Wales, and the Rev. Evan Rees (Dyfed), South Wales, and a reception in their honour, and other means of ensuring their amusement were arranged, including a trip to the Mount Edge- combe Sugar Mills, while the members had the rare privilege of hearing a Welsh sermon from I Dyfed.' The Rev. Glyndwr Davies and the Rev. J. T. Lloyd had also visited them during the year, and Mr. Howell J. Williams, a pro- minent London Welshman, and member of the County Council of that city, had been in their midst. On St. David's day, the Society's first annual dinner was held, and although they had to work under difficulties, a most successful evening was spent, thoroughly national in character. Two smoking concerts had been I held, both being conspicuous for the excellence of the entertainment provided- They were vanquished on two occasions at whist by the Irish Association, and at cricket by the Dela- more School. Towards the close of the year, it was found advis- ble to abandon the room oc- cupied by the Society in the Castle Buildings. At the first glance, this might appear to be a retrograde step; but on consideration, they believed that would not be the case. It was found that that with a small membership was too great a tax on the Society, and that to make such a room a success from a social point of view, a large membership was essential. There- fore reluctantly they came to the decision to give it up, with the result that at the present moment they felt stronger in themselves, and able to look cheerfully into the future. The report bore testimony to, the very cordial re- lations existing between themselves and kind- red societies, and they had to thank the Cale- donian, the Irish, and the Y. and L. Associa- tions for their hospitality on various occasions, which they had reciprocated to the best of their ability. The membership of the society stood at 41; 38 ordinary and 3 honorary members, as compared with 40 last year. The hope was ex- pressed that the members generally would con- tinue to show unabated interest in the Society, and use every effort to strengthen the Cambrian Society. Above all, they must muster strongly at the national banquet in celebration of 'Gwyl Dewi Sant. The adoption of the report was moved by Mr. A. Gray, and seconded by Mr. W. Davies. Mr. J. Williams, in supporting the motion, said the satisfactory position of the Society was due to the work of the Secretary The motion was agreed to. Mr. S. Deane was re-elected president Messrs. J. V. Redding and John Williams, vice-presidents; Messrs. M. S. Evans, J. G. Mayston, and Roger Jenkins, honourable vice- presidents; Mr. T. Lewis Jones, bon. sec.; and Mr. A. Gray, hon. treasurer. The committee consisted of the following :— Messrs. D. H. Jones, W. Davies, J. E. Gower' T. E. Williams, T. Richards, W. Osborn, and James Owen Jones. It was decided to reduce the subscription to 10s. per annnm, to combine with the Irish and Scottish Societies in a concert, land to hold a dinner on the evening of St. David's day. James Owen Jones, 117, Prince Edward Street, Durban, Natal, South Africa. (Mr. J. O. Jones is the son of Mr. W. G, Jones, auctioneer, Llanrwst).

RUTHIN. [Other Ruthin news on page 7 and 8j. RENT AUDIT. The tenants of the Rhaggat estate as- sembled at Ruthin on Thursday, for the half yearly rent audit. Mr. E. O. V. Lloyd and his agent, Mr. Byford, were present. Subsequently the tenants were entertained at the Castle Hotel. THE CZAWS APPEAL TO THE NATION. The Nonconformists of the town are busily contributing their names to the five million signatures required for the memorial which is to be presented to the Czar of Russia on the Disarmament Question. The local list has already reached several hundreds. SCHOLASTIJ SUCCESS. Miss Mary Jones, daughter of Councillor William Jones, the Mills, and who is at present a pupil at the Holywell County School, has just passed the London Univer- sity Matriculation in the 18th Division. Recently, Miss Jones also passed the matri- culation of the Welsh University, besides having gained several scholarships. PENDREF CHAPEL. Our numerous readers will learn with regret, that the Rev. D. Jones, the minister of the above chapel was, owing to illness, unable to occupy his pulpit last Sunday. Mr. Jones contracted a chill while at Beth- esda the previous Sunday, and is now suffer- ing from its effects. We learn on enquiry that Mr. Jones is making satisfactory pro- gress. FLOODS. In common with other places, Ruthin has suffered from the disastrous results of the recent floods. The river Clwyd, with its atributaries, has over-flown its banks, and large tracts of land have been flooded in various parts. The neighbourbood of Llan- rhaiadr presented an extraordinary spec- tacle. Fortunately, no personal injury is reported, but damage to property is every where seen. GOVERNMENT AUDIT. Mr. William Griffith, Local Government Beard Auditor for the North Wales District, has been in attendance at the Union Work- house during the week, for the purpose of auditing all accounts appertaining to the Local Government of the district. This was the last audit for Mr. Thomas Griffiths, Stanley House, late relieving officer for the Ruthin district, who held that office for 40 years, and a pleasing feature in connection with his retirement is, that during the whole of his long official career, the auditor never once had reason to lodge a complaint against him. PRIMROSE LEAGUE. On Tuesday last, at the Town Hall, an entertaiument was held by the above league of the Ruthin Habitation. The chair was occupied by Mr. G. H. Denton, J.P., who, at the commencement, read a letter of apology from Mr. Tudor Howell, M.P., whose Parlia mentry duties detained him in London. An apology was read also from Mrs. Neylor Leyland, the dame president. Then a speech was deliverediby Mr. Ackerly, who was followed by Professor Webber with his conjuring tricks. At the conclusion, a vote of thanks was passed to Mr. G. H. Denton, Professor Webber, and Mr. Ackerly. MILITARY BALL. The annual ball of the C Troop Denbigh- shire Hussars and Company 1st V.B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers was held in the Assembly Rooms, on Friday night, and was attended with conspicuous success. The spacious hall was artistically decorated and pro- duced a pretty effect, the evening dresses of the ladies contrasting pleasantly with the military uniforms worn by most of the gentlemen. The ball was opened by Major Blezard and Mrs. Swayne shortly after nine o'clock, and dancing was sustained with vigour until nearly five a.m. Amongst the distinguished members present were Major and the Hon. Mrs. George Blezard, Pool Park; Captain Swayne and Mrs. Swayne, and many other well-known people from the neighbourhood. Haselden's band from Rhyl supplied a capital selection of music, and the catering was in the hands of Mrs. Phillips and Mr. E. Tegid Owen, of the Castle Hotel. The onorous duties of se- cretary were discharged by Sergeant-Major C. D. Phillips (Denbighshire Hussars) and Cyclist W. Hooson Owen (Royal Welsh Fusiliers), whilst Colour-Sergeant H. E. Joyce (R.W.F.) and Sergeant R. H. Jones (D.H.) officiated as M.C.'s.

The London and North-Western Railway has a revenue of nearly 91,500 an hour.

j CouTsponbcuce. We do not hold ourselves responsiblefor the opinions of our correspondents in the following letters.

FOX HUNTING IN THE VALE OF CLWYD. To the Editor of THE NORTH WALES TIMES. SIR, I think it is high time for the farmers of the Vale of Clwyd to meet and consider what action they should take in consequence of the serious damage and nuisance caused by the fox hunting gentry and their retinue. I have suffered great loss and inconvenience in consequence of the depredations of these well-to-do folk, who, I am sorry to say, think more of their own pleasure than of the poor farmers' worries and troubles. Regardless of everything except the securing of the brush,' they trample the land whether it be wet or dry and after a day's hunting, grass land is cut up, and very much resembles a ploughed field. Gates are left open, hedges are trampled down, and stock get astray, and the poor suffering farmer, who has to find the rent, is left to make up the damage, and find his cattle and sheep the best way he can. And I may say here, that not very long ago, a farmer was arraigned before a court of justice (?), charged with allowing his stock to stray on the highway, the cattle having got out of the fields through the hedge gaps and gates left open by the mighty Nimrods. For cheek and audacity, show me a follower of fox hounds. It is well known that foxes are bred for the amusement of these 'never-do-nothing' hun- ters. The poaching predilections of Mr. Rey- nard are well-known; he is not fed by the mighty ones that retain for themselves the privilege of hunting him. But Reynard must break his fast somewhere, and forthwith he proceeds to the farmer's yard, and picks out the fattest fowl in the place. This is an oc- currence that happens often, but the farmer, nevertheless, has to bear the loss. In vain he appeals for compensation, and the hunting and consequent loss still goes merrily along. The followers of the hounds thus trespass upon the land without permission from the occupiers. Of course, a man who is looked up to as a 'landlord,' and a justice of-the peace' does not often condescend to consider the wishes of the man who labours hard to keep him, and to help him in maintaining his dignified offices, Oh! no But, the farmer himself, or any other working man, dare not enter upon land (except his own) without permission, and if he lays hand upon a rabbit, or goes to the river for a fish, he is unceremoniously packed to the near- est police court, where the great ones' make a point of attending by the dozen to secure his conviction. If a shopkeeper's premisesare broken into, or if a man is half killed by a drunken wretch, great difficulty is experienced in get- ting sufficient magistrates to try the case. But let a man be charged with netting a rabbit, or shooting a pheasant, landlords will turn up in couples, keenly alive to the seriousness of the crime. If a man can afford to procure a horse, tres- pass on land (without permission), and trample down hedges in following a thieving fox, he is called a gentleman,' but a poor man, possibly with an empty cupboard at home, and many an empty stomach on his hearth, jumps over the hedge, and pockets a cony, he is stigmatised as a 'poacher.' Strange times these, are they not ? He that goes & hunting, pays no license, not does he contribute anything to the excise for his privilege, whilst those who fish and shoot have to pay licenses, and, at the same time, secure from the landlord permission to enter upon the land. The electors, I think, should keep their eyes open, and especially so the farmers, and think twice before supporting with their votes the class I have mentioned. Let he that follows the hounds first do his duty to the people who suffer so seriously on his account, and then he will be in a better position to seek their suffra- ges. The farmer has many opportunities of preventing those who cause him loss and incon- venience, from entering county, district, and parish councils, and especially so St. Stephen, where our iniquitous land laws have been framed. Yours truly, A SUFFERING FARMER.

FLINT. THE GOSPEL AS IT IS PREACHED BY THE RECTOR OF FLINT. For obvious reasons, we have refrained for some time from giving any account of the extraordinary sermons which are preached at the Parish Church of Flint, but having come across an authorised version' in one of the daily papers for last Tuesday, which bears strong internal evidence of having been com- municated to the editor by the rector himself or some one on his behalf, we cannot resist the temptation. We understand that one of the curates (Rev. T. J. Roberts), also preach- ed a somewhat extraordinary sermon, the same evening at St. David's Church, Pentre. We shall be very pleased if he would also supply us with an authorised version.' We have been asked by one or two parties to reply to this extraordinary outburst, but we think it would be extreme folly on our part to attempt anything of the kind as the whole thing is so abourd on the face of it that it requiries no reply. Our minds cannot help reverting to the time when the Rev. Griffith Ellis, M.A., Bootle (at one time a fellow stu- dent with the Rector at Oxford), was asked to reply to a somewhat similar tirade and whose answer was that he would be very sorry to do anything of the kind, the performance pleased the rector and hurt no one.' We will there- fore content ourselves with the following:— Perhaps next Sunday the Rev. gentleman will favour his audience with a reply to the following questions. No 1. He says that he sticks to what he said in his sermon at Denbigh. We ask will he dare to repeat in his pulpit at Flint what he said at Denbigh about the Flint Nonconformist Union Committee breaking up in disorder ? No 2. Will he tell his audience what the financial state, of his 'over whelming- ly strong' church would have been in 1897-8 if Mrs. Nicholas and himself had not contribu- ted between 940 and 950 of the collections? No 3. Will he supply them with a statement shewing how much money he spent in securing candidates for the last confirmation (a) in suits of clothesland dresses; (b) in bard cash paid to some of the candidates for the time they lost in attending confirmation services. It is a well known fact that if a candidate for Parliament- ary or Municipal honours were to pay even one of the electors for his lost time in coming to record his vote, it would be called bribery and corruption, and the candidate if elected would be unseated. Is this money which is paid to confirmation candidates for lost time, a bribe or a charity? No 4. Will he give an estimate of what the forthcoming confirmation services are going to cost him ? 5. In view of his former utterances, will he kindly state how he has arrived at the conclusion that the great majority of dissenters in Flint are I religio?ts' dissenters. Is this conversion of his due to the influence of the Nonconformist Union ?

Europe consumes upwards of £ 6,000,000 worth of gold and silver annually for plate, jewellery, and ornaments. Scientific men generally believe that the bed of the Pacific Ocean was above water, and in- habited by men. A given acreage of wheat will feed at least ten times as many people as the same acreage employed in growing mutton. The largest thermometer in existence belongs to the proprietors of a New York paper. It has a dial plate forty inches in diameter. Don't you like to see a man strong enough to throw off trouble?' 'Yes; if he doesn't try to throw it off on tae

ABORTIVE LIBEL SUIT. The trial of the action brought by a barrister, named Yeatman, against the editor and publisher of the Saturday Review for alleged libels contained in criticisms of works published by the plaintiff was concluded in the Queen's Bench Division on Wednes- day. At the close of the case the jury, after a short consultation, found for the defendants on the ground that none of the articles were libellous or exceeded the limits of fair and honest criticism. Judgment was pronounced accordingly.

ALL arrangements for the Queen's jon rnev to Ciraiez have now been completed. Her Majesty pro- poses to set out from Windsor Castle on March 9, and travel via Folkestone and Boulogne. Lighting-up Time-Illuminating a clock.' In India the average duration of life of the natives is twenty-four years, as against forty- four in England. Melbourne, now the seventh city of the Em- pire, consisted, at the time of Queen Victoria's accession, of thirteen huts. ■■ Artificial ivory is now made chiefly from skimmed milk and borax. Even billiard-balls, are sometimes made of this artificial compound, j

MOLD. ALUN SCHOOL OLD BOYS' ASSOCIATION". The second annual gathering under the auspices of the above, was held on Wednes- day, the 8th inst. At 11 o'clock ia the morn- ing the committee sat at the Black Lion Hotel for the purpose of discussing several matters in connection with the association. Mr. Tom Grindley was elected president for the ensuing year. After the business, the committee adjourned to Preswylfa, where they sat down to a lunch, at the kind invitation of the head master, Mr. W. Lloyd Parry. In the afternoon a football match was played between elevens of the past and present. Rain fell almost incessantly, but the game was witnessed by a good number of partisans of both sides. Scarcely had the game been in progress a few minutes, when the old boys obtained a goal. The present soon afterwards pressed and equalized. Both sides were playing hard, but the good con- dition of the Alun boys soon gave them superiority over their rivals who were kept at bay, and could not resist their opponents' attacks. The interval arrived with the score in favour of the Present' by four goals to two. The second half was well contested, and each side augmented this score by two goals each, the whistle bringing a good game to a close with the score. Present-6 goals. Past-4 goals. Mr. J. B. Marston was the referee. In the evening, the annual dinner was held at the Black Lion Hotel, Mr. Grindley presiding. There were about forty guests present, and a capital repast was supplied by the hostess—Miss Scott. Some excellent songs were contributed, and the usual toasts were drank with enthusiasm, an enjoyable meeting being brought to a close by the passing of the customary votes of thanks. RAISING CHURCH FUNDS. A novel method of obtaining funds was adopted by Mr. C. P. Morgan, of Bryn-yr haul, for the church of New Brighton, in which he takes gieat interest, and which, lately, had undergone extensive alterations, the liabilities of which were met to some extent by adopting the Parisian style of concert, namely a 'Cafe Chantant' which was given at the Town Hall, on Thursday last. There was plenty of local help, and in the afternoon the elite of the neighbourhood were in full, force, whilst in the evening the male members of the audience could indulge in the weed. Amongst those who contributed to the enjoyment were Mr. Frank Lloyd, of Chester, a London entertainer, Messrs. Lowsby, Rutter Thomas, Kendall, Myatt, Madame Adams, Mr. T. S. Adams, Miss Hewitt, Buckley, and others. The event was a financial success, and Mr. Morgan is further enabled to liquidate the debt on his church by Lis. HOCKEY. MOLD V. SEFTON. This match was played on the home ground on Saturday, when a capital exposition of the game was given. The homesters had the best of the play throughout, and had hard lines in scoring in several occasions. The visitors in the first half secured a soft goal which could have been prevented if the home players had left their own goalkeeper to use his own judg- ment. In the second half the visitors scored a goal, and the homesters afterwards rushed the ball through, the game, finally being in favour of the visitors by two goals to one. For the home team, Lowshy, Gillespie, Evans, Lawton,- Romney Owen, and Dr. Lunt played an excel- lent game. Judging by the display, a mis- take was made in the selection of the team, North against South, by not including several of the before named players. THE COST OF THE QUEEN'S FERRY BRIDGE. A special meeting of the Flintshire County Council was held at the County Hall, on Wed- nesday last, for the purpose of confirming, or otherwise, a resolution of the Council passed on the 14th of December last, authorising an ap- plication to Parliament for powers enabling the County Council to borrow additional sums of money for the purpose of constructing and completing the bridge over the Dee at Queen's Ferry, and the works connected therewith, authorised by the Queen's Ferry Bridge Act 1894. In the absence of Lord Kenyon, Councillor Thomas Parry (vice-chairman) presided, and explained that the meeting was purely a formal one, as it was necessary that the resolution should be confirmed by a majority of the whole Council. The resolution was then formally confirmed. It may be mentioned that the original cost of the bridge was f,13,000, but by numerous ob- stacles, difficulties and other expenditure which could not be foreseen at the time, a sum of E19,600, has been paid on this account. It has been decided to apply for borrowing powers for a sum of E10,000, but it is expected that 1:3,000 or;C4,000 will surmount all difficulties. There is no doubt that the bridge has been an inestimable boon to the County, and its neighbours, and the Flintshire people espacially will hail with delight the day when it is fully completed, and relieved of all burdens.

SPECIAL POLICE COURT. At the Magistrate's Clerk office on Tuesday last, before Messrs. Henry Lloyd Jones, and W P. Jones, Thomas Evans, a tramp, who said he came from Borough, London, was charged under the Vagrancy Act with selling goods without a hawker's license. Robert Peters, of Bridge Street, Mold, a hairdresser, said that at 4 5 p.m. on the pre- vious night, the prisoner eame to him in High Street, and asked him if he would buy some nice cards. Witness refused to buy them, and the prisoner offered ..0 sell a pack for 6d as he was badly off. Witness bought 2 for 3d, and prisoner said he would see some photographs in the dark. Witness looked at them, bub they were only plain cards. John Thomas Williams, of High Street, Mold, a hairdresser, stated that he was with the last witness on the night in question. The prisoner sold him two cards for 2d. but they were plain cards. Sergt. Jones, of Mold, stated that at 6 30 i ni complaints he heard, he arrested the p;, "Der, and asked him for his license to sell got, The prisoner had none. Tli,, Defendant was sent to goal for 7 days with hard labour.

ST. ASAPH. TEMPERANCE MEETING. A meeting in connection with the Noncon- formist bodies with regard to the above, took place at the C.M. schoolroom on Thursday eve- ning last, when addresses were delivered by the Rev. Rowland Rowlands, Rhyl, and others. ASH WEDNESDAY. Services were held at the Cathedral and the Parish Church on Wednesday last. The inha- bitants were eagerly watching the march of the children to the latter place-the Parish Church —but the school children did not attend. The continual objection of Nonconformists, no doubt, had something to do with the non-atten- dance. CHURCH INSTITUTE. In connection with the above, which is held at the Old Mostyn Arms Hotel, on Thursday week, a paper was read by Dr. Wilson on 'Music.' During his address, he was not ex- plaining himself as very favourable to the singing at' Eisteedfodau.'—On Thursday last, the subject was 'Welsh Characteristic in English Literature,' by the Rev. D. W. Davies- vicar, and was highly appreciated by all. DEBATING SOCIETY. On Wednesday evening last, at the C.M. schoolroom, under the presidency of the Rev. Jonathan Jones, the last of the debates of the season took place, when the subject was 'Should old age pension be given.' The affirmative side was taken up by Mr. R. Griffiths, Arsyllfa, and the negative by Mr. Henry Thomas, Gwynfa Terrace. The meetings throughout the season were highly appreciated, and many a happy evening has been spent. CONCERT. On Tuesday evening, being Shrove Tuesday, a grand concert was held at the National Schools. The proceeds were divided equally between the funds of the Sunday School and the Church Institute. The following artistes took part:—Mrs. and Miss Fosbery, Bryn Elwy; Mrs Tayleur, Rhyl; Miss Walton Evans, Llandudno; Mr. H. G. Stock, Bryn- dderwen; Mr. R. M. Evans, Rhyl; and Mr. Groves. Mr. Bedford gave a series of comic sketches, lasting half an hour. The accompanist was Dr. Wilson. The concert was well atten- ded, and no doubt a good sum will be realised.

Defendant: I am willing to accept on this condition The Chairman There is no condition. Defendant: Yes, on condition that he is not to go any more to my parents' house to aggra- vate them. This concluded the business.