The North Wales Times

WELSH BARDS AND THE WAR • Appended is a free translation of the spirited englynion recited by Penfro, vicar of Glan Con- way, the Chaired Bard of the Institutional Order of Welsh Bards, who performed the cere- mony of unsheathing the Gorsedd Sword as the Sword of the Lord.and Victoria at Saturday's ceremony on the Welsh hills. The translation is far from doing justice to the spirit and fire of the Welsh original Sword of the Bard long sheathed in Peace And must thy dreamless slumber cease ? And must we call thee to forego Thy rest to meet a sullen foe ? Thou Sword, we fain would sheathe thee still For holy rites upon our bill But in the hour ot frenzied wrong, 0 Sword! thy blade be bright and strong. Unsheathe the Sword when foes assail With thee the Truth of God prevail The arm in strife and dark distress- It is the Sword of Righteousness. Within our hallowed hoiry shrine. False stand afar come, Truth Divine And bare we thee to-day, 0 Sword For Right, for Freedom, and the Lord. Up with the Flag and may it wavo For all the just, the truth, the brave Beneath its sway the triumph song, Free from all fear, will sweep along. And Lovalty to Britain's Throne Shall cull her sons to claim her own Their dauntless courage none shall cower 2 To crush a tyrant's craven power. Victoria's shield shall ever be Protector of the True and Free, Till Peace abound and lasting good, And Universal Brotherhood. Reprev Injustice, Jesu Thou Our God, we call upon Thee now; Impurity remove, 0 Lord 1 Then turn to slumber still, O'Sword

NEW JUSTICES. PROTEST BY MR. LUMLEY. The Epiphany Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the County of Denbigh were held at the County Hall, Ruthin, on Friday. Captain Griffith-Boscawen presided, the other magistrates on the bench being Col. Mesham (Deputy Chairman), the Lord Lieutenant (Col. Cornwaliis West), Sir R. E. Egerton, Chancellor Bulkeley O. Jones, Messrs. J. W. Lumley, W. T. Rouw, Joseph Jones (Lianddulas), Dr. J. R. Jenkins, the Mayor of Ruthin (Dr. J. Medwyn Hughes), Col. T. A Wynne Edwards, Col. Heaton, Messrs. James Darlington, E. Lloyd Jones, J. T. Jones-Parry, W. D. W. Griffith, Alger- non Potts, Captain Cole, Col. Geo. Gregson Ellis, J. Duncan Miller, George Blezard, and G. H. Denton. THE CHARGE. In his charge to the Grand Jury, the foreman of whom was Mr. Hugh Davies, the Chairman said, he was glad to be able to congratulate them on the state of the calendar, there being only three cases to be brought before them. This was in marked contrast to the number of casea tried at the last Quarter Sessions çheld at Wrexham, when there were 14 prisoners indicted. The fluctuation in the number of prisoners from time to time was rather difficult to under- stand, as, previous to the Wrexham Ses- sions, they met on two or three occasions, when there was no criminal work at all. The working of the Summary Jurisdiction Act bad no doubt a great deal to do with the diminution in the number of prisoners. Taking, however, all the sessions into con- sideration, the average number of cases tried at the sessions was, he thought, about five or six. The large number at Wrexham Sessions was certainly not an indication of increase of crime in the county. That state of things was simply due to exceptional circumstances, the police having been suc- cessful in arresting a number of old offen- ders, most of them from outside the county, and members of the criminal class. Look- ing at the average, however, he thought there was reason for congratulation at the continued small number of serious offences in the county. There were no persons at present, commited to the Assizes, and they might therefore reasonably con- gratulate themselves that the county was free from crime, especially so when they considered the increase in the population at the Wrexham end. The chairman then referred briefly to the three cases on the calender. The Jury returned a true bill in all the cases. NEW JUSTICES. The following new justices qualified, and took their seats on the bench :—Messrs. W. L. Jelf-Petit (Llanrwst), J. Thorley Sykes (Rossett), Charles Frederick Woodall (Col- wyn), William Jones (Colwyn), and Dr. J. R. Hughes (Denbigh). RESIGNATION OF MR. J. R. BURTON. A letter was read from Mr. J. R. Burton, Minera, resigning his membership of the Standing Joint Committee, on account of continued ill health. The Chairman said they were all, no doubt, sorry that Mr. Burton had been com- pelled to resign. He begged to move that the resignation be accepted, and that the Clerk of the Peace be instructed to write to Mr. Burton expressing the regret of the justices at the cause of his resignation. Col. West seconded, and the motion was agreed to. APPOINTMENT OF A NEW MEMBER. Colonel Mesham moved the appointment of Mr. F. H. Barker, of Wrexham, as Mr. Burton's successor on the Standing Joint Committee, and referred to the long period of 36 years, during which Mr. Barker had served as a magistrate of the county. Mr. Jones-Parry seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously. THE VISITING COMMITTEE TO H.M. PRISON. MR. LUMLEY ENTERS A PROTEST. The next business on the agenda was to appoint five members of the court to act as Visiting Committee of Her Majesty's Prison at Ruthin for the ensuing year, the retiring members of the committee being Col. Cornwaliis West, Chancellor Bulkeley O. Jones, Mr. G. H. Denton, Captain Cole, and Mr. George Blezard. Mr. Lumley rose and said—I beg to pro- pose that the constitution of this Commit- tee of Visitors to the gaol be changed. I do not desire this change because the members of the committee have not done their duty as visitors, but because I think that it is time for the constitution of the committee to be altered. My first reason for proposing the change is this—that a committee of this character should not be a life committee, or in other words, that a person once appointed member of the com- mittee, should not of necessity remain so fot the natural term of his life. My other reason is this-that it is only simple justice to the prisoners who are unfortunate enough to go within the four walls of that gaol, that there should be gentlemen on the Committee of Visitors who can talk with them in their own language, should any of the prisoners be Welsh. I do not think there is one gentleman on this committee, barring Chancellor Bulkeley Jones,perhaps, who could converse with a monoglot Welsh- man. I do not wish to draw any invidious distinction between one member of. this committee and another, but I would sug gest as the most simple mode of electing this committee, that the two oldest mem- bers shall retire, leaving the three other members, along with two new ones, to make up the committee. If my suggestion will not be acceptable, perhaps the five gentle- men can arrange among themselves which two shall retire The Chairman You must make some de- finite proposition. Mr. Lumley: Very well. Then I propose that the two oldest members of the commit- tee-Col. Cornwaliis West and Chancellor Jones shall retire, and their places filled by the appointment of the Mayor of Ruthin (Dr. Medwyn Hughes), and Mr. Thos. Jones, the chairman of the Ruthin District Coun- cil. The constitution of the court of Quar- ter Sessions is somewhat altered to what it used to be, and I think it is only light that this court shall recognise those- persons who are, by virtue of their office, members of the court. The Mayor of Ruthin I respectfully beg to have my name withdrawn. The Chairman Mr. Lumley, do you wish to substitute any name for that of the Mayor ? Mr. Lumley No, sir. There being no seconder to Mr. Lumley's motion, it fell through. The Chairman I mustinow have a de- finite motion. Mr. Wynne Edwards then proposed that the old committee be re-elected. Col. Mesham seconded. Mr. Lumley: I beg to propose as an amendment, that Mr. Thomas Jones be I elected on the committee in place of Chan- cellor Jones. Col. Mesham: The first gentleman noroi nated by Mr. Lumley having declined to allow his name to be brought forward, may I ask whether Mr. Lumley has permission to nominate the second gentleman ? Mr. Lumley: No, I have not consulted anybody. Col. Mesham: I think it is just as well to have the permission of gentlemen to bring their names forward, because if not, it places the committee in a false position. Mr. Lumley: I do not know that is the rule of the court of Quarter Sessions, to consult any gentleman in these matters. The Chairman No, certainly there is no rule. Mr. Lumley: Then sir, I take it that all the gentlemen who have been proposed on this committee have been asked whether they will stand again or not. The Chairman They have not intimated their wish to give it up, and therefore I presume that they will stand. There was no seconder to the amendment,, and the motion having been put, was car- ried. THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE RUTHIN GRAMMAR SCHOOL. ANOTHER PROTEST BY. MR. LUMLEY. Chancellor Jones moved the re election of Col. Mousley as a representative of the court, on the Governing Body of the Ruthin Grammar School, to hold office for a term of five years. Col. Mousley bad attended 17 times out of a possible 23, during the time he bad been a member on the commit- tee. He was also a gentleman who resided in the immediate neighbourhood of Ruthin, and represented a considerable estate (Nantclwyd Estate), out of which a great part of the endowment of the Ruthin Gram- mar School arose. He bad proved himself a most useful and efficient member of the Governing Body, add he (Chancellor Jones) had pleasure in moving his re-election. Dr. Jenkins seconded. Mr. Lumley: I have no objection to the gentleman named, but I think it would be far better if the Governors of this body should be elected by the court, and not to be dictated to by members of the Govern- ing Body itself. It seems to me a strange proceeding for the chairman of the Govern- ing Body of the Ruthin Grammar School to come here, and ask the court of Quarter Sessions to assist him in selecting his own candidates on this body. I don't think it is the proper way public funds should be administered. It would have been far better for the Governors of the Ruthin Grammar School to have allowed the court a free hand to elect members on that body, and I protest against the members of this eourt, Councillor Jones and Dr. Jenkins, to come here to propose and second members to serve on this body. Dr. Jenkins I am sorry Mr. Lumley has made these remarks, We are members of this body, and I believe we have a perfect right to propose and second the election of Col. Mousley. What on earth, I should like to know, is there that Mr. Lumley won't object to (laughter, and hear, hear). If anybody in the world gets up to propose anything, he can hardly do so without Mr. Lumley finding something to protest against (renewed laughter). The motion was then agreed to. DIVISION OF A ROAD. Mr. Moss, M.P. (who appeared on behalf of the Llansilin Rural District Council), applied for an order for the diversion of the road approaches to Glantaiat Isa Bridge, in the parish of Llanrhaiadr-yn-Mochnant, and the same was granted. TRIAL OF PRISONERS. Meredith Jones, 45, collier, was indicted for having on or about the 19th of Octo- ber, stolen and carried away several straps and two brass bells, of the value of 08.. belonging to Jesse Roberts, in the parish of Broughton. The prisoner pleaded guilty, and he was sentenced to one month's im- prisonment. Mary Foulkes, 34, pleaded not guilty to a charge of having broken into and entered the Sun Inn, near Wrexham, on Sunday, the 12th of November, and stolen therefrom nine bottles of hop bitters. She also plead- ed not guilty to having received the bottles, knowing them to have been stolen. Mr. S. Moss, M.P., prosecuted, and the prisoner was undefended. The prisoner, who elected to give evidence on her own behalf, denied having been near the Sun Inn on the 12th of November, or having seen any of the witnesses on that day, with the exception of one. The prisoner was found not guilty, and discharged, the Chairman remarking that she had had a very narrow escape. Robert Powell, 31, labourer, was charged with having unlawfully wounded Meshach Roberts in the parish of Eclusham on the 16th of December, with a knife; he was further charged with having assaulted the prosecutor with the intent of doing him bodily harm, and with having committed I a common assault. Mr. S. Moss prosecuted, and the prisoner was defended by Mr. R. Bankes. The prosecutor alleged that when he and a friend were proceeding home in the di- rection of Rhostyllen, they overtook the prisoner. A quarrel ensued, and the pro- secutor was stabbed in the left side, which put an end to the fight. The jury returned a verdict of nat guilty, and the prisoner was discharged.

THE EQUIPMENT FUNDS. On Wednesday afternoon a public meeting was held in the County Buildings, Colwyn Bay, at which Col. W. Cnnwallis West, Lord Lieu- tenant of Denbighshire, presided, and there was a representative audience present. Col. Cornwallis West described the action he had already taken in the county with respect to the raising of a county fund for the equipment of the Yeomanry and Volunteers from the county who were going out to South Africa. It was desired to provide for the men such ex- tra equipment as they needed above and beyond what the Government grant would supply. Each volunteer would need about £5 spending upon him, and each yeoman 910 or 912. From North Wales there were going 116 Volunteers, divided between the three counties, and the Yeo- manry would number about 150. He hoped and believed that about £ 3,500 would be collec- ted in the county to carry out the proposal* He moved that a fund be opened, for the pur- pose of providing extra equipment for the Denbighshire Yeomanry and Volunteers who were going to South 4,f ries Mr. G. Bevan, chairman of the District Coun- cil, seconded, and Captain Stubbs, who acted as hon. secretary at the meeting, supported. The motion was carried unanimously. Captain Bennett Barker was appointed trea. surer. At the suggestion of Dr. Brooks, a subscrip- tion was started in the room, and about jE70 was at once promised, while others present ex- pressed their intention of paying their contri- butions to the banks, where accounts will be opened forthwith. Mr. T. G Osborn gave 20 guineas, and a cheque from the Hou. Laurance and Mrs. Brod- rick, of Coed sCoch, for a simitar amount was I receded. 1

ST. ASAPH. DEATH OF MR. SISSON. Another citizen passed away at a com paratively early age in the person of Mr. R. Fred Sisson, solicitor, Boderw. He had been ailing for a considerable time. He was the second son of the late Mr. R. J. Sisson, Registry Office, and Talardy, and had been with his father for manyyearsat the Diocesan Registry. Some years ago he was appointed administrator of oaths. He was also the secretary for the Rhuddlan Marsh Embank- ment Trust. His funeral, which was a public one, took place at the cemetery, St. Asaph, on Thursday last, amidst signs of deep regret, as Mr. Fred' was well loved by all who knew him. DEATH. It is with profound regret that we this week have to announce the very sudden and unexpected death of Mr. Evan Jones, Bull Inn, St. Asaph, which took place on Saturday last, shortly after one o'clock, at the early age of 41 years. Mr. Jones con- tracted a cold some time last week, but at first nothing serious was anticipated. How- ever, he was confined to his room on Thurs- day, and expired as above on Saturday. The news which spread quickly, was hardly credible to anyone, although too true. He was well known throughout the Yale of Clwyd as a cattle and pig dealer, and was a regular attendant at all the fairs of the sur- rounding towns. The funeral, which was a public one, took place on Wednesday last, and was ore of the largest witnessed for many years, numerous representatives of the family and friends from all the sur- rounding places attending. The Rev. D.W. Davies, senior vicar, was the officiating minister. The coffin, which was cf polished oak, with brass mountings, &c., was covered with beautiful wreaths. He was interred at the cemetery, St. Asaph.

ST. ASAPH (FLINT) RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of this Council was held on Friday last, Mr. Edwin Morgan being voted to the chair in the absence of the Chairman and Vice-chairman. There were also present:- Messrs. Thomas Morgan, Rice J. Williams, George Williams, W. Conwy Bell, Miss Ben- nett, Mr. Charles Grimsley (Clerk), Dr. Lloyd Roberts (Medical Officer of Health), Mr. George Bell (Sanitary Surveyor), and Mr. John Lloyd (Road Surveyor). PROPOSED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS. Mr. Rice J. Williams moved the appoint ment of a Committee of the whole Council to inspect the Green Lane, between the road lead- ing from Rhyl to Dyserth and the road leading past Pen'rhwylfa to Prestatyn, with a view to the consideration of the question of putting it in a condition fit for traffic. As it was at pre- sent, it was a nuisance to the surrounding farmers. Gipsies seemed to claim a right to it, and pitched their camps there, and their presence in a locality did not tend to the bene- fit of anyone. If Green Lane was repaired and straightened it would shorten the distance be. tween Rhyl and the growing town of Prestatyn by fully a mile. At present the principal part of the traffic was carried on through his field, where there was really only the right of bridle path. The traffic was very great, especially in summer months, and as it was, the field through which the road ran, was of very little use to him. There was only sufficient width for one vehicle at a time, but drivers did not hesitate to turn off the road to the tield whatever the crop might be, to pass another vehicle. And as for grazing the field it was impossible without keeping men to see that the gates at both ends were kept closed, because drivers persistently neglected and refused to close the gates after them. He threw it out as a suggestion that they should consider the question of repaiiing and straightening the Green Lane, make a new road from Rhydorddwy Fawr to a point near Pydew, or widen the road through his field and fence it off. If they adopted the suggestion of a new road, or the straightening of the Green Lane, it would be of great benefit to Rhyl and Prestatyn, and no doubt those towns would be glad to assist in the work. But for the present he only wished to move that a Committee be appointed to inspect the places. Mr. W. Conwy Bell, in seconding the resolu- tion, said that the road through the Rhyd field was only 10ft. wide, and he fully endorsed what Mr. Rice Williams said. The resolution was carried. RAILWAY EXTENSIONS. A notice was submitted by the solicitors of the London and North Western Railway Com- pany in reference to an application to Parlia- ment for the proposed widening of che Chester and Holyhead Railway in the Parish of Rhudd. lan. «, The matter was left in the hands of the Clerk with power to call a Committee if necessary, consisting of the Councillors for Rhuddlan, Dyserth, and Meliden. THE PRESTATYN LIGHT RAILWAY. A letter was read from the Light Railways Commissioners stating that they have settled the order for the Rhyl and Prestatyn Light Railway. STATE OF THE CITY ROADS. Mrs. Burton, Plas yn Roe, St. Asaph, wrote complaining of the state of the roads and foot- paths in certain places which she mentioned. The Surveyor said that the district roads were in fair order. Those roads, referred to by Mrs. Burcon, were in the County Council District. The Clerk was requested to inform Mrs. Bur- ton that the County Council were responsible for the roads which she complained of, and that her letter wonld be sent to the County Inspec- tor of Main Roads. ST. ASAPH AND THE COMMONS ACT. A letter and copy of resolution was read from the Parish Council of St. Asaph in refer- ence to the Commons Act, 1899. and asking this Council to make regulations for the man- agement of the St. Asaph Common. CWM WATER SUPPLY. It was decided to apply for a loan of JC700, re- payable in 30 years, for the purposes of pro- viding water supply for Cwm.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS THE RELIGIOUS SERVICES ONCE AGAIN. At the fortnightly meeting of the St. Asaph Board of Guardians, held on Friday, there were present :-Messrs. R. Llewelyn Jones (Chair- man), Gwilym Parry, Joseph Roberts, Hugh Williams, and T. Pierce Hughes, Denbigh; John Lloyd, Henllan Thomas Lloyd, Tref- nant; Morris Jones and David Roberts, Llan- sannan'; William Jones, Liannefydd; R.Griffith, Llanfair; Thomas Evans, John Vaughan, John Kerfoot, A. Foulkes, and John Williams, Aber- gele; Rice J. Williams, Dyserth; R. Davies, Prestatyn; George Williams, Meliden Edwin Morgan, Tremeirchion; Thomas Morgan, Cwm; S. Perks, P. Mostyn Williams, Mrs. M. Jones, and Mrs. Percy, Rhyl; Miss Bennett, St.Asaph, and Mr. Charles Grimsley (Clerk). POPULATION OF THE HOUSE. It was reported that the number of inmates last Board day was 137 admitted since, 8; dis- charged, 7; remaining in the House this day, 138-0. decrease of 3 on the corresponding date of last year. Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, 44; corresponding period last year, SO-decrease, 36. 'CHRISTMAS DAY IN THE WORK- HOUSE.' The Master read the following report of the Christmas festivittes among the paupersThe inmates have requested me to convey their sin- cere and heartiest thanks to the Board for the plentiful supply of roast beef, plum pudding, oranges, tobacco, sweets, &c., supplied to them on Christmas Day. Bright and profitable ser- vices were held in the chapel morning and after- noon. In the evening, a concert was held in the difcing hall, and, judging from the many warm and sincere expressions of gratitude which it was my pleasure to listen to, I have good cause to believe that Christmas Day was a time of real pleasure to all present. I also beg to ac- knowledge, with sincere thanks, gifts from Mrs. Dodd, late of Llannerch HaJJ, valuable books and toys for all the children. Mr. John Lux- more, writing from Cannes, sent 30s., which was spent in tobacco, tea, sugar, and bun-loaf for the men and women, and buns for the child. ren. Captain Arthur Heaton, St. Asaph, £1, which was spent for tobacco for the men, tea and sugar for the women, and nuts for the children, also (The Daily Graphic' throughout the year 1899. Mr. W. C. Jones, L'annerch, another gift of 48 rabbits. The children and a number of inmates were invited to attend the patriotic entertainment held in the St. Asaph National School. Mr. Llewelyn Heaton, St. Asaph, kindly treated all the inmates and child- ren to a first-class tea at the Cocoa Rooms. Miss Heaton, Angorfa, St. Asaph, kindly sent tea, loaf sugar, and buns for the aged, sick and infirm old men and women, also buns for all the children. Mrs. Luxmore the use of the field for recreation during the year 1899. Miss Walthall, The Cottage, St. Asaph, Christmas cards. Miss Steadman, Shotton, Flint, Christ- mas letters for all the inmates. Mr. David Hughes. printer, St. Asaph, new year cards for all the Guardians, officials, and inmates, with a picture of the Workhouse on one side, and local views on the other. Copies of the Rhyl Record and Advertiser' and the' Rhyl Journal' throughout the year from the Editors, and of 'Gwalia' from an unknown friend. The girls connected with the Girls' Friendly Society were invited to tea at the National Schools, and before leaving for home were presented with useful gifts.' The report continued that, on Tuesday evening, 2nd inst., Mr. Fosebery, Bryn Elwy, gave an entertainment for the benefit of the officers and inmates in the dining hall, with gramaphone selections, of which a full description was given. On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Edwin Morgan, a cordial vote of thanks was passed to the ladies and gentlemen who had so kindly provided for the comfort and enjoy- ment of the inmates. THE SERVICES IN THE CHAPEL. Mr. Gwilym Parry said that, before the Mas- ter left the room, he would like to ask if there was any arrangement between him and the Board as to his attending the services on Sun- days. The Master replied that he was not aware of any arrangement under which it was compul- sory on the officials or the inmates to attend religious services. He had never brought any compulsion to bear on any of the inmates. Mr. Gwilym Parry-I am asking about you, personally. The Master said he was not aware of any arrangement under which it was compulsory for him to attend the services at the chapel. Later on, when the chaplain's report book was read, Mr. Gwilym Parry asked why the book had not been signed by Mr. Boaz Jones who had conducted the service on the previous Sunday morning. Mr. Jones (the Master) stated that it was Mr. Boaz Jones' own fault that he did not sign the book. The porter placed the book in the ves. try as usual, but Mr. Boaz Jones went out with- out signing it. Mr. Gwilym Parry said they were well aware of what had happened when Mr. Boaz Jones was in the Workhouse some time ago. He was also aware that so far as they could tell, the Master was under no contract to be present all the services. But they did know, and he was pleased to be in a position to say so, that the Master had been a very regular attendant at the services. But last Sunday morning, when Mr. Boaz Jones was to preach, the Master was not there, and Mr. Boaz Jones left without being asked to sign the book. He was treated differently to others who came there to preach. Mr. Thomas Evans-Mr. Boaz Jones should be kept from the Workhouse chapel altogether. Mr. John Williams hoped they were not going to have any more trouble with Mr. Boaz Jones, and thought the matter had better be allowed to drop. Mr. Gwilym Parry said that Mr. Boaz Jones came there on behalf of the Nonconformist Committee, and like all Nonconformist minis- ters, he was entitled to be treated pro- perly. What had transpired in the past had nothing to do with the treatment he had re- ceived. The Chairman remarked that they could not compel the Master to attend the services, and thought they had better let the matter drop. Mr. Perks-But [ do not think that it should be thought for one moment that Mr. Jenes (the Master) is bound to attend the services here. He can attend where he likes. The Chairman said he could not allow the dis- cussion to proceed any further. It was usual to propose a vote of thanks to the gentlemen who had conducted services there during the year; and he had great pleasure in proposing it from the chair. He hoped they would all endeavour not to fan any little flame which may have been started in this matter (hear, hear). He hoped that the Guardians, the Master, and all who attended the services, would see that they were properly conducted. Let them learn to forget and forgive, and try and work to- gether in a proper spirit (hear, hear). Mr. John Williams having seconded the vote of thanks, it was carried unanimously. THE PROPOSED COTTAGE HOMES. A DISAGREEMENT AS TO THE SITE. Miss Bennett reported that a meeting of the Visiting Committee had been held that morning to consider the question of securing land for the erection of cottage homes. A letter had been received from Mr. Luxmore's solicitors, point- ing out that Mr. Luxmore had no desire to sell any of his land adjoining the Workhouse. But if the Board were anxious to secure a site for the proposed cottage homes, he would meet them. However, before anything could be done, Mr. Luxmore desired the land to be sur- veyed, and the Committee recommended the Board to adopt that suggestion, and that a local surveyor should be appointed so as to cur- tail expense. She proposed the adoption of the Committee's report. Mr. Rice J. Williams seconded. Mr. John Williams considered it would be much better to build the proposed homes in the garden between the Workhouse and the railway. They were told that Mr. Blrcham would not sanction the building, nor would the Local Government Board. While respect- ing what Mr. Bircham said, he did not think that gentleman could answer for the Local Government Board. If they could save money, they should do so, in view of the agricultural depression and the serious burden which the present war would place on the country. He proposed that they ask the Local Government Board to sanction the erection of the homes on a portion of the gardens. Mr. David Roberts seconded. The Chairman pointed out that the Local Government Board would not sanction it. Mr. Bircham had told them that they could not build on the land (cries of Shame'). Mr. Thomas Morgan Bad it was a very hard case. Mr. P. Mostyn Williams remarked that the owner of the land had not been inclined to sell until Mr. Grimsley had interviewed him. He thought that the Board would be stultifying I, themselves if they adopted the course suggested by Mr. Williams. Mr. Bircham's opinion would have a great weight with the Local Government Board, and the site suggested by the Committee was in every way preferrable to that now pro posed by Mr. W illiams. If they could get the land at reasonable price, they would be doing a good thing for the Union. Mr. Foulkes supported the amendment, say- ing that he regarded the proposal to appoint a surveyor would be the thin end of the wedge to incur a heavy expenditure. He had seen plans I prepared by the Master, and thoroughly ap- proved of them. The Master had saved them hundreds of pounds in the past by the plans he had drawn, ana the work had been carried out for the Board. They should now endeavour to save the expense of a fresh site. Mr. Perks said there was such a thing as false economy, and for the sake of saving a little money they should not put stumbling blocks in the way of adopting the better scheme. Mr. Bircham said the homes were a necessity, and there was no doubt the Local Government Board would not allow the erection of a building on the garden. On a vote being taken, the amendment was carried by 13 to 7. THE SCHOOL ATTENDANCE ARRANGE- MENTS. Mr. John Williams reported that the School Attendance Committee had re-appointed all the officers at the same salaries as heretofore. As Rhyl and Prestatyn have been made separate school districts, the parish of Rhuddlan had been added to Meliden for the purposes of school at- tendance supervision. NOTICE OF MOTION. Mr. Gwilym Parry gave notice that he would, at the next meeting, move that all reports of committees be in writing.

RHYL. CHURCH PARADE AND WAR COLLECTION. On Sunday, the local company of volunteers, about 50 strong, marched to St. Thomas' church, under the command of Lieutenant Hall. A special sermon was preached by the vicar, and a collection amounting to nearly 923 was taken towards the fund for those dependent on soldiers and sailors now employed in South Africa. VOLUNTEERS AND THE WAR. On Monday, five members of the Denbighshire Hussars left Rhyl for Wrexham to join the Imperial Yeomanry. On Tuesday night, thirty three members of the volunteer company sub- mitted themselves to medical inspection by Surgeon Lieutenant Swanson, who passed 26 of them as fit for service.

URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL MONTHLY MEETING. Monday.—Present:—Messrs. A. L. Clews (in the chair), J. H. Ellis, P. Mostyn Williams, E. P. Jones, D. Griffiths, J. W. Jones, C. W. Berrie, Robert Jones, H. A. Tilby, John Frim- ston, Dr. Girdlestone, Messrs. A. Rowlands (clerk), A. A. Goodall (surveyor), Robert Hughes (consulting engineer), L. G. Hall (gas and water manager), and R. J. Hughes (sani- tary inspector). A RETROSPECT. The Chairman, at the commencement of the meeting, said that he had great pleasure in conforming with the usu".} custom of wishing the members of the Council a very happy and prosperous new year. Continuing, he said it was also usual to say a few words regarding the work of the Council during the preceeding year. In some respects. 1899 had been an eventful one for Rhyl. Passing over the two controversial matters which they had had un- der their consideration, viz., the much vexed question of the promenade extension and the water supply, he went on to say that these would come up again for consideration at a future time. He congratulated those engaged in the staple industry of the town upon the very excellent season which Rhyl had in 1899. It was partly as a result of the good season that a good deal of building was going on this winter, as the builders were preparing for a greater accession of visitors in future seasons. In addition to private buildings, the London and North-Western Railway Company were making very substantial alterations and addi- tions to their property in the town. They were widening the line all through the district, and the work was in a very f orwa, d state at the present time. They were aho greatly enlarg. ing the accommodation at Rhyl station, and the town was to be congratulated upon these excel- lent improvements, not only from their own point of view, but from the point of view of the public generally. Referring t,) the matters which the Council itself had had in hand, a further length had been added to the West Promenade, and he hoped that the arrange- ments proposed to be made with Messrs. Wil- liams and Sutcliffe would be carried out, where by another length would be constructed, and that in a few years the West Promenade would be extended right to the Voryd, when Rhyl would have a fine promenade reaching right across the district from the Marine drive to the river. Then on the east end outside, but contiguous to the district, Captain Keatinge was engaged in adding to the sea defences before his property. He thought they should express their indebtedness to Captain Keatinge for his public spirited action, and hoped that other I owners would follow his example, as these sea f defences would be a benefit to the town. New filter beds had been completed, and he congra- tulated the engineer, Mr. Hall, on the way the work had been done, and upon the fact that he had kept within the original estimate. Several of the works contemplated and practically passed by the, Council were of an important character. They had decided to adopt the act for the Housing of the Working Classes, and had gone as far as they could in the matter. A tender had been accepted, but since that time, the contractor had withdrawn it, and the Coun- cil had to modify the whole scheme. They could not spend beyond a certain amount, and, in consequence, the scheme had to be remo- delled. He hoped, however, that some very useful and substantial houses would be put up. They were about to erect a dust and refuse destructor. The Rhyl and Prestatyn Light Railway would soon be made, he hoped. It would greatly increase the facilities of commu- nication between Rhyl and Prestatyn, and the adjoining villages. Lastly, they had in hand a scheme to cost kl5,000 for supplying electric light in the town, and he hoped it would be a great success (cheers). During last year, their Surveyor, Mr. Robert Hughes, had retired on a pension from that office, but they still had the benefit of his services as consulting engineer. He took this opportunity of extending a public welcome to Mr. Goodall, the new surveyor. They had been fortunate enough to efiect a reduction in the general district rate in 1899, and also in the price of gas, and he hoped they would be able to make a further reduction in the rate at the end of the present financial year. In the next years ■ revenue, the new rating of the railway would come into force, and that would assist to reduce the rates. In conclusion, he referred at some length to the war in South Africa. Mr. J. H. Ellis, on behalf of the Council and the officials, thanked the Chairman for his good wishes. A PROPOSAL FOR A PUBLIC PARK DECLINED. At a meeting of the Road Committee, a letter was read from Mr. Chadwick in reply to the Clerk's inquiry, offering part of the old Winter Gardens (inButterton Road), about 7,000 square yards, for 91,800, for a public park, as it stands, including roads, boundary walls, &e. Mr. J. W. Jones said that if the Council had had the offer to purchase the Winter Gardens before they were dismantled, they might have considered the matter. He moved that Mr. Chadwick be thanked for his offer, bub for financial reasons, the matter be not enter- tained. This was carried. NEW APPROACH TO THE STATION. It was reported that a deputation consisting of the Chairman of the Council, the Chairman of the Road Committee (Mr. J. H. Ellis), Mr. J. A. Williams, and the Town Surveyor had had an interview with Mr. Bullouck, the engi- neer of the railway company, as to the comple- tion of Alexandra Brdge, and urged the advi- sability of providing an approach to the station from the corner of High Street and Kinmel Street. The Engineer had since written to the Town Surveyor, informing him that the railway company had decided to make the road, and that the work would be commenced a8 soon as they could obtain possession of the property required, which they hoped to do soon. HOUSING OF THE WORKING CLASSES. The Clerk reported having made application ts the Local Government Board for sanction to borrow 92,650 for the erection of twelve cotta- ges, but Mr. Robert Hughes, consulting engi- neer, owing to the withdrawal of the accepted tender, in consequence of the great increase ins price of building material, had found it neces- sary to raise the amount to 93,232. The Committee recommended that the plans be amended so as to bring the cost to the amount applied for, and, at their request, the Town Surveyor prepared a sketch of houses that would be suitable. Mr. Berrie hoped thfit the Committee would have full power to proceed with the work, as he believed it could be done cheaper than by letting it by contract. There was a great demand in the town for working men's dwell- ings. He spoke from his experience as a house' agent. On his books were 17 applications for houses of this class, by respectable working men, to whom he would have no hesitation in letting houses, and fifteen of whom were now living in apartments, because they could not get suitable houses. Mr. Tilby moved, as a rider to the recom- mendation of the Committea, that power be given to the Committee to engage an architect, if necessary, and to carry out the work. The great delay that had taken place in this matter was a scandal to the town. Now they would have to pay increased interest on the money borrowed, and for building material. Mr. Mostyn Williams seconded, The minutes of the Comittee with Mr. Tilby's rider were adopted. VOTE OF SYMPATHY W[TH MR. J. A. WILLIAMS. The Chairman moved a vote of sympathy with Mr. J. A. Williams, Chairman of the Gas Committee, who has for some weeks been seriously indisposed, Dr. Girdlestone, in seconding, said that & day or two previously he had had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Williams, and he was glad to say that he was getting on very nicely. The resolution was cordially carried. THE LATE DUKE OF WESTMINSTER. On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Mostyn Williams, a vote of condolence was passed with the Duchess of Westminster and the family in their bereavement.

PETTY SESSIONS. Tuesday.— Before Dr. Girdlestone (chair* man), Messrs. S. Perks, R. M. Hugh Jones, and J. H. Ellis. LICENSING. The license of the Albert Vaults, Sussex. St., was transferred to Mrs. Alice Hill, widow Of the late tenant. RATE CASES. Several ratepayers were summoned for non- payment of the General District Rate, and the usual order was made in each case. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. William Jones, farm labourer, HendreFarm, Rhuddlan, was charged by P.C. Gomer Jones with being drunk and disorderly in High St., Rhyl, on December 23rd last. Mr. Bromley defended. The officer stated that he saw the defendant: on the date in question very drunk, and using very bad language. When requested to go home, he refused, but when another officer ap- peared on the scene, some friends took him home. Mr. Bromley admitted the offence on behalf of the defendant, but pleaded that he was a young man, who had never been in trouble before, and on this occasion he drank ram, a drink that he was not used to, for a cold he was suflering from. A fine of 2s. 6d. and 7s. 6d. costs was imposed