The Welsh Coast Pioneer and Review for North Cambria

PRESENTATION AT LLANDDULAS The festivities connected with the coming of ago of Lord Cochrane opened most propitiously amidst briliiant autumn weather at Llanddulaa to-day week. The Boys' School, where the children of the parish were regaled with a magnificent tea., given by the Countess of Dundonald, presented a bright and attractive appearance being decked with Bags and garlands. The old folks were provided with a meat te.a. in the Girls' School, served at tables decorated with an abun- dance of flowers arranged in an artistic man- ner. Lord Cochrane, accompanied by the Countess of Dundonald, Lady Jean Cochrane, Lady Marjorie Cochrane, and the Hon. R. Cochrane, were received by the Rector (Rev. C. F. Roberts). The appearance of the party was the signal for loud and prolonged cheering n the part of the assembled youngsters. Mr B. H. Jones, the headmaster of the Boys' School, on behaif of the teachers and scholars of both schools, presented Lord Cochrane with a set of massive silver sealing appliances of beautiful design, supplied, by Mr Cross, of Colwyn Bay and Llandudno. The presentation of a military telescope of remarkable power and fine workmanship followed. This was the gift of his Lordship's well-wishers connected with Uanddulas and the presentation was made in an appropriate manner by the Rector on behalf of the subscribers. Lord Cochrane expressed his thanks in a. way which showed how much he appreciated the kindly feeling displayed towards him. After a song from the children, a move was made to the old people's party. The Rector opened the proceedings, and referred to the (lebt the parish owed, and indeed the whole Church in Wales, to the generosity of the Gwrych family. Mr Thomas Benj. Williams thanked the Coun- tess of Dundonald for her hospitality, and ex- pressed the good wishes of her guests that day for the welfare of her son and heir. Lord Cochrane responded, and addressed a few kind and genial words to the assembled company, and it was very touching to witness his and his sister's greeting of some of the old folks who had spent a life time in the service of his mother s family. We ought to add that the Rev. J. W. Thomas, assistant curate, acted as secretary and treasurer of the Presentation Committee. Tue catering for the children's tea was entrusted to Mr \\m. Jones, Bona House, while Mrs.Roberts Rail- way Hotel, provided for the eiders, and both discharged their commission in a manner which, elicited universal satisfaction.

OLD FOLKS ENTERTAINIED. At the Church House, Abergele, un Friday tevening. a large number of the old folks at Abergele were entertained by the Countess of Dundonald to a very substantial repast which ono and all thorougnlv enjoyed. It wac a most interesting gathering, and it allorcled many the opportunity of "talking over old time* The Countess of Dundonald accompanied Lord Cochrane, and during the evening the Rev. D R. Griffiths, curate of Aberreie, on behalf od: the o'd folks, asked Lord Cochrane to accept an interesting memento of the occasion He said the old folks felt that they would like to take part in the coming-of-age rejoicings, and they had subscribed for a very handsome silver cigarette caee. He asked his lordship tc> accept the <*ift as a token of their warm and attec- tionaTe respect, and it was their sincere wish that Lord Cochrane would enjoy a long life of happiness, and be an ornament to society ^cheers). JLord Cochrane, in acccpting the gift-, said he was delighted to receive such a handsome pira- gent and more especially as it came from the old folks of the district. He accepted it in the spirit in which it was given, and looked upon it. as a token of their e6teem and warm-heartedness to- wards him. It was a useful and most accept- able present, and he would treasure it among the most valued of the presents he had received (applause). The Vicar of Abergele proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the Countess of Dundonald for en- tertaining the old folks to such a sumptuous repast, and then called for cheers for her lady- ship and Lord Cochrane, which were most iheartiiv given. During the evening a musical' programme was sustained by Miss Jones, The Schools; Miss .Wainwright, Mr Bedford, and Mr J. Pierce.

TREAT TO THE SCHOOL CHILDREN. ViCAR OF ABERGELE'S SPEECH. In connection with the coming of age festivi- ties the children were by no means forgotten. It had been intended to give them an atterrioun of sports, followed by a Lea and entertainment, on baturday, but owing to the wet weataer tne oui-door portion of the entertainment had to be postponed. The children attending the National feciiools met at an early hour, and, under tne direction of Mr Bedford and Miss Gittens, walked in procession to the Church House. They presented a very pretty spectacle, and their brig-nt and happy laces told how thoroughly they enjoyed the outirig. Tne children trouti the Towyn Schools were brought to Abergelo in waggons, lent by Mr Gration, of Foryd, and, ivilii the banners and flays Hying, they wended their way to a point near the Churoh House. Marshalled by Mr Nokes. they marched from DLtindonald-ave-nue to the Church House, waere a splendid tea was awaiting them. Here some 43U little ones sat down, and were waited on by a host of ladies and gentlemen, among whom were the following: Mr and Mrs Inglis, Mr and Mrs Herring, Mr Inglis (junr.), Mr and Mrs Bedford, Mr and Mrs Kookes, Mr Duncan Miller, J.P., Mr John Han- nah, J.P. (chairman of the Council), Mr E. Wil- liams (vice-chair III aD), Mr E. A. Crabbe (justices' olork), the Vicar of Abergele, Rev. D. R. Grif- fiths, Miss Gittens, Miss Thomas, Miss Davies, Mr Fleiclier, Mr W. H. Jones, Mr E. H. Mill- ward (one of the school managers), Mr and Mrs Pierce, Mr and Mrs S. Davies, and others. Tea over, tho children were dismissed for a short timo while the room was cleared, and when they returned they waited the arrival of the Countess of Dundonald and Lord Cochrane, who came in a motor car, accompanied by the Lady Jean Cucnrane, the Lady Marjorie Cochrane, and the Ho! Robin Cochrane. With one accord the whole audience rose and gave them a hearty reception, cheer after cheer resounding through- out the hall. After the children had sung "Ar hyd y nos," under the direction of Mr Bedford, The Vicar of A bergela presented Lord Coch- rane with a beautiful silver inkstand, which had beon subscribed to by the teachers and scholars of the Abergele National School. It bore the following inscription: "Presented to Lord Coch- rane, 1907." In handling the inkstand to Lord Cochrane, the Vicar said:—The Countess of Dun- donald, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the teacners and scnolars of the three departments of our National Schools I have great pleasure m presenting to Lord Cochrane tnis cnaste inkstand (applause). This gift is the outcome of a cteep feeling ot enthusiasm, willingness, and pleasure. It, no doubt, my lord, will appeal in no small force to you, as it is to be rert-inuered as a iJlt coming trom the school in which your motner has taken, and is taking, a vital inr crest-tap- plause)—and which owes its existence to tne splendid generosity of your family. It must be equally gratifying to your lordsnip that the young element ot these schools has expressed a desire to take part in the general rejoicings which now are called forth by the attainment of your majority (applause), it will be no less gratify- ing to ttiern,in years to come, when they grow up to be the men and women of this community, to reflect that they, in their young days, contributed to the celebration of one of the most important events in ypur lifetime (applause). They torm the school which occupies a most prominent place in the eyes of the education authority and ot the public in general. Its attainments, both in re- ligious and secular knowledge, are wgll known, and richly deserve the high reputation it has earned (applause). It is, perhaps, not too much to say that as an elementary scnool it is second to none in the county (applause). It only re- mains for me, my lord, to ask you to accept this token of respect and esteem and to couple with it the best wishes of both the teachers and taught for your future happine-ss and usefulness (ap- plause). Miss Emily Hughes then handed Lord Coch- rane a gold pen and pencil case, with adjustable watchkey., In doing so, she said: My lord, on behalf of the teachers and children of the Towyn School, I ask your, lordship's kind acceptance of this little memento of your coming of age, and our sincere wishes of your future welfare. We trust your life will be a happy and brilliant one, and that in the midst of your many duties you may be ablo to devote some of that care for education of the young, which has for so many years been characteristic of your lordship's family (applause). Lord Cochrane, who was received with cheers, said: Ladies, gentlemen, and children, I am afraid in the extraordinary generosity of the neighbourhood I have had shown to me during the past few days in giving me so many beauti- ful presents, that to a great extent the fount of my eloquence, if I may term it such, is nearly exhausted. It is well known that a spring has only the ordinary capacity to produoo the given quantity, and I am afraid that my spring will not give out' as well as I could wish it. I trust the ladies, gentlemen, and children, who have given me these beautiful presents, will take the will for the' deed, and that you will accept my thanks, not as I say them, but as I feel them myself (applause). Mr J. Duncan Miller, J.P., then proposed a vote of thanks to the Countess of Dundonald for the very liberal feast she had given the children that day He was sure from what he had saeo that the children had thoroughly enjoyed them-, solves. It was just such a treat as he would would have enjoyed when he was about eight, nine or ten years of age (laughter and hear, hear). Mr Bedford seconded the votes of thanks, and said that he was sure that the children had thoroughly enjoyed the treat, which, thanks to the generosity of the Countess of Dundonald, they had participated in that day (applause). Tho vote of thanks was carried with hearty ap- plause, and then ringing cheers were given for the Countess of Dundonald, Lord Cochrane, and for other members of the family. The children afterwards sang several effective compositions, and for about an hour Mr Cheet- ham. of the Central Hall, Rhyl, delighted the crowded audience with an excellent cinemato- graph entertainment, his fine display of films ba- ing highly suitable for such an audience.

MONDAY'S BANQUET. A LONG-TO-BE-REMEMBERED • GATHERING. SPEECH BY LADY DUNDONALD. HISTORY OF THE GWRYCH CASTLE FAMILY. INTERESTING PRESENTATIONS Monday evening will long be^emembftred by those who were privileged to attend the banquet given by tiho Countess of Dundonald in the Church House to mark the celebration of Lord Cochrane's ooming-otf-age- The occasion pri- marily was Lor the ctnaf tenants on the estate to gather together, but many of the principal residemits in the town wore invited, and the gathering was probably the mofit: important of all the interesting meetings which have taken place in connection with the festivities. Under the personal direction o; Mr J. Iturlis. the hall waa beautifully decorated, and the nianner in which Mr and Mrs Williams, of the Harp Hotel, set out the tables, arranged the repast, and attended to t.he wants of the guests, was in every way highly satisfactory, the general opinion being that the dinner re- flected the greatest credit on the cater- ers. Flowers were freely and moat tastefully introduced in the decorations. On the platform a special table was ar- ranged for Lord Cochrane, and a number of guests who ware more directly connected with the festivities. The chair was taken by Mr J- Inglis, the Estate Agent. On his right was the he-Ir to the Dundonald peerage, and' on his left was the Vioa.r of Abergele (chairman of the committee). There ware °a, on the plat- form Mr E. A. Crabbe,, Rev. Thompson Jones, Towyn; Mr J. Duncan Miller (chairman of the Tenants' Committee), Rev. C. F. Roberts, Rev Thomas. Llanddulas; Rev. D. R. Grif- fiths, Abergele; Mr J. T. Milwward, Mr J. D. Jones, Bodory n; Mr A. Fouikes, Hendregyda; Mr John Hannah (chairman of the Urban Council). Mr Bedford, Mr E. Roberts, Gaingc (the oldest tenn.rut on the estate); wrhile at tho tables nearest the platform were the follow- ing:—Messrs J. Pierce, J. Inglis (junr.), Fletcher, S- Davies, J. C- Knight. E. Williams, W H. Jones, M. Cross, Rogers. Judson, Ed- wards, Tanygrces; J- R. Ellis, Isaac Owen. E- H. Mill ward, Nokue, Jones. Lland-duias; Ed- wards, Sirrior; Rowlands, Glyn I. Edwards. T, F. Honk ins. D, G. Roberts, J. Buohannan, Jones, Penitreudha; Roberts, London House; Butshnill. Jones, jeweller; Pierce Davies, G: Perkins, T. Evans, 1"lond.dl\ver,í"n; J. C. Knight I. Morris, W. P. Morris, I-I. E. Prit- oha.rd, G. T. Evans. Bagsihaw, Parker, Davies, Edward-s. Pensarn; Bradley (Kinmel). etc. The menu was as follows: — SOUP. Clear Ot Tail. Mock Turtle. Roast Beef. Horse-radish Sauce. Boiled Mutton. Caper Sauce. Roast Pork. Apple REMOVES. Roast Lamb. Chickens and Tongue. SWEETS. Plum Pudding. Wine Sauce. Pastry a la Gelleve. Apple Tarts. Rice Pudding. Trifle. Tipsy Cake. Blancmange. Jellies. Cheese. Celery. Dessert. The tables having been cleared, the company waited a few moments for the arrival of the Countess of Dundonald. who was received with hearty ciheers, the whole of those nregent rising to t I-Le' r feet. and giving her lad'yship a truly Weish welcome. It was some time before the enthusiasm subsided, and her ladyship took a •.seat to the left of tihe Chairman, while Lady Jean Cochrane occupied a plaoe to the right of Lord Cochrane. Mrs Duncan Milter and Mrs Jones (the Vicarage) also came with the Countess, and they were accommodated with seats on tho platform- ROYAL TOASTS. The CHAIRMAN, in giving the toast of "The King," said he was sure that no words of his were needed to commend the toast to a gathering such as he saw before him that night. It was a gathering which would never bo forgotten. In proposing the health of the "Kig." he thought that there waa a certain appropriateness on that merry occasion that they should do honour to tha toast, as it was the occasion of their meet- ing to do honour to the heir of a family whose name was illustrious in the history of the coun- try (applause). It was a name whose great deedfe by uea and land had done much to maintain the integrity of the mighty empire over which the King reigned (applause). It was an empire on which the sun never set. They were told that to be prepared for war was the best security for peace the country could have. No matter what measures the Ministry might bring forward, they must always remember the motto of the Volun- teers: Defence, not defiance." When the his- tory of King Edward came to be written they would find that he was not a man of war and quarrel, but a man of peace. He had been en- dowed with a great faculty, and he had exer- cised that- faculty in preventing several breaches of the iieaoa of the world. He had prevented war in Europe, and who knew but that he had not also prevented a world-wide war (applause). Tho record of King Edward was not only a record of which any man might be proud,' but it wast a record of which a King could be proud (appkiuso). He gave them the toast of "King Edward, tho Peacemaker" (applause). The toast was received with enthusiasm, and t.he whole company joined in the si-nering of the, National Anthem The CHAIRMAN next submitted the toast of "T he Queen, tho Prince and Princess of Wales, and all the Royal Family." In doing so, he said that the consort of the King had won her way to the hearts of the people, and she took a deep interest in many institutions which bore her name. Her Majesty's interest was not only sympathetic, but it was also financial. As to the Prince of Wales, they realised that he had a very high offioa to fill, and, like his father before him, he was being educated for it. They hoped that the day was far distant when he would be called upon to change his sphere (applause). He asked the company to join in wishing long life and every happiness to the members of the Royal Family (hear, hear). Mr Bradley then sang finely "The Veteran Song." LORD COCHRANE'S HEALTH. To Mr J. DUNCAN MILLER was entrusted the proposing of the toast of the evening, "Lord Cochrane," and in doing so he said: It is with great pleasure, but considerable diffidence, that I rise to propose the toast of the evening, "The Health of Lord Cochrane." I see, however, that other and far bettor qualified speakers are to follow me in making the presentations, from the tenantry and the town, and I know that no elo- quence on my part is necessary to ensure your receiving the toast in the heartiest manner (ap- plause). I am sure, as we look on Lord Coch- rane bo-night. the picture of robust health and youthful vitality, it would be impossible to wish him better health than he at present enjoys (ap- plause). And that this condition may long en- dure is the sinoere wish of one and all here assembled (applause). I have seen but little of Lord Cochrane until recently; his scholastic, and latterly his military, avocations having necessi- tated his being away from Abergele for long periods, but I hoard of him from time to time, and from what I heard I gathered that the do- minant note in his character was "keenness" (applause). AS A SPORTSMAN. First.it was cricket. "Lord Cochrane," I was told, "is coming down for his holidays, and is having a pitch prepared in the park." I knew full well that the pitch was not for a match, as there is no club in Abergele, and when I hear of a young man spending his holidays in practice on a cricket pitch I realise at once that he is very keen on that game (applause). Next it was fishing, and I should be sorry to say how often I have seen him driving up in all weathers to one or other of our beautiful rivers for a day's fishing. As an athlete, also, he is not in the back rank. He won the putting of the weight at Eton-no mean performance in a school num- bering over 1000 of the best of Great Britain's rising generation (applause). Again, as a shot he is, I believe, first class, and he is devoted to shooting as to other branches of sport. Some two years ago I asked him if he took any interest in golf. He replied that he did not play golf, and from his tone I at once came to the conclu- sion that he considered golf a game for men when they reached the age of 50 or 60, or some- thing of that sort (laughter). But I am pleased to say that he has become a convert to golf, and that he evinces the same enthusiasm for that as for other kinds of sport. Judging from what I have seen of his play, he is rapidly coming to the front (applause). Now you may perhaps think that I have made too much of this ques- tion of sport, but my reason is that a man who is thoroughly in earnest in the higher and cleaner sports,' such as those I have enumerated, is almost invariably equally, if not to a greater extent, exgrossed in what is the sorious business of his lifa and I venture to predict for Lord Cochrane a long and successful career in the honourable profession of arms to which he has decided to devote himself (applause). Sport has much to do with our national character, and it is said of the Duke of Wellington that he declared that the Battle of Waterloo was won on the playfield of Eton, and it is also declared that the Charge of the Light Brigade was made possi- ble by the hunting fields of Leicestershire and other parts of the oountry. There are two points usually touched upon on these occasions which I have omitted b^ wl^ reason. The first is the relations between the owners of the estate and the tenantry. And the other is in reference to Lord Cochrane's an- cestors. With regard to the first, I understand that my immediate follower will be the oldest Gvvrvch tenant, who will present Lord Cochrane with'our gift as a souvenir of the occasion. Mr Roberts, I am told, was a tenant under Lord Cochrane's great grandfather, and compared with whom I am quite young. My ten or twelve years' tenancy is a mere mushroom of a night a growth I therefore consider Mr Roberts tho most suitable exponent of the ccrdiahty of those relations. As to the second, I see that the health of the Earl and Countess of Dundonald is to be proposed bv our worthy Vicar, and I should therefore consider it presumption for me even to attempt to touch the fringe of the subject, I will now conclude by asking you, Lord Cochrane, to pardon the inadequacy of my speech to the occa- sion, and to take the will for the deed, and you, gentlemen, to atone to his lordship for the lack of oratory of your mouthpiece, by the enthusiasm with which you receive the toast, to drink long life, prosperity, success and happiness to Lord Cochrane, and do so with musical honours. The enthusiasm with which the toast was re- ceived was exceedingly fine, those present cheer- ing again and again. Mr Vaughan next obliged with "The Death of Nelson," and as an enoore gave "Mentra, Gwen," both of which were splendidly rendered. THE TENANTS' ADDRESS. Mr S. DAVIES then read the following ad- dross on behalf of the tenants:— "To Lord Cochrano, Gwrych Castle, Abergele, My lord, we, the tenants of the Gwryoh Castle Estate, consider it a great privilege as well as a plea- sure to offer your lordship our hearty congratu- lations and good wishes on the auspicious occasion of your attaining your majority. It is a matter of supreme gratification to us to be ablo to say that the most intimate relations invariably subsisted between your parents, the Right Honourable the Earl and Countess of Dundonald, and ourselves, and we are disposed to believe that your lordship will spare no effort to maintain these relations in their happy integrity. In these days of strenuous effort and industrial progress we venture to think that the relationship between landlord and tenant should be bound by ties of loyalty and affection. Your lordship will be pleased to hear that the various meetings whioh we have held with a view to this presentation have been marked by the greatest harmony, which, in our humble opin- ion, is ample proof of the high esteem in which your lordship is held among us. We trust that your lordship may be pleased to accept the accompanying rifle as a small mark of the fervancy of our wishes and depth of our affec- tion.—Signed, J. Duncan Miller, Chairman; J. Pierce, Treasurer; S. Davie3, Secretary. Oct. 24th, 1907." THE OLDEST TENANT. Mr ROBERTS, Gaingc, then presented Lord Cochrane with the rifle and case, and in doing so made a very interesting speech. He said: My lord, I am very much pleased to see so many here to-night, and I know that they all, like Photo by /I Leigh, Abergele. DEER STALKING RIFLE PRESENTED TO LORD COCHRANE BY TENANTS. DEER STALKING RIFLE PRESENTED TO LORD COCHRANE BY TENANTS. myself, wish your lordship long life and every happiness. I think it best to explain that I am the oldest tenant on the Gwrych Castle Estate, and I know a little of the history of the family. My grandfather had Gaingc, my father had it, then my mother after him, and I took the place after my mother. The grandfather of Lord Coch- rane chose me to be tenant when I was a little over 16 years of age, and he told his agent to keep an eye on me, and to help me all he could (applause). You can see from that that I must have the greatest respect for Lord Cochrane's grandfather. I can tell you thaVl do not believe there was a better landlord, taking him all round, in the whole of Wales (ap- plause). You know the work he gave to many in building the castle, in laying out the walks, and in making the roads. He kept many men employed there. I speak of your grandfather, my lord, as I found him, and I can say that there was nothing tha.t I would not do for your family (applause). There was a farm going empty, and as is usually the case several were after it. You know what I mean, and how peo- you our hearty congratulations upon the at- tainmeva of your majority. We have watched vour career with great interest and pride, and we cannot but believe that your lordship is destined by Divine psovidemoa for a life of great responsibility and usefulness. The patriotic achievements and hercdo conduct of your distinguished father mutit prove an abiding inspiration to you. The high eooial ptand'ing, as well as the ricih heritage which lies before you cannot fail to give your lordship uinrivalled opportu- nities for furthering the best interests of the community The kind and helpful feeling manifested by your lordship's family towards the inhabitants of this district generally, and especially towards the .poor and the young inapireis us with the hope that it may be your lordship's good pleasure to promote and deepen the attachment of the town to your honourable house- We trust in conclusion that your lordship may be pleased to accept tihe accompanying album which contains the names of a large number 01: subscribers aa a small token of their esteem and good wishes.-Signed on be- half of the subscribers, T. Jones. Chairman; G. T. Evans, Treasurer; E. A. Crabbe, Sec- retary. The VICAR OF ABERGELE then presented Lord Cochrane with the album, and in doing 80, said: -Mr Chairman, the Countess of Dun- dbnald, Lord Cochrane, ladies and gentlemen- On behalf of the inhabitants of -oc,rgole I have tihe great pleasure to present bord Codhrane with this handsome alibum. whioh contains the address which Mr Crabbe has read to you, also the names of the committee, and the names of tihe subscribers. This album, 1 take it, is an indication not onily of the kindle feeling which the inhabitants of Abergele entertain towards your lordship, but aJoo of the deep interest which they are taking in tins lmporiann eVtmo which has been the means of bringing us to- gether this evening (applause)- It is a thought- ful act on the part of the inhabitants, as it at once proves that their prayer is that the nicet cordial relations may oontinue to eubaist between yowr liordt-lhip and the good old town of Abergele (applause)- The inhabitants axe na turralily proud of their town, and of all who are interested in its welfare (hear, hear). It's wonderful beauty, its scenery, amid' whiclh your lordship's home i3 situate, and health-giving sea and mountain air give renewed life and vigour to thctso who to it from the great world of activity beyond the border (applause). These are amioinig the many influences which endear it .to t,ho inhabitants and to the many visitors who come here for profit and' pleasure yaar after year (hear, hear). In asking your lordship s aoooptanoo of this token of affection and good wishes, perhaps you will allow me to express the hope that every happiness and pleasure may be yourg and that tiho influence of your exalted position may result in making the un- will run after a farm. Well, some did as they do now, they offered over and above the rent for it, but your grandfather said: "I do not want more money for the farm, the rent is enough for me" (applause). That will show you the quality of Squire Hesketh. Then, again, I am told that when your grandfather was on the bench he was exceedingly keen on every point. I was a tenant under Mr Hesketh when your mother was married, and we all had hopes that something good would result from that union (hear, hear). We have to-day all that we hoped for, and to-night the Countess of Dundonald has by her side a son of whom she can be proud (cheers). Where will you to-day see in Aber- gele a finer or better looking young man? I (hear, hear). He will make a grand soldier (ap- plause). I have been a tenant under Mr3 Hos- happy happy, and the hapny too be more happy (appose). Mr H. Bedford next dolighb&d' the large aud- ieniOÐ with one of his taking piscos, entitled Kicklobuiry Brown." LORD COCHRANE REPLIES. LORD OOCHRANE. on rising to respond, was received with hearty cheers and musical honours- He said :—I am very much afraid tihat I am quite unable to express myself adequately in thanking you for the vary magnificent pre- sents I have .received1. This album I shall always treasure., and this rifle from an utilitarian point., if I may say ÐJo, is one of the most use- ful presents I ooukl possibly receive. I assure you, as pogards the rifle, being largely subscribed to by Welshmen. u.nd being made by a Welsh- Photo by Leigh, Abergele. ALBUM PRESENTED TO LORD COCHRANE BY THE INHABITANTS OF THE ABERGELE DISTRICT. keth, and I have been a tenant under the Coun- tess of Dundonald, and I hope that I shall live to see the day when I shall be a tenant under the young lord, under that young man who will make one of the best soldiers (applause). He will make a fine soldier like his great-grandfather on his father's side, and like his father, whom we all admire (cheers). The tenants have askad me to hand to Lprd Cochrane this fine gun. I have pleasure in doing so, as I feel that it goes to good hands (applause). Everyone is not fit to handle a gun—(laughter)—but in his hands we are satisfied that it is in the right place (ap- 1 The^ gun and case were then handed to Lord Cochrane, who is receiving them shook Mr Ro- berts most cordially by the hand, an act which was greeted with hearty cheers. THE PUBLIC ADDRESS. Mr E. A. CRABBE then presented the fol- lowing address to Lord Cochrane:- TO the Lord Cochrane. Gwrych Castle, Abergele-—My Lord,—On behalf of your nu- merous neighbours and well,wishers in the towin and district of Abergele, we bag to supproabh your lordship with a view of offering- man although he lives in London-it will be used at no distant date bv a man who is also partly Yyelsh (applause). I sp-enu' a great deal of my time in various parts of the Principali- ty, and if this rifle docs not send its bullet into toe orthodox part of the stag every time the fault will lay with the man who fires the shot, and tihat because he is only partly Welsh (laughter). Touching this question of nationa- lity although I am a Scotchman 4>y name and not a Welshman, and my father's family have been ultra-Scotch in every way for fenerations, I feel perhaps on this ocoaaion more than I should have done had my father been a Welsh- man. I feel the more your great generosity in presenting me with these magnificent gifts. MESSAGE FROM LORD DUNDONALD My fatdwjr—(cheers)—ali5o very much re- grets his absence to-night owing to a cold which he has contracted", and whidh will not allow him to arrive until Wednesday. He wishes me to say how much he appreciates and feels your kindness to him in the past (oheers). He thanks all the inhabitants of this neigribourhood for the great kindness they have always extended to him, and especially on two occasions, namely < his return from the Soudan Wair and a.o from South Africa (applause). I, myself, since quite an early ae; as Mr Duncan ivuller toM you, have been away a great deal from home, from Abergele, from my mother's home in Wales (applause). Perhaps on thijs account appre- ciate the time I have spent with her the more. There is a story in the classics whioh I feel will not be out of place on this occasion. It is said that a. man gathers strength from his mother earth- It i3 said that Antseos and Hercules had a wrestling match, and that no matter how Hercules treated his opponent every time that Antseos touched the earth he regained his strength, wihioh was irresistible- He rose from the eairth refreshed, and at last Hercules found out what wag the matter, and lifting him in the air, he nrevemfed him regaining the earth until he had given him the blow which settled the conflict It is the same with me. When I return here, as I often do aftar a. long absence, I often feel like Antaeos must have felt when ha returned to the earth. The old familiar sights, and the old familiar faces gives me new life, and I too am refreshed (applause). And when I leave I take with me fresh lifo and energy whet-ever ) go I can assure you that I have never had a more pleasant experience than see- ing you all here to-night. I feel happy at seeing you, and I hope you are all happy. In conclusion let me say— May you live a thousand year3,. Just to keep things merry in this Vale of Tears; And may I live a thousand years just short one day, For I should not care to be on earth when you have gone away (cheers). After Mr H. Bedford and Master Bedford had given a capitally played pianoforte duet, THE EARL AND COUNTESS OF DUNDONALD The YICAR of ABERGELE proposed the toast of "The Right Hon. the Earl and Countess of Dundonald." In doing so, he said he was sure that the toast would be received with the greatest enthusiasm, as tho name of Dundonald was known throughout the wide world (applause). It was known throughout the world as that of a great patriot, and as a great soldier (applause). Patriotism was a virtue which never failed to call forth the deepest gratitude of a nation. It was patriotism that lay at the root of a nation's greatness. This nation could boast of' a long line of noble patriots, and it must be a great pleasure, as well as pride, to Abergele that ord Dundonald was numbered among thei na: tional heroes, and that his name was inscribed in bright letters upon the national roll of honour and fame (applause). The interests of the nation were as dear to Lord Dundonald as was his own life, and d he not risked that on the battlefield? (cheers). Lord Dundonald had shown that he was ready to sacrifice home, comfort, and luxury in order that with his own life he might uphold th3 honour and glory of the British flag (ap- plause). While Lord Dundonald was on the field of battle it was gratifying to know that Lady Dundonald was at home exerting herself in the sphere of peac-3 and of helpfulness (hear, hear). They knew how deeply attached to the poor and th} young her ladyship's mother, Mrs Hesketh, had been. Her generosity was always of the most lavished kind. Her ladyship aIm had done much. They knjw how thoughtful she was of the poor last winter, and that like her mother she had spared no effort, time, nor mcnoy in the educa- tion of the rising generation (applause). The sohools at Abergele and at Towyn owed their very existence to the generosity of her ladyship's family, and he was told on the highest authority that the amount of money spent on the main- tenance of the fabric, as well as in supplementing the Government grants, could not be less than £17,000 (applause). He was sure that they would agree with him that was princely generosity, and constituted a strong claim upon the abiding grati- tude of the locality. In conclusion he asked them to join with him in the hope that her ladyship would long be spared to devote her kind and thoughtful attention to the schools of the parish (applause). This toast was also drunk with the greatest enthusiasm. LADY DUNDONALD RESPONDS. LADY DUNDONALD, who was received with prolonged cheers, sail: My friends, I do not say ladies and gentlemen, because all present are, I think, my friends. I wish to thank you most cordially and sincerely for your kind reception, and the Vicar for his kind re- ferences. I assure you that it has been a great pleasure to my son and myself to welcome you here to-night (applause). Mr Roberts has told vou of the relations which have existed between the House of Gwrych and the tenants on the estate for four generations, but my friends have been here in Wales from time im- memorial (cheers), We came here as the Lloyds of Gwrych, and Gwrych, as you know, means, I think I am right, "thø hedge." It was the first hedge in the country, and therefore the Lloyds have been here since the first hedge was made (applause). The last of the Lloyds, a lady, married a Hesketh, and since that time the Heskeths have been amongst you. I in turn married a Cochrane, and I am the last of my race. I now present my son to you to realise the hopes and traditions of my house. And I know that you will in the future stand by him as you have always stood by us (cheers). Mr Vaughan gang "Bancr ein gwlad. after which THE GWRYCH CASTLE FASVISLY. Mr CRABBE submitted the toast of "The (,th(-r members of the Gwrych Castle family." He nailed to mind some 10 or 12 years ago when he iind Mr Inglis. were engaged putting up balloons in the park, and their operations were watched with the greatest interest by a boy and a girl, who expressed their approbation, or dis- sent, accoriing to the success or non-success of the operations. That boy was the giant they saw before them that evening—(applause) while the girl was the Countess' eldest daughter, Lady Grizel (applausa). Times had changed, but their hearts were still the same, and the only regret they had was that Lady Grizel was not there that evening, but she was with her husband, who, as a soldier, was awav on duty. They had with them that night Ladv Jean, and they hoped that at no distant date thev would be demonstrating in her favour (applause). The other members of the family, Ladv Marjorie ojid the. Hon. Robm Cochrane, had their hearty good wishes, and they were worthy children of a worthy mother. There was no gainsaying the fact that the Countess of Dundonald was an ideal mother, and amid all her woik in the cause of charity—and it was hard work—she had found time to be devoted to her children, and if her children did not do her oredit in after life it would be no fault of the mother (hear, hear). The toast was received with musical honours, and LORD COCHRANE, in responding, said that the pleasure his second sister felt at. meet- ing so many happy faces was only disoounted by the sorrow of his third sister and brother that the7 were not present. THE HEALTH OF THE AGENT. Mr J. PLERCE gave the toast of "The Chair- man," and in doing so said that Mr Inglis had all the qualities of an excellent chairman. a.nd had conducted the proceedings with great credit. It was an auspicious occasion on which they had met, and an occasion which would not 00 forgotten. During the many years that Mr IngÚ5 had acted as agent for the estate everything had worked well, and there was perfect harmony. He possessed all the quali- ties necessary in an agent, and he was always ready to listen to what the tenants had to say, and if their requests were reasonable he sent them to the proper quarter. He asked the company to charge their glasses and to drink a bumper to Mr Inglis, with the hope that 23 year. hence they might see him at the head of affairs, and that that period might be as succeeeful as the 23 years that had patsed. (Applause.) This toast was also drunk with musical honours, and Mr INGLIS, in responding, said that it had been a great pleasure to him to preside that night. A little more than 21 years ago he had presided at a similar gathering, to celebrate the birth of LorA Cochrane, and on that occa- iSion he expressed certain hopes, and he could a-sure them that ail his hopes had been ful- filled, and that evening they had before them a worthy son and a noble specimen of man- hood. (Cheers.) He was eure, from what he had seen and heard of Lord Cochrane, that he would do his family credit. He was pleased to say that his relations as agent with the tenants was always of a most cordial character, and during the 23 years he had had the honour to represent the faint.v everything had worked Binoothly. He ihoped that the good feeling would ever remain. (Applause.) The last toast was that of "The Caterem," and in proposing it the Chairman said he was sure that Mr and Mrs Williams had given general satisfaction, not only that evening but on each of the occasions on which they had catered. He hoped that they would long be spared to place before their guest3 euch excel. lent fare. (Applause.) The toast was received with musical honours, and the Vicar said that he had bean asked by Mrs Williams to respond. Mrs Williams had worked exceedingly hard during the pre- vious few days, but she had given the guests excellent repasts. She had given them of her best, and the satisfaction which they had shown well repaid her for all &he had done. (Applause.) The singing of the National Anthetm con- cluded the gathering. Afterwards a torchlight procession was formed, and Lord Cochrane, the Countess of Dundonald, and Lady Jeane Cochrane were escorted to the gatej of the Castle, where there was further outbursts of enthusiastic cheering. A portrait of Lord Cochrane, with the date of his birth and the attaining of his majority- a very interesting souvenir—was presented to each guest at Monday's banquet. The whole cf the catering for the festivities [ has baen carried out by Mr and Mrs Williams, oF tho Harp Hotel, Abcrgelo, and everything has given the greatest satisfaction. it is expected that the children's sports take place to-day (Thursday). The firework dis- play takes place this evening and we under- stand that among the guests at Gwryoh Castle to-day are the following: Bishop of Bangor, M-othue.n, Hon. Ethei Methueni, Lady Sybil Grimston, Hon. Louvima KnoJIy^ Hon Miss Lytteiton, Lord Eliot, Hon. Francis Mont- gomerie, Hon. W. Strutt, Mr and Mrs Newton, Mr J. O. Newton, Royal Artillery. The Early of Dundonald is expected to reach the Castle to-day.

"A PRESENTATION FROM TOWYN CHURCHPEOPLE. In connection with the coming-of-ago festivi- ties at Gwrych Castle this week, the congre- gations of St. Mary's Church, Towyn, made a presentation to Lord Cochrane-. At his Lord- ship's suggestion, the gift took the form of a pear.1 stud, and the presentation on behalf 01 the oongr,rf..atf,on was made by Mr Junod, churchwarden. Mr Junod assured his Lordship of the hearty good wishes of the Vicar and congregation to- wards himself, and of their gratitude to the IIouso of Gwryoh for their beautiful church, and for the generous support of its seirvices. In accepting the gift, Lord Cochrane said ho would always regard it as one of his most valued possessions, enshrining, as it did, the gciodi-wilii and esteem Wjhich have invariably existed mutually between the residents of Towyn and his family, and whioh, he was sure, woul.d alwaya. continue to exist.

LETTER FROM LORD COCHRANE. We understand that Mr Nokes, of the Towyn National School, has received the follow- ing; letter from Lord Cochrane respecting the presentation from that echcil on Saturday.— I tried to convey my warmcstthara to the young lady who made thol presentation so charmingly, but owing to its being so un- expected, I foar I failed in returning vharks as adequately as I should have desired. I shall feel very much obliged, therefore, if you wil.l supplement them with tho assurance of my deepest gratitude to the children, of Towyn School for their kindness, which is so very much appreciated."

LORD COCHRANE'S ANCESTORS. Thomas Hesketh Douglas Blair, Lord Cochrane, is the eldest of Earl Dundonald' five children. He was born on February 2lst, 1886, and educated at Eaton. His only brother, the Hon. Douglas Robert Hesketh Roger was born in 1893. The three sisters are Lady Grizel Winifred Louise, born in 1880, who in 1934, married the Hon. Ralph Gerard Alexander Hamilton (master of Belhaven), 'Lieutenant of the 3rd Hussars, and eldest son of the tenth Baron Bel- haven and Stemton; Lady Jean Alice Elaine, born in 1887, and Lady Marjorie Gwendolen Elsie, bom 1889. Douglas MacKinnon Baillie Hamilton Cochrane, O.V.O., O.B., the twelfth Earl of Dundonald, is a representative peer for Scotland. He was born on October 29th, 1852; educated at Eton, and succeeded to the title In 18»5. His lorùship is a Major General and forerly commanded the 2nd Life Uuards. H served with the Camel Corps in the Nile Expedition, and in Stewart's Desert March in 1884-5, when he was mentioned in despatches, and awarded the medal with two clasps, the Khedive's Star and promoted Brevet Lieutenant Colonel. Again, in 1899-1901, he comma- ed he Mounted Brigade of the Natal Army during .1 their operations in that country and in the Trans- vaal, when he was once more mentioned in des- patches awarded the medal with six clasps, and pro- moted Major-General for distinguiehed serviee in the field. It is of course well-known that his lordship WRS the first man to enter Ladysmith. During the yeal's 1902-4, his lord¡¡hip commanded the Oanadian Militia. Earl Dundonald married in 1878, Winifred, daughter of the late Robert Bamford-Hesketh (formerly of the Life Guards), of Gwrych Castle, Abergele. His lordship's town reaidenoe is 34, Portmag- Square, W.. and his clubs are the Travellers', Brooks's and the New (Edinburgh). On his father's side. 'Lord Cochrane's family name is of great antiquity, and under the name of Blair, was of baronial rank many centuries previous to the creation of the first Earl of Dundonald. Warden de Cochrane, in the reign of Alexander III., was witness to the grant made by Dungal, son of Swaine, to Walter Cumming, Earl of Monteith, of sundry lands in the oounty of Argyll, and his successor, WiUiini de Ctiochrane, rendered homage to Edward I. From the latter descended William de Chochrane, who erected from the foundations the ancient seat of Cochrane, and ornamented it with extensive planta- tions. This gentleman left by his wife, Margaret, the daughter of Sir Robert Montgomery, of Skelmorly, Countv Ayr, an only daughter, Elizabeth Cochrane, who married Alexander, younger son of Blair of that ilk. This Alexander Blair assumed the surname and arms of Cochrane. Of this marriage there were seven sons and three daughters. The eldest son, Sir John Cochrane, a Colonel in the Army of Charles I., dying without issue, was succeeded by Sir William Cochrane, the first Earl of Dundonald. Sir William was a mem- ber of the Privy Council, a Knight of the Bath, and a member of Parliament for Ayrshire. He occupied the position of Colonel of the Royalist Militia, who assisted in sending the Soots Army into England, and was created Baron Cochrane, of Dundonald (peerage of Scotland), on December 27th, 1647, and Earl of Dun- douald and Lord Cochrane of Dundonald and Ochil- tree (peerage of Scotland) in 1669, with remainder to his heirs, female without division, who should bea « or assume the name of Cochrane, and in failure of Iù" heirs general. He died in 1686, and was succeeded by his grandson, John. The second Earl died in 1690, and was succeeded by his eldest son, William. In 1705, the third Earl died, unmarried, and he waa succeeded by his brother, John. The fourth Earl was a representative peer and commanded the Scottish Horse Guards in 1715. He passed away in 1<20, when the title devolved upon his son, William, who also died unmarried in 1725. Thomas, the sixth Earl was a cousin of his predecessor, a grandson of William, Lord Cochrane, eldest son of the first Earl. He died in 1737 and was succeeded by his son, William, who was killed at the seige of Louisburg, in 1758. The title was then held by his cousin, Thomas who was the eighth earl, and grandson of the Colonel the H, on. Sir John O)chrane, second son of the first Earl. He eat as ALP. for Renfrewshire. A distinguished Pres- bvtfTian, he was concerned, in the Monmouth Plot in 16S3, and president of the meeting held to organise the Argyle Expedition in 1685, in which he took a leading part On his death in 1778, he was succeeded bv his son, Archibald. The ninth Earl was born in 1748; served in the Roval Navy; an eminent scientist and inventor of many beneficial discoveries connected with chemistry. The next in succession was his famous son. Thomas, one of the greatest naval commanders of his age, and to whom we make BPecAl referpnce in another column. Thomas Barnes, t eleventh Earl, was the son of the renowned admiral, and succeeded to the title in 1860. He was also a representative peer and Q.M.G. to the British Forces in the Chinese Wa.r. He married in 1847, Louisa. daughter of the late William Alexander-M^Kinnon M.P., of MacKinnon, and died in January, 18bo, when the present Earl succeeded to the title. The arms of the family are-argent: A chevron syules between three boars' heads, erased azure, crest- a horse passant argent; supporters—two -grey- hounds proper, collard and lined. THE BAMFORD HESKETH FAMILY. The name of Hesketh has been associated with Gwrvch for very many years. So far as the records show, it appears to have been introduced when a Miss 'Ll'ivd, then heiress of Gwrych, married a gentle- man bearing the surname. The Heskeths were a branch of the Heskeths, of Rufford Hall, County Lancaster, and, like many other great northern families, owed their elevation to martial achieve- ment. The family have flourished in the Oounty Palantine for more than seven centuries. \t that time, what is now known as Old Gwrych— the residence of Mr J. Inglis, agent to the estate- was the family seat, Few traces of the old mansion remain to-dav, but it was obviously a fine old trv squire's house. It is situated on the right-lit-nd side Of the main thoroughfare leading into Abergele from Colwvn Bay. Gwrych Castle is, as most of our readers are aware, a comparatively modern structure. It was built by Mr Llo.->d Hesketh Bamford Hesketh, grandfather the Countess of Dundunald, the work of construction, which commenced about 1816, occupy- ing several vears to complete. The founder was a prominent member of the county magistracy, and under his supervision the estate developed materially. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Mr Robert Bam- ford Hesketh, who, it will be remembered, passed awav in 1894. The late Mr Bamtord Hesketh was at- tached to the Life Guards for a few years but he wits obliged to relinquish his connection with the service in order to devote more attention to the ever- growing demands of his quickly-developing estaie. He took a keen and active interest in educational and religious work. He practically founded the ecclesi- astical parish of Towyn. and provided the parishioners with a handsome church and vicarage, as well as school buildings. Moreover, lie personally bore the expenditure in connection with them.. Indeed, up till the passing of the Act. of 1892, the parishioners paid no education rate. thanks to the generosity of Mr Bamford Hesketh. He also contributed liberally towards the schools at Llysfaen and other vihages in the neighbourhood, and, shortly before the marriage of the Countess, rebuilt the Parish Cnurch at Llan- dduias. Her ladvship. who was the deceased gentle- man's onlv child, has nobly sustained the prominent part which her father played in local afiaira, for, apart from following his example in supporting church and school work, her help in any cause for the common weal has never been sought in vain. Ladv Dundonald is recognised as one of the most charming and popular leaders of London Society, but in spite of the innumerable demands made upon her time bv social duties, she invariably finds it possible more than half her time amongst her own tenants and people in Wales. THE FAMOUS FIGHTING ADMIRAL. A REMARKABLE CAREER. The following sketch and exploits of the famoua Admiral Cochrane will doubtles be read with interest at this juncture. Thomas Cochrane, tenth Earl of Dundonald (1775- 1860), known during his brilliant naval career as Lord Cochrane. was born at Annsfield, in 'Lanarkshire, on the lith December. 1775. His father, the ninth Earl had great scientific attainments, especially in chemis- try, and possessed a genius for invention which ruined his fortune without much benefiting any one. He was so poor that the education of Thomas, his eldest and heir, was left very much to such volunteer instructors as the parish minister. At the age of 17, Lord Cochrane joined the Navy, on board the "Hind," j of which his uncle, afterwards Sir Alexander Cochrane, was at the time captain. His father had previously procured for him a commission in the 79th Regiment, but his own preference for the other branch of the service was so decided that it was found nccessary to gratify it. In 1795, he was transferred with his uncle to the frigate "Thetis," which proceeded to the North American Station. Soon afterwards he received his lieutenant's commission and in 1.98 he was sent to the Mediterranean to serve in the fleet under the ommand of Lord Keith. He had already begun to show that rare combination of daring and prudence, which probably no British naval officer, save Nelson, ever possessed to a greater degree. As commander of the sloop "Speedy," to which he was appointed in 1800, he performed a Benes of exploits in capturing vessels of immensely larger size than his own which aie