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RHYL.
BIRTHS. MASON.—April 19th, at West Park Terrace, Scar- borough, the wife of Charles Brown Masou, of a daughter. lLLIDGE.-Apr¡I Ith, atWolverhampton the wifo of Mr Arthur Ilhdge.of a son. DE4.TH. JONES. —At his residence, JessamineVilla, Abergele in his list year, John Jones. —♦
RHYL COUNTY COURT.
A WORD TO LODGING HOUbE KEEPERS. There is not a week passing without bringing with it a heap of letters for copies of the Rhyl Advertiser containing a "list of apartments to let." But notwithstanding the fact that there are plenty of apartments in the town ready for the reception of visitors, only few are advertised, and consequently strangers in the Midlands wishing to make all arrangements before leaving home, do not know to whom to apply. Now is the time to advertise. It is no use leaving it till the" Seas all is in full- swing. Wo in Rhyl trust to August and. Sep- tember to bring visitors to us, whereas, plenty are anxious to come a groat deal eerlier. If Rhyl lodging house keepers want an early fwaloll, and consequently a lengthy one, let them advertise.
WITH SIR PETER LUMSDEN.
¡ NORTH WALES ENGLISH CONGREGA- TIONAL UNION. MEETINGS AT RHYL. On Tuesday and Wednesday last the North Wales English Congregational Union held its eighth annual assembly at Rhyl, for the first time since its formation. The Union was formed in 1876 in Chester, as A society for es ablishing and sustain- ing English Congregational Churches in North Wales." During the first year of its existence it aided eight churches with less than 100 members last year it aided 25 churches with nearly SOO com- municants. There are also twenty-five non-aided churches in connection with the Union. These churches supply accommodation for 13,420 persons. More than one half of the Churches or Mission Stations were called into existence through the efforts of the Union during the past eight years. There is a separate District Union for each County in North Wales, the members of which appoint re- presentatives both to the Annual Assembly, and also, upon the Executive Committee. The number of delegates present was very large, for whom free accommodation was provided during their stay here. The other local expenses were met by a special fund, so that the collections at the public services might be entirely devoted to the home mission work in which the Society is so suces«fully and extensively engaged in North Wales. Mr T. M. Davies, 20, Bodfor street, and Mr W. Davies, Kinmel street, acted as secretaries of the Local Reception Committee. Five out of the six counties in North Wales, in which churches have been es- tablished, as well as Lancashire, Cheshire, and Salop were represented as follows (subject, perhaps to slight corrections) .Flintshii,e.-Buckley-Rev. T. Hallet Williams and Mr William Jones; Connah's Quay-Rev. D. B. Hughes, and Mr E. Parry Flint- Rev. Joseph Davies and Mr William Davies Greenfield-Rev. T. Palmer Davies and Mr John Petrie Holywell-Rovs. Owen Thomas, M.A., and David Oliver Mold-Revs. D. B. Evans and T. Roberts, and Messrs J. F. Pugh and John Griffiths; Mostyn—Mr H. Hodge and Mr D. H. Rees Northop—Mr Robert Wakley. J)enbiglishii,e.-Cefn Mawr-Rev. W. C. Evans and Mr Richard Thomas Gwersyllt—Mr F. L. Rawlins Wrexham-Revs. H. J. Haffer and W. Tiller, and Messrs Charles Dodd and Jas. Stevens. Carnarvonshire.—Bangor—Rev. H. S. Griffiths, Professor Dobbie, D.Sc., Messrs J. Williamson, D. M. Lewis, M.A., Samuel Evans, Donald Cameron Betliesda-Mr W. J. Parry Carnar- von-Rev. E. Herb3r Evans Colwyn Bay- Rev. Thomas Lloyd and Mr J. H. Atkinson Eisteddfa —Rev. Thomas Jones Llandudno-Mr A. Evans; Llanberis—Rev. J. E. Owen Penmaeninawr—Mr W. D. Jones Trefriw-Rev. M. O. Evans Tre- vor-Rev. R. Lumley. Meirionethshire.—Bala—Rev. T. Lewis, B.A. Barmouth—Mr John Parry Corwen—Messrs T. E. Parry and George Price Dolgelley-Rev W. E. Hughes. Montgomeryshire.—Berwydd—Rev. E. Roberts Llandisilio-Rev. D. H. Shankland and Messrs Edward Thomas, Thomas Davies, and David Evans Llansantffraid-Rev. Thomos Hughes Llanwddyn —Rev. J. V. Morgan Newtowii-Ilev. W. Jen- kins Messrs T. Rees and R. Stanley Sarney-Mr John R. Jones Welshpool-Rev. W, E. Thomas, and Messrs W. Jones, and D, Lewis. Lancashire.—Liverpool—Revs. Samuel Pearson, M.A., and John Thomas, D.D. Bolton-Rev. J. R. Wolstenholme, M.A. Todmorden-Rcv. W. G. Rees. Cheshire.—Bowden—Rev. A. Mackennal, B.A. Chester—Revs. H. Ward Price, and Fred Barnes, B.A., and Mr R. A. Jonss. Salop.—Oswestry—Revs. J. J. Poynter, E. M. Edmunds, and Alderman Minshall, J.P. Shrews- bury-He v Thomas Townsend. The Rev. Alexander Mackennal, B.A., of Row- den, also attended as deputation from the Northern Board of Education. Others from different parts of England were also present including the Rev. H. Elvet Lewis, of Hull (formerly of Buckley). There were, of course, a large number of Rhyl members also in attendance. TUESDAY'S PROCEEDINGS. At J p.m. a meeting of the executive committee was held, Mr W. J. Parry presiding. The first meeting of THE ANNUAL ASSEMBLY was held at 3.30 p.m. in the Town Hall, under the presidency of Alderman Minshall, J. P., of Oswestry. There was a large attendance of ministers and laymen. The Rev. T. Lloyd, Colwyn Bay, conducted the devotional service. RECEPTION OF PASTORS AND CHURCHES- The Rev. T. Hallet. Williams, formerly pastor of the English Calvinistic Methodist Church, at Welshpool, having accepted a cordial invitation to the pastorate of the church at Buckley, was ac- corded a hearty welcome into the Union. The following churches, having been received into their respective District Unions were unanimously received into the Noith Wales Union Penmaen- mawr, Carnarvonshire Adwy, Denbighshire Connah's Quay, Flintshire; and Llanwddyn, Montgomeryshire. LETTERS OF TRANSFERS were unanimously granted to the Revs. W. Gwilym Rees, late of Flint, to the Lancashire Congrega- i tional Union; and to the Rev. J. J. Cooper, late of Corwen, to the Northampton Congregational Union. THE PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. The President (Alderman Minshall), who was received with cheers, said :—I am chairman of the North Wales English Congregational Union only for the purpose of completing the year of offioe of our late esteemed and valuable friend, Mr Hudson. I deem it an honour to follow him, but the duty is as onerous as it is honourable, and I cannot profess to be his successor in much more than in name. His death was a great loss to us, not only on account of the amplitude of his pecuniary resources, and the princely way in whioh, out of those resources, he aided our works from year to year but also because of the devout spirit, quiet energy, business tact, and wise counsels, which characterised him as our coadjutor and leader. We shall ever cherish his memory with grateful respect (applause.) Thought of Mr Hudson reminds me of two matters in connection with the work of our Union, which were among the very last which engaged his sympathy and co-operation, and in which he took a special interest. The one was the sudden and unexpected requirement which devolved upon the Rhyl church and congregation to erect a new and enlarged place of worship, in consequence of the condemna- tion by the Local Authority of the then existing chapel. Towards its erection Mr Hudson promised a munificient contribution, which stimulated the friends here, without delay to "ariFe and build." I doubt not that our North Wales Church, generally have accorded hearty and practical sympathy to our Rhyl friends in the erection of the building, and in the prospect of its being very shortly opened (applause.) These considerations, and the fact that our energetic secretary will conduct the ministrations in the new building as he has done in the old, stamp as most appropriate the choice of Rhy 1 for holding our present assem- bly (applause ) The second of the projects to which I refer is the intended erection of a per- manent church at Colwyn Bay. Mr Hudson gave X100 towards the purchase of the land some years ago, and it was in his heart to help after his own generous fashion in the speedy erection of the church. In loyalty to his earnest desire, no time has been lost in preparing for the earliest possible commencement of the building, and it has been decided as a natural and grateful tribute to Mr Hudson's memory that it should be reared as a Hudson memorial church." Referring to the work already done by the Union, the President said:—Time does not allow of more than a slight and partial glance at it. For ful information I leave to your perusal our yearly reports from the estab- lishment of our Union in 187G to the present date. The day of small things," has steadily widened into not a few things comparatively great, tirst, we have wholly or partly put down chapels in five of the six counties of North Wales, the majority of which are either free from debt or are fairly on the way to become so before the Congregational Jubilee Fund is exhausted. Wo have aided, and are continuing to aid nearly 30 weak churches and missions and services in places of summer resorts. I need hardly say that the erection of a place of worst* p is more than in itself it may appear to be, for while we rejoice in every new erection, we rejoice still more in the spiritual work carried on there. In the absence of such an erection, the carrying on of effective systematic spiritual work might be very difficult, if not impossible. I may say that the existence of a place of worship in any neighbourhood should in itself be, and generally is, an influence for good. It is a standing invitation to meet, and worship God, and learn His will (ap- plause.) Before I conclude I would mention three subjects to which the attention of our assembly will probably be called. First owing to the es- tablishment of the Colleges at Bangor, Cardiff, and Aberystwyth, and the anticipated legislation on behalf of intermediate education in Wales the members of our churches and congregations will be bettor educated, so requiring a higher education- al status on the part of our ministers. It will never do for the pulpit to be beneath the pew in intelligence and culture. For this reason I venture to suggest (or rather adopt the suggestion not unfrequeutly made of late) that our colleges for the training of the miuistery should become more I distinctly theological than they are now, and tha for classic and general secular education, tin students should betake themselxes to either of th4 three colleges, where the best in every departmen of classi's and other secular instruction will hi obtainable at a very moderate cost. But secular kno .viedge is not everything, nor the chief thing, esp- cially for those who consecrate themselves to the solemn and responsible vocation of the Christiar ministry. I trust that the secular studies of the theological students will he surrounded with anc permeated by an atmosphere of spirituality and gospel truth so that there may be kept up, and, ii possible, intensified, the fervour, unction, simplicity common sense scripturalness, and success for which the Nonconforming ministry in Wales has so long and so deservedly been renowned (cheers.) Secondly the strength of the cause of total abstinence in Wales, evidanced by the legal enforcement of Sunday Closing of public houses and the recent celebration of the Temperance Jubilee, present ample grounds for gratitude for the past, and are good omens for the future (applause.) We have abundant reason to thank God for the early and hearty attachment of Wales to the temperance cause, and for 50 years progress towards the banish- ment of intoxicating drinks from the Principality (applause.) But thankful as I am for what has been accomplished I would respectfully urge every total abstainei to consider whether the more general use of the blue ribbon would not be likely to benefit the temperance cause in a tenfold degree. I know that inward and spiritual grace may be possessed where no outward and visible signs of it is worn, and that the sign may be prominent where the grace is absent; nevertheless (speaking for myself, and not prompted by or compromising any one else) I venture the hope that henceforth the wearing of the blue ribbon by total abstainers may become more general than at present (hear, hear). Its silent testimony and invitation would I believe be more eloquent and persuasive than the most elaborate and logical argnments, and would, more- over, add to the ranks of total abstainers by the sympathy of numbers. Is it too much to hope that in connection with every church and Sunday School there may be a Temperance Society or Band of Hope. The last subject to which I will refer is the forthcoming centenary celebration of Sunday Schools in Wales. I need hardly say that Sunday Schools in their full and true sense, for the spiritual training and growth of all classes and on all ages, form a very distinctive institution of Wales, which is a land of Bible readers, Bible thinkers, Bible teachers, and Bible scholars, in the home, the school, and the sanctuary. I trust that all our churches and people will heartily combine both among themselves and with others, to render the celebration worthy of themselves and of the occasion (hear, hear). The Elementary Education Acts having provided for secular education in day schools the distinctly religious educational element will for the most part be relegated to the Sunday Schools. Wales has largely anticipated this purely spiritual work in her Sunday Schools of the past and the present. Let the enthusiasm with which the coming centenary celebrations shall be carried out be so deep and universal that great England may condescend to copy the methods of little Wales, and so render all but unnecessary the question so often, and almost so dispairingly asked in relation to English Sunday School, What shall we do with our elder Sunday Scholars F" (applause.) In this matter I feel as deep and personal interest as if I were not only almost, but altogether a Welshman. You will be likely to believe that when I say that I am not only a resident, but a native of the border town of Oswestry, where every denomination has its Welsh as well as English place of worship as well as Sunday School; and that I am the superintendent of the English Congregational Sunday School in that town, which school was so far back as the year 1781 (the year of Robert Ruikes's movement; but independent of it) either founded or fostered ItS a pre-existing and continuing institution by that excellent and eminent Welshman, Dr Edward Williams (appluase). who was then the minister of that church, and of whom his controversial antagonist spoke as the l Christian, the scholar, and the gentleman, (ap- plause ) A late member of our Oswestry Church j (Dr Jenkyn), also a Welshman, was the means of indoctrinating our church and Sunday School with the Welsh idea of classes for all ages, and to-day scholars as they srrow up feel less inclination to leave the school, but naturally slip up to the class next above them. The agre of our scholars thus run from o to 60 (applause.) After a few more observations, the President concluded his eloquent address amid loud applause. THE ANNUAL REPORT. The Secretary of the Union (Rev. D. Burford Hooke, of Rhyl), who was received with cheers, then read the eighth annual report, of which we give the following summary — The year 1884 proved to be one of the most event- ful in the history of the English Congregational Union of North Wales. Early in the year (March 21. 25) the Seventh Annual Assembly was held at Üswc,try, where members oÍ all commuaions joined in welcoming us to their town, under circumstances of an exceptionally pleasant character. The atten- dance at the assembly, for the first time, of a depu- tation representing the English Calvinistic Method- i&t, Baptist, Wesleyau, and Primitive Methodist communions marked an important era in English Protestant Nonconformity in North Wales. Your committee hope that they may have opportunities of showing the same fraternal spirit to their fellow brethren of other communions whenever a Acting opportunity arises. Never was there so much need, and room, for practical co-operation among the followers of J. BUS Christ than to-day, and 1G will be a joy to your committee if in any way they can foster and intensify this spirit. During the past year new English Congregational Churches have been formed at Penmaenmawr in Carnarvonshire Adwy in Denbighshire Connah's Quay in Flintshire: and Llanwddyn in Mont- gomeryshire. The Death Roll of the past year is unusual- ly heavy. When we met at Oswestry our circle was unbroken. Not so now. Six brethren, honoured and beloved, have fallen in the battle. Men whom most of us knew, and whom to know was to love. Others less known have gone home to their reward. They rest from their labours and their works do follow them." The first who was taken from us was (on August 7) Robert Spear Hudson, of Chester, our honoured chairman, bene- factor, friend. Words fail to convey an adequate sense of your committee's appreciation of the service which Mr Hudson rendered to English Congregationalism in North Wales. They recognize their indebtedness to God who lent them for a season such a noble-hearted fellow-worker, and they pray that He may strength- en them to carry on the work he began so well. In September the Church at Llansantffraid sus- tained a severe loss by the death of Mr T. G. Jones, a Nonconformist of the old type who never flinched from upholding the principles in which he believed. In the same month, Mr Edward Jones, Wrexham, passed away. Since then we have lost the Rev. Morgan Evans, pastor of the church at Bwlchyffridd, Montgomeryshire. Mr David Roberts, of Chester, was one of the first to recognise the importance of the step taken by the formation of the English Con- gregational Union of North Wales. Few attended more regularly our Assembly than he, or gave more attention to the work of the committee, of which he was, for upwards of six years, an efficient member. We have also to moutn the removal of another sub- scribing member, Mr D. Llewellyn Lloyd, J.T., of Ffestiniog. Mr ljloyd at one time lived in Rhyl, and his father presented the site on which the English Congregational Church was erected in Water Street. He felt the importance of sustaining the movement for the establishment of English Churches in the Principality, and doubtless would I have done still more to aid the Union had his health permitted. To-day we mourn the loss of these and other brethren. Tho JForJ[■ of Is31 presents some features of in- terest, not so much in the way of fresh openings, as in that of consolidating and strengthening tho work already commenced. Your committee are glad to report an increase in the number of Churches, of communicants, and of Sunday Schools. According to the latest returns there are now 52 English Con- gregational Churches and two Mission Stations in North Wales, affording accomodation for 13,420 persons. (Applause). The statistics from those Churches which are aided by the Union show an increase last year of nearly 400 in the number of the congregations, and of 81 members while the Sunday Schools have increased by 105. Doubtless if returns were furnished by Churches not thus aided the increase would bo found to be still greater. As it is your committee gratefully report, the steady growth in tbe membership of those Cnurcties which the Union is privileged to aid. Flintshire.—The Churches at Bagillt and Flint have suffered during the year by the removal of the Rev. W. G Reps to Todmorden. For some months they were under the superintendence of neighbour- ing pastors. At present their pulpits are supplied by the Rev. Joseph Davie's, of Buckley, and it is hoped that in a little time some definite arrange- ment may be made as to a settled minister. Mean- while, the debts on the buildings are being reduced, and it is hoped that, aided by the Jubilee Fund, they may be entirely paid off during the present year. Both Churches g'Ve good promise of future usefulness. The Rev. D. B. Hughes continues to labour most satisfactorily at Connah's Quay and Northop, though he has to endure hardships- Four commit- tee have purchased the Chapel at Connah's Quay, which has bean put into truss as an English Con- giearational [JIHCH ot worship, A Church has been formed, a Sir.day Sch ol organized, various religi- ous agenoiis established, and there is every t that Connah's Quay will become no unimportant a Church among those associated in this Union. The 3 work at Northop continues much on the lines of t former years. 3 The Church at Greenfield has lately made rapid strides. During the year the membership has more than doubled, and the building improved. The members have arranged with the Rev. T. Palmer I James to become sole pastor of the Church, thus severing the connection which they formerly had 1 with the neighbouring Church at M )styn, The report sty, The Church is a most healthy an prosperous state. The members are bound together in the bonds of peace, and are full of Christian earnestness." From Holywell a report has been received not altogether unlike that of last year. The effort, then referred to, of trying to secure the freehold of the Chapel property from the Earl of Denbigh was most successful. Of the £ 300 required, no less than £ 214 are in hand; the balance has been pro- mised, including a grant of £ 30 from this Union. It is hoped the transfer may shortly be made, and that your committee will soon be able to pay the sum voted at the last Annual Assembly. Mostyn has suffered, even more than Holywell, from a decreased population. Several important works have closed, bringing want and misery to a large number of families. Many have left for different parts of England, while some of these who remain have suffered pecuniary losses. This Church is at present without a pastor, but satisfactory ar- rangements have been made for the present supply of the pulpit. It is hoped that, in a little time, the cloud now resting on the local industries may be removed. During the year Mission Work was begun at Llong by the Church at Mold, under the pastorate Llong by the Church at Mold, under the pastorate of the Rev. D. B. Evans. Already a School of 30 scholars and 6 teachers has been formed, and about 60 persons attend the Sabbath evening service. Your committee voted a grant of in aid of furnishing the Mission Room. Denbighshire.—During the year a Church was formed at Adwy, of 70 members aud on July 13th, a neat and convenient Chapel was opened. At Moss, in the same neighbourhood, the jubilee of the chapel was leceutly held, and the long wished for time, of the extinction of the debt, having arrived. From Cefnmawr your committee received the pleasant information that the pastor's stipend had been increased, though a less grant was asked for. At Gwersyllt and Johnstown, tha work continues much as in former years The new Chapel and School at Rhosrobin, near Wrexham, have just been opened. Carnarvonshire.—No fresh work has been under- taken in this county during the year. After a re- ference to Trefriw, and Beddgelert, the report goes on :-The work at Colwyn continues to grow under the care of the Rev. Thomas Lloyd, an increase in attendance and membership being reported. The j need of a permanent building is much felt, the present structure being inadequate to meet the growing wants of the place. At the suggestion of your committee, it has been agreed to erect the New Church as a memorial to Mr R S. Hudson, who took a special interest in Colwyn Bay. He contri- buted £ 100 towards the purchase of the site, and was anxious to see o permanent building erected. The death of Mr Hudson has been a serious hind- rance to the prosecution of the work, but it is felt that the best honour that can be paid his memory is to carry to a successful completion an undertaking in which he tcok so deep an interest. From Penmaenmawr a cheering report has been received. The newly formed church has 30 mem- bers and the attendance at the Sunday and week- day services show considerable improvement. At Trevor, the membership of the little church. under the pastorate of the Rev. R. Lumley, has in- reased,bitt the surroundings are still discouraging, During the recent winter the roof of the chapel was severely injured by the giles, and Mr Lumley ap- peals for aid to make good the disaster. Merionethshire.—English services continue to be held at Arthog, Dinas Mawddwy, and Harlech, more or less frequently and with some measure of success. Barmouth suffered severely last year through false statements which appeared in English news- papers. The number of visitors to the Gibraltar of Wales was thus lessened, the result being an unusual deficit in the current accounts of the church At Corwen the good work still continues, and the services are kept up with unabated interest. At Dolgelley, an effort is being made to complete this year the liquidation of the chapel debt- When the Jubilee I'und Commenced, the debt was £ 550, this has been reduced to -0, and of this £ 70 have been conditionally promised. A good work is going on in the Sunday School. Montgomeryshire.—The report from Berwydd and Cefnfaenor, where the Rev. E. Roberts, continues his ministry, refers to the loss sustained by remov- als from the district, though the membership has not diminished owing to fresh settlers. Almost the same reports has reached your com- mittee from the church at Llandisilio. As already intimated, the church at Llaneirit- ffi-aid has sustained 11 severe l>j*> by the de ILl] of Mr T. G. Jones. During the year a church was formed at Llauw dclyn. it now numbers 31 members, who, after meeting the whole of the incidental expenses con- nected with the mission, contribute j630 a year towards the pastor's stipend. The present state of the work at Llanwddyn is good and the pros pects encouraging. A n"w chapel was opened at Peutre'beirdd, in May last. An increasj in membership is reported. With the sister church at Sarney, it needs a settled pastor. The District Unions have regularly met during the year. The Flintshire District originated a Psalmody Association, and the first Musical Festival in connections with the English Congregational Chinches of North Wales, was held at Rhyl, thanks to the efforts of the Rev. D. B. Evans, of Mold, and his colleagues. The Sunday School Union for the Flint District has been re-organised, and pro- mises te be a useful helper in work among the young. Finances.—The Treasurer's Statement will show a slight improvement in the number of subscribers as well as in the amount contributed. The income for the year from all sources amounted to £ 1067 15s. lid of which £ 3 6s. 9d. remained as a balance in hand. There were, however, liabilities to the extent of £150. Os this 1,50 was a building grant voted but not paid for in the previous year. The remainier of the deficiency was due to the lamented death of the late Mr Hudson,and thus the non-payment of his £100 in September last. Your committee sent in their claim for £500, being the balance of Mr Hudson's promised gift of £1000 to the Union, made at the Assembly in Wrexham. But the executors having taken this and various other applications to the High Court of Chancery for a judical decision, your committee are not in a position to say whether the claim will be met. In October, a Special Conference was held at Gt. George Street Chapel, Liverpool, to lay before friends in that city the claims of the union upon their practical sympathy. Mr W. Crosfield, J.P presided, and the statements made were not without their good results. The admirable address by the Rev. E. Herber Evans, on The claims of Wales upon the English friends," was re-printed in the Liverpool Congregational Magazine," where it attracted considerable interest. Last year zC269 were received from the Church Aid Society. That is to say, this Luion remitted as its income ceslo 15s. lid., receiving in return £ 1079 15s. lid. But the surplus grants of that society have been in a great measure derived from the Jubilee Fund of the Congregational Union, and unless some fresh sources of income can be devised, the North Wales U, nioli may, at the end of this year, have to stand face to face with the fact, that it can oily spend that which it raises in North Wales and border counties. Your committee com- mend this matter to the Assembly as one needing and demanding its most serious attention. Taey feel that there can be no question as to its decision. The work on which God permitted this union to enter, eight years or so ago, must. not bo given up at any point along the line. The crisis must be faced with brave and true hearts, and not one part of the work which has been given to us must be abandoned. He who called us to the work, He whose voi:e bid us enter upon it. bids us be of good cheer, for He Himself is with us, and as the day the strength shall be. The Special Jubilee Fund for the liquidation of debts on our Church, School, and ifanse property, has not'.boen overlooked.The receipts to date amount to nearly £3000, of which £110 remains as a balance in hand. Only £3000 are required to pay off the whole of the burdensome debts in North Wales It was moved and seconded, and carried unani- mously, that the report, with the statement of accounts, be adopted and printed. ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND cOMMITTEE. The following were unanimously elected officers and otmmitttee for the ensuinff year Chairman :—Mr 1. Oliver Jones, Liverpool; Treasurer — Mr Thomas Minshall, J P., Castlt3 View, Oswestry Hon. Secretary D Burford Hooke, Cburton Villa, Rhyl Assistant Secretary Mr Johu Minshull Auditor Mr Jo.-nah Thomas, 26, St. Domingo Grove, Liverpool. Committee- (representative members,) Flintshire, Rev T. Palmer James, Greenfield Rev. Owen Thomas, Holx-well. Denbighshire, Rev, D.J. Bev- non, Ruabon Rev T. Jlallet AVilliaiJis, Buckley. Montgomeryshire, Rev. W- E. Tnomas Welshpool; Mr E. Thomas, Llandisilio. Meirionethshire. Rev. Z. Mather, Barmouth Mr Thomas rarrv, Corwen. Carnarvonshire, Rev Richard Parrv. Llandudno Mr W D. Jones, Penmaenmawr Revs F. Barnes, B.A., Chester, D. B. E\ans, Muld, E. Herber Evans, Carnarvon Hugh S. Griffiths, Bangor H. J. Haffer, Wrexham T. Hughes, Llansaintffraid Josiah Jones, Machynlleth Thos, Jones, Eistedd. fa W. Jones, Chester W. Jenkins, Newtown David Oliver Holywell J. J. Poynter, Oswestry H. Ward Price. CLester; Lewis Probert, Port- madoc David Roberts, Wrexham John Thomas, D.D., Liverpool W Tiller, Wrexham; Mes-rs George Atkin, Rock Ferrv Thos. Barnes, J.P., Chirk B. S. Bostock, Haslington W. Crosfield, J.P., Liverpool Thomas Davies, J.P Bootle A. W. Edward-, J.P Wrexham A. Evans. Llandudno John Francis, Wrexham C. R. Jones J.P., Llanfyllin J. Parry Jones, Oswestry J. Hughes Jones, Aberdovey 1. Oliver Jones, Liverpool William Jones, Back,ey Robert Old- field, Rhyl W. J. Parry, Bangor W. Lloyd- Parry, Mold S. Rigby, J.P., Chester. ADDITIONS TO, AND ALTERATIONS IN, THE RULES. The meeting then spent some time in considering certain rules ragulating grants in aid of chapel buildings. The secretary moved the adoption of the code of rules, the chief, andjwhich governed the remainder, being the following That no money in aid H permanent chapel on a new site be advanced until the property shall be satisfactorily vested in trust that no money in aid of a chapel OB. an old site be advanced until satisfactory proof have been furnished that the property is duly se. cured to the denomination and that in every case where a trust deed needs enrolment to give it legal validity, no money is to be advanced until such en- rolment shall have been completed.—The motion having been seconded by the Rev. J. J. Poynter, was unanimously carried. Some other minor matters were discussed. The sitting was adjourned at half-past five, when the delegates and visitors adjourned to to the Board- room where an excellent tea had been provided. THE ANNUAL SERMON. At seven o'clock, in the Town Hall, the annual sermon in connection with the Union was preached by the Rev. Samuel Pearson, M.A., of Liverpool. There was a large congregation. The Rev. D. B. Hughes, Connah's Quay, conducted the devotional exercises. Tha preacher founded an eloquent and powerful discourse on 1 Corinthians 1.21. A col- lection was made towards the general funds of the Union. After the sermon, a united communion service was held, which was, by invitation, atten- ded by members of all Christian churches. The Rev. D. B. Hooke presided, and the Rev, H. Elvet Lewis, of Hull, delivered the address, the ministers and officers of the various English denominations in the town taking part in the service. WEDNESDAY'S PROCEEDINGS. The proceedings this day commenced at 9.30. a.m. with a largely attended devotional meeting at the town ball, under the presidency of the Rev. T. H. Williams, of Buckley. At 10 30. p.m., the business of THE ANNUAL ASSEMBLY, adjourned from the previous day, was resumed. Alderman Minshall, J. P., again presided. The Rev. J. J. Poynter, of Owestry, conducted the devotional exercises at the opening. TEMPERANCE AND SUNDAY CLOSING. The Rev. Owen Thoniis. B.A., of Holywell, pro- posed a resolution, declaring that the assembly viewed with pleasure and gratitude the success of the cause of temperance in Wales during the last 50 years, and expressing a hope that the ministers and delegates present would use their utmost efforts in support of the temperance work in the future and would assist in the way they considered best, in celebrating the jubilee of the temperance movement in the Principality. The Rev. gentleman remarked that the resolution commended itself to all present. The cause of temperance ought to have a foremost place in their minds. It was a matter for congratu- lation that the majority of ministers and office-bear- ers in Wales in the present time are total abstainers (hear, hear), and that fact argued well for the futitre.-The proposition was seconded by Mr Wm. Jones, Buckley, and carried unanimously. On the motion of the Rev. H. Ward Price, of Chester, seconded by Mr Edward Thomas, Llan- dysiiio, a resolution in favour of the Sunday Closing Act for England, was unanimously carried. FINANCIAL POSITION OF THE UNION. The paragraphs of the report dealing with the finances of the union were taken into consideration. Practical suggestions as to the best way of in- creasing this income of the union for the home mission work were made by the Rev. H. J. Haffer, Rev H. W. Price, Mr W. Jones, tho Rev. D. B. Hooke, (secretary), Mr F. L. Rawlins (Gwersyllt), the Rev. Owen Thomas, M.A. (Holywell), and others. These were referred to the incoming executive, a resolution being passed pledging the members of the assembly to renewed offorts for an increased income. HIGHER EDUCATION AND MINISTERIAL TRAINING iN WAL-HS MrjD. M. Lewis, M. A. of Bangor University College, who was loudly cheered on rising, read a very able and exhiustive paper on tbe above subject. He remarked that the present was a time of remark- able educational activity and progres- in Wales, especially in the matter of intermediate and higher secular education. In the opinion of many the time bad come when the education given at the denomi- national colleges should be exclusively theological: and no doubt a great revolution in regard to them would very soon take place. He advocated the re- moving of those colleges to the towns in which the universities are located (applause), the advantages from which would be many and great, one of which would be the facility with which varied courses of study, could be pursued under those circumstances. In cases where necessary, a preparatory training for the universities could be given at the colleges. At considerable length and with much ability the reader of the paper then advocated and defended the study of science in all its branches by young men preparing for the ministry. Referring to the two Independent Colleges at Bala. owing to an unfortunate contro- versy, Mr Lewis propounded a scheme for the settle- ment of the vexed question between the two, and r.r strongly urged the removal of one of them to Bangor (applause.) At the conclusion of the paper, Mr Lewis was loudly applauded. The Rev. A. Mackennal, B.A., Bowden, (secre- tary of the Northern Board of Education), having highly eulogised the excellent paper which they had just heard, delivered a lengthy and eloquent address on the educational question as it effected the minis- try in the Congregational body. His remarks were highly applauded. He congratulated those present upon being connected with a country which was re- nowned for its desire for a sufficiently educated ministry The English Congregational denomina- tion, too, he believed would still keep its past tradi- tion in that respect. He hoped that the ministry of the future in Wales would not only be an educated ministry, but also a national educated ministry (cheers). The Rev. E. Herber Evans, Carnarvon, in a short eloquent speech, suppcrted the suggestions made by Mr Lewis in his paper, and strongly urged the re- moval of the three Independent Colleges in Wales to the towns in which the universities are located and he would even urge that pressure be brought to bear upon the governors of those institutions to have them removed at once. A hearty vote of thanks was unanimously carried to Mr Lewis for his admirable paper A motion in favour of the intermediate introduc- tion of the Intermediate Education Bill for Wales was then unanimously agreed to on the motion of the Rev. E. Herber Evans, seconded by the Rev. H. Elvet Lewis. THE NEXT MEETING. On the invitation of the Rev. H. S. Griffiths, of Bangor, it was unanimously agreed to hold the next annual assembly at Banger. The meeting wag brought to a close with a cordial vote of thanks to the Rev. Samuel Pearson, M.A., of Liverpool, for his able discourse of the previous evening and to Alderman Minshall for his kindness and ability in presiding. LUNCHEON AT THE WESTMINISTER HOTEL. At 3.30 pm, a verv large number of ladies and sreutleman, local and distant, memberi of all Christian denominations, sat down to a magnificent luncheon at the Westminister Hotel. Owing to the large number rresent, extra tables had to be laid in a second room. The menu was as follows Soupi, Ox Tail Julinne i«j naves. Mayonaise of Salmon Lamb Boned Turkey en aspic Boast Chickens Hams and Tongue* Pigeon Pies Gelantin66 of veal Roast Beef Pigeon Pies Pressed Beef Lobaier Salad Chicken Salad Dressed Salad Sweets Jellies Creams Swiss Pastry Compotes of Fruns Rhubarb Tarts Lemon Cheese Cakes Blanc-Mange T l'li. Coffee: and Possert Samuel Morley, Esq., MP., presided, and was supported by Principal Re'chel, of the University College, Bangor; Alderman Minshall. JP.,1 Oswestry Profe-sor Dobbie, of Bangor University College; Rev. John Thomas, D.D., Liverpool; Rev. D. Burford Hooke; Rer. E. Herber Evans, Carnarvon; Mr W. J Parry,C >etmor Hall"; Mr D M. Lewis Bangor University; Captain Wynne Junes Mr James Tayioi, &1; &0. ) Luncheon being over, and the ^ahlee cleared. The Rev. D. Burford Hooke acknowledged the receipt of letters from Thomas of Bootle Professor W. R Roberts. BailS University; Lord Richard Grosvenor, M.P., and Mr Joh/ Roberts, M.P., all regrettxng their inability to be present. The Chairman, who was loudly cheered on rising, said he was very glad to find himself once more in an assembly of Welshmen. He haa ofoea ti;1.keIl fcoxe from such meetings as the pre-ent an amoan. of streng-th and ercinraire.nent waion ild. te ea verv trratifving, and he wis tnert; to rei^w expression of sympathy on behalf of the English speaking people in Wales. He believed tneday could not be far distant when Enghsh ^oulujae universally spoken in Welsh wo'uld contmue6 to the end of ail time but he felt stronelv for the English in those ^aces where Welsh was the prevailing language. He regretted the increasing absence from public worship in England, which was now becoming chromc among enormous masses of the people, an « stir up those who professed religion o to reach the people, who, he beUeve more accessible than now to kindly and respectful appeals on the part of men who were not og but sympathetic. But there ^ere i e g interested in the condition of the peop e, t„rnr contemplating the future of 6ooiety wi unless something were done to assist t e?r ne hours into a higher life. The good results of board schools were so marked that if the nuddle classes desired to keep ahea fUair poorer brethren, they would ha,ve to g1 e adhesion to the intermediate schools. In some large towns there were first class establishments o character, both for the education of the P°°r ar^J middle classes. These were the establishments that preceded the university, and he remembered well Professor Huxley, in the early days of the school boards, referring to them as the ladder from the gutter to the university. There wts a great cry against school boards,but the expenditure upon them was the best-spent money in England. He advIsed them all to give their utmost support to the board schools, as they were the only schools in which there was an absolute guarantee for the fair management of their children, and they had the power themselves to control anything that was going wrong. He did not believe in any attempt to curb liberty so long as it was not attended with disturbances of the peace or the insecurity of property, but they must be prepared for the spread of opinions which they found were increasing. He did not wish to stop people in investigating for themselves, but there were discussions of extreme moment before them in the future. Principal Reichel, who was received with loud cheers, said he had not come to the meeting with the idea of making a statement as to the working of his own college. But he would notbe disobedient to the request of the chairman. The present position of the college at Bangor was a very simple one. After much debate as to whether Wales should have schools or colleges first, it was thought better to have the colleges first, inasmuch as the establish- ment of the colleges would make it absolutely necessary that the schools should follow (hear, hear.) Whereas, if the schools were first obtained, the country might have been satisfied with them and nothing further. Under present circumstances —until the immediate schools were establisbed-the work of the college must be extremely restrictive and they laboured under a great disadvantage. They had in a sense to fill up the vacancy, which, it was the hope of everyone, the Intermediate Education Bill for Wales would do away with I hear, hear.) Wales was anxiously looking forward to the Government to do something for us, they were waiting for that, without which higher education in Wales must for some time be at a standstill (hear, hear.) The learned Principal then went on to speak of the enormous importance of the present system of higher education which is being carried on in the Principality. He called it a decentralization, or, as some would say, provincial system- of education. That system did not of course mean that the system of general education should be at all weakened—the general bond which unites together the various parts of the m j empire. The good results of such a system was amply proved by the experience which had been gaine'd in Scotland. Referring to the question which more particularly had been brought before their minds that day—namely, the education of th6 clergy, Principal Reichel said the education of the clergy consisted of two parts-first the general education, they must be men of culture and secondly, theology. He need not dwell upon the weakness of the system of education which had been carried on by means of the different deuumin- ational colleges. It would be absurd to think that they could d,1 the work thoroughly which they professed to do it would be superhuman if they did so. If the pulpit in Wales is not to be allowed to fall beneath the pew, the clergy must take ad- vantage of the means of a higher general education whioh are now plaoed within their reach Where- ever the clergy are found to be deficient in 6duca- t-ion, Christianity was also to be found falling behind. Such was the case in Eranoe and in all Roman Catholic Countries, and that was gradually becoming- to be the case in England—there was no use blinking the matter. This danger was peculiarly great to Wales because the people have had no experience or the danger that lies in it. In reference to the question-how far the education of the clergy should be carried on with the education of the laity, he should say that they ought to be I. educated together (hear, hear.) The clergy ought not to be kept out of th« sight of the laity—there ought not to be between the clergy and the laity a mutural ignorance of each other. The result of such a system of education in the North of Ireland by means of Queen's College, was that Ulster by means of Queen's College, was that Ulster had become more Christian and less denominational (cheers.). Professor Dobbie, who was also heartily cheered on rising, saia that since he had lived in Wales, he had, in the sermons to which he had listened, found evidence of a very wide reading in general literature and science (hear, hear,); and there was a very earnest desire amongst the people for a higher education. If there was any fault at all in that respect, the fault was in the system of education. In answer to the question—how are the university colleges to be made use of for ministerial training— be referred to systems which were in existence in Scotland. In that country the clergy received their first training in the national universities, where for four years they went through the arta curriculum, after whioh they went through the course of train- ing in their own colleges. He thought there would be no great difficulty in applying this system in Wales. He also explained another system which was in existence in Edinburgh, where the students went through a course of theological education at the Independent College, and finished at a united college, belonging to all the various denominations. Many objections were brought against each of these systems. One objection—that it was not advisable for students of one denomination to mix up with the students of another denomination—was not worthy of notice. He considered it wo old be of the greatest advantage for the clerical students to be mixed up not only with each other, but also with students of other professions, and who were prepar- ing for altogether different walks in life (applause). They would by that means gain better knowledge of the people among whom they were preparing to minister. The only serious question was that of expense. But Mr. Lewis in his paper in the after- noon had suggested an excellent way out of that difficulty—suggesting that students could receive a preparatory course of training for the universities in their colleges by that means they may be en- abled to gain exhibitions or scholarships, which would enable them to go through the university course (hear, hear). In conclusion, he stnntflv Y' urged them to take advantage of the privileges which the Government had placed in their hands. If they did not do so they would be faithless to themselves (cheers). The Rev. E. Herber Evans remarked that the Welsh people were united in their opmion on this question—there was no need of convincing them, They were convinced of the desiraoiiity of a cultured ministry. The difficulty was a practical one. Some means wou d have to be fouud to over- come the difficultv, and it would be a shame to them if they did not avail themselves of the oppor- tunities within their reach (cheers). In c jaciusion. M. Evane moved a cordial v -te of thanks to the members of Christ Church and members of or her Churches in Rbyl for their welcome ro the ministers and delegates during their visit to Rhyi. Alderman Minsh ill seconde i the proposition which was earned with acclamation. Tne Rev, D. iiurfori ilo <ke navinir acknowje iged rhe vote of than to, the p'oceeiing- terminited. PUBLIC MEETING IN THE TOWS H T At 7.30 in tne evf-nin^r a ptib c iii -r uz wis held in the fown H til. the bo iy of whc I w-is filled with aa iiud,eu.;e comprising m^mO^rs of all denominations, Simuel Morley, Eq, M, P., presided, being supported on the piatfoucn by several ministerial and liv gentlemen. The Rev J. V. Morgan, of Llduwddyn, conduct- ed the opening devotional exercises, The Chairman, who was received with loud ap. plause, said they were met together that evening to consider the question of personal responsibility, th° personal responsibility of each member of the Christian Church, so as to cause them to be more active, more devoted, and less dependant upon cood ministers and gx>d deacons (heir, hear). J^hn Wesley had said that an idle Christian is a dis- honourable Christi m," He felt s-me dltlilence in a.idre.tsiug aa iiu iienoe largely ootnposei of vVe.sh peopitj ..ti tilat one llg douot, Was, buCAlioc lie
"PRIMROSE DAY" AT RHYL.
RHYL. PRIMROSE-DAY DINNER.—No one could regret the absence of the representatives of our town contemporaries from the above than we did and that regret is intensified when we hear that the editor of our Tory contemporary should 30 far forget the dignity of his honourable position as to endeavour, by writing to dif- ferent gentlemen for their speeches, to gather materials for reporting an event which to jim, in the absence of an invitation, must be regarded as private. NEW STATION AT FORYD.—The above station, situate on the main line near Towyn. was opened on Monday morning last. On Satur- day night the old station on the Vale uf Clwyd branch was closed Daring Sunday the office furniture, &0., was removed to Towyn. WOMEN'S CONVALESCENT HOME. — This ex- oellent Institution will be opened as usual on Friday, May 1st, to admit patients. HALL SEBVICES.—As will be seen from our advertising columns the Bev. W. E. Thomas, of Welshpool,will preach to-morrow (Sunday) morning and evening. These ser- vices will have to be continued for about three months longer, pending the completion of Christ Church. The new building is rapidly rising, and is being erected by Messrs Foulkes & Son, in a most satisfactory manner. This week ic was visited by a number of the mem- bers of the Congregational Union, who ex- pressed great satisfaction with it. MR CHRISTIAN'S LAND.—The above land we understand is about bean prepared for build- ing operations. Mr James Davies, the agent, has already been authorised to prrpare speci- fications, and obtain tenders, for the making of a 42ft. road. SALE or FREEHOLD PROPERTY AT RHYL.—On Tuesday last the 21st inst., Messrs Clough & Co., submitted 6 lots of freehold property to competition at the Royal Eotel, Rhyl, in the presence of a fairly large company. The first lot offered was two dwelling houses, Nos. 16 and 17, Water-street, Rhyi, which was put up at £800, and finally fell to the bid of Mr James Davies, at £925. Mr W. R. Williams was solicitor for the vendors. Lot, contain- ing 7000 yards of freehold building land, sit- uate at a junction of the Vale and Cefndy Roads, and 4 cottages, was withdrawn, the auctioneers failing to solicit a bid. Lot 3, Nos. 27 and 28, West End Villas, Kinmel St., BS also withdrawn, the highest offer being 450. Lot 4, a freehold dwelling house, No. 5, Mona terrace, Millbank, was iput up at £40 and was socured by Mr Davies, Freeland?, on behalf of Miss Evans, of Haydock, £64. Lot 5, two freehold houses, situate No 6 and 7, Hope place, were withdrawn, at £200. Lot 6, Greystone Villa, Crescent road, was put up at £400, and finally withdrawn at j6505. Messrs Wm. Davies and Roberts, being solicitors for the vendor. ONJFriday last the Fire Brigade were out for ■ raotice under Capt. Vaughan. The variu us parts of the drill" were gone through in a very precise and accurate manner. THE Rev. Griffith Jones, Vicar of M^styn, well-known as an eloquent Welsh preacher. occupied the pulpit at Trinity Church on Sunday last, morning and evening. The con- gregations were very large, in the evening especially. A CORRESPONDENT WRITES The managers of the National Schools some months ago very kindly allowed the Welsh Lodge of Good Templars to have the use of the class-room to hold their weekly meetings, a kindness whioh was much appreciated by the members but lately a night school has been started there, and the noise—rowdyism, would be the proper word—of the boys who congregate there has made it almost impossible for the lodge to conduct its business. I feel sure that the managers, on being made aware of this fact, will see that the unnecessary annoy- ance is discontinued. The lady who conducts the Dight Bchool ought, I think, to receive some assistance." WE find that Miss Davies & Co. have opened their Cocoa-house at the foot of the Railway Bridge, and judging from the number of per- sons calling there, they appear to be opening to a good trade. THE English Presbyterian Church, in Wel- lington-road, will be opened on tho 10th of May and following days, particulars of which will appear next week. 2ND /OLUNTEER BATTALLION ROYAL WELSH FUSILIERS.— C (Rhyl) Companys Orders for the week ending 1st May, 1885.—Satur- day, 25th April—Class firing at the range at 3.30 p.m. Men to attend at the Armoury for rifles between 1.30 and 2 p.m., after which the Armoury will be closed. Sunday 26th April —Church parade. Men to fall in at the Ar- moury in full dress at 9.45 a.m., band to be in attendance. Monday 27th April and Friday 1st May—Company drill at the Armoury at 7.30 p.m. in plain clothes.—BY ORDER.
ST. ASAPH.
RHYL COUNTY COURT. APRIL 17.—Before His Honour Judge Lloyd, and Messrs Sisson and George, registrars. There were 133 ordinary cases entered, 7 judge- ment summonses, and two adjourned actions. Most of the cases, being undefended, were dealt with by Mr O. George in the morning, and his Honour took his seat at 1.30 in the afternoon. THE HALIFAX JOINT STOCK BANK, V. R. T. ROBERTS, RHYL.—FRAUDS DISCLOSED. In this case Mr Marcus Louis (for the plaintiffs), and Mr Malcolm Douglas (instructed by Messrs. William Davies and Roberts—for the defendant), attended to hear the finding of the Judge. There were several issues raised in the case, and his Honour, haying taken time to consider the whole thing, now read the Report he would send to the Superior Court, deal- ing with the issues categorically as far as possible, but at the same time a special finding was reported. —At the conclusion of the judgement his Honour said he felt it his duty to report to the court above that the hearing of the case disclosed breaches of trust and fraud on the part of the defendant, and that in any event, if it had been in his discretion,he would deprive defendant of costs. TOO MUCH STRAW FOR THE HAY. Mr M. R. Partington (represented by Mr Alun Lloyd) sought to recover ,£1 10s from Mr Jas. Rowe, solicitor, Castle-street, Liverpool, for straw plain- tiff had obtained for thatching a hay-stack for defendant whilst acting as his agent.—For the de- fence it was contended that the amount was includ- ed in a sum of £7, which defendant had previously paid for harvesting the hay, and the defendant sub- mitted that the proceedings seemed somewhat trioky" to him. His Honour We will leave the tricky out now, please. Mr Alun Lloyd explained that the straw included in the first account was got to cover the hay in the first instance after it had been stacked, but the amount now sued for was for straw used in the final thatching. Mr Rowe submitted that he had paid too much already, and his Honour expressed his fear that Mr Partington had been "done," and gave verdict against him. NO DEFENCE. Edward Davies, a first-class army reserve man, sued Hugh Jones,Strawberry Gardens,for £4 2s lOd, money lent. &c. Mr Edward Roberts appeared for plaintiff.—Defendant denied the debt, and a memor- andum of it signed by himself was put into his hands, he denied having written the figures. This the judge disbelieved and at once Kave judgment for plaintiff. A MAN OF METHOD IN HIS CUPS." Mr Robert Lloyd, Mostyn Hotel, v. Mr Ishmael Jones, Flint.—This was a case adjourned from the last court, and in which the plaintiff sought to re- cover 49 2d from defendant on account of ex- penses incurred while at the Mostyn.—Mr Edward Roberts appeared for the plaintiff and Mr Wm. Davies defended. A cheque for £ o had been given by Mr Ishmael Jones, which cleared the account up to when it was given, but on the same day further expenses were incurred. However, the cheque was stopped. The examination of plaintiff was resumed by Mr Davies, and he again asserted that defendant was perfectly sober when he signed the cheque, and when he went to the Mostyn on the 6th of February. In reply to a letter from him (plaintiff) Mrs -Tones wrote asking him to send her husband home and saying if they stopped giving him drink he would not stay long. In reply to further questions Mr Lloyd explained the difference between the amount covered by the cheque and the amount sued for. In the course of the hearing his Honour asked what they were fighting for ? Mr Davies-The" extra charges. His Honour—It is a pity to rake up these un- savoury things. Mr Davies replied that he had tried his best to settle it Mrs Jones (who was now in the box) said it was a pity to give drink to her husband. If there were no such houses there weuld be no such men. Ultimately it was agreed to let the amount stard at five pounds, and thd cheque was handed in to his Honour. He said that, with the exception of the ilate, the cheque was filled in all right, and asked Mrs Jones if the rounter foil was fillpd, to which she replied in the affirmative. His Honour He (the deft.) has method in his cups (laughter). He (his Honour) would like to know if the defendant was in condition to sign the cheque. Inspector McLaren on being called said that he was sent for to the Mostyn Hotel on the evening in question and saw Mr Jones there. He had had some drink, but knew what he was about. The Inspector had not seen Mr Jones at mid-day, (when the cheque was made out). His Honour in giving judgement for plaintiff, said that if defendant was in position to know what he was doing, he was the best judge of the damages he had caused. THE TROUBLES OF A JOINT SURETY John Dobbins, v. John Hammond.—This case was one in which plaintiff (represented by Mr Edw. Roberts) claimed t6 16s., money due on a promis- sory note to which Mr Hammond was joint signa- tory. It appeared that Mr Hammond had become surety with Mr R. E. Williams, for Mrs Susannah Wil- liams said to be now a bankrupt. Mr Hammond said that R. E. Williams (who is Mrs Williams' son) was not a bankrupt and he thought they might in the first instance sue him. His Honour explained that it was open to plain- tiff to sue any of the parties to the promissory note for the undertaking had been entered into jointly and severally." Verdict for the plaintiff, but the ex- ecution stayed till the 12th of June. THE RESULT OF ABANDONING A CONTRACT. Joseph Williams, Crescent Vaults, sued the Rev. J. Lloyd Jones, Vicar of Holyhead, only son and executor of the late Mr Samuel Jones, West Parade, Rhyl, for JE16 7s. 6d.—Mr Edward Roberts for the plaintiff, and Mr Wm. Davies for the defendant. It appears that Mr Williams entered into an agree- ment with the late Mr S. Jones, for taking his house for twelve months, with all the furniture, which was to be paid for by instalments at a valua- tion. Mr Williams went to the expense of getting some new carpets &c., but Mr Jones regretted his bargain, and Williams agreed to abandon the con- tract, of course on a reasonable amount being paid as recompense.—The defendant to the action bad offered ten pounds to settle the matter.—After Mrs Williams had given evidence with a view of shewing how the claim was made up, His Honour remarked that of a necessity they could only hear one side of the case, as Mr Samuel Jones was dead. He had no reason to disbelieve Mrs Williams, but the question for him was what was a fair and reasonable amount. Some of the items in the claim were ridiculous. He would sug- gest as a reasonable amount. Mr Roberts We were offered £10. His Honour I am glad you did not get it. Mr Roberts Had the offer been made through me I would have accepted it. His Honour I will only give you" £ ">. Verdict for plaintiff, for £ •">» .+
Advertising
WITH SIR PETER LUMSDEN. The Standard's correspondent with Sir Peter Lums- den, in a despatch from Gulran, dated February 29th, says that the news of the Russian advance down the Heri Rud, Kushk Rud, and Murghab Val- leys came to his knowledge' from sources outside the Mission even before, the Bala-Murghab camp was left. "Information of so much importance (he con- tinues) could not be concealed and in a few days the ordinary Afghan followers and retainers began to allude to it in ominous language. Before arriving at Gulran the serious nature of the Russian advance was generally known, and at Isleem, some 39 miles from here and about 14 miles from Chaman-i- Baid, I heard from reliable, though Turcoman, agents that a body of Tekke cavalry with a few Russians had appeared even there two days be- fore, and had hoisted a flag, fired a salute, and apparently proclaimed a Russian annexation of the country. The advance to the Zulficar Pass and to Pul-i-Khisti are movements of the most serious importance, menacing the Afghan occupation of the southern portion of the Heri Rud Valley and the Murghab Valley. Pul-i-Khisti is the name by which the old aqueduct across the Kushk Rud River is known, and it is nearly opposite Ak Tepe. The mound called Ak Tepe is between the junction of the Kushk Rud and Murghab Rivers it is about 100ft. high. A fort has been raised on it by the Afghans—that is, its natural defences have been raised and surmounted by mud walls and bastions. Ak Tepe is unquestion ably a most important point; it dominates the Kushk Rud and Murghab Valleys, and the command of it gives the command of these valleys. With the control of these two valleys passes away the con- trol of the Herat Valley the advance by the Heri Rud, a much more difficult and in- hospitable line, becomes unnecessary. The Afghans watch the situation with the utmost anxiety, and it may be safely concluded that on our loyalty now to them depends henceforth their loyalty to us. The Afghans certainly detest the Russians, and although they love us but little, and heartily wish that neither Englishmen nor Russians should take possession of their country, they prefer England, for they know more of her rule, to Russia but if England .now countenances any spoliation of Afghan territory, there is an end unquestionably to Afghan trust and the Afghan Mission. The Ameer, however loyal he may be to us, will not be able to carry the country with him, and it may be anticipated to a certainty that a general desire to be revenged on us, and an intense loathing and general hatred of us, will arise amongst all classes in Afghanistan. The extension of Afghan rule, the pride in the growing strength of Afghan- istan, and the conquest of these valleys of un- bounded fertility, have, to some extent, reconciled the Afghans as a people to the severities of Abdur- rahman's rule but I know it is the opinion of some Afghans that it possibly may not survive a peaceful acquiescence in the spoliation of this Afghan territory by Russia. Although it was desirable, no doubt, to change our camp to Gulran, the movement undoubtedly, in the eyes of Afghan and Turcoman; looked like flight. There were various circumstances which gave it to the im- pulsive Afghan the character of a flight, and a flight before the Russians. It was not only the uncertainty as to the direction of the march from day to day, but the sudden swerve from Penjdeh and the onward course. It was a miserable necessity, in the snow and wet. It rained one evening in Kila Maur, snow fell at night, the ground was covered with snow the tents, snow-laden, were struck, and the march proceeded in the falling snow. From valley to valley —more than once across the Kushk river and across many streams—the way lay; the ground—clay strata of immense depths—acquired an appalling miriness; it became a slough of uncertainties and danger, 80 soft that it was difficult for animals to pass over it. The horses, plunging from mire to mire, found most safety in the pressed track made by the broad and flexible feet of the camel, and, to add to the danger, the ground which seemed to havethefirmestclay was un- dermined by holes and channels —the proofs of the de- structive energy of the native rat. The march from Kila Maur led to Chaman-i-Baid, and the place selected for encampment lay at the bottom of fields, which had in the previous year been cultivated for wheat. The ground was so soft that it would not bear without sinking the weight of a man, and in the struggles of the horses to pass through it accidents were marvellously escaped. From Chaman-i-Baid the march continued, and, happily, when the distance between Chaman-i-Baid and Gulran—divided into three marches-had been passed, the tents began to dry. Unquestionably, Gulran is a better position than Bala-Murghab. Had a conflict ocourred between the Afghans and Turco- mans at Penjdeh, the position of the Mission would have been critical; and such a conflict was not impos- sible, nor improbable, when the Mission marched from the Bala-Murghab. Since writing the above I have heard that an officer of the Mission of Ak Robat has had some intercourse with the Russian officer in charge of the Russian outposts they have dined together but as the English officer cannot speak French, and the Russian officer cannot speak English, their conversation has not been great they have communicated by signs. The Afghans look with astonishment on our social familiarities with the Russians. I am afraid they will scarcely understand this social intercourse with their and our rivals, and they may misunderstand it in an unpleasant way. Not much hospitality has been shewn to the Afghans. I think more might be and ought to be shewn."