Wrexham Guardian

BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS. MOVDAY.-M-ore R. Lloyd, Esq. (ex-Mayor), and A- W. Edwards, Esq. ..4 DEUMEN .MINER. Thomas Fi employed at the Rhosddu I I Colliery, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the 30th ult. It appeared that on Saturday night week the defendant was near the Market Hall in a state of insobriety. He was partially stripped and wanted to engage in a pugilistic encounter. Fined 5s and 7s costs or, in default of payment, seven days' imprisonment with hard labour. WEDNESDAY.—Before A. W. Edwards and R. Lloyd, Esqrs. BEASTIALITY. George Gibbons, a skinner's labourer, was charged with an unnatural offence, and being fully proved against him he was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions, to be held at Wrexham, on Wed- nesday next. I

WREXHAM BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The weekly meeting of the board was held on Thursday, Mr Lester in the chair, and Mr B. Davies in the vice-chair. The other members present were—Rev R. O. Burton, Lieut.-Colonel White, and Messrs J. Burton, E. Evans (Bronwylfa), G. H. Whalley' M.P., G. Roberts, C. W. Parsonage, E. B. Samuel, A. Sutton, J. K. Birch, J. Kenrick, J. Ll. Thomas (Ruabon), T. R. Parry (Holt Lodge), M. Hughes, E. T. Williams, C. Belmont, J. Daniel, E. Evans; and the clerk, Mr J. Oswell Bury. THE INCREASE OF TRAMPS, The Clerk read a letter from Mr Bradshaw, D.C.C., to the effect that a man named Kelly, the keeper of a common lodging-house in Mount-street, would receive tramps to lodge at 4d per head per night, and if full would undertake to provide them with beds elsewhere. The question of increased accommodation for tramps having been Referred to the ivisiting committee, they reported that if an additional building were necessary, an extension of the present wards jup to the boundary walls appeared the cheapest plan, which would provide ten additional beds at a probable cost of .£70. As, however, it was only occasionally that the present wards were not sufficient to accommodate them, the committee suggested whether two tramps might not occupy the same ward when required. After some conversation, it was resolved that the matter be referred back to the committee for further particulars, and reconsidered at a board meeting to be made special for that purpose. THE HALF-YEARLY CALLS. The Clerk presented his estimate of calls to be made upon the different townships for the half- year ending Lady-Day, 1877. The total this October was X7,388 as compared with Y,7,758 last year, showing a reduction of .£370. The first call would be made on November 1st, and the second on January 4th. The following are the contributions due from the several townships :— 1st 2nd 1st 2nd Call. Call. Call. Call. Parishes. Parishes. £ £ £ £ Shocklach Church.]; 40 34 Gresford. 130 100 Shocklach Oviatt.. 38 30 Gwersyllt 229 110 Abenbury Fawr. 38. 30 Holt 109 10 > Acton 41. 30 Llay. 78 70 Allington 140 133 Marchwiel 100. 88 Bersham 150 .vl45 Minera 142 100 Bieston 15 14 Pickhill 47 40 Borras Hovah 15. 10 Ridley. 10. 10 Borras Riffre 13. 10 Koyton 28 20 Broughton 162 150 Ruabon 700 580 Brymbo 171 170 Sesswick 18 17 Burton 147 140 Stausty 105 100 Cacca Dutton 10. 10 Sutton 35. 35 Dutton Diffeth 18. IS Wrexham Abbot. 121 100 Dutton-y-bran. 19 18 Wrexham Regis 500 341 Erlas 17 16 Abenbury Fechan. 10 7 Erthig 17. 16 Bangor 79 70 Esclusham Above. 75 70 Erbistock 52 40 Esclusham Below. 161 150 Threapwood. 18 17 Eyton 37 37 Worthenbury 124 120 Gourton 13 10 £ 3972 X3416 On the motion of Mr Burton, seconded by Mr Beale, the estimate was approved and adopted. THE HAFODYBWCH RIOT. Mr Whalley said he was glad to find that Mr B. Davies concurred with him that it might be proper to bring to the notice of the board a serious occur- rence which had recently taken place in this district, inasmuch as it so far concerned this board that it involved a charge upon the rates. They had heard of the riot at Hafodybwch, and it had come forward in the shape of a claim for compensation, and there- fore it was strictly a matter that concerned this board. He knew that there was that claim for compensation to be considered by the magistrates, in due course, for damage done to property, and that afforded sufficient excuse for bringing it forward now; but apart from the strictly official aspects of the question, he thought it right to make this observation, that, having been chairman of the petty sessions when this matter came before them, he felt called upon to take part in the matter, being very much surprised at the comments made in the newspapers that an outrage was perpetrated by 400 or 500 people upon a man who was innocent of any ofience other than that of doing his duty to his employers. The affair was sufficiently painful in itself; but that it should occur in this district, and that nothing should have been done towards bring- ing any person implicated in this outrage to justice, struck him as being a matter for serious considera- tion. The only excuse he had to suggest for their own satibfaction was this, that the outrage was due to some special agency acting upon the unfortunate people of the district, and instigating them The Chairman I must ask whether it is quite in order to go into the whole of these details. Mr Whalley said he was not going into details. He only wished to suggest, and he ventured to do so as a neighbour interested in the credit and character of the district, that they should all of them do what they could, by their consideration of the subject and by their co-operation, to vindicate law and justice in what had passed, and to protect the country against the recurrence of such outrages. Now he had made an investigation, with the assist- ance of Mr Benjamin Davies, and the only consola- tion he could offer to the public was this, that the outrage was due to a special ageney-that was distinctly brought before him as a magistrate-was due to a special agency or association called a trades union. That trades union had a consider- able organisation. They had heard a great deal about its interfering in disputes between mapters and men with regard to wages-- The Chairman: I must really ask you are you going to move any resolution, to bring the matter before the board ? Mr Whalley said he would conclude with a motion. He had nothing whatever to do with the operations of trades unions (The Chairman Hear, hear), so far as related to disputes between masters and men; but when trades unions developed into conspiracies against law and order, created a terrorism throughout the country, and went far at this moment to arrest the course of law and justice, then it struck him that, resulting as it did in a charge upon the rates, it did appear a matter that concerned every individual in the district, not merely for the protection of the rights of property, not merely for the vindication of law and order, but for the sake of rescuing the credit of this district from that which is at the present moment a scandal from one end of the country to the other, and cal- culated to be of the most serious injury to every- body. He did not intend to conclude with a motion, but would now move that the matter be referred to a committee to assist in investigating and watching over the progress of this claim for compensation, and report to the board any matters which they considered within the cognizance of the board to r3 deal with. The Chairman: I don't think you could put such a resolution to the board. Mr B. Davies: If you could, I should be happy to second Mr Whalley's motion. The Chairman It is a matter for the police. Mr B. Davies It involves the interests of the ratepayers. The Chairman It is a charge on the hundred of Bromfield, which extends far beyond this union. ideally we have nothing to do with it. We can regret it, that is all. Mr Gomer Roberts thought this matter belonged to the magistrates and the police. They should investigate the case, and they should be blamed, if anyone, if they did not (laughter). That was his opinion as a ratepayer of the parish of Euabon. He should like Mr Whalley and Mr Benjamin Davies to investigate a little further, and get at the root of the evil. If it arose from the trades union, he should like that to be brought before the public; but he objected to mere insinuations. I Col. White did not think it was a matter which concerned that board. Mr B. Davies said he had much pleasure with Mr Whalley in making an investigation of this matter, and in reply to one remark from Mr Whalley, he wished to state that it was his deliberate opinion that it was not owing to any question whatever in oonnection with the trades union. The trades union was perfectly clear of the whole affair, and had nothing to do with it in any shape or form. In fact this dispute between the manager and the colliers never came under the con- sideration of the trades union. The whole disagree- ment occurred on Thursday morning, resulting in a riot on Friday evening. It was carried on entirely independent of the trades union by the colliers of Hafod-y-Bwch themselves, represented by the chairman of the union, but not in his capacity cf chairman of the union, but in his capacity of check weighman for the colliers. Representing the men in that capacity alone, he appeared amongst them when they went to the manager, and offered to '• I; come to some arrangement. He had no doubt that he being not only a check weighman but chairman of the trades union was the reason why parties thought the trades union had something to do with these proceedings; but he declared it was his opinion that that organisation had nothing to do with it. j The Chairman However, the trades union has nothing to do with the Wrexham union or the Wrexham union with the trades union. Colonel White I beg to move that the Master be called to produce his book. Mr B. Davies I maintain that the question is stillone that the ratepayers are interested in as far as it relates to the £200 claimed as compensation; and Mr Whalley's proposition is that a few gentlemen as a committee be appointed to investigate. The Chairman Mr Whalley's proposition is not pressed. j Mr Darnel: If is to be paid by the rate- payers of Ruabon, I think after all tit is a question for this board; but I am at a loss which to believe, Mr Whalley or Mr Davies (laughter). I am told by Mr Whalley that this has all happened through the trades union while my friend on my left says it has not. Mr Whalley then put his motion in the following terms :—" That a claim for compensation having been made in respect of the outrage at Hafod-y- Bwch, the finance committee watch the progress of such claim, and report to the board thereon." | With regard to the discrepancy between Mr j Benjamin Davies and himself, all he had to say was this, that it had been distinctly alleged before him as a magistrate by the parties aggrieved that they considered it arose out of the trades union in the district. He was only showing that it was a matter of great importance that this should be investi- gated either by the magistrates or by the board because it just came to this, if it was not due to the trades union—and he did not say it was, be merely reported what was stated to him—if it was not due to the trades union or to some other special agency, then he must confess that this district, and the colliers and .people who lived about here, must be content to be presented to the public in a position which appeared to him, as a neighbour and as one more or less responsible for the good order of the district, to be a very painful one; if on the other hand it could be proved to have resulted from a trades union influence, it would be for the credit of the district that such a state of things should no longer exist. He gave no opinion on the subject, he merely gave what was presented to him. MrB. Davies having seconded the motion, Colonel White moved that the matter be not entertained. He thought it would be excessively ungracious on their part, considering that-the quarter sessions would take place next Thursday, to prejudge any auction by the magistrates. He thought they might all venture to wait till next Thursday, and see what was done then. He had not the slightest doubt that the question would be brought before the court of quarter sessions. Mr Beale seconded the amendment. Mr Whalley said he had been entirely misappre- hended by Colonel White if he supposed that he wished to prejudge the action of the quarter sessions—nothing was further from his intention but as a question affecting the rates it was clearly his opinion that they ought to entertain it, and to give an intimation to the quarter sessions that they regarded in that light. He did not wish to pre- judge their action, but to co-operate with them to the best of their ability. Mr Gomer Roberts said the check weighman was only a medium for conveying the opinions and feel- ings of the men to the manager. He knew the man well: he was a very innocent man, and would do no mischief to anyone (hear, heer). He did not think the onus should be borne by him. The motion of Mr Whalley was then submitted to the meeting, and rejected by a majority of eight to three.

DENBIGH. DEBATING CLASS.—The Conservative Debating Class commenced the winter session on Monday la-t. Their meet- ings are open to all recognised rnembersoi the association. COTTAGER'S SHOW.—The first prize for the best and cleanest kept garden, offered at the Llandvrnog Flower Show, has been awarded to JYIr Evans, wife of P. C. Evans, of the Village. SCHOLASTIC HONOURS.—Miss Melloe, sister to Mrs Holden, of the Denbigh Board Schools, has taken a First-class with honours, at the late Cambridge Higher Examination of Women

RUTHIN. LITERAR Y MEETING.—The annual literary meeting in connection with Rhos Chapel, took place on Tuesday night, the Rev, Owen Evans, in the chair. Mr Ezra Roberts conducted the proceedings. The only interesting item to the generality of the audience wa3 the choir competition for £ 2. Only the Llanfwrog and Rhewl choirs competed, and the prize was divided. BLOWING YOUR OWN TRUMPET.—" Nemo writes to us I have bees much amused with the application of the nnsneeessful candidate for the town clerkship, which a friend has shown me. It is not often tl1at candidates embody eulogistic testimonials to themselves in their applications. Fancy a gentleman writing thus of himself I may say I have earned the good opinion and respect of all my fellow- townsmen, so that as far as a social position is concerned I do not think any exception will be taken to my Candida- ture on that ground.' Oh, fie, Mr Adams, to imugine that your social position was likely to interfere with your candida- ture! And again, I have made the law my special duty, so that I can with confidence say that in the event of my being elected to the office I shall be able to fully advise the Town Council on every matter that may arise with reference to these statutes (named). Further, I have had 13 years'ex- perience as clerk ùf the Ruthiu Highway Board, and have for that period performed all the duties of the office to the entire satisfaction of the board. Modest man! It will never do to hide one's light under a bushel, and I suppose this is only the merits of the unfortunate candidate that have been so highly varnished. The result of the election seems to have been in accordance with Scripture, Friend, go up higher.' SPECIAL MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL, Present:—R. G. Ellis, Esq (mayor), Aldermen J. R. Jenkins, John Jenkins, and Dr. Thomas Jones, Councillors E. Edwards, B. P. Davies, W. Green, L. Parry, W. J. Roberts, Wm. Owen, R. G. Joyce, John Hughes, Hugh Jones, Dr. R. EJJis, and Edward Evans. Dr. Jenkins was called out previous to the voting. ELECTION OF TOWN CLERK—Mr R. G. Joyce pro- posed, and Mr Leonard Parry seconded that Mr WIll. Lloyd, solicitor, be appointed town clerk. JHr Huu-h Jones proposed as an amendment, seconded by JYIr Edward Evans, that JYIr Adams, solicitor, be appointed. On the amendment being put to the vote the following geutleIllen voted for Mr Adams. Messrs Hugh Jones, E. Evans, IL P. Davies. and Dr. Ellis. The original motion was then put and supported by the Mayor, Aldermen John Jenkins, and Dr. Thomas Jones, Councillors E. Edwards, W. Green, L. Parry, W. J. Roberts, W. Owen, and R. G. Joyce. Mr John Hughes declined to vote. Thus making a majority of five for Mr Lloyd. It was ailmitted on all hands that Mr Adams was a worthy and eligible candidate. Messrs Louis and Edwards withdrew from the contest. MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH—A letter was read from Dr. Wm. Jones, resigning the office of medical officer of haalth. It was then decided that the question be considered at the next general meeting. Mr W. M. Prees, assistant to Dr. Thomas Jones, was mentioned as a likely candidate for the appointment. AN EXTRAORDINARY VACANCY having occurred through the resignation of Mr Councillor Lloyd, and notice to that effect having been given by two burgesses to the mayor, it was resolved that the election take place on the 2Hh inst" to fill the vacancy. A general wish was expressed that the ex-town clerk would consent to fill the vacancy, which he cousenteù to do if it was the wish of the towns- people, and he was returned without a contest. EXTRA DUTIES OF THE TOWN CLERK.—It was proposed by Mr R. P. Davies, and seconded by i\1r John Hughes, that no extra fees be paid the town clerk for any services, unless the same shall have been ordered by the council, and a resolution to that effect was entered on the minutes. Mr Lloyd having b8en sent fur, was informed by the mayor that he had been elected as town elerk, and was complimented upon his appointment. Mr Lloyd returned thanks for the honour conferred upon him, and invited the whole of the members to the Castle Hotet, to lunch.

ST. ASAPH. REGISTRATION.— Mr W.Laagford Ffoulkes.the Flintshire revising barrister, held his court, at the Court-house, St. Asaph, for the revision of the lists of Cwm, Newmarket. Dyseth, St. Asaph, Tremeirchion, and the parochia of Rhuddlan." The Conservatives were represented by Mr. Partington, and the Liberals were unrepresented. The former party made 17 new claims, and the Liberals 2 new claims there were but few objections. The whole were allowed without opposition. GRAMMAR SCHOOL.—On Saturday last a meeting of the governors of the above school was held, when it was notified that Sir William G. Williams, Bart., Bedelwydden, had generously given a donation of £ 250. It was after some discussion resolved that a new start be made in obtaining subscriptions that the work may be proceeded with. The citizens have subscribed most liberally, several giving £30 or even .£50 each. It was resolved that Mr. R. Lloyd Williams, architect, and county surveyor of Denbighshire, be chosen architect for the school, and the plans which Iw had sent in for competition were approved, with a few minor alterations. We understand that the governors have nearly completpd their arrangements for the purchase of a site from the ecclesiastical commi sioners.

RUABON. HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES.—The. annual harvest thanksgiving services were held at the Parish Church, on Friday evening, 6th instant. The church was beautifully decorated with the emblems of a fruitful season, and presented a very tasteful appearance. On the communion table was a cross composed of ears of barley on a blue ground, the centre occupied with a. bunch of black grapes surrounded with a wreath of oats and poppies. On either side were miniature sheaves of corn and vases of flowers, the whole enclosed wnh a fruit border tire altar-cloth was also adorned with an edging of lace. In the niches on each side of the CCill- munion-table were miniature palms in pots; and on the sill of the east window an array of greenhouse plants. The pulpit was lavishly ornamented. On the centre panel was a shield on red cloth ground, and in the centre a cross of daifclias intermixed with oats. On the side panels were similpj devices. Attached to the cornice work were wreat'hs of oaths, dahlias, asters, French marigolds, fuchsia s, geraniums, and all kinds of flowers; while from the corners were suspended streamers of o t and flowers inter mingled. On the centre panel of he reading-desk wa s a cross of dahlias; and the other decorations con sisted of oats and various flowers and streamers of w jld berries. The lectern was also taste- fully embellishi id with ferns, asters, bunches of grapes, fig leaves, and oats and the font with white berries, moss, atrd rosel I, with a maiden-hair fern in the centre of the basin. The gas standards were wreathed with oats and vane 418 flowers, the wiadow gills covered with (; l: x I orchId, ferm, an 1 dlthlia" and the capitals et the columns supporting the nave were encircled with wreaths of holly and flowers. The decorations were carried out by the following ladies :—Communion-table, Mrs Thornbiil; pulpit, Miss Lloyd (Post-office), Miss Rees (Parkside). and Miss Faulker (Liverpool); reading desk, Miss Whalley and the Misses Edwards lectern, Miss Whalley; font, Miss Griffiths (Mill Cottage), and Miss Murless (W'ynHstay Arms Hotel): general decora- tions, Mrs Edwards (Vicarage), Miss Forbaw (Rnabon), Miss Forshaw (Liverpool), Miss M. A. Walmsley, and Miss Wilson, assisted by Mr C. H. Llovd. The Rev C. F. Jones, curate, and Mr R Lloyd, post-office, gave a general supervision to the work. Mr Middleton sent some hot-house plants, and gave some valuable sugges- tions. Contributions of grapes, flowers, fruit, Wheat, and oats were received from Wynnstay, Penynant, Plasmadoc, JUoreton Inn, Park Eyton, and the Wyna- stay Arms Hotel. The special preacher for the occasion was the liev E. Smart, Vjcar of Henllan, Denbigh, who preached an impressive discourse from St, John's Gospel, 4th chapter, 35th and 3Gth verses. DISTRIBU llOX OF VICAR ROBINSON'S PRIZES AT THE NATIONAL SCHOOL. On Friday afternoon, the (jth inst., the annual distri- bution of what are known as Vicar Robinson's prizes to the children attending the various parochial schools in this parish took place in the National Schools, Ruabon. There was a large attendance of teachers and scholars from Ruabon, Rhos, Rhosymedre, and other places, and the room in which the proceedings were held was tilled to overflowing. The chair was taken by Mr G. H. Whalley, M.P., and there were also on the platform, the Rev. Elias Owen, Diocesan Inspector; the Rev.' E. Smart, vicar of Henllan, Denbigh; the Rev. E. W. Edwards, vicar of RuaboD and Dr. W. Jones, church- warden. Mrs Edwards (The.Vicarage), Mrs Foote, the Misses Edwards, and several other ladies occupied seats near the platfcrm.i The Chairman, in opening the meeting, said it was one of the greatest privileges that could be enjoyed by any one in that parish to take part in proceedings "of that kind. He thought they could not be too thankful to the vicar for the anxious care and constant services which he had rendered on behalf of ducation; and he hoped the children by their conduct in the future would reward their worthy vicar for his great care and anxiety on their behalf. Speaking of the difference between the two I classes of schools—those maintained by voluntary effort and the board schools—he said he thought these d'iffereat systems were advantageous, inasmuch as they created a competitive spirit in the district. In concluding his re- marks, he said he knew he should ofiend those whom he addressed if he did not associate the name of Mrs; Edwards with that of the vicar in an expression of gratitude to them for what they had done in promoting tue welfare of the parish. The Rev. E. W. Edwards explaining about the prizes saidThis is now the third year these prizes have been given. The first year the late inspector, Mr Jack- son, was with us, and some of you will remember the interest he seemed to take in the scheme that was adopted for the distribution of these prizes. And we are greatly indebted to our present inspector, Mr Owen, for the trouble he has taken in coming here to-day, I feal at some inconvenience to himself. In speaking of these prizes, I was asked the other day who Vicar Robinson was. Now, this is a question that ought never to be asked by any one in this parish. If we study the history of Ruabon we shall find that he was one of the chief benefactors of the parish. He was vicar of this parish for 31 years, from 1U75 to 170d he lived in the reigns of Charles II., James II., and William 111., and whatever other vicars may have been he seems to have had the good of the parish at heart. He founded and endowed most of the almshouses. One of the present recipients of this charity is also the oldest of our. Sunday school teachers; and if we had all been sufficiently educated to understand the language in which he teaches he would have been glad to have ex plained to us his views as to the benefits of this institution Besides the almshouses Vicar Robinson also founded and endowed another important charity in this parish In those days this parish had not the same educftionai advantages as it has now, and by his will Vicar Robin- son left about £1:!U a year towards having th° poor children of Ruabon taught at the Grammar School In addition to this he provided that six of the children should be clothed out of the almshouse charity. Now the Endowed Schools Commsssioners, as most of you know, about five years ago drew up a new scheme for 1 the Grammar School, which they considered would have the effect of making it more useful than ever for the poor children of this parish, and would open the way for any I boys who may wish to go on from the National Schools and Board Schools of the parish to the Grammar School, and trom there to what they call a higher grade bcbool, and from there to the university or some higher place of education. This was their theorv, and with this object they considered that they were justified in appropriating to the Grammar School .£ 10 a vear from oue of the most useful chanties in this parish; the apprenticing fund. This had been the means of enabling many a poor Ruabon boy to become a well-to-do mechanic or tradesman instead of having to work for mere labourer's wages. But by transferring this to the Grammar School fund the commissioners were of opinion that it would be the means of conferring much greater ad- vantages on Ruabon boys than the apprenticing fund had Qoue; and it is to be hoped that this may be the result, and we have every reason to hope, as far as their theory can be carried into practice, that this will be the result, as long as we have those who take that in- terest in the weltare of this parish that our worthy chair- man does, as trustees and governors of the school. However, the Bishop of the diocese, and not the vicar of Ruabon, was the trustee of the Grammar School under Vicar Hobinson's will, and therefore so far responsible for any change that has been made in that institution. What chiefly concerns us to-day in the work of the Com- missioners is, how they came to draw up this scheme for the distribution of prizes for religious knowledge. For some years the clothing left in Vicar Robinson's will ont of the almshouse chanty was given to six boys from this school, the six boys educated gratis in the Grammar School not requiring it. Now, the change in this that was first proposed by the Commissioners was rather curious. They argued that as the clothing was for children from the Grammar School, it was therefcre an edu- cational endowment. And consequently that under the new scheme, as Ruabon boys generally instead of being taught gratis wouM have to pay a year, that there- fore the same amount should be charged to the alms- house estate for the six boys who were to have the clothing: in other words, that instead of the £6 hitherto paid for the clothing, in future £30 a year was to be paid to the Grammar School by the poor people of the almshouses. This was what was actually proposed by the Endowed Schools Commis- sioners in 1871, I had the curiosity this morning to refer to their letter. The letter is of course the public property of the parishioners; and it might perhaps in- terest some of you to know how an Assistant Commissioner would word such a proposal. This is what he says in his letter on the subject, dated June ICth, 1871 Your almshouse charity, being liable to provide clothing and instruction for six boys at the Grammar School, falls under section 24 of the Endowed Schools Act, which deals with the apportionment of mixed endowments.' The commissioners will have accordingly to frame a scheme for the charity, subject to the provisions coa tained in the subsections of the above-mentioned section 24. They would suggest £30 per annum as a fair annual payment to be made to the Grammar School for the"six boys, viz., per boy (the present school fee") for tuition, and £1 per boy (the actual payment made) for clothing." I have received strange letters in my life, but I was never mon surprised than when 1 received this. Their reasoning seemed to me peculiar, and, as trustee of the almshouses, I was sorry not to be able to see my way to agree to it. After a long correspondence, the present arrangement was agreed to, that tae £ G left for clothing should in future be given in prizes for our Church schools. As it was expressly stated in Vicar .Robinson's will that the children receiving the clothing should be taught the Church Catechism iu the Gram- mar School, it was therefore provided in the new scheme that these prizes should bo confined to those schools receiving Government aid in the parish in which the catechism is taught. We have been anxious to be as fair as we could in the distribution of these prizes, and we have, therefore, asked the diocesan inspector to pre- pare the paper of questions, and to send it direct to the school on the day of the examination. This year, I am glad to be able to congratulate Rhos school on having done so well. Another year I hope Ruabon will follow their good example. Tho prizes have been given according to the inspector's list, no prize being given for less than eighty marks (applause). The Rev Elias Owen, the diocesan inspector, said he lately had the duty of examining the schools, and now he had the pleasure of being present upon the occasion of the distribution of prizes to those who had distinguished themselves at that examination. Having made some remarks upon the merits of the various papers, specially referring to the Rhos schools, which had done exceed- ingly well, he said there were two classes of schools that competed one against the other, the secular and the religious schools, and observed that the latter class of schools were not impaired by the children being taught the Scriptures in addition to instruction in secular sub- j'cts. He had compared notes with her Majesty's in- spectors, and had found out that those schools which excelled in religious knowledge likewise distinguished themselves in secular subjects, so that the imparting of religious instruction really sharpened the intellect and made the children more capable of undergoing the ordeal of & secular education. Therefore, the masters need act fear that the hour given to religious instruction would tell upon their schools injuriously in secular subjects, and it was just possible that a child was not equal to a three hours stretch 6f instruction in one particular class of subjects. He ought to be careful en this point; for there were those who advocated secular schools to the entire exclusion of religious subjects; but, nevertheless, it was his opinion that the future of our country depended very much on the religious instruction in our schools, not so much the historical portions of the Bible, as for example, who Saul was and how much higher he stood than anybody else, but chiefly the preceptive portions, especially those precepts that were taught bj our Saviour. The examination, on the whole, taking into consideration the ages oi the children, wa. vtlv satisfactory > but next year he hoped he should have the children giving readily correct answers from their catechism as to their duty towards their neig-hbours, spelling correcflv, and doiKg everything just as it ought to be done. They might expect that Ruabon school would next year take a very prominent position, although he hoped Rhos would not be far behind. In fact, he believed Rhos wonld run a very hard race with 'anv school in this neighbourhood as long as the present master was the master of that school (applause). The prizes were then distributed. These consisted of a number of handsomely bound volumes on vanous useful and entertaining subjects; and the chairman had a word of encouragement for each child who came up to receive a prize Dr. W. Jones afterwards spoke a few words, express- ing his pleasure that the Ruabon. Rhos, and Pen-y-cae schools had done so well on the present occasion, and trusting that they would do as well another vear. The Rev. E. Smart, next addressed the audience. He expressed some disappointment at not seeing any of the parents present, and said schoolmasters laboured under great disadvantages where parents took no interest in the education of their children. He Was glad to End that the Sunday schools of the parish were so well attended. He believed that the work of Sundav schools was one in which really and truly the moral condition of this country rested in a great measure. Though our noble volunteers were doing a great work inasmuch as they afforded a moral support to the government of the kingdom, he believed Sunday school teachers afforded a stronger moral support to the government of this country in the welfare of the kingdom at large. He trusted that tha children before him would grow up in a knowledge of the Scriptures and in the practical use of that know- ledge; would grow up Christian men and women, and that the precepts of God's Word would sink deep in their hearts and be exemplified in the holiness ui their lives (applause). The Chairman remarked that the Sudav school until the Rev. Mr Jones came was really as Lothicg compared with what it had been since. That had been accom- plished not by anything like force but by affection; by that genuine regard for the children and by that earnest devotion to his duty which he believed no man could exhibit more thoroughly than the Rev. Mr J ones. After what had been said by the Rev. Mr Owen, the diocesan inspector, as to the Rhos school, he thought it snould call forth from him an expression of their thanks to him for his services as shown by the distinguished position of his pupils. He wished him success and that he might long continue to discharge those duties which he had hitherto discharged so effectively. As regarded their own master, Mr Bunsaull, he thought it only right, at an inhabitant of Ruabon to offer an explanation for any apparent second-rate position he might now occupy. It was entirely attributable to a circumstance, over which he had no control, the shortness of his services here, but after having had some intercourse with him, he could state that he never had met with anyone who seemed to have in him more of the native spirit of the schoolmaster than he had. He really was most earnest, and threw his whole mind into his work, and bad an explanation for everything he did, which showed that be had thought sbout it as the result of an earnest desire to do his duty to those who employed him and to the children com- i mitted to his charge. He might speciallv mention the evening schools for adults. The labour and trouble he had taken to bring these older people round them, and to impart to them not S3 education as a desire for educa- tion, not so much to give them knowledge as to inspire them with a spirit to acquire knowledge by their own efforts, was most remarkable, and he should not be doing his duty if he did not express his sense of Mr Bunsaull'! services in that respect (applause). A song, The Reapers," was then sung by the ehildren, Mr Baker accompanying upon the harmonium. Votes of thanks were then tendered to the diocesan inspector, and the; chairman, and the.pioceedings ter- minated. The following is the list of prizes :— 1.—Samuel J. Pritchard. Rhos, Life of St. Paul," and "A Boy's voyage round the worL." 2.—John Wiliiam-on, Rhos, "Agathos," and" Longfellow." 3.—Fred. Davies. Rhos, "Suuday Echoes," by Airs Brock (1st seriesi, and" Heruert," with liie and notes. 4-Thomas D. Owen, Rhos, Great Battles of the British Navy," and Mis Heman's Poems." Margaret A. Jones, Rhos, A book of golden deeds," and Clear shining after rain." ti.—Margaret Jones, monitress, Ruabon, Ministering Children," and Wide, wide world." 7.-Charies G. Bailey, Ruabon, Smile's Self-help," and Stories from the History of the Jews." S.-Itichard Thomas. Ruabon, Chronicles of the Schom- liurg-Cotta Family." and "Romans and Danes." J .—Meredith Archer, Peuycap; -Josephus." I t).-IN-illi:iin J. Bailey, Ruabon, Hebrew Heroe?.' 11.—Albert Powell, Peuvcae. "Sunday Echoes," by Mrs Brock i L'nd series. 12.—Edward Nicholas, Ruabon, Heroism and Adventure." 13.-Charlotte Owen, Rhos, Swiss Family Robinson. 14-JoselJh W. Jones, Rhos, "Pilgrim's Progress." 15.-Johu Hughes, Rhos, "Masterman Ready." I (;David Phillips, Penycae, Marryatt's The Mission," or Seenes in Africa." 17.—Ann Hughe-, Ruabon, Nicholl's Help to reading the Bible." IS.—Edward Edwards, Penycae, Tales illustrative of the Parables." li'.—George Morrison, Penycae, The Wanderer in Africa." 2".— Emily A. Roberts, Ruabon, The Orphan Girl .• or, God's Providence." 21.-Jcepil Williams, Rlios, "A year at School." "SLirah Owen, Rhos, "Little Meg's Children."

BRYMBO. SPELLING BEE.—The first of these popular and instructive entertainments took place in the Tabernacle, on Monday evening last, under the presidency of the Rev Joseph Davies, who filled the office of chairman and interrogator, the referee being the Rev Mr Owens, who was assisted by a large WTelsh dictionary, the whole of the competi- tions being in Welsh. The meeting was opened by the audience singing Pass me not," and then the chairman, in a brief address, pointed out the object of the meeting's origin. The first item on the programme was a competition for boys under twelve years' old. Five entered, and the number was soon reduced to two, who each received a prize in money. Three mistakes disqualified the competitors. Mrs Anne Jones then sang a tem- perance melody, Happy Home," in a very pleasing manner. The nest was an impromtu address on the history of the competitor; several gave very amusing sketches, the best two being Messrs Edward Jones and Edward Hughes. This was followed by the principal competition in spell- ing, 13 competing. The number was gradually diminished to three, who each received a suitable book for a prize—1, Joseph Pritchard 2, William Henry Wrhomsley; 3, Robert Williams. The meeting was brought to a close by singing Over there," one of Mr Sankey s melodies. It is proposed that these entertainments be held fortnightly during the winter session, the proceeds being devoted towards the prize fund for the Christmas Eisteddvod. HARVEST THANKSGIVING.—The annual harvest thanksgiving services were held in St. Mary's, on Wednesday week, when the church presented, as usual, a very gay appearance. The interior of the building was greatly improved for this festival by ornate, though not lavish or elaborate, decorations. In thewindows of the chancel, as well as in the nave and transcepts, was displayed an arrangement of fruits, flowers, and vegetables, which gave a fine contrast to the otherwise unembellished portions. The communion rails, choir stalls, and gaseliers were festooned with wheat, oats, and barley, flowers and leaves being appropriately intermingled. On the altar there was a miniature sheaf of wheat, and an edging of oats to the altar cloth had a most pleasing effect. On the front of the pulpit was suspended a magnificent bunch of grapes forming the centre of an arrangement of ferns, flowers, wheat, and other grain, being most artistically arrayed. The lectern was most beautifully adorned with flowers, vegetables, ferns, wheat, and other grains and along the sides of the cnancel and on the steps were arranged fine specimens of pot flowers. The profuse elaboration of the font was quite a work of art, and displayed much skill and design, being encircled with flowers, fruits, leaves, wheat, and other cereais, surmounted by a Sue bunch of grapes, the base being most peculiarly ornate on a relief of moss with ferns, leaves, grain, &c. The decorations, all of which were arranged with striking harmony were carried out under the careful and active exerdons of Mrs Clayton, Dryn- mally—Miss H. Clayton decorating the pulpit, Miss Barker, Brynmally, the lectern; Miss Hanson, the font; Mrs Azariah Jones, the gaseliers, assisted by several of the lady members. Grea credit is due to Mrs Clayton and family for their untiring energy in. planning and executing the decorations in such an artistic manner. The flowers, fruits, vegetables, cereals, grains, &c., were kindly presented by Mr Clayton, Mr Sheriff (Brymbo Hall). Mrs Hughes (Mount), Mr W. Hughes, (Coed-y-felyn), Mrs Lynch (Glascoed), the Misses Lewis (Llwynknotia), tc., &c. There was a full choral service, which was effectually rendered by the choir. There were special psalms and lessons as well as a special collect and thanksgiving prayer. The prayers were read by the Rev W. Jones, vicar, and the lessons by the Rev M. H. C. Shelton, curate of Wrexham. The service commenced by the choir singing hymn 223, "Come ye thankful people come," as a processionaJ, the usual voluntary being omitted; the other i hymns being 224, "Praise, 0 praise my God and King," and 3(10, We plough the fields and scatter," froms Hymns Ancient and Modern." The service for the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis was Dr Clarke Whitfield's the anthem being—solo, '"Comfort ye my people," and chorus, 0 Lord how manifold are Thy works." A most eloquent and appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev M. H. C. 0:1, from the text, Amos VIII, and 2nd verse, Amos what seest thou ? And I said a basket of fruit.' OSWESTRY COTTAGE HOSPITAL.—The treasurer, Mr F.

G. Buller Swete, acknowledges the, following :—Aston Chapel harvest thanksgiving, par Lady Frances Lloyd, C5 8s lid; collection by Nonconformists at Llanilir:, 1£1 18s 66.; collection at the QuiaUCougregatioual Church £ 3 ] 5s.

ESCLUSHAM CHURCH.—It has been definitely fixed that the memorial stone of. Esclusham Church will be laid by Mrs Yorke. of Erddig, on Tuesday next, the 26th. SIR WATKIN WILLIAMS WYNN, BART., :M.P I We are able to state that the health of Sir W. W. Wynn has greatly benefitted by the baths at Vichy. Sir Watkin and Lady Williams Wynn have arrived at Wynnstay. THE BURGESS LIST was revised on Monday by the officials appointed for that purpose, the De- puty-Mayor (Mr J. C. Owen) presiding. There were no new claims or objections, and the business was purely of a routine nature. OXFORD LOCAL EXAMINATIONS.—The certificates and prizes awarded after this examination will be given to the successful candidates at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, at the Art Tresurers Exhibition. Mr Watkin Williams, M.P., will preside. THE COUNTY POLICE.—We understand that the Chief Constable of Denbighshire (Mr Denman) will tender his resignation at the Quarter Sessions to be held in Wrexham next week. There is some talk of the Deputy Chief Constable also retiring, but we cannot vouch for the truthfulness of the rumour. THE LATE AMATEUR CONCERT AT THE ART EXHIBITION.—We have been asked by "Musicus" to put the following question :—"Is it true that one of the performers at the late amateur concert received a fee of 20 guineas for his services ? If so, may we be delivered from such amateurs." INQUEST.—Mr Thelwall held an inquest on the 2nd ult., at the Alyn Hotel, on the body of Mary Pritchard, widow of the late Mr Edward Pritchard, butcher, Allington, who was found dead in bed on Friday evening. A verdict of Found dead" was returned by the jury. We have been requested to insert the above, as the paragraph which appeared in our last issue was not correct. DENBIGHSHIRE HUSSARS REGIMENTAL ORDERS. A regimental order from head-quarters, Ruthin, dated October 11, 1876, published for information the resignation of Captain C. S. Mainwaring, and remarks With reference to the foregoing, Captain Mesham is transferred from the B" or Wrexham Troop to D" or Denbigh Troop from this date. By order, signed R. F. Morrison, Captain and Ad- jutant. THE TRAINING SHIP SCHEME.—A meeting of the General Committee, consisting of donors of Y,10 10s and upwards, and annual subscribers of £ 2 2s and upwards, will be held at the Town Hall, Chester, on Friday 20th instant, at noon, to elect the Executive Committee to carry on the work. Capt. Mayer will be glad to have names of any persons wishing to join, and the amount theyl are willing to give. PITMAN'S PHONETIC SHORTHAND.—The great utility of shorthand to professional and commercial men and others has led to the formation of classes and shorthand societies in most of our large towns We have, therefore, much pleasure in drawing at- tention to the advertisement of Mr Boothey's classes, by joining which all who may wish to learn this time and labour saving art" will find a teacher thoroughly competent for the work of re- ducing the time of learning the system to about one-half of what would be required without such assistance. THE NATIONAL PROVINCIAL BANK OF ENGLAND. —The directors of this bank, having found their old premises at the junction of Hope-street and Bank-place, in this town, much too small and in- convenient for their business, recently decided to pull them down and erect a building suitable to their requirements. Mr John Gibson, of West- minster, is their architect, and the contract has been let to Mr Price, of Shrewsbury, whose tender, in a limited competition, was found to be the lowest, and who is making arrangements to at once commence clearing the site. The fronts of the building are to be of Minera stone, the bank entrance being formed by a boldly projecting portico; the upper windows will have molded cornices over, and entire fronts will be surmounted by modillion cornice and open stone balustrade. The ground floor windows, amply lighting the large and lofty banking room, will be protected by iron revolving shutters, the entrance lobby being of lexagona.1 shape formed in mahogany with embossed glass panels. The strong rooms will be con- veniently placed/of massive construction, and fitted up with iron doors and gates, and the latest im- provements. The public portion of the banking room will be floored with encaustic tiles, and the mahogany fittings arranged to harmonise with the room itself. The upper floors and the basement. will be devoted to the accommodation of the resident. During the rebuilding, the temporary premises of the bank will be at 56, Chester-street, where the business will be removed to on Wednes- day next. ART TREASURES EXHIBITION.—On Monday a meeting of the committee appointed to carry out the arrangements in connection with the forth- coming conversazione and ball was held, when Mr Low presided. It was decided to accept the tender cf Mr Bolland, for providing refreshments at the ball. Arrangements have been made by which the con- tract with Mr De Jong's band, from Manchester, is -cancelled. Mr Streathers,, of Liverpool, has agreed to provide a band for the ball for the sum of fifty- five guineas. The meeting then adjourned. On Thursday morning there was a meeting of the general committee, Major West presiding, and a balance sheet was produced of the receipts and expenditure in connection with the exhibition. In consequence of the increased attendance of visitors and a number of applications for the exhibition te remain open after'the date previously named for closing it, it was resolved to keep it open until the 25th of November, consequently the conversazione was deferred until the 27th proximo, and the ball until the 7th December. The present season tickets expire on the 22nd inst., and it was resolved to issue fresh ones from that date at 7s 6d each. That reducing the prices of admission on three nights of the week has proved successful may be gathered from the fact that during the three nights of last week on which the prices of admission was reduced the sum of i>30 2s 6d was taken, which will more than pay for the musical expenses of the whole week and the lighting of the building; and now that it is generally known the executive committee have decided on opening four nights in the week there can be no doubt the receipts will be greatly augmented. During the past week the attendance both day and night has been very good, the building having presented a more than usually animated appearance continually. On Monday the school children and a large party of miners and their wives and families attended from the Rhos to the number of about 2,000, besides which there was a fair average of town and country people. On Tuesday the pupils from the Oswestry Grammar School paid a visit to the building, and these numbered about 80. On Wednesday there was a falling off in the attendance but not to a very marked extent considering there was an entire absence of parties." On market day the teachers and scholars of the Pulford Sunday Schools attended, and there was a goodly sprinkling of marketers. Yesterday (Friday) 150 of the inmates of the Wrexham Union Workhouse were taken to the exhibition, where they partook of a substantial tea provided in Mr Medlieott's excellent style, after examining the treasures in the building. On Mon- day there is an excursion from Carnarvon, Bangor, and Rhyl, apd on Wednesday, besides the visit of the gentlemen attending the Social Science Con- gress at Liverpool, the distribution of prizes gained atthe recent Oxford Local Examinations will take place at the exhibition. To-day 1,300 are expected from Brymbo. The statistics of attendance for the week are as follows:— Friday, Oct. 6 314 Saturday, 7 1,132 Monday, !) 2,30J Tuesday, 10 520 Wednesday, 11 5J55 Thursday, 12 1,(!9S Total .6,426 Mr Harriss has given daily organ recitals, which have been much appreciated, and the exhibition band has rendered some excellent music to large and appreciative audiences. On Monday Mr Woosnam sang Wallace's Let me like a soldier fall," and on Thursday evening he gave The Bay of Biscay," in both instances receiving a hearty welcome and being loudly applauded. This (Satur- day) evening this gentleman is announced to again appear before the exhibition audience. Considering the large numbers who have visited the exhibition it is very satisfactory to note that there has been perfect order maintained, and so ably have the police performed their duties that they deserve commendation. Under Sergeant, Lindsay they have acted throughout, and it is greatly owing to their courtesy and kindness to strangers that every- thing has passen off so exceedingly well on crowded days." On Friday next a dinner takes place, through the kind liberality of Mr Medlieott, of Shrewsbury, to which all who have been officially connected with the exhibition have been invited. It will be interesting to the public to learn that the total number of visitors at the ex- hibition since its opening have been 48,829. MAJOR WEST AND THE ART EXHIBITION.—Mr H. K. A-pinall writes to us from Hafod Alyn, Kosset—" Honour to whom honour is due! The Exhibition of Fine Arts is beautiful, and the show a success. Strangers and towns- people alike are delighted. All of us in the town and dis- trict must, and I believe do, feel grateful to Major Cornwallis West for his zeal and indefatigible work and constant labour for months past. Let us show enr gratitnde, and present him with a substantial gift, that he may hand down to his posterity in .commemoration of, eprobably the most wonderful, and .Certainly the best, collection of art treasures ever displayed D the provinces. My ten guineas is réndy, and I earnestly lvue all to usist, and quickly. THE NATIONAL SOCIETY.—On Sunday morning last a sermon in :;id of the above society was preached in the parish church by the Rev. John George Deed, who attended as the deputation, and a collection made at the close of the service, amounting to £ 0 16s Ild. BE USE CHURCH.—Thanks^ivinsr services for the harvest were held in this church on Sunday last. In spite of the in- clemency of the weather, there were good attendances at both services, The sacred edifice had been neatly decorated for the occasion by the ladies of Gatewen, the communion table having received special attention, as evinced in the artistic arrangement of grapes, corn, and fruit. The musical portion of the services had beforehand received considerable care at the hands of Miss C. Hayes, who plays the harmonium at the church every Sunday, and the result was that the chants and hymns were rendered by the choir in a manner to leave nothing to be desired. The congregational charac- ter of the singing gave it a heartiness worthy of emulatIon., Morning prayers were read by the Rev Ll. Griffith, rector of Deal, and the sermon was preached by the Rev D. Edwards, while the preacher in the afternoon was the Itev R. Deed, organising secretary of the National Society. The collections, which were made at both services on behalf of this society, amounted to £4 l(>s lid.. BUTCHERS' MEAT.—"Paterfamilias" writes to us I am reluctant to ask you to accpt a gratuitous advertisement, but I hope you will insert these few remarks for the benefit of those of your readers who find it almoit impossible, out of their limited means to provide butchers' meat for their family at the prevailing prices. I have a great aversion to Foreign Beef and British Brandy" and have always been prejudiced against the Australian tins, The butchers have, however, so pinched me that I have looked about for a cheaper dinner, and having succeeded I desire to convey .tlie knowledge to others I know must be similarly situated. The Wilson Packing, Co.'s Corned Beef' has met with my entire approval and appreciation. A tin of two pounds, equal to four pounds of meat, can be had for ls. Gd., the flavour is excellent, and a better dish could not placed on the table. I should say that the beef might reasonably be estimated as equal to something like 4d. per pound. It is a new commodity, and I cannot say if all grocers sell it, but I may mention that some is obtained from Messrs Benson ansl Co., High-street, Wrexham. OUTWITTED.—One day this week a gentleman, who had recently retired from business because the business retired from him, was nicely outwitted. Not being disposed to pay his debt a respectable tradesman of the town took out a warrant to levy upon the furniture, some of which had dis- appeared, but failed to realise the amount due to him. By an accident he heard that a valuable picture belonging to the liquidator was about to be raftled for at a well-known hostelry in High-street, to which the approach is by way of a very narrow entry. Accomjmnied by a County Court officer and armed with legal power, he entered the licensed premises called for two glasses of toddy, and at once beheld his prize, Mona's l'ride." Having drunk to the health of the land- lord, they told him that they required the picture that a bill announced To be raffled for, the property of- and, without further ado, it was marched off to the County Court, and an advertisement in to-day's Guardian announces it for sale. We suppose that the half-crown paid down for the raffle will be paid back. If not, we are likely to hear more of the cry, Who stole the picture ?" LEET COURTS.—On Wednesday, 4th inst, the Leet Court and Court Baron of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., M.P„ lord of the manors of Wrexham Abbot, Runbon Abbot, Llan- gollen Abbot, Stauty Issa, and Llangwest was held in the public room of the court. at the Old Swan Inn. The business was of a purely formal character, namely, empanelling of a jury for the purpose of making enquiry into any questions that may arise in connection with the manors over which this court has very extensive powers, although some who ought to be better up in legal lore appear to have treated the subject under a very different impression. The functions of the court are now delegated into other hands, but till the powers of the leet court and court baron have never been repealed. A jury having been sworn, and the court roll reguiarly signed, the court was adjourned until next spring when fresh summonses will be issued. After the formal business was over, the jury were invited, as of old by the steward, to partake of Sir Watkin's hospitality. This was done by enjoying a capital spread at the Old Swan, where the health of Sir Watkin as lord of the manor was duly honoured, and a pleasant evening was spent. A leet court for the manors of Bromtield and Yale, was held on Thursday, lith, in the common hall of pleas, Wrexham (Town Hall), when several persons who had been summoned to attend as jurymen, but failed to put in an appear- ance at the proper time, were amerced by the deputy steward (Mr Edward Tench) in the sum of 6s. Bd. each. Several of those amerced afterwards made their appcarance, and upon explaining to the deputy steward their cause of absence, their fines were remitted. A leet court of the manors of Wrexham Abbot, &c,, was held before Mr Tench, as steward, Sir Watkin being the lord, but only for the the manors of Bromfield and Yale. For the others, Sir Watkin is steward to the Queen as lady of the manor. At twelve o'ciock, yesterday (Friday), the leet for the manor of Wrexham Itegis was held at the Town Hall. A jury was empanelled, of which Mr T. C, Jones was foreman, and the usual routine business was transacted. The court afterwards adjourned to the Wynnstay Arm Hotel, where the jury are acccustomed to assemble after their arduous duties, to partake of Mr Murlem's catering,