Wrexham Guardian

WREXHAM CHRISTMAS SHOW. This year the tradesmen have taken unusual pains to decorate their establishments suitably to the Christmas season. The display of beef was unexceptionally good and formed the chief attraction to the crowds who perambulated the streets on Wednesday night. It was astonishing how quickly the joints were disposed of on Thursday, for the country people fully appreciated the prime meat offered for sale. In passing round the town we made the following notes of the various establish- ments :— HOPE-STREET. Mr William Lee, butcher, had some splendid beef, in- cluding one ox, fed by the Earl of Shrewsbury; one beast and thirteen sheep, fed by himself. Mr Rogers, bookseller and stationer, has a very attractive show of Christmas and New Year's cards, with illuminated albums and the various annuals and periodicals of the season. Mr Roberts, fruiterer, shows a goodly quantity of choice fruits and vegetables, neatly arranged. Mr Williamson, pork butcher, has a splendid show of meat and cooked dainties" in the pork line also a tempting array of sausages and saveloys. Mr Simon Jones has his shop neatly decorated with a variety of confections.conspiauous amongst the rest being Christmas and birth-day cakes, of which he exhibits a large quantity. Mr Davies, the woollen draper and hosier, has several specialities for the season in the way of cravats, as well as a good assortment of all kinds of haberdashery and other articles of gentlemen's attire. Mr Brown, the hosier, has opened his new premises with a varied stock of goods suitable to the season of the year. Mr Davies, shoemaker, has a good collection of ready- made boots and shoes for the festive season, from those useful for shooting to those used in the ball room. Mr Jarvis, chemist, has his shop, as usual, neatly and elaborately decorated with his various wares," oon- spicious amongst which are an excellent assortment of scents. Mr Robert Lloyd, clothier, has prepared for the Christmas season, and exhibits an assortment of gentle- men's aud youth's clothing of every description. Mr Bayley has a large number of toys, and his spacious window is filled with ornamental cards bearing the com- pliments of the season. A Christmas tree attracts much attention and is well patronised. MissfJones has a splendid assortment of prayer books photos, &c., suitable for Christmas presents. Mr Fry has a large stock, aud his window is tastefully laid out, and brilliantly lighted at night. Mr J. Stevens, confectioner, exhibits a handsome selection of Christmas novelties in the art of con- fectionery. HIGH STREET. Mr Dutton's shop is nicely .set out in general grocery wareF, and chrystalised goods. Th t Misses Whiting's fancy repository is well stocked with articles suitable for presents; inventions for the amusement of children abound in great variety. Games are well provided, and they have a supply of pipes of the choicest meerschaum. Mr Edisbury's shop always looks well, and he shows many novelties in scents and scent bottles. The Wrexham Bouquet is a speciality. Mr Lloyd, draper, has an extensive assortment in his window of scarves, ties, gloves, k. Mr Francis' grocery establishment, adjoining the market hall, is thickly stored with the concomitants for I Christmas puddings. Misses J. and E. Hughes have a choice selection of toys, and articles of Christmas decorations beautifully dis- played. At Messrs C. K. Benson and Co's., grocery establish- ment where "quality is the standard of value, and the test of cheapness"-is an effigy of Mr Andrew, grinding coffee, this Christmas being the nineteenth year of his appearance. The interior of the shop is filled with one of the largest stocks of French and Italian goods out of London. They have a good supply of fine teas, chrystal- lized fruits, dessert fruits, peaches and pine apples. Mr bnape, of the Lion House, announces in our columns that he has prepared his usual Christmas hamper of good wines and spirits. Mr Potter has in his shop a stock of Christmas litera- ture in great variety. Mr Kenricks confectionary establishment is very attractive. He has a novelty in the shape of a large white ship placed on a sweet iceberg and laden with his famous Wrexham gingerbread. His stock of Christmas .cakes is extensive, and his shop is nicely decorated. Mr Edward Smith, draper, has a most tastefully set out window. He displays a number of miniature Cleopatra needles, containing handkerchiefs, etc. There is an effective show of ties, gloves, &e. Mr Alfred Owen has a number of lamps of the latest description, and the novelty is a petroleum stove. Mrs Scott has a fine show of shawls, neckties, &c. Mr David Jones, butcher, had the largest and finest stock of meat in the borough. Mr Scotcher's shop is replete with the latest styles in jewellery and Christmas presents. Cigars and musical instruments also form a large novelty of his assortment of saleables. Mr R. O. Jones, ironmonger, etc., has his shop ar- ranged to the best advantage. Mr Fraser's lockets with monogramed names are the latest out" in the jewellery line. Messrs Jcnes and Co., clothiers, has a large stock of warm clothing on show, and fancy scents attract atten- tion. THE MARKET HALL. Mr Thomas Hughes, of Overton, showed the beef from a prize heifer, two years and eight months old, bred and fed by Mr Simon Yorke, Erddig. This beast was pronounced the best Mr Yorke had on his farm and it was sold at Mr Lloyd's auction sale. Also he had the carcase of an heifer bred at Whitchurch, three years old. Mr William Wilcock had some prime fed meat, in- cluding an heifer bred by Mr Griffiths, Roden Hall. Mr Joseph Owens showed five carcases of mutton very highly commended at Wrexham Show and bought from Mr Dennis, Hafodybwcb. He also had two heifers, one from Mr Roberts, of Berse, and one from Mr Griffiths, Boden Hall, and ten sheep. At his Charles-street shop he showed five prize sheep bought in Wrexham Smith- field. Mr Peech showed one beast and a heifer, all fed by himself. Mr Gleave had a sow of heavy weight bred by Mr Francis, of Mill Brook, near Bangor. Also three fancy pork pigs, and one large sow fed by Mr Robert Roberts, of the Clutt. A number of other pigs completed his complement. Mr R. Roberts showed a very fine beast from Mr R. Blezard, Pool Park. And other beasts and sheep. Mr Price, of Rtiosnessney, had a bullock bought from S. P: Hope Esq., and three Welsh wethers fed by Miss Lewis, of Llewyknotia Hall. Mr Frederick Bradshaw had hang on his nails five sheep fed by himself, and also a pork pig. Mr John Hughes had a fancy smoked pig, in cut, which attracted much attention, also he had an extra stock of cheese and bacon. Messrs Davies and Cross had some fish of large dimen- { sions, amongst which was a cod weighing SOlbs, and Mrs Cross had an assortment of dried fish, and various fruits very tastefully laid out. Mrs Ann Jones, No. 30 stall, showed an excellent supply of beef, mutton, veal, and pork. Mr George Fardo had a similar supply of beef, mutton, pork and veal. Mrs Davies, stalls 40 and 49, showed two prime heifers, one fed by Mr Griffiths, Roden's Hall, and one by Mr Meredith, Rednal; ten Welsh wethers, fed by Mr Dennis; two porkets, fed by Ellis Jones, Erlas; one calf, by Mr J. Vaughan, Green Dragon. Mr John Owens had on his stall the carcases of two prize heifers, bought at Mr Lloyd's auctiou mart, and fed by Mr Roberts, Berse; tw? bullocks, bought in Oswestry Smithfield fourteen prime wethers, fed by Mr R. Parry, Shrewsbury; 18 wethers, fed by Mr Hughes, Ruthin. This was considered the beat show in the market. Thomas Price, stall 5, displayed one prize heifer, winner of two silver cups, three prime ditto, highly commended, four well-fed pigs, winners of 1st silver cup, fed by Thomas Parry, Esq., Holt Lodge; two heifers, ten prime Leicester wethers, fed by Mr Milligan, Borras; ten fine Cluns, fed by Mr Fearnal, Royton; five fat pigs, winners of 2nd silver cup, bred and fed by Mr T. Meredith. Borras; and five good pigs, fed by Mr Griffiths, Roden's Hall. Mr Robert Samuel, stall 29, had one prime heifer, fed by Mr Meredith. Rednal; six prime wethers, fed by Mr Samuel Dale, Mayor of Holt; fire Shropshire sheep, purchased from Messrs Pickering, Oswestry Smithfisld; also one prime bacon pig, fed by himself. Mr W. Holmes had on his stall one bullock, brei by S. Yorke, Esq.. Erddig; ten wether sheep, fed by T. Holland, Esq., Pickhill Farm and two pigs, fed by G. Clarke, Esq., Plas Devon Ferm, Commonwood. Mr Davis, stall 4, showed a prime fat heifer, from W. Brown, Esq., Hanley. Cheshire; four fat sheep, from Mr Bowman, Sandycroft; four fat sheep from A. Hunchchffe, B-q., Rhanberfedd, near Mold and one fat pig, fed by himself. J. Price, Croes-yn-Iria. displayed the meat from one splendid ox, fed by Mr T. Parker, Croeshowell Farm, Rossett; one prime heifer, fed by Mr T Parry, Holt Lodge; five splendid wethers, by Mr Wainwright, Sontley five Welsh ditto, by Mr Wainwright, winners of a silver cup five ditto, fed by himself. TOWN HILL. Mr T. Williams' vaults, the largest w holesale establish- ment in the town, are set out with the choicest dry sherries and ports, all of the oldest brand. Mr R. Roberts displays a large quantity of Christmas boxes, together with toys, and fancy and useful articles Messrs D. Owens, and Co., have a capital show of fruits, set out ia pretty designs. Mr Richard Jones, at the Golden Eagle establishment, has a good display of fancy work, which is tastefully ex- hibited. Mr Yiggars exhibited some fine grapes, and his show of vegetables was very good. Mr Edward Roberts, stationer, has a good selection of toys, and Christmas presents, tastefully laid out. Mr Wiiliamsen, perk butcher, exhibited a pig fed by Mr Dovis, of Llanvpwll (weighing 36 score). He had also a numerous small porkers, and a large number of pigs, &c, The display was a great attraction. Mrs Bodtn has a nicely decorated window. Christ- mas cakes and other fancy edibles are very choice. Mr E. R. Palmer has as the principal attraction a fine display of ball and other dancing shoes of various styles and descriptions.

LATEST WAR NEWS. All operations in Bulgaria are impossible. Owing to the snowfall communications by railway have been interrupted. A correspondent who has journeyed from Kamarli to Sofia states that the mountains are covered with two feet of snow, and the fall is continuing. The Czar has sent a message to the Princess Elizabeth expressing his thanks for the reception he had obtained in Rouma.nia. A telegram from Erzeroum states that the Russians, who exact forced labour from the people of the neighbouring districts, are making preparations for another attack.

THE MEETING OF PARLIAMENT.—A telegram baa been received in Liverpool from Lord Sandon, in reply to an inquiry, giving assurances of the perfect unanimity of the Cabinet in .their Eastern policy, and pointing out that the mere fact of their calling Parliament together is of itself the best proof that the Ministers are prepared as a united body to meet the country. FALL or AN EDINBURGH HOTEL.—Between one and two o'clock on Thursday morning the gable end o Milne's Commercial Hotel, where there had been a fire a few hours previously, suddenly fell, breaking througk several stories of the building. A number of parsons were buried in the ruins, and seven dead bodies were recovered. Whilst the rescuing party were at work the voices of some of those who were overwhelmed in the accident were heard during the first five or six hour?. A "BURIU QUESTION" SETTLED.— A paint manu- facturer in New York, whose child died in November, a few days after its birth, desired to have it buried in the Luthfran cemetery, he being a member of the Lutheran Church. Bat his wife being a Jewess, her family wished the burial to be in a Jewish cemetery. The father settled the dispute by retureing the coffin to the under- taker, and taking the body to tbe paint faetorv, put it into an iron box, thrusting it in a furnace, to be cremated. It is stated that the undertaker, not satisfied, made the Board of Health acquanted with the facts, which the. I became pubJic.

COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS. MONDAY.—Before H. W. Meredith, Esq., J. H. Ffoulkes, Esq., and S. Yorke, Esq. TEARING UP WORKHOUSE CLOTHES. Evan Evans, a tramp, was charged with having destroyed his clothes at the Union Workhouse. It was shown that on Saturday night prisoner was admitted to the vagrant's ward, and all admitted on Saturday night were detained over Sunday, to do a double portion of work on the Monday. He refused to break stones, and tore up his trousers, throwing the pieces at the porter at the Workhouse. Defendant said he would sooner be in prison than here as he was now, as he had no work to do. Sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment with hard labour. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY AT COErTOETH. George Edwards and Samuel Roden, two young men from Coedpoeth, were charged with being drunk and disorderly on the let inst. P.C. Challoner stated that nearly at midnight on the date mentioned the defendants were on the highway at Coedpoeth. They were very drunk and disorderly. There was a previous conviction recorded against Roden for a similar offence. Fined 10s each and the costs. GUNPOWDER LICENSE. A license was granted to Mrs Mary Howell to Store 1,0001bs. weight of gunpowder in a magazine erected at the Pentre, Broughton, on the appli- cation of Mr John Jones, solicitor, Wrexham. It was shown that the necessary preliminary arrangements had been carried out. NEGLECTING CHILDREN'S EDUCATION. Hugh Lloyd was charged at the instance of Mr Parry, attendance officer to the Broughton School Board, with having neglected to comply with the regulations of the Elementary Education Act. Thomas Jones, Broughton, was also charged with having committed a similar offence. In each case the bench ordered the children to be sent to school. CHARGES OF POACHING. John Prince and John Baker were charged by George Bevan with having trespassed on land in the possession of Mr T. Ll. Fitz-Hugh, and the occupation of Mr Humphreys, in search of rabbits. Mr Acton prosecuted. On the 27th ult. the keeper, Howlett, saw the defendants on land in question, digging at a rabbit burrow at the Lower Berse Farm, having a ferret with them. On seeing the keeper approach them defendants commenced running away, but got up to them. Theyiiad a couple of nets with them. Fined 10s 6d and the costs each. POACHING AT LOWER BERSE. Edward Davies, working brewer, of Wrexham, was charged with having trespassed on land in the occupation of Mr Fitz-Hugh, in pursuit of game on the 26th ult.; he was also charged with having on the same date used a dog to take hares without having a game certificate. Mr Acton (Acton and Bury) prosecuted. A gamekeeper, named Eagle, stated that on the Sunday in question on a clover stubble at Lower Berse he saw the defendant and a man, named Greaves, with two lurcher dogs. A hare was "put up," and the dogs gave chase, the result being that the hare was caught. Witness then ran after aiad caught hold of the defendant. Heard the defendant encouraging the dogs on in the chase. Find JE1 in each case. and the costs.

WESLEYAN BAZAAR IN WREXHAM. On Tuesday morning a bazaar for the sale of useful and fancy articles was opened in the Savings Bank, Wrexham, for the purpose of increasing the funds of the Wesleyan society in the town. Of late years this body has made no inconsiderable strides in this part of the Principality, and the work which it has carried on in Wrexham has been one of real earnestness, productive lof no small amount of good to the community at large. For some time past the ladies of the congregation have been busy in preparing a number of useful and fancy articles for exhibition and sale, the result being that their united contributions went to make up a very attrac- tive bazaar. The two rooms in the Savings Bank were laid out with stalls to the best advantage, and were very tastefully decorated with flowers, holly, and evergreens, the stalls being ornately festooned with articles of varied tints and hues many of which were of exceeding beauty, not a few being more than ordinarily costly. The stalls were not attended to by ladies told off for the purpose, but were looked after generally by a committee consisting of the following:—Mrs and the Misses Hartshorne, Mrs and Miss T. C. Jones, Mrs and the Misses Gittins, Mrs and the Misses Bamford, Mrs and the Misses Thomas, and the Misses Edwards, whilst the refreshment stall was under the charge of Mrs Bird, the Misses Donovan, Miss Westry, and Miss Bella Thomas. The Sunday school stall was superintended by the Misses Harts- horne and the Misses Lacey, the articles exhibited thereon being the result of the contributions of the children attending the Sunday Schools. Miss Ida Thomas contributed a very fairly-executed water- color drawing of A Dog," after Landseer, whilst Miss Fanny Gittins contributed a very good water- color group of flowers, and a number of scripture texts of original design. With regard to the musical arrangements, no particular programme was observed, but a very choice selection was rendered by the Misses Gittins and Mrs Thomas, at intervals during the two days, Messrs Thomas and Gittins giving a duet, andMr Edisbury, with his usual kindness, performing a number of national airs on the pianoforte. At twelve o'clock the opening ceremony took place, there being a large and influential company present. Amongst those in attendance we noticed the Mayor of Wrexham (J. C. Owen, Esq.), Revs J. M. Bamford and G. H. Barker, Mrs P. Walker, Mrs E. M. Jones, Mr and Mrs Gittins, Mrs Bamford, Mrs Edward Jones (Hope-street), Mr and Mrs W. Thomas, Mr and Mrs T. C. Jones, Mrs H. H. Hartshorne (Birmingham), Misses Jones (King- street), Messrs Robert Williams, J. F. Edisbury, E. Richards (Hope-street), W. Pierce (Town-hill), Forest (Rhosddu), Punshon (Grcve Park), Ellis (Rhosddu Colliery), G. Bradley, W. H. Tilston, W. Sherratt, W. Jones, J. B. Shirley, &c., &c. The Doxology having been sung, prayer was said by the Rev G. H. Barker, after which the rev. gentleman said he had very great pleasure in announcing that the Mayor of Wrexham had kindly consented to open their Christmas sale of fancy articles, and he felt sure he expressed the senti- ments of all present when he said they were very glad that they were honoured by the presence in their midst of the chief magistrate of the borough. He had no hesitation in stating that there were no people in the world who were more respectful or more obedient to the powers that be than the Methodists; there were no people who were more loyal to her Majesty the Queen than the Metho- dists; and whilst they held in ev ery respect the ruler of these realms, they had a kindred respect to all who were endeavouring by virtue of their office to administer justice, truth, and equity amongst the people of this country. They all united in wishing that the Mayor's term of office would be one of great happiness to his worship, and one which would promote the best welfare of the borough (applause). He would say that they had made their preparations for the bazaar somewhat in sad- ness of heart in consequence of the great loss they had lately sustained in the removal of their esteemed friend, Mr J. Pryce-Jones; still they felt they could not turn aside from the work, for to have done so would have been entirely opposite to the spirit of their friend and brother who had so recently departed. Had he been present that day no one would have thrown more activity or gener- osity into the proceedings than their esteemed late friend would, and he would have joined in thanking the Mayor for his kindness in being present to open the bazaar (applause). Mr Hartshorne, the senior steward of the circuit, said but for the lamented decease of Mr Jones he should not have been in that position, for Mr Jones was the senior steward. It appeared somewhat unseemly to some that the Christmas [sale should have been held so soon after his death, but from the surrounding circumstances and from the expressed wish of the late gentleman, it was held, for he desired particularly that the proceeds thereof should be brought into the annual funds for the statement of accounts at Christmas, and it was deemed right, out of respect for his wishes, that it should be held. It became his pleasant duty to thank the Mayer most sincerely, in the stead of the late senior steward of the circuit, for his condescension and kindness in opening their small Christmas sale. It was but a small affair, but they felt the same indebtedness to his worship as if it had been a larger one they only desired to realise a small amount from it, but they hoped at some future time their requirements would necessitate a larger and more extended bazaar for the purpose of enlarging their chapel premises and schools, and then they would have occasion to call upon the present Mayor or some other borough dignitary to assist them (applause). The Mayor said that before he proceeded to that important work for which he was preRentne wished to be permitted to state that he should, in the first place, follow his friends, who had already spoken, with reference to their great regret at the absence of his valued friend. Mr Pryce-Joues, and whilst he was absent in body he believed he was present in spirit. He felt that they had no need to regret the sale followed so closely after his death, for no man would be more disposed to see the work of the cause in which his heart was so much engrossed pro- ceeded with at once; therefore, he thought the Christian friends he saw around him were merely following out what the late Mr Pryce-Jones would have wished them to do. He saw the word Welcome at the other end of the room, and he must say that he, on the part of the town of Wrex- ham, begged to give a most hearty welcome with reference to the Wesleyan cause (applause). They were at all times glad to see the cause of Christ, prospering under any denomination (hear. hear). With regard to his faith, he did not feel whether he was of Paul, Apollos, or of Cephas, but he wanted to know whether he was a disciple of Christ, and, being satisfied of that, he had an open heart to Christians of every denomination—(hear, hear)— and then he could give them a hearty welcome. He desired no thanks for being present, for when- ever called upon he should feel great pleasure in obeying their behests; if at any time he could be of assistance to them he should be happy to place his services at their disposal (applause). His first impressions of Christianity arose from Wesleyanism; he was associated with an uncle and cousins who were devoted followers of Christ, and they were Wesleyans; and the first hymn he ever learned was taught him by one of them who, although she died in youth, he still remembered for while on her death bed she took his hand and said in almost her parting breath, Meet me in Heaven." Though long since she had passed away that circumstance lingered prominently in his memory, and he had a strong respect for Wesleyanism, from his early association with Wesleyites. Then through his old tutor, whom some of them might remember—Mr Fussel (applause)—he was a great deal associated with the older Wesleyan people. of the town, and he had heard many profitable sermons, and had attended many profitable meetings of theirs, and he felt that in coming amongst them that morning he was with eld friends, and he should always con- sider Wesleyans as some of the oldest friends he had in the town. He thanked them for the honour they had conferred upon him in asking him to be present. To him it was a great pleasure, as it always would be when they desired him to go amongst them. At the other end of the room he also observed the word Christmas—a joyous and a happy Christmas he wished them all in the truest and best sense. One stall bore the superscription c, Sunday School Stall," and he supposed its contents had been purchased by the Sunday scholars, and it was praiseworthy that the children of that school should thus be so early associated with the good cause, and he trusted it would be an inducement for them to continue in the good work by the success which would attend that bazaar. It reflected infinite credit upon the ladies so see so many valuable and beautiful articles exhibited, and he could only say that they were ample proofs of much labour. The contributions were worthy of and entitled to every respect, and to the ladies he would offer the thanks of all who were indebted to them in the matter—he most cordially thanked them (hear, hear). He would not detain them any longer, but would declare the bazaar open, and he wished it every success (applause). Mr J. F. Edisbury, who presided at the piano- forte, and accompanied the singing of the doxology, now played the National Anthem, after which the real business of the day commenced in earnest, purchases speedily being made by the visitors, who now began to arrive in considerable numbers, the room being crowded during the whole of the after- noon and evening. The sale was continued on Wednesday, with considerable success, the result being that at the close, the sum of .£155 was handed to the treasurer, as the result of the bazaar. Great praise is due to the ladios who presided at the various stalls for their kind consideration and attention to the "labour of love" in which they were engaged, and for the strenuous efforts they made to push trade," and make the bazaar a through success in every sense of the word; nor must we pass over those ladies and gentlemen who enlivened the proceedings by their musical per- formances, for they enhanced in a no inconsiderable degree the pleasure of those who were present.

MASONIC PRESENTATION TO SIR WATKIN WILLIAMS WYNN, BART., M.P. One of the largest Masonic gatherings held for years in the Province of North Wales and Shrop- shire took place at Shrewsbury, on Friday week, on the occasion of the annual Provincial Grand Lodge, which was held in the Lodge room of No. 262, at the Lion Hotel. The great interest attach- ing to the meeting was the presentation to Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., M.P., of an address of congratulation on his completing the Twenty- fifth year of his rule over the Province as its Grand Master; accompanied by a Sir Watkin Presenta- tion" to the Masonic Boys' School, which is-to be purchased at a cost of .£500 by the private contri- butions of the brethren of the various lodges. The Province, as at present constituted, was formed in 1852, and Sir Watkin was its first Grand Master. He was installed on the 9th of March that year by Lord Combermere, in the presence of a distinguished company of Masons. The ceremony over, the new Grand Master invested his officers- sixteen in number—of whom only four are now living, and three of whom—Messrs J. P. White, S. Wood, and T. Onions—were present on Friday; the absent one being the Rev. P. G. Bentley. Sir Watkin was initiated into the mysteries of the Craft at Chester in 1851, in a Lodge which con- tained amongst its members the late Lord Chief Justice Jervis and other distinguished brethren. With the exception of John Fawcett, Esq., who was installed Grand Master of Durham in 1847, and the Rev. Dr. Bowles, who was appointed to the same office in Herefordshire in 1848—and who would have been present on Friday had his health permitted—Sir Watkin has been in office longer than any other Provincial Grand Master in Eng- land and he has probably done more work than any of them. During his rule the following Lodges have been consecrated :—Admaston 1852 (removed to Wellington in 1857) Ludlow 1853, Carnarvon 1854, Llandudno 1858, Welshpool 1864, Llangefni 1866, Oswestry (St. Oswald's) 1866, Ironbridge 1866, Denbigh 1867, Wrexham 1871, Bala 1872. Oswestry (Fitzalan) 18?2, Mold 1874, Amlwch 1874, Portmadoc 1874, Market Drayton 1876, Bridgnorth 1876, Llanidloes 1876, Newtown 1876, Rhyl 1877, Towyn 1877. Sir Watkin has also performed other Masonic work; such as laying the Corner-stone of Trinity Church, Llandudno, in 1864; opening the Masonic Hall in the same town, in 1867; and laying the fouudation stone of the Oswestry Cottage Hospital in 1869. The attendance at the Provincial Grand Lodge on Friday, included, in addition to the Grand Master, the Deputy Grand Master, Brother W. Bulkeley Hughes, M.P., and several visitors, in- cluding the R.W. Bro. Charles Hunter, P.P.G.M. of Aberdeenshire East, and P.G.W. of Greece. Brethren to the number of 200 were present, the following lodges being represented:—Shrewsbury, 117 and 262; Bangor, Holyheadi Wellington, Car- narvon, Ludlow, Llandudno, Welshpool, Llangefni, Ironbridge, Oswestry, 1,124 and 1,432; Amlwch, Portmadoc, Market Drayton, Llanidloes, Towyn, Newtown, Bridgnorth, Wrexham (1,336) was represented by Bros. J. O. Bury, W.M., C. K. Benson, John Williams, J. W. Â. Cooper Howel Davies, J. C. Owen, Evan Morris, J. F. Edisbury, E. Smith, S.W., T. Eyton-Jones, W. Low, P. S. Steir, R. Lloyd, and E. Lovatt. Other local lodges were represented as follows:—Denbigh, Brothers J. Davies, Jesse, J.W., Lloyd, S.W., Sisson, P.G., Reg., Lloyd Williams, P.G. Pur. Bala, Brother Parmeter, P.P.S.D. Mold, Brothers Adams, Cor- bett, W.M, Algernon Potts, P.M., Salmon, P.G.J.W. No. 1,674 (Rhyl), Brothers Coxhead, Foulkes, Gilbenk, J. E. Roberts. The Provincial Grand Lodge was opened at four o'clock, and, we rejoice to say, we,have not for some time seen the Grand Master look so well. This was a matter of general congratulation amongst the brethren, after the long and serious indisposition which Sir Watkin has suffered. After the usnal formalities had been completed, minutes read, and finances discussed, the work of presentation was performed:— Bro. Bulkeley Hughes, M.P., D.P.G.M., stepped forward, album in hand, and said—Right Worship- ful Grand Master, I am deputed to be the organ of the province to present to you an illuminated album descriptive of the sentiments of your pro- vince, and which will contain the names of a great number—I hope nearly of all—the brethren of North Wales and Shropshire. It contains an address, which describes the sentiments expressed, and the feelings entertained throughout the pro- vince for you, sir, personally, and in acknowledg- ment of your services as Grand Master for five- and-twenty years. For myself, together with many in the room, I can see that each succeeding year has only added to the sense we entertain of your worth, and we all beg to express to you the deep feeling we entertain of the value and the privilege the province has enjoyed in being for so long a period under such a chief. No one amongst your countrymen and admirers ca.n more than I do, sir, feel pride m being selected to present this address, and I beg you, Sir Watkin, to accept it with the hearty good wishes of the whole province. The P.G. Sec. Bro. Spaull then read the address, as follows:— To Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Baronet, and Member of Parliament for the county of Denbigh, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of North Wales and Shropshire. We, the undersigned officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge, Masters, Past Masters, Officers, and Members of the Lodges in the province of North Wales and Shropshire, beg to offer you our hearty congratulations upon having presided over this province for a quarter of a century. To commemorate this happy event we propose to establish a presentation for this province to the Royal Masonic Institution for boys at Wood Green, and we ask your permission to call it the Sir Watkin Presentation." During the above period your rule has (been such as to give the greatest satisfaction to all Masons, and has been so highly appreciated that Masonry has largely increased and flourished. The fact also that you have personally attended the con- secration of 21 lodges in the province is sufficient proef of the great interest you have taken in the craft, and the prayer of every brother is that the G.A.O.T.U. will long spare you to continue that happy rule which has endeared the name of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn to each and all who have been oonnected with the province since it was formed in 1852, and of which you were the first Grand Master. Bro. Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., M.P., P.G.M., in reply said—Bro. Bulkeley Hughes and brethren, I am exceedingly honoured by this last tribute of your kindness. Twenty-five years ago I was installed in this room. It seems a long time since, but it has included many happy days spent amongst you, and I hope I may be permitted to spend a few more. With the exception of our esteemed old friend, Dr Bowles (who would have been with us this day but for his age), and Mr Fawcett, I am now the oldest Grand Master in the kingdom. During my career I have had difficulties in my path in giving away the Purple, but my object has always been to do justice to brethren who were entitled, and you must bear with me if I have omitted some who have merited it. I can assure you my object has always been to confer it on such as would benefit the craft. I beg again to thank you for your kindness. The Deputy Grand Master especially do I wish to thank for his kind words. It is to him and to me a matter of deep feeling how many familiar faces we have seen in the twenty-five years, at our lodges, who are now gene from among us, and their faces will be seen no more here, but we trust they have gone to that place where those whose lives here have acted out the principles they professed as Masons, will obtain their reward. The album (which had been entrusted to Messrs Woodhall and Venables, of Oswestry, to execute) is bound in morocco, Masonic colour, with Sir Watkin's Arms emblazoned on the side, lined with silk, the leaves being vellum. So far only the address and the Grand Master's heraldic shield have been emblazoned, but the book is to contain water-eolour drawings of Sir Watkin's seats, and the list of names of all the brethren who subscribed to the School Presentation; consequently it is desirable that any brethren who have not yet intimated their wish to subscribe will do so at once to their respective Masters, or to the Grand Secretary or Grand Treasurer. At the conclusion of this interesting episode the ordinary routine business was resumed. On the motion of Bro. Roden, seconded by Bro. Bulkeley Hughes, a sum of .£50 from the (Jrand Lodge funds, was voted to the widow of the late Bro. Dr Goldsbro'. On the motion of Bro. White, seconded by Bro. Blakeway, JUOO of the funded money of the Grand Lodge was voted to the purchase of a vice-patron- ship in the Masonic Boys' School; and .£50 as part of the larger sum for the same in connection with the Girls' School. The P.G. Master, in the name of the P.G. Lodge, presented Charity Jewels to Brothers Algernon Potts W.M. 1,477. and R. J. Sisson P.P.G. Reg., who had qualified to wear them by serving two steward- ships to the Masonic Charities; and to Bro. W. H. Spaull P.G. Sec., who had served five steward- ships. The P.G. Master invested the following Grand Lodge officers for the ensuing year:—Brothers W. Bulkeley Hughes, M.P., Plas Coch, Anglesey, 755, D.G.M.; E. M. Wakeman, Cotton Hall, Bridgnorth, 262, S.W.; Lloyd Williams. Bodgwilym, Denbigh. 1,143, J.W., Rev. A. J. Van Straubenzee, Tetten- hall, 601, and the Rev. J. Sydney Boucher, Carnar- von, 606, chaplains; J. P. White, Merival, Shrewsbury, 262, Treasurer; G. G. Warren, Market Drayton, 1,575, Registrar; W. H. Spaull, Bryntirion, Oswestry, 1,124, Secretary; E. Andrew, M.D., Hardwicke House, Shrewsbury, 262, S.D.; John Thomas, Castle Buildings, Oswestry, 1,124, J.D.; W. Low, Roseneath, Wrexham, 1,336, Superintendent of Works; E. Wood, Shrewsbury, 1,124, Director of Ceremonies; R. T. Philips, Amlwch, 1,488, Assistant do.; J. Lloyd Griffiths, Holyhead, Sword Bearer; J. H. Redman, Shrewsbury, 262, Pursuivant. J. C. W. Lister, Ironbridge, 1,120, J. Oswell Bury, Wrex- ham, 1,i..36, A. McMillan, Conway, 384, John Corbett, Mold, 1,477, William Spraggon, Shrews- bury, 117, W. Burton, Wrexham, 1,336, Stewards; J. B. Hide, Queen-street, Shrewsbury, 262, Tyler; B. Newnes, Smithfield-road, Shrewsbury, 117, Assistant Tyler. Brothers William Blakeway, Shrewsbury, and John Bodenham, Newport, were appointed auditors. At the close of the Grand Lodge the brethren sat down to a dinner at the Lion Hotel. The usual toasts were given and responded to; on this occa- sion with unusual additions; as for instance, in the health of the Treasurer, which included congratu- lat ions on his completing the twenty-fifth year of office." Bro. White is the only officer in the province who has for the quarter of a century of Sir Watkin's rule, been annually invested by the Grand Master. To Bro. Forrest, P.P.G. Organist, the music of the evening was intrusted, and he very successfully accomplished his task.

HUNTING. SIR W. W. WYNN'S HOUNDS I will meet on Saturday, December 22 Whitchurch Station Monday, December 24 Gobowen Station Friday, December 28 Cock Bank Gate Saturday, December 29 Macefen At 10.30. THE FLINT AND DENBIGH HOUNDS will meet on Monday, December 24 .Coed Coch Friday, December 28 The Eennele At 10.30. THE SHREWSBURY HOUNDS will meet on Monday, December 24 Cross Gates, Pool-road Thursday, December 27 Coand Monday, December 31 Gattea At 11. THE NORTH SHROPSHIRE HOUNDS will meet on Monday, December 24 Acton ReynaJd Friday, December 28 Ercall Heath At 10.45. THE ALBRIGHTON HOUNDS will meet on Saturday, December 23 Sutton Haddock At 10.45. Thursday, December 27 Tuck Hill At 11.15. Saturday, December 29 Ivetsey Bank At 10.46. THE UNITED PACK will meet on Monday, December 24 Horderley Gate Friday, December 28 .Abermule At 10.30. THE TALE OF CLWYD HARRIERS will meet on Saturday, December 22 Llysmeirchioo At 11. THE FLINTSHIRE HARRIERS will meet on Monday, December 24 Tower Saturday, December 29 The Kennels At 10.30. THE TANAT SIDE HARRIERS will meet on Saturday, December 22 Llynclys Wednesday, December 26 Pentre Morgan Saturday, December 29.Arddleen At 11.

(BY TELEGRAPH). THE ALLEGED LIBEL AGAINST A DENBIGHSHIRE CORONER. DR. PIERCE v. THE "WREXHAM GUARDIAN." LONDON, Friday. In the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court of Justice, this morning, before the Lord Chief Justice and Mr Justice Lush, the Solicitor- General with him Mr Cowie, Q.C. and Mr Trevor Parkins, instructed by Mr Evan Morris, solicitor, Wrexham, showed caused on behalf of W. Garratt- Jones, the publisher of the Wrexham Guardian, why the rule nisi for a criminal information against him should not be made absolute. The learned counsel said the rule nisi had been obtained by Dr Pierce, a coroner for Denbighshire, in respect of a letter published in the Wrexham Guardian, and alleged to contain imputations against him. The letter in question was signed "Observer," and referred to an inquest held at Denbigh on a railway guard, who had died from the effects of an accident. It was alleged by the writer that the coroner had abstained from calling the Medical Officer of the Infirmary, where the man had died, and who was best qualified to speak as to the cause of death, from vindictive motiv 0." It was further alleged that the coroner was in the habit treating the staff of the Infirmary with discourtesy. When Dr Pierce applied to Mr Jones the latter refused to give up the name of his anonymous correspondent, and the rule nisi for criminal in- formation against him was applied for and granted. Mr Jones now offered an apology to Dr Pierce, and had, indeed, offered it before; but as to giving up the name of the correspondent, Observer," he did not wish to do so, except under compulsion. The Lord Chief J ustice expressed an opinion that the publisher of a libel from an anonymous correspondent could not shelter himself from the consequences of such publication except by giving up the name of the writer of the libel. Mr Morgan Lloyd, Q.C., on the part of Dr Pierce, offered to have the rule discharged if the editor retracted his statement that he still be- lieved the libel to be true, and paid the costs. The Solicitor General said that all Mr Jones said was that be believed it to be true when he inserted it. He was willing to accept the offer by making the most ample apology, and paying the costs." The Lord Chief Justice, observing that the court always reserved to itself a discretion in permitting criminal informations to be abandoned, sanctioned the arrangement in the present case.

CORN MARKETS. LIVERPOOL, Friday. A fair business has been done in w heat at cur market te-day, at the extreme rates of Tuesday. Red American spring Id per cental dearer, Californian, 12s 8d to 12s lid. Flour firm but quiet. Indian Gorn Mixed Americrn, 29s 9d to 30s per 480 lbs. BeaRs: Egyptian 32s to 33s. Peas unchanged. LONDON, Friday. Market has beea very slow throughout, but all articles have ruled firm, especially wheat of fine quality, and maize. Oatl, barley, flour, beans, and peas very slow. WAKEFIELD, Friday. There is a fair demand for wheat to-day, and the full prices of last week are obtained on the sales made. Common barley still difficult to dispose of, and prices Is per quarter cheaper. Beans and oats quiet without change. Maize rather dearer.

Sirfjrs, Parries, aitir tatgs. *»* Announcements under this head must be accompanied by the name and address of the sender. Allyadditioa to the simple notice, such as No cards," "Deeply re- gretted," &c., must be paid for at the rate of on* shilling for three hnes. BIRTHS. EDWAEBS—On the lSth inst., the wife of Mr T. Edwards, printer, Corwen, of a son. HUGHES—On the 20th inst., the wife of William Hughes, 62, George-street, Altrincham, Cheshire, of a son. NORMAN—On the 12th inst., at Elm Grove, Maidenhead, the wife of Captain C. Norman, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, of a son. POLDING-On the 5th inst., Mrs Alfred Polding, Glascoed, of a daughter. EOBSON—On the 14th inst., at The Vicarage, Christ Church, Claughton, Birkenhead, the wife of the Rev. Canon Rob- son, of a son. SMITH—On the 11th inst., at The Vicarage, Gwersyllt, the wife of the Rev. E, B. Smith, of a daughter. MARRIAGES. JOKES-RAMER-On the 1st inst., at the Parish Church, Berriew, by the Rev. J. Baines, vicar, William Howard, eldest son of Mr William Jones, Old Church-street, New- town, to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of the late Mr James Hamer, Brook House, Kerry. PAYNTER—JONES—On the 15th inst., at the Parisk Church, Battersea, by the Rev. J. Erskine Clarke, MA., vicar, canon of Winchester, John "Wynne, only son of John Wynne Paynter, Esq., of Maesllwyn, Amlwch, Anglesey, to Anna Frances, sixth daughter of the late Kbbert Jones, Esq., of Clapham Common, Surrey. DEATHS. BUCKLER—On the the 10th inst., at St. Hilary's, Chester, Cyril John, infant son of the Rev. John F. Buckler, M.A. DRAKE-on the 18th ult., aged 68, at his residence, Break- spears, Uxbridge, William Wickham Drake, Esq., eldest son of the late ev, William Dr..ke, rector of Mal- pas, Chester. FAYERS-On the 1st inst., at Salisbury Park, Wiexham, Elizabeth, widow of the late William Fayers, Esq., of Bosmere, Creeting-All-Saints, Suffolk, aged 81. FEATHER—On the IStli inst., aged 16, Laura Townend, daughter of James and Mary Feather, National Schools, Oswestry. GRIFFITH—On the 13th inst., at the residence of hia brother-in-law, the Rev. D. M. Jenkins, at Thackery- street, Liverpool, Mr J. Griffith (Gohebydd). HUGHES—On the 16tb inst.. at Ponkey, Ruabon, Robert Hughes, aged 49 years. JONES-On the 6th inst., at King-street, Cefn Mawr, Mary widow of Thomas Jones, aged S3 years. JONES—On the 18th inst., William Jones, relieving-officer, Denbigh, aged fiB years. JONES—On the ISth inst., at the residence of her brother, Llewelyn Jones, 30, Peel-street, Birkenhead, Louisa H., only daughter of Abralia:n Jones, of Chester. PARRY—On the 18th inst., at Towyn, Merioneth, Catherine Baugh, wife of T. R. Parry, late of High-street, Bangor. RADFORD-On the 29th inst., at Egerton Park, Rock Ferry, Annie, the beloved wife of James Radford, Fron- heulog, near Wrexham. ROBERTS—On the 13th inst., George William Roberts, of London, son of the late William Roberts, of Whittington, Shropshire, aged 32.

FRIDAY.—Before T. C. Jones and A. W. Edwards, Esqrs. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. Mary Riley, wife of Mr Riley, fishmonger, of Hope-street, was brought up in custody charged with being drunk and riotous in Yorke-street on Thursday night.. P.O. Williams proved the offence, and said the defendant was very noisy and drunk. The Bench sent her to gaol for one month s hard labour. Elizabeth Prince was again brought up charged -with being drunk at the Three Tuns Inn. Sergeant Lindsay proved the offence, and defen- dant was sent to Ruthin for a month. THE THEFT OF HAMS. John Mack and Stephen McDonald were again brought up in custody charged with stealing four hams, the property of Mr Hughes, from ^ware- house in the Birmingham Square. Ellis Edwards was also again brought up charged with receiving the hams well knowing them to have been stolen. After hearing the evidence, the bench committed the three prisoners for trial at the next quarter sessions. _—————— I