Wrexham Guardian

A FREE LIBRARY AND MUSEUM FOR WREXHAM. On Monday a public meeting was held in the Town Hall, Wrexbam, to take into consideration the question of providing a free library for the t0 His Worship the Mayor (Alderman Owen) pre- sided. The other gentleman present were the Rev. D. Howell (Yicar of Wrexham), Rev. T. Kn-k, Rev. E. Jerman, Rev. Barrow Williams, Alderman Llovd Councillors G.Bradley, Isaac Shone,J h. Edisburv, and S. T. Baugh, Dr Williams Messrs W. Overton, J.P Hugh Davies, Pirtchard, W. Snane T. E. Jackson, John Williams, W. Garratt- Jones.'Howel Davies, E. H. Williams, J. Gittins, J. Alimand, G. Bradley Jones, Simon Jones, C. K. Bemon, A. Wilson Edwards, J.P., T. Bury, Ashton Bradley, J. B. Shirley, T. H. Bancroft, &c The Mayor said he had called the meeting to consider the subject of a requisition in reference to the adoption of the Free Libraries Act in rex- ham. He would call upon the town clerk s deputy, Mr Reginald James, to read the requisition. Lms having been done, The Mayor said in the first place he must con- gratulate them and himself that the requisition was signed by gentlemen of every shade of opinion, and that it was a real catholic movement, convened upon a pure catholic requisition. He then read extrac's from the Public Libraries Act, and explained that the expenses would have to be paid out of the borough rate, but the amount so paid must not exceed Id in the pound on the rateable value of the property. As to the constitution of the governing bodies, he said in citiesand borougns it was generally managed by commissioners and town councils; audit was open to the council to •manage bv a committee which need not be com- ■nosed entirely by members of the council- Ih^y shonld be glad to have the help of gentlemen outside, thev mi»ht work the matter up for the IdvancemeS of "the town (hear, hear). With regard to the supply of books and maps, the crovernint* body would have power to purchase them and to start a school of science and art if tw' thought necessary, and appoint salaried officers and"assistants. These books and mapsi might be, under the act, appiopnatedI by the public free of charge (hear, hear). Although the act wa, silent it was premised that it could be worked as anv other act they were called upon to administer, and the council could take up such sums of money as they might from time to time require, or borrow from the Public W orks Loan Commissioners if neees- sarv He had stated that the amount of rate m Inv one vear must not exceed Id in the pound of the annual rateable value as distinguished from other rates, and that the town council must keep distinct accounts. In case they should decide upon a free library, it would not be necessary to call another meeting if they wished to have a museum. But they might do so at once, and make it a free lihiarv and museum, which, m his opinion, would be •nrefeiable (hear, hear). He did not think any ibservations he could make were necessary to show them that this was what the public wanted. If they had a free library, museum, and school of art they must do the thing modestly, and try to do it well with satisfaction to the public (hear, hear). They were aware the Working Men s Institute that used to exist now ceased to be used, and it seemed to be a desirable time to introduce this town matter, which if they decided should come out of the rates there would be no doubt it would stand. They all knew the Working Men's Institute bdd arisen by subscription and had gone on for a number of years and then dropped, but he hoped they should establish a free libra.ry ona firm basis ^MrOver'on then moved "That this meeting is of opinion that it is desirable to establish a free public librarv and museum, to be supported by a special library rate, and that the Free Libraries Acts be the same and adopted by the borough of Wrex- ham." It was quite a new thing, he said, and hoped it would be conducted with spirit and in a better manner than other institutions had. When he was at Coventry the other day he was surprised to see the large number of working men that fre- quented the free library there, and the number of rooms so well furnished. Although he did not mean to compare that town to a place like Wrex- ham still in proportion he thought it would be a great success here. Mr W. Pritchard, Hope-street, said he had at first some difficulty in supporting the movement, as he thought it would involve considerable addition to the rates, but when be came to consider the utter want of something like this in Wrexham, the compunction he hadhad disappeared. They were not forming a new principle, they were simply copying that of the School Board rate, one of the results ot which would be that almost every chUd would now be educated. He thought that what they were going to do now would be an adjunct to the School Board, and that in both cases the acts would be SUMr Shine said he thought it would be servicable to the ratepayers if they knew wnether this penny rate would be upon the small householders as well as the large ones. The Mayor replied that it would be upon the rateable value. Mr Shone Then the poor man paying .£5, would be taxed 5d, The Mayor: The rates will be levied in precisely the same manner as the borough rate. Mr Shone said the manwh; compromised for his rates paid 2s. in the pound, not 4s. Did it mean a penny in the pound for large ratepayers, and half- penny for the poor man, because it would be infor- mation for those outside to know that the adoption of the Free Libraries Act would not seriously eliect them. Mr Baugh said he understood the drift of Mr Shone's question to be, would a poor man pay a larger rate than his own?" He (Mr Baugh) under- stood it would be collected according tojthe precept, and thought the institute would be of great advantage to the town, as the museum must attract attention. He hoped the library would not be adopted upon the principle of subscription, because there might be a falling off, but by a general rate, then it would be successful and a great advantage to the public. The Mayor said a penny would be the maximum of the rate. As the motion stood it would be a separate LLrary rate; therefore there would not be & precept extracted from the rates, but a rate made like the borough rate, and the poor would have all j the benefit they got under the the borough rate. Is. cases where the landlord paid the borough rate they would still be in the same Condition. The Mayor having referred to that part of the resolution which stated tnat it was to be a separate rate. The Vicar said his impression was that the expense of carrying out the act would be defrayed cut of the district rate, and that no special rate would be made for the purpose, but like other borough purposes paid out of that rate. Mr Bradley said he would move as an amendment that the words "special" be struck out, which he thought would meet the case, and leave it to the borough to decide the ways and means. Mr Bury seconded Mr Bradley's amendment. Mr Bradley then said perhaps it would be better not to move an amendment, but let them be unanimous. Mr Bury said he would agree to this. If it was considered on its broad merits, and if the poor man had to pay a little he would have the benefit. Mr Bradley said another important point was, he thought it a pity the overseers should be put to the trouble and expense of making an extra rate for so small an amount. Mr Snape said it seemed to him there would be no necessity if a resolution were moved and carried that the Free Libraries Act be adopted. The Mayor then read the resolution in its altered form, which was That this meeting is of opinion that it is desirable to establish a free public library and museum, and that the Free Libraries Act be adopted for the borough of Wrexham-" This was put to the meeting and carried without dissent. The Vicar said he had one duty to perform to express the thanks of that meeting to the Mayor for his services on that occasion, and he belieyed the time would come when he (the Mayor) would look back upon the results of that day as one of the most gratifying events of his office; and he hoped the Corporation would take liberal views of the question, and well enable those whom they should be pleased to appoint to carry them out with energy. He hoped that the trustees of the Working Men's Institute, now, that there was an institution vested in the Corporation of Wrexham to whom they could apply the funds which would soon be in their hands, would do so for this purpose. He thought the time would come when the work just founded would be found to be as beneficial as anything that had originated of late years in Wrex- ham. The Mayor, in reply, said he hoped the words of the Vicar would not prove a myth, but that it would be carried out for the benefit of the public. The meeting then terminated.

WREXHAM DISTRICT HIGHWAY BOARD. A meeting of the members of the Highway Board of the Wrexham district was held at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel, on Tuesday. Capt. Griffit.h-Boscawen occupied the chair, and there were present Messrs S. T. Baugh, J. H. Foulkes, Simon Yorke, J. Milligan, C. W. Parsonage, Roberts (Gresford), Thomas (Burton), Jones (Bersham), W. Mathews (Esclusham Below), Pritchard (Allington), Rogers (Pickhili), Isaac Rogers ^Ruabon), Benjamin Davies, Edward Davies, Stephen Dickin, Shaw (Sesswick), Peter Wright (Ruabon), R. J. Roberts,, and W. Lester. THE SURVEYOR AND THE TAXES. After the usual preliminaries, Mr Rogers, way- warden of the township of Pickhili, drew the atten- tion of the board to Mr John Strachan's alleged negligence of duties as surveyor in consequence of his collecting taxes, also for neglecting to cart material on the turnpike load from Marchwiel to Bangor before the winter commenced." The Chairman said they had better take the first thing first-his collecting taxes—what taxes ? Mr Rogers replied that the surveyor collected the assessed taxes. Mr Milligan said that was put on a man's shoulders whether he wanted it or not (laughter). Mr Rogers agreed that was so, for one year, but Mr Strachan had done it for several years. Mr Baugh asked how long Mr Strachan had col- lected the property income tax, and Mr Rogers said about three years. Mr Baugh, referring to th#so roads, asked when they came under their jurisdiction. Mr Ffoulkes said it was last November twelve- month. Mr Rogers said his complaint was that the surveyor was only drawing one load a day, whereas he could get five or six. Mr Strachan said that with regard to the collec- tion of taxes he was appointed against his will, and having two or three sons able to collect them for him, he did not think it worth his while to drop it after the first year. If he had thought it would be objectionable to any person, he would never have kept it. The Chairman said he did not think there was anything in the terms of the office of surveyor to exempt him from collecting the income tax. Bat, he asked, as a fact, had it taken up any of his time ? Mr Stracban said it had not in any way. The Chairman still thought he ought not to have gone on after the first year. Then as to the non- cartage of material Mr Strachan said he had carted a great quantity of material in the summer. They got some from the Dee, and when they could get none, he thought it less expensive to go to Brymho. There were hundreds of loads carried on to the roads in the summer and placed in heaps. Mr Rogers asked if it was not a fact that Mr Strachan attended to pay the tax. Mr Strachan replied that that took him half-an- hour or so once a year. He should not consider it losing time if he were to stay at that house half- an-hour. Mr Rogers: Ah, it is for the sale of the pound- age. Mr Strachan did not think the terms of his agree- ment tied him from doing anything of any descrip- tion, and he had been uuder them for fifteen years. He had the card of a man in his pocket, who was a surveyor, but he did 20 or 30 things—insurance agent, &c. The Chairman considered that with the salary ) they paid, the surveyor ought to devote the whole of his time to the roads. Mr Rogers: I do not think Mr Strachan has acted fairly with us. Mr Milligan: Question, question. Mr Rogers I know as a fact that you cannot pay the b money in, before the commissioners, in half-an hour, you may be there half-a-day Mr Baugh said Mr Rogers had beard Mr Strachan's statement that he had carted hundreds of loads over the Pickhili road, and Mr Rogers stated that there had been no stuff until Novem- ber. Mr Milligan and several other gentlemen remarked that the books would show that. Mr Strachan then retired from the room, and in answer to the chairman, Mr Rogers said he had nothing to move. The Chairman reminded him that the circular implied that he had carted no material. Mr Baugh asked Mr Rogers, as a practical man if it was not a fact that when stones were on the sides of the roads for a long time the boys threw them about, over the walls and elsewhere. Mr Matthews agreed with Mr Baugh. The Chairman said he did not see much in it: as to the taxes they were compellable for a year, and as to the roads—that was a matter of fact. Mr Morgan said that the contractor failed to carry out his contract for cartage. Mr Rogers: And Mr Strachan failed to bring it before the board. Mr B. Davies said he quite expected something- more against the surveyor—that he had been acting as a gentleman's agent or something. As far as he could see they had nothing to complain of. At the same time he did not consider Mr Strachan ought to continue the collection of these taxes. Being a member of the finance committee he was under the impression that bills had come before him proving that material had been carted upon that road in the summer. Mr E. Davies considered that the surveyor was overwoiked, having about 800 miles of road under his supervision. He thought the roads in the parishes of Beiston and Ruabon were sufficient for any man to look after. Mr Shaw, of Bangor, said it was the principle that involved. The surveyor had a certain sum for certain duties,and lit was to undertake no other duties. He thought it would be as well if Mr Strachan discontinued the taxes. Mr Rogers Some one has said that Mr Strachan is overworked. How it is he keeps it on then, is an anomaly to me. i „ Mr Baugh thought the board should call upon Mr Strachan to discontinue the taxes, and therefore he moved to be so. This was ultimately seconded and carried. Mr Lester then moved that Inasmuch as cer- tain charges have been made against Mr Strachan, and fully investigated, the board finds that the said charges were not proved, except so far as the collection of taxes, and that the minute be entered on the minutes." Mr Lester further thought that this resolution should have the same publicity given to it as the circular had. Mr Baugh said that the reporters were in the room. The resolution having been put to the meeting, was carried. I THE HIGHWAYS' BILL. The Chairman said it would be in the recollec- tion of the board that a short time ago a memorial was sent to Mr Sclater Booth with reference to the above. A reply had been received, which stated that "the subject of the memorial was one of the greatest importance, and the president of the Local Government Board trusted that it might be sufficiently considered at the discussion of the measure now before Parliament." The chairman said that Mr Bury had got the County Boards Bill and the Highways Bill, and it was necessary to read them together. They were now before the House of Commons, and he did not know what amendments might be made in committee. Per- sonally, he should not be in favour of all the provisions. In the County Government Bill one of the sections provided that the expense of the main roads was to be paid out of a county fund. Then there was a very singular provision in the High- ways Bill, that any sanitary district may become a highway district, but he judged that very few would want to, though they couid do so by going through certain forms. Then there would be more complications. That was one of those instances oi Permissive legislation that led to confusion, that could be acted upon in some districts and not others (hear, hear). In some places power is given to re-erect turnpike gates in the neighbourhood of towns (laughter). Mr Baugh They'll never pass it. Mr Lester: As far as the action of the Govern- ment is concerned it will pass; it all depends upon the action of the country. The Chairman I think to go back to putting up turnpikes is a singular provision, and in some places and not others is a great confusion. Had it not been too late I should have suggested that a small committee be appointed to consider the bill, and send up a petition. Mr Lester moved that the chairman point out the objectionable clauses, and the clerk communicate to the Local Government Board. This was seconded by Mr Parsonage. Mr Yorke thought that that great unpregnable ironclad, the traction engine, was objectionable (laughter). The motion was then put and carried. STEAM ON THE TRAMWAY. A communication was read from the Board of Trade with reference to the objections of the Wrexham District Highway Board to the use of steam on the tramway. The letter eommunicated the fact that permission had been granted. The Chairman produced the conditions under which the Tramway Company could use steam. The machinery must be perfectly noiseless, and covered from the sight, as low as a few inches from the ground. THE RUTHIN-ROAD TRUST. Mr Lester asked if any decided answer had been given to the problem relating to the Ruthin turn- pike trust ? The Chairman answered that nothing more had been heard of the subject, and, this being the whole of the business, the meeting terminated.

WREXHAM TOWN COUNCIL. A meeting of the General Purposes Committee was held in the Guildhall on Wednesday, Mr J. M. Jones, chairman. There were also present Alder- men J. Beale and R. Lloyd, and Councillors Richard Jones, Walter Jones, S. T. Baugh. J. F. Edisbury, W. Sherratt, and W. E. Samuel; Mr John James (town clerk), Mr Smith (borough surveyor), and Mr Higgins (nuisance inspector). MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The Town Clerk said he had received a letter from Mr J. Llewelyn Williams, medical officer of health, asking that his absence might be excused, and desiring the clerk to read his report, which was as follows:— The number of 'births since the last report has been 23—13 mates and 10 females, making the rate 'XI per thousand per anifum. Seventeen deaths have been registered, and the rate of mortality is 20 per thousaud per annum according to our present method of calculating the approximate census. The causes were bronchitis 2. phthisis 1, fatty degeneration of the heart 1, apoplexy 1,[syphilis 1, erysipelas 1, dention 1, row- ollidsent of the brain 1, enceptralitis 1, convulsions 1, paraly- sis 1, disease of the heart produced by excitement 1, arid diphtheria 4. I regret to have to report another outbreak of diphtheria. We were in hopes the disease had been stamped out, but until our local authorities and their officers have the power to keep all people away from infected houses, it is quite disheartening going about from day to day, giving the best advice, which is quite lost upon the poorer classes. Alderman Lloyd remarked that there had been several cases of diphtheria, and a fatal one this week. He should like to know whether the medical officer had attended to them immediately the cases had come to his knowledge. He should also be glad to know what his instructions were. In case of diphtheria or any fever breaking out in a house he (Alderman Lloyd) thought it would be the medical officer's duty to send an inspector and warn the persons living there that no stranger nor any per- son, except those living in the house should be allowed to enter, and that notices should be printed or written and placed on the door to show that fever was in the house. It was done in other towns. A case had occurred in part of a block of building near where a child had died, and there were several other children, and the body was allowed to remain in the house for three or four days. He thought in cases like that it was the medical officer's duty to see tll at, -the corpse was taken out as soon as possible and buried, there being no place to isolate them. And in cases where the parents were too poor the child should be buried at the expense of the Corporation, because their object was to stamp these diseases out as quick as possible, A place should be provided at the Infirmary or elsewhere for these infectious diseases at the cost of the Cor- poration. Mr Baugh said in cases where the parents were too poor to pay for the funeral, if the medicli officer communicated with the relieving officer, he would give an order, if' necessary, or the father could obtain a loan from the guardians, so that no child need remain unburied in case of infectious disease. The Chairman said the medical officer could not do more than the law allowed him to do. The Government had sent down an inspector to make enquiries, and he supposed they should soon have his report. Mr Baugh said any board of guardians had power to take a house for tha isolation of infectious diseases. The Town Clerk said isolation in a house like that referred to would be a very difficult thiug. He did not think the Council would be committing a tres- pass upon anyone's premises by plaeiu, a notice on their door, only the people might take it down again. Mr Sherratt said there was a ward at the Infirm- ary for this purpose. Alderman Beale remarked that they paid 14s a- week for this ward. Alderman Lloyd moved a resolution that in case the medical officer had a case which he deemed necessary to isolate it shculd be at once removed to the fever ward at the Infirmary. This was seconded by Mr Walter Jones, and passed. Mr Samuel remarked that there was a house in the Beast Market in which a child had just died of diphtheria, where there were seven in family and only two rooms in the house. This was said to be one of the cases referred to. INSPECTOR OF KUISANCES* REPORT. The nuisances inspector's report stated that diphtheria had again become prevalent in the town, several deaths having occurred during the last week in different parts, namely, Hill-street, Mary Ann-square, Beast Market, and Tuttle-street, showing that it is not confined to any particular spot. Attention was given to the cleansing and disinfecting of the premises according to instruc- I tions given at the last meeting. He had inspected the course of the river, in order to find out where the matter which discolours the water to such an extent comes from, and he found that it was pumped out of the Vron Works, it having broken in (as he was informed) from the Brymbo Works, and was not likely to be discontinued. The quantity discharged into the brook is about 16,200 gallons un hour. At the two last fairs, held in the Smith- field, the amounts taken were—February 21st, XS 15s; March 7th, X10 6s 3d. Mr Higgins produced a sample of the sediment now in the bed of the stream, which was tne cause of the discolouration of the water. It was examined by the Council, and an opinion was expressed that there was nothing injurious to health in it. Referring to infectious diseases the question was asked whether children should be allowed to go to school from houses in which it was known to exist. Mr Higgins said he had given instruction to parents, but it was of no use.' Mr Walter Jones thought if they had the notices it would assist their officer. Mr Higgins said that the teachers sent all children back that they knew came from infested houses. Alderman Lloyd proposed that printed notices should be given their officer to leave at houses where any disease was warning them not to send their cnildien to school. This was seconded and passed. AMUSIXG APPLICATION FOR DRYING CLOTHES AT THE CEMETERY. The Clerk said he had a letter which someone had written to him, evidently done for fnn. He then read the letter, amid much laughter from the Council. Mr John Jame?, Esq. j Dear Sir, i heord at torn Roberts' Vaults has the Councel was a letting the Simmittary for dring c oses now my ould woman takes in wash.ug and heaps a inangal and mate lots of money the Simmittery is a first rate place for dring closes, the man at the gate is a furst class ball doig in keeping ruffan- of the gras and minding the close I only wants the place 3 days in the week what his the tarms my reffrance is Mr Barn Esq the Hex Mare your umble servt Wm Evans Jones Laberer Penterfelin The Clerk asked if it was necessary to reply to the letter. Several gentlemen replied in the negative. Mr Sherratt remarked that he thought it wrong to allow the keeper of the cemetery to dry his clothes there. The subject then dropped. A NUISANCE AT THE CEMETERY. The Clerk said he had another letter. It was from the cemetery keeper, calling attention to the nuisance of straw, which blew over into the paths from a stack close by belonging to Mr Murless, so that it was no use trying to keep the paths clean. The Chairman tnought if this were pointed out to Mr Murless he would for the future put his stack at the other end. Mr Baugh said sometimes the ground on that side appeared as bad as a farmyard. Several councillors were of opinion that the litter was caused by the recent high winds blowing in that direction. A resolution was passed calling Mr Murless's attention to the nuisance and asking him not to put the stack there in future. THE COST OF A TOMB IN THE CEMETERY, Mr Edisbury said he wished to call the attention of the committee to a little matter upon which he should like to be put right. He had purchased some ground at the cemetery for a vault, which with fees amounted to < £ 15; on giving an order for a border stone he was charged £ 2 0s 6d, and in purposing to put iron railings up he would be charged XI 10s if he erected a monument, XI 4s; and if the monument was above a certain height and value five per cent would be charged on it. If this was so, it would be detrimental to anything like decent graves. He thought it a mistake to make such hard terms. Mr Waiter Jones said it would tell very much against the beauty of the cemetery; it would detract from it, and make it a charnel of tombstones. Mr Edisbury said if they were going to charge th's percentage people wulJ not like to put up handsome monuments. Alderman Beale thought these rules must have been copied from some other place. After some further discussion, it was decided to bring the subject forward at the next Council meet- ing. THE VEGETABLE MARKET. The Clerk said Mr T. C. Jones, chairman of the I Market Hall Company, had called upon to say that the directors could not accept the 20s per yard, but would rejuce their price from 30s to 25s, for the ground in Henblas-street, for the improvement of the vegetable market. This was thought to be a fair pric, and a reso lution was passed accepting the proposal. 1-1 STREET CHANNELLING. The Surveyor presented a report and estimate of the cost of channelling, from Priory-street to St. Mark's, which he had been ordered to report upon. Alderman Lloyd said he had brought the matter forward in order that they might get the money back which 'had now been standing out for some years. He had been to the place referred to that day and found it partly filled with water. But he was quite willing, if the majority thought fit, to let it stand over until the next half-year to save taking it out of the present estimate, although now would be the best time to have it done. The Surveyor said the;question was whether the work should be done in boulder stones or Persmaen- mawr sets the latter would be more expensive. After a brief discussion it was decided to advertise for tenders to do the work. STREET ALTERATIONS. Alderman Beale called attention to some altera- tions that were being made in Mount-street, and said he thought the owner of the property was en- croaching upon the footpath. The Surveyor stated that he had been of the same opinion as Alderman Beale, but upon stating the matter to the town clerk he was informed that the person had a right to do as he had done. Several plans for new buildings and making a new road were laid on the table by the surveyor and approved of. THE ORCHARD FIELD PURCHASE. Alderman Lloyd referred to the Orchard Field second purchase property, and said they had already lost about > £ 90 interest upon the purchase, and were losing money. It had been said the town must not meddle in it, but he thought they might sell it in a lump or in two or three lots. He should be glad if they could have an early-meeting and go into the matter, and he would prepare a scheme to put before thera, which would differ a little from Mr Shone's. Mr Baugh said Mr Richard Jones brought, the question forward about the fields, and now they were lying idle. He had spoken on that occasion, when the matter was before the Council, and hau since wondered no steps had been taken. After some further conversation it was decided to a special meeting to consider the subject, and the committee separated.

FOOTBALL. CIVIL SERVICE V. CHESTY.B COLLEGE.-The return match between the above clubs will be played (to-day Saturday). Kick off at 3 p.m. A good game is ex- pected. LLANGOLLEN ROVERS v. GLYNCEIRIOG.—The return match between these clubs was played at the Recreation Ground, Llangollen, when the Rovers were again victorious—obtaining two goals to none. WREXHAM V. CIVIL SERVICE (WREXHAM).—Saturday being an off day with the Wrexham team, a match was arranged with the Civil Service. The game was well contested throughout, and although a drizzling rain made the ground very slippery, some good play was wit- nessed. When half-time was called neither team had scored, but at the call of time the game stood, Wrexham one goal to love. LLANERCHRUGOG v. LLANGOLLEN.-This match was e, played on the Plasmadoc ground, by the kind permission of the Druid's captain, on Saturday last. From the commencement the game was in the hands of the Llanerchrugog men, who have greatly improved lately The Llangollen forwards made some fine runs, but they never passed their opponents' backs. Shortly after half time C. Taylor kicked a goal for Llanerchrugog. Twelve minutes before time the ball burst, and some confusion ensued, but another being obtained, play was continued, and neither side again scoring, the Llanerchrugog team won by one goal to none. Llanerchrugog players:— Goal, Powys Jones; backs, T. Phillips. J. Jones; half- backs, Percy R. Jones. R. Pritchard; forwards, C. Taylor, B. Nicholas, W. Edwards, S. Ev u,3, R. Roberts, and E Gough. GROSVENOR (WREXHAM), v. RUABON.—A match be- tween the above clubs was played on the ground of the former, Rhosddu, and resulted in a victory for the home team by four goals to love. The captain of the home team won the toss and choose to play down hill. The ball was kicked off by one of the visitors and some pretty even play ensued for about twenty minutes, after which the home team seemed to have the advantage, and shortly afterwards the first goal was secured. The leather being again put in motion was quickly taken to the visitors' goal at was returned by the backs and F. Edwards getting hold of the ball made a long shot which proved successful, goal No. 2 for the Grosvenor, after which no goals were got before half-time. Half-time being called it was thought the visitors would soon make the score even, they having the advantage of playing downhill, but through the fine play of the Grosvenor backs their goal was kept out of danger. The G-rosvenor team now pressed their op- ponents very hard and soon put two more goals to their credit. Rain coming on a quarter of an hour before time the play was stopped, leaving the home team victors by 4 goals to love. FORESTERS (GWERSYLLT) V OSWESTRY.-The return match between these clubs took place on Saturday last at Gwersyllt. There was a fair sprinkling of spectators. The Oswestry captain having won the toss, chose to play down hill, against a slight wind. Play commenced a few minutes after three o'clock, and Lloyd and Hughes made a run to the visitors' goal, but it was returned, and some good play took pi act in the centre of the ground. Hughes again ran the ball up and passed it to Lloyd, but before he could get to the ball, Higham sent it down again, and Shone centred it, and a shot was made, but Lovatt threw it out. A corner-kick for Oswestry came to nothing. The play for some time was pretty even, the ball being taken from goal to goal, but neither side were able to score. Savin getting hold of the ball made a run down to the home goal, but he came in collision with R. Williams, receiving a kick on the leg which prevented him from taking any further part in the game. The play was now stopped for a few minutes, there being a dispute between the umpires after some conversation the ball was thrown up, and a run was made for the home goal. "Hands" being called the Oswestrians had a free kick, the ball being kicked into goal, and the goal-keeper tried to stop it, but it caught his hand and went through, thus scoring a goal. From this point to half-time no play of interest took place. Ends being changed, the visitors had to play up hill, whilst the home team had to face the wind and rain which had began, but this did not seem to "damp" their spirits, for they played with greater determination and several times the leather was taken very near the visitors'goal. At one time Hughes and Lloyd took it down, but unfortunately Lloyd fell when within a few yards of the goal, and the ball was once more in the centre of the ground. Shone made one or two runs, but he never attempted to pass the ball, and was scarcely ever able to pass the Foresters' backs. Both teams played very hard, and the ball was kicked behind each goal line several times. However, neither side was able to score, and when time was called the Oswestrians were victorious by one goal to nothing. C. Roberts, S. Powell, E. Lloyd, and R. Williams played very well for the Foresters, as did G. G. Higham and Groves for the visitors. We may state that the Foresters played a rather inferior team, four of their best players being unavoidably absent, viz., Messrs Clayton, McHutcheon, S. Williams, and Marston, whiist the Oswestry played the same team, with two exceptions, that played the Shropshire Engineers a few days ago. Players Osivestry.-T. F. Williams (goal), G. G. Hicham (back), R. Groves, T. Owen, and J. Williams (half-back). W. W. Shone and D. Williams (right wing), G. Savin and W. Davies (left wing), R. Hamer and T. Mitchell (centres). Umpire, A. Farmer. Faresters.-S. Lovatt captain (goal), R. Williams and T. .Tones (backs), T. Woollam, Tudor, and C. Roberts (half- backs). S Powell and E. Griffiths (richt wing), E. Lloyd and T. E. Hug-hes (left wing), E. Williams (centre). Umpire, Mr Owen Price.

(BY TELEGRAPH). CORN MARKETS. LIVERPOOL, Friday. A moderate business has been done in wheat, at our market at the rates of Tuesday. Californian, lis 2d to lis Sd; flour quiet, without change in quotations; Indian corn (new mixed Americiu), 26s to 26s 3d, and old about 2s 6d more per 4801 b»; beans (Egyptian) 33s to 34s 6d peas (Canadian), 37s, LONDON, Friday. The quality of British grain disposed of at Mark- lane during the week ending March 12th was— Wheat 623 quarters, average price 55s 5d; barley 170 quarters, average price 48s 81; and oats 181 qaurters, average price 29s 4d. Wheat closed quietly, but steady. Barley quiet. No change in oats, maize. Deans, or peas. Flour inactive.

IMPORTANT TO TOWN COUNCILS LONDON, Friday. In the Chancery division to-day Vice-Chancellor Hall decided in the case of Attorney-General 11. Corporation of Hull that a public body has no power to expend the borough funds, over which they have control, in opposing a bill in Parliament with- out the consent of the ratepayers.

PROBABLE ABANDONMENT OF THE CONGRESS. BERLIN, March 14. An early meeting of the Congress is no longer probable. England and Austria insisting upon a guarantee that there are no secret stipulations over and above the principal treaty to be submitted, Russia no longer displays any particular anxiety for the Congress to assemble at all. ST. PETERSBURG, March 14. It is stated in private telegrams from London that the British Government claims beforehand the right to entirely revise in the Congress the Bussian treatv, and full liberty to withdraw from the Congress at any time. These stipulations are viewed in some quarters here as intended to ensure the failure of the Congress. BERLIN, Friday. It is rumoured that the Congress is to meet after the Emperor's birthday. It is very uncer- tain whether Greece will receive a formal invitation. V'ENNA, Friday. The majority of Bohemian deputies are opposed to the credit vote. LONDON, Friday. AjEeuter's telegram says-that Eussia has refused to accept the proposal for admitting Greece to the Congress. CONSTANTINOPLE Thursday. It is announced from Syria that Abdul Kalir is on the point of revolting.

BRITISH WAR PREPARATIONS. LONDON, Friday. All officers of the Royal Engineers, who are first on the list for foreign service, have been ortered to p.ovide themselves with field equipments and be ready for im- mediate service.

RHOS. SUDDEN DEATH.—We reeret to announce the death of Mrs Wiiiiams, wife of the Rev D. Williams, B.A., curate in charge of Penycae, which occurred somewhat suddenly on Wednesday. Great, sympathy is felt throughout the district for Mr Williams in his sad bereavement. SAD ACCIDENT.—On Thursday last a sad accident happened at Hafod, which we fear will ultimately result in the loss of life. It seems, that a man nnmed Edward Griffiths, of Erwgerrig, was repairing the roof of the place where he was working, when it suddenly fell and buried him. Assistance was immediately rendered and he was soon extricated. Mr Barrat the manager kindlv placed his trap at the disposal of the injured mat), and he was conveyed home. Dr Jones the medical offifet was very prompt ia his assistance. On Thursday night the poor man" a, in a very precarious positioa.

ISYCOED. MISSIONARY MEETING.—The meeting of the Parochial Church Association of the parish was by mistake re- ported as if held at Banpor Isycoed instead of Isycoed. The Rev W. Johnson, late missionary of the society it Travancore, South India, attended as a deputation, and addressed the meeting. A collection was made at the close, and 18s. 4d. was obtained. Since the meeting the Rev C. W. Streatfeild has sentto the Church IVlissionary Society the sum of t9 4s. as the contribution of the Parochial Missionary Association for the past year. This is very creditable, considering that the associatiem is as yet in its infancy.

THE VICARAGE OF RHUDDLAN.—Up to the present time we learn that no appointment has been made to the living of Rhuddlan. The Conservative candidate, Col. Arbuthnot, has been retimed for Hereford by a majority of 44. COLLIERY AcCIDE.NTS.-On Friday week there was a serious explosion at Kilsyth pits, near Blantvre. „r. At the time there were 100 men in the j workings, but 84 managed to make their escape- The rescuing party, as yet, have not been able ly get at the workings owing to renewed explosions. Another, but more terrible, explosion occurred on Tuesday at the Unity Brook Colliery, Kersley, near Bolton. When the exploring parties went down they found 43 dead bodies exclusive of that of a manwbo fell down the shaft. The injuries received were of a frightful character. The distress of the relathiee was most painful to witness. 1 ;V- ••■ -°,.

BANGOR v. DRUIDS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE GUARDIAN. SIR,—After reading in your issue of last week the report of the football match played between the Bangor and Druids Clubs, on March 2nd, I can only imagine that your correspondent is strangely ignferant of events which have taken place in connection with the competi- tion for the Challenge Cup, or is wilfully blind to facts connected with the game calculated to arouse the feelings of any concourse of spectators gathered together to witness a fair and honourable contest. As a spectator I consider that the ebullition of feeling exhibited on that occasion, instead of being a lasting disgrace to the spectators on the Wrexham ground redounds very much to their credit, being chiefly attributable to the feeling inherent in the hearts of all British people, to take the part of the weak against the strong. I cannot imagine that such veterans as the Druids would be influenced by any remarks passed out- side the ropes. In fact the team were willing if not anxious to play on, but were over-ruled by their so-called captain, a non-player, who certainly committed a great error in judgment, and showed an utter want of good taste in no allowing his team to play an extra half-hour. In allusion to the groanings, of which your corl-es- pondent complains so much, does he consider that spectators are not entitled to show their disapprobation of foul play, such as charging behind, tripping, hacking, &c., in which accomplishments some of the Druids are remarkably proficent and for which they suffered the penalty, several free kicks being given in consequence of their unfair play. Is your corresponent aware that when the Newton Club were beaten by the Druids at Plasmadoc they Were hooted off the field on which they suffered defeat? Is lie aware that a Wrexham team visiting Plasmadoc received a parting salute of stones, sticks, and clods ? Is he aware that when the first cup tie was played on the Racecourse between the Wrexham clubs, certain Druids made themselves conspicuous by coaching, and by their boisterous vociferations showed an unmistakable antipathy to the town club ? Is he aware that there is a strong feeling/existing among football players and others interested in the game, that the Druids have through packed meetings and other skilful devices (to use a familiar term) jockeyed the White Star club out of the cup competition, and to use the words of one of your contemporaries" that if the Druids win the final tie, the White Stars will be morally entitled to the cup ?" These are facts of which your correspondent was evidently unaware, and will explain the slight excess of feeling displayed on Saturday week. I will not trespass further on your valuable space excepting to advise your correspondent to take an early oppor- tunity of visiting Plasmadoc Park on the occasion of a football match, when any unpleasant impression left upon his sensitive feelings by the plaudits of the Wrex- ham spectators at the late match will be quickly obliter- ated. I cannot conclude without complimenting the association on the admirable way in which the arrange- ments for the match were carried out, and the spectators on the orderly manner preserved throughout a most interesting and exciting contest. THREE QlJARTE BACK. TO THE EDITOR OF THE GUARDIAN. SIR,-It was with no small amount of pleasure I, and several other friends, read your condemnation of the treatment the Druids received at Wrexham. We always read your football news, believing that you give an impartial report, not ignoring the claims of other clubs outside your borough. I was rather anxious to read your last issue, but I fully endorse your remarks on the game, and have no hesitation in stating that in calling a spade a spade," you have still further raised your valuable journal in the estimation of all true lovers of the game of football. I'enclose my card, hoping you will excuse my trespassing on your Space—I remain, yours truly, AM ADMIRKR. March 13th, 1878. TO THE EDITOR OF THE GUARDIAN. SIR.-I merely wish to point out to your readers that the snarling vindictive report of the above match which appeared in the columns of one of your local contempor- aries, possibly to be reproduced in another, can scarcely be considered a fair or correct account of the game, in- asmuch as the contributor in his zeal to disparge the behaviour and play of the Druids exhibits so unmastak- ably his Bangorian proclivities, that to expect an impartial report from such an one is quite out of the question. The strong venom is too apparent, the shibboleth too unmistakable, and this time the biter is bitten and self condemned. I thoroughly endorse the observation that the Bangor men have no cause "to be ashamed of their defeat," which they in vain strove to avert, but I think that they as players and not as news- paper reporters, must feel somewhat ashamed at the unfair and malicious report of the match.—Yours &c., A. W. TO THK EDITOR Ol? THIS fiHASTllAH .ø SIR,—Knowing that a very unfair report has got abroad with respect to the above football match, I should be glad if you would kindly allow a little space in your paper for a few remarks on the subject from one who was an eye-witness, and who is neither a Druid nor a Bangorian. In the first place I must state that the report I allude to is -riven by one who is altogether prejudiced in favour of the Bangor men, and who is decidedly a Bangor man himself; this is evident if on no other ground, that in that report a list of the Bangor team only is given. As to the game, to say that Bangor had much the best of the game "is quite incorrect, for the Bangor goal was quite as much in danger as that of the Druids, the ball being once kicked against the Bangor goal post. With regard to the hacking, tripping, and back charging I watched the game very closely but failed to see so much of it. There can be no doubt that it was a very exciting match, and what looked like might have been easily mistaken for foul play. There is only one more remark I wish to make and that is if there were so much foul play why were not more free kicks allowed for it, and why did the Bangorians not appeal to the umpires instead of the players? It was acknowledged by all unbiassed men who were present that the best side won the match. Not wishing to cause any ill-feeling, but being anxious that Qui palmammeruit ferat."—I remain, &c., OxONIKNSIS.

MINING IN NORTH WALES. [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENTS]. We alluded a fortnight ago to the prospective results of Mr John Barnes' operations at the Bersham Colliery. His labours have been tedious but very determined, and we are glad to say they are about to be fully rewarded. After passing through all the upper seams in the district the main coal was reached on Saturday, at a depth of 416 yards. It appears to be of excellent quality, and is about nine feet thick. This Fmd wid. of course, open a large coal-field, and give employment to the working population of the neighbourhood. The coUierv has great advantages in being in ciose proximity '0 lioti) rail and road; and after the many difficulties Mr Games has had to contend with, and which he has overcome, we tee sure no one will grudge him the good wishes of success be is fully entitled to. There is again little change to report in the condition of the coal trade. The demand for steam coal is un- improved, and in house and gas descriptions there is hnt slightly more business doing. Slack is in quie, requ st. During the whole period of the depression, there has ¡ 11 ■ —1 — probably been no point reached lower than [be present state of things. The iron trade is atco quiescent. Pig iron is being taken only for immediate requirements, and in this market the disposition to specnlitc i veiy weak. Prices are practically unchanged, although with the 'iecreased production the tendency is certainly an up- wardjone. Though lead as a rule is not subject to the fluctua- tions in price as other minerals, there has lately been a gradual falling eff in the price asked, with little prospect of it improving to the sellers' advantage. The imports last month were of the declared value of £ 123,000, against, £ 171,000 the same time list year. From J, n nary 1st to February 28th the value recorded was £ 325,000, against X342,000 the corresponding period last year. Comparing the exports of British lead for February, 1878, and February, 1877, the figures were £ ol,000 and 168.000 and a comparison of the larger conea^ondent period reveals the figures as XlOq,000 and X135,000, a serious decline. Little business is now done at X18 English and X17 12s 6d Spanish. Shares, however, have been somewhat active in the niirket, the low prices tempting speculators. As we said last week now is the time for investment. The (C Van," last month, yielded 500 tons of lead ore, realising zet,728, and 150 tons blende, valued at £ 345, making in all X5,073, compared with X6,4 -0 in the previous month. The reports on the mine are oi a very satisfactory nature. V Plynlimmon is one of the most-, promising mines we have at work. Up to now it has given over X40,000 worth of ore out of only 24 fathoms deep, and it is esti- mated that the lode at the 36 will be worth two tons per fathom. A parcel of ore has jast been disposed of at £10 17s 6d per ton. About £ 1,000 is wanted to sink another level andother improvements. Surely this amount must be readily forthcoming. Favourable reports from the: Llanrwst district are being received. At a recent meeting of the shareholders of the Llanrwst company, the directors stated that they were well satisfied with the machinery and the admirable manner in which the dressing floors are laid out; the mine is now making sales of ore.. The old Penrallt is being resuscitated under the name of the Soutli De Eresby Mt Lead Mining Company, and is spoken of as a good speculation. It was intended seven years ago to work the mine but the idea was abandoned. It is situa- ted in the hollow of a mountain which is reached from the valley leading from Bettws-v-Ceed to Capel Currig, and about one and a half miles from the railway station of the former village. On the est is Coed-Mawr Pool Mine, the main east and west lode of which runs through this grant; on the east is CWfll Lauarch, where a fine course of lead was cut in excavating for the railway; and on the north is the De Eresby Mountain. The capital required is X30,000, to be taken in XI shares. Tue sett is held direct from the freeholder, the lord of the manor, for a term of 21 years at a royalty of one-twelfth. Another company has decided to work the De Eresby Consols adjoining the mountain of that name. It was bought for £ 10,240. At the Denbighshire Consolidated satisfactory progress is being made in the various operations. At* the new- lode out of the north cross there are indications eastward of a deposit of ore. In the further extension of the cross- cut the progress is satisfactory. At Parry's good work is being done.

THE ILLNESS OF DEAN. STANLEY. LONDON, Friday. Dean Stanley is still confined to his room though ial. pr ving in health-Her, Majesty makes frequent en- quiries

ARRIVAL OF RUSSIAN BARLEY. LONDON Friday. The 6teamer Starlingbro arrived at Falmouth to-day with barley from Odessa. This is the first cargo since the war.

threatened to strike the policeman; Jones put it en one tide and truck him in the face. Plaintiff admitted having some words about some beer that was being drunk ia bis house by his wife and a neighbour, which he objected to as he had not taken any for a long time himself. A man, named Mc'Clcud, living in Lambpit- street, stated that he wae m the Beast Market during the disturbance, and saw complainant s wife outside the house. She said her husband had put her out. Jones put her inside the house when Griffiths came out, and after asking him what was the matter struck the policeman a blow w.th a piece of iron. Defendant did strike complainant while pushing him into the house. George Williams corroborated last witness, but Hid not"see any blows struck. The bench said if the charge was proved they should have to make a report ot it to an^h" ouarter If a policeman had done as charged by rrTffitl s he would not be fit to hold his position. Lookin-at the whole case they thought there was no blame attached to the constable. As a young man they would advise him m future cases like fhis where an instrument was raised against liun not to use his fists, if possible, but to avoid it. They considered We <*» not proved, and ms- missed it. A NATIVE OF THE EMERALD ISLE. Michael Doyle, an Irish tramp, was charged with being drunk and incapable at Cobden Mill, on the 9tThe constable who proved the case sxid defend- ant was so drunk that he was obliged to get assist- ance and bring him to the station on a hand ^Defendant, whose coat was c0vered with patehesJ said he had walked from Liverpool to Wiex&aw, and hnd three pints of beer given him, which over- ana n.M i.nce p did ot know v?here he was. came him so that He had not been fnwTS2*rorlZ»S time and would not come Tb?S £ taUe who Wongbt lum to the station said he found 6d in his pocket, and also th^t he rough that he had to put the handcala on ^The bench fined him Is 9d, and told him to start to Warwick as soon as be could. WEDNESDAY-Before the ex-Mayor (J. Beirne Esq.), and W. Overton Esq. DRUNKENNESS. John Mulligan, of Pentrefelin, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in College-street on ^p.cTwm,8 Jones proved the case, the prisoner was fined 2s 6d and costs. ASSAULTING A WIFE. Daniel Brierly, was apprehended under a warrant for disobeying a summons charging faulting his wife on the 3rd of January last, and bound over to keep the peace for six most