The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

THE "YOUNG WALES" PARTY. Presumably most of the Welsh County Constituencies represented by Welsh-and English-Gladstonian Members of Parlia- ment, are quite unconcerned in the Local Government (England and Wales) Bill now before Parliament. If these constitu- encies are interested in Parish Councils to any considerable extent, how is it that the Welsh Gladstonian M.P.'s shun the House of Commons, or at any rate the Chamber itself, as they would the plague ? The practice of blacklisting" Members of Parliament, whose names have been absent from the division lists, has been resorted to a good deal of late. It is often very un- fair and particularly hard on those whom illness alone keeps them from their Parlia- mentary duties. But there are several North Wales representatives whose familiar faces and voices we have missed from the House i of Commons for some time past, who are [ not understood to be on the sick list. Mr. I HERBERT LEWIS, M.P. is ill, and moreover ( lie represents not a county but a Borough constituency; Mr. T. LEWIS, M.P. for Anglesea is also laid up; Sir EDWARD REED • is horsdecombat, and he too represents a r Borough. But where, oh where. is, for instance, Mr. STUART RENDEL, M.P. for Montgomeryshire ? Not yet in the Lords, ^and still away from the Commons The only Welsh Gladstonian M.P., who, so far as has been observed, has shown any real interest in the Parish Councils Bill-for which, we were told, the agricultural classes in England and & es ave been longing, and pining, ^n_ T^>1„a^lnr? *?r months past—is Mr. T. E. 1 •. ° do the member for Merionethshire justice he has from time to time come into the cham- ber for a little while, listened to the debate, and then hurried out again-a kind of popping-ip.-and-out arrangement in fact. But then Mr. T. E. ELLIS can scarcely be to be called in a serio-comic spirit the Parnel o He has now quite cast the sloug_ • Nationalism and all that kmd o and has evolved into a Ministerialist of the Ministerialists. The grub o Nationalism, if we may so put i passed through its chrysalis stage, come out resplendent it its official \A alism. We have watched the process mtn r case of others besides Mr. ELLIS, maeeu it ig a very very old one, almos ajLn'ht perhaps as human nature itself. o there were Young Wales men, or r types which correspond to them, i days of Hanibal and Julius Cgesax, or at the seige of Troy. Coming down to our own times there was a "Young Wales" man who incited the mob to tear up the Hyde Park railings. He afterwards was officed somewhere or other, and dropped into comfortable obscurity, and into good manners. Since the absorption of Mr. T. E. ELLIS by this way into the Ministry, and his con- sequent annihilation as an independant Welsh Nationalist," we have heard very little about the Young Wales party. They struggled a little, it is true, last summer, when they discovered that the Government had shrewdly decided to drop the maiming measure called the Welsh Suspensary Bill, and Mr. ELLIS permitted by the Govern- ment of which he wps a member, to blow a mock note of revolt on his own trumpet. If, he declared, the Government did not next Session introduce a Disestablishment Bill, then the Welsh Members would etc., etc. This net was laid in full sight of the birds, but not 'in vain. Mr. D. A. THOMAS and one or two others alone protesting, the whole of the Welsh party went under it, and are still prisoners. Later on an attempt was made to escape. Seeing how they had been entrapped the Welsh Mem- bers sent a ridiculous Round Robin to Mr. GLADSTONE, and were civilly snubbed for their pains. As a result the Young Wales party went quite to pieces. Mr. LLOYD GEORGE and Mr. S. EVANS became mild as mothers' milk in their attitude towards the Government, and were escorted under the ministerialist yoke by Mr. ELLIS. Mr. D. A. THOMAS actually perceiving his chance, promptly severed his connection with the fallen Irreconcilables," an d is believed to have formed a perfectly new party of his own. His members are Mr. D. A. THOMAS. We find the following paragraph amidst the London Correspondence of the Western Morning News, the chief Liberal Unionist organ in the west of England:—"The appeal of the Bishop of St ASAPH for funds where- with to fight the Welsh Disestablishers and Disendowers is being answered in a gener- ous manner by Church folk in various parts of the country. Amongst the contributors are, I believe, a good many Liberal Unionists who, whatever their views with respect to a general scheme for the sever- ance of the Church from the State, are dis- gusted at the present attack of a section of Welshmen, whose action they believe to be instigated by purely political motives. The fact is that the introduction of that mean little measure, the Suspensory BiH, has done much to alienate from the Disestablish- ment movement many good men and true. Sincere and intelligent Disestablishers want Disestablishment all round if at all, and they deprecate the vengeful and spiteful attack of the Young Wales Party and their adherents on the Church in Wales. The Welsh Disestablishment and Disendow ment movement is being led at the present time by a small band of politicans, three of whom can be named who never enter a chapel, or, indeed, in any other place of worship, from one end of the year to another. Yet these are the men who will take a great part in the debate on the forthcoming Bill, and who will actually pose as ardent Nonconformists. It is not surprising that even Disestablishers are rallying to the standard of the Bishop of St. ASAPH." This is pretty significant coming as it does from such a strong Liberal Unionist quarter. There is nothing the Welsh Gladstonians dread more than the cause of the Church in Wales being warmly taken up by the Church folk and politicians put of the Prin- cipality. Speaking about this matter, not very long since Mr. HERBERT LEWIS, M.P., said to me "I do think that your people have acted with the greatest want of fore- sight in making the course of the Welsh Church that of the Church in England. It must greatly strengthen the agitation against the latter. We are perfectly ready to deal with this question quite indepen- dently of the Church in England, and to admit that the cases are different." Of ?°u £ Se they are. English Disestablishers W l iT are no^ blind, will see that their elsh brethren, or at least the leading men amongst them are essentially selfish in their ams t obects. They do not care a straw p,ou e.pisestablishment of the English urc if they can only get their own eman s With respect to Wales complied 4--L n • ex^eeding selfishness of each of the various Radical groups which are c amornmg or widely different things,- t r rfrfor a11 ^od Unionists. e Y J f y, they are all demanding priori y ment at the present time shows ^ttheir combination is not one of love- (4 p a^lishers are jealous of J/yn on sives Radicals desiring above all things some good gerrymandering t'claims being coJSS&fVUT1*?te.d 7 Thev would all liW? efo^e their own. J to see each other tripped up.

in 1 peaceable, qmet,«w. could see a well ordcred meetmg Vhurchnen ™ held last week called by the Dean of Welshp°° 1 fr°m a Churchman's P»mt ot ™ 6 above ™b- ieWe do not stop now <to argue whether VVe aonu o11v given for a specific nUr funds ongmaU.^ tok way pose should now wbich they Were never voted to object churchmen have intended But J without the ,per every right to s J contemporary, that mission of the aforesa gecure as mnch they should endeavor -tted them under representation as is PB bodies of the the Act, on the goverill t, schools. single word as We are not aware tna meeting.? to politics was mentione political signi- yet it is sought to attach v ficance to it, even g° °tjcie "Mont- of heading its leading „ an(j calling gomeryshire Conservatives p loudly for Radicals to conJf i:eve that no We have every reason to b dreamt of; thought of politics was that church- but the meeting, in suggesting enta. men should have fair and proper P -n. toon merely meant that they »!>» who ending to work loyally with w^0 may also be elected Governors? may not happen to be churchmen- di_ Our contemporary, once fai^ a11 u(j Ciously minded, seems latterly to cvj aiou for division ,descries politics in everything, and generally fosters bitterness. Ooined Some day when more experience is ^ev°ting very nearly whole of the funds derivfd from the and Customs duty" to Intermediate Schools £ Sii°rtyi^ we predict wil1 nf rthanallowafairPr°P fnr 0Vth,e +T°nej to towards objects for which the ratepayers of this county are what fook e^ed' then' Radicals will say, what tools we have been I

ANARCHY AND DISRUPTION. The atrocious outrage committed last Saturday week at Paris, when between fifty and a hundred persons were more or less seriously injured by a dynamite bomb which was flung by the hand of an An- archist amongst the Deputies in the Palais Bourbon has sent a thrill of consternation throughout the civilized world, and es- pecially those countries where anarchy is rampant. Periodically, moral degenera- tion has produced dastardly attempts to interfere with the peace and unity of society, but scarcely ever have the effects been so wide-spread and appalling as those which have characterised the more recent ones. The destructive machine which dropped with such a scattered result from the gallery in the Chamber of Depu- ties will, we hope, be the means of awaken- ing Governments to a sense of danger and into a state of permanent watchfulness. At various time, have the lives of indi- viduals been threatened, for no apparent offence whatsoever, owing to the Revolu- tionary form of wild insanity; but the utmost apathy has been displayed as re- gards trying to extinguish those "prin- ciples which urge on the moral riff-raff of the world to become a source of danger to those communities amongst whom they dwell. Possibly the last Parisian explosion will teach Governments the little-known lesson that amongst those who brag are those who perform, and that the Anarchist propaganda must be considered as a serious matter, since partially successful attempts have been made on the lives of citizens collectively. We sincerely hope that England, at any rate, will adopt such measures of protection as will secure the compulsory "emigration" of those even professing to be identified with Anarchist movements. The British Government are certainly in a position to show their respect and sympathy for foreign powers and to do them a service which it could be scarcely possible to reciprocate by immolating a body of scoundrels, who with brazen coolness and openness make London their stronghold, and seriously contaminate its inhabitants. Of late dynamite outrages have been multiply- ing rapidly. Some weeks back saw whole- sale destruction of life in an Opera House at Barcelona, and last Saturday week will go down to posterity as a day when a daring but abortive endeavour was made by a man named VAILLANT to annhilate the French Chamber. It is absolutely necessary to remind the people with emphasis, that a remedy for such villany must be considered. We must deal with Anarchy with an iron hand. In many important matters we have procrastinated the locking of the door until after the theft of the horse, and now unless immediate and unsparing action be be taken, life amongst an increasing num- ber of inhuman pests will be impossible. The more Anarchy, with its inseparable adjunct, dynamite outrage, is allowed to spread the more difficult will It become to prevent mischief, as a similar feeling would be engendered to that which compels the Greek peasants not only to tolerate but even to screen those brigands who live in their midst. The sooner the better England ceases to harbour as unscrupulous and in- discriminating an association of men as can be found amongst the veriest dregs of a madhouse. 0

CHRISTMAS. J. After the long and glorious summer we have succeeded to the festive season of Christmas. Scarcely have we had a taste of frost or snow, although the shortest day is passaA, and with that, of course, the middle of winter too. In our country districts, balls, concerts, tea parties, and such like amusements, with a abundance of good fare, go to fill up the programme of Chaistmas enjoyment, while the principal feature of Christmas- tide in larger towns are the prntomines, ever increasing in their gorgeousness and elaborate display. Shopkeepers of all trades prepare a show of their most presentable articles at this season, and so enjoying is the appearance of most of the windows on the present occasion, that it is evident there is no lack of suitable presents for old or young. ChrisfctWM Cards, as usual, hold a prom- inent place amongst the purchases at this time, and varied and beautiful are the designs now shown. A style of card which has become a great favourite is that in the form of photographic views of local places of interest, and which must surely commend itself, as those sending a greeting to former residenss in the district, and who may be now far away like sending them a piece of a place they may be interested in. And the custom of sending these missives is one which should survive, for how many friend- ships would be broken but for them ? Writing, although kept up for a time, is easily broken off, and generally is when people do not see each other for a long time; then how convenient a card is at Christmas time to let them know they are not forgotten. On presenting our readers with this first Christmas issue of the COUNTY TIMES AND POST we have very great pleasure in sincerely wishing them A Merry Christmas."

NOTES BY THE WAY. °n Friday last, at the Montgomery County Council, Captain Pryce-Jones spoke in favour of lsplacing the present magisterial system by the ^PPointineafc of stipendiary magistrates, the law in > Which he moved should be extended. co:aCt- kas called forth the following note of « rp, the Manchester Guardian.: himself 8P6Ctacle of a Welsh County Councillor, vative iustice> and the SOn °f a C°nS0r' for the ove & Welsh constituency> PleadinS and tho present magisteiial system i.«whSt'r1" -*t magitotes was witnessed h* 7 Comes before the Public. It of the Mont^omWeV6r' at the (luarterl3r meeting December 15th. County Council, on Friday, Captain Pryce-Jones Would*be reformer was member for the Mont eldest son of the Present member for the Montgomery Boroughs. The view I something like a shoc^to V mUSt have caused no small surprise to hia°R lS.brother justices, and faults of the present systenT^08,1 °PP°nents- The bare, and a resolution app^Ji unsPa"nS^y of stipendiary magistrates aPPointment process of reform was proposed it m°St STnnmaiy have been carried by a substantial W°.Uld Probabty trains are few in the district and ^but as meeting was somewhat long, members gradually disappearing while the dis n ceeded. When the stage for voting ^Sl°\ pr°" few of the members remained that it reached so few of the members remained that it so advisable not to take a division." aS ou8ht We cannot understand why it should be in- sinuated that Captain Pryce-Jones is of Radical tendencies because he sees evil in a system whose very age of which suggests some kind of improve- ment, although the stipendiary system might not be thought advisable. There appears to be a good time coming for the peaceful citizen and an extremely and laudably bad one for garotters and roughs of a similar calibre. Mr. Justice DAY, growing tired of administering the orthodox, and in most instances ineffectual method of punishment to the ruffians who commit robberies with physical violence, has sought solace in the cat'-o-nine-tails, which he intends to have applied pretty freely in the future to the backs of those who cannot keep their criminal actions within ordinary limits. He has already made some slight start. For robbery with violence he sentenced at the Liverpool Assizes twelve men to different periods of imprisonment, the monotony of which was in each case to be relieved with a flogging, the nature of which he specified by naming an im- pressive number of lashes. The path of rectitude was ably pointed out to eleven of the men on Saturday by some brawny armed wardeis who rubbed into" each, we should think, a satisfactory amount of respect for the law of the land. We are assured that Mr. Justice DAY'S entertaining method of subjugating an outrageous form of law- lessness will be characterised by a good deal of success, and we can only hope that his example will be generally followed by his brother Justices. The ordinary sentences of to-day require a little flavour like that to be derived from the cat" or a stout rope end. MR. LLOYD GEORGE, M.P., has taken to literature —of a sort. He writes rampant Welsh radicalism in the Manchester Guardian once a week, just as MR. S. EVANS, M.P., used to do once in the South Wales Daily News. But though his radicalism is rampant enough, he would presumably not be allowed to say anything disrespectful of MR. GLAD- STONE. However, as his present temper is not one of revolt, this should not prove a very galling restriction. We understand that a few meetings of the Welsh Land Commission will be held in London next month. There are still nine Welsh counties to dis- pose of, and it has not yet been decided which shall be taken next, or whether the Commissioners shall turn to the North or South. After the Lords have taken up Mr. McLaren's re- jected contracting-out clause on the Employers' Liability Bill, we now learn that the McLarenites have met and decided to resist their own amend- ment. The Lords' amendments are to be considered in the House of Commons to-day, and the McLare- nites have announced their intention of voting with the Government. Of course. When they were sure to be beaten your Independent Liberals could think for themselves. Aliter, when their opposition had grown to be a serious matter. But why should there be any voting at all under such cir- cumstances ? It would be much simpler to pass a resolution at the beginning of the Session to the effect that on all important matters the Government should be credited with its normal majority. We are almost inclined to agree with a suspicious cor- respondent who writes to suggest that the whole affair was a put-up job- He points to the fact that Mr. Labouchere presided at the McLarenite meet- ing, and remarks that Mr. Labouchere's whole course throughout the present Session has been to start subjects which seemed awkward for the Government, so throWni? *-iB re^alar opposition off the scent; while, after all the party manceuvrings, a normal majority always attends the final Govern- ment decision. Mr. Labouchere's great aim and object is to discredit the Lords; and it would have been a congenial game to egg on the Upper Chamber by hopes of a Liberal split, and then turn round and laugh in their faces at the end.—St. James's Gazette. In order to lessen the debt on the National Schools, Lady PRYCE-JONES, with her usual activity in matters pertaining to the welfare of Newtown, held a rummage sale in the Victoria Hall on Saturday, and her efforts were crowned with con- spicuous success. The articles obtained for the sale were exceedingly well assorted, and secured a good attendance. When the doors were opened, the rush of people which ensued must have exceeded all the anticipations of Lady PRYCE-JONES and her assistants. As there was a preponderance of useful articles over the ornamental, a brisk business was done, and the goods were quickly disposed of. As a result the debt on the National Schools will be reduced to the amount of X12,3 by Lady PRYCE- JONES'S generous labours. Sir PRYCE PRYCE-JoNES, M.P., was also present, and took an active interest in the proceedings, which he does in every worthy object connected.with the district.

WELSHPOOL. XMAS PRESENTS! David Jones, of Hitrh-street will give a beautiful Tea Caddy to all purchasers of his Noted Teas. Splendid value, 2s. [Advt.] CHRISTMAS PRESENTS.—His Worship the Mayor (Mr. E. O. Jones), with the generosity which he displayed last year, has presented each member of the borough police force, fire brigade, mace bearers, and borough officials with a splendid goose. CHURCH HOUSE.—The second of a series of pleasant evenings was held in the Church House on Friday evening, Dr. Ilawksworth presiding. The following programme was gone through.— Pianoforte duett, Mrs. Hawksworth and Miss Morris; song, Mr. H. E. Morris (encored) song, Miss Lane (encored); reading, Rey. Llewellyn Jones; song, Mrs. J. H. Morris; violin solo, Mr. F. D. Ward; humourous, Mr. Asterley (encored) • pianoforte solo, Miss C. Morris song, Miss Lane; song, Mr. H. E. Morris; recitation, Miss Y. Rees; song, M>s. J. H. Morris; violin solo, Mr. F. D. Ward; song, Mr. Asterley. PRESENTATION. — A presentation of a gold pencil case (supplied by Mr. D. Lloyd, Broad Street) was made by Mr. T. B. Hudson on behalf of the employees of the estate timber yard, as a mark of their esteem, on December 23rd, to Mr. John H. Long, upon his retiring from Powis Castle Estate Office. The following are the subscribers:—Messrs T. B. Hudson, Robert Fenwick, Edward Gwilt, William Smith, David Hig°ins, John Russell, Thomas Griffiths, John Jones, George Sanby, David Harris, John Jones, David Webster, Richard Gough, John Beadles, David Bowen, Thomas Matthew, F. C. Holmes, Richard Lewis, Vaughan Ellis, Richard Morris, Robert Lister, Maurice Bedward, Thomas Harris, Edward Harries, James Jones, William Morris, and Charles Pugh, William Holloway. BAPTIST CHAPEL.—A successful entertainment, in conection with the Band of Hope of this chapel, took rilace on December 14th. The chair was ably M Mr JE. Boffey, Plasnewydd. The choir was under the conductoSrship of Rev T. Rowson the pieces being nicely rendered. Miss James with her usual ability, accompanied assisted by Master Hart. Recitations were given bythe Misses May Joseph, Maggie Hughes Id«e Williajnj. Wmme James, Sissie Hughes, AdaHugheS' Anme Parry Hannah Humphreys, Nellie hughes, Flore Davies, and Miss Pritchard; Masters Thomas Parry, Charles Parry, Frank Adams, and Bertie Pos^» dialogues by R. Parry and C. Humphreys, Lizzie Humphreys and Winnie Evans, and by eight mem- bers of the Band of Hope; songs by Misses Florrie Davies, Hannah Davies, and Mr D. Joseph. POPULAR ENTERTAINMENT.—The Powis Choir gave their popular entertainment in the Assembly Rooms on Wednesday evening. The attendance was very small, but the concert was much appreciated by those present. It is to be regretted that owing to the prevailing epidemic, several of the artistes failed to make their appearance; but, nevertheless, a good entertainment was given. The following is the programme :—Pianoforte Solo, Miss Meredith; Song (encored), The Old Lock," Miss Janet Lloyd, Berriew; Hallelujah Chorus" (Beethoven), Choir; Song, For love of Thee," Mr. Willie Nuttall; Recitation, Mr. Alfred Jones; Song (encored), The Gift," Miss Gracie Jones; Pianoforte Solo (encored), "Overture to the Bohemian Girl," Mr. Willie Nuttall; Song, Farewell to Blodwen," Mr. E. R. Hughes; Recitation, Mr. Alfred Jones Song, The Nightin- gale," Miss Janet Lloyd Song (encored), This Work-a-day World," Miss Gracie Jones; Chorus, And then shall your light," Choir; Song and Chorus, Hen wlad fy nhadau," Mr. Willie Nuttall. Miss Gracie Jones, a member of Herr Pareezer's Prussian Choir, was the most popular of all the performers, her powerful and rich contralto voice was heard to advantage in the songs which she chose. Miss Janet Lloyd also sang The Old Lock in good style. She possesses a good mezzo- soprano voice. Miss Meredith, Messrs. Willie Nuttall, and Alfred Jones acted as accompanists, and the duties of the Secretary were efficiently carried out by Mr. James Davies. A Dance was held after the Concert and was well attended. THE TOWN COUNCIL, THE FARMERS AND THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE.—On Thursday a special meeting of the Town Council, at which the Mayor, and Messrs. W. A. Rogers, Anderson, Rowley Morris, T. Parry, E. Jones (Town Clerk) and Snook the (Surveyor) were present, was held, when the following memorial signed by between 250 and 300 farmers was submitted :—" We the undersigned farmers and others attending and bringing stock to the Welshpool Cattle Market, having been in- formed that the Board of Agriculture are pressing the Local Authority for the county of Montgomery to insist upon the Council of the Borough making a smooth hard surface to the pensv for animals in the cattle market, are of opinion that such altera- tion would be detrimental to the exhibitors of stock, as the present position of the market is in' everyway in the best possible state for the preven- tion of infectious disease, that it is in a much better state for the safe exhibition of animals than it would be if a smooth slippery surface were made and we consider that the expense of the proposed alteration would not benefit in the slightest degree the exhibition of cattle or the prevention of disease; that the fairs only being held on the first and third Monday in each month, in such a large area as the Welshpool cattle market, and no foreign stock ever being exhibited, a very small risk of contagion could possibly arise."—It was moved by Mr. D. Richards and seconded by Mr. W. A. Rogers, and resolved that the memorial be sent to the Secretary of the Agricultural Department, and that the Council coincide with the view expressed therein and respectfully submit it to the Board for their further consideration.—The Council then rose. On Monday Messrs Morris, Marshall, and Poole conducted their annual sale of fat stock for the Christmas market. There was a large attendance of buyers from Aberystwith, Oswestry, Shrewsbury Dudley, Birmingham, and other parts, the local purchasers being well represented. The consign- ment of cattle was a large one, and included a grand supply of beef. Pigs were also in large supply. For each prize offered by the auctioneers there was a keen competition, but the decision of the judges (Messrs. W. Groves and G. Eley) gave general satisfaction. The principal awards were to Messrs Francis, Leighton, for the best four bullocks; the Earl of Powis, for the best two cows and heifers, with a pair of shorthorn heifers, of rare quality C. J. Layland, Esq., for the best single beast; and Messrs Watkin, Luggy, for the best pen of ten wethers. Messrs Francis ten Hereford bullocks, including the four prize beasts, averaged £22 5s, the highest price being £24 10, and the lowest £19 10s. Mr. C. J. Leylands* prize beast was purchased by Mr. John Sayce, of Welshpool, for £27. The Earl of Powis' pair of prize heifers made £25 5s and £22 5s respectively. Mr. Mar- shall sold the cattle and Mr. Poole the sheep and pigs, and the business was got through in good time and in a satisfactory manner. CHURCH LITERARY AND SOCIAL UNION.—A meet- ing of the above society took place in the Church House, on Thursday evening last, when the subject for discussion was The Parish Councils' Bill." This was opened by the Vicar in a very lucid and able address, in which he acknowledged that many nl?cellS9.ry benAnbwould he hopedL.be ranjysd by the poorer classes in country places as a result of the operations of the Bill, though he must confess that many of its provisions were drawn up in an unnecessarily hostile spirit tdwards the Church, and would take from her many privileges and charities which she now possessed, and which it was acknowledged she had used in an impartial manner and according to the wishes of the donors. The discussion was continued by Mr. W. F. Addie, Mr. C. Shuker, Rev. F. H. Hawkins. Mr. M. Powell, Mr. J. R. Langdon, Mr. W. Jones, Mr. R. Owen, and closed with votes of thanks to the Vicar and the Chairman (Rev. F. H. Hawkins). CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS.—As usual, the shops are all decked out with the choicest array of fancy articles for the Christmas season. Grocers, con- fectioners, butchers, drapers, stationers and fancy dealers, all have their special show, and very attractive they appear on the present occasion. Amongst the most noticeable will be found that of Mr. Morris, Corner Shop, whose shop and windows are a credit to the town, and quite equal in every point except extensiveness to the best shops in London, crystalized fruit, bonbons, grapes and other fruit are amongst the exhibits here; followed by Mr. Humphrey's, of Berriew street, whose windows look exceedingly well, and include dried fruit, oranges, fancy tinned goods, and the more substantial fare of home-cured hams and bacon, cheese, &c. Mr. Wyke, High Street; Messrs. Jones & Son, Hall Street; Mr. Pryce Barrett, Broad Street; and Messrs. Williams & Son, Church Street, all have displayed their Christmas goods with exceedingly good taste, and are all worthy of a longer notice than we have space to give. Messrs. S. Williams & Co., Mrs. Jones, "The Star;" and Mr. Bond, have on view everything to be desired in sweetmeats and confectionery. The stationers have a good show of Christmas cards and other fancy articles, and their windows present an extremely bright and pleasing appearance. The Misses. L. & C. Morris, too, have a charming array of Christmas cards, fancy goods, and millinery, and a good selection of articles suitable for presents is on view. Amongst the Drapers who have decked their windows with seasonable goods—furs, evening dresses, &c.,—are Mr. Hughes, Trade Hall, Mr. W. Morris, Broad Street, Mr. T. D. Evans, Westminster House, Mr. W. A. Rogers and H. Lewis. The butchers have a good show of excellent meat. Mr. Sayce, with an ox fed by Messrs. Francis, of Leighton, and a heifer fed by Mr. Leyland, Leighton, both bought at Messrs. Morris, Marshall and Poole's auction, together with some fine wether mutton is sure to maintain his reputation for supplying first class meat. At Mr. Davies's, High Street, we notice two fine oxen, and also some very fine wether mutton, the sheep being fed by Messrs. Watkin and Jones, and Mr. Clarke, Lion Hotel. Mr. Mills's show consisted of a fine ox fed by Mr. Morris, The Foundry, and a heifer by Mr. Mytton, Buttington Hall, with some prime wethers fed by Messrs. Watkin of Luggy. We also notice some meat of excellent quality at Mr. Roberts and Mr. Owens, of High Street, and at Mr. Atkinson's, Salop Road. STONE HOUSE SCHOOL.—The annual entertain- ment given by the Misses Smith, previous to breaking up for the Christmas holidays, took place in the Town Hall, on Thursday afternoon, when the prizes were distributed by the Rev. G. Davis. A good entertainment was given and much enjoyed by the large company of friends invited by the Misses Smith. The following is a programme of the entertainmentPianoforte solo, Une Fleur Pour Toi," Miss Maria Crowden; action song, Nelly's Dolly," Misses May Joseph, Annie Bebbj and Katie Davies; pianoforte duet, "Welsh Melody," Misses Jennie Francis and Effie Bnshell; song, The Old Home Song," Miss Stuart Baines; piano- forte duet, Popular Welsh Airs," Misses May Hill and Nellie Baker; song, "The Gleaners," The Scholars; pianoforte duet, "Roulette Galop," Masters Gometr Roberts and Herbert Gittens; action song, Busy Little Mother," The Scholars pianoforte trio, "Chere Amie Gavotte," Misses Frances Roberts, and Stuart Baines, and Master Gomer Roberts pianoforte duet, "Osborne Quad- rilles," Misses Lucy Smith and Harriet Kinsey recitation, A story of sisterly sympathy," Miss Isabella Wall; scarf drill, The Scholars; pianoforte duet, "The Wolves," Misses Stella Cowan and Lucy Smith; recitation, Give the little boys a chance," The Scholars; pianoforte solo, "Fairy Barque," Miss Annie White; grand vocal waltz, Fairy Tales," The Scholars; pianoforte duet, Ah Che La Morte," Misses Marion Ireland and Millie Smith; song, "Little Jessie," Miss Stuart Baines; pianoforte solo,, "Vienna," Mies Edith Snook; a Christmas medley, The Bee and the Ball," The Scholars. The following is a list of the prize winners:—Class I-Nellie Wynne and Lucy Smith. Class II.—Isabella Wall and Mary Jane Owen. Class III.—Gertie Anderson, May Hill; and Ethel Davies. Class III. 2nd Div.—Ellen Richards. Class IY.—May Dakin and Herbert Hughes. Class Y.—Dolly Bushell and Jenny Parry. Amy Morris, needlework Stuart Baines, arithmetic and general improvement; Millie Anderson, proficiency in examination; Elsie Davies, arithmetic; Fanny Vaughan, good conduct; Effie Bushell, proficiency in examination Jennie Francis, general improve. ment Marion Ireland and Nellie Baker, music: Jennie Joseph, writing; Nellie Wynne and Fanny Vanghan, order and punctuality. The following are the reports of the examiners:— "I am very glad to see a great improvement in the spelling. The composition of Class I was very good, but their weakest point was accuracy in writing down their repetitions. I should like to recommend a constant practice of writing down whatever they learn by heart. The writing through- out the school was again excellent. It is evident that diligent pains are being taken in order to ground the scholars in scripture knowledge, and the case is quite in keeping with the tone and spirit, which I know prevail in the school.—J. P. Lewis." The general results of the Examination of the paper work prove very conclusively that very good work is done in this school. The whole of the sub- jects are taught with great care, thoroughness and success. The neatness of the papers in all subjects was very striking and the answers not only showed correctness but refreshing originality of thought. In this latter respect Effie Bushel in Class III stands pre-eminent in her geography paper. The whole of the geography was exceedingly well done, the same remark applies to the arithmetic and his- tory. Grammar was on the whole very satisfactory. The parsing of Lucy Smith was excellent and de- serves special mention. The whole of the small hand-writing was very good and neat and it was difficult to decide as to the best in this subject. In general intelligence as shown in the Examination papers Nellie Wynne stands first, her papers are most creditable to herself and her teachers. The same may be said of Millie Anderson in Class II.— LLEWELYN JONES." In the evening a large number of guests were invited by the Misses Smith to a dance in the Assembly Room, and was thoroughly enjoyed. ♦

ABERYSTWYTH. APPROACHING MARRIAGE.—A marriage is arrang- ed and will take place on February 6th, between Mr. Loxdale, of Castle Hill, and Florence, second daughter of Sir Pryse Pryse, Bart., Gogerddan. THE COLLEGE CHRISTMAS DRAMATIC ENTERTAIN- MENT was given on Wednesday and Thursday. Two performances were given so as to allow all those who wished to attend. The first evening was supposed to be reserved for those connected with the College and their friends, while the second evening was for the townspeople. But this division was not rigidly adhered to, indeed many who went the first evening also went the second. The fact that two performances was given, both to crowded houses, shows the growing popularity of these annual functions which to the students are the pleasant termination of a hard term's work, and the commencement of the Christmas festivities; and to the residents adding to the pleasures which, together with the genial climate, tend to render Aberystwyth a much frequented winter resort for invalids, who require some atttactions in the way of Christmas amusements. The costumes were of the first-class order and were well matched by the get up of the actors. The scenery, while it did not show that lavish expenditure which is usual in London theatres, was very much above the average seen at amateur performances. It would be invidious to criticise the individual actors as Shakespeare's plays are all difficult, and none more so than the one selected, Much ado about nothing," but if the pathetic parts partook of the nature of a farce, and the facetious parts were a trifle dull, they were all heartily appreciated. And if some actors were prominent by their activity it was compensated for by the repose which distinguished others. Though some appeared at first a little nervous, failing to make themselves heard, this was due to the fact that the College Hall is not very well suited for dramatic performances. Dramatis Personse.—Don Pedro, C. W. Rudd; Don John, D. R. Harris; Claudio, J. A. Stuart; Benedict, J. Brough; Leonato,' J. LI. Penry; Borachio, W. Cammack; Conrade, J. R. Blackhurst; Dogberry, H. Ethe Verges, A. W. Warrington; Seacoal, G. J. Thomas; Oatcake, D. T. Cadvan Jones r Sexton, W. B. Randies Friar Francis, E. Anwyl; Hero, Miss I. M. Smith Beatrice, Miss B. Edgell; Margaret, Miss J. W. Holland; Ursula, MissG. Brownlow.

TOWN COUNCIL MEETING, CONTINUED. The Public Works Committee recommended that plans be approved of houses to be erected by Mr. R. Jones, Vaynor Street, and Mr. Thomas Morris in Terrace Road, the floor of the latter to be raised 14 inches to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. The Committee also recommended the purchase of road scrapers, and that the Surveyor should be instruct- ed to prepare an estimate of the cost of improving the outlet of the main sewer. Alderman Green, with regard to the last subject, did not think the Council in a position to prepare an estimate. First of all there should be a plan, and, as far as he could judge, no plan had yet been proposed. He totally differed from the ideas some people had in respect of the outfall sewer—that was, the continuation of the same method which to his mind had resulted in throwing so much money away. If a wall was carried down to the wharf or the sewer arched over sewage would be met by the tide and deposited as it now was, and matters would be worie than ever. Before the present outfall was made a mill leet discharged a consider- able stream of water into the outfall sewer, and the sewage was carried into the middle of the river and it was better then than now. He contended that the whole of the money spent on the sewer outfall had not only been thrown away, but had done much mischief to the town and county. He thought the Council had worked long enough on those lines, and proposed, as he did in respect of the groynes opposite Victoria Terrace, that before the Council went in for any estimate a plan should be prepared. He had no doubt there were people in the town capable (of submitting plans, and he would therefore invite them to submit plans which would be of some use to the Council in forming their judgment. He also suggested the offering of a premium. Mr. Hopkins seconded the proposition saying he did not know what kind of a thing it was proposed to make. Let the Council have a plan first and an estimate afterwards. The present sewer had been condemned by the Cholera Inspector (laughter). He would say that plain. The Council wanted to leave everything in the dark. If the Council brought things into the light the ratepayers would come out directly and tell the Council what was right. Now, however, members of the Council wanted to carry their little ideas out and if they made a mistake they would not give their ideas up, but carried the mistake further. He said let them have a plan and then an estimate and get the thing done once and for ever. Captain Doughton said an idea struck him which he would let the Council have and then they could do what tpey liked with it. He suggested that the sewer should be carried from the tanyard field, across the river, through Trefechan, down Peny- ranchor, and empty near St. David's wharf. If that was not effectual the outlet could be carried further and emptied into the two rivers. In reply to the Chairman Captain Doughton added that he meant to take the sewer through Trefechan, and keep the harbour clear of it. He said the Midland Railway Company would be glad to take the har- bour now, and if any railway company bought it, the sewerage would have to be removed. Alderman Peter Jones said at the last meeting of the Public Works Committee some members attended with plans and others attended with open minds wishing to elicit information before coming to a decision. Personally he did not share the opinion of Mr. Green's as to the present sewer being a failure, because if the Council examined the place near the outfall they would find that that portion of the harbour was never so clean. The only difficulty was a-considerable accumulation of soil and no doubt excrementitious matters with it between the river and Rheidol-place; and it seemed to him that it would be an advantage to build a wall on the upper side to prevent the tide spreading over the space referred tõ. When that was done the Council could see the result of it. It was therefore recommended that the Surveyor should prepare an estimate of the cost of that wall. If it meant a considerable outlay money would have to be borrowed for it. Economy was not a thing to be thrown aside, and if a cheaper scheme Was equally efficatioua as a dearer scheme he thought the Council should adopt the cheaper. Mr. R. J. Jones said there was something practical about instructing the Surveyor to prepare an estimate. He thought the Surveyor capable of making a plan but if it was not acceptible then the Council could offer a premium to outsiders to submit plans. Alderman Green said his experience of Mr. Reeg Jones's plans was that once they were brought in there was an end to the matter. (Laughter.) The Chairman reminded Mr. Green that he was out of order, and putting his amendment to offer premiums, three voted for it and a majority against. FINANCE. Mr. T. W. Powell brought up the report of the Finance Committee which recommended the pay- ment of biLs, and that leases of Beach House, Terrace.road, of 35, North-parade, 9, Terrace-road, and 13, Terrace-road should be renewed with certain conditions; also that £200 should be accepted on mortgage from the Temple of Love Lodge of Oddfellows in place of a loan re-paid. The Committee likewise recommended that £2 2s. should be paid one of the Corporation workmen who had been incapacitated from work while engaged in making the groynes, but Mr. Hopkins pointing out that it was not on the agenda, it was deferred so that it might be put on the agenda. In reference to Beach House in Terrace-road, Mr. Palmer called attention to the untidy alley between the houses and suggested that a condition should be attached to renewal that a door should be placed there. Mr. R. J. Jones seconded the suggestion. Mr. Hopkins said that showed how people felt when a nuisance was close to their own doors. It was not like the sewer at Tanycae. It was decided to stipulate that the complaint would be obviated. OPEN SPACES. Mr. William Thomas then moved that the Corporation should acquire from Mr. D. C. Roberts the residue of his term in the Buarthmawr field fronting Railway-terrace, including the wooden buildings erected thereon, at an annual rent of £25, and that the Town* Clerk should be authorized to complete the matter forthwith. Mr. Thomas explained that that subject was some six months ago referred to the Finance Com- mittee, who then agreed to offer Mr R. Coberts £25 per annum for the residue of his term. The mat- ter, however, was delayed with a view of arranging for some other property in Trefechan but that was delayed and Mr. Roberts told him privately that he would not object to deal with that piece of land separately. There were over 13 years of the lease unexpired. If the Corporation got it and made a reasonable arrangement with the tenant, the land would become suitable for building sites. It meas- ured some 240 or 250 feet fronting Railway Terrace which at 2s. 6d. per foot would bring in £31 5s. or at 3s., £37 10s.. In addition to that the Corpora- tion would have the remainder at their disposal. He thought the resolution would commend itself to everybody. Personally he was indebted to Mr. Roberts for his willingness to treat. Alderman Green seconded the proposition con- sidering the money well spent. As to £25, he thought the Corporation would be able to get JE50 or £60 in a short time. Mr. Palmer thought the Committee was consider- ing that matter and that they ought not to force it. Mr. Thomas, in saying 2s. 6d. per foot frontage, or 3s. gave a flattering view; but if he was in com- mittee he would be one of the first so propose Is. 6d. (laughter). Mr. William Thomas said if the Council gave him 80 feet of the land opposite Railway Terrace he would give JE30 per annum for it, so the Council would be £5 in pocket. Alderman Peter Jones said he would support the proposition but for different reasons to those already given. He desired that that piece of land should be kept an open space. The Town in its entire area had not a single open space and that was one of the drawbacks of the town. At the same time, the Council had promised to find a site for the intermediate school and the only property vested in the Corporation seemed to be that parti- cular site. He therefore hoped the Council would not be led away by Mr. Thomas's utilitarian ideas (laughter). He thought the terms fair and reason- able. Mr. R. J. Jones said, living in the locality, he might be accused of partiality, but he thought the acquisition of the piece of land would increase the attractiveness of Aberystwyth as a watering place. If it was treated as a site for the intermediate school, a portion of the Buarth Mawr could be obtained, and when the whole was planted with trees it would be very attractive. Mr. D. C. Roberts said he should like every in- formation with reference to that matter to be before the Council, as from his experience of the past in a few years people would be making bitter attacks on him about that piece of ground. He should like the Council to know that the rent he got was JE19 and not £25, and he was not prepared to give up his interest in it except at a rent of £25. He thought it worth more. He did not want to dispose of it, and he wanted the Council to absolve him from any desire to force it on the Council. It was all very well for some people who had no pro- perty to rush up and down the town and make charges against those who had property. For- tunately, the persons who made those charges were known, and they had no effect. The proposition was agreed to. THE LIBRARY COMMITTEE. Mr. R. J. Jones then proposed that Mr. Hopkins should be appointed an additional member of the Public Library Committee. He thought that every member of the Council ought to have a perfect right to attend any Committee. It was a mere accident that Mr. Hopkins's name was omitted. The Chairman said he had made up his mind to vote against it on several grounds. It was an error that Mr. Hopkins should be on so many committees. He expected some fair reason why they should make an exception in his case. It must be owing to one or two things. He was either superior to others, especially as a literary man. He would not put it in an offensive way, but the reverse. It seemed that the Council were going to play with a foolish child and give him everthiug he asked for. Mr. R. J. Jones: Order, Mr. Chairman, your re- marks are quite uncalled for. It is a shame. Mr. Hopkins (loudly) I am as fit to be a deacon of Shiloh as you are. Mr. R. J. Jones I am surprised at your remarks, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Hopkins: You are no man, Mr. Thomas. If you want your character go to the Cambrian New. —a man on a swivel (laughter.) Alderman Williams Let every man look after his own character. The Chairman—It comes from a bad source. Mr Hopkins-You ask me for favours. I don't want any favours. The Chairman—Mr. Roberts proposed you on the committees beaause you threw out an insinua- tion that somebody was doing disonest work. You have been three for two years, and unless you were able to find out something in that time I think you should be put from there. You are crying out for changes in the case of other people, and the only change you want in your own case is to put on all committees. Mr. Hopkins—I did not want to be doctor to the town and crying to get him in—(" Order ")—and ask me to favour him and vote for iim. I did not do that. Alderman Williams-Yon were not bound to vote for him. Mr. D. C. Roberts—I think I should say that I never put Mr Hopkins on any committee to find out anything. If there was anything to find out I do not think he could do it (Laughter.) Mr Hopkins (loudly)—I find out many things. Mr D. C. Roberts—Allow me. Don't shout. W. can hear without it. Take it cooly. Mr. Hopkins—I won't go on the Committee. Mr. D. C. Roberts—Mr Hopkins can do what he pleases. I second the proposition, and I do not care whether he goes on or not. Two years ago he was anxious for work and I, thinking that any man anxious for work should have it, proposed him on every committee, but not to find out anything, be- cause:there is nothing to find out. Mr. R. J. Jones I think it time to vote after the last speech of the Chairman. The proposition was then put to the Council and lost. RATES. A General and District rate of Is. 4d. and a water rate of Is. in the pound were ordered to be made. THE HARBOUR MOORINGS. Captain Doughton moved that new chain moorings and capstan for Rofawr should be obtained and substituted for the present ones. Captain Doughton said the moorings were corroded and the capstan had been out of repair for 10 years. He proposed that the matter should be referred to the Harbour Committee and the Surveyor asked to bring in an estimate. This was carried. ELECTRIC LIGHTING. The Town Olerk saying he expected the draft as- signment of the Corporation's powers to the Electric Lighting Company in the course of a post or so, the Council was adjourned sine die for the purpose of affixing the Corporate seal to the document.