The Montgomery County Times and Shropshire and Mid-Wales Advertiser

DISESTABLISHMENT. In view of the Welsh Disestablishment and Disendowment Bill, which according to Mr. T. E. ELLIS-who is trying to hunt with the Welsh Nationalists and run jwith the Government—is to be the feature of next Session, we are glad to notice activity on the part of Churchmen and Unionists, outside as well as inside, the Principality. Every little thing helps. There is to be a debate on the subject at the Constitutional Club, in London, on the 10th of this month, at which Mr. STANLEY LEIGHTON,'M.P., will preside. The great thing to impress upon all good Unioiiists outside Wales at the present time is this—that the cause of the Church in Wales is also the cause of the Church in England. The disestablishment and spoliation of the Church in Wales would simply pave -the wa--t to-the disestab- lishment and spoliation of toe Church in England. Mr. STANLEY LEIGHTON and Sir JOBS PULT.STON, who, we understand," will also be' present at the discussion, will no doubt press this most important point on the attention of their hearers. Mr. LEIGHTON by the way has taken a most con- spicuous part in the debate on the Parish Councils Bill throughout the Committee stage, and has considerably enhanced his Parliamentary reputation thereby. He, with Mr. BOSCAWEN and others, had watched Church interests with special care. The Member for Oswestry indeed has attended at St. Stephens with a zeal which should be a lesson to some of the noisy Welsh Radicals who have been chiefly conspicuous by their absence during the Committee stage of this English and Welsh Bill—not that we think their presence would have been of much value for the purposes of de- bate. Still it would have kept up Welsh Nationalist appearances if nothing else.

—♦ THE TACTICS OF THE WELSH MEMBERS. There is a bye-election pending in Horn- castle, where the accepted Gladstonian is a Mr. TORR. The Liberationists, English and Welsh, have suddenly found out that Mr. TORR is a good Churchman. We should have supposed that these sharp-witted and nimble tongued folk would have discovered this some little while ago. Mr. TORR comes of a good sound Church stock, his father representing Liverpool a score or so of years since, in the Church and the Conser- vative interest. Mr. TORR-UP to the time of writing—has despite the murmurings and threats of some on his own side remained fairly faithful to the former, though he has gone astray with regard to the latter. At a meeting last week of the executive of the Liberationist Society some English dises- tablishers fell foul of Mr. TORR, and at once Mr. LLORD GEORGE, M.P., and Major, or Mr—we are not sure which is his proper title—Mr. JONES, M.P. cut in." Major (or Mr.) JONES is a small man with a not too small estimation of his own abilities and head, and as to Mr. LLOYD GEORGE well we all know him as a coming statesman too great to entertain any slavish veneration tor political veracity, especially at election time. They made a great fuss, did these two geese in the Liberationist capitol, and of course Spoke for Wales." If we are in- formed rightly, they went thither with the object of waking up" what Young Wales regards as a somewhat sleepy and dead-alive body of Disestablishers. But Mr. TORR is still the candidate in the Glad- stonian interest for Horncastle. "Young Wales is not much good when it leaves go of the parish pump handle. Its attempts to dictate to people outside its own little circle are always abortive, generally ridi- culous, as witness the miserable failure of the attack on the Clergy Discipline Bill in 1892. How these Welsh GladstonianM.P.'s love one another! Some time ago there was much quiet amusement in Parliamentary circles caused by the quarrel between Mr. D. A. THOMAS and Mr. PRITCHAXD MORGAN, the senior and junior representatives respec- tively for Merthyr Tydvil. They were daggers drawn towards axis an otter, and it was generally understood that the only thing they agreed upon was the necessity of holding their seats at Merthyr. They cut each other dead in and out of the House, and when the name of one was mentioned in any save disparaging terms the other preserved an icy silence. Just before the general election it was deemed desirable to bring the two members to- gether again. Birds in their little nests ought to agree at such seasons. So the quarrel was, in a way, patched up. The two shook hands, and appeared together on the, same platform. It is said, however, that the love thus restored between these Welsh members was of a surface character only, and report has it that their relations towards one another are once more almost as strained as ever. The quarrel, and the abortive reconciliation, can scarcely be re- garded as of a wholly private character. We must say we are surprised that their constituents have not demanded some kind of an open explanation as to the exact cause of the quarrel. A Member of Parliament now-a-days-more especially a Gladstolllan Member-Is often exposed to the most rigid censorship on the part of his cou- stituents. Surely Merthyr canno aPF „ of its representatives being, *ta?h°n0l speaking, at one another s throa s. can it expect its interests to be p looked after under such circumstances

+-- UNIONIST CANDIDATES IN NORTH WALES. We are glad to observe that j.jie of West Denbigh are gettin^f?h wm next contest, and we hope tW spare no effort to regain e hicb bids us do not believe in the policy lethargy, fold our hands in despair.and^ l £ targy, because we have a big ma-l an(l not ticular constituency onents to face, even scrupulous POLLT^A TT1R1!ERT ROBERTS, Not that we regard Mr. HJWBKBT^ M.P. personally m this S man need the kind of opponent little more fear to face. He is, pe p'arHament to than a mere dummy sent to r vote as he is told, an harmless thinking for himse.La ROBERTS, an{j enough young -x js quite up to the if a friae G1 Jston J M.P. level of the Stephens he made a When he start,'Ajtf btp migchieTOUs]y little speech, yative contemporary described by a Co -promising.—Messrs. in South Wa e8 kad it was intimated, LLOYD He was also better look to eii^ t]iings on behalf of going to do all cciallv the Sunctay the Temperance, and esp^ sum and Closing, mo7e £ EOBBETS'B presence at substance of Mi. KOB F movement outside than inside Parliament. L1tIloD g^in?to° observe that Mr. O.ri. SMITH is to be assailed in Flintshire. We willingly admit that Mr. SMITH does Tot belong to the more truculent tribe of Welsh poUticans who have been aptly described as the Monkey Patriots voung and ill bred men who stick at noth- ing in their one desire to push themselves into notoriety in Walesa,xdafWestminster Indeed he is not supposed to be'a great favourite with them, and his speech on Welsh Disestablishment a session or two since was voted by them to be rather a poor thing. At the same time he votes usually with these persons, and too much mercy ought not therefore to be meted out to him. Mr. SMITH seems, moreover, to devote much of his time and energies at Westminster not to Welsh matters at all, but to utterly alien subjects, such as that of opium. What conceivable interest can Flintshire have in those things ?

«- NOTES BY THE WAY. The Newtown Eisteddfodic gathering which is held annually in connection with the Good Templars took place on New Year's Day, and proved a remarkable success in every respect, as indeed this mode of entertainment did in every place in the Principality where it was adopted. The inducements offered by Eisteddfodau for Welsh voice to become generally cultivated are having a praiseworthy effect, since Wales possesses a wealth of rich-voiced songsters, who only require to be polished to find a high place in the musical world. Literary ability is also being discovered, and a tasto for art amongst the public is being gradually developed. Notwithstanding these advancements, however, there is still a remarkable lack of instru- mental perfection, which is all the more surprising as music is so much loved in the Principality. The promoters of the Newtown Eisteddfod have felt this fact keenly, and more keenly still their inability to draw into competition any instru- mentalists in the locality. Although good prizes were offered there was only one competitor. Next year the amount of prizes is to be lincreased, when it is to be hoped some latent talent in this direc- tion may be found. In Sir GEORGE ELLIOT, the British mining in- dustryhas lost a prominent figure. He was a man who knew more about the trade in which he was en- gaged than probably any other colliery proprietor in the Kingdom. Beginning to work underground in Durham, at the early age of nine, he passed through all the grades of employment. When he was niue years old he worked 14 hours daily, and for many years he never saw the sun's light from Sunday until the Saturday of the next week,1 beoause in the winter months the daylight had gone before he came to the surface, and he had descended before it rose. In the year 1851 Sir GEORGE ELLIOT resigned his appointment as head viewer of Monkwearmouth colliery, and became chief engineer to the late Marquis of Londonderry. He was a personal friend of the Londonderry family and a visitor at Pl&s Machynlleth, and many of our readers will, no doubt, remember his addressing a meeting of the Primrose League at Machynlleth, a year or two ago. At one time of his life ho was a prominent Trade Unionist leader, and ultimately became one of the principal colliery owners m the United Kingdom, employing in his own pits, and in those which he worked for others,! 10,000 people. He did much to improve the con. ditions of undergrouud labour, and partly, to his endeavours, was due the introduction of the Mines Regulation Act, and the reduction of the hours of labour from 14 hours to 9. In excesses of Trades Unionism he did not believe. In politics a Conservative, he admitted that Trades Unionism had its uses, but was against the individuality of the Working man being entirely absorbed thereby. He sat in several Parliaments, for South-East Durham, and afterwards for Mon- mouth. With the death of Sir GEORGE ELLIOT, dies also, we assume, his coal trust scheme. Of the many designs which occupied him, none was probably more remarkable than his scheme for the amalgamation of the entire coal fields of Great Britain. It was to be called the Consolidated Coal Interests, Limited, and its capital was to be £ 120,000,000, two-thirds in ordinary si:f)t>k ore- third in debentures. The company was to be formed on the basis of oo-operatiou and not of purchase, and it was proposed to apply the prin- ciple of profit sharing to the workmen, and to found on the scale of a levy of one penny per ton a vast fund for the use of worn-out, sick, and dis- abled workmen and their families. — It is not the Newtown Local Board alone that is making things uncomfortable for the Waterworks Company, but the public generally, who are proving that the action of the Board as justifiable. At the Newtown Fire Brigade dinner on Saturday the Captain of the Brigade Mr. F. W. Thomas, kept the ball of agitation rolling by referring to the con- dition of the water supply in relation to the Fire Brigade. Mr. Thomas' remarks should carry weight, and the question of a more effectual water supply will, we are sure, not subside until the Local Board has taken over on behalf of the town the Waterworks Company's premises. It is indeed a serious matter if the Fire Brigade cannot com- mand sufficient pressure to deal satisfactorily with any conflagration that might occur at any of the large factories. Captain Pryce-Jones* address in which he pointed out the effect on the town if one of the mills were burnt to the ground, is enough in conjunction with Mr. Thomas's speech to expedite action for an unvarying good supply of water for Newtown.

+. WELSHPOOL. For SNOW SHOES, in all sizes, go to STEAD AND SIMPSON. (Advt.) COUNTY POLICE COURT.—At this court on Mon- day before Captain Mytton, Colonel Harrison, and S. Powell, Esq. David Owen was fined 8s. and costs for keeping a dog without a licence.—Stephen Lloyd who was summoned on the complaint of John Matthews to hnd sureties against a breach of the peace was bound over to keep the peace for six months. PRIMITIVE METHODIST ENTERTAINMENT.- THE net amount realised at this Entertainment and Bazaar on Christmas Day was £28. THE FAIR.—There was a fair supply of fat cattle, sheep, and pigs, and but few stores in the Smithfield on Monday. The market was firm at late rates, and prices for prime beef, mutton and pork may be quoted at an advance on previous fairs. The horses were fairly numerous, and several changed hands at fair prices. CAURSE AND POOL UPPER PETTY SESSIONS MONDAY.—Before Captain Mytton, Col. R. II Harrison, and S. Powell Esq.—John Matthews of Burgedin, charged Stephen Lloyd, of The Sarney with using threatening language towards him Defendant was bound over in £5 for six months and ordered to pay lis. 6d. costs.—David Owen' of the Fron, was fined 15s. including costs ing an unlicensed dog. CHOIR SUPPER.—The annual supper given by the Vicar to the members of St. Mary's and Christ Church Choirs took place at the Vicarage on Thursday evening. A large number sat down to an excellent supper provided by the Vicar and Mrs, Davies, but owing to indisposition the Rev. H Hawkins and the Rev. Llewelyn Jones were unable to attend. After supper an adjournment was made to the Church house where games were indulged in and several songs were given. At 12 o'clock the party broke up. A vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. H. Lloyd to the v lCar and Mrs. Davies for their kindness and for the trouble they had taken to provide the guests with a pleasant evening. He said the choir members always looked forward to the annual gathering there as it was such a source of enjoyment.—Mr. T. M. Price seconded the pro- posal which was supported by Mr. J. T. Farmer on behalf of the Christ Church Choir. The Vicar in reply said it gave both himself and Mrs. Davies great pleasure in entertaining them and he hoped that they as "members of the Choirs would do what they had done in the past to make the services in the church attractive. He was glad to see Mr. Wyke there representing the Church- wardens. At the present time they were very fortunate in having such energetic churchwardens and he was glad to say that within his recollection thechurch, financially. was never in abetter position than it was at present. The Vicar concluded by wishing them all a happy new year.

LLANFYLLIN. POLICE COURT, TUESDAY.—Mary Ann Dodd was charged by P.C. Meredith before the Mayor and C. R. Jo. es, Esq., with being drunk and disorderly. Fined 5s. and costs. PEXDREF LITERACY SOCIETY.—A miscellaneous entertainment- was held in connection with this society on Tuesday last, when the Rev. J. C. Jones presided. The programme was as follows :—Action song, Miss M. Rowland; solo, Will you meet me at the Fountain," Miss Lettie Bryan; reading (humourous), Mr. R. Evans; solo, Miss C. H. Williams; solo, Gwedd fi wrth y ffynon," Miss Rose Davies impromptu speech, the subject chosen was the Goose," best Master C. Bryan; solo, Won't you buy my pretty flowers," Miss Pollie Lloyd; song, "0 na byddai'n haf o hyd," Mr. J. Brian; quartette, "Go bury thy sorrow," Mr. D. Ellis and party. Mrs. J. P. Williams and Mr. M. D. Jones kindly acted as accompanists. There was a good attendance and a very pleasant evening was spent. LOCAL SUCCESS.—We are glad to hear of the success of Mr. Thomas Price (Asaph Myllin), of this town, who took the first and second prizes for Hackney Horse Shoes at the Eisteddfod Gadeiriol Meirion, held at Dolgelley on New Year's Day. The prize for the best Wagon Horse Shoe being taken by Mr. John Pryce. WATCHNIGHT SERVICE.—A watchnight service was held in the Wesleyan Chapel on New Year's Eve. The service which was conducted by the Rev. J. Pierce, commenced at quarter to eleven and was brought to a close about 12 10 a.m. During the evening" 0 rest in the Lord was well rendered by Miss Dora Watkins, as was also There is a green hill far away." The chapel was crowded. PETTY SESSIONS, YESTERDAY. Before J. Marshall Dugdale, Esq. (Mayor), and John Jones, Esq. The Lhcydiarth Fach Case.-—John Morris Jones was again brought up on remand, in custody of P.S. Meredith, charged with having attempted to murder Mary Ann Price.—The girl still being in an unfit state to give evidence, D.C.C. Crowden appliedfor a further remand.—Dr. Felix Jones said she would not be in a fit state for a month. She might answer qnestions if a magistrate went up there, but could not give details, nor was she in a fit state to .be cross-examined.—Remanded for eight days. Assault.—-David Edwards, gamekeeper, Rhosissa, Brithdir, charged Robert Jones with having assaulted him on the 16th of December last.—Case dismissed. Drunk and Disorderly.-—John Lewis, shoemaker, Meifod, was charged by P.C. Hughes with being drunk and disorderly on the highway at Meifod on Decemberl9th. Fined 5s. and costs, allowed a month to pay. Drunk on Licensed Premises. — P.C. Hamer charged Henry Jones, innkeeper, Penygarnedd, with having been drunk at his own house on the 26th December.-—Defendant said he was not well, and that some friends had treated him.—Ordered to pay the costs. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. Thursday, present Mr. William Roberts in the Chair, J. Marshall Dugdale, Esq., and John Jones, Esq., ex-officio, Messrs. J. Ryle, Thomas Jones, Thomas Roberts, David Pryce, Robert Richards, John Ashford, Charles Jones, Evan Roberts, John Thompson W llhams, Robert Roberts, Llanfechain and Mr. W. A. Pughe, clerk. The Master reported that the inmates had their usual dinner of roast beef and plum pudding on ChristmaslDay. Also that Christmas letters were sent by Mrs. Dugdale, Llwyn, for the inmates. Miss A. M. Hayhurst gave the old men an ounce of tobacco and cards and a large picture for the walls the old women, tea, sugar, cards, and a pair of woollen cuffs each and a large picture for the wall; the boys, a variety of sweets, toys, apples, oranges, cards and cuffs. A number of illustrated papers were sent by Miss Gill, Brynderwen, and also by Mrs. M. L. Jones, Llanfyllin. Five shillings for tobacco for the old men was also sent by a gentle- man from Llanfyllm- A letter was received by the Clerk from Mrs. Marshall Dugdtle asking for per- mission to give tea and an entertainment to the inmates on Saturday which was granted. On the motion of Mr. David Price seconded by Mr. Wm. Roberts, a vote of thanks to the above named kind friends was unanimously passed. A circular from St. Ives Union was read drawing attention to a resolution passed by the -Shifnal Union in reference to the airming increase in Jae uumbei of tramps. DoiVw The School Attendence Offtcer ha¥ffig appl 40 an increase of £10 in his salary. The School Attendance Committee in the report which they presented to the Board, suggested that the increase applied for, be granted. Mr. John Thompson Williams asked what the Inspector could do more than he was doing present if the increase was made ? Mr. Marshall Dugdale He can do a great deal more. Mr. David Pryce said that since the /Free Education Act came into force the attendance officer's work had increased, the duties were more weighty. He had heard complaints from several districts regarding the laxity of attendance and he considered that an increase in the salary of the omcer would be an incentive for him to make greater efforts to do the work. Mr. John Jones did not consider that the Work had increased as jrJr'.r.T.fosa^ had done. It was of very great attendanCe 1° t^le ^ana £ ers that the aggregate attendance should be as large a8 possible Mr. J. thif L 1118 Inspector had been telling him wha/i« TifS fuU °f work" If was full of work d0llre e of increasing hjs 8alary, he cannot officer} SretT1W°rk if h6 li ful1 alroady- He (the triot I e was n0 dotlbt, a very large dis- whptl ° j.<i°Ver' ^r" wished to know wort vthe P°lice could not be called into the DnJLi °uf?hfc theT ^ight. Mr. Marshall elpof sai(\.khis seemed to be a question for the self K &ua ians, n°t intend voting him- arif1', iU 16 would throw out a suggestion for them at tv, a WaS ^^at.they should employ a second man ceivin Sam^ 8^!ary as the Present officer was re- g' Mr- Wm. Roberts 8aid he was against havmg two. Mr. J. T. Williams What we want is to see the ground well worked. Mr. Wm. Roberts adoE Sat tlle- report of the Committee be through e no seconder the matter fell suJo«^AINfENT-0n Nev Year's Day a very HallWtl entertainment was given in the Town ?ooi /tt /lb,0n Minstrels- There was a very Tnu' the hal1 Leine quite full. The proceed ?Iar.sha11 Pugdale) presided. The coal amn Tv! m aiC* fund for distributing coal among the p°or °f the town_ The followin| Grena^l » ?(rPpamme Part I. British opening cWus'"It rie8 Ch0rUS," Troupe; song and Lee soJ nn,Tar COmel, oOUnd to me," Charles IT. Rppv- Q c^°r"s> She put it in her diary," in the mnr OI1° w' *'m to Philadelphia "ct;r7 Brvnn • a™ j Wat«m, J. Bryan, and R. A. Thomas a ^rUS' After the Ball>" A- babT" V iTT chorus Mol, and j and the fS," B. a w- d™twAlbr ™ "J- where my love Kes dreamL C°mI chorus, Killaloo J. J-Bryan song and "Welsh Airs," Troune son Ed,wafds5 ^ection, to my tale of woe R A if and chorus> Llsten well tilled?" 'ri&. A !i"? W. Edwards c, j i "• E. Watkms, and J. go like thii," I a50gers°rU8h(enCOr^)T' They chorus," Troune Wnr JL choruS' Laughing II: Stamp °Zch .rivSe(i "ith 'okM' P"rt vo,al p -e.- aUt„^r,, solo, J J. Bryan and C Lee and loWer flve' Gavotte," J. Brvan W TY ,orchestral selection, Bryan P E wf+v' !iVles, J- Davies, R. A. Bryan, .P. E. Watkins, atJd M D. Jones. The sketch entitled ThP rival^ he lauShable neSro being the characters: Scipfe thTe f°"°Wir;f wards. Preside* n Johnson, J. W. Ed- M. D. Cdpl0 the Club; Caesar White, Black, J. H.'Jones Cato C' Lee' Hannibal mittee of the Dusk club; W" Rees, Com- P- k- Watkins, Professor Tl e3SOr Plato Potts' Davies, Doctor Socrates So' ytha^ora9 Pigge, J- rival lecturers scene Co^ -Sfcubbs' R" A" Br?aD' Dusky Club. "God SaveRoom of the cheers for the chairman, brojl?1168?1" fo,lowed to a close. ugnta pleasant evening DISTRIBUTION OF COAL -VR has during the week rlisi-Vn Lomax, of Bodfaeh, of coal to the poor of the t&^ed a large <luantitF

LLANIDLOES. MUSICAL SUCCESS.—Mis« T successful in securing a sol n>' HigSs haR been Academy of Music, bv whin? fship at the London year's instruction rtn T» sbe is entitled to one 1893—1894 —As titutio11 at half fee- year was tolled out^r^011,8 occasions, the old Church, and a merry pe»i6 bells of tbo ^>arisb A considerable number of ^^comed in the new. n Hil after midnight. Pie paraded the streets LLANIDLOEE BOROUGH BRASS BAND.—During the last fortnight the strains of music were to be heard nightly as this band serenaded the several residents in the town and neighbourhood. On Boxirg-day the band hired a brake, and visited Llangurig and Rhayader, at both of which places they were very well received, and created a good impression by the excellence of their playing, and the inhabitants of both places liberally responded to the funds of the band. The band has recently undergone re- organisation, and it is intended to hold a concert on Saint David's Day. It is deserving of every support, it being now to all appearance on a good sound footing, and is conducted by Mr. L. Rowlands, printer, Llanidloes. SUNDAY SCHOOL SAVINGS CLUBS.—The following amounts have been collected during the year:— Welsh Calvinistic Methodist £ 340 lis. 7d.; English Calvinistic Methodist S107 8s. 8d. Welsh Wesleyan Methodist n65 14s. 8d.; English Wesleyan Methodist £ 75; Church of England zCl62 3s. 4d.; Congregational £161 8s. 7d.; Baptist 180; total' £1,292 6B. lOd. This is an increase of Cl6 18s. upon last year. CHRISTMAS GIFTS.-On Tuesday evening last, at the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Sunday School- room, Flannel, &e. was distributed amongst the poor of the different denominations in the town, which was given by W. George, Esq. (Mayor), Bryndwr, and was presented to them by Mrs. George, assisted by Mr. 'W. George, Spring Mills. Afterwards a tea was given, provided by Miss Morris, Bodlondeb; Mrs. W. Ashton, Mrs. A. Francis, Mrs. Jenkins, and Miss E. Davies. The kindness shown to them was appreciated by all. WORKINGMEN'S INSTITUTE CONCERT.—The annual concert was held in the Public Rooms, on Monday last, under the patronage of his Worship the Mayor (W. George, IEsq.) The following was the pro- gramme Glee, Myfanwy," Glee Party; song, Off to Philadelphia," Mr Charles Owen; song, For all Eternity," Miss Jennie Higgs song, The Stars of Normandie," Mr. J. Lester Mills; song, The River of Years," Miss Mary Bartlett duet, Love Divine," Mr. and Mrs. T. Phillips; song, The Storm Friend," Mr. David Jones violin solo, Carmen," Miss Louie G. Ikin (encored) song, "The Romany Lass," Mr. Tom Phillips; duet, The Angel's Home," Misses Jennie Higgs and Mary Bartlett. At the interval, a presentation was made to Mr. J. M. Palmer, of a massive time oiece and ornaments, in recognition of his valuable ser- vices as honorary secretary of the Instituie. The presentation was made by J. D. Daries Esq. Dolenog, in a most able and appropriate speech, to which Mr. Palmer suitably responded. Song, Home sweet Home," Miss Mary Bartlett; glee, Serenade," Glee Party (encored); scena, Caradog," Mr. David Jones (encored); song, The Flight of Ages," Miss Ettie Kitto; song, Sunshine and Rain," Miss Mary Bartlett (encored) violin solo, Auld Lang Syne," Miss Louie G. Ikin (encored) song, When the Heart is Young," Miss Jennie Higgs (encored); song, Waiting," Mrs. T. Phillips; song, Serenade," Mr. J. Lester Mills (encored) trio, 0 Memory," Misses Jennie Higgs, Mary Bartlett, and Mr. Tom Phillips; finale, God srve the Queen." TEA AND ENTERTAINMENT.—On Wednesday even- ing last a tea and entertainment was held at the Public Rooms in connection with the Congrega- tional Chnr t: which about 230 sat down. The oe presided over by Mrs. Davies, Gort louse, assisted by Miss Jones, Stafford Hons j Miss Benbow, Moss Villa, and. Miss Davies Mrs. Richards, Bradford House, assisted by Miss Owen and Master W. Richards; Mrs. Bell, Glan- clywedog, assisted by the Misses Bell, Miss Jones, and Miss M. Evans; Mrs. Dulston, assisted by Miss Agnes Jones. The cake, &c. were under the superintendance of Mrs. Price and Miss Thomas. The committee consisted of Messrs. T. Humphreys, T. Morgan, J. Ellis, Miss M. E. Jones, an 1 Miss Benbow. The entertainment was as foFJWS Chairman's address, Rev. T. L. Martir'; Glee, Glory to God," Glee Party; Recitation, Goose- berry Wine," S. E. Edwards Song, Litt'e Gipsy Jane," M. E, Owen; Dialogue, E. H. Rees and T. Owen Song, li I can't make up my mind,' W. R. Davies Recitation, Ona chawn ni ddod vn ol," E. Jones; Recitation, Who'll kill King A] Johol," A. Davies; Song, "Swiss Toy Girl," Polly Edwards; Competition, Impromptu Speech, prize divided between Messis. J. Davies and R. Davies; Recita- tion, An Arab's farewell to his steed," Master Alljy Bell; Duett, Albion," T. Morgan and D. Owen Recitation, Peopi will talk," S. J. Ellis Son; "Buy a broom," K. Wood; Dialogue, "Wanted a Clerk," Messrs. T. Humphreys, R. Davies, C. Benbow, J. Davies, R. Benbow, J. Ellis, and W. Rees; Song, "Cymru Fydd," D. Owen; 'tation, Curfew must not ring to-night," M. E. Song, The ery worst Girl in School," S. E. Edwards Competition, Unpunctuated piece, R. .Benbow; Song, J. Ellis; Recitation, The three black crows," J. T. Davies; Song, "Auntie," Polly Edwards; Dialogue, S. A. Jones and A. Ellis Glee, Y pan newydd," Glee Party. The chairman pro- posed a hearty vote of thanks to the ladies who presided at the tables, and also to the committee and those who took part in the entertainment Mr. Dulston proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman, after which the meeting was brought to a close by the singing of Hen Wlad fy Nhadan. OAKLEY PARK TEA AND COMPETITIVE MEETING. -On Christmas Day a tea and competitive meeting was held at the above place. A great number sat down to an excellent tea, which was presided over by the following:—Miss Evans, Tyddyn, Mrs Jones, Gwernerin, and Mrs Jerman, Bedw. They were assisted by Misses Fannie Evans, Tyddyn, M. E. and H. J. Hamer, Bwlch, Miss Jones,Gwernerin. Miss Jerman, Coedmawr," Miss C. Pugh, Bedw, Miss H. M. Meredith, Bontnewyd, and Mr. R. Jones, junr., Gwernerin. In the evening at six o'clock the competitive meeting took place, the chair being occupied by Mr. J. G. W. Rowen, C.C., Bryndulas. The accompanist, Miss Evans, Tyddyn, discharged her duties in a very satisfactory manner. The adjudicators were Literature, Rev. B. Phillips, pontferen; music, Mr. E. Pryce, Nantgwyn. The following was the programme :-Song, The children's home," Mr. Pryco; speech, Chairman reciting Mariner's hymn, confined to children under 16, first, Miss Harriet Hamer, Bwlch; second, Miss M. A. Evans, Penybank; committing to memory the whole of the Mother's Gift," first, Master D. Jones, Gwernerin; second, Misses M. J. Morgan ana hi. Jii. Evans equal; modulator exercise, Miss M. J. Evans, Oakley Park; reciting English hymn, for children under 12 years of age, firs'! prize divided between Misses M. J. and M. E. Morgan, Cefn; second, Master Fred Bebb, Oakley Park; duet, Weary Gleanbr," Misses Alice Bebb and M. J, Evans,Oakley Park reciting 9th chapter St John, first, Miss M. J. Evans; second, Mr. E. Davies, Pandy; reproducing a story, Mr. E. T. Richards; soprano solo, Angels ever bright and fair prize divided between Misses M. E. Hamer, Bwlch and M. J- Evans adjudication on written examination, first, Miss Harriet J. Hamer, Bwlch, second, Miss M. J. Evans; five minutes speech on The duties of Sunday School teachers," Miss Morgan, Cefnmawr; oommitting to memory chapters 13 and 14 of the Christian Instructor, first Miss M. J- Evans, second, Mr. E. Davies; ear test, Misses A. Bebb and M. J. Evans equal; reading Welsh hymn, Miss M. J. Evans singing Memories of GaIiJee," Miss M. J. Evans; sight reading Welsh, Messrs J. Morgan, Cefnmawr. and B. Jones, Gwernerin, equal; reading an ofor' nrr^craph, first, Mr. J. Richards, Se" T. Kichards; glee, "How Rhiew secon party! conducted by Mr. j. mem y reciting English hymn, first, STM'I' C. Penybank gseeo„d! Mr. wl Brow"'Morfodio„: baritone solo Mr, E. Pngh between Mr. J- Jticnai" a ufarv Lee, Mr. Pryce. He was encored each time and complied. In addition to the above a service of song was given, entitled Israel in the Wilderness, under the conductor- ship o^ thanks^were g?venetoethe chairman, adjudicators secretary, Mr. Thomas Morgan, and treasurei, Mr. D. H. Evans.

OSWESTRY. A Concert in aid of the Oswestry Welsh Church will take place on Monday next in the Victoria Rooms A very good programme is prepared and andTeha J no^donbt the concert will prove a thorough success. Particulars will be found in our advertising columns. It is stated that Major Francis Lloyd of the Grenadier Guards, eldest son of Colonel Lloyd, of \ston Hall, Oswestry, is to be appointed com- mandant of the Militia and \olunteer School of Instruction at Chelsea Barracks. Major Lloyd m 1884-5 served in the Soudan campaign as signalling officer to the brigade of Grenadier Guards, and he was present at the affair at Hasheen. TRINITY MISSION FREE ENTERTAINMENTS.-There was a large attendance at the weekly entertain- ment on Saturday night. The chair was taken by The Rev. T. Redfern, and an excellent programme of vocal and instrumental music, recitations, and readings was given, the performers being loudly applauded. On the motion of the Rev. James Hall, B.A., a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the chairman and performers. The following con- tributed to the programme:—Mrs. Bevan, Miss Pickard, Mr. Jos. Yaughan, Mr. A. Hall, Rev. T. Redfern, Miss Maggie Jones, Mr. F. Gough, Mr. Greenwood Leach, Miss Maggie Aston, Miss A. Davies, Mr. J. E. Hall, Mrs. Lloyd, and Mrs. F. Gough. s Music CLASSES.—The classes for teaching to sing at sight will begin on Friday at 6.30 for juniors between 11 to 16; and 8.30 for seniors. The junior class for the elementary certificate will be held on Friday at 7.15, and for the senior class for inter- mediate solfa and First Grade Staff Certificates at 8 on that evening. GRAMMAR SCHOOL.—In a record of Public School Scholarships, issued on December 20, by the Pall 31all Gazette, Oswestry School, for its numbers, ranks first of all the English Public Schools in the number of University Scholarships gained in the past year, and this does not include the exhibitions gained at Keble, or the Powis Exhibition. Large schools such as Harrow have obtained five scholai- ships only, and Oswestry takes precedence of Bradfield, Denstone, Malvern, Felsted, Felter, Loretto, Wellington, Sherborne, &c., in the same list. The annual value of Scholarships gained by pupils of the School during the past year is more than double the endowment of the School. Mr. Lloyd Williams, the Head Master, is to be highly congratulated upon gaining such a distinguished position for the School. INCORPORATION, MONDAY.—Present: Mr. Edw Jones (,ba; T'ian), Mr. N. Price, the Rev. T. M. Bulkel. y ■' Mr. J. Richards, Mr. H. Brown, and Mi iwright, with Mr. J. C. Bull, clerk, and Mr. H. Bull, assistant clerk. Statistics.—The Clerk reported the number in the House to be: first week, 155; second week, 152. Out-relief, first week, X16 19s. Id. to 200 recipients second week, JE16 16s. 8d. to 289. Tramps relieved, 105 first week, 108 second week. Vaccination Officer.—The Clerk said he had to report the death of his father who had held the appointment of vaccination officer, and it would be necessary to appoint a successor. In order to legalise this some one would have to give notice of the appointment of a successor.—Mr. Bulkeley- Owen gave notice that he would propose Mr. C. H. Bull as vaccination officer at the next meeting of the Baard.—Mr. Brow asked what the salary was. —The Assistant Clerk said there were fees of a shilling per certificate, which amounted to about JE20 a year.—Mr. Brown Then it will increase with an increase of population—Mr. Bulkeley-Owen said they must also remember the per contra that there was this anti-vaccination fad about at present, centred in Ruyton. (Laughter.) This was all the business. OSWESTRY MARKETS.—The Horse Market was fairly well filled, but the demand for first-class horses was not up to last fair's average. Several really good horses went home unsold. Van horses sold fairly well. Second class animals sold badly. Tub Butter and Cheese.—Tub butter had to meet a bad market, lid. per lb. was the highest price; 10. to 10id. was the general price; many lots were taken away unsaid the pitch was above the average by 400 tubs. Cheese met a good demand, skim made as much as 30 and over; fat cheese but one lot pitched; Bacon, not much offering as last week, from 7d. to 8d. The Cross or Poultry Market was well supplied, but prices were generally lower. Fresh butter 14d. to 15d. per lb.; eggs 12 for 1 chickens alive from 39 to 4 3 turkeys 46 to 5 geese, dressed 7d. per lb.; a dull trade. Corn, just as last week, except barley, which was clearly in greater demand. Some made 21, per 14 score; second quality down to 17/ wheat 11/4 to 119 for reds No white offering. The Smithfield was fairly well filled; beef was not quite so good, but prime could be had for 6d. per lb.; second class freely for 6d.; calves sold well, and made 7d. per lb.; sheep and pigs were lower, the latter most decidedly. The supply was above the average, but pigs were above the usual quantity and seem to be running in. The stock sold by Messrs. Whitfield and Son were 147 cattle and calves; 854 sheep and pigs. The trade for cows and calves was very brisk, the competition keen throughout making up to zC20 each. The store cattle trade was also better than has been for some time, aad a good clearance was made with beef. The sheep trade was slightly better than it has been for some time, ai.J ? good clearance was also made the supply of meated pigs somewhat in excess of the demand, and prices a sL; de lower. At Mr. McKie's auction 107 cattle and calves 182 sheep and pigs were sold at good prices, and an excellent clearance being effected. THE ROBERT* The Roberts family seven in number, paiu iswostry a visit on Friday, when the Victoria Rooms contained an appreciative audience and an exceptionally good performance was given. The band consisting of Messrs. John Roberts, jun., (Alaw Hafren) harpist; Reuben, violin James, flageolet; Albert (Telvnwr Hafren), harpist; Ernest, double bass Charley, violincello and W'llie Roberts, violinist, gave a selection Portequa in merry style. The charming Cam- brian quartette consisting of Messrs. E. O. Jones, W. Barrett, J. H. Humphreys, and G. G. Trow then sang Banish 0 Maiden" and were loudly ap- plauded, and the brothers John and Albert played variations from the old Welsh air Pen Rhaw on their harps with very good effect. The selection of Welsh airs by the band was played in a masterly manner and received a merited encore. Mr. Gilbert Trow was heard to advantage in a well chosen song The Long Shoreman." Mr. W. Roberts who has a delicate touch on the violin was encored for playing Rondo Siro," by Cecial's Arbour" was the next item which the Glee Party rendered in an artistic and finished manner, in re- sponse to an encore "As the moments roll was given in faultless style. Mr. A. Roberts played In my Cottage near the Wood" on the harp, and a selection of Welsh airs by the band, which re- ceived an encore, terminated the first part of the proceedings. The second part opened with a flageolet solo with band accompaniment which was much enjoyed, after which Mr. E. O. Jones sang Sally in our Ally and responded to the encore with His three Friends," and treated his audience to a pleasing performance of the comic song en- titled Yes you do," the Bells of Aberdovey" was next given on the harp bv Mr. A. Roberts with splendid effect, after which the duet Brotherly Love received a good rendering at the hands of Messrs. E. O. Jones and W. Barrett. The Roberts' family next treated the audience to "Strike the Harp and Let's be Merry," after a hearty greet- ing, the Glea Party n&xt rendered "Weep no more." The old negro melody was well sung by the tenor, the other voices being responsible for what proved to be a perfect banjo accompaniment, this new feature was accorded an enthusiastic encore to which the audience were treated to a comical com- position entitled The Boy and the Jack which created roars of laughter, then followed Band of Harps waltz Grenadier's Band," after which the glee party again appeared in an old Scotch favourite quartette "Jamie" which was well ap- plauded. The Roberts are well known to an Oswestry audience and to say the least of them they on this as on every occasion, acquitted them- selves admirably. The Cambrian Quartette ap- pearing for their first time in Oswestry, their sing- ing quit^ "took" the audience, and their per- formances were highly creditable. The Concert was brought to a close with the singing of God save the Queen." THE LATE MR. W. 1. BULL. On Saturday the funeral of the late Mr. William Isaac Bull, whose death we recorded last week, took place in the churchyard of the old church, and was of a private character. The mourners were Mr. J. C. Bull, Dr. W. H. Bull of Stonev Stratford, and Mr. C. H. Bull, sons, Masters G. H. Bull, R. E. W. Williams, and Douglas Bull, grandsons, Mr. W. R. Parrott, Stoney Stratford, son-in-law, the Rev. D. W. Evans, Rector of St. George, Abergele, and Surgeon-Major A. O. Evans, of the India Medical Service, nephews, Mr. Ellis Jones, the Gro, Llan- santffraid, brother-in-law, the Yen. Archdeacon Thomas, Llandririo, and the Rev. T. Redfern. The friends present included the Mayor of Oswestry (Mr. E. Bremner Smith), Mr. J. Parry-Jones, Dr. De la Poer Beresford, Mr. Robert Beresford, Mr. John Forrester, Mr. George Fulcher, Mr. Thomas Rogers, Moreton Cottage, Chirk, Mr. Oswald Fox, and Sergt. Instructor Byrne. A posse of police, under the command of Supt. Langford, was also present by direction of the Chief Constable. At the church gate the body was met by the Rev. Cecil Hook, the Rev. A. W. M. Weatherley, the Rev. J. Evans Jones, and the Rev. J. B. Seaton. The service was taken in the church by the Rev. Cecil Hook, the Rev. T. Redfern, and the Ven. Archdeacon Thomas, and at the family vault by the Rev. Cecil Hook and the Ven. Archdeacon Thomas. The coffin was covered with a black pall as there were, by request, no wreaths. The Dead March was played during the service. On Sunday, tlie Rev. A.' W. M. Weatherley, in the morning, and the Rev. Cecil Hook in the evening, made touching reference to the late Mr. Bull, and to others who had recently passed awav, and after the morning service, by special request j of the Vicar, the Dead March was played. On Monday, at the meeting of the Directors of the Oswestry Incorporation, the Chairnum, Mr, Edward Jones, proposed, and Mr. Nathaniel Price seconded, that a vote of condolence should be passed with the family of the late Mr. W. 1. Bull, who was clerk to the Direciors for thirty-sevoa year-The motion was carried.

LLANFAIR. HIGHWAY BOARD.—This meeting was held at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel on Saturday last, when the following members were present:—Messrs. William Morgan, Vice-President, in the chair, Thomas Watkin, C.C. (ex-officio), Henry Theodore, Pryce Astley, Llanfair, Griffith Jones, Llangyniew, Thos. D. Jones, Llanerfvl, and D. Benbow, Meifod, John Storer, Surveyor, and Mr. T. Edwards, assistant clerk. A letter was read from Mr. Evans, Maes- gwyn, Llanerfvl, calling attention to a certain footbridge and footpath near that place, which the surveyor was directed to repair, also from Mr. Charles Lloyd Jones, promising to subscribe £3 towards making a new cart bridge at Pencaedu, Llangyniew. Mr. Griffith Jones, Tanyfridd, under- took to apply for further subscriptions of other land- owners towards defraying the expense. It was reported that the roads around Lake Vyrniew were out of repair, and that the attention of the Board had been called to them by the Liverpool Corpora- tion. Prior to these roads being placed under the Board the Corporation used to repair them. The roads had been inspected by the viewing justices and a certificate had been granted, freeing the Corporation from further responsibility, subject to certain conditions which were not carried out, and which the Board could not insist upon being done. After a hot discussion it was agreed to attend to the roads. It was also remarked that a bill of costs for the repairs be sent to the viewing justices. The surveyor also presented his monthly report which was considered. The Finance Committee report was also read and agreed to. PIG AND CATTLE FAIRS.—The above fairs were held on Thursday and Friday, and owing to the severity of the weather the attendance was very small, and the prices were lower than at the last fair. Porks and strong stores were easily disposed of, and several good beasts were also sold. ABERYSTWYTH MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE FROM NORTH PARADE. Mr. William Morris, of 36, North Parade, was recently presented with a very fine hare, which was in due course placed in a stone jar in the oven, with the necessary beef stake, &c., for jugging. The housekeeper however had to keep a business engagement before dinner, and on returning hare, stone jar, and all had disappeared, and nothing has been seen of them since, although the matter has been placed in the hands of the police. BALL.—Through the generosity of Capt. and Mrs. Wemyss, a house ball was given at the Lion Hotel, on Monday night, when a large number of guests assembled. Dancing was commenced at 9.30, and kept up until 3 o'clock. An excellent supper was prepared by Mrs. Wemyss for the party, and all seemed to enjoy themselves. Before dispersing Mr. R. J. Jones proposed a vote of thanks to Capt. and Mrs. Wemyss for their kindness, which was drank with musical honours. LLANSILIN. On Monday evening last (New Year's Day), the Yicar and Mrs. Davies entertained the choirs attending the Parish Church, Bloran and Rhiwlas, the Sunday school teachers, church workers, and friends to an excellent supper, which was held at the Schoolroom. About 150 partook of the excellent repast which was set before them. The wants of the guests were ably attended to by the Revs. D. Davies (vicar), and J. Wynne Davies, Whittington Mrs. Davies and Miss Davies, The Vicarage; Mrs. Hughes, Miss Edwards, Wynnstay Arms; Messrs. R. B. W. Davies, C. A. Richards, and T. Hughes. After the tables were cleared, the Rev. R. LI. Parry, curate, proposed, and Mr. Edward Whitfield, Tynllan] seconded a hearty vote of thanks to the Vicar and Mrs. Davies for their hospitality. This was carried with the utmost cordiality. The rest of the evening was spent in dancing, games, and singing. At 2 a.m. this pleasant gathering broke up, all having enjoyed themselves thoroughly.

BISHOP'S CASTLE. TOWN COUNCIL.—The monthly meeting was held on Monday last the Mayor (B. Bowen Esq.), in the Chair. Present, Alderman W. E. Garnett-Botfield, Councillors Thos. Jones, George Edwards, Walter James, W. C. Bright, A. Greenhous and George Strawson, Mr. A. Hamer (Surveyor), and Mr. E. Griffiths (Clerk). The only business was the con- firming of the minutes of the previous monthly meeting, and those of the various committees and was only of a routine character. The Mayor an- nounced that he had appointed Councillor James as his auditor. The Clerk reported the balance as follows: — Urban Sanitary—due to treasurer, £18 10s. Od.; Highway—in hand, Id.; Borough- due to treasurer, £1912s. Od. Water—in treasurer's hands, £75 5s. 2d. WORKHOUSE NEW YEARS TREAT On New Years evening, the inmates of the Union Work- house had a very happy gathering. Shortly after six o'clock they assembled in the large dining hall where Mrs. W. H. Whitaker, of Totterton Hall| kindly exhibited by means of a powerful lantern a number of very interesting views, comical characters, &c., Mr. W. E. Garnett-Botfield, kindly assisting. Mrs. Whitaker also favoured the in- mates with two songs, her pleasing and happy rendering affording much pleasure to the company. Afterwards an excellent supply of hot coffee, mince pies and Christmas cake was served out, and a number of useful articles were distributed, and toys, &c., from a very pretty and heavily laden Christ- mas tree. To Mr. and Mrs. Dempsev, the popular Master and Matron and their assistant Miss Sherry, great praise is due for the very excellent manner in which the arrangements were carried out. The expenses were defrayed by a public subscritions. Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Garnett-Botfield, Mr. and Mrs. Whitfield, Mr. and Miss Powell (Bishop's Castle), and other friends rendered valuable assistance. BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY.— Before the Ex-Mayor Councillor Geo. Strawson and Mr. J. Oakeley, J.P. An ingenious defence.—Anne Lowe, wife of a labourer residing on the Moat Hill, appeared to answer a charge of being found on certain premises in the occupation of John Beamond, of the Moat 27th of Oct., last, to commit felony. —The Police were the prosecutors and Mr. C. S. Pryce, of Montgomery appeared for the defence.— The evidence of Elizabeth and Harriet Beamond, daughters of Mr. John Beamond, deposed to hear- ing a noise amongst the fowls on the evening of the 27th October, and on going to the fowl house to finding the defendant there with a fowl in her hands. John Beamond said, from what his daugh- ters told him he went to the fowl house, at about seven o'clock on the 27th October, and there found one fowl dead, its neck was pulled out and it was warm. Sergeant B. Finney deposed that on the 9th of December, from information he had received he made inquiries into the case and on the same night saw Mrs. Lowe and her husband. She at first denied that she was there but afterwards said she was in the pen.— Mr. C. S. Price made an able speech for the defence, and contended that Mrs. Lowe went for the peck of barley which she had bought that morning.—The Magistrates after a short consulta- tion decided to convict.—Mr. Pryce again appealed to their worships to ba lenient and to deal with the case summarily, which they had full power under the Vagrancy Act to do.—The Magistrates ultimately inflicted a fine of 20s. and lis. 6d. costs, and in default of payment seven days' imprison- ment. Defendant applied for time and was allowed 14 days. Drunk on Licensed Premises.—Edward Morris, for being drunk and refusing to quit the Three Tuns Inn on the 8th of December, was fined 10s. and 5s. costs. The case was admitted. Allowed one week to pay, or in default seven davs. igiuay Offcvce. Thomas Stephens, hawker, of this town, was charged bv P.C. Bowyer with leaving a cart on the side of the public streets during the night of the 16th of December. The officer said that he had previously cautioned the defendant;—Ordered to pay 5s. costs. A Promising Boy.—William Jones, a boy of ten years, appeared on remand charged with stealing a bottle of cough lozenges from the shop of Mr# *v illiam Lockley, grocer and confectioner, on the 1st of December last, value 4s.—The evidence was very conclusive, and the boy's mother asked for the case to be summarily dealt with.—Ordered to receive six strokes with the bu-chrod. Drunkenness.—There were other cases of drunkenness, the whole of which were admitted, and were of no pu blklnterest. Transfer.—A temporary transfer of the license of the Six Bell's Inn, from the late Mr. Samuel Bright to his widow, Mrs. Bright, was granted.